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

In this time of Covid-19, the Universalist Unitarian Church of Joliet holds its worship services online. The service itself is “broadcast”, and congregants are encouraged to come as they are. Even less need to dress now than in the past, as you cannot be seen! A computer or tablet will give the best experience, as you will be able to see the lyrics and any visual aids we use, though you’re welcome even if all you have is a smartphone or even a landline. See the FAQ for instructions. You can view the auto-generated closed captioning by clicking the CC on the screen.

Our congregation’s worship is thought-provoking and soulful. Elements of our typical 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, both instrumental and vocal and in a variety of styles. Lyrics for hymns are displayed onscreen
• A time for lifting up the joys and concerns of the congregation
• A meditation or prayer
• Readings—ancient or contemporary
• A sermon given by a professional minister, a guest speaker, or a member of the congregation
• A virtual offering, collecting financial donations for the congregation or for justice work in the community.

If you missed the service, or want to hear it again, it’s recorded and available afterwards under Past Worship Services.

The virtual coffee hour has a separate link so that everyone can participate and commune with one another. The link is on the website and displayed during the postlude.

From time to time, worships incorporate holiday celebrations, multigenerational plays and pageants, longer musical performances, child dedications, and coming-of-age ceremonies. When we meet in the sanctuary, we offer childcare and learning programs for children and youth during the Sunday service.