What To Expect
We understand it can be intimidating if you’ve never been to church before – or if it’s been a while. To make it easier, we hope that we can give you some idea of what to expect and what our church service is like. About UsOur BeliefsLocation Information
Getting Here By Car or Transit
The church is located on the corner of 13th Ave and 19th St NW in Calgary. There is a parking lot adjacent to the church that fills up quickly, as well as on-street parking throughout the neighbourhood. PLEASE respect our neighbours by not blocking their driveways and observing all parking signs. There is also free parking available in the west lot behind the Louise Riley Library, located just behind the church on 14th Ave NW. The church is also easily accessible from the Lion’s Park LRT station, which is only a short 1-2 minute walk away, and several bus routes.
Wheelchair Accessible
There are 4 handicap-parking stalls immediately adjacent to the church and a ramp from the parking lot to the main entry. We also have a small elevator that allows those in wheel chairs, or who have difficulty with stairs, access to all levels of the church.
Sabbath Morning
Our Greeters
If you have any questions when you arrive, our greeters are ready to meet you at the door. They will welcome you, offer you a bulletin with the details of the service, and be more than happy to answer any questions that you may have. They can also direct or accompany you to the various areas of the church. If you have small children, the greeters will give them a handout with activities for them to do during the Service.
For Children
Calgary Central offers creative programs, activities, and lessons from scripture for children and youth of all ages. All classes are located on the lower level. For children in Cradle Roll, one of the parents must stay and participate with their child, while the other attends one of the adult classes. A greeter can help show you the way to go to your child’s class.
Adult Classes
We have multiple adult bible study classes, including one in Spanish and one in Russian. These are located throughout the church. Teaching styles differ and you are welcome to sit in on different classes until you find one that you prefer. There is also a Pastor’s class located in the Auditorium for those who are new to church, haven’t been to church in a while, or just want to refresh their knowledge of Scripture. As a new member, you are not obligated to attend this class.
The Church Service
The Church at Study
Begins at 9:00am with a time of quiet meditation and prayer. This is followed at 9:30am with Sabbath School Bible study classes. You do not have to attend, however, many members often indicate that this is what they wait for all week. During this one hour period, the class provides a time to fellowship in a small group, share prayer requests or praises, ask questions and discuss the weekly lesson.
The Church at Worship
Begins at 10:30am with hymns, followed by a short 15-minute program highlighting topics of interest or current events occurring in the Adventist church. These may include mission stories, Adventist history, church ministries or inspirational videos. The Divine Service begins at 11:00am and is typically one hour long. This is our opportunity as a congregation to unite in worshipping God through singing, prayer, tithe and offerings and the sermon.
Calgary Central offers a traditional style of worship – traditional hymns and music followed by scripture based teaching. If you have a Bible, please bring it along – and if not, please ask us if you would like help to get one.
Attendance
Our worship service has an average of 500 people in attendance.
Money
We do collect tithes and offerings. If you feel impressed to make an offering you can, however, please do not feel obligated to give.
How to Dress
Men often wear suits and ties, while others go more business casual (slacks and a button shirt). Some wear a nice pair of jeans and a dress shirt. Women generally wear a dress, blouse and skirt, or a pantsuit. However, we are more interested in you joining us than what you are wearing.
Getting More Involved
Learning More About the Bible
Small groups are a great way to connect with God and with people. Groups meet at various times and locations. You can find a group by clicking on the Small Groups link on our main page. You can also arrange a time to meet with one of our pastors by calling the church office at 403- 289-0196, or you can go to our Resources link on the main page and click on Online Bible Studies.
Care & Support
Calgary Central offers several programs to provide support through life’s challenging times. Among those are:
DivorceCare
Visit our Ministries page to learn more