"The word approaches the element, the sacrament happens. We humans bring word to gifts grown by nature and human technology (oil, water, bread, wine) and in that action we produce something new that has the power to transcend both speech and natural substance”
----Saint Augustine
We believe that the best way to understand our Catholic liturgy is not through the abstract discussion, but rather through concrete contact with actual ritual, that is what our church tradition does best: putting people in touch with the Mystery of God through Sacramental celebration of life and hope! The congregation is told what is happening at every step along our wonderful journey together, so newcomers won’t be lost so please come and try us out!
Our Catholic liturgy will seem very familiar if you have attended a Latin Rite church before with an added element or two of surprise and meditation! It is designed to be inclusive, but mysterious and wondrous at the same time! And, the ideal for our liturgy is also very simple: the focus should be on the Eucharist, but be INCLUSIVE and INVITING for all who attend. Also, the elements of Bread and Wine should be pure, simple, and inviting to all of our senses.
The simple nature of our worship space is to allow for our focus to be on the center of our worship and to not detract. And, the warmth of our space comes from one place: YOU! Therefore, when our community gathers, the space becomes alive and we focus on our corporate worship and community together.
Our Altar Table and Processional Cross are designed in the very-recognized style of renowned artist Alberto Giacometti by artist and blacksmith, Edward Worthington (click here to visit). The hammered iron rods and scarred table allows us to visualize how, despite our wounds and imperfections, we are still beautiful and serve God’s good use! Our gospel procession allows all to participate and to realize that we are all part of the plan and made and created to honor God and serve to make our world a better place!
Our liturgies are spiritual experiences where we encourage people to sing, dance, and eat together. A space where we share silences, concerns, and prayers to God. A safe place where we gather to hear Scripture and listen for the still voice of God. A sacred room where our priests teach with compassion and the Assembly witness the love of God and self. Our worship is designed to be fully participatory! Therefore, we welcome all people –especially strangers and children—to worship with us and to receive Holy Communion.
Children
and Saint Miriam
Children are welcome at all liturgies at Saint Miriam. Each liturgy has a different feel, or “character”, but there is no service that is “off limits” to babies, children, or teens. We believe that little Christians become big Christians by hanging around with big Christians! So, bring the kids! Please visit our KidsLife section for more information!
Our Sunday Readings:
The Lectionary
Saint Miriam follows a cycle of readings in the liturgical year based on the General Roman Calendar Lectionary. The General Instruction of the Roman Missal, 2002, reminds us that in the cycles of readings and prayers proclaimed throughout the year in the sacred liturgy “the mysteries of redemption are recalled in the Mass in such a way that they are in some way made present.”Every Sunday we read from the Hebrew Scriptures, the Christian Testaments and the Holy Gospel of Our Lord and Savior. The lectionary is a cycle, or calendar of readings, that goes through much of the Bible in a three year period.
For 2010, we will be in the lectionary cycle for Year C at the first Sunday of Advent.
Are You Interested in being
Baptized?
We welcome people of all ages who have not been baptized before to come and receive the Water of New Life at Baptism during one of our Sunday . We routinely schedule baptisms four times a year - around January 6, the great Vigil of Easter, around August 1, and around November 1. The specific dates vary, depending on when Advent falls. To find out more about baptismal dates, and to make an appointment to talk more about baptism, contact our pastor at
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