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Planning Your First Visit to St. Matthew's?
Sunday Services at 8, 9:30, & 11 AM
Join us this Sunday in Sterling for worship, Holy Communion, and a welcoming community with programs for kids and youth.
8:00 AM
A quiet and reflective service
9:30 AM
Live band and kids programs during the service
11:00 AM
Worship with hymns and choir, where families worship together
Nursery care is available at 9:30 and 11:00. Children are always welcome in worship — wiggles and all
What to Expect on Sunday
If you’re visiting for the first time, here’s what you can expect.
When you arrive, someone will greet you at the door, help you find a seat, and point you in the right direction, including children and youth programs if you need them.
Our services include music, prayer, Scripture, a sermon, and Holy Communion. If you’re new to church or new to the Episcopal tradition, just follow along and participate as you feel comfortable. You won’t be asked to stand up, introduce yourself, or do anything that makes you uncomfortable.
The service lasts about an hour. The sermon connects faith to everyday life, not just what happens on Sunday.
Between the 9:30 and 11:00 services, many people enjoy coffee, conversation, and supervised kids activities in the parish hall. You’re welcome to join in or head out at your own pace.
Bringing Kids?
Children are part of our community, not a distraction.
Nursery care is available during the 9:30 and 11:00 services for infants and toddlers.
At 9:30, children age 3 through 5th grade are invited to Faith Factory, our Sunday program with music, prayer, Bible lessons, and hands-on activities.
Middle and high school students gather at 9:30 for Donuts & Discovery and regular youth gatherings throughout the month.
After you check your child in, you’ll return to worship in the sanctuary. Children and youth rejoin their families just before Communion. Preschool and nursery children remain in their classrooms, and parents are welcome to pick them up before Communion or at the end of the service.
Children are always welcome to stay in the service if that works better for your family. If your child needs a break, feel free to step out and come back in.
Our 11:00 service is designed for families to worship together. While children and youth classes are offered at 9:30, we provide activity booklets at 11:00 to help younger children stay engaged.
About Communion
We celebrate Holy Communion every Sunday.
In the Episcopal Church, all baptized Christians are welcome to receive Communion. If you prefer not to receive, you are invited to come forward for a blessing or remain seated.
If you’re coming from a Catholic background, much of the liturgy will feel familiar, though there are some differences in practice.
If you’re unsure what to do, follow the directions on the screens or simply watch those around you. Ushers will guide each row, and our clergy will offer clear instructions. There’s no pressure to participate in any particular way.
Join Us This Sunday
St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church
201 E. Frederick Drive
Sterling, VA 20164
Sunday Services
8:00 AM
9:30 AM
11:00 AM
Parking is available beside and behind the church. Overflow parking is available across the street at Briar Patch Park and at the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office.
Stay for Coffee
Between the 9:30 and 11:00 services, many people gather in the parish hall for coffee, snacks, conversation, and supervised kids activities.
You’re welcome to stay as long or as briefly as you’d like.
From a Young Family at St. Matthew’s
“The worship and preaching at St. Matthew’s help point me back to God’s grace in my life again and again. It’s also a place where our family has built real friendships.”
Join Us This Sunday
8:00 AM | 9:30 AM | 11:00 AM
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear?
Come as you are. Some people dress casually. Some dress up. Both are welcome.
How long is the service?
About an hour.
Will I be asked to introduce myself?
No. You’re free to participate at your own pace.
Do I need to be Episcopalian to attend?
No. Many people who attend St. Matthew’s come from different church backgrounds or none at all. You’re welcome here.