Can anyone give me a cheat sheet?

[nosillies]

I've been a lifelong Methodist and attend Methodist services. I have plenty of Episcopalians in my family, though, so I've been to the Episcopal church on various special occasions. I know the services are similar, but there are quite a few differences.

My son will be starting school at an Episcopalian school this fall, and I've been thinking about us going to church there now. He's young and might appreciate the consistency (where he goes to chapel at school and Sunday school being the same place, etc.), plus I'm not too attached to the church I've been going to right now, plus we have adult friends (and he'll have school friends) at the Episcopal church.

So here's my dilemma. I always remember that there's lots of standing up and sitting down at the Episcopal church and I always feel lost and stupid because I don't know what's going on. I KNOW I KNOW I KNOW that's silly and no one should be worried about what others are thinking at church but I HATE BEING A NEWBIE of any type anywhere. Plus, I'll be by myself (he's too little to sit through a service) so I'll feel a little uncomfortable to begin with.

So does anyone have a cheat sheet for me laying out the details of what happens at a regular Episcopalian service so I can do some studying before I go? I like to be prepared.

[RevCheesehead]

1. Episcopalians confuse me.

And I LOVE liturgy!

My suggestion: sit in the back, and watch what everyone else is doing. :)

[54anickel]

2. Did you try looking for the church website? I found this one that explains

things for new comers - but I don't know how much difference there is between the various Episcopalian churches.

http://www.trinityparish.com/service.html

[nosillies]

4. Ooooh, that's pretty helpful.

The church here's website has a much less detailed, abbreviated version of that. Thanks!

[Critters2]

3. There are some Episcopalians here often,

so you'll probably get some helpful responses. I've worshiped in a few Episcopal churches, but usually in ecumenical services. When I have, I've followed what others have done, mostly. Those who knew I was a visitor were kind, understanding, and helpful. I'm guessing they will be with you, too.

[JVS]

5. don't they hand one out (i.e a bulletin)?

[Rabrrrrrr]

6. It's a good bet that the liturgy bulletin has helpful words about sit, stand, kneel

and/or the priest or other leader will also say something.

Not all Episcopal churches do that, but it's been my experience that they're pretty good at making sure people know what's going on.

And if nothing else, if everyone suddenly stands, sits, or kneels - just join in with 'em. If you're a second or two behind them, no one will care.

And I hate kneeling, so I don't - I just sit. And I've never had anyone give me a dirty look or make me feel bad.

People are understanding.

It's not like the people there think that God will destroy the church instantly if everyone isn't perfect.

Go and enjoy it! And after a few Sundays, you'll have it figured out.