Worship in the Episcopal Church is ...



• Ordered. This means that we follow a specific form that has been used since ancient times ... not word for word, but idea by idea. Our worship is not chaotic, but carefully planned. That doesn't mean there aren't times of spontaneity, but those of us who participate regularly always have a good idea of what's coming next. Familiarity can be a source of comfort and strength.
  
  
• Seasonal. We follow a Christian calendar that also goes back to ancient times and that is marked by changing seasons, changing colors, and changing themes. Holidays are the highlights, but they all fit into a pattern that carries us through together, year by year.
  
  
• Musical. Well, our 8:00 on-site service is without music because some people prefer their prayers to be wrapped in gentle silence. But our 10:30 service draws on many threads of musical tradition from ancient times to the present day.
  
  
• Biblical. The Book of Common Prayer, which lays out the structure of our services, has also been called "the Bible rearranged for the purpose of group prayer." Those who are familiar with the Bible are sometimes surprised to find that its words infuse every moment of our worship.
  
  

Planning your first visit ...

What should I wear? Honestly, whatever you like. Some people dress up; others just come as they are. Nobody really notices unless you're wearing a fabulous Easter hat or something.

How long does the Sunday service last? Since the 8:00 service has no music, we tend to finish in about 45 minutes. The 10:30 service usually exceeds an hour.

Should I bring my kids? We'd be heartbroken if you didn't! Some families prefer the 8:00 service because it gets out in time for the baby's morning nap. Some prefer the 10:30 service because there are more people and lots of music. Our congregation isn't overflowing with kids, but your children will be known by name, and there are many surrogate grandparents and godparents here for them of all ages.

Where should I park? We have ample parking. For worship services, park in the upper lot on the east side of the church building.

Do you have a nursery? No, because we've found that these days more parents prefer to keep their little ones with them. Don't worry if they're noisy; we expect them to act the age they actually are! You may choose to take a break from worship and go to the playground behind the education building; that's fine. Older kids are invited to participate in worship in every way they can. Episcopal worship is full of things to see, hear, and interact with, and it's never a problem for you to get up and move around.

What happens when I walk in the door? You'll be greeted by a friendly usher, who will hand you a service leaflet so you can participate fully in worship. If you'd like a preview, you can download the most recent one from the front page of this site.

Where should I sit? Wherever you like. Some new folks like to sit in the back so they can slip out unnoticed; it's OK to feel shy. Believe it or not, it you have little ones, we encourage you to develop a habit of sitting up toward the front. Kids who can see what's happening will be far more engaged.

What's up with people standing, sitting, kneeling, crossing themselves ... ? Episcopalians pray with our whole bodies. But we don't demand conformity; worship in ways you are comfortable with, learning our traditions over time and asking lots of questions about them. Don't worry ... you don't have a spotlight on you. We're just glad you're here and would love to talk more after the service.

Am I expected to put something in the offering plate? That's totally up to you. You're not "paying for the show"; you're contributing to the mission and ministry of the church. Members are asked to make an annual pledge, but there are no expectations for visitors to give.

Should I receive Holy Communion? That's also up to you, but we can give some guidance. If you're baptized in another Christian denomination, we hope you'll receive, because we already recognize you as part of the worldwide church. If you're not baptized, you are welcome to receive as if you were a guest at the table. If you don't feel any draw or commitment to follow Jesus, you may prefer to abstain from Communion. But come to the altar rail anyway and cross your arms over your chest; this is a signal to the priest to give you a blessing instead.

What happens after the service? You are invited to join us for coffee, refreshments, and conversation. We recognize that some people find this invitation to feel a little intimidating, but we do our best to make you feel comfortable. We just want to get to know you and invite you into the experience of a worshiping Christian community.