Welcome Visitors! Be our guest.
What to expect?
When you come to St. Bartholomew’s you can expect to meet a variety of different people; black, white, rich, poor, young and old. Many are drawn to the Episcopal Church because of its rich history, which dates back to the time of Jesus (33 AD), or its worship-style which is as old as the second century AD and invites personal participation in the service. Many are drawn to St. Bartholomew’s Parish because of the warm and interesting people you will meet when you visit us.
Where to park?
St. Bartholomew’s offers parking in front of the church for newcomers, elderly, and handicapped and two handicapped parking spaces next to the parish hall at the rear of the church. We have wheelchair accessibility for both worship and Sunday school classes. If our parking lot in front of the church fills, we have an agreement with Coker College that allows us to use their parking lot and parking is available on East Carolina Avenue.
What to wear?
At St. Bartholomew’s, we believe that God cares a great deal about our hearts, but not so much about appearances because they can be shallow and meaningless. No one should ever feel unwelcomed in God's House because they don't have fancy clothes or the latest fashions. However, we also believe that modesty, appropriate attire and decorum show respect for God and for the Blessed Sacrament. Traditionally, people offered God their "first fruits" out of love and respect for Him. Clothing is a personal decision and you will not be judged if you come dressed casually, in jeans or if you wear a tie. It is your heart that matters, not what you wear.
"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?" - St. Matthew 6:25
What about childcare?
We have a great nursery with a professional nursery attendant and a family volunteer on Sunday mornings from 9:00 am until 12:15 pm. From infant to 4 years of age, you may rest assured that your child will be well taken care of and in good hands. We have Sunday School for all ages from 9:15 until 10:00 and During the 10:30 am worship service, the nursery continues to operate while older children are invited to Children’s Chapel beginning, May 4th. These older children come into the church with their parents and then they follow the children’s cross after the Collect (Prayer) of the Day into the Chapel for worship and return during the passing of the peace.
Children’s Chapel
We are excited to offer this new worship opportunity to Children and Families at St. Bartholomew's Parish. Children and their families gather as usual for worship for the 10:30 am Liturgy on Sundays. After the Collect (Prayer) of the Day, the children gather around the Children’s Cross in the front of the church and process to the Chapel. They return at the passing of the Peace to share with Fr. Michael and the church what they learned. In essence, they are engaged in the same liturgy as the adults with a reading from Holy Scripture, a children’s sermon, songs of praise, a creedal statement, prayers, and general confession – This is true worship on a child’s level and it’s fast paced and fun packed worship in a traditional setting. For more information, please speak with Fr. Michael or Kathy Walker, Minister to Families.
Where do I fit in?
"For My house will be called a house of prayer for all the peoples." - Isaiah 56:7
People from different walks of life and levels of faith are warmly welcomed at St. Bartholomew's Parish Church. Without reservation, everyone is welcome here. We seek to incorporate into our daily lives an understanding that the church exists for all people, that absolutely everyone needs the saving grace of Jesus Christ and that He defeats sin, transforms lives, cures addictions and reconciles us to God and each other. Wherever you are in your faith, not matter what your age, race, social or financial background, come seek and you will find the reconciling love of Jesus Christ and take your place in helping to change the world in the name of Jesus Christ.
Explore this website, or better yet, come check us out! We have many opportunities for Sacramental Worship, Daily Prayer, Bible Study, Service and Outreach to the community, Mission work and community building. We have activities for children, youth, young adults, seniors, single men and women and married couples. Many folks see us as a family of God, with great diversity, yet united in our love of God and desire to serve our Lord by serving others.
