Visitors to our Church
St. Stephen’s offers many opportunities to worship, learn and grow in fellowship. You are welcome to participate in all activities. Most of these opportunities are now being held in-person at the church, but we continue to utilize Zoom to extend our reach for many of these ministries. We are an inclusive church family and actively encourage community involvement. Send us an e-mail if you would like to learn more about us!
Where We Live
The town of Middlebury lies at the eastern edge of the Champlain Valley, at the foot of the Green Mountains in Addison County, Vermont. It is home to Middlebury College, businesses large and small, and all the services of a shire town. Our church building sits on the town green.
Addison County is a hub for biking, skiing, hiking, and other outdoor pleasures. Culturally, we have the College and all its offerings as well as Middlebury’s Town Hall Theatre and other smaller community events. We have a year-round farmers’ market and several CSA’s in the surrounding area. St. Stephen’s is deeply integrated into this life, but its reach goes beyond even Addison County.
Frequently asked questions
When Is Your Worship Service?
Starting September 10, 2023 we move back to our regular schedule where we gather for worship at the church on Sundays at 8:00 am and 10:30 am. All worship services are listed in the worship schedule found here.
What Do I Do When I Get There?
If you join us on Zoom, sign in a few minutes early and introduce yourself! For in-person worship just come as you are. At St. Stephen’s the focus is on worshiping God. We want you to feel comfortable worshipping God in your own way. When services are being held in-person, some people dress up, many dress casually; it’s up to you. There will be people ready to greet you. When you come in there is a place for you. As our guest, we are blessed to have you join us in worship.
Are Children Welcome?
Children are a blessing and we welcome the noise and movement that comes with them. When you attend a service at the church building, your child is welcome to stay with you; we understand that some feel more comfortable doing that. Or, you may want to take advantage of our staffed nursery located upstairs. You also have the option of sitting in the chapel, where the service can be observed and audio is played. We also offer GODLY PLAY for children during our 10:30 am service on Sundays throughout the academic year.
How Long Does the Service Last?
The typical 10:30 am Sunday service is about 60-75 minutes; the 8:00 am service about 45 minutes. Sunday worship is generally a celebration of the Holy Eucharist and each week’s Bulletin is on the website. This bulletin will detail the entire service.
We have a bulletin each week that shows the details of the service. Generally, our worship service goes like this:
Processional
Hymns, Scripture, Sermon and Prayers
Holy Communion/Eucharist
Closing Prayers and Hymns
Am I Going to Be Singled Out?
No. We don’t want to put you on the spot. You will be welcomed and folks may introduce themselves to you.
Do I Need to Pay or Give Money?
No. Each week, when we meet in the church, we provide an opportunity for people to make an offering. When the plate comes around, you can just pass it on or you can put the guest postcard in the basket with or without an offering. Our hope is that all who are a part of St. Stephen’s will see their offering as an investment in our work in the world, but there is never a fee to attend or an expectation to give.
