Messages

A message from the monthly “Grace.” When a system is destabilized, overcommunication is necessary, and we tend to do the opposite. When there is a conflict in expectations or a clash of values, we tend to rely on rules and policies, rather than leaning into the values that undergird our relationship. When the environment is uncomfortable, we often flee to the margins, or grab our toys and leave for good. Come. Let’s talk about it. Let’s explore the challenging and the uncomfortable to find the spaces where we can learn and grow. What are the non-negotiable rules that frame your life? The Rev. Dr. Kikanza Nuri-Robins, preaching. Chela Metzger, worship associate.

A message from the monthly “Grace.” Explore the profound potential within each of us to build and sustain meaningful relationships, even amidst our differences and disappointments.

We are honored to welcome the Rev. Angeline C. Jackson to our pulpit. She is a Unitarian Universalist Minister, an accomplished author, a transformational coach, and a sought-after speaker dedicated to empowering individuals on their journey toward personal growth and emotional well-being.

A message from the monthly “Renewal.” Heaven and Hell are often used to describe what happens after life. This morning we will explore the idea of an afterlife and why it is so important to some people. The question to ponder is this: How does your understanding of Afterlife, inform your Daily Living?

A message from the monthly “Renewal.” Beloved Community in the liberal religious tradition is what we are all called to nurture with our time, talents, resources, and loving care. Join us for our annual service celebrating our volunteer leaders from across the life of the congregation and our professional staff. We have accomplished much and work remains as we live further into our ideal for ourselves, our congregation, and our world. Our Annual Meeting of the Congregation will follow the service and all are encouraged to attend. Rev. Jeremiah Lal Shahbaz Kalendae, preaching. Rev. Dr. Kikanza Nuri-Robins, consulting minister.

A message from the monthly “Renewal.” Strategic planning is a process that most organizations use to clarify their values, affirm their mission, and align their work with their values. What if people did the same thing? Routinely? When was the last time you assessed the WHY of your existence? What might result from an intentional walk into your future?

A message from the monthly “Renewal.” Our congregation made history when Rev. Ernie Pipes blessed a queer marriage in 1959! We’ve come a long way in the subsequent six decades with Unitarian Universalist congregations often leading the queer liberation movement while other religious traditions remained oppressive. There is still much to be accomplished in our time as we continue to queer life on our journey of collective liberation for all.

A message from the monthly “Pluralism.” We join with Unitarian Universalist congregations across the country and around the globe in honoring the annual Flower Communion ceremony. This ceremony created by the Rev. Norbert Čapek of Prague, Czechoslovakia, and introduced to the United States by his partner Rev. Mája Čapek helps us to celebrate beauty, nature, human uniqueness, diversity, and beloved community. Please bring a flower or two with you to share with the congregation this morning.

A message from the monthly “Pluralism.” Life is complicated, and sometimes confusing. When we try to oversimplify things, we lose the nuances and subtleties that often make the biggest differences. In the Western World, we are taught to think rationally, logically and in a binary fashion. Often, however, the answer to the question, is it this or is it that, is yes. Come and reflect on the value of resting in ambiguity. What might we learn from the Paradoxes of the East? Rev. Kikanza Nuri-Robins, preaching. Dr. Susan Hendricks, worship associate.

A message from the monthly “Pluralism.” Angels, bodhisattvas, and other heavenly beings appear in many of the world’s diverse religions. From celestial helpers to enlightened beings, they appear again and again in different forms in the sacred stories and myths of humanity. What might we have to learn from these ancient narratives and wisdom? Join us as we explore these questions and others on this Mother’s Day and in honor of the celebration of birth of the Buddha later in the week.

A message from the monthly “Pluralism.” This worship service is designed to celebrate our students’ Coming of Age journey and allow them the chance to share about their discoveries. The CoA Youth have designed and will lead this service. The Coming of Age Class (Becoming/Soul Matters) is a crucial part of the Unitarian Universalist community web because it encapsulates the UU quest for spiritual growth and curiosity. It builds curiosity and compassion in young people as they embark on their own understanding of themselves and the world, while facilitating strong bonds with each other and their leaders.