We’re so glad you’re considering worshiping with our church family, and we would love to meet you. Visiting a new church can be intimidating, and we’ll try our best not to single you out or make you feel uncomfortable. (although some of our members will probably introduce themselves; we hope you won’t mind that)
What do I wear?
Clothes. Please wear clothes. Really, though, wear whatever makes you feel comfortable. Some of our folks dress up (dresses, coats, ties), and some dress down (jeans and hoodies). You’ll blend in well if you dress casual.
How do I get there?
You’ll find more details on our Where and When page, but we’re located at 18 Court Street in downtown Portsmouth, New Hampshire. There’s a parking lot behind the church, which you can access by a driveway that’s to the right of the church (as you’re looking at it from the front), between the two white houses. Park anywhere you’d like, and come in through the double-glass doors in the middle. Someone will be at the door to direct you to the sanctuary.
If you’re walking here from downtown, our front doors facing Court Street are always open on Sunday mornings.
When should I arrive?
Our services begin at 10:00 am. Many of our members arrive around 9:45, which gives them time to park, get inside, take their coats off, find a seat, and prepare for the service.
What should I expect during the service?
Our services usually run 65–70 minutes. Throughout a service we sing three or four hymns together, pray, and hear a sermon to help us understand the Bible and learn to live by it. Sometimes we’ll also add other elements to help you know God better.
We appreciate the thoughtful, robust tradition of many hymns, historic prayers and liturgies. At the same time, our worship services have a relaxed spirit. Think: traditional, but not stuffy.
After every service many of us head downstairs to connect with one another over coffee and light snacks. We hope you’ll join us for this time!
Can I bring my children?
Yes! Children and teenagers are part of our family, and we go out of our way to welcome them.
You can find more details about our children at www.middle.st/children.
What about middle and high school students?
On Sunday mornings we invite all middle and high school students to join us for the duration of the worship service. Many of our students lead and serve our church family in meaningful ways.
Throughout the month we host youth group and social events just for teenagers. Visit www.middle.st/teenagers to read more.
What kind of music do you play?
We’re a singing church! We play a variety of styles of music, but our true aim is to worship and sing loudly together!
Most of our congregational singing is led by a combination of piano, guitar, drums, and organ. Some weeks the music is more contemporary; others it’s more traditional. On occasion several of our members lead us in bluegrass-style worship with the bluegrass band they lead. If you like musical variety, you’ll fit right in.