We gather in worship to find meaning and live more deeply. Worship creates connections within, among, and beyond us, calling us to our better selves, calling us to live with wisdom and compassion.

Unitarian Universalist worship styles vary by congregation, and even within congregations. Some congregations’ worship is contemporary and high tech. Some congregations’ worship is traditional and formal. Some features exuberant music, some includes long periods of silent reflection. Our congregation’s worship is reflective, with roots in liberal Protestant Christianity, and increasingly drawing on a diversity of wisdom sources and spiritual practices

Worship is led by our Minister, Rev. Elizabeth Bukey Saunter, by visiting UU ministers, and by members of the congregation. They are joined by our Music Director, Andrei Baumann, on piano, and by members of the congregation who volunteer to read, to greet the congregation, or sometimes to create and deliver their own reflections.

Because Unitarian Universalism welcomes and celebrates diversity, our worship services can be very different from one another. However, most will include the following elements:

• Words of welcome

• Lighting a flaming chalice, the symbol of our faith

• We are not currently singing, but in usual times, simple, a capella songs or hymns accompanied on piano (you’re invited to sing along at home)

• A short “interactive message” or story meant to be especially interesting to children

• Instrumental music, usually on the keyboard.

• Readings and reflections, sometimes from the Christian and Hebrew scriptures

• A short sermon or “reflection,” given by our professional sabbatical minister, Rev. Marshall Hawkins, a guest minister, or a member of the congregation (watch past sermons here)

• A “Common Prayer,” said in unison, sometimes including versions of the Christian Lord’s Prayer

• Community prayer and silent time for personal prayer and meditation

• An offering, collecting financial donations for the congregation or for justice work in the community

Everyone is welcome to participate as much or as little as they like in all aspects of our time together.

From time to time, worship services incorporate holiday celebrations, multigenerational plays and pageants, longer musical performances, child dedications, and coming-of-age ceremonies.

For a list of the upcoming services and topics, please see the upcoming services page.