UU Church of Annapolis Podcast: Recent Episodes
UUCA-md.org
In a fast-paced world, it can be easy to mistake the noise and demands of daily life for ultimate reality. In this message, UUCA Vice President and Lay Worship Leader Ruthie Bowles explores the tension between our everyday distractions and the deeper oneness that connects all of creation. Through poetry, sacred text, and personal reflection, we'll consider how naming the moments of our days—while honoring the boundless mystery beyond our knowing—can help us stay awake to the sacred, grounded in wonder, and connected to the whole.
Rev. John, along with UUCA members, shares insights, joys and sorrows from the Scotland pilgrimage.
Unitarian minister Curtis Reese, a co-founder of the American Humanist Association, called humanism "the religion of democracy" for a reason: the radical conviction that truth, morality, and power do not rightly reside in an external source, but in us. What would it look like to believe in our neighbors with the same kind of reverence that others reserve for a deity?
As part of Good Trouble Lives On weekend, join UUCA member and Executive Director of the American Humanist Association, Fish Stark, as we celebrate the legacy of Rep. John Lewis through this love letter to democracy — weaving together history, philosophy, psychology, and theology to lay out a blueprint for how UUs, humanists, and anyone who believes in people can lean into the fight against authoritarianism, feed our fire of commitment, and defend the sacred principle that people are worth believing in.
Drawing from the writings of UU theologian James Luther Adams, Rev. Judith Morris explores how our assumptions about the word God can sometimes keep us from recognizing the sacred. What if those who reject religion are often responding to too small a definition of the divine?
Dr. Scott Eden describes a worldview called Cosmic Dynamism, which emphasizes the importance of community, relationships and our power to create positive social change.
What does membership mean, at first and through the decades? We want to honor the act of committing to a community of faith. This episode, several UUCA members share stories, music, and reflections about their journey with UUCA.
Join us as Rev. Fred explores a timely question: What does it mean to be a patriot? With the 250th anniversary of our nation's founding approaching, conversations about patriotism are everywhere but do we all mean the same thing when we use the word? Together, we'll reflect on patriotism, belonging, and the values that shape our civic and spiritual lives.
In this Memorial Day Weekend service, Rev. Dayna Edwards invites us into wisdom through shared ritual and reflection. In this service we gather to reflect on memory, remembrance, and the stories that shape us. We honor those we have lost, especially those lost to war.
Missed Sunday's inspiring Coming of Age service? Our youth shared powerful personal credos—deep reflections on the beliefs, values, and experiences shaping their lives. Their honesty, wisdom, and courage moved our community deeply. Listen now to witness their journeys and celebrate the voices of the next generation.
In this sermon, Rev. John explores the tension between what changes and what endures. Drawing on the theme of "the transients and the permanents," this message invites us to reflect on how we find grounding, meaning, and even faith in a world shaped by uncertainty and unpredictability.
Back by popular demand, Rev. John re-shares his powerful April sermon on transformation and hope. In a time when so much feels like it's burning, this message reminds us that fire doesn't just destroy—it refines, awakens, and calls us to courageous change within ourselves and the world we share.
Cindy Atlee invites us to talk about a surprising root cause of many troubles in our world today through her message, The Worst Thing We Ever Did. Join Cindy Atlee to explore how an awakened brain and spiritual consciousness--along with the core UU values of interdependence and transformation--can shape an evolutionary way forward and change how we live together.
In this special episode, Rev. Anthony Jenkins, Lead Minister of Paint Branch Unitarian Universalist Church and U.S. Navy Chaplain delivers the Homily for the ordination of Rev. Ryan McCray Ely Offered in the spirit of joy, calling, and community, this message reflects on the sacred journey to ministry, the relationships that sustain it, and the deep commitment to faith and service at its core. Whether you were present for this meaningful celebration or are joining us now, we invite you to listen, reflect, and be inspired by this moment of dedication and hope.
On the occasion of his ordination, Ryan McCray Ely returns from Brazil to share a powerful story of transformation. Through the life of José Ramos do Nascimento, known as Traíra, Ryan invites us to reflect on our shared values of equity and growth.
Guest minister Rev. Nancy McDonald Ladd, Director of Communications and Public Ministry at the Unitarian Universalist Association delivers the sermon, A Living Prayer. The message invites us to reimagine prayer not as a task to complete, but as something woven into the fabric of our daily lives. What does it mean to "pray without ceasing" in these times? How might our shared congregational life become a living prayer, grounded in discernment, connection, and faithful movement toward the future? Join us as we explore how our lives, our community, and our faith can embody prayer in action.
In this homily from our beloved Flower Communion service, Rev. John Crestwell reflects on the beauty and meaning of all the differences that make up our shared community. Rooted in a Unitarian Universalist tradition dating back to 1923, Flower Communion invites us to celebrate diversity, connection, and renewal. As each person brings a unique flower and leaves with another, we are reminded that none of us blooms alone. Through this message, Rev. John explores what it means to honor our differences, embrace our interconnectedness, and live into the promise of love and belonging—together. 🌸
UUCA President Nicole Bruno shares a powerful message, A Sharp Refusal. Civil disobedience is rooted in the courage to say "no" to injustice. Through the stories of women in our Unitarian history who challenged slavery, exclusion, and violence, we'll explore what love, courage, and conscience ask of us today. Tune in as we ground ourselves in faith, community, and the call to live our values boldly. ✨
In this collaborative arts worship service, the UUCA Poetry Pals led us in an exploration of paying attention through poetry enriched by musical accompaniment and shared community experience. This episode showcases the service framework followed by five poems.
Rev. John reflects on the power of symbols and the ways they shape our shared spiritual life. Centered around our Blessing of the Chalices service, this message explores how simple objects can carry deep meaning, connecting us to one another and to the values we hold dear. Together, we honor the chalice as a symbol of warmth, hope, and unity in the Unitarian Universalist tradition. As we bless the chalices that hold our shared light, we renew our commitment to community, compassion, and spiritual reflection. Join us for a thoughtful reflection on how symbols help tell our story, strengthen our faith, and illuminate the path we walk together.
From the earliest days of this nation, Blackness has been cast as "other"—marginalized, feared, exploited, & resisted. Yet, within that imposed otherness lives resilience, brilliance, faith, and an unbreakable insistence on dignity. This Sunday, we explore what it means to name Blackness as the "Original Other" and why proclaiming Black Lives Matter is not a political slogan, but a moral and spiritual declaration. Together, we'll reflect on history, confront hard truths, and consider how our faith calls us to move beyond awareness into action. Join us as we deepen our commitment to justice, beloved community, and the sacred worth of every life.
What if giving isn't about obligation—but about living in alignment with our deepest values? This Sunday, together with Rev. John, we'll explore how giving becomes an expression of who we are and the loving, just world we're helping to create. Come discover what it means to say: I live to give.
HS Youth Led Service (with guidance from our Director of Lifespan Faith Formation)
HS Youth Lily Kendall asks us to honor and hold onto our childhood wonder during a powerful and inspiring Youth-Led Service centered on the theme of Resilience.
We honor our justice journey in Rev. John's message, "Anti-Trinitarian to Woke." From our roots as bold religious dissenters to today's urgent calls for justice, Unitarian Universalism has never been afraid to question, to resist, and to reimagine what's possible. Resistance isn't new for us—it's part of our spiritual DNA. Join us as we explore how our faith has always stood on the side of love, truth, and liberation—and how we're called to keep showing up. Because justice isn't a trend. It's our living tradition.
Rev. Dr. Betancourt shares a powerful message of love, connection, and Beloved Community in the face of evil. Tune in to hear reflections of resistance and resilience in the Twin Cities and be reminded how our shared faith calls us to keep showing up, marching forward TOGETHER in love and justice so that none shall be lost. We get there together, or never get there at all. 💛✊🏾
In the early months of her retirement following two decades of parish ministry, Rev. Paige Getty had been wrestling with the question of what it means to be productive in this chapter of her life. A wise guide offered an alternative, out of his Quaker tradition, suggesting that she ask instead, "Is it faithful?". In this service, Paige will reflect on what it means to be faithful, regardless of productivity, and she'll consider how we might use this question as a guide in our decision-making as individuals and faith communities, especially as we strive to embody resilience in the face of authoritarianism and oppression.
Led by Rev. Leika Lewis, this service considers the legacy of ancestors in resistance, the ways we support each other in practicing resistance today, and how we create space for growth in the midst of challenging times.
Led by Rev John Crestwell, join UUCA as we explore the mind of the man who became the moral conscience of the 21st century—and how his vision continues to actively reshape our moral narrative.
From fear to faith, from chaos to connection—learn how artificial intelligence may be the next step in humanity's spiritual evolution. Rev John delivers a hopeful vision for the age ahead.
As we step into a new year, what questions are stirring within you? In this message, Rev. John invites our Beloved Community to ask the questions that matter most to them & he responds to as many as time allows.
In this message, Rev. John tells the story of Jesus and why his message gave and gives hope when taken in proper context.
In a season that urges us to rush and perform joy, join us for a gentle, reflective service that embraces the pace of the heart and the presence we so often forget to notice. Service led by Nicole Bruno, Seminary Student & UUCA President.
The holidays are here which means—among so many other things—it's story time! I recently read a poem that begins: "it is our human tendency to think of life in terms of story arcs." (Whitney Hanson) What is the story arc you are reciting? Join me, Rev Fred, as we explore the stories we tell—and what they tell about us.
In this revised and reprised sermon, Rev. John help us remember what happiness is and why we must cultivate it even when times are hard.
Needed in all times, but especially in tumultuous ones, our values and the wisdom we identify as sacred serve as guiding lights, helping us do the next right thing. UUCA Board Member, Ruthie Bowles, delivers this powerful message that both grounds us in our values and lifts us with love.
Building on the work by Peter Block, Rev. John explores what the new religion and new America will look like in the coming years. Join the UUCA Beloved Community as, together, we look ahead in faith and connected by the shared belief that whoever you are, wherever you're from, and whomever you love - you are loved, sacred, and welcome here.
How's your Bible literacy? Biblical citations and references have been in the news lately. But how accurate they are depends on … on what? Join Rev. Fred and the UUCA Congregation as we explore uses (and misuses) of Scripture.
As we enter the Fall season, we also enter the season of forgiveness and atonement. Led by Rev. John, this service will offer a ritual for moving forward toward healing, reconciliation and restoration.
The phrase "die before you die" is attributed to the Prophet Muhammad as a famous Hadith (saying); and Muhammad Rumi, 13th-century Persian poet, Islamic scholar, and Sufi mystic also coined the phrase. Together, with Rev. John, Let's explore what this means in light of our theme this month.
In this very personal message, Rev. John reflects on death and suffering and compassion. A Poem is shared in the beginning by Rev. Dayna Edwards "The Dinner Party", then he launches into a message that will ground you if you are in a place of grief, loss or suffering. This message is a must listen for anyone who has lost someone they love.
The process of disremembering so-called “difficult knowledge" —history that makes some uncomfortable—started years ago and is now moving forward at breathtaking speed. As we move toward our nation’s 250th anniversary celebration next July 4, 2026, what do we need to remember as citizens and as Unitarian Universalists.
In this sermon, Rev. John discusses several core spiritual competencies that can provide a sense of belonging and community to anyone seeking to thrive and/or feel more grounded in life.
Have you ever tried to be radically kind? What does that even mean? Join Rev. John in examining what it means to be radically kind.
Sorrow and grief find us all. If we let it, our mourning can turn to joy, and we can learn to dance again. Not because we have forgotten what has been lost, but because we have survived. Join Traci Huges, Esq., Seminarian & Executive Director of All Souls D.C. as we learn to navigate grief with intention and a loving heart.
As he has done in past years, join Rev. John as he shares his summer learnings and updates the congregation on what to expect in the 2025-2026 church year.
We have been conditioned in this society to locate our consciousness in our brains. Yet ancient practices and spiritual traditions, as well as modern science reveal that the central mechanism of our consciousness and biological system is the heart. What happens when we follow it? Join Shana Oshiro on the journey to understanding and embracing the perceptive powers of the heart.
Join Bob Ertman to explore the three tenets of the Zen Peacemakers: Not Knowing, giving up our fixed ideas; Bearing Witness, not looking away; Right Action, the actions that should arise naturally when we really pay attention.
What can a 16th century Jewish mystic, an Episcopal priest who frequents the Burning Man Festival, and the alien from the Resident Alien sci-fi TV series teach us about brokenness and beauty? Join Cindy Atlee to find out—and why we need both to transform ourselves and change the world.
Hey good folks, your intern/summer minister Ryan McCray Ely started a really cool podcast: Spirit Punch! You can find the full unabridged version of last sunday's sermon on the Spirit Punch feed. Find Spirit Punch on Apple iTunes and Spotify or head over to www.spiritpunch.org. Remember to subscribe and tell all your people.
Exploring these concepts in the context of spiritual life at UUCA. Join Dr. Cliff Andrew, MD, Ph.D, Rev. Dr. Fred Muir and Peter Morse for local history and lively discourse.
"Trinitarian Mischief":On May 8th, weeks of speculation ended with the election of Pope Leo XIV. This was, of course, not the first time that a gathering and decision of the Roman Catholic hierarchy had been anticipated; it was just one of the many of the Catholic Church's commitments whose consequences reached far beyond its purview. One of those decisions shaped our way of faith. Join me as we explore the power and outcomes of faith choices.
What does membership mean, at first and through the decades? We want to honor the act of committing to a community of faith. Come welcome new members, hear several UUCA members share stories, music, and reflections about their journey with UUCA, and thank our Radical Hospitality Team. Led by Laura Shrank, and Melanie Keller. Wonder Box by Sarah With music by Mike Noonan
This Sunday, our congregation gathers to celebrate the sacred milestones that weave together the fabric of our shared journey. In a special Lifespan Service, we honor the blessings of our youngest members, the courageous steps of our youth, and the dedicated service of our volunteers. Sarah and Ryan are leading the service with support from Worship Leader Lisa Fleeharty. Music is by Justin Cody and the Family Choir. Join us as we honor these sacred transitions and the enduring bonds that unite us across generations. Together, we celebrate the blessings of our shared journey.
Kindness as an Act of Resistence: When those in power wield cruelty as a policy mandate, we can resist their inhumanity with intentional and meaningful kindness for ourselves and each other. We will explore several of the tenets from the book On Tyranny as we uncover the critical need for kindness as a spiritual act in these times.
Led by Rev. Fred Muir, Minister Emeritus
Join UUCA every Sunday: In-person or Zoom https://www.uuannapolis.org/ Support Us: Donate
What does a diet of joy and cheese create? One simple story and 10 lessons guide this message.
Led by Rev. John T. Crestwell Jr., Congregational Senior Minister
Join UUCA every Sunday: In-person or Zoom https://www.uuannapolis.org/ Support Us: Donate
Led by Ryan Ely, Congregational Intern Minister
Join UUCA every Sunday: In-person or Zoom https://www.uuannapolis.org/ Support Us: Donate
What does joy resistance look like? You are witnessing it all across America. Even as despair grips us there is a growing resilience and resistance that will change the social and spiritual landscape in America.
Led by Rev. John T. Crestwell Jr., Congregational Senior Minister
Join UUCA every Sunday: In-person or Zoom https://www.uuannapolis.org/ Support Us: Donate
Recently it hit me that if UUCA had any federal connections of support, we might be on a list for an audit and shut down—our existence and programs could be considered threatening and illegal! As we enter a month of joy, let's consider how hope and joy might help us to stay awake amidst the chaos and uncertainty.
Led by Rev. Fred Muir, Minister Emeritus
Join UUCA every Sunday: In-person or Zoom https://www.uuannapolis.org/ Support Us: Donate
In an uncertain world how do we trust ourselves? Lets explore the edges of self en-route to a more trusting relationship with our own mind and spirit. Join UUCA every Sunday: In-person or Zoom https://www.uuannapolis.org/ Support Us: Donate
In this collaborative arts worship service with the UUCA Poetry Pals, poems about trust will be read with musical support.
Join UUCA every Sunday: In-person or Zoom https://www.uuannapolis.org/ Support Us: Donate
In this service, we will hold on to what we value and hold true and affirm our hope for healing in ourselves and our nation.
Led by Rev. John T. Crestwell Jr., Congregational Senior Minister
Join UUCA every Sunday: In-person or Zoom https://www.uuannapolis.org/ Support Us: Donate
Stewardship Sunday: Stewardship Sunday is a sacred time to reflect on the gifts we’ve been given and how we can share them to sustain and grow our beloved community. It’s more than a call to financial commitment—it’s an invitation to deepen our faith, invest in our shared values, and ensure the vitality of our mission. Together, we can nurture hope, inspire change, and build a future rooted in generosity, love, and justice. Let’s come together to affirm our collective commitment to making a difference, both within and beyond our walls.
Join UUCA every Sunday: In-person or Zoom https://www.uuannapolis.org/ Support Us: Donate
Come learn the story of the Quilombo dos Palmares, a story of love, community and resistance against all odds. Let us call on the heroes, sheroes and ancestral spirits together!
Join UUCA every Sunday: In-person or Zoom https://www.uuannapolis.org/ Support Us: Donate
BLT is a prophetic framework that centers on the lived experiences, struggles, and resilience of Black communities. It is rooted in the Christian gospel. By exploring this powerful lens, we can deepen our understanding of racial justice and our role in creating a more inclusive, equitable, and beloved community. Join us to learn more about this theology.
Join UUCA every Sunday: In-person or Zoom https://www.uuannapolis.org/ Support Us: Donate
Join Ryan for a meeting with the genderqueer deity of the Hebrew Bible. What do they have to tell us about hospitality and immigration justice?
Join UUCA every Sunday: In-person or Zoom https://www.uuannapolis.org/ Support Us: Donate
In a world rich with diverse spiritual traditions, what happens when we look beyond the boundaries of a single path and embrace the common threads that connect us all? Join us as we explore how integration can lead to a richer, more meaningful spiritual life.
Join UUCA every Sunday: In-person or Zoom https://www.uuannapolis.org/ Support Us: Donate
Lets see what Brer Rabbit, the chief trickster of African American folklore, has to tell us about vibrant survival, through exploration of his complicated history with America.
Join UUCA every Sunday: In-person or Zoom https://www.uuannapolis.org/ Support Us: Donate
In this sermon, Rev. John we will look at the man who said that "the entire structure of America must be restructured" and what that means for us today in light of the last election. Join UUCA every Sunday: In-person or Zoom https://www.uuannapolis.org/ Support Us: Donate
What makes a story truly great? From the pages of scripture to the legends of King Arthur, wisdom stories in ancient texts, the most powerful stories have something in common... This Sunday we will reflect on what they all share and how it relates to your hero's journey.
Join UUCA every Sunday: In-person or Zoom https://www.uuannapolis.org/ Support Us: Donate
On this last service of the year, we will mark the turning of the cycle by opening our guide to time travel! What can special relativity teach us about being present?
Join UUCA every Sunday: In-person or Zoom https://www.uuannapolis.org/ Support Us: Donate
We are holy beings and wholly being"Holy and Wholly Present" — In this season of light and celebration, we are reminded that we are not only holy beings but called to be wholly present, embracing each moment as sacred. Together, we’ll explore how the holiday season invites us to slow down, connect deeply, and honor the divine within ourselves and others. Join us as we reflect on the transformative power of seeing the holy in the here and now, making this time of year one of true presence and joy.
A little Jesus during this season! We'll talk about Kung Fu movies, boxing and following through on faith. Ryan Ely, Congregational Intern Minister
"The Unconquerable Sun" teaches us a lesson on presence, stillness and power that can help us navigate difficult times. Join Rev. John as he teaches us about the ancient worship of the Sun.
In this special service, we will come together to release the burdens that weigh us down. Through the simple act of writing and burning what pains and constrains us, we invite healing and renewal. This is a time to let go, repair, and open ourselves to new possibilities.
Emotions are running high. But in the midst of disruption and uncertainty, we can find our steady ground. Together, we will explore how to navigate this storm with resilience, compassion, and a commitment to healing our fractured nation. In the chaos, there is still hope for peace and progress.
Service led by Rev. John T. Crestwell, Jr., Minister;
In this special service of musical ministry, the UUCA Choir and Ensemble will center us for November 5. Rev. John will share a few short words of meaningful context, and you will hopefully feel grounded for what comes next with the upcoming election. Bring your tissue, heart and soul to this worship service.
What can children’s stories teach us about resilience during hard times? Join Intern Minister Ryan as he explores an old black folk tale for keys to continuance in our journey toward justice and purpose. Service led by Ryan Ely,
Join our guest preacher, Rev. Dr. Robin Tanner, as we explore the values combination that could just inoculate our communities and country against authoritarianism. Rev. Dr. Robin Tanner is a member of the Lead Ministry Team at Beacon Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Summit, NJ. She holds a Master of Divinity from Harvard Divinity School and a Doctorate in Ministry from the Pacific School of Religion.
Almost everyone has something they are passionate about. And yet, we are called to find ways to listen deeply to hear each other even when their passion does always align with our own. In this sermon, Rev. John discuss the difficulty of meeting people where they are and how to become a better listener.
Join Rev. John, Rev. Fred, Sarah, and our interns Ryan and SarahRuth for a meaningful service focused on letting go, healing mental and spiritual pains, and embracing forgiveness. As we observe Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and the arrival of fall, this is a time to reflect inwardly so we can move outwardly with love. A special healing ritual will be shared during the service.
In her homily, Sarah Devlin-Tremble describes how the awe that nature inspires can instill in people "a sense of being connected to something larger than themselves," and "awakens a sense of humility that vanishes that over-emphasized sense of self that can put us in the mind-space and the space of heart where we are concerned about our place in the world."
(Delivered: Sunday, September 29, 2024)
In this week's homily, Reverend John tells us how "Our relationship with the environment is a reflection of our relationship with ourselves and each other."
(Delivered: Sunday, September 29, 2024)
2025 will be a memorable year for U.S. citizens as we watch the inauguration of a new President. Also, many will be gearing up for the nation’s semiquincentennial celebration (look at the Anniversary Program Handbook and American 250). For Unitarian Universalists, our General Assembly will be in Baltimore (June 18-25). And, embedded in and related to these three events is the 100th anniversary of the “trial of the century” - Tennessee v. Scopes, 1925 - which is still shaping our communities and families in ongoing and significant ways. Together let’s explore the lasting and shaping effects of this trial.
(Delivered: Sunday, September 22, 2024)
What does it mean to be invitational? How can you and our congreation become more inviting? In this sermon Rev. John discusses hospitality and what it means to be radically welcoming.
(Delivered: Sunday September 15, 2024)
Join us during our Water Communion Celebration as Reverend John T. Crestwell, Jr. illustrates how water sustains us, nourishes us, and connects us to ourselves, each other, and to the Earth. (Delivered: Sunday, September 8, 2024)
What does it really mean when theologians say justice is what love looks like in public? UUs have historically embodied that love and it is our call into the future. Our guest minister is Dayna Edwards, who is the Minister of Faith Formation at Cedar Lane UU Church. She is also a member of UUCA. We welcome her home for this service.
(Delivered: September 1, 2024)
As he has done in past years, join Rev. John as he shares his summer learnings and updates the congregation on what to expect in the 2024-2025 church year. Delivered: August 18, 2024
Is it just me? Do you too feel like the current theo-political culture is not a forgiving one? Recently I’ve been confronted with the question/task/demand of shaping an apology, which may be the easy part: The harder part is what comes after an apology? Offering an apology - asking forgiveness and staying in relationship - is not easy. Let’s explore this together. Service led by Rev. Dr. Fred Muir
Where is our home and how do we know when we are home? We explore the meaning of home, of community, and of spiritual connection, as we celebrate Lammas, learn values from an African traditional story, and celebrate the welcome of being home together. SarahRuth Davis, Community Intern Minister
Ancient Hermeticism speaks of seven rules that govern our cosmos and earth. How can these laws give us perspective in uncertain times when laws are broken and not respected by many in power?
The Spirit of Life is the animating birthright that pulses through all of us. How do we access its aliveness to keep us connected to ourselves, our beloved community and the interdependent web of all things? Find out how awe experiences and the 8 Wonders of Life can fuel our inner joy and our outer contributions. Led by Cindy Atlee
Dr. Scott Eden describes how the Brain Balance Concept can lead to answers to the age-old questions of where do we come from, what are we, and what are we supposed to do?
Fifty-two years ago, the trajectory of my life changed. On a balmy April afternoon, the words of "Saint Waldo" moved me. His heretical, radical ideas have been inspiring Unitarian Universalists for 185 years. Come learn about and affirm our faith journey. Led by Rev. Dr. Fred Muir
Delivered: Sunday June 30, 2024
What is longing teaching us, what can we learn from the yearnings of our soul? We explore longing for justice, for love, for purpose, and examine readings by Bénézet Bujo, Tara Brach, Thomas Merton, and the story of Peter Pan, which all tell us of embracing longing as a spiritual practice. Led by SarahRuth Davis.
Delivered: June 23,2024
On this last Sunday with Rev. Anastassia, let us reflect on these four years of shared ministry, receive and give blessings, and release her from ministry at UUCA.
What does membership mean, at first and through the decades? We want to honor the act of committing to a community of faith. Come welcome new members, hear several UUCA members share stories, music, and reflections about their journey with UUCA, and thank our Radical Hospitality Team.
When Rev. Anastassia joined us for candidating week, before being called as a minister of equal standing with Rev. John, she preached about covenant. In this last sermon of hers, let's revisit the collective power and sustenance of covenantal community.
(Delivered Sunday June 2, 2024)
What happens after we die? What awaits us? Time Magazine dedicated a special edition to this topic converging science and faith. I will share some of what they found as well as my own personal beliefs on the subject.
(Delivered: Sunday, May 26, 2024)
You read my sermon title right: Mothers (plural). Join me this morning as I explore the qualities and characteristics of good mothering - from a personal point of view. Rev. Fred preaching.
(Delivered: May 12, 2024)
UUs use the word "love" often. It appears three times in our Sunday covenant alone. What is the nature of this love?
(Delivered: Sunday May 5, 2024)
In this auction sermon dedicated to UUCA member Sofia Blom, Rev John will examine Carl Jung's shadow concept and why a poem by William Ernest Henley provides the perfect context for understanding and overcoming our shadows which leads to spiritual transformation.
Delivered Sunday April 28, 2024
In this sermon, Rev. John looks at the book of Genesis in The Bible and discusses why we need to reinterpret what it teaches as it relates to our relationship with other living beings.
(Delivered: Sunday April 21, 2024)
Many come to religious communities seeking support in becoming their best self. Change is more than just understanding how you want to be, it is based on new behavior. Spiritual practices can be a powerful means for this process of becoming. Let's consider the transformational value of spiritual practice.
(Delivered: Sunday April 14, 2024)
As we process, Rev. Anastassia's pending departure from ministry at UUCA, what are the important things we have to say to one another?
Reverend John explains the meaning and importance of UUCA's Flower Communion tradition.
(Delivered: Sunday, March 31,2024)
Join Reverend Anastassia as she explores the idea of improbable hope and how it relates to miracles and new beginnings.
In this sermon, Rev John discusses his journey as a UU, why his faith has stood the test of time, and why he continues giving his financial resources to the UUCA community.
(Delivered Sunday March 10, 2024)
Human beings are meant to belong, to experience the commune of life, yet so many of us struggle to find belonging. Sometimes we, almost miraculously step into a community of belonging, but more often, Beloved Community is something we mutually create through acts of contribution. This Sunday, as we launch for pledge drive, let us consider how contributions unlock community and life within us.
(Delivered: March 3, 2024)
It has been nearly a decade since marriage equality became a legal right, but this was so much more than a Supreme Court decision. Let's review this movement, its power, its people, its values, and its impact. What might we carry forward as we think about the creation of equity and the Beloved Community beyond it.
(Delivered: February 25, 2024)
In this sermon, Rev John reviews a new book that chronicles the story of mental health abuse and why repair is needed today to make amends for past sins.
(Delivered: February 18, 2024)
In this sermon Rev John discusses fear and why it prevents humanity from creating a more just and. Equitable society.
(Delivered: Sunday February 11, 2024)
William Ellery Channing, one of the founding leaders and theologians of our faith, was kept awake at night by a particular concern: have we missed the message about caring for people particularly, as we care for humanity universally? How much has this theology helped us engage more deeply in practicing care and inclusion with a more particular focus? Rev. Anastassia preaching.
In this sermon, Rev. John will discuss what being radically welcoming means to him and how this equitable approach in life leads to more authentic relationships.
(Delivered: Sunday Jan. 28,2024)
In this sermon, Rev. John discusses the number 2, the human body and brain and why making 2 into 1 is the key to peace, equity and unity in our lives.
(Delivered: Sunday, Jan. 21, 2024)
Martin Luther King, Jr. perhaps is most famous for his "I Have a Dream Speech," but he wasn't the originator or the last owner of this dream. This MLK Sunday, let's consider the history and future of the collective movement of dreamers. Rev. Anastassia preaching,
During this intergenerational service, we will create the Beloved Community by honoring the sacramental transitions and celebrations in the lives of our members through poetry, music, and naming. Help us mark the joining of new members, coming-of-age advancement, the passage into adulthood, gender renaming, member departures, weddings, and deaths.
(Delivered: Jan 7, 2024)
On this last worship service for 2023, and in this season of Kwanza, what do you need more and less of to get into your positive flow for 2024? This is a participatory service with a homily and congregational sharing. https://youtu.be/icK0zLKEgWY
In this week's Christmas Eve sermon, Reverend Anastassia highlights the parallels between the circumstances surrounding the birth of Jesus and present day events in Palestine and Israel. (Delivered: Sunday evening December 24, 2023)
We are called by our faith to honor the interdependent web of all existence. In fact, it is one of our most central truths. With reverence for the great web of life and with humility, we acknowledge our place in it. Let us explore what living this belief and reality looks like.
Delivered: Sunday Dec. 17, 2023
In this participatory worship service that will include a short reflection, members will reflect on what they are giving and being given as a part of the interdependent communal web which ground all in faith, hope, and love.
In this service, your ministers will answer questions about their shared vision for our congregation, their hopes for Unitarian Universalism, and why interdependence is one of our most cherished values.
With war around the globe and the rise in hate, how do we turn the world around?
(Delivered on Sunday, November 19, 2023)
Interdependence means there is support between and among groups of people. The story of the Buffalo shows us the opposite and reminds us of our willingness to dehumanize and forget that we are connected to all living beings.
(Delivered: Sunday, Nov. 12, 2023)
With the violent and heartbreaking loss of life in Israel and Gaza, how are we as Unitarian Universalists called to respond? What do our theology and the philosophy of Beloved Community have to offer us during this time?
(Delivered by Rev. Anastassia Zinke, Nov. 5, 2023)
Sunday's sermon will connect our UU Beliefs to the beliefs of our ancestors via their relationship to nature and the stars. Where did we come from? Who are we? The answer may be in Astrotheology.
(Delivered: October 29, 2023)
Sometimes our poets and writers are the best place to turn to in order to find Unitarian Universalists using a language of reverence. Come hear some of their pieces set to music and performed by our UUCA Choir. By what do we feel so inspired to use words of reverence ourselves?
(Delivered: Sunday, October 22,2023)
https://youtu.be/wB9v8ds9jeg
God is 3 in one in more than just Christianity. Today we talk about the number 3, its significance, and why it has the power to help us understand reality and our lives.
(Delivered: Sunday, October 15, 2023)
Indigenous people deeply reflect the natural world in their religious, societal, and political institutions and expressions. It is a deeply innate human response to the world and one that Western cultures have moved away from. How might we do better by using nature as a model in our collective lives? Rev. Anastassia preaching.
(Delivered: Sunday October 8, 2023)
The rise of fundamentalism in the world comes as a direct result of religions that do not want to expand their tolerance for difference. This makes pluralism impossible and threatens democracy. In this message, Rev. John offers his take on where we are in the world using the story of Muhammad as a lesson of how intolerance creates bitter rivalries that keep us separate and unequal.
Delivered Sunday October 1, 2023
Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, when Jews seek forgiveness from their God, follows just days behind the Rosh Hoshanah, the Jewish New Year. What Jews recognize in this sequence is that when one moves forward, one must still account for the past and seek appropriate forgiveness. As we at UUCA move into a new year, what acts do we need to ask forgiveness for? What lessons along this journey do we need to learn?
(Delivered Sunday September 24, 2023)
One can live in diversity but not experience pluralism; it has to be brought forward by the community's practices of respect, tolerance, and curiosity. One benefit of experiencing and engaging in religious pluralism is the experience of being “religious inter-religiously.” Come hear Rev. Anastassia share more about what this means and how you can practice it too.
(Delivered 9/17/2023)
Each year, UUCA invites you to bring a small container of water to partake in our Water Communion ritual as a sign of unity.
Delivered: Sunday September 10, 2023
Join us this Sunday to learn about our ongoing relationship with the Unitarian Universalist Association, its annual meeting, and how you can get more involved in their National issues.
Delivered Sunday, September 3, 2023
In this service, you will learn what you can do to end racism, microaggressions, and behaviors that keep us from beloved community.
(Delivered: Sunday, August 27, 2023)
Join Rev. John as he discusses the monthly themes for the upcoming church year and how you might engage with them for your spiritual growth.
The period between 1945 to 1968 profoundly shaped the American landscape we see today. I am so intrigued by these 20+ years and the way we still wrestle with the same issues. Join me today as I catch you up on some of my insights and inspirations during my time away.
Delivered: Sunday, August 13, 2023
In her poem, Summer Day, the poet-narrator asks, “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” Come let us reflect on both how Mary Oliver answered this question, and reflect on how we each might answer.
Delivered Sunday, August 6, 2023
Rev. Anastassia finds that William Stafford's poem "A Ritual To Read to One Another" provides valuable reminders that could well guide congregational communities. Let's hear what it says, and take it to heart.
Delivered: Sunday July 30, 2023
Our ancestors -- of blood, family, faith, and community -- often share life lessons and values with us. These gifts teach us about the world and hopefully assist us in surviving and thriving. In dialogue with Philip Booth's First Lesson, let us consider some of these lessons ourselves.
Delivered July 23, 2023
"Let us measure success by how many of us can say: I am living a life I don’t regret. A life that will resonate with my ancestors"
-adrienne maree brown
Join us for a reflection on heavy suitcases, surprise turning points, and attending to the complexity of our times with love and resilience.
Matt is a musician and traveling worship leader who has led hundreds of services for UU congregations across the country. He has a degree in hand drumming and serves as Director of Community Life for Sanctuary Boston. This is a multi-generational service.
Delivered: Sunday, July 16, 2023
All of us have experienced moments or periods of lonliness, pain, or loss. We also know, therefore, the wonder and power of being truly welcomed. Part of our purpose of being a community at UUCA is to welcome each other, sometimes in small ways and sometimes in large ways. Come be welcomed, and hear Rev. Anastassia share how we can welcome again and again.
(Delivered: Sunday July 9, 2023)
Poetry is More Than a Spiritual Luxury: The prophetic poet Audre Lorde in her 1985 essay reminds us that "poetry is not a luxury" in a world that desperately and insistently needs liberation. Come hear Rev. Anastassia share more of Lorde's wisdom and about how poetry can be a meaningful companion to us in our spiritual work and in our quest for liberation. Music by Josh Long. Delivered: 7/02/23
The climate crisis has become painfully real after wildfire smoke from Canada covered the east coast. There are some who believe that it is too late to do anything about the ecological emergency. People of faith are called to have a different response. Climate justice is not solely about saving the environment but rather it is about creating something new for the entire web of existence. Joshua Long, Congregational Organizer for Interfaith Power & Light AND our Director of Music ensembles will help us explore the difficult landscape of climate change.
In this sermon, Rev. John tells the story of Juneteenth and shares what reparations might look like in Anne Arundel County and all of Maryland.
(Delivered: Sunday June 18, 2023)
Since the Stonewall Riots, we Americans have both confronted and celebrated the reality that life is not nearly as simple or set as we had once held it to be. We aren't at the end of this journey of unfolding, emerging, becoming, and fully living, but we know that the world is queerer in every sense of the word than we once thought it to be. Come let us consider how this shift is one that reflects our faith and points to liberation.
In this message Rev. John helps us understand a post-modern perspective on what ‘God’s will’ and ‘blessings’ mean in Islam, Judaism, and Christianity. (Delivered Sunday May 29, 2023)
On this very special Mother's Day, join Rev. as he examines the Civil War, Julia Howe, Lincoln, Douglass, religion and the human quest for freedom; and how authenticity can only be achieved through pain and suffering.
(Delivered: May 14, 2023)
Our most deeply centered and understood theology comes in those moments of greatest challenge. In short, they emerge from our own authentic life experiences. Come hear what Rev. Anastassia Zinke learned about surrender, love, and not needing to be enough.
(Deivered Sunday May 7, 2023
Remember when Rev Jeremiah Wright criticized America in his sermon creating a rift between he and Obama? In this sermon on authenticity, I will look again at what Rev. Wright damned in America and offer some insights and suggestions on what White-allyship really means. This sermon is dedicated to Darrel Nash a long time antiracism advocate at UUCA.
(Delivered April 30, 2023)
Quite often our failure to be authentic with others stems not from a lack of desire, or an overwhelming fear of vulnerability, but from the fact that we lack authenticity with our very selves. Connecting with others requires us to stay connected with ourselves: and not just with our mental selves—as most schools and workplaces would have it—but with our somas, or whole selves. Join UUCA member and therapist Jessie Rhines for a discussion of the yogic model of The Koshas. Come prepared for a personal practice, among sacred communities.
When vulnerability is the first thing we look for in others and the last thing we want to show, how do we find each other? Join guest minister Rev. Christin Green for an exploration of grace, peace, vulnerability, and authenticity. (Delivered 4/16/23)
The biblical story of the Tower of Babel in essence says God divided humankind by preventing us from understanding each other. In this sermon Rev. John will share his interpretation of the story and how it reveals what happens when human communication breaks down, using the tools of the brilliant psychologist Marshall Rosenberg. This was auction sermon paid for by Mickey Goldberg. Tags: #nonviolentcommunications #marshallrosenberg #effectivecommunications (Sermon delivered on April 2,2023)
American religion is going through a rapid change. How can we as Unitarian Universalists engage with that change and deepen our spiritual lives? In this service, we explore how being radically welcoming could actually change us and our world. Rev. Dr. John Morehouse is the Senior Minister of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport, CT. Music by Rob Redei and the UUCA choir. (Delivered Sunday, March26,2023)
Generosity is one of the core practices proposed by our UUA's Article II Study Commission, and yet in comparison to those in other faith traditions, UUs tend to be less financially generous. In contrast, Rev. Anastassia found that being a UU congregant and leader fostered her practices of generosity within and beyond our faith. Let us consider what it means to be a generous people. Music by Joshua Long and the UUCA worship ensemble. (Delivered 3/19/23)
Today we celebrate and give thanks for all that we are to each other. And we will address areas of growth for our congregation. There will be a celebration luncheon after service. Music by Rob Redei and the UUCA choir. (Delivered March 5, 2023)
The past is gone. We've come back from the pandemic successfully. We have a new embodiment of what our beloved community can be. Let's celebrate community and abundance together. Sermon by Rev. John T. Crestwell, Jr. Delivered on Sunday, February 26th, 2023.
Rev. Dr. Forrest Church described religion as "our human response to the dual reality of being alive and having to die." How can we reconcile these dual realities, and what is the spiritual involved in preparing for death? Led by Rev. Anastassia, with music by Josh Long and the Worship Ensemble. Delivered on Sunday, February 19th, 2023.
Reconciliation is not something taken lightly, in fact, just considering it is spiritual work. What is the pre-work, the prayerful work, that informs whether and how to move towards reconciliation? Led by Rev. Anastassia, with music by Rob Redei and the UUCA Choir. Delivered Sunday, February 12th, 2023.
Reconciling my relationship to Christianity and religion, in general, was a long, difficult process of growth. My faith, trust, and hope were broken. But I recovered. This Sunday, in light of recent events surrounding the death of Tyre Nichols, Rev. John T. Crestwell, Jr. will discuss what we must do to build a nation of trust and reconciliation; and how to address the systems that use oppression as a means for control and domination. Music by Josh Long and the UUCA worship ensemble. Delivered on Sunday, February 5th, 2023.
Being able to trust and experiencing trust is fundamental to human flourishing, collaborative efforts, and to creative and generative efforts. Let's consider what it is to trust, why it is necessary, and how we can be more trusting and trustworthy. Rev. Anastassia preaching with music by Rob Redei and our UUCA choir. Delivered Sunday, January 29th, 2023.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. sought nonviolent means to make democracy work. Given what happened to us on January 6 and the violent rhetoric in our society, let’s talk about why we can achieve more through peaceful protest. Sermon given by Rev. John T. Crestwell, Jr. Music by Rob Redei and the UUCA Choir. Delivered Sunday January 15, 2023.
Our new year begins at the beginning of winter. Earth lies fallow and animals rest in their borrows or nests as they recover from the energy of the fall Harvest time. Collectively we trust that this will lead to a new or renewed life come Spring. How is this season inviting you to rest? How can reflecting how help you determine what structures to give life to in the year ahead? Rev. Anastassia Zinke and Josh Long leading this all-ages service. Delivered Sunday, January 1st, 2023.
Join Rev. John on Christmas Day for more stories about the origins of Christmas and why it is a holiday for all souls not just for Christians. Music by Joshua Long, and the UUCA worship ensemble. Sunday, December 25th, 2022.
Christmas, the holiday of new hope, comes even when hope is hard to find. In this season when the night grows long, let us remember where we find hope and the holy. With Revs. Anastassia Zinke and John T. Crestwell, Jr. Music by Emily Sergo.
On this choir Sunday, from December 18th, listen to "Frostiana", seven of Robert Frost's poems put to music by composer Randall Thompson. Celebrate the incredible talent of Rob Redei, our many musicians, and our fabulous UUCA Choir!
What do we mean by "other oppressions" with our UU 8th principle? What is the current status of the 8th Principle nationally and in our congregation? In this dual sermon, Revs Anastassia and John will help explain why we need this principle to hold up the other 7 and how it relates to our current Article II study. Testimonial by Graham Smith. Music by Joshua Long, and the UUCA worship ensemble.
Our 7th Principle, "respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part," likely falls short in capturing how fundamental and sacred our relationship with all existence is (which naturally includes each other as well as nature). Let us celebrate this deep interdependent web. Rev. Anastassia preached, and Scott Eden gave a testimony. Delivered Sunday December 4th, 2022.
Rev. John T. Crestwell Jr. today explores what peace, liberty, and justice for all mean in light of current events. Evelyn Curran gives a reflection on the sixth principle. Delivered November 20th, 2022.
In the 2022 election, we saw both how threatened and how important "the right of conscience and the use of the democratic process" was. This principle is meant to be alive within our congregations and in society at large. Let's consider how we can strengthen our conscience and our democratic processes. Rev. Anastassia preaching, music by Rob Redei and our UUCA choir. Delivered Nov. 13th, 2022.
In this message, Rev. John reflects on the 4th UU principle in light of the mid-term elections, recent comments by Kanye West, and Elon Musk's acquisition of Twitter. He also discusses the principle from a BIPOC perspective and adds insight into how we search for what is true for us in life. Delivered Sunday, November 6th, 2022. #ElonMusk #Kanyewest #Freedom #Fourthprinciple #Twitter #midtermelection
Our Second Principle calls for “justice, equity, and compassion in human relations,” each of which seems particularly lacking in our democracy and society today. How as Unitarian Universalists can we be faithful to this principle and bring it more into the world? Rev. Anastassia preaching, with music by Josh Long and our Worship Ensemble. Delivered on October 23rd, 2022.
What is the meaning of our first UU principle? What was the context surrounding its development? How do we square it with people and groups we don't agree with? Join Rev. John as he explores what the "worth and dignity of all" means for us today. Delivered Sunday, October 16th, 2022.
A pilgrimage may reach its destination but the hope, the wisdom, and the lessons learned along the way offer a new starting point. What have we learned and what transformation — what “other way” — are we called to in the name of the right
relationship in our lives? Let's hear from our Camino pilgrims! Grateful for the reflections of Jenn Pollitt Hill, Tricia Hopkins, Jeanne Jehl, Jane Carrigan, Caroline Hadley, and Dianne Moreau. Delivered Sunday, October 9th, 2022.
In your life pilgrimage your tripping stones are also your stepping stones. As you level up in your fractal climb to "heaven", those higher steps require courage and acceptance of unknown spaces. Sermon delivered by Rev. John. T. Crestwell, Jr. on Sunday, September 25th, 2022.
In your life pilgrimage your tripping stones are also your stepping stones. As you level up in your fractal climb to "heaven", those higher steps require courage and acceptance of unknown spaces. Sermon delivered by Rev. John. T. Crestwell, Jr. on Sunday, September 25th, 2022.
All who wander are not lost. Being lost is being found. Let's explore the story of the Prodigal Son and the story of the Alchemist. Delivered by Rev. John T Crestwell, Jr. Delivered on Sunday, September 18th, 2022.
All who wander are not lost. Being lost is being found. Let's explore the story of the Prodigal Son and the story of the Alchemist. Delivered by Rev. John T Crestwell, Jr. Delivered on Sunday, September 18th, 2022.
As we begin another church year together, let us gather ourselves and our blessing for our journey ahead with our annual water communion ceremony, and backpack blessing. Rev. Anastassia Zinke preaching. Delivered on Sunday, September 11th, 2022.
As we begin another church year together, let us gather ourselves and our blessing for our journey ahead with our annual water communion ceremony, and backpack blessing. Rev. Anastassia Zinke preaching. Delivered on Sunday, September 11th, 2022.
In this sermon, Rev. John highlights many of the themes the ministers will lift up this church year and the vision/mission for continuing the quest of building a Beloved Community at UUCA and beyond. Music by Joshua Long and the Worship Ensemble. Delivered Sunday, August 28th, 2022.
Civility, humility, kindness, sharing, and modesty are some of the things we learned in Kindergarten but in our world today these words have seemingly lost their meaning and value. Let's examine ancient and modern civilizations and why we are just beginning to learn how to build community. Sermon delivered by Rev. John T. Crestwell, Jr. Music by Betsy Kranning.
We all seek to become somebody or achieve success according to our definition of the word. But what if the ultimate goal is not to become anything? Sermon by Rev. John T. Crestwell, Jr. Music by Sara Jones. Delivered on Sunday, August 14th, 2022.
Unitarian Universalists are questioners. We honor this by having our ministers answer your questions. What are the questions that are gripping your spirit these days? You may submit them in advance by emailing Karen Murphy-Keddell. This is Rev. John's first Sunday back from sabbatical, so we know that you are curious. Music by Sara Jones. Delivered on Sunday, August 8th, 2022.
The Webb telescope recently provided us with the earliest look into the origins of our universe. This cosmic nursery was also the beginning story for our Earth, for life abundant, and for human life. Let us consider the grand story of which we are a part. Sermon delivered by Rev. Anastassia Zinke. Music by Josh Long and the UUCA worship ensemble. Delivered on Sunday, July 31st, 2022.
Explore two narratives about encountering starfish. Let us consider how they might help us discern how we want to meet the world at this moment. Rev. Anastassia preaching, with music offered by Betsy Kraning. Delivered Sunday, July 24th, 2022.
The US political, social, and medical landscape changed dramatically with the Supreme Court's Dobbs decision, which overturned Roe vs Wade and cleared the way for several states to highly restrict or ban abortion services. For us at UUCA, what are the implications of this decision? How will our faith guide us through this time? Rev. Anastassia preaching. Music by Rob Redei and the UUCA choir. Delivered Sunday, July 17th, 2022.
This is the story of a good death. We faced it with song and memories and kung pao chicken. It was achieved with intention and mindfulness. It was meant to face Mom's final journey in joy instead of fear. I hope we all learn to be the master of our final moments from this loving example. By Jane Carrigan, Board of Trustees President, Worship Leader. Delivered on Sunday, May 29th, 2022.
We Only Have Now. Love is an action word that is often expressed as collective action. NOW is the operative word since we only have now. Examples and questions are what drive us to social justice, but only if we truly believe in the 7 Principles and live the 8th Principle in our private and public lives. Thornell Jones is an active member of UUCA who has been a lay leader, is a member of the 8th Principle Practice Team, and is an active social justice leader in the community. Delivered on Sunday, June 19th, 2022.
Carrie Baquie explores a few pivotal crossroads she encountered on her road to recovery from sudden traumatic illness. We learn through her story that within us all is the power to transform our experience. Following the service at 11:15 am in the Angebrandt Room, we invite you to join Carrie for an After Hour GOING DEEPER session to explore the feelings and emotions around this topic.
A 20-year IT Project Manager and spunky mother of three teens, in early 2019 Carrie experienced a stroke compounded by Lyme disease and Mold Illness. She successfully struggled through misdiagnoses and a lack of agency to emerge as a chronic illness coach. Carrie empowers others with long-term health challenges to rediscover hope, learn to advocate for their own needs, and build wellness at the physical, emotional and spiritual levels. Music by guest pianist-singer and activist Alice Mayne-Ashworth. Alice performs with Strangers That Clique, a DC-based fusion original funk-soul-hip-hop-rock band, and Joyous Voices carolers. Alice has worked with the Debt Collective and other causes to incorporate creative tactics including music and art in designing effective, imaginative collective actions. Delivered Sunday, July 10th, 2022.
On July 3, the eve of our nation's birthday, Max Ochs led a service titled: "I HEAR AMERICA SINGING". With help from some gifted UUCA musicians, using a pastiche of folksongs and readings from Mark Twain, Abraham Lincoln, Sophia L. Fahs, Reed Whittemore, and others, Max offers his vision of The America I Believe In.
Max Ochs began his association with UUCA’s Liberal Religious Youth (LRY) in 1956, when he was fifteen. He worked for decades at Anne Arundel County’s anti-poverty agency, and the A.A. Conflict Resolution Center. He has a Masters in Humanities from St. John’s College. Max styles himself as a “primitive American” guitarist, with several recordings. His book of poems "Just Caws" is available on Amazon. He and Suzanne enjoy their nine grandchildren. Flowers provided by Audrey Lengbeyer.
With Special Guest Speaker, Leika Lewis-Cornwell!
With the climate and weather, ongoing waves of pandemic, court decisions, and other justice issues, sometimes it seems like the same experience over and over again. So how do we keep going--and growing--when it can be so easy to feel stuck? Music will be provided by Joshua Long and the UUCA Ensemble. Delivered on Sunday June 26th, 2022.
Our favorite songs, whoever the artist or whatever the style, were created in a strange alchemy of study and inspiration, of strict practice and of letting go. Spiritual practice is a similar combination of dedication, muscle memory and perhaps a little divine inspiration. Join us for a musical exploration of learning to risk, building the muscle memory of courage, and a spiritual practice of relationship when things around us are changing fast. Speaker Matt Meyer. Delivered on Sunday, June 12th, 2022.
During this Membership Sunday service, we will reflect together on the meaning we find as part of the UUCA community. We will hear reflections from Rev. Anastassia and members of our congregation. One-year reflection from McKendre Jay. Ten-year reflection from Linda Mundy. Twenty-five-year reflection from Ted Hall. Finally, forty-year reflection from Cindy Curtis. Music by Rob Redei and the UUCA Choir. Delivered on Sunday June 5th, 2022.
We will celebrate our Bridging High School seniors as they cross this life stage milestone. We will honor and bless our faith formation volunteers for their incredible service over the past year. Rev. Anastassia preaching, with music offered by Rob Redei and our UUCA Choir. Delievered Sunday May 22nd, 2022. Congratulations Senoirs: Fiona Coleman, Lillian Davis, Maeya Devlin Tremble, Teddy Fleming, Nathaniel Hill, Haven Hitchcock, Isabella Roman, Simmone Wallace, and Will Whitaker.
There are many issues that Unitarian Universalists are interested in engaging, so much so the issues sometimes almost define us. But perhaps even more defining is the how of how we do collective action. This Sunday, Rev. Anastassia will draw upon the thought work of adrienne maree brown (writer, a pleasure activist, Octavia Butler scholar, facilitator, speaker and singer, and doula) to unpack some key practices that in brown's words can "grow our capacity to embody the just and liberated worlds we long for." Rev. Anastassia preaching, with music offered by Josh Long and our Worship Ensemble. Delivered on Sunday, May 15th, 2022.
For over a year Rev. Fred Muir partnered with a team of UU colleagues to review and write about “Widening the Circle of Concern” (the Report of the UUA Commission on Institutional Change, 2020). It’s a bold, comprehensive, and “frame-bending” appraisal of our multicultural, anti-racism commitments with many recommendations. This morning Rev. Fred will share some of his insights—institutional and personal, religious and spiritual—inspired by our work with particular attention as to how these might shape our sustaining affirmation of the 8th Principle. (This sermon was purchased at UUCA’s auction by Olga Pabon, Angelique Berry, Thornell Jones, and Stan Keeve. If you can, please look at these two links: Widening the Circle of Concern and 8th Principle. Music by Rob Redei and the UUCA Choir. Delivered on Sunday, May 8th, 2022.
All the major world religions have a theology that narrates humanity's relationship with the Earth, and that often manifests in certain environments or landmarks being recognized as sacred and, therefore, not to be violated. Come hear what a UU sacred text might sound like, and help identify what local places on this Earth we want to recognize as sacred. Rev. Anastassia preaching, with music by Josh Long. Delievered Sunday, May 1st, 2022.
Through voluntary or forced migration, most people in the United States don't live on their ancestral land, and in the process, the sacred wisdom traditions and practices of living entwined with the earth have become lost. Utilizing Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants by indigenous botanist Robin Wall Kimmerer, let us reflect on how we can have the Earth become of primary teacher again. Rev. Anastassia preaching, music by the UUCA choir. Delievered on Sunday, April 24th, 2022.
When Jesus needed to discern the next steps, he went into the wildness. When we celebrate Passover, we taste bitter herbs and horseradish from our Earth to recall the wisdom and experience of our ancestors. When the crocus opens its purple petals to the crisp air we are invited to experience a vision of Spring. This Easter Sunday, let's consider both what small deaths we can abide, and what revealed truths are speaking to us now. Rev. Anastassia preaching, music by Rob Redei, and the UUCA choir. Delivered on Sunday April 17th, 2022.
UUCA member and Somatic Psychotherapist Jessie Rhines will share a top-down view of the current state of mental health, as well as some bottom-up practices she recommends to help us better care for ourselves and our communities. Join us for our last sermon on the theme of “Compassion,” woven throughout with experiential practice. Music by Josh Long. Delivered on Sunday, April 10th, 2022.
Send Rev. John off on sabbatical with a blessing and listen again to his vision for UUCA in the present/future. Music by The UUCA Choir. Delivered on Sunday, March 27th, 2022.
For this service, Rev. John shares what the environment and world religions have to say about compassion and empathy. Music by the UUCA Ensemble. Delivered on Sunday March 13th, 2022.
This pandemic time has exposed fault lines around how individualism and community can come into conflict. Through the work of several contemporary ethicists, we’ll explore how we can make good choices, what we owe to each other, and how our foundational ideals inform those ideas. Guest minister, Rev. Christian Schmidt preaching. Music provided by Rob Redei. Delivered on Sunday March 6th, 2022.
In this message, Rev. John Crestwell, shares his understanding of Casteism and Racism using the brilliant writing of author Isabel Wilkerson from her book Caste: The Origins of our Discontent.
Today let's learn why our auto-pilot biases against "them" are tearing our country apart--and how you can hack your mind to be anti-racist and anti-oppressive. Music by Nicole Rumeau. Delivered by John T. Crestwell Jr. on Sunday February 20th, 2022.
While political and social activism are essential components of antiracism, so too is spiritual work. How can we use the frame work of blessings to engage in behaviors that foster the Beloved Community? What are some of these practices? Rev. Anastassia preaching, music offered by Rob Redei and the UUCA Choir. Delivered on Sunday February, 13th.
In 1907, Dr. Frank Scott Corey Wicks delivered a sermon “Good Men In Hell”, that was published and reprinted by the American Unitarian Association over thirty times. It was the most widely circulated Unitarian sermon, and posited the idea that the Unitarian mandate was to not to conform to places of personal comfort. Where would we go and whom would we be with if we lived this mandate today? How does our theology speak to this? Rev. Anastassia Zinke preaching, with music by Sara Jones. Delivered on Sunday February 6th, 2022.
Thoughtco.com says that "Equality is providing the same level of opportunity and assistance to all segments of society, such as races and genders. Equity is providing various levels of support and assistance depending on specific needs or abilities. Equality and equity are most often applied to the rights and opportunities of minority groups." As Ministers of Equal Standing how do we interpret this meaning? Today the ministers will answer questions about how they are engaging in mindful and equitable partnership. Delivered on Sunday January 23rd, 2022.
Are you a skilled utilizer of words? I'm working on it! "Be careful of the words you say keep them sweet; because you never know which ones you'll have to eat". I learned that growing up. What does it mean to be mindful with our tongue? Let's examine the power of words today as we practice our theme of being reflective this month. Delivered by Rev. John T. Crestwell, Jr. on Sunday January 30th, 2022.
Today we will examine what came out of Rev. King's meditation in prison--his legendary letter that is as important today as it was in 1963. Delivered by Rev. John T. Crestwell, Jr. on Sunday January 16th, 2022.
Our ancestors have more nuanced understandings of love. Let us explore these various manifestions of love, and how specific and sacred forms of love can be found in our lives. Rev. Anastassia preaching, music by Max Ochs. Delievered January 2nd, 2022.
Christmas, the holiday of new hope, comes even when hope is hard to find. Thank goodness it does, especially this year as we are entering into another coronavirus wave. At 8 p.m. on Christmas Eve, come join Rev. Anastassia and be in community as we find hope in messages of our faith, in holiday music, and in being in community together. Online only. Audio of the full service, recorded on December 24th, 2021.
As we continue to explore the theme of love, Rev. Anastassia will lead us through considering how we can use our minds, thought analysis and organizing, and hearts, through love and forgiveness, to create the possibility of a better future. Delivered on December 12th, 2021.
We hold our first congregational meeting immediately following the service. Today the ministers will give their State of Our Union" sermon sharing highlights from the last six months of ministry at UUCA. Delivered on December 5th, 2021.
Join us this Sunday for a magical telling of Stone Soup. Audience participation will be expected so come ready to join in the fun. After service, we will gather for soup and celebration of this annual event that begins our holiday season. Music by the UUCA Choir. Delivered 11-28-2021.
Every life has challenges, and yet no matter the pain and struggles, we can choose to pay attention to a narrative of gratitude. In the process, we can discover joy, health, and a new sense of belonging, not only to the universe as a whole but also to ourselves. Rev. Anastassia preaching with our Worship Ensemble. Delivered on Sunday November 21st, 2021.
Have you ever been disappointed? How did you resolve it? Rev. John shares 4 things that helps him move from sadness to grace every time. Music by Rob Redei and the UUCA Choir. Delivered on November 14th, 2021.
Non-violent social movements and actions have effective outcomes, while also reducing risk and harm. Come join us as we consider the strategic nature of non-violence and the spiritual and personal practices that support it. Rev. Anastassia preaching, with music by Josh Long and our Worship Ensemble. Delivered November 7th, 2021.
As a community, we make many covenants, inherent in them all is to be a gift to one another. When we hurt or harm each other that disrupts our connection with one another. Let us recognize that there have been moments of harm in our community, and grow to understand how such moments land. Together, let us commit ourselves anew to being a community that seeks to contribute to each other's lives, including by reducing harm among ourselves. Music by Sarah Jones. Rev. Anastassia Zinke. Given on October 31st, 2021.
The Hindu concept of Ahimsa teaches that when we do harm to another person we do harm to ourselves. "Hurt people hurt people." Today Rev John explores the origins of conflict and violence from the individual to the culture and how we can overcome this tragic pattern. Delivered Sunday October 24th, 2021.
Join Rev. John as he explores a pattern in humanity's evolution that links us to the Buddha's awakening and our potential as evolved beings who do no harm on the planet. Joshua Long and the UUCA Ensemble will provide music. Delivered on Sunday October 17th, 2021.
When we have done something important wrong, or worse harmed someone, we carry that burden. Confronting it, engaging our failure to live our values, feels like a wrestling match. Why is that? And what blessing can come from wrestling with our worthiness for forgiveness and self-forgiveness? Rev. Anastassia preaching, with music by Josh Long. Delivered on Sunday October 3rd, 2021.
We know giving forgiveness is an important human virtue, yet whether, how, and when to forgive are challenging questions. What is the spiritual work that proceeds our ability to forgive? Rev. Anastassia preaching, music by Rob Redei and the UUCA Choir. Given on Sunday October 10th, 2021
Did you know that the earth is 70% water and you are 60% water? That is a close comparison. Does this mean anything to you? If it does or doesn't listen to Rev. John's message on water and why understanding this element is a way to better understand ourselves.
Theology and Practice. Rev John continues part 2 of his discussion on why, after 20 years, he is still a UU.
I became a Unitarian Universalist in 2001. It's been 20 years. I have changed--a lot. I want to share this story with you and how I see the purpose of our faith today in the religious landscape.
What has membership meant to UUCA over through the ages? We want to honor the act of committing to a community of faith. Come join Joshua Long, the Membership Team, and several UUCA members as they share stories, music, and reflection for this special service.
At the heart of this and every Beloved Community is love, always love. But love isn’t just a feeling, it’s a practice—a shared practice of affection and care. In congregational life, it matters how we tell the story of our love. This Sunday we’ll consider some “love stories” and what they have to teach us about the practice of love at church. Music by Rob Redei and the UUCA Choir.
Rev. Rob Hardies is a preacher, teacher, and an experienced leader of retreats and pilgrimages. From 2001 to 2020, he was Senior Minister of All Souls Church, Unitarian in Washington, DC, a large, multiracial congregation. During his ministry at All Souls, Rob helped create organizations that advocated for marriage equality and for voting rights. He lives in Washington with his husband and son.
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie states that the danger of the single story is "the ability not just to tell the story of another person, but to make it the definitive story of that person." One single story that has been part of American history is that Black lives are expendable. We have seen again and again that this single story is not only dangerous, but deadly. In this service, we will consider the Derek Chauvin trial, and how many worked to counter the single stories that informed this case. We will highlight how we need to continue to counter racist and problematic stories, and re-story our way towards Beloved Community. Music by Joshua Long.
Ralph Waldo Emerson recognized that the world is meant to be savored and we are designed to savor it. Why is the act of savoring essential for our spiritual lives? Once we have seen the world and savored its beauty, then we know we are called it save it, both for itself and for ourselves. Let us dedicate ourselves to saving this earth.
Today we examine Naomi Klein's most recent book while also examining "regenerative economies" and how UUCA can adopt and adapt some of its current social justice practices. Music by Rob Redei and the UUCA Choir.
Rev. John T. Crestwell, Jr., Minister
Rev. Anastassia Zinke, Minister
The early Jesus followers believed that they would be with Jesus again in an idyllic, earthly community. On this Easter Sunday, we celebrate the paradise that our Earth is meant to be and dedicate ourselves to be evangelists for this earth. Music by Rob Redei and our UUCA Choir.
We yearn for freedom but what does ultimate freedom look like? In this service Rev. John will look at integrative spirituality as a framework for your spiritual freedom.
Join Rev. John as he examines the value of being authentic while also being accountable to the relationships around you. The message will also address the pros and cons of "Cancel Culture" and why respect is at the heart of the matter.
Mutuality exists when we live in such a way that we extend the same level of respect, care, and compassion for one another. When we "live for one another" as our Sunday covenant states, we extend this mutuality to our choices beyond the one-to-one relationship. For example, when we wear COVID masks or quarantine to keep one another safe, or when we increase access whether by adding ramps or by shifting away from being a mono-culture towards being multicultural. We can live in mutuality by truly getting to know one another. This Sunday, we will recognize the profound loss and impact of COVID over the past year, and also lift up how sustaining being in mutual relationship with one another is. Rev. Anastassia Zinke, preaching. Music by Rob Redei and the UUCA choir.
Have you ever noticed that we don’t have a word for nonviolence in itself? In all our languages, this ancient though often untapped practice, has been referred to linguistically as the opposite of violence. It is more than that. Let us consider what nonviolence is, not merely as a political strategy, but more as a personal and spiritual practice. How can nonviolence disrupt patterns of harm, and help move us into the spiritual wholeness and right relationship. Rev. Anastassia Zinke preaching. Music by Joshua Long, UUCA Ensemble & UUCA Choir.
Emergent Strategy means that we practice biomimicry. That is, we do what nature does in our religious, social, and political associations. How can this way of life transform our planet and our Beloved Community? Rev. John and Rev. Anastassia will share the pulpit. Music by Josh Long.
Emergent Strategy means that we practice biomimicry. That is, we do what nature does in our religious, social, and political associations. How can this way of life transform our planet and our Beloved Community? Rev. John and Rev. Anastassia will share the pulpit. Music by Josh Long.
In a popular Unitarian Universalist hymn (also found in many other hymn collections), one verse speaks about the promise of a better tomorrow (Beloved Community) shaped by the "flame of freedom in [our] souls and the light of science in [our] eyes." Beloved Community, freedom, and science. This trio has meaning that vibrates in our way of faith and in our nation - all three were publicly named at President Biden's inauguration. Let's hold these up in the light for greater clarity. Music by Rob Redei and the UUCA Choir.
What does Beloved Community actually mean to you? What does it look like and feel like? In this message, Rev. John will take us on a journey toward our own realization of what BC is, means, and requires.
Don't let the title fool you. This sermon is about my personal spiritual journey as a Unitarian Universalist minister and why I'm now more nature-based and Zen about my faith and message for humanity.
The best way to teach our children is to be and to show: how we behave and how we engage with the world are much better predictors of how our children will do than all the books we’ve read about parenting could teach us. Rev. Anastassia preaching. Music by Joshua Long.
Brené Brown holds that we disengage for two reasons: to protect ourselves and because we feel that the people who are supposed to be leading us are not living up to the social contract. In this age of polarization and violence upon our democracy, when our public leaders, neighbors, and family members have disappointed us, how can we courageously step into the gap between reality and our aspirational values? Rev. Anastassia preaching. Music by Rob Redei and the UUCA Choir.
What was Dr. King's secret to his success? Was it his education, family, timing, or something else? Let's explore this together as we look at what his message means to us in light of the state of our nation.
Rev. John responds to the events at the Capitol and shares the secret teaching of all ages which is the key to humanity moving forward toward beloved community. Abracadabra! "No one is sure as to the origin of the strange word 'abracadabra'. ... - The word is of Hebrew or Aramaic origin, being derived either from the Hebrew words 'ab' (father), 'ben' (son), and 'ruach hakodesh' (holy spirit), or from the Aramaic 'avra kadavra', meaning 'it will be created in my words'." (phrases.org.uk)
With Rev. Anastassia. Though we don’t always recognize it, shame causes us to disconnect from love and belonging. We can restore connection when we embrace our own worthiness and demonstrate vulnerability and authenticity. Why is this particularly important as we seek to build the beloved community? Music by Rob Redei and the UUCA Choir.
In this short homily, Rev. Anastassia Zinke shares her family's story of Hanukkah and why this celebration is still important for her life.
Voter Suppression is an unacknowledged part of American history. Today’s service will spotlight the history of voter suppression both nationally and locally and provide steps you can take to challenge these laws and practices. When We All Vote… All Voices are Heard. Music by Joshua Long and the Awake Singers.
This is my last sermon until August. I'm taking a month off to rest. In this message, I talk about compassion and these exciting and excruciating times we live in. There are days when things seem surreal. If you are A UU with only a little time, go to the 17:00 mark and listen to my message directly pointed toward Unitarian Universalism and our present/future. Enjoy.
Listen to Rev. John as he shares his theological underpinnings and why he feels EL is humanity's salvation.
In this message, Rev. John puts social and spiritual context on what is happening today with the pandemic. He discusses his understanding Gaia (Mother Earth), karma/dharma/sin, history, and the lesson(s) we must learn. Enjoy.
It's late getting posted but here is Rev. Anastassia Zinke's candidating sermon before she was voted in as UUCA's minister of equal standing with Rev. John
Sunday, April 19, 2020 10:00 am Service Surrender to the Earth Reverend Kathleen C. Rolenz, Interim Minister On this Sunday before Earth Day, we, like the earth, are taking time to pause, reflect on how to respond to the immediate global crisis. Although Earth is getting a break from human-made environmental abuses, it's only a matter of time before humans return to our habits. How can we help the earth - and all species survive and thrive for the near and long-term future?
In this message, Rev. John looks at the themes of Easter and the symbolic meanings to this celebration and shows how regeneration is a teaching of nature and not just from traditional religion.
Rev. John answers the question: What is a real man? In this sermon he will focus on an Oprah endorsed book, "You Throw Like a Girl" written by a former pro athlete, Don McPherson, who tells the story about his blind spots as a cis-gendered male athlete raised with many stereotypical biases. Rev. John will offer his comments as well as his own personal narrative about his growth and struggles around gender, race, and manhood. Reverend John T. Crestwell, Jr., Minister
Awake or Woke? Reverend Kathleen C. Rolenz, Interim Minister UUCA adopted the 8th Principle in April 2018 – a move which has called the entire congregation into a journey to counter racism and oppression. Building Beloved Community (BBC) created the 8th Principle Practice Series in response to this commitment with the hope that all 381 members of UUCA take the class at least once as part of waking up to the realities of racism and white supremacy. At the same time, we acknowledge that waking up from the slumber of whiteness can be awkward and painful for white people; and frustrating and exhausting for people of color. How might we – as members striving to build Beloved Community, together, move from being asleep to awake to woke? UUCA Choir will provide.
Reverend Kathleen C. Rolenz, Interim Minister On any given Sunday morning, the worship services should (ideally) address diverse needs. Worship needs to not assume unanimity in our theological, cultural, gender/affectional orientation, social location, racial, neurobiological orientations. The one category that is often overlooked in creating church and planning programs is the introverts! This sermon, purchased at the Fall Fundraising Festival by Jamie Harms will explore the needs of the introvert and how church can be a generative space for them as well. Rev. Kathleen will use the book Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World that Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain as a primary resource.
In this brief message, Rev. John uses the UU Soul Matters theme of Resilience to show how the African American story in history epitomizes the word; and offers some brief advice for anyone needing to be reminded why they are alive today--in this time of social change.
On UUCA's inaugural Science Sunday (aka Darwin Sunday) Rev. John continues his message about why we are both/and not either/or people and uses quantum entanglement as his proof. This was a wonderful multigenerational service so there are beautiful kid voices in the audio. We need that level of innocence and curiosity to move our thinking forward... Enjoy.
Rev. Kathleen Rolenz All of us are aging, and all of us are dealing with the realities of our aging in different ways. This sermon will reflect on the various life stages, with a particular focus towards the last 1/3 of life—on its challenges, its gravitas, and its grace.
Leika Lewis-Cornwell, Intern Minister "I'd lose my head if it wasn't attached to my body," the old joke goes. But what about when it's the body itself doing the remembering? This sermon will examine the ways our bodies and minds manifest our environment and history, and explore what that means for how we build resilient communities together.
The late Rev. Martin L King Jr.'s arrival as a leader and messenger of peace marked the apex of a repeating paradigm shift in America; a pattern that Rev. John believes occurs every 50 or so years. Obama/Trump is part of this historical pattern as we reconcile our original sin from 1619 when the first blacks arrived to the New World (which of course wasn't "new"). In this sermon, Rev. John gives new insight into old problems about race and human relations and offers his simple solution. Enjoy.
Ten Rules for Living Rev. Kathleen Rolenz, Interim Minister Happy New Year! If you’re like most, you see the new year as a fresh start; a chance to break an old habit and start a new one. Jean Vanier, a spiritual leader of the L’Arche communities was asked the secret of life and by way of response, he provided “ten rules for living.” Let’s start living!
Rev. John shares his findings and response to the wonderful book by Rev. Nancy McDonald Ladd, After the Good news, which asks are liberals really progressing or just in a delusion of conscience? What happens if you give up on the idea of progress? What comes after? And, how does Rev. John see progress and the karmic patterns of history? Check this important message out...
Reverend Kathleen Rolenz, Interim Minister
December’s Soul Matters theme is “awe” - a theme which invites us to reflect on the places which we find awe-inspiring. At the same time, the daily news brings one alarming and distressing reality after another. Couple that with the fact that the holidays are not always awe-some, how do we find awe and wonder? The answer may surprise you.
Join Revs Kathleen and John as they discuss the past, present and future of our congregation. Rev. Kathleen begins with honest dialog about her experience at UUCA; while Rev. John shares his personal vision for the congregation.
Join Rev. John as he explores part 2 of a sermon where he analyzes the primary and secondary religious stories that undergird our lives. In this message he states that we must move from linear to non-linear thinking--toward quantum thinking. He says that the West is in the midst of a major paradigm shift that will lead us to the world we dream about.
The Sum of All the Parts Rev. Kathleen Rolenz, Interim Minister While in between churches, I spent a year serving as a full-time Chaplain Resident at the University of Virginia Medical Center, covering the oncology, emergency room and psychiatric unit. It was there-- in the midst of life, death, chaos and healing I learned of the importance of paying attention, and had the experience of losing faith and finding hope. This sermon was born out of that chaplaincy and won the Richard C. Borden Sermon Prize of $10,000. Come see if you think the sermon was worth it!
"The end is near!" What does it all mean? In this sermon, Rev. John tackles old ideas with new insights to tackle the hard topic of fundamentalism and symbolism as the primary and secondary story, respectively, of humankind. He shows us that the world we seek is inside of us. "The Kingdom we seek is within and manifests inside before it does outside" he says.
Listen to guest minister, Rev. Keith Kron, from the UUA Transitions office, as he describes what a T-Rex named Penelope, Pittsburgh, and a theologian can teach us about the future of religion and our commitment to equity and justice.
Rev. Kathleen Rolenz, Interim Minister Robin DiAngelo's best selling (Beacon Press) book "White Fragility" has continued to stay on the Washington Times Best Seller List for weeks. For those who identify as white, it can be a challenging but illuminating read, as we begin to see the many ways in which white defensiveness about race keeps us from fully engaging in the work of dismantling racism. Building Beloved Community (BBC) will host an all-church Middle and After Hour conversations about the key points of the sermon informed by DiAngelo's work.
Leika Lewis-Cornwell, Intern Minister asks, "What is the cost of life freely lived?" This message will explore the stories of those who have been asked to live hidden--to "pass" in race, gender, and/or sexuality. We will consider, together, the price they paid to fit in, and the space we create to belong. This is an auction sermon purchased by Carrie Kotcho, and will be in observance of National Coming Out Day.
In this message, Rev. John discusses Atonement, the Brotham Jean case, and how to change the world through forgiveness.
Rev. John Crestwell How can a personal journey through illness to wellness transform a life? How does love emerge when faced with life-changing circumstances? Learn more about Rev. John’s story surrounding www.thedayoflove.com and why he believes a new paradigm has emerged to tell a new story about humanity’s movement toward love.
Join Rev. Kathleen as shed discusses our monthly theme Faith from a UU context. What does it mean to lose your religion and find it again? Tune in to this podcast...
It’s taken us a long time to realize our value and our worth. It’s easy to forget how a social justice movement can forget or simply fail to acknowledge the other. When UUs raise our Black Lives Matter banners, this sermon will give a voice to the forgotten.
It is time to open our minds to the messages our bodies get through music, all aspects of music-major/minor key, rhythm, timbre, volume, and their changes-that can help to develop our spiritual expression. Music frees us from the confinement of thought that bogs us down and keeps us from moving forward in life.
American Zen teacher Bernie Glassman developed Street Retreats to push his students to give up their fixed ideas and pay attention to life around them. We go out without money, sleep on sidewalks, and beg. Back in 1991 when Bernie first started his street retreats, folks would ask him: How much money do you bring to the people on the street? And he would say: “No money.” Clothes? Blankets? Extra shoes? And he would say: “None of these. We bring ourselves.”
We have rituals for many occasions in our lives. We live by them and they are important. We need to honor rituals and create new ones to satisfy our continued lives.
The Fourth Source of Unitarian Universalism is Christian and Jewish Teachings calling us to love. In the aftermath of 2 mass shootings, we will reflect on how the book of Leviticus in the Hebrew Scriptures can inform us how we can change, atone, and act for justice in these difficult times.
We Americans swim in the waters of a gun culture that increasingly threatens our well-being as well as our lives. Can we keep from drowning? How can we respond effectively?
The intentional deepening of our faith can benefit not only us but also future generations. Let's explore how living in a purposeful multi-generational community can be fulfilling and also an act of social justice.
Cishet, pansexual, genderqueer, aromantic... As a Welcoming Church, we invite people to bring their full selves, but the spectrum of beautifully diverse identities can sometimes feel confusing to allies and some members of the LGBTQ+ community alike. This sermon will use the Gender Unicorn, a graphic by Trans Student Educational Resources, to explore identity, expression, and attraction.
In late 2018, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change warned the world that we have only 12 years to prevent catastrophic damage to the Earth. Let’s take a realistic look at climate justice and why choosing hope is our way forward.
Why do we sleep? Why did Arianna Huffington leave her job to devote her life to teaching people to live healthier lives through sleep and intentional self-care? Here's why we sleep and why we must prioritize it in our lives.
Every day we hear about a new crisis arising; whether the threat to women’s reproductive freedoms, measles outbreaks, looming tensions in the Middle East, asylum-seeking families being cruelly separated or deported, white supremacy asserts itself at every term, glaciers melting – it’s a Hot Mess! Every day we must practice a few core principles of our faith which allow us to persist and resist. Buy Rev. Nancy McDonald Ladd’s new book: After the Good News: Progressive Faith Beyond Optimism for some advance reading!
In this Memorial Day sermon, Interim Minister, Rev. Kathleen Rolenz, gives a compelling and riveting message on the racial and controversial events in Charlottesville, Virginia last year over the removal of the Confederate statue of General Robert Lee. Rev. Kathleen asks "What if the narrative you are telling yourself is a lie?" and boldly shows why one's personal stories can create false narratives that lead to war and violence. What can we do differently? Listen to this message.
Fear and love are powerful motivators. Some say fear is more potent while others say love is the thing that links us all. We will examine curiosity, fear, fight and flight and show that we must do what the author Susan Jeffers says, “Feel the fear and do it anyway.”
On May 5, 1819, The Reverend William Ellery Channing preached a controversial sermon at the Unitarian Church of Baltimore. Channing's sermon went "viral" and quickly established the Unitarians not only as religious liberals - but theological radicals.
On Easter morning, the women disciples of Jesus came to the tomb, only to discover that he wasn't there. Fast forward some 2,000 years, and we'll discover a Jesus whose message of radical hospitality and inclusiveness is still very much alive and still in need of our purposeful engagement.
As your interim minister, Rev. Rolenz has been on this journey of transition several times. There are certain experiences that are common to all churches in transition; others are unique to specific congregations. Rev. Rolenz will reflect on the journey of UUCA towards the next chapter of its life, with some help from the five spiritual touchstones which can frame our life's journey.
Freedom is not a single destination, but a series of roads we journey on together as we seek wholeness for ourselves and our world. This service will reflect on the lessons of Passover and the ways in which the journey of the Exodus still speaks into our own lives as we embrace and uplift freedom.
How do you choose to do or NOT do a certain thing? When or how do you know that your choice was the right one? In this message, Rev. John will utilize the social science scholarship of author Jonah Lehrer as he explores the intricate processes and decisions involved in finding and living in wholeness and happiness.
In celebration of Women's History Month and the commitments we make together to justice, this sermon explores epic journeys in myth, history, and our own lives.
What happens when we die? Today I examine spiritualism, reincarnation and life after death using some personal transcendent experiences, history and current writings, Rev. John explores the mystery of death and the afterlife.
Unitarian Universalists generally believe that we are autonomous, independent individuals who have the right to do with our lives whatever we wish-including the right to end it. This sermon was inspired by the book Stay by Jennifer Michael Hecht who argues that suicide violates not a moral law but a human ethical imperative to stay alive with and for each other.
Trigger Warning: This sermon contains sensitive content on suicide and discussion around mental health. Please be advised with children listening and seek help if you are having thoughts of depression or suicide. Ministers are available for Pastoral Care and can direct you to proper mental health agencies.
Frances Ellen Watkins Harper was an African-American abolitionist, suffragist, poet, teacher, public speaker, and writer. She was active in social reform and was a member of the Woman's Christian Temperance Union, which advocated the federal government taking a role in progressive reform. Her writings, poetry, and theology all leaned towards Universalism. Within her powerful life story, we may find lessons for our own to encourage, challenge and inspire us.
We talk of our journey to the beloved community all the time. We aspire to create a place that is diverse and welcoming to ALL. What does that look like when it is realized? How will we know when we get there? In this service, Rev. John will share his vision for the UUCA congregation, in particular, and Unitarian Universalism, in general, with great hope, and determination.
Who do you trust? Why do you trust them? Have you lost trust in someone or something? How do you get trust back? In this interactive service, Rev. John will lead you through some of the Soul Matters materials to get to the heart of the matter: Trust but verify!
The theme for February is "Trust" and there are many ways in which trust can be both eroded and built. The Ministry Team will reflect on the role of vulnerability, forgiveness, and mercy as it is experienced in the hard work of building relationships, dismantling oppression, and working for justice in our community.
It is said that old wounds fester. Could it be that we are still fighting the Civil War in America? Is it possible that the Civil Rights Movement was a continuation of a quintessentially American story about tribe, race, resources, and power?
In this message, Rev. John looks at history and suggests that we are fighting a war for civility.
From the cold vacuum of space to the lush wilds of earthly jungles, Wanderers have been heading out to explore the unknown since the dawn of time. No matter how intrepid these explorers, though, some of the small-some might say silly-reminders of home have traveled with them on their journeys. This multigenerational service will examine the ways we strike out to know mystery, and the things that keep us grounded on the way.
Does God exist? Perhaps we've all thought about this question? I have, often, and have drawn a few conclusions. Are you atheist, deist, theist, or none of the above but still believe in a greater good? How do you celebrate the holidays when they are based upon a narrative that says God entered the world through the birth of Jesus to lead humanity to salvation? In this holiday service, Rev. John will tackle the mystery of God and posit that everyone believes in a higher power.
We spend much of our life trying to figure things out - where we came from, who and what are we and where we are going; yet woven in and amongst all of these questions persists randomness, uncertainty and deep mystery. This sermon will explore the spiritual practice of engaging with the unknown.
The holidays can be a time of joy and also a time of struggle. This service will open space for all the complicated feelings we carry during this season of light and darkness.
Unitarian Universalists 5th principle encourages us to affirm and promote: The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large. In a joint sermon following the mid-term election, Revs. John and Kathleen will reflect on the meaning of democracy in a nation divided by the threat of tribalism. Can this election serve as a wake-up call for a new era of civic engagement? Or, is democracy in deep peril?
"Be welcoming" we are told. It's actually hard to be truly welcoming. Why? As religious people, however, it is what we do. It's who we are.
In this message, Rev. John tells the story of UUCA's Black Lives Matter sign and the confession of a young man who stole it. He ends with the call for UUs to not think small and even though it's counter-intuitive, to open its doors even wider to welcome the strangers looking for our UU sanctuary. Enjoy...
In the midst of the fight for justice, how do we care for the spirit? This sermon will examine the history of armistice, and what that means for the ways we create sanctuary.
- Leika Lewis-Cornwell, Intern Minister
In liberal circles being woke is a popular saying these days. It's in to be aware-but aware of what? Rev. John delves into why there are woes and wows as we awaken to the true realities of what life really is.
There are plenty of misconceptions about the role of forgiveness in our lives. Some of these are indeed grounded in religious teachings; others are secular attempts to express the need to forgive. But what about the commitment of acts which are unforgivable? What do we do with those? Rev.Kathleen delivers a message that explores forgiveness, resentment, and moving through some of life's most difficult and heartbreaking moments.
Shauntee Daniels, Worship Lay Minister, examines the words of Frederick Douglass It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men. Right now, children of color are at risk, we know that for sure. But when we examine the facts all children are at risk. What are the risks? How can we look at ourselves to help all children be strong?
Current science is discovering that trees and other organisms can and do communicate with each other. Hear how Lisa Fleeharty explores how this informs our understanding of our seventh principle and its connection to the first (and eighth!).
Listen to UU seminarian and former DRE Dayna Edwards as she explores the ways in which life and death conspire to keep us in balance whether we like it or not. Her words are timely given our recent tragedy.
We all think about our own life and how it will change over time. It is prudent to think about how our church will change. Even though we are addressing our documents and taking an inventory of our activities today, we have taken a major step in adopting the 8th Principle. How will this affect the church community and help us grow our faith? How will this expand the breadth of our reach?
When our bodies are wounded, the body kicks into high gear to begin the process of healing. From the common cold to more serious diseases or injuries, our body intuitively knows how to heal itself. When we are faced with trauma, grief and/or loss we need to pay equal attention to how our we heal emotionally and spiritually. The good news is that healing can, does, and will occur. As we seek to heal from a collective trauma, we'll look at ways to continue that process in the days, weeks, months and years ahead.
This interactive service will draw from multiple sources and traditions to examine the "golden rule" and what we can learn from each other about embracing the joy in life. Reading is by Whitney Houston, The Greatest Love of All Read by Worship Leader Alethea Shiplett
Join Worship Leader, Jane Carrigan and she explores forgiveness, letting go and reconciling her relationship with her sister through the spiritual practice of "Ho'oponopono".
This is the entire service save the first 15-minutes, unfortunately. There is a live stream and also a videotape version coming soon. This version is 2:22 minutes but worth every second. Thank you Wendi for your bravery and love of what you do!
On June 28 at 2:33pm, We lost an incredible member of our congregation, Wendi Winters. Her service was too large to be held in our sanctuary with a 250 capacity. We moved the service to Maryland Hall which holds 726. There were over 1000 in attendance (standing room only); and another 1,000 watching our live-stream. "This is the biggest thing to happen in the life of our congregation to date," many said.. We have all been profoundly hurt and changed.
On this UUCA podcast, Rev. John Crestwell, shares his Eulogy to/for/of Wendi Winters, our hero. He wants all of us to do what Wendi would, "Not cower in tough times" and to "Be the change we wish to see," as Gandhi said. We will never forget you Wendi!
Below is the picture she took of Rev. John in 2008. It's a good picture!
In 1920, Olympia Brown gave her final sermon entitled, "The Opening Doors," a few weeks after the passage of the 19th Amendment which gave women the right to vote in America. This victory sermon was a reminder to the Universalists in Racine, Wisconsin to remember their shared salvation and how they are called to be a blessing to others. A century later, this message may still ring true for us.
"It only takes a spark to get a fire going...That's how it is with love.." Kurt Kaiser's words guide this message about generosity--lighting the flame within; and the power giving has on people, places and things! Check out Rev. John's message on Father's Day 2018.
Note: This message was not recorded live so this is a re-recording.
Rev.Kathleen Rolenz & Leika Lewis-Cornwell What do you do when you find yourself between a rock and a hard place? As we look at the monthly theme of "Blessing" we find that many blessings aren't visible until we are going through troubled times. The Worship leaders reflect on blessing and struggle in this sermon. This was a multi-sensory service in which the entire worship team was involved so we do acknowledge their dedication for producing such a meaningful service.
SSECCUS with Rev. John Crestwell, Jr. Is this title creative? Creativity is our monthly theme. I spelled success backward because I think many have it all wrong. Today I examine ideas and definitions of success that may be opposite to what you may have considered success to be. NOTE: Sermon wasn't recorded live so Rev. John did a manual recording for this podcast.
Surrendering is seen as cowardice by many but it actually is very courageous and is one of the hardest things in life to do. We hold on--sometimes too long--and in the process lose the very thing we wanted so badly. Using strategies from Dr. David Hawkins, Rev. John will help us with one of the hardest lessons of all--letting go.
Mum's the word is British slang for "keeping quiet." Today, however, we're not keeping quiet about the role that our Mums (or moms) play in our lives. This multigenerational service celebrates Mother's Day and included our annual Flower Ceremony.
We are restless souls yearning to be understood and evolve. What is emerging in ourselves and in humanity? Inspired by the words of the Chilean Poet Pablo Neruda, Rev. John explores how learning to understand our emerging selves and each other allows us to live into the Beloved Community.
Heloise's household hints column was begun in 1959 to help readers clean up life's spills, stains and stinks. Our greatest household - the planet - is desperately in need of action if we want to preserve the home for present and future generations. Rev.Kathleen Rolenz shares her thoughts in this Earth Day Sermon.
This Sunday combines two seemingly opposite holidays; the resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth from the tomb and April Fool's Day - a day of pranks, merriment and the opportunity for those in positions of power to be foolish or to be exposed as fools. Yet, much of Jesus' ministry was to show those in power how foolish they truly were. Regardless if you identify as a Christian or not, the practice of resurrection is both a foolish hope and a possibility still in the making.
Are you angry? Have you struggled with anger? There are many schools of thought about anger and its productive and counter-productive qualities. Rev. John Crestwell analyzes the many angles of anger and how we can balance our own internal fire, productively, before it becomes fury and does harm to ourselves and others. This is a continuation of last week's message focusing on the success of the March for our Lives, toxic masculinity, and transmuting our anger energy into positive change.
Leader of the Harlem Children's Zone in New York City, Geoffrey Canada, told his story of how things escalate into violence in his bookFist, Stick, Knife, Gun. Canada was able to turn many New York blocks into safe zones for children to be educated. We can do the same in our own way if we develop the moral courage as a nation. As we prepare to march for our children on March 24th, let's discuss what de-escalation and balance could look like in our society.
Note: Rev. John said the first school shooting was in 1964--he meant 1764. Here is the link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_school_shootings_in_the_United_States
If Unitarian Universalist were reviewed in a local magazine would it read "the best kept secret in town?" If so, why is that? Why is it, when people discover Unitarian Universalism, they exclaim: "where have you been all my life?" If the nature of religious life is to make the "invisible visible" then there is much spiritual work to be done. In this sermon, Rev. Kathleen Rolenz sheds light on how we as Unitarian Universalists can become more visible in a way that is true to our values.
This past year the nation witnessed an unprecedented reporting of sexual harassment and assault against women as well as some men. The coverage has revealed not only the pervasiveness of inappropriate conduct, but a nation's own uncertainty about what the next steps should be in creating an environment where all people feel welcome, safe, and valued. Rev.Kathleen Rolenz receives a standing ovation for a message that acknowledges the pain, trauma, and abuse many people have experienced while calling us forward into more awareness, love, respect, and wholeness.
Have you ever had your heart broken by life? English poet, David Whyte, says that "heartbreak is how we mature." It doesn't feel that way when it's happening does it? Rev. John will discuss how your setbacks are actually setups for spiritual growth.
Memory lingers long - until it doesn't. When memory fails or fades, what happens to the person or the institution? How does memory shape our understanding of the past and prepare us for the future? This sermon, Rev. Kathleen explores the persistence of our memories and how we make meaning of them.
Charles Darwin gifted the world with the theory of evolution, which remains the gold standard by which we understand the evolution of the species. Understanding the ways in which human beings evolve emotionally and spiritually is no less complex, fascinating, or controversial. Rev. Rolenz shared the sermon with Leika Lewis Cornwell, currently in seminary studying for the Unitarian Universalist ministry.
In recognition of Black History Month and UUCA's traditional focus on humanism during the month of February, in this sermon, Rev. Kathleen reflected on the influence of humanism on people of color in Unitarian Universalism. It's a story filled with both triumph and tragedy and has telling implications for the future of this faith.
A spirit-filled service around our monthly theme of Intention - what it means to chose to intentionally see both sides of a conflict. Life is both intentional and ambiguous. This service Rev. John demonstrates how we as humans can be both complex while trying to meet our most basic needs
UUCA has done much work on racial justice and engaging with the realities of white privilege and white supremacy. And yet, the struggle to turn our ideals into real, lasting institutional change continue to challenge us to dig deeper and to be more resilient in our resistance to everyday racism. There are two essential things we need to do to continue to build the world we dream about. Our Interim Minister Kathleen Rolenz enlightens us on this Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday Service.
Join UUCA's new Interim Senior Minister, Kathleen Rolenz, in exploring change and transition in our lives. When familiar routines are disrupted; beloved people move or die; what once seemed solid and predictable changes and shifts and with it, so must we.
Stories are the ties that bind us together at UUCA. In this last Sunday service as our senior minister, Rev. Fred Muir shared stories from my 34 years of ministry with you, stories that will bind us forever. Included in this podcast is the ceremony commemorating Fred's 34 years of service to our congregation. He is named Minister Emeritus along with the wood behind the church building are now called "Muir Woods." Finally a blessing and laying on hands to send the Muirs off to the next chapter on life's journey.
Music:
"Hush, Somebody's Callin' my Name" - African American Spiritual
"Natural Woman" written by Gerry Goffin and Carole King
"I've Got You Under My Skin" written by Cole Porter
UUCA does not own any of the rights to music performed during the service.
At this time, the darkest of the year, we beckon the light forward to fill the darkness and help us see more clearly. The theme of an emerging light in the darkness is present in several of the December holidays. In this multi-generational service, we have 4 candles representing four faith traditions who must figure out how to be with one another and understand the meaning of the holiday traditions. Welcome to Holly Day's Shop!
In this season of hope and, for some, hopelessness--how can you use your power to have an impact on the current paradigm that perpetuates inequality and hatred? Rev. John Crestwell offers his thoughts on hope and action in his latest message to the UUCA congregation.
Am I naive to be hopeful? In spite of 2016's cultural and political turmoil and disappointments, I enter the December holidays with hope in my heart, with a spirit shaped by hope. Actually, my faith leaves me no choice. Please join me as I consider the case for hope.
What are you grateful for? Shout it out this holiday season. This past worship service we looked at secular and spiritual understandings of abundance and generosity and why giving thanks opens the path to abundance. Music included on podcast "Grateful" by written and performed by Hezekiah Walker and Love Fellowship Choir
Politicians and clergy have frequently evoked this powerful image from Jesus's "Sermon on the Mount." Even before the first Europeans settlers came ashore, their leaders held out this ideal which has shaped the U.S. in ways we might not completely understand. On this Thanksgiving Sunday, we explored this religious/political imagery and its' lasting significance.
On this very special Sunday honoring the legacy of our Senior Minister, Rev. Dr. Fredric J. Muir, we heard from past UUCA Interns. Reverend Kimberly Wildszewski serves at the UU Church of Washington Crossing, New Jersey. She shares her experiences and memories with Reverend Fred and her time as a UU intern many years ago.
St. Paul wrote: "For I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate." (Romans 7:15) St. Paul meet Richard Thaler. Thaler just won the Nobel Prize in Economics and explains why we (people) make irrational decisions. As we enter the holiday season - what has been called "Hallothanksmas" - the opportunities for poor decision-making will be abundant. Let's explore how we might keep the faith, act religiously, and make it through what for many can be an unsettling time.
This year is the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation. All Protestant denominations got their start on October 31, 1571 - and that includes Unitarian Universalism. It's been a long journey and this Sunday I concluded the story of how we got this way by continuing to unravel the many twists and turns that our journey has taken.
This year is the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation. All protestant denominations got their start on October 31, 1571 - and that includes Unitarian Universalism. It's been a long journey and this Sunday Rev. Fred will start to unravel the many twists and turns that the journey has taken.
In this message, dedicated to Rev. John Crestwell's mentor and colleague, Rev. Dr. Fredric John Muir, John tells the story of how he found Unitarian Universalism and why he remains a UU even though his faith has waned and even faulted in the process. He boldly proclaims that his religion gives him the space for this questioning and evolving as a human being--space we all need to grow.
It's not just the times we share that require courage, it's likely that each of us must face challenges of all sorts that require courage. When seeing another act with courage, I often hear someone comment, "How do they do it?" My response: "Take courage friends. You too have what it takes." Really? Do you believe that? This Sunday we take a on the new monthly theme of courage. (At the start of the second service - at 11:15 - we will gather outside, at the Black Lives Matter banner, to rededicate it and us to this courageous work).
Scrabble became famous in the 50's in America. In this message, Rev. John uses the more recent digital scrabble game and a sports metaphor (I know some of you hate board games and sports) to make his point about living with hope.
Join Rev. Fred Muir before the start of the Jewish High Holy Days by considering forgiveness and what that looks like today, which is a quintessential theme of the period between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.
In this message, Rev. Fred answers questions from the congregation. The questions vary from spiritual to self-help, to perspectives on current events. Enjoy and ponder his responses...
A renowned author noted: "The past is never dead. It's not even past." Or as Yogi Berra is supposed to have said: "It's deja vu all over again." The last six months have been challenging times for religious liberals, especially Unitarian Universalists. Just when we may have thought our past was dead ... here we go again. Join Rev. Fred as he continues looking at how our way of faith has been a harbinger of America's path.
It's about this time every year that we read about the tensions and divisions in religious denominations (we hear about it now because they are having their annual gatherings). Such tensions are a part of our faith history too; in fact, UUs often experienced tensions and divisions before others. Join Rev. Fred as he shares one of our faith community's most tumultuous times and see if it sounds familiar.
One correction: Rev. Fred mentioned that Anne Frank lived in Prague instead of Amsterdam. Enjoy!
In this third part of a three part sermon-series, Rev. John discusses the recent violence in Charlottesville, Virginia, its ramifications, and why moderated behavior along with forgiveness are the ways human beings can move beyond the tribal toward the transcendent.
Reading by Rev. Fred Muir is from the book "In Praise of Doubt"; and interlude and postlude music is by Jeannie Gagne singing "In My Quiet Sorrow". Enjoy...
In the second part of a three part message, Rev. John elaborates on his understandings of fanatics, fundamentalists, and extremists and argues that we can all be dogmatic about our beliefs; but there are limits--a line--we should not cross. In a country wondering why we are so disjointed, Rev. John adds his reasons why.
Interlude music is an original piece, "Creation" by Joshua Long
Saying goodbye is often necessary, and almost always hard. In the words of Dr. Seuss, "Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened." This sermon is Eleanor's last time in the pulpit as our intern and summer minister.
|
|
|
|
|
| UUCA PODCAST |
|
|
|
|
|
Ralph Waldo Emerson's disciple, Henry Thoreau wrote from Walden Pond: "We must learn to reawaken and keep ourselves awake, not by mechanical aids, but by an infinite expectation of the dawn." Thoreau's expectations were and remain robust in our nation, and in Unitarian Universalism. Join me as I continue looking at how our way of faith has been a harbinger of America's path.
In this message, Rev. John looks at why fanatics are the "squeaky wheels that get the oil" in society and why we need to understand fanaticism and become an equal and opposite force of love over and against their traditionalists/fundamentalists message of exclusion. Before the sermon, there was a reading (below). Enjoy...
Reading before the sermon:
Excerpt from David Foster Wallace's Commencement address at Kenyon College in 2008
Here's something else that's weird but true: in the day-to-day trenches of adult life, there is actually no such thing as atheism. There is no such thing as not worshipping. Everybody worships. The only choice we get is what to worship. And the compelling reason for maybe choosing some sort of god or spiritual-type thing to worship, be it JC or Allah, be it YHWH or the Wiccan Mother Goddess, or the Four Noble Truths, or some unbreakable set of ethical principles is that pretty much anything else you worship will eat you alive. If you worship money and things, if they are where you tap real meaning in life, then you will never have enough, never feel you have enough. It's the truth. Worship your body and beauty and sexual allure and you will always feel ugly. And when time and age start showing, you will die a million deaths before they finally grieve you. On one level, we all know this stuff already. It's been codified as myths, proverbs, clichés, epigrams, parables; the skeleton of every great story. The whole trick is keeping the truth up front in daily consciousness.
Worship power, you will end up feeling weak and afraid, and you will need ever more power over others to numb you to your own fear. Worship your intellect, being seen as smart, you will end up feeling stupid, a fraud, always on the verge of being found out. But the insidious thing about these forms of worship is not that they're evil or sinful, it's that they're unconscious. They are default settings. They're the kind of worship you just gradually slip into, day after day, getting more and more selective about what you see and how you measure value without ever being fully aware that that's what you're doing. And the so-called real world will NOT discourage you from operating on your default settings, because the so-called real world of men and money and power hums merrily along in a pool of fear and anger and frustration and craving and worship of self.
In this message, Rev. Fred Muir shows how Ralph Waldo Emerson had his finger on the pulse of our nation. Ahead of his time, his "Harvard Divinity School Address" - called by one Unitarian colleague "the latest form of infidelity" - was simply carrying forward the spirit as witnessed in the birth of the nation. Listen to how UUism has been a harbinger of America's path.
We may have heard a few sayings like "Count it all joy" or "God is good all the time"; but, really, life is full of challenges and hardships that can bring us great despair. How do we "count it all joy" amidst a rough political landscape, conflicts amongst our peers, and hardships in our daily lives? Soon to be seminarian, Joshua Long, who is also UUCA/AWAKE's Contemporary Music Directory, explores how joy can move beyond our feelings and into the affirmative goodness of/in life.
"The struggle is eternal," is a favorite revolutionary saying, and it's true; we even feel it in church. Church should engage us in struggle, by challenging us to live more faithfully. The faith journey draws us inward toward one another, outward to embrace the unknown, and onward toward a visionary future. Even while these different motions sometimes collide, their interplay is where we find joy. A message from our Summer Minister, Eleanor Piez.
In this episode, Rev. Christina Leone Tracy powerfully and passionately says goodbye to the UUCA congregation. "I have three sermons I preach to you," she says and then explains why these lessons are more important now more than ever before.
This was an emotional message that touched us all. Goodbye Rev. Christina. You shall be greatly missed...
In this message, Rev. John T. Crestwell delves into the complicated arena of authenticity, individuality, and individualism and shows that there is a fine line between altruism and hedonism.
Special music before and after the message from Guest Musician, Bob Sima
This sermon is dedicated to the memory of Lt. Richard W. Collins III.
Rev. Christina explores themes from the book Coming of Age the Rite Way, the chosen topic from auction winner Jen Mendez. She considers what it means to be the village to raise our children and thus live into our collective future.
Rev. Christina will explore themes from the book *Coming of Age the Rite Way*, the chosen topic from auction winner Jen Mendez. We'll consider what it means to be the village to raise our children and thus live into our collective future!
In this message on a very special "Teach-in on White Supremacy" Sunday, Rev. Fred Muir tells some personal stories and references the book, "Waking up White" to emphasize his message about White privilege, fragility, and society and his culture's need for personal growth in this area.
The video referenced is from Buzz Feed. It's about privilege and can be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hD5f8GuNuGQ
Note: Over 100 members and friends participated in conversations after church.
After a reading by Pesha Gertler, read by Seminarian and AWAKE Music Director Joshua Long, Rev. John shares why we must say yes to turmoil, controversy and confusion. He calls it all "holy work" and shares stories about his journey, UUCA's changes, and the current UUA controversy to make his point about resurrection.
In a very passionate sermon, Rev. Christina Leone Tracy discusses transformation, change, UUCAs present and future, as well as the current UU/UUA Climate. How can we give away our church to gain a true and just UU faith? Listen to this sermon.
The first 3-minutes are missing so the written text is below:
I love the story that I read to you earlier, Brother Juniper, https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6051.Brother_Juniper, because it is a sweet, funny, kind story, a story that tells of a man who lived his faith so fully that he took enormous risks, even if he didn't mean to...
Here at UUCA, we celebrate a new theme each month--and back in March we celebrated the theme of Risk. Brother Juniper indeed took some risks--in fact, when his companions returned to find him standing in that empty hole they yelled at him, "What have you done! You've ruined our church!"
We've all felt that way sometimes, when a risk we take doesn't pan out the way we want at first.
But life is about change, and that's what we're talking about this month. April's theme is transformation. This month we have celebrated the Passover, when the people of Israel are freed from bondage and transformed again into the chosen people -- We also celebrated Easter, the death and resurrection of Jesus, a transformation of death into life.
Transformation is a powerful theme and it feels like we talk about it a lot. I remember when I was a couple years into my time in this ministry here, and we had experienced a number of changes. The beloved DRE had left after 23 years, and I had come into this role. I hired a new RE Assistant to replace the previous one who moved away. The choir director changed a couple times, and the Administrator too. Then the new RE Assistant who everyone loved, decided to take on a bigger job elsewhere and I needed to hire someone new. I remember talking about the changes that were coming, and someone said, "Once all these changes finally stop, we will be able to really do the work we want."
"Ohhhh..." I remember saying... "Do you think these changes are going to stop? Oh. I'm sorry. I don't think that's going to happen. I might go on maternity leave at some point (I did), I might have to move on to another ministry at some point (and that point is coming soon). These changes are going to keep happening. Here at church and throughout life, the goal is not to wait out the changes until some change-free time arrives."
If you're honest with yourself, there is NO time in life where there are NO changes. The goal is to find a way to go with the changes so that we can continue to grow and thrive with them, to use each change as an opportunity for reflection, curiosity, and improvement. The goal is not just to weather the changes but instead to truly transform!
When we think about Transformation, we think about growing, getting bigger, improving, fixing, changing, adding things. I mean, the story of Passover is a celebration of the power of God to perform miracles and free people!
(THE AUDIO PICKS UP HERE)
This Easter day, Christians are celebrating the resurrected Christ - the quintessential event of the Christian tradition. Yet most Unitarian Universalists reject this moving and core concept. Still, there is a growing group of UU Christians at UUCA and in UUism. This Easter day, let's look at Christ.
When we think of transformation, we often imagine a big, dramatic change. But profound changes can also take place more subtly over time through practice. The Christian story of Palm Sunday offers a lens through which we will examine the nature of transformation.
In this message Rev. John examines one of his favorite poems, If, by Rudyard Kipling and helps the listener see that the old-time virtues of integrity, courage and honesty are not so old and sorely needed today in a world where truths are "twisted by knaves".
What does Trapeze have to do with being a UU? As it turns out, quite a bit! Let's talk about the risks we might need to take as we leap into a very uncertain religious and political future.
Rev. Fred Muir steps out and declares that UUCA must become a Sanctuary Congregation in this very moving and bold talk.
He says, "I'm a Liberal. There - I've said it! Identifying oneself as a Liberal is risky business nowadays. As a faith, UUism is identified as Liberal Religion. It always has been. What's that mean? What are the risks?" Join him in exploring these questions.
Rev. Fred Muir I saw a link for the "New York Times" the other day that read - "Read the Times: Just the facts. No alternatives." Are we living in an "alternative facts" world? Truthful living is at the core of our Unitarian Universalist Principals. How do we make sense of it all?
In this sermon, Rev. John looks at his own identity and asks the listener, "Who are you, anyway?" Let's examine who we are and how taking responsibility for our core-Self (with a capital S) is vital in living and being our best self.
In this the era of identity politics, everyone seems to have a definition of who they are and what is important. What are the different communities that have shaped your identity? Let's think about this together.
Rev. Fred Muir shares his last Charles Darwin sermon commemorating the life of one of his role model's--a man who shaped humanity's view of life, living and death in profound ways...
In this time of uncertainty, Fred reminds us of facing fears and looking at our fragility boldly and with love... Please listen to his pastoral message...
In this annual service we remember births, weddings and deaths from the previous year. Every year this service is moving and reminds each of us that we are always in transition.
With the election and all of this great liberal forces converging, this is a RIPE time for our UU message if we can remember 4-things and 4 Ps. Let our business/faith boom in the next four years!
In this 2017 Martin Luther King, Jr. Sunday, Rev. John takes on poverty, moral will and how to connect to King's vision of Beloved Community.
"The Prophethood of All Believers" Eleanor Piez, Intern Minister James Luther Adams, beloved UU professor of theology and ethics, understood our faith as "the prophethood of all believers." But prophets are often unpopular in their own times and communities. What does it mean for us to be a prophethood today? You will hear an update on UULM-MD's work during the upcoming legislative session.Music by Sara Jones.
The election is a part of a narrative where countervailing forces are being called to rise up! This is a pattern and cycle in our human evolution. If you need some post-election context in the spirit of the holidays, this message is for you.
A special thank you to Dr. Mike Houge at Meadville Theological for his inspiration for this sermon.
Love,
Rev. John
'Tis the season for ... presence (which is this month's theme). So many of the holiday stories, songs, greetings and themes are all about presence - of looking for those spaces and places into which we can step and experience centering, wholeness and hopefulness. Think of the words, people and contexts in your life that reflect presence ...
Who gets to tell the story of America? What is His-story and Our-story? What must we do now in this polarized time to promote our principles? Rev. John answers these questions and more as he examines perspective and some of the stories that have led up to the new president-elect.
Our divided nation has gone to the polls to elect a new President; what do we do now? Is there any hope of becoming "The Reunited States of America"? Join me on this Sunday after the election as I assess where we might go from here.
Very soon the nation votes for a new President. The country is divided. It has become mean, ugly, and stress-filled. What's behind the divisiveness? Join me on this Sunday before the election for part one of this two part sermon. [This sermon was purchased by Charlie Gross at last November's basket auction.]
Death is an inevitable part of life, but for those of us remaining after a loved one dies, we are left with myriad feelings, and perhaps wondering how to heal as we move through grief. El Dia de los Muertos is a Mexican celebration of death, that seeks to find joy in remembering our loved ones.
It seems that our culture is in desperate need of healers - people who can erect bridges to wholeness and health for the wounded and marginalized. Many talk with such admiration for people who are in positions of healing. Yet, healing comes in many different versions and styles. Join me as we look at healing and healers and decipher their power.
How do we develop our I AM, our self-worth in a world that labels us as less than worthy? Hear the story of Tonier Cain and how she made her mess of a life into a powerful message of hope and transformation.
"An opportunity to try or perform something a second time." That's a do-over. As we enter the High Holy Days, this sermon reminds us that each day is an opportunity to shout "do over!" Let's look at this meaningful opportunity.
In this message, Rev. John Crestwell uses the Gospel of Thomas to remind us to "look up!" when faced with conflict and polarization. Move the mountains out of your life!
GOD / IDEALS
ME You
-Rev. Christina Leone Tracy
A covenant is not a set of rules or a contract. It's a promise that we make, over and over, to come back to community. Not in spite of our mistakes, but because of them. Because we mess up over and over, we need to practice how to come back.
You get up in the morning, ready to start a new day. What is your frame of mind, your purpose? When you return to bed in fourteen or eighteen hours, how will you think about your day of work, leisure or relationships? Let's set aside some time to imagine what a grace-filled day or life might look like.
We often think about the existence of the divine as either “out there” or “non-existent.” What if there’s another way? What if the holy was in us all? What might that look like? How would it change our outlook on life? Join us as we explore the roots and wings provided by a mystical, experiential, or pantheist view of Unitarian Universalist faith. This service topic was the request of basket-auction-winners Scott Eden and Jan Bird.
In the second sermon of this series, our Summer Minister, Hannah, will explore how our Third Principle calls us to nourish one another spiritually.
During this season of interconnection, we will consider our responsibilities to one another as Unitarian Universalists by exploring three of our Principles. In the first sermon of three this month by our Summer Minister, Hannah, we will explore how our Fifth Principle calls us to embody the democratic process in our communities.
Happy Birthday USA! Let's join together and speak of our country's past, present and the nation of our future. Are we truly a welcoming nation? This sermon examines some of the spoken and unspoken biases many carry when thinking of the future of our country, and religion.
Our annual summer tradition continues! Celebrate our freedom of exploration by submitting questions for Rev. Christina to answer (on the "fly"!)
Join us for an inspiring Father's Day service on "perspectives" and how we each have our own position, view, and outlook that defines and also biases our ways of thinking. What is the difference in informed knowledge and an opinion?
Sounds like the menu for a summer cookout! While for some this might be appealing, a summer picnic was not the topic under consideration in a radio program I listened to recently; they used this phrase as a way to describe the future of our most reliable, taken-for-granted institutions. For me, it applies to faith communities too. Please join me as I chew on this topic with what for some will be a startling and unexpected conclusion.
Just war theory (jus bellum iustum) is a doctrine, also referred to as a tradition, of military ethics studied by theologians, ethicists, policy makers, and military leaders (Wikipedia). Today I will look at this concept and determine if there is such thing as a “just war”.
In this message, Rev. John shares his worldview of oneness, interconnection and shared realities admonishing us to "Be like water."
Noticing our mistakes, honoring them, and trying again and again is what it means to be a covenantal people. We will come together this Sunday to remember when we as a people, historically and in the present, have made mistakes, to sit, and to move forward. Sometimes, we just need some silence.
Rev. Fred discusses why we must go deeper in our understandings to "test" them and see if we are getting to know things on the surface or in a personal and intimate way. Test your experiences by thinking deeper about them.
As we enter our Freedom season in worship, we will explore how we can have hope for freedom even in trying times
On this Passover and Earth Day Sunday let's remember that there are still modern plagues that threaten our human existence and commitment to building a Beloved Community.
I haven't heard a presidential candidate (or any political candidate) who doesn't have a plan for justice and prosperity. So, I wonder, just how does that work? Depending on your place, family of origin, faith, etc., these can look very different. Join me this morning as I look at prosperity through the lens of justice.
On this day we typically look at the man on the cross and consider what new life might mean for us. Today, instead, we'll be looking at the women-- the ones who stayed; loyal, heartbroken, and supportive-- and consider their message to us, 2000 years later.
In this sermon Rev. John looks at emotional intelligence/literacy as it relates to the use of force in our world. He shows that true power calibrates at a much higher level of energy than force. He also shares with us two books that support his findings. Enjoy...
Intern Minister, Hannah Villnave takes us on a journey through public transportation showing us how there are lessons we learn from the space(s) we take up.
I'm often asked by newcomers (and longtime Unitarian Universalists) where our community's commitment to justice-making comes from. Last Sunday I started an exploration of one chapter in this commitment; this Sunday continues that exploration. You decide how we're living up to our heritage.
As we move into our "season of justice," join me as I share one chapter in the story of Unitarian Universalism's shaping commitment to "the inherent worth and dignity of every person ... [with] justice, fairness and compassion." Learning the "talk" and then "walking the talk" has been a long time badge of honor among UUs. Over the next two Sundays, you decide how we're doing.
Sometimes our individual efforts to build a more just world can feel disconnected and disjointed. How can we feel less like a single drop and more like part of a mighty ocean? Come join us as we explore that question
The ideas of Charles Darwin changed everything. They continue to challenge us in new and exciting ways. On our annual Darwin Sunday let's explore the understandings and misunderstandings of what he started.
In this message, Rev. John Crestwell takes a hard and close look at expectations, dysfunction and solutions facing the poor and neglected in our society.
On this special Martin Luther King, Jr. Sunday we learn that our dear brother's true final speech was in his briefcase revealing a side of the great civil rights leader that is neither passive nor resistant. These evolving contrasts in Dr. King can also be seen in the contrasts and complexities in our world's language, geography and visual imagery, leaving "us" versus "them" as our greatest human challenge.
How do we awaken our Love Force? Exploring "satyagraha" -- the power and strength of love in the philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi.
in this season where many look at the darkness and light as religious expressions, Rev. John examines dark and light, blackness and whiteness and the language we use to express love and hate.
With most religious observances/celebrations, there is a good story behind them. So also with Christmas. The contemporary implications of its story are many, so join us this morning as we unpack life with Christmas.
As we continue our seasonal theme of love, today we'll explore whether or not you can "buy" love -- especially at this season of giving that can be so easily commercialized. We'll explore the 5 Love Languages in the context of the holidays.
With most religious observances/celebrations, there is a good story behind them. So also with Hanukkah. The contemporary implications of its story are many, so join us this morning as we unpack life with Hanukkah.
I love vampire shows because most of them tend to be very romantic. They are all over the TV these days. I got sucked in to one a few days ago when I accidentally watched the last episode of the Vampire Diaries with my daughter. I was instantly hooked! By the way, how is your love-life? This Sunday we will talk about how to make love come alive in your life. Let's awaken or re-awaken the love inside of you.
It's been said that we should hold our "no" as sacred as our "yes." Saying "no" and honoring our own boundaries can even be an act of love to ourselves. But how can we maintain a posture of gratitude and abundance while still honoring our "no"? Come and learn to honor your "no" with gratitude.
Join us - young, old, and in-between - for our first "Celebration Sunday" of the church year. You might have noticed we're honoring "seasonal" themes instead of monthly ones. Today we'll celebrate the end of our Abundance Season with story, song, ritual, and a special surprise you won't want to miss!
Unitarian Universalism is not a "peace church" like the Quakers, but we do have a strong thread of pacifism in our heritage. How do we honor our pacifist leanings, oppose war, and simultaneously support and honor our veterans? Military veterans or their families are encouraged to bring a photo or item from military service for our altar this morning.
In this sermon Rev. Fred Muir says "how we revere freedom of choice, in nearly everything we do and most especially in choosing our beliefs. The abundance and generosity in our way of religion is reflected in how Unitarian Universalists have blended these two theological histories to such a point that we forget the radically different paths the traditions took and how they each continue shaping us. Let's pull apart our UU history and look at how we/you got here." [This sermon was paid for and selected by Jamie Harms at last year's church auction.]
Oftentimes we associate the desert with "not enough", but the desert can also be a place of great abundance. What happens when we approach the deserts in our own lives as offering abundance rather than scarcity? Our new Intern Minister, Hannah Villnave, explores how the deserts (both literal and figurative!) in her own life have brought abundance and grace.
Rev. John at the AWAKE Service discusses his understanding of generosity and how it ripples outwardly in the world.
The video that is watched is here: Thai Insurance Ad
"We begin again in love" is the refrain in a responsive reading from our Unitarian Universalist hymnal. The reading is about forgiveness - forgiving ourselves and others. On this Sunday between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur (the Jewish High Holy Days), forgiveness is our topic and the challenges of learning the steps to this difficult dance.
In 1841, Unitarian minister Theodore Parker preached a sermon entitled, "The Transient and Permanent in Christianity," considering what was an important foundation of the faith, and what was changeable. This Sunday Rev. Christina will explore what is transient and what is permanent in our own Unitarian Universalism (hint, a lot is transient!)-- This sermon topic was purchased at the fall auction by Ken Apfel and members of Christina's Committee on Ministry.
In many cultures - including ours - a change of name has signified a change of identity, a maturing, a time of deepening. Names are important symbols of who we are and what we want to be. Join me this morning in this valuable exploration.
What is the best advice anyone ever gave you? Did you listen? We'll hear from some members -- Diane Goforth, Dan Moreau, Shauntee Daniels, Rev Patricia Owen, and Rev Christina Leone-Tracy
We live in a very busy world. What is the cost of this busyness and how do we slow down?
Charles Darwin initiated a cultural revolution that started 156 years ago and shows no signs of stopping. Politics, science, religion, families and school systems have all been caught up in the tumult - in the applications and misapplications of Darwin's "little secret". Where do you stand in this ongoing conversation?
We all hit it! What can we learn from the dark times we all face? How do we embrace those moments, remain fully present in our communities and grow stronger?
This Independence Day Sunday, let us consider religious freedom. It's quintessential to the U.S. way of life, right? Can anybody really argue against it? "You betcha!" (as a former VP Republican candidate would say). Join me as I take a look at this fundamental liberty that helped shape our faith and nation.
The annual summer tradition continues! Wondering, and questions, are inherently a part of our UU identity. Bring your questions--big, small, deep, or silly-- and Rev. Christina will answer as many as she can from the pulpit!
The story of one woman's quest for connection in a UU setting inspires us to think about how we may take hospitality to the next level.
There's more to the Unitarian Universalist story than has been known. Join me this morning as I reflect on my recent trip to the UU Church of the Philippines.
"The young dead soldiers do not speak. Nevertheless, they are heard in the still houses: who has not heard them?" (Archibald MacLeish).
Samsara is a Hindu term related to living, dying and reincarnation. In Hinduism we are stuck on an endless wheel of life/death/rebirth until we reach enlightenment. In a modern sense, this means if we get stuck in bad patterns we will repeat them until we become conscious of what we are doing.
The Ministry Team leads this service on "differences that make a difference";
Rev Fred Muir & Rev John Crestwell discuss differences Race brings.
The Ministry Team leads this service on "differences that make a difference";
Rev Fred Muir & Rev Patricia Owen discuss sexual orientation
The Ministry Team leads this service on "differences that make a difference";
Rev John Crestwell & Rev Christina Leone-Tracy talk about Gender differences
In this sermon Rev. John reviews Sam Harris' book and concludes that it is not necessary to belittle another's faith to prove your values or beliefs are better. He promotes language of affirmation and not denunciation.
There's a lot about the Christian Church - which is part of our Unitarian Universalist heritage - that was shaped and created in the first centuries after the crucifixion of Jesus. Easter Sunday is a perfect time to look at that history and what happened to it ... and to us.
There's a lot about the Christian Church - which is part of our Unitarian Universalist heritage - that was shaped and created in the first centuries after the crucifixion of Jesus. Easter Sunday is a perfect time to look at that history and what happened to it ... and to us.
Ours is an active, lived faith, not one that occurs only in our minds. What does this mean for our need to serve each other and the world? It's time to put on our aprons!
When people say they have faith they will "get through this or that" what does that mean? Is faith relevant to us in 2015 and beyond? Do we need it? Do we want it? Let's explore together how we navigate the detours and potholes of our lives, and how faith can play a part.
Living our liberal faith invites us into spaces where courage is needed and hope is abundant. People often talk about living a life of faith. What is at the center of our faith and what does living our Unitarian Universalist faith look like?
The three major gods in Hinduism have something to teach about faith, hope, and love. If we embrace their guidance, we will get the essence and purpose of what life really is.
What does the word "faith" conjure up in your mind? Strong will? Believing in what you can't see? A person with shallow or deep belief? Is it a particular way of believing? Have you a faith to lose? Oh, all the questions about faith! And yet the word is thrown around by everyone (including your ministers!). Join us this morning as we take a deep breath and jump into the pool of "faith".
I loved watching the cartoon The Jetsons, about the everyday antics of a space-aged family in the future. They had flying cars, a robot housekeeper, videophones, and all kinds of electronic conveniences. Let's explore where we are and where we are going as a species. Are we headed toward a Jetsons or a Star Trek existence centuries from now? My findings may shock and/or excite you!
One thing that draws many people to our faith is the acceptance of many different beliefs held under one umbrella. Sometimes it doesn't feel that way when we struggle with the idea of dominant theology. Is there enough room under the umbrella? Is there enough for everyone?
Come learn more about the person who uttered these words: "Maybe I can live that long, too". Unknown to most during the Civil Rights era, her actions gave direction to a movement that would eventually bring thousands to Selma - not just once, but several times - and change the course of US history, a history still being written today.
What is going on? Is this a police problem, or the problem of people who resist authority? Is it both, or is there more going on? Where do we go from here? Rev. John will give his thoughts on the protests, anger and apathy seen in American streets, courtrooms, and police precincts over the last few months.
Remember in school, those classes with a lecture portion and a lab portion? If church is where we create the Beloved Community, we need a practical skills lab! Let's explore that idea together.
There is a Nigerian proverb that reads, "It takes a village to raise a child". Today we will celebrate and contemplate the Kwanzaa celebration of child-rearing as a community effort.
On the darkest day of the year, we contemplate where the light is in our lives, with the help of four candle-friends (UU Chalice, Christmas, Kwanzaanu Kinara, and Hanukkah Menorah) and Grandmother Yule. This service will be lots of fun for ALL ages--song, ritual, and fire!
The people who produced the traditional, biblical Christmas narrative were part of a culture wishing for and expecting a religious revelation - an epiphany of some sort that would fill them with hope, set their world right, and make everything OK. Since then the narrative has been edited so that now the holiday story is much broader and expansive (and deeper?). Whether you like it or not, agree with it or not, the Christmas narrative is true to the human spirit and epiphany. Let's explore the hope found in this epiphany.
Hope isn't a weenie emotion! It's an active process, and it requires skills to do well. Let's become a hopeful community!
We will examine Peter Block's book and discuss the difficulties and dynamics of building a beloved community. Fergurson, Mayor Barry, race, and class will be looked examined.
As we prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving, a day set aside for family, food, and gratitude, let's consider the stories we have inherited about this holiday, the "discovery" of America, and the ongoing destruction and denigration of Native peoples. What's a UU to do?
Maybe a better title would be: "Whose Are You?". Someone once said (or someone should have said): "By their communities ye shall know them". What communities have your allegiance?
The idea of building community is not limited to external processes and changes. What is the internal work of community?
In honor of el Dia de los Muertos (the Day of the Dead) we will contemplate the purpose of community -- to gather together to cherish our moments in life and to honor each other in death. Please bring a photo or memento to place on our Ofrenda (offering altar) to remember loved ones who have died.
Gregory Boyle is a Jesuit priest and founder of Homeboy Industries. His book and this sermon about the power of social entreprenuerialism will inspire you and show you what contemporary spirituality can become when the heart is open.
If we just paid attention to news reports and the stories told by friends and peers, we might conclude that the spirit of generosity has fallen on hard times - that there is, in fact, a dismal future for generosity. Let's explore together if this is true and what generosity means.
Patricia Owen, Intern Minister
What happens when we go too far with generosity? Is that even possible? How do we temper our instincts to fix everything that is broken in our world? In this sermon UUCA's new intern minister shares her story and how she has learned the lesson of being generous and welcoming.
Why do we exercise generosity? Is it only so that we "shall receive"? Receive what? What is the meaning of generosity? How can we be generous in our lives? Let's explore this month's theme, together.
On this Sunday between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, we'll reflect on one of the many themes of the High Holy Days: Suffering. Using the ancient Book of Job as a lens, let's try to get a grip on this overwhelming and powerful reality that ties all humans together regardless of who or where they are.
September 21 is the day of my birth. I think a reflective sermon is appropriate on my special day. So, I plan to share a few of the life lessons I've learned since joining this congregation five years ago. You will find some of the lessons to be funny while others may raise concerns. In either case, I think there is a take away that you can apply in your personal life today.
As we gather to start the regular church year, it's a beginning of sorts. Beginnings are important, so this Sunday I will reflect with you about our beginnings - as humans, as Unitarian Universalists, and as a community of faith called UUCA.
This year, the Assemblies of God (AG) celebrated their centennial. "The AG grew out of the famous Pentecostal revival that began on Los Angeles's Azusa Street in 1906. In 1914, local congregations met in Hot Springs, Arkansas, to form the denomination. Membership reached only 50,000 by the 1920s, but then it proceeded to grow rapidly. The Assemblies of God in the United States reached 1 million members by 1971, rising to 3 million today." (Christian Century) Is there anything that we UUs can learn from the AG? This morning I'll share ideas and lessons that I feel we must learn from this amazing and uniquely American faith.
As Ferris Bueller once said, "Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while you could miss it." But when it's time to stop and take a look at our lives, how do we do it? Through what lenses do we see ourselves, and how do we assess what we're looking at?
"Be like water. Adjust to the object." I never knew that Bruce Lee and martial arts would lead me to Taoism, and an understanding of living the process, rolling with the punches and learning the art of patience. Check out my message from Sunday. --Rev. John
Yes, that "wiki" as in Wikipedia, the online encyclopedia created by not just one, two or a dozen experts, but where there is a joint effort by many to share what they know. WikiWorship is a community project, to be created by the congregation. How can you help? Send Fred Muir a religious/theological/spiritual/church topic or question you would like addressed in our WikiWorship.
Multiculturalism is a vision of church that we at UUCA have discussed, promoted and struggled with. So has our nation; so have other countries. This morning I'll push the conversation further by sharing my own personal and professional struggles as well as speaking about a November event (here at UUCA) on inter-culturalism. I hope you will join me. (This auction sermon was purchased by Caroline Hadley and Ken Apfel.)
Though we have grown from the Christian tradition, most UU's would no longer call themselves Christians. Is there something in our roots that we have abandoned that's worth going back for? Let's talk about Christianity, what it is, who gets to decide, and what it might mean for UUs.
Many of us are "come-outers" - people who have left other faith traditions before coming to Unitarian Universalism. What does this mean for us as individuals and as a community, and how do we make the transition from moving away from one thing to moving toward something else?
As UUA General Assembly wraps up, Rev. Christina will return a day early to answer your questions! Any questions are welcome-- theological, pastoral, philosophical, or practical-- especially welcome will be questions about the UUA and General Assembly.
You can learn a lot about life and about yourself on two wheels. As summer arrives and the bikes hit the roads, find out what life lessons these vehicles may have to teach us.
This summer, 2014, begins a decade-long anniversary of demonstrations, legislation, and remarkable changes and challenges in our nation. Join me as I begin what will be the first of many sermons to come about the historical transformations still shaping who and what we are today (as UUs and citizens of our nation).
As we prepare to enter the summer - a time of vacations and visits filled with catch-up and conversations - what will you say about the faith community you support, about Unitarian Universalism? You may feel a little like David meeting Goliath. Remember that David chose "five smooth stones" to take with him. Let's talk about the stones we choose.
This morning Rev. John utilizes one of his favorite poems, "Invictus" by William Ernest Henley, as an invitation to finding your life purpose which he believes lies in your ability to look within first. Before the message there is a brief rendition of the poem by Morgan Freeman. The sermon follows the recitation. Enjoy!
"Missional" is a big buzzword for churches in recent years, and the idea of "incarnation" is a central part of missional church. What does it meant to embody Unitarian Universalism?
Rev. John shares his understanding of the Freedom Riders and how their mission is related to our mission as a congregation and faith.
This Sunday Rev. Christina will lead worship on a topic chosen by the winner of her 2013 "Auction & Harvest Dinner" sermon-- Darrel Nash. Darrel has been a UU (and a "U" before that) for decades and he has seen many changes in our liberal faith. As we grow into the future, he wants us to remember we can't go backward. And even if we could... Would we want to?
With this week comes Passover and Easter, two important festivals honoring life-giving faith. What is life-giving about our faith, and what responsibilities come with the gift of new life?
I have one tattoo. It is the Chinese symbol for truth--I hope. I got this tattoo at age 35, when I thought I had things all figured out. The truth is, the more I learned about what was true the more I learned that some things are true while most things are relative. Let's discuss finding what is true for you.
Please come join a congregational discussion on "Truth" led by our Young Religious Unitarian Universalists.
It can take seven years for a lilac bush to bloom for the first time after planting. Such a long time to wait for something so small. But if you've ever smelled one, you know it is worth waiting for. In our right-now, instant gratification, immediate results culture, seven years can seem like an eternity - and seven generations downright incomprehensible. What becomes possible for us when even fragile and fleeting single seeds are worth tending?
I've grown used to religious trends and communities that come then go, that show strength then weaken. Some religious pundits are surprised by the recent show of popularity for one theology that many thought had been relegated to the history books. I'm not. Join me as I explore the rebirth of this community in the light of the Edict of Torda.
This morning Rev. John will use the teachings of Marshall Rosenberg, to discuss how to communicate in a way that eliminates personal and professional conflicts. Are you ready to release your love? Come hear more!
Join Rev. Christina for an exploration of our church summer camp (Camp Beagle), its own evolution, and why evolution is sacred for Unitarian Universalists.
Freedom is held up as one of the most cherished values in our culture, but there is more than one kind of freedom. Let's talk about what it really means to be free and how to make the most of it.
On this very special Martin Luther King, Jr. Sunday, we will look at the man minus the legend and examine self-care versus sacrifice.
The UU 4th principle is the "keystone" of the Seven Principles, holding them all together. It says, "we affirm and promote a free and responsible search for truth and meaning". What does that mean? How are we free as Unitarian Universalists? What makes us responsible? What do we mean by truth? And how can we find meaning together?
For many, a New Year poses challenges. What are we to do with all the predictions, challenges and regrets? Can we greet the New Year in a way suggested by the poet who wrote: "A new and untried year comes over the edge of the world, an unwrapped gift, a perishable gift". Join me this morning as we re-imagine the past and welcome the new.
Where does grace come from, and what is it anyway? Is it coincidence? Luck? Can we make our own grace? Let's talk about grace and consider ways to bring grace into our lives.
Mayor Thomas Menino of Boston said he would proclaim November 28, 2013, 'Thanksgivukkah', saying through a spokeswoman: "This is a big deal, a once-in-a-lifetime event." The Mayor's office is right: the next Thanksgivukkah will be in 80,000 years! Still in the holiday spirit? Come join us as we explore this unique moment of grace and opportunity.
I, like thousands of others, came to our way of faith as a UU Humanist, which was synonymous with Liberal Religion for at least seventy years. Like many other ideas and customs of the last hundred years, humanism has either died or morphed. Join me this morning as I explore this important part of our faith heritage and what has happened to it.
Peggieline Bartels - a U.S. citizen, a secretary in Washington D.C. - reluctantly answered a call early one morning several years ago. The caller informed her she had been elected King of her ancestral home, a village in Ghana. The joys and challenges she faced are lessons for us. Join me as I share the story and wisdom of King Peggy. Today we will also recognize our international partners.
"To question is the answer" is a tried and true UU motto, which sums up our willingness to test old ideas and ponder new ones. Let's dig a little deeper into the idea of a "free and responsible search for truth and meaning". Come with an inquiring mind and a good question for a round of stump the intern.
In the spirit of the Mexican Day of the Dead, we will come together to celebrate life, honor the memories of the dead, and practice our Spanish a little! Bring a photo or memento of someone who has died to place on our Ofrenda, or offering table.
We are the captains of our souls, but are we really in control? What about the ship? Who is on the crew? How can we use the winds that have tossed us around to our advantage?
As I see and feel the seasons change, I am filled with the wonder of creation. My world - our world - is filled with wonders of all kinds. As the leaves turn and fall, I know the seasons of my life are changing too: a new grandson is on the way and soon my mother will pass on. I am immersed in the seasons of life; wonders surround me. Join me this morning as I explore our world of wonder.
Join us as we welcome our newest members to the UUCA community, as well as honoring those who have been members for 40 or more years! We'll explore why membership, or "belonging to the church" matters at all... What's the point?
We are in the Jewish season of Sukkot, a time where many Jews make a pilgrimage to Jerusalem, their ancient and holy city. We must all go home at times to remember who and what we are. Let's explore this more...
"Sin" is not a word that UUs are prone to use. Some suggest that we don't believe in sin, which might mean it doesn't exist? What's that about? Judaism's High Holy days just concluded and their observance has a lot to teach us about sin. This morning we will explore sin and "The Days of Awe".
Trust is an important part of living. Can you live without trust? Join us this Sunday as we look at who, and what, we trust.
One of my favorite songs is entitled "Soul Meets Body", by a band named "Death Cab for Cutie". This song reminds me, in the face of our incredibly physically-overanxious society, to live where my soul meets my body. How can we live in a way that honors our physical bodies, as a piece of our UU spiritual lives?
Rev. Fred handed me this little book and said "It's one of my favorites. There are many sermons in it." He was right! Let's talk about the blessings of an imperfect life.
Our time together in the same space has come to an end, but our time together has not ended. In this farewell sermon Daniel will consider the meta-narrative and the metaphysics of the messages he has shared as Intern Minister and Summer Minister in Annapolis. And, how they point him, and us, along a transformative path.
Home is not so much about where we are; it is where we create it. How do you create a sense of home amidst the tumult and ambiguities of a world that seems to offer so few places to drop anchor? It's time to reset our GPS -- Recalculating.
These are words commonly misattributed to the founder of American Universalism John Murray. Even though he may not have said these words, they have inspired generations of people. Let's explore one of our own prophets along with the mythos and the reality of Universalism through the centuries and connect with the special meaning of Universalism in the present day.
On this summer Sunday, Rev. Christina gives you the power to steer the direction of the service. You'll have the chance to ask the questions you've always wanted answered. Is there a heaven? What to tell my children when kids at school tease them for not "believing in Jesus"? How much wood can a woodchuck chuck?
John discusses his cat's faith and the story of Elizabeth Gilbert, best-selling author of the book "Eat, Pray, Love."
As the nation's birthday recedes into the past for another year, let's reflect together on the changing character and vision of our country and its citizenry. It goes without saying that our nation's mothers and fathers could never have imagined where their early dreams have taken us. Would they recognize what they started? What might they think? Could we say the same thing for our beloved Unitarian Universalism? Let's share some thoughts about vision and change for the U.S. and UUs.
Speak truth to the powers, especially the power of Fear, in all of its' disguises. Join us for a service exploring the many ways to unmask the fears that rob us of our inner brilliance and keep us from living lives of dignity and joy.
Just one more book, just one more objet d'art, just one more magazine, just one more dress? Perhaps we are already past the tipping point, in our homes, our workplaces, our lives: with towers of STUFF. How does a UU faithfully navigate the goat-paths and constant churning in a materialistic culture that says more is better; when more has become too much? Let's de-clutter our lives and our spirits with worship.
We do things a little differently at church. Church isn't like the rest of the world. And that's a good thing. Come learn Rev. Christina's vision for your engagement with UUCA, and why it will be a healthy, loving, and fulfilling thing.
As you prepare your summer plans, just think of all the opportunities you'll have to tell people about the church you attend - family, friends, strangers. Before you say anything, learn the lingo! Join me in this lesson of how to speak UU.
Rev Fred Muir gave the ordination sermon for Rev Nancy Bird Pellegrini at the Cedar Lane UU Church in Bethesda, MD on Sunday Afternoon, May 19, 2013
We were born to laugh. Laughter is the best medicine; it is also the best teacher. It teaches us to release, let go, and to be courageous in the world. This service will explore using the tool of laughter in the vocation we call life.
We hear a lot about our religious founding fathers... Francis David, Channing, Ballou, Emerson... But what about our founding mothers? Join Rev. Christina for a Mother's Day celebration of some fantastic women who helped shape our faith in the past, and inspire us for the future.
Wesley Seminary student and member of UUCA, Emerson Hamsa, shares why she is excited about Unitarian Universalism and its possibilities for Beloved Community.
Together let's think about what we say and how we are with others, especially those we say we care about.
Bring a flower (or two!) to share at our annual Flower Communion service! This service will celebrate our unity in diversity. We will honor the gifts we bring to our community, as well as those that we take with us as we leave this place each week.
Join the Young Religious Unitarian Universalists (YRUU) as they reflect on the many interpretations of prayer, and how prayer relates to their own lives.
Christians (and non-Christians) around the world are celebrating the risen Christ this morning. Easter often appears to transcend any personal and cultural views of Jesus, even though those views exist in abundance. While we at UUCA may not hold to an orthodox observance and expression of Easter, we have many views of Jesus. Bring yours this morning as we examine "who's your Jesus?"
Unitarian Universalism is a perfect home for seekers of a new path. Come join us as the UU Humanist group shares their vision of a "home" for those interested in Science and Reason, Wonder and Respect, Compassion and Community -- including atheists, agnostics and the "nones" who are hoping for connection in our disconnected world. Time Speaker 0:00 Chris Kuhn 0:32 Robert Crockett 2:55 Esther Geil 4:00 Tom Moore 5:24 Cliff Andrew 6:40 Liz Barrett 7:40 Rev Christina Leone 19:30 Bill & Betty Crowley 21:05 Dave Hackett 23:45 Judy Bender
Who says? You'd never know it when looking at the four "legacy" expressions of Unitarianism (Hungarian, English, US and Philippines), and this doesn't include emerging UU congregations elsewhere in the world. Each one articulates their belief of God in different ways. And what about you? Can you affirm "egy az isten"?
Rev. John explains the salvific message of his faith, the meaning of salvation and living authentically.
Could you be suffering from "Lovesickness"? Symptoms include: headaches, fatigue, restlessness, rapid heartbeat, sweating, resentment, offense, animosity and sense of loneliness: resulting from long-term exposure to disappointment, lost or unrequited love? Well, now there is a solution. Some are even calling it a 'cure'. And, you can actually get it without a perscription. Join us this Sunday to learn more and to see if you might experience the benefit of Forgiveness.
How did you spend Darwin Day (February 12)? Probably not thinking about ghosts, spirits or things that go bump in the night! Perhaps you should have since these (and more) have shaped the conversation of what Darwin said - and didn't say - for centuries, especially today. Join me for our annual Darwin Sunday and be prepared to be bumped!
Rev. John will share his vision for UUCA, AWAKE and the communities we serve using Langston Hughes' poem "I Dream A World" as his inspiration.
The Sage Jesus is quoted as saying these words in the book of Matthew 7:1. What did this mean when it was written and does it have anything to say to us today regarding forgiveness and letting go of things?
As we honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the triumph of human rights, let us consider the ways that all dreams can become reality and all realities become dreams.
As we start the new year, let's enjoy some peace... and quiet. Reflective questions to consider the year past and the year to come, and some words to ponder the value of silence. And together we will enjoy some moments of quiet.
The Buddha said, "What you have become is the result of what you have thought." How can you begin to think healthy thoughts that will bring vitality and wholeness in your life? How can the world begin to manifest peace? Learn about the "Law of Detraction" and you will be well on your way to understanding how.
We're on the cusp of a new year...so let us bring our hopes, wishes and dreams, our best selves to return to the places we have been and choose the direction we are moving toward. This Sunday will be an opportunity for "attending" to the close of one year and the start of another.
Remember the Carly Simon hit song: "Anticipation...is makin' me late, is keepin' me waiting." That's what advent is all about - waiting, anticipating, expecting. But for what? What are you waiting for? With just one more week 'til Christmas and two more weeks 'til 2013, is anticipation making you late?
Let us again explore the story of Hanukkah and see if its message of hope gives us cause to be thankful during the holiday season.
What's the most popular Gospel - "good news" - in the United States? It's the prosperity gospel! And what kind of theology is at the root of this Gospel? Prosperity theology! Oprah Winfrey, Joel Osteen, and T.D. Jakes are just a few of the many who are preaching and teaching the message of prosperity transformation. Join me at 9:00 to explore the most recent rendition of a very old religious movement
The road to and from the Thanksgiving holiday is long and circular. Every year we commit ourselves, whether by choice, compulsion or coercion to participate in this holiday of food, family, home and memory; and in this way, Thanksgiving is remarkably effective in its ability to stir up all of our "stuff"-simultaneously. It puts us face-to-face with the unvarnished authority of traditions, and the powerful claims that those traditions make on our lives. So come. Let's quest for the true, the enduring, what's ultimately life-sustaining, as we explore Traditions Worth Keeping.
Rev. John examines five essential tenets of the Muslim faith and postulates that submission is the key to understanding authority.
When you read this sermon title, what came to your mind? Actually, the possibilities are numerous! More and more, I feel and I will explain, living in the U.S. means becoming familiar with and experiencing life as crossing borders. Some do it better than others, some are more aware of it; others go out of their way to avoid borders all together. Join me on this United Nations (Global Justice and Veterans Day) Sunday to reflect on border crossings as part of everyday living.
In the spirit with which this service is presented, I invite you to wear something that identifies you with your ancestry.
The 5th UU principle calls us to affirm and promote the right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and society at large. As election day looms, join us as we consider the nature of our authority in our democracy. What are we to do, when our society becomes so polarized (think: "red" and "blue") that we struggle to consider one another's good intentions or perspectives. As Unitarian Universalists, to affirm and promote the right of each person to exercise his or her conscience, we might need to start thinking more "purple."
The vision I am sharing for humanity is not my vision but the vision of the sages and archetypes of the past. Humanity will one day in the distant future come to its senses and live at a higher level of consciousness. It starts with developing an "Inward Centered Reality." -Rev John
Perspective is the sine qua non of Vision. Most humans have the capacity to see things, but our unique vantage point, our perspective, ultimately determines if we see a faint red dot or a luscious red apple or nothing at all. Our faith calls us to examine, even to interrogate, our perspectives, and in so doing we become deeply aware of their purpose and our own purpose.
The UUCA ministers continue their conversation with you about an exciting new outreach project called "AWAKE Ministries". Come hear how we'll transform more lives and people with this ministry to the community.
The UUCA ministers continue their conversation with you about an exciting new outreach project called "AWAKE Ministries". Come hear how we'll transform more lives and people with this ministry to the community.
As we bring this month's theme of "Sabbath" to a close, let's explore another Sabbath keeping group, who, like us, is a uniquely American religious story: the Church of the Latter Day Saints (Mormons). With the possibility of having an LDS President, join me as I consider why Mormons are people like (U)Us.
It's likely that we all remember spots of time when acts of kindness as well as acts of challenge and complexity permeated our lives. Those moments stand out; often linger - sometimes for weeks, the year, maybe for a lifetime. Judaism's High Holy Days address these spots of time. Join us this morning as we observe the themes of this season.
Tonight marks the beginning of Rosh Hashanah: the Jewish New Year! I celebrated my first Rosh Hashanah a couple of years ago with preschoolers at the K.A.M. Isaiah Israel congregation in Chicago, where I was introduced to the simple joy of apples and honey. As we contemplate the meaning of Sabbath this month, let's explore the simple joys of life.
Join us for our final 10:00 service of the summer, and the official start of the church year. We will gather together for a celebration of our community, including blessing our R.E. facilitators, welcoming our newest members, and remembering why coming to church is an important part of our lives. Don't forget to bring a small vial of water (an ounce or two, from your vacation, local stream or pond, swimming pool, or tap) to pour into our communal bowl as a part of our "Water Communion" ceremony
Rev's John and Fred take you on a journey of multicultural competency that has shaped the present and future course of UUCA. Learn how the UUCA will continue living boldy and compassionately in the coming months. Stay tuned at the end for soloist Nicole Rumeau singing "Love".
"Master change and master life." Rev. John discusses how his summer reading has impacted his ministry in profound but simple ways.
How can we express our love for one another here at UUCA? What ways are we doing so already?
Just what is the "Good Life" you may wonder? Likelihood is that every pundit has taken a stab at answering this question; I'm sure each one has said it with conviction and authority! Yet I am also sure of this: An answer depends on who and when you are asking. From person to person, era to era, the "Good Life" changes. Or does it? Join me for the second half to this two-part sermon to explore and share living the good life.
UUCA offers a variety of different spiritual practice groups. Why is spiritual practice important? Why is it important for spiritual practice to be part of institutional church life?
What is happening? American tax payers save corporations from going out of business and then those same corporations make it harder for citizens to get credit. What is going on with corporate bonuses when most Americans haven't seen a pay increase in years? Something's not right! "Am I my brother and sister's keeper?" What is more important - people or products? Come hear more about rediscovering lost religious and social values.
Theodore Parker once said (and Martin Luther King, Jr. made it famous), "the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice." We will explore the arc of the moral universe and the question of commitment, love, and marriage. This Sunday, get a sneak preview of the Dignity Players' performance 8, a staged reading of the award-winning production chronicling the landmark California case Perry v. Schwarzenegger.
Just what is the "Good Life" you may wonder? Likelihood is that every pundit has taken a stab at answering this question; and I'm sure each one has said it with conviction and authority! Yet I am also sure of this: the answer depends on who and when you are asking. From person to person, era to era, the "Good Life" changes. Or does it? Join me in this two part sermon (July 8 and August 12 ) to explore and share living the good life.
UUCA member and seminarian, Emerson Hamsa will explore the role language has in strengthening the bonds of our beloved faith community.
Forgiveness can play a powerful and transformative role in our lives. Come hear reflections from our prison ministry.
As a chosen faith, what is it about Unitarian Universalism that calls you? How are we calling others to be part of our community?
Sometimes we must stop and listen to hear our inner voice. Sometimes we don't want to stop and hear what that voice has to say. Come hear more!
One person has defined a "calling" as "the place where your deep gladness and the world's deep hunger meet." Have you heard "a call" to this intersection of gladness and hunger? What are your tools of discernment? Join me as we explore "calling".
This has been a question asked many different ways throughout the ages. How is it that we must be twice born to become fully human and fully alive?
In honor of Earth Day, Anastassia will explore ways that we can recommit ourselves to finding community-based actions aimed at living sustainably with our neighbors.
A quick scan through any day's newspaper will tell of tragedy and horror and remind us of the suffering all around us. And often, if you read beyond the stories, you can see and hear of the opportunities for renewal and redemption. Yet, like the "unbearable lightness of being," can we absorb the idea - or the reality - of being connected, whole and loved?
Easter is a time to reflect on this difficult issue, and what the natural seasons, springtime, Christianity, and earth-centered religion might suggest we do with the problem of "bad things and good people."
In times of difficulty and economic change, where in our lives can we discover the values that help us lead meaningful, affirming lives?
This Sunday we will look at our beliefs and addictions and how both can lead us away from living up to our best selves.
Healing is a powerful idea and act; its expressions are many and our understandings diverse. From national to individual healing, from medical to faith healing, from healing by professionals to the unexplainable healing we hear and read about. It's a deep and rich subject to explore.
I took my first trip to the Philippines in support of the UU congregations on Negros Island. I am different today because of my trip there. I wish to share with you why and how.
Join Reverend Christina Leone as we celebrate our annual Darwin Sunday. This year we will reflect on humanity's continual demotion from the center of the universe. First Copernicus, then Darwin, now scientists are telling us they have found a planet (Kepler-22B) that is similar enough to Earth as to perhaps harbor life. Why is this demotion a good thing?
This weekend is celebrated in the Chinese calendar as the New Year, the welcome of the Water Dragon. What do Unitarian Universalists have in common with the sign of the Dragon? How can we learn from this particular form, the Water Dragon, as we witness in the world?
In honor of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., we will explore what we can do today to honor his legacy. How does this relate to our commitment to "create the Beloved Community by inspiring and empowering all souls to live bold and compassionate lives"?
Mary Oliver asks: "Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?" As we begin our New Year, consider answering Oliver's question with the answer, "I plan to do more witnessing"! Join me this New Year's Day to explore what witnessing in 2012 might mean for you.
Unitarian Universalists have long emphasized the humanity and teachings of Jesus, but for many of us it is difficult to see past the traditional portrayals of Jesus as a divine being. Two religious teachers who bring a Buddhist perspective-Thich Nhat Hanh and Paul F. Knitter can help us approach Jesus again.
Every great religion of the world has looked forward to the coming of a Messiah, and, what's more, most even share the story of a virgin birth. From ancient Egyptian mythology to Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, and Christianity, the stories are remarkably similar, and many are celebrated around the time of the winter solstice. This Sunday the UUCA Choir will be exploring these stories through music and readings dawn from different cultures and theologies to illuminate the similarities among these stories
It has been said that "the most precious element of life is wonder". The December holidays call up wonders of all sorts: the change of seasons, Hanukkah, Christmas, a new year, family, friendships and more are all immersed in wonder. Is it too much for you, for us? Join me this morning to explore our sixth sense: the sense of wonder!
James Bovard is quoted as saying that democracy must be more than two wolves and a lamb deciding what to eat for dinner. How can the democratic process, which we Unitarian Universalists profess as a great ideal, serve us well, and when can it be a hindrance? How can people of faith speak up for the lambs of the world?
What is your spiritual practice and how can having one lead you to a more fulfilled life? As we enter the holiday season, I will share thoughts about my spiritual practice (singing) and how it helps me give thanks for the freedom to love and be loved in return.
From the UUA to the UN, from Annapolis to Doldol, the ancient Chinese proverb is being affirmed: "Women hold up half the sky". Join us this morning as we explore, affirm & deepen the meaning of "promoting the inherent worth and dignity of every person, promoting the use of the democratic process". The choir will be singing and there will be a special presentation on UUCA's work in the Philippines.
John Lennon wrote it, the Beatles sang it and many of us continue to sing the song "Imagine". "Imagine no more countries, it isn't hard to do...And no religion too... Imagine all the people living life in peace..." What did Lennon mean--'no religion too?' 'Living life in peace?' What do we mean? Rev. Fred Muir helps to shape our thoughts on this song.
Sometimes people critique Unitarian Universalism as being a weak faith - one that would collapse in the face of adversity. My own faith was born in the face of difficulty. I will share my religious awakening with you, and suggest ways that our Unitarian Universalist faith can sustain us in trying times. What might be the "Good News" that Unitarian Universalism has to offer?
This morning the Rev. Stefan Jonasson, the Unitarian Universalist Association's Large Congregations Director is visiting UUCA for the first time. About Stefan: "Born and raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba, where he still lives, he is one of only a handful of UU ministers who have been educated entirely in Canada, where he is one of few theologians to have won the Governor-General's Gold Medal for academic excellence. He has deep roots in the Icelandic Unitarian tradition, which flourished during the first half of the 20th century." Please be with us to give Stefan a warm welcome!
We are fond of quoting our Unitarian Universalist Principles as the center of the UU faith. I agree: They are a wonderful vision! But they are not what hold us together. Join me this morning as I explore what is at the core of our way of religion.
We all know that one plus one equals two, but in a religious community, it can equal three! Join us as we explore the covenant we make with one another, and how in our spiritual and community lives, we are more than the sum of our parts.
On this Labor Day weekend, let's talk about making our labor "purposeful activity". We MUST make our work count to help our faith and America live up to its highest aspirations.
There is no sting in death. There is only the sting of life. Death IS... But we must learn HOW to master living. Check it out!
It has been over a decade since sociologist Robert Bellah spoke at the UUA General Assembly on the initiative to "strengthen a sense of connectedness, interdependence, and community" within Unitarian Universalism. How far have we come from this 1998 conversation? Have we strayed even further from this connection within our communities or strengthened our ties? Come explore this topic and what keeps us connected as diverse individuals within Unitarian Universalism.
Matt Mayer currently serves on the UUA's Council for Cross-Cultural Engagement. He graduated from Berklee College of Music in 2004 and combines hand drumming and music in his messages.
In this sermon, Rev. John shows us the correlation between sex and war and why there is a spiritual imbalance in our world. He proclaims with boldness "Let the Goddess Return!"
Do you remember learning about your shadow - that walking partner in the sun, or friend that hides in the dark? Do you remember Peter Pan's shadow and all the adventures they went on? What adventures are you on today and how does your shadow help or hinder those possible journeys? Our Summer Minister Kimberly will explore with you!
Join Kimberly and Partner Church minister Barni in exploring the meaning and practices of Communion.
"All that you touch you change, all that you change, changes you. The only lasting truth is change. God is Change." -- Octavia E. Butler
Join lay minister Emerson Z. Hamsa as she explores change and her decision to enter the ministry.
On this very special Father's Day, Rev. John reaches back in time to explore his path to Unitarian Universalism nearly 12 years ago and how that has shaped his future. Perhaps you can remember your journey to this faith and how it has impacted your life? Come hear more!
The King James Version has been considered by most as the standard for biblical texts. Even among religious liberals, agnostics and atheists, if the Bible is read it must be the KJV. This year is the 400th anniversary of the KJV (1611). Let's explore its history and value and in turn come to a deeper understanding of a book that some suggest might be found in every home in the western hemisphere.
Many of you use the online encyclopedia called Wikipedia, which "is written collaboratively by largely anonymous Internet volunteers who write without pay. Anyone with Internet access can write and make changes to Wikipedia articles (except in certain cases where editing is restricted to prevent disruption or vandalism). Users can contribute anonymously, under a pseudonym, or with their real identity, if they choose." How about Wikivita - an ongoing writing and editing of life, your life, the life we share, the larger Life. What a ride! Join me this morning as I look at the journey of life through the window of Wiki.
This sermon is dedicated to sermon auction winners Ken Apfel and Caroline Hadley. Today, Rev. John will examine from several perspectives on why it is time for a new campaign against poverty and why we are building a permanent under "caste" today due to spiritual deprivation. Come hear more!
It's Mother's Day! It's our annual Flower Communion! It's Spring! It's our Bridging Ceremony! So many meaningful journeys (this month's theme) and all of them are full of opportunities and insights. Are you ready? Are you ever ready? Really?! Bring a flower for the Flower Communion vase and let's explore what being ready for our journeys is all about.
What does it mean to be part of the interconnected web? On this Green Sanctuary Sunday, please join Intern Minister, Kimberly, and Green Sanctuary members, in a spirit-filled exploration of ethical eating. Whether you eat meat, or think tofu is the only way, every time we eat we make a statement of belief, we act out our principles, and we participate in the interconnected web of life, of which we are all a part.
Once a month UUCA has a "Spirited Worship" which is a multigenerational worship service for the entire congregation. A story is told throughout the service and the rest of the liturgy is woven around the story. In this episode we are featuring the music of Spirt Sundays featuring our Sounds of Spirit Choir & Band, directed by Rev. John and Betsy Kraning. The group has over 40 people members! The idea behind the music for this Sunday is that it be contemporary, alive or "spirited" and simple for all generations to embrace. Enjoy this sampling of the music that inspires so many each month at UUCA!
The life and message of Jesus is grabbed and shaped by groups of all sorts. Has the meaning and direction of Jesus simply become a social and spiritual Rorschach? Can you read him any way you want? Of course not! For (U)Us his message remains a transforming and profound one. Join me this Sunday as I reflect on this message.
As we continue to explore the monthly theme of “Transformation”, come explore with Intern Minister, Kimberly, the meaning of “retreat” and how it can transform each of us and our faith community.
Is "Faith" a noun or a verb? Something we have or a way of being? For Unitarian Universalists, what does it mean to be a Faith Community? What is it that we have Faith in?
It’s not enough to just “have faith” you must BELIEVE in order to get the most out of your spiritual journey called life.
We don't often do a very good job of sharing our Unitarian Universalist faith with family and friends, or in our nation or abroad. And yet, I hear personal testimony over and over about how liberating and transforming our way of religion can be. Join me this morning as I explore the challenges of sharing our faith.
Welcome, Rev Dr Susan Newman, to our pulpit as she explores diversity in our relationships.
Valentine Day Sunday is the time each year where UUCA "Stands on the Side of Love!". Listen to why Kimberly knows that it will take courageous love to help us reach beloved community.
"The Curosity Cabinet" We all have one of some sort, a curiosity cabinet that is. Charles Darwin had many, from childhood on - I've seen them! One important question is: What do you do with its contents? Where doese it take you? For Darwin, it took him to extraordinary places. This is Darwin Sunday. Join us!
When asked the often quoted question, "If you were charged for being a Unitarian Universalist, would there be enough evidence to convict you", how would you respond? Come close our month of “Justice” with intern Kimberly Tomaszewski, in praise of the works of this community and the efforts still to engage.
During Dr. King's life the word integration was used often as way of mainstreaming American culture toward multiculturalism and equality. We have succeeded as a country in integrating most of our social systems. We should be proud. However, there are still groups of Blacks, Whites and others who still wonder if they are a part of the American Dream. Toward the end of his life King sought to bring these underprivileged folk together during the Poor People's Campaign. He did not live to see this dream come to fruition. For us today, what are we called to do as a faith community with the poor people in our nation and world?
I hope your Christmas Holiday was a good one! Did you ever wonder how you (we) got to this point in the holiday festivities? I have and I have been surprised by what I have found. On this day after Christmas, take a step away from your routine and join me for a fun and spirited look at the way we celebrate Christmas.
On this Sunday, Rev. John takes a UU look at the Christian holy day “Advent” to see if there’s a message for Unitarian Universalists in Annapolis.
With Thanksgiving past and the “Christmas machine” reaching full throttle, this Sunday let’s pause for a moment to take a deep breath and consider this thing called Christmas. How did we get to this? Is there hope for your ideal holiday? Please join with me to reflect on the meaning of the coming month.
The motivation to do good works can vary from faith to faith. Some have suggested that being good for nothing – that is, without a God or Ultimate punishment – is a characteristic of our progressive way of religion. But aren’t we good for something? And how does this shape the way we move through life and the world? Join me on this United Nations Sunday as I explore right relations and ethical living in a shrinking and demanding world.
In recent weeks we have lost too many young lives to fear, shame, and distrust. As a faith community we must respond to our Lesbian, Bisexual, Gay, Transgender and Queer youth. What does it mean to be a Welcoming Congregation in the midst of this crisis? How does Unitarian Universalism answer to this pain? Join us, Sunday November 7th, as we remember those we’ve lost and covenant with those who still need to be welcomed into our home.
Theodore Parker spoke of the “transient and permanent” in religion. What did he mean? How can our understanding of his words help us to have a more generous spirit?
Recently I was asked what brought me to Unitarian Universalism. Though I was raised in this faith, my upbringing was not the answer. Do you remember the story of David and Goliath? David prevails over his biggest challenger with one smooth stone that he carried with him into battle. I came to Unitarian Universalism by the generosity of our people; the stones I carry with me.
“What the world needs now is” …Generosity! And that fits just perfectly with us because Unitarian Universalism is spiritually and theologically built on the foundation of generosity – actually a conspiracy of generosity. Join John, Kimberly, Fred and “Girls Night Out” as they describe how you can be a member of this conspiracy. After the service there will be an opportunity to learn more and respond.
“What the world needs now is” …Generosity! And that fits just perfectly with us because Unitarian Universalism is spiritually and theologically built on the foundation of generosity – actually a conspiracy of generosity. Join John, Kimberly, Fred and “Girls Night Out” as they describe how you can be a member of this conspiracy. After the service there will be an opportunity to learn more and respond.
“What the world needs now is” …Generosity! And that fits just perfectly with us because Unitarian Universalism is spiritually and theologically built on the foundation of generosity – actually a conspiracy of generosity. Join John, Kimberly, Fred and “Girls Night Out” as they describe how you can be a member of this conspiracy. After the service there will be an opportunity to learn more and respond.
“The gaps are the thing” wrote Annie Dillard. Pay attention to the gaps because it’s there where you will find opportunities for generosity (this month’s theme). Join me this morning as we set aside some time to explore and reflect on the gaps in our lives.
Our theme this month is unity and this message shares how you and others can unite the “jangling discords” inside and outside of you into a symphony of tranquility and harmony so that mountains in your life can be moved. Don’t miss this service!
Fox news entertainer Glenn Beck has been sharing a very confusing and misinformed understanding of western theology. But this is nothing new – theology changes and we are often running to keep up. In spite of what you may read or hear, there is a unity to theological progress. Where it’s moving is quite different from where UUs have been! Are you ready for a miracle? Join me and let’s see what happens.
As Americans and as Unitarian Universalists, we talk and sing about the wonders and beauty of individuality and the freedoms that sustain it. At the same time, we talk about diversity and difference and how it too is wonderful and beautiful. How can this be? Can we – as a nation and as a religion – really have both? Can we find unity in our diversity?
This is our Intern Minister's last Sunday with us. Christina Leone, looks back on how she's grown and learned and changed and how our ministry together has been a joyous dance. She reminds us that change is a part of life but it can be a beautiful dance if we are aware of life's lessons.
We believe not in a celestial savior but in a very human one. We are the one's we've been waiting for! We know we have the power to change the social condition of others. We can create communities, neighborhoods and cities we desire-- places that are safe, warm, loving and diverse. We can change our corner of the world! Come hear more.
Demons are everywhere! But the language we use is guarded and indirect. Join me this morning as I explore what one author has called "Demons in a land of plenty."
Today Rev. John catches us up on his summer reading with two books Community--The Structure of Belonging by Peter Block and Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell. The insights he learned from these two books, among others this summer, are significantly changing his social justice ministry with UUCA! Check it out...
Chistina has spent the last couple of months with a team of dedicated volunteers planning this year's maiden voyage of Camp Beagle, a Darwin-inspired day camp to be held at UUCA from July 26-30. Come hear what the Camp was about, and how everyone of all ages can “Explore Our World with Wonder.”
This sermon topic was purchased at this year’s auction by Ken Apfel and Caroline Hadley! In response to their prompt, Christina will be examining what it means to be an American in this day and age, as well as how that relates to what it means to be a Unitarian Universalist.
The year is 1540 and a fictional Martin Luther and Francis David (Unitarian religious ancestor) meet in a bar, debate their differences, and affirm their commonalities. What would they think of their religious offspring nearly 500 years later? Christina Leone, Intern Minister, and her friend Chris Halverson, Vicar at St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Baltimore, struggle together to come to some understanding.
Unitarian Universalists are diverse in their outlook on life, beliefs about death, and understanding of God. So it stands to reason that Unitarian Universalists wouldn't have one single view of prayer. Should we pray? Why? How?
It seems that with every election - even with every crisis or piece of legislation - Americans are given a new vision for our nation, which is often a recasting of the July 4 revolutionary message. Today, members of the amorphous Tea Party are casting another reused vision.
Guest: Rev. Katherine James Klemstine.
In the ancient Hindu spiritual writings, the Upanishads, it is written: "There is a Light that shines beyond all things on earth, beyond the heavens, the very highest heavens. This is the light that shines in out heart." The question being asked today, the first Sunday in Summer, is how are we able to see and believe in that light within ourselves? And once we have a vision of the light that shines in our heart, what can our response be to the rest of the world?
Being a good father - for that matter, a good parent - has never been easy. For some, it's all "on the job training". For others, they look for models, often developing a composite. Join Rev. Fred Muir, Sr. Minister, for a look at fathering and parenting.
Our Intern Minister, Christina Leone, explores what it means to be human, with dignity and worth.
My sermon title comes from Albert Einstein: “Science without religion is lame. Religion without science is blind.” Join me as I explore how so many are bridging the much touted chasm between science and religion. Can we keep one foot in both places?
Sunday's guest speaker, Paula Cole-Jones of ADORE, A Dialogue on Race and Ethnicity.
ADORE is central to UUCA continuing the journey toward becoming a congregation where differences in ethnicity are not only welcomed but celebrated. ADORE's purpose and practice is to meet regularly in a trusting and respectful environment to continue learning to face and talk respectfully on matters relating to racism and to continue to learn how racism is manifested in our society.
Today, Rev. John T. Crestwell, Jr. will look at Malcolm Gladwell's book "Blink", and analyze why first impressions do matter and how they help and hurt our relationships with others.
We regroup after the meatballs set off the fire alarm and close the service out with joyful singing and praise!
Part 3 includes the very moving and emotional charge from Rev. Fred Muir, Senior Minister to the Associate Minister.
It was a powerful day full of surprises (a fire alarm), great singing from "Kirby Lane", and motivating speakers, including Rev. Peter Morales, President of the Unitarian Universalist Association. Great things are happening at UUCA! Visit us soon!
www.uuca-md.org
Rev. Kent Matthies, Former Intern Minster: Economic times are still tough. Throughout our local communities many people worry about losing a job- not having the ability to provide. How do we live lives of abundant love & spirit, when money is tight? How do we prevent money problems from creating worries about insufficient grace & spirit of life?
Rev. Fred tells UUCA that the world is changing and we UUs can resist or ride the wave and welcome a new age of multiculturalism that will surely impact our faith greatly! This is a prophetic sermon challenging members to embrace the change by expanding their spiritual core. Don't miss this one!
This is our annual easter Flower Communion service, with a somewhat whimsical story from our Intern Minister, Christina Leone, a closer look at the Easter tradition from our Minister, Rev John Crestwell, and an history of the Unitarian-Universalist Flower Communion from our Sr Minister, Fred Muir.
Spirited Worship: To be human means making choices, but not everyone acts on their choices. Some see opportunity in their choices, but let them linger. We will look at the choices we make, and the results that follow. After the service, there will be facilitated adult and inter-generational conversation cirlces to talk about this theme.
Little things become big things. It will be the little things we do that transforms our congregation and religion into an inclusive, pluralistic, and multicultural experience not easily forgotten. Check out my message.
Rev. John
In spite of the hardships we all face at some time, in spite of the news we are hammered with daily, how we choose to move forward with living is something that all persons have to address at some time. Charles Darwin and Abraham Lincoln (whose birthdays were February 12) addressed these challenges in significant ways.
This Sunday, we celebrate our relationships with our Partner Churches in the Philippeans and Romania. Rev Fred Muir examines what it takes for a successful partnership.
When one of our principles espouses the “free and responsible search for truth and meaning,” we can end up with lots of questions, and lots of different answers. This Sunday. Rev Fred Muir makes some introductory comments, then Ms Leone answers questions posed by the 9 am congregation, followed by those posed by the 11 am congregation. The adult enrichment program “PathWork” also highlighted the benefits of questioning and answering as we grow and deepen in our faith.
"Seek and ye shall find" that you were made to seek! The story of RW Emerson lifted up in this sermon. This is a re-record of last Sundays message due to technical difficulties. Enjoy!
Rev. John
Rev. John, Intern Minister Christina Leone, and Rev. Fred each share a brief message on what standing on the side of love & justice means regarding marriage equality in Maryland
Rev. John - "Standing on the side of..."
Ms. Leone - "Love.."
Rev. Fred - "and Justice"
Check it out!
www.uuca-md.org
This is the sermon you could have used before Hallowthanksmas, when family and friends asked about the congregation you attend! But it’s never too late to get a grip on Unitarian Universalism. If you have friends or family that you’ve been waiting to bring to UUCA, this is the Sunday.
On this special MLK Sunday we feature the singing of Precious Joubert, guest soloist, sharing some very familiar but moving spirituals.
The message today looks at the other side of love. We do all the good we can in life but sometimes we get back hate, malice and envy. We wonder sometimes if the sacrifice is/was worth it. Dr. King had these thoughts too but still chose to stand in faith, hope and love for all humanity. Enjoy!
This annual service recognizes the life passages (birth, coming-of-age, move, marriage and union, and death) that occurred in our congregation during 2009.
With the New Year comes the feeling of a fresh start. The Christian tradition emphasizes grace as God's gift to humanity, grace as a fresh start. The New Testament tells us that it is through faith, grace, and good work that we are saved. "For the grace of God, which can save every person, has now been shown for all people, and it teaches us to have no more to do with godlessness or the desires of this world but to live, here and now, responsible, honorable, and God-fearing lives" (Titus 2:11-12). What does grace mean to Unitarian Universalists, and how can we embrace it this New Year?
Several months ago we were elated with the election of Barack Obama. Today many are cynical and wondering if they made the right choice. Today I explore, from a religious perspective, what it means to hope and be hopeful in the midst of criticism, pain, grief, and loss. Check it out...
It’s been said that after Charles Darwin, everything changed. November 24th marked the 150 anniversary of Darwin’s On the Origin of Species and that’s when it all changed for him. So much so that Christmas 1859 could be called his first. Come join me to honor and celebrate this momentous anniversary
Our Intern Minister, Christina Leone, explores what standing on the side of love and justice means to UUs.
In ministry, sometimes these are the only words I can come up with hoping to provide solace to a weary soul. Life throws so many strikes and it gets hard to get up to bat again. Today I'll be talking about getting up and holding on.
Christina Leone, Intern Minister
Why is the flaming chalice symbol off-center in the circles? And for that matter, why is the pulpit off to the side? Join UUCA's intern minister
Christina Leone as she tackles these questions and learns to live with the questions that are the center of Unitarian Universalist faith.
"Be Like Water. Adjust to the object." --Bruce Lee
In this sermon, Rev. John T. Crestwell, Jr. will explain why he shares Bruce Lee's philosophy that sometimes to gain we must let go, sometimes to find something we must allow it to be lost, and that sometimes we just have to be like water, lucid, fluid, and open to the Tao.
Before the sermon listen to a wonderful Piano Interlude and after the sermon the congregation sings "When the Spirit Says Do". Listen in for more...
In this message, John and Fred share frankly on what creating multicultural UU congregations will take, intentionality and patience.
In this annual Stewardship Sunday service at UUCA, the Rev. Dr. Fredric Muir, with great insight and humor, shares what it means to be a mission church. He says we are not a service church that asks "What's in it for me?" rather we are a MISSION church that asks "How can I/we help serve?" He explains that the mission church is made up of people who are gracious, generous, caring, and reverent.
Stay tuned at the end for the hymn "Come and Go With Me".
Our seven principles teach that we must live from the inside out not the outside in. Listen in for more...
Learning to forgive and ask for forgiveness is a simple but profound lesson Rev. Dr. Fred Muir shares today on this "high holy" Sunday at UUCA. Rev. Muir says that if we learn this lesson well, we will not only have a positive impact on our relationships but we will also heal our own soul in the process. Listen in for more...
After Rev. Fred's meditation and the responsive hymn "Motherless Child", Rev. John tells members his reason for choosing Unitarian Universalism
Sometimes we just have to slow down, put down our latest gadget and breathe in the freshness of life. Listen in to Rev. Dr. Fred Muir tell us how we can get back in touch with the meaning of Sabbath.
We make sudden judgements and quick decisions when we hear the words that people use. Words and names shape opinions and set direction. Join me this morning as I reflect on the power of naming.
"Speak Up" by Bryant Brown - Summer Minister - "Silence is important to our spiritual growth as individual practice and as a congregation. We say we "affirm and promise" our Principles and Purposes, so speaking up is also part of being UU. This is Bryant's last service at UUCAnnapolis.
"Let's Hear it for Silence" - by Byrant Brown - Summer Minister - Learning is connected with talking and watching and reading and doing, and yet, there is so much that only silence can teach. Fully realizing the irony of the project, Bryant will talk about silence.
"Letting Go" - Rev. Russ Savage - I have enjoyed my year here with UUCA and would like to remember it with you. Since this will be our last Sunday service together, it is time for us to let go of one another in a way which affirms the past and looks forward to the future.
"Ground Zero" Rev. Bryant B. Brown - Summer Minister -
Ground Zero gets used frequently to mean any place of catastrophe. Bryant has been to several sites on this planet bearing the original, military meaning of ground zero, and places we have come to refer to that way. Maybe there is something to learn from places we have destroyed.
The Structure of Forgiveness" - Rev. Russ Savage - Forgiveness is not a simple social act, but a complex psychological and spiritual process with a definite structure and necessary steps. Let us examine this structure in light of our own personal needs to forgive and be forgiven, and in light of the current world situation.
"New Wine in Old Wineskins" Rev. Bryant Brown, Intern Minister
There are about as many Unitarian Universalists now as when the Association came into being in 1961. Much has changed in the world since then, demographically, technologically, culturally…. If the principles we proclaim are to have an important place in our world, we UUs need to examine truths about
Rev. Bryant Brown, Intern Minister
Topic: "Edges"
We constantly come to edges in our lives. Changes are part of life – some we choose to make, some just happen. Each moment we stand between what has been and what may be; our memories and anticipations can be distracting. Each moment has its own reality to be appreciated.
'In Motion' Rev Lynn Cox
In the early twentieth century, L.B. Fisher wrote, "Universalists are often
asked to tell where they stand. The only true answer to give to this
question is that we do not stand at all. We move."
"It Matters What We Believe" These are words Sophia Fahs spoke some years ago & they are apropos as we meet today. Some beliefs lift us & others up while others depress or diminish us & others. It truly matters what we accept, value& cherish in our lives.
Rev. Russ Savage - Interim Associate Minister - On this Memorial Day Sunday, we will observe the tradtion of honoring those who served or now serve in the Armed Forces of the US. You may want to wear a poppy or other flower on this Sunday. If you now serve or ever served in our Armed Forces, you are invied to wear your uniform to this service.
I recently had the opportunity to learn first hand of the excitement that some outside the U. S. have for President Obama. As we complete the "First 100 Days" of new Presidential leadership (what a reporter suggested feels like a ("100 years") this morning I'll share with you how my time with the UU Church of the Philippines has shaped and given.
Striving for independence of space, spirit, & emotion feels inherent to life; some, it appears, spend a lifetime seeking the distance of independence. There are those that go about it very consciously, while there are those who have no idea how they sound & look. On this Mother's Day, it feels right to lok at the shaping influences on our lives....
Hard Times by Rev. Bryant Brown, Intern Minister
The music & literature from The Great Depression of the 1930s is full of instances of people coming together & helping each other. What was a time of scarcity and fear was also a time of sharing and caring . There are lessons we learn about real worth when the illusions of materialism are taken away...
"New Words for Old" by Rev. Russ Savage - Assoc. Minister-
Over the past 100 years our faith tradition has produced four hymnals. In each one of them, we've added some new hymns & readings, dropped some old ones, & kept some of the old ones but changed the words. A look at the trajectory of these hymnals provides a fascinating view over the years.
Members of our YRUU traveled to our sister church in Rava, Transylvania and shared their experiences with the congregation.
This Easter Sunday we'll observe our annual Flower Communion in an intergenerational service. So remember to bring a flower or a favorite sprig of nature to share with others.
In this sermon Rev. Dr. Fred Muir discusses what role there is for Jesus in Liberal Religion.
"Starstuff" by Bryant Brown - Intern Minister: Looking at the night sky can take us far beyond our usual thoughts. The billions and billions of specks of light bring awe and lofty ideas and wild imaginings, some wonderful, some dangerous. We humans can learn and speculate about time and space and matter; gazing at the sky.
Charlie Clements, President and CEO of UU Service Committee (UUSC) will be preaching at both services. He will explain how the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is having an effect in almost every corner of the world every day for 60 years and how it forms the foundation of UUSC's work here and abroad.
"Questions of Ethics" by Rev. Russ Savage - Many situations we encounter in our complicated lives bring up questions of ethics, and how is our response to ethical questions informed by our religious faith? Let us examine these matters together at this complex and confusing time in our history.
Join us to welcome the Rev. Rebecca Quimada Sienes, former President of the UU church of the Philippines and daughter of martyred UU minister Toribio Quimada.
"Starting with his "Voyage of the Beagle" (1845), Charles Darwin gave us a plan for sustainable living. His description has gone by many names, but it continues to be misunderstood and revolutionary. Join me this morning during our annual Darwin Sunday Celebration as I articulate..
Bryant Brown
Sermon title: It All Depends Upon How You Look At It." - In antiracism and other areas, our church has been making major efforts to intentionally change how we look at our world, our ministry, and ourselves. Intern Minister Bryant Brown will be looking at pictures, poems, and parables that invite us to change perspectives
"Hearing One Another" - Rev. Russ Savage, Interim Minister and Covenant Group Partipcants - When we sit quietly in a Covenant Group meeting with a half a dozen or so people we have come to know and trust, when can tell some of our own story and hear some of the stories of others, we can begin to know ourselves in a new way.
Sermon Title: "Inauguration Sunday: The Politics of Promise" - Monday is King Day; Tuesday is the Inauguration. Today we'll reflect on the messages of promise as articulated by Dr. King and President-elect Obama.
On this first Sunday of 2009, let's take a deep breath, get out from under the "tryanny of immediacy" and take a look at your New Year. We'll let Gary Pausch, author of the best-selling book "The Last Lecture" and a Unitarian Universalist (First Unitarian in Pittsburgh) lead the way.
: "President-Elect Obama and (U) US" - In 1996, a popular song lyric said: "There's something's happening here. What it is ain't exactly clear." With the election of Senator Barack Obama as our next President, something is happening here in our nation. Is there a unique message for us as Unitarian Universalists?
What's The Word For "Not Angry?" - Anger is strong motivator; as politicians. Righteous anger prompts work for social justice, some say. We experience anger, others' and perhaps our own, on the highways and sidewalks. Is this emotion and inevitable part of human life? Rev. Bryant Bossler Brown
: "Whose Human Rights?" Mahatma Gandhi was a political and spiritual leader of India who said: "Be the change that you want to see in the world." Translation: Live your ideals, your vision and dream; don't simply talk about them. On this our annual UN Sunday, we join with others world-wide to recognize the 60th anniversary of the world body.