Frequently Asked Questions
What denomination is St. Anne's Church?
We are an Episcopal church.
Where is St. Anne's located?
We are located at 9 Maple Avenue in Smithsburg, Maryland. Please click here for driving directions.
What time does service start?
Service begins at 10:00 AM each Sunday morning.
Are families with small children welcome?
Absolutely! We are a child-friendly congregation! You are welcome to keep your babies and children with you throughout the service, or have them attend Sunday School in the Parish House during the first half of the service.
What type of worship music do you sing at St. Anne's?
We use the 1982 Episcopal Hymnal and the LEVAS book (Lift Every Voice And Sing) with organ accompaniment, and we welcome occasional soloists.
What should I expect when I visit St. Anne's Church?
You should expect a warm and friendly greeting, a traditional Episcopal service, followed by fellowship and refreshments in the Parish House. As one parishioner so eloquently remarked:
"Before the service, we speak to God. During the service, God speaks to us. After the service, we speak to one another!"
I've never been to an Episcopal service. How will I know what to do?
We understand that not everyone who visits our church will be familiar with the traditional Episcopal service. Please know that you are welcome to participate at your own comfort level. It is okay if you choose to observe a few services before participating.
Generally, we stand to pray, sing and listen to the Gospel. We sit for other scripture lessons and the sermon, and we kneel for confession and other devotions.
St. Anne's Church uses the Book of Common Prayer for its worship. It is the red book with the gold cross located in the book rack on each pew. In addition, we use the 1982 Episcopal Hymnal and LEVAS books for our music selections.
The Order of Worship is found in the bulletin you receive as you enter St. Anne's. The bulletin also contains the page numbers where the various parts of the service can be located.
If you find yourself lost at any point in the service, the person sitting next to you or in front of you would be happy to help. We love having visitors at St. Anne's, and will do everything we can to help you participate at a level you are comfortable with.
Who is allowed to take Holy Communion?
St. Anne's welcomes all God's children to the Communion table. If you do not wish to take Communion, you may still come to the altar to receive a Blessing.
What about children receiving Communion?
We believe that the Holy Sacrament should be offered to all God's children, regardless of their age. Children's Sunday School dismisses before the Sacrament is given so that families may take Holy Communion together.
If your child is too young to understand Communion, you may choose to bring him or her to the altar to receive a Blessing.
How can I get involved with St. Anne's Church?
We always welcome the gift of our members' time and talent in any of the following areas:
Acolyte, Altar Guide, Lay Reader, Lay Eucharistic Minister (LEM), Fellowship Hour Host/Hostess, Outreach Committee, Stewardship Committee, Advisory Board Member, Teller, Bulletin Preparation, Lenten Activities, Representative to Smithsburg Area Church Association, Delegate to diocesan Convention & Regional Council, Usher and Property Care.
If you'd like further information about any of these service opportunities, please send your questions to info@saintanneschurch.org
