What to expect at Church of the Foothills?

Church of the Foothills is a progressive Christian church, proclaiming that love grows here.

We are part of the United Church of Christ and Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).

We welcome all who are curious about Jesus’ vision of abundant life through scripture, study, service, and compassion. Questions are welcome. The communion table welcomes all.

If you are considering visiting us on Easter or a future Sunday, you are welcome. We would love to meet you. Here are some helpful tips about our gathering, our space, and our community.

When is Sunday worship?

We worship every Sunday at 10:00 AM (Pacific Standard Time) in our sanctuary and on Facebook.

We have additional worship services and gatherings throughout the year.

Does inclusive mean inclusive?

Many churches proclaim a broad welcome, but when you read the fine print, you find that some people are not welcome because of who they love, who they are, or what they believe. We are a church with diverse views on spirituality, faith, and the Bible. It’s a gift to be in conversation and community with people from different backgrounds and places of their spiritual journey (just like Jesus did).

Church of the Foothills is an open and affirming church, making an intentional welcome to our LGBTQ+ neighbors and family members who other churches often turn away. Here all really means all, to the best of our ability (since we are always growing and learning).

Will I be singled out or asked to join the church on a Sunday?

No. We know many in our community have been hurt and harmed by other congregations in the past with pressure tactics. We want you to worship as you feel comfortable. You should not even feel pressure to donate if it is your first time with us.

While we practice membership as a spiritual sign (our commitment to care for each other) and for practical purposes (voting on congregational decisions), we typically recognize new members who have already had a private conversation with the pastor at a later time.

Is your worship space accessible?

We have wheelchair ramps, accessible parking spaces, accessible restrooms, and extra room in our sanctuary for those who need it.

Do you have any COVID-19 restrictions?

We encourage everyone to get vaccinated and stay home if you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms. Mask use is encouraged but not required. Our livestream makes it easy to join us from afar. There is enough space to spread out on some Sundays in our well-ventilated sanctuary.

Where should I park?

There is plenty of parking on our campus, behind the church building next to our Preschool and along the street (both Dodge and Newport Ave).

What should I wear?

Dress comfortably and casually. Your presence, more than your choice of clothing, is most important.

How will our children be welcomed?

Before worship, children are invited to grab a special children’s bulletin and other supplies in our Welcome area outside of the sanctuary. During worship, our children are given space and acknowledgment with a blessing before being led by our gifted and trained staff for Worship & Wonder, a powerful time of spiritual practice and learning. An area for families to sit with their children and participate in worship is outside the sanctuary. There are diaper-changing stations in our restrooms. All volunteers and staff working with our children have undergone background checks and special training.

What kind of music will there be?

Church of the Foothills blends music from different genres and periods, from praise songs, spirituals, hymns, and more. We have an incredible choir that will lead us through their beautiful voices. A pianist, organist, and drummer support us. The energy we get from music is amazing.

How long are the sermons?

The sermon is a time for the pastor to help us understand scripture and think about what it might mean for our lives. Rev. Nathan usually preaches around 20 minutes.

Will I be asked to make a donation?

During worship, we take time to reflect on what we are grateful for and how we are to use the life and gifts we are blessed with, especially serving and sharing with others. If you are visiting with us for the first time, do not feel any pressure to make a donation.

Are there any other special rituals to know about?

About twice a month, we celebrate communion. You will see a table at the center of our sanctuary. It’s an important element of worship that reminds us that God’s love through Jesus is meant to be shared with anyone and everyone hungry for justice and peace. We practice an open table. Wherever you are in your journey of faith, you are invited to the table.

What if I have other questions?

Use our Contact page to give us a call or send us an email.