ORDER OF WORSHIP | JULY 28, 2024 | 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.
Prelude
“Water Witch,” by The Secret Sisters
Rachel Townsley, vocals; Jane Ferguson, vocals and guitar; Dave Beals, mandolin
Opening Welcome
Liz Wiley, Worship Associate
Announcements
Opening Greeting
Liz Wiley
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.
Lighting the Chalice
by Robin Slaw
Liz Wiley and Barbette Spaeth, Guest Worship Leader
We light this chalice to remember that we are all made of stardust.
We carry the light of stars within us.
We light this chalice to remember those who have come before us and those who will follow us.
We carry the light of stars within us.
We light this chalice to remember those who inspire us to help heal the world.
We carry the light of stars within us.
We light this chalice to remember to share our light with the world.
We carry the light of stars within us.
Opening Words
by Hildegard of Bingen and from the Acts of Thomas
Barbette Spaeth
Opening Hymn
SLT #51 “Lady of the Seasons’ Laughter”
Wisdom Story
“Demeter and Persephone”
Austen Petersen, Director of Religious Education
Blessing the Children
“Go Your Way in Peace”
Go your way in peace,
Wander as you may,
Blessed is the path you take,
May love guide you on your way.
Meditation & Prayer
Liz Wiley
Music for Meditation
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’s recipient, Edmarc, provides services based on a charity model, providing hospice, home health, and bereavement services for more than 300 families each year. Edmarc has been helping families in the Hampton Roads region of Virginia since 1978 and has recently expanded its service area to include Williamsburg, Gloucester, Mathews, New Kent, and surrounding communities. Families are never billed for any support they receive. Because of generous community support, Edmarc can provide quality care, and parents are able to focus on their child and families while not having to worry about another bill. This allows Edmarc staff to enter homes and unburden a family while providing hope for the journey. Thank you so much for your generosity.
Offertory Music
“Orpheus,” by Sara Barreilles
Rachel Townsley, vocals; Jane Ferguson, vocals and guitar; Dave Beals, mandolin
Talk
“‘She Who Is:’ The Feminine Divine in Western Culture”
Barbette Spaeth
Closing Hymn
SLT #327 “Joy, Thou Goddess”
Extinguishing the Chalice
Liz Wiley
As we extinguish this chalice
Let us remember that we
Carry the light of the stars within us
Shine on
Shine on
Shine on
Closing Words
by Doreen Valiente, adapted by Starhawk
Barbette Spaeth
SLT=Gray Hymnal | STJ=Teal Hymnal
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