The authors of these readings have given approval for their use.

We gather this hour as people of faith

With joys and sorrows, gifts and needs

We light this beacon of hope, sign of our quest

For truth and meaning,

In celebration of the life we share together.

Christine Robinson, Reading 448, Singing the Living Tradition

Life is a gift for which we are grateful. We gather in community to celebrate the glories and the mysteries of this gift.

Marjorie Montgomery, Reading 452, Singing the Living Tradition

May the light we now kindle

Inspire us to use our powers

To heal and not to harm,

To help and not to hinder,

To bless and not to curse,

To serve you,

Spirit of freedom.

from a Jewish Passover Haggadah, Reading 453, Singing the Living Tradition

We are Unitarian Universalists

With minds that think (hands tap head lightly)

Hearts that love (hands tap heart lightly)

And hands that are ready to serve (hands outstretched).

David Herndon (from Rejoice Together)

We light this chalice to celebrate the love within us, among us, and all around us.

David Herndon (from Rejoice Together)