WHAT SHOULD GUESTS EXPECT?

First, expect to be greeted warmly. We believe strongly in a corporate ministry of hospitality. We also respect your privacy. You will not be asked to stand up or introduce yourself to the congregation at any time. After the service, you will be invited to join us for coffee and sweet rolls and to meet some of the folk.

We are a fairly traditional Episcopal Church in what would be called the Broad Church tradition. We use traditional vestments and the historic Rites (both contemporary and traditional language) of the Church. We take our liturgy seriously, but not at the expense of joy and spontaneity. Children are welcome at all of our services.

Our 9:00 service (10:00 in the summer) is our primary family service. There are usually a large number of children at this service. A Children’s Chapel is provided for those 3 – 8 during the sermon and prayers. A nursery is provided for this service as well as the 11:00 service.  (There is no 11:00 service in the summer.) (Service times.)

We are much more concerned about your presence than your clothing. On a typical Sunday, there will be some men in suit and tie, and some in casual slacks and golf shirts. Some women will be in dresses, others in slacks, or dress shorts. Kids and teens come comfortable. We’re just tickled they come! Our 5:00 pm Saturday service is the only one with a dress code : Come as you are!

If you are new to the Episcopal tradition, our services generally include readings from four portions of scripture, a sermon which tries to relate the biblical message to our practical lives, prayers and Holy Communion. Our communion is open to all baptized Christians.

At the later services, we enjoy a strong tradition of music-organ, choir and congregational. Our musical style includes ancient hymns, old favorites and twentieth century works.

We are always interested in helping people discover their gifts and ministries. We also recognize that not everyone wants to get knee deep in church work the first few times they come to a church. We try not to push too hard, but at the same time, not ignore our newcomers. We do hope you’ll let us know how hard or soft you’d like to be pushed.

TO OUR GUESTS

If you are a new attendee at St. Hilary's we would like to add you to our church database so you can receive our mailings.

There are forms available from our greeter's at the entrance to Browning Hall, where we are currently holding our worship services or from Joann in the office.  Please ask for one and complete it at your leisure and return it to the office or simply add it to the collection plate.  We also have a small yellow form that you can complete if you would like to get envelopes for your personal offerings.  We welcome you and thank you for worshiping with us at St. Hilary's. 

Welcome to our wonderful church family.