First Universalist Church

We come together from one body, each of us bringing what we can to create the Beloved Community—a place free of hate, poverty, and oppression, where all can thrive. As we push back against fascism, we practice love in action, standing strong in shared ministry. It's not enough to put a hand or a foot in—we're called to put our whole selves into this work, because building a world where everyone belongs demands nothing less. Together, we lean into our shared power, holding fast to what's good and just. In the end, that's what it's all about: reshaping how we show up for each other, creating spaces where justice quietly but relentlessly weaves us together, making the Beloved Community not just possible, but inevitable.

This Sunday we will celebrate the many gifts of growing old, the inevitable resetting and resettling of our hearts and bodies as we experience the physical and mental transitions of aging. Elders in our church will share experiences, insights, challenges, and the joy, sometimes with humor (an essential ingredient in the aging process) of this journey we all are on. There is not only one story–we are as different from each other at 80 as we were at 18, and our effort is to look forward even as we look back. As one wise woman said, “The goal is to get old,” so let's all learn to celebrate it as we strive to age with acceptance, courage, and, yes, joy.

What hidden stories do photographs reveal? This Sunday, I invite you to join me, and John Steitz as we explore “See and Say” in the final week of our annual Art and Soul series. John, our talented sound engineer and celebrated photographer, will share his journey and the profound moments he's captured through his lens. Together, we'll ask: How does photography reveal hidden truths and balance power? What unseen details become visible through the lens? How do images evoke deeper connections and understanding? How can those without sight experience the essence of photography? We'll delve into how photography can deepen our understanding of social justice, environmental stewardship, and personal connection. Through John's lens, we are invited to see the unnoticed, to feel the unspoken, and to connect with the world in new ways. This service promises to be a visual and reflective journey, inspiring us to look closer and appreciate the art in everyday life. I also encourage you to visit the Social Hall after the service to view an exhibit of John's work. This exhibit features powerful excerpts from his documentary collection of George Floyd Square. It captures moments of resistance and relationship in the wake of tragedy. Come ready to be inspired and to see the world through a new lens. Together, let's explore how photography can help us give, receive, and grow the beloved community. - Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout, Director of Worship Arts Ministries   Worship Leaders: Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout, Aimee K. Bryant Breathing together (1:27) Singing, Breathing In, Breathing Out (2:50) Singing, Meditation on Breathing (8:18) Words of Welcome and Call to Worship (11:54) Making Art Together (19:36) Singing - There Is A Love (30:56) Prayer (33:00) Art and Soul Presentation (45:20) Closing Hymn (1:22:09)

Imagine life as a giant, ever-changing canvas, where colors shift and blend, sometimes beyond our control. This Sunday, as part of our “Art and Soul” series, we will explore this theme in our service titled “The Rest is Still Unwritten.” We'll learn how to take life's unexpected twists and turns and turn them into something beautiful. Our guest artist, Adam Podd, a talented pianist and music director from Brooklyn, will join us to share his experiences of making music a shared, communal joy, even during challenging times. We'll also hear from Caren Stelson, an award-winning children's book author, and Selina Alko, a gifted illustrator. They will share their insights on telling important historical stories to young ones with sensitivity and care, despite having completed their work independently. Through music, storytelling, and reflection, we'll discover how to embrace the unexpected and create harmony from life's dissonance. Join us for a family-friendly service filled with creativity, inspiration, and the promise that our story is still being written.   Worship Leaders: Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout, Rev. Ashley Harness Singing to Gather (:23) Words of Welcome and Call to Worship (9:15) Singing Together- This Little Light of Mine (10:53) Story - Aimee K Bryant (21:08) Prayer (32:15) Art and Soul Presentation (45:00) Offering (1:10:23) Offertory (1:11:58) Collaborative Musical Excercise (1:16:13) Closing Hymn (1:30:20) Benediction (1:32:03)

Father's Day gives us a chance to reflect on the wisdom that often comes wrapped in humor from those who fill the roles of mentors, guides, or fathers. As we explore the lighter side of life, we're reminded of the broader roles these figures play. Their playful approach teaches us resilience and reveals the human spirit in everyday moments. It shows us how, sometimes, the deepest wisdom is shared in moments of lift and levity, that joy is the vehicle for the strength we need to make change for good! Worship Leaders: Paolo Debuque and Choir, Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout, Rev. Arif Mamdani, Rev. Ashley Harness Singing to Gather (:31) Opening Hymn- Though I May Speak With Bravest Fire (3:33) Words of Welcome and Call to Worship (6:04) Singing Together- Guide My Feet (19:01) Prayer (21:49) Offering (33:35) Offertory (36:09) Message (40:13) Closing Hymn (1:05:00) Benediction (1:08:42)

This Sunday, we explore how ordinary people can create extraordinary change. Retelling the stories of Norbert Čapek and Waitstill and Martha Sharp, as well as the village of Le Chambon, we'll reflect on the profound impact of simple acts of courage and compassion. By examining historical and modern examples of collective action and resilience, we'll see how our community can support and inspire each other in the face of challenges. Join us to deepen our commitment to justice and compassion, to realize the extraordinary potential within each of us. Worship Leaders: Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout, Katherine Harrell, Rev. Jen Crow, Rev. Ashley Harness Opening Hymn- We Rise (:22) Words of Welcome (3:09) Call to Worship (9:51) Singing Together- We Are Building a New Way (15:50) Prayers and Cycle of Life (18:54) Offering (28:24) Reading- Courage by Anne Sexton (32:53) Anthem- If I Can Help Somebody by Mahalia Jackson (34:30) Message- Stop in the Name of Love (37:12) Singing Together- Woyaya (59:45) Benediction (1:01:32)

The opportunity has come again, as it has for a century (to say the least), for the flowers to remind us of the audacious beauty of collective action; to remind us to love differences that define and distinguish us; to keep our faith in the call of love in common. Worship Leaders: Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout, Mark Caswell, Rev. Jen Crow, Rev. Arif Mamdani, Rev. Ashley Harness, Barb Brooks Opening Hymn: Come Sing a Song With Me (:23) Words of Welcome and Call to Worship (3:12) Singing Together: We Would Be One (8:35) Flower Communion Ceremony (11:26) Offering Intro and Collection (22:42) Offertory- This Little Light of Mine (26:16) Flower Communion, continued (30:37) Prayer and Cycle of Life (39:54) Benediction (48:07)

What rituals and practices help us remember and bring care to the grief and loss we know as individuals and communities? How might we move it through our bodies, and what roles do beauty and singing and laughter have to play? How might we hold multiple stories and experiences within and among ourselves all at once? Join us on Sunday for shared song and story and searching as we explore the origins of Memorial Day and strengthen ourselves for the journey ahead. Worship Leaders: Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout, Nancy Nyquist Potter, Allison Connelly-Vetter, Rev. Jen Crow Opening Song- Hold Everybody Up! (:33) Words of Welcome (4:57) Singing Together (8:47) Prayer and Cycle of Life (13:21) Offering Recipient Intro (22:20) Offertory (25:47) Message- The Body Knows (29:07) Closing Hymn (59:05) Benediction (1:03:51)

Share in a celebration of life's meaningful moments this Sunday at First Universalist. As we proudly honor our high school graduates moving forward into new adventures, we also widen our embrace to acknowledge all the transitions our community members are navigating. We welcome back the soul-stirring music of Ellis Delaney, to grace our gathering with stories sung to life. Big or small, each change marks a meaningful point in our journey. We offer a space for everyone to share their experiences, reflect on personal growth, and cross a symbolic bridge in supportive community. Join us to celebrate these transitions together, reinforcing the ties that bind us one with another, loving the stories that make each one of us whole. Worship Leaders: Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout, Allison Connelly-Vetter, Ellis Delaney, Deb Keller Opening Hymn- Where Do We Come From? (:33) Words of Welcome and Call to Worship (1:42) Time for All Ages (6:51) Singing Together- Come and Go With Me (12:44) Prayers and Cycle of Life (15:52) Practice of Giving and Recieving (31:24) Offertory (34:22) Briding Ritual (38:24) Benediction (58:23)  

This Sunday, we are Navigating Transitions: From Loyalty to Legacy, a gentle exploration of the threads that connect one generation to the next. As we honor the voices of our Coming of Age youth and pause to lift up those who love and guide us as mothers of all kinds, we'll weave together the timeless stories of loyalty and the quiet, steadfast acts that shape our stories. Come, be part of crafting a future rich with wisdom and guided by the cherished values passed down through the ages. Worship Leaders: Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout, Rev. Arif Mamdani, Kaden Colton, Coming of Age Youth, First Universalist Choir   Opening Song- There Is a Love (:27) Words of Welcome (4:04) Hymn- Lean On Me by Bill Withers (9:52) Community Prayers- (13:33) Practice of Giving and Receiving (21:44) Offertory- Isn't She Lovely by Stevie Wonder (23:51) Reading- From Generation to Generation by Antoine de St.Exupery (28:47) Anthem- 23rd Psalm (30:49) Introduction to and Reading of Coming of Age Credos (34:12) Singing Together- Love Will Guide Us (55:50) Blessing of Coming of Age Youth, Mentors, and Advisors (57:33) Benediction (59:19)

This Sunday, First Universalist joyfully celebrates New Member Sunday, a testament to our community's growth and resilience. Worship Leaders will guide us through a reflective conversation on the essence of openness. They invite us to examine how vulnerability, grace, and kindness are more than spiritual practices—they are vital for deepening our communal bonds. This service challenges us to dismantle the barriers that often lead to isolation, making every interaction a profound connection. As we celebrate this enriching occasion, reflect on your journey: What is your next step toward deeper engagement in our community? Join us for a transformative experience. Worship Leaders: Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout, Meleah Houseknecht, Rev. Jen Crow, Liz Farmer, Matt Keller Opening Hymn- Building Bridges (:27) Call to Worship and Words of Welcome (4:37) Wisdom Story (10:39) Singing Together- Come and Go With Me (20:14) New Member Welcome Ritual (21:41) Prayers and Cycle of Life (28:50) Practice of Giving and Receiving (37:17) Offertory- If You're Out There by John Legend (43:07) Reading- Safety Net by Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer (46:06) Anthem- Reach Out and Touch (Somebody's Hand) by Diana Ross (47:18) Message- A Community of Practice (49:35) Closing Song- Love Will Guide Us (1:08:06) Benediction (1:10:00)

This Sunday, we kick off a four-week Season of Gratitude, and immerse ourselves in the rich languages of love and gratitude. We warmly invite everyone to join us as we explore how these sincere expressions deepen our bonds and strengthen the fabric of our community. It's an ideal moment to celebrate the diverse ways we can express our appreciation for each other's efforts within our beloved community. Worship Leaders: Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout, Rev. Ashley Harness, Rev. Arif Mamdani Singing to Gather- Morning Has Come (:18) Call to Worship and Welcome (1:44) Singing Together- Oh, We Give Thanks (12:15) Community Prayer (13:23) Stewardship Update (20:18) Celebrating Volunteers (27:46) Offering and Offertory (32:35) Readings- from All About Love by bell hooks and What is Love? by Haddaway (36:23) Message- Count the Ways (38:14) Singing- Make Channels for the Streams of Love (54:29) Benediction (56:08)

On Earth Day, we come together for a service developed in collaboration with our Environmental Justice Team. This day, we reaffirm our sacred bond with the Earth, confronting the environmental crisis with courage, creativity, and collective action. Stories of resilience from communities around the globe will guide us in redefining our relationship with the planet. This service is an invitation to reflect and find inspiration, a calling to realize our commitment to respectful relationship with the natural world. As one, we forge a path forward to notice our role in the delicate balance of life. Together, we honor our responsibility to shape a legacy of hope and healing for future generations. Opening Hymn- Love's In Need of Love Today by Stevie Wonder- Paolo Debuque and Choir (:25) Call to Worship- Nancy Potter (6:10) Words of Welcome- Cathy Geist (11:43) Time for All Ages- Rev. Arif Mamdani (17:30) Singing Together- Come and Go With Me- Paolo Debuque (25:05) Invitation to Conversation- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (26:53) Prayer and Meditation- Rev. Arif Mamdani (32:15) Practice of Giving and Receiving- Rev. Jen Crow (38:55) Reading from A Life on Our Planet by David Attenborough- Stan Sattinger (49:10) Anthem- This I Know- Paolo Debuque, Aimee K. Bryant, Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (51:38) Message- Reimagine That!: Earth Day - Rev. Arif Mamdani (57:04) Closing Hymn- Blue Boat Home (1:23:00) Benediction- Rev. Arif Mamdani, Bob Friedman (1:26:02)

This Sunday marks a special journey led by our high school youth group, as they invite us into an exploration of abundance and collective growth. They've crafted an interactive service that promises not just to engage but to weave our vibrant community energies into a living tapestry of action and shared dreams. With each of us contributing to a communal symbol of unity, we'll reflect, give thanks, and envision a humanity grown in the spring of our collective efforts. Under the inspired guidance of our youth, we are sowing seeds of hope to nurture the garden of our gathered dreams. Singing to Gather- Woyaya- Paolo Dubuque (:33) Words of Welcome- Allison Connelly-Vetter (2:07) Call to Worship- Willa Maynor (3:19) Singing Together- Lean on Me by Bill Withers (7:57) Story for All Ages- Henry at Home by Megan Maynor- Max and Bobbi (11:47) Practice of Giving and Receiving- Isla Mysenburg and Rev. Jen Crow (17:12) Offertory- Paolo Dubuque (25:32) Prayer and Meditation- Isla Mysenburg and Rev. Jen Crow (29:30) Poem and Blessing- We Need Each Other by m jade kaiser- Rasana Mamdani (34:33) Planting Together- Rasana Mamdani (41:44) Singing Togther- Blue Boat Home (44:06) Benediction- Rasana Mamdani (47:00)

We gather as a community, each of us a unique thread, ready to weave a tapestry that embodies our theme for the month: “Investing Together.” Imagine a morning where every one, young and old and in between, help us make a masterpiece. We'll share stories with each other, sing melodies that weave through our shared spaces, and create a living mosaic of our collective spirit. This isn't just about the art we create or the songs we sing; it's a deeper call to explore the beauty and strength we unlock when we come together, each of us investing our piece of the puzzle. In this gathering, we celebrate not just the power of unity but the joy and growth it brings into our lives. Singing Together- If I Had a Hammer by Pete Seger- Allison Connelly-Vetter (:30) Welcome and Call to Worship- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (3:38) Singing Together- If I Had a Hammer by Pete Seger- Allison Connelly-Vetter (11:11) Story Sharing- Allison Connelly-Vetter (12:31) Singing Together- If I Had a Hammer by Pete Seger- Allison Connelly-Vetter (18:20) Meditation and Cycle of Life- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (20:19) Investing Conversation- Kaden Colton and Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (31:36) Practice of Giving and Receiving- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (37:29) Offertory- We Are a Tower of Strength (39:16) Singing Together- If I Had a Hammer by Pete Seger- Allison Connelly-Vetter (43:01) Art Piece- Dallas Rising and Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (44:45) Closing Blessing- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout and Allison Connelly-Vetter (52:53)

This Easter, what if our affirmations served not only as testaments to our capacity to instigate meaningful change but also as prompts to engage deeply with every soul we encounter. Can we mine our shared experiences for tales of resilience or resignation? Will we amplify the echoes of triumph, or will we underscore the moments of faltering? This selection process crafts the larger narrative of our existence. In this season of reflection and renewal, what narratives will you choose to elevate? How will you demonstrate your belief in the boundless potential for peace, love, and justice in our world? Opening Song- Allelujah- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout and Congregation (:34) Story and Words of Welcome- My Shadow is Purple by Scott Stuart Rev. Arif Mamdani (4:21) Singing Together- Sing and Rejoice! - Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout and Congregation (14:54) Time for All Ages- Allison Connelly-Vetter (19:17) Prayer and Cycle of Life- Rev. Ashley Harness (29:28) Practice of Giving and Receiving- Rev. Jen Crow (36:17) Offertory- I Am Light by India.Arie- Glen Thomas Rideout (38:20) Reading- Mark 16:1-8- Mark Caswell (41:32) Message- Rev. Jen Crow (43:49) Singing Together- Sanctuary- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout and Congregation (53:53) Benediction- Rev. Jen Crow (56:06)

In the heart of our journey towards Easter, we turn to the second chapter in our three-part series, inviting you into a contemplative exploration of dying and the profound lessons it imparts on communal living. This service weaves together thought, music, prayer, and story, reflecting on our shared human experience and the bonds that sustain us through life's transitions. Join us in this reflective exploration of the spaces between life and death, community and solitude, fear and hope, embracing the full spectrum of our existence with open hearts and minds. Opening Hymn- Gathered Here- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (:31) Words of Welcome and Call to Worship- Rev. Arif Mamdani (5:57) Time for All Ages/Singing Together-The Universe Song- Allison Connelly-Vetter (16:46) Singing Together- Come and Go With Me- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (22:01) Prayer and Meditation- Meleah Houseknecht (23:49) Practice of Generosity- Rev. Arif Mamdani (33:18) Offertory- I am a Poor Pilgrim of Sorrow- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (37:03) Readings- from Wash Your Hands by Dori Midnight;  John 13:1-5- Meleah Houseknecht (40:18) Anthem- Take My Hand Precious Lord- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (42:42) Message- Lessons from the Edge of Existence- Rev. Ashley Harness (47:07) Closing Song- For All That is Our Life- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (1:08:41) Benediction- Rev. Ashley Harness (1:10:51)

As we embrace this month's theme of humility, we are called to reflect on our individual needs within the vast expanse of community life. Join us at First Universalist this Sunday for a journey that promises to deepen our collective wisdom, cultivate understanding and love, and reinforce our community's bonds. This series is not just a retelling of age-old stories but a dynamic engagement with the themes that have shaped humanity's spiritual journey across millennia. Opening Hymn- Love Will Guide Us- Aimee K. Bryant, Paolo Dubuque (:29) Words of Welcome- Rev. Jen Crow (2:40) Building Community- Building Bridges- Aimee K. Bryant, Paolo Dubuque (7:54) Singing Together- Come and Go With Me- Aimee K. Bryant, Paolo Dubuque (12:25) Prayer and Meditation- Rev. Ashley Harness (14:18) Practice of Giving and Receiving- Rev. Ashley Harness, Lynn Broaddus (24:14) Offertory- Aimee K. Bryant, Paolo Dubuque (31:49) Readings- If bell hooks wrote I Corinthians by Tess Baumberger (34:42); poem by Aurora Levins Morales (36:47)- Lynn Broaddus and Rev. Jen Crow Anthem- No One Is Alone by Stephen Sondheim- Aimee K. Bryant, Paolo Dubuque (38:52) Message- Willing Love- Rev. Jen Crow (42:18) Benediction- Rev. Jen Crow (1:03:11)

Join us for a transformative service led by our 8th-grade OWL youth, their advisors, and the worship team, as we explore the impactful journey through Our Whole Lives (OWL) program. “Embracing Humility, Fostering Love: Our OWL Journey” promises a heartfelt glimpse into the courageous conversations and learning experiences that shape our community's approach to sexuality education. Celebrate the insights, growth, and stories of our youth, reinforced by the dedication of our OWL facilitators, embodying the values of respect, relationships, and responsibility. Opening Hymn- Come And Go With Me- Aimee K. Bryant, Paolo Dubuque (:33) Call to Worship- (4:34) Words of Welcome- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout, Allison Connelly-Vetter (8:03) Story for All Ages- This or That- 5th grade OWLs (14:14) Singing Together- Make Channels for the Streams of Love- Aimee K. Bryant, Paolo Dubuque (16:22) Prayer and Meditation- Rev. Jen Crow (18:00) Practice of Stewardship, Giving, Receiving- Rev. Jen Crow, Sarah Heuser, Jack Daniels (24:33) Offertory- Kiss! by Prince- Aimee K. Bryant, Paolo Dubuque (30:33) Anthem- People Help the People by Birdy (35:31) Reading- The Masturbation Song by Claire Tralle (40:17) Reflections- Jill Ferris, Claire Tralle, Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (44:29) Benediction- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (1:04:24) Song for Going- Where You Go, I Will Go, Beloved  by Shoshana Jedwab

This Sunday, Rev. Rolenz will lead us in contemplating The Lost Art of Sacrifice, a timely reflection as we navigate the solemn periods of Lent and approach Ramadan. In a world often driven by the quest for instant gratification, Kathleen invites us to reconsider sacrifice as a source of spiritual nourishment and unexpected joy. Drawing on her experiences from serving in diverse communities and her profound understanding of liturgy, Kathleen's sermon promises to be a compelling journey through the complexities of faith, community, and the sacrifices that bind them. Join us in welcoming Rev. Kathleen Rolenz and immerse yourself in a service that promises not just to explore the depths of humility and sacrifice but also to celebrate the communal spirit that defines our congregation. Let's gather together to discover the joy and enrichment that humility can bring to our lives and our community. Music for Gathering- Woyaya- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (:19) Story for All Ages- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout, Rev. Kathleen Rolenz, Nanette Stearns (4:03) Words of Welcome and Call to Worship- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (10:00) Singing Together- Come and Go With Me (20:00) Meditation and Prayer- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (22:19) Practice of Sharing and Receiving- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout, Karen Heegaard, Nanette Stearns (33:06) Offertory- Barbara Brooks, piano (45:49) Poem- Altar by Deborah Leipziger (47:45) Message- The Lost Art of Sacrifice- Rev. Kathleen Rolenz (49:59) Singing Together- Make Channels for the Streams of Love (1:09:34) Benediction- Rev. Kathleen Rolenz (1:11:08) Outgoing Song- Where You Go, I Will Go, Beloved by Shoshana Jedwab

This Sunday at First Universalist, we invite you to a special service, “Awakening Presence: A Journey From Numbness to Engagement,” as we explore the transformative power of reconnecting with our emotions and each other. Dive deep into the essence of presence, overcoming the barriers of emotional numbness that hinder our personal growth and communal vitality. Engage in a meaningful exploration of how mindfulness and empathy can not only enrich our personal journeys but also empower our collective commitment to justice and compassion. As we continue our stewardship campaign, remember that your support breathes life into the heart of our community, helping to revive the emotional nerve endings of our congregation. Join us in fostering a vibrant, engaged, and empathetic community, ready to embrace the full spectrum of life's experiences together. Your presence and contribution are the keys to unlocking a more present, connected, and lively congregation.   Welcome and Call to Worship- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (:24) Story for All Ages- Adaptation of a story by Leo Tolstoy- Em Herman-Johnson and the congregation (4:15) Singing Together- Come and Go With Me and What Wondrous Love is This?- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (16:35) Community Prayers- Katherine Harrell (23:00) Invitation to Give and Receive- Rev. Ashley Harness and David Leppik (30:37) Offertory- I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel to Be Free by Nina Simone- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (36:18) Greeting One Another- Em Herman-Johnson (38:38) Reading- Go to the Limits of Your Longing by Rainer Maria Rilke (40:48) Message- Unshackling the Chains of Emotional Numbness- Rev. Ashley Harness and Dick Young (42:41) Benediction- words by David Gate in memory of Nex Benedict (57:45) Closing Song- Where You Go, I will Go, Beloved by Shoshana Jedwab

In a world that often celebrates the individual, we invite you to explore the strength and beauty of choosing community. This week, we delve into the power of collective action and shared responsibility—a timely reflection in the wake of the pandemic's challenges.  Discover how our choices can weave a stronger fabric of support, resilience, and interconnectedness. We'll explore the transformative potential of moving beyond individualism to embrace the collective—highlighting that our financial contributions are more than just donations; they're affirmations of our commitment to each other and the world we wish to build together. Join us for this worship service, where every voice, every contribution, and every heart matters. Together, let's illuminate the path from ‘me' to ‘we' and uncover the real power for social change. Music, Intro, Welcome- Rev. Ashley Harness (:32) Singing Together- Oh, We Give Thanks- Allison Connelley-Vetter (8:06) Story for All Ages- Stone Soup- Allison Connelley-Vetter (11:15) Sharing our Gifts- Rev. Arif Mamdani (19:38) Blessings- Rev. Ashley Harness (26:55) Testimonial and Offering- Janet Merrill, Rev. Ashley Harness (38:38) Offertory- (43:29) Meditation and Cycle of Life- Rev. Arif Mamdani (45:27) Message- From Me to We- Allison Connelley-Vetter (51:07) Closing Song- This Joy by Shirley Caesar (1:02:05) Benediction- Rev. Arif Mamdani (1:07:05)  

How does love find voice breaking from silence and unmasking its truer self? This Sunday, we delve into “Expression of Love: From Silence to Vulnerability.” Through twists and turns of human emotions, the burden of societal norms, and the lens of our digital existence, we explore. Posed with questions of love's ferocity and authenticity, we ponder even further: How can those of us, unversed in the language of vulnerability, learn to speak it?  This Sunday, we invite a transformative exploration of love unabashed and free. Amidst this interconnected landscape, we collectively weave a tapestry of honest and vulnerable expressions of love. Let's journey together in search for understanding. What we discover will surely challenge us to open our hearts and free our hands. Love keeps calling us anyway. Joy is waiting. Opening Hymn- Lean On Me (:30) Call to Worship and Welcome- Rev. Arif Mamdani (2:20) Time for All Ages- Rev. Arif Mamdani (8:44) Singing Together- Love Will Guide Us- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout & Paolo Dubuque (15:44) Community Prayer- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (18:05) Practice of Giving- Rev. Arif Mamdani and CT Neal-Herman (30:13) Offertory- Paolo Dubuque (37:13) Poem- by Gwendolyn Brooks- Rev. Arif Mamdani (41:35) Message- The Love We Make- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (43:14) Singing Together- Though I May Speak with Bravest Fire (56:28) Benediction- Rev. Arif Mamdani and Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (58:42)

In a world too often transactional, we'll explore the transformative power of a gift economy, where joy is the currency we trade and presence is our shared and most precious commodity. When we choose joy, our lifted spirits are just the first palpable sine of a wave that ripples outward in a wash of positive change throughout our whole community and far beyond. Together, we'll delve into the sacredness of intentionality in worship, the heartbeats that synchronize when shared narratives bind us, and the art of presence that turns a gathering into a congregation. This service is an invitation to experience the profound joy that arises when we offer our talents, time, and love as gifts to one another—gifts that nurture our communal well-being and empower us to co-create a church that transcends the ordinary. Come, be part of this joyous communion, and let us journey towards a more empathetic and collaborative world, one heartbeat at a time. Opening Hymn- Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee- Aimee K. Bryant (:33) Welcome and Call to Worship- Rev. Arif Mamdani (5:11) Time for All Ages- Aimee K. Bryant (12:59) Singing Together- Love Will Guide Us (23:48) Prayer and Cycle of Life- Nanette Stearns (25:49) Practice of Giving and Receiving- Rev. Arif Mamdani (34:41) Offertory- 'Tis a Gift to be Simple- Aimee K. Bryant and Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (44:22) Reading from Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer- Nanette Stearns (48:03) Anthem- His Eye Is On the Sparrow by Civilla Durfee Martin- Aimee. K. Bryant and Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (52:59) Message- Tis a Gift to be Present- Rev. Ashley Harness (56:19) Hymn- Make Channels for the Streams of Love (1:15:19) Benediction- Rev. Ashley Harness (1:16:56)

In the crucible of community, the unique vision of each individual not only reshapes our common goal but experiences a transformation itself. Picture a mosaic, where every piece is indispensable to the whole. Our shared dream materializes as we each offer a piece of our hearts, contributing to a greater design. This dance of unity within individuality beckons you to unearth your unique strengths, to learn how they can enliven our visionary aspirations. It's about the breathtaking tableau we craft when we are harmonized in purpose and spirit, and how this sense of purpose threads through the tapestry of our everyday existence and builds through us a greater tomorrow. This is our collective mosaic–a pulsing, resonant manifestation of our faith community's future.   Opening Hymns- Come, Come, Whoever You Are and Guide My Feet (:19) Time for All Ages- Allison Connelly-Vetter (10:48) Prayer and Cycle of Life- Rev. Ashley Harness (24:49) Call to Worship- Deb Keller (31:22) Reading- To Know Someone Deeply by Mark Nepo- Deb Keller (37:47) Anthem- When the Storms of Life Are Raging, Stand by Me by Rev. Timothy Flemming- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (40:01) Mosaic of Voices- Rev. Arif Mamdani, Rasana Mamdani, Jeanne Guignon, Rev. Ashley Horan (43:47) Closing Hymn- Be Thou My Vision (1:04:14) Benediction- Rev. Arif Mamdani (1:07:16)

Immerse yourself in this Sunday's service, a journey into the heart of our interconnectedness. We will ponder the echoes of our third principle, discovering how it nudges us towards a deeper, more mindful communion with ourselves and each other. Prepare to be drawn into the dance of connection, a ballet of souls turning, reaching, growing. Unearth the profound truth that our shared spiritual practices are the glue that binds us into a resilient community. Witness the revelation that our messiahs walk among us, disguised as everyday leaders, ready to shepherd us into a soul-nourishing retreat. This Sunday, we're not merely gathering – we're igniting a beacon of blessing, illumination, and inspiration. Join us, and let the dance of turning transform you. Opening Hymn- Hold Everybody Up- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (:31) Call to Worship and Welcome- Kaden Colton (4:07) Time for All Ages- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (13:49) Singing Together- Standing Stone and Keep Your Heart Wide Open (23:17) Community Prayers and Cycle of Life- Rev. Ashley Harness (33:06) Practice of Giving and Receiving- Lyann Broaddus and Rev. Ashley Harness (39:47) Offertory- Paolo Dubuque and Glen Thomas Rideout (44:12) Message- Making Space Face to Face- Rev. Arif Mamdani (48:00) Closing Hymn- (1:08:31) Benediction- Rev. Ashley Harness (1:10:02)

As winter's stillness permeates our lives, we gather this Sunday for our annual Service of Remembrance, a sacred ceremony to honor those who have transitioned from our physical realm. Coupled with this, we also pay homage to the indomitable spirit of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., inviting you to embrace the complex and demanding truth of his message beyond his popular portrayal. Through the ritual of candlelight, naming, and remembering, we keep the glow of their values and dreams alive, mirroring the humanist manifestation of eternal life. In making space for these memories, we are reminded of our shared responsibility in creating and embodying legacy. As we honor Dr. King and our loved ones, we not only acknowledge their impact but also ignite the path for those to come. This act of remembering and making space, allows us to honor the fullness of each other's stories. We come together this Sunday, to remember, honor, and recommit to this transformative work of making space. Opening Hymn- Spirit of Life (:27) Call to Worship and Words of Welcome- Rev. Ashley Harness (3:38) Time for All Ages- A Shelter for Sadness by Anne Booth- Rev. Arif Mamdani (9:13) Practice of Giving and Receiving- Rev. Ashley Harness (14:11) Offertory- Precious Lord, Take My Hand - Paolo Dubuque (16:52) Remembrance Ritual and Cycle of Life- Rev. Arif Mamdani and Congregation (21:29) Homily- To Remember and Revive- Rev. Arif Mamdani (38:55) Closing Hymn- Oh We Give Thanks- Paolo Dubuque (46:49) Benediction- Rev. Arif Mamdani (48:11) Where You Go, I Will Go, Beloved by Shoshana Jedwab

In a world relentlessly demanding, it's easy to feel like we're never enough, that what we have to give may not make a dent. But when we peel back these layers of fear, we uncover a transformative truth: The act of showing up—of choosing to be present—is a radical catalyst for change. This is more than physical presence; it's an emotional, spiritual commitment to bear witness, to engage, and to represent. It's about standing in the face of the grind, against the status quo, and declaring, “I am here.” This conscious choice to show up breathes life into relationships, sustains religions, and builds compassionate communities. It's the first, crucial step towards creating inclusive spaces. Remember, even when it feels like you have nothing left to give, your presence, your decision to show up, can shake the world.   Singing to Gather- Lean On Me by Bill Withers- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout and Aimee K. Bryant (:29) Welcome and Wisdom Story- Rev. Jen Crow (4:48) Singing Together- Stand By Me by Ben King- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout and Aimee K. Bryant (13:10) Prayer- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (15:25) Foundation Board Announcement- Isabel Quast (25:53) Practice of Giving and Receiving- Rev. Jen Crow (28:39) Offertory- You've Got a Friend in Me by Randy Newman- Aimee K. Bryant and Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (30:11) Message- Making Space Starts When You Show Up- Rev. Jen Crow (32:35) Closing Hymn- Sanctuary- Aimee K. Bryant and Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (57:02) Benediction- Rev. Jen Crow (59:28)

“No threshold need be a threat, but rather an invitation and a promise. Whatever comes, the great sacrament of life will remain faithful to us, blessing us always with visible signs of invisible grace. We merely need to trust.” – John O'Donohue Join us as we cross the threshold of the new year together. We will slow down to greet the invitations and promises awaiting each of us with ritual stations. We'll have opportunities to release what no longer serves us, remember our original belovedness, receive healing blessings and seek our next chapters of becoming with trust.  Music for Gathering- I Know This Rose Will Open- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (:30) Call to Worship and Chalice Lighting- Mark Caswell (2:42) Singing Together- Dona Nobis Pacem- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (10:21) Community Prayer- Rev. Arif Mamdani (14:45) Reading- Thresholds by John O'Donohue- Mark Caswell (21:30) Intro to Ritual Stations- Rev. Ashley Harness (26:08) Ritual Stations (38:01) Practice of Giving and Receiving- Rev. Ashley Harness (41:25) Benediction- Rev. Ashley Harness (46:45)

Our minds are often full of thoughts, like a busy hive all abuzz? Have you ever wondered–Is meditation for me? What is meditation really? What if I am not doing it right? Here's a revelation – meditation isn't about making those thoughts disappear. In fact, it's quite the opposite. Our minds, much like our ears, are always receptive, picking up on myriad stimuli even when we aren't consciously aware. Imagine if we didn't fight against these thoughts but just listened to them and learned to live amidst them. That's the real beauty of meditation. Together, we will delve into different techniques for meditation. This journey, like an enlightening expedition, leads us towards understanding ourselves better.

As we move through the sacred season, marked by the enduring light of Hannukah and the burgeoning anticipation of Advent, we're invited into a unique space where the realms of time and eternity intersect. Here, every moment becomes an encounter with infinite potential. Amid the whirlwind of holiday activities, the understated power of rest emerges as a counterintuitive path to liberation, offering us a sanctuary within time itself. Taking a step back, we find ourselves attuned to the subtle, beautiful harmonies of our communal existence, appreciating the transitions and transformations that shape our collective journey. In the dance between who we are and who we aim to be, we see success as a delicate balance between progress and patience. Each Sunday becomes a vibrant heartbeat in our relentless pursuit of growth and spiritual elevation, and as the nights lengthen, our collective resolve only strengthens. We invite you to join us on this journey – to pause, reflect, and celebrate the sacred story we're composing together. Opening Hymn- Turn the World Around - Belafonte (:25) Call to Worship and Words of Welcome- Deb Keller (6:52) Chant- Be Still and Know- pagan chant (12:38) Time for All Ages- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (15:32) Singing Together- Come and Go With Me (27:01) Prayer and Meditation- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (28:09) Practice of Giving and Receiving- Rev. Jen Crow (37:02) Offertory- Paolo Dubuque (38:42) Poem- Mother to Son by Langston Hughes (40:59) Anthem- Paolo Dubuque (42:24) Message- Still in Motion- Rev. Jen Crow (45:22) Singing Together and Benediction- One More Step (1:03:28) Music for Going- Where You Go, I Will Go by Shoshana Jedwab 

This Advent, let us gather with intention, embracing these ancient narratives not as tales of dread but as prompts for introspection and growth. Together, in our sacred space, we shall seek out the divine amidst the shadows and find within ourselves the ember of transformative hope. Through our listening and reflection, may we uncover that within the darkness, there is not an ending, but the hushed promise of new beginnings.   Music to Gather- It is Love- Ellis Delaney (:33)   Call to Worship- Meleah Houseknecht (6:09)   Lighting the Advent Wreath and the Chalice- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (14:49)   Time for All Ages- Rev. Jen Crow (23:19)   Prayer and Cycle of Life- Rev. Jen Crow (32:19)   Practice of Giving and Receiving- Rev. Jen Crow (38:42)   Offertory- Right on Time- Ellis Delaney (42:49)   Poem- by Rainer Maria Rilke- Meleah Houseknecht (47:05)   Anthem- 500 Crows- Ellis Delaney (48:04)   Message- Whispers in the Dark: Embracing Advent's Stillness- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (52:54)   Singing- Ordinary Love- Ellis Delaney (1:10:32)   Benediction- Rev. Jen Crow (1:14:13)

This Sunday, the whole community, people of all ages, take a heartfelt journey to “Destination Gratitude,” as we immerse ourselves in the rich teachings of the Haudenosaunee Thanksgiving Address. Embracing the wisdom of the Turtle Clan, Wolf Clan, and Mohawk tribe, we acknowledge the importance of not just feeling gratitude but actively directing it toward each other.

This Sunday's ‘Staying at the Table: Starts with Grace' celebrates the joy of embracing new members, showcasing the grace that defines our community spirit across our whole lives long. As Thanksgiving approaches, bringing its complex weave of anticipation and anxiety around encounters with all kinds, we invite you to a service that rekindles the essence of connection through the simple, yet profound act of sharing grace.  Opening Hymn- Gathered Here - Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (:31) Call to Worship and Welcome- Sherry Merriam (5:04) Time for All Ages- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (13:10) Welcoming New Members Ritual- Jeff Snyder, Rev. Arif Mamdani, Liz Farmer (19:53) Prayer- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (28:38) Giving and Receiving- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (36:01) Wisdom Story- The Parable of the Lost Spoons- Sherry Merriam (40:31) Amthem- Building Bridges- Paolo Dubuque and Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (42:02) Message- Staying at the Table Starts with Grace- Rev. Arif Mamdani (46:04) Singing Together- Love Will Guide Us - Paolo Dubuque and Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (1:00:56) Benediction- Rev. Arif Mamdani (1:02:57)

As a kid and now as a parent, the word “scooch” carries at least two meanings. It can mean scooch, as in move along and get out of here, and it can also mean scooch, as in scooch over and make room for whoever might be joining us. This Sunday, we'll explore the spiritual practice of scooching over to make room as one way of embodying our Unitarian Universalist belief in the worth and dignity of every person. Music for Gathering- We Are Creators- Paolo Dubuque (:26) Call to Worship and Welcome- Katherine Harrell- (6:38) Singing Together- We All Do Better- Paolo Dubuque (17:21) Time for All Ages- Rev. Jen Crow- (21:01) Prayer and Cycle of Life- Rev. Ashley Harness (25:51) Practice of Giving and Receiving- Rev. Ashley Harness (32:10) Offertory- Give Yourself to Love by Kate Wolf - Paolo Dubuque (35:26) Poem- by Joy Harjo- Rev. Jen Crow (39:37) Message- Scooching Over- Rev. Jen Crow (42:06) Singing Together- Love Will Guide Us (1:02:31) Benediction- Rev. Jen Crow (1:04:36)  

"The world begins at a kitchen table. No matter what, we must eat to live."  - Joy Harjo Our spiritual gathering - much like a meal at a table, nourishes us, but also requires our participation. How does this 'meal' feed us and what does it ask of us in return? There might be instances that provoke us to consider leaving this 'table'. Yet, when should such a step become the necessary course? Addressing our relevance in the contemporary world, why do we choose to belong to the church today? And how do we ready ourselves and our community for the church love calls us now to become? What do we do with our own resistance? Our journey is about growing faith into real resilience, cultivating the skills we need to navigate challenging exchanges and open ourselves to evolving perspectives. In worship this Sunday, we connect with our spiritual community to mutually nourish and learn from one another, to remember why we're here, to gather the tools we need for a future arriving already and always. We warmly invite you to join us in this journey of self-discovery and collective growth. In staying at the table, we're choosing to make a difference, together. Singing to Gather- We Are a Tower of Strength- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (:30) Introduction and Hymn- We Shall Not Be Moved- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (5:51) Call to Worship and Welcome- Meleah Houseknecht (10:06) Hymn- Somos el Barco- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (18:39) Time for All Ages- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (22:06) Introducing the Contreras Family - Rev. Jen Crow (28:09) Offertory- Ordinary People by John Legend - Aimee K. Bryant and Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (35:44) Prayer and Cycle of Life- Rev. Jen Crow (40:34) Wisdom Story- The Coal- Meleah Houseknecht (46:36) Message- Staying At the Table Makes All the Difference- Rev. Jen Crow (49:48) Hymn- Make Channels for the Streams of Love- Aimee K. Bryant and Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (1:08:27) Benediction- Rev. Jen Crow (1:09:56) Outro Music- Where You Go I Will Go, Beloved by Shoshana Jedwab 

In a dynamic, multi-generational community, wisdom flows in every direction, reminding us to value the experiences of others to gain a broader understanding of life. It is important to break free from the belief that only older people have wisdom, as this limits our personal growth and potential.  Recently, our youth returned from a trip to Boston, a city rich in Unitarian Universalism history, and their fresh perspectives and thought-provoking questions are reshaping our understanding of our common faith. Through their encounters with our traditions, legends, and seminarians, their connection to our faith and our spiritual community deepens. Their reflections are sure to have a profound impact on your journey, too.  Opening Hymn- Centering Prayer by The Porter's Gate- Allison Connelly-Vetter (:32) Call to Worship and Welcome- Nancy Nyquist Potter (5:34) Boston Pilgrimage Introduction- Rev. Arif Mamdani (15:18) Land Acknowledgement- Rev. Jen Crow (18:28) Hymn- Lean On Me by Bill Withers- Ani Peichel and Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout, piano (19:53) Story for All Ages- Rasana Mandani (23:40) Prayer- Rev. Jen Crow (29:41) Invitation to Giving and Receiving- Jo Murphy (37:05) Offertory- Church Chapel by Cooper and James  Homilies by Rasana Mamdani, Isla Mysenburg, and Max Rosielle (42:01) Hymn- #1064 Blue Boat Home (54:36) Benediction- Rasana Mamdani (57:37) Music for Going- Where You Go I Will Go, Beloved by Shoshana Jedwab- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout, piano

Each week we sing, “Where you go I will go, Beloved” to end our worship service and send each other back into the world remembering we do not go alone. This week we'll dig a little deeper into that song: how do we actually travel with each other as Beloveds and make real the idea that “your people are my people?" In this multigenerational service, we'll experiment with building a spiritual practice of solidarity that begins with listening to our own bodies' stories and moves outward playfully and meaningfully into family, church and wider and wider circles of community. Opening Hymn- I'm On My Way - Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout and Barbara B., piano Call to Worship- Emberly Herman-Johnson (4:29) Singing Together- There Is a Love- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout and Barbara B., piano (11:38) Wisdom Story- Llama Llama Red Pajama by Anna Dewdney (15:12) Prayer and Settling into Our Bodies- Rev. Ashley Harness (18:49) Sharing and Perspective Taking Practice/Message- Rev. Ashley Harness (24:48) Singing Together- Where You Go, I Will Go, Beloved (39:57) Practice of Giving and Receiving- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (40:59) Offertory- Barbara B., piano (47:12) Singing Together- Woyaya (51:23) Benediction- Rev. Ashley Harness (54:06) Singing- Where You Go, I Will Go, Beloved by Shoshana Jedwab

Our mental well-being is deeply linked with the relationships we cultivate and the social networks we are part of. By learning to understand and nurture each other in deeper ways, we can gain insight into our own mental health and well-being. Just like our Earth thrives on diversity, so do we. The diversity of our connections and experiences make us stronger. However, to tap into this strength, we need to be open to giving and receiving wisdom, even when it's uncomfortable or challenging.  Along this enlightening journey to worship and wisdom, we will also create a simple ritual of candlelight–a time to honor our individual and collective mental health journeys, to learn and remember that we can navigate these journeys together, as a community.  There is space for hope if we break down the walls of communication and stigma that often separate us. This service promises to be a thought-provoking exploration of how we are part of each other's health, and an invitation to the heart to honor the many truths of each unfolding story.   Singing to Gather- Open the Window, Children - Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout, Paolo Dubuque, piano (:29) Call to Worship- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (6:43) Mental Health Sunday Ritual Intro- Rev. Arif Mamdani (15:45) Singing Together- This Little Light of Mine-Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout, Paolo Dubuque, piano (20:21) Lighting Candles for our Mental Health- (23:51) Prayer and Cycle of Life- Rev. Arif Mamdani (31:48) Practice of Giving and Receiving- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (37:48) Offertory- Paolo Dubuque, piano (43:10) Message- Katherine Harrell (51:47) Anthem- Lean On Me- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout, Paolo Dubuque, piano (1:07:19) Benediction- Katherine Harrell (1:08:24)    

A single cylinder of interlaced bamboo strips seems delicate around two pointers–at least at first. But soon, they'll want out. Without thinking, the digits back away from their closeness and find themselves stuck in place. Neither force nor frenzy will help; not twisting, not waiting, not pulling apart. The mind will need to calm to think of something beyond what's worked before. The hands will need a wiser, more elegant idea to get free from the finger trap. Hubris would teach us to limit our trust to the ideas we already know. Panic for the problems around us will tighten our grip on what's familiar. Living from fear for the future will only make it harder to remember the wisdom in the generations. To make space for what we've not imagined, we'll need to release some of what we have. To get free will mean to decenter a lot of what we think we can control, what's common, what's cozy, what's currently clear. To grasp what love needs from us now, how can we relieve the tensions which trap us? To get to freedom, what would happen if we found the way to loosen up and let go? Singing to Gather- Woyaya- Aimee K. Bryant (:31) Call to Worship- Dallas Rising (3:26) Singing Together- Loosen, Loosen, Baby- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (10:45) Story for All Ages- Aimee K. Bryant (14:59) Prayer and Meditation- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (24:40) Practice of Giving and Receiving- Rev. Arif Mamdani (35:25) Offertory- Aimee K. Bryant and Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (38:23) Reading- Generous Listening by Marilyn Nelson- Dallas Rising (42:19) Anthem- Aimee K. Bryant (44:09) Message- Loosen, Loosen, Baby- Rev. Jen Crow (48:29) Hymn and Benediction- (1:06:09)

The experience of being welcomed with open arms can change us, rooting us in communities of care that transform individuals and society. Practicing this kind of love requires a tough mind and a tender heart, Dr. Martin Luther King once wrote, urging us to develop the characteristics that can ground us in transformative love. Opening Hymn- My Life Flows On In Endless Song (:25) Call to Worship & Words of Welcome- Nanette Stearns (6:43) Singing Together- Lone Wolf- Shelley Des Islets and Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (12:59) Time for All Ages- Allison Connelly-Vetter (20:48) Prayer & Cycle of Life- Rev. Ashley Harness (28:44) Practice of Giving and Receiving - Rev. Jen Crow (36:42) Offertory- Paolo Dubuque (38:21) Reading- from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (41:34) Singing Prayer- Standing Stone - Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (45:23) Message- Tough Love- Rev. Jen Crow (47:39) Singing Together & Benediction (1:06:31)

Spiders catch water from thin air and store it in the web. There's no need to go and find it; they are quenched simply by the water the web holds. Spiders build webs to pull raindrops in toward the center which, in turn, make more room on the edges for new drops to arrive.  What if entering the beloved community were a continuing cycle of coming out from the rain, closer and closer to each other? And what if welcoming those on the edges were the action at our core?  Drops of water and wisdom await us on the web. The more we welcome well, the healthier we all are. What would it take to welcome all people? What would we have to lose? What's not to gain? Call to Worship- Rev. Arif Mamdani (:42) Singing Together- Come, Come, Whoever You Are and Make Channels for the Streams of Love - Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (2:38) Lighting the Chalice (7:27) Singing Together- Hold Everybody Up! - Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (12:17) Time for All Ages and Blessing for RE- Rev. Jen Crow, Rev. Arif Mamdani (17:05) Prayer and Meditation- Rev. Jen Crow (25:09) Practice of Giving and Receiving- Rev. Arif Mamdani (30:59) Offertory- Paolo Dubuque (36:14) Reading- What We Need Is Here by Wendell Berry (39:54) Sermon- Every Last Drop: Welcoming All People- Rev. Jen Crow (41:45) Benediction and Singing- Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing (1:02:04)    

Water Communion is a very special tradition we celebrate each year at First Universalist. All are welcome, whether it's your first or fortieth time! Come and be a part of this joyous time where the waters mingle and set a new year of community on its way. Singing to Gather- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (:29) Words of Welcome- Rev. Jen Crow (7:11) Story for All Ages- Worship Leaders (14:26) Practice of Giving and Receiving- Allison Connelly and Rev. Arif Mamdani (24:20) Offertory- Peace Like a River (28:24) Prayer and Cycle of Life- Rev. Jen Crow (31:13) Water Communion Ritual- Worship Leaders (40:43) Singing Together and Benediction- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (1:03:46)  

“Let us measure success by how many of us can say: I am living a life I don't regret. A life that will resonate with my ancestors…” -adrienne maree brown. This Sunday, we reflect on heavy suitcases, surprise turning points, and opening to welcome, even when the people are complicated and the path is unclear.   Singing to Gather- Enter, Rejoice, and Come In and Bright Morning Star- Matt Meyer (:27) Words of Welcome- Rev. Jen Crow (7:28) Reading- by adrienne maree brown - Matt Meyer (12:09) Singing Together- Wake Now My Senses- Matt Meyer (13:03) Story for All Ages- Redefining Success- Matt Meyer (17:06) Singing Together- Anthem, words by Leonard Cohen - Matt Meyer (24:37) Community Prayer- Rev. Arif Mamdani (28:24) Practice of Giving and Receiving- Rev. Arif Mamdani (35:37) Offertory- Not Heavy by Faya Ora Rose Toure- Matt Meyer (37:08) Reading- What You Missed That Day You Were Absent in Fourth Grade by Brad Aaron Modlin- Rev. Arif Mamdani (40:40) Homily- Lessons for Future Ancestors- Matt Meyer (44:04) Benediction and Closing Songs- We Are the Ones by Bernice Johnson and Where You Go I Will Go, Beloved by Shoshana Jedwab (59:19)  

As summer comes to an end, don't miss our annual Backpack Blessing and worship service this Sunday, Aug. 27 at 10 a.m. The multigenerational service will offer children, youth, and adults of all ages the opportunity to reflect upon how we might carry the love of our church community and the tools of our faith with us wherever we go. Singing to Gather- I'm On My Way (:31) Words of Welcome and Call to Worship- Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (5:19) Singing Together- Oh We Give Thanks (10:33) Story for All Ages- The Invisible String by Patrice Karst- Allison Connelly-Vetter and Willa (12:08) Community Prayers - Rev. Ashley Harness (20:51) Homily- I Carry Your Heart- Rev. Jen Crow (27:34) Practice of Giving and Receiving- Rev. Ashley Harness (34:20) Backpack Blessing- Allison Connelly-Vetter and Rev. Jen Crow (37:46) Singing Together- You've Got a Light (44:53) Celebrating and Saying Goodbye to Franco- Rev. Jen Crow and Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout (48:19) Singing Together- Where You Go I Will Go, Beloved by Shoshana Jedwab (52:06)