Church service times explained

Why there is more than one service

Churches add services for two simple reasons: space, and the fact that people's weeks look different. A second or third service lets a congregation grow without a bigger building, and lets shift workers, families with small children and older members each find a time that works.

The teaching is normally the same across services on the same day. What changes is the music, the size of the crowd and the atmosphere.

Early service

Often quieter, sometimes more traditional in its music, and usually the shortest. It suits people who like a calm start, and anyone with a full day ahead.

Mid-morning service

Usually the main service of the week: the fullest, with the most children's programmes running and the most people staying afterwards for coffee. If you want to get a feel for a church, this is generally the one to visit.

Evening service

Typically smaller and more informal, and in many churches the service most popular with students and young adults. Worth a look if mornings are difficult.

Saturday and Sabbath services

Some Catholic parishes offer a Saturday vigil Mass that counts as the weekend service. Seventh-day Adventist churches worship on Saturday as a matter of conviction rather than convenience.

Midweek gatherings

Midweek meetings — Bible studies, prayer meetings, youth groups and small groups in homes — are where most people actually get to know a congregation. They are usually more conversational than a Sunday service and are often the fastest way to stop feeling new.

Check before you go

Times change around holidays, summer schedules and building work. Every listing in our directory shows the service times we hold for that church, and a phone number or website where one is available — a quick check saves a wasted trip.