Our new rector will lead us in The Liturgy of the Word

A new rector is an exciting transitional time for any congregation. We are thrilled to have the Rev. Sadie Koppelberger begin her ministry at here at Christ Church. In this time of transition there will be some subtle changes to the order of the service. Enjoy the following reading to better understand what to expect in the coming months.

The Role of a Deacon

The canons require that prior to being ordained a priest a person must be a deacon for a minimum of six months. Leading a congregation is a big job! The Rev. Sadie Koppelberger, our new Deacon-In-Charge, was ordained as a deacon in June and will be eligible for ordination to the priesthood in December. 

The 1979 Book of Common Prayer provides a service for what is commonly called a “Deacon’s Mass.” This is used at the discretion of the bishop and when no priest is present. Bishop Stebbins has given Sadie license to preside over the Liturgy of the Word and Holy Communion during her time as a  transitional deacon. 

Here is what you can expect:

• The Liturgy of the Word will be unchanged. It will include readings, responses, a sermon, and the prayers of the people. 
• The Liturgy of the Table, or the Eucharist, will feel different. We will use preconcecrated  elements meaning elements that were present when a priest presided at the Eucharist but were not consumed during that service. You will not hear the Eucharistic prayer but communion will be distributed as usual.
• The service will conclude with the post-communion prayer and a dismissal.

In this season as we worship together we are mindful of the larger Body of Christ and how we find our place in it. We will focus more on beholding and partaking in the Body than we might when the Eucharist is not truncated in this way. We will “Behold what we are” and pray that we may “become what we receive.” Please reach out to Sadie if you have questions about this somewhat unusual way of gathering for worship.