ON-THE-SOUND
Prayer
Lives Here
Our world is one in which very noisy; sacred spaces are charged with a holy quiet. As we gather together for worship, we can be quiet enough to be in touch with our deepest self and listen to our own heart. We bring our gratitude and our needs, but also lift up one another. It is in these spaces, these moments, that our true self is opened to the possibility of God at work in our lives.
You are here to kneel
Where prayer has been valid.
- T.S. Eliot
Stations of the Cross
One particularly beautiful tradition in the Church is praying the Stations of the Cross. While we can pray this prayer year-round, it’s particularly emphasized during Lent. The stations are around the interior walls of the Nave and can be prayed alone or with others at any time.
1: Jesus is Condemned to Death
Mt. Lebanon Chapel
The Mt. Lebanon Chapel is used by various local Episcopal churches for summer worship, special events and services throughout the year. It is available for lease for Episcopalian and other denominations. Please contact the St. James Church office for more information. The Chapel welcomes all who would worship there.
Stained Glass Windows
Stained glass windows were once used to educate people who could not read. By looking at the painted scenes in the glass, people could learn about the stories of the Bible and religious teachings. At St. Andrew’s the windows highlight the earliest followers of Jesus, those who were seekers, those who followed him and together became the earliest form of church. Come and sit among them. Come and pray with them. Come and see.
The Courtyard
A favorite outdoor space tucked in between the Education Wing, Parish Office and the church proper. The courtyard is a lovely place to sit and pray and spend time with nature. This area is tended to by members of the congregation who garden and is a lovely quiet space to sit and read or enjoy your lunch. You might even find a caterpillar readying for new life.
The Candle Prayer Station
At the west end of the nave is a votive stand. In Christianity, lighting a candle signifies a prayer intention. In a church, a votive candle station is a dedicated space where someone may go to pray, either privately or with others. Lighting one of these candles represents the prayer that is being said for one’s self or someone else. In this corner there is also a prie-dieu (prayer desk), a small bowl, and a wooden box (on the window sill). The prie-dieu is intended for private devotional prayer. The wooden box belongs to the Daughters of the King, it is for you to place any prayer requests you may have, and the small bowl for donations to help replenish the candles.
The Communion of Saints and the St. Andrew’s Cemetery
We are Easter people. We believe death is not the final word. We honor our local Communion of Saints, people who came before us are saved into an everlasting life. St. Andrew’s historic cemetery is sacred ground and the current congregation uses this space for prayer, for joyful celebration, and for meditation. This is a good space for walking and contemplation.
The EYC Scripture Wall
If you find yourself in need of inspiration, a visit to the EYC Room’s Scripture Wall may be just what you are looking for. Here you will find favorite inspirational Bible quotes from the hearts and minds of our young people. You are welcome to spend time in reflection with these voices of hope.
