When should I get there?
- On Sunday morning, worship begins at 10:30 AM. We try to begin as close to that time as possible, and many people start showing up between 10:00 AM and 10:30 AM. If you are having a rough morning and don’t think you can get there until after the start time, that is OK too! We don’t lock the doors, and there will always be a place for you to come and pray, praise and sing.
What should I wear?
- Though some people like to put on their “Sunday Best” when going to worship anywhere, not everyone has or is comfortable in fancy attire. The important word there is comfortable. Come as you are! Jeans and t-shirts are as acceptable as suits and dresses in carrying out the worship of God. The most important accessories you can bring with you to worship at St. Paul’s United Church are an open mind, a loving heart, and a faith that isn’t afraid to ask and look at hard questions.
How does the weather impact worship?
- We try to have worship every Sunday, but sometimes the weather gets in the way of that. During the winter months we will close when the weather is particularly bad. The last thing we want is someone hurting themselves trying to get to worship. Keep an eye on the website’s front page or St. Paul’s United Facebook page, accessible on the right side of this page. We do our best to get cancellation notices on the radio as early as possible, but know that if there is a closure, the news will be here or on Facebook by 8:30 AM on the day of worship at the latest.
Are children welcome at St. Paul’s?
- Nothing is more joyous than the sounds of children during worship. The questions they ask come from a place of curiosity and the comments they make from a place of honesty. Don’t worry about being shushed or glared at because kids are loud, kids laugh and kids cry, and we could all afford to be a little more vocal about our thoughts and feelings.
- From September to June we have a Sunday School for children aged 3+. Usually they are present in worship for the first 15-20 minutes before going off to learn about and question their flourishing faith.
- For younger children below the age of 2 we have a nursery staffed with volunteers
- Even with these options, you may prefer to have your children with you in worship for the whole time, and that’s OK too! Scattered throughout the sanctuary are crayons and coloring sheets if you wish to use them.
Am I allowed to take Communion?
- This question, along with, “can my child take Communion?” are two that we get from newcomers to worship. The short answer is yes you are.
- The United Church of Canada has what is called an “Open Table”. We acknowledge that though Communion is served in St. Paul’s United Church, we are not the ones who invite people to the table. It is the table of Jesus Christ, who welcomes all, and so all are welcome at the table regardless of race, age, gender, sexuality or where they are on their faith journey. All who hunger for justice may eat, and all who thirst for peace may drink.
- For more information on the Sacrament of Holy Communion, please go here.
Will I be asked to give money?
- During regular Sunday worship there is an offering taken up. This money goes towards not only the maintenance of the building, but also towards fulfilling our call to be servants of the community. It helps fund programs within the church for members and non-members alike. With that in mind, if you cannot give or do not wish to give until you get to know us better, no pressure, just wave at the usher as they pass by. The gift of your presence is a worthy offering.
- Gifts come in all shapes and sizes. If you prefer to give in other ways, like volunteering, please contact the minister or call the office through the week at (506)458-1183.
What happens after worship?
- After each worship service there is Coffee (or tea if you prefer) and Conversation in Fraser Memorial Hall. You can find the hall by going through the door to the left of the choir and going up the stairs. All are welcome as we gather afterwards. Also, sometimes when we have something in particular to celebrate, we have cake! And who can argue with cake?
- Wheelchair access to the hall is available through an elevator at the Charlotte Street entrance.
What is the marriage policy at St. Paul’s?
- For information on our wedding policy, click here.