In response to the feedback of our community, we are excited to introduce a new worship opportunity this fall: the “Come as You Are” Eucharist. Scheduled for the third Sunday of each month at 4:00 pm, this service is designed with families in mind, offering a unique blend of worship and fellowship that meets the needs of our diverse congregation. Held in the Chapel and followed by a potluck dinner in the Great Hall, this gathering promises to be a warm, welcoming, and spiritually enriching experience for all.
A Service for Everyone—Truly “Come As You Are”
You might be wondering how this service differs from our traditional Sunday morning offerings. The most significant difference is in the very essence of the invitation: “come as you are.” This phrase is not just a catchphrase but a genuine invitation for people of all ages, especially families with young children, to participate fully in worship without the need to dress up or conform to any formal expectations. Whether you come straight from a soccer game, an afternoon in the garden, or a casual day out, you are welcome. Jeans, gardening clothes, soccer uniforms—whatever you’re wearing, you belong.
This service is intentionally designed to be more relaxed and accessible, acknowledging the reality of busy family lives while creating a space where everyone can encounter God together. The “come as you are” approach ensures that worship is inclusive, allowing everyone to participate without the barriers that sometimes come with more traditional services.
An Interactive and Family-Centered Liturgy
In addition to a more casual atmosphere, the liturgy itself will be different. The “Come as You Are” Eucharist will feature a more organic and interactive approach to worship. The music will be simple, led by a piano or guitar, creating an intimate and reflective environment. During the Prayers of the People, we will incorporate prayer stations that invite movement and active participation, engaging both children and adults in a more tactile and meaningful way.
One of the most exciting aspects of this new service is the emphasis on involving children and youth as active participants and leaders in the liturgy. This is an opportunity for our younger members to not only observe but also engage deeply with the elements of worship. By asking questions and participating directly, they will learn by doing—an invaluable experience that fosters a deeper understanding of their faith.
A Celebration of Presence, Without a Nursery
Another distinctive feature of the “Come as You Are” Eucharist is the absence of a Nursery. Unlike other services where parents might feel the need to step out with young children, this service embraces the noise and movement that naturally comes with having children present. We believe that children of all ages should be fully present during worship, and their presence is not just tolerated—it is celebrated. This creates an environment where families can worship together without the concern of disrupting others, allowing everyone to experience the beauty of communal worship in a new way.
A New Beginning, Led by the Holy Spirit
As we embark on this new journey of worship together, we are excited to see how the Holy Spirit will guide us. The “Come as You Are” Eucharist is not just another service on the calendar; it is a fresh expression of our commitment to being a family-centered, welcoming community. We look forward to gathering with you, in whatever clothes you’re in, to worship God together and share in the joy of fellowship at the potluck afterward. Let’s see where this new path of worship takes us, as we grow together in faith, love, and community.