We are committed to being an antiracist, anti-oppressive congregation. We celebrate people of diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds, genders, and sexual orientations. We honor our spiritual connection to the earth and all living things. 

Before the service: You may place a stone in water for the joys and sorrows in your heart. Please respect those seeking silence.

Announcements
Liz Wiley, Worship Chair

Opening Greeting
Leslie Fabian, Worship Associate

Lighting the Chalice
by Rev. Jude Geiger, Minister
Leslie Fabian

Gather our spirit, Open our Hearts,
Make room this hour for a new story,
Of possibility, of hope, of vision.
May the lighting of our chalice
Be for gladness where we are empty,
And joy where we were once dry.

Welcoming Words
by Shari Woodbury
Leslie Fabian

Welcome, all who seek renewal in a weary world.
   Welcome, all who come with love and energy to share.
Welcome, to those who worry for the future.
   Welcome, each one who is grateful for today.
Know that in this place, you are not alone.
   In community we share our strength with one another
   and we keep the flame of love burning bright….
   Take my hand, and we can go on together.      

Opening Hymn
SLT #18 “What Wondrous Love”

The Palm Sunday Story Retold: Part 1
by Rev. Claire Feingold Thoryn

Chant
“We Shall Be Known”

The Palm Sunday Story Retold: Part 2
by Rev. Claire Feingold Thoryn

Chant
“We Shall Be Known”

Meditation
Rev. Jude Geiger

Music for Candle Lighting
Arden Walker, piano

Blessing the Children
SLT #413 “Go Now in Peace,” by Natalie Sleeth (adapted)

Go now in peace, go now in peace.
May the Spirit of Love surround you
everywhere, everywhere you may go.

Palm Sunday Reflection: Part 1
Rev. Jude Geiger

Sharing Our Gifts
Online Giving
Text-to-Give: 757-500-0688

In-Person Giving: Place offerings in the collection plates as they’re passed during the service. Please note that any checks placed in the collection plates or mailed to WUU should have the designated fund specified on the memo line. 

This week's offering will benefit the Minister’s Charitable Giving Fund, which helps people in our congregation who need short-term help paying rent and other essential expenses. Your gifts will help shelter families, pay utility bills in the cold of winter, and offer hope in times of despair. Thank you so much for your generosity.

Offertory Music
Arden Walker, piano

Palm Sunday Reflection: Part 2
Rev. Jude Geiger

Closing Hymn
STJ #1000 “Morning Has Come”

Extinguishing the Chalice
by James Galasinski
Leslie Fabian

Our faith, like a light,
Illuminates the path before us
So that we can face hurt with love,
Cultivate compassion, live humbly 
In community, and confront despair
With the awe of life.
Though our flame is extinguished,
Our faith shines bright before us.

Closing Words/Benediction
Rev. Jude Geiger

Recess

Postlude
Arden Walker, piano

SLT=Gray Hymnal | STJ=Teal Hymnal

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