Guests
f you are visiting us for the first time on the web or in person, WELCOME TO ST. PETER'S! It's often confusing when an individual or family comes for the first time to a new church community. We hope this Q&A section can be helpful as you navigate your way through our service. If you click on one of the questions below, a link will take you to your answer.
What are the service days and times?
On Sundays, at 9:30 and 11 a.m., we have two communion services with beautiful hymns and historic liturgy.
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How long does church last?
The service is one hour.
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What do I wear to church?
You’ll find a mix of styles at St. Peter's. Sunday mornings are a time when many prefer to dress up a bit, but even if jeans are more your style, you'll be right at home with us. We care more that you're here, than what you wear. We just ask that whatever you wear is modest and in keeping with the fact that we are gathering to worship God.
(back to the top of the page)How do I get to St. Peter's?
The church is worshiping at the Cascade Events Center behind the Fairfield Inn and Suites by Marriott, 5909 Stonecreek Drive, The Colony. See our directions page for a map.
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Is the church handicap accessible?
Yes, and there are no steps in our church, which makes everything easily accessible.
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Where do my kids go?
The kids (ages 4 – 11) join with us at the beginning of the service and then they leave to attend an interactive children’s church during the Scripture readings and sermon. They come back after the sermon to rejoin us for communion.
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What about my small children?
You are welcome to bring any children ages 0 – 3 to our professionally staffed nursery.
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What does St. Peter's believe?
This is a big question. In short, St. Peter’s is an Episcopal Church that believes the historic biblical teachings of Christianity, which have been handed down through the centuries. For a fuller answer see our About: beliefs page.
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What should I expect at my first visit?
You will be welcomed at the door with a smile and a handshake and given a bulletin — the guidebook to our church and the service. We invite you to arrive a few minutes early so that you can go into the church for a time of prayer to quiet your mind before God.The service will begin with a beautiful hymn led by our choir as it processes into the church in full robes. This will be followed by Scripture readings and a stimulating sermon (we think boring sermons are sinful). The kids will then come back for the second part of the service, Holy Communion. There is great music arranged throughout the service. To learn more about our style of worship, see our liturgy page.
Afterwards, everyone is invited to stay around for fellowship with one another.
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What is your music like?
Our music is made up of beautiful, classic hymns, often sung in four part harmony.
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What do I bring?
Just yourself and your family. You are welcome to bring a Bible if you would like.
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Will I be able to follow along with the service?
Yes. Our weekly worship bulletins are designed to provide everything you need to participate in worship. The format is simple and easy to follow and you will know when to sit, stand, or kneel. However, if you feel uncomfortable with these actions, just relax and observe the service.
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How are visitors recognized?
When you visit St. Peter's, you will be our respected and welcome guest. You will not be singled out in an embarrassing way or asked to stand before the congregation or come forward. We want our visitors to feel completely comfortable. You are welcome to simply relax and sit in your pew without any fear of embarrassment.
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Am I required to give money at worship?
No. Our members and regular attendees enjoy worshipping God through their finances, but guests are not expected to give.
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Can I take Communion? How does it work?
Yes. All baptized Christians are welcome to take communion with us. Simply come forward with everyone else. When you put out your hands, the priest will give you a piece of bread and a sip of the wine. Then you can go back to your seat.
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And how should I address the pastor?
Normally our pastor is addressed as Father Philip. However, a few people call him simply Philip, which is fine as well, if you are uncomfortable with the word "Father."
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Why is the pastor/priest called "Father"?
Priests or pastors, as they are often called, have been called "father" since the very early centuries of Christianity since they were spiritual fathers to those whom God gave to their care in the church.
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Can I meet with a priest?
Yes. Father Philip is very open and easy to talk with. Give him a call at 972-625-5788.
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What does the priest do during the week?
The priest stays busy with various different activities during the week: praying, studying, researching, and writing sermons to prepare for the Sunday service; meeting with people one on one; planning and conducting meetings; meeting with other priests and the leadership of the church; making home calls and hospital calls; completing administrative tasks such as email, planning, coordinating, and making phone calls.
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Is there anyone to ask if I have other questions about St. Peter's?
If still you have unanswered questions or just want to get a glimpse of the atmosphere, please feel free to contact us by phone (972-625-5788) or email (see About Staff for addresses). Whether you're just starting to ask questions about God, or church; or a committed Christian who is looking to go deeper in faith and fellowship, we hope you'll find a home here at St. Peter's.
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