A Parting Message from Our Associate Pastor for Parish Life

Dear friends in Christ,

First of all, Doug and I want to express our heartfelt gratitude to you, our beloved church, for the love and care you have extended to us during the past months while I have been undergoing medical treatment. Your many expressions of kindness, encouragement, and support have sustained us in untold ways; the power of your prayers has undergirded us and assured us that we are not alone in this journey. Thanks also to the Session, the Deacons, and the Care Team, and to Austin, Kendra, and the church staff for the special care you have offered to us. From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you all.

It has been said that life is a series of new beginnings. Indeed, our God is continuously calling us to follow into paths unknown, giving us wisdom and strength for every challenge, and often surprising us with unexpected delight.

In 2009, I was called to a new beginning as your Associate Pastor for Parish Life. In these years, we have grown together in our understanding of who God is, who we are as a church, and what we are being called to be and to do as God’s people. We have faced transitions with resiliency; we have prayed together for the Spirit to lead us; we have rejoiced and wept as one as we experienced both triumph and heartache in our lives, and in our community and world. What an honor it is to be a part of this faithful, dedicated congregation!

This past fall, I was faced with another unexpected new beginning, the journey of cancer. As unwelcome as this was, this time has provided many opportunities for me to experience more fully the abundant mercies of God. I have learned what it is, not only to care for others, but to be the recipient of gracious generosity and compassion. I have been reminded that, in spite of our best efforts, there are things in life beyond our control; yet God’s steadfast love never leaves us. I have experienced firsthand the power of Christ’s love made manifest in God’s people. I am so very grateful for all of these learnings, and so much more.

My times of prayer and reflection in these past months have led me to the realization that I am now being called to another new beginning: on Wednesday I announced to the Session my intention to retire, effective May 31, 2022. Even as I write this, my heart is full, for this brings both grief and anticipation. Indeed, I have dearly missed being with all of you during my medical leave, but in the future, my absence from Shadyside Presbyterian Church will be a more enduring one. I will miss having the privilege of walking, praying, and worshipping with you through the many new beginnings of your own lives; I will miss the joy of being a part of this new thing that God is doing at Shadyside Presbyterian Church in the years ahead. And yet, I am excited for the opportunity to be attuned to the many other ways in which God is calling me to be present in the lives of my family, and in the wider Church of Jesus Christ.

It has been my deepest honor to have served as pastor of four different congregations over more than forty years of ministry. In these years, our world has changed and the Church has changed. Through it all, Christ’s power and grace have sustained us, for we serve a God who will not let us go.

In the past thirteen years of ministry with Shadyside Presbyterian Church, I have been so very blessed to work alongside wonderful colleagues, committed staff, and leaders and members who desire above all else to serve God with energy, enthusiasm, and grace. I will treasure each one of you in my heart forever, and I will always cherish the memories of our times together.

I hope to rejoin you in late April/early May. My last Sunday with you will be May 22. My deepest desire in the time remaining is to have the opportunity to worship with you and enjoy conversation and fellowship, celebrating our time together, and praying God’s blessing upon all of the new beginnings yet to come in the life of Shadyside Presbyterian Church. I am so very thankful for these years spent in ministry together with you, and I know that God will continue to bless you abundantly in the years ahead.

“I thank my God every time I remember you, constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you … that your love may overflow more and more with knowledge and full insight to help you determine what is best … the harvest of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ for the glory and praise of God.” (Philippians 1:3-11 sel.)

In Christ,

Reverend Lynn M. Portz
Associate Pastor for Parish Life

Special Invitation to the Lord’s Supper

During the season of Advent, Shadyside Presbyterian Church offers multiple opportunities to celebrate the Sacrament of Communion, both on-site and online.

Morning Service of Worship on Sunday, December 5, at 11:00 a.m.

• Those who attend this service on-site may choose to bring their own elements from home; alternatively, pre-packaged elements will be available. (Gluten-free, vegan Communion wafers also are available in the Narthex for those who prefer them.)
• Those who are unable to attend worship in the Sanctuary may celebrate Communion virtually through our worship livestream. In this unprecedented time, the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA) has approved the online celebration of Communion (Communion in an Emergency/Pandemic). Please see below for suggestions on celebrating Communion virtually.

Advent Vespers on Wednesdays, December 1, 8, and 15, at 7:00 p.m.

• Those who attend Advent vespers on-site may choose one of two options to participate in the Sacrament of Communion:
  • Ushers will invite you to come forward by way of the center aisle. Please continue to wear your mask over your nose and mouth while moving throughout the Sanctuary. At the Chancel steps, you will receive a piece of bread from the pastor and a cup from one of the Communion servers. Please return to your seat using the side aisles and wait to partake of the elements until all congregants have returned to their seats so that we all may commune together.
  • If you prefer to remain in your pew to commune, you may do so using elements you have brought from home, or you may use the pre-packaged elements available in the Narthex.
  • Gluten-free, vegan Communion wafers also are available in the Narthex for those who prefer them.
• Those who are unable to attend worship in the Sanctuary may celebrate Communion virtually through our worship livestream. In this unprecedented time, the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA) has approved the online celebration of Communion (Communion in an Emergency/Pandemic). Please see below for suggestions on celebrating Communion virtually.

Regardless of the way each of us will choose to receive the bread and cup, we remain in full communion with one another and with all the saints through our one Lord, Jesus Christ.

In this time when we are separated by space, yet united in the Spirit, we remember that Christ is always at work, gathering us in unique ways.

Preparations for Celebrating Virtual Communion

In preparation for the Sacrament, we invite you to look through your own kitchen to find “bread and beverage.” While there is rich symbolism in the elements we traditionally use to celebrate the Lord’s Supper, the Church also has a long history of using the most fitting materials that are readily available in any given time and setting. So feel free to be creative and use what you have on hand.

Prior to our time of worship, please prepare your worship space. Have ready the device on which you will view the service, the bulletin (available online in the worship archive) which will enable you to more fully participate in the service, and the elements you will use for Communion. Have your “bread” ready on a plate and your “beverage” poured. Any vessels will do, but you might consider using special dishes to help you remember that this is a holy meal, set apart from our regular meals. If it is safe to do so, you also may want to light a candle and place it by your prepared Communion elements. Through the light, may you be reminded that Christ is present with us all in this meal.

During worship, you will be guided through the celebration and reception of the Lord’s Supper. Whether or not you are a member of Shadyside Presbyterian Church, we invite you to prepare your hearts to receive this Sacrament as a means of grace. For Christ is our host, and He invites all who seek Him to partake of this holy meal.

Some possibilities for bread:

• any kind of bread
• crackers
• cookies
• chips
• tortilla
• pita

Note: If you have time and want to involve your family with a meaningful activity in preparation for Communion, consider baking a special loaf of bread together. Please contact Ellen Allston, Director of Children’s Ministry, who has shared several recipes with families by email.

Some possibilities for beverage:

• grape juice
• any other type of juice
• wine
• water

Photograph: The Chalice, Flagon, and Plate used on World Communion Sunday, October 1, 2017, were dedicated to the glory of God and in loving memory of Momoko H. Mills. For decades, Momoko faithfully prepared the Lord’s Table in our Sanctuary with humble reverence and deep love. Commissioned by Shadyside Presbyterian Church, the Communion set was fashioned by Deacon Garret B. Smith. We give thanks to God both for Momoko’s caring service and for Garret’s talented craftsmanship. Also visible above in detail is the damask linen from Damascus which was a gift from Mark A. Anderson to Shadyside Presbyterian Church. Photograph taken by Nick Conti.

Special Invitation to the Lord’s Supper

Our services of worship on All Saints’ Sunday, November 7, will incorporate celebrations of the Sacrament of Communion, both on-site and online.

Morning Service of Worship at 11:00 a.m.

• Those who attend this service on-site may choose to bring their own elements from home; alternatively, pre-packaged elements will be available. (Gluten-free, vegan Communion wafers also are available in the Narthex for those who prefer them.)
• Those who are unable to attend worship in the Sanctuary may celebrate Communion virtually through our worship livestream. In this unprecedented time, the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA) has approved the online celebration of Communion (Communion in an Emergency/Pandemic). Please see below for suggestions on celebrating Communion virtually.

Service of Remembrance at 3:00 p.m.

• Those who attend this service on-site may choose one of two options to participate in the Sacrament of Communion:
  • Ushers will invite you to come forward by way of the center aisle. Please continue to wear your mask over your nose and mouth while moving throughout the Sanctuary. At the Chancel steps, you will receive a piece of bread from the pastor and a cup from one of the Communion servers. Please return to your seat using the side aisles and wait to partake of the elements until all congregants have returned to their seats so that we all may commune together.
  • If you prefer to remain in your pew to commune, you may do so using elements you have brought from home, or you may use the pre-packaged elements available in the Narthex.
  • Gluten-free, vegan Communion wafers also are available in the Narthex for those who prefer them.
• Those who are unable to attend worship in the Sanctuary may celebrate Communion virtually through our worship livestream. In this unprecedented time, the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA) has approved the online celebration of Communion (Communion in an Emergency/Pandemic). Please see below for suggestions on celebrating Communion virtually.

Regardless of the way each of us will choose to receive the bread and cup this day, we remain in full communion with one another and with all the saints through our one Lord, Jesus Christ.

In this time when we are separated by space, yet united in the Spirit, we remember that Christ is always at work, gathering us in unique ways.

Preparations for Celebrating Virtual Communion

In preparation for the Sacrament, we invite you to look through your own kitchen to find “bread and beverage.” While there is rich symbolism in the elements we traditionally use to celebrate the Lord’s Supper, the Church also has a long history of using the most fitting materials that are readily available in any given time and setting. So feel free to be creative and use what you have on hand.

Prior to our time of worship, please prepare your worship space. Have ready the device on which you will view the service, the bulletin (available online in the worship archive) which will enable you to more fully participate in the service, and the elements you will use for Communion. Have your “bread” ready on a plate and your “beverage” poured. Any vessels will do, but you might consider using special dishes to help you remember that this is a holy meal, set apart from our regular meals. If it is safe to do so, you also may want to light a candle and place it by your prepared Communion elements. Through the light, may you be reminded that Christ is present with us all in this meal.

During worship, you will be guided through the celebration and reception of the Lord’s Supper. Whether or not you are a member of Shadyside Presbyterian Church, we invite you to prepare your hearts to receive this Sacrament as a means of grace. For Christ is our host, and He invites all who seek Him to partake of this holy meal.

Some possibilities for bread:

• any kind of bread
• crackers
• cookies
• chips
• tortilla
• pita

Note: If you have time and want to involve your family with a meaningful activity in preparation for Communion, consider baking a special loaf of bread together. Please contact Ellen Allston, Director of Children’s Ministry, who has shared several recipes with families by email.

Some possibilities for beverage:

• grape juice
• any other type of juice
• wine
• water

Photograph: The Chalice, Flagon, and Plate used on World Communion Sunday, October 1, 2017, were dedicated to the glory of God and in loving memory of Momoko H. Mills. For decades, Momoko faithfully prepared the Lord’s Table in our Sanctuary with humble reverence and deep love. Commissioned by Shadyside Presbyterian Church, the Communion set was fashioned by Deacon Garret B. Smith. We give thanks to God both for Momoko’s caring service and for Garret’s talented craftsmanship. Also visible above in detail is the damask linen from Damascus which was a gift from Mark A. Anderson to Shadyside Presbyterian Church. Photograph taken by Nick Conti.

Special Invitation to the Lord’s Supper

Our service of worship at 11:00 a.m. on World Communion Sunday, October 3, will incorporate a celebration of the Sacrament of Communion, both on-site and online.

• Those who attend this service on-site may choose to bring their own elements from home; alternatively, pre-packaged elements will be available.
• Those who are unable to attend worship in the Sanctuary may celebrate Communion virtually through our worship livestream. In this unprecedented time, the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA) has approved the online celebration of Communion (Communion in an Emergency/Pandemic).

In this time when we are separated by space, yet united in the Spirit, we remember that Christ is always at work, gathering us in unique ways.

Preparations for Celebrating Virtual Communion

In preparation for the Sacrament, we invite you to look through your own kitchen to find “bread and beverage.” While there is rich symbolism in the elements we traditionally use to celebrate the Lord’s Supper, the Church also has a long history of using the most fitting materials that are readily available in any given time and setting. So feel free to be creative and use what you have on hand.

Prior to our time of worship, please prepare your worship space. Have ready the device on which you will view the service, the bulletin (available online in the worship archive) which will enable you to more fully participate in the service, and the elements you will use for Communion. Have your “bread” ready on a plate and your “beverage” poured. Any vessels will do, but you might consider using special dishes to help you remember that this is a holy meal, set apart from our regular meals. If it is safe to do so, you also may want to light a candle and place it by your prepared Communion elements. Through the light, may you be reminded that Christ is present with us all in this meal.

During worship, you will be guided through the celebration and reception of the Lord’s Supper. Whether or not you are a member of Shadyside Presbyterian Church, we invite you to prepare your hearts to receive this Sacrament as a means of grace. For Christ is our host, and He invites all who seek Him to partake of this holy meal.

Some possibilities for bread:

• any kind of bread
• crackers
• cookies
• chips
• tortilla
• pita

Note: If you have time and want to involve your family with a meaningful activity in preparation for Communion, consider baking a special loaf of bread together. Please contact Ellen Allston, Director of Christian Education for Children’s Ministry, who has shared several recipes with families by email.

Some possibilities for beverage:

• grape juice
• any other type of juice
• wine
• water

Photograph: The Chalice, Flagon, and Plate used on World Communion Sunday, October 1, 2017, were dedicated to the glory of God and in loving memory of Momoko H. Mills. For decades, Momoko faithfully prepared the Lord’s Table in our Sanctuary with humble reverence and deep love. Commissioned by Shadyside Presbyterian Church, the Communion set was fashioned by Deacon Garret B. Smith. We give thanks to God both for Momoko’s caring service and for Garret’s talented craftsmanship. Also visible above in detail is the damask linen from Damascus which was a gift from Mark A. Anderson to Shadyside Presbyterian Church. Photograph taken by Nick Conti.

Special Invitation to the Lord’s Supper

Our service of worship at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, September 5, will incorporate a celebration of the Sacrament of Communion, both on-site and online.

• Those who attend this service on-site may choose to bring their own elements from home; alternatively, pre-packaged elements will be available.
• Those who are unable to attend worship in the Sanctuary may celebrate Communion virtually through our worship livestream. In this unprecedented time, the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA) has approved the online celebration of Communion (Communion in an Emergency/Pandemic).

In this time when we are separated by space, yet united in the Spirit, we remember that Christ is always at work, gathering us in unique ways.

Preparations for Celebrating Virtual Communion

In preparation for the Sacrament, we invite you to look through your own kitchen to find “bread and beverage.” While there is rich symbolism in the elements we traditionally use to celebrate the Lord’s Supper, the Church also has a long history of using the most fitting materials that are readily available in any given time and setting. So feel free to be creative and use what you have on hand.

Prior to our time of worship, please prepare your worship space. Have ready the device on which you will view the service, the bulletin (available online in the worship archive) which will enable you to more fully participate in the service, and the elements you will use for Communion. Have your “bread” ready on a plate and your “beverage” poured. Any vessels will do, but you might consider using special dishes to help you remember that this is a holy meal, set apart from our regular meals. If it is safe to do so, you also may want to light a candle and place it by your prepared Communion elements. Through the light, may you be reminded that Christ is present with us all in this meal.

During worship, you will be guided through the celebration and reception of the Lord’s Supper. Whether or not you are a member of Shadyside Presbyterian Church, we invite you to prepare your hearts to receive this Sacrament as a means of grace. For Christ is our host, and He invites all who seek Him to partake of this holy meal.

Some possibilities for bread:

• any kind of bread
• crackers
• cookies
• chips
• tortilla
• pita

Note: If you have time and want to involve your family with a meaningful activity in preparation for Communion, consider baking a special loaf of bread together. Please contact Ellen Allston, Director of Christian Education for Children’s Ministry, who has shared several recipes with families by email.

Some possibilities for beverage:

• grape juice
• any other type of juice
• wine
• water

Photograph: The Chalice, Flagon, and Plate used on World Communion Sunday, October 1, 2017, were dedicated to the glory of God and in loving memory of Momoko H. Mills. For decades, Momoko faithfully prepared the Lord’s Table in our Sanctuary with humble reverence and deep love. Commissioned by Shadyside Presbyterian Church, the Communion set was fashioned by Deacon Garret B. Smith. We give thanks to God both for Momoko’s caring service and for Garret’s talented craftsmanship. Also visible above in detail is the damask linen from Damascus which was a gift from Mark A. Anderson to Shadyside Presbyterian Church. Photograph taken by Nick Conti.

A Parting Message from Our Associate Pastor for Missions

Dear Shadyside Family,

Nearly fourteen years ago, you welcomed me to be one of your pastors. Since that time, you have trustingly supported and participated in opportunities to witness Christ’s presence beyond our beautiful sanctuary. Throughout these years, you have invited me to travel alongside you in your personal journeys, and, together, we have journeyed alongside our mission partners near and far. These journeys have been filled with an abiding love and a generous grace. I will forever treasure them and hold them close to my heart.

I am writing to share with you that God is calling my family to a new journey. This past Sunday, I accepted the call to be the next Senior Pastor for the Westminster Presbyterian Church of Buffalo. I will begin serving Westminster on September 1, with August 8 being my last Sunday at Shadyside.

My call to serve as your Associate Pastor for Missions has never wavered, nor have I viewed this call as a stepping stone toward another opportunity. When Westminster reached out to me in early February, I shared with them that I continue to love engaging in our collective ministry at Shadyside. Westminster replied that they were searching for a pastor who loves ministry, who would also embrace the opportunity to lead them deeper into their community as their Senior Pastor. In the early months of our conversations, I began discerning God calling me toward this position.

Soon thereafter, I had the privilege to meet Rev. Austin Crenshaw Shelley, your next Senior Pastor. Rev. Shelley and I have been in close communication throughout this discernment process, and she has already become a trusted colleague in ministry. Though I am disappointed I will not serve Shadyside alongside her, I honestly have never been more excited for you. I am convinced of the Spirit’s movement in our midst, and anticipate Shadyside’s next chapter will be an outstanding one under Rev. Shelley’s leadership.

And speaking of colleagues, I have found the greatest throughout my Shadyside tenure. Words cannot express the care and respect I have for those with whom I have served, who are privileged to serve together as your staff. I pray for a similar staff at Westminster, but realize the rarity in such a committed and caring team.

Finally, on behalf of Linda, Nadia, and Dhini, I thank you for embracing us into the Shadyside community. You have lived well into your vows to help raise our daughters in faith. You have done so in both word and deed. You have been a treasure to us, and we will forever treasure our time with you.

And, as your Missions Pastor, I encourage you to continue seeking after and witnessing to Christ’s presence within and beyond the beloved Shadyside Presbyterian Church community.

Grace and peace,

Reverend Todd E. Leach
Associate Pastor for Missions

Special Invitation to the Lord’s Supper

Our service of worship at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, August 1, will incorporate a celebration of the Sacrament of Communion, both on-site and online.

• In the Sanctuary, Communion will be served through the practice of intinction. Ushers will invite pews forward using the center aisles. After receiving a piece of bread from the pastor at the Chancel steps, dip it into the cup held by a Communion server, and then return to your seat using the side aisles after communing.
• If you prefer to remain in your pew to commune in the Sanctuary, you may do so using elements you choose to bring from home. Alternatively, pre-packaged elements will be available in the Narthex. Gluten-free, vegan Communion wafers also are available in the Narthex for those who prefer them.
• Those who are unable to attend worship in the Sanctuary may celebrate Communion virtually through our worship livestream. In this unprecedented time, the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA) has approved the online celebration of Communion (Communion in an Emergency/Pandemic).

In this time when we are separated by space, yet united in the Spirit, we remember that Christ is always at work, gathering us in unique ways.

Preparations for Celebrating Virtual Communion

In preparation for the Sacrament, we invite you to look through your own kitchen to find “bread and beverage.” While there is rich symbolism in the elements we traditionally use to celebrate the Lord’s Supper, the Church also has a long history of using the most fitting materials that are readily available in any given time and setting. So feel free to be creative and use what you have on hand.

Prior to our time of worship, please prepare your worship space. Have ready the device on which you will view the service, the bulletin (available online in the worship archive) which will enable you to more fully participate in the service, and the elements you will use for Communion. Have your “bread” ready on a plate and your “beverage” poured. Any vessels will do, but you might consider using special dishes to help you remember that this is a holy meal, set apart from our regular meals. If it is safe to do so, you also may want to light a candle and place it by your prepared Communion elements. Through the light, may you be reminded that Christ is present with us all in this meal.

During worship, you will be guided through the celebration and reception of the Lord’s Supper. Whether or not you are a member of Shadyside Presbyterian Church, we invite you to prepare your hearts to receive this Sacrament as a means of grace. For Christ is our host, and He invites all who seek Him to partake of this holy meal.

Some possibilities for bread:

• any kind of bread
• crackers
• cookies
• chips
• tortilla
• pita

Note: If you have time and want to involve your family with a meaningful activity in preparation for Communion, consider baking a special loaf of bread together. Please contact Ellen Allston, Director of Christian Education for Children’s Ministry, who has shared several recipes with families by email.

Some possibilities for beverage:

• grape juice
• any other type of juice
• wine
• water

Photograph: The Chalice, Flagon, and Plate used on World Communion Sunday, October 1, 2017, were dedicated to the glory of God and in loving memory of Momoko H. Mills. For decades, Momoko faithfully prepared the Lord’s Table in our Sanctuary with humble reverence and deep love. Commissioned by Shadyside Presbyterian Church, the Communion set was fashioned by Deacon Garret B. Smith. We give thanks to God both for Momoko’s caring service and for Garret’s talented craftsmanship. Also visible above in detail is the damask linen from Damascus which was a gift from Mark A. Anderson to Shadyside Presbyterian Church. Photograph taken by Nick Conti.

Special Invitation to the Lord’s Supper

Our service of worship at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, July 4, will incorporate a celebration of the Sacrament of Communion, both on-site and online.

• Those who attend this service on-site may choose to bring their own elements from home; alternatively, pre-packaged elements will be available.
• Those who are unable to attend worship in the Sanctuary may celebrate Communion virtually through our worship livestream. In this unprecedented time, the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA) has approved the online celebration of Communion (Communion in an Emergency/Pandemic).

In this time when we are separated by space, yet united in the Spirit, we remember that Christ is always at work, gathering us in unique ways.

Preparations for Celebrating Virtual Communion

In preparation for the Sacrament, we invite you to look through your own kitchen to find “bread and beverage.” While there is rich symbolism in the elements we traditionally use to celebrate the Lord’s Supper, the Church also has a long history of using the most fitting materials that are readily available in any given time and setting. So feel free to be creative and use what you have on hand.

Prior to our time of worship, please prepare your worship space. Have ready the device on which you will view the service, the bulletin (available online in the worship archive) which will enable you to more fully participate in the service, and the elements you will use for Communion. Have your “bread” ready on a plate and your “beverage” poured. Any vessels will do, but you might consider using special dishes to help you remember that this is a holy meal, set apart from our regular meals. If it is safe to do so, you also may want to light a candle and place it by your prepared Communion elements. Through the light, may you be reminded that Christ is present with us all in this meal.

During worship, you will be guided through the celebration and reception of the Lord’s Supper. Whether or not you are a member of Shadyside Presbyterian Church, we invite you to prepare your hearts to receive this Sacrament as a means of grace. For Christ is our host, and He invites all who seek Him to partake of this holy meal.

Some possibilities for bread:

• any kind of bread
• crackers
• cookies
• chips
• tortilla
• pita

Note: If you have time and want to involve your family with a meaningful activity in preparation for Communion, consider baking a special loaf of bread together. Please contact Ellen Allston, Director of Christian Education for Children’s Ministry, who has shared several recipes with families by email.

Some possibilities for beverage:

• grape juice
• any other type of juice
• wine
• water

Photograph: The Chalice, Flagon, and Plate used on World Communion Sunday, October 1, 2017, were dedicated to the glory of God and in loving memory of Momoko H. Mills. For decades, Momoko faithfully prepared the Lord’s Table in our Sanctuary with humble reverence and deep love. Commissioned by Shadyside Presbyterian Church, the Communion set was fashioned by Deacon Garret B. Smith. We give thanks to God both for Momoko’s caring service and for Garret’s talented craftsmanship. Also visible above in detail is the damask linen from Damascus which was a gift from Mark A. Anderson to Shadyside Presbyterian Church. Photograph taken by Nick Conti.

Special Invitation to the Lord’s Supper

Our service of worship at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, June 6, will incorporate a celebration of the Sacrament of Communion, both on-site and online.

• Those who are able to register successfully to attend this service on-site may choose to bring their own elements from home; alternatively, pre-packaged elements will be available. Registered attendees will be reminded by email of the options for partaking of the Lord’s Supper on-site.
• Those who are unable to attend worship in the Sanctuary may celebrate Communion virtually through our worship livestream. In this unprecedented time, the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA) has approved the online celebration of Communion (Communion in an Emergency/Pandemic).

In this time when we are separated by space, yet united in the Spirit, we remember that Christ is always at work, gathering us in unique ways.

Preparations for Celebrating Virtual Communion

In preparation for the Sacrament, we invite you to look through your own kitchen to find “bread and beverage.” While there is rich symbolism in the elements we traditionally use to celebrate the Lord’s Supper, the Church also has a long history of using the most fitting materials that are readily available in any given time and setting. So feel free to be creative and use what you have on hand.

Prior to our time of worship, please prepare your worship space. Have ready the device on which you will view the service, the bulletin (available online in the worship archive) which will enable you to more fully participate in the service, and the elements you will use for Communion. Have your “bread” ready on a plate and your “beverage” poured. Any vessels will do, but you might consider using special dishes to help you remember that this is a holy meal, set apart from our regular meals. If it is safe to do so, you also may want to light a candle and place it by your prepared Communion elements. Through the light, may you be reminded that Christ is present with us all in this meal.

During worship, you will be guided through the celebration and reception of the Lord’s Supper. Whether or not you are a member of Shadyside Presbyterian Church, we invite you to prepare your hearts to receive this Sacrament as a means of grace. For Christ is our host, and He invites all who seek Him to partake of this holy meal.

Some possibilities for bread:

• any kind of bread
• crackers
• cookies
• chips
• tortilla
• pita

Note: If you have time and want to involve your family with a meaningful activity in preparation for Communion, consider baking a special loaf of bread together. Please contact Ellen Allston, Director of Christian Education for Children’s Ministry, who has shared several recipes with families by email.

Some possibilities for beverage:

• grape juice
• any other type of juice
• wine
• water

Photograph: The Chalice, Flagon, and Plate used on World Communion Sunday, October 1, 2017, were dedicated to the glory of God and in loving memory of Momoko H. Mills. For decades, Momoko faithfully prepared the Lord’s Table in our Sanctuary with humble reverence and deep love. Commissioned by Shadyside Presbyterian Church, the Communion set was fashioned by Deacon Garret B. Smith. We give thanks to God both for Momoko’s caring service and for Garret’s talented craftsmanship. Also visible above in detail is the damask linen from Damascus which was a gift from Mark A. Anderson to Shadyside Presbyterian Church. Photograph taken by Nick Conti.

Special Invitation to the Lord’s Supper

Our service of worship at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, May 2, will incorporate a celebration of the Sacrament of Communion, both on-site and online.

• Those who are able to register successfully to attend this service on-site may choose to bring their own elements from home; alternatively, pre-packaged elements will be available. Registered attendees will be reminded by email of the options for partaking of the Lord’s Supper on-site.
• Those who are unable to attend worship in the Sanctuary may celebrate Communion virtually through our worship livestream. In this unprecedented time, the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA) has approved the online celebration of Communion (Communion in an Emergency/Pandemic).

In this time when we are separated by space, yet united in the Spirit, we remember that Christ is always at work, gathering us in unique ways.

Preparations for Celebrating Virtual Communion

In preparation for the Sacrament, we invite you to look through your own kitchen to find “bread and beverage.” While there is rich symbolism in the elements we traditionally use to celebrate the Lord’s Supper, the Church also has a long history of using the most fitting materials that are readily available in any given time and setting. So feel free to be creative and use what you have on hand.

Prior to our time of worship, please prepare your worship space. Have ready the device on which you will view the service, the bulletin (available online in the worship archive) which will enable you to more fully participate in the service, and the elements you will use for Communion. Have your “bread” ready on a plate and your “beverage” poured. Any vessels will do, but you might consider using special dishes to help you remember that this is a holy meal, set apart from our regular meals. If it is safe to do so, you also may want to light a candle and place it by your prepared Communion elements. Through the light, may you be reminded that Christ is present with us all in this meal.

During worship, you will be guided through the celebration and reception of the Lord’s Supper. Whether or not you are a member of Shadyside Presbyterian Church, we invite you to prepare your hearts to receive this Sacrament as a means of grace. For Christ is our host, and He invites all who seek Him to partake of this holy meal.

Some possibilities for bread:

• any kind of bread
• crackers
• cookies
• chips
• tortilla
• pita

Note: If you have time and want to involve your family with a meaningful activity in preparation for Communion, consider baking a special loaf of bread together. Please contact Ellen Allston, Director of Christian Education for Children’s Ministry, who has shared several recipes with families by email.

Some possibilities for beverage:

• grape juice
• any other type of juice
• wine
• water

Photograph: The Chalice, Flagon, and Plate used on World Communion Sunday, October 1, 2017, were dedicated to the glory of God and in loving memory of Momoko H. Mills. For decades, Momoko faithfully prepared the Lord’s Table in our Sanctuary with humble reverence and deep love. Commissioned by Shadyside Presbyterian Church, the Communion set was fashioned by Deacon Garret B. Smith. We give thanks to God both for Momoko’s caring service and for Garret’s talented craftsmanship. Also visible above in detail is the damask linen from Damascus which was a gift from Mark A. Anderson to Shadyside Presbyterian Church. Photograph taken by Nick Conti.