Planning your first visit?
Here’s what a Sunday at Ridgeway looks like, from the coffee bar to kids check-in, so you know what to expect before you walk in.
What happens on a Sunday
The morning runs about an hour and fifteen minutes. Most people come a little early for coffee.
Doors open
The coffee bar has free coffee, tea, muffins and seasonal drinks. It’s a good time to find a seat and say hi to a few people.
Kids check-in opens
Bringing kids? Head to the check-in desk and someone from our kids team will get you registered.
Worship
About 20 minutes of music, usually four songs. Sing along or just listen.
The message
A 30 to 40 minute talk from the Bible by one of our pastors or a guest speaker.
Bringing kids?
Ridgeway Kids is a fun, interactive service for ages 2 to 11, led by our volunteer team while the main service is going. If you’d rather keep your kids with you, that’s fine too.
More about Ridgeway KidsCheck-in opens at 9:30
Stop by the kids check-in desk when you arrive and our team will help you register.
Parents Room for ages 0 to 2
In the nursery near the main foyer and coffee bar, with the service streamed into the room.
Nursing mothers’ room
This room is just for nursing mothers, so it stays private. It’s in the Youth Room above the main foyer, and the service streams there too.
Questions people ask
Don’t see yours? Email or call the church office and we’ll help.
Where do I park?
Park in our lot at 3245 E Washington Ave. If it’s full, you can park on the nearby side streets. Both are free.
Coming by bus? Metro Rapid Route A stops at Wright – Fair Oaks, about a block from the church.
What should I wear?
Whatever you’re comfortable in. Most people wear jeans or something casual, and some dress up.
How long is the service?
About an hour and fifteen minutes. It starts at 10am and usually wraps up around 11:15am.
Can I watch online first?
Yes. Sunday service streams live at 10am on our YouTube channel, and you can watch past services there too.
Will I be singled out as a visitor?
No. Nobody will ask you to stand up or introduce yourself. If you have a question during service, any volunteer wearing a lanyard and name badge can help.
Is there anything for first-time guests?
Yes, we have a gift for you at the Info desk after service. If you’d like it, ask any greeter with a name badge. They’ll grab it for you and can answer any questions you have.
Am I expected to give?
No. We don’t pass an offering plate during service. People who call Ridgeway home give online or at the giving boxes around the building.
Do you take Communion?
Yes, on the first Sunday of each month. You don’t need to attend regularly to take part, but we do ask that you’re a follower of Jesus.
The lights go down and the worship team leads a song while lines form at the front of the aisles and in the balcony, where you pick up a wafer and an individual cup. Gluten-free wafers are available if you ask. There’s no pressure to take part; if you’d rather not, stay in your seat.
What kind of church is Ridgeway?
We’re a non-denominational Christian church. Our teaching comes from the Bible and centers on Jesus. You can read what we believe on our About page.
I’m not sure what I believe. Is that okay?
Yes. You don’t need to have faith figured out to come on a Sunday. Bring your questions and take your time.
How do I get to know people?
It depends on your age. For adults, a Connect Group is a good way to meet people. Groups meet weekly in homes around Madison and nearby suburbs. Find a group.
Kids and teens can make friends at Ridgeway Kids and Ridgeway Youth. There’s also Bloom for women and Men’s Ministry for men. See all ministries.
You can also fill out the form below or contact the church office, and we’ll have someone reach out with groups and ministries that might fit you.
Want someone to reach out?
Tell us a little about yourself and what you’d like to hear about. Someone from our team will get in touch the way you prefer.
Still have a question?
The church office is open Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 5:30pm.