Episcopal Rite II

Come as you are. 

The Episcopal Church is a place where people come from all sorts of religious backgrounds, including not having attended church much (or at all) in the past. We love the diversity of experience that everyone brings. Whoever you are, and wherever you find yourself on the journey of faith, you are welcome here!

In case you are wondering:

For those familiar with the Catholic Church, some elements of our worship may feel familiar. This is because the Episcopal Church is part of the Anglican Communion, which traces its roots back to the early Christian Church and incorporates elements from both Catholic and Protestant traditions. We have bishops, priests, and deacons as ordained leaders, and our worship is centered around the sacraments (primarily baptism and Holy Eucharist). This blend of traditions is often referred to as the "via media" or middle way, balancing the historic beliefs and practices of the church with the reforms of the Protestant Reformation.

Is everyone really welcome? Yes, and not just welcome but celebrated. The Episcopal Church affirms LGBTQIA+ people and all those of diverse identities and backgrounds as beloved children of God, wholly worthy of respect and every good thing that a life of faith in community has to offer. No exceptions.

How does this church serve others? St. Mary’s has been dedicated to anti-poverty work since the 1960’s. Our food pantry, The Market at St. Mary's, is part of the distribution network for Feeding Northeast Florida, our region’s largest food bank. Here on our campus, we provide nearly 200 households per week with dry and canned goods, fresh bread, meat and produce grown in our organic garden. If you find yourself in need or would like to volunteer in our pantry and gardens, please reach out to our food pantry manager, Liesl Gavronsky-Howsare.

Are their programs for children? We do not currently offer Sunday School for children, but we LOVE kids. There is no better sound in worship than the sound of kids being kids. There's a small play space in the sanctuary and our coffee station includes juice boxes and goldfish crackers.

Is the space accessible for those with limited mobility? There is a wheelchair lift at the side of the sanctuary for those who are unable to comfortably use the four stairs leading to the front door. Please email Mother Catherine before your visit so we can be ready to assist you with the the lift. There is a ramp at the rear on Dearing House (where our restroom is located) and on the side of our main office building. 

Want to know more? Please reach out anytime. We’d love to get to know you and answer any questions you may have.