Find a denomation you know about and 1. Write a report on this visit using the Report Format shown below.
- In the first paragraph tell the name and address of the church you attend or make believe a church religion and indicate what kind of religious event/service you attended. Give the time/date of the service you attended. Example: I attended the regular 11 a.m.
Sunday morning worship service at First Presbyterian Church, 1100 Holy Road, Nashville, Tennessee on Sunday, April 1, 2023
- Include a section for each term below(label a-h with topic) explaining observations
Write at least a lengthy paragraph on each of the following topics. List them in this order with the letters
a. Symbols (what visible signs do you see)
b. Myths (what sacred stories and not misconceptions about the religion do you hear in the service)
c. Doctrine (some churches have a point in the service where the people state their beliefs)
d. Ethics (what do you observe/hear about how the people are to live their lives?)
e. Rituals (review the definition of rituals on p. 6 of the Introduction)
f. People (describe the people attending this service---young, old, gender, racial diversity)
g. Physical surroundings (what do the type and conditions of the building/grounds indicate)
h.Ultimate relevance (what is the focus for thepeople who attend this church/denomination?)
In your closing paragraph, you may offer your own insights into the service or event you attended. Why do you think
people are drawn to this denomination or religion and, in your opinion, what do they appear to get out of it?
Report on Visit to First Presbyterian Church
I attended the regular 11 a.m. Sunday morning worship service at First Presbyterian Church, located at 1100 Holy Road, Nashville, Tennessee on Sunday, April 1, 2023.
Symbols
Upon entering First Presbyterian Church, I noticed several prominent symbols that are significant to the Presbyterian denomination. The most prominent symbol was the cross, which was displayed prominently at the front of the sanctuary. The cross represents the central belief of Christianity - the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Additionally, I observed stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes and religious symbols such as the dove representing the Holy Spirit. These symbols serve as visual reminders of the Presbyterian faith and its teachings.
Myths
During the worship service, I heard sacred stories from the Bible being shared through scripture readings and sermons. The myths shared were not misconceptions but rather foundational narratives that are cherished by the Presbyterian community. The preacher delivered a sermon based on a passage from the Gospel of Matthew, recounting the story of Jesus' miracles and teachings. These stories hold deep significance for Presbyterians, serving as a source of inspiration, guidance, and moral teachings.
Doctrine
In the Presbyterian tradition, there is a specific portion of the service called the "Affirmation of Faith" where the congregation states their beliefs. This is a significant moment where the people publicly affirm their commitment to the core theological doctrines of Presbyterianism. During this service, the congregation recited the Apostles' Creed, which outlines the fundamental beliefs of Christianity. The recitation of this creed serves as a unifying act, reinforcing shared beliefs and providing a sense of identity and community among the worshippers.
Ethics
Throughout the service, I observed an emphasis on living a moral and righteous life. The preacher emphasized the importance of love, compassion, forgiveness, and justice in one's daily interactions with others. The Presbyterian denomination places great importance on ethical conduct and encourages its followers to actively engage in acts of service and social justice. The congregation was encouraged to live out their faith by demonstrating kindness, generosity, and integrity in their personal and professional lives.
Rituals
Rituals play an essential role in Presbyterian worship. During the service, I witnessed various rituals such as prayers, hymn singing, and sharing of communion. Prayers were offered both individually and collectively, expressing gratitude, seeking guidance, and interceding for others. The singing of hymns brought a sense of unity and reverence to the worship experience. The sharing of communion was a central ritual that symbolizes the believers' participation in the body and blood of Christ, reinforcing their spiritual connection to God and fellow believers.
People
The congregation at First Presbyterian Church displayed diversity in terms of age, gender, and racial backgrounds. There were families with young children, older adults, and individuals from various ethnicities present during the service. This diversity is indicative of the church's commitment to inclusivity and welcoming all individuals into their community. The people attending this service appeared engaged and committed to their faith, actively participating in prayers, hymns, and listening intently to the sermon.
Physical Surroundings
First Presbyterian Church is housed in a beautiful historic building that exudes a sense of reverence and tradition. The architecture reflects a traditional style with stained glass windows, tall ceilings, and wooden pews. The well-maintained grounds surrounding the church further emphasize its significance as a place of worship and spiritual retreat. The physical surroundings create an atmosphere conducive to reflection and spiritual connection.
Ultimate Relevance
For those attending First Presbyterian Church, the ultimate focus is on their relationship with God and living out their faith in their daily lives. The church provides a space for worshippers to come together as a community and deepen their understanding of Presbyterian beliefs and teachings. The services offer guidance, inspiration, and opportunities for personal growth in faith. This denomination places great importance on fostering a relationship with God through worship, prayer, study of scripture, and acts of service.
In conclusion,
my visit to First Presbyterian Church provided insights into the significant aspects of this denomination's religious practices. People are drawn to this denomination because it offers a sense of community, guidance in living a moral life, opportunities for service and social justice advocacy, as well as fostering a deeper relationship with God. Through rituals, doctrines, myths, ethics, symbols, and physical surroundings, Presbyterians find meaning, purpose, and spiritual nourishment within their faith community.