For first-time visitors

New Here?

Everything you need for a first visit to St. Barnabas: honest, practical, and as low-friction as we can make it.

Sundays at 10:00 a.m. · Holy Communion
237 W. Austin St., Bellville, Texas

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Who we are

What kind of church is St. Barnabas?

We are a parish of the Reformed Episcopal Church in the Anglican tradition, historic, biblical, and sacramental. Our worship follows the 1928 Book of Common Prayer, our preaching is rooted in Scripture, and our life together is shaped by Word and Sacrament. Above all, we are a small congregation where you will be known by name and welcomed as you are.

What to expect

The honest questions everyone wonders

What happens on Sunday?+
Reverent worship, biblical preaching, and Holy Communion at 10:00 a.m. The service runs about an hour; the sermon, about fifteen minutes. Arrive ten minutes early and the organist will already be playing. Bible Study for adults and Sunday School for the children follow at 11:30 a.m., with coffee and fellowship in between.
What if Anglican or liturgical worship is new to me?+
Perfectly fine. No one is expected to know the responses or follow along perfectly. Page numbers are called aloud, a Prayer Book is provided, and someone will gladly help you. Come and simply worship at your own pace.
What should I wear?+
Anything from casual Sunday dress to traditional church clothing. Come as you are. You will be welcome.
What about my children?+
Children are warmly welcome in worship. Sunday School meets after the service, and a nursery with a toddler play area is open in the Adkins Hall for parents who want it; it is not staffed, so you stay with your little one. Visiting with an infant or young child? Reach out and we'll make sure you're cared for.
May I receive Communion?+
All baptized Christians who love and trust the Lord are welcome at the rail, children included, from about the age of two. If you are not yet baptized, you are still invited to come forward with your arms crossed, and the priest will give you a blessing.
Can I just observe?+
Absolutely. There is no pressure to participate, give, or sign anything. You are welcome to sit, listen, and take it all in.
A fellowship meal in the Adkins Hall at St. Barnabas
Families

Children & families are welcome here

Little ones are part of the body of Christ, noise and all. Children worship alongside their families, Sunday School follows the service, and the Adkins Hall now has a nursery and toddler play area for parents who want a quieter moment.

Your first visit

Three simple steps

Three parishioners following a reading together in a pew, stained glass behind them
A mother holding her baby in the pew beneath the Madonna and Child window
I

Plan

Pick a Sunday, add it to your calendar, and, if you'd like, tell us you're coming.

II

Arrive

Greeters meet you at the door and help you find a seat and a Prayer Book.

III

Stay

Coffee, conversation, and Bible Study after the service, if you'd like. No pressure.

✦ Fr. Mike Keppler

"No one needs to know the responses or understand everything ahead of time. Help will be given so visitors can follow along in peace."

FR. MIKE KEPPLER, RECTOR

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