If you are visiting us for the first time on the web or in person, WELCOME TO ST. MATHEW'S! It's often confusing when an individual or family comes for the first time to a new church community. We hope this Q&A section will be helpful as you navigate your way through our service. If you click on one of the questions below, a link will take you to your answer.
What are the service days and times?
We have three services on Sunday. At 8:00 a.m., we have our communion service with beautiful hymns and historic liturgy. At 10:30 a.m., we have our Full Choral service. At 12:30 p.m., is our Spanish service. We also have weekday services, and they are listed on the home page.
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How long does the service last?
The service lasts approximately one hour.
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What do I wear to church?
You will find a mix of styles at St. Matthew's. Sunday mornings are a time when many prefer to dress up a bit, but even if jeans are more your style, you'll be right at home with us. We care more that you're here than about what you wear. We just ask that whatever you wear is modest and in keeping with the fact that we are gathering to worship God.
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How do I get to St. Matthew's?
St. Matthew's is located at 5100 Ross Ave. Dallas, TX 75206. To see a map and get directions, click here.
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Is the church handicap accessible?
Yes, and there is an ADA approved ramp on the right hand side of the Cathedral.
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Where do my kids go?
Christian formation classes for children and youth are held each Sunday morning at 9:35 a.m. in Garrett Hall. In addition, a Children's Chapel is available during the first part of the 10:30 service. Children follow the cross out at the beginning of the service, attend Children's Chapel in the oratory just outside the Cathedral, and are escorted back to the Cathedral at the passing of the peace.
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What about my small children?
Our little bitty ones (ages 0-3 — we call them our Butterflies) — also have a class in the Nursery appropriate to their age.
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What does St. Matthew's believe?
At the heart of our faith is belief that God is a Trinity of persons. The First Person of the Trinity, traditionally called “God the Father,” created all things at the beginning of time. Jesus Christ, the very human rabbi from 2000 years ago, was and is the Son of God, the Second Person of the Trinity, and our Savior and Lord. The Holy Scriptures (the Bible) are the revealed word of God, written by human beings under the inspiration and guidance of the Holy Spirit, who is the Third Person of the Trinity. The Bible contains all things necessary for salvation. See more here.
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What should I expect at my first visit?
You will be welcomed at the door with a smile and a handshake and given a bulletin — the guidebook to our church and the service. We invite you to arrive a few minutes early so that you can go into the church for a time of prayer to quiet your mind before God. The service will begin with a beautiful hymn led by our choir (at the 10:30 a.m. service) as it processes into the church in full robes. This will be followed by Scripture readings and a stimulating sermon (we think boring sermons are . . . well, boring). The kids will then come back for the second part of the service, Holy Communion. There is great music arranged throughout the service. Afterwards, everyone is invited to stay around for fellowship with one another.
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What is your music like?
Our music is made up of beautiful, classic hymns, often sung in four-part harmony.
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What do I bring?
Just yourself. Or a friend or family.
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Will I be able to follow along with the service?
Yes. Our weekly worship bulletins are designed to provide everything you need to participate in worship. The format is simple and easy to follow and you will know when to sit, stand, or kneel. However, if you feel uncomfortable with these actions, just relax and observe the service.
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How are visitors recognized?
When you visit St. Matthew's, you will be our respected and welcome guest. You will not be singled out in an embarrassing way or asked to stand before the congregation or come forward. We want our visitors to feel completely comfortable. You are welcome to simply relax and sit in your pew without any fear of embarrassment.
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Am I required to give money at worship?
No. Our members and regular attendees enjoy worshipping God with their finances, but guests are not expected to give.
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May I take Communion? How does it work?
Yes. All baptized Christians are welcome to take communion with us. Simply come forward with everyone else. When you put out your hands, the priest will give you a piece of bread and a sip of the wine. Then you can go back to your seat.
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And how should I address the pastor?
There are lots of options. Most Episcopalians refer to the pastor as “Father” or “Mother.” Our Senior Pastor is called the Dean. Why is he called Dean? Go here.
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Why is the pastor/priest called "Father"?
Priests or pastors, as they are often called, have been called "father" since the very early centuries of Christianity. They were considered spiritual fathers to those whom God gave into their care in the church.
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May I meet with a priest?
Yes, our several priests and deacons are all very open and easy to talk with. Give any one of them a call at 214-823-8134.
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What do the priests do during the week?
The priests stay busy with various different activities during the week: praying, studying, researching, and writing sermons to prepare for the Sunday service; meeting with people one on one; planning and conducting meetings; meeting with other priests and the leadership of the church; making home calls and hospital calls; completing administrative tasks such as email, planning, coordinating, and making phone calls.
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Is there anyone to ask if I have other questions about St. Matthew's?
If you still have unanswered questions or just want to get a glimpse of the atmosphere, please feel free to contact us by phone (214-823-8134) or email (see the Staff page for addresses). Whether you're just starting to ask questions about God or church or a committed Christian who is looking to go deeper in faith and fellowship, we hope you'll find a home here at St. Matthew's.
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