A Typical Sunday

One of the first things newcomers notice on Sundays at Northwoods is the air of friendly, familiar hustle and bustle. Before & between services is when members and friends enjoy catching up with each other and finding out about the many varied religious, educational, and social events sponsored by Northwoods.

Sundays typically begin around 9:30 a.m. as members and visitors arrive for the first service. Early-comers have a chance to share a cup of coffee or tea and conversation in our shady courtyard and casual foyer and sanctuary. There's usually a table set up just outside the front doors, with information on upcoming activities.

Printed Orders of Service are handed out by Greeters standing just inside the front doors.

A typical service will include:
•    a welcome to visitors & a call to worship
•    music & singing
•    children's story
•    offertory
•    readings of inspiration
•    a sermon by our minister or guest speaker
•    time of silence

At service time, all ages gather in the Sanctuary. Seating is open and non-ushered.

The ringing of chimes signals time to begin, and music from one of our several groups typically starts the Sunday Service. Lay leaders (volunteer members of the congregation) welcome everyone from the pulpit, make occasional church life announcements, and assist with lighting our Chalice.

The lighted Chalice is a symbol of Unitarian Universalism. As the Minister lights the Chalice, the congregation is invited to read from their Order of Service:
                                                                                  Love is the spirit of this church
                                                                                            And service its gift.
                                                                                    This is our great covenant –
                                                                                    To dwell together in peace,
                                                                                     To seek the truth in love,
                                                                                     And to help one another.

Following our first hymn (approximately 10 minutes after the start of First service), children are invited to the front of the church for a story from the Minister, after which they will be escorted by teachers or parents to their Religious Education classes.

Children's religious education is conducted during first service only. Our youth (ages 14-19) have an opportunity to meet during the second service.

Dress is casual at our church. Be comfortable.

We offer an opportunity for conversation and refreshments from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., between first and second services, or you can attend our Adult Religious Education class held in the Garden Room. 

Sunday Morning Schedule

9:30 a.m. To 1:00 p.m.
Nursery is open for Infants to 2 year olds

9:30 to 10:30 a.m.
First Service in Sanctuary
Children's Religious Education

10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Church social time and Adult Religious Education 
(Parents are responsible for their children at this time.)

11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Second Service in Sanctuary
YRUU Group (Youth, ages 14 – 19) Meeting in Teen Room

The community that makes up Northwoods continues beyond Sunday services.
Immediately following church, you'll often find the building filled with committee meetings, musical rehearsals, and friends touching base.

For more detailed information on Northwoods' activities, see our website's Get Involved section.
You're also welcome to view our Public Calendar.