I'm New Here

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear?

We want you to feel comfortable and at home with us. We are delighted that you are joining our parish family, and we hope your focus will be on worship rather than on what you are wearing. During the summer months, it is not uncommon to see parishioners in sandals, shorts, and casual attire, while others choose to dress in their “Sunday best,” and that is perfectly fine as well. We simply ask that, in general, attire be respectful and modest.

How do I get to St. Teresa Parish Churches?

Our Lady of Sorrows Church is located at 14 Prospect Street, Essex, CT 06426.

St. Joseph's Church is located at  48 Middlesex Avenue, Chester, CT 06412.

Here is a map.

Where should I park?

At St. Joseph’s Church in Chester, the main parking lot is located across Route 154, directly opposite the church. Handicap parking is available near the church, in front of the rectory.

At Our Lady of Sorrows Church in Essex, the parking lot is located near the church and includes handicap parking. There is also a designated area for passenger drop-off.

I’m not Catholic, 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.

I’m not Catholic, is it okay for me to participate in communion?

Communion, also known as the Eucharist, is the most intimate expression of our faith. Catholics believe that the host is truly the Body of Christ, transformed from bread through the prayer of the priest presiding at the Mass. While many non-Catholics understand Communion as symbolic, Catholics and Orthodox Christians believe it to be a sacrament and the real presence of Christ.

For this reason, if you are not Catholic, we respectfully ask that you NOT receive Communion. However, those who are not receiving the Body and Blood of Christ are warmly invited to come forward with their hands crossed over their chest to receive a special blessing.

Am I expected to put money in the offering?

If you are visiting with us, please know that there is no expectation for you to place money in the offering; you are welcome to simply let it pass by. If you consider our parish your spiritual home, we invite you to prayerfully consider supporting the parish through weekly giving. Contributions may be made by check or cash during the service, or electronically via Venmo (QR codes are available on the bulletin board) or by signing up for online giving HERE.