Where did the name Hillside come from?
Based on Isaiah 55, Hillside refers to God’s joy when people turn to Him for spiritual fulfillment. Isaiah writes that God is so overwhelmed by joy when women and men come to Him to satisfy their spiritual longings that “the hills burst into song.” (Isaiah 55:12)
Can non-members use the church building for weddings and other functions?
Weddings and other outside functions are welcomed at Hillside provided they meet with our overall mission and vision and abide by the building policies. You can find the building use, wedding request, and policy forms on the Forms and Links page.
What is Hillside’s worship like?
Our church has a blended worship style that uses updated arrangements of hymns and praise songs to the accompaniment of drums, guitars, synthesizer, etc. However, the focus of our worship is not on being contemporary; rather it is on seeking God’s presence through the experience of authentic worship. This means worship for us is not a passive experience performed by the folks up front, but the people’s ministry to God.
Is there any programming for children and youth during service on Sunday?
Preschoolers have what is called Extended Session. This is a time that provides continuing education and care during the worship hour.
All children from preschool through third grade are invited to participate in Worship Lab. The children are dismissed from the morning worship service after the offering collection and adjourn to a classroom. This is a time for them to learn more about worship in a setting where they can explore and ask questions. We invite the older children (4th-6th graders) to come and help with our crafts, reading time, and learning new songs. The children can sing together, read Scripture together, learn about the different parts of our worship service, and do fun science activities and crafts in order to remember what they are learning.
What is the role of women at Hillside?
Hillside believes in the biblical equality of men and women. Therefore, no distinction is made as to which offices, ministries, or functions are open to men and women. We have come to this position after careful study of the scriptures. Yet, we acknowledge our position on this matter may differ from people who hold an equally high view of scripture as we do. As a result, we do not make this matter either a test of Christian orthodoxy or a standard for church membership. We do, however, encourage individuals to study the scriptures on this matter and can offer further resources upon request.