Your First Visit

We hope this short question and answer guide will be useful to you if you’re visiting Hills Church for the first time. We value your suggestions and feedback.

Joining a new church like Hills is a bit like joining an a large extended family.  I’ve found that different churches can “feel” different. When my wife and I had to find a new church for our family, we visited a few before we decided where we felt most accepted  and comfortable … so don’t give up if you find that the first one you visit didn’t feel right.  Ask God to help you find a place you can call home.

So who is Hills Church for?

We believe that God extends His love to people of all ages, from all walks of life and from all nations and cultures and we treasure the contribution that each can make to the life of our church family.

While most people who come to our church service have already found a new life through Jesus, some are just starting out down the road of spiritual searching.  If that’s you, then be assured that our open door definitely extends to you.  Feel free to come and ask us questions during the time after a Sunday morning service or drop by our cafe or make a booking at the church office during weekdays to chat with one of our team.  We’ll do our best to listen to your personal and spiritual needs and guide you in some of the next steps.

Should I bring a friend?

Of course!  If you find it harder to visit a new place where you don’t know anyone then a great idea is to ask a friend to go with you. Why not give them a call today!

What are the people  like?

My wife and I chose Hills because we found people there to have a genuineness of character and a passion for caring. Oh … and the pastor and his wife were real nice people too.  Even though it was many years ago I distinctly recall being made to feel welcome and accepted from the moment we arrived.  Now, I particularly enjoy meeting new people who arrive each Sunday and introducing them to others.  The only problem I find is that you have to get in quick … ’cause there are many other people who will likely want to meet you too. I think that warm genuine friendliness is probably one of the most important strengths of our church family.

How will I get to know people?

When you first arrive on a Sunday morning there should be someone to greet you and help you find a place to sit.  Make sure you allow plenty of time after the service to get to know us over a cup of tea or coffee.

Apart from all the Home groups, Youth group and other events, we regularly run Circle of Friends where several families volunteer to be hosts just so we can have a lazy Sunday afternoon lunch together in smaller groups  getting to know each other better. We try to mix people together who may not know each other so well.  If you’re new to Hills then this is great way to make lasting friendships. If you’re a regular it helps you to grow new friendships.

When are the services held and how do I get there?

All of our facilities including the church are at 79 Queens Roads Everton Hills, Brisbane – close to the Rode Road roundabout.  You can find a map with detailed driving directions from your place to our church and views of the north and south entrances.  If you can’t get there by car we may be able to arrange transport if you’re in our region.  Just contact the office earlier in the week.

How long is a church service?

There is no fixed end time but it generally lasts about 90 minutes  (9AM – 10:30AM).  

But wait … there’s more! I see so many people rush in and then rush out the door and we never get to know each other.  Make sure you allow plenty of time after the service to join us in over a relaxed cup of tea or coffee so you can get to know us.  Otherwise you’ve missed a big part of what Hills is really all about.

What should I expect in a service?

I grew up in a very formal church environment.  Hills is nothing like that. The atmosphere is always relaxed and casual.

We typically start each service with a time of singing praise to God.  Hills has a long tradition of training our young people  in contemporary music and worship leading.  We have several bands that each strive for excellence.  The music can be upbeat and celerbratory at the start. We also often have a quieter time to reflect to both personally and together enter into God’s presence.

Young children and their teachers are then dismissed to attend Kindzone.  Following a time of prayer and announcements, someone will have prepared something inspirational from the Bible (usually one of our Pastors). This message usually lasts for about 20-30 minutes. Sometimes we show other items of interest like a short video clip or a drama.

How should I dress?

Dress in something that you find relaxing and comfortable.  Smart casual is the norm.  You’re welcome to get dressed up in something rather special but that’s not expected. Out of consideration for our church family, please dress modestly.

I have more questions.  Who do I ask?

Just send our office an email office@hillschurch.org.au or ring us on 07 3353 1427.

I’d like to give you some feedback or suggestions on this guide.  How do I do that?

You can contact Tony via email  tony@ohagan.name .