SERVICES

Low Mass at 9.00am
This service is a said mass (“Holy Communion” or “Eucharist”).  There is no singing or chanting - everything is spoken.  There is a sermon.  The liturgy is held in the Lady Chapel on the south side of the church’s sanctuary, and is according to the modern Scottish rite. This mass lasts approximately 40 minutes.

Mattins at 10.15am
Like the Low Mass, this service contains no music. (For those unfamiliar with the term Mattins, it is a service consisting of psalms, scripture readings and prayers).  Mattins is held in the sacristy and lasts about 15 minutes.  It is traditional in format with no sermon.

Sung (or High) Mass at 11.00am
The principal service of the day, it is an elaborated traditional version of the liturgy of the mass. It contains hymns and a sermon. Most of the service is either sung or chanted. Incense is used in this service. Approximate service length is 60-75 minutes. Held in the main church. Throughout most of the year, it is followed by an informal coffee hour.

Solemn Evensong and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament at 5.00pm
Held in the chancel and sanctuary of the main church on the first Sunday of the month. The congregation sits in the chancel choir stalls. Evensong is the traditional evening liturgy of the Episcopal Church. Similar in format to Mattins, but it is sung to plainchant. There is often a teaching (as distinct from a devotional) sermon. Evensong is usually followed by Benediction.

Benediction is a devotional service before the Blessed Sacrament, which is placed in a monstrance (cross-shaped holder) on the altar. Prayers and devotions are held before it and those present are given a blessing with it, as we believe that Christ is really and truly present in the consecrated Bread and blesses us in a real way through His presence with us in this form. Incense is used in this service as well. Approximate time, with Evensong, is 30-45 minutes.

Midweek Mass
There are masses during the week, regularly at 7.00pm on Tuesdays and at 10.00am on Wednesdays. In addition, there is a celebration on major festivals in the Church’s Year. These masses are usually according to the modern rite, are held in the Lady Chapel, and last approximately 25 minutes.

Weekday High Masses
Sung or High Mass is offered in the traditional manner on several days throughout the year, including Christmas, Epiphany (the visit of the wise men), Candlemas, (the presentation of the Christ Child in the temple), All Saints Day, certain days in Holy Week (leading up to Easter), Corpus Christi, and Holy Cross (the Patronal and dedication festival of the parish).