Visitor's FAQ

What should I wear?

Please dress comfortably. We are a diverse group of people, so you may see some folks wearing jeans or neon orange and blue (especially during Bronco season), while others wear suits and high heels. You are welcome just as you are.

What about COVID precautions?

We have removed all mandatory masking restrictions at this time. If you are more comfortable wearing a mask, please do not feel any pressure to take it off. Our priest will continue to mask up during Holy Communion, in keeping with our diocesan guidelines. We do encourage everyone to continue to wash your hands regularly, and if you feel unwell, please stay home and consider participating in our worship service via livestream, which is found on our YouTube channel: “Saint James Wheat Ridge.”

May I receive Communion?

All baptized Christians are welcome at God’s table. If you would like to receive Communion, please follow the usher’s directions to come up to the altar rail. The priest will place the consecrated bread into your open palm. Normally, a chalice minister would then offer you a sip of consecrated wine from a common cup. During this time of pandemic, we are not using a common cup. Instead, you’ll be offered an individual tiny plastic cup. You are also welcome to request a gluten-free wafer, or you may opt to receive only the bread or only the wine. If you would like simply to receive a blessing, cross your arms over your chest and the priest will offer one to you. Your service bulletin also provides additional instructions. If you prefer not to take Communion, you may also remain seated rather than proceeding to the rail. If mobility issues make it difficult for you to walk to the altar, just let the usher know. Communion will be brought to you in your pew.

How do I become a member at St. James?

Visitors and prospective new members are welcome every Sunday. We encourage anyone looking for a church home to come and be a part of our Sunday morning worship and activities. This is the best way to experience whether St. James is a place where God is leading you.

People who are ready to join simply need to contact the church office to be entered into our database. If one is a member of another Episcopal church, a letter of transfer will be requested from that church. People interested in joining and who have never been baptized will want to discuss with our priest the process for baptism. Though not required for membership, St. James encourages all adults to participate in an Inquirer’s class, offered each spring, on the basics of Christian faith and Episcopal tradition, leading to Confirmation by the Bishop. Please contact our parish administrator, Denise Gonzales, sjwr@sjwr.org, for further details.

Of course, membership in a church is about more than belonging; it is about being a part of a community where each person is encouraged to share in service to the church and the world through St. James’ various ministries and programs.