Welcome to Epiphany!

“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” Hebrew13.2

Q: What happens during the services?

The Episcopal Church uses the Book of Common Prayer for its worship. It contains the service of Holy Communion as well as the offices of Morning Prayer and Evening Prayer; the Pastoral offices and other services that we use. The Book of Common Prayer is the red book in the pew rack. In addition, we have a Hymnal, which is the blue book in the pew rack. The Order of Worship is found in the bulletin you receive as you enter the church. It contains page numbers where the various parts of the service may be found.

For the most part, the hymn numbers may be found on our hymn board hanging on the pillars. Generally, we stand to sing, pray, praise and hear the Gospel; sit to hear the lessons, sermon and announcements; and kneel for confession and the final post-Communion prayer, all as we are physically able.

Q: What do you call the clergy?

By custom, Epiphany's clergy are addressed by their first names, without any titles. The correct way to address a letter to a priest or deacon is to use the title, The Reverend. If the person has a doctorate you would address him/her as The Rev. Dr. If the priest is a dean of a deanery, he/she is addressed as The Very Reverend. Reverend may be abbreviated.

Q: I am not an Episcopalian, can I receive Communion?

We celebrate Holy Communion every Sunday. Anyone who has been baptized by water in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, in a Christian denomination is always welcome to receive Holy Communion in the Episcopal Church. Confirmation is not a requirement for receiving Communion. Unbaptized persons, or those who simply do not wish to receive Communion, are invited to receive a blessing instead.

Q: Who do I talk to about getting married, or baptizing my child, or holding a funeral?

Please contact the parish office at 781.729.1922 or email us. For more information, see weddings, baptisms, and funerals.

Q: I used to be a Catholic, but haven’t been to church in many years. Do you have restrictions on membership?

We have no restrictions on membership. Regardless of your religious heritage, you are welcome. If you decide you’d like to formally join the Episcopal denomination, there is a confirmation/reception process which you are welcome to join.

Q: I’m single. How comfortable is Epiphany for single people?

There are many single people who are active members of Epiphany, some young and unmarried, some divorced or widowed, some elderly. Many take an active, lively role in the church, and there are no distinctions made between families and individuals.

Q: I have a disability. How challenging is attending services and other events at Epiphany?

The installation of our elevator in 2019 enabled our entire building (excepting the Garret and the choir loft) to be fully accessible to all members of our parish community. The forecourt ramp provides stair-free access to the sanctuary, and there is also a ramp with a power door to Hadley Hall from Church Street. We have an accessible lavatory, as well as two accessible parking spaces on Church Street. A speech reinforcement system is available for the hard of hearing. And, yes, service dogs are welcome at all times! 

Q: Do I have to be a member to come to church at Epiphany?

No, you do not have to be a member. In the long run, if you find yourself at home with us, you may want to sign the membership book and be able to vote at Parish meetings.

Q: Do I have to give money to come to church services at Epiphany?

No, you do not have to give money to attend services. When people begin to become involved with church life, they are asked to make an annual pledge, in an amount that fits their budget, to support the life of the church.