What is a lectern? A lectern is a stand or podium from which a book or speech is read. In Christian churches the lectern is used for the reading of the Bible to God’s people. This is in keeping with the Old Testament tradition of reading the Torah from a lectern/podium in the center of … [Read more…]
Why do we have green paraments? Green is the color of growth. Green paraments are used in the seasons of Epiphany and Pentecost. Epiphany is the time when Jesus is revealed through His teaching and miracles. This causes many to come to faith, and others to have their faith strengthened. The season of Pentecost is … [Read more…]
What is the season of Epiphany? Epiphany is the season between Christmas and Lent. It begins with the celebration of the day of Epiphany, the arrival of the Magi in Bethlehem, where they found the answer to the question, “Where is He who is born King of the Jews?”. The season is one where we … [Read more…]
Why do we have a Baptismal Font? We have a Baptismal Font because Baptism is a vital gift from God to us. We are called to baptize in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. God grants the blessings of Jesus’ death and resurrection to those who receive … [Read more…]
What is Christmas? Christmas is the Mass (liturgical worship service) of the Christ/Messiah (anointed one). It is the celebration of the birth of the promised Savior whose name Jesus means “the Lord saves.” God fulfilled His covenant promise to come as a man and save us from our sins. While the focus of Christmas is … [Read more…]
What is the Church? The Church is all believers in the one true God, Old and New Testament. It includes all believers around the world and in heaven. God gathers His believers around His Word and Sacraments here on earth, just as He gathers all believers in heaven in the marriage feast of the Lamb. … [Read more…]
Why do we have blue paraments during Advent? Blue paraments came into use in the 20th Century. Prior to that time the paraments used for Advent were the purple also used in Lent. While both are seasons of repentance, blue was chosen for Advent to represent the deep blue of the first dawn. Advent is … [Read more…]
What is the season of Advent? Advent, the beginning of the church year, is a time of anticipation. Christians anticipate the celebration of Christmas at this time of year. Advent does remind us of the anticipation of the coming of the Messiah experienced by God’s people prior to Jesus’ coming to save us. But the … [Read more…]
What is Christian Worship? Christian worship is an interaction between God and His people. Christians believe that God is not far off, but present with us. Jesus said in Matthew 28:20, “I am with you all the days even to the end of the age.” Since God is present we interact with Him in the … [Read more…]
The importance of children