Welcoming Worship

By: Ella Adler; Sacred Spaces Editor

It’s a sunny, slightly breezy Sunday morning as you walk through the stained-glass doors of St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church (St. Matt’s). A sense of belonging seems to cover you when you roam around the common area. Smiling warm faces greet you as you head for the sanctuary.  

As the Sunday service begins, a procession of deacons carry a cross down the aisle. A series of prayers, readings, and hymns from The Common Book of Prayer lead the congregation into the Eucharist. In the Episcopalian faith the Eucharist, more commonly known as communion, plays a major role in church services.

“We believe that God is in creation, so God is truly in the Eucharist,” says Gabriel Gordon, who has been a member of the church for two years, and now runs the College Ministry at St. Matt’s.

Although the church is full of elders with endless wisdom and life experiences, St. Matt’s website says that a large number of the congregation is new to the Episcopalian Church; some do not even consider themselves Episcopalian.

What unites the members of this church is a common savior Jesus Christ and the common prayer and worship that are done in services and small groups. 

St. Matt’s is located in Grand Junction, just off Horizon Drive. The church aims to be a welcoming environment for all, no matter attendee’s gender identity, race, age, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status. Gordon says that the church really meets people where they are at. 

Wondering if St. Matts is right for you? Here is our quick guide to the church: 

• Christian Denomination: Episcopal 
• Statement of Faith: Episcopal churches believe in the writing of the Bible. The Apostles Creed and Nicene Creed are integral parts of the Episcopal faith. In short, these Creeds establish what God the congregation is offering their worship to, ultimately affirming that God took form on Earth as Jesus, and through his death on the cross, those who believe will be saved. 
• Service Times:
  • Sunday Worship Services: 8 AM and 10 AM
  • Sunday School: 9 AM
• Other Meetings: Brewery Theology Meet at a local brewery, drink a beer (or don’t) and dive deep into theology
• Online Options: Yes 
• Music Style: Hymnals  

Head to the church website for more information.