Liturgy
We gather to make present that great and saving deed by which Christ has conquered sin and death.
What is Liturgy?
Episcopal worship is liturgical. The ancient Greek root of liturgy means ‘a public work or ministry.’ Today, this means that the service follows a set form, and everyone has a part to play. Week to week, some parts of the service change, while many texts, prayers, and actions remain the same. This rhythm of worship helps us to keep our hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God. Each church service builds upon the ones that came before it, and through repeated contemplation and prayer, we create a space that helps us to know God and each other more deeply.
SUNDAY Service
We gather as a community to thank, praise, and dwell with God.
Through worship, each week, we affirm our faith, pray and reconcile together, share peace and and thanksgiving together, gain strength and renewal through the Holy Eucharist, and prepare ourselves to minister in the world.
Receiving Communion
We offer the Holy Eucharist every week. All baptized persons are invited to receive communion with us, and we hope that you will. You don't need to be Episcopalian. If you have been baptized in any Christian tradition and you feel drawn to receive communion, you are welcome.
Music In Worship
Sacred music is a cornerstone of the Christian church, and at Church of the Angels, we place particular emphasis on music as a foundational part of our worship. Each service includes several hymns which are sung by the congregation and the choir, accompanied by an organist. The music and words can be found in both the service leaflet given at the door, or in the hymnals in front of each pew. Don’t worry if you can’t read music or aren’t an experienced singer; we invite you to dive in and follow along, and notice how it affects your experience during the service. Episcopal worship is inherently participatory in nature. We invite you to bring your voice to the recitation of the prayers and the singing of the hymns.
If you read music and would like to sing the choir, please contact the choirmaster at choirmaster@coa-pasadena.org. We welcome singers of all voices.
Advent & Christmas
Advent and Christmas are meaningful seasons at Church of the Angels. Wreath-making and weeks of preparation denote Advent - a season of waiting. Then, at the Christmas Eve service, our liturgy includes poignant readings, carols, and anthems reflecting the renewing promise of Christ’s birth. The service is followed by wassail and fellowship around a bonfire on the patio.
lent & Easter
On Easter morning, our vigil begins before dawn, with a young person kindling a new fire to remind us of the rebirth of the world in Christ. The Easter service is filled with singing by both the congregation and the choir. This is a popular time for baptisms, which are beautiful to witness on a day that celebrates the return of hope and the vanquishing of death. As the sun rises, we celebrate the risen Christ with the Holy Eucharist. Afterward, we move to the parish hall for breakfast and fellowship.