Memory and Meaning
Watch the Video (YouTube link) On Memorial Day weekend, our thoughts inevitably turn to the causes and consequences of war. When we think of those who have died in service to our country, is our responsibility simply to remember them? Or do we have a larger responsibility to give their deaths meaning? If a family member died in active military service, you're invited to wear a black armband in their memory. Special music by Barb Martin
Life as Jazz
Watch the Video (YouTube link) Jazz has a quality of unpredictability even though it follows a recognizable pattern. What is it about the jazz musician that allows for the artistry of jazz? What attitudes and skills that make for good jazz might also make us better at the improvisation Life sometimes requires? Join Rev. Jennifer and pianist Bruce Martin as they creatively explore this jazzy metaphor. Special music by Bell Ave. Ringers
Embracing the Millipede
Watch the Video (YouTube link) In our world, the wide diversity of religious tradition and practice too often is the basis for division. Unitarian Universalism encourages us to see religious diversity as an opportunity to be open and curious about other religious traditions. This month's worship theme, "Emergence," asks us to consider not only the ways in which our own beliefs define the immanent, but also how we can emerge from the cocoon of our assumptions and open to the full diversity of Life.
Body & Soul
Watch the Video (YouTube link) The emergence of buds and flowers after the cold of winter vividly reminds us of life’s ability to renew itself, body and soul. This Sunday is Easter in the Christian tradition—but the story of resurrection is more nuanced and complex than convention may suggest. The oldest traditions of Judaism and Christianity offer diverse ideas about the relationship between body and soul, ideas that resonate with the questions of today's spiritual seekers.
Hearing with the Heart
9:15 & 11 am Celebrant: Martha Shen In every encounter with another human being, there’s an opportunity to listen -- to go deep; to forge, even briefly, an authentic connection. To help illustrate the balance that’s necessary if we’re to hear with the heart, Bruce Martin and a small vocal group will contribute to Rev. Jen’s sermon with culturally distinct versions of the song, “The Sloop John B.“ The blend of prose, poetry, and music is, in itself, emblematic of balance.
A Tale of Tenacity
9:15 & 11 am In this service for all ages, we share a tale of tenacity: the story of Esther. This true story is the centerpiece of the Jewish celebration of Purim, which this year begins on February 28. In many ways Esther was a true superhero: a seemingly ordinary person who saved many lives through her persistence and courage. Today we consider how our own narratives intersect with this tale of tenacity.
Let My People Go
Watch the Video (YouTube link) What does liberation require? How can we live fully, freely (and responsibly) in a way that brings meaning to our lives—in a way that encourages and supports others who also seek meaning and purpose? How can we persevere in dismantling the barriers that separate us from who we aspire to be? Whatever holds us back (theology? enculturated assumptions? sheer crankiness?) it's time to let go—and claim our own liberation.
Promise and Practice
Watch the Video (YouTube link) What would it be like if our UU worship service centered entirely around the voices and the experiences of black Unitarian Universalists? What truths might we hear, however difficult? What might we learn? How might these UU leaders of color teach us to be better allies, better companions in our shared faith, and even better citizens in our community? As part of First Unitarian's commitment to embrace the presence and leadership of people of color, during this Sunday service we speak and sing in the voices of UUs of color. Together we practice; together we live into the promise of a new way of being. Today's offering will (with the knowledge and support of our regular Faith in Action partner Family Promise) help to fund Black Lives UU. If we meet the threshold of $10 per member, our contribution will be matched dollar-for-dollar.
Create the Vision
Watch the Video (YouTube link) A unique opportunity of the interim time is to explore the congregation’s own vision of its values, mission and vision. As we begin this process here at First Unitarian, Rev. Jennifer Brooks shares her insights from companioning other UU congregations through this process. Seeing that vision emerge from the shared light of all members is, she says, ”one of most moving and inspirational experiences of my life.” Share Your Light, Create Our Vision
Share the Light
Watch the Video (YouTube link) Joining us over the weekend of this service is Rev. Janne Eller-Isaacs, our ministerial search transition coach, along with Rev. Jen Crow. After each service, Rev. Janne will hold open meetings to share information about the search process for our new settled senior minister. This purpose intersects beautifully with January’s Soul Matters theme exploring how we are called to be a people of intention. Setting personal intentions is a spiritual act that can shape our living. Setting collective intentions is a spiritual act that can transform a congregation and the wider community. In these services, guest minister, Rev. Jen Crow and Rev. Erin will speak to the power of love and ministry that is unleashed when a congregation re-imagines their shared intention for vision and mission. May we be inspired for the Connections Parties in February, when we will share our individual light to create the vision for our collective future.