First Time Guest
We'll do our best to make your visit to our church a pleasant experience. Make sure that you come early to give yourself plenty of time to look around and visit our Information Center in the Grand Hallway. Greeters and ushers are available to help you know where to go and how to get there. There is no dress code and no assigned seating at First West.
After each service we invite you to visit the Reception Area. Our staff will be there to meet you and discuss any questions you may have about spiritual issues or about First West. The Reception Area is located just outside the Worship Center on the Fourth Street side of the Grand Hallway.
Learn more about Sunday mornings at First West.
GENERAL QUESTIONS
What can I expect on my first visit?
You will experience a worship service with dynamic music from a live band or orchestra, singers, and multimedia presentations. You will find an exciting, safe, and fun learning environment for your children where they will love coming to church. You will hear relevant teaching with practical application about real life issues that you can incorporate into your life on a weekly basis.
How early should I arrive?
We suggest that visitors arrive between 15 to 20 minutes before the service begins so you can find a place to park and make your way to the building. Parents of small children may want to arrive even earlier to get their children settled in the nursery.
I haven't been to church in a long time. Is it okay for me to come?
Yes! In fact, we don’t care if you have never been to church. Our worship services are easy to follow and don’t require that you have any past church experience.
Is there a dress code? What should I wear?
We do not have a dress code, and we certainly wouldn’t want you to worry about this! Wear what you feel is comfortable and appropriate. Some people wear jeans and t-shirt, while others come in “business casual” attire. Some people prefer to dress up, while others prefer to dress down. We are more concerned about your heart and your needs than we are about your clothing.
Are people with special needs welcome?
Yes. All ages of those with special needs are welcome. The building is handicapped accessible, and we offer a variety of L.I.F.E. Groups for levels of ability. If you or your child has a fairly unique special need, you may want to call (322.5104) the church so that we can help accomodate your needs. During regular worship hours, we have a Medical Team comprised of doctors, EMTs, and nurses available for any emergencies.
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WHERE DO I PARK?
I am visiting First West, where should I park?
Reserved Guest Parking is located at the front of the worship center building facing Mill Street. Once you have visited First West, you may find that another parking lot is better for you depending on which L.I.F.E. Group(s) you and your family members attend.
Where is handicap parking available?
Handicap parking is available on all sides of the church campus. Covered drop-off areas are located at the Third Street Entrance to the Adult Education Building and at the Grand Hallway Entrance on Fourth Street.
Do you have parking for senior citizens?
Yes. Senior Adult parking is available on Third Street and is marked accordingly. This parking lot is the one closest to the Senior Adult L.I.F.E. Group rooms.
Is parking available for those with babies?
For those with babies and small children, Pampered Parking, near the Children's Building, is available in Parking Lot 6 on Fourth Street.
Where do I park when I come to First West during weekday office hours?
During Office Hours on weekdays, park on Pine Street and enter the church through the Main Office Entrance located on Pine Street.
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Visiting with Children?
Main Children Page
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WHAT HAPPENS IN WORSHIP SERVICES?
What is your worship service on Sunday like?
In choosing which worship service to attend at First West, you'll want to know something about the character of each service:
•Sunday mornings at 8am and 10:50am, we have Contemporary worship services. These services are led by a praise band including piano, electric guitar, brass and percussion instruments and are accompanied by a team of vocalists. The band uses material from a variety of worship sources, as well as original compositions.
•Sunday mornings at 9:30am is our Classic worship service. This service is characterized by the hymns we've come to appreciate as a part of our heritage and faith, as well as by classic choruses, and will be accompanied by our Sanctuary Choir and Orchestra.
I can’t make it on Sundays. Is there another time for me?
Absolutely! Check out Wednesday Nights at First West. You can also download our Sunday Services via a podcast or watch them on television.
Do you have assigned seating?
No. You can sit wherever you like in the worship center. If you are deaf and wish to sit near the Deaf Interpretor in the 10:50am service, he or she will be located at the front of the worship center to the right of the podium. We also offer Spanish translation of the Sunday message in Feazel Chapel during the 10:50am service.