FAQ
The Answers You Need
What is church all about?
If you’re visiting us for the first time or have been attending for a while you may wonder – what is church all about? Well in one word – JESUS. We exist to tell others about him. And build a relationship with him. And serve him by serving others. Everyone has a place at the table here at Salem UMC. Let us and God help guide you to where your true calling is!
Im New. What should I expect?
There will be many helpful and friendly church goers that can help you throughout worship. Visit the Welcome Desk by the main entrance for more information on our current events, or for any questions. You can relax in our social hall or lobby area and enjoy coffee and light refreshments before service begins. As you make your way up to the sanctuary you will be greeted by one of our ushers. Are you new? Let an usher know so they can give you a connection card. Get connected with the church, and get ready to worship with us. After service concludes feel free to introduce yourself to the church family and Pastor. We’d love to get to know you!
Where should I go during worship?
If you are coming to Salem Church for the first time we invite you to enter via the main door next to the ramp on Independence Street. This entrance is handicap accessible. This will bring you into our Lobby. Immediately to your right will be our Welcome Desk. If you have questions don’t hesitate to ask our Welcome Desk Operators!
Just past the Welcome Desk is our Holy Grounds coffee/snacks area. Please feel free to help yourself and bring your coffee to worship. Restrooms are located downstairs through the hall just past our Nursery Room. Ready for Worship? The stairs to the upstairs Sanctuary are to the left of the Church Lobby. (We have a chair lift for those who need it.) Now it's time to Worship! Our worship space is air-conditioned, and has enough room for everyone to worship. Let us know you're coming and we will save you a seat!
Is there a dress code during worship?
We have a come-as-you-are policy when it comes to dress code. There is no strict rules for what you wear to church on Sundays. However some families do like to dress more traditionally for special occasions. We recommend wearing more polished attire for special services such as Easter and Christmas. However, no dress-code is strictly enforced at any time.
Can my children attend worship?
Yes! Kids of all ages are always welcome in worship. Nursery is available downstairs for children infant to 5 years old and there are coloring pages available in the back of the sanctuary. We seek to engage and teach children and youth in worship and all other aspects of community life. During worship children experience a new lesson through a children’s message. On 2nd and 4th Sundays we also offer Children's Church downstairs where children ages 5 and up are welcome to learn and grow with God!
Do I have to become a member?
No–You do not have to be a member to come to worship at Salem UMC! We want our church to be an active presence in our community, serving others in a purposeful and meaningful way. We are a church family that welcomes all people to come worship, learn, and grow in faith. We are fully committed to our mission of love and service through Christ.
How do I become a member?
Would you like to know more about what we believe as United Methodist Christians? Do you want to learn more about what God is doing in and through Salem UMC? Have you wondered what it means to be Methodist? Are you interested in growing in your faith? Fill out one of our connection cards or reach out directly to us about how you can become a member! We would love to schedule a meeting with you and have you join our church family.
Can I bring guests with me to worship?
Yes! Bring a friend or family member with you to church! Did you know that 82% of the unchurched would be interested in coming to church if invited by a friend and yet in the last year only 2% of church members have invited someone? Consider asking someone to come with you to Salem. Everyone is welcome, whether you are visiting from another church, looking for a church home, or are just interested to see what we offer.
“Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.” – Romans 15:7
Am I able to transfer from another church?
Yes, you can transfer in and out of Salem UMC just by filling out a Family Information Form and submitting your Transfer Letter. You can pick up a form at our welcome desk or at the Church Office. We welcome all new members with open arms! Need a Transfer Letter? Should a member move away or otherwise wish to transfer to another church, they should ask the Pastor of their current church for a “Letter of Transfer”. This letter should be addressed to the Pastor of the new church to which the transfer is being made. If you have questions about membership or want to become a Salem UMC member, be confirmed or reaffirm your commitment to Christ and this church, contact the office at office@salemum.com for more information.
Wait! - I have more questions, where should i turn for answers?
Questions? We’re here to help — Contact us! If you are in need of more information, please contact the Church Office. You may email the Office at office@salemum.com or call at 1-(570)-366-0201. We will assist you as best as we can. Our Regular Office Hours are Tuesday – Thursday 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM and Fridays 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM Office Hours may vary depending on Holidays, sick/vacation leave for staff, or rescheduled hours etc. Please call before visiting the office if you can!