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What We Offer Worship and MusicSummer Forums Programs for Children and Youth Adult Religious Education Community Outreach Ministry and Pastoral Care Covenant Circles Other Groups and Activities   |
Worship and MusicAudio Recorded ServicesFrom early September through early June, we have worship services every Sunday morning at 10:30 in the sanctuary. (In June, July, and August we have Summer Forums instead.) Our Sunday worship services are a central part of church life.  Elements of the ServiceOn a typical Sunday, the service is very similar to that in most Protestant churches. Announcements are given, inspirational words are read, hymns are sung, and a voluntary offering is taken. Members of the congregation have an opportunity to share joys and sorrows.Usually our minister, Rev. Michael Brown, delivers a sermon. He is an exceptional speaker whose messages are always inspiring and thought-provoking. (Read a sample sermon.) Our worship services draw upon the teachings of many different religious traditions. In a single service, you might hear quotations from the Bible, the Tao Te Ching, a Sufi poet, and Ralph Waldo Emerson, for example. About once a month we have a lay-led service, which can take any shape its organizers wish. A guest minister or other speaker might share his or her thoughts with us. Sometimes a group of church members give a special presentation on a specific theme.  Children's ParticipationOn a typical Sunday, children are in the sanctuary with the adults for the first part of the service. Midway through the service, our director of religious education, Amy Popp, invites the children to come forward and listen to a "Story for All Ages." The adults usually enjoy the story as much as the kids do!After the story, the children go to their Sunday school classrooms. Occasionally, when a special intergenerational service is planned, they remain in the sanctuary for the entire service. Parents of infants and toddlers are encouraged to take advantage of our nursery, where a qualified child care attendant is on duty.   MusicMusic is an essential part of our worship services. Our restored 1919 Hinners pipe organ provides a fitting backdrop for our hymns.On the first, third, and fifth Sundays of the month, we're treated to an anthem by our exceptional choir, led by Dick Applegate and accompanied by Pete Driscoll. Whether the selection is a sacred chorale, a spiritual, or a contemporary piece, the choir's talents are always received with enthusiasm. On other Sundays, special music is provided by members of the congregation or guest artists. You might hear an instrumental soloist playing a classical piece, a vocal ensemble singing contemporary music, or our own "Bluugrass Band," for example. Once a year the choir takes center stage for Music Sunday. Another annual tradition is Jazz Sunday, featuring local guest musicians.  Fellowship After the ServiceThe worship service is followed by a social hour in Fellowship Hall. You're invited to join us for coffee, tea, and conversation. Often, light snacks are provided.Special ServicesIn addition to our regular Sunday morning services, we occasionally hold special services at other times. For example, we often mark the turning of the seasons with informal Solstice and Equinox services. |
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