The Celtic Eucharist will continue through the summer months on July 13 and August 8 with the support of our Celtic Guild. This lovely service is gently paced, beginning at 5:00 p.m. with the quiet candle-lit church open for silent meditation and prayer. The Celtic music begins at 5:30 p.m. and includes harp and piano and violin, recorder, or hammered dulcimer. The service opens with poetry that invites us to contemplate our relationship with our world and with the Lord. J. Philip Newell, one of today’s foremost experts on Celtic spirituality, explains the symbolism of the Celtic cross: “In the Celtic world, the high-standing crosses that are rooted deep in the ancient landscape express the belief that Christ and creation are inseparably interwoven. Two images combine to make one form in tile Celtic cross. Christ, represented by the cross, and creation, represented by the orb.” (from Celts, p. xvi). He further explains that Celtic spirituality sees Christ leading us further into the unity of life.
We are invited to come together to light candles for those we love, to pray, sing, and receive the Eucharist at the Lord’s table. The service is followed by a simple reception. If you haven’t yet attended a Celtic service, give yourself the gift of an hour spent in the peace of St. Paul’s, Ivy.
If you would like to be more involved or have questions about our Celtic Guild, please contact the church office.