New Here?
We're glad you're checking us out!
Where is Elm Park?
We are located in west Oneonta, at 401 Chestnut Street in Oneonta, New York, at the corner of Chestnut Street and Ceperley Ave.
Where do I park?
We have a convenient horseshoe style driveway off Ceperley Street that takes you to the East side entrance leading into the Narthex and the Sanctuary. There is limited street parking on Ceperley. Our large off-street parking lot is on the West side of the Church where the entrance leads into the Robertson Hall social area and on to the Sanctuary. Both entrances are handicap-accessible and the parking lot contains two handicap spaces next to the door.
What about kids?
Jesus said that to enter the kingdom of God, we must become like children. We believe it is important for families to worship together, so youth are welcome and encouraged to participate in worship as one body. In fact, you likely will find youth involved in scripture readings during the service. Young children will find Sunday school class is available following the Children’s portion of the worship service. Activity bags for children with toys and crayons are available as you enter the sanctuary to occupy little hands.
What's worship like at Elm Park?
We are thankful you are considering worshiping with us and encourage you to "come as you are"! Our service has traditional elements but with an informality that should make your first visit comfortable. What you wear isn’t as important as your presence with us. Our choir sings with the organ or piano, and the music will feature both modern songs and older hymns — all seeking to tell the story of God authentically and faithfully.
How often is Communion?
At our church, we celebrate Holy Communion once a month, usually on the first Sunday. When we receive Communion, we experience the love and grace of God in a tangible way through a simple meal of bread (gluten-free available) and grape juice. Because God’s gift of grace is available to all, we practice an open table. In other words, all persons (including children!) who desire are invited and welcome to receive communion.
Accessibility
Providing a space and a service that is welcoming to all God’s children is important to us. Our one-level building is fully accessible, with accessible restrooms, and an assistive listening system.
Are members of the LBGTQ+ Community welcome here?
Yes! We are all children of God. In this church you are loved and you are valid. Discrimination against any person for any reason is not tolerated. Jesus did not discriminate against those choosing to follow Him, nor do we.
Do you have to be a Christian to come to Elm Park?
Nope. We are a group of people trying to make our way through life. Several among us are exploring faith for the first time. Some of us have been here our whole lives. Our hope that you will find Elm Park is a welcoming place for you to meet God and explore matters of faith and life. We hope to be a church where the long-faithful and the newly-faithful, the still-wondering and everyone in between can experience and know the radical and unconditional love of Jesus so that they can make the world a better place. We think Jesus will have such an incredible impact on you that you will have a hard time not being transformed by his life and love.
