Faith Curriculum Library: 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 adapted from the Reverend Emmy Lou Belcher:

We light this chalice in memory of those who have been persistent seekers, those whose desire to search together gave us this religious home, whose search for truth shaped this questing religion, whose perspective on freedom created more justice among peoples. Our presence here today is lit by their dreams and deeds.

Including All Participants

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