Services

Resistance and Revolution Revisited

As a number of writers have recently noted, resistance in and of itself may not be enough. Our own Declaration of Independence notes that “whenever any form of government becomes destructive of these ends [life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness], it is the right of the people to alter or abolish it.”  When and … Continued

Life and Music of Nina Simone

Singer, songwriter, pianist and civil rights activist Nina Simone (1933-2003) was one of the most influential performers of her time. Known for her unique musical style and her outspoken social commentary, Simone was one of the most provocative figures of the 1960s. What can we learn from her life and music that is relevant to … Continued

A Theology of Trees

Poet Wendell Berry suggests that we should “stand like slow growing trees / on a ruined place, renewing, enriching it.” How can we live more like trees, and what kind of theology is suggested by the life of trees. We’ll explore these questions and others in this service.

The Good Samaritan and Collective Liberation

While we often focus on some of the more obvious lessons of the Good Samaritan, what does the story tell us about systems of oppression? How might we view this tale as a case study in intersectionality and the struggle for collective liberation?

The Good Samaritan and Crossing Boundaries

At a time when extreme social and political polarization has become the norm, how do we motivate ourselves to reach out across lines of difference? When and how is it even desirable to do so without causing harm to those who are most vulnerable?

The Good Samaritan and Human Kindness

In an era marked by hate-filled rhetoric and shouting matches, what does the story of the Good Samaritan tell us about the power and importance of simple human kindness, and why do we so often forget the power of kindness to heal both the giver and the receiver.

Strength in Vulnerability

Vulnerability has long been thought of as a weakness–something that we try to hide or deny. But how can embracing our vulnerability become a strength? And why is vulnerability an important part of everyone’s real life story?

Why An 8th Principle: The The(y)ology of the Platinum Rule

Unitarian Universalism has a long and complicated history working on anti-racism.  In recent years, the 8th Principle has called congregations to not only proclaim countering oppression- particularly anti-racism- as a value, but to embody it in every aspect of the work we do.  What does it mean to choose this work and what kind of … Continued

The Book of Esther

The Jewish holiday of Purim is centered around the Book of Esther. How does this story of heroism in the face of vulnerability relate to our own time? What can we learn about Esther that might help us face our own personal and collective challenges?

Love Beyond Belief

As UUs, we honor any and all beliefs that respect the inherent worth of every individual while recognizing that we are in an interdependent relationship with one another and with the earth. But beneath and beyond any and all beliefs there is a more important commitment to a love that transcends belief.