Worship Services
Episcopal worship follows an ancient pattern that dates to the earliest days of the Christian church. Our principal Sunday service is called the Holy Eucharist, from a Greek word that means "thanksgiving." The first half of the Eucharist is the Liturgy of the Word, when we hear readings from the Old and New Testaments and a sermon based on the scriptures of the day. We respond to the readings by offering our prayers for all people everywhere and all of God's creation, as well as our own individual needs.
The second half is the Liturgy of the Table, also called Holy Communion. We believe the bread and wine over which our thanks are given become the Body and Blood of Christ. When we share in Communion together, we are fed with the life of Jesus himself and renewed for our lives as his disciples.
If you've spent time in Episcopal, Roman Catholic, Lutheran, or Eastern Orthodox churches, much of our liturgy will seem familiar. If you're unfamiliar with liturgical Christian worship, don't worry. You're welcome to participate as fully as is right for you, or to just relax into the liturgy and let the rest of the congregation carry you in worship.
Sunday Services
8:00 a.m.: Simple Holy Eucharist
We begin our Sunday mornings with a simple, spoken service that includes classic Episcopal prayers, scripture readings, a sermon, and Holy Communion. The liturgy lasts about 45 minutes.
10:15 a.m.: Sung Holy Eucharist
Our largest gathering of the week, the 10:15 service features timely preaching and timeless music. The liturgy includes hymns, prayers, scripture readings, a sermon, and Holy Communion, and usually lasts about 75 minutes. Our organist and choir offer musical leadership. The 10:15 service is also livestreamed so those at home can participate online.
Nursery care is available for young children. During the school year, Pre-K and elementary-age children may choose to attend Children's Chapel during the first half of the liturgy before returning to their families for Communion. Children of all ages are also always welcome in "big church."
Other Services
Morning Prayer8:15 a.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays
The services of Morning and Evening Prayer, also known as the Daily Office, are the Church's daily act of praise, with psalms and readings appointed for each day of the year. They can be prayed by individuals or groups, at home, at church, or on the go. All members are encouraged to make use of some form of the Daily Office as part of their prayer life. Join us for Morning Prayer at 8:15 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Oakmont Gardens Worship
1:00 p.m., Sundays
Our deacon regularly leads a Service of the Word with distribution of Holy Communion in the Theater at Oakmont Gardens on Sundays at 1:00 p.m. About once a month a priest presides at a celebration of the Holy Eucharist. All are welcome.
Major Feast Days
Holy Eucharist, 12:00 p.m.
Since the earliest centuries the Church has set aside certain days to honor the martyrs and saints, as well as significant events in the life and ministry of Jesus. We celebrate these Major Feasts with the Holy Eucharist, usually at 12:00 p.m. Check News & Notes for upcoming feast days.
Sung Prayer
On the second Fridays of each month, at 6pm, we gather together in the church for a contemplative hour of singing and silence. Using songs from the Taizé Community and others, we shift our attention to Spirit. The songs are simple, allowing us to settle deeply into prayer. All are welcome.
Upcoming Special Services
Holy Eucharist for Thanksgiving Day
Thursday, Nov 28, 2024, 10:15 AM
Holy Eucharist for St. Andrew's Day
Friday, Nov 29, 2024, 12:00 PM
Holy Eucharist for St. Thomas's Day
Friday, Dec 20, 2024, 12:00 PM
Dinner Eucharist for the Feast of the Epiphany
Monday, Jan 06, 2025, 6:00 PM
