Becoming One

On this final week in the series, we recognize how interdependent we are with creation, and we celebrate that when we benefit, we also benefit others. Design the worship experience this week to empower participants to know their need for one another and for a supportive community beyond the church so that all celebrate the successes of even those who might be otherwise forgotten.

This may be another week to celebrate Holy Communion. If your practice is to have some stations with different types of bread (such as gluten-free, wafers, or pre-packaged), consider offering just one option that includes all the people in your congregation. Gluten-free, vegan Communion bread can be made at home or bought in many communities. Even if there are multiple stations to accommodate all the congregants, having one bread celebrates the unity of the body of Christ.

For the final week of the terrariums, consider adding lights. Add a small string of fairy lights around the outside of the terrarium. You could place a small battery-powered votive inside, but avoid having it in puddles of water.

Invite a youth or young adult to share a story from their perspective. They might tell when they met someone new and didn’t at first recognize a connection until some event or mutual insight helped make the connection. The speaker could invite all generations to reach out beyond their comfort levels to get to know someone different so they might learn what it’s like to encounter the world from a different perspective. Make time for these interactions during worship or fellowship time after worship.

Rev. Laura Baumgartner is pastor of Haller Lake United Methodist Church in Seattle, WA. She is also active in her local Interfaith Power and Light affiliate, Earth Ministry. Before attending seminary, Laura was a high school chemistry teacher for over 20 years. Her interests at the intersection of faith, science, and environment lead her outdoors, to the handbell table, or to the pet shop on her e-bike frequently.