Coming to All Saints For The First Time
Often people are apprehensive about visiting a church for the first time. If you are, don’t think you’re unique! We’ve listed below some of the common questions and concerns we’ve heard over the years to help make a first-time visitor feel a little more at ease, But first, you need to know this:
We view your visit to our congregation as truly a gift from God. We are grateful for your presence and will do all we can to make you welcome and comfortable.
When should I come?
Sunday Services start at 9:00 AM. Come between 10 – 15 minutes before the published service time. There will be someone at the front door to welcome you and who will make sure you have any bulletins or other worship materials you need. If you’re new to us, the usher will also encourage you to sign the guest register so we can follow up. Generally you’ll find folks greeting one another and visiting quietly before the service. When they light the candles, things will settle down and people will begin to get ready for worship.
What should I wear?
People come dressed differently, but usually casually and suited for the season. We want you to be comfortable, so wear what you’d normally wear if you were going out to a social function. Casual is fine.
Where should I sit?
Sit anywhere you want. We don’t have assigned seating at All Saints. Don’t be surprised if someone joins you to simply help out with the worship books and materials. Ask for a cushion, if you want one.
What should I do?
Generally, in the Episcopal Church we sit to listen, we stand or kneel to pray, we kneel for confession and we stand to sing. You’ll also notice that folks have their own way of doing things and that’s OK. There’s a wide variety of religious practice and ceremony within the Episcopal Church and within the members of All Saints. We see that diversity as a source of richness and strength. If you’re curious about it, either ask someone or ask the clergy. (In other words, make yourself comfortable; we’re glad to have you worshipping with us.)
Where do I find out about what’s going on?
The bulletin you receive when you arrive will either contain the entire service or it will give you directions to find the service in the Book of Common Prayer (the red book) and in whatever song book we’re using for the day. If you lose your place, don’t worry too much about it — someone will announce a page number, soon enough.
What about Communion?
EVERYONE is welcome to worship with us. The service is divided into two parts: The first part is Bible lessons, Sermon and Prayers. The second part is Holy Communion.
You do not need to be a member to participate in communion fellowship at All Saints. If you’re used to receiving communion in your own community – or if you feel called by God to receive communion here, then you are by all means welcome to do so!
If you want to receive communion, just watch what everyone else does — and do that. (If you don’t want the wine, just cross your arms over your chest when it’s offered. ) If you have questions, talk to the clergy.
What happens afterwards?
Our church fellowship continues after worship downstairs in the Parish Hall. On the first and third Sundays of each month there is a potluck and we urge you to come share a meal with us! Please don’t worry about whether or not you brought anything; there’s always plenty of food, fellowship and laughter — just come and enjoy!
On the second and fourth Sundays there is always coffee and refreshments for all. As well, many times there is an adult forum where a topic of interest is presented by either the clergy or someone else who has an interest. These are usually pretty informal and “free for all” discussions. Come listen or take part; you’ll enjoy it.
What about my children?
We don’t have a lot of kids at All Saints, right now and we really treasure those who are here! You’ll see them taking an active part in the service – sharing their talents in a number of ways. You’ll see babies being passed around and cared for by a whole congregation of extra “grandparents.”
For those kids interested, we do have trained Christian educators who will meet their needs. We love to have babies in church and enjoy them as a sign of life and hope. We also have a nursery available directly off the worship space for emergencies.
What if I want to continue?
That would be good news to us!
If you think you’d like to check out continuing at All Saints, it would probably be a good idea to get signed up to receive communication about what’s going on and about ministry opportunities. (Get on the Mailing List) As well, it might be appropriate to visit with the priest who can fill you in on ministry opportunities and other activities you might be interested in. You can arrange to talk to the Clergy elsewhere on the website.
We offer plenty of information for folks wishing to be a part of us, ranging from a simple newcomer’s orientation to formal confirmation classes.