Tapestry of Faith: Faith Like a River: A Program on Unitarian Universalist History for Adults

Opening

Activity time: 5 minutes

Materials for Activity

  • Chalice, candle, and lighter or LED battery-operated candle
  • Optional: Decorative cloth

Preparation for Activity

  • Set up a worship or centering table with the chalice and (optional) decorative cloth.
  • Optional: Invite a participant in advance to act as chalice lighter or reader to make the workshop more participatory.

Description of Activity

Light the chalice with these words of the Rev. Jay F. Abernathy, Jr., used with permission:

This is the flame of freedom.

The hope that glows through all darkness.

The light of truth.

It is our flame - the symbol that unites us with one another and with the heritage passed down the centuries - it is our flame.

A simple candle, humble light.

Known the world over and throughout the ages.

Kept aflame in the hearts and minds - the souls - of countless brothers and sisters in the human family.

It is our flame, it is their flame;

We shall continue to light it -

A free congregation of truth and hope.

Including All Participants

Remind volunteer readers to speak slowly and clearly so all can hear.