Worship

Market Street hosts a Contemplative Worship service four times each year in the style of Taizé. This evening prayer by design is for all Christian faiths. It is a simple, meditative form of worship, calling us to dwell deeply on Christ's presence around and within us. Mantra songs (like "Jesus, Remember Me"), prayerful silence, and short readings guide the focus of the prayer in a candle-lit environment. 

Taizé Prayer is named for the ecumenical Christian community formed in Taizé, France during World War II. Today the Taizé community includes brothers from all Christian denominations, including Protestant, Catholic, and Orthodox traditions.

Just as the early Christians met and broke bread together in token of their fellowship and love, Market Street has made it our custom to celebrate or founding by sharing with friends a simple meal, a “lovefeast.” The name of the service is a literal translation of the New Testament word “agape.” A Lovefeast (not to be confused with Holy Communion) seeks to remove social barriers and strengthen the spirit of unity and goodwill among all people. This service, borrowed from the Moravian Church who influenced John Wesley, is conducted about December 4th to honor our founding.

Not everyone is up and cheery for the Christmas holidays. Dealing with the death of a loved one, facing life after divorce or separation, coping with the loss of a job, living with cancer or some other dis-ease that puts a question mark over the future, and a number of other human situations make parties and joviality painful for many people. Thus, Market Street is attentive to the needs of people who feel blue at Christmas. This service is held about December 21st which falls on the longest night of the year, or winter solstice.  This service is reflective and it is our prayer that it helps provide a measure of healing and hope.