Our worship is essentially Anglican, recognising we are an integral part of the interdependent and mutually supportive worldwide Anglican communion. We embrace the New Zealand prayer book believing in the value of its bible based liturgy, within the organised calendar of the church's year, which ensures we follow the Christ story in its entirety. The essential role of the Eucharist is a vital part of our worship. Coordinated by the priest people are encouraged to participate in worship in a variety of ways from leading worship, creating music, leading prayers, reading the scripture, being part of the healing team, ministering with our children and serving at communion.
Music in our 10am Sunday service is a mix of traditional hymns accompanied by the organ and more contemporary songs lead by the music group. There is a quiet time of reflection following the Gospel reading. The healing team is available at the back of the church during communion and after the service for those seeking healing.
The diversity of our congregation is reflected in our worship. There are two regular services each week - 10.am Sunday using the New Zealand Prayer Book and 10am Wednesday using the New Zealand Prayer Book. We have an 8am reflective Eucharist on the second Sunday of the month using the New Zealand Prayer Book and drawing from the contemplative and meditative traditions. Family services are held on the second Sunday of the even months of the year (Feb, April, June, Aug, Oct & Dec).
Children join us for the beginning of the 10am Sunday service and then go to Sunday School. Our organised Childrens Ministry provides for children from 18 months old, to school year 8 in the adjacent St Lukes Centre buildings. On the first Sunday of the Month those in school year 8 and above meet together for a HABITS youth topic. The children return to join the adults for Communion in which they are encouraged to participate. There are activity packs for small children at the back of the church.
Every two months the Sunday 10am service is a Family Service. This is designed to meet the special needs of the younger members of our congregation and their families. The service is more informal than on other Sundays and the children are invited to fully participate. Communion is still celebrated.
On Wednesday the 10am Eucharist (Holy Communion) group gathers in our lovely Chapel ( accessed from the cloister) and is around 45 minutes long. This is a low key, gentle service which follows a liturgical pattern from the New Zealand Prayer Book. We often use the 'For all the Saints' resource to inspire and guide us. We usually sing a hymn and discussion is encouraged on many topics. Children are always welcome.
Everyone is invited to share morning tea following both the Sunday and Wednesday services. Socialising and sharing is an important part of St Luke's and there are plenty of friendly faces to make visitors feel at home.
