
An
from the Rector
Fr. Paul S. Winton
This is the place on many church websites where you find the “Welcome” from the spiritual leader of the given worship community. As I read God’s word, especially regarding the life of our Savior Jesus, I find that a “Welcome” is inadequate. I see the work of Jesus as that of “Invitation”; an Invitation of a very personal nature.
Jesus invites people to know him and to follow him and he invites them from the starting position of where they encounter him in their lives. At St. John’s we try to model that behavior. So wherever you are in your journey of faith, we invite you to continue that journey with us. If you are just starting – don’t worry, so are many of us. If you have been in relationship with Jesus for a long time, there is still much to learn and we would like to learn with you. If you are a fully engaged disciple of Jesus, we have lots for you to do here to live into your discipleship. If you aren’t too sure about Jesus, you will find St. Johns a safe place to explore.
On behalf of the good people of St. John’s, I invite you to be with us soon, often, and for your lifetime. St. John’s, while large by Episcopal Church standards, has the feel of a small Southern church. You expect to have someone take you by the hand and lead you to the variety of worship services and learning opportunities going on at any given time! (See our home page for the current worship schedule.)
We are a church family that believes in practicing our faith so you will see many, many opportunities to serve in the community as well as within the parish. Fellowship is central to the practice of our faith – so you will see many opportunities to participate. Our music program is quite fine, our youth program is large and truly exciting, and our programs for young children are fun, safe and expanding and we love our older members as children adore grandparents.
If you are an Episcopalian looking for a new Church home, you will find our expression to be a very generous form of orthodoxy. We practice theology like we drive here in Charlotte – a little right of center but we stay out of the ditch. We are in all things – and about all matters - charitable and generous. We expect that of one another.
If you are not sure what an Episcopalian is, you will discover our appreciation of our faith roots back to Abraham, the depth and beauty of our Catholic heritage, and the Biblical zeal of our Protestant evolution. Something for everyone!
No matter your age, no matter your position in life, no matter your circumstance, we believe we can help you make a church home at St. John’s. We are big enough to offer much but not so big that you can’t get to know us and us to know you. We are personable enough that you may call me direct, and I invite you to do so. You will find my number at the end of this invitation.
If you will go to the “Contact Us” tab on this website (or click here) and just leave your name, I will begin praying for you today. If you have a particular need, just let me know and I will pray with specific intention.
I hope to see you soon. If not, I will say a prayer in thanksgiving that you have visited this page and are looking for a place to worship the Lord we all love.
Yours in Christ,
Father Paul Winton
704.609.6780 (personal cell)
How Can I Get Involved?
St. John’s provides many opportunities to get involved. From fellowship groups to outreach ministries, there are many options for members of all ages to put their own unique skills and talents to work. Visit our Parish Life page to read more about opportunities for ministry.
Newcomer's Seminar
This class is designed to inform participants about the educational, spiritual, outreach, social and stewardship opportunities that exist at St. John’s, and to introduce participants to our clergy. We hope you will consider this class as your first step towards becoming a member of St. John's.
If you have any questions or if we can be of service in any way, please contact Kathy Arthur, Assistant to the Rector, Parish Life at 704-366-3034 or karthur@saintjohns-charlotte.org.