Worship Observation Paper

Worship Observation Context

I had the privilege of visiting the United House of Prayer for All People – God’s White House in Washington, DC. I went to their 11am worship service on Sunday, February 8, 2015. This church follows the traditions of the apostolic church however in a tradition of its own. This church is located in the heart of Northwest DC and is the headquarters church for the United House of Prayer for All People Organization. The size of the congregation to me was normal approximately 200-250 people (this is my guest just by looking around the church).

Sacred Space

When I entered the foyer of the church, immediately there were signs to indicate proper worship etiquette in the sanctuary and signs to let you know that you have to

In the front of the church were these rooms with large entrance ways, curtains and pictures of these men over top of the rooms. These rooms were behind the pulpit and were roped off yet lit. I proceeded to ask one of the Ushers what they were and she stated that was the sacred space set assigned to honor there founder Bishop Charles “Sweet Daddy” Grace, his predecessor Bishop William “Sweet Daddy” McCullough, his predecessor Bishop S.C. Madison (their name plates were listed under each picture). The usher made sure to tell me that there are only certain times and certain people that are allowed in those rooms and that I was not to go any where near them without permission. They also have a place in the front of the church that they call “the mountain top” which is right in front of the altar. It is the “mountain top” that people assemble at during the beginning of the service to tell their testimonies and offer praise unto God. The usher came pass my row and asked if I

There are dress codes, which are listed in the church foyer. There are worship codes of etiquette that are also posted in the church. It was very perplexing to me that it is called the United House of Prayer for All People but there is not a real diverse representation of people within the congregations. The ushers were very kind as the directed you where and where not to sit as well as times to stand and times to sit once they realized that we were new to their worship experience. Once they realize that you are a visitor, they guide you thru different parts of the worship service while providing you a little information; it resembled the style of witnessing when trying to bring someone to Christ bit they were trying to bring someone into their church/fellowship. The people are very genuine and hospitable. With regards to “community” the congregation seems to be one big