Dear friends and fellow disciples,
In the name of Christ, I welcome you to Westminster Presbyterian Church!
We are glad you have found your way here. Take a moment to look over our mission, find out how we seek to follow the vision set out in Micah 6:8, and learn about our Presbyterian denomination.
The information, though important, is only the beginning. It is essential that you know that we find our core in worship each week. Through the sounds of the organ, the majesty of the text, and the passion of the prayers, the Spirit comforts us and molds us.
From worship, we are sent out to do ministry throughout southwest Durham and beyond. We study the Bible and pray, we teach the faith to our children, we laugh and play together, we serve meals downtown, and we advocate for those on the margins of society. Christ compels us out into the world, to bear witness to his abundant grace.
So come, worship, be nurtured, and take part in the ways we are serving together. Please let anyone on staff know what questions you have. Check us out on Facebook and Instagram, or catch one of our worship services on YouTube. Or, better yet, ask the person beside you in worship or Bible study what has drawn them here. We look forward to hearing your story and telling you ours.
Chris Tuttle
Pastor and Head of Staff
Here are some common questions about worship and life at Westminster. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have a question that’s not covered here.
What's the difference between worship at 8:30am and 11:00am?
Worship at 8:30am is a little more low-key, with a somewhat more meditative atmosphere and occasional special music. At 11:00am, the Chancel Choir regularly brings a joyful noise to worship, and the pews are filled with vibrant energy from people of all ages. The services are approximately the same length. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, we all join together for one worship service at 10:00am.
What do I wear?
Wear whatever makes you comfortable. Some folks will be in their Sunday best, others will be wearing casual clothes.
What's available for my kids?
There’s something for every age and stage at Westminster, especially for children and youth. On Sunday mornings, we have
childcare for infants and toddlers,
Church School for all ages, and
Godly Play during worship. Westminster also has a very active and dynamic
Youth Group.
Is everyone welcome at Westminster?
Yes! Regardless of age, race, sexuality, gender identity, ability, or religion, all are welcome here. Jesus, in his life and teachings, acknowledged all persons as wonderfully made children of God, each equally worthy of God’s unconditional love. So, striving to follow Jesus, we welcome everyone, with affirmation and celebration, praying God will draw us into deeper relationship with each other and with Christ as we worship and serve together.
If you have known the pain of exclusion and discrimination in the church or in society, know that you are welcome here. At Westminster, the ordination of church officers and member weddings are celebrated as acts of the Holy Spirit at work in the church regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation. Additional resources for study, reflection, and conversation
What about accessibility and other assistance?
To the right of the Sanctuary doors, you’ll find a ramp for walkers, wheelchairs, and anyone wary of steps. The back row of pews are handicap accessible. Large-print versions of the hymnal and Bible, as well as assistive listening devices, are available in the Narthex. Just ask an usher if you need any of these items, and they’ll be happy to assist you.
What are your COVID-19 guidelines?
Westminster is a mask-optional/mask-friendly community. We encourage mask-wearing for those who are at high risk of severe illness or wish to have an added layer of protection, those who have been exposed to COVID-19 in the past five days, and those who are not fully vaccinated. If you’re not feeling well, please refrain from attending church activities, including worship. We’re all in this together and we want to make sure everyone feels comfortable when we come together. Thanks for your understanding!
How do I get connected?
The best way to start is by building relationships with folks. Leave your contact information in the
pew pad at the end of your pew during Sunday worship so we can reach out and get to know you better. Feel free to
contact any staff member, and they’ll help you connect with a Bible study, Church School class, choir, lunch group, supper club, ministry, or worship volunteer team – whichever group feels like the best fit to you. You’re welcome to join these activities at any time. Check the
calendar for current schedules or
contact the church office.
You might also consider joining our no-obligation Inquirers’ Class to learn about Westminster and meet other people considering joining the church. The Inquirers’ Class is an excellent space to ask questions and get to know the church community. The class is offered in the fall and the spring and runs during the Church School hour (9:45-10:45am). Contact the church office for the dates of our next class.
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