What to Expect

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How long are the services?

The 8 am Holy Eucharist has no music, uses ‘Shakespearean’ English, and lasts about 45 minutes. The 10 am Holy Eucharist includes congregational and choral song, modern English, elements for children, and lasts a little more than one hour.

Should I bring my Bible?

If you wish. However, all Scripture readings are in the service bulletin, which the ushers will give you. 

What should I wear?

You will find some people dressed casually, some more formally, and a great variety in between. Just be yourself. You will fit in.

Where should I sit?

Sit wherever you are comfortable. Make yourself at home. For those in need, handicap-accessible seating is at the front of the Church

Where should I park?

We have a parking lot on the corner of 2nd and Bonner. We suggest arriving about 15 minutes before the service in order to get one of those parking spots.

May I bring my children to church services?

Children are welcome and active participants in all St. Peter’s liturgies. Activity bags for younger children are available in the rear of the Church. At 10am, we have a Children’s Sermon in addition to the traditional homily. After church, Sunday School begins at 11:15 am.

May my children receive communion?

Children are welcome to receive communion at their parents’/guardians’ discretion.

What are services like at Saint Peter’s?

We are a liturgical church. “Liturgy” means “the work of the people.” Our work in worship has three parts:

The Word of God: Four readings from Scripture (Old Testament, Psalm, New Testament and Gospel) and a sermon, usually around 15 minutes long. Following the sermon, we recite a creed and say a prayer of confession and receive pardon for our sins.

The Prayers of the People: We pray for the concerns of each other, our community and the world. After the prayers, we greet each other in God’s name. This is called passing the peace. Just turn to your neighbor and say something like “The peace of God be with you” or simply, “Peace.” After this, a collection is taken, while the choir sings an anthem. You are free to contribute or not as you wish. If you wish to contribute electronically, each bulletin has a QR code you can scan to donate.

The Holy Communion: Holy Communion is the high point of the Episcopal service. It is also called the Eucharist or Great Thanksgiving. You are welcome to come forward to receive communion, which consists of bread and wine. Just hold out your hands for the bread and take a sip from the cup, or if you don’t wish to receive, cross your hands on your chest to receive a blessing from the priest. Or if you prefer, you can remain in your seat during this part of the service. Do what is comfortable for you. If you desire a gluten-free wafer, let the priest know and they will ensure you receive one.

Services end with the dismissal at which point we are sent on our way in peace to love and serve God in our lives.