I’m New | St. George’s Riverside

Welcome

St. George’s is a place of unconditional hospitality, and we are so happy that you are here on this site and thinking about visiting us.

Perhaps you are searching for a place to sit quietly with God, or you would like to connect with others who seek a caring community that serves God and our neighbors. You are welcome. If you have been away from church for awhile and are thinking about trying it again, or if you have a new child or an important event in your life, you are always welcome.

‍

Whatever your reason, know that you, your questions, and your journey are honored and respected. We invite you to get to know our church family!

Eucharistic minister gives communion to a parishioner.

Rev. Dr. Karri Backer preaching in front of sanctuary of parishioners during a service.

Crucifer approaching the priest during a service, while in the background the choir is singing in front of the organ.

Detail of a stained glass window at St. George's, featuring reds, blues, and greens.

Explore our offerings



Our Mission

St. George’s Episcopal Church in Riverside is a loving Christ-filled family that provides an inclusive home of liturgy, music, outreach, and fellowship.

About Us 

Detail of a stained glass window at St. George's, featuring greens and blues.



Ministries

View the many ways to step into the life of our church—serving God, our neighbors, and the community of St. George’s.

Get Involved 

Rev. Dr. Karri Backer receives offerings from an usher at the altar.



Spiritual Formation

Spiritual formation prepares us for a life in which we move away from our fears and sorrows, to serve with joy and courage in the world.

Learn & Grow with Us 

Aerial view of the labyrinth at St. George's.



Music

Music is an essential element for our church from weekly services, seasonal and special services, memorial services, weddings, and informal events.

Our Music 

Close up of the hymnal tune "Lift every voice and sing" with colored ribbons laying on the page.



Liturgy

Our liturgy invites participation in traditional prayers and readings, a sermon by the clergy, and invitation to Holy Communion.

How We Worship 

Rev. Dr. Karri Backer presiding at the altar during communion, with assistant.



Our History

St. George’s has served the local community of Riverside since 1954.

About Our History 

Exterior of church showing the words "St George's Episcopal Church" in an art-deco style font.

How We Worship

Sunday service uses Rite II from the Book of Common Prayer. Our liturgy invites participation in traditional prayers and readings, a sermon by the clergy, and invitation to Holy Communion. We follow the church calendar, as we observe the seasons of the year: Advent, Christmas, Epiphany, Lent, Easter and Pentecost. We celebrate these seasons as we journey toward a better understanding of our faith.

Wide angle view of parishioners in the sanctuary of St. George's during a service.

Frequently Asked Questions



We are located .5 miles from the 91 Fwy in Riverside, near the University of California, Riverside.



We follow the teachings of Jesus, whose life, death, and resurrection saved the world. We have a legacy of inclusion, aspiring to love as God loves—every human being. Women and men serve as bishops, priests and deacons in our church.



We follow the Book of Common Prayer, revised over centuries to its most modern form and available in the church; but we use a weekly printed bulletin that contains the entire service and is easy to follow.



People dress up and dress down. You are welcome to attend in your dressiest or your shorts and sandals.



While no procedure is currently mandated, people follow their preference as to masking and social distancing. We serve bread and wine for communion, and you may receive these from a common chalice or from an individual cup. You may also prefer a blessing. People in the community have many preferences, and all are accepted without judgment.

More questions? Contact us for more information.