Sanctuary Worship
West Shore's 350 seat sanctuary is where the 10:30 worship service is held. Because Unitarian Universalists do not hold to a prescribed liturgy, we are free to create worship services that reflect both ancient truths and new insights. We do this through both traditional rituals and by innovative liturgy. On a typical Sunday, however, you might see an order of service that looks something like this:
Gathering Music
Sounding of the Bell--the bell sound calls us to attention
Prelude--Often on the organ, sometimes a choral invocation
Invocation--centering us on why we gather
Lighting of the Chalice--while not a universal symbol in all UU churches, many have adopted the chalice as a way to begin the worship service. We often refer to it as the "light of truth, the warmth of community and the fire of commitment."
Welcome & Announcements--a statement of what Unitarian Universalists believe and information about the week's events
Hymns/Song--sometimes from a hymnal--other times words are projected on the wall or screen behind the pulpit.
Seasonal Rituals--Depending on the time of year, or events in the life of the church, you may experience a child dedication, a teacher or Board of Trustees commissioning ceremony, induction of new Worship or Pastoral Associates, a flower or bread communion service or any number of other rituals as a way of signifying an important milestone in the life of the congregation.
Meditation, Reflection, Prayer--a time for centering, for quiet, for silence.
Readings--drawn from a variety of sources; ancient & modern; scripture and poetry; classic texts or contemporary writings--all readings will relate to the theme of the service.
Anthem--a piece of music offered by the choir; often reflecting the best in classical choir repetoire.
Sermon--the sermon is directly related to the stated theme of the worship service; usually 20 minutes; often divided into two 10-minute sections.
Offering/Offertory--an opportunity to reflect on generosity (offering) with something tangible, while listening to music (the offertory.)
Benediction--a sending forth in preparation of the week ahead.
Postlude--Because the quality of the organ and music director is so highly regarded, most people sit quietly during the postlude to listen to the music. Others who wish to talk leave the sanctuary and go to the Rotunda for . . .
Coffee/Tea Hour--a sacred ritual to UU's. Usually held in the church's Rotunda area and Fireside Room. The Second Sunday Social is a catered lunch, available for purchase, in Baker Hall. Those interested in attending the New to UU class are invited to go to the head of the line and have lunch "on us."
