We Episcopalians believe in a loving, liberating, and life-giving God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. As constituent members of the Anglican Communion in the United States, we are descendants of and partners with the Church of England and the Scottish Episcopal Church, part of the third largest group of Christians in the world.
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| QUESTIONS | ANSWERS |
|---|---|
| What should I wear? | Wear what makes you comfortable in this space. For some people that’s a suit and tie, for others it’s jeans and a polo shirt. In the summer, dress is more casual. |
| Can I take communion? | The Episcopal Church welcomes all the baptized to receive communion at St. Martin’s. We do not question people at the rail. If you are interested in Baptism or have further questions, set up a time to talk to a priest with the office. |
| Communion: What if I am gluten free or avoid alcohol? | Gluten free communion is available, just ask the minister serving you. You do not need to consume any wine to participate! All parts of the Eucharist – bread and wine – “count” as taking communion. |
| Will I be welcomed if I am gay/transgender/BIPOC…? | Yes! And you will likely meet many other people here from across the spectra of gender, sexuality, race, ethnicity, and ability. There are gay and trans priests in this diocese (and more to come). |
| What if I am in a wheelchair? | St. Martin’s is fully accessible for wheelchair users. There are ramps leading up to both main entrances, an elevator in the center of the building, and accessible bathrooms on the ground floor. |
| What if I have children/babies? Can they stay with me? Are there programs for them? | We have childcare and church school available for most ages on most Sundays, and your children are also welcome to stay with you in worship if that is what you prefer. And, if your children are with you at church, don’t worry if they make noise. That’s how they worship! |
| How will I know what to say/read/do? | There are instructions! You can follow along in the Book of Common Prayer, the worship booklets we hand out for most services, or just follow along in your heart. It’s okay if you don’t know what to do – some of us are still figuring it out. |
| How do I know when to sit/stand/kneel? | Some of us have been attending for decades and still don’t know, but you can usually follow the lead of others. Some people also have different opinions of what to do when, and so you may find some people kneeling or sitting when others stand. Please also do what is comfortable for you. |
| If I need to go to the restroom, is it okay if I leave? Where are the restrooms? | Feel free to leave the service if you need to. Restrooms from the Nave (main worship space) are in the atrium hallway toward the center of the building. There are also restrooms on the third floor and on the lower level. |
| What is the difference between 8am and 10am services? | The 8am service is spoken (no music), while 10am is our principal service and sung. It tends to be a little longer. Eucharist is offered at both services. |
| What is Coffee Hour? | Coffee Hour occurs right after the main Sunday service. This is a time when we experience the presence of God in the form of conversation and shared snacks. |
Getting involved at St. Martin’s looks different for each and every person. We welcome you to join us for worship in person or online, or to meditate on Thursdays at 5;30 during Meditation Hour, to attend Morning Prayer or Bible study. Please use the Weekly E-News signup below to receive updates via email, or chat with a staff member when you are here. We can always point you in the right direction.
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Mon-Thur 9am-1pm
Mon-Thurs 9am - noon
St. Martin's Episcopal Church
50 Orchard Ave Providence, RI 02906
Wed & Sat 10am-2pm (closed August)