What to Expect

Wherever you are on your spiritual journey, we invite you to join us at Christ Church! We want your first visit to be a pleasant one and have answered some frequently asked questions below.

How are the services different?

Our principal time for worship is weekends, and we offer six distinct services, each celebrating the resurrection of Christ.

• The Saturday 5:00 PM service is a contemporary "come as you are" service with Holy Communion that take place in the Chapel.
• The Sunday 8:00 AM service is  brief spoken liturgy using traditional language in celebrating Holy Communion in the Church.
• The Sunday 9:00 AM service, "The ARK," is a 30-minute service with Holy Communion for young children and their families to worship together in the Chapel.
• The Sunday 9:00 AM service, "SANCTUARY," is a 40-minute service with Holy Communion for older children, youth, and their families in the Church.
• The Sunday 10:30 AM service is the principal parish liturgy with choral leadership by our choirs and contemporary language in celebrating Holy Communion. In addition, this service is livestreamed each Sunday.
• The Sunday 4:00 PM service of Choral Evensong is one of prayer, scripture, and song in the Anglican choral tradition in either the Church or Chapel, as scheduled.

What do I wear to services?

We care more that you come than what you wear. You will find people in suits and those much more casual. Children tend to wear school clothes.

Where do I park?

There are a few parking spots reserved right in front of the Church for newcomers or people with special needs, but park where you are comfortable.

Where are services and programs held?

Our worship on Sunday is held in the Church. Our Saturday and midweek services take place in the Chapel, which is part of the Parish Center building behind the Church. Programs of learning for all ages, fellowship, and service take place throughout the Parish Center. 

What is Holy Eucharist?

You might know it as the Lord's Supper, Holy Communion, or Mass. It 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. We welcome all to communion, including children. 

How do I take Communion?

Following those in the pew in front of you, walk up the center aisle to the altar rail. Either kneel or stand at the rail. Hold your hands together, and the priest will put a wafer or morsel of bread in your hand. You may eat the bread or wait and dip it into the wine when the server brings it to you. Both are completely acceptable. After receiving communion, leave the altar rail by the side aisles and return to your pew. If you are not ready to take communion, you may remain in your pew or come to the altar rail for a blessing. To receive a blessing, simply cross your arms over your chest.

Is there a suggested amount to put in the offering?

As a visitor, please make a free will gift. If you become a regular worshiper, we ask that you prayerfully consider an annual pledge that supports the work we do and demonstrates the value the church provides to you.

What programs are available for my children and youth?

Children are welcome at all services, though on Sunday mornings we offer:

• Worship at "The ARK" at 9:00 AM in the Chapel or "SANCTUARY" at 9:00 AM in the Church
• Children & Youth Ministries for those in nursery through 12th grades in classrooms throughout the Parish Center from September through May

What do I call the clergy?

Generally adults call members of the clergy by their first name and children use Reverend.

How do I learn more about Christ Church?

Please fill out a welcome card found in the pew, complete this contact form, or introduce yourself to a member of the clergy at a service to set up a meeting.

How do I learn more about the Episcopal Church?

The clergy will be glad to help you learn more, and there are leaflets at the entrance to the Church that may answer some of your questions. Throughout the year, we offer "Newcomers: Belong" classes for those who would like to learn more about the Church and for those who want to be confirmed in the Episcopal Church.