I’m New:
A Visitor’s Guide:
Faith isn’t a product. It’s a shared practice over time.
The notes below offer a window into our worship, our tradition, and the space we’re creating together in Round Top.
What Should I Expect at a Worship Service?
We gather each Sunday at 8:45 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. at the historic Haw Creek Chapel in Henkel Square in the heart of Round Top. As we attract such a diversity of worshippers from every tradition (and none) our services are typically informal and inclusive so that, whatever your background, you will find something familiar. In each service you will experience the traditional Episcopal worship pattern with scripture readings, prayers, a sermon by Father Bill or a guest preacher, and a thoughtful blend of music - all centered on sharing Holy Communion together. Our musical style is celebratory and diverse, ranging from traditional hymns to contemporary pieces, as well as carefully chosen popular songs from every music category. An extraordinary team of musicians lead our music including Joey McGee, Stephen Mansolo, Anna La Mare, Sara Hickman, David Pulkingham, and a host of musical guests from all over the world. Our services typically last just over an hour. Afterward, many of us linger for coffee and conversation on the porch or in the square. Often, there will be a special presentation or class between the services at 10:00, helping us grow in our faith.
The chapel is an intimate space, seating about 70 people, and you are welcome to come exactly as you are. We often welcome our four-pawed friends as well!
What Is the Episcopal Church?
Saint Cecilia’s is part of The Episcopal Church, which belongs to the worldwide Anglican Communion, a global family of churches rooted in the Church of England. There are roughly 100 million Anglicans around the world, with vibrant communities on every continent, including Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
Our tradition brings together scripture, tradition, reason, and lived experience as sources of theological reflection. This approach reflects a historic Anglican commitment to thoughtful faith rather than rigid certainty.
Some describe Anglican spirituality as having a Celtic sensibility. It carries a reverence for beauty, for the natural world, and for the creative life of the human spirit. Anglican worship ranges from simple and intimate to highly formal and ceremonial. If you have ever watched a royal wedding from the United Kingdom, you have seen a formal expression of Anglican worship.
At its heart, our tradition seeks to hold together intellectual integrity, sacramental depth, and a generous understanding of God’s love.
Click the video below to find out more.
What People Are Saying
You can't find this kind of love anywhere else!"
Recent first-time visitor
Such a wonderful service. From the wise and fun Father Bill to the amazing musicians to the welcoming congregation, this is what church should be! Sally Ross Duncan
Amazing service! Music was out of this world! We are so BLESSED by St Cecilia's!!! Thank you Jesus!
Dena Wren Mumford
What a beautiful day! Never have I ever been so excited about CHURCH! Kacey White
A very beautiful, heart warming service. Thank you Father Bill, the many musicians and all the ambassadors and church members for all the work to orchestrate such a beautiful event on such a special day. It is appreciated and a blessing.
Gina Hillock
"I tune in from South Africa each week! So inspiring!"
Sandra Gerber
Discovery Day
Typically three Saturdays each year, often in the summer, we offer a New Members Discovery Day in the chapel led by Father Bill from 9-3. During Discovery Day we discuss Worship, Our Celtic Roots, Your Spiritual Life, the Saint Cecilia's story and much more. There are two books to read before Discovery Day, available at the Information Table on Sunday. When the Bishop visits (usually only once each year) those who have attended the class will have the option of being baptized, confirmed, received or to do a re-affirmation of faith.
Is Anything Expected of Me?
Many people approach church cautiously, often because of past experiences with forms of religion that felt rigid, judgmental, or dismissive of honest questions.
That is not the spirit we seek to embody.
Nothing is required of you beyond your presence. You are free to participate fully, to observe quietly, or simply to listen. We welcome questions. We honor doubt. We believe spiritual growth unfolds over time, not through pressure.
Our hope is simple: that you would find a community shaped by authenticity, curiosity, and love, and that you would feel supported wherever you are on your spiritual path.
Where Do I Park?
Henkel Square is served by several parking areas. The largest lot is behind the Round Top Antiques & Design Center near Kemo Sabe.
What Is Haw Creek Chapel?
Haw Creek Chapel is a restored nineteenth-century church building originally constructed in 1872 as the Haw Creek Lutheran Church in a nearby rural community. It also served at various times as a school and community gathering space.
The building was relocated to Henkel Square in the 1960s and has recently been carefully refurbished. In recent years it has functioned as a wedding venue, the Round Top Chamber of Commerce office, and the Visitors Center. It now serves as the home of Saint Cecilia’s.
The chapel seats approximately seventy people and features a restored pipe organ, preserving both its architectural and musical heritage.
