Good topic- after my observation/question I'll list off our worship order just FYI.....

Obs: None of these posts really address the STYLE of worship, but rather the CONTENT and ORDER. In a back-handed way I can assume some things about style, tho.

I'm interested in knowing at what point people actually *begin* worshipping. Certainly announcements, etc., aren't part of that process, are they? I wonder about this because in so many churches there's a dearth of reverent silence leading into worship. The instrumentalist in my church, well-paid and always practiced, can't be heard over the din. She told me that is her private time of worship, and I understand why she said it! But it makes me a little indignant on her behalf, too.

Our PCUSA church practically needs a gavel and shouting to bring the oppressive socializing to an end so the service can begin. <img src="/forum/images/graemlins/rantoff.gif" alt="" />

Q: have any of you been in a similar situation that was finally resolved? How was it accomplished?
Looking forward to hearing your experiences!...........

Now, our Order of Service:

The Prelude <img src="/forum/images/graemlins/chatter.gif" alt="" />
The Striking of the Hour (Tower Bell) <img src="/forum/images/graemlins/chatter.gif" alt="" />
The Welcome and Concerns of the Church <img src="/forum/images/graemlins/chatter.gif" alt="" />
The Introit (Choir, sometimes Choir & Congregation)
First Hymn
Litany of Confession (Responsive)
Gloria Patri
Children's Moment <img src="/forum/images/graemlins/chatter.gif" alt="" />
The Offerings, Tithes and Gifts (Instrumentalist) <img src="/forum/images/graemlins/chatter.gif" alt="" />
Doxology and Presentation of Offerings, Tithes and Gifts
Prayer of Dedication (Unison)
Second Hymn
Old Testament Reading
Call to Silent Prayer
Pastoral Prayer and the Lord's Prayer
Choral Anthem or Solo
New Testament Reading
The Sermon
Affirmation of Faith
Third Hymn
The Benediction
Choral Response (Choir, many times with Congregation) <img src="/forum/images/graemlins/chatter.gif" alt="" />
Postlude <img src="/forum/images/graemlins/chatter.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forum/images/graemlins/cheers2.gif" alt="" /> <img src="/forum/images/graemlins/flee.gif" alt="" />

best wishes to all-
HC