OK. I have never done anything like this before but we were so fascinated we just couldn't help…read moreourselves. We actually did the High Mass at 10am Sunday morning. I'd only been to one other Episcopalian high mass but that one paled next to this. I was looking for all the traditional bells and smells and you surely get that here. The most attractive part of this experience is the pipe organ and the singer. If you get there early you can take in a good 1/2 hour of it before the service. The sermon itself was parable that Jesus spoke about the 2 men praying, one humbling himself before God, the other, well, he was kind of jerk when being thankful he wasn't like everybody else. You know. All those other sinner types, of which he was not one. This guy thought he was the exception so we are left with who to consider has God's favor. It was nice. I am neither Catholic nor Anglican and after this I'm kind of thankful for that. Though fascinating, The High Mass was 1 hour 45 minutes of the most boring stand-up, sit down, kneel now, ritual I've ever laid eyes on or heard before. Best parts: Pipe organ; singer; the incense wafting through the church, the ritual; it was an incredible gothic-like church with all the opulence one would expect, another reason to check it out. i wonder if they would let me photograph it. Worst parts: Boring; long; terrible hymns. So terrible in fact, that if you didn't know them there was no way you could sing them. I guess High Mass is something you reserve for occasion, not every week. Would I do it again? Maybe.

I've never reviewed a church before: But they were on Yelp. Here goes:…read more This a nice, friendly, very traditional Anglican parish. I live in the neighborhood and was looking for someway to branch out-spiritually. I just showed up to a High Mass at 10am----love that time, sleeping in is obligatory on a Sunday. As one parishioner stated, "if you like the smells and the bells"- You get that here. The church is beautiful. Refreshments and fellowship afterwards. Thank you for making me feel welcome.

My husband and I truly love Door of Hope. We live in California, but whenever we visit our son in…read morePortland, attending a service here is always a priority. When we're home we tune into the live service on Facebook every Sunday, and we've done all of their online studies. I've even had the privilege of attending a women's retreat. Without hesitation I believe that their main goal is to share the good news of Jesus. Josh, the pastor, is easily one of the most well-read and knowledgeable teachers I've ever come across. He has an incredible gift for taking deep, complex theological concepts and explaining them in a way that is clear, practical, and easy to understand. His book, Stumbling Toward Eternity, had a profound and lasting impact on me and am using it as a study guide now. We also deeply appreciate the worship music. It's authentic, grounded, and refreshingly devoid of showmanship...no glass drum boxes here, just simple, powerful songs focused entirely on meeting with Jesus and worshipping Him. Door of Hope and Josh's teaching have played a massive role in growing our understanding of the Word and deepening our faith. We highly recommend this church to anyone seeking sound, truth-centered teaching.

Not a family friendly church…read more "There's a place downstairs for your crying baby. That's just too much." Those were the words that Josh the pastor said to us from ON STAGE in front of everyone during his sermon as my wife and I were trying to calm down our crying baby (go watch the livestream - it's recorded). Our daughter was crying for about 5-10 seconds and we were trying to figure out how to get out from the middle of our pew to take her outside, but Josh's comment was completely embarrassing and unacceptable. Jesus said "let the children come to me." Door of Hope said "your kids are too much". Very unfortunate.

We visited this church today at 10:30AM. We went early 10am. We got good seats. The people are very…read morefriendly. The word and the worship were both so good!! Multi-Cultural, spirit-filled and full of God's love! Pastor Andrew was the speaker. The building is very beautiful also.

Although I had heard good things about this church, unfortunately, my personal experience was not a…read morepositive one. I attended with a close friend a few years ago, and while we were there, we became friends with another girl and naturally formed a close circle. We were always kind and acknowledged the other girls who attended, but when we tried to engage in conversation, it was often met with awkwardness or little effort in return. Despite that, the pastor's wife referred to us as "bitchy" and "cliquey," along with making other unkind comments toward us. I found the way the situation was handled to be extremely unprofessional and inappropriate, especially coming from someone in a leadership position within the church. I understand that others may have had positive experiences here, but unfortunately, this interaction left me with a very negative impression of the environment.

I like it - it's not perfect, but it's good and getting better, in my opinion. I can't compare it…read moreto many other churches because there's not a lot of churches out there for atheist pagans for obvious reasons. But that does mean I can say, from personal experience, that they really are sincere about welcoming people of any faith. While it welcomes Christians as much as any other and Unitarian Universalism did spring from Protestant Christianity originally, it's very much its own thing. Congregation-wise, yes, it is absolutely an aging white boomer church; I am probably thirty years younger than the average and I am not young. However, one thing I will say is that within the year I've been (admittedly somewhat irregularly) attending, which happened to coincide with the investiture of a new minister who I greatly respect, I have seen noticeable improvements about working to attract new people and retain them, and I feel like I'm starting to see the results of that in a few more younger people and maybe a few more people of color? They are definitely conscious of it and they are working to not just be that, but also yes, they are still that. It is sincere in its progressiveness and does a lot of real work in that regard. Entirely LGBTQ friendly, probably not as good at being POC-friendly just because I'm pretty sure there's a lot fewer people who aren't white in the congregation than there are people who aren't straight and in the end there's only so much well-meaning people can do without the affected population there to give them feedback, but certainly intends well. Services, eh. I think they give very, very good sermons. Regardless of which minister, I have never not liked their sermon. The music program does seem like it would be very rewarding to be a member of - they have multiple thriving choirs they are very proud of, and there are clearly many people there who absolutely love the music there - but frankly I'd be happier if they cut it short. But this is very much a personal taste thing, and it just is not particularly my taste. Community-wise, you're simply not going to make long term relationships with people just by showing up to service every week; it's too big a church. They have a huge number of programs running for people to join, and they're what you have to join to make community within the church. There is a weekly newsletter, and you pretty much have to keep an eye on that for the things that you want to be involved in. I know they're working on redesigning the website to be more user-friendly, so hopefully eventually it will be a little less extremely dependent on you getting a giant email once a week and carefully reading it for the sub-groups relevant to you, but right now if you want to get involved in this church I would strongly recommend that you do precisely that. Like most things, what you get out of it is dependent on what you put into it. But it is a good place to put the effort into it.

Soon after my son moved to the Rose City from the East Bay, I asked him what he liked about…read morePortland. His first and immediate answer was "No Blacks!" That unexpected answer was entirely inappropriate and I immediate told him so. His mother was glad that I corrected him, but added that she frankly echoed his sentiment. That conversation came to mind as Gayle and I attended a service last Sunday at the First Unitarian Church of Portland. My son's mother mentioned that this Congregation is perhaps the biggest Unitarian one in the World, and I don't doubt it. The Church grounds take up almost an entire city block and their Elliot Chapel is perhaps larger than most main sanctuaries that I've previously visited. And there's lots of people, progressive programs, and at least 3 Ministers to match. But you would think that a Church with so much going for it in terms of diversity and social action wouldn't be so overwhelmingly (~98%?) Caucasian. Perhaps their new Senior Minister (Rev. Bill Sinkford), the African-American and former President of the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) will help solve this riddle. My ex-wife (a member of this Church) is certainly excited about it, specifically mentioning his Obama-like charisma (with or without any perception of any tokenism UUs themselves abhor). I have been attending Unitarian services since my Grandparents took me to the Nora Church in Hanska MN when I was a child. This Congregation has many of the familiar Church trappings, but of course without any religious symbols outside of the Chalice. Unitarian Churches are also known for their music and I was not disappointed as the Chorus last Sunday was fabulous. The service itself flowed well, and the sermon by the Intern Minister about her adventures in the Transylvanian Mother Church countryside was fun to listen to and insightful. I still have issues with the depth of UU theology and some occasional pedantic psychobabble flareups. However, the atmosphere here at the First Unitarian Church of Portland is comfortable, accepting, and non-proselytizing. This Congregation is also ready to welcome any religious seekers or renegades who care to walk through the door. And as my son follows both his mother's and his father's early UU footsteps, I'm sure I'll drop by when I'm in town to see how he's doing.

I've never been to this church, but this is the first time that they're hosting the fest Italiana…read morein Portland at this location as it had moved to Gresham before and prior to that another location that didn't really work well and then before that it has always been at the Square. That was a great location, but this is something new and in an Italian church so it's been a great experience. The food is good, the music is good, the merchandise and everything about it is really refreshing and I'm hoping they do it again here next year and don't have to keep moving. Ciao!

A wonderful Spiritual Home…read more I have been going to St. Philip Neri since 1985 and I have found my spiritual home here. The current Priest, Fr. Rick Paprinni is funny, wise, and caring. He really is trying to help the parish grow and overcome some of the stumbling blocks that can affect any church. The people, for the most part, are warm and welcoming and every year, the Peace and Justice Committee sponsor a wonderful Thanksgiving Dinner in partnership with New Seasons Market located across the street. On the third Sunday of the month the Altar Society puts on a delicious French Toast Breakfast for only 5.00. I invite anyone and everyone to come join us at either 4.00 on Saturdays or 9:30 on Sundays.

An incredibly welcome place. Small, but not too small. Big enough that you don't stick out, but…read moresmall enough to be known if you wish. Music is amazing with the band off to the side instead of front and center, which shows the humility that seems to permeate the place. Be sure to check the website for service times since they have one service in the summer, but two services the rest of the year.

Full disclosure: I've been attending Pearl Church for about 8 years, so obviously I like it…read more What I won't do: get in to Theology or politics or moralizing outside of some higher-level descriptors. I don't think anything more is helpful for a Yelp review. What I will do: talk about the aspects that a visitor might care about in a "global" sense. The Basics: 1. It is a non-denominational Christian church. It is Bible-focused and Jesus' name is observed often. Many would classify it as "Evangelical", but some Evangelicals would consider Pearl Church too liturgical and structured. The theology is quite orthodox, but it is actually not a very conservative community - despite the worship style. 2. The demographics reflect those of the Pearl District. All are welcome and hospitality is the name of the game. 3. It is in the Ecotrust building - top floor conference room. The Good: 1. The worship musicians are set off to the side and in a corner - not front/center and loud like other places. This was especially refreshing to me. 2. There is a seriousness and earnestness hidden in the seemingly conservative worship style. 3. The message is always given by a qualified person and is actually quite practical and convicting - but not in a damning way. In the sort of way that makes you want to leave a be a better human. 4. There are two restaurants right downstairs (Hot Lips Pizza and Laughing Planet Cafe) that open during the end of the service and you can hear the music coming through the floor during the sermon. There's something about that dichotomy that has always pleased me. Something about living in community and accepting each other. Also, it makes for two killer options for a bite and a drink afterward. 5. When you're done, go play at Jamison Park. You're welcome. The Less Good: 1. It can be hard to find given its location in a conference room on the top floor or a building few know about. 2. Some times of year there are two services and some times (usually summer) there is only one...you'll have to check the website first. 3. It can get crowded, but people will always try to find you a good seat. 4. It's always hard to break the ice when you're a newcomer at a church. My experience was that it's just as hard for a regular to break the ice too...nobody wants to feel pounced on. What to do about it? Eye contact and say "hi", I guess. 5. The coffee is good, but they don't server real cream...just the little packets. Oh well. I should cut back anyway! Anyone else have any questions? Thanks for letting me give an honest 5 stars. They would love to know what to improve on, so I hope this helps kick off more reviews with more critical observations.

I have only been to this parish twice but I plan to eventually attend Mass here weekly. There is…read moresomething beautiful and inspiring about one priest saying Mass nearly every day, 3 times per day on weekends, out of love for God and his Church. This is the Church where you can go to escape the world and worship God in a way that is reserved for Him alone and it is the same Mass that has raised nearly all of the saints before us. You can also tell that Fr really cares for his parishioners. My first time there, he could tell I was new because he had never seen me at Mass before and he welcomed me to the parish. I see some reviews that are rated quite low, seemingly based on personal views and genuine misunderstanding on why we are asked to follow certain rules at Mass. What you must understand is that this is asked of all of us and the Church is not unjustly targeting specific groups of people. The Church is made of sinners and welcomes sinners with open arms. However, our sins must be left at the door - this is the one small sacrifice we make to witness the ultimate sacrifice made for us. You are not expected to know everything, especially not your first time at Mass. But if you are respectful in the way you show up throughout Mass, you'll find yourself catching on pretty quick. (Please never let anyone turn you away from Jesus - no Catholic is holier than thou because of their title and this is certainly not something the Church teaches. At the very least, know that the greater percentage of Catholics love to see new people at Mass!)

This is a beautiful Traditional Catholic Church with traditional values. If you want to attend a…read moreLatin Mass with a devoted priest, in a beautiful and inspiring Church, this is a great place. Reading some of the negative reviews; I see something about a Pastor Wong prohibiting 3 year olds. There is no pastor Wong, and on Sundays the babies and toddlers are everywhere. As for the LBGTQ comments, I have never seen anyone tarred and feathered . All people, male and female, are asked to dress respectfully, and in a way that is not distracting. I don't find that unreasonable.

I love this church and this church loves Portland…read more Jeremiah 29:7 Seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the LORD for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper." Simply put if a city does well its citizens do well. We have a vision for our city to do well. It's a vision near and dear to the heart of God. Much has been made in recent years, on a national stage, of the social despair and unrest in our city. What if all that we have experienced is a stirring, a stirring for something more, something better? Raised high and proud, there is an iconic billboard you see as you drive into downtown Portland that says, "Keep Portland Weird." It would be easy to shrug off the sign as typical language for a town known for a city culture of coloring outside of the lines. While much of that is true, we see something different. One of Jesus' core disciples shared a prophetic vision for humanity. He says in 1 Peter 2:9 But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people; that you should show forth the praises of him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. We want to call your attention to the phrase "peculiar people." When God looks upon humanity, His creation, He sees us with all our flaws and idiosyncrasies. He imagines a world full of those who would radically love and worship Jesus. He doesn't call us to set those passions down rather He calls us to offer them to Him. We believe the phrase "Keep Portland Weird," is a prophetic declaration over a city that belongs to God. History shows that men and women from the 1908 Azusa Street revival made their way to Portland and the surrounding area spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ and Holy Spirit revival fire. We remember in the 60's the "Jesus People" revival where hippies flooded Portland churches bare foot and praising the name of Jesus. And once again the Holy Spirit has His eye on us. Revival and spiritual renewal are in the air. The Lord showed me a vision of small wildfires dotting the state. The fires were insignificant and didn't call attention to themselves. Then the wind began to blow across the state intensifying each fire creating white hot embers. Embers were carried to other parts of the state connecting these small fires. In no time the entire state was engulfed in flames. This is a vision of revival! What Jesus is doing now may seem small, unnoticeable, and insignificant. The Holy Spirit and His wonder breeze are now blowing connecting these isolated pockets of revival, uniting us into an all-consuming flame of His love and compassion. This is what we see for our city and beyond. Solomon said these words in Proverbs 11:11 When God's people bless the city, it flourishes!

I relocated here from Atlanta last year and I'm in need of a church home I listen to my Bishop Dale…read moreC .Bronner of Word of Faith Cathedral in Austell Ga online . Yes I love my church family and I'm a faithful member for over 32 years . We need to go into the house of the Lord and very interested in visiting do you welcome a woman of my character----Lesbian and Love God will I be welcomed?