ORDER OF WORSHIP | DECEMBER 10, 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.
Opening Words
Rev. Michelle Collins, Interim Minister
Opening Welcome
Leslie Fabian, Worship Associate
Announcements
Rev. Michelle Collins
Prelude
“Still, Still, Still,” Austrian carol, arr. by Dennis Alexander
Heidi Souza, piano
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.
Opening Hymn
SLT #226 “People, Look East”
Lighting the Chalice
Leslie Fabian
We light this chalice with a flame that draws us together.
With this flame, we cut through the darkness of isolation
And are warmed by the fires of interconnection.
For this moment, this radical moment, we find a certainty
Within the knowable bonds of love and community.
Lighting the Advent Wreath
Rev. Michelle Collins
Lighting the Hanukkah Menorah
Rev. Michelle Collins
Anthem
“S’vivon,” Jewish folksong, arr. by Bob Chilcott
WUU Choir, directed by Kim Ness, Music Director
Blessing the Children
“As You Journey,” by Ann Hossler, Director of Music, UU Fellowship of Vero Beach, FL
As you journey
As you journey
May you know
May you know
Love and hope go with you
Love and hope go with you
Learn and grow
Learn and grow
Meditation & Prayer
“How does one address a mystery?” by Gordon McKeeman
Rev. Michelle Collins
Centering Hymn
SLT #123 “Spirit of Life”
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. This week, your contributions will go to the Greater Williamsburg Chapter of the National Federation of the Blind of Virginia. As chapter president Bob Meter explains, “Our organization strives to enable members to live the life they want. Blindness and low vision do not define us. We learn how to do things differently.” The group is a support network that connects members with educational opportunities and counts on the generosity of community partners to help fund those efforts, including printing literature and publicizing events, workshops, etc. Thank you for your generosity.
Offertory Music
“Deck the Hall,” trad. Welsh carol, arr. by Carl Strommen
Heidi Souza, piano
Reflection
“Living with Uncertainty”
Rev. Michelle Collins
Closing Hymn
SLT #221 “Light One Candle”
Extinguishing the Chalice
Leslie Fabian
When the candle dims, all is not lost.
Hope continues, uncertain and true,
Like candlelight, ready to spark again.
All is not lost.
Closing Words
Rev. Michelle Collins
SLT=Gray Hymnal | STJ=Teal Hymnal
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