What to Expect in Worship
We gather in worship to find meaning, live more deeply, and lift up our values. Worship creates connections within, among, and beyond us, calling us to our better selves, calling us to live with wisdom and compassion.
Unitarian Universalist worship styles vary by congregation, and even within congregations. Some congregations’ worship is contemporary and high tech. Some congregations’ worship is traditional and formal. Some feature exuberant music, some include long periods of silent reflection. Our congregation’s services are informal, spiritual, and rational. We are a community of thinkers and seekers.
Elements of a typical Sunday morning worship service include:
- Words of welcome
- Lighting a flaming chalice, the symbol of our faith
- A time for all ages
- Music, both hymns and contemporary songs
- A time for lifting up the joys and concerns of the congregation and lighting candles
- A meditation and time of silence
- Readings—ancient or contemporary, from sacred text to modern poetry
- A sermon or message by our minister, a guest speaker, or a member of the congregation
- An offering, collecting financial donations for the congregation or for justice work in the community
- Closing words and extinguishing the chalice
From time to time, services incorporate holiday celebrations, multigenerational plays and pageants, longer musical performances, child dedications, and coming-of-age ceremonies. We offer childcare and religious education programs for children during the Sunday service.