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What to Expect

Frequently Asked Questions

Visiting a new church can feel daunting.  We hope that the information below will help you feel more comfortable as you contemplate joining us for a service at St. John’s. If you have any question at all, however, we would love to hear from you. Feel free to reach out to the Church Office at any time.

Planning Your Visit

  • Where should I park?

    St. John’s has a rather large parking lot directly behind the building. In addition to our parking lot, there is a plethora of street parking as well as parking in the NARCOG parking lot on Jackson Street.

  • What should I wear?

    Anything you want! You’ll see a variety of attire on Sunday mornings, and other times we gather, ranging from jeans and t-shirts to dresses, suits and ties. Whatever makes you comfortable is what you should wear.

  • Which door should I use to enter?

    That depends, really.

    If you’re coming for a church service on Sunday morning, the easiest option is to enter through the red doors on the front of the building where Gordon Drive and Jackson Street meet.

    If you’re coming for Sunday School or another event that is not a church service, its likely best to enter the door under the covered drive on the Gordon Drive side of the building.

    If you have any questions at all, just ask the member nearest you! We’re all very friendly!

  • Is your space handicap accessible?

    Yes! There are several handicap entrances to our building.

    First, there is an elevator on the Jackson Street side of our property which will take you to the 2nd floor. Upon entering the building, you can either use the ramps to enter the church itself or go straight into the Parish Hall or any other meeting space.

    There are two ramps on the Gordon Drive side of the building. One is under the covered drive and enters by the offices. This is the best entrance for the Parish Hall and Library, however, there is still accessible access to the church via this route. There is another ramp located through the McKimmon Garden, also on the Gordon Drive side, which goes straight into the back of the church.

    As noted above, if you have any questions at all just ask a member who is walking around. We’re all very friendly!

Worship Services

  • What is worship like in the Episcopal Church?

    Worship in the Episcopal Church is liturgical, meaning it follows a structured pattern of prayers, scripture readings, hymns, and sacraments as found in The Book of Common Prayer.

  • What is the Book of Common Prayer?

    The Book of Common Prayer (BCP) is a collection of prayers, liturgies, and services used in worship, providing structure and language for Episcopal worship.

  • Why do some people kneel, stand, or make the sign of the cross?

    These are personal expressions of faith and reverence, not required practices. Feel free to participate as you feel comfortable.

  • How do I know what to do?

    Visiting an Episcopal church can be intimidating given all the standing, sitting, and kneeling. Not to mention juggling different books. Not to worry, though! At St. John’s we have a bulletin containing everything you need to know about each service, making following along very easy.

  • How long does a service usually last?

    Most Eucharist Services last about an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes. That said, our 8:00 AM Rite I services generally last forty-five minutes to an hour while our mid-week Eucharist lasts thirty-five minutes to an hour. Special liturgies, such as Christmas, Easter and Holy Week Services, may be longer.

  • Do I have to receive Communion if I attend?

    No, participation in Communion is optional. You may come forward for a blessing instead or remain in your pew.

  • Why do Episcopalians use so much scripture in worship?

    Episcopal worship is deeply rooted in scripture, with readings from the Old Testament, Psalms, New Testament, and Gospel included in every service.

  • What is the difference between Rite I and Rite II services?

    Rite I uses traditional, formal language and is often more reflective, while Rite II features contemporary language and a more modern tone.

  • What about children?

    Because children have an innate spirituality they are most welcome in our services. Wiggles and giggles are welcome and expected. 

    That said, there is a nursery available on Sundays from 9:15 AM-11:30 AM for children 6 weeks old through 4K. Additionally, children are invited to attend Children’s Chapel during the 10:30 AM service.

Do you still have questions left?

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