Virtual Church 2023
Services are displayed on the following pages:
|
This Sunday's service, Sunday and Monday:
Last Sunday's and prior services, 2024: 2023: 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.
.
|
Click here for our
|
|
channel
|
December 31:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
I do not know why, but I find it interesting the date this Sunday is 123 123. New Year's Eve is just another day in our lives, but the turning of the calendar has many looking back on the year passed and making resolutions for the upcoming year. This Sunday, I will look back on my journey to ministry and to Sarasota. I will look forward and share what resolutions I am going to make for the upcoming year. I will also explore the benefits and challenges of making resolutions.
Click on the picture to see the livestream.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
I do not know why, but I find it interesting the date this Sunday is 123 123. New Year's Eve is just another day in our lives, but the turning of the calendar has many looking back on the year passed and making resolutions for the upcoming year. This Sunday, I will look back on my journey to ministry and to Sarasota. I will look forward and share what resolutions I am going to make for the upcoming year. I will also explore the benefits and challenges of making resolutions.
Click on the picture to see the livestream.
Photo by BBC Creative via Unsplash
December 24 Evening Service:
Homily by Rev. Jay Wolin
Celebrate Christmas Eve with candlelight, a short message, and traditional carols.
Click on the picture to view the livestream.
Homily by Rev. Jay Wolin
Celebrate Christmas Eve with candlelight, a short message, and traditional carols.
Click on the picture to view the livestream.
December 24 Morning Service:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
In the Book “Lamb”, Biff is Jesus’ childhood best friend. Biff is brought back from the dead to offer a new gospel “so the whole truth can be told.” Please join us as I take a little more imaginative look at the story of Jesus.
Click on the picture to view the livestream.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
In the Book “Lamb”, Biff is Jesus’ childhood best friend. Biff is brought back from the dead to offer a new gospel “so the whole truth can be told.” Please join us as I take a little more imaginative look at the story of Jesus.
Click on the picture to view the livestream.
December 21:
 Photo by Patrick Hendry via Unsplash
Join our community for a soul-nourishing candlelight service that honors the longest night of the year and welcomes the return of the sun. Engage in rituals, music by Elaine Silver, and reflective moments that invite you to connect with the natural rhythms of the season. Snacks, cider, wine and community follow the service. Click on the picture for the livestream.
|
Elaine Silver
|
December 17:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
In the Christian Gospels, a lawyer asks Jesus “Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest?” He said to him, “ ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the greatest and first commandment. And a second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.”
Today I will explore this second commandment and what it would mean to live in the world following it. Click on the picture to see the livestream.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
In the Christian Gospels, a lawyer asks Jesus “Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest?” He said to him, “ ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the greatest and first commandment. And a second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.”
Today I will explore this second commandment and what it would mean to live in the world following it. Click on the picture to see the livestream.
December 10:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
In my ongoing exploration of the new Article 2 values proposed by the Unitarian Universalist Association, I will explore the concept of equity. How is equity different from equality? Why is equity a religious idea? Click on the picture to view the video.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
In my ongoing exploration of the new Article 2 values proposed by the Unitarian Universalist Association, I will explore the concept of equity. How is equity different from equality? Why is equity a religious idea? Click on the picture to view the video.
December 3:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
What I will be speaking about this Sunday is a Mystery. Seriously though, I will be exploring experiences that happen in the world that seem unexplainable. How do we process the unknown and unknowable?
Click on the picture to view the video.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
What I will be speaking about this Sunday is a Mystery. Seriously though, I will be exploring experiences that happen in the world that seem unexplainable. How do we process the unknown and unknowable?
Click on the picture to view the video.
November 26:
Sermon by Brian Jones
What does it mean to embrace love as an “ideal” approach to life? As a black person living in Sarasota trying to find a sense of “home” how does one reconcile the social and political “energy” of Sarasota with its surreal light and physical beauty? In the broadest possible sense how does one actively embrace the concept of love functionally on a human scale? These are questions without answers that are ever present in the mind of an artist. Click on the image to see the video.
Sermon by Brian Jones
What does it mean to embrace love as an “ideal” approach to life? As a black person living in Sarasota trying to find a sense of “home” how does one reconcile the social and political “energy” of Sarasota with its surreal light and physical beauty? In the broadest possible sense how does one actively embrace the concept of love functionally on a human scale? These are questions without answers that are ever present in the mind of an artist. Click on the image to see the video.
November 19:
by Rev. Jay Wolin
Each year approaching Thanksgiving I do a service where I express what I am grateful for. I invite you to consider what you are or could be grateful for. I will also explore how gratefulness can become a way of life and the resulting responsibilities and benefits such a way of living leads us to.
Click the image to view the live stream.
by Rev. Jay Wolin
Each year approaching Thanksgiving I do a service where I express what I am grateful for. I invite you to consider what you are or could be grateful for. I will also explore how gratefulness can become a way of life and the resulting responsibilities and benefits such a way of living leads us to.
Click the image to view the live stream.
November 12:
by Rev. Jay Wolin
Today is the celebration of the Hindu Holiday of Diwali, the Festival of Lights. In many Hindu traditions this holiday celebrates ancient stories of Good defeating Evil. I continue my sermon series of looking at different world religions. I will explore what Hinduism has to say about the big questions in life and how they can have meaning for Unitarian Universalists.
Click the image to view the live stream.
by Rev. Jay Wolin
Today is the celebration of the Hindu Holiday of Diwali, the Festival of Lights. In many Hindu traditions this holiday celebrates ancient stories of Good defeating Evil. I continue my sermon series of looking at different world religions. I will explore what Hinduism has to say about the big questions in life and how they can have meaning for Unitarian Universalists.
Click the image to view the live stream.
November 5:
by Rev. Jay Wolin
There has been a lot of noise in the news about banning Critical Race Theory. I thought it would be important to examine exactly what it is and why everyone is so afraid of it.
Click the image to view the live stream.
by Rev. Jay Wolin
There has been a lot of noise in the news about banning Critical Race Theory. I thought it would be important to examine exactly what it is and why everyone is so afraid of it.
Click the image to view the live stream.
October 29:
by Helen Dingus, Ministerial Intern
We will explore ancestor veneration and how we can honor our ancestors. The service will include a Hallowe'en parade. Everyone is invited to come in a family friendly costume and join the parade. You are also invited to share a picture of your ancestor or ancestors, family or faith or other type, for inclusion in the slide show during the service. Please send your jpg or png to [email protected] by Friday.
Click the image to view the live stream.
by Helen Dingus, Ministerial Intern
We will explore ancestor veneration and how we can honor our ancestors. The service will include a Hallowe'en parade. Everyone is invited to come in a family friendly costume and join the parade. You are also invited to share a picture of your ancestor or ancestors, family or faith or other type, for inclusion in the slide show during the service. Please send your jpg or png to [email protected] by Friday.
Click the image to view the live stream.
October 22:
by Rev. Jay Wolin and Mary Anne Bowie
Saturday October 28th, the Green Team will be sponsoring a celebration of “Humanity Day” at the Congregation. The “I Am Humanity” organization that is promoting this event, states, “We stand for the flourishing of humanity and the earth, now and for future generations. Together we create the shift in our global consciousness to reimagine the future. Now is the time!” Join us this Sunday as we explore how this statement aligns well with our Unitarian Universalist principles and actions.
Click the image to view the live stream.
by Rev. Jay Wolin and Mary Anne Bowie
Saturday October 28th, the Green Team will be sponsoring a celebration of “Humanity Day” at the Congregation. The “I Am Humanity” organization that is promoting this event, states, “We stand for the flourishing of humanity and the earth, now and for future generations. Together we create the shift in our global consciousness to reimagine the future. Now is the time!” Join us this Sunday as we explore how this statement aligns well with our Unitarian Universalist principles and actions.
Click the image to view the live stream.
October 15:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
Throughout the history of Unitarian Universalism there has always been an ebb and flow and diversity in the theology of our Congregations. I will look back at some of the turning points in the history of Unitarianism, Universalism, and Unitarian Universalism. It’s a long strange road that led us here. We have often broken societal barriers. We have stumbled along the way, but not surprisingly we are often in the forefront of change in American Religious thought. There still is a wide river to cross.
Pictured are three famous Unitarians: Abigail Adams, the country’s second first lady; Frances "Fannie" Barrier Williams, an African American educator, civil rights, and women's rights activist; and Tim Berners-Lee, inventor of the World Wide Web, at the Science Museum for the Web@30 event, March 2019. Photo by Jwslubbock, CC BY-SA 4.0
Click the image to view the live stream.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
Throughout the history of Unitarian Universalism there has always been an ebb and flow and diversity in the theology of our Congregations. I will look back at some of the turning points in the history of Unitarianism, Universalism, and Unitarian Universalism. It’s a long strange road that led us here. We have often broken societal barriers. We have stumbled along the way, but not surprisingly we are often in the forefront of change in American Religious thought. There still is a wide river to cross.
Pictured are three famous Unitarians: Abigail Adams, the country’s second first lady; Frances "Fannie" Barrier Williams, an African American educator, civil rights, and women's rights activist; and Tim Berners-Lee, inventor of the World Wide Web, at the Science Museum for the Web@30 event, March 2019. Photo by Jwslubbock, CC BY-SA 4.0
Click the image to view the live stream.
Mario Purisic jG1z5o7NCq4 via Unsplash.com
October 8:
Service by Rev. Jay Wolin and the Racial Justice Coordinating Team
Last year Paula Cole Jones led a workshop here entitled “Building A Culture of Inclusion.” This workshop included a discussion of the concept “Community of Communities.” How is this different than how we operate today? How does this concept interact with the 8th Principle? As we near our vote as to whether to accept the 8th principle for our Church, I will also explore how the 8th principle both integrates with and differs from our previous 7 principles and the potential revisions in the UUA bylaws.
Unfortunately, technical problems caused an interruption of the livestream in the middle of the service.
Click here to view the first part. Click here to view the second part.
Service by Rev. Jay Wolin and the Racial Justice Coordinating Team
Last year Paula Cole Jones led a workshop here entitled “Building A Culture of Inclusion.” This workshop included a discussion of the concept “Community of Communities.” How is this different than how we operate today? How does this concept interact with the 8th Principle? As we near our vote as to whether to accept the 8th principle for our Church, I will also explore how the 8th principle both integrates with and differs from our previous 7 principles and the potential revisions in the UUA bylaws.
Unfortunately, technical problems caused an interruption of the livestream in the middle of the service.
Click here to view the first part. Click here to view the second part.
October 1:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin and Interweave
Recently a county in Florida rejected a proclamation to acknowledge October as LGBTQ History Month. Since the “Don’t Say Gay” and “Stop Woke Act” legislation, many teachers are fearful of losing their jobs if they even mention LGBTQ or Race issues. Our Principles call for the Free and Responsible Search for Truth and Meaning. Let us promote the exploration of ideas and share experiences from multiple perspectives to gain a better understanding of the world we live in, instead of trying to erase the history of oppressed groups in this country.
Click on the image to view the live stream.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin and Interweave
Recently a county in Florida rejected a proclamation to acknowledge October as LGBTQ History Month. Since the “Don’t Say Gay” and “Stop Woke Act” legislation, many teachers are fearful of losing their jobs if they even mention LGBTQ or Race issues. Our Principles call for the Free and Responsible Search for Truth and Meaning. Let us promote the exploration of ideas and share experiences from multiple perspectives to gain a better understanding of the world we live in, instead of trying to erase the history of oppressed groups in this country.
Click on the image to view the live stream.
September 24:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
We are in the midst of the Jewish High Holy Days, known as the Days of Awe. During this time, there is a practice to ask for forgiveness of where we have missed the mark. We must also work to repair whatever harm occurred. I was always taught when I was young “to forgive, but never forget.” What does it mean to forgive others, and why is it so hard? More so why do we often find it hard to forgive ourselves? How do we re-create trust in the universe when we suffer? Click on the image to view the video.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
We are in the midst of the Jewish High Holy Days, known as the Days of Awe. During this time, there is a practice to ask for forgiveness of where we have missed the mark. We must also work to repair whatever harm occurred. I was always taught when I was young “to forgive, but never forget.” What does it mean to forgive others, and why is it so hard? More so why do we often find it hard to forgive ourselves? How do we re-create trust in the universe when we suffer? Click on the image to view the video.
September 17:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
I have had many pets in my lifetime. Although I have had cats, I am most definitely a dog person. In this
service I will talk about the concept of interdependence with the world and all the creatures within it. Including our pets. Please send me pictures of your pets at [email protected] if you would like them to be shown on the screen.
Click on the link to view the livestream.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
I have had many pets in my lifetime. Although I have had cats, I am most definitely a dog person. In this
service I will talk about the concept of interdependence with the world and all the creatures within it. Including our pets. Please send me pictures of your pets at [email protected] if you would like them to be shown on the screen.
Click on the link to view the livestream.
September 10:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
On October 15th we will have a Congregational Meeting to vote on whether to change the name of the Church. There is an importance and a power in naming something. The name of a religious institution is one of the many expressions of its Identity. I will explore what it means to have a Unitarian Universalist Identity.
Click on the picture to see the video.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
On October 15th we will have a Congregational Meeting to vote on whether to change the name of the Church. There is an importance and a power in naming something. The name of a religious institution is one of the many expressions of its Identity. I will explore what it means to have a Unitarian Universalist Identity.
Click on the picture to see the video.
September 3:
Sermon by Jody McBrien What are some of the challenges facing today's workforce in this country? How can we create purpose in our work - paid and unpaid? How can we make work purposeful, even when our work might not be what we would want to do? Click on the picture to see the video. |
Jody McBrien
|
August 27:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
I often say that the owner of the Church is its Mission and Vision. A mission should very clearly and succinctly indicate what a Church’s (or any organization’s) purpose is. Every decision we make as a Church should be in fulfillment of our Mission and Vision. Prior to Covid, the Church did some work towards a new Mission. We do not have a written Vision. The Board is forming a task force to look at creating a Mission and Vision for who we are as a Church today and who we hope to be in the future. We are significantly different than we were, even three years ago. Just thinking about these questions can be a meaningful experience to help us define our identity as a religion and Church. Click on the picture to see the video.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
I often say that the owner of the Church is its Mission and Vision. A mission should very clearly and succinctly indicate what a Church’s (or any organization’s) purpose is. Every decision we make as a Church should be in fulfillment of our Mission and Vision. Prior to Covid, the Church did some work towards a new Mission. We do not have a written Vision. The Board is forming a task force to look at creating a Mission and Vision for who we are as a Church today and who we hope to be in the future. We are significantly different than we were, even three years ago. Just thinking about these questions can be a meaningful experience to help us define our identity as a religion and Church. Click on the picture to see the video.
August 20:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
Last year one of the Board’s goals for the Church was to create programs to address issues of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. As part of that work, we held a workshop led by Paula Cole Jones entitled “Building a Culture of Inclusion.” In this workshop, we were introduced to the concept of “Community of Communities” as a way to build a Multicultural Community. Starting to implement this concept is one of the Board goals for this year. Looking at how other Congregations have attempted this will be a helpful guide. This service will be an introduction to a year long study of the book entitled “Mistakes and Miracles” Please join us as we continue the journey. Click on the picture to see the video.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
Last year one of the Board’s goals for the Church was to create programs to address issues of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. As part of that work, we held a workshop led by Paula Cole Jones entitled “Building a Culture of Inclusion.” In this workshop, we were introduced to the concept of “Community of Communities” as a way to build a Multicultural Community. Starting to implement this concept is one of the Board goals for this year. Looking at how other Congregations have attempted this will be a helpful guide. This service will be an introduction to a year long study of the book entitled “Mistakes and Miracles” Please join us as we continue the journey. Click on the picture to see the video.
August 13:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
The title of this service was the theme of the 2023 General Assembly of Unitarian Universalist Congregations in June. At this Assembly, delegates overwhelmingly passed the Article 2 Study Commission proposal with amendments for a year of study. I will explore what this means, and how it does and does not affect how we are evolving as a religion.
Special feature on YouTube only: We begin with a 17-minute prelude consisting of excerpts from the General Assembly's Sunday morning service. Click on the picture to see the video.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
The title of this service was the theme of the 2023 General Assembly of Unitarian Universalist Congregations in June. At this Assembly, delegates overwhelmingly passed the Article 2 Study Commission proposal with amendments for a year of study. I will explore what this means, and how it does and does not affect how we are evolving as a religion.
Special feature on YouTube only: We begin with a 17-minute prelude consisting of excerpts from the General Assembly's Sunday morning service. Click on the picture to see the video.
August 6:
Sermon by Mary Lou Keller How do we maintain our sense of wonder and delight as we age? Listen to reflections from Dr. Ashley Montagu, an illustrious anthropologist, on how as a human species we are designed to grow and develop ways that emphasize rather than minimize childlike traits. Click on the picture to see the video. |
Mary Lou Keller
|
July 30:
Sermon by Rev. Katie Culbert The ego loves to control everything. It creates the boundaries and limitations in which we imprison ourselves. Surrender allows us to break free and step into what Deepak Chopra calls “the wisdom of uncertainty.” How does the art of surrender fit into a liberal religious tradition grounded in action and self-reliance? What happens when we loosen our grip and let go? Click on the picture to see the video. Unitarian Universalist minister Rev. Katie Culbert served the UU Church of Tampa as Director of Religious Exploration for many years and was ministerial intern at our churhc, where she was ordained. She has crafted worship services and preached for congregations in Florida and around the country. The current focus of her ministry is pastoral care, most recently working as a Chaplain at Tampa General Hospital. Katie lives in Tampa with her two teenage sons. |
Rev. Katie Culbert
|
July 23:
Read more about Elaine at elainesilver.com. Sample her wide variety of music at elainesilver.com/music
Click on the picture to see the video.
Click on the picture to see the video.
July 16:
Sermon by Rev. Helen Armiger Many of us have people in our lives we have never forgiven. Forgiveness is almost always difficult - for some it is a bridge too far. There are wrongs that happen in our lives that are so heinous, forgiveness may feel impossible. This Sunday we will explore The Parable of the Prodigal Son, including a discussion of Rembrandt’s treasured painting depicting the parable. Together we will come to know the depth and power of radical forgiveness and unconditional love. Click on the image to see the livestream 
July 9:
Sermon by Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw Authentic relationship underlies and supports the work of social justice and community building. Come and join Reverend Shaw in this exploration of compassion, vulnerability, authenticity, and unnecessary fig leaves. Click on the picture to see the video. Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw was born in Kentucky and raised in a rural area where she spent her formative years blissfully poking at things with sticks, falling into creeks, and being bitten, stung, pinched, or chased by random samples of local wildlife. |
Rev. Helen Armiger
Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw
|
She has been a professor, nurse, and nurse executive before ministry, and currently serves as Interim minister for the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Venice, Florida
Amy can usually be found somewhere in Venice, accompanied by her beloved friend Nancy, and her cats, the Dippy Cat, Nike the Great, and Marshmallow the Outdoor Invader Cat.
In her spare time, Amy is a mixed-media artist. Her work has been shown at galleries in Chicago, IL, Cincinnati, OH, Milwaukee, WI, Des Moines, IA, and Paris, France. She is also the author of a funny book of essays titled The Tao of the Dippy Cat, and the science fiction/fantasy novel, Gloriana.
Amy can usually be found somewhere in Venice, accompanied by her beloved friend Nancy, and her cats, the Dippy Cat, Nike the Great, and Marshmallow the Outdoor Invader Cat.
In her spare time, Amy is a mixed-media artist. Her work has been shown at galleries in Chicago, IL, Cincinnati, OH, Milwaukee, WI, Des Moines, IA, and Paris, France. She is also the author of a funny book of essays titled The Tao of the Dippy Cat, and the science fiction/fantasy novel, Gloriana.
July 2:
Sermon by Catherine Bonner
So many Americans today feel polarized from their neighbors with the constant bombardment of the “us versus them mentality” in our information silos. Can our democracy survive such polarization? Can our society? Come explore those questions and how we can reverse those trends.
Click on the picture to see the video.
Sermon by Catherine Bonner
So many Americans today feel polarized from their neighbors with the constant bombardment of the “us versus them mentality” in our information silos. Can our democracy survive such polarization? Can our society? Come explore those questions and how we can reverse those trends.
Click on the picture to see the video.
June 25:
Sermon by Rev. Manish Mishra-Marzetti Senior Minister, First Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Ann Arbor, Michigan The pandemic has wrought change and created uncertainty for institutions, like our Unitarian Universalist congregations, and our wider world. Who and what are we becoming, individually and collectively? Our General Assembly's Sunday service explores these themes as we gather in community to celebrate the best of who we Unitarian Universalists are. Click the image to view the livestream... |
Rev.Manish Mishra-Marzetti
|
Also speaking at this service:
Rev. Danielle DiBona, UUA, Chaplain, UUA Board of Trustees
Stella Anderson, Director of Spiritual Growth and Development, First Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Ann Arbor, Michigan,
Dr. Janice Marie Johnson, UUA, Co-Director of Ministries and Faith Development
Rev. Nancy McDonald Ladd, Senior Minister, River Road Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Bethesda, Maryland
Read more about the Sunday Morning Worship here...
Rev. Danielle DiBona, UUA, Chaplain, UUA Board of Trustees
Stella Anderson, Director of Spiritual Growth and Development, First Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Ann Arbor, Michigan,
Dr. Janice Marie Johnson, UUA, Co-Director of Ministries and Faith Development
Rev. Nancy McDonald Ladd, Senior Minister, River Road Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Bethesda, Maryland
Read more about the Sunday Morning Worship here...
June 18:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
I will explore the dramatically changing roles and images of parenting in families and the American culture and how we are or can adapt to those changes.
Click on the picture to see the video.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
I will explore the dramatically changing roles and images of parenting in families and the American culture and how we are or can adapt to those changes.
Click on the picture to see the video.
June 11:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration commemorating the ending of slavery in the United States. Let us celebrate and understand why this day is so important. How does our religion inform us about freedom? Are we free to do anything?
Guest musician: Synia Carroll
Click on the picture to see the video.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration commemorating the ending of slavery in the United States. Let us celebrate and understand why this day is so important. How does our religion inform us about freedom? Are we free to do anything?
Guest musician: Synia Carroll
Click on the picture to see the video.
June 4:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
Please join us as we celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Flower Celebration. Learn about the history and meaning of this unique Unitarian Universalist Tradition. If you are able, please bring a flower to share.
Click on the picture to see the video.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
Please join us as we celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Flower Celebration. Learn about the history and meaning of this unique Unitarian Universalist Tradition. If you are able, please bring a flower to share.
Click on the picture to see the video.
May 28:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
The religious context of the word sacrifice is far reaching. What meaning does it have in our lives and in our world? Please join us this Memorial Day weekend as we explore the concept of sacrifice and to commemorate all the people who sacrificed their lives for our country.
Click on the picture to see the video.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
The religious context of the word sacrifice is far reaching. What meaning does it have in our lives and in our world? Please join us this Memorial Day weekend as we explore the concept of sacrifice and to commemorate all the people who sacrificed their lives for our country.
Click on the picture to see the video.
May 21:
Sermon by Vickie Oldham Vickie Oldham, a journalist, historian and President and CEO of the Sarasota African American Cultural Coalition, will share the story of Leonard Reid, a remarkable man whose legacy of courage, dignity and determination; and focus on education improved the lives of African Americans in Sarasota for generations. His life teaches us how to lead under pressure, during uncertain times in unfamiliar surroundings. Click on the picture to see the video. |
Vickie Oldham
|
May 14:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
Let us consciously explore the real meaning and purpose of Mother’s Day. In what ways does or could this commemorative day impact everyone? How does it speak to our religious values, all year long, and not just one day a year?
Click on the picture to see the livestream.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
Let us consciously explore the real meaning and purpose of Mother’s Day. In what ways does or could this commemorative day impact everyone? How does it speak to our religious values, all year long, and not just one day a year?
Click on the picture to see the livestream.
May 7:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
This Church has long valued the Arts as a source of Wisdom for our Living Tradition. I will explore how and why the arts influence us, and why art is important for our religious journey.
Click on the picture to see the livestream.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
This Church has long valued the Arts as a source of Wisdom for our Living Tradition. I will explore how and why the arts influence us, and why art is important for our religious journey.
Click on the picture to see the livestream.
April 30:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
In our new member ceremony, I encourage new members to grow their religious life and to explore and share their unique gifts. New members covenant to share the joys and the responsibilities of membership. I will explore how to create a sense of belonging for congregants. We will share our appreciation for all the people whose efforts make it possible to create this loving community.
Click on the picture to see the livestream.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
In our new member ceremony, I encourage new members to grow their religious life and to explore and share their unique gifts. New members covenant to share the joys and the responsibilities of membership. I will explore how to create a sense of belonging for congregants. We will share our appreciation for all the people whose efforts make it possible to create this loving community.
Click on the picture to see the livestream.
April 23:
Sermon by Jim West In the last 20 years, over a billion butterflies have vanished, including over 90% of the Monarchs. Jim West with Monarch City, USA, will talk about the extraordinary recent loss of monarch butterfly habitat, and what we can do to help. He spoke recently to the Lakewood Ranch Garden Club, where members want residents to get involved so Lakewood Ranch will be deemed part of Monarch City, USA, a designation showing environmental responsibility. Our church can be part of that effort. We have a new butterfly garden beside our kitchen and will be distributing milkweed plants periodically at the Green Team table. Jim will have butterfly-friendly plants available in the courtyard before and after service. On this Earth Day weekend, commit to being part of a historic effort to revitalize our pollinator populations and ease the plight of the monarchs. Click on the picture to view the YouTube livestream. |
Jim West
|
Jim West is a native of DeLand, Florida, former owner of Stetson Flower and Gift Shop, and a retired high school teacher. He learned his landscaping skills from his father and uncle. Jim taught special needs kids at Deland High School and mostly boy students at Lincoln High School in Tallahassee, planting a 2,000-plant butterfly garden 16 years ago as part of his 8,000-plant landscape plan. Since retiring he continues to teach adult gardening classes and design gardens for butterfly enthusiasts.
Elaine Silver
Earth Day concert on YouTube April 21
Elaine Silver, Jaye Martin and Annie Williams' Friday concert celebrating Earth Day is now available on YouTube. Click here for the recording..
The poster is available here...
Elaine Silver, Jaye Martin and Annie Williams' Friday concert celebrating Earth Day is now available on YouTube. Click here for the recording..
The poster is available here...
April 16:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin When I was young the Passover holidays just meant no cookies for a week. When I was older, I ate the cookies and just felt guilty about it. Now, Passover’s universal messages of Justice, Freedom, Self Reflection and Appreciation ring true in my heart and I will share why its message is meaningful to our religious lives. Click on the image to view the YouTube livestream. |
Guest Musician:
Marci Vitkus
|
April 9:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
This Sunday we celebrate the holiday Easter from our Christian sources of wisdom. After Jesus’s death, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Salome go to visit the tomb of Jesus and ask “Who will roll away the stone for us from the entrance of the tomb”. I will explore this story with you as well as ponder what are the stones that block our way forward to a better life and better world?
Click on the picture to view the YouTube livestream.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
This Sunday we celebrate the holiday Easter from our Christian sources of wisdom. After Jesus’s death, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Salome go to visit the tomb of Jesus and ask “Who will roll away the stone for us from the entrance of the tomb”. I will explore this story with you as well as ponder what are the stones that block our way forward to a better life and better world?
Click on the picture to view the YouTube livestream.
April 2:
We Are All Interconnected:
UUCS and the UU Service Committee
We Are All Interconnected:
UUCS and the UU Service Committee
Service led by Rev. Jay Wolin, Linda Bodycomb and Mary Anne Bowie
The Unitarian Universalist Service Committee (UUSC) advances human rights together with an international community of grassroots partners and advocates. Join us to learn about, be inspired by, and to deepen your connection to advocating for human rights.
Click on the picture to view the YouTube livestream.
The Unitarian Universalist Service Committee (UUSC) advances human rights together with an international community of grassroots partners and advocates. Join us to learn about, be inspired by, and to deepen your connection to advocating for human rights.
Click on the picture to view the YouTube livestream.
March 26:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
Unitarian Universalism is currently discerning changes to our Purposes and Principles. Will that change our identity as a Religion or as a Congregation? What does it mean to say we are Unitarian Universalists? With a pluralistic theology how do we discern truth to help us move forward?
Click on the picture to view the YouTube livestream.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
Unitarian Universalism is currently discerning changes to our Purposes and Principles. Will that change our identity as a Religion or as a Congregation? What does it mean to say we are Unitarian Universalists? With a pluralistic theology how do we discern truth to help us move forward?
Click on the picture to view the YouTube livestream.
Monday, March 20:
Join us as we honor the arrival of Spring. Music by Nick Bohn. The hours of day and night are in balance. A flower communion was also included. Click the image to view the YouTube recording of Monday's event.
Join us as we honor the arrival of Spring. Music by Nick Bohn. The hours of day and night are in balance. A flower communion was also included. Click the image to view the YouTube recording of Monday's event.
March 19:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
A major and lasting influence within Unitarianism that originated during the mid 19th Century was the Transcendentalist Movement. The most famous Transcendentalists were Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau and Theodore Parker. I will explore their beliefs, as well as other lesser known Transcendentalists, and how their ideas on free religious thought changed and challenged our religion.
Click here for the 10:00 am service
and here for the 11:30 am service.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
A major and lasting influence within Unitarianism that originated during the mid 19th Century was the Transcendentalist Movement. The most famous Transcendentalists were Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau and Theodore Parker. I will explore their beliefs, as well as other lesser known Transcendentalists, and how their ideas on free religious thought changed and challenged our religion.
Click here for the 10:00 am service
and here for the 11:30 am service.
March 12:
Sermon and special music by Fred Johnson
Spirituals, The Blues, Anthems, and some other Jazz.
Acclaimed vocal performer Fred Johnson returns to explore the melodic power of the collective breath in overcoming and manifesting that which is healing and for the Greater good…..For All. Fred will be sounding the Harmonic Resonance of sacred Intention.
Frederick Alan Robert Johnson is a Vocal Performer, Storyteller, Melodic Narrative Master Teacher, Director, Author, Arts Educator, and Painter. He is an artist and educator dedicated to the journey of creating space that serves to manifest the restoration of our highest energy of humanity. He is recognized globally for his work in the health and wellness community as well as his extensive work in international Interfaith peace and reconciliation. His offerings include lectures and seminars re-accentuating the importance of creative expression and the sharing of story as catalysts for personal and communal empowerment, health, and healing, and giving voice to the voiceless. Mentored by spiritual masters of the African oral and percussion legacy, Fred has been hailed as one of the true guardians of an oral tradition transplanted and nurtured to create a fusion of cultural heritage that is uniquely American and inherently African. His fifty years of experience as an artist, arts administrator, and educator has uniquely equipped him to be poised to both create structure and artistically inspire.
Fred currently serves as Artist in Residence, Community Engagement/Diversity, and Equity Specialist, and coordinates the Arts and Health initiative at Tampa’s David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts.
Click here for the 10:00 am and here for the 11:30 am services on YouTube.
Sermon and special music by Fred Johnson
Spirituals, The Blues, Anthems, and some other Jazz.
Acclaimed vocal performer Fred Johnson returns to explore the melodic power of the collective breath in overcoming and manifesting that which is healing and for the Greater good…..For All. Fred will be sounding the Harmonic Resonance of sacred Intention.
Frederick Alan Robert Johnson is a Vocal Performer, Storyteller, Melodic Narrative Master Teacher, Director, Author, Arts Educator, and Painter. He is an artist and educator dedicated to the journey of creating space that serves to manifest the restoration of our highest energy of humanity. He is recognized globally for his work in the health and wellness community as well as his extensive work in international Interfaith peace and reconciliation. His offerings include lectures and seminars re-accentuating the importance of creative expression and the sharing of story as catalysts for personal and communal empowerment, health, and healing, and giving voice to the voiceless. Mentored by spiritual masters of the African oral and percussion legacy, Fred has been hailed as one of the true guardians of an oral tradition transplanted and nurtured to create a fusion of cultural heritage that is uniquely American and inherently African. His fifty years of experience as an artist, arts administrator, and educator has uniquely equipped him to be poised to both create structure and artistically inspire.
Fred currently serves as Artist in Residence, Community Engagement/Diversity, and Equity Specialist, and coordinates the Arts and Health initiative at Tampa’s David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts.
Click here for the 10:00 am and here for the 11:30 am services on YouTube.
Photo by Hogr Othman on Unsplash
March 5:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
Often in our society, vulnerability is seen as a weakness. I would like to explore how vulnerability can be a spiritual path that can lead to growth. In fact I would say it is a courageous thing to ask for help, to admit we are unsure about something, or to share something that has burdened us. Let us appreciate how walking the path of vulnerability can strengthen us, individually and as a community.
Click here for the 10:00 am and here for the 11:30 am services on YouTube.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
Often in our society, vulnerability is seen as a weakness. I would like to explore how vulnerability can be a spiritual path that can lead to growth. In fact I would say it is a courageous thing to ask for help, to admit we are unsure about something, or to share something that has burdened us. Let us appreciate how walking the path of vulnerability can strengthen us, individually and as a community.
Click here for the 10:00 am and here for the 11:30 am services on YouTube.
February 26:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
Just saying the word spirituality can conjure up various images and meaning for different people. I will explore the meaning of spirituality and how spiritual practices can be integrated into your everyday life.
Click here for the 10:00 am and here for the 11:30 am services on YouTube.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
Just saying the word spirituality can conjure up various images and meaning for different people. I will explore the meaning of spirituality and how spiritual practices can be integrated into your everyday life.
Click here for the 10:00 am and here for the 11:30 am services on YouTube.
February 19:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
This weekend marks the kickoff of our Annual Pledge Drive. This time of year is when the Church formally plans what we hope to accomplish during the next fiscal year. As people return from Covid, we are recalibrating how the Church can serve its congregants and the larger community. With more financial and volunteer resources, there is much more that we can accomplish. We hope you will join us and learn about exciting possibilities and programs that we could support this upcoming year.
Click here for the 10:00 am and here for the 11:30 am services on YouTube.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
This weekend marks the kickoff of our Annual Pledge Drive. This time of year is when the Church formally plans what we hope to accomplish during the next fiscal year. As people return from Covid, we are recalibrating how the Church can serve its congregants and the larger community. With more financial and volunteer resources, there is much more that we can accomplish. We hope you will join us and learn about exciting possibilities and programs that we could support this upcoming year.
Click here for the 10:00 am and here for the 11:30 am services on YouTube.
February 12:
by Paula Cole Jones and Rev. Jay Wolin
Rev. Jay and Paula Cole Jones will have a conversation about why we want to build a culture of inclusion, the theology and history behind the 8th Principle, the future of Unitarian Universalism, and whatever else may come up!!
To see the service on Youtube, click here at 10:00 am and here at 11:30 am
by Paula Cole Jones and Rev. Jay Wolin
Rev. Jay and Paula Cole Jones will have a conversation about why we want to build a culture of inclusion, the theology and history behind the 8th Principle, the future of Unitarian Universalism, and whatever else may come up!!
To see the service on Youtube, click here at 10:00 am and here at 11:30 am
February 5:
Sermon by Rev Jay Wolin
With the recent overturning of Roe vs. Wade, many states are further limiting and even criminalizing abortion. Unitarian Universalism has long been an advocate for Women’s Reproductive Health Justice. I will share some of the underlying theological thoughts that support that position and many of the underlying fears and myths surrounding these issues.
To see the service on Youtube, click here at 10:00 am and here at 11:30 am
Sermon by Rev Jay Wolin
With the recent overturning of Roe vs. Wade, many states are further limiting and even criminalizing abortion. Unitarian Universalism has long been an advocate for Women’s Reproductive Health Justice. I will share some of the underlying theological thoughts that support that position and many of the underlying fears and myths surrounding these issues.
To see the service on Youtube, click here at 10:00 am and here at 11:30 am
Photo by Jack Hishmeh on Unsplash
January 29:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
In a world that is becoming ever more global and distant every day, it is important to take time to explore the intimate and ultimate of our lives. In a church this size, you may not know everybody but it is important to know somebody. Chalice Groups provide a way to make meaningful connections and to have meaningful conversations with others. Please join me as I share why I think this is so important and how chalice groups can help lead to creating the beloved Community.
To see the service on Youtube, click here at 10:00 am and here at 11:30 am
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
In a world that is becoming ever more global and distant every day, it is important to take time to explore the intimate and ultimate of our lives. In a church this size, you may not know everybody but it is important to know somebody. Chalice Groups provide a way to make meaningful connections and to have meaningful conversations with others. Please join me as I share why I think this is so important and how chalice groups can help lead to creating the beloved Community.
To see the service on Youtube, click here at 10:00 am and here at 11:30 am
January 22:
Multimedia musical message by Jim Scott.
This is the first performance, pre-premier, of “The Year to Save the Earth” by Unitarian Universalist composer Jim Scott. Powerful and poignant songs of Earth and Ecology are illustrated with beautiful and striking images on our big screen. There will be many opportunities to sing along. Come celebrate our Mother Earth, the challenges, and the hope for the future.
Jim has visited us a number of times in the past, and has performed at more than 700 Unitarian Universalist churches over nearly four decades. His songs, including the much loved “Gather the Spirit” are staples in our Hymnbooks. Former Co-chair of the Unitarian Universalist Ministry for the Earth, Jim was one of the originators of the "Green Sanctuary" program.
He was awarded a National Endowment for the Arts grant to develop and perform this new project and hopes to take “The Year to Save the Earth” on tour nationally this year. As a member of the Paul Winter Consort, Jim was co-composer of their celebrated Missa Gaia/Earth Mass. He compiled and arranged the Earth and Spirit Songbook, a collection of over 100 songs of earth and peace and has gone on to create an extensive body of work including PBS soundtracks, award winning choral works and nine CDs of original music.
Multimedia musical message by Jim Scott.
This is the first performance, pre-premier, of “The Year to Save the Earth” by Unitarian Universalist composer Jim Scott. Powerful and poignant songs of Earth and Ecology are illustrated with beautiful and striking images on our big screen. There will be many opportunities to sing along. Come celebrate our Mother Earth, the challenges, and the hope for the future.
Jim has visited us a number of times in the past, and has performed at more than 700 Unitarian Universalist churches over nearly four decades. His songs, including the much loved “Gather the Spirit” are staples in our Hymnbooks. Former Co-chair of the Unitarian Universalist Ministry for the Earth, Jim was one of the originators of the "Green Sanctuary" program.
He was awarded a National Endowment for the Arts grant to develop and perform this new project and hopes to take “The Year to Save the Earth” on tour nationally this year. As a member of the Paul Winter Consort, Jim was co-composer of their celebrated Missa Gaia/Earth Mass. He compiled and arranged the Earth and Spirit Songbook, a collection of over 100 songs of earth and peace and has gone on to create an extensive body of work including PBS soundtracks, award winning choral works and nine CDs of original music.
January 15:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
Although Martin Luther King Day was made a Federal Holiday in 1986, it was not until 2000 that the final state made the day a paid holiday. We remember King for the courage of his actions and the changes in society he helped bring about. We do this not just to remember and commemorate him, but to inspire us
to similar values and actions. Let us remember that parts of his dream are still unfulfilled.
Click here for the 10:00 am service and here for the 11:30 am service.
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
Although Martin Luther King Day was made a Federal Holiday in 1986, it was not until 2000 that the final state made the day a paid holiday. We remember King for the courage of his actions and the changes in society he helped bring about. We do this not just to remember and commemorate him, but to inspire us
to similar values and actions. Let us remember that parts of his dream are still unfulfilled.
Click here for the 10:00 am service and here for the 11:30 am service.
January 8, 10:45am:
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
Starting January 11th we will be starting a five part adult religious education class based on the documentary "Race–The Power of an Illusion" During this sermon, I will share some of my experiences with Race and how the social construct of Race impacts our relationships to society and each other. What can and should we do to end racial oppression?
Sermon by Rev. Jay Wolin
Starting January 11th we will be starting a five part adult religious education class based on the documentary "Race–The Power of an Illusion" During this sermon, I will share some of my experiences with Race and how the social construct of Race impacts our relationships to society and each other. What can and should we do to end racial oppression?
January 8, 4:00 pm:
Those who have never experienced an installation might be wondering what it is. One might ask, didn’t we vote Rev. Jay in as our Minister on May 1st, 2022? Yes, you did. May 1st was the culmination of a long search process and discernment by the Search Committee. As required by Church bylaws, voting by members was required to call me as your settled minister. I met with many of you briefly during candidating week. Now that I am beginning my sixth month as your minister, I have had the opportunity to spend more time with many members, as we get to know each other better. I am still learning about the Church and the larger Community. Learning is an ongoing part of Ministry for all involved in this Church.
This is first and foremost a celebration of the start of our shared ministry together. Secondly, there is a Unitarian Universalist tradition of installation which formalizes the covenant between the Minister and Church. We share our commitment with each other in the various ministries of this Church. It is a sharing of our hopes, dreams and expectations of and for each other. The event also usually includes ministers from the community, region, as well as, those who have been mentors for me in my ministerial career. This communal recognition of our covenant as a Church, is to highlight that our ministry is not just for ourselves. This covenant recognizes our interdependence with the larger Community, other Unitarian Universalist Congregations, and the Unitarian Universalist Association as well. Speakers at this special celebration include:
Those who have never experienced an installation might be wondering what it is. One might ask, didn’t we vote Rev. Jay in as our Minister on May 1st, 2022? Yes, you did. May 1st was the culmination of a long search process and discernment by the Search Committee. As required by Church bylaws, voting by members was required to call me as your settled minister. I met with many of you briefly during candidating week. Now that I am beginning my sixth month as your minister, I have had the opportunity to spend more time with many members, as we get to know each other better. I am still learning about the Church and the larger Community. Learning is an ongoing part of Ministry for all involved in this Church.
This is first and foremost a celebration of the start of our shared ministry together. Secondly, there is a Unitarian Universalist tradition of installation which formalizes the covenant between the Minister and Church. We share our commitment with each other in the various ministries of this Church. It is a sharing of our hopes, dreams and expectations of and for each other. The event also usually includes ministers from the community, region, as well as, those who have been mentors for me in my ministerial career. This communal recognition of our covenant as a Church, is to highlight that our ministry is not just for ourselves. This covenant recognizes our interdependence with the larger Community, other Unitarian Universalist Congregations, and the Unitarian Universalist Association as well. Speakers at this special celebration include:
January 1:
New Year’s Traditions and Resolutions
Sermon by Bill Payton
Where did the concept of celebrating the New Year come from? We have a general idea how it is celebrated in the United States, How is it celebrated in other parts of the world? How do Unitarian Universalist’s celebrate the New Year? What are the traditional meals of the day? And what about New Year’s Resolutions? How many of us take this plunge? Do resolutions work? How many of us are successful? And if you were to make a resolution, what would it or should it be? Bill Payton will provide some insight on why New Year’s Day represents a new beginning, a chance to wipe the slate clean.
New Year’s Traditions and Resolutions
Sermon by Bill Payton
Where did the concept of celebrating the New Year come from? We have a general idea how it is celebrated in the United States, How is it celebrated in other parts of the world? How do Unitarian Universalist’s celebrate the New Year? What are the traditional meals of the day? And what about New Year’s Resolutions? How many of us take this plunge? Do resolutions work? How many of us are successful? And if you were to make a resolution, what would it or should it be? Bill Payton will provide some insight on why New Year’s Day represents a new beginning, a chance to wipe the slate clean.