Calvary Episcopal Church

What are services like?
As you enter the church, you will notice an atmosphere of serenity and reverence. Most Episcopalians try not to talk to one another in church before a service, but instead to use this time for personal meditation and devotions. You may notice that some worshippers bow to the altar on entering and leaving the church as an act of reverence for Christ. Children are welcome at all Calvary worship services. We have noticed that young children are most likely to follow the actions of the service if they sit up front where they can see. The seating at Calvary is not reserved and there is always room for visitors. An usher will give you a printed worship bulletin that will list page numbers in the blue hymnal and the red prayer book. The scripture readings are printed in the bulletin, along with additional service music and psalms. On the left side at the front of the church there is a pulpit, where the sermon is preached. On the right side there is a lectern, the place where the Scriptures are read. Next to the lectern is the baptismal font, placed at the front of the church as a reminder that baptism is the entry point into the life of the church for all Christians. We stand for the Gospel, sit to hear the other lessons, sermon, and announcements, and stand to sing, and kneel or stand to pray. Members of the congregation will be glad to help you follow along in the prayer book, and you may stand, sit, and kneel with the congregation, as you feel comfortable. Any Christian who has been baptized is welcome to participate in receiving Holy Communion, regardless of age. Visitors who are not baptized Christians are invited to the altar rail to receive a blessing. At the end of the service some persons kneel for private prayer before leaving. Others sit to listen to the organ postlude. Following the service, the clergy greet worshipers as they leave. The doorways adjacent to the organ (at the front) and through the Bride’s Walk (at the rear), lead to the Parish House ( where education classes, Coffee in the Great Hall, and the exit to the back parking lot are found). The Narthex doors at the rear of the Nave open onto Second Street.