Do I Have to Believe Certain Things to Be Welcome at Your Church?
At the Kirk, we strive to be a welcoming congregation that makes room for all people. We are a congregation of the Presbyterian Church (USA), and we value our heritage as a community in that tradition. Along with our Presbyterian affiliation, we welcome people from a variety of backgrounds (i.e., Jewish, Catholic, Baptist, etc.) at our services, along with people who are questioning, new to religion, or coming back after spending some time away.
There is always room for discussion and an open mind, as we strive to follow in the way of Jesus and learn to be his disciples. All those who strive to love God with all their heart, mind, soul, and strength, and their neighbors likewise, are welcome in our community.
“Not only is The Kirk in my neighborhood, but it offers me a great opportunity to grow spiritually. The Bible studies, the preaching, the music program, and the fellowship activities are superb!”
What Should I Wear?
There is a fairly casual atmosphere at the Kirk on Sundays and during the week. You’ll find us in business casual attire, jeans, pant suits, dresses, polo shirts, t-shirts – all depending upon your preference.
While we take worship seriously, we also believe that we can do this in a variety of fashions and dress.
“Gayton Kirk feels like home.”
What’s Available for Children and Youth?
We love children and youth at the Kirk. We have a variety of opportunities for children, including times and places for them to be involved in worship, particularly the 11:00 AM traditional service, where we offer a children’s time during the service.
The Kirk strongly believes that children and youth should form healthy relationships with people of all ages, so we try to plan our programs and opportunities as intergenerational.
“I like the small community exploring what it means to follow Jesus.”
What is Worship Like?
We have four different worship services at the Kirk that meet each week- Celtic Worship at 8:30 AM; 11am Worship at 11:00 AM; and Jazz Vespers at 5:00 PM each Sunday; and Midday Prayer services on Wednesday afternoons at 12:30 PM. When the weather is nice between May and December, we offer a short Outdoor Worship service on Sundays at 9:45 AM.
Please click the links above for additional information about each service. People from all walks of life are welcome to attend the Kirk.
“I like the welcoming attitude and non-judgmental feeling. I’m a nicer person after church.”
Do I Have to Give Money?
Of course not. No one is required to give financially to attend or take part in our programs.
Certainly, we welcome and depend upon financial support from our members and Friends of the Kirk in order to maintain our operations. And we also recognize the many other ways in which individuals and families can give back to the community, i.e., through their prayers and time.
We hope that a lack of finances never keeps someone from taking part in our community.
“The art and poetry in relation to the scripture makes my mind work to see relationships and connections of scripture to life, art, and people.”
Are You Engaged in the Community?
Indeed, we are. We support local organizations and non-profits around the Richmond area each month.
We also partner with local actors and guilds, neighborhood schools, artists, and community leaders to provide a variety of programs and courses for all to attend.
