Can you just walk into a church?

[erikli]

I know it sounds stupid. There is a small church in my town that I want to visit but I am not sure if I can go in randomly.

[keira]

Not a stupid question at all! Most churches are indeed open to the public, especially during certain times of the day or for specific services. If the church you're interested in is small, there's a good chance it has a welcoming atmosphere.

A lot of churches keep their doors open during the day for people who want to come in to pray, reflect, or just check out the space. If you're unsure about the timings or the protocol, you might find a schedule posted near the entrance or on the church’s website. This schedule usually includes times for regular services and might also note when the church is open for visitors.

If you're still feeling a bit hesitant, you could try visiting during a scheduled service, like a Sunday morning mass, where visitors are expected and welcomed. It’s also perfectly fine to pop in during a quiet time if you prefer to experience the church in solitude.

Have you visited many churches before, or would this be one of your first times?

[Anonymous]

It depends on the church and on who you are.

If it is truly a "house of God" where they are actually preaching love (not this we love you by hating you/ "we love the sinner but hate the sin" BS) then you should be able to walk right in.

Some churches won't let you come around if you're one of certain types of sinners.

Some churches (like First Baptist in Sherman TX, yes im calling them out) won't let you attend if you came off the street/ homeless... if you aren't wearing a suit and tie they don't want you there because "they're on TV"

Some churches, like Global Vision Bible Church have pastors like Gregory Locke who have banned Democrats.

Then you have some churches like the little church my mom goes to where, if you're not black you may feel out of place because it's predominantly one family, but you learn quickly they don't care!

You have churches like the one across the field from my house that aren't just a place for religion, but have made themselves a welcoming place for the entire community.

Don't try figuring it out by calling, the wolves always claim to be sheep. The only way to find out is ask around or just show up and hope it's not Westboro Baptist. There are some fine churches out there (even coming from atheist me) and some horrible ones too. Good luck.

[seth900]

I think you just scare him to much i am not sure if there so many bad ones. To all the churches i went i am Catholic, but now go to protestant church and i been to Salvation army church, baptist and many other all of them welcomed me with open arms. So don't be afraid. Jesus always welcomes you

[Opinion Owner]

@seth900 yeah, Salvation Army has some serious issues too... during snowmageddon they let a homeless woman freeze to death outside the shelter in OKC because she was trans so... yeah, their "love" is very conditional, and that's not what Jesus was about

[flautistnaturist]

a catholic church at the beach has an all night chapel anyone can go in at any time. tried that at an African American baptist church inland that similarly had the light on and the door unlocked, and i got arrested. christianity is set up very contrarily to the actual Savior's words in the Bible, who always had for all His followers to be as one, and the guy in there who told the non-Jewish people of the world about Him, said all the people should follow the Savior, Himself instead of the different personalities of the people He sent. but people quit obeying that before even a century had gone by and now everybody with a Bible is different than the rest with one. a Bible commune up north had an all night deli and a hostel and they were always available and staffed round the clock except for the last day of the week or the holidays the Bible specifies that the Jewish people mostly go by. covid and remodeling have them meeting just at home these days, seems like, but each so called church is different in how they are and what they approve of.

[Jamie05rhs]

Do you know why you got arrested, though? It wasn't your fault. It's because some little dumbass white kid went into a black church in South Carolina and acted like a visitor, then he started shooting up the place.

This is why we can't have nice things.

[Michelle06]

100%! Almost all churches are thrilled to have guests! However, I would recommend looking up the church name to see if they have a website first, and checking out what type of doctrine/worship services they hold. Its always nice to be prepared (i. e. if you want to blend in, show up to contemporary worship in nice but more casual clothes and if it's more confessional/traditional show up in more formal or business casual clothes.) Also, if you get the chance, show up 15 min early and see if you can talk to the pastor to ask for more information about the service! (As others have said, if they force you to wear head coverings or don't welcome you to join them for service, it's probably best to stay away lol)

[Michelle06]

If you just want to look around the church, I would call or email the pastor or church management first. Not all churches open the sanctuary to the public during the working week for security reasons.

[RetroReviews]

They sure are thrilled because the more guess they have the more money they can possibly take in the modern Church system is a business more than anything. It definitely is not what God intended because the early church met in each other's homes and tithing was never money it was the crop harvest so it was the farmers so don't let them make you feel guilty and force you to give 10% of your income that says give what's in your heart not under compulsion or pressure a reluctance because God loves a cheerful giver

[Michelle06]

@RetroReviews Sadly, there are certainly some churches/denominations that operate like this, which is why it is so important to research first. However, my experience has been that a lot of churches are genuinely happy that someone new is participating, simply because in their eyes, that new person is taking steps towards strengthening their faith or at least learning about christianity. If I went to a church and there was an expectation for guests to contribute to an offering, or if it was apparent that the pastor was making a lot of money off of the congregation (e. g. fancy cars, huge house, celebrity status etc. lol), I would GET OUT immediately. At the Lutheran church that I go to, donating is completely anonymous, and the congregation meets to decide on how to budget donations and how much the pastor is going to be paid (which is not much at all because the congregation is small and can't afford much). I think that many other churches (especially smaller protestant ones) operate in a similar way.

[RetroReviews]

Sadly most of the churches I've went to in the past are all about the prosperity Gospel health wealth name it claim it. Basically Pentecostal / apostolic churches. I've always wanted to go to a more simple Church I got Baptist or Lutheran. I remember watching that old cartoon series produced by the Lutheran Church in America called Davey and Goliath. If you watch one of the episodes it'll take you back to a time where you can just feel from watching it how different our world was then.

[Michelle06]

@RetroReviews ah yes, prosperity gospel 😬 Definitely something to avoid! I feel ya, it would be so nice to go back it time 50 years or so 😅 I think that is actually part of the reason I gravitated towards the Lutheran church. It seems they have made a few necessary changes over the past few decades, but for the most part have stayed true to a simple and liturgical doctrine/service. After a few encounters with pentecostals "speaking in tongues" and non denominational services that felt like concerts meant to make you emotional, it was a breath of fresh air. Highly recommend the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (LCMS) if you are still looking for a simple church/service!

[RetroReviews]

Yes I very much am looking for a simple bible-based church service with a good message. Another thing about the modern world I don't like is even in church services people bringing their phones into the sanctuary and you know playing on the phones it's a distraction to others. And it's like aren't we here to fellowship and encourage one another, sing hymns and praises to the Lord and hear a message from the Lord from the man of God so disrespectful people on their phones they can't put them away for an hour. If I was part of a church and was in a position to make decisions I would suggest let's put a sign at the front door saying "We gather here today to worship the Lord in spirit and in truth"- John 4:24 kindly leave your cell phones in your car.

[Michelle06]

@RetroReviews oh my gosh YES, there is nothing more irritating that people being on their phones during service. During the sermon, I always go up to the choir loft to count attendance so that we can note it in the next weeks bulletin. Fortunately, I have never really seen this in the past, but just recently I have noticed one particular kid in the back who's mother gives him a phone to play video games on throughout the entire service. It irks me to no end. Where I have really noticed this happening though is lecture halls though. There are grown adults sitting in the FRONT ROWS on their phones. It's so blatantly disrespectful to the profs that it's honestly sad.

[Michelle06]

@RetroReviews Kinda random, but what exactly do you mean by "bible-based church service"? It can be kind of subjective. What are your thoughts on things like infant baptism, divine presence in holy communion, acceptable ways of worship, etc?

[RetroReviews]

Yeah I would like to ask people if they remember life before 2007 when the smartphone was released because it really changed the world forever and to me not in a good way people are so addicted to them. But the people at the big companies knew this and I believe it's what they wanted because it serves as a nice distraction

[RetroReviews]

When I say Bible based I mean like opposite of Pentecostal experience because some of those can get crazy where people are running rolling on the floor like they're going to the convulsions. Just chaotic to me that's not Bible based and not how God wants it. Because God is not the author of confusion. The Lord does things an orderly manner and deliberate. So for me a bible-based church service experience would be like things done in an orderly fashion like announcements in the beginning then sing a few hymns to the Lord praising him. I'm old school, I always liked it when a church had an organ player and that was it not a full band. Then after we all sing praises to the Lord the pastor gives the sermon with everyone paying attention taking notes with pen and paper no electronic devices. At the end of the sermon give the altar call always give people an opportunity to get saved every time. And if anyone needs prayer or has concerns make the elders available and they can come up after service has been dismissed. Something along those lines

[Michelle06]

@RetroReviews Interesting! Sounds kind of like old-school high anglican churches. I would say confessional Lutheran churches would tick all these boxes except for the altar calls (we have private confession available, but do not have altar calls as they are a more recent man-made tradition with pentecostal roots). Also, I very rarely see people taking notes, but at the very least they are off their phones and paying attention lol

[RetroReviews]

Well that's good they're not on their phones that's actually encouraging. For your other question about baptizing a baby. If you want to dedicate your child to the Lord and some kind of official manner that's fine but I believe baptism is when you are at the age of accountability have become saved and are following and Jesus footsteps. Basically baptism is an outward showing of an inner belief. But even then baptism in itself does not save you just like church attendance can't save you. Or mother Mary or dead saints cannot save us. Only faith in the Lord Jesus Christ alone saves us from our sins. Romans chapter 10 verse 9 is my favorite Bible verse. If you confess with your mouth Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead you will be saved.

[sage2021]

Yes, you can. But be very cautious about which one you walk into for all churches are different.

It seems as if you are being called to this church. Like the holy spirit is calling you to go there.

Find out what kind of church it is, and do some research on their beliefs before you decide to go.
Okay?

[jennifer_bloom]

Some have dress codes. I once went to weekend service and they forced me to put a covering on my head. Some churches care what type of shoes or tops you wear.

[RetroReviews]

Are you serious for you to put a covering on your head? What kind of church was this? So ridiculous

[GoodManDave]

@RetroReviews possibly a Garush at synagogue (Judaism) , or at a (Sikh) gurdwara, Muslim Mosque, or... some denominations of Christianity still do this, though I have never had to wear one.

I think the only headwear I might have needed might have been visiting a friend at his Synagog for his bar mitzvah when I was a teen. I don't recall ever having to have one in any of the churches I've gone to, but they do exist.

[RetroReviews]

@GoodManDave personally I don't think God cares about what kind of clothes you wear as long as you're dressed modestly. It's always what's in her heart worship Him in spirit and in truth.

[Drew-1990]

If you are talking about on a Sunday during their service yes you can, vast majority of churches will not bat an eye but if it's small you will probably get people want to talk with you and ask you questions. It's just to be polite and welcome you. During the week it depends on when their office hours are especially a small church they probably don't have someone there 24/7 or even every day. Most pastors will welcome you right in. This isn't 100% there are definitely sadly some that are not as welcoming but vast majority are.

[RetroReviews]

You could always contact the church. If you don't feel comfortable just showing up. Ask whatever questions you may have. In my opinion you should be able to go as you are. If they care about dressing a certain way or a bunch of legalistic rules then I would not recommend. It's not about what's on the outside it's about what's in your heart. That's why my favorite verse is Romans chapter 10 verse 9. If you confess with your mouth Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead you will be saved.

[OlderAndWiser]

Most churches are happy to have visitors, for whatever reason. However, many smaller churches do not have staff present M-F 8-5, and they will probably be locked when no one is present. Find a phone number for the church or its pastor and call them; you will probably get a friendly welcome.

[236color]

I just walked into Old Mariners Church in Detroit because I wanted to see the place mentioned in Gordon Lightfoot's song "Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald". The priest did come of to find out who I was and what I was doing there, but no trouble. They were setting up for a wedding. Side note: the song refers to "the Maritime Sailor's Cathedral" but it's widely know here in Detroit as Old Mariners Church.

[noemiii]

Most definitely can. I even tried this going to a Mormon church, had no issues. What are they gonna say, you can’t be here? The lord said I can though. Now what?

[sean1234]

Lol, if it was me, I would read the 4th commandment try to walk in on the 7th day before as stated before 11am, then see what happens. If it's closed, then it's not a church.

[JacobJordan]

Yes. Churches are public albeit religious centers. Unless the church is one of those hyper zealot paid membership churches you and everyone is welcome inside

[BCRanger10]

Randomly during the week? Probably not. Maybe if you make arrangements. They may want to know why though.

[RealMarek]

You can visit during one of the services or speak with the pastor if you feel like that would help you be more comfortable visiting.

[AviatorTom]

So long as the door is not locked, you can go inside and have a look around. It's a good idea to not do that when a service is going on though.

[Lliam]

Of course. Churches are more than happy to have visitors and hope that they return.

[Anonymous]

Unless you're a vampire, you can just walk right in.

[supercutebutt]

Churches want your $$$ so yes, you should be able to enter and join their cult. :)

[Dargil]

The answer is yes. That all say "welcome to all" even of they look at strangers with a little suspicion.

[NathanDavis]

I can't... not without being invited first...

[Pinay_ako]

Of course you can. Just be respectful. And it’s always open to anyone!

[DryGermanGuy]

Unless there is some restoration or renovation going on, churches are open during the day.

[DeeDeeDeVour]

You are definitely welcome to visit and more.

[sheenagwapa]

i don't know with other churches but if it's Catholic, absolutely!

[slatyb]

Yes, you can. They will likely be all over themselves to try to get you to return regularly.

[Fireguy17]

sure, if they are having a service go in and grab a seat.
Kind of a test drive.

[KostasKouvalis]

If it's open, yes. I do all the time. Just take your hat off

[bolverk]

While you could, it would be politic to have a word with minister/vicar/priest as soon as you enter the church.

[Jamie05rhs]

You mean on Sunday morning for the church service? Yes; you can.

[Knightwatch27]

If it's a real church following Jesus, and if you're there without ill or disruptive intent then yes. You not only can but you're most welcome to.

[SoJust]

Yes you can enter the church is open to everyone

[BrookeS]

Just walk in. You will be greeted and welcomed

[Anonymous]

to be honest, i would call them and ask. you don't want to accidentally walk in on a reception or something very important happening, ya know?

[dreamstar72]

Sure you can but make sure dress like you have money

[laly520]

mostly yes but some churches won't allow just anyone before checking on em

[boobliker]

Yes!, any time, but some have opening times, if someone asks can we help just say I am thinking of asking for help

[DrPepper12]

My experience no unless open for services or sacraments.

[TacosRAwesome]

Sure. Usually they don't allow shorts and sleeveless tops.

[KrakenAttackin]

Just walk up and see if it is unlocked. If it is unlocked, enter, but be very respectful.

[Iron_Man]

Yes of course you can go for it. Everybody is welcome at church

[Anonymous]

I don't know any church that would turn you away during service hours.

[12karen]

Of course you can, it's a church, God's kingdom is open for all who want to access It

[Likes2drive]

Pretty sure you can as long as they are open and not having a wedding

[thenerdone]

Totally, you can absolutely do that. Any church would be glad to see anyone there.

[MineTime]

I know with most big churches you can just walk in on a Saturday so I don’t see why it would be any different for small ones.

[whistlingwh0res]

You can walk in freely but you can’t walk out freely

[4ngelic]

yea you generally can

[strateguy632]

probably is locked.

[dustybiker2]

Some are tighter security. Maybe call first?

[lightbulb27]

If you can't then ya dont want to go

[Booklover_90]

You absolutely can. 😊

[Mangospacho]

Yes, for the most part, you can.

[Anonymous]

If the doors are open you can go in.

[zagor]

Generally yes.

[FunkyMonkee]

I usually drive in in my Winnebago.

[Sameone]

For visit. Yes u can't

[msc545]

Sure you can, at a reasonable hour.

[nawtee_me]

If it is on an open day yes you can.

[JayBones2469]

Yes but you can never leave

[jimmy2]

Yes you can they will greet you

[Trekfan68]

Definitely, assuming the church is open.

[Lara_Croft]

I did

[sheikalana]

Yes, you can!

[OtterMan68]

if it's open, sure.