Plan Your Visit
You are welcome at St. Paul’s. Whether you are new to church, returning after time away, visiting from another tradition, or simply curious, we would be glad to welcome you.
Worship may feel unfamiliar at first, and that is okay. You are welcome to take part in a way that feels comfortable. Your presence is enough.
Join Us for Worship
Our worship is grounded in the Episcopal tradition, with scripture, prayer, Holy Communion, music, and space for reflection.
Sundays at 8:00 am
A spoken service of Holy Eucharist with organ music.
Sundays at 10:00 am
A choral service of Holy Eucharist with choir, organ, and congregational singing. Nursery open from 9:30 am to 11:30 am.
Wednesdays at 12:00 noon
A spoken service of Holy Eucharist in the High Street Chapel.
“I was glad when they said to me, let us go to the house of the Lord.” Psalm 122:1
What to Expect
Worship is at the heart of life at St. Paul’s. On Sunday mornings, we gather to hear scripture, sing hymns, pray together, and share Holy Communion.
Our worship follows the Episcopal tradition and is guided by the Book of Common Prayer. When you arrive, you will receive a printed bulletin that walks you through the service step by step.
You do not need to know exactly what to do. You are welcome to stand, sit, sing, pray, listen, or simply be present. If you feel lost at first, do not worry. Your presence is enough.
Children and Families
Children are welcome in worship at St. Paul’s. We know that children wiggle, whisper, ask questions, and sometimes need a break. That is part of being a worshiping community.
A staffed nursery is available on Sundays from 9:30 am to 11:30 am for families who would like to use it.
Children’s activity bags are also available for children to use during worship. Ask an usher or greeter when you arrive, and they will be glad to help.
Families are welcome to keep children with them in worship. During Holy Communion, children may come forward with their family, but they are not required to come forward or receive. You are welcome to do what feels right for your family.
Children are not a distraction from worship. They are part of the life of the church.
Holy Communion
The central act of our Sunday worship is Holy Eucharist, also called Communion. We gather at the altar to remember Jesus’s self-giving love and to be strengthened for lives of faith, hope, and love.
If you are baptized, you are welcome to receive Communion. If you prefer not to receive, you may come forward for a blessing or remain seated. Children may come forward with their family, but they are not required to come forward or receive.
Do I need to be Episcopalian?
No. Visitors from many backgrounds worship with us. You are welcome here.
Will I know what to do?
The bulletin guides the service, and people around you will be glad to help.
What should I wear?
Come as you are. You will see people dressed in a range of styles.
Getting Here
St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral is located in downtown Des Moines at:
815 High Street
Des Moines, IA 50309
On Sundays, parking is available in the lot behind the building, and street parking is free. The parking lot is north of the Cathedral and can be accessed from Pleasant Street.
If you are coming for worship and are able to use stairs, you may enter from the 9th Street entrance or the stairs on High Street.
If you need to avoid stairs, park in the north-side parking lot and use the office door under the awning. This door has a level entryway. Follow the long hallway and turn right to access the sanctuary.
Get DirectionsComing on a Weekday?
Some parking spaces are always available for St. Paul’s members and visitors. These include the spaces on the bricks closest to the building and the two marked Reserved. During the workday, much of the parking lot is rented from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. If the lot is not busy, you may use other spaces as needed.
For weekday office visits, enter from the north-side parking lot and ring the bell.
Common Questions
A few things visitors often wonder before coming to St. Paul’s.
Am I welcome?
Yes. Wherever you are on your spiritual journey, there is a place for you at St. Paul’s.
How long is the service?
The 8:00 am service is usually shorter and simpler. The 10:00 am service includes choir and more music.
Is there a nursery?
Yes. A staffed nursery is available on Sundays from 9:30 am to 11:30 am.
Are there activities for children?
Yes. Children’s activity bags are available for children to use during worship.
What is the music like?
Music is an important part of worship at St. Paul’s, especially at the 10:00 am service. You will hear organ music, hymns, and choral music that help lead the congregation in prayer.
Can I come if I am not sure what I believe?
Yes. You do not need to have everything figured out to worship, listen, pray, or explore faith with us.
We Would Be Glad to Welcome You
Visiting a new church can be a big step. Come as you are, sit where you are comfortable, and know that there is a place for you at St. Paul’s.