Everything you'd want to know before your first Sunday
Nobody will single you out, ask you to stand up, or pass you a pledge card. Here is what actually happens, so you can decide whether to come.
What you're probably wondering
- What should I wear?
- Whatever you own. On a normal Sunday you will see suits, jeans, and a good deal in between. Nobody is checking.
- Where do I park?
- There is a lot behind the parish house off Beach Road, and street parking on Elm is free on Sundays. Allow ten minutes at the 10:30.
- How long is the service?
- The 8:00 runs about forty-five minutes. The 10:30 runs about seventy-five, with music and a sermon of ten to twelve minutes.
- What do I do with my children?
- Bring them in. There is nursery care from 10:15 for under-fours, and children's chapel during the first half of the 10:30 — but children are entirely welcome to stay in the service, and several do.
- Do I have to take communion?
- No. All baptised Christians are welcome to receive, and anyone at all is welcome to come forward for a blessing — cross your arms and the priest will understand. Staying in your seat is also fine.
- Will I have to introduce myself?
- No. There is a moment where people greet their neighbours, which lasts about thirty seconds. That is the extent of it.
- Is the building accessible?
- Yes. Step-free entry from Elm Street, an accessible WC in the parish house, a hearing loop throughout the nave, and large-print orders of service at the door.
What happens, in order
You arrive
Someone hands you a service booklet at the door. Sit anywhere; the back is not rude and the front is not presumptuous.
Opening hymn
Everyone stands. The words are printed in the booklet — you do not need to know the tune, and half the congregation doesn't.
Readings and sermon
Two or three readings, then ten minutes from the pulpit. You sit for all of it.
Prayers and the peace
Intercessions, then the brief greeting mentioned above.
Communion
People come forward row by row. Receive, take a blessing, or stay seated — all three are ordinary.
Coffee
In the undercroft afterwards. This is where the parish actually happens, and you are more than welcome.
Where we are
114 Elm Street, Fairfield, CT