Questions about Worship Etc

I’m not used to Liturgy! What is it?  Liturgy literally means “the work of the people.” The idea is that worship is not sitting back and watching something on stage but is what each of us does when we gather. Practically speaking we have call and response rhythms in worship that go way back in the history of the church and from some rich and lively liturgies like the Kenyan rite. Most of us at Hope of Nations are new to liturgical worship so don’t worry about not knowing whats going on. Its quite simple and we think you’ll find it very rich and rewarding. You can learn more about a typical Anglican liturgical service here. 

Anglicanism? If you are new to Anglicanism we recommend the book The Anglican Way    There is richness in the liturgy and that richness deepens over time.  You do not need to consider yourselves an Anglican to worship with us (actually most of us aren’t). Paul and Laolu are happy to answer any specific questions.

Kids Program? All kids are welcome! As a startup church we are still working on a formal kids program. For now kids are joining us for the beginning of worship and then watching a Bible story in the next room during the teaching time. Sometimes we have dedicated stories and activities for the kids as well. We joyfully embrace the realities of crying babies and interrupting kids and encourage middle school age and above to stay with the adults for the entire service and fully participate.

Questions about Politics and Moral Issues

Politics: As Christian's who believe that Jesus is Lord and that all humans are sinful we do not put our trust and hope in any political party.  For those in the Kingdom of God, the flag of faith in Jesus flies above any political flag.  Politics of fear and outrage can displace a follower of Jesus from rest and trust in him along as Lord and Savior.  A practical marker of helpful discipleship might be in this age that we all are more attuned to God's kingdom in deep, daily engagement with the Scriptures than to the political news.

Diversity and Race:  The Bible is not blind to race (colorblind) nor is it blinded by race (race as primary identity).  Galatians 3:27-28 tells us that everyone who is baptized is clothed in a new primary identity.  That is why the Apostle Paul is able to say that in this new community "there is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave no free."  We recognize and are grieved by the reality of racism in our country and strive to create to reflect the new people of God brought together because of the work of Christ who breaks down the dividing wall (see Ephesians 2). 

Sexuality and Gender:   We do not shy away from the traditional view of the human body as core to created identity (Gen 1:27),  clear, and consistent in the Scriptures and in the history of the church but we also strive to be compassionate and loving to all people. We understand that for a myriad of reasons people are hurting and looking for answers to questions in these areas. Jesus had a knack for affirming people at their core while confronting their lifestyles and we all come together as sinners needing his grace!