What to Expect in our 10am Service at St Aidan’s

Most Anglican services have a semi-formal liturgical structure. This means that the service follows a pattern (“liturgy”) in which the service leader reads out a variety of set passages, and the people of the congregation answer with set responses. The standard Anglican liturgy becomes very familiar to most participants, and this familiarity can add a real sense of depth, power and belonging to the words.

During certain sections of the service—in particular, during hymns and the Gospel reading—the congregation usually stands. If this is difficult for you for any reason, don’t hesitate to remain seated.

Our services typically have the following structure:

  1. Opening—informal welcoming remarks; parish announcements. We invite people with recent birthdays or other causes to celebrate to share their thanksgiving…and to receive a chocolate fish!
  2. The Gathering of the Community—a call to worship and prayer, including:
    • The opening hymn
    • The confession of sins and pronouncement of absolution by the priest

    At this point, we invite children to go out for their programme

  3. The Readings—typically, three readings from the Bible: one each from the Old Testament, from one of the New Testament Epistles, and from one of the four Gospels. We sing a second hymn between the Epistle and the Gospel reading.
  4. The Sermon.
  5. The Prayers of the People—a time of prayer, offering thanksgiving and asking for God’s favour for the world, the nation, the community and the church.
  6. The Peace—we unite in the peace of Christ. Those who wish may share a sign of peace (usually a handshake) with one another.
    The Preparation of Gifts—we sing a third hymn; during this, people may present their offerings.

    At this point, the children return from their own service.

  7. The Great Thanksgiving—a further time of prayer, led by the priest, during which the priest prepares the sacramental bread and wine.
  8. The Communion—those who wish may come forward to receive the sacramental bread (wafers) and wine, which are the body and blood of Christ.
    • You do not need to be an Anglican to receive Communion. If you feel that you may participate in good conscience as a follower of Christ, you are invited to come forward. If you prefer not to take the bread and wine, you’re welcome to ask for a blessing from the priest instead.
    • Children, or for those who prefer to avoid alcohol, may receive grape juice instead.
    • We have gluten-free communion wafers for those who need them; simply ask when you come forward.
  9. The Dismissal—If it hasn’t already been said during the Prayers of the People, we pray the Lord’s Prayer together now. Then, we sing a final hymn, and the priest blesses and dismisses the congregation.

After the service, you’re welcome to stay for morning tea and coffee. Prayer ministry is also available, for those who want it, in the Sanctuary area (behind the altar).