Our usual Sunday Service

We are not bound to any particular way of doing things and occasionally our Order of Service changes, but below you will find the pattern of our typical Sunday Service.

Prelude – A chance to relax, listen to the music, and to prepare ourselves for worship.

Lighting of the Chalice – the flaming chalice, the symbol of Unitarianism is lit. The flame burns throughout our service and reminds us that we are linked with other Unitarians around the world. Sometimes the chalice is lit in silence, or with some accompanying words.

Hymn – We sing together.

Scripture Reading – A reading from the Bible or from some other sacred text. This is the main reading of the day and will form the basis for the sermon later in the service. We recognise that Scripture has to be used wisely. We do not take everything on blind faith and we accept that we sometimes may disagree with the writings of Scripture – but we acknowledge that Scripture has inspired people of faith for thousands of years and that we can benefit from the wisdom which it contains.

Silent Reflection – A few moments to reflect on the reading we have just heard. We can also use this time to offer our own private personal prayers and thoughts.

Prayer – Our Minister leads us in a short spoken prayer.

The Prayer of Jesus – The ancient prayer, commonly known as ‘The Lord’s Prayer’ is now said or sung.

Additional Reading – we now hear another reading. This can be in the form of a poem, a story, an article, or the writings of a great religious leader or teacher. This reading will compliment the Scripture reading which we heard earlier in the service.

Hymn – We sing together.

Notices and Announcements – ours is a living community with lots of things going on. Forthcoming events are highlighted at this point and we have an opportunity to share news.

Solo – we now hear some music. Our organist or pianist may play a piece for us or a soloist may sing.

Meditation and Prayer – A time of reflection and a time to focus on what we all hold to be Divine. Our Minister leads us in prayer for ourselves, one another, and for the world. We don’t pray for miracles but instead we pray that we might be willing agents of Divine Love and Compassion. It is up to us to change things for the better and our prayers ask for help and strength to enable us to do this.

Hymn – We sing together.

Sermon – A sermon is now given by our Minister or a guest preacher. Although the Minister may make reference to ancient writings, we are fully aware that we cannot live in the past. The sermon is designed to give us encouragement for the future. The aim of the sermon is to aid us in living out our lives of faith, and to encourage us to think more deeply about what we believe and why.

Collection – Each Unitarian congregation is self funding. We rely on the generosity of our members to fund our work and ministry. A collection is taken and is received with a few words.

Hymn – We sing together.

Benediction – Literally meaning ‘Good Word’, these are a few words of blessing to send us on our way. They are not magic, but send us forth with hope and encouragement.

Postlude – Some music to finish.

Refreshments!