May 12, 2024: “The Plurality of Motherhood”

ORDER OF WORSHIP | MAY 12, 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 Song
“Courage, My Friend”
Led by Rev. Michelle Collins, Interim Minister

Opening Words
Rev. Michelle Collins

Opening Welcome
Susan Fournier, Worship Associate

Announcements

Prelude
“May: Starlit Nights,” from The Seasons, by Pyotr Tchaikovsky
Heidi Souza, piano

Opening Greeting
Susan Fournier

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 #18 “What Wondrous Love”

Lighting the Chalice
Susan Fournier

Spark of the spirit cupped in earth’s embrace,
Light of love alive in all creation,
As we kindle this flame,
we rekindle our connection to the sacred web of life.

Wisdom Story

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.

Anthem
“For This Joy,” arr. Susan LaBarr
WUU Choir, directed by Kim Ness, Music Director

Meditation & Prayer
Rev. Michelle Collins

Centering Hymn

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
“Summer Breeze,” by Mary Sallee
Heidi Souza, piano

Introduction to Readings & Reflections
Rev. Michelle Collins

Reflection
Susan Fournier

Poem
Austen Petersen, Director of Religious Education

Poem
“The Lanyard,” by Billy Collins

Reading
“Monster Juice,” by Lisa Tucker McElroy

Reading
“Being Yourself,” by Carolyn Williamson

Reflection
Rev. Michelle Collins

Closing Hymn
SLT #323 “Break Not the Circle”

Extinguishing the Chalice
Susan Fournier

Together, we have enjoyed the warmth and beauty of stories,
of this flame, and of this special community.
As our chalice flame is extinguished this morning,
we remember that its glow is carried within us.

Closing Words
Rev. Michelle Collins

SLT=Gray Hymnal | STJ=Teal Hymnal


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