There are many Episcopalians who prefer more contemporary worship services and at Christ Church we have Sunday options that fit this category at 8:45 AM, 11:15 AM, and 5:00 PM.
8:45 AM: This is a Rite II Holy Eucharist with homily, extensive use of PowerPoint for visual images and for the text of the service. Our Contemporary Band plays and leads songs that range from Taize chants to U2, from praise songs to old spirituals. The service is in All Saints' Hall, which has a more informal feel than the Church.
11:15 AM: This is a Holy Eucharist specifically for children ages two-eight. Everything is small or short, to accommodate the little people who make up most of the congregation. The children participate in the procession, carrying the cross and flags, and preparing the altar at the beginning of the service and setting up for communion. There is a story time when a gospel story is acted out or explained with visual aids that make the story come alive for young children. The music is easy Bible songs often with hand motions that engage the children. The service is in All Saints' Hall, which has a more informal feel than the Church.
5:00 PM: This is a Rite II Holy Eucharist with homily and music held in the Church, but with a very informal feel to it. A wooden altar is brought down near the pews, a small keyboard is used for music, and the dress code is very casual, jeans are appropriate and the clergy do not wear vestments! This service uses prayers from the Church of England quite often and music that ranges from praise songs to traditional hymns, from folk hymns to contemporary texts set to old hymn tunes. During communion there is often a prayer minister in the chapel who is available to pray with those who have special concerns. This service is a wonderful alternative to the busy pace of Sunday morning.
