No matter where you are on your spiritual journey, you are welcome at St. Thomas, and we are eager for a chance to make your acquaintance. After our 10 AM Sunday services, we have Coffee Hour in our parish hall and would be delighted to have you join us.
This page explains what happens during the service and answers frequently asked questions.
What to Expect
When you enter the building, you’ll find yourself in our Narthex (that’s Episco-speak for lobby). Ushers will be available to welcome you and give you a paper bulletin. Straight ahead is the Sanctuary where the service is conducted. If you have children three and under, they can enjoy professional childcare while parents get a break. They are also very welcome in worship. Older children will be welcome at Children’s Chapel during the service from mid-September-May.
What Happens During the Service
Once you take a seat in a pew, you’ll find the information you need is in the bulletin. It contains the music for the hymns we will sing, the scripture readings, and the congregation’s responses during the service. The back of the pew will also have copies of the red Book of Common Prayer and three different hymnals with traditional and more contemporary music, but you usually won’t need them just to get through the service. Our weekly service bulletins and live stream is available here.
Our priests lead worship in a way that helps our visitors get oriented. If you’re feeling confused, ask someone sitting near you for help. We don’t want to invade your privacy, but we’re all delighted to offer assistance.
Attending Episcopal Church is a whole body experience. We sit to listen, stand to sing, and stand or kneel to pray. But feel free just to sit if that makes you the most comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions about Visiting the Church
What time does St. Thomas have services?
- Sunday – at 10:00 AM in person, on Zoom (contact us for the Zoom link), and live-streamed to YouTube
- Sunday – at 5:00 PM in person and live-streamed to YouTube
- Monday – Thursday – noonday prayer at 12:00 pm (noonday Eucharist on Tuesdays)
Where is the church located and how do I get there?
Our address is: 8991 Brook Road McLean, VA 22102. Link for directions.
What can I expect if I am visiting St. Thomas for the first time?
The text above describes what you can expect.
Who is welcome at St. Thomas?
At St Thomas, it is our mission to include all people in Christ’s love. We are a warm and inclusive community that is eager to welcome everyone—wherever they are on their spiritual journey.
Questions about Beliefs
What does St. Thomas believe about God?
At St. Thomas, we are always asking questions, and we welcome those who are exploring their faith. We will never tell you not to question or that you must believe something. And, we generally agree with the statements of faith found in the Creeds.
What does St. Thomas believe about God’s people?
All people are made in God’s image. We believe that all people—regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, immigration status, or class—are welcome at God’s table.
What does St. Thomas believe about the Bible?
We hold great reverence for the Bible. It is divinely inspired but reflects the views of the cultures in which it was written. Ultimately, it is our help as we live our faith together.
What does St. Thomas believe about Community?
At St. Thomas, we love each other and genuinely enjoy spending time together! We care about our church, our local community, and the global community.
Do I need to agree with all of (or any of) St. Thomas’s beliefs to attend church there?
No. We welcome people with a wide range of beliefs and respect each other’s opinions.
What does Episcopal mean?
The word “Episcopal” simply means a church with bishops. Our worship is a modern expression of traditions dating to the beginning of the church.
Why is St. Thomas our namesake?
Like St. Thomas the Apostle, we believe that doubt actually makes our faith healthier and more sustainable.
Questions About Worship
How does St. Thomas worship?
We love using the Book of Common Prayer. We have Sunday services in person and on Zoom. Short, in-person weekday (Mondary-Thursday) services take place at noon.
What is a worship service like?
This page describes what to expect. Everything you need for the service will be in the leaflet you receive when you arrive at church.
Can I bring children to Sunday services?
Yes! Please do! We offer free, professional childcare for children under three during our 10 AM service, and they are also welcome to stay with you in church. Older children may attend Children’s Chapel during the 10AM service from mid-September to May.
What is a high mass service?
High mass is a more traditional service which includes incense and chanted liturgy. Learn more here.
Does St. Thomas offer services during the week?
Yes. We offer short prayer services at noon Monday through Thursday, with Holy Eucharist (Communion) on Tuesday. Visitors who arrive during the week must ring the doorbell for entry to the church.
How can I worship virtually?
We stream our 10AM service to an interactive Zoom meeting every Sunday. Contact us if you are interested in attending by Zoom. We also livestream both the 10AM and 5PM services to our YouTube channel.
How can I see recordings of past services and sermons?
Recordings of past services and sermons are available here or on our YouTube channel.
Questions About Programs
What are St. Thomas’s children and youth programs?
Visit here to learn about our children and youth education program and here to learn about our youth and family activities.
What are St. Thomas’s adult education programs?
St. Thomas offers regular adult education. Learn more here.
What kinds of programs and community activities does St. Thomas offer?
There is always something happening at St. Thomas! Coffee Hour after the 10AM service is always a busy time where everyone catches up with old friends or makes new ones. We have groups meeting regularly for men and women and numerous congregation-wide events, including our annual Parish Retreat.
How does St. Thomas provide service to the community?
St. Thomas has partnerships with local nonprofit groups and an international mission. We hold regular food and diaper drives for SHARE, and our annual Pumpkin Sale gives 100% of its profits to charity.
Other
How can I get more information?
We’re happy to answer questions! Contact us by email or by phone: 703-442-0330. Or email our Parish Administrator directly: info@stthomasmcleanva.org.
Can I rent facilities at St. Thomas?
Yes! We have several rooms of different sizes available for rent. Learn more here.
We can’t wait to meet you and welcome you!
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