For First Time Visitors
We have been described as a serious, quirky, but fun and welcoming group of people. Indeed we do take our worship seriously, but only because essentially we find it to be "serious fun." If you are attending the principal Sunday service (the “Holy Eucharist” or “Mass”) at S. Stephen's for the first time, you will discover worship that engages all the senses: hymns and chanting to engage our voices and ears; candles and ornate vestments to engage our eyes; the aroma of burning incense to engage smell; and even physical gestures like the sign of the cross and kneeling to engage our whole bodies in the worship of the Almighty.
On virtually all Sundays we have Coffee Hour in the Great Hall – on the second floor of the parish building (known as the “Guild House”) – and we warmly invite all visitors and guests to join us. Ask one of the clergy or one of your fellow worshipers for directions.
CHILDREN
Children are welcome at S. Stephen’s! If you have school-age children, we invite you to bring them to Sunday School. Please ask an usher to direct you! During the first part of the service the children receive Christian education and enjoy fellowship with one another; during the second part they return to their families in church to participate in the Mass.
We also have a Nursery for younger children (up to age five). When you arrive, ask an usher, who will be glad to escort you there. You are also welcome to keep your children with you during church, whatever their age. If you need to take your child out for a moment, please feel free to use the parish library - a comfortable space just a few steps down the hallway from the church.
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HOLY COMMUNION
The Sacrament of Holy Communion is available to all Christians who have been baptized with water in the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. If you have not been baptized, or are unsure, and feel drawn to life in Christ, please contact one of our clergy or email Fr. Benjamin at rector@sstephens.org.
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Baptism and Life in Christ are open to all!