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Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Wyoming Valley

Our Sunday Services

Newcomers often ask about our services. Here is what you can expect of a typical Sunday service...

Time & place

Unless announced otherwise, we meet for Sunday morning services at the UUCWV building in the Carverton area of Kingston Twp. (One of the rare exceptions is the service on Labor Day weekend Camp Service.)

Being welcomed

As you walk into the building, you may be greeted by a member of the congregation who will give you a name tag, ask you to sign our guest book (which is entirely voluntary), and show you into the sanctuary. Greeters are sometimes busy with other visitors, so if you don't see anybody at the door, just walk right in. Most people dress casually.

Before the service, people mingle and you will probably encounter several members who will introduce themselves. At or shortly after 11:00, the minister or convener will ring chimes, which will prompt the congregation to take their seats. Feel free to sit anywhere you like. You should find a hymnal and copies of the Order of Service and the program for the day near your seat.

Opening

The service itself somewhat resembles services at liberal protestant churches. We sing two hymns, people have the opportunity to share their “Joys and Concerns” with the congregation by lighting candles, and the service is bracketed by spoken opening and closing words as well as three short musical pieces (which are typically performed by a pianist.) The Flaming Chalice is the the unique symbol of Unitarian Universalism. It is lit for the duration of the service.

Children’s time and sermon

The sermon itself takes about 25 minutes and is preceded by “Children’s Time”, where the speaker briefly speaks with the children. Just before the start of the sermon, children have the option of leaving for one of the RE classes (age-appropriate classes are offered from pre-K through middle school) or remaining with their parents. (We also offer free childcare in the building for the entirety of the service.)

Refreshments and conversation

The entire service lasts about one hour. Afterwards, most people stay for coffee, light snacks, and informal conversation. (This is a great opportunity for newcomers to ask questions about our congregation face-to-face.)

You can also review the complete Order of Service.