Created by Gemini (Google) in collaboration with the User. 
Title of the Material: The Hands of Life: Stylized DNA Helix
Copyright Notice: © 2026.
This image is a synthetic creation generated via artificial intelligence. 

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

Prelude
Prelude in C Major, by J.S. Bach
Arden Walker, piano

Opening Greeting
Susan Marcinkus, Worship Associate

Lighting the Chalice
Beverly Peterson

As we light this chalice
Let us be mindful of our connection to all living beings
And grateful for the light of science and reason.

Welcoming Words
Susan Marcinkus

Come, come, whoever you are,
Whomever you love,
Whatever your image of the Holy,
Your presence here is a gift.
All are worthy, all are welcome.

Opening Hymn
SLT #175 “We Celebrate the Web of Life”

Opening Reading
from the UU Humanist Association Mission and Purpose
Susan Marcinkus

Wisdom Story
“I Used to Be a Fish,” by Tom Sullivan
Robin Wootton, Director of Religious Education

Meditation
Susan Marcinkus

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.

From the Heart
Joe Ziarko

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 help our congregation pay down the mortgage for our beautiful building. We take these monthly mortgage collections in gratitude for the physical space that helps us gather, and in the spirit of lightening the financial load on future generations. If you have been inspired by the beauty of our buildings and you would like to support the well-being of our congregation far into the future, please give generously today to help pay down our mortgage debt. Thank you for your support.

Offertory Music
“Woodstock,” by Joni Mitchell
Arden Walker, piano

Musical Reflection
“Holy Now,” by Peter Mayer
Performed by John Chowning

Talk
“The Miracle in Your Hands”
Gene Roche, Guest Worship Leader

Closing Song
“Just One’s Hands”
John Chowning, guitar; led by Liz Wiley

Extinguishing the Chalice
Beverly Peterson

We extinguish this flame
But not the light of truth
Or the hope that it will inspire us
To live in humility and gratitude.

Closing Words/Benediction
by Stephen Hawking
Gene Roche

SLT=Gray Hymnal | STJ=Teal Hymnal

New to WUU? Welcome! Learn more about WUU and Unitarian Universalism by visiting wuu.org/visit-us.