What is Saint Luke’s Church?
Part of the One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church, we are an independent Anglo-Catholic Parish and Diocese (the Anglican Diocese of Arizona) which stands for historic Christianity in the Anglican tradition.
We are not, therefore, part of the Episcopal Church (PECUSA or ECUSA or TEC or whatever it calls itself today); rather, we are a parish dedicated to and focused solely upon the proclamation of the gospel message of redemption through Christ Jesus our Lord.
We provide God’s people with a safe, strong and orthodox parish within which their mission and ministry can grow in God's grace to its fruition, free from the temporal entanglements so often experienced in our day and age.
What should I expect, if I were to attend and join Saint Luke's?
In two words, expect "Spiritual Growth."
Here are a few of the more important spiritual growth experiences which await you ...
Spiritual Growth thru Education
THE MASS - The eucharistic feast is, of course, the first and foremost educational vehicle afforded us. Through the readings, prayers, sermon and Sacrament we learn about God, ourselves, others, and our relationships one with the other. God calls us to be committed to this corporate and sacramental worship, as thru it we are enabled to do the ministry to which He calls us in His Son's Name.
Mass Streamings - Each week we post the early Sunday Mass on the website, so that you'll never have to miss the liturgy. Attached to the web page where it is posted, a link entitled "Act of Spiritual Communion" is found, and will help your ability to worship the Lord and receive the efficacy afforded freely through the streaming of th liturgy. The Sunday Mass streamings are found HERE.
BIBLE STUDY - We have created Bible Study aids for all, both on the internet and available for purchase as book and ebooks. Based on the 1928 Book of Common Prayer Daily Office readings, the materials are listed HERE.
ADULT EDUCATION - ENQUIRER’S CLASS - These classes occur throughout the year as needed, examining basic teachings and subjects dealing with the Christian faith. Gatherings occur on Sundays between the two morning masses, and are designed as both refresher courses for long-time parishioners and as introductory courses for those contemplating joining Saint Luke’s and/or preparing for the sacrament of Confirmation.
CONFIRMATION CLASS - This is for Junior and Senior High Schoolers who wish to be confirmed. The class begins in September, and Confirmation occurs on the patronal feast - October 18. Questions? Talk with the Bishop.
Spiritual Growth thru Guilds, Organizations
ALTAR GUILD - The Altar Guild's purpose is to prepare the altar for the various celebrations of mass, together with other worship services. Appointments are made by the Bishop.
JUNIOR ALTAR GUILD - This is a group of young girls (up to 18 years of age) who help the Altar Guild with their duties, and work under the supervision of Altar Guild members. Appointments are made by the Bishop. At the age of 18, the Junior Altar Guild member becomes eligible for membership in the Altar Guild.
SERVERS - A cadre of men and boys who function as acolytes at the worship services. Appointments are made by the Bishop. Director: Postulant David Cooper
LAY READERS - This group of men read the epistle at the mass and also, as needed, function as servers. Appointments are made by the Bishop and are licensed by the Diocesan. Director: Postulant David Cooper
USHERS - This group of men and women serve at the Sunday masses and other services, as needed. Appointments are made by the Bishop.
ANGLICAN CHURCH WOMEN - A group of women who gather periodically for fellowship and luncheons.
ANGLICAN CHURCH MEN - The men of the parish gather quarterly for lunch at local eateries, and for planning of upcoming events. A great fellowship group of dedicated men!
BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS - These folk help keep the buildings and ground beautiful, and work one day a week as needed caring for the roses, etcetera.
VISITATION & TRANSPORTATION - These two groups visit shut-ins, taking newsletters, videos, etcetera to them, and, when necessary, provide transportation to and from the church for the Sunday Masses and gatherings.
MUSIC - This is the group that brings together various concerts at the church and supports the Sunday Mass music program. The Chairman is our gifted organist, Steve Sandner.
EVANGELISM - Helps create and distribute various flyers throughout the cities, including the Chamber of Commerce and local resorts, announcing the various special events - music, et al - at Saint Luke’s Church. Director: Bishop McMannes.
FOOD INGATHERING, DISTRIBUTION - Coordinates the weekly food ingathering, distributing the donations to the various missions, food banks. Also provides information for parishioners on how to get involved via the various food programs.
The 3 F’s - FUN, FRIENDS & FELLOWSHIP - This is the group which brings together the Sunday Coffee hours and the periodic fellowship gatherings, such as Summer’s Memorial Day, 4th of July and Labor Day Cookouts, the annual Steak Fry, and the like.