Classic Worship
This service features a more formal structure including a call to worship, confession and pardon, and doxology. The music is mostly traditional hymns accompanied by organ or piano, with special music often provided by the Chancel Choir or NoteWorthy bell choir.
The service begins with announcements of upcoming events, followed by the passing of the peace as people greet those around them, often saying “The peace of Christ be with you.”
A children’s message is offered early in the service. We often enjoy God Moments, brief testimony of God at work shared by church members.
During the prayer time, the pastor gathers requests and lifts them up in prayer on behalf of the congregation. Private prayer requests may be written on the blue attendance cards for the pastor or prayer team.
Worshipers are often invited to respond using written prompts in the bulletin or on the video screens. The language of prayers is more traditional and formal. This service uses the classic form of The Lord’s Prayer:
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.
Communion, or the Lord’s Supper, is offered the first Sunday of the month and is open to all. Worshipers are invited to come forward and receive a piece of bread, dip it in a common cup of grape juice, and consume it. Gluten free bread and individual cups are available for those who need them. The pastor and a Stephen Minister are available for private prayer and/or anointing with oil during communion.
There is no dress code, but many people choose to wear “business casual” or nicer clothing.
Praise Worship
The praise service features a casual structure with fewer congregation responses. The music mix includes more contemporary praise songs led by a praise group of singers and instrumentalists.
After an opening set of music and a welcome from the pastor, worshipers are invited to greet those around them and share the peace of Christ.
A children’s message is offered early in the service. We often feature God Moments, brief testimony of God at work shared by church members.
During the prayer time, the pastor encourages worshipers to request the microphone and share brief prayers with first names only, such as “Lord, please heal my Uncle Bill,” or “I praise you God, for the birth of my daughter Hanna.” Private prayer requests may be written on the blue attendance cards for the pastor or praise team.
The language used in the service is modern. Worshipers are encouraged to use the contemporary, ecumenical version of The Lord’s Prayer:
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. Forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours now and forever. Amen.
Communion, or the Lord’s Supper, is offered the first Sunday of the month and is open to all. Worshipers are invited to come forward and receive a piece of bread, dip it in a common cup of grape juice, and consume it. Gluten free bread and individual cups are available for those who need them. The pastor and a Stephen Minister are available for private prayer and/or anointing with oil during communion.
Many people dress casually and comfortably for this relaxed service. Coffee, tea, and drinks are welcome in the sanctuary.