Visit Us
What to Expect as You Plan Your Visit
Accessibility and Special Needs
HEARING NEEDS
Hearing assistance retrievers are available upon request from the sound desk, located in the back left of the sanctuary.
OTHER NEEDS
We have a wheelchair accessible bathroom and our aisles can accommodate wheelchairs. If a walker or wheelchair is required, please ask an usher if one from the church is available for your use while inside the church.
“What Should I Wear?”
There’s no dress code at the URC of Thunder Bay—come as you are. That said, clothing is often one of the first things people notice when visiting a new place, and those who dress much more formally or casually than others may feel out of place.
We encourage attire that honors God and doesn’t seek to draw attention (James 2:2–4; 1 Timothy 2:8–10), knowing that our identity is in Christ—not in what we wear (2 Corinthians 5:17). Scripture reminds us that God looks at the heart, not the outward appearance (1 Samuel 16:7).
So, whatever we do—including how we dress—we seek to glorify God and reflect a life that points others to Him (1 Corinthians 10:31).
“When Should I Arrive?”
To help you settle in comfortably, we recommend arriving about 10–15 minutes early. This will give you time to orient yourself, find a seat, and prepare for worship.
“What if I have Kids?”
We offer infant and toddler nurseries where they can be cared for. However, you are always welcome to bring them into the sanctuary to join the congregation for worship if you prefer.
“Where do I Sit?”
There are no assigned seats. If you want assistance, an usher will be on hand in the fellowship hall, just past the foyer, to help you. If your party consists of four or more people, we suggest arriving 15 minutes early to ensure you can sit comfortably together.
What is the worship service like?
Structure
Our worship services at URC of Thunder Bay are structured to reflect God-honoring worship. Every church has a liturgy—an order of worship—and ours is rooted in historic Christian traditions, particularly those of the Reformation and early church fathers.
More importantly, our liturgy fully conforms to God’s Word. Worship is shaped by what He has revealed in Scripture, and it is a dialogue between God and His people. He speaks to us through His Word and sacraments, and we respond in prayer and song.
Every element of worship has a biblical foundation, allowing us to praise God with understanding and devotion.
There are bulletins available at the entrance into the Sanctuary to help you follow along.
For more information on the Structure of Worship click here.
Music
Our church views music as an essential part of worship, deeply rooted in Scripture. We believe that singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs is a way to glorify God, express gratitude, and proclaim His salvation. As taught in Ephesians 5:19–20 and Colossians 3:16, music is not only a form of praise but also a means of teaching and encouraging one another in faith.
Inspired by passages like 1 Chronicles 16:23, we see singing as a way to joyfully declare God’s goodness each day. To honor this biblical call to worship, our church incorporates the singing of psalms and hymns with musical accompaniment, ensuring that our music remains reverent, Christ-centered, and an expression of heartfelt devotion.
Watch the video to hear and see our church singing.
Tithes & Offerings
During the service, the deacons pass offering bags to collect gifts for a specific cause, which is noted in the bulletin. While visitors are under no obligation to give, members are called to give generously and with cheerful hearts, according to their ability (Deuteronomy 16:17; Proverbs 28:27; Hebrews 13:16; 2 Corinthians 9:6–13).
Through this offering, we acknowledge that all we have comes from God, and we respond in gratitude by supporting the work of His Church and caring for those in need.
Sunday School
Every Sunday during the second service, we offer Sunday School for children (ages listed in the bulletin). During the Song of Preparation, they leave to begin their time together with singing before dividing into individual classes. There, they enjoy a Bible lesson and a craft—or maybe even two!
After the service
Refreshments
After the church service, we welcome you to join us in the fellowship hall for conversation and time together. Following the first service, coffee, tea, and juice are available for refreshment.
Hospitality Lunch
Many families in our church take turns hosting visitors and new members for lunch between services—feel free to ask for more information!