Frequently Asked Questions
With which Presbyterian group is Westminster connected?
Westminster is a member congregation of The Presbyterian Church (USA) and the Presbytery of the James. Our congregation actively supports ecumenical movements.
Where is Westminster located?
Westminster is at 400 Rugby Road, one long block north of the Rotunda at the University of Virginia. The church is just beyond Beta Bridge, the railroad bridge that students paint and repaint with graffiti.
Where is parking located?
There are 90 parking spaces in the church lots, most of them in the lot bordering 17th Street. There are two handicapped spaces near the rear entrance to fellowship hall. In addition, the U-shaped front driveway off Rugby Road contains two handicapped parking spaces and seven spaces reserved for those with limited mobility.
On Sundays, extra parking may be found in the following nearby locations:
On Lambeth Lane, a one-way street across Rugby Road from the church between Beta Bridge and Gordon Avenue. Parking in the A10 permit areas is unrestricted on weekends.
In the parking lot of Gordon Avenue Library, 1500 Gordon Avenue, except during library events such as the book sales and the festival of the books.
In the Culbreth Road Parking Garage, which is down Culbreth Road from the Beta Bridge. Parking is unrestricted on Sundays except when reserved for special UVA events, in which case there will be signs posted at the garage.
What are the times for worship services?
Our Sunday worship service is at 10:30 a.m. on most Sundays. Be sure to check the church calendar for the full schedule here.
Is childcare provided during worship?
Yes. Childcare is provided by our paid staff. There is a nursery for infants up through age two. Children three and up are encouraged to attend worship with their parents through the "Time with Children and Youth.” After that, children ages three to eight years old may participate in Worship Playgroup if they desire, which is staffed by a combination of paid staff and volunteers. Babies and children of any age are also always welcome in worship.
Who may be baptized or married at Westminster?
Adults and children who are active in church or wish to join the church may be baptized.
Normally, only active members of the worshiping community may be married at Westminster. Contact the church for printed information concerning these ceremonies, or speak with one of the pastors.
Who may receive communion at Westminster?
When Presbyterians celebrate the Lord’s Supper, all who are present, of whatever denomination, are invited to partake, along with children of any age who have been baptized.
How are children included in worship at Westminster?
Each fall, first graders participate in Welcome to Worship, a class to prepare them to attend worship regularly with their parents. Throughout the year, the worship service includes children through a the Time with Children and Youth, singing, reading Scripture on Youth Sunday or at Lessons and Carols, and taking part in the summer musical.
What do I wear?
Our church does not have a dress code. Dress ranges from casual to “Sunday best.”
What about university students?
Students, undergrads and grads alike, are one of the main reasons our church was established. We welcome students to worship service and all other aspects of church life. We also offer many programs and activities for students. Learn more about UKirk@UVA here.
Our sanctuary is wheelchair-accessible from the U-shaped parking area off Rugby Road. Use the arcade entrance opposite the sanctuary. Fellowship hall and the church school classrooms are wheelchair-accessible from the same parking area through the arcade entrance.
How can I meet people?
Come to coffee hour in the gathering place in fellowship hall after the Sunday worship service for conversation and refreshments. Anyone will be happy to escort you from the sanctuary and introduce you to others. You might also attend an adult education class that begins at 9 a.m.; advance registration is not required. Joining a group like Fellowship on Tap, the Tuesday Bible study, or a choir are all great ways to meet people.
Who may use meeting facilities at Westminster?
Nonprofit groups may use Westminster for meeting space, if the church schedule allows. A modest contribution toward facility maintenance is requested.
When is the Westminster church office open?
The church office is open Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Friday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
What if I need Help?
Ask an usher, pastor, staff member, or anyone you see. We all strive to be helpful!