Prince of Peace has a long history of Traditional Liturgical worship. At 11:15 we gather in the sanctuary and are led by the ancient liturgy that has been passed down through the ages. We celebrate our liturgical roots because they ground us deeply in the passage through time of the faithful followers of Jesus. As we worship there is a subtle reminder that we are sharing in the same words–and the same faith–that has been present since the days of Jesus and the Apostles. This way of worship is a link between us and the days of Moses. It yokes us to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob and the Lord who faithfully walked in the still of the evening searching for Adam and Eve.
The word Liturgy has its roots in Greek. Often translated as “the work of the people” it was used to describe public works. It was also a descriptor of any service or work done for the state by a citizen. As Church has adopted and adapted the word to describe the ancient rite, liturgy can still be described in a similar way. Liturgy is that which the faithful participate in doing for the sake of the Kingdom of God. In short, our worship is our response to all that God does for us.
Tradition is the living faith of the dead; Traditionalism is the dead faith of the living.
Jaroslav Pelikan
Our traditional liturgy, if you are unfamiliar, can be very confusing. The language and cadence stands apart from the typical dialogue and flow of our world today. And yet, through repetition, this liturgy becomes familiar. This ritual becomes dependable. The Confession. The Kyrie. The Creeds. They are words and beliefs on our lips–yet the Holy Spirit holds us through these words. This ritual of worship holds us even when we can’t hold ourselves.
Of course one of the most obvious elements of our traditional worship at Prince of Peace is the organ that leads us. With hymns–both ancient and recent–the emphasis of our voice in praise is central to this worship. The organ, under the skillful leadership of Dr. Pat Thomas, undergirds our singing. Hymns are picked to match the season and the readings for the day. Other musical elements of the service provide a consistent voice that matches words and hymns found in scripture.
At Prince of Peace the sermon you hear in the traditional service is the same sermon preached at the modern worship service. The feel and flavor of each service are unique. The theology and undercurrent of faith remains the same at both services. Come, join us for worship as we sing and praise our Lord together. See you this Sunday!
