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Embracing the Traditional and the
Contemporary
St. Paul’s is open for prayer, worship, and Bible study
seven days a week. Our doors are open to all people who come
in peace.
Each Sunday, Holy Eucharist is celebrated as we use the resources
of the Book of Common Prayer (1979), the Hymnal 1982, and
an Episcopal collection of American gospel hymns and spirituals
called “Lift Every Voice and Sing II.” Our worship
honors Anglo-Catholic tradition with an emphasis on contemporary
language and movement. In our worship we aim to express—through
praying, preaching, singing, and receiving the sacraments—a
seamless connection between the Holy Table where we receive
the Body and Blood of Christ and the tables in our dining
hall where the hungry are fed. In the several seasons of the
Church Year, there are special worship opportunities offered
on weekdays. Information concerning all worship and special
events is always available by calling (757) 247-5086.
Liturgy is the work of the people offered to God in thanksgiving.
At St. Paul’s Church, there are many opportunities for
lay participation in the planning and offering of worship.
A Worship Committee assists the Rector in planning liturgy.
All members of the gathering community are invited to share
in the ministry of reading Holy Scripture, in the leading
of the congregation’s prayers. A community of acolytes
and lay eucharistic ministers assists the priest in the Eucharist;
and lay eucharistic ministers also assist the priest in sharing
the Eucharist with members who are homebound. There is an
active Table Guild of men and women, youth as well as adult,
who help with the preparation of the sanctuary for the celebration
of Holy Eucharist. Members of the Flower Guild gather before
each worship service to prepare their offerings of flower
arrangements. Members of the congregation share in the design
and creation of eucharistic linens, altar hangings, and clergy
vestments. Members of St. Paul’s have designed and made
altar hangings, and clergy vestments for all seasons of the
Church Year.
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