Frequently Asked Questions
Who is invited?
Houston Canterbury embraces a campus-centered and student-focused community, making it a welcoming space for students and individuals of college-age from all backgrounds. However, we extend our warm invitation to a broader spectrum of individuals, including friends, parents, community members, faculty, staff, neighbors, church members, first-time churchgoers, and people from all walks of life. We wholeheartedly invite everyone to join us in celebrating, worshiping, and actively participating in this inclusive community. We take pride in our commitment to welcoming individuals of EVERY gender, identity, orientation, race, class, status, and beyond.
What should I wear?
You are encouraged to wear whatever you feel most comfortable in! Houston Canterbury embraces a "come as you are" philosophy, and we genuinely mean it. Whether you prefer shorts and a tee-shirt, pajamas, jeans, dresses, ties, or even a tutu, all attire choices are more than acceptable within our community. Our primary focus is on creating an environment where you can be comfortable and happy in your relationship with God. We also value and respect individual expressions of gender identity, personal style, and comfort levels.
What can you expect when you visit?
When you join us for any of our diverse events, held at various locations on and near our campuses, there are a few things you can consistently anticipate.
The embracing love of Jesus - Our faith guides us to extend a loving welcome to all, without judgment or exclusion. Irrespective of your background, origin, attire, love interest, or beliefs, we are genuinely delighted to have you here. This is a place where Jesus' love resides, and everyone is joyfully and equally invited.
The presence of free food - Almost always, you can count on finding delicious, complimentary meals at our gatherings. Whether it's Wednesday Lunch Church at AD Bruce, Thursday Conversations on the Couch, Sunday Worship/Bible Study, or Game Night, we take pleasure in nourishing people, much like Jesus did. Even our service events, like those at Manna House food pantry, aim to provide free meals to those in need in our local community.
Opportunities to meet new people and expand your knowledge - Our continuous effort revolves around fostering deeper connections with God and one another. By joining any of our events, you are guaranteed to gain fresh insights about God and the individuals around you. If you're shy or reserved, there's no need to worry! We never impose any pressure to speak publicly, allowing you to participate as much or as little as you feel comfortable with.
A fun and joyful experience - At Houston Canterbury, we hold the Gospel in high regard while embracing a lighthearted approach. Laughter, gratitude, and celebration of God's love are integral parts of our gatherings. During your visit, you might even come across our Lego Last Supper and Lego Noah's Ark at AD Bruce!
What about parking and public transit?
As our events may be hosted at various locations, the parking arrangements can vary. However, in most cases, convenient parking options are available, and public transportation is typically within a few blocks' walking distance.
AD Bruce Religion Center at UH: If you’re driving from off-campus, there is paid parking in the garage above the UH Welcome Center at 4400 University Drive. You’ll want to walk to AD Bruce using the directions here.
St. Luke the Evangelist: On Sundays you may park for free in the church lot at 3029 Rosewood Street. **Please do not park there on other days unless you have called (713) 748-5974 and received authorization from the Church Administrator.
The Nook Cafe: Free parking is available in the lot next to The Nook at 4701 Martin Luther King Blvd.
Manna House Food Pantry: There is free parking available in front of the building at 3118 Blodgett St. on the left-hand side as you enter from the street.
If you’re using public transportation, the 025 & 054 bus lines and the Red Line Metro Rail will take you close to any of the facilities where we meet. We encourage you to plan your trip on https://maps.google.com/ if you are using public transit.
What if I have specific dietary concerns?
We strive to ensure that all of our meals and gatherings are as inclusive as possible, accommodating various dietary needs such as gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian options. For Communion, we provide non-alcoholic wine and have gluten-free bread available upon request. If you require gluten-free options, simply inform Rev. Charles or Rev. Morgan when you attend a service. If you have other dietary concerns, please email Rev. Charles and let him know the specific food accommodations you require for the upcoming events. We will do our utmost to accommodate your needs.
Are the buildings accessible for individuals with physical disabilities?
While we do not own the buildings in which we gather, we make every effort to ensure accessibility at all times.
AD Bruce Religion Center and The Nook Cafe are accessible spaces with ADA-compliant bathrooms and elevators as needed. St. Luke the Evangelist provides wheelchair accessibility on its ground floor, including the sanctuary and parish hall, along with ADA-compliant bathrooms. Unfortunately, Manna House is not currently wheelchair accessible due to its limited physical space.
What about accommodations such as ASL interpretation?
If there are any accommodations that would facilitate your participation, please notify us at least 24 hours in advance, if possible. This may include ASL interpretation for Sunday services or other events, language translation for Spanish or other languages, or any other support that we are capable of providing. Kindly email Rev. Charles and inform him of the specific accommodations you require for the particular events.