Frequently Asked Questions
We are so happy that you decided to visit the Rochester Christian Reformed Church website, and we hope that you will join us soon in person. We know how difficult it can be visiting a place that you have never been before. So to help ease your anxiety and make you feel more comfortable we feel this is the place to start. Please take a look at some answers to most common questions asked by people visiting with Rochester CRC.
Who are We?
We are a mix of long-time and newer members who come from a variety of backgrounds. People from every age group enhance our life together.
We are part of the Christian Reformed Church in North America, a denomination established in 1857.
What Can I Expect?
We hope that as soon as you enter the doors you will feel welcomed.
Where in Rochester is your church located?
We are located in Penfield a suberb located on the east side of the city only 10 miles from Route 590 up Browncroft Blvd., at 2750 Atlantic Avenue. Our building is near the Bay Trail Middle School in Penfield. Click on the left to get step-by-step driving directions.
When are your worship times?
Click on the left for worship times.
How should I dress?
People come dressed in formal attire like suits, dresses, sweaters but also in jeans or shorts. We welcome anyone who comes to worship the Lord and do not worry how you are dressed.
What are your services like?
Our services are considered a mix between traditional and contemporary. You will experience classic hymns and liturgy with a choir but also enjoy the more contemporary elements like a praise band and music hymns that younger members can relate to.
What do Children do during worship?
Children are welcome to join their families in our worship services. However, we also have a staffed nursery of loving volunteers who will be happy to watch your children during the worship services. We also provide bulletins made especially for the children. There are (2) versions available, for younger children as well as the older children. They have word puzzles, games and important lessons with biblical references.
We offer christian education also, we have Sunday School classes that run from 9:00 A.M. - 10:00 A.M during the school year as well as "Children In Worship" classes that run from the middle of the worship service until the end of the service for the young children. You can pick up a brochure at the welcome center in the Narthex.
How accessible is the church to those with special needs?
Our church is a single level church with a central hallway going throughout the building. We have a handicapped accessible bathroom in close proximity to the main entrance of the church.
How long has Rochester CRC been in existance?
We have been around since 1877, but our denomination has been in existance since 1857.
When do you have communion?
We celebrate the Lord's supper on the first Sunday of each month, in addition to special worship services like Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Eve.
Do I have to be a member of Rochester CRC to take communion?
No, you do have to be a member in good standing with a church the professes Jesus Christ as your Savior.
Besides worship, what else does Rochester CRC offer?
This is a difficult one because we offer something for everyone. If you are interested in music we have Chior, Bells and the Praise Band. If you are interested in education, we have classes for children through adults as well as Woman's Fellowship and Men's Bible Study. If you would like to have fun and socialize, we have Family night every Wednesday evening throughout the school year where you can sit down and eat, socialize and if you have children, they can go to GEMS or Cadets club meetings following dinner. To get more details on what we offer, explore the website and be sure to visit the welcome center in the Narthex.
What is/are the next steps?
If this FAQ helped give you a taste of what we are all about and you would like to get more information, please take some time and explore the rest of the website. If you have any questions please click on the "Contact Us" button at the top of the page. We will get back to you promptly. Thank you for visiting Rochester CRC.