Practice & Voice

A Historic Benediction




On Sunday, March 28, 2021, All Souls Unitarian Church celebrated its 100th birthday. In our centennial year, we explore our past and plan for our future. As part of our Centennial Service, we were honored to have Bobbie Bollinger, daughter of former minister Robert Sonen, share her father’s benediction.

During Bob Sonen’s tenure with All Souls from 1944 until 1958, he concluded each of his services with the same benediction, which we will use as our own this morning some 65 years later. At the conclusion of the service, with Beulah McConnell’s organ music filling the Sanctuary, he walked from the front of the church, down the center aisle, black robes flowing, turned, and said to the congregation these words:

“And now, may the blessings of the just and the merciful, your own sense of righteousness, and the eternal glory of God be your strength and your peace now and in the days to come. Amen.”

We invite you to join us online each Sunday for a message of Love Beyond Belief. We offer services at 10 and 11:30 a.m. Central time. We would love to have you with us! Visit allsoulschurch.org/live for service information.


All Souls is a welcoming community. Everyone, regardless of age, race, culture, economic status, gender identity or sexual orientation is welcome at All Souls. Our membership includes people from all walks of life, who hold a broad spectrum of personal and political views. We unite in the spirit of Love Beyond Belief.

All Souls offers programming throughout the week and two distinct services on Sunday. To learn more, visit our website at allsoulschurch.org.

Read more about our history at 100 Years of All Souls.

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