May 2, 2010
What is the "Easter Portion" of Handel's "Messiah"?
Today at the 9:30 and 11 o'clock services, Chancel Choir will sign selections from Handel's "Messiah", mainly from Part II, sometimes known as the "Easter" section of the oratorio. Handel wrote the music for the work in 1741-2, but the text was selected from the Old and New Testaments by an eighteenth-century English literary scholar, Charles Jennens. Mr. Jennens' text in Part II speaks of Christ's redemptive sacrifice. For example, one chorus proclaims "Surely He hath borne our griefs and carried our sorrows" (Isaiah 53:4). Another chorus states "All we like sheep have gone astray...and the Lord hath laid on Him the iniquity of us all." (Isaiah 53:6) The text also speaks of Christ's agony on the cross: "He trusted in God that he would deliver him, if he delight in him." (Matthew 27:43; the crowds mock Jesus as He dies on the cross). However, Part II ends triumphantly with the "Hallelujah Chorus": "and He shall reign forever and ever". The Easter section of the "Messiah" is the perfect musical offering for the Lenten or Easter seasons!
April 24, 2010
What Is Liturgical Art?
Liturgical art is any art form, visual or performed, that adds to our act of worship. The purpose of liturgical art is to encourage us into participating fully in the worship of God. It helps us focus, presents a theme for reflection, creates a mood, and encourages a response or action from us. Liturgical art is created by artists to the glory of God. At All Saints, we have been blessed with many fine works of liturgical art. Listen, watch, and look around. What works of art are most enriching to your worship?
April 18, 2010
What Comes After Easter Sunday?
There are still 49 more days of Easter! The great truth of Christ's resurrection and its meaning for us and for all creation is so amazing that it takes seven weeks to celebrate, right up until May 23, the day
of Pentecost. We leave the Paschal candle lighted as a visible sign of the living Christ and process the Easter banner. During the entire Easter season, the Pastors and congregation greet each other with
"Alleluia! Christ is Risen!"
April 11, 2010
The Empty Cross
Probably the most universally recognized logo in the world today is also the most ancient still in use: the cross. Almost everyone would recognize it instantly, because it remains powerfully embedded in our consciousness. Since the Reformation, many Christians prefer the empty cross, indicating the completed work of Jesus. Christianity hinges on both the empty cross and an empty tomb. Surprisingly little classical art, however, has focused on the resurrection of Jesus, as compared to the cross. Despite this, only the resurrection transforms the cross from a symbol of despair to one of hope. These two evocative images are both vital to our salvation. As Paul said: "For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures."(1 Cor. 15:3-4)
Source: www.Christianity.com, "The Empty Cross, The Empty Tomb," Warnock
March 21, 2010
What is a Godparent?
In the early church, adult baptism candidates had sponsors - Christians who vouched for their good character and accompanied them through the long process of becoming part of the Christian community. Babies and small children needed someone who would speak the baptismal promises for them and take responsibility for those promises until they matured. In the first centuries of the church's life, a parent usually sponsored a child. By the beginning of the sixth century, people other than parents were given the honor, perhaps assuring their interest in the child's welfare.
The godparent today is the church's way of giving people company on their faith journey. No one becomes a Christian in isolation; Jesus calls us into community. The baptismal sponsor represents the community’s care for the baptized. The godparent isn't a certified saint or spiritual specialist but rather one who is willing to form a genuine relationship with the child to support the child's growth in faith.
March 7, 2010
What do the letters INRI stand for?
The letters "INRI" are an acronym for the Latin title that Pontius Pilate had written over the head of Jesus Christ on the cross (John 19:19). Latin was the official language of the Roman Empire. The inscription read, Iesus Nazarenus Rex Iudaeorum (Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews).
Feb. 28, 2010
Why is there no processional at the beginning of the worship service?
We are in the season of Lent which is a time of penitence, reflection and prayer. Our worship is more somber and restrained. Our music is quiet and contemplative. The robed choirs are present but without white stoles. The customary processional in which the cross of Christ is advanced is not done. Instead, the cross is stationary at the Baptismal font, draped in purple, the color of penitence. All these practices are in place to help us recall and be thankful for our Lord’s atoning death and resurrection.
Feb. 14, 2010
Why do we bury the Alleluia on Transfiguration Sunday?
Transfiguration Sunday is the last Sunday before Lent. Since Lent is a penitential season, we put away the joyful nature of the alleluias until its return on Easter. The omission of alleluia during Lent goes back at least to the fifth century in the western church. The custom of actually bidding it farewell, however, developed in the Middle Ages. The alleluia-less Lent has been compared to the exile of the Israelites in Babylon. A symbolic burial of the alleluia can take place during the worship service until its resurrection on Easter.
Feb. 7, 2010
What is the Difference Between a Disciple and an Apostle?
The word "disciple" means student. The word "apostle" means one who is sent. The 12 disciples were Jesus’ students. After He died and rose from the dead, He sent them out to preach the gospel to the world. At this point, they became apostles as well as disciples. We likewise are both; we are disciples as we study the life, works and words of Jesus, and we are His apostles as we carry out His message to the world.
Jan. 31, 2010
What is the Nunc Dimmittus?
The Nunc Dimittus is a canticle with words taken from Luke 2:29-32. God told a devout Jew named Simeon that Simeon would not die until he saw the Savior. Upon seeing the infant Jesus, Simeon sings for joy and takes Jesus into his arms. Simeon’s song in Latin is "Nunc dimittis servum tuum," which translates to "Lord, now you are dismissing your servant in peace." The section of the Bible from which the Nunc Dimittis comes documents the presentation of an infant in Jerusalem 40 days after his birth. Joseph and Mary came to the temple to present Jesus to the Lord to fulfill this custom.
Jan. 24, 2010
Is it written in stone?
In ancient times, important messages were indeed written in stone - ever present, unchanging. Yes, some things are still written in stone. As you leave the Sanctuary, look above the glass doors. Christ’s guidance for our mission on earth is there for us to see and remember - ever present, unchanging and written in stone.
Jan. 10, 2010
What is the Baptistry?
The area to the right of the altar where the baptismal font and Christ candle are located is called the baptistry. During the first three centuries of Christianity, baptisms were celebrated in natural bodies of water such as streams, with the baptismal candidates unclothed. By the fourth century special buildings were constructed to provide privacy. These were referred to as baptisteries. These were commonly built in octagonal form, symbolizing the Eighth Day, the day of Christ’s resurrection into which we are all incorporated though Baptism. By the eighth century, baptismal fonts became smaller as more infants than adults were baptized and the baptistery became part of the worship space. With the baptistry in such a prominent place, we are frequently reminded of our own baptism as we worship.
Dec. 30, 2009
Is it too late to say "Merry Christmas"?
It’s still a great time to wish one another a Merry Christmas! The Christmas season is a twelve-day period celebrating the incarnation, when the Word became flesh and dwelt among us. The Christmas season is celebrated from Dec. 25 through Jan. 5. It is appropriate for Christmas decorations to remain in place throughout the season, for Christmas hymns and carols continue to be sung and enjoyed. The liturgical color for the Christmas season is white. In the spirit of the season, the Traditional Worship Planning Team wishes you a Merry Christmas!
Dec. 20, 2009
What is the Magnificat?
The Magnificat is the hymn of praise said or sung by Mary, the mother of Jesus. In the first chapter of Luke, today's Gospel reading, God sends the angel Gabriel to tell Mary that she is favored by God and will bear a son, to be named Jesus. Mary then visits her cousin Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist, who exclaims that "the babe in my womb leaped for joy" when she hears the voice of the mother of the Lord. Mary replies,
"My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has regarded the low estate of his handmaiden." (Luke 1:46-48).
Mary continued to praise God for His generosity and mercy, especially to "those of low degree". This beautiful hymn of praise is part of the Advent story as told in the Gospel of Luke.
Dec. 13, 2009
What is an Oratorio?
An oratorio is a multi-movement work (a piece with several sections) using chorus, soloists and orchestra. As with an opera, an oratorio tells a story. However, an oratorio, unlike an opera, is not acted upon a stage with scenery and costumes. The oratorio's subject matter is nearly always inspirational and often uses text from the Bible. The oratorio has been, since the 18th century, a popular and appropriate way to present sacred music in a concert or church setting. Two great and well-known oratorios are Handel's "Messiah" and Mendelssohn's "Elijah". Today our Chancel Choir offers, "Christmas Oratorio," written by the 19th-century composer Camille Saint-Saens. The first two sections of the oratorio tell the story of an angel of the Lord appearing to the shepherds in the fields, telling them of the Savior's birth (Luke 2:8-14). This work is a musical reminder of the event (the birth of the Christ child) we prepare for in this Advent season.
Dec. 6, 2009
What is the Meaning of the Advent Wreath?
The circle of the wreath reminds us of God Himself, His eternity and endless mercy, which has no beginning or end. The green of the wreath speaks of the hope that we have in God, the hope of newness, of renewal, of eternal life. Candles symbolize the light of God coming into the world through the birth of His son. The four candles represent the period of waiting during the four Sundays of Advent, which themselves symbolize the four centuries of waiting between the prophet Malachi and the birth of Christ. The light of the candles reminds us that Jesus is the light of the world and we are called to be a light to the world as we reflect the light of God's grace to others. As the candles are lighted over the four week period, it also symbolizes the darkness of fear and hopelessness receding and the shadows of sin falling away as more and more light is shed into the world. The first candle is traditionally the candle of Expectation or Hope. The pink candle symbolizes Joy at the soon Advent of the Christ.
Nov. 29, 2009
What is the Gospel Procession?
The Gospel Procession is a congregational enactment of bringing the Word into the midst of the gathered. At the time of the reading of the Gospel, the pastor goes into the aisle to read the lesson and the people turn toward the reader and the Bible. In the Gospel of John, we read that "the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us" (John 1:14). The same Jesus who came in the flesh to bring us life still comes into our midst through his Word. Reading Jesus’ very words from the center of the congregation reminds us of this truth. Our eyes observe the procession into the congregation's midst, and our ears hear the words of Jesus at a closer proximity. All the while, however, our attention is directed to the wondrous truth that Jesus is with us in his word of truth.
Another message conveyed through the Gospel Procession is that the Church's mission is to take the Gospel into the entire world. As the procession moves into the midst of the congregation, the people of God are reminded that this word of life that they have the privilege of hearing must be taken beyond the walls of the Sanctuary to the very ends of the earth.
Nov. 22, 2009
What is Christ the King Sunday?
Christ the King Sunday is a festival Sunday celebrated the last Sunday of the church year, immediately before the beginning of Advent, which marks the new church year.
In 1925, Pope Pius XI declared that the feast of "Our Lord Jesus, Christ the King" would take place on the last Sunday of the month of October, before All Saints' Sunday. (The last Sunday in October is Reformation Sunday for Lutherans). In 1969, Pope Paul VI changed the date to the last Sunday of Pentecost and end of the church year. The Roman Catholic and most mainline Protestant churches (including the Evangelical Church in America) celebrate Christ the King Sunday on this date in the church calendar.
Revelation 1:5 worships Jesus Christ as "the ruler of the kings of the earth." In John 18:36-37, Jesus reminded Pilate and us that "my kingdom is not of this world", and "for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth." Jesus did and still has greater power than all earthly kings and rulers!
Nov. 1, 2009
Why Do We Have A New Red Banner in the Sanctuary?
The banner displayed at the Baptismal Font is a new addition to our liturgical art pieces. It is a banner carried by a standard bearer directly behind the crucifer in the worship procession and recession. This banner was carried during the Oct. 25 Reformation Sunday worship service. The red in the banner signifies festival worship for Reformation Sunday and the gold emphasizes the kingship of Our Lord, Jesus Christ. This processional banner and banners for Contemporary Worship in the Parish Hall were created by the All Saints Banner Committee: Barbara Fuller, Wendy Huss, Beth Maxwell, Connie Pierce, Beth Quist, Robin Ramsay and Rachel Simon
Oct. 25, 2009
What is The Luther Rose?
Prince John Frederick, the protector of Martin Luther, commissioned the seal, which Luther designed. This seal has become the most recognized symbol for Lutheranism. It provides a beautiful summary of his faith. Luther explains the seal in a letter to its designer, Lazarus Spengler of Nuremburg:
"The first should be a black cross in a heart, which retains its natural color, so that I myself would be reminded that faith in the Crucified saves us. 'For one who believes from the heart will be justified' (Romans 10:10). Although it is indeed a black cross, which mortifies and which should also cause pain, it leaves the heart in its natural color. It does not corrupt nature, that is, it does not kill but keeps alive. 'The just shall live by faith' (Rom. 1:17) but by faith in the crucified. Such a heart should stand in the middle of a white rose, to show that faith gives joy, comfort, and peace. In other words, it places the believer into a white, joyous rose, for this faith does not give peace and joy like the world gives (John 14:27). That is why the rose should be white and not red, for white is the color of the spirits and the angels (cf. Matthew 28:3; John 20:12). Such a rose should stand in a sky-blue field, symbolizing that such joy in spirit and faith is a beginning of the heavenly future joy, which begins already, but is grasped in hope, not yet revealed. And around this field is a golden ring, symbolizing that such blessedness in Heaven lasts forever and has no end. Such blessedness is exquisite, beyond all joy and goods, just as gold is the most valuable, most precious and best metal."
Oct. 4, 2009
What happens after communion?
In Numbers 6:22-27, the Lord says to Moses: "Tell Aaron and his sons this is how you are to bless the Israelites. Say to them: 'The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.' So they will put my name on the Israelites and I will bless them." Like Aaron and his sons, our pastors bless us and put His name on us as we go into the world after communion.
Sept. 27, 2009
Why do we follow the same pattern during worship?
In following the pattern set forth by our liturgy, we progress from corporate to individual worship. We gather as believers, greeting God and each other. We confess our sins and are forgiven. We hear God’s word, rejoicing in it and affirming our faith based on it. Then we move to the personal: our communion with Christ Our Lord. The pattern of Holy Communion finds its prototype in the scriptural accounts of the institution of Christ’s supper with the disciples: “Jesus took bread, gave thanks, broke it and gave it.” The Offertory, Great Thanksgiving, breaking of bread and Communion is how Christ’s command to “do this in remembrance of me” is lived out today, as it has been for centuries.
Sept. 20, 2009
What is a deacon?
“Deacon” comes from the Greek word “diakonos,” meaning “servant.” The American Heritage School Dictionary defines a deacon as “a church officer who assists the minister by performing duties that a layman can perform.” At All Saints, deacons are volunteers who assist the pastors in serving Holy Communion during a worship service. The church needs two or three deacons for a typical service and more for large services such as Christmas Eve and Easter Sunday. The pastor usually distributes the bread to each person, saying “the body of Christ, given for you.” Children who are too young to commune receive a blessing. The deacons follow the pastors and distribute the wine, saying, “the blood of Christ, shed for you.” At All Saints, wine can be distributed in individual cups or by “intinction,” where the wafer is dipped into the wine. Sometimes, only one pastor is present, and a third deacon takes on a pastor’s role, giving wafers and blessings. Deacons attend training once a year and serve several times per year.
Sept. 13, 2009
What are Sacristans?
Serving as acolyte is, for many, the first time opportunity to take a leadership role in worship. Bringing light to the assembly demonstrates that Christ, the Light of the World, is with us. This is an important role, and there is much to remember! How is that 6-foot cord tied into a cincture? Which altar candle is lighted first and extinguished last? When is the altar reverenced? Sacristans are helpful adults who have learned the responsibilities of the acolyte and who meet with youth in the Sacristy before worship to assist with robing, answer last-minute questions and share a reassuring smile. There are 12 Sacristans needed yearly, each serving one service monthly. Would you consider being a Sacristan? Contact Kay Labosky in the church office.
Aug. 30, 2009
What Do We Do When We Share the Peace?
Sharing God's peace is an opportunity for God's people to be reconciled with each other as they offer gifts to God and before the gift of Holy Communion. We observe this order in the worship service just prior to the offering, which is followed by Holy Communion.
Jesus' Sermon on the Mount lays the foundation for the practice of sharing God's peace. The early church confirmed the practice in church writings nearly as old as the New Testament.
Aug. 23, 2009
What Are the Prayers of Intercession?
Prayers of intersession are offered on behalf of other people. An intercessionary prayer may be invoked for an individual or a group. The sick, helpless, poor, etc., are examples of the groups for which we pray.
Jesus is the greatest intercessor. He offered prayers for his disciples as individuals and the 12 as a group. Perhaps the best known intercession of Jesus was his prayer for those who were crucifying him. In Luke 23:34 Jesus said: "Father, forgive them for they know not what they do."
Aug. 16, 2009
What does it mean to “confess our faith”?
We usually define the word “confess” as admitting to something we have done. But another use of the word “confess” means to declare one’s faith and beliefs.
During every worship service, together we affirm our faith and our connection to the universal church by repeating the words of one of the ecumenical creeds. Most commonly we say the Apostles’ or the Nicene Creed. More expanded confessions of our faith are the Athanasian Creed, the Augsburg Confession and the Book of Concord. Because we “confess” our faith publicly and with one another, Lutheran congregations are described as confessional churches.
Aug. 9, 2009
Why a sermon?
A sermon is the means by which God comes to us in the spoken word. The Pastor proclaims God's Word and applies that word to modern life and problems. Sermons should contain what God demands of us (the Law) and what God does for us through Jesus Christ (the Gospel).
The sermon is necessary because not all of us can immediately deduce what a reading from the scriptures means for us now. On top of this, we may not want to know what a text means for us. Hearing it can be an uncomfortable experience, because "not one of you keep the Law" (John 7:19). We need to be reminded of this Law, though, which none of us fully keeps. Once the Law has roused our consciences, Jesus wants to give us the Gospel. We need to hear that God accepts us unconditionally for the sake of Christ's death and resurrection.
Billy Graham once said, "The test of a preacher is that (the) congregation goes away saying, not, 'What a lovely sermon!' but 'I will do something.' "
July 26, 2009
The Service Begins with a Series of Greetings. Who are We Greeting?
After beginning our worship with a hymn, the Pastor greets us using the words of the apostles to greet the early churches: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
The next greeting is a song, the Kyrie, in which we greet our Lord as people of old greeted a king. In a series of petitions, the Pastor asks for peace and salvation for us, and the world. We join in response with Lord have mercy.
Next we offer the Hymn of Praise to God, using phrases from Revelations to express our joy for the gifts the Lord brings to the assembly.
Finally, the Pastor concludes the Gathering Rite with the Prayer of the Day, which focuses on the central theme of the worship service. We make the prayer our own by responding "Amen".
July 19, 2009
Why Do We Confess Our Sin Before We Worship?
The Confession and Forgiveness of sin is an act of spiritual preparation so that we may be in the presence of the Lord with clean hands and pure heart. (Psalm 24.)
In response to the Scriptural invitation, we confess our sin, and we are forgiven in the name of God who made us His children through Holy Baptism. Now we are ready to worship our Lord.
July 12, 2009
What Is Happening When We Worship?
In liturgical worship we follow a pattern of service adopted by the early church. In this pattern, four important events take place:
The Gathering, when the Holy Spirit calls us together as the people of God.
The Word, when God speaks to us in Scripture reading, preaching, and song.
The Meal, when God feeds us with the presence of Jesus Christ.
The Sending, when God blesses us and sends us in mission to the world.
June 21, 2009
What is a Hymn?
In the pew rack we find the "hymnal," a book containing musical settings of the liturgy and a collection of "hymns." In worship, after singing the Kyrie, we sing the "Hymn of Praise."
In the third chapter of his epistle to believers at Colossae, the Apostle Paul wrote, "Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly; in all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts unto God."
A "hymn" is a song of praise and thanksgiving to God. We are familiar with the singing of psalms from the Old Testament. Spiritual songs are often scripture put to melody. Hymns are original poetry expressing faith, praise, thanksgiving and prayer that have been put to melody. Martin Luther wrote of the importance of hymns in teaching and nurturing believers in the faith.
In our hymnal, we most often find our hymns giving us meaningful ways to tell the story of our salvation, thus we praise God for the things he has done to make us his own. So, as stated in Psalm 98, we "sing to the Lord a new song, for He has done wonderful things."
June 14, 2009
Prelude Time
Music, prior to the start of the worship service, is intended to encourage people to enter the place of worship, quiet themselves and prepare for worship. It is not intended purely for the entertainment of worshipers.
An old proverb says, "We only prepare for what we think is important." We come to worship with joy (I rejoiced when they said to me; let us go to the house of the Lord). We come to worship in humbleness and respect (God is in his holy temple; let all the earth keep silence). Worship is a gift of God that comes through unexpected grace. We prepare for worship by taking time to quiet ourselves and lift our hearts and minds to the Lord.
Like Martha, we often find ourselves busy with tasks and socializing. We are encouraged during the prelude to be instead like Mary and be intentional about setting aside time to be with the Lord. To this end we find suggested prayers to prepare for worship in our hymnal on page 72. Whether we are seated during the prelude or singing a set of praise songs, we are getting in tune to "lift our hearts to the Lord."
June 7, 2009
What is Trinity Sunday?
On Trinity Sunday, Lutherans and other Christians, celebrate the Triune God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We believe that there are three separate persons in the Godhead we worship, not three separate gods. We believe that there is God, the Father, known as Creator and Lord; Jesus, the Son of God incarnate, known to us as Savior and Redeemer; and the Holy Spirit, unseen to us but nurturing our faith and giving us spiritual gifts to strengthen our faith and the faith of others.
We continue each Sunday to affirm our faith of the Trinity in the words of the Apostles' Creed. The Benediction at the end of the service sends us out into the world with the blessing of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (the Trinity).
Symbols of the Trinity found in our worship are the Eternal Triangle, a triangle with the corners representing the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit in a circle, representing the eternal nature of God, and 3 connected circles of equal size, representing the three persons of the Godhead that we worship.
May 31, 2009
What is Pentecost?
The Pentecost sculpture installed on the south wall behind the narthex desk reminds us of the story of Pentecost. Its lively, dancing flames represent the Word of God and the descending dove represents the presence of the Holy Spirit. Charles DeLay created the sculpture, "The Spirit Given," which Mir Buresh commissioned in October of 1993 in memory of her husband, Robert Buresh.
The material used in this sculpture is the copper from the copper-clad bell tower that stood in front of the original sanctuary from 1963 to 1985. When the bell tower was removed to make way for the new sanctuary, member John Schuette stored the copper for six years.
Acts 2: 1-4: "When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place, and suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. Divided tongues, as of fire appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability."
May 17, 2009
Why the Laying on of Hands During Confirmation?
The laying on of hands, practiced by the very first Christians, is a liturgical gesture done while asking for God's power and blessings for a person. The laying on of hands has different purpose and meaning depending on when it is done. At the time of confirmation, the gesture signifies the post-baptismal giving of the spirit. The scriptural foundation for this act is found in the book of Acts 8:17 and 19:6. After Peter and John had baptized persons in Samaria and Paul had baptized in Corinth, they placed their hands on the newly baptized and they received the Holy Spirit.
May 3, 2009
What is Good Shepherd Sunday?
Good Shepherd Sunday is the fourth Sunday of Easter. We are reminded on this day that we lack nothing because God loves us. The psalm for the day is Psalm 23, which tells us that God will not only take care of our physical needs but will be with us in times of trial: "The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want." The Gospel reading, from the tenth chapter of John, is very specific about how far God (through Jesus Christ) is willing to go: "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep." (John 10:11) The prayer and hymn of the day, anthems and other music remind us that we will always dwell with the Good Shepherd. For that we must praise Him!
April 12, 2009
Why is the Altar Decorated in White?
On Easter Sunday, the Feast of the Resurrection, we celebrate by decorating the altar area with white lilies and white paraments (altar coverings) and white pastor's stoles. White is a symbol of grace and life everlasting, which we use to celebrate the Risen Lord. References to lilies are frequent in the Bible; the most famous reference is from the Sermon on the Mount. There was a report that lilies grew in the field where Jesus was crucified, one plant for each drop of His blood. White paraments and the white stoles worn by the pastors on Easter represent the celebration of the resurrection, through which Jesus bore our sins through his crucifixion and was raised from the dead. White is a symbol of rebirth, grace and life everlasting.
March 22, 2009
Giving Up Something For Lent
The 40 days of Lent are a time of spiritual renewal focusing on prayer, almsgiving and fasting, in preparation for celebrating Easter. As Moses (Exodus 34:28), Elijah (I Kings 19:8), and Jesus (Matthew 4:1, 2) fasted as part of their preparation for their missions, we fast as part of what we do for spiritual renewal.
Variations of Lenten fasting have evolved through the centuries to the recent practice of "giving up something for Lent". The thing given up is intended to be something significant and is intended to lead one to be more intentional about personal prayer, spiritual readings, reflection and caring for others in need.
March 15, 2009
Are There Too Many Days in Lent This Year?
Lent is a 40-day season of preparation for Easter and begins with Ash Wednesday. The 40 days are to remind us of Jesus' 40-day fast in the wilderness after his Baptism and Moses' 40-day fast on Mount Sinai. But, it doesn't add up! There are 46 days between Feb. 25 and April 12! It's no mistake. All Sundays in the church year are considered "little Easters" during which time we celebrate the resurrection of our Savior. So, the six Sundays between Ash Wednesday and Easter are not counted as part of the somber season of Lent.
March 8, 2009
Why aren’t we singing the Alleluia before the Gospel reading today?
In our order of worship, immediately before the pastor reads the Gospel, we stand and welcome the Word. We sing the Alleluia, taken from the Hebrew word meaning “All of you praise the Lord.” Lent is a somber and penitential season. As described in the Lutheran Worship Wordbook, we “bury the Alleluia” on Ash Wednesday and resurrect it for triumphal use on Easter.
March 1, 2009
What is Lent?
Lent begins in ashes. It journeys though darkness. It is a spiritual pilgrimage we must make one way or the other for genuine spiritual renewal to come.
Lent is a 40-day liturgical season that begins on Ash Wednesday and concludes at Easter. Sundays are not included in the 40-day count, because every Sunday is a joyful celebration of Jesus' resurrection. Although not biblical, Lent has a long tradition in the Christian Church, and it is thought that the tradition of the 40 days recalls the 40 days Jesus spent in the wilderness, fasting and being tempted by Satan. Lent is considered a time of penance and discipline. The color for Lent is purple. Purple is the color of royalty, repentance and self-discipline and can also symbolize pain, suffering, and therefore mourning and penitence.
Feb. 22, 2009
What is the Transfiguration?
The Transfiguration is an event, recorded in the Synoptic Gospels (Mark, Matthew and Luke), wherein Jesus was changed or "transfigured" in the presence of the apostles Peter, James and John.
Moses and Elijah appeared to Jesus on a mountaintop, and a voice spoke from a cloud.
The voice came from God and spoke words similar to those spoken at Jesus' baptism: "This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to Him!" (Mark 9:7) Harper's Bible Dictionary suggests that the Transfiguration may have taken place to show the three disciples Jesus' divine nature ("His clothes became dazzling white", Mark 9:3), and to urge them to heed Jesus' words about His coming Passion ("Listen to Him!")
The Transfiguration is celebrated the last Sunday of Epiphany, immediately before Lent.
Feb. 15, 2009
What is the Paschal Candle?
Fire in the Old Testament is a sign of God's presence. There are numerous examples: the burning bush on Mount Sinai, pillar or fire in the desert, also tabernacle lamps. Early Christians came to associate fire as a symbol of the resurrected Christ. Candles in churches carry forth this tradition.
In Jerusalem, the earliest Christians lighted candles as part of their Saturday night vigil. Eventually, the paschal candle (a new one is introduced every year during the Easter vigil) became the primary symbol of Christ as the Light of the world. During the Easter vigil the church is dark, representing the darkness of the tomb. Lighting of the paschal candle in the dark sanctuary, symbolizes the Light of the Risen Christ.
The paschal candle is much larger than regular altar candles and differs in several other ways. It rests on a separate stand , also of a substantial size. The candle is inscribed with a cross, an Alpha and Omega, along with the current year.
Source: www.elca.org
Feb. 8, 2009
Why do we use altar candles?
"The use of candles in the church, like that of crosses, has a long and varied history. In the early church oil lamps were most likely used, with candles becoming more popular later on (apparently in the fourth century). Also, candles (or lamps) were not set directly on the altar at first. Like the cross, lights were set in stands near the altar or sometimes held by assistants. The practice of placing candlesticks directly on the altar appears to have arisen in the 12th century. One of the primary uses of lights, until the invention of the light bulb, was practical: so that people could see in the dark. But the symbolic use of lights, a symbolism that has its roots in the Old Testament (already in Genesis 1:3), is also important."
"The most basic Christian symbolism attached to the use of lights is derived from the statement of Jesus: 'I am the light of the world' (John 8:12)."
Taken from "The Altar Guild Manual"
Dr. Lee A. Maxwell (Concordia Publishing House, 1996)
Feb. 1, 2009
Why do we use candles for worship?
We have candles throughout our Sanctuary and use them at various times during worship. They add beauty and warmth to the service, but more importantly, the light from candles conveys an important message. Candles illuminate the darkness and remind us that Christ is the Light of the World.
In our Sanctuary, an Eternal Flame burns in the stone sanctuary lamp suspended to the left of the baptistery. The flame represents the ever-present nature of Christ Jesus. Through this light that is never extinguished, we are reminded that our Lord never "slumbers nor sleeps." The ever-present glow of the lamp is an invitation to enter the Sanctuary for meditation and prayer.
Jan. 11, 2009
Why Do we Use Water in Baptism?
Christ taught us two sacraments -- Baptism and Holy Communion -- in which a divine promise is recalled through a visible sign.
In Baptism, we are joined together in community and promised eternal life in Christ. Water serves as the earthly element to recall this divine promise. Water has multiple dimensions and thus helps us to recognize the fullness of our Baptism. Water is creative and sustaining: In baptism we are given new birth in Christ. Water is cleansing: In baptism our sins are washed away. Water is destructive: In Baptism the "old" person is drowned, and the "new" person is raised in Christ.
Water is always visible on the sculpted Baptistery wall during our worship to remind us of our re-creation in Christ.
Jan. 4, 2009
What is Epiphany?
The word epiphany means “an appearance.” The Epiphany of our Lord Jesus to the world is celebrated Jan. 6, when we commemorate the visit of the magi.
Although the actual number of magi is not known, we think of three visitors since the Scriptures identify three gifts that they presented: gold, a gift suitable for a royal child; frankincense used in worship; and myrrh, a fragrant resin used to prepare a body for burial. The magi may have been Zoroastrian priests from Persia (present-day Iran) who specialized in astronomy. The magi were Gentiles, not Jews, and thus Epiphany celebrates the revelation of Jesus as Christ to the whole world.
The Epiphany Season is the final part of the Christmas cycle of the church year and extends from Jan. 6 to the celebration of the Transfiguration of our Lord, which we mark on the Sunday before Ash Wednesday, this year Feb. 22. During this time, you will see white on the altar cloths to demonstrate light and joy in Christ.
Dec. 21, 2008
What is the Magnificat?
The Magnificat is the hymn of praise said or sung by Mary, the mother of Jesus. In the first chapter of Luke, today's Gospel reading, God sends the angel Gabriel to tell Mary that she is favored by God and will bear a son, to be named Jesus. Mary then visits her cousin Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist, who exclaims that "the babe in my womb leaped for joy" when she hears the voice of the mother of the Lord. Mary replies,
"My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has regarded the low estate of his handmaiden." (Luke 1:46-48)
Mary continues to praise God for His generosity and mercy, especially to "those of low degree". This beautiful hymn of praise is part of the Advent story as told in the Gospel of Luke. It was appropriate that last Sunday our Chancel Choir sang John Rutter's "Magnificat" as its Advent musical offering.
Dec. 14, 2008
What Is A Chrismon?
Chrismons are symbols that represent an aspect of the person, life or ministry of Jesus Christ. The oldest chrismon is the Greek letter X (Chi) superimposed on the letter P (Rho). These are the first two letters of the word "cristos". The P is formed to look like a shepherd's crook and the X like a cross, symbolizing the combined Good Shepherd and the Risen Christ. Such symbols are found throughout church architecture and art. Look around to discover chrismons throughout our Sanctuary.
In the 1940's, a Lutheran church in Danville, Va., began the custom of hanging Christian symbols on their Christmas Tree and renamed it the "Chrismon Tree". These ornaments are always white to signify our Lord's purity and gold to signify His majesty. Chrismons are not to be bought and sold but are to be handmade and shared. The All Saints' Chrismon Tree in the Narthex has 30 symbols that congregation members have crafted in needlepoint. Please spend time to study these beautiful patterns and relate them to the life and mission of our Savior.
Dec. 7, 2008
What is the Meaning of the Advent Wreath?
The circle of the wreath reminds us of God Himself, His eternity and endless mercy, which has no beginning or end. The green of the wreath speaks of the hope that we have in God, the hope of newness, of renewal, of eternal life. Candles symbolize the light of God coming into the world through the birth of His son. The four candles represent the period of waiting during the four Sundays of Advent, which themselves symbolize the four centuries of waiting between the prophet Malachi and the birth of Christ. The light of the candles reminds us that Jesus is the light of the world and we are called to be a light to the world as we reflect the light of God's grace to others. As the candles are lighted over the four week period, it also symbolizes the darkness of fear and hopelessness receding and the shadows of sin falling away as more and more light is shed into the world. The first candle is traditionally the candle of Expectation or Hope. The pink candle symbolizes Joy at the fast-approaching Advent of the Christ.
Nov. 30, 2008
What Is Advent?
Advent is the season that begins the liturgical year because the Church begins with Christ. It consists of four Sundays starting with the Sunday closest to Nov. 30 and ends on Christmas Eve. The word "advent" is derived from the Latin adventus, which means "coming" or "arrival." In the societies of the Roman empire, the word adventus referred to the arrival of a person or dignity and great power-a king, emperor, or even one of the gods. For Christians, Advent is the time when the church patiently prepares for the coming of Jesus Christ in the past, present and future. We celebrate His birth in Bethlehem, give thanks for His daily presence among us and anticipate His return. Blue is the color for Advent. Blue represents hope, expectation, and royalty.
