WE ARE GLAD YOU ARE HERE!
Welcome to Holy Spirit
We're so glad you're here! Whether you're exploring the Catholic faith for the first time or looking for a new church home — you belong here. Come as you are.
A PERSONAL WELCOME
A Message from
Fr. Anthony Mpungu
Welcome to the Holy Spirit parish website — our "digital front door." We're excited to have you here and hope it encourages you to visit us in person!
Our community is committed to our mission as disciples: to love God, love our neighbors, and make more disciples. Centered on Jesus Christ, especially through the Holy Eucharist, we find nourishment and direction to share His message in our lives.
Whether you're just exploring or ready to make Holy Spirit your home, I'm here to walk with you on your faith journey. I look forward to meeting you and am here to assist if needed. God bless!
What to Expect
We know visiting a new church can feel overwhelming. Here's what you need to know to feel comfortable and welcome.
What to Wear
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Come as you are! All are welcome
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Most dress business casual
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Some dress more formally, others casually
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Comfort matters more than fashion
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Don't let clothing concerns stop you
God cares about your heart, not your outfit.
During Mass
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Mass lasts 60-75 minutes
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We stand, sit, and kneel at times
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Missalettes (worship guides) in pews
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Follow along - no pressure to participate
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Communion for baptized Catholics in good standing
Not receiving Communion? Come forward for a blessing with arms crossed.
Your First Sunday
Here's what a typical Sunday looks like from arrival to fellowship.
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Before Mass
Greeters will welcome you at the entrance. Feel free to ask them any questions. Pick up a bulletin to see what's happening. Take a seat anywhere - no reserved seating except front rows for families with young children.
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During Mass
Follow along in the missalette found in the pew. Stand when others stand, sit when others sit. Participation is encouraged but never required. It's okay to be unfamiliar - we all started somewhere!
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After Mass
Join us for coffee and fellowship in the parish hall (most Sundays). Our pastor often greets people at the door. Pick up a "New Parishioner" packet. No pressure - come back when you're ready!
Bringing Children
Children are always welcome in our church! We're a family-friendly parish.
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We have a cry room at the back of the church with sound so you can still fully participate in Mass. Nursing mothers are welcome to use this space. Remember: children are ALWAYS welcome in the main church. Don't feel you need to leave if they make noise, we're a family parish and everyone understands!
Nursery & Cry Room
Your Next Steps
Take the next step in your journey with Holy Spirit. We're here to walk with you every step of the way.
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Register as a Parishioner
Ready to make Holy Spirit your parish home? Complete our registration form — it takes just a few minutes. Our team will reach out to welcome you personally.
Email your form to: office@holyspiritvb.org
ACCESSIBILITY & ASSISTANCE
Eucharistic Accommodations
Holy Spirit Catholic Church is fully accessible. ♿️ Handicap-accessible entrances of the church. Low-gluten hosts available upon request. Communion brought to your seat upon request. Contact us for any specific needs.
Holy Spirit Catholic Church is committed to ensuring that every parishioner has the opportunity to receive the Eucharist. Please do not hesitate to reach out, we are here to help.
Low-Gluten Hosts
If you require a low-gluten host at Mass, please contact Erin Laurence in the parish office prior to Mass so we can ensure one is prepared and ready for you.
Please contact the office in advance so arrangements can be made before Mass begins.
👤 Contact: Erin Laurence — Director of Liturgy & Music
📞 Phone: 757.468.3600 ext. 114
📧 Email: elaurence@holyspiritvb.org
Homebound Ministry
If you are unable to attend Mass due to illness, Holy Communion can be brought to you at home. Please call the parish office to make arrangements.
This ministry is available to parishioners who are unable to attend Mass on a regular basis due to illness or physical condition.
👤 Contact: Erin Laurence — Director of Liturgy & Music
📞 Phone: 757.468.3600 ext. 114
📧 Email: elaurence@holyspiritvb.org
Assistance During
Communion
Parishioners who are unable to walk in the Communion line during weekend Masses are asked to inform an usher before Mass begins each week. The head usher will direct a Deacon or Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion (EMHC) to your seat so you do not miss the opportunity to receive Our Lord.
Please inform an usher each weekend before Mass begins so the proper arrangement can be made for you.
👤 Speak with an usher upon arrival — before Mass begins
📞 Phone: 757.468.3600
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IMPORTANT NOTE — CELIAC DISEASE
Low-gluten hosts are not entirely gluten-free. They contain a minimal but measurable amount of gluten. Parishioners with celiac disease or severe gluten intolerance should consult with their physician before receiving a low-gluten host. Please contact Erin Laurence at elaurence@holyspiritvb.org or 757.468.3600 ext. 114 to discuss your options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can't find your answer here? We're always happy to help, just give us a call or send an email.
