People often ask us….

Q: How do people dress for your services? Is there a dress code?

A: There is not a dress code. Most people dress casually.

Q: Why do your ministers wear robes?

A: The vestments used for Holy Eucharist are steeped in Christian tradition and symbolism. They are not necessary for worship to be valid or sincere, but we value the meaning in them and so chose to use them.

Q: Are children welcome in the service?

A: Yes, they may participate fully. We have “quiet bags” for busy hands too.

Q: Does your church have a nursery?

A: Yes. It is located below the sanctuary.

Q: Where should I sit when I visit?

A: Any open pew is fair game.

Q: Do I need to get there early to get a seat?

A: Most Sundays, no. Any time before 10:00 you should be fine.

Q: Can I take communion?

A: All are called to the table for blessing. Our understanding of the Sacrament leads us to ask that only those who have been Baptized, in any Christian tradition, receive the Bread and Cup.

Q: Why is your service called “Holy Eucharist?”

A: “Eucharist” is Greek for Thanksgiving. Each Sunday is an opportunity to dedicate time to God (Holy) and give thanks for all he has done, is doing, and will do.

Q: Do you use real wine?

A: Yes. We believe that Christ is present in either form of bread and wine. For those who chose to abstain from alcohol or the cup for any other reason, may rest assured of Christ’s full presence in the taking of the bread. (Also: our ministers have been trained to distribute and clean the common cup such that it is sanitary as possible.)

Q: Could we hold our wedding at your church? Could your priest marry us?

A: We ask that for the wedding to take place in Holy Family, at least one party is a Baptized Christian and that the wedding is a Christian ceremony.  If the priest is to officiate, they must consult with the priest and arrange some form of pre-marital counseling. Our priest will also ask the couple to chose a form of blessing from the Book of Common Prayer.

Q: Could your priest officiate a funeral for non-parishioners?

A: Yes, provided there is some prior relationship or conversation with the bereaved family and that they accept that funerals at Holy Family will follow the Book of Common Prayer.

Q: How does your church understand the Bible?

A: The scriptures of the Old and New Testaments are the Word of God in that they are inspired by the Holy Spirit and contain all things necessary for salvation.

Q: Why do you baptize infants?

A: Children of believers are holy, according to the New Testament, that is, consecrated to God for nurture in righteousness. Children are full participants in God’s covenant with humanity, which baptism signifies. The parents and sponsors are expected to raise the children to know and serve the Lord and one day, in God’s time, seek the Sacrament of Confirmation, when they will make their own, unique, mature commitment to Christ.