And the answer is . . . 

Recently I have been asked several questions which may need to be answered in a forum larger than one on one conversation.  So let this page be that forum for sharing with the whole congregation.   If this prompts you to think of a question you would like to have answered on this page, write it out and give it to Pastor Dave or slip it under the office door. 

Question:  Not too many people are using the church nursery on Sunday mornings.  Should we just scrap it? 

Answer:  The goal of a nursery service during worship is not to compete with the worship service for numbers of children served.  It is rather, a thoughtful part of our congregational hospitality available should a need arise.  Volunteers are not “sentenced” to an hour in the dungeon if there are no children to serve during a particular worship service.  Nursery volunteers are welcome to identify themselves to the ushers and then take part in the worship service.  Probably it would be desirable to be seated near the back of the nave so that the nursery volunteer can offer assistance to the parent who may be dealing with a fussy child as the service goes on. 

Donna Miller and Bertha Armstrong currently co-ordinate nursery volunteers, and are always eager to receive new volunteers.  They would be pleased to answer other questions you may have.  Their goal is to provide nursery availability during both the 8:15 and 10:45 a.m. services each week. 

Question:  It seems like we are constantly popping up and down like so many jack-in-the-boxes.  Why must we stand and sit so often during worship? 

Answer:  Posture helps us focus on what we are doing.  The Lutheran liturgy is designed with the understanding that the whole congregation will participate.  Liturgy is not meant for an audience of spectators.  We arise (or kneel when appropriate) for times of prayer or confession and as the gospel is read.  Our standing posture indicates our interest in communicating our concerns to God and in receiving His communication with us.  Standing is also preferable for singing.  So we stand to give our lungs capacity to expand. 

Having said all that, our “ups and downs” are not meant to work hardship on anyone.  If a physical condition of any sort limits your ability to stand comfortably, please do not feel compelled to struggle.  Stand as you are able.  Sit otherwise.  Your presence and involvement in worship is important and I would not want any of you to stay home because you are embarrassed by physical limitations. 

Question:  I’ve heard your invitation to serve as a worship/communion assistant and think I’d like to try it.  Would I 
have to chant the liturgy? 

Answer:  Chanting is not mandatory.  Traditionally the liturgical rule has been this:  the congregation sings in response when the leader sings.  The congregation speaks in response when the leader speaks.  Hearing our voice alone before a group of people can initially produce anxiety.   If you are only comfortable speaking, that is a good place to begin.  If you would like to try chanting, our musicians are open to practicing with you so that you can gain some comfort and self-confidence.