Community Traditions
Many Unitarian Universalists and our congregations celebrate a variety of holidays. These special services use the stories and traditions creatively, calling us to our deeper humanity and our commitment to the good. Unitarian Universalism also has unique rituals and traditions of its own. In addition to religious holidays and traditions, we also honor many beloved secular celebrations.
GATHER TOGETHER
Celebrate & Connect With Us
Throughout the year, Unitarian Universalists live their faith by doing. We have so many amazing traditions to share with you.
Looking for something specific? Jump ahead!
ANNUAL TRADITIONS
Holiday Celebrations, Communions & Rites of Passage
Here are a few ways First Universalist Unitarian of Wausau celebrate together through special services and rites of community passage:
FALL TRADITION
Water Communion Service
The Water Communion is celebrated as a Gathering-In celebration in the fall. Members bring a small amount of water to the service from a place they visited over the summer or is special to them. During the appointed time in the service, one by one, people pour their water together into a large bowl. It is then blessed, sterilized, and kept to be used in child dedications and other special ceremonies.
NOVEMBER TRADITION
All Saints Day
Join us in a solemn and uplifting observance of our All Saints Day, a tradition that honors the lives and legacies of those who have left an indelible mark on our hearts. We come together to celebrate the enduring impact of loved ones, drawing inspiration from their wisdom and love. Join us in this communal experience as we celebrate the saints among us and cherish the memory of those who continue to guide and inspire us on our life’s journey.
FALL TRADITION
Bread Communion Service
Experience the warmth and inclusivity of our annual Bread Communion. In this unique ceremony, congregants are invited to bring a loaf of bread representing their individual backgrounds, cultures, and traditions. It’s a powerful reminder that just as bread sustains our bodies, our shared values, compassion, and unity sustain our souls. Join us for this meaningful tradition.
WINTER TRADITION
Christmas Eve Candle Service
Join us on Christmas Eve for a special Candlelight Service. After a joyful sermon, our evening will end, passing a single flame from hand to hand, symbolizing the enduring light of hope that binds us together. Come and experience the warmth and togetherness that define the holiday season as we embrace the true spirit of universal unity.
SPRING TRADITION
Easter Service
Celebrate the beauty of renewal and the promise of hope. Our Easter Service invites you to explore the timeless themes of transformation, compassion, and unity, offering a moment of reflection. Rooted in our commitment to inclusivity, our service blends inspiring messages with music and meaningful rituals, inviting all to find connection.
SPRING TRADITION
Flower Communion
Experience the beauty of Flower Communion. Each congregant brings a flower, often from their garden, for a communal vase. The resulting bouquet is a vibrant testament to the rich tapestry of our congregation, reminding us that just as every flower contributes to the bouquet’s beauty, each one of us enriches our community with our presence and contributions. Join us for this meaningful communion that celebrates the diversity and interconnectedness of our community.
SPRING TRADITION
Baccalaureate & Bridging Service
A long-standing tradition at UU Wausau is to recognize those of us who are on the cusp of transitions — moving up in school, graduating from college, retirement, but especially, our youth who are moving to emerging adulthood — and an opportunity for the congregation to offer our blessings for wherever their journeys take them next.
CONNECTION
Ongoing Community Traditions
Here are a few ways we at First Universalist Unitarian of Wausau live our values and serve our community together:
WEEKLY TRADITION
Informal Social Hour
Join us every Sunday for an informal social hour in the atrium following the sermon. It’s the perfect time to unwind and connect over a cup of hot coffee or tea. Feel free to bring your favorite snacks to share, and enjoy engaging conversations with fellow community members. We look forward to seeing you there!
MONTHLY TRADITION
First Sunday Potluck
Join us after the service on the first Sunday of each month for our “First Sundays Potluck.” Bring a dish to share (if time permits) and join us in the Dining Hall for fantastic food and fellowship.
MONTHLY TRADITION
Second Friday Nighters
Please join us for Second Friday Nighters — a long-standing tradition at UU Wausau! Sometimes a fun-filled intergenerational evening in our very own church atrium, and other times a privately hosted adult-only event. The fun begins on Friday, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Feel free to bring a favorite game if you wish, a snack to share, and your own beverages. Join us for good conversation with friends!
ANNUAL TRADITION
Parent/Caregiver Night Out
Our annual Parent/Caregiver Night Out is an opportunity for you to unwind, connect with fellow adults, and enjoy some quality time for yourself, knowing your loved ones are in safe hands. Whether you use this time for relaxation, socializing, or simply recharging, we invite you to join us for a night of respite because we believe supporting those caring for others is essential.
ANNUAL TRADITION
Family Movie Night
Join us for a heartwarming evening of togetherness at our Annual Family Movie Night. Bring your blankets, pillows, and, of course, your family, as we transform our space into a cozy cinema, complete with popcorn and laughter. We welcome all ages to this wonderful community event where we celebrate the joy of family.
Unitarian universalism
A Living Faith
Whether in community with others or as an individual, active, tangible expressions of love, justice, and peace are what make a difference. Seven days a week, Unitarian Universalists try to live their faith by doing.
We create change: in ourselves, in the world. These are the ways we do it:
SEASONAL TRADITIONS
Fall & Winter Community Traditions
Here are a few ways we at First Universalist Unitarian of Wausau come together each fall and winter:
SEPTEMBER TRADITION
Blessing of the Backpacks
Kickstart the school year with our heartwarming Blessing of the Backpacks! As the summer days transition to autumn, we gather to celebrate each student’s journey. Bring your backpacks or any symbol of your educational path, and join us for a special moment of reflection, inspiration, and unity. Our congregation comes together to offer blessings of love, encouragement, and support to students of all ages, teachers, and educational staff.
SEPTEMBER TRADITION
Fall Equinox Celebration
Step into the magic of autumn at our Annual Fall Equinox Celebration. Reconnect with the rhythm of the Earth and celebrate the interconnectedness of all living beings. As day and night find perfect balance during this special time, we unite as a community to embrace transformation. Join us in welcoming the autumnal equinox with a sense of wonder, as we embark on this journey of gratitude and renewal.
AUTUMN TRADITION
Soup & Nut Bread Sale
Our annual Soup and Nut Bread Sale offers a delicious array of homemade soups and freshly baked nut breads. From hearty, comforting stews to sweet loaves, our congregation’s talents shine as we provide a delightful taste of autumn for our community. Join us in celebrating the season with a bowl of warmth and a slice of togetherness.
NOVEMBER TRADITION
Thanksgiving Seder
Experience the richness of diverse traditions at our Thanksgiving Seder. As we gather around the table, we blend elements from various cultural backgrounds, infusing the meal with the essence of unity. It’s an opportunity to connect, reflect, and give thanks in a way that acknowledges the many threads that weave our community together. Join us as we break bread and share blessings, creating lasting memories and deepening our appreciation for the diversity that makes us whole.
DECEMBER TRADITION
Blue Christmas Gathering
Join us for a tender and reflective evening at our Annual Blue Christmas, a special Winter Solstice gathering that recognizes the complexity of emotions that can accompany the holiday season. As we approach the longest night of the year, we come together to create a safe and compassionate space for those experiencing feelings of loss, grief, or solitude during this time. It’s a meaningful event reminding us that we can find strength and comfort in one another’s company, offering a beacon of hope amid darkness.
DECEMBER TRADITION
Christmas Sing!
Celebrate the joyous melodies of the season at our Annual Christmas Sing, a cherished tradition that fills our hearts with the spirit of unity and togetherness. Gather with friends and family to raise your voices in song, embracing the time-honored carols that have woven a tapestry of warmth and tradition through the years. It’s a festive evening where all are welcome, regardless of musical prowess, to join in the celebration of love, hope, and joy that shine brightly during the holiday season.
DECEMBER TRADITION
Holiday Children’s Pagent
Step into a world of wonder and imagination at our Annual Holiday Children’s Pageant, a heartwarming tradition that captures the joy and spirit of the season. With creativity and enthusiasm, our young performers take center stage to celebrate the values of love, unity, and inclusion. It’s a delightful event that brings families and the entire community together, reminding us all of the simple yet profound lessons of kindness and togetherness.
DECEMBER TRADITION
Pointesettia Memorial
Embrace the beauty of remembrance and unity at our annual Poinsettia Memorial. As the holiday season unfolds, we gather to honor the memory of loved ones who have touched our lives but are no longer with us. Each poinsettia, with its vibrant red leaves, becomes a symbol of the enduring love that continues to thrive in our hearts. Join us in this touching tradition that reminds us that cherished memories bloom eternally.
JANUARY TRADITION
Winter Family Retreat
The Winter Retreat is a beloved UU Wausau tradition that has been happening for 40 years. Starting from a spiritual parenting discussion group, it has grown to include folks of all ages. The weekend of snowshoeing, skiing, sledding, night walks, rock climbing, board games, quiet reading, and delicious shared meals — occurs at Camp Manoto-wish YMCA in Boulder Junction. Reach out to retreat hosts and organizers Sally and Steve Schmidt for more info!
WINTER TRADITION
Ask The Minister
Our Annual “Ask the Minister” tradition is a cherished tradition where our young members take the lead in shaping our spiritual journey. Kids are invited to submit thoughtful questions, ranging from the profound to the curious. As we come together to listen and learn, we celebrate the wisdom and perspective that young minds bring to our congregation, reminding us that we all have unique and valuable contributions to make on this shared journey.
SEASONAL TRADITIONS
Spring & Summer Community Traditions
Here are a few ways we at First Universalist Unitarian of Wausau come together each spring and summer:
MARCH TRADITION
Vernal Equinox Celebration
Join us in celebrating the changing seasons at our Annual Vernal Equinox Celebration. As the world awakens from winter’s slumber, day and night find perfect balance. We come together to honor the renewal of life, growth, and the interconnectedness of all living things. Join us as we welcome this time of transition, hope, and wonder with open hearts.
APRIL TRADITION
Spring Sing!
Celebrate the vibrancy of spring and the power of music at our annual Spring Sing. As the world slowly awakens, we come together in joyful harmony to share the gift of song. All ages and backgrounds are invited to join together and fill the air with uplifting melodies. It’s a heartwarming gathering that invites us to embrace the universal language of music. Join us in this joyful celebration of life, love, and the beauty that surrounds us during this special time of year.
SPRING TRADITION
Easter Egg Hunt
Experience the joy of collaboration and community at our cooperative annual Easter Egg Hunt. In the spirit of togetherness, families and friends come together for an inclusive egg hunt experience. Instead of a competitive race, we encourage participants to work together, sharing the joy of discovery. This cooperative approach fosters a sense of unity, kindness, and shared celebration. Join us for a memorable Easter gathering that highlights the beauty of cooperation and the strength of our interconnected community.
SPRING TRADITION
Flowers For The Homebound
Every spring, we pick a weekend when the hyacinths, daffodils, and tulips decorating the Atrium are delivered to our homebound congregation members. Congregants take a card with the members’ information and a flower to brighten his or her day with a quick visit!
JUNE TRADITION
Summer Solstice Celebration
Embrace the radiant warmth of the season at our Summer Solstice Celebration. As the sun reaches its zenith and the world is bathed in the longest daylight of the year, we gather to celebrate the beauty of nature and the universal values of light, growth, and unity. Join us in this joyful and spiritual event that invites us to connect with the natural world, fostering a deep sense of gratitude and unity as we bask in the glow of the sun and the warmth of our community.
SUMMER TRADITION
Family Camping Retreat
The annual Family Camping Retreat offers families a unique opportunity to reconnect, unwind, and deepen their sense of unity. With a blend of outdoor activities, campfires, storytelling, and shared meals, this retreat celebrates the values of togetherness, exploration, and inclusivity. Come and create treasured moments under the open sky amidst the beauty of the great outdoors.
UU TRADITIONS
Special Ceremonies & Rituals
Here are a few ways we at First Universalist Unitarian honor life’s milestones:
SPECIAL SERVICES
New Member Ceremonies
Every spring, we pick a weekend when the hyacinths, daffodils, and tulips decorating the Atrium are delivered to our homebound congregation members. Congregants take a card with the members’ information and a flower to brighten his or her day with a quick visit!
SPECIAL SERVICES
Naming Ceremonies
Every spring, we pick a weekend when the hyacinths, daffodils, and tulips decorating the Atrium are delivered to our homebound congregation members. Congregants take a card with the members’ information and a flower to brighten his or her day with a quick visit!
SPECIAL SERVICES
Wedding Ceremonies
A wedding is a celebration of the love, the joy, and the faith two people have found in each other. It is a special time when a couple proclaims the covenantal bond uniting partners. Whether a large formal ceremony or a small private one, First Universalist Unitarian Church is pleased to be part of bringing people together.
TRADITION
Memorial Ceremonies
Every spring, we pick a weekend when the hyacinths, daffodils, and tulips decorating the Atrium are delivered to our homebound congregation members. Congregants take a card with the members’ information and a flower to brighten his or her day with a quick visit!
COMMUNITY OPPORTUNITIES
Stay Connected Between Sundays
We’d love to have you join us for worship or one of our upcoming workshops, small groups, special events, or community offerings between Sundays. Connect with us below for updates!
