ORDER OF WORSHIP | AUGUST 27, 2023 | 10:00 AM HYBRID SERVICE
We are committed to being an antiracist, anti-oppressive congregation. We celebrate people of diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds, genders, and sexual orientations. We honor our spiritual connection to the earth and all living things.
Before the service: You may light a candle for the joys and sorrows in your heart. Please respect those seeking silence.
Gathering
Opening Welcome
Leslie Fabian, Worship Associate
Announcements
Katrina Landon
Prelude
“Sketches in Sepia,” by Florence Price
Performed by Justice Craig
Opening Greeting
Leslie Fabian
Come, come, whoever you are,
Whomever you love,
Whatever your image of the Holy,
Your presence here is a gift.
All are worthy, all are welcome.
Call to Worship
Rev. Michelle Collins, Interim Minister
Opening Hymn
SLT #188 “Come, Come, Whoever You Are”
Lighting the Chalice
Leslie Fabian
As surely as we belong to the universe, we belong together.
We gather here to move beyond our isolated selves.
It is good to be together, for it is in our connections with each other
that we come to know ourselves more fully.
Wisdom Story
The Rules Make the Game, by Laura Bogle
Austen Petersen, Director of Religious Education
Blessing the Children
SLT #413 “Go Now in Peace,” by Natalie Sleeth (adapted)
Go now in peace, go now in peace.
May the spirit of love surround you.
Everywhere, everywhere, you may go.
Meditation & Prayer
Rev. Michelle Collins
Meditative Music
STJ #1009 “Meditation on Breathing”
Sharing Our Gifts
Online Giving
Text-to-Give: 757-500-0688
In-Person Giving: Place offerings in the collection plates as they’re passed during the service.
Twice a month we Share the Plate with local or nonprofit human service organizations that provide a much-needed service to our community. It offers us an opportunity to extend our compassion to others in need. Information about the recipient organization for this Share the Plate for Social Justice collection will be provided during the service. Thank you so much for your generosity.
Offertory Music
“Pure Imagination,” by Leslie Bricusse
Performed by Justice Craig
Story
Rev. Michelle Collins
Reflection
“The Work of Journeying Together”
Rev. Michelle Collins
Closing Hymn
SLT #354 “We Laugh, We Cry,” verses 1 & 4
Extinguishing the Chalice
Leslie Fabian
We extinguish this flame,
but not the light of truth,
the warmth of community,
or the fire of commitment.
These we carry in our hearts
until we are together again.
Benediction
Rev. Michelle Collins
Closing
Leslie Fabian
SLT=Gray Hymnal | STJ=Teal Hymnal
Post-service conversation on Zoom: If you enjoy the post-service conversation on Zoom and would be willing to help make it happen, please email av@wuu.org. The AV Team will continue to provide Zoom access to Café Conversations during the summer. Otherwise, the Zoom feed will end after the service.
New to WUU? Welcome! Learn more about WUU and Unitarian Universalism by visiting wuu.org/about/.