WHAT TO EXPECT

Enter through the front doors of the church, which are four glass doors adjacent to the parking lot.

Most folks dress in a business casual style. Some dress casually. You are welcome in worship wearing whatever is most comfortable for you when worshiping God!

Ample parking including handicapped accessible parking is available adjacent to the church.

Is the church accessible? (wheelchair, hearing devices, etc.)

The church is wheelchair accessible. While the front doors are not automated, they are usually propped open on Sunday mornings. Handicapped accessible bathrooms are available. If you have questions or need special arrangements, please contact Pastor Kristin at pastorkristin@shpchurch.org or (757) 570-3184.

We joyfully welcome children in our worship service and believe their presence (and their sounds!) are a beautiful part of our shared worship. During the service, we offer a brief children’s message for the whole congregation, and there are activity tables on the sides of the sanctuary to help engage young hearts and hands.

While we do have a nursery space available for families who may need it, it is not currently staffed. Parents are welcome to use it as needed. We love having children as part of our worshiping community and celebrate the energy they bring!

There are about 30 people in worship each Sunday.

Yes! All are welcome to take Communion, including children.

It means being part of the reformed tradition where we are "once reformed and always being reformed." God’s grace is freely given and cannot be earned. We love God because God first loved us. The PC(USA) denomination allows women and those who identify as LGBTQIA+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, nonbinary, etc.) to be ordained as Elders, Deacons, and Ministers of Word and Sacrament (aka pastors). For more information about the PC(USA) click here.

The benefits of membership include voting at congregational meetings and the possibility to serve as an Elder on Session, which is the governing body of the church.

To join Stonehouse Presbyterian Church, start by speaking with Pastor Kristin or Susie Despinis, Clerk of Session, to arrange a meeting with the Session, the church’s elected leadership team. Membership can be through letter of transfer (if you’re currently a member of another church), affirmation of faith (if you’re joining a church for the first time), or reaffirmation of faith (if you were previously a member but have been inactive). If joining by affirmation or reaffirmation of faith, you will answer three brief questions during worship. If baptism is needed, it is typically done by sprinkling water, though other accommodations can be made. New members are welcomed by the congregation during worship. If you have concerns about standing in front of the congregation, alternative arrangements can be made.

Contact Karen Miller at the church office at office@shpchurch.org or (757) 565-1130.

Contact Pastor Kristin at pastorkristin@shpchurch.org or (757) 570-3184.