What to Expect on Sundays

We gather in worship to find meaning and live more deeply. Our services create connections within, among, and beyond us, calling us to our better selves and encouraging us to live with wisdom and compassion. At Pathways, our Common Ground services are designed to be inclusive and multi-generational.

What to Expect on Sundays

A typical service at Pathways is a blend of traditional and contemporary elements. While styles may vary, you can generally expect:

  • Words of Welcome: A formal opening to our time together.

  • Lighting the Flaming Chalice: We ignite the symbol of our faith to mark the beginning of our sacred time.

  • Story for All Ages: A multi-generational segment that engages children and adults alike.

  • Music: We incorporate both instrumental and vocal music in a wide variety of styles.

  • Milestones: A dedicated time to recognize the personal joys and sorrows of our members and friends.

  • Readings & Meditation: We share ancient or contemporary readings followed by a time of prayer or silent reflection.

  • The Sermon: Given by a professional minister, guest speaker, or member of the congregation, our sermons cover a diverse range of spiritual and social topics.

  • The Offering: We collect financial donations to support the work of the congregation and justice initiatives in our local community.

Special Services

Beyond our weekly Common Ground services, we hold unique ceremonies throughout the year that celebrate the cycles of nature, holidays, and our shared values. These may include:

  • Water Communion and Flower Communion ceremonies.

  • Holiday Observances such as Winter Solstice, Christmas Eve, and Easter.

  • Rites of Passage to honor significant life transitions within our community.

Music and Choir

Music is the heartbeat of our worship. Our music program is inclusive and diverse:

  • Pathways Choir: We welcome voices of all skill levels to help lead our congregation in song.

  • Diverse Styles: From classical and traditional hymns to contemporary and folk, we use music to deepen the spiritual experience of the service.