Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: I’ve never been to a service at Fourth before. What is the vibe like? Is there a dress code?
A: Fourth Presbyterian is pretty casual. You are invited and welcome to visit us on a Sunday morning wearing sweats and a t-shirt or a suit or dress – whatever you are comfortable in! Most people wear something like jeans and a button-up or slacks and a blouse. If you show up late, that is okay. If you haven’t been to church before and don’t know the words to say or when to sit/stand, that’s okay too! We will cue you and provide you with a program that all the words you need to know.
Q: Does the church have parking?
A: We have a small lot that can fit up to 6 cars. Street parking is available all around the church, and is free between 10am and 6pm.
Q: How can I get to the church on public transit?
A: Fourth is about a 5-minute walk from Andrew Station on the red line and is located directly on the 10 bus route!
Q: Is the church wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes! There is a ramp on the side of the building that leads into the sanctuary.
Q: Are my kids welcome in service?
A: We love having kids of all ages in our service! Kids are invited to participate in all elements of the service along with their grown-ups (or to play or color in the pews). Kids eight and younger are encouraged to join in Kids’ Church during a portion of the service for age-appropriate programming, or to stay in Big Church if they prefer. Learn more about our children’s offerings here!
Q: Are you affirming of LGBTQ+ people?
A: Our staff and our denomination are affirming of LGBTQ+ people. We ordain queer individuals and officiate same-sex weddings. And we have queer staff and volunteer leaders! Fourth is a unique space in that we are not a “flag waving” church and not everyone in our congregations shares the same opinions on queer and trans rights. If you are from a church background that has traumatized you and you want a church that is very vocally affirming, we totally get that and encourage you to check out Church Clarity to help you find the right church for you. If you want a church where you are welcomed and affirmed AND you can engage in conversation with people with politically diverse opinions, we would love to embrace you here at Fourth!
Q: I see that you have lots of programming throughout the week. Do I need to be part of the church community to participate?
A: Absolutely not! We love our Southie community members and everyone is welcome and encouraged to participate in our weekly offerings. We welcome friends and neighbors from lots of different religious backgrounds who may be part of a different church community on Sundays, or who may not be religious. But we would love to have you drop in on our post-traumatic healing ministry, our Wednesday book studies, our choir practices, or any other programming you find interesting! Learn more about our adult programs here.
Q: Do you have a food pantry?
A: Yes! Our usual hours are 8:30 am to 11:30 am on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month. But sometimes these hours change, so check our Food Pantry page for more information and to double check our upcoming hours.
If you need food right away, we also serve hot meals to anyone who needs them Monday/Wednesday/Friday, 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
Q: Do you offer rent assistance?
A: No. Unfortunately we do not offer rent assistance.
Q: Are there 12-step groups hosted at your church?
A: Yes! There are AA and NA groups that meet at the church Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 7:00 pm.
Q: How can I get in touch with church staff?
A: Our office phone number is 617-268-1281. Because we are out doing ministry, there is not always someone available to answer the office phone. If you have a hard time reaching us, email us at office@fourthboston.org. This is the quickest and surest way to get a response!
