We are so happy that you are inquiring about St. Stephen’s and what we do here.
One thing we do well here at St. Stephen’s is what we call “Radical Hospitality.” The minute you visit us you will be greeted and welcomed, no matter who you are.
You are invited to join us for Holy Eucharist (also known as the Mass) on Sundays at 11:00 am. During the regular school year, we also offer Children’s Chapel during the service and we gather afterward for refreshments, which is a great time to get to know our members.
You are also invited to join us for our Wednesday night Eucharist (Mass) at 6:00 pm. This service differs from Sunday morning only in that it uses more including language (i.e. gender-neutral language in reference to God) It is a more informal and often uses no music, though it is packed with meaning. You are welcome to join us for supper afterward at a local restaurant. We also use hypoallergenic incense at this Mass.
Worship at St. Stephen’s is “High Church” in style. That means we use gestures and style of worship and liturgy that are consistent with traditional worship throughout the history and the world. However, we also utilize language in our services that refrains from using gender-specific language regarding God.
For us, “liturgy” (the way we worship) literally means “the work of the people.” That’s why at St. Stephen’s you’ll find that you’re participating in the worship through music, responsive reading, and through the reciting of prayers and creeds. Here you’re not just a spectator, watching what happens in the front of the church. You’re actually participating in “the work of the people” from right where you are.
If you find our style of worship unfamiliar, don’t worry–we’ll help you follow along. Or you’re welcome to just sit back and take it all in. No one will judge you or treat you differently for doing so.
We have no dress code here at St. Stephen’s, and all of us are friendly, welcoming and non-judgmental.
Children are very welcome here. Please do not be concerned if children make sound in church: we LOVE the sound of children and all that they offer us by their joy and very presence.
There are also several opportunities for people to get to know others: coffee hour after the Sunday morning Eucharist, supper after the Wednesday night Eucharist, Young(er) Episcopalians for anyone in their twenties or thirties, Integrity Chapter meetings for LGBTQ people and friends and many other opportunties.
Of course, if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact Fr. Jamie at Frjamieparsley@gmail.com.
Your presence among us is a true blessing and enriches our community in many ways. We look forward to getting to know you and having you get to know us.
Again, welcome! And we hope meet and greet you in person very soon!
