Three times during the year it is our practice to include a Welcome Rite for those who have recently entered into our parish community. This brief, but meaningful, part of the liturgy takes place during Sunday worship following the Prayers of the People. It is in no way, however, something that is required; it is simply something we offer. The liturgy is designed to acknowledge that this is the community of faith you have chosen at this time. Likewise, it gives the congregation an opportunity to acknowledge, in prayer, our desire and delight to have you here.

We sometimes find that one member of a household is ready while another is still discerning God’s nudge forward. Households have made their own decision on how to handle this and we fully support whatever you choose. For some, each individual comes to his/her own decision and may participate at separate times. For others, it is more meaningful to wait and stand together in acknowledgement that they have found a community in which they both (or all) wish to worship.

The Rite of Welcome is offered in the Fall (mid-November or early December), during Lent (February/March) and on Trinity Sunday (late May/early June). If you would like to participate in the next Rite of Welcome or have questions about it, speak with Anne Watkins, Associate for New Member Ministry on Sunday mornings, by telephone at 203 847 2806 ext. 13 or via email at watkins@stpaulsnorwalk.org