What's an Episcopalian and why should I care?
There are many congregations and denominations that claim to have all the answers. We don't claim to have all the answers since we trust the Holy Spirit continues to reveal God's will to us. We are firmly rooted in the Bible and the traditions of the Christian church, but we also believe in the free use of human reason and incorporation of human knowledge. (For example, we believe God created the universe, but we do not require a literal reading of the creation story.) We do not see a conflict between science and faith. All that we learn from science only serves to make us more grateful for God's wondrous creation! The Episcopal Church has a long tradition of not only tolerating, but encouraging individuals to seek and question. We welcome and invite you to the life long adventure of a spiritual journey.
Where are we?
We are located in downtown Pinole across the street from Fernandez Park at 592 A Tennent Ave. The parking lot is located off of Tennent Avenue.
Who are we?
We are a congregation that belongs to the Episcopal Church of the United States. We are one of 87 congregations in the Bay Area. The motto of our congregation is: "Open hearts, open minds." This is not just a motto, but a way of life. We are a diverse and welcoming congregation.
What do we believe?
We are a progressive Christian congregation. As part of the world wide Anglican Communion (60 million + members throughout the world), we believe that a mature and contemporary faith depends on three factors: the Bible, the traditions of the Christian community as handed down by believers and human reason as aided by the Holy Spirit.
How do we worship?
We have two services every Sunday: the 8 o'clock service is a quiet contemplative type service with no music. The 10:30 service has a choir and congregational singing. Child care and church school are also offered at 10:30 a.m, but children are welcome at both services. At both services we usually celebrate Christ's holy meal of communion. Wherever you may be in your spiritual pilgrimage, you and your children, are invited to participate in Christ's family supper of bread and wine. At both services we offer laying on of hands and prayer for healing of mind, body and spirit. Just ask if you would like this!
What do we do?
The congregation offers many areas for learning, service, fellowship, fun and worship. We attempt to live up to Christ's commandment to love God and our neighbor. Amongst others, we are involved in social ministries to the hungry, the homeless and the aged--as well as outreach to new born infants and their mothers. La Casita Preschool, a bi-lingual English-Spanish Montessori preschool, uses our building during the week. La Casita offers high quality preschool opportunities for children in a caring environment. Other groups also use our buildings. For example, a Gay and Lesbian A/A meets at 7:00 p.m. every Thursday, and the traffic school uses our building periodically. If you are interested in renting a space at Christ the Lord, call our office at 510-724-9141.
What would happen if I showed up one Sunday?
You would be greeted warmly, and given a bulletin to help guide you through the service. You would not be singled out during the service. You would be invited to stay afterwards for a coffee hour--an invitation which you may decline. You don't have to dress up. Whether you are a child or teenager, a single person, a young family, or a mature couple, you will be welcomed.
To find out more about Christ the Lord or the Episcopal Church browse the rest of this website or use our Diocese page to visit other sites with further information about the Episcopal Church.