What To Expect When You Come to St. James
Whatever your religious background and however you have come to be here, welcome to St. James Episcopal Church!
In the pew you will find two books, which we use in our worship: the red Book of Common Prayer (referred to as BCP in the bulletin) and the blue Hymnal (all music notation preceded by an “S” can be found in the front section). In the distributed Sunday bulletin you will find the service outline and the page references to those two books. If you find it difficult to follow the service at first, please feel free to ask someone near you for assistance. After a few services, it will become easier. Standing, sitting, or kneeling for various parts of the service is a matter only of custom, and you should feel free to assume whatever posture is most helpful to you.
All baptized Christians are welcome to receive Holy Communion. At the time of communion, please come to the Altar rail and stand or kneel. First, the bread will be placed in your outstretched hands; when the chalice of wine comes, you may drink directly from it or dip the bread in it. If you prefer not to receive communion, but would like to receive a blessing, please signal your desire by crossing your arms across your chest.
We are delighted that you are thinking about joining us for worship. Please join us after the service for a little fellowship so we can get to know you better.
