A Service of the American Revolution
Worship
AT ALL TIMES AND IN ALL PLACES
FIFTEEN READY-TO-USE SPECIAL OCCASION WORSHIP SERVICES FROM CHRISTIAN HISTORY AND TRADITION
Background
Worship in the American colonies in the eighteenth century varied considerably. It was however, a very musical time. The first organ used in worship in the colonies was at the Gloria Dei Church in Philadelphia. Baltimore and Charleston had two- or three-manual organs in their churches. The hymns were mostly psalms sung to a few tunes. Services began with a "foresinger" leading the congregation in singing. Often he would "line out" the psalm. Services tended to be long, since the sermons were long. The foresinger's second duty was to sit at a desk below the pulpit with a large hourglass. As the sand would run out he would "make a production" of turning the glass over to let the minister know that his sermon was entering its second hour. Our service today will not be as long as they were two-hundred years ago. In America the dress of the pastor was not as formal as in Europe. Vestments were neglected. In the southern colonies, the pastor often wore a black suit, white shirt and red tie. Francis Asbury dressed like his people. Episcopalian ministers wore a preaching gown. The clerical collar did not appear until the nineteenth century. It was an Anglican collar and not a Roman collar. It was worn originally by establishment men in England. The white collar was worn with a white shirt and an elaborate vest.
Earlier worship in congregationalist New England in the seventeenth century was the first firmly-established practice of a nonLiturgical type in a Reformed Church. The psalms were sung in the Genevan manner using Ainsworth's psalter and might last a half hour. Scripture was read with a running commentary by the "teacher." The sermon might last two or three hours, sometimes with a pause in the middle. The main prayer of thanksgiving and intercession usually followed the sermon. Puritan preaching called for a genuine conversion of one's heart and life. The church was seen as a fellowship of those who were converted and aware of the conversion. The people stood during the worship service. The Lord's Supper was observed once a month. The order of worship which follows is based on a service held at the Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church in suburban Philadelphia in 1975.
Planning and Worship Suggestions
This service requires more preparation than most, particularly in terms of practical concerns. The service can be a highly visual one if costumes of the eighteenth century are secured. This could be a challenging task to the church's sewing group, whose members could research the dress of that age as well as of the times. A number of successful working meetings could be planned. There might be guest speakers or appropriate films that could also be used to enhance the study and preparation. Items such as an hour glass and desk will need to be placed in the church sanctuary.
A "foresinger" will need to be found, someone who has the ability to line out the hymns. This should be practiced with the choir to assist the congregation on the day of the service.
The minister may want to use this opportunity to use sermon illustrations from this period in church and American history.
This is an appropriate order of worship for the Fourth of July weekend or other holiday weekends associated with an historical emphasis.
Order of Worship
(*congregation stand)
Hymns from the eighteenth century or earlier
will be sung in place of psalms.
Organ Prelude
Hymn Singing With Foresinger
Hymn "Love Divine"
(Charles Wesley, 1707-1788)
Hymn "I Love Thy Kingdom, Lord"
(Timothy Dwight, 1752-1817)
*Introit Hymn "How Firm a Foundation"
(Appeared as "K" in Rippon's A Selection of Hymns, 1787)
*CaIl to Worship
Leader
Accomplish thy perfect work in our souls, O Father. Bless, animate and sustain us, and raise us mightily above all that would distract us, to thyself and the consciousness of thy fellowship which gives joy to all who dwell therein. (V. R. Reinhard, 1753-1812)
*Hymn "All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name"
(Edward Perront 1726-92, Alt. by John Rippon 1751-1836)
Invocation
Minister
O Thou, our Lord and our God, our merciful Father in Heaven, we entreat thee, with childlike hearts, give us in this world whatever is really good and happy for us in soul and body, according to thy holy will and pleasure. May we live as Christians, endure with patience, and at last die in peace and hope, for Jesus Christ's sake. Amen (Johann Quirfeld, 1641-86)
Anthem "Were You There"
(American Folk Hymn) Choir
Scripture Romans 5:1-5
*Hymn "Amazing Grace"
(John Newton, 1725-1807)
Announcements
The Offering
But before we proceed we would recommend unto you the poor and necessitous, whom Christ hath left in the midst of us, accompanied with a command to do good unto them ... The God and Father of all grace and mercy include your hands and your hearts to a liberal contribution toward supplying the wants of the poor, and may he awaken your attention to what shall be further spoken. (From Ye Ancient Pastor's Busy Week)
Offertory Anthem "Lord, I Want to Be a Christian"
Choir (American Folk Hymn)
Sermon
Minister
Prayers and the Lord's Prayer
As we commenced with prayer, it is our bounden duty to close with thanksgiving, remembering in our prayers to those who have requested the prayers and thanksgivings of the church. (From Ye Ancient Pastor's Busy Week)
Let the people name the persons to be remembered.
Anthem "There Is a Balm in Gilead"
Choir (American Folk Hymn)
Hymn "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing"
(Robert Robinson, 1735-1790)
Benediction
Mercifully behold the distractions of this land, let the sorrowful sighing of the oppressed come before thee and save thou them that are appointed to bleed. Save us from the horrors of domestic war, save us from unnatural and cruel brethren, and above all, save us from ourselves - from the sad effects of our own internal vices. Hear the prayers which are this day offered up unto thee, through. out this American continent. And when, in the progressive fulness of time, the kingdoms of this new-world, with their honors thick upon them, shall sink into the general abyss of empires, the virtues by which they were so long supported, shall survive the ruins, and be exercised upon objects commensurate to their greatness - in the regions of perfect liberty and glory. (From Thomas Coombe on the eve of the American Revolution)
Chapter 10
A Labor Day Service
A Missionary Service
from Central America
Background
Missionaries have gone forth to spread the Good News of Jesus Christ for almost 2000 years. A study of the missionary history and work of the church would be most appropriate for the congregation. Such a study could be a broad overview, or the study might focus on several stages - such as the spread of the Gospel in the first century, the spread of the Gospel to various parts of the world, missions in the modern world, and a study of the missionary issues in our day. Another approach might be to study particular missionaries, such as Paul, the foremost missionary; Gregory's work in Armenia; Martin of Tours in France; Ulfilas in Romania; Patrick in Ireland; Columbia in Scotland; Boniface in Germany; Mar Aba in Persia; Alopen in China; Raymond Lull to Islamic peoples; William Rubruck and John of Mortecorbina to China; Francis Xavier to the Far East. In more recent times, one might study Matthew Ricci's reintroduction of Christianity to China; John Olier, Thomas Mayhew, John Elliot and others' work with North American Indians; Albert Schweitzer and David Livingstone in Africa; C. Leivens, William Carey, Henry Martin, Alexander Duff, Thomas Coke, William Butler, James Thoburn, and Sadhv Sundar's work in India. The exploration of the mission work of one's own denomination would also provide an interesting study.
Worship in various mission stations has varied by country, denomination, century and personality. Some missionaries went to the extreme of using the order of worship used in their home country. Others usually adapted practices of the people to whom they had gone to serve, and enabled them to develop leadership of the church in their own country. In most cases the language of the people was used in all aspects of worship, with the exception of the use of Latin by the Roman Catholic Church.
The following order of worship comes out of United Methodist usage in Central America in the twentieth century and was described to the author by the Rev. Larry Rankin, an interpreter for Alfalit.
Practical Planning and Preparation
To follow this general order of worship, used by missionaries in Central America, the minister and congregation accustomed to a more formal order of worship may need to ask several people in the congregation to be prepared to participate at key points. A song leader of Gospel hymns may be recruited and copies of Gospel hymn books obtained (if not already part of the church hymnal). Tunes are usually easy to learn and people tend to get involved in hearty singing without special encouragement. A member may be ready to share a poem or song and tell of God's help with a problem or issue. If your congregation is very formal, you may need to have a couple people ready to share concerns and prayer requests as well as to say, "Amen" or "Yes, Lord." Care must be exercised so that these things are not mere acting, and certainly that they are not seen as making sport of brethren who are more emotional in expressions of worship. At the time of the offering, if people do not volunteer, the minister may call on people by name to assist. A sermon that explores the missionary heritage of the church, or Christ's command to go into all the world, or current challenges to missionary work, might be appropriate. The dress of the pastor could be informal. If desired, the minister could wear a shirt and tie. Displays in the church or narthex, depicting the missionary work of the congregation or denomination, would be appropriate, as also would be bulletin inserts focusing on mission. A "Mission Fair," using booths and displays, could add additional emphasis.
Order of Worship
Gospel Singing
Minister and Congregation
Three or four favorite Gospel songs might be sung as well as several choruses.
Free Prayer
Minister
The people respond with "Amen" and "Yes, Lord" when appropriate.
Announcements
Minister and Lay Leader
Bible Reading
Minister
Sharing in Song or Poetry
Member
This may be done by a church member who wishes to express thanks to God for help with a particular problem. A brief description of the problem and God's help is shared with the congregation before he or she reads the poem, or sings the song accompanied by a guitar player or piano player.
Apostles Creed
Minister and People
Sharing of Concerns, Request for Prayers
Congregation
Various people stand and ask prayer for family and friends in need, as well as prayer for issues or problems facing the community, country or world.
Pastoral Prayer
Minister
The minister will usually include those for whom prayer has been asked, as well as those people or issues for whom the pastor feels moved to pray.
Lord's Prayer
Minister and People
The Offering
The minister asks for volunteers to assist with the offering. Usually, four young people will come forward to assist.
Choir Special Music
If there is a choir, they sing a Gospel hymn. The offering is brought forward during the singing or at the end of the special music. At the end of the special music, the minister will offer a prayer of thanksgiving.
Gospel Hymn
Minister and Congregation
Scripture
Minister
Sermon
Minister
Invitational Hymn and Opportunities for Altar Prayer
People are invited to make a decision to follow Jesus. People are also invited to come to the altar to pray.
Chapter 11
A Reformation Day Service
Martin Bucer's
Strassburg Liturgy
Background
Martin Bucer exercised a great influence upon Reformed worship and upon the liturgies of Hesse, Cologne and England. In England, he was at the center of the Protestant movement at Cambridge which, in the 1550s, shaped much of the English Protestant effort. Martin Bucer, as Reguis Professor of divinity at Cambridge, influenced Thomas Leaver, Headmaster of Saint John's College, Cambridge (who played a role in the Lady Jane Grey Affair, during which she was Queen for nine days). Bucer probably influenced many of the Oxford Martyrs who were educated at Cambridge as well. Bucer influenced Calvin in Strassburg.
Martin Bucer's views were radical in nature. He held a Eucharistic doctrine very close to Zwingli's. Over time he moved to some of the most creative liturgical ideas of the Reformation. His later view of the Lord's Supper was near to that of Melanchthon and Calvin. Bucer stressed the clear and plain declarations of Scripture and the activity of the Holy Spirit rather than the physical and structural things of worship. In reacting to the prescribed liturgy of the Roman Church, he stressed Christian liberty. With the exception of the sermon, Bucer felt nothing should be dictated in worship and that the people should pray and praise with restraint. By 1534, Bucer felt the exercise of liberty had been abused and was calling for uniformity. Bucer grew to believe the church, the ministry, the sacraments and liturgy were objective means of grace. His finished doctrine of the Eucharist stressed the spiritual presence of Christ. Bucer felt that hymns, which he helped secure with an evangelical emphasis, were an excellent way to help people grow in knowledge of Christ and true godliness. He led in the rediscovery of congregational singing.
Planning and Worship Suggestions
A study of the early Reformation in England, one that looks at the role of Henry VIII, Edward VI, the Lady Jane Grey Affair, and the Protestant martyrs of Queen Mary, may be of interest to your people. Fox's Book of Martyrs provides several interesting accounts which illustrate the fervent faith of many people during this period. A study of the various interpretations of the Lord's Supper among the Protestant Reformers also makes an interesting study as people struggle to a deeper understanding of the sacrament.
There is little unusual preparation needed for the use of this order of worship. If the altar table in your church is set against a wall, you may wish to consider moving it so that the minister can stand behind it, as was done in Bucer's service. The traditional academic preaching robe used in the sixteenth century and common in some pulpits today, would be appropriate. The use of the academic hood may also be used. The creed was sung by the people in Bucer's service, and would be a positive addition (if music to sing it is readily available). Historical hymns associated with the Reformation, hymns that refer to the fathers and mothers of the faith, and hymns that call to mind the sacrifices of the martyrs, would be appropriate.
Order of Worship
(adapted)
(*Congregation stand)
This is how Sundays were kept. First, early morning prayer is conducted in the cathedral as usual. After that, about six o'clock, the assistants hold a sermon and exhortation for the domestic servants in the neighboring parish churches. Soon after, the congregation having assembled, the pastor comes in and goes before the altar-table which has been placed near the people, so that everyone may understand every word. And he begins the Common Worship with more or less the following words:
The Confessions
Make confession to God the Lord, and let everyone acknowledge with me his sin and iniquity.
Almighty, eternal God and Father, we confess and acknowledge unto thee that we were conceived in unrighteousness and are full of sin and transgression in all our life. We do not fully believe thy Word nor follow thy holy commandments. Remember thy goodness, we beseech thee, and for thy Name's sake, be gracious unto us, and forgive us our iniquity which, alas, is great.
An Absolution or Word of Comfort: (1 Timothy 1)
This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.
Let everyone, with Saint Paul, truly acknowledge this in his heart and believe in Christ. Thus, in his name, I proclaim unto you the forgiveness of all your sins, and declare you to be loosed of them on earth, that you be loosed of them also in heaven, in eternity. Amen
Hymn
Congregation
Prayer
Minister
The Lord be with you.
Let us pray.
Almighty, gracious Father, forasmuch as our whole salvation depends upon our true understanding of thy holy Word, grant unto all of us that our hearts, being freed from worldly affairs, may hear and apprehend thy holy Word with all diligence and faith, that we may rightly understand thy gracious will, cherish it, and live by it with all earnestness, to thy praise and honor; through our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen
Then the church sings a Psalm or, if it is too long, several verses at the direction of the precentor.
Hymn
Congregation
Gospel Lesson
Congregation
The Offering
The Sermon
Minister
The minister goes to the pulpit and reads out of one of the Gospels, as much as he proposes to expound in a single sermon, treating the book in succession. Since the Gospels have described the words and works of our Lord quite clearly, it is the custom of Sunday morning generally to preach from one of the Gospels, more than from other books, and they should be dealt with in their order, not as heretofore by picking out several pieces, often without particular skill, so that all the other things given in the Gospels have been withheld from the congregation. In the afternoon and at other hours, the other biblical books are also expounded.
Near the end of the Sermon, the Minister explains the action of the Lord's Supper and exhorts the people to observe the same with right faith and true devotion. This said exhortation usually contains four points.
Exhortation to Communion
Minister
The first: that, since the Lord now wishes to communicate his body and blood to us, we should reflect upon the fact that our body and blood - which means, our whole nature - are corrupted to all evil and thus to eternal death, so that they of themselves may nevermore share in the Kingdom of God. (1 Corinthians 15)
The second: that to deliver us from such corruption, the eternal Word of God became flesh, so that there might be a holy flesh and blood - this is to say, a truly divine man, through whom the flesh and blood of us all would be restored and sanctified. And this happens as we truly eat and drink of his body and blood.
The third: that the Lord truly offers and gives his holy and sanctifying body and blood to us in the holy supper, with the visible things of bread and wine, through the ministry of the church, as his holy Word declares: "Take and eat, this is my body which is given for you; drink ye all of it, this is my blood which is shed for you for the forgiveness of sin." And we must accept this Word of the Lord with simple faith, and doubt not that he, the Lord himself, is in the midst of us through the external ministry of the church which he himself has ordained for that purpose. Such does he proclaim to us with his own words; that the bread which we break may truly be, even for us, the communion of his body, and the cup with which we give thanks, the communion of his blood. (1 Corinthians 10) But we must always diligently consider why the Lord thus imparts to us his holy, sanctifying communion in the holy sacrament; namely, that he may evermore live in us, and that we may be one body in him our head, even as we all partake here of one bread. (1 Corinthians 10)
The fourth: that in this action, we keep the Lord's memorial and feast with true devotion and thankfulness, so that we always laud and praise him in all our words and deeds, yea with our whole life, for all his benefits; for his Incarnation and bitter death whereby he has paid for our sin; for this blessed communion of his body and blood; that is, for himself entire, who is true God and man, through whom alone we obtain the true and blessed life and live both here and in eternity.
When, however, the holy supper is not held - as in the case of the neighboring parish churches where it is now observed but once a month (though in the cathedral, every Sunday) - but children are there to be baptized, the mystery of Baptism is explained and the people are exhorted to a truly sacred use of his holy sacrament.
At the conclusion of the sermon, the people sing the Creed or else, according to the occasion, a psalm or hymn. Thereafter, if the holy supper is to be observed, the minister stands behind the table and speaks to the people.
The Apostles Creed
Congregation
Prayer
Minister
The Lord be with you.
Let us pray.
Almighty, merciful God and Father, thou who hast promised us through thy son that whatsoever we ask of thee in his name thou wilt grant unto us, and hast also commanded us through thy spirit to pray for those in authority and for all men: we do heartily beseech thee through Jesus Christ, thy most-beloved Son our Savior, to enlighten with the knowledge of thy Gospel the hearts of our lord Emperor and King, all princes and nobles, and the magistrates and ruling body of this city, that they and all those in power may acknowledge thee as their sovereign and true Lord, serve thee with fear and trembling, and rule over us, who are the work of thy hand and the sheep of thy pasture, according to thy will and good pleasure.
Grant that all men everywhere may come to knowledge of the truth. Especially to this congregation, being assembled in thy name, send forth thy Holy spirit, the Master and Teacher, who may write thy law upon our hearts, take away our blindness, and lead us to recognize our sin, which otherwise, alas, is death, and its baseness and shame is concealed. Make it vivid to us, O Lord, and enlighten our eyes that we may see the truth and recognize indeed that there is nothing in us except mere sin, death, hell and the deserved wrath of God, So, may we hunger and thirst after the rich well-spring of thy goodness and grace, and gratefully accept the same which thou hast delivered to us through thine only-begotten Son, who, having become like unto men and us poor sinners, suffered and died and rose from the dead, in order that he may save us from sin, death, and hell, and bring us to the resurrection and our inheritance of the Kingdom of God.
And grant us, O Lord and Father, that with true faith we may keep this supper of thy dear Son, our Lord Jesus, as he hath ordained it, so that we verily receive and enjoy the true communion of his body and blood, of our Savior himself, who is the only saving bread of heaven. In this holy sacrament, he wishes to offer and give himself so that he may live in us, and we in him, being members of his body and serving thee fruitfully in every way to the common edification of thy church, being set free from every passion of our evil, corrupted flesh, from all anger, vexation, envy, hatred, selfishness, lewdness, unchastity, and what more there may be of the damned work of the flesh; to the end that, by all means, we as thine obedient children may ever lift our hearts and souls unto thee in true childlike trust, and always call upon thee, saying as our only Master and Savior, our Lord Jesus Christ, hath taught us:
Our Father ...
Brief Exhortation on the Lord's Supper
Minister
The Institution of the Lord's Supper
In the same night in which the Lord Jesus was betrayed, while they were eating, he took the bread, and break it, and gave it to his disciples, and said, "Take, eat, this is my body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of me." In the same manner he also took the cup after the supper, gave thanks, and offered it to them, and said, "Drink ye all of it; this is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins; this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me."
Believe in the Lord, and give eternal praise and thanks unto Him!
Distribution of Communion Elements
Remember, believe and proclaim that Christ the Lord has died for you.
Hymn
Congregation
The Prayers
Minister
The Lord be with you.
Let us pray.
Grant unto us, O heavenly Father, that the remembrance of our redemption may walk in Christ, the Light of the world, far removed from our foolish reason and blind wills, which are vain and injurious darkness; through Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen
Almighty God, heavenly Father, we give thee eternal praise and thanks that thou hast been so gracious unto us poor sinners, having drawn us to thy Son our Lord Jesus, whom thou hast delivered to death for us and given to be our nourishment and our dwelling unto eternal life. Grant that we may never relinquish these things from our hearts, but ever grow and increase in faith to thee, which, through love, is effective of all good works. And so may our whole life be devoted to thy praise and the edification of our neighbor; through the same Jesus Christ, thy Son, our Lord. Amen
Hymn
Congregation
*The Blessing
The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious unto you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace. (Numbers chapter 6)
Depart! The Spirit of the Lord go with you unto eternal life! Amen
Following the meal on Sunday, there is another sermon in the cathedral, before and after which the holy psalms are also sung and common prayer conducted. Shortly after this sermon, the minister holds instruction for the children in the cathedral, except in wintertime, namely, when the children might suffer on account of the cold. He explains to them the Ten Commandments, the Creed and the Lord's Prayer in succession, about which he asks them questions, and thus drills them in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Worship in the American colonies in the eighteenth century varied considerably. It was however, a very musical time. The first organ used in worship in the colonies was at the Gloria Dei Church in Philadelphia. Baltimore and Charleston had two- or three-manual organs in their churches. The hymns were mostly psalms sung to a few tunes. Services began with a "foresinger" leading the congregation in singing. Often he would "line out" the psalm. Services tended to be long, since the sermons were long. The foresinger's second duty was to sit at a desk below the pulpit with a large hourglass. As the sand would run out he would "make a production" of turning the glass over to let the minister know that his sermon was entering its second hour. Our service today will not be as long as they were two-hundred years ago. In America the dress of the pastor was not as formal as in Europe. Vestments were neglected. In the southern colonies, the pastor often wore a black suit, white shirt and red tie. Francis Asbury dressed like his people. Episcopalian ministers wore a preaching gown. The clerical collar did not appear until the nineteenth century. It was an Anglican collar and not a Roman collar. It was worn originally by establishment men in England. The white collar was worn with a white shirt and an elaborate vest.
Earlier worship in congregationalist New England in the seventeenth century was the first firmly-established practice of a nonLiturgical type in a Reformed Church. The psalms were sung in the Genevan manner using Ainsworth's psalter and might last a half hour. Scripture was read with a running commentary by the "teacher." The sermon might last two or three hours, sometimes with a pause in the middle. The main prayer of thanksgiving and intercession usually followed the sermon. Puritan preaching called for a genuine conversion of one's heart and life. The church was seen as a fellowship of those who were converted and aware of the conversion. The people stood during the worship service. The Lord's Supper was observed once a month. The order of worship which follows is based on a service held at the Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church in suburban Philadelphia in 1975.
Planning and Worship Suggestions
This service requires more preparation than most, particularly in terms of practical concerns. The service can be a highly visual one if costumes of the eighteenth century are secured. This could be a challenging task to the church's sewing group, whose members could research the dress of that age as well as of the times. A number of successful working meetings could be planned. There might be guest speakers or appropriate films that could also be used to enhance the study and preparation. Items such as an hour glass and desk will need to be placed in the church sanctuary.
A "foresinger" will need to be found, someone who has the ability to line out the hymns. This should be practiced with the choir to assist the congregation on the day of the service.
The minister may want to use this opportunity to use sermon illustrations from this period in church and American history.
This is an appropriate order of worship for the Fourth of July weekend or other holiday weekends associated with an historical emphasis.
Order of Worship
(*congregation stand)
Hymns from the eighteenth century or earlier
will be sung in place of psalms.
Organ Prelude
Hymn Singing With Foresinger
Hymn "Love Divine"
(Charles Wesley, 1707-1788)
Hymn "I Love Thy Kingdom, Lord"
(Timothy Dwight, 1752-1817)
*Introit Hymn "How Firm a Foundation"
(Appeared as "K" in Rippon's A Selection of Hymns, 1787)
*CaIl to Worship
Leader
Accomplish thy perfect work in our souls, O Father. Bless, animate and sustain us, and raise us mightily above all that would distract us, to thyself and the consciousness of thy fellowship which gives joy to all who dwell therein. (V. R. Reinhard, 1753-1812)
*Hymn "All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name"
(Edward Perront 1726-92, Alt. by John Rippon 1751-1836)
Invocation
Minister
O Thou, our Lord and our God, our merciful Father in Heaven, we entreat thee, with childlike hearts, give us in this world whatever is really good and happy for us in soul and body, according to thy holy will and pleasure. May we live as Christians, endure with patience, and at last die in peace and hope, for Jesus Christ's sake. Amen (Johann Quirfeld, 1641-86)
Anthem "Were You There"
(American Folk Hymn) Choir
Scripture Romans 5:1-5
*Hymn "Amazing Grace"
(John Newton, 1725-1807)
Announcements
The Offering
But before we proceed we would recommend unto you the poor and necessitous, whom Christ hath left in the midst of us, accompanied with a command to do good unto them ... The God and Father of all grace and mercy include your hands and your hearts to a liberal contribution toward supplying the wants of the poor, and may he awaken your attention to what shall be further spoken. (From Ye Ancient Pastor's Busy Week)
Offertory Anthem "Lord, I Want to Be a Christian"
Choir (American Folk Hymn)
Sermon
Minister
Prayers and the Lord's Prayer
As we commenced with prayer, it is our bounden duty to close with thanksgiving, remembering in our prayers to those who have requested the prayers and thanksgivings of the church. (From Ye Ancient Pastor's Busy Week)
Let the people name the persons to be remembered.
Anthem "There Is a Balm in Gilead"
Choir (American Folk Hymn)
Hymn "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing"
(Robert Robinson, 1735-1790)
Benediction
Mercifully behold the distractions of this land, let the sorrowful sighing of the oppressed come before thee and save thou them that are appointed to bleed. Save us from the horrors of domestic war, save us from unnatural and cruel brethren, and above all, save us from ourselves - from the sad effects of our own internal vices. Hear the prayers which are this day offered up unto thee, through. out this American continent. And when, in the progressive fulness of time, the kingdoms of this new-world, with their honors thick upon them, shall sink into the general abyss of empires, the virtues by which they were so long supported, shall survive the ruins, and be exercised upon objects commensurate to their greatness - in the regions of perfect liberty and glory. (From Thomas Coombe on the eve of the American Revolution)
Chapter 10
A Labor Day Service
A Missionary Service
from Central America
Background
Missionaries have gone forth to spread the Good News of Jesus Christ for almost 2000 years. A study of the missionary history and work of the church would be most appropriate for the congregation. Such a study could be a broad overview, or the study might focus on several stages - such as the spread of the Gospel in the first century, the spread of the Gospel to various parts of the world, missions in the modern world, and a study of the missionary issues in our day. Another approach might be to study particular missionaries, such as Paul, the foremost missionary; Gregory's work in Armenia; Martin of Tours in France; Ulfilas in Romania; Patrick in Ireland; Columbia in Scotland; Boniface in Germany; Mar Aba in Persia; Alopen in China; Raymond Lull to Islamic peoples; William Rubruck and John of Mortecorbina to China; Francis Xavier to the Far East. In more recent times, one might study Matthew Ricci's reintroduction of Christianity to China; John Olier, Thomas Mayhew, John Elliot and others' work with North American Indians; Albert Schweitzer and David Livingstone in Africa; C. Leivens, William Carey, Henry Martin, Alexander Duff, Thomas Coke, William Butler, James Thoburn, and Sadhv Sundar's work in India. The exploration of the mission work of one's own denomination would also provide an interesting study.
Worship in various mission stations has varied by country, denomination, century and personality. Some missionaries went to the extreme of using the order of worship used in their home country. Others usually adapted practices of the people to whom they had gone to serve, and enabled them to develop leadership of the church in their own country. In most cases the language of the people was used in all aspects of worship, with the exception of the use of Latin by the Roman Catholic Church.
The following order of worship comes out of United Methodist usage in Central America in the twentieth century and was described to the author by the Rev. Larry Rankin, an interpreter for Alfalit.
Practical Planning and Preparation
To follow this general order of worship, used by missionaries in Central America, the minister and congregation accustomed to a more formal order of worship may need to ask several people in the congregation to be prepared to participate at key points. A song leader of Gospel hymns may be recruited and copies of Gospel hymn books obtained (if not already part of the church hymnal). Tunes are usually easy to learn and people tend to get involved in hearty singing without special encouragement. A member may be ready to share a poem or song and tell of God's help with a problem or issue. If your congregation is very formal, you may need to have a couple people ready to share concerns and prayer requests as well as to say, "Amen" or "Yes, Lord." Care must be exercised so that these things are not mere acting, and certainly that they are not seen as making sport of brethren who are more emotional in expressions of worship. At the time of the offering, if people do not volunteer, the minister may call on people by name to assist. A sermon that explores the missionary heritage of the church, or Christ's command to go into all the world, or current challenges to missionary work, might be appropriate. The dress of the pastor could be informal. If desired, the minister could wear a shirt and tie. Displays in the church or narthex, depicting the missionary work of the congregation or denomination, would be appropriate, as also would be bulletin inserts focusing on mission. A "Mission Fair," using booths and displays, could add additional emphasis.
Order of Worship
Gospel Singing
Minister and Congregation
Three or four favorite Gospel songs might be sung as well as several choruses.
Free Prayer
Minister
The people respond with "Amen" and "Yes, Lord" when appropriate.
Announcements
Minister and Lay Leader
Bible Reading
Minister
Sharing in Song or Poetry
Member
This may be done by a church member who wishes to express thanks to God for help with a particular problem. A brief description of the problem and God's help is shared with the congregation before he or she reads the poem, or sings the song accompanied by a guitar player or piano player.
Apostles Creed
Minister and People
Sharing of Concerns, Request for Prayers
Congregation
Various people stand and ask prayer for family and friends in need, as well as prayer for issues or problems facing the community, country or world.
Pastoral Prayer
Minister
The minister will usually include those for whom prayer has been asked, as well as those people or issues for whom the pastor feels moved to pray.
Lord's Prayer
Minister and People
The Offering
The minister asks for volunteers to assist with the offering. Usually, four young people will come forward to assist.
Choir Special Music
If there is a choir, they sing a Gospel hymn. The offering is brought forward during the singing or at the end of the special music. At the end of the special music, the minister will offer a prayer of thanksgiving.
Gospel Hymn
Minister and Congregation
Scripture
Minister
Sermon
Minister
Invitational Hymn and Opportunities for Altar Prayer
People are invited to make a decision to follow Jesus. People are also invited to come to the altar to pray.
Chapter 11
A Reformation Day Service
Martin Bucer's
Strassburg Liturgy
Background
Martin Bucer exercised a great influence upon Reformed worship and upon the liturgies of Hesse, Cologne and England. In England, he was at the center of the Protestant movement at Cambridge which, in the 1550s, shaped much of the English Protestant effort. Martin Bucer, as Reguis Professor of divinity at Cambridge, influenced Thomas Leaver, Headmaster of Saint John's College, Cambridge (who played a role in the Lady Jane Grey Affair, during which she was Queen for nine days). Bucer probably influenced many of the Oxford Martyrs who were educated at Cambridge as well. Bucer influenced Calvin in Strassburg.
Martin Bucer's views were radical in nature. He held a Eucharistic doctrine very close to Zwingli's. Over time he moved to some of the most creative liturgical ideas of the Reformation. His later view of the Lord's Supper was near to that of Melanchthon and Calvin. Bucer stressed the clear and plain declarations of Scripture and the activity of the Holy Spirit rather than the physical and structural things of worship. In reacting to the prescribed liturgy of the Roman Church, he stressed Christian liberty. With the exception of the sermon, Bucer felt nothing should be dictated in worship and that the people should pray and praise with restraint. By 1534, Bucer felt the exercise of liberty had been abused and was calling for uniformity. Bucer grew to believe the church, the ministry, the sacraments and liturgy were objective means of grace. His finished doctrine of the Eucharist stressed the spiritual presence of Christ. Bucer felt that hymns, which he helped secure with an evangelical emphasis, were an excellent way to help people grow in knowledge of Christ and true godliness. He led in the rediscovery of congregational singing.
Planning and Worship Suggestions
A study of the early Reformation in England, one that looks at the role of Henry VIII, Edward VI, the Lady Jane Grey Affair, and the Protestant martyrs of Queen Mary, may be of interest to your people. Fox's Book of Martyrs provides several interesting accounts which illustrate the fervent faith of many people during this period. A study of the various interpretations of the Lord's Supper among the Protestant Reformers also makes an interesting study as people struggle to a deeper understanding of the sacrament.
There is little unusual preparation needed for the use of this order of worship. If the altar table in your church is set against a wall, you may wish to consider moving it so that the minister can stand behind it, as was done in Bucer's service. The traditional academic preaching robe used in the sixteenth century and common in some pulpits today, would be appropriate. The use of the academic hood may also be used. The creed was sung by the people in Bucer's service, and would be a positive addition (if music to sing it is readily available). Historical hymns associated with the Reformation, hymns that refer to the fathers and mothers of the faith, and hymns that call to mind the sacrifices of the martyrs, would be appropriate.
Order of Worship
(adapted)
(*Congregation stand)
This is how Sundays were kept. First, early morning prayer is conducted in the cathedral as usual. After that, about six o'clock, the assistants hold a sermon and exhortation for the domestic servants in the neighboring parish churches. Soon after, the congregation having assembled, the pastor comes in and goes before the altar-table which has been placed near the people, so that everyone may understand every word. And he begins the Common Worship with more or less the following words:
The Confessions
Make confession to God the Lord, and let everyone acknowledge with me his sin and iniquity.
Almighty, eternal God and Father, we confess and acknowledge unto thee that we were conceived in unrighteousness and are full of sin and transgression in all our life. We do not fully believe thy Word nor follow thy holy commandments. Remember thy goodness, we beseech thee, and for thy Name's sake, be gracious unto us, and forgive us our iniquity which, alas, is great.
An Absolution or Word of Comfort: (1 Timothy 1)
This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.
Let everyone, with Saint Paul, truly acknowledge this in his heart and believe in Christ. Thus, in his name, I proclaim unto you the forgiveness of all your sins, and declare you to be loosed of them on earth, that you be loosed of them also in heaven, in eternity. Amen
Hymn
Congregation
Prayer
Minister
The Lord be with you.
Let us pray.
Almighty, gracious Father, forasmuch as our whole salvation depends upon our true understanding of thy holy Word, grant unto all of us that our hearts, being freed from worldly affairs, may hear and apprehend thy holy Word with all diligence and faith, that we may rightly understand thy gracious will, cherish it, and live by it with all earnestness, to thy praise and honor; through our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen
Then the church sings a Psalm or, if it is too long, several verses at the direction of the precentor.
Hymn
Congregation
Gospel Lesson
Congregation
The Offering
The Sermon
Minister
The minister goes to the pulpit and reads out of one of the Gospels, as much as he proposes to expound in a single sermon, treating the book in succession. Since the Gospels have described the words and works of our Lord quite clearly, it is the custom of Sunday morning generally to preach from one of the Gospels, more than from other books, and they should be dealt with in their order, not as heretofore by picking out several pieces, often without particular skill, so that all the other things given in the Gospels have been withheld from the congregation. In the afternoon and at other hours, the other biblical books are also expounded.
Near the end of the Sermon, the Minister explains the action of the Lord's Supper and exhorts the people to observe the same with right faith and true devotion. This said exhortation usually contains four points.
Exhortation to Communion
Minister
The first: that, since the Lord now wishes to communicate his body and blood to us, we should reflect upon the fact that our body and blood - which means, our whole nature - are corrupted to all evil and thus to eternal death, so that they of themselves may nevermore share in the Kingdom of God. (1 Corinthians 15)
The second: that to deliver us from such corruption, the eternal Word of God became flesh, so that there might be a holy flesh and blood - this is to say, a truly divine man, through whom the flesh and blood of us all would be restored and sanctified. And this happens as we truly eat and drink of his body and blood.
The third: that the Lord truly offers and gives his holy and sanctifying body and blood to us in the holy supper, with the visible things of bread and wine, through the ministry of the church, as his holy Word declares: "Take and eat, this is my body which is given for you; drink ye all of it, this is my blood which is shed for you for the forgiveness of sin." And we must accept this Word of the Lord with simple faith, and doubt not that he, the Lord himself, is in the midst of us through the external ministry of the church which he himself has ordained for that purpose. Such does he proclaim to us with his own words; that the bread which we break may truly be, even for us, the communion of his body, and the cup with which we give thanks, the communion of his blood. (1 Corinthians 10) But we must always diligently consider why the Lord thus imparts to us his holy, sanctifying communion in the holy sacrament; namely, that he may evermore live in us, and that we may be one body in him our head, even as we all partake here of one bread. (1 Corinthians 10)
The fourth: that in this action, we keep the Lord's memorial and feast with true devotion and thankfulness, so that we always laud and praise him in all our words and deeds, yea with our whole life, for all his benefits; for his Incarnation and bitter death whereby he has paid for our sin; for this blessed communion of his body and blood; that is, for himself entire, who is true God and man, through whom alone we obtain the true and blessed life and live both here and in eternity.
When, however, the holy supper is not held - as in the case of the neighboring parish churches where it is now observed but once a month (though in the cathedral, every Sunday) - but children are there to be baptized, the mystery of Baptism is explained and the people are exhorted to a truly sacred use of his holy sacrament.
At the conclusion of the sermon, the people sing the Creed or else, according to the occasion, a psalm or hymn. Thereafter, if the holy supper is to be observed, the minister stands behind the table and speaks to the people.
The Apostles Creed
Congregation
Prayer
Minister
The Lord be with you.
Let us pray.
Almighty, merciful God and Father, thou who hast promised us through thy son that whatsoever we ask of thee in his name thou wilt grant unto us, and hast also commanded us through thy spirit to pray for those in authority and for all men: we do heartily beseech thee through Jesus Christ, thy most-beloved Son our Savior, to enlighten with the knowledge of thy Gospel the hearts of our lord Emperor and King, all princes and nobles, and the magistrates and ruling body of this city, that they and all those in power may acknowledge thee as their sovereign and true Lord, serve thee with fear and trembling, and rule over us, who are the work of thy hand and the sheep of thy pasture, according to thy will and good pleasure.
Grant that all men everywhere may come to knowledge of the truth. Especially to this congregation, being assembled in thy name, send forth thy Holy spirit, the Master and Teacher, who may write thy law upon our hearts, take away our blindness, and lead us to recognize our sin, which otherwise, alas, is death, and its baseness and shame is concealed. Make it vivid to us, O Lord, and enlighten our eyes that we may see the truth and recognize indeed that there is nothing in us except mere sin, death, hell and the deserved wrath of God, So, may we hunger and thirst after the rich well-spring of thy goodness and grace, and gratefully accept the same which thou hast delivered to us through thine only-begotten Son, who, having become like unto men and us poor sinners, suffered and died and rose from the dead, in order that he may save us from sin, death, and hell, and bring us to the resurrection and our inheritance of the Kingdom of God.
And grant us, O Lord and Father, that with true faith we may keep this supper of thy dear Son, our Lord Jesus, as he hath ordained it, so that we verily receive and enjoy the true communion of his body and blood, of our Savior himself, who is the only saving bread of heaven. In this holy sacrament, he wishes to offer and give himself so that he may live in us, and we in him, being members of his body and serving thee fruitfully in every way to the common edification of thy church, being set free from every passion of our evil, corrupted flesh, from all anger, vexation, envy, hatred, selfishness, lewdness, unchastity, and what more there may be of the damned work of the flesh; to the end that, by all means, we as thine obedient children may ever lift our hearts and souls unto thee in true childlike trust, and always call upon thee, saying as our only Master and Savior, our Lord Jesus Christ, hath taught us:
Our Father ...
Brief Exhortation on the Lord's Supper
Minister
The Institution of the Lord's Supper
In the same night in which the Lord Jesus was betrayed, while they were eating, he took the bread, and break it, and gave it to his disciples, and said, "Take, eat, this is my body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of me." In the same manner he also took the cup after the supper, gave thanks, and offered it to them, and said, "Drink ye all of it; this is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins; this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me."
Believe in the Lord, and give eternal praise and thanks unto Him!
Distribution of Communion Elements
Remember, believe and proclaim that Christ the Lord has died for you.
Hymn
Congregation
The Prayers
Minister
The Lord be with you.
Let us pray.
Grant unto us, O heavenly Father, that the remembrance of our redemption may walk in Christ, the Light of the world, far removed from our foolish reason and blind wills, which are vain and injurious darkness; through Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen
Almighty God, heavenly Father, we give thee eternal praise and thanks that thou hast been so gracious unto us poor sinners, having drawn us to thy Son our Lord Jesus, whom thou hast delivered to death for us and given to be our nourishment and our dwelling unto eternal life. Grant that we may never relinquish these things from our hearts, but ever grow and increase in faith to thee, which, through love, is effective of all good works. And so may our whole life be devoted to thy praise and the edification of our neighbor; through the same Jesus Christ, thy Son, our Lord. Amen
Hymn
Congregation
*The Blessing
The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious unto you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace. (Numbers chapter 6)
Depart! The Spirit of the Lord go with you unto eternal life! Amen
Following the meal on Sunday, there is another sermon in the cathedral, before and after which the holy psalms are also sung and common prayer conducted. Shortly after this sermon, the minister holds instruction for the children in the cathedral, except in wintertime, namely, when the children might suffer on account of the cold. He explains to them the Ten Commandments, the Creed and the Lord's Prayer in succession, about which he asks them questions, and thus drills them in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
