You do not have to be a Christian to visit a church on Sunday. You do not need to have read the Bible, know the songs or know how to pray. Many people come first just to see what it is like.
For a first visit, arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. That gives you time to find the entrance, park and work out which floor the service is on. Below are the questions newcomers ask most often about clothes, the order of the service, giving and bringing children.
What should I wear?
Clean, comfortable clothes are fine. Most Protestant churches in Taiwan do not expect a suit or formal wear. Shirts, T-shirts and jeans are all common.
Habits differ a little from church to church. On a first visit it helps to dress slightly neat, but you do not need to buy anything new.
I arrived and do not know where to go
Tell the person at the welcome desk, “Hello, it’s my first time here,” and ask them to point you to the service and a seat. If you speak little Chinese, ask whether there is an English or interpreted service.
Some churches run several services on different floors or in different languages, and families with children may need to find the children’s Sunday school room first. Arriving early leaves time to sort this out.
What happens in a Sunday service?
Common elements are singing, prayer, Scripture reading, a sermon, an offering, announcements and a closing blessing. The order depends on the church.
Some churches use hymnbooks and a printed order of service. Others have a band and song lyrics on a screen. When everyone stands or sits, watch the person leading, or quietly ask the person next to you.
Do I have to sing?
No. You can read the words, listen quietly and join in when you feel like it.
What do I do during prayer?
Prayer is one way Christians talk with God. You may see people bow their heads, close their eyes, or listen while one person prays aloud.
If you do not know how to pray yet, sitting or standing quietly and listening is enough.
Do I have to give money?
No. When you are visiting to get to know a church, you can let the offering bag pass, or ignore the offering box or QR code.
Giving is a voluntary act of faith. You should not give because the people around you do, or because it feels awkward to say no.
I am not a Christian. Can I take communion?
Rules differ between denominations and churches. Some limit communion to baptized Christians, and others have their own rules.
If you are not a Christian, or you are not sure whether you qualify, it is fine to skip it the first time and ask the pastor or a church worker afterwards. Not taking communion is not rude.
Can I bring my children?
Yes. Many churches have Sunday school, a children’s church, a children’s service or a toddler class, sometimes split by age.
Before you go, ask whether your child’s age fits, and whether children sit with their parents or go to a separate room. If you have a baby or toddler, ask whether there is a nursing room or family space. See also How to choose a Sunday school for your child.
Do I have to stay and chat afterwards?
No. Some churches invite newcomers to fill in a card, have tea and snacks or talk with a church worker. You can join in if you like, or simply leave when the service ends.
There is no need to rush into a small group, become a member or decide right away whether you will come back.
How do I know if this church suits me?
Beyond the building and the welcome, notice whether the sermon is clear, whether the church takes the Bible seriously, and whether the gathering suits you or your family.
Notice also whether the church respects your wishes and personal boundaries, and whether money and giving are explained reasonably. If you want to know more, visit a few more times. If you feel uncomfortable, you do not have to stay.
Looking for a church near you?
Use Find a church to see churches in Taiwan with English or bilingual services, or the map.
Before you go, check the church’s own website or social page for the latest service time and address, in case of last-minute changes.
A prayer
Dear Father,
Thank you for inviting us into your church. Help anyone visiting for the first time to put their nerves aside, find a seat in peace and meet friendly people.
Lead us to know you slowly, with no pressure to decide quickly.
In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.