FAQS

What is the Book of Common Prayer?

The Book of Common Prayer is the set prayers based on Scripture that we use to conduct our worship services. The original Book of Common Prayer was written by Archbishop of Canterbury Thomas Cranmer during the same time period as the Reformation. Since then many editions have been written, but they are patterned after Archbishop Cranmer’s original.

Can I participate in Communion?

Yes of course! All Christians who have been baptized in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost are welcomed to partake of Holy Communion.

When and why should I kneel?

Those who are new to sacramental worship often get confused about the different postures during the service. It is very simple. We stand when we sing, we kneel when we pray and we sit when we listen.

Why do you make the sign of the Cross, and do I have to? What is the proper way to sign oneself?

You will notice that our worship involves the whole body and all our senses. Bowing, kneeling and crossing ourselves are part of this “whole body” expression of our faith. The sign of the Cross is a very ancient practice going back to apostolic times. We cross ourselves starting at our forehead, then move to our heart, then left shoulder and finally the right shoulder. In doing so we acknowledge that all our actions begin with Christ. And that it is only through His cross that we receive any grace in this life. Like many practices in Anglican worship, if you do not feel comfortable you do not have to follow this practice. It is a personal preference.

Why do people bow as the cross passes by?

We bow in submission to the Cross of Christ with the understanding that all our actions begin and end with the Cross. So we begin and end our worship service with the processional cross.

Why do you use wine instead of grape juice?

This is very simple... Because that’s what Jesus used. The majority of Christians in the world use wine rather than grape juice. The practice of using grape juice is a fairly modern development.

Who are all the people at the altar and why are they wearing different clothes?

The people on the Altar are referred to as the “Altar Party”, usually consisting of the Priest, Deacons, Lay Readers, Acolytes and Candle Bearers. The clothes they wear are called “vestments,” and they are symbolic of the office - or job – each person performs.

Why don't you sing more modern hymns and songs?

While there is certainly nothing wrong with more modern worship music, we believe that worship should be God-focused. Therefore, the songs are not intended to “entertain” us, but to give Glory to God. The hymns we choose have been sung for decades – or even centuries – and serve to teach as well as to give glory to God.

Why are all your prayers read? Do you not believe in spontaneous prayer?

We certainty believe in spontaneous prayer and use it often. But for worship, we follow a set liturgy so that everyone can follow along and even memorize the service over time. This would be very difficult if we changed our prayers week after week.

Are you part of the Anglican Communion?

St. Gabriel’s is a member of the Anglican Church in North America. The Anglican Church is a Province-in-formation in the global Anglican Communion committed to reaching North America with the transforming love of Jesus Christ.