Spiritual Expansion

Acolytes

Our acolyte ministry is diverse and active with adults and elementary school children taking part in carrying the cross, helping the priest at the altar and at baptisms and coming up with creative processions in our worship space.

Altar Guild

Serving on the Altar Guild is a spiritual exercise. Caring for the Altar is a way to act out our relationship with God. It is quiet, prayerful work

Flower Guild

The talents of our resident flower arrangers are evident every week on the altar in the church, both for the high and chapel altars.

Icon Guild

Writing icons is an ancient spiritual practice intended to lead the writer into the presence of God and those who use the icon for meditation to the joys of heaven. No skill level is necessary. The Icon Guild will lead you through the process. St. Richard’s has a room dedicated to writing icons that has space for many more people to participate. Please visit The Icon Room (Classroom 2) in our Classroom/Office wing.

Lay Ministers

Lay Ministers/Readers: We have a large and active group of readers, chalice bearers, and Eucharistic visitors. There are an average of 200 communions outside the church each year.

Prayer Shawl

Join in to knit and crochet prayer shawls, baby hats, and blankets for local hospitals. We also knit hats and scarfs for the retired teachers of Seminole County to give to the homeless children. The group meets weekly. You do not have to know how to knit or crochet to join -- we'll show you how! For information, contact Sharon Knapp at sharonknapp@msn.com

Reiki

Jesus modeled for us a life of love and healing (by touch and prayer). He asked us to love each other as he loved and continues to love us. Reiki is a Japanese word for universal life force energy which, as Christians, we understand as God’s energy. This method of energy healing is one way to continue to follow Jesus using touch and prayer. You may contact her by email at tiffanylane46@gmail.com or by phone at 269-274-7537. Tiffany Lane is our resident Reiki Master who leads workshops several times a year and is available for an individual session.

Sacred Time, Contemplative Prayer

Tiffany Lane, Reiki Master and Spiritual Director, leads us through an hour of contemplative prayer practice and silence. Sacred Time meets every Tuesday morning from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. During our time together, we explore different contemplative practices, including Lectio Divina, mindfulness meditations, and Centering Prayer. It is a time for quieting ourselves, letting go of our concerns and the business of our lives, and intentionally listen for God’s quiet voice and presence. It is a small retreat in the midst our week. All are welcome to this time of community and peace.

Spiritual Direction

There are several spiritual directors at St. Richard's who can help you on your spiritual journey. Please contact the Rev. Harrity for more information and contact information.

Talk to the Theologian

Each week Jim Christoph will be available for questions and discussion about all your theological questions. Jim has his PhD from Duke University and taught at Warner University for 30 years. If you have questions, Jim has answers! Jim will be in the Theological Library on Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to noon. Feel free to drop in! Tuesdays 9 a.m. to noon

Tai Chi

Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. in the Breezeway at St. Richard’s. This is an outdoor class led by Carol Alves. All are welcome.

Taize

Monthly contemplative prayer. Modeled after the Taize Community in France, this service of prayer and chant is led by The Rev. Dr. Harry Coverston at 5 p.m. on the last Sunday of each month in the Church.

Ushers

At St. Richard’s, we value every person who walks through our doors. Our ushers will greet you with a warm welcome and help you find a seat. We have five teams of ushers, anyone may serve.

Vestry

The Vestry is comprised of elected individuals who serve three-year terms. Together with the clergy, church council and church board, they provide leadership for the congregation.