Evening Service Change

Effective September 12, 2010, the Evening Worship Service will return to the Sanctuary.

Agape and Eucharist

Selected Sundays 6:00pm in the Upper Room

Origin.  On the night our Lord and Savior was to be betrayed, He and the disciples ate a celebratory meal, preparatory to the Passover. At this supper, Jesus instituted the New Covenant symbols of the bread and wine.  Thus, He "took bread and giving thanks [euharisteas] broke it." 1 Corinthians 11:24.

Celebration.  The Agape feast was one term used for the Eucharistic celebration of the early Christians. "Agape" is one of the Greek words for love, particularly applied to selfless love. So it is today, four to six times per year on Sunday evenings designated by the Session-our ruling body--the congregation of Fourth Church enjoys a celebratory meal and observes the Eucharist, or Communion as part of the 6:00 pm service. Our celebration is an actual worship service, complete with music, prayer, scripture reading, offering, sermon and communion as well as the feast itself.  

Constitution.  Our Agape and Eucharist service is a three course, congregational meal at which Communion is celebrated between the second and third courses.  Instead of gathering in the Sanctuary, we gather in the Upper Room.  Members of the congregation sign up to prepare a main course for a table of eight or (without signing up) bring a dessert.  Sign-ups for providing the main course (an easy to prepare casserole) are in Lower Halverson Hall in the weeks preceding the feast.  

Fellowship.  The Agape and Eucharist celebration is a marvelous way for families, couples and singles to come together in fellowship with each other and with Christ.  Children of all ages are welcome.  More often than not, Junior and Senior High participants will gather at tables together for dinner while their parents enjoy the same meal, fellowship and communion across the room.

Upcoming.  For the upcoming and future celebrations, watch the bulletin for announcements and go to Lower Halverson Hall to sign up to bring a main course. Or simply attend with a dessert to share.