Stepping into an unfamiliar place can be daunting.
So, when you come to Craigiebuckler Church, what can you expect?
Who can come? Anyone! We want you to feel welcome. You don’t need any special knowledge or to agree with our beliefs and you don’t need to be a member.
When do we meet? Our main service is at 11am on a Sunday morning (at 10 am during July and August). From October to April we also hold an informal cafe style worship service in the hall, called WorshipZone, at 7pm on the 3rd Sunday of each month. Other services are held according to the season.
What is the dress code? There is no dress code – wear whatever makes you feel comfortable.
What do I need to bring? Nothing – just come as you are.
How much does it cost? Nothing – it is free.
Do I need to be a member? No, and there will be no obligation to join – many attend and never join.
What will I have to do? Nothing! We want you to feel at home with us. You won’t be asked to say or do anything on your own. If you are visiting, we will not embarrass you, have you stand up, or ask you to give money. We know that many people want to check out the church and “be anonymous” for a while—and that’s fine with us! Come and enjoy.
What about access? There is a small carpark beside the church halls. If this is busy we are also able to use the larger carpark on the other side of the garage on Springfield Road. Access to the Church building is by two small steps at the front door of the church or via a ramp to the rear.
Welcome. You will be welcomed at the door by what we hope is a friendly face or two. Those on door duty will answer any questions you have and provide you with an order of service. This informs you of the upcoming events as well as the order that the service will take.
Getting settled. Craigiebuckler Church is laid out in a traditional manner with cushioned wooden pews on each side of a central aisle, and you are free to take a seat anywhere.
Bibles and hymn books are in each pew. Large print versions are available, as well as a hearing loop for the hard of hearing. Prior to the start of the service, music will be playing and people may take the opportunity to speak to those around them.
What will happen? The minister, the Rev. Kenneth Petrie, usually leads the service, which lasts for an about an hour. We use both traditional and contemporary hymns and prayers. The main part of the service is the sermon or a series of talks where the Bible is read, explained and applied to life. We seek to worship God and do everything in a way that honours him, as well as trying to encourage and build one another up.
The music is led by Harry Williamson on the organ or piano with the help of the choir. Several times a year the Church Orchestra also plays. Most of the congregation stand to sing but this is not necessary. We are delighted to see someone new and nobody bats an eyelid if you stand or sit at the wrong time!
An opportunity to contribute to the work of the church takes place when the offering is collected, towards the end of the service. This is also part of our worship but visitors need not feel obliged to give.
The service ends with the Benediction (blessing) spoken by the minister. Again we stand for this but it is okay to sit too.
What if I want to bring children? During school term time, Sunshine Kids and Jaffa cater for children and a creche is available on request. The children usually join in the first part of the service. After the children’s talk, they can go to the Church hall with the Young Church leaders to take part in activities specifically designed for their age group. They are also welcome to remain in Church with their carers.
What happens after the service? Usually tea, coffee and biscuits are served in the hall, to which everyone is invited. This is an opportunity to spend time together and is very informal and friendly. There is also an opportunity to buy Fairtrade goods.
What else goes on at Craigiebuckler? Over 600 people per week use the halls at Craigiebuckler in a wide range of activities.
Prayer requests. There is a small prayer group which prays for the work of the church and for peoples’ concerns. If you would like the group to pray for you or someone you know, then fill in one of the prayer request slips and put it in the prayer box in the church porch. Prayer requests are treated in the strictest confidence.
Life events. As with any church in the Church of Scotland, Craigiebuckler can provide worship and spiritual guidance for key life events, from child and adult blessings and baptisms to marriages and funerals. In bereavement, Craigiebuckler Church seeks to serve all within the parish and not just members. Nobody in a situation of bereavement should hesitate to contact the minister, either directly or through the undertaker.
What if I want to find out more? We are happy to arrange a discussion with you – please contact the Church office (01224 315649) or the minister (01224 315125). Please also visit our website: http://www.craigiebuckler.org.uk
