July 6, 2025

Freedom Within

Just after July 4, we explore the moral dimension of freedom. We know the ideals of freedom were not for everyone in the founding of the United States including Black residents, indigenous communities and women. What does freedom mean now and how do we build freer communities together?

Program for children and youth: PreK-5 grades begin in Fellowship Hall (lower level) this Sunday, for their summer program and themed activities. Grades 6-12 are off for the summer.

Order of Service

Prelude: Judy Brewer, pianist 

Welcome: Dana Moore, Congregational Coordinator 

Chalice Lighting: Rev. Dr. Robin Tanner, Lead Ministry Team 

Opening Hymn #16 ‘Tis a Gift to Be Simple: Shawn Jordan, Joëlle Bochner & Judy Brewer

Reading: Excerpt from What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July, Frederick Douglass read by Jamaine Cripe, Lifespan Ministry Team

Wonder Box: Jamaine Cripe, Lifespan Ministry Team

Candlelighting: Shawn Jordan, Chaplain 

Long as I Can See the Light - Creedence Clearwater Revival by John Cameron Fogerty: Shawn Jordan, Chaplain

Meditation: Rev. Dr. Robin Tanner, Lead Ministry Team

Hymn #155 Circle Round for Freedom: Shawn Jordan, Joëlle Bochner & Judy Brewer

Testimony: Dana Moore, Congregational Coordinator

Offertory Music: "I Know Where I've Been" from Hairspray, Music by Marc Shaiman, 

Lyrics by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman: Shawn Jordan & Judy Brewer

Sermon: Freedom Within, Rev. Dr. Robin Tanner

Closing Hymn #100 Peace Like a River; Shawn Jordan, Joëlle Bochner & Judy Brewer

Benediction: Rev. Dr. Robin Tanner 

Postlude: Judy Brewer

With special thanks to all the volunteers and staff who make our service possible including: 

Worship Lead: Rev. Dr. Robin Tanner
Music: Shawn Jordan, Joëlle Bochner, Judy Brewer
Live Stream Technician: Lux Chakrapani
Audio Tech: Vivek Chakrapani
Welcome Team: Nancy and Bill Griffeth
Chaplain: Shawn Jordan