Reflections on Advent.

As the culture changes all around us, congregations are changing, too – not least of all in how authority is exercised and trust is built, plus who is leading the way into the future. The roles of Minister, Board, staff and volunteers look quite different now than even a decade ago. How shall we, together, … Continue reading “Collaborative Ministry (Really?)”

Veterans of military service in our country are celebrated – officially, at least. The stories they bring with them into the rest of their lives are not always welcome, however, in this society that would rather not pay attention to the realities of war. Come hear a few of those stories.

Cultures define what is normal and what is not – whose voices dominate, what ideas are more important than others. And, it is possible to expand the edges of the circles we live within to include ideas and values that are right nearby but too often unseen. This morning we will highlight the Society’s connection … Continue reading “Widening the Circle”

Some communities and traditions we are born into; others we choose to join, and sometimes even help to lead. What does it mean to “belong” to a congregation? Some reflections on the ways life has of calling us into becoming the persons we are meant to be.

Origin stories about how “America” came to be have enormous impact on culture, norms, and even laws that define who belongs here. But different peoples have different stories, and it’s past time for us to hold a larger truth. Honoring Indigenous Peoples Day.

The Jewish traditions of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur celebrate the importance of restoring balance to life by practicing forgiveness. Is it always right to ask forgiveness from those we have harmed, or forgiving those who have harmed us? Do rituals of atonement have something to teach us?

September is a time of crisp days, brilliant colors, and returning energy: a season for new ventures, new semesters and getting ready for the winter that will test us. It is also perhaps a season to strengthen our spirits. What I learned from celebrating Michaelmas.

Where did Unitarian Universalism come from – and where are we headed? Some say that UUism is no longer a religion, but something else entirely. Reflections on how the story of our liberal / progressive religious tradition intertwines with the nation’s history, and our role at this pivotal moment.