During the months of July and August worship begins at 10:00 am.
Where do I park?
We have a parking lot on the north side of the church. If the lot fills up, you can park on either side of the Henry Hudson Parkway service road. Please take care crossing the street.
Where do I go when I get there?
Our famous red doors at the front of the church face Henry Hudson Parkway, and that is our main entrance. If you park in the parking lot, you can come in through the auditorium doors on our lower level. Head upstairs to the sanctuary. We have an accessible entrance just to the right of the main entrance. An usher will greet you, give you a bulletin and direct you to a pew.
What time do I need to arrive?
Services start at 10:30 a.m., except during the summer months (July and August), when our services begin at 10:00 a.m. You are very welcome to arrive earlier to settle in and enjoy some quiet time.
What if I’m late?
Ushers can help you if you arrive late for a service. The best time to be seated after the service has begun is during a hymn.
What’s the dress code?
There is no set dress code. Come as you are. You will see a variety of clothing styles: men in suits, khakis, dress shirts or polo shirts. Women wear dresses, skirts and slacks.
Can I take communion, even if I am not a member of RPC?
Anyone seeking a new life in Christ is welcome to participate in the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper. You don’t have to be Presbyterian or even a member of a church. There is no age requirement. At RPC, we have communion the first Sunday of each month. The elements (bread and grape juice) usually are brought to you by communion servers as you sit in your pew. Please wait until everyone is served before you eat. You may put your used communion cups in the holding racks directly in front of you in your pew. On occasion, we serve Communion by intinction. If this method is used, the elements will be offered in two or three places at the front of the sanctuary. Celebrants will tear off a piece of bread and dip it into a cup of juice. You may eat it immediately or when you return to your seat.
What is the worship service like?
A Sunday morning worship service at Riverdale Presbyterian Church is uplifting and traditional. The bulletin will detail for you the order of worship. The worship leaders and choir members wear robes. As you enter, many folks will be greeting each other, reading, or listening to the prelude music. During the service, members greet one another, shake hands and say, “The peace of Christ be with you.” During the recitation of the Lord’s Prayer, our congregation uses “debts” instead of “trespasses.” Obviously you are free to use either, we just don’t want you to be surprised.
The service will also include:
- Prayers of Confession and Pardon.
- Several hymns sung by the congregation, accompanied by the organ or piano.
- Special music by the Chancel Choir, Youth Choir, or musician.
- Hebrew scripture reading and either a Gospel or Epistle reading.
- A sermon.
- An offering and blessing.
- Prayers of Intercession and Thanksgiving for the sick and concerns of the church and world.
Large print hymnals are available. Listening devices are also available in the narthex.
Who should I contact if I have other questions?
The church office is open Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.. Call 718-796-5560. Our church secretary will be happy to answer your question or direct you to someone who can. Or, send an email to our church office. On Sunday mornings, an usher or greeter will be happy to assist you if you have a question.