Sunday, Aug. 26, 2007
The Popham Colony's worship life would have conformed to the English
Book of Common Prayer of 1559, which underwent only minor revisions
in the edition of 1604. Our service uses very that Prayer Book text
as closely as possible.
The normal Sunday morning service in the colony would have been Morning Prayer, followed on some occasions by Holy Communion. The "Great Bible" would have been used for Scripture readings. The King James translation of the Scriptures did not appear until 1611. The Scripture selections were chosen from those which would have been used on this Sunday in the liturgical calendar of 400 years ago.
The Popham congregation in 1607 would probably not have copies of the text, which would have been difficult and expensive to obtain. Their responses at the service would have been made from memory.
The congregation would likely have been standing throughout, with seating on barrels or benches provided for the infirm. The officiating minister would be vested in a long white surplice, worn over a black gown with preaching bands and a black scarf.
Three hymns will be sung at the service: All People That on Earth Do Dwell, from the 16th century; O God Our Help in Ages Past, from the 18th century and Give Thanks for Life, a 20th century hymn to send us out into today's world. Congregational singing may or may not have been part of of the Popham Colony worship. It would have been supported by a recorder or lute brought by a member of the company.
The bishop will preach and conclude the service with a blessing.
This information
has been provided by The Rt. Rev. Chilton Knudsen