If you're thinking about visiting First Church for the first time you are probably wondering about some things.  How do I get to First Church?  We're in the heart of downtown Van Wert, right across from Fountain Park.  Click here for easy to read maps.  What time does worship begin?  8:00, 9:15, or 10:45, take your pick.  What is worship like? That depends on which service you attend.  Click here for more information on each service.  Where do I park?  There is ample street parking all around the church, and two large free city lots within one block.  What door do I go in?  There are three doors to the church, one on Central Avenue, one on Jefferson Street, and one on the corner.  All three lead to the sanctuary.  The office is inside the Central door, and the nursery is inside the Jefferson door.  

     Am I sitting in someone's seat?  Maybe.  But chances are they don't mind.  Is the building handicapped accessible?  Yes, throughout.  There is a small elevator in the Jefferson Street lobby and a full sized elevator in the Central Avenue lobby.  How should I dress?  However you are comfortable.  Some men wear suits and some wear slacks and polo shirts.  Some women wear dresses and some wear pants.  In the summer time some folks come to the contemporary service in shorts.  Will I be asked to stand and be recognized, or say anything?  Absolutely not.  One recent study showed that the number one social fear among Americans is speaking in public.   Also ranked high among fears was to be singled out in a large crowd.  Some churches force you to endure both when you visit.  We let you remain anonymous until you're ready to make yourself known. 

     How will I know when to stand, sit, sing, pray, leave, or whatever?  For the 8:00 informal service and 10:45 traditional service there are printed bulletins with clear instructions.  The 9:15 contemporary service is so laid back it won't matter.  There is always direction from the pulpit too.  What if I have to go to the restroom or something?  The ushers will be happy to help meet your needs, whether it's the restroom, nursery, coffee bar, or Sunday School class.  We have good signage at First Church in case an usher is not available.  What kind of people will I encounter at First Church?  There are all kinds here.  We have people of various races, social backgrounds, professions, theologies, and interests.  What we have in common is a desire to know and relate to God.  Some are far down that road.  Others are just taking their first steps.  Wherever you are on that path, you can fit in at First Church.

     That ought to do you for your first trip.  If you have deeper questions about First Church just explore this web site.  There is a lot of information here and you can get a pretty good idea what we're all about.  Or call the office at 419-238-0631.  I'd be glad to talk with you.  I think you'll find there's a place for you here.

Gus Christo-Baker, Senior Pastor