Over the last four years, through the leadership of the interim (I-DFF) and settled staff, the congregation has experienced a new approach to worship. Most notably, worship has become an all-ages experience that is both informative and transformative. Children and youth begin each Sunday with an ingathering worship service or ceremony to help them engage with their spirited selves. A monthly Chapel service is offered for preschool through 6th/7th grades which is co-led by the I-DFF and a member of the Worship Associates. That service includes joys and sorrows and a new element – the lighting of candles for each of the seven UU Principles. This year, the Music Director and the Music Team have offered support for the hymns.
On non-Chapel Sundays, we all gather together in the Sanctuary for the first 20 minutes which ends with the Story For All Ages. That story is related to the theme of the month and is woven through the worship leader’s sermon. The Story For All Ages is supported through music and through technology. The congregation has a large monitor that is sometimes used to project images for the story.
There are now seven multigenerational services offered throughout the church year. These are a collaboration between the I-DFF, the minister, and the Worship Associates.