Virtual Church 2022
Services are displayed on the following pages:
Services are displayed on the following pages:
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This Sunday's service, Sunday and Monday:
Last Sunday's and prior services, 2022: 2021: March 22 through December, 2020: January through March 15, 2020: 2019: 2014-2018: 2011-2013 Future services: |
Services on this page are displayed in reverse chronological order,
with the most recent videos on top.
with the most recent videos on top.
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December 25:
By Rev. Jay Wolin
Is there something you are wondering about Unitarian Universalism, our Church or me? I will invite you to share with me questions that are burning in your hearts and minds.
By Rev. Jay Wolin
Is there something you are wondering about Unitarian Universalism, our Church or me? I will invite you to share with me questions that are burning in your hearts and minds.
Special Holiday Services:
December 24: Christmas Eve Candlelight Service
Saturday evening,
6:30 pm: This service will be livestreamed on YouTube. Just click the play button to the right. |
 choir
Music:
Choir |
Don Bryn, piano
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Photo: Jeremy Tarling from London, UK CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons
All families and children are welcome into our Sanctuary for our beautiful candlelight service. A Wassail Hospitality will be directly after the service. Please bring a goodie to share. (There is no childcare for this service.)
December 21: Solstice Celebration
Wednesday evening,
5:30 pm: |
 Elaine Silver
Music:
Elaine Silver |
Any and all are cordially invited to A CELEBRATION of the Winter Solstice in our beautiful sanctuary as we mark one of the most ancient of mid-winter spiritual festivals.
MUSIC will be shared by our friend, Elaine Silver. She, along with Mary Lou Keller, Endora Allen Stevens, Pat Halperin and Rev. Jay have been preparing an event for us to welcome the "return of the sun" after this darkest night of the year.
REFRESHMENTS will be served after the service. AND, you are encouraged and welcomed to bring some of YOUR favorite Holiday treats for sharing!
There is no childcare for this service. All families and children are welcome to participate in the Service which is interactive and fun.
This service was livestreamed on YouTube and is available there. Just click the play button above.
An excerpt from that recording, showing just the song, "The Christians and the Pagans," is available below:
MUSIC will be shared by our friend, Elaine Silver. She, along with Mary Lou Keller, Endora Allen Stevens, Pat Halperin and Rev. Jay have been preparing an event for us to welcome the "return of the sun" after this darkest night of the year.
REFRESHMENTS will be served after the service. AND, you are encouraged and welcomed to bring some of YOUR favorite Holiday treats for sharing!
There is no childcare for this service. All families and children are welcome to participate in the Service which is interactive and fun.
This service was livestreamed on YouTube and is available there. Just click the play button above.
An excerpt from that recording, showing just the song, "The Christians and the Pagans," is available below:
December 18:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
The sources which inform our Unitarian Universalist Principles include “Jewish and Christian teachings which call us to respond to God’s love by loving our neighbors as ourselves.” I will examine in what ways teachings from the Christian Scriptures can inform, inspire and add meaning to us individually and as a community.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
The sources which inform our Unitarian Universalist Principles include “Jewish and Christian teachings which call us to respond to God’s love by loving our neighbors as ourselves.” I will examine in what ways teachings from the Christian Scriptures can inform, inspire and add meaning to us individually and as a community.
December 11:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
We are nearing the Jewish Holiday of Hanukkah, known as the festival of lights. I will explore the complex question of freedom from oppression that this holiday represents as well as the image of flaming candles/chalice in our culture and religion.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
We are nearing the Jewish Holiday of Hanukkah, known as the festival of lights. I will explore the complex question of freedom from oppression that this holiday represents as well as the image of flaming candles/chalice in our culture and religion.
Photo: The Polar Express
December 4:
Part 1
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
Each holiday season prior to this one, I would watch the movie “The Polar Express” with my grandchildren who happened to be living with me at the time. The movie asks the question as to whether we should believe in things unseen and unknown. How do we balance doubt and maintain our wonder of life?
Part 1
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
Each holiday season prior to this one, I would watch the movie “The Polar Express” with my grandchildren who happened to be living with me at the time. The movie asks the question as to whether we should believe in things unseen and unknown. How do we balance doubt and maintain our wonder of life?
Photo: The Polar Express
Part 2
Due to a technical glitch, the recording broke into two parts. Click on the play button here for Part 2.
Due to a technical glitch, the recording broke into two parts. Click on the play button here for Part 2.
November 27:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
If you have ever received an email from me, you will recognize that my signature line states “with a grateful heart”. Gratitude has become a daily spiritual practice for me. I will share with you why I find spiritual practices and gratitude in particular to be so important to transforming ourselves and the world.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
If you have ever received an email from me, you will recognize that my signature line states “with a grateful heart”. Gratitude has become a daily spiritual practice for me. I will share with you why I find spiritual practices and gratitude in particular to be so important to transforming ourselves and the world.
November 20:
Sermon by David Wilkins, Esq.
The church’s decision to host the Equal Justice Initiative’s lynching memorial is a testament to America’s capacity for good, just as the marker itself is a witness to its capacity for great evil. Let us celebrate that capacity for love and sacrifice while never losing sight of the ever present evil that seeks to steal, kill and destroy.
Sermon by David Wilkins, Esq.
The church’s decision to host the Equal Justice Initiative’s lynching memorial is a testament to America’s capacity for good, just as the marker itself is a witness to its capacity for great evil. Let us celebrate that capacity for love and sacrifice while never losing sight of the ever present evil that seeks to steal, kill and destroy.
November 13:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
Our Associational polity and Church bylaws dictate membership requirements and rules. However, I believe that signing the membership book and committing oneself to membership can and should create a deeply integral bond between the individual and the community that would not otherwise exist. Please join us as I explore this topic. We will have a new member recognition during the service.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
Our Associational polity and Church bylaws dictate membership requirements and rules. However, I believe that signing the membership book and committing oneself to membership can and should create a deeply integral bond between the individual and the community that would not otherwise exist. Please join us as I explore this topic. We will have a new member recognition during the service.
November 6:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
These past few years have ushered in unprecedented changes. Covid accelerated change and forced us to change how we operate as a Church. Change is always happening all around us. In the weather, in the world, and even in our Church. The one thing that is constant in life is that there will be change. I will share my thoughts on how to approach change and deal with it.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
These past few years have ushered in unprecedented changes. Covid accelerated change and forced us to change how we operate as a Church. Change is always happening all around us. In the weather, in the world, and even in our Church. The one thing that is constant in life is that there will be change. I will share my thoughts on how to approach change and deal with it.
October 30:
Sermon by Rev Jay Wolin
We often only think of this weekend as a time for putting on costumes and collecting candy . The spiritual teachings of Earth Centered Religions look at this weekend as an important time to remember our ancestors.. Whose lives and actions were the foundation upon which we built our lives and values? Who do we consider our ancestors?
Sermon by Rev Jay Wolin
We often only think of this weekend as a time for putting on costumes and collecting candy . The spiritual teachings of Earth Centered Religions look at this weekend as an important time to remember our ancestors.. Whose lives and actions were the foundation upon which we built our lives and values? Who do we consider our ancestors?
October 23:
Sermon by Rev Jay Wolin
Recent Florida legislation and supreme court decisions are limiting education about and rights for the LGBTQIA+ community. We will explore why our religious values compel us to speak up and act.
A short video excerpting just the three stories of Being Gay is available at youtu.be/rVQ5B54RrIo
Sermon by Rev Jay Wolin
Recent Florida legislation and supreme court decisions are limiting education about and rights for the LGBTQIA+ community. We will explore why our religious values compel us to speak up and act.
A short video excerpting just the three stories of Being Gay is available at youtu.be/rVQ5B54RrIo
October 16:
Sermon and Music by Dr. Sheri D. Kling
Dr. Sheri Kling will draw from contemporary philosophy to describe four key ideas about the Web of Life and deepen her message with original music. In a time of severe fragmentation at all levels, Dr. Kling will bring insights from integrating and anti-fragmentation resources to offer us new ways of looking at the world. She is a constructive theologian who considers her work in the world to be “midwifing wholeness through soul, story, and song.
Sermon and Music by Dr. Sheri D. Kling
Dr. Sheri Kling will draw from contemporary philosophy to describe four key ideas about the Web of Life and deepen her message with original music. In a time of severe fragmentation at all levels, Dr. Kling will bring insights from integrating and anti-fragmentation resources to offer us new ways of looking at the world. She is a constructive theologian who considers her work in the world to be “midwifing wholeness through soul, story, and song.
October 9:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
Aristotle considered virtue as the mean between excess and deficit. He considered the virtue of courage to be the mean between the excess of rashness and the deficit of cowardice. What does it mean for us to have courage in our religious lives?
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
Aristotle considered virtue as the mean between excess and deficit. He considered the virtue of courage to be the mean between the excess of rashness and the deficit of cowardice. What does it mean for us to have courage in our religious lives?
October 2:
Suspension of the Ethical?
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
We are in the middle of the ten day Jewish New Year holiday period known as the “Days of Awe”. I will look at the Torah reading for first day of this holiday. Genesis 22 is the story of God ordering Abraham to sacrifice his son. Is this story as Soren Kierkegaard calls it a “teleological suspension of the ethical” or is it something else? And what does it have to do with a New Year Holiday? And what message can it have for us today?
Hurricane Ian took our power away, so there was no livestream. However, Rev. Jay recorded his sermon ahead of time, available above.
Suspension of the Ethical?
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
We are in the middle of the ten day Jewish New Year holiday period known as the “Days of Awe”. I will look at the Torah reading for first day of this holiday. Genesis 22 is the story of God ordering Abraham to sacrifice his son. Is this story as Soren Kierkegaard calls it a “teleological suspension of the ethical” or is it something else? And what does it have to do with a New Year Holiday? And what message can it have for us today?
Hurricane Ian took our power away, so there was no livestream. However, Rev. Jay recorded his sermon ahead of time, available above.
September 25:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
Why should we as individuals and as a religious organization be involved in social justice? What do we mean when we say social justice? I will discuss the theological and ethical reasons I find this is an important part of one’s spiritual life. I will also explore why a spiritual life is so important for those actively involved in social justice.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
Why should we as individuals and as a religious organization be involved in social justice? What do we mean when we say social justice? I will discuss the theological and ethical reasons I find this is an important part of one’s spiritual life. I will also explore why a spiritual life is so important for those actively involved in social justice.
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This service included a Child Dedication.
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September 18:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
When I came here in April during Candidating Week, many people expressed a need or desire to attract younger people to the Congregation. I will share why I feel having a multi-generational Church is important for everyone.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
When I came here in April during Candidating Week, many people expressed a need or desire to attract younger people to the Congregation. I will share why I feel having a multi-generational Church is important for everyone.
September11:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin.
Try to remember what it was like the first time you walked into a Unitarian Universalist Community. How did it feel? Finding ways to connect with and building relationships with others is so important to having a sense of belonging in community. How we intentionally invite and include individuals into our community will determine whether they feel they belong. What is the difference between belonging, as opposed to just being included? How do we greet our Neighbor? Who is our Neighbor? So many questions.
Read about Upcoming Services...
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin.
Try to remember what it was like the first time you walked into a Unitarian Universalist Community. How did it feel? Finding ways to connect with and building relationships with others is so important to having a sense of belonging in community. How we intentionally invite and include individuals into our community will determine whether they feel they belong. What is the difference between belonging, as opposed to just being included? How do we greet our Neighbor? Who is our Neighbor? So many questions.
Read about Upcoming Services...
Charles Bradt
September 4:
Sermon by Charles Bradt
Is it fame? Is it fortune? Is it that new car? A new spouse? What is it you are really after, and how can you attain it? Charles Bradt has some thought-provoking insights to share and some suggestions on how to get what you really want.
Charlie Bradt has been teaching yoga and meditation for thirty years, Mindfulness for eight years. Of his experience, he says, “I have drawn on a great many teachers, both ancient and modern, who have informed my understanding of what it means to be fully human, and the paths to discovering that. I find that I learn best in dialogue with others of similar interests as we test together ‘what we know to be true right now.’ I find that new insights are always awaiting my discovery. This is my effort to share some of these insights as they continue to unfold, and to engage with you in further exploration. I can be reached at [email protected] and I have a blog at cbradt.com.”
Sermon by Charles Bradt
Is it fame? Is it fortune? Is it that new car? A new spouse? What is it you are really after, and how can you attain it? Charles Bradt has some thought-provoking insights to share and some suggestions on how to get what you really want.
Charlie Bradt has been teaching yoga and meditation for thirty years, Mindfulness for eight years. Of his experience, he says, “I have drawn on a great many teachers, both ancient and modern, who have informed my understanding of what it means to be fully human, and the paths to discovering that. I find that I learn best in dialogue with others of similar interests as we test together ‘what we know to be true right now.’ I find that new insights are always awaiting my discovery. This is my effort to share some of these insights as they continue to unfold, and to engage with you in further exploration. I can be reached at [email protected] and I have a blog at cbradt.com.”
August 28:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
Our nation seems to be captivated by sports. Are sports the new religion of America? I will explore some of the similarities and differences between religion and sports. I will share what I think religion can learn from sports as well as the limitations and deficiencies of sports compared to religion in America.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
Our nation seems to be captivated by sports. Are sports the new religion of America? I will explore some of the similarities and differences between religion and sports. I will share what I think religion can learn from sports as well as the limitations and deficiencies of sports compared to religion in America.
August 21:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
At General Assembly this year we as an association continued the discussion about the possibility of changing our principles and purposes. I will share my thoughts, and what was discussed at General Assembly. I will share why I love attending General Assembly as well as why I feel it is important to be engaged with the larger Unitarian Universalist Association as part of our religious life.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
At General Assembly this year we as an association continued the discussion about the possibility of changing our principles and purposes. I will share my thoughts, and what was discussed at General Assembly. I will share why I love attending General Assembly as well as why I feel it is important to be engaged with the larger Unitarian Universalist Association as part of our religious life.
August 14:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
As I start my ministry here, the most important thing for me is to learn. To learn about the members and their hopes, dreams and concerns. To learn how the Church “works”, and to learn about the communities of Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch. I will share about my call to ministry and explore my understanding of shared ministry as we start our journey together.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
As I start my ministry here, the most important thing for me is to learn. To learn about the members and their hopes, dreams and concerns. To learn how the Church “works”, and to learn about the communities of Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch. I will share about my call to ministry and explore my understanding of shared ministry as we start our journey together.
Fred Johnson, jazz vocalist
August 7:
Acclaimed vocal performer Fred Johnson will lead a celebratory and contemplative reminder to 'Embrace the Grace of Gratitude'. Gratitude and the gift of Life itself is our theme with an emphasis on seizing the opportunities we are given each day to Amplify the Essence of our Humanity into our world as we cultivate our inner garden of spirit and love.
An acclaimed jazz vocalist, sacred chanter, storyteller, author and arts educator, Fred Johnson is a graduate of the National Academy of the Performing Arts as well as the Master Performers School of the National Mime Theater.
Acclaimed vocal performer Fred Johnson will lead a celebratory and contemplative reminder to 'Embrace the Grace of Gratitude'. Gratitude and the gift of Life itself is our theme with an emphasis on seizing the opportunities we are given each day to Amplify the Essence of our Humanity into our world as we cultivate our inner garden of spirit and love.
An acclaimed jazz vocalist, sacred chanter, storyteller, author and arts educator, Fred Johnson is a graduate of the National Academy of the Performing Arts as well as the Master Performers School of the National Mime Theater.
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July 31:
Sermon by Bill Payton Bill describes himself as an ordinary guy, going through the passages of his life. He says he has lived an ordinary life including military service, college, career, raising a family and retirement. Having journeyed through those phases of life, he ponders his purpose now. |
Bill Payton
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Rabbi Jennifer Singer
July 24:
Sermon by Rabbi Jennifer Singer
What does it mean to be part of a community? Each of us belongs to a variety of communities -- neighborhoods, houses of worship, clubs and organizations, cities, a nation. What do we expect from each of these communities, and what do they expect from us? Are we asking enough of them, and are we giving our due?
Sermon by Rabbi Jennifer Singer
What does it mean to be part of a community? Each of us belongs to a variety of communities -- neighborhoods, houses of worship, clubs and organizations, cities, a nation. What do we expect from each of these communities, and what do they expect from us? Are we asking enough of them, and are we giving our due?
July 17:
Sermon by Lynne Lockie
How is Buddhism useful to us in daily life? And how to deal with the Floods of life.
Sermon by Lynne Lockie
How is Buddhism useful to us in daily life? And how to deal with the Floods of life.
July 10:
Quite a few of us attended General Assembly in Portland, Oregon. Most of us did so from the comfort of our homes via internet links. Today we bring the experiences of that week home to Sarasota. What impressed us most? How does our connection with the international Unitarian Universalist Association impact us here? How did this GA compare with previous ones you’ve attended? What did GA offer us? What did we bring to GA? Today we hear the answers and more from a number of our members and friends.
July 10 through August 7 Christine Allen Bruno will be filling in for Don Bryn, our regular pianist. Read more about Christine Bruno...
Quite a few of us attended General Assembly in Portland, Oregon. Most of us did so from the comfort of our homes via internet links. Today we bring the experiences of that week home to Sarasota. What impressed us most? How does our connection with the international Unitarian Universalist Association impact us here? How did this GA compare with previous ones you’ve attended? What did GA offer us? What did we bring to GA? Today we hear the answers and more from a number of our members and friends.
July 10 through August 7 Christine Allen Bruno will be filling in for Don Bryn, our regular pianist. Read more about Christine Bruno...
July 3:
Sermon by Catherine Bonner
Our nation was founded by “We the People.” Or was it? Come contemplate the very beginning of our nation and how those roots still define the power structure today in the U.S.
Sermon by Catherine Bonner
Our nation was founded by “We the People.” Or was it? Come contemplate the very beginning of our nation and how those roots still define the power structure today in the U.S.
June Worship Theme:
Celebrating Blessings
Mary Lou Keller, Yolanda and Endera Stevens
June 26:
Service by Endera Stevens, Yolanda Stevens and Mary Lou Keller
Yolanda, Endera and Mary Lou will celebrate the beautiful things that make our hearts sing with a unique guided meditation, an enthusiastic interpretation of the children’s book Something Beautiful, inspiring music and stories. Bring something you consider beautiful to share on a table in the sanctuary, and if time allows we will hear people’s stories during or after the service. This is an intergenerational service and will be an experience not to be missed.
Service by Endera Stevens, Yolanda Stevens and Mary Lou Keller
Yolanda, Endera and Mary Lou will celebrate the beautiful things that make our hearts sing with a unique guided meditation, an enthusiastic interpretation of the children’s book Something Beautiful, inspiring music and stories. Bring something you consider beautiful to share on a table in the sanctuary, and if time allows we will hear people’s stories during or after the service. This is an intergenerational service and will be an experience not to be missed.
June 19:
Sermon by Doug Wadkins
This is my last service with you as your interim minister. As we all move into a time of change, this service will explore how we are always amid beginnings, middles, and endings in life. These two years have given us a lot of change, and once more, before we part ways, I will reflect on what it might mean in an enduring way for our lives.
Sermon by Doug Wadkins
This is my last service with you as your interim minister. As we all move into a time of change, this service will explore how we are always amid beginnings, middles, and endings in life. These two years have given us a lot of change, and once more, before we part ways, I will reflect on what it might mean in an enduring way for our lives.
June 12:
Sermon by Doug Wadkins
We continue our pathway though Celebrating Blessings by reflecting on the blessings that we have experienced this year at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Sarasota. Given the year and more that we have had, it seems particularly worthwhile to celebrate these specific blessings.
Sermon by Doug Wadkins
We continue our pathway though Celebrating Blessings by reflecting on the blessings that we have experienced this year at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Sarasota. Given the year and more that we have had, it seems particularly worthwhile to celebrate these specific blessings.
Flower Communion:
Bring a flower,
take a flower with you
This service included our annual ritual celebrating beauty, human uniqueness, diversity, and community. Everyone in the congregation brought a flower. Each person placed a flower in shared vases. The congregation and minister blessed the flowers, and they're redistributed. Each person took home a different flower than the one they brought. Click the play button for a short clip of the communion.
Bring a flower,
take a flower with you
This service included our annual ritual celebrating beauty, human uniqueness, diversity, and community. Everyone in the congregation brought a flower. Each person placed a flower in shared vases. The congregation and minister blessed the flowers, and they're redistributed. Each person took home a different flower than the one they brought. Click the play button for a short clip of the communion.
June 5:
Sermon by Doug Wadkins
As we begin our final theme until the fall, we think about the importance of honoring our shared life. An essential part of this life is acknowledging the crucial facets of our lives, both individual and shared. We have established various rites that help us honor them. This practice is an excellent thing. This service will explore why this is important and how to get the most out of these moments. In light of the month’s theme, we will also examine why the perspective of blessings has particular resonance for each of us!
Sermon by Doug Wadkins
As we begin our final theme until the fall, we think about the importance of honoring our shared life. An essential part of this life is acknowledging the crucial facets of our lives, both individual and shared. We have established various rites that help us honor them. This practice is an excellent thing. This service will explore why this is important and how to get the most out of these moments. In light of the month’s theme, we will also examine why the perspective of blessings has particular resonance for each of us!
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May 29:
Sermon by Rev. Brock Leach For a nation of indigenous, immigrant and formerly enslaved people like ours, democracy cannot survive on any claim of cultural superiority. It can only flourish when we center our shared longings for "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness” and work together to fulfill them. That means finding value in cultural diversity of all kinds, but it also means being in deep enough relationship with people from very different cultures to see past our differences and claim our common human values. How might we bridge that divide? |
Rev. Brock Leach
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May 22:
Sermon by Rev. Doug Wadkins
Throughout our lives, our bodies, our relationship with our body and how we think and feel about them matters deeply. One way or another we each have our moments of wonder, goodness and challenge as we make our way. Let us consider some of ways that the beauty of the body may be understood in a meaningful and adaptable way as we journey. To be at home within our bodies may be some of the most important work we do in our life.
Sermon by Rev. Doug Wadkins
Throughout our lives, our bodies, our relationship with our body and how we think and feel about them matters deeply. One way or another we each have our moments of wonder, goodness and challenge as we make our way. Let us consider some of ways that the beauty of the body may be understood in a meaningful and adaptable way as we journey. To be at home within our bodies may be some of the most important work we do in our life.
May 15:
Sermon by Rev. Doug Wadkins
The ways we connect and feel connected are so important to our well-being. We are more aware of the need and challenges of such connections after the last two years. This Sunday we will honor the importance of connections within this community and, in the larger sense, what it means to belong.
Sermon by Rev. Doug Wadkins
The ways we connect and feel connected are so important to our well-being. We are more aware of the need and challenges of such connections after the last two years. This Sunday we will honor the importance of connections within this community and, in the larger sense, what it means to belong.
May 8:
Sermon by Rev. Doug Wadkins
Sermon by Rev. Doug Wadkins
May 1 Service, part 1:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
We are all on a journey. Individually, and as a Congregation. I will share a bit of my personal journey, and I will share some lessons I have learned along the way to build resiliency and maintain hope.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
We are all on a journey. Individually, and as a Congregation. I will share a bit of my personal journey, and I will share some lessons I have learned along the way to build resiliency and maintain hope.
The following music video cannot be included in our YouTube recording due to copyright restrictions:
May 1 Service, part 2:
April Worship Theme:
Awakening
April 24:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
This past week was Earth Day. How can we balance the needs of humanity with the sustainability of the Earth. What do we mean by the “needs” of humanity? I will explore the theology of ecology, and what our seventh principle calls us to do.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
This past week was Earth Day. How can we balance the needs of humanity with the sustainability of the Earth. What do we mean by the “needs” of humanity? I will explore the theology of ecology, and what our seventh principle calls us to do.
April 17:
Sermon by Rev. Doug Wadkins
A powerful form of awakening has to do with liberation. Since Easter is one of the holidays that combines ancient pagan traditions around Spring and the resurrection of Jesus, the service will honor both of the these paths. This celebratory and reflective service will explore some common ground in the liberating forces between the two.
Technical note: A sound problem arose just as we began the live stream. We were unable to fix it during the service. Sorry for the substandard sound quality. We will make every attempt to keep it from happening again.
Sermon by Rev. Doug Wadkins
A powerful form of awakening has to do with liberation. Since Easter is one of the holidays that combines ancient pagan traditions around Spring and the resurrection of Jesus, the service will honor both of the these paths. This celebratory and reflective service will explore some common ground in the liberating forces between the two.
Technical note: A sound problem arose just as we began the live stream. We were unable to fix it during the service. Sorry for the substandard sound quality. We will make every attempt to keep it from happening again.
April 10:
Sermon by Rev. Doug Wadkins
As we continue our journey through this month’s theme of Awakening, we step back and look at a variety of paths that might help us engage Awakening in our lives. Awakening may refer to both our individual waking up and the ways that community and connection may deepen this truth in our lives.
Sermon by Rev. Doug Wadkins
As we continue our journey through this month’s theme of Awakening, we step back and look at a variety of paths that might help us engage Awakening in our lives. Awakening may refer to both our individual waking up and the ways that community and connection may deepen this truth in our lives.
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April 3:
Sermon by Rev. Dr. Shively T.J. Smith We are honored to have the Rev. Dr. Shively T.J. Smith in our pulpit. Rev. Dr. Smith is one of the two lecturers for the Sarasota Conference on Spirituality, Community and Social Change (details below). She is a leading scholar on Howard Thurman, the Assistant Professor of New Testament at Boston University School of Theology, and the author of Strangers to Family: Diaspora and First Peter’s Invention of God’s Household. Rev. Dr. Smith will be speaking to us in accord with our theme of Awakening on how imagination, inspiration, and wonder may make a significant difference in our view of important issues. |
Rev. Dr. Shively Smith
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March Worship Theme:
Renewing Faith
Photo: Mick Haupt via Unsplash
Fearless Girl Facing Charging Bull. Photo by Daniel Lloyd Blunk-Fernandez via Unsplash
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March 27:
Sermon by Heather Vickery. In these difficult times, it can be easy to feel despair, to feel overwhelmed by the pain of the world. However, all we have to do is look to our own principles and history to know how to find hope, have courage and take action together. Heather is responsible for developing and maintaining relationships with UU congregations, State Action Networks, past UU College of Social Justice (UUCSJ) program participants and regional staff in order to expand engagement in UUSC and UUCSJ’s work. As the Coordinator for Congregational Activism, she manages the workshop offerings and group visits to the UUSC/UUCSJ office and assists with communications for the Activism and Justice Heather is the President of the Board of the First Parish in Malden, Universalist and is an active member of the Boston Immigration Justice Accompaniment Network. |
Heather Vickery
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March 20:
Sermon by Rev. Doug Wadkins
If you have been a Unitarian Universalist for a while you likely know of our seven Principles that offer the guiding ideals about our faith. This month as we explore renewing our faith, and consider amending our principles on a national level it is good to explore more about these ideals. Why do they exist and what is their purpose and their intention? How might we engage them more meaningfully? We invite you to join us for the service as we explore together.
Sermon by Rev. Doug Wadkins
If you have been a Unitarian Universalist for a while you likely know of our seven Principles that offer the guiding ideals about our faith. This month as we explore renewing our faith, and consider amending our principles on a national level it is good to explore more about these ideals. Why do they exist and what is their purpose and their intention? How might we engage them more meaningfully? We invite you to join us for the service as we explore together.
March 13:
Sermon by Catherine Bonner
This month as we explore the theme of Renewing Faith, it is appropriate for us to explore what we as Unitarian Universalists are doing on a national and local level in living our values around Social and Racial Justice.
Sermon by Catherine Bonner
This month as we explore the theme of Renewing Faith, it is appropriate for us to explore what we as Unitarian Universalists are doing on a national and local level in living our values around Social and Racial Justice.
Photo: Ben White via Unsplash
March 6:
Sermon by Rev. Doug Wadkins
Welcome to March and a new theme of Renewing Faith! As we begin our journey through this month and explore the ideas around this theme, this service will seek to introduce some pathways to help us encounter some of what renewing faith might offer. We will explore some of the important ways that faith and doubt have been essential to our heritage as Unitarian Universalists, and how we might recapture some of that heritage and renew its promise here and now.
Sermon by Rev. Doug Wadkins
Welcome to March and a new theme of Renewing Faith! As we begin our journey through this month and explore the ideas around this theme, this service will seek to introduce some pathways to help us encounter some of what renewing faith might offer. We will explore some of the important ways that faith and doubt have been essential to our heritage as Unitarian Universalists, and how we might recapture some of that heritage and renew its promise here and now.
Photo by Ian Keefe via Unsplash
February 27:
Sermon by Rev. Doug Wadkins
In June of 2020, the UUA Commission on Institutional Change published a meaningful study of pathways for our congregations to do the essential work of widening our circle toward becoming more inclusive and justice-seeking. The implications of this study continue to be incredibly relevant for our movement. This service will explore some of the core components of that work and its hopeful possibilities for our future and present.
Sermon by Rev. Doug Wadkins
In June of 2020, the UUA Commission on Institutional Change published a meaningful study of pathways for our congregations to do the essential work of widening our circle toward becoming more inclusive and justice-seeking. The implications of this study continue to be incredibly relevant for our movement. This service will explore some of the core components of that work and its hopeful possibilities for our future and present.
February 20:
Sermons by Rev. Beth Miller and Rev. Budd Friend-Jones
We are reminded of this classic Dr. Seuss book as we culminate our 2 ½ years as your Associate Ministers and offer our gratitude and blessings as you continue your journey toward a new ministry and we return to retirement with whatever adventures unfold.
Sermons by Rev. Beth Miller and Rev. Budd Friend-Jones
We are reminded of this classic Dr. Seuss book as we culminate our 2 ½ years as your Associate Ministers and offer our gratitude and blessings as you continue your journey toward a new ministry and we return to retirement with whatever adventures unfold.
February 13:
Sermon by Rev. Doug Wadkins
There are few times in history where so many powerful forces are converging on the world, and, ultimately, these forces impact our lives on every level. Let us reflect together on this time and what it asks of us as individuals and as a community. This reflection is significant in light of this critical time in the church with the search and seeking to foster greater health for the future. How can our connections help us make our way forward?
Sermon by Rev. Doug Wadkins
There are few times in history where so many powerful forces are converging on the world, and, ultimately, these forces impact our lives on every level. Let us reflect together on this time and what it asks of us as individuals and as a community. This reflection is significant in light of this critical time in the church with the search and seeking to foster greater health for the future. How can our connections help us make our way forward?
February 6:
Sermon by Rev. Roger Fritts
Join us for an exceptional service with our very special guest, our minister emeritus, the Rev. Roger Fritts. Following tributes by the church Presidents who served during Roger's tenure, he shares his thoughts about his time with us and offers wisdom and encouragement as we look to the future. After the service during the Zoom Coffee Hour, we officially honored his status as minister emeritus. The Coffee Hour was marked by members and friends greeting Roger and offering our gratitude for his many years of outstanding service as our minister.
Sermon by Rev. Roger Fritts
Join us for an exceptional service with our very special guest, our minister emeritus, the Rev. Roger Fritts. Following tributes by the church Presidents who served during Roger's tenure, he shares his thoughts about his time with us and offers wisdom and encouragement as we look to the future. After the service during the Zoom Coffee Hour, we officially honored his status as minister emeritus. The Coffee Hour was marked by members and friends greeting Roger and offering our gratitude for his many years of outstanding service as our minister.
January Worship Theme:
Living with Intention
Photo by Benjamin DeYoung on Unsplash
January 30:
Sermon by Rev. Budd Friend-Jones
Now recognized as “one of the unacknowledged shapers of 20th century America,” Dr. Howard Thurman was a seminal figure within the American civil rights movement. He was “a spiritual genius who transformed the people who transformed history.” (J. Blake, CNN, Feb 2019) Join us online as we celebrate his life and explore how he pioneered a form of spiritual practice that blended deep spirituality with political advocacy.
Sermon by Rev. Budd Friend-Jones
Now recognized as “one of the unacknowledged shapers of 20th century America,” Dr. Howard Thurman was a seminal figure within the American civil rights movement. He was “a spiritual genius who transformed the people who transformed history.” (J. Blake, CNN, Feb 2019) Join us online as we celebrate his life and explore how he pioneered a form of spiritual practice that blended deep spirituality with political advocacy.
January 23:
Sermon by Rev. Doug Wadkins
Frost’s poem, The Road Not Taken, has inspired many, and it is a poem that may offer insights into both the paths we choose and the ones we leave behind. As we seek to live our lives, how might we think about our choices and discern most meaningfully which path to choose? Let us explore the many life paths and their implications for our choices and our intentions.
Sermon by Rev. Doug Wadkins
Frost’s poem, The Road Not Taken, has inspired many, and it is a poem that may offer insights into both the paths we choose and the ones we leave behind. As we seek to live our lives, how might we think about our choices and discern most meaningfully which path to choose? Let us explore the many life paths and their implications for our choices and our intentions.
January 16:
Sermon by Rev. Doug Wadkins
Often we turn to great exemplars to help us think about how we might live more meaningful lives. This exercise can be both beneficial and potentially harmful. On this weekend when we remember the influential life of Martin Luther King Jr., we will engage in ways that his life may best offer wisdom for our living with intention.
Sermon by Rev. Doug Wadkins
Often we turn to great exemplars to help us think about how we might live more meaningful lives. This exercise can be both beneficial and potentially harmful. On this weekend when we remember the influential life of Martin Luther King Jr., we will engage in ways that his life may best offer wisdom for our living with intention.
January 9:
Sermon by Rev. Beth Miller
Keeping with our January theme of “living with intention,” let’s consider the theory of reincarnation. With it’s roots in ancient Eastern religions and philosophies, the idea of many lifetimes has also influenced many great Western minds. In virtually all belief systems that include reincarnation, the soul’s intention is spiritual growth and development to a higher state of being, free of all struggles, that takes it beyond the cycle of reincarnation. Interestingly enough, belief in reincarnation and in the spirit realm have a long history in both Unitarianism and Universalism prior to merger in 1961, and emerged again in the 1980s within Unitarian Universalism.
Sermon by Rev. Beth Miller
Keeping with our January theme of “living with intention,” let’s consider the theory of reincarnation. With it’s roots in ancient Eastern religions and philosophies, the idea of many lifetimes has also influenced many great Western minds. In virtually all belief systems that include reincarnation, the soul’s intention is spiritual growth and development to a higher state of being, free of all struggles, that takes it beyond the cycle of reincarnation. Interestingly enough, belief in reincarnation and in the spirit realm have a long history in both Unitarianism and Universalism prior to merger in 1961, and emerged again in the 1980s within Unitarian Universalism.
January 2:
Led by Rev. Doug Wadkins
Join us for a service that combines times of quiet, times of music and honoring the changes of the last year. The people old and new and the life circumstances that have entered or exited during the last year shape the truth of our living. Let us start the new year with some time to contemplate those truths in community.
Led by Rev. Doug Wadkins
Join us for a service that combines times of quiet, times of music and honoring the changes of the last year. The people old and new and the life circumstances that have entered or exited during the last year shape the truth of our living. Let us start the new year with some time to contemplate those truths in community.