What to Expect
We recognize that it can be hard to visit a church for the first time, but we hope you feel warmly welcomed and comfortable at St. Dunstan’s. Respecting the dignity of every human being is at the heart of the Episcopal faith. In addition to being a strong faith-based community that offers space for worship, prayer and formation, St. Dunstan’s offers many opportunities to renew our commitment to this principle and put into action in our lives and the greater community. The Episcopal Church is a “big tent” – we are inclusive and all are always welcome. We hope you will join us!
Below are some helpful key points of information about St. Dunstan’s:
What happens during the service?
When you arrive at St. Dunstan’s for worship, you will be greeted by the ushers, who will hand you a bulletin and help you find seating, Blessing Bags for children, and the restrooms. There will be prelude music by the organist so please enter quietly; some choose to say their own prayers before worship in the pews.
We stand for the processional, which is led by acolytes, followed by the choir, lay Eucharist minister (LEM), and the priest. The priest will lead the service and direct parishioners to follow along.
We follow a traditional Episcopal worship style, and the liturgy for the service is fully included in the weekly bulletin, Hymns/songs may be found in the blue hymnal in front of you. An information card is in the pew rack, and we encourage newcomers and visitors to fill one out and put it in the collection plate during the service so that we may follow up with you personally.
All are welcome to receive Eucharist in our church. Please follow the ushers’ directions and come up the center aisle to the altar rail. The priest will distribute wafers, followed by the LEM with the wine. You many sip from the chalice or make the sign of the cross over the top of the chalice. Gluten-free wafers are available; just let the priest know. If you do not wish to receive the sacraments, you may also come forward to the altar rail and cross your arms to receive a special blessing from the priest. Following Eucharist, depart the rail on the side aisles.
Following the recessional, the service will conclude with the dismissal. A postlude will follow; some choose to sit for this, or you may leave quietly.
We hope that you will join us downstairs in Fellowship Hall for Coffee Hour so that we can get to know you better and answer any questions you may have.
Is St. Dunstan's accessible?
St. Dunstan’s is handicap accessible. The parking lot on the left side of the church has designated parking spaces, a ramp and access to our elevator that goes up to the sanctuary and down to Fellowship Hall.
How can I get more information?
Please fill out an information card and put it in the collection plate during the service or give it to an usher afterward. You may also email the church at [email protected] and a member of our Welcome Team will follow up with you, or reach out to Fr. Sean directly at [email protected].
