I’m New

Visiting a new church for the first time can be a little scary. Below we answer some common questions.

What are the basics?

Our services are at 11a ET on Sunday mornings and are in-person and livestreamed via Facebook Live. You may park in the lot next to / behind the church. You can also park in the parking deck attached to the condos behind the church. If you park in the deck, ask us for a parking voucher.

In-person worship is open to all who are fully vaccinated (if medically eligible), showing no COVID-19 symptoms, and with no known recent exposure. Masking is currently optional. Children who are not eligible to be vaccinated are welcome.

A friendly greeter will meet you and tell you everything you need to know. You may enter through the big front doors facing Ponce or the rear doors across from the apartment building. The doors open at 1030a ET. Make sure to grab a paper bulletin on the way in.

If you have any other questions or are unsure, please feel free to reach out by emailing Pastor Colin at colin.holtz@dhbc.org.

What does it mean that “all are welcome”?

Exactly that. Too many of us have experienced churches that were unwelcoming, unfriendly, or told us there was something wrong with us. This church is different.

Recognizing that all are “one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28) we affirm our equality in the family of God and in this congregation regardless of social status, education, race, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, mental ability, physical ability, position, or any other distinction. That’s a promise.

Our congregation can look different each Sunday, since not everyone attends weekly. We understand that life happens! Visit us more than once and we’re sure you’ll find warm and welcoming new friends.

What about the kids?

No matter what your family looks like, you are welcome here. We offer in-person childcare and Sunday School for children of all ages during the worship service.

Our worship service includes a children’s time where we engage kids at their level. After this time, children are invited to join Sunday School. Children are also welcome to remain in the sanctuary, and we have activity packets for them.

When you arrive, a member of our kids team will greet you and make sure you feel welcome and comfortable. One of the benefits of a smaller church is personalized care for your family!

It is super helpful to reach out to our Associate Pastor for Children and Families at colleen@dhbc.org in advance of your visit. Learn more about our children’s ministry.

What is worship like?

In worship, we practice being in a world focused on doing. We practice being enough in a culture that tells us we lack something. And, we practice being together in an era of individualism and loneliness.

We worship in a contemplative style with a relaxed atmosphere. Wear whatever you feel comfortable in. Our music is rooted in piano, organ, acoustic instruments, and choral singing with a church choir. Worship includes call-and-response readings, spoken prayers, and Scripture readings, and lasts no more than one hour. Our traditional service connects us to the ancient history of the church without becoming stuffy or restricting. We believe in coming before God just as we are, without pretense.

Do I have to give money?

No. We know that many people are tired of feeling like an ATM at church. We do not pass an offering plate, nor are you required to give. Toward the end of service, a deacon will offer a prayer and remind those who wish to give how they can do so, since we are a member-led church that receives no outside funding from a denomination. But giving is never required, especially if you are visiting for the first time.

What about Bible study or small groups?

Our “Problems, with Paul” Bible study meets every Sunday morning on Zoom at 9:50a ET in-person and on Zoom. We also offer periodic Zoom groups that are a fun way to learn and get to know each other. Find out how to get involved.

I have other questions! Who should I talk to?

Feel free to reach out directly to Pastor Mimi or Pastor Colin with any questions you might have.