Grounded in Scripture

We regard the Holy Bible as foundational to our faith. It is the inspired word of God written by human hands for people living in an ancient time and distant place. Therefore, we interpret the Bible through the lenses of context, tradition, and reason. 

Holy Communion

Holy Communion, Holy Eucharist, The Lord’s Supper, or simply Communion are some of the names for the focal point of the Episcopal Service. The breaking of the bread has two meanings: (1) we break bread for distribution - we are one body, yet many members - and (2) we remember that Christ’s body was broken for us at Cavalry. God is made present in the bread and wine, which is presented as “the gift’s of God for the people of God.”

The Book of Common Prayer

More than 70 percent of The Book of Common Prayer, which has guided our worship since the days of King Henry VIII of England, comes directly from the Bible. In addition, each service generally includes readings from the Old Testament, the epistles, the gospels, and the psalms, arranged such that most of the Bible is read aloud in church over three years.

The Book of Common Prayer is widely considered a masterpiece of writing. The language and indeed the whole culture of the prayer book came to be a major influence on the speech of a large proportion of English-speaking people.

Our Shared Curiosity

When Episcopalians gather for worship, we comprise an eclectic group of seekers, doubters, and believers. If there is a common denominator among Episcopalians, most likely it is curiosity. No matter where any of us might be on our spiritual journey, we want to hear God's vision for us in our time and place. We strive to be welcoming and inclusive because our experiences of God in all persons help to shape our understanding of the Divine. 

Strengthened for Service

For Episcopalians, worship is the central expression of our Christian identity, and it deepens our relationship with God. Through prayer, praise, scripture, and sacrament, we celebrate God's love with ancient ceremony yet always-timely conversation. Our worship nourishes and strengthens us for service to Christ in the world. 

Participants in Worship

Episcopalians are participants in worship, not observers. We use all our senses and direct our entire attention-body and spirit-toward God. While the clergy are the principal leaders in church services, lay persons (non-clerical) participate in all aspects of worship, from carrying the lights that guard the cross to administering the chalice at communion. Everyone who has been baptized is a minister in the Episcopal Church and shares in the life, worship, and governance of the church. 

Using Our Spiritual Gifts

There are many worship ministries where a person may use his or her personal gifts in service to the church. These include leadership roles as well as participating in the altar guild, as acolytes, Eucharistic ministers, lectors, ushers, oblationers, and intercessors. Click here to learn more about how you can get involved in worship at St. Philip’s.