|
WElcome!Whether you're a first time visitor or a long-time member, we are always happy to see you at worship or at any of the programs and services at Westminster.
If you're thinking of visiting Westminster, you might have questions about what to expect. That's normal, so here are a few things which might make your first visit more comfortable. |
Sunday Worship
Sunday worship is at 9:30am, and takes place in the main sanctuary. As Presbyterians, we are part of the Reformed Tradition. We describe our worship service as "traditional" and our theology as "progressive." We sing hymns from the Presbyterian "Glory to God" hymnal. We often say we take the Bible seriously but not literally. You will find a wide range of theological perspectives and understandings among our members, which makes for rich relationships and often lively (but always respectful) discussions.
Parking is available behind the church (enter from Court Street). There are handicapped spaces along the building and a level entrance to the sanctuary off the church parking lot. On Sundays and evenings, we can also use the county parking lot to the right of the church.
You'll be greeted by greeters and ushers when you arrive. They can answer any questions you might have. Sit where you like and make yourself comfortable. The Order of Worship is contained in a printed bulletin, which spells out every part of the service, including the words of responses and communal prayers. It even tells you when to sit and stand. No surprises here.
Children are welcome in worship, but if you'd like to avail yourself of childcare, we have two caring, experienced nursery care providers to watch infants and toddlers in the nursery. An usher can offer directions if you need help-- just ask!
Dress is casual. You'll find some men in jackets and ties and women in dresses or skirts, but most wear comfortable slacks and sweaters. Jeans are fine too. The important thing is your presence, not your appearance.
We celebrate communion the first Sunday of each month. The sacrament is open to all.
We offer what we call "hybrid worship," which means that we welcome worshipers in the sanctuary and also on line. Our worship services are live-streamed on Westminster's Facebook page, and our online worshipers are a lively group, actively engaged in worship through comments and participation.
Please stay for coffee and cookies after worship in the social room off the narthex. We'd love to get to know you better!
Parking is available behind the church (enter from Court Street). There are handicapped spaces along the building and a level entrance to the sanctuary off the church parking lot. On Sundays and evenings, we can also use the county parking lot to the right of the church.
You'll be greeted by greeters and ushers when you arrive. They can answer any questions you might have. Sit where you like and make yourself comfortable. The Order of Worship is contained in a printed bulletin, which spells out every part of the service, including the words of responses and communal prayers. It even tells you when to sit and stand. No surprises here.
Children are welcome in worship, but if you'd like to avail yourself of childcare, we have two caring, experienced nursery care providers to watch infants and toddlers in the nursery. An usher can offer directions if you need help-- just ask!
Dress is casual. You'll find some men in jackets and ties and women in dresses or skirts, but most wear comfortable slacks and sweaters. Jeans are fine too. The important thing is your presence, not your appearance.
We celebrate communion the first Sunday of each month. The sacrament is open to all.
We offer what we call "hybrid worship," which means that we welcome worshipers in the sanctuary and also on line. Our worship services are live-streamed on Westminster's Facebook page, and our online worshipers are a lively group, actively engaged in worship through comments and participation.
Please stay for coffee and cookies after worship in the social room off the narthex. We'd love to get to know you better!
Who We Are |
Westminster is a member of the denomination called the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), often called PC(USA). Presbyterians are distinctive in two major ways: they adhere to a pattern of religious thought known as Reformed theology and a form of government that stresses the active, representational leadership of both ministers and church members.
Presbyterian churches are connectional, meaning they work together with other churches and bodies to do Christ's work in ministry, mission, service, education, and government. Churches are clustered in geographical areas called presbyteries and synods. Westminster is a member of the Presbytery of Cayuga-Syracuse. Presbyteries are grouped in larger clusters to form synods. We are a part of the Synod of the Northeast. Every other year, the denomination holds a General Assembly, where commissioners gather to worship, study, debate, and conduct business. Clergy and laity are represented in equal numbers. Presbyterians have a constitutional form of government. The Presbyterian constitution consists of the Book of Order and the Book of Confessions. |