Summer garden worship proves to be a breath of fresh air

First Church of Christ, Sandwich, UCC, holds service in church's patio garden

Submitted by Mary Alice Stahleker

For the months of July and August, in addition to the 9:30 am regular worship service, First Church of Christ, UCC in Sandwich held a 30- minute service in the patio garden adjacent to the church -- a service that provided fresh air and inspiration.

Led by lay persons, the service consisted of music (guitar, synthesizer and quiet drums), scripture, prayer and a meditation/conversation time on themes such as hope, God's creation, earthly needs, and forgiveness.

Designed for parishioners of all ages, the Summer Garden Service was particularly attractive to young families invited to "come as you are". Starting with a gathering of about 20 worshippers, the service grew to over 50 by end of summer. There are normally two services during the program year, so it seemed natural that there be two offered during the summer.

There were concerns by members that the addition of the garden service might adversely affect attendance at the regular service; but those concerns proved unfounded. Some people attended both services and commented that worshipping in a lovely outdoor setting provided inspiration and a closer feeling to God. Contingency plans were made for the possibility of rainy Sundays -- but those plans were never needed! Light refreshments were served following the service for a social time before folks headed out for other family activities.

Husband and wife team Kim and Sherrill Rutty, who innovated and led the garden worship, noted "how it must feel to be a sole pastor with no staff, because you're typing and copying the bulletin, setting up the chairs, doing the music, providing the refreshments for a social time following the service, as well as leading the service, itself." But, it was a rewarding experience for them and they learned that lay leadership works, when you have committed volunteers, supportive deacons and willing musicians.

It may not have been the Garden of Eden, but God was Still Speaking in this garden of paradise.

For more information as to how this might work in your church, contact Mr. Kim Rutty at kerutty@comcast.net.

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