We gather in worship to find meaning and to live more deeply. Worship creates connections within, among, and beyond us, calling us to our better selves and calling us to live with wisdom and compassion.

Unitarian Universalist worship styles vary by congregation, and even within congregations. Some congregations’ worship is contemporary and high-tech; other congregations’ worship is traditional and formal. Some worship features exuberant music, some worship includes long periods of silent reflection.

Our congregation’s worship follows a formal structure but varied in presentation. It often depends upon the subject of the service and the preferences of the person(s) leading the service.

Elements of a typical Hopedale Sunday morning worship service include:

• Words of welcome
• Lighting a flaming chalice, the symbol of our faith
• A multigenerational segment, such as a “story for all ages”
• Music, instrumental and/or vocal, in a variety of styles
• A time for congregants to express their joys and concerns
• A meditation or prayer
• Readings—ancient or contemporary
• A message presented by a professional minister, a guest speaker, or a member of the congregation
• An offering, collecting financial donations to maintain the community or for worthy causes such as justice work in our local area

From time to time, worship incorporates holiday celebrations, multigenerational plays, and longer musical performances. We offer childcare and learning programs for children and youth during the Sunday service.