WORSHIP
WORSHIP DETAILS
We're so glad you're here! Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning after a long absence, St. David's is a place where everyone is welcome exactly as they are.
There are two opportunities for Sunday worship at St. David's. They both feature prayers, Bible readings, a sermon, and Holy Eucharist (also known as Holy Communion or the Lord’s Supper).
SUNDAY SERVICE TIMES:
8:00 a.m. – a spoken service of Holy Eucharist (Rite I) in the sanctuary
10:30 a.m. – Choral Holy Eucharist (Rite II), with organ and choir, in the sanctuary. Features nursery care and Children’s Chapel.
Our services come from The Book of Common Prayer (1979 edition).
We use Rite I in our 8:00 a.m. service; Rite I uses traditional language and is the classic Anglican order for Holy Communion. At our 10:30 a.m. service, we typically use Rite II, a modern language service.
MORNING PRAYER
We also offer a Morning Prayer service every Tuesday morning at 7:30 a.m. in the sanctuary. The service blends scripture, psalms, canticles, and intercessory prayers to start the day.
GETTING HERE
We are located in heart of Terrell Hills at the corner of Wiltshire Avenue and Crestwood Drive. The church’s address is 1300 Wiltshire Avenue, 78209.
Parking is available in the two parking lots on Wilshire Avenue, as well as
on-street parking (please be courteous and watch for our neighbors’
driveways). As you enter through the Narthex, which faces the lower Wiltshire parking lot, our ushers will be happy to help you find your way around. Please let us know if we can help you find anything.
HOLY COMMUNION
The high point of our worship is Holy Communion (also called the Eucharist or the Lord's Supper). In this meal, we remember Jesus' death and resurrection and experience his presence with us. As we eat and drink together as one family, we are reminded that we belong to God and to one another. All baptized Christians are welcome to fully participate in taking communion, regardless of age or denomination. For those not yet baptized, you are invited to come forward to the altar rail and receive a blessing.
If you have not been baptized and would like to learn more, please reach out to the church office. We'd love to talk with you.
HOW IT WORKS
After the priest invites you to receive ("The gifts of God for the people of God"), the congregation is dismissed row by row to come forward. Kneel at the altar rail if you're able (standing is perfectly fine, too). Hold out your hands to receive the bread. You may drink from the chalice or dip your wafer into the wine (called intinction). If you are unable to come forward, but wish to receive communion, just let an usher know, and we'll gladly bring Communion to you in your seat.
Prefer not to receive? Simply come forward and cross your arms over your chest. The priest will offer you a prayer of blessing. No explanation needed. You are always welcome at the altar rail!
GLUTEN-FREE OPTIONS
We offer gluten-free wafers at the altar rail. When the priest comes to you, simply say "gluten free" and the priest will hand you an individually wrapped gluten-free wafer.
CHILDREN IN WORSHIP
Children are a vital part of our worship community. Their curiosity, energy, and fresh eyes on familiar rituals enrich us all... unexpected questions and spontaneous comments included! Baptized children of all ages are welcome to receive Communion. Some families choose to wait until their child has completed our Communion 101 class, which helps children understand and engage more deeply with this central part of worship. Children who are not yet receiving may come forward and cross their arms for a blessing.
TIPS FOR FAMILIES:
Arrive a few minutes early to find a seat where your child can see what's happening. Share your worship bulletin and help little ones follow along with the prayers and music. Be realistic about what young children can handle. Older children can participate more fully with a little guidance. Help your child learn a few of the responses or prayers at home. Knowing the words helps them feel included. Children folders with activity sheets (tied to the Daily Readings), crayons, and pipe cleaners are available in the Narthex. Wiggles are welcome, but if you need to step out with your child, please do. There's no need to feel embarrassed. We've all been there.
QUESTIONS ABOUT COMMUNION, BAPTISM,
OR ANYTHING ELSE?
We'd love to hear from you. Contact the church office anytime.