A Guide to Worship
The Holy Eucharist · Rite II
A guide for all who come to worship
We are glad you're here. Whether this is your first time or you've worshiped this way for years, you're welcome to join us.
Understanding our worship
A few helpful things to know before you begin.
Why do we follow a liturgy?
Our service follows a pattern of prayer and worship that Christians have used and handed down through generations. We hear Scripture, pray together, confess our faith and share in Holy Communion. The repeated words and actions help us worship together, even when we are new or unfamiliar with the service.
When should I stand, sit or kneel?
STAND We generally stand to sing, hear the Gospel and join in certain prayers. Standing is a traditional way to worship and show reverence.
SIT We sit to listen to the readings, sermon and some music.
KNEEL We may kneel during confession, prayer and Communion. You are welcome to stand instead.
When do I speak?
The service includes words spoken by the celebrant and responses spoken by the congregation. In this guide, PEOPLE marks the congregational responses. You're welcome to say them with us, or listen until you're familiar with them.
What about Holy Communion?
Holy Communion is the central sacrament of our gathering. We'll explain how to come forward and what to expect before that part of the service. You don't need to feel pressured to receive.
How to use this guide
The service follows a pattern of gathering, hearing God's Word, praying, receiving Communion and being sent into the world.
Sunday October 4, 2026
The Holy Eucharist · Rite II
Today’s Service
Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost
-
We come together as a community to worship God.
BEFORE THE SERVICE
We begin with a few moments of silence to prepare for worship. Please stand when the sanctuary bells ring.
STAND
Processional Hymn
[Hymn number and title]
The congregation stands and sings as the clergy and choir process into the church.
Blessing of the Children
Children are invited forward to receive a blessing from the priest before going to Sunday School.
STAND
Opening Acclamation
CELEBRANT
Blessed be God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
PEOPLE
And blessed be his kingdom, now and for ever. Amen.
The Collect for Purity
The celebrant invites us into a prayer asking God to prepare our hearts and minds for worship.
[Full Book of Common Prayer text goes here.]
-
Description text goes here
-
Description text goes here