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Worship in the Episcopal Church is called: Eucharistic. The word “Eucharist” means “to give thanks.” Each Sunday, we gather to give thanks to God. By examining history, specifically the stories of our Bible, we begin to see that God has been active throughout the past, and is still active in our lives today. God works to sustain us during this life, and promises us eternal life. Therefore, we give thanks!
The Eucharist centers around two things: The Holy Scriptures (Bible) and the Sacraments. The first half of Sunday morning is primarily devoted to the Scriptures. We read them, seeking to comprehend God’s love for us, and our call to love others. The second half of Sunday worship is the Sacrament of Holy Communion. We feast on the real presence of Christ in Bread and Wine. Rather than arguing about what it all means, the important thing to remember is that you are invited! Jesus always welcomed and accepted, and we strive to do the same.
The one requirement to receive the Bread and Wine of Holy Communion is that you are have been baptized. If you have not been baptized, speak to Fr. Scott. We can schedule a Baptism because we want you to be fully able to fully participate in the mystery of love that God bestows through the sacred traditions of the Church.
Since Baptism is the only prerequisite to receiving Holy Communion, nothing prevents children from receiving. While the tradition of “First Communion” can be very meaningful, The Episcopal Church follows the words of Jesus, “Let the children come to me.” (Matthew 19:14) We find it beautiful knowing that our children never know a time when they could not partake in the full presence of Christ. They have always been welcomed, and they are always welcome, at the Table that God sets for everyone, every Sunday.
The Sacrament of Holy Baptism is considered to be full initiation into the Church. In the waters of Baptism, we are forgiven and washed clean of all our misdoings, we are freed to live a new life of love in the hope of everlasting life.
The final thing to mention about worship in the Episcopal tradition is that there is no dogma that you have to agree with. As the late comedian, Robin Williams, used to say, “One of the reasons to be an Episcopalian . . . is that you don’t have to check your brains at the door.” There is freedom to doubt and freedom to question. That said, the best place to wrestle with the tough questions about God is in the Church that has been struggling with questions and doubt for thousands of years. The truth is: Life is full of questions but seldom offers satisfying answers. Episcopalians are comfortable with the tough questions because we ask them in the presence of God’s abundant love revealed to us in Scripture and Sacrament. Therefore, bring your questions. Bring them into the presence of God. Ask them in the light of Divine love, in the assurance of forgiveness, and in the hope of everlasting life.