Since the start of the new year, the vestry has been exploring what it means to be good stewards of our ongoing growth. Above all, it means remaining faithful to our mission: to share in the life of God for the life of the world.

In order for us to continue moving strongly in this direction, the leadership, in conversation with the parish, agrees that the next best step for our church is to make the move to two of the same services beginning Sunday, September 11 at 9:00 and 10:45 a.m.

This decision is not primarily an attempt to manufacture growth, but a response to the growth that God continues to give us. And so this is an experiment of sorts, which means we plan to tweak things along the way, always listening and ready to respond to your continual feedback.

Yes, things will be different, and at times difficult. Like any growing family, change is inevitable: children are added to the family; teenagers go off to college; some eventually get married and start new families of their own.

Healthy growth always involves change, but we’re still a family. And rest assured that we will remain committed to our mission and those traits that make us who we are as All Saints Anglican Church. Continue to offer thanksgivings and prayers to God as we enter into a new season at All Saints, and may we always keep the main thing, the main thing.

FAQ

Why move to two services when there are still empty seats?
There aren’t many. Our weekly average is now above 80% seating capacity, which means we’re likely already turning away visitors. And we’ve already packed as many chairs as we can into the nave. We’ve held on to one service for as long as we can, but in order to be good stewards of our growth, we believe now is the time to make the move to two.

What will be different about each service?
Nothing but the time. The liturgy will be the same, the homily the same, the music and song selection the same, and both Children’s Church and a Children’s Conversation will be offered in both services.

Will this affect the “family feel” of All Saints?
In some ways, yes. But the vestry is committed to doing everything they can to make sure each of the two services are both well attended and multi-generational.

What will be done to keep folks connected with each other?
All Saints will continue to offer multi-generational programming in the form of our Pastorates, church picnics, family campouts, and other opportunities, but the primary responsibility will be on each person to intentionally get involved in these programs and in one another’s lives.

Will there be enough parking?
Since everyone will not be using the parking lot at the same time, multiple services will actually improve our often tight parking situation.

If you have any other questions or suggestions along the way, please don’t hesitate to contact one of our clergy or vestry members. We’re all in this together!

All Hands on Deck!

Moving to two Sunday services means we will double the number of volunteers that help make Sundays happen. What a great opportunity for you to get involved and help us make a strong move to two services so that we can continue to share in the life of God for the life of the world.

If you’re not currently serving in one of the Sunday ministry areas listed below, and would like to begin helping out, please contact the church office, and someone will follow up and provide you with details.

Sing in the Choir Acolyte (ages 12+)
Sunday Coffee Intercessor (prayers during Communion)
Altar Guild (set up Communion)
Serve in Children’s Church Usher (bulletin, offering)
Sound (runs soundboard)
Sunday Refreshments (brings snacks)
Lector (reads Scripture passages)