I believe worship encompasses several ways for us as a church body to gather together as one and give thanks and praise to God. In the United Methodist Church, a key part of our theological underpinning is rooted in a social gospel which focuses on relationship and community as a means of holiness. As liturgical theologian Ruth Duck points out, “A relational theology of worship holds together the conviction that God truly is present, revealing Godself in worship, and the conviction that worship is not complete without the church’s response in faith and love (2013, 13). We are called, as Methodists, to both be in relationship with Christ and with one and other. It is our call to be in community with one and other and the means by which we grow in our faith. One of the most meaningful worship services I have experienced invited the congregation to stand up and individually share a “praise, pain or protest” during the worship service prior to the reading of scripture and the sermon. These moments invited each of us to experience what was happening in the lives of the congregation. The moments shared were unfiltered and offered a glimpse into what that person was actually experiencing in their lives.
QUESTIONS FOR THE FIELD
What qualities have created a meaningful, connectional worship experience for you?
FAMILY FIELD TALK
What kinds of activities or conversations have been the most helpful for you during Sunday School classes or weekday activities?
PRAYER GUIDE
Lord of life, teach us to gather in Your name as one body, one people. Teach us to be a servant to those in need and continue in our call to discipleship. Send us your Holy Spirit so that we may, in unity, grow in our love for You and for one another.
