One of the oldest meanings of the word worship is to “honor that which is most worthy.” For some of us who are Unitarian Universalists, that means centering attention on God, or divinity by whatever name. For most of us, it means putting life and this world, first – centering the lives and dignity of individual people, and our shared interdependence
with all life, and fostering justice in the world.

Our ever-evolving religious tradition strives to create Beloved Community where all persons are welcomed, including the spiritual resources we carry with us.

Worship services at FUUSB intentionally celebrate this diversity of spiritual and life experiences. We differ in our understandings and spiritual practices, but we gather in worship with a common purpose of finding meaning and living more deeply. Our shared worship creates connections within, among, and beyond us…calling us to our better selves, and to lives of wisdom and compassion.

Elements of a typical Sunday worship service include:

• Lighting a flaming chalice, the symbol of our faith
• A multigenerational segment, often a story or interactive reflection “for all ages”
• A time of reflection/meditation, incorporating the joys and concerns of the
  congregation
• Readings—ancient or contemporary, sacred and secular
• A sermon offered by our senior minister, a guest speaker, or worship associates
• An offering to support the work of the congregation – half of which is shared with
  a (usually) local non-profit organization whose work is aligned with UU values

Throughout the year, worship services incorporate holiday celebrations, multigenerational plays and pageants, special musical offerings, child dedications, and coming-of-age ceremonies.

Every worship service incorporates music – instrumental and vocal, from a variety of styles and traditions.

Visitors are always welcome at worship in the sanctuary – and at several special outdoor services throughout the year. Worship services are live-streamed; recordings of all Sunday services are available on our YouTube channel at First UU Society of Burlington.

Childcare and faith development programs for children and youth are part of the Sunday experience most weeks from mid-September through May. Summer programming is offered for children and youth in June and August – often outdoors on Society grounds.