The Episcopal Church of St. Peter by-the-Lake

Denver, North Carolina

“Be Disciples: Engage the World!”

Holy Eucharist: Sunday at 8:30 & 10:30am

(10:30am service on LiveStream)

Formation for all ages at 9:30am

Virtual Morning Prayer available each week (check our website!)

VISITORS – WHAT TO EXPECT ON SUNDAY

Visitors are always welcome! Whether you visit St. Peter’s in-person or on-line, we are delighted to have you join us. Here is some information about what you can expect when you visit St. Peter by-the-Lake.

Where do I Park?

St. Peter’s is located at 8433 Fairfield Forest Road in the Westport Community of Denver, North Carolina. We have a large parking lot with several guest and handicapped spots available. You may park anywhere on the lot.

What Should I Wear?

You are welcome to wear what you are most comfortable wearing. St. Peter by-the-Lake, as the name indicates, sits near the shores of Lake Norman. So folks wear a variety of clothing styles, from dress to very casual. It’s up to you!

How Long are the Services?

We have two services on Sunday mornings. The first is at 8:30am and has just a little music. It usually lasts 45 to 50 minutes. The 10:30am service is a little more elaborate, with much more music and singing. That service usually lasts 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes.

What can I expect during worship?

The Episcopal Church is a liturgical church, which just means that our worship follows a structured pattern and established order. Services include music and singing, prayers, readings from the Bible, a sermon, and the celebration of Holy Eucharist, also called Holy Communion or the Lord’s Supper. We use the Book of Common Prayer, a traditional hymnal, a more contemporary songbook, and a bulletin that outlines the service.

Can I receive Holy Communion?

Yes, absolutely! All baptized Christians from any denomination are welcome to receive at the Holy Table. We use real wine and bread wafers during Communion. Gluten Free wafers are available. If you do not wish to receive communion, you may cross your arms over your chest and the clergy will offer you a blessing instead.

What accommodations do you have for my children & Youth?

We have a wonderful fully staffed nursery to accommodate our youngest children. It’s located on the first floor of the parish directly underneath the Nave. For older children pre-school through 3^rd grade, we have what we call

‘Children’s Chapel’, a time during the 10:30am service when those kids leave the Nave and enjoy an age-appropriate liturgy and lesson. Then they return to the Nave to participate in Communion with their parents. Teens have their own dedicated group that meets on Sunday evenings from 5 to 7pm. It’s called ‘EYC’, which means ‘Episcopal Youth Community.’

Will I need to stand up and introduce myself?

No, you do not have to identify yourself publicly as a visitor. Should you wish to learn more about the church, there is a red folder that you can take home with you will lots of information. A member of the church staff will always be available to answer any questions you may have.