Mainers to be honored at D.C. service

The Episcopal bishop of Maine will participate in a special worship service next month when the Washington National Cathedral recognizes the state’s leaders and residents.

Nearly 250 worshippers from Maine are expected to visit the cathedral for the event, during which the Maine state flag will lead a procession into the service.

The Episcopal cathedral styles itself as a national house of prayer for all people and it arranges “state day” services once every four years.

The worship service will be held at 11 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 15, at the church in northwest Washington, D.C.

The Right Rev. Chilton Knudsen, bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Maine, will serve as celebrant of the service. The Rev. David Glusker of Portland will deliver the sermon as guest preacher.

A choral arts society from Portland and a choir from Waterville will perform at the observance as well.

Mainers who live in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area and members of the Maine State Society will greet visitors to the church. Maine attendees will read Scripture, bear Communion elements, and offer up gifts to the poor.

After the service, the state flag will remain on the chancel steps in the cathedral for the next week.

Docents will lead guests on a tour of the cathedral after the worship, highlighting references to Maine.