Our theology of worship

The Bible

The Bible is central to our worship and Christian practice. We bring open minds and hearts to our listening, and appreciate what the gifts of history, scholarship, science, and the nuance of language bring to us as we seek to understand the truths and guidance of the Bible for us today.

We use both the Common English Bible  and the  New Revised Standard Version in our worship service. We follow the Common Lectionary, a three-year cycle of readings with scripture selections for each day, used by many churches worldwide. You can follow the readings at: 

www.lectionary.library.vanderbilt.edu.

The Liturgy

Our liturgy (order of worship) is rooted in ancient Christian practice, but is made fresh and new through thoughtful planning and attention to our needs for today. We celebrate God’s love with our gifts of spoken word, music and the visual arts.

The service consists of three movements:

• Gathering as God’s People

• Listening for God’s Word

• Responding to God’s Word

Within these movements we quiet our hearts, confess our brokenness, forgive and are for- given, listen to scripture and message (sermon), pray for one another and the world, give thanks and praise, and affirm our faith. We believe the Holy Spirit is with us, among us, and working within us––during worship, and always.

Music

Our musical heritage is broad and deep, and we love to sing. Hymns and musical settings for the congregation, choir, and musicians are lovingly selected to amplify the readings and themes of each service.