July 7, 2024: “Heroes, Villains, and the Stories We Tell”

ORDER OF WORSHIP | JULY 7, 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.

Opening Welcome
Natalie Miller-Moore, Worship Associate

Announcements

Prelude
“Suzanne,” by Leonard Cohen
John Keating, guitar & vocals

Opening Greeting
Natalie Miller-Moore

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. Max Blalock, Guest Worship Leader

Lighting the Chalice
Words adapted from Tracy Johnson
Natalie Miller-Moore

We kindle our chalice flame this morning
Awakening the fire of our heroes in our hearts

Beacon of freedom held out to light the way
Light of reason illuminating the path
Spark of courage igniting our Spirits
Aglow with hope for all we endeavor to do together

Holy flame of times past, brighten this present moment
That we may be the Love that is our center and our foundation, both.
Blessed be.

Anthem
“That We Were Loved,” written & performed by John Keating

Meditation & Prayer
Video from Tina Allen’s memorial service (June 22, 2024, Lyndhurst, New Jersey)
Natalie Miller-Moore

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.

The collection this week goes to our general operating fund to help cover all of those essential things like staff salaries and building maintenance, as well as the activities that are so important to all of us, from programming to crayons for our RE children. A recorded contribution to the general operating fund also fulfills the annual financial contribution requirement for WUU membership (WUU Bylaws). Thank you for your support!

Offertory Music
“Hallelujah,” by Leonard Cohen
John Keating, guitar & vocals

Reflection
“Heroes, Villains, and the Stories We Tell”
Rev. Max Blalock

Closing Hymn
“Puddles of Shade,” written & performed by John Keating

Extinguishing the Chalice
Words by Maureen Killoran
Natalie Miller-Moore

We extinguish this chalice flame,
daring to carry forward the vision of this free faith,
that freedom, reason and justice
will one day prevail in this nation and across the earth.

Closing Words
Rev. Max Blalock

SLT=Gray Hymnal | STJ=Teal Hymnal


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