First time at the Church of the Good Shepherd?
First time at church?
Welcome! Below is some information to help you connect with us for the first time and know what to expect from your visit. For information about travel:
If you are travelling by bus, the bus stop is in Hainault Road, just a couple of minutes walk away from the church towards Collier Row. Bus Numbers from Romford are: 175, 294, 375, 247 & 365.
There is parking for cars in neighbouring streets, but please be mindful and courteous to our neighbours and avoid blocking driveways.
The information below relates to our 10.00am Morning Worship Service.
What should I wear?
Most of our regulars choose to dress casually, but please wear whatever you feel comfortable in!
Who should I find if I have any questions?
When you arrive at the Good Shepherd you will be greeted by our welcome team who will be in our entrance lobby wearing a lanyard. They will be able to help you any time during your visit.
What about my children?
On Sunday mornings we run a full children’s program. They join us for the first few songs at the start of the service, then they go out to their groups – we will make it really clear when this time has come. For further details about our children's work, please click here.
What about my teenagers?
We also run a group for those aged 11 to 18. Some weeks they stay in for the whole service and other weeks they go out after the worship but again we will make it clear during the service. For further details about our youth work, please click here.
Where are the toilets?
You will find toilets easily in the lobby area as you come into the building. There is a disabled access toilet which also has baby-changing facilities in it.
What can I expect during the service itself?
The service will start with a welcome and introduction to our theme followed by some liturgy, confession and affirmation of faith. We are then led by our worship team in sung worship and the words will be on the big screen for you. If you don’t know the songs, just relax and listen. Feel free to sing, clap, tap your feet – whatever you are comfortable with. Children are encouraged to join on the blue carpet at the front of the church to wave a flag or dance (although all ages are welcome to join in too!).
Following the songs, the children will head to their groups while the adults are given some notices followed by the day’s talk after which there will be an opportunity to respond to what you have heard.
We would love to give everyone who attends the chance to be prayed for – though there is no pressure at all. If you would like to be prayed for, you will find a team ready to receive you at the front left hand side of the church. The service leader will point this out and make it really clear for you. Sometimes you will find the format a little different. We assure you that you will not be made to feel embarrassed, asked to speak, identify yourself as new or made to come forward.
Services last about 1hr 30 mins and we have tea and coffee at the back of church afterwards. If you have brought children you will need to go and collect them after the ministry time.
Need more info on something?
Please feel free to contact us any time by clicking here.