FAQ's
What is the Episcopal Church like and what do Episcopalians believe?
Where should I park when I come to St. Thomas'?
How am I expected to participate during the service?
Are children welcome in the worship service?
How do I transfer if I am a member of another Episcopal Church?
Can I get married at St. Thomas'?
What do I do if I want to have my child baptized?
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What is the Episcopal Church like and what do Episcopalians believe?
The Episcopal Church is part of the Anglican Communion of Churches throughout the world. The Anglican tradition is a rich and diverse one, dating back almost 500 years. The web site of the Episcopal Church in the USA provides answers to these and other questions at its Visitor's Center. We encourage you to explore some of the many links to Episcopal web sites to learn more about the Episcopal Church. The site of our Diocese, the National Church, and Anglicans Online are good places to start.
Where should I park when I come to St. Thomas'?
The main parking lot is located north of the Church and may be accessed via Garrison Forest Road or our main entrance on St. Thomas Lane. Additional parking is available across the street from the church at the corner of St. Thomas Lane and Garrison Forest Road.
How am I expected to participate during the service?
You are encouraged to take part in any way that is comfortable for you. The best way to learn about our worship practices is to look through a copy of The Book of Common Prayer (BCP), which can typically be found in the pews of every Episcopal Church. An usher will give you a worship bulletin that will list page numbers in the hymnal and the BCP. Our hope is that you will be welcomed and given the feeling that you belong, but not pressured in any way. Take your time, ask questions, and participate more fully when you are ready.
Everyone is welcome at God's altar. All baptized persons of whatever Christian denomination are welcome to participate in Holy Communion, the family meal of the Church. Persons who have not been baptized are invited to come forward to the altar rail and receive God's blessing.
Are children welcome in the worship service?
Yes! Children are welcome at all worship services. We value their presence, their questions, their energy, and their innate sense of God. St. Thomas' families provide a Cooperative Nursery for children 3years old and younger each Sunday during the 10 a.m. service. Sunday School for children ages 4 years and older meets at 9:45 a.m. each Sunday from September through May.
All are welcome to join St. Thomas' Church. If you are visiting we ask you to fill out one of the Welcome cards located in the pew where you are seated and place it in the offertory plate. We encourage you to complete a new member form online and we are happy to assist you in this process if you call our parish office at 410-363-1044.
How do I transfer if I am a member of another Episcopal Church?
You may request that St. Thomas' write your current parish and request a transfer of your letter of membership. Contact the Parish Office, 410-363-1044, to begin this process.
Can I get married at St. Thomas'?
St. Thomas' Church is looking forward to celebrating your wedding with you and we hope the following information will help you with some of your questions:
Marriage is incredibly special and is an integral part of our faith and life. Marriage is a vow and commitment made between two people before God and witnessed by the people. We want to support you in this time of preparation.
As soon as you want to be married, call the church (410-363-1044) and set up dates for the wedding, and to meet with one of the clergy. The primary person is the Rector. You must speak with him if you want the Associate to participate. This needs to be scheduled well in advance.
An important part of marriage is entering a life of worship. Prior to your wedding you need to be a part of the life of St. Thomas', or of another worshipping community if you do not live here. An expectation is that you will continue to worship faithfully during the time of preparation and continue after your marriage.
What do I do if I want to have my child baptized?
Baptism is the doorway into the church. When we pass through the waters of baptism, we cross a threshold and enter into the Christian faith. We are excited to welcome you and your family into the household of God. Please contact the Parish Office, 410-363-1044, to initiate this process.