An Introduction for NewComers
We are excited that you are considering a visit to St. Paul's. We hope you will join us as we seek to serve Christ in all elements of our Worship, Fellowship, Study, and Outreach.

Our goal is to make newcomers feel comfortable and welcome. We realize that it can be intimidating to visit a new Church and ask questions. You will be given the space to reflect on your faith and spiritual journey when you visit. We strive to welcome and be available to answer any questions you may have, without pressure to make commitments you may not be ready for. This page attempts to answer some of the common questions that a newcomer might have. If you have additional questions please contact our office or talk to an usher when you visit.

Our regular service is one of Holy Communion. All baptized persons are invited to join us at God's Table. Children take communion as they express interest and, or when their parents believe they are ready. The Rector is available to present communion instruction to young children if this is desired.

Bulletins containing our entire service are available from ushers as you enter St. Paul's. Our services are typically about one hour long and are based on the Book of Common Prayer. These and hymn books are stored in each pew.

If you are not familiar with Episcopal worship, please feel free to ask questions of those seated around you and to worship in a manner that is comfortable to you. Our normal practices are to stand for singing, the reading of the Holy Gospel and the recitation of the Nicene Creed. Most of us stand for prayer although others choose to kneel and this is a matter of personal preference. We do kneel (or sit) for the confession.

You may receive communion either kneeling or standing. Other physical actions such as bowing or crossing oneself are personal aids to worship and vary within the congregation.

If you would like to know more about these practices, please speak with Father Tom, our Rector or Jim Reynolds, our Sr. Warden. The National Episcopal Church visitor center offers aditional information.


 

It is our practice to maintain "Holy Silence" before worship, within our sanctuary. We do not mean to be rude or unfriendly but most of us find the time of silence helps us prepare to be in God's presence.

Please join us in the Guild Hall following the 10:30am service for a time of informal fellowship and refreshments. This is a great opportunity to get to know us in a relaxed atmosphere and ask any questions you might have. If you would like us to contact you after your visit be sure to sign our guest book or make yourself known to our Rector.

A supervised nursery is available for infants 0-3 years. Older children are welcome to participate in our Sunday School program if they wish (see our ministries page for more information). An usher will be glad to direct you to these or any other facilities within the building. Children participating in Sunday School rejoin their families for communion. Children are welcome in all services and are active in the 10:30am service where they may serve as acolytes assisting the rector and as part of the childrens choir which performs at select services throughout the year.

St. Paul's Church is wheelchair accessible. An elevator allows access to all levels of the Church and we have seating specifically designed for wheelchair access within our sanctuary. An induction loop system is available to assist the hearing impaired. We have on-street parking close to our entrances and a large parking lot behind the church.

Check out our links page for more information on our community. Welcome to St. Paul's!