The little red church
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St. Mary's-by-the-Sea Episcopal Church

4.7
·43 reviews·Pacific Grove, United States

A magical Episcopal church in Bridgeport, CT, known for its stunning architecture, vibrant arts scene, and deeply welcoming 'All are welcome' spirit.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

During special events

Experience unique cultural and spiritual events.

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The little red church

St. Mary's-by-the-Sea Episcopal Church

Best Time

During special events

Experience unique cultural and spiritual events.

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A magical Episcopal church in Bridgeport, CT, known for its stunning architecture, vibrant arts scene, and deeply welcoming 'All are welcome' spirit.

4.7
(43 reviews)

"A magical place to enjoy music, art and history! We were there for a Celtic Christmas event that was deeply moving."

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TIP

🎯 Embrace the Welcome

Feel the genuine warmth and inclusivity; all are truly welcome here.

🎶 Check Event Schedule

Don't miss out on music, art, and historical events like Celtic Christmas!

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stunning Architecture

Stunning Architecture

Admire the beautiful building and its intricate details, a visual feast for any visitor.

Vibrant Community Events

Vibrant Community Events

Experience moving performances like Celtic Christmas and feel the church's lively spirit.

Welcoming Congregation

Welcoming Congregation

Feel the genuine love and care from everyone, from greeters to fellow attendees.

Beautiful Stained-Glass Windows

Beautiful Stained-Glass Windows

Be captivated by the gorgeous windows that add immense beauty and depth to the space.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Welcome

St. Mary's-by-the-Sea is known for its warm 'All are welcome' spirit. Visitors often highlight the genuine love and care from both staff and congregation, making it a comforting place for spiritual and intellectual engagement. Reddit

Experience the Arts & History

Beyond its spiritual offerings, this church is a hub for music, art, and history. Events like Celtic Christmas showcase its vibrant cultural role. The architecture and stained-glass windows are frequently praised for enhancing the overall experience. Reddit

Best Times

When
During special events
Why
Experience unique cultural and spiritual events.
Crowd
Medium
When
Sunday mornings
Why
Witness the vibrant community and choir.
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Beautiful Saint Mary’s by the Sea here in good old Bridgeport, Connecticut. #bridgeportct #tiktok #bythesea
@gabbalicious_1
1.4K likes • 59.5K views

🎯 Embrace the Welcome

Feel the genuine warmth and inclusivity; all are truly welcome here. Reddit

🎶 Check Event Schedule

Don't miss out on music, art, and historical events like Celtic Christmas! Reddit

Join us at St. Mary's by-the-Sea Episcopal Church for Holy Week.
stmaryspg
2 likes • 58 views

☕ Courtyard Coffee Hour

Join post-service gatherings for conversation and community. Reddit

✨ Admire the Architecture

Take time to appreciate the gorgeous windows and building details. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Embrace the Welcome

Feel the genuine warmth and inclusivity; all are truly welcome here. Reddit

🎶 Check Event Schedule

Don't miss out on music, art, and historical events like Celtic Christmas! Reddit

☕ Courtyard Coffee Hour

Join post-service gatherings for conversation and community. Reddit

✨ Admire the Architecture

Take time to appreciate the gorgeous windows and building details. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(43 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise St. Mary's-by-the-Sea for its magical atmosphere, stunning architecture, and deeply welcoming community. The church is a hub for both spiritual nourishment and cultural events, with many highlighting the genuine care shown by congregants and staff. While the focus is on spiritual and artistic enrichment, some mention specific closing times for certain services.

"A magical place to enjoy music, art and history! We were there for a Celtic Christmas event that was deeply moving. The gorgeous windows and architecture added so much to the experience."

Leigh Fitz

"“All are welcome”
… and we felt welcomed indeed. Each person who greeted us before the service helped us with our toddler and his needs. The people in the congregation expressed genuine love and care.
The service itself featured traditional liturgy & their lovely choir enhanced the worship. The sermons we have heard here have been comforting, challenging and enlightening, helping our spiritual and intellectual needs.
Following the service many gathered in the courtyard for coffee. There we were able to share conversation, getting to know others in the community
and discuss the Biblical readings of the day."

Lauree Riggin

"Really cool looking place"

Grigoriy Dubyago

What People Like

Magical atmosphere
Stunning architecture
Genuine welcome

What People Dislike

Specific closing times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

St. Mary's-by-the-Sea is located in Bridgeport, Connecticut. While specific public transport details aren't widely shared, driving is a common method. Parking availability can vary, especially during popular events. TikTok

Parking information is not extensively detailed online, but it's advisable to arrive a bit early, especially for services or events, to secure a spot. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General visits to admire the architecture are usually free. However, special events like concerts or holiday celebrations may require tickets or donations. TikTok

While services are held regularly, specific hours for general visiting are not always published. It's best to check their schedule for events or contact them directly for visiting times. Instagram

The church emphasizes an 'All are welcome' policy, and staff are noted for being helpful with needs, including those of families with young children. Reddit

🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience

Visitors describe the atmosphere as magical, deeply moving, and filled with genuine love and care. It's a place that nurtures spiritual and intellectual needs. Reddit

The church offers traditional liturgy, enhanced by a lovely choir. Sermons are noted for being comforting, challenging, and enlightening. Reddit

Yes, the church is active in social concerns, providing food bags and assistance. They also host community gatherings, like coffee hour in the courtyard after services. Reddit

Absolutely. The church's motto is 'All are welcome,' and visitors frequently comment on feeling welcomed and embraced by the congregation. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

While not explicitly stated, it's generally respectful to refrain from flash photography during services or events. Capturing the architecture and stained glass during quieter times is usually acceptable. TikTok

The stained-glass windows and the overall architecture are prime subjects. The courtyard can also offer charming photo opportunities, especially during events. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

St. Mary's-by-the-Sea is exceptionally family-friendly, with a strong 'All are welcome' ethos. Visitors have noted how the staff and congregation are incredibly helpful with the needs of young children, making it a comfortable environment for families. Reddit The church's welcoming atmosphere ensures that parents can focus on the spiritual and cultural experience without added stress. Consider attending a service or a community event where the warmth of the congregation can be fully experienced. Reddit

🎶 Art and Music Lovers

For those who appreciate the arts, St. Mary's-by-the-Sea is a must-visit. The church frequently hosts music and art events, with the Celtic Christmas celebration being a standout example of its cultural programming. Reddit The lovely choir also provides a high-quality musical experience during services. Beyond performances, the stunning architecture and gorgeous windows offer a feast for the eyes, making it a place where artistic appreciation is woven into the very fabric of the experience. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architectural Splendor

St. Mary's-by-the-Sea Episcopal Church is celebrated not just for its spiritual significance but also for its stunning architecture. Visitors consistently rave about the gorgeous windows and the overall aesthetic of the building, which significantly enhances the experience. Reddit The intricate details and design create a visually captivating environment that appeals to art and history enthusiasts alike. TikTok

Whether you're attending a service or a special event, taking a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship and beauty of the church's structure is highly recommended. The interplay of light through the stained glass is particularly noteworthy, adding a magical quality to the interior. Reddit

A Hub for Community and Arts

This church is more than just a place of worship; it's a vibrant community center that embraces arts and culture. Events like the Celtic Christmas are frequently mentioned as deeply moving experiences, showcasing the church's role in fostering local arts. Reddit The lovely choir also contributes significantly to the worship services, adding a rich auditory dimension. TikTok

The church actively engages in social concerns, providing essential support like food bags to those in need, demonstrating a strong commitment to its community. Reddit Following services, the courtyard coffee hour offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with others, share conversations, and discuss the day's readings, reinforcing the church's welcoming and inclusive ethos. Reddit

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