As The Inter-Faith Chapel represents various cultures and denominational backgrounds, we recognize that some may not be as familiar as others with the style and order of our worship services.  Others may be attending worship for the first time or following an extended absence.  To help you with what to expect, let us look at our flow of worship.

STYLE OF WORSHIP

We follow a more traditional order of worship that seeks to incorporate the various components of the many denominations that are represented, and at the same time, strives to keep our worship fresh and meaningful through the use of contemporary language and affirmations.  Our worship services are designed to be approximately one hour in length. We celebrate the Lord’s Supper (Holy Communion) on the first Sunday of each month.    

The Inter-Faith Chancel Choir sings approximately three Sundays a month.  This is supplemented at other services with the Gospel Choir, Inter-Faith Ringers, and Generational Joy Dancers. 

Large print bulletins, including the music of the day, are used to lead the congregation through worship.  Inside the bulletin, you will also find the announcements that highlight upcoming events and news.  

Dress as you are comfortable.  You will discover that many of our worshippers are accustomed to "dressing up" for a Sunday church service, while others enjoy a more relaxed attire.  You will experience a sense of belonging regardless of what you wear.

You are welcome to sit anywhere you’d like.

THE FLOW OF THE SERVICE

  • PRELUDE

The Prelude involves music, typically on the organ, that signals to us the start of worship and provides a moment to draw ourselves together as a community.

  • WORDS OF WELCOME

The minister welcomes everyone to worship and takes this time to make select announcements and highlight special upcoming events.

  • LIGHTING OF THE PEACE CANDLE

The Peace candle is lit to symbolize our ongoing desire for and commitment to peace and justice in our world.

  • CALL TO WORSHIP

The Call to Worship draws our attention and spirit into the movement of God in our midst.  The Call to Worship is often responsive and led by a liturgist or worship leader.

  • HYMNS

We join together in several congregational songs throughout the worship service.  The music connects us to our heritage as a people of God and is a response that gathers the whole self in prayer.

  • PRAYER OF CONFESSION

Confession is a communal act where we express our brokenness in both our personal and common life together.  Following confession is an “Assurance of Forgiveness,” a time where we are reminded that our God is a God of love, forgiveness and grace.

  • ANTHEM

An anthem is often shared with us by the Choir or Chorus.  Let the music speak to your soul.

  • MORNING PRAYER

The Morning Prayer or Pastoral Prayer is a time where we lift our joys and concerns to God as a community. Typically, a minister will lead the prayer, though responsive prayer also occurs from time to time.  The Morning Prayer ends with the Lord's Prayer.

  • SCRIPTURE

Scripture is usually read from both the Old and New Testaments.  For those who would like to read along, New Revised Standard Version Bibles can be found in the pews, though we also frequently utilize other translations (such as The Message). 

  • THE SERMON

The Sermon is the time when the minister reflects on the scripture and helps us to explore its relevance and meaning for our lives.  The Sermon typically lasts between 12-15 minutes.

  • THE OFFERING

The Offering provides an opportunity for the congregation to financially support the ministry and work of The Inter-Faith Chapel.  These gifts from the fruits of our lives enable us to meet the needs of our community and world.  Music, often an anthem, is played during the offering.

  • PASSING THE PEACE

The Passing of the Peace is our time to share the peace of Christ with one another through a greeting, handshake or hug.  It is an ancient practice that nurtures our bond of fellowship with one another.

  • THE BENEDICTION

The Benediction or "Blessing" reminds us of what we’ve shared during worship and sends us forth with peace and love of Christ as we go out into our world.