What to Expect
Visiting a church for the first time can sometimes be a confusing experience. At Christ Church, we’ve tried to put ourselves in your shoes to anticipate your questions and make sure that you are warmly welcomed and comfortable.
Feel free to email us at parish@christchurchgardiner.org if you have questions that are not answered on the website. All of your questions are welcome, and the clergy would be happy to talk with you about them.
What time are services on Sunday morning?
At 7:30 a.m. there’s a quiet worship service of Holy Communion, without music, although on occasion there is piano music but no hymns.
At 10:00 a.m., our main service of Holy Communion includes music by the Parish Choir. There is a sermon at both services. Sunday School for ages 4 and older is offered during the 10:00 am service.
How long do services last?
The 7:30 a.m. lasts about 40 minutes, while the 10:00 service usually runs about an hour.
What about communion?
We celebrate the Holy Eucharist or Communion every Sunday at every service and all are welcome. Gluten-free communion wafers are available. Let the priest know when you come to the altar rail if you need gluten-free.
Also, if you wish to refrain from drinking the wine, just say “no thank you” as the cup passes. If you simply wish to receive a blessing, stand or kneel at the altar rail with arms crossed over your chest.
Where can I park?
We’re located at 2 Dresden Avenue, on the historic Gardiner Common. We are the old stone church with the tall steeple. There is plenty of parking along both sides of Dresden Avenue, and one of the entrances at the front of the church is handicap accessible. There’s also a parking lot behind the church, off of Pleasant Street, but there is no accessibility for the disabled from the back entrance.
Do you offer programs for children and youth?
Children and youth of all ages are always welcome to worship at the 7:30 and 10:00 services. At the back of the church, there is a Children’s Chapel—a space for kids to be creative with some of the elements of our worship. There are also supplies for drawing and handouts that present the church lessons of the day in cartoon form.
Sunday School for ages 4 and older is offered during the 10 am service every Sunday.
Youth Group for students in grades 6th through 12th is held a couple of times a month. (September-May) We typically eat pizza, play games, and have conversations about how faith compels us to act in the world, and what we might be able to offer of ourselves to a world in need. Please email Kerry if you have questions: kerry@christchurchgardiner.org.
What should I wear?
There’s no dress code. Some people dress up in their Sunday best and others show up in jeans or shorts. Whatever feels comfortable and appropriate for you is fine. Jesus Is more concerned with our hearts than our outer appearance.
What does “Episcopal” mean?
In the New Testament, the Greek word, “episkopos,” from which we derive the English word “episcopal,” means “bishop.” The Episcopal Church is a church of bishops, women and men set apart to provide spiritual oversight for those who worship according to The Book of Common Prayer and find balance in the authority of Scripture, Reason, and Tradition.
