Gathering for worship is unlike anything else we do. We come through the doors of our church and are greeted by a medley of emotions and sounds. Joyful smiles light up faces. Hugs are shared - usually accompanied by happy exclamations. Some people are seated around the tables in the Gathering Room sharing conversation and coffee (and sometimes donuts). Those carrying unseen burdens feel others often unknowingly reach out to give grace and share the load. Happy chatter calls us into community. Then as the bells ring, we gather together in the sanctuary while the music of the Prelude gives us time to prepare our hearts for worship and invite the Holy Spirit to be with us.

The congregation is sitting silently in anticipation, their eyes on Pastor as he take the baby into his arms or places his hands on the child’s or adult’s head and says their name…