Joining Emmanuel
You Belong at Emmanuel
Note: Our Current Season
Because Emmanuel is currently in a Rector Search (interim period), this is actually a uniquely powerful time to join. New members have a rare opportunity to help shape the future of the parish.
Emmanuel is currently "A Community in Transition, Growing Together." As we prepare to call our next Rector, far from hitting 'pause,' our lay leaders and parish family are actively dreaming, serving, and building for the future. There has never been a more meaningful time to join us—your voice, your perspective, and your heart can help shape the next chapter of Emmanuel’s history.
Your First Visit
Walking into a historic, liturgical church for the first time can feel intimidating. We want you to feel entirely at ease.
Visitors
Come As You Are: You will see everything from "Sunday best" suits to jeans and t-shirts. Wear whatever makes you comfortable.
Follow Along Easily: Our worship follows the beautiful traditions of the Book of Common Prayer, but you won't get lost. Everything you need—prayers, responses, and music—is printed clearly in the bulletin you’ll receive at the door.
Visitors
An Open Table: At Emmanuel, we believe the altar is God’s table, not ours. All are welcome to receive Communion. No exceptions. If you prefer to receive a blessing instead, simply cross your arms over your chest.
The Peace and Coffee: We love to greet one another during the service, and we invite you to join us afterward for coffee, conversation, and community.
Why Choose Emmanuel?
We are a community that strives to live out four core callings:
Values
Inclusive: We don’t just tolerate differences; we believe God created as living body made up from diverse members. Whether you are young or old, certain or doubting, LGBTQ+, a lifelong Episcopalian, or new to church—you belong here.
Compassionate: We walk with one another through life’s triumphs and griefs. No one has to journey alone.
Values
Spiritual: We ground ourselves in ancient rites of worship, a passion for sanctified music, deep reflective prayer, and a belief that salvation through Jesus is the core of our lives.
Engaged: We believe faith in Jesus requires action. From supporting local feeding programs to taking a stand on social justice issues in Staunton, we seek to be the hands and feet of Christ in our neighborhood.
Becoming a Member
If Emmanuel has begun to feel like your spiritual home, we invite you to make it official. Becoming a member at Emmanuel isn't about passing a test; it’s about a shared commitment to grow together.
Joining
Keep Showing Up: The best way to join is simply to be among us. Fill out a visitor card in the pews or sign our guest book so we can say a proper hello.
Meet with the Community: We may be in-between pastors, but that does not mean we are lacking in spiritual knowledge or depth! Have you got a story you'd like to share, perhaps you have hard questions about God and want to see understanding, or perhaps you just want to know what being in the Episcopal Church is about? We have strong spiritual people among our congregation, and even highly trained Biblical Scholars! We are eager to commune with you.
Joining
Find Your Spot to Serve: Emmanuel has always had a strong tradition of congregants taking part in the facilitation of the service. Whether you want to sing in the choir, help maintain our historic building, serve on the altar, or volunteer with our outreach ministries, there is a place for your talents.
Transfer Your Letter or Be Confirmed: If you are coming from another Episcopal parish, we can easily transfer your "Letter of Demission." If you come from another tradition or no church background, we invite you to explore Confirmation or Reception when the Bishop visits.