The Episcopal Church strives to live by the message of Christ, in which there are no outcasts and all are welcome. Walking a middle way between Roman Catholicism and Protestant traditions, we are a sacramental and worship-oriented church that promotes thoughtful debate about what God is calling us to do and be, as followers of Christ.
St. Paul's Episcopal Church follows a traditional liturgy and practices open communion. All baptized persons may receive the Holy Sacrament of Eucharist. Christian Education is offered for all ages. St. Paul's is a vibrant member of the Greater Grand Forks region, reaching out to many diverse groups such as Phoenix School, Northlands Rescue Mission, and the Community Violence Intervention Center.
The Episcopal Church has had a major presence in Grand Forks since the founding of the city in the 1870s. St. Paul's official beginning was on January 16, 1880. The church celebrated its 125th anniversary in 2005. St. Paul's draws its membership from all facets of Grand Forks and the region, including the University, local businesses, medical, military, and agricultural communities.
The original church building was located in downtown Grand Forks, about 15 blocks north of its present location. It was destroyed by fire in the late 1940s. The sanctuary of the current building was erected in 1949, with a split-level education wing added later. That wing was destroyed during the flood of 1997 and demolished to make room for the new parish hall, which was dedicated to God's service in May 2000.
Worship at St. Paul's centers around the Eucharist. Most Sundays Rite II is used. Alternate forms of the Eucharistic Prayer are rotated regularly, as are different versions of the Prayers of the People. High mass with incense and bells is celebrated during Christmas and Easter. Less formal services may also conducted at this time for those who prefer them.
Join us Sundays at 10:15am and Wednesdays at 5:30pm
To find the lessons for any given day, click the link below:
Daily Lessons
St. Paul's practices open communion. All baptized persons are welcome at the altar. We invite you to come and celebrate who you are - the Body of Christ.
Lay people are actively involved in worship services at St. Paul's, as ushers, readers, acolytes and Eucharistic ministers. Anyone interested in becoming more involved with the worship service is invited to contact the parish office for more information.
Children are valued at St. Paul’s. We invite families to encourage spiritual development by modeling faith and enthusiasm for the work of the church. Help the children sing hymns, pray, and voice responses. Feel free to explain parts of the service. Children learn liturgical behavior by watching and copying. If you need to leave for a short time, please feel free to utilize the nursery. Please come back especially to share in Communion and then fellowship following the service.
Adult inquirer classes are offered periodically to those who wish to learn more about the Episcopal Church. Contact the church office for information.
Rev. Dr. James Michael ShannonThe Episcopal Church sees stewardship as more than simply contributing money to the church; it’s also about contributing time and talents, and volunteering for ministry and mission. We’d love to have you share your gifts with the church family.
Rt. Rev. Michael G. Smith
The Rt. Rev. Michael G. Smith was consecrated Bishop of North Dakota in May, 2004. Bishop Smith spends most of his time in Fargo at the Cathedral, but visits St. Paul's several times each year.
Doug Woodard