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 11 a.m. on most Sundays during the academic year, and at 10 a.m. during the summer. Be sure to check the church calendar for the full schedule here.
Is childcare provided during worship?
Yes. Nursery care is provided by paid staff for children from infancy to first grade. Beyond that age, children are encouraged to attend worship with their parents.
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 baptized Christians present, of whatever denomination, are invited to partake, along with children of any age who have been baptized.
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.
How are children included in worship at Westminster?
Each fall, first graders participate in a worship education class to prepare them to attend worship regularly with their parents. This class occurs once a month during the church school hour from 9:30 to 10:40 a.m. Throughout the year, the worship service includes children through children’s moments and special liturgical celebrations.
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 9:30 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.
What if I need Help?
Ask an usher, pastor, staff member, or anyone you see. We all strive to be helpful!