Our Unitarian Universalist Fellowship is a community of worship.
Worship, of course, means many different things according to the backgrounds and traditions from which we each come. Rick Kelley has described it as:
“the act of joining with others—whereby we intensify, both intellectually and emotionally, some of the many ties which relate us to the world. We come to be ‘reminded’—reminded that life has larger dimensions than those found in the daily round of existence. We come in the spirit of reverence and loyalty to consider things of ‘worth,’ …to reaffirm our sense of the significance and meaning of life,…to celebrate the ongoing process of growth in which we all participate,…to commit ourselves anew to that which is ultimate in our individual lives.”
Sunday worship has become an integral part of my personal and spiritual journey. Worship provides an occasion and setting for me to slow down and be mindful. I feel a sense of calm and reflection. I become open to meditation and listen more intently than usual. It seems that I am more receptive to absorbing readings and reflections from the pulpit. I feel a sense of direction and encouragement. My sense of “what it means to live well” (to use Jim’s phrase) is renewed. I will, I hope, be inspired to exercise the courage and the resolve to follow my conscience and act creatively.
Worship can be an emotional experience. I feel joy, periods of strong remembrance, and sadness. The participation of children always brings happiness. Sometimes the sharing during Stones of Compassion and Community elicits sadness.
Music is the art form that most touches my emotions. I feel like dancing while singing some hymns and like crying with others. We have wonderful music at UUFH, thanks to Katherine Price’s musicianship and energy. Dave Brubeck moves my soul as well as Bach. I realize how much I like to sing. After being “unchurched” for 46 years it took me awhile to get back in the swing, but now, what do my neighbors think of my loud voice? Am I auditioning for the choir?
It is our beloved community that makes worship the magical experience it has become for me. Laughter and welcoming each other with hugs or handshakes heightens the joy. Our collective presence helps ease and comfort sorrow and pain. The shape and colors of our new sanctuary contribute to the sense of community. I love to see the beaming faces of other members and friends in our curved seating arrangement. I continue to be profoundly grateful for our loving UUFH community of worship. In joining together each Sunday, we offer thanks and celebration and inspiration.
Once again, I thank Rick Kelley for his ministry and for sharing his 1985 sermon, “What Should a Liberal Church Be?” I thank Jim McKinley for his ministry and for setting a tone that resonates with me and offering a message that touches me.
Believe in Peace,
Be Peace,
Create Peace
Chuck Elston