Guest FAQ's
1. How many people attend on Sunday morning?
During the school year, we have just over 1200 people in attendance each Sunday morning.
2. How long has First EFC been around?
We started as a home Bible study in 1963.
3. What kind of church is this?
We are part of the Evangelical Free Church of America, an association of churches that share a common doctrinal statement. See more about the Evangelical Free Church on this site.
4. What can I expect as a first time guest?
We realize that visiting a church for the first time can be an uncomfortable experience. We make every attempt to ease your apprehension and make you feel welcome at First EFC. When you walk into the front doors, you will find a Welcome Center directly in front of you. This Welcome Center is there with you in mind! If you need to know where to take your child, or where the restrooms are, you can ask one of our friendly volunteers. If you want more information about our church, or would like to request a copy of one of our services on CD, the Welcome Center is the place to do that.
As you walk into the main area of the Worship Center, you will be offered one of our Welcome Gift Bags. This bags contains helpful information about our church family and events going on at First EFC. As you find a seat, and settle into the service, don't worry, we won't ask you to stand as a first-time guest, or embarrass you in any way.
We view ourselves as a family, and we welcome you to join us!
5. How many Sunday Services do you have?
We offer two worship services each Sunday morning – at 9:00 and 10:35. The same teaching and worship styles are offered at both.
6. What is available for my kids on Sunday morning?
At the 9:00am hour, we have age-appropriate activities for children from nursery through 8th grade. At the 10:35am hour, we have age-appropriate activities for nursery through 5th grade and for high school students. Our care givers, teachers and leaders are prepared for your child to have the best possible experience each Sunday.
7. Do you have anything for College Students?
Yes! The church college office is located in the heart of campus town at 114 Welch. Stop in and meet Joel Lewicki our College Ministry Director anytime. The Sunday morning College Fellowship meets at the 10:35am hour. Our primary college student connection is called "The River". A variety of retreats, conferences, and service projects are also scheduled throughout the year. For more information, contact jlewicki@amesefc.org.
8. Your church seems big. Is there a place for me?
We offer a variety of adult groups on Sunday morning called Adult Fellowships (AF). These groups are places where guests can connect with other adults and begin to find the encouragement that genuine community offers. There are several AF’s meeting at both hours on Sunday morning. The locations and a description of each may be found in our Sunday program. We encourage guests to try several and settle down in an AF that fits best. Those who attend our AF's will be looking for you.