What does it mean to be a member of Grace? Do I have to do anything in particular to qualify?
There's one thing that Christians worldwide can agree upon: If you have been baptized, you're already a member of the church. Being a member of a particular congregation means placing your name officially on the rolls. These days in the Episcopal Church, joining a local parish means giving your name and the fact (and date, if known) of your baptism. We offer an Inquirers' Classes for those interested in learning more about the Episcopal Church, but it's not a prerequisite for joining.
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Are children welcome at all services?
Yes. We believe that children - their presence, their questions, their honesty and their special intuitive sense of God - make us a more faithful and interesting congregation. Although our youth programs are limited to the Sunday 10 a.m. service children are always welcome. If you plan to attend an event (Bible Study, educational programs, etc) and need child care please call the church office. We will make every effort to secure appropriate care.
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Will I be able to take my time getting to know the church, or will I be asked to participate in activities right away?
Our hope is that you will be welcomed and given the feeling that you belong, but not pressured to join a particular group or help out with a church program. Many people, especially those returning to church after a time away, appreciate the opportunity to "hide behind the pillars" for a bit.
Although worship is the central focus of life at Grace, really belonging to a church means getting involved at some level. Take your time, see what draws you, and join in more fully when you're ready.
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Are the clergy considered ministers or priests? And how should I address them? Reverend? Father? Mr. or Ms.?
In our tradition, ministers are all the people of the church: bishops, priests, deacons, and the laity. Those members of the ordained clergy most often associated with a parish such as Grace are called priests.
We're a pretty informal place, so feel free to skip the "father" nomenclature (our female priests will be especially appreciative!). First names between adults is completely appropriate. As for your children, have them do what they would with any other person in a leadership position. Reverend is an honorific (i.e., the Reverend or the Rev. Bry Dennison) rather than a title such as Mr. or Mrs.
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