Why do we worship this way?

When you worship with us, you might have some questions about why we do the things we do--like singing hymns, reading prayers in unison, reciting what we believe, or even listening a sermon. We hope these explanations of our liturgy (meaning "the work of the people") help you deepen your connection to God and your fellow worshippers here at FPC.

What does it mean to “Gather around the Word?”

Worship requires work on our part. It is not a passive activity. God calls us as a community to listen, praise, pray, and proclaim. During the Prelude--a musical expression of thanksgiving--prepare your mind and body for the work we are about to do together. As we pass the peace, open your heart to hear and understand both God and neighbor.

What is the Call to Worship?

God initiates worship full of grace and truth, inviting us to come and find rest through faith in Jesus Christ. Our gathering to worship is an embodied way to signal that we are one people, not merely a collection of individuals. We bring with us our lives and our worlds, and we become more than what we are separately.

Why do we sing?

Along with expressing love for God and affirming our collective beliefs, singing ministers to us in truly awesome ways. Congregational singing strengthens relationships by exposing our emotions and vulnerabilities in the presence of a loving, supportive faith family. That is why beautiful voices are not required; congregational singing with passion and conviction is beautiful to our God. Our songs also teach and inspire those outside of these walls due to the “sticky” nature of music. The Spirit imbues our music with unfathomable power to minister.

Why do we confess our sins in public?

Worship both draws us to God and reveals where we are distant from him. Throughout Scripture, when people see or experience God, they are faced with the reality of their own brokenness and shame. Likewise, we confess our sin, as a community and individually.

What is the Assurance of Pardon?

True confession and repentance is always met with the surety of God's grace. Our pastors and leaders in worship remind us of this good news as it is proclaimed in Scripture.

What should we do during the Scripture reading?

Because the Word of God is one of the chief means through which God has chosen to speak to us, it is a principle and direct way we "hear from God" in worship. The public reading of Scripture, then, is a sacred act that deserves our full attention and focus. Especially in our age, we must discipline ourselves to listen to readings for longer periods of time, for God's Word is food for the soul.

Why should we listen to the sermon?

Scripture can seem cryptic at times, and with our busy schedules, we rarely get a chance to deliberate about what Scripture means for us. The pastor--through years of study, prayer, and experience--helps us connect the dots between ancient Wisdom and modern society. We trust that the Spirit works through our pastor and leaders transformatively. As you listen, try to absorb the sermon with a critical mind and an open heart. 

What is the Affirmation of Faith?

We confess together the convictional truths of orthodoxy by reciting the ancient creeds of our faith. We share these words with saints throughout the centuries as well as those throughout the world today. This also serves as a bold proclamation to the watching world of what we believe is true. 

Why are the Prayers of the People important?

Corporate prayer is an essential part of the worship and work of God's people. We pray for specific needs here in our community and far-reaching needs beyond our comprehension. We mindfully ask for God's powerful and merciful help in healing this broken world.

Why should I give tithes or offerings?

The offering is received, not merely as a way to pay the bills, but as an act of worship. In response to the God from whom all blessings flow, we give our resources--be it time, talents, or possessions--freely, joyfully, and sacrificially to the Church. 

What is a Benediction?

The benediction (meaning “blessing”) has ancient roots, going back to the worship of God's people in the Temple. When we utilize the benediction, we connect ourselves with the saints and join with the whole world in praise of our great God. The closing moments of communal worship call us to love our Creator and love our neighbors. 

Why should we stay for the Postlude?

The Postlude is an artistic expression of our joy in being children of God. You are encouraged to remain in your seats until the concluding notes are played, for this music rouses us to go out into the world as disciples of Christ.