ORDER OF WORSHIP | OCTOBER 6, 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
SLT #38 “Morning Has Broken,” verses 1 and 3
Opening Words
“The Calling of the Creatures,” by Ian W. Riddell
Rev. Michelle Collins, Interim Minister
Opening Welcome
Susan Marcinkus, Worship Associate
Announcements
Prelude
Sonata in G, by Franz Haydn
Arden Walker, William & Mary Student Guest Pianist
Opening Greeting
Susan Marcinkus
Lighting the Chalice
by Florence Caplow
Susan Marcinkus
We light this chalice in honor of the animal realm,
Furred and hoofed, two-legged, four-legged, many-legged,
Fanged and clawed, gentle and fierce, wild and tame.
May we remember that all animals are our relatives,
Worthy of our care and respect.
Welcoming Words
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 #203 “All Creatures of the Earth and Sky,” verses 1-3
Animal Blessing
Rev. Michelle Collins
Animal Slide Show
Anthem
“Into a Time,” by Adolphus Hailstork, 2002; dedicated to the WUU Choir
WUU Choir, directed by Chris Mooney, Music Director
Reading
“Monarchs and Mysteries,” by Jane E. Mauldin
Reflection
“Celebrating St. Francis of Assisi and Our Animals”
Rev. Michelle Collins
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
“Talk to the Animals,” from Dr. Doolittle by Leslie Bricusse
Performed by Chris Mooney
Closing Hymn
SLT #163 “For the Earth Forever Turning”
Extinguishing the Chalice
Susan Marcinkus
We extinguish this flame,
but not the light of truth,
the warmth of community,
or the fire of commitment.
These we carry in our hearts
until we are together again.
Closing Words
Rev. Michelle Collins
SLT=Gray Hymnal | STJ=Teal Hymnal
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