Questions & Answers About Worship - Scroll Down

Q: What will worship be like?

A: You will find that we blend contemporary styles with sacred traditions we have held dear for more than a hundred years. There will be congregational singing of hymns and spiritual songs. We use hymnals, and about once a month we sing words to a piece of contemporary music projected up front. There will be prayers uplifting both local people in need and larger concerns around the globe. Scripture will be read and a sermon will challenge us to apply vibrant, sensible and modern faith to the real issues of our lives and our world. We try to balance both head and heart. Our pastor says, "I like to make prestigious fun!" Adult and children's choirs sing often and our hand bell choir plays monthly. Sometimes there are soloists, duets, instrumentalists, a jazz band (on Fathers Day!) and even dancers. Our pastor leads certain parts of the service while other people also share in leading. Finally, you might encounter a ritual like communion, baptism, infant dedication or occasionally a special dedication for people going on a mission trip with organizations like Habitat for Humanity.

Q: How should I dress for church?

A: People wear a combination of dressy and casual clothes. Some are in dresses and suits with ties while others are in very casual pants and button down shirts. Please be yourself. In the summer people wear very comfortable clothes, even shorts - definitely no coats and ties.

Q: How long is worship?

A: Our services usually last about an hour.

Q: Will anyone single me out when I visit?

A: NO! We realize what a significant step of faith it is just to walk through the doors of a church. You will not be asked to stand up and introduce yourself and nobody will single you out in any way. Feel free to enjoy the service and remain completely anonymous if you like, but we would like to meet you. During announcements at the beginning of worship, we pass a red "pew pad" down each row for everyone to sign (not just the visitors). This is a good way to see the names of people sitting around you. If you wish, you can list your name and address and "check off" if there is any way we may be of service to you. After announcements, everyone stands for an informal time of greeting one another. People may introduce themselves to you. We hope you will find people here to be very warm, welcoming and friendly. At the end of the service our pastor greets people at the front door of the sanctuary. This is a good time to say hello and connect.

Q: Is the church air conditioned?

A: YES! The sanctuary has ample air conditioning, so come and enjoy worship in the summer. (We also provide a children's class and nursery during the summer.)

Q: Where do my children go during worship?

A: Every week in worship the pastor or one of our members calls the children down to share a special message with them. After this, the children and Sunday School teachers leave for various classes. Teachers will guide your child to the appropriate class. After church, the teachers bring the kids to Fellowship Hall where the adults are enjoying refreshments together. You can pick up your kids there.

Q: Do you have a nursery?

A: Yes we do, and it is fully staffed. Our nursery is newly refurbished with a crib, changing table, age appropriate toys and a soft carpet for crawling. When you drop off your child, you will receive an electronic pager to call and let you know everything is OK or that we need you to come. We also have a crying area set up in our "Welcome Center," just out the front door of the sanctuary and to the right. There are comfortable chairs there and sound from the worship service is piped in, so you can still enjoy the service.

Q: When is communion and can I receive it?

A: Communion is at the end of worship on the first Sundays of the month. We celebrate an "open table." All people who believe in Jesus Christ are welcome to receive communion.

Q: What is the worship program like?

A: Take a look for yourself. Just click here.

Q: Do you have any adult classes before church? And what about my kids?

A: Yes, we have a wonderful adult class that meets in the church parlor of the Sisk Wing at 9 am. There is a multi-age Kids for Christ program and adult choir rehearsal during that hour too, so the whole family can come.

Q: Can I leave right after worship?

A: Yes, of course you can, or you may join us downstairs for refreshments and conversation. For many people, this is their favorite part of the week!

Q: Where can I find a map and driving directions?

A: Just click here for a map. Also, on the "home" page of this site, click on the "map" link on the right side. Google will provide a map and directions for you.

DIRECTIONS FROM THE SOUTH (HARTFORD, CT)

• Take I-91 North to Exit 40 onto CT-20, Go 2.4 miles.
• Exit onto CT-75 and turn right (North), Go 5 miles.
• When you come into Suffield, CT-75 will dip down and bend right
• as you will cross a bridge, railroad tracks & come to a light.
• Bear left at the light and continue on CT-75 (South Main St) for another 1/2 mile.
• You will see Second Baptist up on the right,
• a brick building with a white steeple and gold dome.
• Take the drive down the left side of the church. Parking is in back.

DIRECTIONS FROM THE NORTH (SPRINGFIELD, MA)

• Take I-91 South to Exit 47W and merge right onto CT-190 west.
• Go 1.5 miles crossing the Connecticut River to a light.
• Turn left on CT-159 and go 0.8 miles.
• Turn right on Bridge St. and to 2 miles to a light in the center of Suffield.
• Turn right on CT-75 (North Main).
• Second Baptist will be the 4th building on the right,
• a brick building with a white steeple and gold dome.
• Take the drive down the left side of the church. Parking is in back.

Q: I have more questions. How can you help me?

A: Just call us at 860-668-1661 or click here to send an e-mail.