St John's Episcopal Church

About this church

St. John’s Episcopal Church in downtown Decatur offers two Sunday celebrations of Holy Eucharist. The 8:00 a.m. Rite I service uses traditional language, has no music, and lasts about thirty-five minutes. The 10:00 a.m. Rite II service lasts roughly an hour and includes a choral Mass with organ, piano, and occasionally other instruments. That contrast gives newcomers a clear choice between a quiet, compact liturgy and a fuller musical service. The church’s home page and worship page publish the current Sunday and seasonal liturgical information.

St. John’s has been intertwined with Decatur since the 1850s. Episcopalians first met in homes, then petitioned the Bishop of Illinois in September 1855 to form the city’s first Protestant Episcopal parish. As the parish and community grew, architect Henry F. Starbuck was engaged to design a larger church. Today the congregation presents itself as a welcome for residents, out-of-town visitors, and people seeking a new church home. This is a particularly useful option for someone comparing traditional Anglican liturgy by service length, language, and music before attending. St. John’s is at 130 West Eldorado Street; consult the current calendar for feast days or other changes to the regular two-service schedule.

Researched from the church’s official website and reviewed August 24, 2026. Sources: Official website and current Sunday liturgy · Service times, rites, music, and approximate length · Visitor welcome · Parish history since 1855

Service times

Confirm current times directly with the church before visiting.

Location