What to Expect

Going to church (or a new church) for the first time, can be a little bit intimidating.  We’ve tried to answer some questions that you might have to help you feel more comfortable.  If you have any additional questions — please feel free to contact us at any time!  You can reach us at 517.437.7414, [email protected] or via Facebook or Twitter.  We would love to hear from you!

When are services held?
Sunday morning starts off with Sunday School at 9:30 AM, followed by our Morning Worship Service at 10:45 AM.  We have a Bible Study on Sunday evenings at 6:00 P.M.  

What should I wear?
You see everything at our church, from shorts and jeans to casual business attire and –occasionally –even a suit. So dress up, if you want –or not. You’ll fit in no matter how you dress.

How do I get there?
We are located at 9 E Bacon Street, right next to the public library.  On the other side of us, you’ll find Davis Middle School.  For directions from where you live to Hillsdale First Baptist, click here.

Where should I park?
You can park in the city lot next to the church, in the library lot, or on the street.  There are handicap accessible parking spaces available near the Family Life Center entrance doors (near the rear of the church).

What about my children?
Whether your children are at Sunday School, Junior Church or in the nursery, they will have a safe place to learn and thrive. All of our workers have gone through background checks. A nursery is available for infants and toddlers for all services.  As an alternative, children are welcome to stay in the service with their parents. 

Am I expected to put money in the offering?
There is no pressure to give money. When you visit, just let the plate pass you by. When you come to consider this your church home, prayerfully consider how and what God wants you to give.

I have hearing problems. Is there any special assistance?
Yes! For those who are hearing impaired, we have special hearing devices that you can wear that will allow you to control the volume. If you think this would be beneficial to you, you will find them at the sound booth in the back of the auditorium. An usher would be happy to assist you.

What is a service like?

  • Sunday School – You can attend your choice of class, based upon your personal and family needs.  Typically lasting an hour, this is a small group, discussion-led study on various topics.  There are refreshments served (usually coffee and donuts) and is great time to dig deeper in God’s Word.
  • Morning Worship Service – Our services last about an hour and include a blend of traditional hymns and contemporary worship songs. A praise team will lead the way, with the lyrics projected on screens at the front of the auditorium so it’s easy to follow along, even if you aren’t familiar with the songs. Each week, Pastor Tim preaches Biblical truth. On the first Sunday of each month we celebrate Communion.  We practice an “open communion” –that is, you don’t need to be a member –and invite anyone who is a sincere follower of Jesus to participate with us.
  • Sunday Evening Service – This Bible Study lasts about an hour each Sunday Evening.  Covering various topics (for example:  worship, prayer, spiritual warfare), we sometimes watch videos, have great study, and great group discussion.  

What kind of people attend?
It doesn’t matter what your faith background, race, ethnic or economic status happens to be, you’ll be welcomed here. We accept people wherever they are in life.

What denomination is Hillsdale First Baptist?
We are a baptist church, but do not belong to an official organization or denomination.  For more information about what we believe, please click here.

What Bible version is used?
People use a wide variety of translations, but Pastor Tim preaches from the NKJV (New King James Version).  If you don’t have your own Bible, we have some available for you to use or you may follow along with the Scripture projected on the screen at the front of the auditorium.