Worship
Lutheran worship is “liturgical.”
The words of the Lutheran liturgy come directly from Holy Scripture.
Each week, we read from Scripture. The selection of these texts guide us purposefully through the Bible and all the great truths of the faith in a dependable way that shapes our lives and enriches our spirits.
The liturgical calls and responses (“Lift up your hearts”/”We lift them to the Lord”) and liturgical songs (“This is the feast”) come out of Scripture. Thus, the liturgy opens up a biblical reality, where Christ is present in the gifts of God for the people of God.
The Lutheran liturgy seeks to include the whole believer – mind, body & soul. This is most easily seen in the way the liturgy brings together seemingly opposite things: robust singing and stirring silence; elustrious praise and profound penitence; movement and stillness.
Within the paradox of these things, the “rhythm” of the liturgy emerges. Within this rhythm, the gifts of God are extended and everyone participates in responding in praise, with heart, mind, voice, body language and our gifts of talents and treasure.
The colors of the sanctuary, music and art are present to enhance our understanding of God’s ever-creative presence in our lives. For this reason, worship strives to incorporate the gifts of the people themselves.
The altar guild care for (even make) the cloths that are used for worship. The bread is baked by the loving hands of worshippers. And, on occasion, the gathered community participate in the proclamation of the Word in the sermon itself.
On the church’s special occasions (festival days, like Holy Week, Easter and All-Saints Day), the worship incorporates other elements to highlight the significance of God’s promises and presence in our lives. Below you will find further information about our liturgy.
The best way to learn, though, is to attend services. C.S. Lewis (a Christian author) once compared the liturgy to a dance. He wrote, “As long as you notice, and have to count the steps, you are not yet dancing, but only learning to dance.” He recognized that learning the liturgy was similar to learning to dance. It took time and practice to develop familiarity. Once the steps became familiar, however, the person was able to dance, really dance.
When you first experience the liturgy, it will likely feel awkward, unfamiliar, difficult, and uncomfortable. At the same time, you will notice its mystery, meaning, and significance. Soon, you will recognize the rhythm and then be able to allow the rhythm of the liturgy to carry you in the mystery of God’s presence.
The best way to learn the dance, is to step inside and give it a try. We worship at 10:30 AM every Sunday morning.