Messages

Message: “The Merits of Privileging Joy” from Rabbi Shira Freidlin

A message from the monthly “Play.” Rabbi Shira is our 2022-2023 Honored Guest Teacher. Each year of developmental ministry, Rev. Jeremiah has brought one teacher from the broader community to lead worship that enhances our multi-religious inclusion and/or anti-racism and counter oppressive efforts.

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Message: “Faith in Action” from James Witker

A message from the monthly “Play.” Why is social justice work so deeply intertwined with identity and congregational life for Unitarian Universalists, and has it always been so? Let’s reflect on the life and legacy of James Luther Adams, the 20th Century’s most influential Unitarian thinker and theologian. JLA’s thought was informed by war, social upheaval, and a never-ending search for truth and meaning. As a minister, professor, and community activist, he mentored generations of liberal religious leaders and helped UUs see an intimate connection between faith and action.

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Message: “Greening Power of Life” from Rev. Liz Murphy

A message from the monthly “Play.” Nature has much to teach us. How might Hildegard of Bingen’s spiritual teaching of viriditas reignite all that’s blossoming in our lives? How might the creative, greening power of truth spur us toward new ways of understanding ourselves and one another? This Sunday we will explore viriditas together.

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Message: “Love is the Spirit of this Church” from Rev. Michael Walker

A message from the monthly “Play.” Starting with a popular affirmation used by many UU churches, “Love is the Spirit of this Church,” Rev. Mike looks for wisdom beyond rote recitation, an understanding of service as a spiritual practice, a spirit that encompasses and expands the church community, and a love beyond words.

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Message: “Our Ministry of All the People” from Rev. Jeremiah Lal Shahbaz Kalendae

A message from the monthly “Delight.” Join us for our annual service celebrating our many volunteers and lay congregational leaders! We’ve accomplished so much together this first year emerging from the pandemic, and it is time for us to step back, take a breath, reflect, and honor the contributions of our many members and friends. All are encouraged to stay after the service for our Annual Meeting. Your participation is crucial to our democratic practice.

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Message: “Crafting a Daily Practice” from Rev. Jeremiah Lal Shahbaz Kalendae

A message from the monthly “Creativity.” What might it be like to craft a daily spiritual practice to welcome more centeredness, inspiration, equanimity, clarity, and love into your life? Where would you begin? We will explore some of the ingredients, exercises, and forms one might adopt on the journey to more deeply practicing a Unitarian Universalist spiritual life.

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Message: “The Mother of Invention” from Rev. Dr. Kikanza Nuri-Robins

A message from the monthly “Creativity.” It has been said that creativity is the Mother of Invention. What happens when you apply the principles of creative thinking to your spiritual practices, problem-solving, or group dynamics? Making something beautiful and functional often requires that we color outside of the lines.

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Message: “Women’s Liberation and Flower Communion” from Rev. Jeremiah Lal Shahbaz Kalendae

A message from the monthly “Creativity.” The liberal religious tradition catalyzed women’s liberation since its inception. What makes our spiritual heritage different from other religious movements in this regard? I was invited to reflect upon this question with the Beverly Hills Bar Association last month. Join us as we explore women’s liberation in UU history, culture, and theology. In honor of Mother’s Day, we will celebrate the tradition of Flower Communion this Sunday! Each person is encouraged to bring a special flower for the chancel ceremony and then return home with another unique flower from the congregation. Please bring one with you to church!

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