Thursdays. 7:30pm.
During Advent, Lent, and the Season of Easter.
The lights were dimmed, candles lit and paintings depicting God’s amazing beauty and power displayed in creation framed our space for worship. Instead of being seated in the green chairs of the sanctuary, we were seated in the red chairs of the choir loft, creating a more intimate environment for worship and an atmosphere for a more authentic connection with God and with each other. There was a sense of the holy in our midst. We gathered to worship God; we gathered to engage in a new approach on an ancient service of worship, Evensong.
Together in prayer the congregation began,
“My soul waits for the Lord
More than those
Who watch for the morning
More than those
Who watch for the morning.”
We entreated the Lord,
“Out of the depths I have cried to You.
“O Lord, hear my voice.”
Then there was stillness; silence creating a space to reflect on our just uttered longing for God. Softly and slowly the silence was filled; filled with the familiar sound of an acoustic guitar; filled with the familiar melody of Amazing Grace. Together the congregation sang – I once was lost, but now I am found, was blind but now I see.”
The service continued with more prayer, more silence, more stillness, and more song. To end the service was to be torn away from a precious gift, to long for a few more moments in the presence of the Lord. To end was the assurance that we met with the Lord, that the Lord will go with us as we go from this place, and that the Lord will meet with us again as we gather next time.
Such is it to to experience of God through Evensong worship on Thursday nights. Each week during Evensong folks gather to enter into a time of prayer, reflection, and powerfully livened worship singing old classic hymns and learning new songs that invite worshippers into the presence of God. During these worship services God’s presence is felt; hurting souls are tended; dry and tired spirits receive watering; and all walk away with the sure and certain knowledge we met with the Lord.
Join us Thursday nights during Advent, Lent, and the Easter season for Evensong worship and a profound sense of spirituality.