NEW Saturday Evening Worship Gatherings

Something New on Nassau Street -- Saturday Evening Worship Gatherings

“Just as Sunday morning is not always a viable option, the traditional style of worship doesn’t work for everyone,” says Rev. Jana Purkis-Brash, senior pastor. The Gatherings will be in the room adjoining the sanctuary, which has a door opening onto Nassau Street. “If you hear music as you wander down Nassau, come in and join us. We will praise and experience God through contemporary music, and hearing and responding to the message.”

Parking is free on weekends at the Princeton University lot off of Williams Street, behind Thomas Sweet. Everyone is welcome to attend; following the service, there will be a time for refreshments and fellowship.

Saturday Evening Worship services are more informal than our regular Sunday services.

On Saturday evening, September 17,
PUMC added a new worship opportunity,
the Saturday Evening Worship Gathering.

Sermon Topics are listed on the Current Sermon Series Page.

Also please read Trey Gillette's Pastoral Letter here.

Why have we adding a new service? Through the work of the Church Health Team, Worship Committee and staff, we recognized that our traditional, Sunday morning services do not meet the needs of all in our community. We want to reach those currently not worshiping with us, particularly young adults and others seeking a more contemporary worship experience at a time other than Sunday mornings. For many years we have talked about reaching out to those in the universities right here in town. We want to be able to connect with ALL people ages 1 to 100, seeking a home in which to worship in a style that is inspirational to them, where they feel God‟s presence.

When and where is it held? The Saturday Evening Worship Gatherings are held on Saturday evenings at 5 p.m. in the Sanford Davis Room.

What is it like? The Saturday Evening Worship Gatherings are a time where we praise and experience God together through more contemporary music, a message, a time of response and fellowship.

Who designed the new worship experience? In May, based on the recommendation of the Church Health Team, an alternate worship task force was formed. This task force, led by Rob Mart, has met weekly over the summer to plan the new worship experience. The task force has representation from young adults, staff, music, CHT, and Worship Committee.

How can you support the Saturday Evening Worship Gathering? First and foremost, with your prayers. Second, with your support. We need support in the following areas.

  • Crew to help set up and operate the sound system
  • Fellowship and service – for the worship time
  • coordinate resources and services for students beyond the worship time (e.g. meals, laundry)
  • Publicity on the university campuses (web sites, flyers)
  • Décor to create the appropriate worship environment
  • Welcome and greet visitors and participate
  • Financially support this new endeavor by writing a check payable to Princeton United Methodist Church and putting "for the Saturday Evening Worship Gathering in the Memo line.

We are excited about this opportunity. This is a daunting undertaking for PUMC. We are still feeling our way. We have a lot to learn and do. But this is what we are called to do--this is living our mission. Please contact the task force to volunteer or to get more information please send an e-mail to the church office (office(at)princetonumc.org). Or visit the Sanford-Davis Room where you will find a sign-up sheet.