WHAT TO EXPECT

Visiting a new church can be a nerve-wracking experience for all kinds of reasons, one of them being that you don’t know what to expect.

This page is our best attempt to help you know what to expect if you’re attending our service Sunday morning or streaming with us live via Facebook.

When & Where.

Sunday mornings at 9:30 am

Federated Church of Wauconda
200 Barrington Road
Wauconda, IL  60084

 

FAQ’s

How long are the services?

Our services last about 60 minutes and include live music with a piano or organ, engaging preaching directly from the Bible that will be practical in your day-to-day life, and communion once a month.

Am I welcome if I’m not a Christian?

100%! In fact, we’ve designed Federated Church with you in mind! We want our church to be a place where you can belong before you believe. You can have questions, doubts, hurts and pains and you’re always still welcome.

Will I be singled out if I’m new?

Absolutely not! You’re our guest and that would be a terrible introduction to our family. Plus, every Sunday we have lots of people just like you who are checking out Federated for the first time. Our goal is for you to have the best experience possible, which means we won’t single you out in any way. (Of course, if you want to be introduced, just let one of the ushers know!).

What about my kids?

We welcome kids of all ages!

Infants and Preschool (under the age of 4) head toward our nursery playroom. One of our ushers will guide you.

Elementary, Middle and High School (grades K-12th) worship together in the sanctuary and will be dismissed after the Children’s Message to gather for Sunday School.

Check out our kids page for more info!

Is there a dress code?

Nope! Come as you are and wear whatever makes you feel most comfortable. Dress up or dress down, it’s up to you. For those of you who don’t want to stand out one way or the other, most people who call Federated “home” dress casually or business casual. That said, we don’t welcome people based on their fashion, and God is far more interested in your heart than how you’re dressed.

Can I meet the pastor?

Definitely! Pastor Soon Sun is always available after service and loves to meet and pray with guests. You can also schedule a time with Pastor Soon Sun by emailing her at federatedchurch200@sbcglobal.net or leaving a message at (847) 526-8471.

What if I need special accommodations?

We strive to make sure that everyone is welcome and as comfortable as possible. Our sound system includes sets for the hearing impaired (simply ask an usher for a set). Ramps are available to the main church entrance and into the sanctuary (main worship area). Wheelchair seating is available inside the sanctuary and the main floor features two unisex, handicapped-accessible bathrooms.

Have more questions?

Just send us an email at federatedchurch200@sbcglobal.net and we’d love to help!

The Federated church belongs to both the United Methodist Church and the American Baptist Church.

Additional Questions

  • Wauconda’s original Baptist and Methodist churches began in the mid 1800’s. For practical reasons, these two churches joined forces to create the Federated Church in the 1920’s. See more details in our History section.

  • When the Federated Church was formed it was decided that both denominations would be served equally. The position of Pastor alternates between Methodist and Baptist.

  • The most noticeable differences are:

    1. Methodists believe in infant baptism, Baptists believe that a person should be old enough to make that decision.

    2. Baptist ministers are independent and it is up to each church to search for their next Pastor; Methodist ministers are assigned to a church and are moved at the discretion of the Methodist association approximately every five years.

  • No. Our church supports both denominations equally.

  • Yes, though you will not have a vote in any official decisions that need to be made by the church body.

  • No, there is no charge to participate in Sunday School, Confirmation, Vacation Bible School, Youth Group, or any other church activities.

  • There are no try outs or auditions to join the church choir. If you love to sing you can be a part of the choir. Anyone who has that passion can be part of our choir. “Every single voice is important when you are part of a choir” says retired Music Director Geri Meyer.

  • There is no charge for attending church. The Bible encourages us to “tithe” which means donate 10% of our income to charity. The amount you choose to give depends entirely upon your personal financial situation and your generosity. You can also give anonymously if you wish.