The first time coming to a new Church can be a little intimidating. Here is what you can expect when you come to Saint James.

Whether you come in the side entrance (Bruce Street) or the back entrance (Askin Street), there will be someone there to greet you and hand you a bulletin. Don't be afraid to tell them you are new or ask them questions.They are nice people. There are also members of the connections committee roaming around before and after the service who can help you with anything you need like show you where the nursery or bathrooms are. They are the ones wearing the blue vests. They are nice people too.

If you have young children with you and don't want to put them in the nursery or sunday school, there are activity packages at both entrances for them. Just ask one of those nice greeters.

All of the pews have hymn books and service books. The bulletin will tell you what page numbers we use throughout the service. Also in the pews are envelopes for you to use if you want to make a contribution during the offering. If you fill out your name and address, a charitable receipt will be mailed to you. Along with the envelope is a form you can fill out if you want one of the clergy to contact you. You can put it on the plate as well. If you don't wish to contribute, that's fine. Just smile, we're glad you are here.

Just before the offering is the peace. People around you will turn to you, shake your hand, and say something like God's Peace. Don't be afraid of them. They are nice people

Most Sundays are Holy Communion. All who are Baptised in any Christian denomination are welcome to receive both the bread and the wine. Communion is served at both the lower nave rail and at the high altar rail. The choice is yours. If you use the high altar, please exit via the side door.

Either before or after the service, one of our clergy will probably notice you and will speak to you. Don't be afraid of them. They are nice people.

There is a coffee hour after the 10:30 service. Please join us. Newcomers are asked to use a yellow mug so people will know you are new. If you use a yellow mug, lots of nice people will speak to you. If you choose not to use a yellow mug, that's ok. Lots of nice people will still speak to you.

If you don't like being in a place that has lots of nice people, sorry, you've come to the wrong church!

See you next week!