What to Expect

The early service is an experiment in creating a simple worship gathering with a Celtic liturgical flavour. While many of the ingredients have roots in ancient church tradition, they will probably be new for many of us. Some of these will come quite naturally while others might benefit from a brief explanation.

An example of the latter might be the practice of making the sign of the cross. Just like raising hands in praise, this is a ritual action which is meant to draw one’s whole body into worship; in this case, it symbolizes both the Trinity (Father, Son and Holy Spirit) and the centrality of the way of the cross in understanding the person of Jesus. Everyone is very welcome to make this sign or not, as they wish. Most often the sign is made by touching the thumb and first two fingers of the right hand to the forehead, stomach, left shoulder and right shoulder.

We hope the liturgy can create a beautiful and consistent framework that will allow the meaning of the words to soak into us as we grow more and more familiar with it over time. The Scripture readings will be drawn from the common lectionary and will help us to stay connected with the full breadth of Scripture, as well as the rhythm of the church calendar. Other readings, poems and songs will be drawn from a wide variety of sources and will help us to stay dynamically connected to the culture around us. Following the readings, there will be opportunities for everyone to share reflections and discuss thoughts stimulated by the readings.

We also hope that the liturgical form will not interfere with this gathering being an occasion for spontaneity, the guiding of the Holy Spirit, and the joy of fellowship and humour. Please don’t worry about whether you’re ‘doing things right.’

We’ll share communion every week in two forms. Informally, we’ll “break bread” with muffins, coffee and juice before the service, and more formally remembering Christ’s death in the elements of the Cup and the Bread during the service.

After the service, feel free to stay and chat, or ask someone to pray with you. If you have any questions about the service or if you would like to help out in some way, please find a chance to connect with any of us sharing in the leading of the early service: Joel & Katie Mason, Walter & Carol Thiessen.