ABOUT US
All Are Welcome. No Exceptions.
St. Bede's Episcopal Church is a community of imperfect people working to be who God calls us to be while helping each other along the way. We practice radical welcome, believing that the body of Christ is not fully realized without the presence of all people. We celebrate folks of all gender identities and sexual orientations as God's beloved.
We have the gift of intergenerational community, actively valuing and engaging each generation's gifts and needs. We cherish the spiritual wisdom and depth of our elders and the energizing curiosity of our youth. We recognize that being part of an intergenerational community requires us to exercise grace, patience and nurturing love.
You'll find all kinds of people here—folks who grew up Episcopalian, those who come from other faith traditions, people brand new to church, and others who have a complicated or painful history with church. We come together in our diversity as the full Body of Christ.
There's ALWAYS room for you! Wherever you are on your spiritual journey, you're welcome here at St. Bede's, just as you are.
Our Mission
To proclaim in word and action the love of God for all people, and respond to the world's need through loving service in Christ's name.
Meet Reverend Jennifer
I began my ministry at St. Bede's in February 2023. What drew me to this parish was the caring community, meaningful worship and expansive welcome. Prior to arriving at St. Bede's, I served in congregations in Inglewood, Westchester, and Santa Monica. It is a gift to grow in faith alongside others in their moments of joy, grief, and change, and to work together in making the world a more just place for everyone.
I share life with my two daughters and several rescued pets. I love to garden, watch movies, feed backyard wildlife, and share home-cooked meals with friends.
First Time Here? You're in Good Company
Whether you're church-shopping, curious about faith, or just happened to stumble upon us—welcome. We're glad you're here, and there's absolutely no pressure to be anything other than yourself.
At St. Bede's, we believe everyone belongs, full stop. Seekers, doubters and committed believers all have a place at the table.
Who Are We?
We're part of the Episcopal Church, which means we follow the teachings of Jesus while embracing questions, doubts, and different perspectives. We're all about love, justice, and treating every person with dignity. Think progressive values meets ancient traditions—it's a pretty good combo.
If you want to dive deeper into what Episcopalians are all about, here are a few links to check out:
Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles
What Should I Expect on Sunday?
We have two worship services to choose from:
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8AM: An intimate and contemplative service with a sermon and the celebration of Holy Eucharist (sometimes referred to as Mass or Communion) but has no music. This service typically runs about 45-55 minutes
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10AM: A vibrant service with music, including choral and congregational singing, piano, and pipe organ. The 10AM includes a sermon and the celebration of Holy Eucharist and runs about 70-85 minutes.
The Book of Common Prayer guides worship in the Episcopal Church and we follow the Revised Common Lectionary for our Biblical readings.
First Visit Logistics
When you arrive:
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Fill out a visitor card (they're on the Welcome Signboard by the main door, or ask an usher)
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Introduce yourself to Rev. Jennifer—she'd love to meet you
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Don't stress about not knowing what to do; everyone's been there
About Communion
We share communion (also called Holy Eucharist or just "the Eucharist") at both services. Everyone's invited to participate, whether you want to receive communion or just get a blessing.
If you want communion:
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Grab a personal chalice from the table if you'd like (totally optional)
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Hold your hands out for the bread and say "Amen" when you receive it
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The bread is vegan, and we have gluten-free options—just ask
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Wine is offered in your personal cup or from a shared chalice, your choice
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Eat and drink before you leave the altar area
Just want a blessing instead? Cross your arms over your chest in an X-shape when you come forward, and the priest will offer you a prayer.
Please inform an usher if you would like Communion brought to you where you are seated. If you have any questions or concerns during the service, please speak to an usher or your fellow congregants.
What Should I Wear?
Whatever makes you comfortable! You'll see everything from suits to jeans, and it's all good. Just show up as you are. All that matters is that you are here with us.
Got Kids?
Children of all ages are always welcomed at St. Bede's!
God blessed children with the ability to wiggle! The joyous sounds, movements, and curiosity of kids are gifts from God. Please do not feel you have to subdue those joys in God's house. We want God's children to be comfortable and experience the joyfulness of worship.
During the celebration of Eucharist, children are welcome to move up to the altar or stand on the seat to see what is going on. We also have activity bags at the entrance to help little ones stay engaged.
For younger children, there is a play table with books in the Little Love Library and quiet activities in the sanctuary.
Want More Than Sunday?
We have a Wednesday evening service at 7pm—it's more contemplative and often followed by discussion groups or educational series. We also have a number of events and service opportunities to get involved. Check our calendar to see what's happening.
Thinking About Making This Home?
No rush, but if you're feeling like St. Bede's might be your place, here's how it works:
We say you can belong before you believe—so jump into worship, events, and community however feels right. Eventually, we'd love you to fill out a New Member Profile so we can get to know you better and support you.
Rev. Jennifer likes to grab coffee with new folks in their first month (it's casual, promise), and we have quarterly newcomer lunches where you can meet other new people and church leaders.
Baptism is encouraged at some point if you haven't been baptized elsewhere, but it's not required to be fully part of our community.
Finding Us
We're right on the corner of Grand View Blvd. and Charnock Road in Mar Vista, about two blocks north of Venice Blvd. Easy access from the 10, 405, and 90 freeways.
Parking: Yes, we have our own lot plus plenty of free street parking. We also have accessible spots in our lot, because accessibility matters.
Pro tip: Hit up the Mar Vista Farmers' Market after the 10AM service (Sundays 9AM-2PM at Grand View and Venice). Great way to ease into your Sunday.
Questions?
Ask anyone. Our ushers, vestry members, fellow congregants, Rev. Jennifer—we're all happy to help you figure things out. There are no stupid questions, and we remember what it felt like to be new too.
Looking forward to meeting you!