Belonging means feeling accepted, valued, and included for who you are. It’s the sense that you are an essential part of something larger—a community, a relationship, or a purpose—where your presence is recognized and appreciated. True belonging isn’t about fitting in or meeting narrow expectations; it’s about knowing there’s a place for you that was … Continue reading You Already Belong
A Multigenerational Water Communion The most influential Unitarian of the 19th century counseled the development of the principles and powers of the soul. More recently the 21st century animated series Avatar: The Last Airbender, follows its main character Aang as he learns to manipulate the elements of fire, air, water, and earth for the benefit … Continue reading Homecoming and Training to be Avatars of Love
13th-century Sufi Muslim mystic Rumi is one of the U.S. and the world’s most popular poets. Ross Gay’s poetry collection Catalog of Unabashed Gratitude won the National Book Critics Circle Award in 2015 and his many essay collections have been best sellers. Separated by centuries but kindred in spirit, these poets will be our guides … Continue reading Heartbreak and the Benefits of Being a Human Guest House
In the 19th century a method of ethical study known as Musar emerged among Lithuanian Jews. In the 21st century author Priya Parker has put forth new ideas about hosting and hospitality in her book The Art of Gathering. Informed by traditions new and old, join us for a fresh look on the connections between … Continue reading Humility and the Art of Being a Generous Host
Unitarian universalism is a living tradition. Throughout our history, we have responded to the times aspiring to reach our arms out wider in an ever-expanding invitation. Even as we find such change life-giving, it often means letting go of past traditions. What does it mean to be flexible in faith? Service will feature an introduction … Continue reading “Flexibility of Faith”
There is a human need to simplify life’s complexities. Religion, political movements, and even fandom can fulfill this human need. Join us as together we explore what story captures our deepest commitments in life affirming ways that inspire us and others to serve the common good. View / download the Order of Service here. Question to … Continue reading “MAGA, Swifties, and Getting in Formation”
As described in a recent documentary and outlined in multiple books, for the past fifty years Christian Nationalists have been engaged in a well-organized, coordinated effort to overthrow American democracy and replace it with a theocracy. Join us as we explore the history of this ongoing crusade and its anti-democratic organizing principles. View / download … Continue reading “The Moral Minority Report”
As described in a recent documentary, the WNBA dedicated its 2020 basketball season to Black Lives Matter, and player activism had a crucial impact on the Georgia senate race. Join us as we look to the WNBA as a model for Beloved Community and inspiration for principled engagement in our democracy. Question to Ponder: “How are … Continue reading “The Power of the Dream” or A W from the W
In the study of sacred geometry, certain shapes hold special meanings. As today’s worship leader, Judy Robison will consider the significance of circles as a symbol of wholeness, balance and unity, and how circles relate to the cycles of life. (Note: This is not a circle dance program.) Question to Ponder: “ What emotions do … Continue reading “Circles and Sacred Geometry”
In the heat of summer, the first wheat harvest takes place, and we celebrate this gift by offering thanks for grain in all its forms, and by holding a bake sale to feed those who would otherwise do without. Question to Ponder: “How important is grain in our everyday lives?” View / download the Order of Service … Continue reading “Lammas, the Gift of Grain”
For this service, we will be exercising our democratic values by voting on service elements that will create a “Choose Your Own Adventure” experience. Voting is our burden and privilege as citizens and Unitarian Universalists. Question to Ponder: “Do you ever feel that you’ve been paralyzed by the number of choices offered to you?” View … Continue reading “The Tyranny of Choice”
Alexander Hamilton’s vision for America, rooted in strong central governance and economic innovation, is deeply relevant today as we navigate issues of federal power, civil rights, and economic opportunity. Is the American experiment still true to Hamilton’s vision? Question to Ponder: “Do you think our American experiment, Democracy, promotes our well-being or deepens our suffering?” … Continue reading “Alexander Hamilton: Visionary of the American Experiment”
