banner5.jpg
Sundays
Early Worship 8:55am
Sunday School: 9:45am
Worship: 11:00am
Vespers: 5:30pm
Youth Activities: 5:30-7:30pm
Wednesdays
Family Supper: 5:00pm
Activities for All Ages: 5:55pm
(See left menu for full schedule)
Oakland's House of Worship

Oakland's sanctuary is a classic revival style decorated in a colonial Williamsburg motif. In this style, the pulpit is the predominant piece of furniture, symbolizing the centrality of the proclaimed word of God. It is from this pulpit that worshipers expect to hear of God's revelation through the scriptures, the prayers, and the proclaimed word.

 

Centered in front of the pulpit and on the floor with the congregation is the communion table. This is the central place for the congregation to respond to God. We come to this table to respond to God when we commit ourselves to be followers, when we make our offerings and we meet God at this table when we gather to participate in the Lord's Supper. The table holds four symbols that help us express our faith. The central symbol is the barren cross, symbolic of the resurrected Christ whom we gather to worship each Sunday. The Trinitarian candles remind us of God in three persons, the Trinity-Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The open Bible reminds us that God has been revealed in history and continues to be revealed through the truths that we find in this book. The offering plates recall the sacrifices made to God at the temple and it is in these plates that we make our sacrifice of money for the kingdom.

In the Chancel area, we find two other central symbols. Predominantly, our eyes are drawn to the large brass barren cross, lifted high above all that happens in this room. It is a constant reminder to the worshiper of the resurrected Savior. Just beneath this cross is the Baptistery. Within these waters, those who have professed their faith in Jesus Christ follow his example of baptism.

Additional icons can be found on the walls of the sanctuary. These icons help point us toward God. On the congregation's left, moving from the Chancel area toward the balcony are the ancient symbols for the four gospel writers, beginning with Matthew and followed by Mark, Luke and finally John. On the congregation's right, moving from the Chancel to the balcony are the symbols for the eternal and all powerful God, Jesus Christ the Lamb of God, the Holy Spirit descending like a dove, and the church which is God's ship under the protection of Jesus, who calmed the sea. On the front of the balcony is a cross and crown symbolizing victory over death.

Other symbols appear in the sanctuary during various seasons of the year. The Advent wreath helps us prepare for the coming of Christmas and the Paschal candle announces the resurrection of Christ. Additionally, antependia or paraments can be found hanging on the pulpit and covering the communion table. These colorful cloths help identify the season of the Christian church year.