Unitarian Universalist (UU) worship styles vary by congregation. Our Sunday Services are a mix of traditional observances and newer practices. Most of them are led by our minister, but others are led by members of the congregation or guest speakers. We’re also a congregation that loves to sing UU hymns that reflect our values!

Elements of a typical Sunday morning worship service typically include:

• Music prelude before service starts;
• Ringing the chimes to signify that Sunday Service has begun;
• Words of welcome by a congregation member;
• Congregation news and announcements by a member of the board;
• Lighting a flaming chalice, the symbol of our faith, and reciting our intention, “This flame affirms the light of truth, the warmth of community, and the fire of commitment;”
• The call to worship;
• A UU hymn (e.g., “Blue Boat Home,” “Sing and Rejoice,” “For All That is Our Life“)
• A multigenerational segment, such as a “Story for all Ages,” such as this one, followed by singing hymn #413, “Go Now in Peace;”
• A sermon given by our minister, another professional minister, a guest speaker, or a member of the congregation;
• Singing UU hymns and music, both instrumental and vocal, and in a variety of styles;
• A time for lifting up the joys and concerns of the congregation in person and via Zoom;
• A short, silent meditation or prayer, and singing “Meditation on Breathing,” hymn #1009;
• An offering, collecting financial donations for the congregation or for social justice work in the community;
• Extinguishing the flaming chalice and reciting our intention, “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;” and
• Holding hands (optional) while singing the closing hymn, #1010, “We Give Thanks.”

Because members of our congregation come from many different faith traditions, at various times during the year our services may include various holiday observances and reflections drawn from the Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, and Earth-Centered beliefs, and other liturgical calendars.

We also occasionally incorporate multigenerational plays and pageants, longer musical performances, child dedications, and coming-of-age ceremonies. We offer childcare and learning programs for children and youth during the Sunday Service.

Connection After Sunday Service

After each Sunday Service, there is a coffee hour, which is a chance to talk to other congregation members.

Each third Sunday of the month features a potluck lunch either outside or in our assembly room following the service, providing extra time for fellowship among members. Visitors are always encouraged to enjoy the refreshments without concern for contributing, as there is always plenty of food, and your presence is your gift to us!