Are the 3 Sunday services identical or are they different?
The 8 AM service is a Eucharist - Communion - without music. The 9 AM service is a Eucharist with music and a slightly more informal atmosphere that engages people of all ages. Nursery care for infants and toddlers takes place during the 9 AM service, as does Godly Play classes for 3- through 8-year-olds. Children in 3rd grade and above attend church with their parents to share in worship. The 11 AM service alternates between Eucharist and Choral Matins - or sung Morning Prayer - and features the Christ Church Choir. Child care for infants through 5-year-olds is provided at the 11 AM service.

Does it matter which one I go to?
Not a bit. You may want to try each one to see which is most comfortable for you.

What is the Holy Eucharist?
Holy Eucharist is the sacrament commanded by Jesus Christ for the continual remembrance of his life, death, and resurrection. The symbols in the Eucharist are bread and wine. Other names by which this service is known are the Lord’s Supper, Holy Communion, and Mass.

Do I have to be baptized or confirmed to participate in Holy Eucharist?
The canons or laws of the Episcopal Church direct that receiving Holy Communion is for those who are baptized in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit as the sacrament of Christ’s Body and Blood renews the redeeming power of God given in Holy Baptism. Some in the Church are calling for Open Communion, reflecting the inclusive nature of our Lord Jesus who welcomed all to his Table. That is why the Sunday Bulletin calls it, “Communion of the Faithful.”

How do I take communion?
Following those in front of you, kneel at the communion rail with your right hand over your left. The priest will come with a wafer or morsel of bread. We prefer you eat the bread then drink wine from the chalice, or you may hold the bread and dip it into the wine chalice. Both ways are completely acceptable. For those with wheat allergies, we have gluten-free wafers. Please speak to the minister if you have that need.

Do I have to take communion?
No. You may either remain in the pew or come to the rail for a blessing. To receive a blessing, simply cross your arms over your chest.

How old do children have to be to receive bread and wine Holy Eucharist?
At CCCH, we are teaching that Baptism and Communion are connected rituals, so children may start receiving as soon as they are baptized. Instruction occurs in our programs of formation for children. If your child does not want communion, it is as easy as shaking your head or having the child cross their arms over their chest for a blessing.

When and where is Sunday School?
Sunday School for children and youth is held in the classrooms in the Parish Center behind the Church. Signs are posted listing classroom locations. There are also Adult Enrichment classes each Sunday offering discussion and interaction. Sunday School for youth and adults is held between services at 10 AM, lasting approximately 45 minutes. Sunday School for 3- through 8-year-olds is held during the 9 AM service, with enrichment opportunities for these children at 10 AM.

Where do I find out more about Sunday School and who should I contact?
Information about Sunday School is on the website but can also be obtained from the Church Office at 655-3379.

Is there a dress code or dress expectation?
No. However, most men come in “business casual” or suits - most women come in “business casual” slacks or dresses/skirts. All are welcome regardless of dress. During the summer, the dress is much more casual. The church is air-conditioned.

Where is the room to take crying babies or children?
We don’t have one in particular, but if you feel your young one is causing a distraction, you may take him or her downstairs or over to the Parish Center to the Nursery to play. We welcome parishioners of all ages in the church.

What do we call the clergy?
The clergy have no definitive title. Their first name is appropriate, but so is Father, Mr., Mrs., Ms. and Miss.

What is the music followed by an asterisk in the service bulletin?
For its sesquicentennial 150th anniversary in 1998, CCCH commissioned Sir David Willcocks to write service music, which is music sung only at CCCH. The music is available on the blue page in the pew.

What are the colors of the altar linens and stoles on the clergy?
The colors signify the different liturgical seasons of the Episcopal Church.

Why do parts of the service take place in the middle of the congregation and other parts up front?
Each parish is different – the prayers of the people are often said from the midst of the congregation. For the most part, the Gospel is read from among the people but is sometimes said in front of the altar. The sermon can also be spoken from a variety of places in the church.

When do we sit and when do we kneel?
Follow those around you! Different parishes have different standards for sitting, standing, and kneeling. There is never a judgmental eye for those who are not doing as the rest are doing, so be comfortable as you worship. If you are unable to stand or kneel, you may stay seated.

What is the difference between the red book and the blue book?
The red book is The Book of Common Prayer from which the service material is said. The blue book is The Hymnal from which the hymns are sung. There is a difference between hymns listed on the wall and in the service leaflet and service music listed in the service leaflet only and found in the front of the hymnal or on the blue sheet.

Is there a suggested amount to put in the offering?
Not at all. It is give as you wish.

Can anyone be married in the Episcopal Church?
To be married at Christ Church, you must be an active member of this parish. Contact the Church Office 655-3379 for a copy of Wedding Standards at Christ Church.

What is the difference between a memorial service and a funeral?
For a funeral, the casket is present. A memorial service is held without the casket. The liturgy used is the same at both, however.

Is there a class I can attend to find out more about Christ Church and the Episcopal Church, even if I'm not sure if I want to join?
Generally each spring, an Adult Inquirers Class is held for those who want to be Confirmed in the Episcopal Church and for those who would like to simply learn more about the Church and its practices. Contact the Church Office for details.

Are there tours given of the church and parish buildings?
CCCH has a wonderful history with some very curious tales of the buildings. Tours are offered periodically through the year, giving that history.

What is the Green Show?
The Green Show is a parish-wide event held on the first weekend of December. Goods made by parishioners through workshops are sold to the community. Goods include greens, tabletop arrangements, baked goods, soups, frozen foods, and craft items. The proceeds from the Green Show go directly to the Outreach Committee for disbursement into the community. The Green Show Chairman would be happy to talk with you about how to get involved. The Church Office can provide you with how to get in touch with the Chairman.

Does the church have an Outreach program?
CCCH has a very active and involved Outreach program. The committee meets monthly, and grants are awarded to the Delaware community in the spring. Applications are due at the beginning of February. One of the major criteria for grant awards is Parish involvement in that organization. If you volunteer, please let the organization know you belong to CCCH so that they may include your name on the grant application.

At my last church, I was active in the choir. Can new people join?
Always. Contact the Church Office 655-3379.

Are there restrictions for outside groups using Christ Church facilities?
Click here for our Policy for Use of Parish Center Facilities.