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Our Church

 

St. Raphael's parish was founded in 1959, by a group of Episcopalians meeting for worship and fellowship in their own homes in Security, Colorado. Security was beginning its transition from farm community to Colorado Springs suburb, and there was no Episcopal church nearby.

Fred Sproul, Jr., a member of the original congregation and the developer of the Security subdivision, donated land where the church now stands, and construction on the parish hall began in 1960. Worship was held in the parish hall until 1967, when the current church was dedicated. The Rev. Halliwell Duell was the first rector, and served from his arrival in 1959 until 1974. Seven priests, both men and women, have served as rector since the parish's founding in 1959. Our current rector is Fr. David Koskela, who joined St. Raphael's in October, 2000.
 

 

The church design is contemporary and seats 300. The tile mosaic behind the altar is 25 feet high, and was designed by Fr. Duell, the church's first rector. In keeping with the community's Anglo-Catholic orientation, the church includes the Stations of the Cross, and a side altar to Mary, the Mother of God.

The oak baptismal font is located in the center aisle just before the altar rail, and was crafted by a member of the congregation. Baptisms are performed at Sunday liturgies before the entire congregation, who witness the entry of new Christians into the Faith.

The sacrament of Holy Communion is taken in both kinds, kneeling at the altar rail. All baptized Christians are invited to share the Lord's Supper with us!

 

 

St. Raphael's choir loft is graced with a genuine pipe organ. Our Rite II service at 10:30 AM Sunday includes music by the organ and the parish choir. Music Director Judy Westcott plays the organ and directs the choir.
 

 

 Immediately after our 10:30 AM Sunday service, we adjourn to the Parish Hall for coffee, snacks, and fellowship.


 
In addition to the Parish Hall, St. Raphael's facilities include a Parish Library (shown at left), a nursery and classrooms. Child care is available in the nursery from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM on Sundays.