What is an Open Mass?
An Open Mass is a church service that features responsive readings from the liturgy, music, cantoring, a short homily, and the taking of Communion, or the Eucharist as it is sometimes called.
What makes it "Open"?
As a member of the United Methodist Denomination, St. Paul's invites everyone to attend and participate in the service, as well as to receive Communion, as long as they believe in the saving power of Jesus Christ. No one is barred from Communion.
Many people feel cut off from their original church experience because of an official church position, a personal conflict, a sense of disillusionment or find that they cannot go back to their religious traditions. They do, however, find that they miss the feeling of spirituality and the connection with God that can be found when worshipping in a formal setting. Our service seeks to provide such people with a possible solution to their search.
When and where is the service?
The Open Mass service is held at Sundays at 9:45 a.m. in the main sanctuary of St. Paul's United Methodist Church. You can click here to bring up a new window with the location marked in Google Maps, ready to provide driving directions.
How long is the service?
The service lasts forty-five minutes.
Who is welcome?
All are welcome at this service, regardless of religious background or personal circumstance.
Can I bring my children?
Children are always welcome in St. Paul's sanctuary. We do understand, though, that such a reflective service may not be suitable for all children. Christian education classes for children of all ages are conducted during the service if you should choose to take advantage of them. We have a professionally staffed Nursery for infants to two year olds. Our sanctuary is wired for sound so that infants, young children and parents can worship without disturbing others.
What should I wear?
Dress how you are comfortable. St. Paul's sees a wide gamut of dress styles. Dress ranges from jeans and sneakers to suits and ties, sitting side by side. If you really want to "disappear", men can wear khakis and an oxford while women can wear a blouse and skirt. Don't worry - Sunday morning at St. Paul's is not a fashion show.
Will I be singled out as a newcomer or visitor?
Not unless you want to be. While you will certainly receive a warm greeting when you enter the church, most of the people attending this service will be new to St. Paul's.
I'm not used to United Methodist churches. What can I expect?
Our Open Mass service requires no memorization - everything is read from the book of liturgy or the provided program. Music will be traditional in style and encourage prayerful reflection.
Outside of the service, our church offers a full brunch (bacon, eggs, juice, coffee, fruit, scones and delicious grilled bagels) from 9:30 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. The cost is $5 for adults and $3 for children. People new to the church are encouraged to ask one of our greeters about the brunch so that they can provide you with a card for complimentary service.
Beyond the service, in what kinds of things is St. Paul's involved?
St. Paul's believes not only in the power of belief in Jesus Christ, but in making that power available to the world through good works. We provide extensive support to community charities, working most closely with the North Hills Community Outreach. St. Paul's also sends teams of people to areas of the United States where direct ministry and the demonstration of God's love through hard work is needed the most. Recently, we sent crews to hurricane-stricken Louisiana and Alabama and inner city Minneapolis to help build and rebuild homes and neighborhoods. Members of St. Paul's have gone on missions to Africa and Russia to help and work with communities and Christians there.
More information about St. Paul's in general can be found on our main web site: stpaulsumc.com.
