Frequently Asked Questions
What is First Church’s denomination?
We are members of the Presbyterian Church in Canada.
Where are you located?
We are on the corner of 5th and Wellington Sts, across from the Downtown Chatham Mall and the Federal Building.
What time is your worship service?
Our services begin at 10:30 a.m. (9:30 a.m. from the first Sunday in July through Labour Day Sunday)
Is there parking nearby?
Yes! There is a municipal gravel parking lot adjacent to our church building- parking is free on Sundays only. There is also parking along the streets around the church building. And there are a few handicapped spaces in our parking lot in front of our Wellington St entrance.
If you’re coming by bicycle, we have bike racks to the left of our Wellington St entrance.
Do you have an outside ramp and elevator?
Yes. We have both. The ramp is at the church end of our parking lot on Wellington St. Come through the glass door, and the elevator is just inside. There is always someone to assist you at that door on Sunday mornings!
Is there easy access from the elevator to the sanctuary?
Yes, there is a ramp. In fact, you can attend any of our functions without needing to use stairs.
Is there a dress code at First Church?
No. We are a casual congregation, so please wear whatever is comfortable to you.
How long is your service?
Our service runs 1 hr and 10 minutes on average.
Do you have a Sunday School?
Yes. We have classes for all ages running every Sunday, including a fully furnished and staffed nursery and toddlers room.
Sunday School runs at the same time as our worship service. The children start off with their families in the sanctuary. After participating in a Children’s Time, they and their teachers go to Sunday School.
On Holy Communion, the children return to the sanctuary in time to share in the Lord’s supper.
Please check out Sunday School for all necessary information.
Is Holy Communion open to all?
Yes. Anyone who professes faith in Jesus Christ or is seeking him is welcome at the Lord’s Table. Communion is open to both adults and children.
How often do you have Holy Communion?
We share Communion four times a year, on the first Sunday of March, June, October and December.
Do you have to be an official member to participate in ministries and activities at First Church?
No. We have both members and adherents at First Church. Everyone participates fully in the life of our church. Official membership is only required to become an elder, and to vote to call a minister to the congregation.
Do I have to attend Sunday services in person in order to be a part of our congregation?
Yes and no. Yes, we livestream our services, as well as ensure they are permanently available on YouTube, so anyone can watch. No, because we won’t know who you are! Please check out Becoming a Congregant, and make sure you’re not missing out.
Can I request to be married at First Church?
You must be a regular attendee at our worship services to request our minister to officiate at a wedding ceremony in the sanctuary. Please contact the office a year in advance of the wedding, because an 8-week marriage prep class is mandatory before the wedding can take place.
Is it possible to meet with the minister?
At the moment we are in a vacancy as our minister has retired. However, if you contact the Office, a member of our pastoral staff would love to meet with you.”.
More questions?
Contact the Office by phone (519-352-2313, ex 1) or email