What to Expect in Worship
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. At FUUSN, the service reflects the congregation’s creedless, non-dogmatic approach to spirituality and faith development. You will hear words or music from many of the world’s religions, as well as the earth-centered traditions and modern-day poets and writers. You will hear music that is vibrant and accessible and preaching that has a clear message that is relevant to members’ lives. Rev. Erin Splaine generally leads the services, although the UU tradition allows for a number of lay-led services during the year.
Each week there will be a greeting and announcements by one of FUUSN’s lay ministers, the lighting of a chalice (a symbol of Unitarian Universalism), a brief meditation, a sharing of joys and concerns by members of the congregation, readings, hymns and anthems, and a sermon.
All FUUSN services begin and end with music, and members of the congregation are justifiably proud of the varied and inclusive music program, which includes an adult choir, a gospel choir, and a children’s choir as well as grand piano and a wonderful Hook & Hastings organ.
A typical Unitarian Universalist Sunday morning worship service includes:
- Words of welcome
- Lighting a flaming chalice, the symbol of our faith
- A meditation
- A multigenerational segment, such as a “story for all ages”
- Sharing of joys and concerns by members of the congregation
- Music, both instrumental and vocal and in a variety of styles
- Readings—ancient or contemporary
- A sermon given by a professional minister, a guest speaker, or a member of the congregation
- An offering, collecting financial donations for the congregation or for justice work in the community.
From time to time, worships incorporate holiday celebrations, 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.