What to expect at an Episcopal Worship service
…mostly that it has changed since the Liturgy was revised in the 1970’s. The “pew aerobics” Episcopalians were noted for has given way to most people standing most of the time. But we do sit and we do occasionally kneel; the important thing is that whatever you feel comfortable with is OK. Most people kneel for the General Confession, most stand for the Prayers of the People and a few kneel for the Eucharistic Prayer and the closing blessing.
Our worship service begins and ends with a procession and most of the times it is with music and singing. The procession is not limited to clergy only; there are acolytes to carry candles, a crucifer to carry the cross, Eucharistic ministers who assist with communion and choir members. Our motto is the more the merrier!
You may notice that some people bow when the cross passes in procession or they make the sign of the cross at different points in the service. These are personal expressions of devotion that some folks find meaningful and for others it’s not their thing. Do as the Spirit leads you.
At Grace Church, Newington if you are a baptized Christian, we invite you to receive Holy Communion with us. If you are not baptized, or simply don’t wish to receive, we invite you to come to the Altar rail, cross your arms and we will give you a blessing. Young children who are baptized and eligible to receive in your own church are welcome to receive here. If you are unable to go to the Altar for communion and wish to receive, remain in your seat, notify one of the ushers and communion will be brought to you.
After service, please join us in the Narthex for coffee and conversation. You will find greeters there to answer questions and to introduce you to others.
Our worship service begins and ends with a procession and most of the times it is with music and singing. The procession is not limited to clergy only; there are acolytes to carry candles, a crucifer to carry the cross, Eucharistic ministers who assist with communion and choir members. Our motto is the more the merrier!
You may notice that some people bow when the cross passes in procession or they make the sign of the cross at different points in the service. These are personal expressions of devotion that some folks find meaningful and for others it’s not their thing. Do as the Spirit leads you.
At Grace Church, Newington if you are a baptized Christian, we invite you to receive Holy Communion with us. If you are not baptized, or simply don’t wish to receive, we invite you to come to the Altar rail, cross your arms and we will give you a blessing. Young children who are baptized and eligible to receive in your own church are welcome to receive here. If you are unable to go to the Altar for communion and wish to receive, remain in your seat, notify one of the ushers and communion will be brought to you.
After service, please join us in the Narthex for coffee and conversation. You will find greeters there to answer questions and to introduce you to others.