Welcome in the Name of Christ!
Whether you’re returning to church after a time away or walking through our doors for the first time, we’re glad that you’ve decided to worship with us! We know that coming to a new church can be intimidating, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the Episcopal tradition. Please feel welcome to participate as you are comfortable.
Below is a brief FAQ, as well as a number of resources for people new to St. Paul’s. Please look through them at your leisure, and contact us at info@stpauls-slc.org if you have any questions.
What should I expect if I visit?
What should I wear?
Will I be asked to do anything?
When you arrive at St. Paul’s, you’ll be welcomed by one of our greeters, who will provide you with a service bulletin and are happy to answer any questions. Please introduce yourself!
If you’re familiar with Roman Catholic or Lutheran services, you may find our pattern of worship familiar. If not, no worries! Listen and observe, participate as you are comfortable, and feel free to ask your neighbor any questions. It won’t take long for you to feel right at home
It’s entirely up to you! We have no dress code, and invite you to come exactly as you are.
Some people ‘dress up’ for Sunday services, while others prefer more casual dress. You should wear whatever you feel is comfortable and appropriate.
Where can I park?
There are several places to park on Sundays:
Our main lot is on the west side of 900 E. across from the courtyard.
There is abundant street parking near St. Paul’s on 900 E. and 300 S. Parking on the street is free on Sundays, but please take care to respect our neighbors by not blocking their driveways.
St. Paul’s has an arrangement with the Salt Lake Clinic on the east side of 900 E. between 300 and 400 S. that allows visitors and parishioners to park in their lot on Sundays.
We ask that the four driveway spots near the north entrance to the church be saved for those with mobility challenges.
St. Paul’s is also easy to access using alternative forms of transportation. There are good bike lanes on 200 and 300 S, and secure bike racks are available in front of the church. We are also just a block away from the 900 E. Red Line station, and even closer to bus routes #2, #209, and #220.
What will the service be like?
Worship in The Episcopal Church is liturgical, which means that it follows a pattern laid out in the Book of Common Prayer. ‘Liturgy’ means the work of the people; the way in which we worship involves us in body, mind, and spirit. During the service, there will be readings from Scripture, hymns and other music (at the 11 a.m. service), a sermon, prayers for the world, a confession and absolution, the exchange of the peace, and (most Sundays) a celebration of the Eucharist, also called Holy Communion or the Lord’s Supper. Anyone seeking a deeper relationship with God is welcome to receive communion. Those who don’t wish to receive communion may come forward and cross their arms over their chest for a blessing.
Most of the service will be printed in a service booklet which will be given to you when you arrive. Hymns listed in the bulletin (and on the hymn boards at the front of the church) are found in the blue book in the back of the pew in front of you.
You may see people standing, kneeling, bowing or making the sign of the cross at certain points during the service. Feel free to join in as you are able or feel called. If standing or kneeling for periods of time is difficult for you, feel free to remain seated. Most of these practices fall under the umbrella of ‘all may, some should, none must.’
Which service should I attend?
It all depends on your personal preference;
For a quiet, spoken service celebrated outdoors (during the summer) or in a smaller chapel (during the winter), join us for worship at 9:30 a.m. This service has a more intimate setting and a dedicated community of people.
For a service with beautiful music in the main church nave, join us for worship at 11 a.m. The weekly 11 a.m. Choral service features hymns and anthems led by our organ and choir, and is recommended for families with kids.
Whichever service you decide to attend, you will be greeted warmly and welcomed into our church community!
Absolutely not!
At the passing of the peace, people around you will greet you and may offer a handshake. They may introduce themselves then or after the service. A member of our Vestry (Episcopal-talk for church board) will likely come to greet you and your family.
Please participate as you are comfortable.
Other Resources:
More about the Episcopal Church
The Catechism (What we believe)
Episcopilled (Fun, easy to understand videos about The Episcopal Church)