St. Francis Visitor Questions & Answers
Where is the church located?
Saint Francis by the Lake Episcopal Church is located at 13250 FM 306. The cross street is Spring Mountain Dr. about half a mile
south of Canyon Dam, Canyon Lake, Texas.
You can find the location of our church pictured below. For additional detail click on driving instructions. The map opens in a
separate window for your convenience.
What to expect on a Sunday visit?
We want your first visit to our Church to be a warm and welcoming experience, and one way to do that, is to help you feel prepared.
What should I expect when I get inside?
As you enter the main doors of Saint Francis by the Lake church, an usher will hand you a worship leaflet. This booklet contains directions for page numbers for the Book of Common Prayer (red) and the Hymnal or song book (blue). If you aren't sure, don't hesitate to ask a fellow worshipper or watch and follow others' lead.
Where do I sit?
You can sit anywhere that you feel comfortable. If it's crowded, the ushers will help you find a seat. If you arrive once the service has begun, an usher will be happy to assist you to a seat.
How long will the service last?
The services generally last about an hour.
What if I have children?
Children are welcome at all Sunday services. While it may not seem that they understand all aspects of worship, they do experience the rhythm and beauty of the building and the liturgy. Childcare for ages 5 and under is available in the nursery during services.
How to take Communion?
All baptized Christians are invited to receive the sacrament of Holy Communion.
To receive the BREAD, extend your palms crossed and upward. To receive the WINE, assist in guiding the cup to your mouth. If you wish only a Blessing from the priest, cross your arms over your chest while kneeling at the Altar Rail.
Children receiving Communion
Children are welcome at the Lord's Table at their parents' discretion.
Receiving a Blessing
If you, or your child(ren), would like to receive a blessing from the priest at the altar rail, come forward just as you would to receive communion and cross your arms across your chest, and/or instruct your child(ren) to do the same.
Learning More
Welcome to St. Francis by the Lake! Please know that you are welcome to this community of Christians. Please sign our guest book, which is located in the narthex or fill out a pew card. The service continues with Hospitality in the Narthex entryway. Please join us for refreshments and fellowship.
Finding Community & Getting Involved
Saint Francis by the Lake is a diverse community, bringing together people of different backgrounds, ages and interests. Some are simply involved on Sunday mornings, others come for programs during the week, and still others choose to envision and plan new programs and directions for Saint Francis to grow. Whatever your desired level of involvement, whatever your interests, we invite you to talk to members of our community, to browse the pages of this website and ultimately to find yourself at home at Saint Francis by the Lake Church.
We're glad you're here.
Interested in Joining Our Church
You may join the Episcopal Church by way of Baptism, record of baptism, Confirmation, or Reception. Or, if you are an Episcopalian, and a member of another Episcopal church, your membership can be transferred to St. Francis by the Lake. We accept the baptism of all Christian Churches, and we do not "re-baptize". If you have been Confirmed in another branch of the Christian Church then you may be Received into the Episcopal Church.
Who Can Be Baptized?
In the Episcopal Church there is no age requirement for baptism. Adults, teens, and young children are regularly baptized. What is required of us at Baptism is that we renounce Satan, repent of our sins, and accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior. We baptize children and infants so that they can share membership in the Church and be benefactors of God's redemption. For further information about Baptism, call the church office to make an appointment to speak with the Rector.
Confirmation & Reception
Confirmation classes for adults (Adult Inquirers Classes) and confirmation classes for youth (Youth Confirmation Classes) are offered throughout the year. These classes are open to all who wish to be confirmed, received, or who would like to take a refresher course or learn more about the Episcopal Church. The time and location of these classes will be announced or you can call the church office.
Transfer to Saint Francis By The Lake, Canyon Lake
If you are already a confirmed Episcopalian but would like to transfer your membership to Saint Francis by the Lake Church from another Episcopal Church, simply consult with the Rector and he will direct you in what needs to be done.
We would like to do anything we can to help you become a part of this community - both of Saint Francis by the Lake Church, and of the Episcopal Church. If there is anything we can do for you, please do not hesitate to let us know. If you have questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us via the Church Office, (830)964-3820. We'll be happy to set aside time to spend with you.
