Archives: Services

Blessing of the Animals

What wisdom have we received from our ancestors about being in relationship with animals? What have we learned from our pets that we want to pass to future generations? This service is an opportunity show gratitude for the blessings we have received from animal companions. We welcome well-behaved, non-anxious pets** to be with the human congregation, and photos of those pets who stay home. Zooming in? — show your pet or photo for a virtual blessing. Music by Warren Bush. **Pets must be on a leash or in a carrier. More info in the email Bulletin. (Services are in-person and on Zoom.)

This Land

Every Sunday we make a brief land acknowledgement statement, recognizing the first peoples of the land we now own. What is the meaning and purpose for us as UUs? What do our shared values tell us about words without action? Music by CUF choir, directed by Michael Thompson, accompanied by Elana Floyd-Kennett. (Services are in person and on Zoom.)

Emerson, the Sharps, and their UU Descendants

What can we learn from the successes and mistakes of thinkers, activists, organizers and others who have shaped the way we understand and act on our values? Rev. Sarah shares stories from the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries to trace our UU heritage of social and environmental justice work. Music by Candy Davis and Marty Merrill. (Services are in person and on Zoom.)

The Gift of Welcome

Join long time member Roy Sumner as he shares what successful welcoming looks like. Also hear of Roy’s recent experience serving as a Board Trustee. Music by John West. (Services are in person and on Zoom.)

Thomas Potter’s Welcome

In late September, 1770, an English ship bound for New York, carrying a broken and dejected Universalist preacher, ran aground on the New Jersey shore. A local farmer invited that preacher to dinner. Rev. Sarah will tell the story of Universalism’s unlikely beginnings in the U.S., and trace the importance of that maritime mishap more than 250 years ago to our midwestern Unitarian Universalist congregation today. Music by Stephanie Reece. (Services are in person and on Zoom.)

Ingathering

Our joyous annual celebration of the new congregational year, featuring the Water Communion ceremony. Every person/family contributes a small amount of water, naming its source and the spirit with which it is added to the common bowl. Music by Maki Ito Pardieck and CUF choir. (Services are in person and on Zoom.)

Matin Service: The Gift of Welcome

Traditionally, a “matin” is a service of song and prayer. It has also been used to refer to the morning song of birds. Our version of a matin is a service of music, reflection, and blessings. Join us for meditations and music on The Gift of Welcome, our theme for September. Music by Pat York. (Services are in person and on Zoom.)

Serving Needs Greater Than One’s Own

Have you sometimes found it difficult to feel a “fire of commitment” even for causes you deeply care about? In this last of a three-part service series, Rev. Sarah explores some ways that UUs understand and address community experiences of disconnection and healing. Music by Maki Ito Pardieck. (Services are in person and on Zoom.)

Opening to Life’s Gifts

Have you ever been “surprised by joy?” In this second of three-part service series, Rev. Sarah explores some ways that UUs understand and address spiritual experiences of disconnection and healing. Music by Elana Floyd-Kennett. (Services are in person and on Zoom.)

Raising Good Humans in a UU Community

Please join us for this interactive service where Religious Education Coordinator Ashley Moss will provide details on the RE programs in the last few years. Members of the RE Committee will ask for volunteers to help with some activities during the service. RE families will provide chalice lighting, reading(s), and benediction. (Services are in person and on Zoom.)