WHAT TO EXPECT

We walk with Christ in community for all. St. Francis welcomes everyone to come and worship and build community with us.

A WELCOME LETTER TO OUR NEWCOMERS AND VISITORS

St. Francis in-the-Field is a dynamic Episcopal parish in a rapidly growing area of the country.

Dear Friends,

Welcome to St. Francis in-the-Field! We are so glad you are here. Whether you’ve visited us once or are thinking about walking through our doors for the first time, we want you to feel at home in our community.

At St. Francis, there is truly something for everyone, young and old. Rooted in a strong tradition of Christian formation, we are committed to nurturing faith at every stage of life. Beyond worship and education, our parish comes alive through a wide range of ministries, fellowship opportunities, and outreach programs that help us strengthen our bonds with one another and serve our wider community with love.

Below are some frequently asked questions to help you navigate your first few visits and find your place within our church family.

Blessings,

Fr. Justin Yawn, Rector

Noelle Pecora, Parish Executive and Director of Parish Engagement

Connect with our Director of Engagement

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • Yes. We believe God loves you – no exceptions.

  • We believe in a God whose love is radical, whose table is open, and whose invitation is for everyone. That is not a slogan—it is the center of who we are.

  • Yes. You do not have to have everything figured out to worship here.  You are not required to check a box of beliefs at the door. What you are invited into is a community of people who are seeking together. Questions are treated as a form of prayer, not a threat to faith.

  • We are convienently located in the heart of Northeast St. Johns County just off of US Highway 1 in Ponte Vedra, Florida. We are nextdoor to Nocatee, but just minutes away from Beachwalk, Beacon Lake, Las Calinas, Palencia, Bartram Springs, and the CR210 corridor.

  • You’ll find plenty of parking in the main lot directly in front of the church.

  • Sunday worship happens in our sanctuary, (otherwise known as a chapel). A walkway leading from the parking lot will take you to the main doors of the sanctuary — where our ushers and greeters will be there to welcome you. You can’t miss it!

  • Yes. Handicap parking is located immediately to the right of the sanctuary, with a step-free entrance nearby.

  • Yes. All baptized Christians may receive communion. You may also opt out by remaining seated or crossing your arms over your chest when you come forward to receive a blessing from the priest.

  • Yes. Children are a blessing and their presence in all services is encouraged. 

    During the Sunday 9:00 AM service, children 4 & up (through 5th grade) are welcome to come and enjoy Children’s Chapel where we have age-appropriate lessons. Kids follow the cross out of the sanctuary and will return to you before Holy Communion.

    Regardless of which service you attend, children of all ages are always welcomed. 

  • Yes. Our nursery, conveniently located to the immediate right of the sanctuary, is available for children ages 0-3 during our 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM worship services.

  • Yes. The Youth Ministry is dedicated to encouraging our youth and their families and friends to grow and develop their faith in Christ. Field Life Crew is our youth group ministry for 6th-12th graders. They meet every Wednesday evening from 6:30-8:00 PM for fun, fellowship, and a Bible lesson. Contact our Youth Director, Dan Dallam, for more information at dan@stfrancispvb.org.

  • Yes, our Director of Engagement, Noelle Pecora, would love to give you a tour of our entire campus and answer any questions you may have about St. Francis or the Episcopal Church in general. To schedule a time, simply email Noelle at Noelle@stfrancispvb.org.

  • If you are interested in joining our next Newcomers class, please contact Noelle Pecora at noelle@stfrancispvb.org.

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