Frequently asked questions
What kind of church is MSPC?
Market Square is a progressive, inclusive, and warmhearted Protestant church in the Reformed tradition. We are part of the Presbyterian Church (USA).
What time is Sunday School and worship?
Sunday School education is from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. The Room for the Inner Way meets September through June from 10:30 a.m. to 10:50 a.m. on the 4th floor. Our Traditional worship service is at 11:00 a.m. in the sanctuary. The Korean language worship service is at 9:30 a.m. in the chapel. And our Alternative Worship Experience (AWE) is at 6:00 p.m. on alternate Sundays in Geneva Hall (4th level). During the summer months of July and August, we also offer an 8:30 a.m. traditional worship service.
What style of worship does MSPC have?
Are children welcome in worship?
YES! Children are welcome, and we plan for them to attend and participate. Every Sunday morning service includes a time with children, and there are special resource bags for children to use during worship.
When do you celebrate Communion, and who can participate?
The Session schedules communion at least once a month, usually the first Sunday of the month, and on other Sundays of particular significance in the church life. We believe that the Communion Table is the Lord's table—all believers in Christ are welcome to participate.
Do you have childcare?
We have childcare at 9:30 a.m. for children ages 4 and under during Sunday School, and also at 11:00 a.m. during the regular worship hour.
Do you have small groups at your church, e.g. Bible study?
Yes, we have various small groups. For example, we have Bible study on Monday afternoons and we have a Reformed Readers book discussion group. A list of current study groups can be found below the "Grow & Learn" menu tab.
How can I participate in the Music Ministry?
Check the Music page for descriptions of the music program and all the various ways you can be involved. To find out what is required for any of the music groups, as well as other information about them, contact Tyler Canonico, our Minister of Music, at canonico@marketsquarechurch.org.
How do I join the church?
Periodically, the pastors form a new members group. People can join by transfer of membership from another church, by reaffirmation of faith or, for someone who has never belonged to a church, by baptism.
Does the church allow non-members to hold weddings in the sanctuary?
Typically, we cannot accommodate weddings for non-members.
What are the church office hours?
Generally, the church office is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. If you plan to visit the church, please call the church office at (717) 257-1270 to be sure that someone will be on hand to let you in.
How do I get into the church during the week?
The easiest way is to park in the Market Square garage, (entrance is just before you get to the church on Second Street), and then enter the church through the door on the second level of the garage. You may need to ring a bell (look on the right side of the door), and someone will buzz you in.
Who is in charge at MSPC?
Presbyterians have Pastors (also known as Ministers of Word and Sacrament) and Ruling Elders (Session). Leadership rests with both of these. At Market Square, in addition to our Pastors and Session, we have a Board of Trustees who cares for the business aspects of the church, and a Board of Deacons who cares for the needs of people.
Is Market Square Church connected to Market Square Concerts.
While many of the Market Square Concerts are held in the Market Square Church sanctuary, they are separate organizations.
How do I volunteer?
There are many opportunities for you to volunteer. You may contact our Ministry Support Administrator Nancy Sheets at (717) 257-1270 ext.10 who will direct your call to the appropriate staff person. People interested in the music ministry may contact our Minister of Music Tyler Canonico at (717) 257-1270 ext. 18
I heard you have a Columbarium--what is that?
The columbarium is adjacent to the church in a small courtyard. It is a niche where ashes of loved ones can be inurned. Contact the church office if you interested in purchasing a place.