OOS11-6-2022
“Courageous Rebirth”
Led by rev. Eric Cherry

We do teach ourselves to come back to life, don’t we?  We remind ourselves, and our neighbors, that both joy and meaning can return from seeming oblivion – that we can return to living with hope.  A few years ago George Saunders published a special book titled Lincoln in the Bardo that explored grief and regret in a powerful way.  This morning I’ll put this story into conversation with Unitarian Universalist faith traditions and explore how ‘rebirth’ happens.

Soul Matters Theme: Change

Thank you to our Worship Partner: Kristin Lehoullier; Usher: Melanie Lally; Coffee Angel: Renee Bucklin and Caring Hands.
Tech Host: Jolanda Walter

Welcome and Announcements

Chalice Lighting

Prelude: Largo from Violin Concerto op3 #3 by A. Vivaldi

Opening Words

Opening Hymn: #1008 When Our Heart is in a Holy Place

Unison Affirmation
Love is the spirit of this church
And service our mission
This is our great covenant
To dwell together in peace
To seek the truth in love
And to help one another

Time for All Ages 

Children’s Recessional
As you journey  –  As you journey
May you know  –  May you know
Love and hope go with you  –
Love and hope go with you
Learn and grow  –  Learn and grow
–Sung to the tune of Frere Jacques, Words by Ann Hossler

Joys and Sorrows

Piano Interlude: Saga by M. Market

Prayer 

Sung Response: #1002 Comfort Me

Call for the Offering: Westminster’s Share the plate for November is Edesia Nutrition Founded in 2010, the non-profit Edesia produces specialized foods that target the different stages of malnutrition. They partner with humanitarian aid organizations like UNICEF, WFP, and USAID which distribute their products all over the world. Edesia is based in North Kingston, R.I. To read more about Edesia or to make an online donation, visit the Westminster website.http://34.197.179.157/donate/]

Offertory: Cherish by K. Rebecca

Reading from ‘Lincoln in the Bardo’ by George Saunders

Interlude

Sermon: “Courageous Rebirth”

Closing Hymn: #1074 – Turn the World Around

Closing words 

Carry the Flame