New to the Episcopal Church?
Most importantly, know this:
You don't have to know what you're doing to belong here. Follow along as you're comfortable, participate as much or as little as you'd like, and know that you're always welcome.
If you're visiting from an evangelical or non-denominational background, you may notice that worship feels both familiar and different. We believe that questions are a good thing, and we hope these answers help you feel more at home.
Why does everyone stand, sit, kneel, and say things together?
Our worship is called liturgy, which simply means "the work of the people." Rather than watching a service happen from the pews, everyone participates together through prayers, Scripture, singing, and responses.
The physical movements (standing, sitting, kneeling, crossing ourselves) are ways many people pray with their whole bodies. They're invitations, not requirements. If you're unsure what to do, simply follow along with those around you (or don't). No one is keeping score.
Why do you read written prayers instead of praying spontaneously?
We certainly believe in spontaneous prayer, and you'll hear those prayers throughout the life of our parish.
In our Sunday worship, however, we use prayers that Christians have prayed for generations. Written prayers allow us to pray together with one voice and remind us that worship isn't primarily about expressing ourselves, it's about joining the prayer of the whole Church, across time and around the world.
Many Episcopalians find that these prayers give them words to pray on days when their own words are hard to find.
Why is Communion the center of the service?
The first Christians gathered around two things: the Scriptures and the breaking of bread. We continue that pattern today.
Every Sunday, we hear God's Word proclaimed and then gather around Christ's table to receive Holy Communion. We believe Jesus truly meets us there, nourishing us with his grace and drawing us deeper into his life.
The sermon is important, but it isn't the climax of the service. Communion is.
What do Episcopalians believe happens in Communion?
We believe that Christ is truly present in the Eucharist, though we don't insist on explaining exactly how. Rather than focusing on the mechanics, we focus on Jesus' promise: "This is my body... this is my blood."
Communion is God's gift to us before it is our offering to God.
Can I receive Communion?
All baptized Christians, regardless of denomination, are welcome to receive Holy Communion in the Episcopal Church.
If you are not baptized (or if you'd simply prefer not to receive) you are warmly invited to come forward for a blessing by crossing your arms over your chest, or you may remain in your seat.
If you have questions about baptism, we'd love to talk with you.
Why do you baptize infants?
We believe baptism is first and foremost God's action, not ours. It is God's gracious welcome into the family of faith.
Just as children were welcomed into God's covenant throughout Scripture, we baptize children and promise as a community to help them grow into the faith they have received. As they mature, they make that faith their own throughout a lifetime of discipleship.
Adults are joyfully baptized as well.
Why do you have priests?
The word "priest" can carry a lot of assumptions, especially if you come from another Christian tradition.
In the Episcopal Church, priests are pastors, teachers, and sacramental ministers. They preach, celebrate the Eucharist, baptize, visit the sick, counsel those in need, and help lead the congregation in its mission.
They don't stand between people and God. Jesus Christ is our one mediator. Priests exist to serve God's people and equip the Church for ministry.
Why is there so much Scripture?
One of the biggest surprises for many visitors is just how much of the Bible is read during Episcopal worship.
A typical Sunday includes readings from the Old Testament, the Psalms, the New Testament, and one of the Gospels. Most of our prayers are drawn directly from Scripture as well.
The Bible shapes and guides everything we do.
Why do you wear robes and vestments?
Vestments aren't meant to make clergy look more important.
Instead, they remind us that worship isn't about the personality or fashion of the person leading it. The vestments point away from the individual and toward Christ and the work of the whole Church.
The colors change throughout the year to reflect the different seasons of the Christian calendar.
What is the Church Calendar?
The Church Calendar is the way Christians have marked time for centuries by following the life of Jesus rather than the rhythms of the secular year. Instead of revolving around holidays like Thanksgiving or the Fourth of July, the Church Calendar invites us to journey through Christ's story every year.
The year begins with Advent, a season of hopeful waiting as we prepare to celebrate Christ's birth. It continues through Christmas, Epiphany, Lent, Holy Week, Easter, Ascension, Pentecost, and the long season after Pentecost, each highlighting different aspects of Jesus' life, death, resurrection, and the mission of the Church.
You'll notice this rhythm in our worship through changing Scripture readings, prayers, hymns, and even the colors worn by clergy and displayed in the church. Rather than simply remembering events from long ago, we believe these seasons help shape us as disciples today.
Why do you follow the Church calendar?
The Church Calendar reminds us that our lives are grounded not primarily in the world's schedule, but in the saving work of Christ. The Church calendar helps us tell the story of Jesus year after year.
During Advent we wait. At Christmas we celebrate the Incarnation. During Lent we repent. At Easter we rejoice in the Resurrection. Pentecost reminds us of the Holy Spirit's work in the Church.
Rather than following cultural seasons, we try to let Christ's story shape our lives.
Why do Episcopalians use wine?
Jesus used bread and wine at the Last Supper, and we continue that practice.
Receiving only the bread is still receiving the fullness of Communion, and many people choose to do so. We also understand that some people avoid alcohol for health, recovery, or personal reasons, and we respect those choices completely.
Why are there candles, crosses, and other symbols?
Christians have used visual symbols for centuries to teach the faith and draw our attention toward God.
Candles remind us that Christ is the Light of the World. The cross proclaims Jesus' victory over sin and death. Art, stained glass, icons, and other symbols help tell the story of God's love.
We don't worship these things; they help point us toward the One we worship.
Do Episcopalians believe Tradition is equal to the Bible?
No.
Scripture is the foundation of our faith. At the same time, we believe God has continued to guide the Church throughout history.
Rather than choosing between Scripture and Tradition, we seek to read Scripture faithfully alongside the wisdom of Christians who have gone before us, while also engaging our God-given reason.
Will I be expected to know everything?
No, absolutely not. Not at all.
Nobody arrives knowing all the responses, prayers, or customs. Every lifelong Episcopalian was new once.
You'll find service books and bulletins that guide you through the worship service, and there's no pressure to participate in anything you're uncomfortable with.
What if I'm still unsure about all this?
That's okay.
Faith grows through worship, conversation, prayer, and community. You don't have to have every question answered before you walk through the doors. You don’t even need to know what questions you have, we’re always open to help you explore.
If you'd like to talk with one of our clergy, ask about baptism, explore Christianity, or simply have a conversation over coffee, we'd be delighted to meet you. You can even contact us here through this website.