What to Expect at Your First Church Service at Horizon City Church?

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Walking into a church for the first time—especially if you haven’t been to church in a while, or ever—can feel intimidating. Maybe you’re new to the area, curious about faith, or looking for a fresh start. You might have a few questions running through your mind:
What will it be like? Will I fit in? Will I know where to go or what to do? Will people notice that I’m new?

If that’s you, I want to tell you right up front: you’re not alone, and you are absolutely welcome here.

At Horizon City Church, we believe that church should feel like coming home. We are a church built around real people, with real stories, all seeking a real relationship with Jesus. Whether you’re skeptical, spiritually searching, or a lifelong believer, our arms are wide open—and we’ve saved a seat for you.

 

Before You Arrive

Let’s talk about what to expect, practically speaking. Our services happen every Sunday at 10:00 AM at the Cinepolis Cinema in Hamlin. The environment is bright, comfortable, and welcoming, and you’ll see friendly faces ready to greet you the moment you walk in.

There’s no need to dress up unless you want to. Some people come in shorts and sneakers, others in jeans and a button-down. You do you. What matters most to us is that you come as you are.

 

When You Walk Through the Doors

We remember what it’s like to walk into a church for the first time—that feeling of being new, unsure, maybe even nervous. That’s why our team is intentional about creating a warm, no-pressure environment. You’ll be greeted at the door by people who are genuinely happy to see you. You won’t be singled out or asked to stand up or do anything uncomfortable. We’re here to serve you, not spotlight you.

If you have kids, one of the first things you’ll notice is that we love families. City Kids (our childcare program) is a fun, safe, and engaging environment designed for children from six weeks through fifth grade. You can check them in with confidence knowing our team is background-checked and trained to care for your little ones as if they were their own. While they’re learning about God in age-appropriate and exciting ways, you’ll be able to fully engage in the service knowing they’re in good hands.

 

The Service Itself

We keep our Sunday services right around an hour. Our goal is to create a space where you can encounter God, ask honest questions, and take steps forward in your faith journey.

The service usually begins with worship music. Whether you’ve never heard a worship song before or you’ve been singing them for years, we invite you to simply listen, observe, or join in—whatever feels right for you.

After worship, you’ll hear a message from the Bible that’s relevant and practical. We don’t try to impress you with theological jargon or lofty language. We want to help you understand God’s Word and how it intersects with everyday life—your relationships, your work, your questions, your hopes and struggles.

We believe church should be a place where people are free to be real. So don’t worry if you don’t have it all together—we don’t either. Horizon is full of imperfect people who are growing together, and you’re invited into that journey.

 

What We’re All About

Our heart is simple: We want to help people move from where they are to where God wants them to be. That means everything we do—from kids’ ministry to Sunday messages to serving our community—is about creating space for transformation.

We value authenticity over appearance, progress over perfection, and connection over performance. We don’t believe church is about checking religious boxes; it’s about living out a relationship with Jesus in everyday life, in community, and with purpose.

 

You Don’t Have to Believe to Belong

This might be the most important thing I say in this whole post: You don’t have to believe everything we believe to feel like you belong here. You are welcome to explore, question, listen, and grow at your own pace. We believe Jesus meets us exactly where we are—and so do we.

At Horizon City Church, there’s room for your doubts, your questions, and your story. You’re not just welcome here—you’re wanted.

 

Ready to Visit?

If you’re thinking about attending for the first time, we’d love to know you’re coming. You can let us know ahead of time through our website, or you can just show up—either way, we’ll be ready for you.

So take a breath. You don’t have to have everything figured out. Just come. Come as you are. Come with your questions. Come with your past. Come with your hopes. Come and see what God might want to do in your life.

I’ll be the one near the front—smiling, praying, and looking forward to meeting you.