Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Saratoga Springs

Creating a Community of Love for Justice and Peace

     The Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Saratoga Springs is a Welcoming Community that embraces people of any age, race, gender identity, sexual orientation, class, ability, language, or cultural background. 

     We extend a warm welcome to all who worship here today, especially those who are visiting for the first time. Following the service, please join us for refreshments and conversation. 

     We hope this community can be a place of meaning, inspiration, celebration and joy for you and your family.

Our Service Participants this week are:

     Rev. Viola Abbitt, Minister

     Madzy Vida , Worship Associate

     Marian Bigelow, Care Team

     Judith Thomas, Pianist

     Jolene Crowley, Flutist

A special thank you to our Tech and Hospitality Teams.

Returning

Sunday, August 16, 2026

CHIMES

WELCOME AND ANNOUNCEMENTS

PRELUDE

    Music: Allegro by Marcello

OPENING WORDS AND LIGHTING THE CHALICE 

     The Words of Lindasusan Ulrich, “Begin Your Journey Home”

OPENING HYMN

      No. 39, Bring O Morn Thy Music

 OUR COVENANT 

Love is the doctrine of this faith,


The quest for truth is its sacrament,


And service is its prayer.


To dwell together in peace,


To seek knowledge in freedom, to serve human need,


To the end that all souls shall grow into harmony with the Divine.

    Thus do we covenant with one another and love beyond belief. 

AFFIRMATION OF FAITH

     Be ours a religion which like sunshine goes everywhere,

     Its temple all space, its shrine the good heart,

     Its creed all truth, its ritual works of love.

READING

      “Returning” by Emily Dickenson

STONES AND WATER RITUAL

     Hymn No. 123, Spirit of Life

JOYS AND SORROWS    

     Response:   There is a love holding you.

     All: There is a love holding me, 

            There is a love holding you, 

            There is a love holding all.

            We rest in this love.

A TIME FOR ALL AGES

OFFERING 

     Music: Dreams by Walsh and Shore

SERMON 

      “Returning”

CLOSING HYMN

     No. 183, The Wind of Change Forever Blown

CLOSING WORDS

EXTINGUISHING THE CHALICE

PASS THE PEACE