Lake Norman District Episcopal Church St. Patricks

By Karen Ward


One of the more progressive and welcoming denominations of the Christian branches is that of the Episcopal church. In the Lake Norman district episcopal church, this would be Saint Patricks. For, Saint Patricks provides a welcome mat decorated in diversity which welcomes all people to attend the church.

For, the vision of the church is to connect, inspire, embrace and share life on the spiritual path. Whereas, aspirations include growing together in diversity, praise and worship of God. While this is the case, the Saint Patricks also recognizes diversity when it comes to spiritual paths, practices and being when it comes to the connection an individual has with the Divine.

In the way of spirituality, Saint Patricks puts God at the centerpiece of worship. Whereas, the living Christ plays a large role in the church. As such, the mystery and essence of the one true God is often felt by many whom attend services on a regular basis.

Saint Patricks is committed to a God centered approach which promotes worship, mediation and spiritual education in a diverse manner. In addition, members provide help and assistance to the local community through acts of love and kindness. As such, there are many who work to provide these services.

While there are numerous study groups, Brawley Crawleys is a group which originated from a Lenten group almost ten years ago. The name comes from a local road that was widened in the area. As such, it is one of the more successful groups which is focused on widening the mind when it comes to all things spiritual.

In the process, attendees share responses each had while reading the texts. Then, once every one has had a chance to share, there is a general discussion with regards to the material and any questions an individual might have before the end of the meeting. While there are other study groups, including ones associated with the Old and New testament books of the bible, none have been meeting as long as Brawleys Crawleys, which has been in existence for over ten years.

Saint Patricks honors the Episcopal heritage by welcoming visitors of differing beliefs and faiths. In order to create unity, the church accepts and welcomes all people regardless of economic or socio-status, gender, race, sexual orientation or physical ability. Whereas, the Great mystery that is God incarnate is often felt by all in attendance. Whether while listening to readings, the sermon or accepting Holy Communion, there is often something that touches the souls of the congregation during a service.

Unique to the Episcopal faith with regards to Christian beliefs, is that the church is all inclusive. As such, diversity of all kinds is accepted. In addition, St. Patricks welcomes those seeking, questioning and doubting the reality of a spiritual connection. Whereas, one of the most uncommon and important aspects is that the church affirms science as well as faith.




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