Worship
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🕊️ Sunday Worship at Good Shepherd
Sunday mornings at Good Shepherd are centered around two historic forms of worship drawn from the 1979 Book of Common Prayer, as authorized by The Episcopal Church. We alternate between Holy Communion (Holy Eucharist) and Morning Prayer, offering a rhythm of worship that is both grounded in tradition and accessible to all. Holy Communion is typically offered twice a month. This service, shared by many Christian denominations, recalls the Last Supper and the gift of Christ’s presence in the consecrated bread and wine. Its familiar structure and reverent ritual connect us to centuries of Christian worship across Roman Catholic, Lutheran, Anglican, and other traditions. On the remaining Sundays, we celebrate Morning Prayer, a service led by a trained lay officiant. Lasting about thirty minutes, Morning Prayer is rooted in the ancient monastic tradition of daily psalms, Scripture readings, prayers, and time‑honored collects. Although thoughtfully structured, it remains warm and approachable, often including a brief sermon and music woven throughout. 🎶 Music Ministry at Good Shepherd Music is one of the most cherished elements of our worship life, enriching our services with prayer, reflection, and joy. Our Organist and Choir Director, Shana Grassi, brings exceptional musical gifts to our parish. Each Sunday, she offers thoughtful and expressive organ and piano music, along with a beautifully sung Offertory hymn. Her preludes and postludes create a gentle, contemplative atmosphere that invites the congregation into reflection before worship begins and provides peaceful space as we depart. We are also blessed by the musical talents of Barbie Schulien, who offers flute solos at select Sunday services. Her playing adds warmth and depth to our worship, and her occasional collaborations with Shana result in moments of truly beautiful and uplifting music. Together, they enrich the spiritual life of our parish in ways that are deeply appreciated. In our congregational singing, we draw from a variety of hymnals that reflect the breadth of Episcopal and wider Christian musical traditions, including The Hymnal 1982, Lift Every Voice and Sing II, and Gather. These resources help us honor both long‑loved hymns and contemporary expressions of faith. 📄 Sunday Service Leaflets A printed leaflet is available each Sunday to guide worshipers through the complete Order of Service, except for the hymns and the sermon. This allows everyone—long‑time members and first‑time visitors alike—to participate comfortably and fully. For Holy Days and other special liturgical occasions, announcements and service leaflets are posted in advance on our Facebook page. Those who prefer to receive the weekly leaflet by email are warmly invited to join our distribution list. To be added, please contact the church office at (973) 334‑2882 or email [email protected]. |
