Christian Worship
The focal point of any congregation's life is the Sunday Worship. Here in Balerno, we believe this should remain the main gathering point of those questioning, seeking, discovering and celebrating the Christian faith. Our worship is simple yet reverent, traditional yet forward-looking. And we benefit from regular contributions from our choir and our music group.
Sunday Worship
As a result of a decision made by Kirk Session in Spring 2002, we have
recently introduced a modern "All Age" format to the 11.00am service, with
greater informality, more contemporary songs and music, and a different style
of presentation of the message.
The 9.30am service will continue to offer the regular format, for those members of the community who prefer to worship in the same way as before.
Our Sunday Special (Sunday School) join us for the first part of the 11.00 service during school term-time. In July and August, there is only one service, at 10.00 am, suitable for all ages. There is normally a crèche available during the 11.00 am service.
On most Sundays, there is tea and coffee served in the Church Hall between the services - from around 10.30 am; stay on after the 9.30 service, or come early for the 11.00 service - you're very welcome!
Our main Communion services are on the first Sundays of March and November and the last Sunday of June. On the first Sundays of other months (except July and August) we have a short Communion service following our normal morning services.
Midweek Service
We also have a regular midweek
service on Wednesday lunchtime, with doors opening from 11.30 am, for personal
prayer and reflection.
Other Worship
Evening Services and other events
often take place on Sunday evenings: look out for announcements on the
What's On Calendar, our Church noticeboards or
service intimations.
Taped Services
Balerno Parish Church maintains
an archive of tapes from each service, which are available for hire, especially
for those who were unable to attend a particular service. For more information,
contact Marion Wallace (WMKWallace@aol.com).
Home Communion
The sharing of Communion is a
centrepiece of congregational life. However, there are those who, for a number
of reasons, are not able to share with us in that experience. Whatever the
reason, Balerno Parish Church offers members of the congregation the
opportunity of Home Communion on a regular basis.
This is a short, informal celebration of Communion, normally including the person being visited together with one of the ministers and an elder or visitor. When there are requests from two or three members who stay close together it is helpful if we can meet together in the one home, increasing the sense of Communion with Christ and with one another. The frequency of this type of Communion will depend on how many people request it, but I would envisage it happening roughly twice a year on an afternoon arranged beforehand.
If you might be interested in having Communion at home, then please contact Jared Hay (Email jared.hay@blueyonder.co.uk) or your district elder.