605 Clay Street, Lynchburg VA

On June 11th, 2023, I had the pleasure of visiting St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in downtown Lynchburg as part of my journey to explore all the churches in the area.

As I set out early in the morning, unsure of the parking situation, I found myself feeling a bit uneasy and in uncharted waters, but I was accompanied by the perfect song, “Oceans” by Hillsong, playing on the radio.

This blog post recounts my visit to St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, where convenient parking, community treasures, and a special Sunday service made for a memorable experience.

Arriving at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, I was relieved to discover dedicated parking for first-time visitors.

This thoughtful gesture made accessing the church hassle-free. As I made my way towards the entrance, I noticed a free little library along the path, filled with books for the community to enjoy. This unexpected gem added to the sense of community and goodwill that St. Paul’s exemplifies.

Taking the time to appreciate the architectural beauty of St. Paul’s, I walked around, capturing photos of the stunning building and its grounds. The intricate details and magnificent stained glass windows were a visual delight, showcasing the rich history and artistic craftsmanship of the church.

Stepping into the Narthex, I was greeted by a guest book, inviting visitors to share their contact information. It was a thoughtful way to acknowledge and connect with those who enter the church.

The availability of printed church bulletins ensured that attendees were equipped with the necessary information for the special Sunday service.

Joined by my dear friend and my daughter’s former teacher, Becky, the service at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church became an even greater blessing. The liturgies for the day were drawn from the 1789 Book of Common Prayer, lending a sense of historical reverence to the worship experience.

Starting with morning prayer and concluding with a unique form of communion, the service was filled with beautiful prayers and moments of reflection.

Participating in communion, we formed a line and approached the front of the church to receive wafers and wine. The experience was different from what I was accustomed to, and it added a meaningful touch to the service.

After the service, I had the opportunity to speak with Reverend Bill, expressing my gratitude for the service led by him and Reverend Todd.

Reverend Bill kindly explained that today’s service was distinct and extended an invitation to attend future services.

For anyone considering a visit to St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, be prepared to be in awe of the breathtaking sanctuary and its magnificent stained glass windows. The physical beauty of the church is matched by the warm and welcoming nature of its congregation, creating an atmosphere of acceptance and inclusion.

You can find more information about St. Paul’s on their website at: https://www.stpaulslynchburg.org/

Reverend Bill’s graciousness and the warm reception from the congregation made me feel truly welcomed. St. Paul’s Episcopal Church is a place where the striking beauty of the sanctuary meets the warmth of the community. As I continue my journey through Lynchburg’s churches, I eagerly anticipate the discoveries that each unique place of worship holds.