St. Stephen's announces new service

St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church announces a simple Christian worship service called Taize to be held on the first Wednesday evening of each month. The first service is scheduled for February 5 at 6:00 pm. in the Chapel. On subsequent Wednesdays, the contemporary Halftime Service will be held as usual.

The Rev. Phil Mason, interim rector of St. Stephen’s, explained that the beautiful Taize candlelight service offers a unique opportunity to “be still.” Thirty to 40 minutes of worship and reflection include prayers, music, readings and brief periods of silent meditation.

“Please consider joining us for this service and giving yourself the gift of renewal,” said Fr. Phil. Worshippers of all denominations, or none at all, are welcome.

Sharon East, who cochairs the Taize planning committee with Susan Webb, was part of a local Taize worship group several years ago. “Whether we are spending a few minutes in silence or listening to a reading or singing together, there is a feeling to spiritual fellowship,” she said. “People often wonder what the word Taize means,” she added. “It’s a town in France where this type of worship service was first held.”

For more information, contact Sharon at [email protected].