The PCC and I have agreed to experimental use of the modern service at the morning communion in January, February, and March. While the number of ‘regulars’ at morning services has decreased, the number of young couples and their families attending in connection with weddings has grown. The latter generally have very limited church background, while the former are often too few in number to ‘carry’ and teach some of the ways of doing things which we love. The theory is that a simpler, more direct style of service may touch the couples more and encourage some to come back. The modern service will be done ‘decently’, without the handshake of peace, and only the hymns will be sung. In March, people’s response will be sought as the PCC and I decide how to proceed. Robert
Results – MORNING COMMUNIONS; BCP or Common Worship?
The results of the Questionnaire following the experimental use of the modern communion service earlier this year were taken into account by May’s PCC. 16 people using their names responded, all but two being established members of the morning congregation. 10 of these personally preferred the old BCP service, only 2 (the more recent attenders) the new ‘Common Worship’. But 5 of the 10 graciously responded that they thought the new service would be better for the future of the morning congregation, making this the opinion of 7 as against 4 who disagreed. The PCC and I therefore felt we were getting mixed messages, and that we should revert to the BCP until the Holy Spirit made the need for change clearer. We also took into account the strong feelings of some who pointed out that it was the BCP that originally brought them to St Ed’s; and that at least some of St Ed’s young attenders prefer also prefer the BCP, and they are more likely to stick with us than those who prefer the modern service which is invariably used at churches nearer to their homes.
We were greatly encouraged by the open-mindedness of our congregation and people’s willingness to put the needs of the church above their own preferences. On other questions; by 11 to 3, people preferred the priest facing the congregation; by 10 to 5, you preferred saying the creed; all but one preferred the traditional Lord’s prayer. All this will be taken into account, allowing for practicalities.
Robert
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