First time at St. Philip's?

St. Philip’s is a welcoming church that celebrates diversity and openness. We believe everyone is a crucial part of the ministry of the church, and we welcome everyone.

If you are coming to St Philip's church for the first time, what can you expect to find?

What is it like?

Expect to find a warm welcome and an informal atmosphere.

Services alternate weekly between the Book of Alternative Services (BAS - a service with hymns) and the Book of Common Prayer (BCP - a service with no hymns, although from time to time some of the congregation will provide a musical ministry for special occasions). Services typically last around 1 hour and are followed by (optional) refreshments and conversation.

What about my children?

Children are always welcome at any of our services. We usually have activities for the children provided and they are welcome to join everyone else when we receive Holy Communion.

I'm from a different church/I’ve never been to church. Can I worship here?

Absolutely. All are welcome to fully participate in the services at St. Philip’s. We want you to feel like you are part of the family. You don't need to be baptized to participate in worship and all are welcome to share in Communion. Ask anyone sitting next to you to help you follow the service.

Receiving communion

During the Eucharist (Holy Communion) we serve wine and use a common cup. You are invited to kneel or stand at the altar and receive the bread, the wine or both as you prefer. If your mobility prevents you from coming to the altar rail but you would like to receive communion please mention this to the greeter or minister before the service and the bread and wine will be brought to you in your seat.

Hymns and songs

When we worship using the Book of Alternative Services, we enjoy singing hymns and songs from a variety of sources. We mostly use "Common Praise" (also known as "the blue book") which is the commonly used hymn book for the Anglican Church of Canada. We also have our own St. Philip's "Song Book", which contains over 100 songs. In addition, we will occasionally use songs and hymns from other sources and we are always willing to learn new songs. Sunday services with hymns will usually be a mixture of "traditional" hymns and more contemporary songs. We have musicians within our congregation who take it in turns to provide the musical accompaniment. 

Why all the standing and sitting?

At St. Philip’s we usually stand when we sing, for The Creed, and for The Prayer after Communion. We sit during the readings from the Bible, but stand for the Gospel and for the Eucharistic (Communion) prayer, because the Eucharist is a celebration. This can be very confusing until you are more familiar with the service. The best rule of thumb is to do what is most comfortable for you.

Where do I park?

There is a large carpark at the front and side of the church.

How do I stay in touch?

As a newcomer you can elect to fill out an information card (these are on the tables in the front lobby - narthex), providing us with your family details, and if you would like to be placed on the Parish Roll. If you give us your email address, we will also make sure that you receive Parish email updates. You can also email your personal information to admin@stphiliplantzville.ca

As a visitor/newcomer you are in no way obligated to make a donation. However, if you would like to become a regular donor ask the Greeter to direct you to the Envelope Secretary or Treasurer, who can set you up with donation envelopes or a pre-authorized remittance form.