Visiting St. Stephens

We call the entrance to St. Stephen's the Gathering Place. From there, you move into the Narthex or "porch," which symbolizes the entrance to the Christian life. You may light a candle and say a prayer in this area. Moving into the sanctuary, or the nave, this sacred space stands for the gathering of the faithful. The word "nave" comes from Latin and means "ship." The ship has long been a symbol for the Church and its earliest disciples. In worship, we invite you to share in our service by how is comfortable for your body and spirit in that moment.

OUR MISSION

Supporting each other through God's abundance of love and generosity. Being present to one another, our community, and the needs of the world as they now stand. Above all, we welcome and embrace all. No matter who you are, what your religious background may be, or where you are on your spiritual journey, you are affirmed as a beloved child of God to be part of our community.

Here are a few ways for those who want to enter fully into the life of St. Stephen's:

  • Cultivate the habit of praying for yourself, others, and the world.

  • Set aside a time each day for reflection, Bible reading, and prayer.

  • Worship regularly. Our motivation should be from the love of God, not guilt. God wants us to come to God so that God may give us the Spirit’s gifts of love, strength, and perseverance.

  • Enter as much as possible into the life of the Parish. There are many opportunities for service at St. Stephen's, and all are important—hospitality, serving as usher, choir member, altar guild, assisting in the office, Sunday School and community outreach.

  • Give toward the work of the church by making a yearly pledge. There is no requirement as to the amount one should give, but the Biblical standard is tithing or giving 10%.

  • Keep learning about your church and what it means to live a Christian life. When you travel, plan to visit an Episcopal (or Anglican) Church and introduce yourself.

  • Let the love of God shine through, remembering that we represent Christ in the world by what we say and do, not just on Sunday morning, but every day. Respect the dignity of every human being and creation.

  • The best way to discover Jesus is to read the Gospels. Begin with Mark, then Matthew and Luke, saving John for last since it is more of a reflection of Jesus's life, death, and resurrection.