We are blessed by people of many backgrounds coming to be part of St. Edward's Sunday morning worship. We have respect for various postures and gestures that have meaning for various people.

Standing is a position of respect, praise, availability to God thus people (who are physically able to stand without strain) stand and recognize Jesus' presence when we read his words in the Gospel reading. We stand to sing and stand to pray.

Kneeling is a posture of obedience, availability and adoration, thus many people (not all) kneel to pray, to confess sins, to receive Holy Communion.

Kneeling briefly on one knee (called genuflecting) is a gesture of respect and obedience like a deep bow of the head, some people do this when the cross passes by them, when the name of Jesus is pronounced or when we remember the words Jesus spoke at the last supper saying he would be fully present in the bread and the wine. Some people make this kind of bow to the cross as they pass in or on their way to receive communion at the alter rail.

Bowing of head briefly is a similar gesture of respect and reverence for Christ's presence, when people at the altar bow to each other it is a recognition of Christ's presence in the service that is being rendered.

Making the sign of the cross (crossing yourself) is a thanksgiving for God's love and a recommitment to him. Some people dip their hands in the water of baptism and as a renewal of their baptismal vows when they enter the church.

Raising both hands or one hand is an ancient gesture of praise to God, a kind of non verbal "alleluia" or "praise God".

None of these things are required; some people simply find that using their body to worship God is very helpful. Some experiment with these methods. We are comfortable with the variety of gestures and postures because our unity is in Christ not uniformity in custom. Whatever draws you closer to him is best for you.

About Receiving Communion at St. Edward's

At his last supper with his disciples, Jesus gave us the gift of Holy Communion (also known as The Holy Eucharist, The Mass, or the Lord's Supper). We believe that Jesus is present to us as we share in the bread and wine. This is one way God nourishes us. Anyone who desires to be strengthened in their relationship with Jesus Christ is welcome to share in this holy feast.

For a variety of good reasons some people choose to receive only the bread or only the wine. We understand either to be a full and valid communion and we believe that Christ's full presence is communicated with the bread or the wine. If you cross your arms across your chest at the communion rail, the person administering the communion will assume that you wish to receive a blessing instead of the bread or the wine. Some people receive the communion by dipping the bread in the wine. When you receive the wine please help by guiding the base of the cup with your hands. Kneeling or standing are both acceptable ways of receiving communion. Sometimes it is easier for younger (and shorter) children to stand.  As a courtesy we usually wait until two people beyond us have received so that we don't jostle them as we leave the rail.  Parents decide when their children may receive communion and the clergy are happy to consult and help you in this decision.

The Votive Station
At the rear of the church to your right as you enter is another place of prayer. Some people kneel here and light a candle as a sign of their prayer, a sign that will linger after they leave. There is no intent to engage in magic of superstition, just another way to hold up prayers to God.

The Caring Card

One way used by many of our members and guests to communicate concerns and other messages and to ask for prayer is the little card attached to the last page of the 10 am bulletin or the card found in the pews. We hope you will use it to allow us to join in prayer with you. Please fill it out and put it in the collection plate.

The Bidding of Prayers

We encourage you to write your concerns in the bidding book in our foyer prior to the service for inclusion in the Prayers of the People.  As you enter the front doors of the church you will find the book on a pedestal to your right. You may also silently add your concerns and thanksgivings during the Prayers of the People or at any time during the worship service.  "... pray to your Father, ... for your Father knows what you need before you ask him."  Matthew 6