What should I expect?

NOTE: Our meetings over January are going to be different to normal, most of what is below still applies but there will be no really formal part of the meeting. See an explanation of the SOMA: Special Editions

How much does it cost?

It's free! We don't pass a plate, and we don't ask for your money. One of the privileges of membership is financially supporting the church so that visitors can participate. We want you to come and enjoy being there without having to worry about cost.

What will happen?

At a Gathering there will be a formal part of the meeting. This will involve some singing, some prayers (that is, talking to God), some Bible reading, talks and discussion on the Bible. After the formal part of the meeting, we will have some light refreshments. At a Gospel Community there will be similar kinds of things but in someone's home.

What sorts of things will be talked about?

Soma is a church based on the Bible. We believe the Bible has a lot to teach us about life: how to raise your kids, how to have a healthy marriage, how to find satisfaction in work, how to find meaning in life, and how to get on with God.

We will be looking at what the Bible says, sometimes working systematically through a section of the Bible, sometimes working through a particular idea (or doctrine) or theme of the Bible.

What if I don't agree with what is being said?

We don't expect to you to agree with everything that is going on! If you have questions about what is being said we have a time for people to ask questions, and we LOVE people asking questions no matter what they are.

Will there be music? Do I have to sing?

Yes, there will be music--we feel music is a great way to express ourselves to God, and so we sing because we want to. If you don't feel comfortable singing, please feel free to sit back and listen to others singing to God.

What should I wear?

Whatever you would normally feel comfortable wearing to a shopping centre!

What should I bring?

Just yourself, though if you have a Bible then it would be helpful to bring that along so you can get used to using it. If you don't have one we will have some for you to use and will help you work your way around it.

Can I bring the kids?

Sure, we want everyone to feel welcome to Soma and that includes kids. During the teaching section of our Gatherings there will be a kids programme where the kids can look at the Bible themselves and have some fun as well!

Can I bring a friend?

Absolutely, in fact if you are bit nervous about coming why not bring a friend to help you settle in. (Or we can provide friends for you when you get there!)