Catholic Communities of Holy Trinity and St. Stephen's Parishes

WHEN YOU VISIT

Visiting a new church can be intimidating: What should I wear? Where do I park? Where do my kids go? We understand the many thoughts that can come from visiting a new church, so we want you to feel completely comfortable when you visit. Below are some frequently asked questions. If you have any additional questions, don't hesitate to contact us or talk with an usher when you visit. 

WHEN IS CONFESSION AVAILABLE?

The Sacrament of Reconciliation offered on Saturdays, with additional times available in Lent and Advent. Confessions are also available by appointment.

           Holy Trinity Parish                                           

The second,third and fourth Saturday of the month: 9am-10am

           St. Stephens Parish                                                                      

The First Saturday of the month 8:30am -9:30 am

Saturdays at the Chapel Mary at Holy Trinity Church. 

St. Stephens confessions held in Back of the Church.                                               

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?

We want you to feel comfortable. After all, we are thrilled that you're joining us and want you to be more focused on the service than what you're wearing. In the summertime, it's not uncommon to see people wearing sandals, shorts, and a shirt. Others prefer to still put on their "Sunday best," and that's fine too! However, we do request that shorts be of a conservative length (no “short-shorts”) and that in general, clothing be respectable and conservative.

HOW DO I GET TO  THE PARISHES?

Our Parish is located at

Holy Trinity Parish                     St. Stephen's Parish     
309 Buffalo Street                     469 Main St.
Fulton, NY 13069                      Phoenix, NY  13135

Here is a map.                          Here is a map

WHERE SHOULD I PARK?

At Holy Trinity: We have two main parking lots on the north and south side. The main church entrance is on the south side of the church. You may park in any available spot. There is no reserved parking,except for the ample handicapped-accessible spots in both parking lots. We ask that you never park in fire lines or on the grass.

St. Stephens: There are two parking lots one with access off Bridge St. and the lower lot of Culvert St.

WHERE DO MY CHILDREN GO?

We believe it is important for children of all ages to attend mass with their families. Therefore, we do not offer separate children’s services. A “cry room” is located to far right of the altar, which has large windows and a sound system to allow you to hear and participate in the mass.

I’M NOT CATHOLIC ... SO, HOW DO I KNOW WHEN TO SIT, STAND AND KNEEL?

There’s no need to be self-conscious about the postures and responses used during worship. Most visitors just follow the lead of the our parishioners. However, we do have worship aids located in each pew that provide you with the order of the mass, the postures, and the words to each prayer. If you don't see a worship aid in your pew, ask an usher, and they will be happy to bring you one.  There's also a great resource for kids, MagnifiKid, which can be found in a rack hanging right inside the church doors. MagnifiKid includes the days' readings, prayers, gestures, and responses with kid-friendly illustrations and explanations. It's okay for adults to use this, too!

I'M NOT CATHOLIC ... IS IT OK FOR ME TO PARTICIPATE IN COMMUNION?

Communion, or The Eucharist, is the most intimate expression of our faith. Catholics believe that the host is literally the body of Christ, transformed from bread by the priest presiding over the service. Most evangelicals think of Communion as symbolic, so it makes sense that they are not as strict about having the right relationship to it as Catholics and Orthodox Christians who believe it is a sacrament and the true presence of Christ. So, if you are not Catholic, we ask that you not receive communion.  However, those not receiving the Body of Christ and Precious blood are invited to come forward with their hands crossed over their chests for a special blessing.

AM I EXPECTED TO PUT MONEY IN THE OFFERING?

If you are visiting with us, we don't expect you to put money in the offering, and you are welcome to just let it pass you by. If you consider our parish your church home, we'd love for you to prayerfully consider giving on a weekly basis. You can give by check or cash during the service, or you can sign up for online giving here. 

I HAVE A HEARING PROBLEM. IS THERE ANY SPECIAL ASSISTANCE?

Yes! For those who are hearing impaired, we have special hearing devices that you can wear that will allow you to control the volume. If you think this would be beneficial to you, please ask one of the ushers located at the back of the church to provide you with a headset. For our Deaf community we offer sign language at Holy Trinity Church at the 8:30am Sunday Mass.