Advent Birth Pains

Chalice Lighting

We light this candle as a symbol of our faith.
By its light may our vision be illumined;
By its warmth may our fellowship be encouraged;
And by its flame may our yearnings for peace, justice and the life of the spirit be enkindled.

UU Principles

Music: O Come O Come Emmanuel
Thomas Keating

Reading from Advent Birth Pains: Staying Awake to the Heart Cry of the World
by Rev. Laura Rose, senior pastor at First Congregational Church of Alameda/United Church of Christ

Silent meditation on our hopes

Joys and Concerns
by Judy Welles

If you woke this morning with a sorrow so heavy that you need the help of this community to carry it;
or if you woke with a joy so great that it simply must be shared, now is the time for you to speak.
…..

For the joys and sorrows that haven’t been spoken, but which remain in the silent sanctuaries of our hearts.
These joys and griefs, spoken and unspoken, weave us together in the fabric of community.

Benediction
by Sarah Lammert

Go in peace, embraced by the light and warmth of our gathering.
Go in love, ready again to struggle on.
Go in beauty, shining forth like a lamp for freedom.

Service leader
Lisa deGruyter