Chapel Services

Chapel services, or liturgies, allow members of the community a brief, but important time each week to consider and reflect upon perennial and contemporary issues framed in a theological, moral, and spiritual perspective. Students and faculty are encouraged to help design and conduct chapel program with the chaplains.

Required Chapel Services

Of the required services, Tuesday evening chapel is usually grounded in Evening Prayer according to the tradition of the Book of Common Prayer of the Episcopal Church, with a homily by a guest speaker, school chaplain, or other member of the school community. Thursday morning chapel typically includes prayer and music, as well as presentations by students, student organizations, other members of the school community, and guests.

Required chapels address contemporary issues from a moral, spiritual, and theological perspective and are as immediate as the St. Mark’s community and as far–reaching and diverse as the world away from Southborough. Spiritual leaders from a variety of faith traditions and community leaders in other fields of interest address the school at key points throughout the academic year. Observations of important events in the church calendar, significant religious holidays and observances of other faith traditions and world cultures, and important days that help mark the traditions and life of the school are also marked in a variety of ways.

The School Choir helps lead each service and will process and dress in full regalia for major school services during the year. Student officers help organize and administer student groups wishing to serve as wardens, acolytes, and readers.

Voluntary Chapel Services

All members of the school community are invited to attend voluntary services held at various times during the week. The Holy Eucharist is celebrated on Sunday’s at 7:00 pm and Compline on Wednesday’s at 7:30 pm while school is in session. Students wishing to attend Sunday morning services are offered rides to a number of churches in the surrounding area; students will also find a number of churches within a short walk. On Friday evenings, students meet for a Shabbat Service of candle–lighted prayer and the sharing of kosher bread and grape juice to mark the Jewish Sabbath in the chapel choir room affectionately named the Crypt. Prayer space for Muslim students and others wishing to have a quiet space for meditation has also been offered and arranged. Students and student groups have and are encouraged to organize Seder meals, Ramadan observance, and other similar events during the year.