Every first, second, and fourth Sunday of the month at 10:45 a.m., you will find a group of Unitarian Universalists meeting at Ye Olde Church Center, at the corner of West Third and Maynard Streets in Williamsport. We usually number about ten, but depending on the topic and the weather, we might have twenty or more. Technically we have a covenant relationship with the UU Association of Congregations. This means that we adhere to all the values and principles of the Unitarian Universalists but are a small group.

Our services are led by members. We do not have a minister nor do we own a building. Unitarian Universalism is an open minded religion that encourages people to seek their own spiritual path. Our faith draws from the many historical traditions, philosophies, and religions. We are united by shared values, not by creed or dogma.

Our typical service opens with a chalice-lighting reading followed by a musical selection. After silent meditation, we perform the ceremony of passing the rock, a sharing of joys and concerns. This tradition is rooted in the Native American ceremony of the peace pipe. As we pass the rock from hand to hand, we can speak or be silent. Following this we have a program led by one of our members or a guest speaker. Topics vary but have a common core—to find our spiritual balance.

Rather than a lecture, we encourage discussion and participation by everyone. Presently we are spending two meetings each on an in-depth exploration of the seven principles of the UUA. Principles such as “a free and responsible search for truth and meaning” provide for a lively discussion, both agreement and argument.

We finish with an offering, another song, a final reading, and a social time. This past year we have added various activities on the third week of the month, movies at different homes or hikes on local trails. We welcome people of different beliefs and invite you to join us. Our congregation is a place where people gather to nurture their spirits, to find that spiritual space that helps us to put our principles into action. You are welcome any Sunday morning. You can also contact us at lycominguuc@yahoo.com or (570) 326-2116