What should I expect?

We know it's a challenge to walk into something new and we hope this page will answer some of your questions. Your presence in worship with us today blesses God and blesses this congregation. We are glad you are here.

Which Sunday worship should I attend?
Try them both. The 8:00 worship service is quieter and smaller, usually meeting in the chapel. The 10:30 worship has music and coffee hour afterwards. Sunday School for children and Adult Forum are at 9:15.

How do I get there and where should I park?
We are located on the corner of Court Street and Sixth street. You'll be greeted at the door by an usher who will give you a bulletin and invite you to sign our guest book. It's there that you can indicate if you are just travelling through, or if you would like more information or a call from the priest.

What should I wear?
Whatever is comfortable. People wear everything from jeans to dresses to slacks to suits to cowboy boots. What matters is that you are here and you are comfortable.

What is worship like?
You will be given a bulletin that lays out the whole service. We will pray, listen to lessons, hear a sermon, pray some more, and celebrate Holy Eucharist, which is the Lord's Supper. We worship in a variety of ways – you'll see some people kneeling, others standing, some making the sign of the cross and some not. Do what seems comfortable for you and try different things from week to week. You can learn more about the details of our worship from the sidebars in the bulletin or by skimming the Book of Common Prayer found in the pew racks with the hymnals. You are welcome to participate as much or as little as you like.

Will I have to stand up and say my name?
No! But do introduce yourself to those sitting near you. At the sharing of The Peace you will likely be greeted by many new friends. A handshake and the words "Peace be with you" are appropriate. Please be sure to sign our guest book before you leave.  If you would like one of our clergy to visit you in the coming week please let them know as you depart.

Should I bring my Bible?
You certainly may, but the lessons for the day will be printed in the bulletin and the preacher will not ask you to open up to a particular passage. This leads some to ask if Episcopalians believe in the Bible. Of course we do, but at Sunday worship our primary text is the Book of Common Prayer, which you will find in your pew. The worship service itself is about two thirds Holy Scripture. At Grace we often hear more scripture on Sunday than some places calling themselves “Bible churches.”

What about the offering plate?
As a newcomer, please let the offering plate go by and be our guest. Once you settle in you'll do as members do, give joyfully in gratitude to God to support the ongoing work of the church. To make regular contributions and receive a tax statement, ask to fill out a pledge card. The website provides a secure electronic means to make donations or pledge on a regular basis.

Should I receive Holy Communion?
We sometimes say in worship, "This is the Lord's Table, and wherever you are in the spiritual journey, you are welcome at this, the Lord's feast." It's entirely up to you, but know that all are welcome. Simply come forward with everyone else, kneel or stand at the altar rail, and you will be given the bread and the wine. And yes, it is real wine, but if you do not want to receive it just cross your arms over your chest and the minister will just say the words to you. We are happy to bring communion to your seat if need be. More questions? Call our priest.

What if my children are noisy?
Everyone is welcome at Grace, young and old alike. If you have active children we recommend sitting near one of the side doors and taking them outside to let off steam if you need to. You may want to review Worshipping with Young Children for more information about what to do. There are coloring pages available at both services. Sunday School for adults and children runs from 9:30 -10:15.

Speaking of the sermon, how long is it?
The sermon is usually delivered by the priest. Typically it includes a teaching and commentary on the lessons of the day. It lasts between 10 and 15 minutes and the congregation is always welcome to respond by phone or e-mail during the following week. You can read or listen to some of our previous sermons here. Most of the recent sermons at Grace can be found here.

What about all the construction at Grace?
The renovation of the Grace Church buildings began in June 2011. The entire project will take a little more or less than a year. During this time various restrooms, classrooms, and other meeting areas will be closed and re-opened. The best thing to do during this time is to ask a member of Grace Church. But please come worship with us. The inside of the church's main sanctuary will not be affected in any major way.

What else?
We invite you to browse this website and also to read a copy of our monthly newsletter. Contact us at 918-687-5416 or by e-mail.

Our Privacy Promise to You
We do not share your email, telephone number or any personal information about you with telemarketing lists, email spam, or other unaffiliated operations.