Sensory Inclusive Candlelight Christmas Eve Service
Services will be held December 24th at 3 PM & 5 PM
What does a Sensory Inclusive service mean?
A Sensory Inclusive Service means that all are welcome to come and participate, as they are, with us during our regular Christmas Eve Candlelight Services - with space and accommodations made to be inclusive for those with sensory sensitivities or sensory seeking needs.
From a separate sensory friendly room to watch the service streamed live, for those who need a place away from the crowd, to overflow space next to the main gathering space, for those who want to be in the main service but need space to pace and stim - there is a space and a place for everyone.
Visit our space beforehand
We understand that visiting a new place can be challenging and have put together a video walkthrough of our space to help introduce our building. Additionally, if you would like to visit the building beforehand in a quieter less crowded setting, feel free to contact our Disability Ministry Coordinator, Lisa Jones, to set up a time.
email: lisa@riverbendonline.org
** Note: There is background music/sound on this video. Please mute or adjust volume levels as needed
About our Services
Come as you are.
Riverbend Community Church generally has a more laid-back casual culture as far as church attire. On Christmas Eve you will find that some come dressed in their best, others as they regularly dress, some in their funniest ugly Christmas Sweaters, and still others in their favorite Christmas pajamas. No matter what you feel most comfortable wearing - you will not feel out of place - we are just happy to have you here!
Alternative Candles
For our Candlelight services, we offer tamper-proof, easy on/off LED candles in addition to traditional wax candles for anyone that wants to participate in the final lighted Christmas worship song but is unable to safely hold a wax candle.
The Family Room
The Family Room is our sensory friendly alternative viewing space available for all gatherings at Riverbend (not just the Christmas Eve service). This space is located just past the Cafe and includes various seating, sensory items, fidgets, a white noise machine and headphones.
All services are live streamed in this space.
Space to Stim
The doors to our Main Gathering space open into the Lobby area of our church. They will be open for our Christmas Eve service for overflow space - but also offers space for those who wish to participate in the Main Gathering but need space to move, pace, stim, etc.
Portable Sensory Bins
Sensory Bins are available above the coat rack in the Lobby for anyone to take and use anywhere in our space, as needed. Additional fidgets, sensory items, and headphones are available in “The Family Room” and may also be used anywhere in our space as needed.
Hearing Assist Devices
Available at the sound booth in the Main Gathering Space, we have several hearing assist devices available for those who may need help hearing the sermon. Each device has a standard headphone jack and personal volume control. While we have some ear buds available for use - we recommend bringing your own for the most comfort.