The Traditional Fourfold Pattern Of Worship

The order below represents the traditional worship of the Western church. With some variation, it is found today mostly among liturgical and mainline churches. The Entrance The Gathering of God's People The Entrance Song The Greeting(s) The Penitential Rite Acts of Praise The Prayer of the Day The Acts of Entrance bring the people before God, form them into the body of Christ, and ready them to hear the Word of the Lord. The Service of the Word Hearing God Speak The Old Testament Lesson The Psalm (responsive) The Epistle Lesson The Alleluia (or other response) The Gospel Lesson The Sermon Emphasis is placed on the full range of God's revelation. Readings are chosen from a three-year lectionary. Some shorten the readings to two. Readings may be dramatized or told as story. Responding to God The Creed (or some other response) The Prayers of the People The Kiss of Peace The response to God comes after God has spoken. A great deal of variation of forms may be used …