What to
Expect in Worship
@ GMUUC
When we speak of “worship,” we are referring to the shared religious life of our congregation: attending Sunday worship services, creating religious music, honoring life passages like marriage and death, and celebrating special holidays together.
Our monthly religious themes invite us to find ways to put our faith into action beyond our walls. Together and individually we consider the many ways we can reach out and work together to build a more just, loving and sustainable world.
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.
Elements of a typical Sunday morning worship service may include:
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Words of welcome
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Lighting a flaming chalice, the symbol of our faith
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A multigenerational segment, such as a “story for all ages”
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Music, both instrumental and vocal and in a variety of styles
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A time for lifting up the joys and concerns of the congregation
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A meditation or prayer
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Readings—ancient or contemporary
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A sermon given by a professional minister, a guest speaker, or a member of the congregation
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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.