ORDER OF WORSHIP | DECEMBER 11, 2022 | 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
Announcements
Susan Marcinkus, Worship Associate
Katrina Landon
Welcome & Greeting
Susan Marcinkus
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
by the Rev. Tania Márquez
Rev. Laura Horton-Ludwig, Minister
Opening Hymn
SLT #389 “Gathered Here”
Lighting the Chalice
Susan Marcinkus
Fire consumes and casts a bright light.
May our chalice flame consume our regrets for the past,
our fears about the future, and our worries about today.
May it light for us a path of joy and peace.
Wisdom Story
“Stopping the Winter”
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, Sung, Spoken & Silent
Rev. Laura Horton-Ludwig
Centering Hymn
SLT #55 “Dark of Winter”
Sharing Our Gifts
Online Giving
Text-to-Give: 757-500-0688
In-Person Giving: Place offerings in the dropbox in the Gathering Hall.
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 Scholarship Fund of the York-James City-Williamsburg Branch of the NAACP to support the several $1,000 scholarships that are presented annually to deserving minority graduates from area high schools. According to the scholarship application, “the scholarship will be based on academic excellence, letters of recommendation, an essay, participation in school activities, and community service.” Thank you so much for your generosity.
Offertory Music
Sermon
“Un-Stuck,” with a reading by Wendell Berry from “Poetry and Marriage”
Rev. Laura Horton-Ludwig
Closing Hymn
SLT #51 “Lady of the Seasons’ Laughter”
Extinguishing the Chalice
Susan Marcinkus
We extinguish the chalice here so that it might glow gently in our hearts.
May it light your path as you leave this place.
May it guide your way until we are together again.
Closing Circle & Benediction
by the Rev. Dr. Kendyl Gibbons
Rev. Laura Horton-Ludwig
SLT=Gray Hymnal | STJ=Teal Hymnal
Post-service conversation on Zoom: Zoom participants are invited to stay online for virtual social time.
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