What may I expect on Sunday morning?
On a Sunday morning, you can expect to find a friendly church with greeters and ushers at the open red doors of the Sanctuary, worship services in the Anglican tradition with a “down to earth” feel, inspiring music and choir and, after worship services, a chance to meet parishioners and newcomers over coffee in the Parlor or Lemonade-on-the Lawn.Episcopal worship is joyous and orderly, heartfelt and mindful. There are:
Scripture Readings
Preaching the “Good News” of our Lord Jesus Christ
Prayers for the world and our own thanksgivings and needs
The sacrament of Holy Eucharist (Holy Communion) which invites all baptized persons to participate
Music from a rich choral tradition. See our Music page for more.
For more detailed information about Holy Comforter worship services see our Service Style and Format page.
How do I connect?
Please fill out a newcomer card found in the pew and introduce yourself to the Rector or other clergy in the Tower at the end of the service.Newcomers who wish may be paired with mentors, parishioners who guide you through your first year with Holy Comforter. The Shepherd Committee with the Rector hosts Newcomer brunches, attended also by vestry members, at least twice a year. Another great way to become acquainted is the Parish Home Gatherings, casual dinner groups in members’ homes.
What time are your services and classes?
The regular service schedule for Sundays is 8:15 am and 10:30 am.
Summer worship on Sundays is 8:00 am and 10:00 am. For more information see our Service Schedule page.
Sunday school classes, including adult classes (several classes each Sunday for a variety of interests), are from 9:30 am until 10:15 am. Classes are held on all floors; younger children are on the ground floor, older children on the 3rd, top floor.
Typically, folks from both “early” and “later” services attend classes and forums.
During the summer months, special Sunday classes may be offered. The regular, full schedule for everyone begins with “Welcome Home Sunday,” second Sunday in September at 9:30 in the Sanctuary.
Is there a Nursery?
Throughout the year, Children’s Chapel at 10:30 am is an option for your younger child. Before the 10:30 service, bring your child to the little Children’s Chapel located near the Parlor on the first floor (the Office area is at one end, the Chapel at the other end). Children may enjoy a brief service at their level of interest—and will be returned to you in your pew, midway through the worship service and before Holy Communion.
Nursery care is available from 9:30 am until the end of services. We value and take great care with your children, and the Nursery, located on the ground floor of the parish building, is staffed by paid, trained (by Safe Church) professionals. The nursery is one area divided into infant/young toddler and older toddler (3 to 5 years old).Children are most welcome in all of our services. Each family decides whether its own children participate in all or part of worship—there is often coming and going, depending on which may fit the needs of your family on any given Sunday. Read more about Nursery care and Children's Sunday Classes here.
How do I find Holy Comforter?
You can’t miss us. Holy Comforter’s hallmark is the granite Gothic tower atop the trees of downtown Burlington on East Davis Street and the beautiful stained glass windows. Our red doors signify welcome and safe harbor.Our buildings are large with many entrances. Do ask anyone how to get around. There are seven buildings including St. Athanasius Church in the grove and buildings housing United Way agencies. We enjoy lots of history and much activity—this can be inspiring and confusing to visitors.
Parking is available on East Davis and nearby streets as well as in the parking lots of Lexington Avenue/East Davis Street and Broad Street/East Davis Street. You may also park in the lots behind the brick 1964 parish building.
Handicapped parking is available in all lots, and the sanctuary is handicap-accessible. Ushers will help with wheelchair and any other particular needs.
Click our Visit Us page for directions to Holy Comforter.
The Episcopal Church of the Holy Comforter, a parish of The Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina
Copyright ©2007 The Episcopal Church of the Holy Comforter. All rights reserved.