Water Communion and Ingathering

Ingathering and the Water Communion are amongst the few rituals specific to Unitarian Universalism. Ingathering marks the beginning of a new church year as people return from their summer adventures or rest. Water communion is a way to lift up our interconnectedness. Whether you plan to attend on Zoom or in person, please bring a small container of water to share and be ready to share its spiritual significance.

Order of Service

  • Prelude: Arabesque No.1 by Claude Debussy
  • Welcome
  • Call to Worship: Thich Nhat Hanh
  • Music: Bring Me Little Water, Silvy by Huddie Ledbetter, arranged and produced by Adam Podd sung by the First Unitarian of Brooklyn
  • Land Acknowledgment
  • Chalice Lighting: Janet Parsons
  • Introduction: Tanya Webster, DRE
  • Story for all Ages: Higgins, a Drop with a Dream, by the Rev. Chris Buice, Tennessee Valley UU, read by Tanya Webster
  • Prayer, Candles of Joys, Sorrows & Gratitude
  • Sermon: Water Communion and Ingathering, Rev. Elizabeth Sollie
  • Shared Singing: Swimming to the Other Side, Pat Humphries
  • End screen share
  • Offertory
  • Extinguishing the Chalice
  • Benediction: Kayla Rice
  • Closing Hymn: #100,  I’ve Got Peace Like a River
  • Announcements, Invitation and Final Wave