Services – an explanation

The Eucharist

The worship in St Peter’s and All Saints’ churches is centred around the Eucharist, which is a thanksgiving for the life, death and resurrection of Christ. It is sometimes called Holy Communion, the Mass, or the Lord’s Supper. By sharing bread and wine, representing the body and blood of Christ, we give thanks for all that Jesus did to reconcile humanity to God, and for the love and justice he brought to the world. We begin the service by asking God for forgiveness; we then reflect upon scripture in the context of today’s world through readings and the sermon; we pray for the Church, the world and those in particular need; and we commemorate Christ’s death and resurrection through the sacrament of Holy Communion. Except in said services, we join together in singing hymns, usually with the church choir, which also contributes other musical items.

Matins

This service (which does not include communion) consists of hymns, readings, choir items, prayers, and a sermon. It is sometimes known as Morning Prayer. Services of Matins in this parish take the form set out in the Book of Common Prayer.

Evensong

This service is the counterpart to Matins, and consists of hymns, readings, prayers, a sermon (on Sundays) and choir items, including the traditional canticles known as the ‘Magnificat’ (the Song of Mary) and the ‘Nunc Dimittis’ (the Song of Simeon). It is an excellent opportunity to experience the presence of God through music, prayer, contemplation and reflection on Scripture.

Family Service

The St Peter’s Family Service is designed especially with the needs of young children in mind, although people of all ages are welcome to attend. It lasts for 30-35 minutes, and usually includes songs and hymns, a talk, and prayers, with the children being encouraged to respond and participate in various ways. Coffee and croissants (and more!) are available after the service in the St Peter’s Centre, with craft activities for the children.

Holy Communion with prayers for healing

This is a gentle and quiet service at which prayers for healing may be requested, either for yourself or for other people, in the faith that God can and does give peace of mind, body and spirit, and can show us new ways of coping with problems and concerns.

Taizé Service

The Taizé Community in France is known worldwide for its congregational chants that bring a contemporary approach to traditional monastic music. These help to create a deeply prayerful atmosphere, with periods of silence to encourage personal reflection. The Taizé community attracts many thousands of young people each year. St Peter’s monthly Taizé service is informal and meditative, and is usually accompanied by a small instrumental group.

Compline

Compline, or Night Prayer, is a short service for the end of the day. Prayers of thanksgiving are said for the day that is past, and prayers offered for the night which lies ahead. The choir leads the singing.

Meditation

This is a time of silence, lasting roughly half an hour, which includes some short suggestions for reflection. It is an opportunity to still one’s busy mind and to enter an oasis of calm in the heart of the city.