The closing worship service of General Synod 35 was a vibrant celebration of spirit, art, and community. From the first note to the final blessing, attendees were immersed in a powerful experience of music, movement, and meaning. The choir led the congregation in both contemporary and traditional hymns, drawing people together in song and joyful dance. Quixotic’s Silk Poi Dancers delivered a visually stunning performance, captivating the audience with their graceful energy.
There were so many talented performers throughout the week and closing worship was no exception. From interpretive dancer, to a modern scripture reading, the service immersed those in attendance from beginning to end.
Embrace the Chaos: A Call to Spiritual Transformation
Giving the final sermon of General Synod 35, Rev. Tony Coleman, senior pastor of First Congregational Church Memphis, Tennessee offered a profound message rooted in transformation, ecology, and faith. Through poetic metaphor and spiritual reflection, Rev. Coleman invited attendees to embrace the wild, resilient beauty of native meadows like sweetgrass, rather than the controlled perfection of manicured lawns. Lawns, he noted, symbolize the human desire for uniformity and control, while meadows reflect diversity, abundance, and divine wisdom.
“Do radically less,” he encouraged. “Surrender to a power and wisdom that exceeds your own.” His words challenged listeners to reimagine themselves and their congregations not as neatly trimmed lawns, but as spiritual meadows, with deep roots that are thriving, untamed, and alive with purpose.
The impact of the sermon was unmistakable to anyone in attendance, and members were visibly moved, giving Rev. Coleman a standing ovation. The message was a fitting conclusion to a week of discernment and connection, sending delegates and members of the United Church of Christ back to their home states inspired to be agents of transformation in their communities.
Worship Leadership and Offering
The final service was beautifully organized by Rev. Cheryl Lindsey whose careful planning brought together diverse elements of worship into a unified, powerful whole. An offering was collected in support of the UCC’s “Join the Movement” campaign, with totals to be announced.
Photo by Kristin Paul
Photo by Kristin Paul
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United Church of Christ News
