Born out of a desire to unify the country during the Civil War, the Day of Thanksgiving is surrounded by a tangled web of stories about race, spirituality, and revisionist nationalistic history. With all of its complicated layers and history, the Thanksgiving holiday still endures … read more.
As people, we naturally gravitate toward those similar to ourselves. It is simple, easier, and it is comfortable. As we celebrate “National Coming Out Day,” and “Indigenous Peoples’ Day,” what inspirations and awakenings can we glean from deeply listening to voices of the marginalized.
“A Shift in the Wind”
250 years ago, the Rev. John Murray preached his first Universalist sermon in North America due to a shift in the wind that prevented him from moving on. He would go on to found Universalism as a denomination in America. … read more.
Amidst the winter holidays, we enter a time of expectation. Waiting, however, can be a challenging state of being, especially when what comes next is so uncertain. How can stillness serve as a spiritual practice in times of waiting?
Surviving loss is part of the human endeavor. How do we find our way through the pain? How can the light get in?
We may or may not have clear election results at this point and many uncertainties remain present in our day to day lives. Yet, the steady work of repair remains. Let us reflect together on the ongoing work of grieving what is broken and bringing … read more.
“Listening through Tension,” Rev. Joan Javier-Duval
These days it seems to be more and more challenging to listen with openness to differing opinions and life experiences. Differences can create tension and living with tension isn’t easy. How might we listen deeply and fully enough to … read more.
“Listening with the Whole Self”
Terry Tempest Williams asks, “Can we listen with our whole beings, not just our minds, and offer our attention rather than our opinion?” What does it mean to listen with our whole beings? What parts of ourselves need to be … read more.
“Reflection and Renewal”
As the seasons change and, in the Jewish tradition, a new year begins, we explore the practice of self-reflection and invite a spirit of renewal into our lives. We will also commission the 2020-2021 Lay Pastoral Care Ministry team during the service.
“Good and Necessary Trouble,” August 16, 2020
The late Rep. John Lewis, who dedicated his life to racial justice, equality, and civil rights, said, “Never, ever be afraid to make some noise and get in good trouble, necessary trouble.” What is the “good trouble” we … read more.
