Northlake Unitarian Universalist Church: Recent Episodes
Northlake Unitarian Universalist Church
Sermons from Northlake Unitarian Universalist in Kirkland, WA. We are a progressive, inclusive community made up of people with many different backgrounds and beliefs. We are guided by moral principles, such as the belief in the inherent worth and dignity of all people, and we draw inspiration from many sources, such as history, science, literature, the arts, nature, and world religions. Services are held Sunday mornings, 10:25 - 11:45. We invite you to listen to any of these sermons as a sampling of what you might experience on a Sunday morning at Northlake. Our services are also filled with instrumental music, singing hymns together, listening to a children’s story and inspirational readings, and sharing of our Joys and Sorrows.
We will explore how creative imagination transforms us as people and as a community. Embracing change, exploring possibility is restorative and life-affirming.
We talk of justice as a core value, but whose justice are we addressing? Modern liberatory theologies challenge many of the traditional theologies we are comfortable with. The recording opens with the Northlake choir performing “There is More Love Somewhere” and ends with “Freedom is Coming.”
This year begins an election year, with a real threat to democracy. Rev. Nancy will talk about the role the church has in defending democracy from the pulpit and within the congregation.
The Unitarian Universalist Association is evaluating Article 2 of their bylaws. The Commission developed a statement saying “The purpose of the Unitarian Universalist Association is to actively engage its members in the transformation of the world through liberating Love… Love is the power that holds us together and is at the center of our shared values.” Let us talk about the theology of love and then the practice of love.
This episode features several of the elements you might find at a Northlake multi-generational service. It begins with a story from Rev. Nancy, titled “Oriented x3.” Then Dave leads us as we sing Hymn 1003, “Where Do We Come From?” Then Nancy tells us about the UUA Action Center. Hymn 1014 “Answering the Call of Love.” Margaret tells the story of Martha Sharp. We engage in a spiritual practice of blowing bubbles. Musical Response: “Healing Is Possible.” Reading: ”Side With Love” by Lisa Friedman – read by Nancy, Margaret, and Mariana. Hymn 1056, “Be Ours A Religion” Benediction: “To Serve, To Grow and to Love” by Kent McKusick
The Northlake vision is that we light a beacon for love & justice. We will explore how the UUA faith is a beacon, and what we might do at Northlake to shine our light in the world.
In the busy-ness of our lives we get focused on completing tasks and meeting obligations. This may distract us from those things that are deeply important to our lives. We will explore how we can reorient ourselves toward what deepens our hearts and spirits.
Excerpts from our Music Sunday Service. Pieces include: Hymn #123 “Spirit of Life” arr. Mark Freundt; Choir – “Welcome Table” arr. Mark Hayes; Choir – “I’ve Been in the Storm So Long” by Jeffrey Ames; alto soloist – Sarah Grant; Poem – “I am in Need of Music” by Elizabeth Bishop; Offertory Music – Klavierstück D. 946 no 1 in E flat minor by Schubert played by Maria Khavin; Choir – “Agnus Dei” From Mass for String Orch. & Piano by Steve Dobrogosz; Choir – “I Know I’ve Been Changed” arr. D. Dandridge; alto soloist – Sarah Grant; Benediction – “As We Listen to the Blessing of Music” by Maureen Killoran; Youth Orchestra – “Ashokan Farewell” Jay Ungar, with additional words by Melissa Ahern; alto soloist – Cyndy Jones
This recording opens with a reading of “Yes, I Want To Live In A Welfare State” by Paul Stephan Dodenhoff. Then a sermon by Rev. Nancy Reid-McKee: There is growing awareness of a housing shortage. There are increasing number of people without a home, and people unable to afford what housing is coming available. Is there a way we can use the resources we have as a congregation to address this?
One of the core values of our faith is democracy, and the right for us to have a say in how we are governed and led. But how well is the traditional democratic process working? And are there other ways for us to participate in decision making. We will explore this further. A sermon from Rev. Nancy Reid-McKee
Northlake’s Integrated Justice Team has completed the recommendations of ways we can make sure we live into our values. Part of this involved exploring the need for reconciliation and reparation. We will focus on the case for reparation, and what that might look like. – Sermon by Rev. Nancy Reid-McKee
The sermon from our 2022 In-Gathering and Water Communion. Nancy share stories of lessons learned rafting the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon. Including the importance of leaning in close when the waters of life are turbulent. Other elements of the in-gathering service are in a separate recording.
This recording includes elements from our In-Gathering service for fall of 2022 – the beginning of our church year. The recording begins with a chalice lighting. Then Margaret Rogers, our Director of Lifespan Religious Education, leads a community ritual, blessing the backpacks of our school children and all the other ways we all carry things out into the world. Then Rev. Nancy Reid-McKee leads the water communion ceremony, where Northlakers share the gifts they bring to our community this year. We end with a reading titled I Say It Touches Us By Marni Harmony (adapted) and the Benediction. The sermon for this day, “River Rafting Lesson: Lean In” is on a separate recording.
Opening Words from Rev. Gretchen Haley. Sermon by Rev. Nancy Reid-McKee: The recently leaked draft opinion from the Supreme Court has startled and angered many who have worked for body rights and freedom. Today we will explore our religious response to reproductive justice and how we affirm each holy body.
Our country was founded and financed through the forced labor of enslaved people. This has been perpetuated by policies and enforcement practices that still exist, causing damage that seems insurmountable. How do we begin to repair the damage done to the country and to the souls of our people? Can we even imagine reparation? The sermon by Rev. Nancy Reid-McKee is followed by a reading from “Time For The Work” by Rev. Theresa Soto.
We honor Climate Justice Month that begins March 22nd (World Water Day) and ends on Earth Day. This Sunday we will focus on the last of our six sources of wisdom: Earth Based Wisdom. Recording opens with a spiritual practice on being present in nature. Then a reading from Starhawk, followed by our choir performing Blue Boat Home. Nancy’s sermon is part of her on-going series on the Six Sources of Unitarian Universalism.
Part of our work in the world is to undo the white supremacy culture we exist in, yet many of us can’t identify or admit to this notion. This is a crucial part of undoing a racist system, and a first step in the work of this congregation becoming part of the anti-racist church. Recording opens with a chalice lighting written by by Erika Hewitt, then a Time for All Ages story by Margaret Rogers, then Rev. Nancy’s sermon. From 1/16/22
The fourth source that our UU faith draws on is the Judeo-Christian tradition. We will explore what this faith offers to us in how we live and believe. From the 6 Sources series by Rev. Nancy Reid-McKee. [Recording begins with Opening Words adapted from “It Will Be Enough” by Elizabeth Mount. Opening Words adapted from “It Will Be Enough” by Elizabeth Mount]
This was the third sermon in Rev. Nancy’s review of the six sources that UU’s base our faith on. This source is: “The Wisdom of the world’s religions which inspire us in our ethical and spiritual life.”
Values-based Investing as a Religious Practice: It is not polite to talk about the money we have, but there does need to be a time of personal introspection about it. As U.S. citizens we invest money in companies, but may have no idea how our capital may be used. This service we will talk about investing in what we value, and making sure we are not supporting companies that violate our basic morality. [Episode opens with a reading from Lynne Twist in her book The Soul of Money.]
One source of holy inspiration comes from the words and actions of everyday people who live in the world. This could be a poet, and farmer, someone incarcerated, an eleven years old. There are things people do that inspire generations. These prophetic words and deeds are the Second Source that we, as Unitarian Universalists, use to inspire and guide us. This is from a sermon series on the Six Sources of Unitarian Universalism, by Rev. Nancy Reid-McKee. From 11/21/21
Recording opens with Maria Khavin playing Autumn Rose by E. Cortazar. Reading: “Awe and Wonder” Anonymous. Sermon theme: “First Source: Direct experience of that transcending mystery and wonder, affirmed in all cultures, which moves us to a renewal of the spirit and an openness to the forces which create and uphold life.” Recording ends with Improvisation ( after Edith Piaf) by F. Poulenc.
Recording Begins with hymn “Come Yet Again Come.” Reading: “Our Faith” by Rosemary Bray McNatt. Sermon theme: Our UU church is only one of the thousands of separate churches across the nation. And we are supported by multiple organizations, associations and groups that, together, can support and nourish the work our small church does. Today we will look at the large picture of the Unitarian Universalist universe, so we can learn about what we are part of! Recording ends with Eleanor Rigby by P. McCartney, played by Maria Khavin.
Recording begins with Meditation on Breathing. Followed by a spiritual practice – “I am Here Now”. Rev. Nancy summarizes her sermon theme: “We each seek to have a deeper and richer life, but wonder what practices can help us in our spiritual development. We will explore how mind, body, heart and spirit practices are all part of an integral, transformative life practice.” Recording ends with Maria Khavin playing Autumn Waltz by T. Max.
Freedom Day or Juneteenth, as it is best known, is a holiday celebrating the emancipation of African Americans who had been enslaved in the United States. We are joined by Rev. Anthony Mtuaswa Johnson, Mississippi born, and Chicago bred, is an Ordained Unitarian Universalist Minister, speaker, writer, poet, producer, soldier, teacher, mentor and Elder. His sermon will share the history of this recognition of the date slavery was officially outlawed in the state of Texas and the meaning of freedom in the context of today’s time of racial reckoning and reconciliation.[Recording opens with a reading of “In the midst of a world” By Rebecca Parker, followed by a hymn of the Coleman Banks translation of the Sufi poet, Rumi. “Come, Come, Whoever You Are”.]
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Opens with a reading from A Drop in the Bucket by Gordan McKeeman, then our choir sings There is a Love, then Nancy speaks in honor of Volunteer Recognition Sunday. “Church is run by those who find meaning and community in volunteer association with others. This type of activity can create unexpected connection within and between ourselves. Today we will talk about why we volunteer, and then honor those who give themselves to the work of this church community.”
Begins with a story by Margaret Rogers – Making Community Soup. Then Jaie leads a hymn by Lyndsey Watson. Then Rev. Nancy speaks: “There is a difference between inviting someone TO a dance, and inviting them to DANCE. How do we move from invitation to inclusion? From wanting to look good by having the right people coming to church, to being good by embracing people. As we talk about our doors and windows, we will explore how we invite folk into our beloved community.” Ends with Maria playing Gentle Waltz by T. Maxim.
In honor of those who nurture others, you will hear a Call to Worship, hymn From You I Receive, a Blessing, the original “Mother’s Day Proclamation” By Julia Ward Howe, then stories from three mothers/daughters, Janet, Heather, and Nancy. The recording ends with the hymn Let it be a dance we do.
Opens with a reading of “Thresholds” by Arlen Goff. Then Rev. Nancy reflects on: How do you move through doors? Have you ever pondered this question? Thresholds and doors are very symbolic about how we move through life and how we enter new times in our life. This week’s sermon will focus on how we deal with the in-between moments of our lives that can offer the most insight and growth potential.
In the books we read, and movies we watch, we find mirrors – experiences that reflect our own, and windows – views into lives we can barely imagine. Representation is important – all people should be able to find mirrors and we should all be able to peek into all sorts of different lived experiences. If we actively seek out diverse stories, not only do we broaden our perspectives, we also cast an economic vote that helps to increase the chances those stories can be told. Opening Words adapted from “Let Us Worship” – Kenneth L. Patton. Reading “On Seeing Yourself in Literature” from the “Off the Beaten Shelf” blog by Mandy Shunnarah. Transcript with links to sources: https://janelledurham.com/2021/04/28/representation-in-media/. Resource list, including recommended books and movies, and criteria to evaluate the media you consume is available at: https://janelledurham.com/2021/04/24/seeking-out-diverse-media/
In the books we read, and movies we watch, we find mirrors - experiences that reflect our own, and windows - views into lives we can barely imagine. Representation is important - all people should be able to find mirrors and we should all be able to peek into all sorts of different lived experiences. If we actively seek out diverse stories, not only do we broaden our perspectives, we also cast an economic vote that helps to increase the chances those stories can be told. Opening Words adapted from "Let Us Worship” - Kenneth L. Patton. Reading “On Seeing Yourself in Literature” from the “Off the Beaten Shelf” blog by Mandy Shunnarah. Transcript with links to sources: https://janelledurham.com/2021/04/28/representation-in-media/. Resource list, including recommended books and movies, and criteria to evaluate the media you consume is available at: https://janelledurham.com/2021/04/24/seeking-out-diverse-media/
In this sermon, guest preacher Ariel Aaronson-Eves invites us to reflect on how we relate to the world around us and the various traditions that have connected or disconnected people from the land and its creatures. What healing becomes possible when we open ourselves up to communicating with even the most pesky of yellowjacket wasps? What kind of counter-oppressive culture might be created through relationships of reciprocity within our ecosystems? (Recording includes a reading by Emily Kedar.)
Long-time Northlaker Diane Fennema speaks about practicing compassion in the times of coronavirus. This homily was given as part of our virtual service on Zoom on 3/29/20.
Hard times come around for all of us. Some people get knocked down by challenges and never recover. Some are more resilient, and can bounce back to where they started. Some rise like a phoenix from the ashes – stronger than ever before. How can we build resilience in ourselves, each other, and our communities? What protective factors create the safety nets that catch us when we fall, and launch us back up onto our feet? Speaker: Janelle Durham
Integrity can be defined as a sense of wholeness and authenticity. But what does wholeness and authenticity look like in a world that often appears fractured and demands conformity? Join us as our guest preacher, Raphaelle Mills Warner, MDiv, explores this topic.
Recording of the Christmas Eve Services at Northlake UU in Kirkland, WA: Christmas Carol Medley, played by Maria (0 – 8:20); Joy to the World, Candle Lighting, O Come… (8:20 – 14:30); The No Rehearsal Xmas pageant (14:30 – 31:20); Carols, Readings and Offering (31:20 – 44); Homily by Rev. Nancy Reid-McKee – Take Time for Awe (44 – 50:40); Carols and Readings (50:40 – 1:00).
Reverend Nancy McKee's description of her message: "Instead of dying and going to heaven, our work is to recognize that we are already in heaven and to act accordingly. We will explore what we expect from heaven." Recording opens with a reading “Prophets of a Future Not Our Own” by Bishop Ken Untener, followed by the Northlake choir performing "Look Around", an original composition by our Music Director David Duvall.
Veteran, artist and Northlake member Trish Brownlee explores the narrative of “Thank you for service.” This deep and challenging service asks others to have a spirit of curiosity, even when the questions result in answers that are difficult to hear or see. Through artwork and ... read more.
As humans we long to be made whole. As a religious community we work together to bring healing and nurturing to each other and the world, with the goal of becoming more complete and healthy. - Sermon by Nancy Reid-McKee, candidate for minister at Northlake.
Sermon: "Holy Wanderings: Lessons Learned from Walking in Circles" Walk through the wanderings of the Israelites in the desert with Rabbi Yohanna Kinberg. Lessons gleaned from 40 years of communal meanderings and mistakes in reaching a promised land.
Bridging the Gap to the World is a featured part of Northlake's journey. In this time of reflection we will consider the path that has led this covenanted congregation to reach out to the world with an open heart and open mind, searching for love as we seek to build love in the hearts of those we meet. Lessons for Life from Rev. Jim VanderWeele
Looking into the future has always fascinated people. The earliest artifacts from Chinese pre-history are the inscribed "oracle bones". We will look at three relatively recent eras, the 1890's with writers predicting optimistic and hopeful times to come, the "between the wars" period culminating in the "World of the Future" theme of the New York World's Fair, and the now ironic "post war" period, with its more sober predictions of "Silent Spring", "1984", and the various "limits to growth" including repercussions of global warming. Our challenge is to recognize and work to meet these challenges of the "future." Speaker - Northlake Member, Carl Schwartz
The name "Isa" is the Arabic equivalent of "Jesus." The 19th Surah of the Koran features Isa's birth as seen and experienced by Mary, his mother. The sounds of the season, drawn from Christian Scriptures, will merge with a Muslim story in an interfaith viewing of Christmas Eve.
Ralph Waldo Emerson's words led to this service, "Let us learn the revelation of all nature and thought: that the highest dwells within us..." Unitarian Universalists have, over the years, come to the realization that the birth of every child is a miracle. Together, we will celebrate this mysterious miracle, the precious breath of life, on the day before Christmas Eve. Rev. Jim VanderWeele speaks. Opens with a meditation “In This Spirit of Searching” Rev. Joan Javier-Duval, and readings from Sophia Lyon Fahs.
As Unitarian Universalists, we draw inspiration from six rich sources. Inspiration doesn’t always unfold as we expect. Melody Moberg, Life-long Unitarian Universalist seminarian and Religious Education Director (at University Unitarian), shares ways Christian and Hindu teachings cracked open her concept of the divine.
George Orwell’s novel 1984 was written in 1949. It was set 35 years in to the future, hence the title, 1984. It predicts a dark future with an all pervasive “Big Brother” powerfully controlling all aspects of life. Orwell posits a continual state of war, to use up surplus manufacturing capability and point public concern away from domestic politics, and the state’s total control over the means of communication and information. This moved to changing past records to conform with present leader pronouncements, to which there are some uncomfortable analogies today. However we, not just at Northlake, but in our local Kirkland community, and indeed across America, can heed Orwell’s warnings and can, and do, work for a much more positive, open, and enriching society. Also, a future that is guided by not the least of our affirmations but by all the positive values already in place in our community and nation. Speaker: Northlake member, Carl Schwartz
Many causes and groups, many programs need assistance. But what can you do? How can you best offer your support? And also avoid overdoing it. In this social justice message on perseverance we consider the importance of balance, of joy, and of maintaining a deep sense of one’s inner needs and boundaries. We look at a method that reaches out as it also reaches in. Speaker: Jim VanderWeele, Northlake's Interim minister
Rev. Jim examines “Outwitted,” a poem by Edwin Markham for its view of an open mind, open heart, open borders, and an open life, allowing Markham’s push for a better way to bring us to a better relationship with our Earth. Speaker: Jim VanderWeele, Northlake's interim minister
Reverend Jim enters the Northlake pulpit with a story about himself and his ministry as viewed through his once-in-a-lifetime visit to the academy where Rumi taught poetry, philosophy, and twirling–now known as Rumi’s tomb. Come, come, whoever you are to an hour of worship and awe. Speaker: Rev. Jim VanderWeele, Northlake's interim minister
Is Unitarian Universalism more than those bright yellow shirts with the L-O-V-E letters across the front? Are we deeper than being on the front lines of justice-seeking? What is at the core of who we are? What guides/motivates/sustains us? If we peel away the d-i-y, believe-anything-you-want perceptions, is there a common core that is deeply spiritual, profoundly human, and able to transform the world – and us? Speaker: Rev. Dr. Marian Stewart, Northlake's minister from 2009 - 2017.