World Communion Sunday

The first Sunday of October is celebrated in many faiths as World Communion Sunday. (a tradition begun by the Presby's in 1939) It is the final Sunday in a sermon series in Common Ground so I almost forgot about it completely until my pastor asked me for ideas today. Do I have ideas!? This is the part of my job that I LOVE! Visually I do like to use somewhat of a montage/collage of fabrics from various cultures as altar decor. The sermon series that concludes on World Communion for us has been a three parter about the Apostle's Creed. We just began reciting it weekly with the appointment of a new Sr. pastor in June, so we thought it timely to talk a little bit about this new addition and quite specific statement of faith. We divided it out into God the Father, Creator; God the Son, Redeemer; and God the Spirit; Sanctifier. Thus, the idea on the table (excuse the pun) for this year is to incorporate the series in communion. I have an idea to distribute the elements (a couple of cups, a couple of loaves) to four folk amongst the congregation. Upon a cue during the communion liturgy they will stand and recite the first four lines of the Apostle's Creed: "I believe in God, the [Creator] Almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, [God's] only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,"* Then they will bring the elements to the altar as the preacher continues the communion liturgy. I really like the idea of the elements coming from everywhere to one united table. We're also talking about having some extra loaves, little loaves in bags for folks to take with them. *[these are the word's I use] Common Ground uses the Ecumenical version

A New Adventure

I am thrilled to be sharing this blogging experience with Kelly Jo. Her creativity, insight and knowledge both inspire and encourage me! I have been very fortunate to work with pastors and choir directors who have been very open and enthusiastic to worship design and have trusted me to express the liturgical idea or themes or choral presentations in a visual way through altar and Sanctuary design. It is wonderful to have the option to use either the altar, the chancel area in front or the whole Sanctuary to create an atmosphere, impression, visual reminder of what church is all about for that day or sermon series or cantata. As Kelly and I begin this new experience of sharing with you our ideas, Liturgically Speaking, my prayer is that you will see God's work in this and feel inspired to discover your own liturgical voice!

Mom has joined the Blog!!

I'm taking a moment of personal privilege to explode with joy that Mom is joining me on this blogging exploration!! She's awesome and you'll soon learn to love her as much as I do. She has created numerous altars that I love, but this image is one of my favorites. Maybe as Pentecost nears again she'll post more images and talk a bit about why she did what she did. Till then, here's to MOM! Cheers!

In Process

I am working on regular posts for this site, but began a new job this week. Please check back soon for lots of worship ideas and liturgical ponderings. Thanks!