God has given us preaching and teaching, praise and prayer, and Baptism and the Lord’s Supper as means of fulfilling our service of God among people. In worship, we acknowledge and praise God who is present in the world and in our lives. We offer ourselves to God and are equipped for God’s service in the world.
Our Worship Service
| Introit | Gathering around the Word (Our Humble Preparation) |
| Call to Worship | |
| Opening Hymn | |
| Confession | |
| Assurance of Pardon | |
| Children’s Time | Proclaiming the word (The Hearing of God’s Word) |
| Scripture Reading | |
| Anthem | |
| Sermon | |
| Affirmation of Faith | Responding to the Word (Our Grateful Response) |
| Hymn | |
| Prayers of the People | |
| Sacraments | Sealing of the Word |
| Baptism | |
| Lord’s Supper | |
| Closing Hymn | Bearing and Following the Word in the World |
| Charge and Benediction | |
| Postlude |
Sacraments in Worship
Baptism – “Baptism is God’s gift of grace and also God’s summons to respond to that grace. Baptism calls to repentance, to faithfulness, and to discipleship. Baptism gives the church its identity and commissions the church for ministry to the world. “ (Book of Order)
All children of the church are invited to sit near the font to be active participants in each baptism. It is United tradition to present a quilt, handmade by the children of the church, to each infant who is baptized.
Lord’s Supper – “The Lord’s Supper is the sign and seal of eating and drinking communion with the crucified and risen Lord. The New Testament describes the meal as a participation in Christ and with one another in the expectation of the Kingdom and as a foretaste of the messianic banquet.” (Book of Order)
At United Presbyterian Church, the Lord’s Supper is celebrated during worship on the 1st Sunday of each month. All baptized Christians are welcome to partake.
Music in Worship
Music is an integral part of our worship as we join in praise and prayer. Lead by the adult choir, organ and other instruments, we worship God through the beauty of his gifts of music. Our Music Ministry enriches our worship as well as many other aspects of the life of our church.
Children in Worship
Children are welcome in worship at United. We encourage their attendance and participation through the following:
- Children’s Sermon – Each week, all children are invited to the front of the church for a child’s version of the adult sermon.
- Children’s Chapel – Following the Children’s Sermon, children kindergarten age may attend this weekly worship preparation program, with Bible stories, crafts and worship time.
- Worship Bags – Worship bags, which are designed to help each child be an active participant in worship, include a children’s bulletin as well as bookmarks for the Bible readings and hymns. Special materials are included on Baptism and Communion Sundays.