You Belong Here
Welcome to Emmanuel Episcopal Church
A Community for Everyone
Planning Your First Visit?
We're so glad you're considering joining us! At Emmanuel, we believe that everyone belongs, no exceptions. Whether you're new to church, returning after time away, or exploring a new faith community, you'll find a warm welcome here.
What To Expect
Getting Here
Address: 5 Bryant Street, Wakefield, MA 01880
Location: Corner of Main and Bryant Streets
Parking: Street parking
Holy Communion
All are welcome at God's table! Come forward when others do - you can kneel or stand at the rail. If you're not sure about receiving communion, it's perfectly fine to come forward for a blessing (just cross your arms over your chest). Take your time - there's no pressure!
Families Welcome
Children are warmly welcomed in worship! We also offer:
• Kids' Club Sunday School
• Childcare services during services
• Family-friendly 10 AM service
After Service
Join us for coffee hour in the Parish Hall after each service. It's a great time to meet people, ask questions, and get connected!
What to Wear
Come as you are! You'll see everything from casual to dressy. We care more about your heart than your wardrobe.
Stay Informed
Want to get our weekly newsletter (The Epistle)? Let us know at coffee hour or email us to be added. We also use Realm for member communication - we can help you get set up when you're ready!
Sunday Worship
8:00 AM - Rite I Holy Communion (quieter, contemplative service)
10:00 AM - Holy Communion with music (family-friendly)
Summer Schedule: One service at 9:00 AM (June-August)
All services also available on YouTube
Our Community
Our "You Belong" Promise
Our doors are open to everyone, and we are committed to creating a fully inclusive space where all can experience God's love and the light of Christ. We mean it when we say everyone belongs, no exceptions!
Emmanuel welcomes people from all faith backgrounds - many of us weren't originally Episcopalian! We also understand that some have taken breaks from church before finding their way here. What draws people to Emmanuel? Our commitment to inclusivity, our strong sense of community, and our active work in the wider community supporting organizations like Horizon House.
What We Offer
LGBTQ+ Affirmation - Creating sanctuary and advocacy
Community Outreach - Supporting local organizations like Horizon House, Wakefield Food Pantry, and Ruth's Way
Immigration Compassion - support and solidarity for immigrants and refugees
Adult Education - Bible studies, book clubs, and spiritual growth opportunities
Fellowship Events - From bowling nights to Pride celebrations to parish picnics
Various Committees - Lots of ways to get involved when you're ready!
Coming from Another Tradition?
Many people find their way to Emmanuel from other faith backgrounds - Catholic, evangelical, mainline Protestant, or no church background at all. We honor the traditions that have shaped you and recognize that God works through many expressions of Christian faith.
If You're From a Liturgical Tradition:
Much will feel familiar at Emmanuel. The Book of Common Prayer, the church year (Advent through Pentecost), the structure of worship (Gathering, Word, Eucharist, Sending) - these connect us to centuries of Christian tradition. We celebrate Eucharist every Sunday, offer confession when needed, and maintain the sacramental life you may know and love.
What Makes the Episcopal Church Distinctive:
We're sometimes called the "middle way" because we hold together things that seem opposite: catholic tradition and protestant reform, ancient liturgy and contemporary questions. We take the Bible seriously while making room for questions. We ordain women and LGBTQ+ people to all levels of leadership. We welcome divorced and remarried members fully. We believe beauty and justice go hand in hand.
Want to learn more about the Episcopal Church?
Visit our Episcopal Church page
Common Questions
from Those Transitioning
Will I understand the service? If you've attended liturgical worship, yes. If not, don't worry - there are books in the pews that guide you through everything, and people around you are happy to help.
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Can I receive communion? All baptized Christians are welcome at the table. If you're not baptized or prefer not to receive, you can come forward with arms crossed for a blessing.
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What if I'm divorced and remarried? You are fully welcomed. No annulment needed. You can receive communion, serve in leadership, and participate fully in parish life.
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Do I have to join or commit to anything? Not at all. Come and worship with us as long as you'd like. When and if you're ready to explore membership, we'll talk about it. There's no pressure.
What People Tell Us
Choir Member
"I first discovered the Episcopal tradition singing in a choir when I was in college. As a gay man, I was hesitant to take communion - the Catholic Church had taught me I wasn't worthy. But a fellow choir member kept reassuring me: 'You belong at this table.' That simple gift of welcome changed everything for me."
New Member
"I was raised in a religion that characterized many ways of life as sinful, including being gay. As I grew older and came to understand my own identity, I distanced myself from religion altogether. Later, my best friend’s father, a deacon in the Episcopal Church, demonstrated the openness and acceptance of his church, allowing me to recognize that I could once again embrace the Holy Spirit. Although the journey took time, I now feel genuinely loved and affirmed by both God and my church."
Ready to Connect?
We'd love to welcome you in person! We understand everyone moves at their own pace, so we've tried to make information available when you're ready for it.
When You're Ready for Next Steps
Inquirer's Classes
Your New Church Home
Questions Anytime
Want to learn more about the Episcopal Church? We offer classes for those interested in deeper exploration.
You don't have to become an Episcopalian to be fully part of our community! Talk with Rev. Brett about what feels right for you.
We love questions! Ask at coffee hour, email us, or drop a note in our suggestion box.
Newcomer Events
We regularly hold informal newcomer gatherings where you can meet others, ask questions,
and learn more about Emmanuel.
No pressure - just connection!
Get Involved
Interested in committees or volunteer opportunities?
We have lots of ways to get involved - from one-time events to ongoing ministries.
Ask us about what might interest you!