Sustaining the Cacophony of Democracy
Unitarian Universalist Community of the Mountains
July 12, 2026
Rev. Kevin Tarsa
Gail Johnson Vaughan, Worship Associate
Rooted in faith in the inherent worth and dignity of every person, Unitarian Universalists have long affirmed explicitly the right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large. However, as Molly Ivans put it, “Democracy requires . . . a large tolerance for confusion and a secret relish for dissent.” Sigh. This Sunday we celebrate not only our aspiration but also our promise to give everyone a voice.
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Songs for Gathering
Everybody In by Peter Mayer, Tom Wernigg, guitar, with Rev. Kevin and All
We’re Gonna Sit at the Welcome Table #407 traditional, arr. By Mary Allen Walden
Greeting One Another
Land Acknowledgement read by Lewis Campbell
Lighting of the Chalice by those gathered
Wonderbox & Singing the Children on Their Way
Welcome Gail Johnson Vaughan, worship associate
Opening Words by Molly Ivins, read by Allison
Freedom Summer Moment Renée and Ryan Fonbuena, UUCM Bending the Arc Task Force
Candle of Compassion, Resistance, and Resilience
Joys & Sorrows
Music We’ve Come This Far by Tom Wernigg
Meditation
Song We Belong to One Another words by Amanda Udis-Kessler, music by John Wyeth
Reading words of adrienne maree brown in a podcast interview, read by Rod Tayler
Message Sustaining the Cacophony of Democracy Rev. Kevin Tarsa
Offering Gail Johnson Vaughan
Offertory We Make the Road by Walking by Tom Wernigg
Dedication Gail Johnson Vaughan
Thank you & Announcements
Closing Song Woyaya by Amoa, Amarfio, Bailey, Bedeau, Osei, Richardson, and Tontoh, arr. Jeannie Gagne
Closing Words
Community Benediction / Extinguishing of the Chalice
Carry the flame of peace and love until we meet again.
Music for Going Forth