The joys and concerns

Expressed in worship

Contain in tone and time

Soundings both dissonant and clear.

In elemental space

We light candles

To flame the gathering.

Spirits congregate

Stories proclaim, dignify;

Both teller and listener

Identify, declare.

Hopes, joys, sorrows, grief

Genuine relief in sanctuary.

Transformations turn slowly

Short versions

Particular truths

Heard - Held - Healed.

Poem submitted by Barbara Bachner