Frequently Asked Questions

What is a worship service like?

We're friendly, pleasant, and non-critical. We have upbeat music and relevant, applicable, and easy-to-understand messages. We are casual, comfortable, and a good fit, just like a nice pair of jeans. In fact, you are welcome even if you are wearing jeans. If you remember your grandparents church as being boring, snore time, sit down and be quiet time, then we're not your grandparents' church. You'll feel comfortable, like at home, but you won't be singled out.

When you check us out you'll get a friendly smile, a handshake, and a hug, if you're comfortable with that. You can get your coffee, tea, or water, or nothing at all. Just be refreshed, feel at home, and enjoy the service.

As you find your seat you'll be given a weekend worship guide containing announcements, an information card, and more importantly, an interactive outline of the message. You'll hear upbeat songs to help relax you.

As the service starts, you'll listen to (and hopefully join in) singing of current and soon-to-be familiar Christian songs led by the praise band. There are no bothersome hymnals to use; just follow the melody, the beat, and the words up on the screen. You're welcome to tap, clap, sing, and otherwise praise and worship our Lord. You'll be given an opportunity to greet those seated nearby.

A brief prayer follows the songs and the message commences. You can follow your outline and the key points on the screen. As you listen and make notes on your outline you'll be able to identify key ideas that are relevant to you and that you'll be able to use immediately. If you think the outline may be useful to someone else additional copies will be available.

Pre-school and elementary-aged kids have child care provided in their own place, Kid's Place, that starts, not coincidentally, with the start of the message. This keeps the kids learning and growing so the adults can learn and grow, too. Usually, youth have their own service as well. This starts with the start of the message.

After the message there will be a few announcements and a final song. Then we all participate in our tasty luncheon. Yummy!

What happens in a small group meeting?

Small group meetings are all about connecting. And that almost always happens over, before, or after food. Usually we'll eat first, then meet.

The meeting usually starts with an icebreaker so we can get to know each other a little bit better. After that we'll go through a study, usually on a felt need. We'll discuss it for a bit, then look at how we can apply the principles to our everyday lives.

How do I join the church?

It's easy! All we require is that you be a Christian (as evidenced by baptism), and that you take Class 101, Discovering My Church Family. In this class you'll learn the essentials of the Christian faith, why sharing responsibility for your church, and serving within your church are important, and what Hillside is all about (Hillside's structure and strategy).

How do I leave the church?

This is easy, too! Just let us know, in writing (so we are sure it's you).

We understand that a specific church can't meet the needs of everyone, that sometimes conflicts arise, and, often, life just happens. So if you decide to go, just let us know. That's it. God be with you.

What are your beliefs?

We are Bible believing and teaching Christian church. We believe in the essentials of the Christian faith.

For further details, look here.

Where do I learn more about Hillside?

If you've perused most of this web site, you've already learned quite a bit.

To learn more, you can drop in on a small group, outreach or social event, or attend a worship service. Find somebody and ask away. Or you can call or email. Further details here.

When are your worship services?

We meet at 11:15 am on Saturdays, for now. We're considering Sunday services, but haven't started them yet.

Where is your church?

Since we don't own any property yet, we meet at various locations. We are usually at the Municipal Services Building, 33 Arroyo Drive, South San Francisco, CA 94080. Sometimes we're not there.
To find the location of a specific service look here.

What should I wear to a worship service?

We believe that church should be a happy and comfortable place. Some people dress up slightly, most don't. Blue jeans and T-shirts are welcome. So come as you are.

What are your activities for kids?

During the worship service we have Kid's Place--a fun and exciting place for kids from 5 to 25. While you're enjoying the service, your kids are having fun singing, watching videos, and creating things.
There are several different age groups: young kids, old kids, and young adults, each with their own teacher.

How can I become involved in ministry?

If you want to help out in church activities, just try it! Ministry leaders appreciate commitment, but understand that trying something out is often a good way to find something that's fun. So, go for it!

Where are your worship services?

Since we don't own any property yet, we meet at various locations. We are usually at the Municipal Services Building, 33 Arroyo Drive, South San Francisco, CA 94080. Sometimes we're not there.
To find the location of a specific service look here.

How can I find out more about a message?

If you want more specifics on a message, contact the speaker.
If you want a recording of a message, let us know.
Further details here.

What other churches do you recommend?

If you're looking for a large, local Christan church try the Church of the Highlands in San Bruno. They have Saturday evening, Sunday morning, and Sunday evening services.

If you're looking for a local traditional Adventist service there's plenty to choose from. Find your church here.

If you're looking for a local contemporary Adventist service, we're it.