The Importance of Night Skies

with Dr. Sheri Phillabaum

December 1, 2024

Unitarian Universalists covent to “affirm and promote the interdependent web of existence of which we are a part.” This means cherishing and preserving the wonderful and awe-inspiring diversity of human and non-human animals with all of their varying and sometimes conflicting needs. As diurnal, or day-dwelling creatures, we humans can better support the interdependent web by taking some time to learn about the needs of our nocturnal cousins. On this first day of advent, we celebrate the power of darkness in sustaining our connection with the amazing interdependent web.

Sounding of the Bowl – Dr. Sheri Phillabaum                                            

Prelude – Jaime Ramirez                                                     

Welcome and Greeting – Ruth Bujanda-Moore                              

Opening Words – “A Blessing of Darkness and Light” by Amy Zucker Morgenstern      

Opening Hymn – #226 People look East

Chalice Lighting – Tim Versteeg                                                  

Covenant 

Anthem – “I Will Sing You the Stars” by Mark Burrows, performed by the First UU Choir

Candles of Life                                                                     

Music for Candle Lighting                                                                       

Reading the Community Book of Life & Pastoral Meditation     

Story Wisdom – “The Everything Seed” written by Rev. Carole Martignacco and illustrated by Joy Troyer                      

Children’s Recessional                                                                                                                                                   

Reading – “Celebrating the Darkness” by Rev. Jo VonRue  

Special Music – “Dream” by Johnny Mercer, performed by Emila and William Westney

Sermon – Who Loves the Dark?                                                                                                                                                                                                                         

Invitation to Generosity                                                     

Offertory Music                                                                                                                               

Closing Hymn – #28 View the Starry Realm

Extinguishing the Chalice/Benediction – “An Advent Wish for You”                                                                                             

Postlude