WHAT KIND OF WORSHIP ARE WE TALKING ABOUT?
With roots in the 16th century, distinctively Reformed worship dates back to John Calvin. Radical at the time, his liturgies introduced enduring principles that we still use in Palo Alto. First and foremost, Reformed worship is characterized by the centrality of the Word of God given to us in the Bible. We also believe worship consists of a dialog between God and his people and we encourage the congregation to be active participants in this dialog.
WHAT ABOUT THE MUSIC?
The worship style at PACRC is often called “convergence worship.” We try to blend the best of various worship styles into our Sunday morning service. Music participation at PACRC consists primarily of the congregational singing of psalms and hymns with piano or organ accompaniment. We also benefit from brass and woodwind instrumentalists in the congregation who contribute to the liturgy. We are open to other genres like gospel, country, rock, or soul music being incorporated into the worship experience. We readily make use of the musical gifts among us, so we encourage you to share yours any time!
The hymnal we normally use in worship (the one you’ll find available in your seat) is called Lift Up Your Hearts / Psalms, Hymns, and Spiritual Songs.
TAKE A LISTEN...
The following recordings were made during the pandemic, when we could only worship remotely. Musicians include Barbara Hull (trumpet), Gretchen Hull (organ/piano), and the rest of the Hull family (voice).
Hymns
Service Music