Worship

Sunday Worship

Singing a traditional hymn, or clapping to a praise "rap" written by a teenager. Listening to the scriptures, or nodding to the wisdom in a skit performed by the church's children. Abundant flowers, banners and quilts, or a lone white candle burning on the altar. Swaying to a simple dance celebrating spring, or sitting motionless to allow Rev. Scott Opsahl's sermon to sink in. Worship at Magnolia is designed by Rev. Opsahl and a worship and arts team to appeal to our eyes, ears, hearts and minds. Sometimes it gets us up and moving, laughing and giggling, and sometimes it is an opportunity to sit quietly together and reflect on life and God. The liturgy is linked to the Church School curriculum so all ages are "on the same page". Visitors are welcome at every worship service.

Music Ministry

The music ministry at Magnolia has a rich history within the community. Each music director has brought different gifts that have enriched our music and worship. The choir's extensive music library bears witness to the choir's musical history. We strive to present music that represents the full spectrum of church music styles. A commitment to excellence has guided the adult choir that leads the congregation each Sunday morning for worship. We rehearse each week on Thursday night from 7:15 to 8:45 and on Sunday morning from 9:15-9:45. Special programs at Christmas and Easter augment our regular service music. We invite anyone who likes to sing to join us. Come and try us out, and share your musical love and talent with us. We even serve food at each rehearsal!

Special Services

Every Sunday is special at Magnolia United Church of Christ. Some services are especially meaningful or festive. Please join us!

The Longest Night
Is the Christmas season difficult for you? If you are grieving, stressed, or lonely this can be a very challenging time, with the season's forced cheer bringing you down. We offer a contemplative worship service to bring more light to the longest night of the year, December 21. Through prayer, scripture, candlelighting and song this is an opportunity to deepen your experience of the season in a safe environment. Childcare is provided.

Christmas Eve
Join us for early service for all ages with storytelling and song or for a later, more contemplative service in the lessons and carols tradition.

Ash Wednesday
The season of Lent begins with Ash Wednesday and a quiet evening worship experience, often in a location other than the sanctuary. Each person has the opportunity to privately offer confession to God, with a resolve to make a fresh start. A ritual brings home the blessing of God's forgiveness. Holy Communion is offered, and all are welcome to receive.

Holy Week
Beginning with Palm/Passion Sunday, the journey through Holy Week to Easter leads us through every human emotion. On Palm/Passion Sunday morning we recall Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, and the sobering events that followed. A central party of this years service will the the choir's presentation of Faurer's Requeim. On Maundy Thursday we recall Jesus' commandment to "love one another as I have loved you" (Maundy means Commandment). This evening starts in the "Upper Room" with a soup supper at 6:30 pm followed by the ancient ritual of scriptures and candles called The Office of Tenebrae, and Holy Communion. All are welcome. On Good Friday, the day of crucifixion, the sanctuary is open from 1:00 to 3:00 for personal prayer. Easter morning worship includes exciting music, uplifting messages for children and adults, and frequently the Sacrament of Baptism to celebrate Christ's resurrection and the birth of new life and possiblity.

Blessing of Animals
A Sunday in spring is designated for the Blessing of Animals. Well-behaved animals are invited to join us for worship, and afterwards the whole menagerie assembles in the courtyard for prayer, song, and a personal blessing for each pet. Imagine the fun!