ORDER OF SERVICE ....

Welcome to our Sunday morning service. 

This is an outline of what normally takes place in the course of our time together, which lasts one hour.

• Organ preludes are played as people assemble. 

• The choir enters with the worship leader, signalling the start of worship. 

• A choral introit is sometimes sung. 

• The worship leader welcomes the congregation and offers opening words of worship. 

• A hymn is sung. 

• A prayer of invocation is offered, which is followed by the singing of the prayer of Jesus. 

• A reading is given. 

• A hymn is sung. 

• A non-biblical reading is given. 

• A musical offering is given. 

• Words of prayer and reflection lead into a time of silent meditation, which is concluded with a short prayer. 

• A hymn is sung. 

• The sermon or address is preached. 

• The offertory is received by stewards, who collect donations row by row. 

• Notices are shared from the pulpit. 

• A final hymn is sung. 

• Words of blessing and benediction are given by the worship leader. 

• The congregation responds with a sung “Amen.” 

A short organ postlude is played, after which, the congregation moves to the coffee lounge for conversation and light refreshments.  You are welcome to join in this time of fellowship.

For your further information..............

Bury Unitarian Church is  a modern multi-purpose structure which can be adapted to many different uses.

We are normally led in our worship by our minister is a professionally-trained although Unitarians believe in "the priesthood of all believers, " and maintain that no special authority enables one to conduct worship.

There is no need to worry about when to sit or stand, as the person leading the service will clearly indicate what is appropriate, and when.

Readings are most often taken from the Jewish and Christian scriptures, with an additional passage from a non-biblical source. All writings which reflect upon the human condition, our relationships with God and with the natural world, are deemed worthy of study and reflection. Unitarians acknowledge their roots in the Judaeo-Christian tradition, but feel that religious truth is not limited to a specific collection of writings. This breadth of interest is reflected in the content of the service, which is intended not to indoctrinate, but to encourage each person to think for herself or himself.

You might discover that persons whom you meet hold very different theological opinions. Unitarians are united by a common quest for truth and justice from a liberal religious perspective. No subscription to creeds or teachings is required for membership.

You will find the symbol of a flaming chalice embroidered over the pulpit drop. The symbol has come to represent the Unitarian search for truth and the value of sacrificial love.

Prayer

Bury Unitarian Church congregation  sing the prayer of Jesus in unison. "Prayer" is not limited to formal and traditional practices. A person leading worship will often invite the congregation to enter into a time of contemplation, meditation or reflection. Persons are free to discover which method of focusing their thoughts and feelings is most appropriate for them.

Silence

Most Unitarians place great value on silence in worship. Time is usually set aside for peace and quiet at some point in the service, most commonly after a long prayer/meditation.

Music

Unitarians feel that music can be equally effective as words in creating a sense of wonder, inspiration and discovery. Our church has a rich tradition of vocal and instrumental music.

The Collection

Each church has its own customs for receiving money during the service. We pass a box after the sermon. Sometimes there is a special retiring collection, so that persons may leave a contribution in a bowl whilst leaving the building.

Communion

The Eucharist is celebrated in our church occasionally. It is usually held as part of a short service. There are no restrictions on attendance or full participation. All are welcome regardless of denominational affiliation. One need not be baptised or confirmed in any tradition. It is a simple memorial meal in which the fellowship of the congregation is symbolically celebrated.

Weddings/Christenings/Funerals

Unitarians believe that special services which are held to mark significant stages in the life of an individual should be as relevant and unique to the participants as possible. This means that the rites of passage are not rigidly fixed, but are prepared in consultation with the persons who are directly involved. Child namings, services of blessing and other occasions are commonly celebrated. Ministers and lay leaders are normally happy to officiate at such ceremonies for non-members.

MOST IMPORTANTLY ....

Unitarians enjoy listening to the opinions of others, so let someone know your impressions after the service! The minister or leader, or church members would be pleased to answer any questions you might have.

For more information:

Unitarian Information

General Assembly of Unitarian & Free Christian Churches

Essex Hall, 1-6 Essex Street, Strand

London WC2R 3HY

Tel: (020) 7240 2384