Chalice Extinguishing Words for Small Groups
Carolyn Hayek’s home chalice lights
Chalice Extinguishing Words for Small Groups
Introduction: In the Unitarian Universalist tradition it is customary to light a chalice or candle at the beginning of worship services and to extinguish the light when the service ends. This custom is often extended to other activities, such as committee meetings or support groups. It is also customary to share words of welcome or inspiration when the chalice is lit and to provide concluding thoughts at the end of the gathering. Some congregations use the same words at each service or group gathering, but often small groups rotate the responsibility for offering chalice lighting or extinguishing words among the group’s participants. These suggested words are intended as a resource for individuals participating in closing small gatherings and may be freely adapted to the purpose and needs of any small group. Sample opening words are also available. See: www.commonsensereflections.info/blog/2021/8/10/chalice-lighting-words-and-grace-for-small-groups.
Wisdom and Values
As we extinguish our chalice and leave this gathering,
May we take with us the wisdom we have gained from one another
and our commitment to share the values of
Sensitivity, respect, honesty, generosity, and love with the greater community.
Understanding and Commitment
As we extinguish our chalice,
May we each hold in our hearts
One or two ideas or experiences shared at our gathering and
Commit ourselves to further thought or action based on what we have learned.
Let today’s connections spur us on to deeper understanding of one another and our community.
Gratitude
We end our time together with gratitude for the sharing that has occurred, the skill and dedication of our leaders, and the progress we have each made in reaching our goals.
Let us carry the light of the chalice in our hearts as we return to the familiar routine of our personal and community life.
Sharing our Light and Warmth
As we extinguish our chalice flame, let us remember that light arises out of change.
As candle wax melts and burns, so do we also change and grow, shining our personal light on those around us, and generating warmth toward our circle of companions.
May it ever be so.
Celebrating our Values
We extinguish our chalice with gratitude for all who participated in tonight’s (today’s) celebration (event).
We have experienced HOPE for a better world through cooperation and generosity of spirit
FAITH that when we share our gifts and work together we can accomplish our goals
JOY from the delightful creativity demonstrated by tonight’s (today’s) presenters
PEACE that comes when we share from the heart and support one another
And LOVE that grows in our hearts, shines through this community, and is reflected outward toward the broader community.
Let the twinkling stars, decorative lights, and shiny objects in our homes remind us that the flicker of our flaming chalice can be carried inside each of us and help us find our way through any challenges ahead.