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Newcomers at Saint Matthew's

“Welcome one another, therefore, as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.” Romans 15:7

St. Matthew’s invites you to join us in worship, communion, and fellowship. Whether you are just visiting with friends or family, or are seeking a church home, we welcome all who worship with us to share in Holy Communion.

You are always welcome at St. Matthew’s. You are welcome to visit, to worship with us regularly, to share in the celebration of Holy Communion, and to become an Episcopalian if you wish. You can learn more about The Episcopal Church and what we believe here. 

When you worship with us, you may wonder when to stand or kneel. Practices vary - even among indiviudal Episcopalians at St. Matthew's. The general rule is to stand to sing hymns, to say the Creed and for the reading of the Gospel in the Holy Eucharist service. We sit during readings from the Old Testament or New Testament, there sermon and anthems sung by the choir. We stand or kneel for prayer. If you don't feel comfortable kneeling or standing, for whatever reason, do what makes you feel comfortable.

When you visit St. Matthew's, you will be our respected and welcome guest. You will not be singled out in an embarrassing way nor asked to stand before the congregation or to come forward. You will worship God with us. 

When visitors sign our guest book, they are contacted by phone by a member of the Newcomer Committee or the clergy. The Reverend Mary Grace Williams or The Reverend Richard Mayberry are happy to make a home visit with the family and deliver a packet of materials about St. Matthews and our ministries. Those visitors who seek to become members of the parish are assigned to a mentor family who will assist them in meeting other parishioners and introduce them to the wide range of ministries and fellowship offered at St. Matthew’s.

An annual Newcomer Welcome Sunday is held in late February or early March each year. At this time, we officially welcome all those who have joined our Church into our St. Matthew’s family. The welcome takes place during our 10:00 AM worship service. It is followed by a reception in the Lounge during the coffee hour. During Lent, a God Class is offered for Newcomers as well as long time members interested in learning more about the Episcopal Church in general and St. Matthew’s Church in particular. Classes are conducted by the Reverend Mary Grace Williams and provide an opportunity to learn more about our liturgy and worship as well the history of the Episcopal Church. For more information and schedules please refer to our website or call the church office at 203-762-7400.