Service video We are entering a new year, and our country seems as divided as ever. The last few years have taken their toll, and the environment is critically endangered. Our church, like many small churches, is struggling to survive. How can anyone still be optimistic? It’s a doable challenge! Bonnie McFarland said she first … Continue reading “2023: An Optimist’s Update,” by Bonnie McFarland
Service video Faith has been defined as “the substance of things hoped for…the revelation of things unseen.” There is power and energy in believing mystical things: St. Nicholas…a man walking on water…a savior sent from heaven…peace on earth. Things we may describe as “unbelievable” may actually exist. This is what the Christmas season is all … Continue reading “I Believe In Saint Nicholas: The Wonder Worker,” by Rev. Travis G. Kaenel
A time to enjoy being together and singing holiday songs, accompanied by two accomplished musicians: the voice of Weilin Neo, and piano by Molly Szanto. Readings include Amazing Peace: A Christmas Poem by Dr. Maya Angelou.
Most of us are familiar with the Christmas story; but in the true tradition of UUism, Rev. David A. Miller presents a new perspective in which to contemplate the birth of Christ and the lessons that we can learn from it today. “Metanoia” comes from the Greek words “meta” which means “beyond” and “noia” which … Continue reading “Reimagining the Christmas Story: A Metanoia Moment,” by Rev. David A. Miller
Service video The winter solstice is a celebration of the sun. The cycle of nature inspired the cycle of holiday observations honoring the symbolism of fire and light; along with life, death, the rising sun, and the moon. In turn, we follow the cycle of the year. The question is, are we just running around … Continue reading “Fixing the Flat Tires on the Wheel of the Year,” by Bill Casey
Service video In John 14:27, Jesus tells us, “The peace I give you is not the peace the world gives.” In these troubled and tumultuous times, where can we find true peace? How can we individually and collectively cultivate peace? Monrow A. Mabon was raised in Compton, CA. After H.S. graduation, he enlisted in the … Continue reading “The Path to Peace,” by Rev. Monroe Mabon
Service video It is no coincidence that the word “Thank” sounds like the word “Think.” Being thankful is an ACTIVE intention, a CONSCIOUS practice of focusing on what’s good in our lives and showing appreciation for the blessings (sometimes hidden) around us. Let’s take a moment to ask ourselves: What am I thankful for today?” … Continue reading “The Need for Thanksgiving,” by Rev. Joseph Boyd
Service video What is radical hospitality? How do we practice it, and what does it look like? Human beings have a built-in tribalism that needs to be challenged consciously and intentionally. A congregation committed to radical hospitality would go beyond seeking out others like themselves and open its heart to accept all who seek a … Continue reading “Radical Hospitality,” by Rev. Dr. Marilyn Sewell
Service video From our early primate subfamily hominin ancestors >3 Mya through origin of our genus Homo ~2 Mya, and the emergence of anatomical modernity ~315 kya in Homo sapiens sapiens, humankind and its forebears have used agency-detection, personification, representational symbols, and tale-telling to model ourselves and our World. As meaning-making primates, we have structured … Continue reading “From Mythos to Cosmos: From Representational Meaning-making and Mythmaking to Cosmology-making,” by Dr. Lee Greer
Service video Rev. Michelle Freeman will preach about Mark 9:38-50. Jesus gives warnings using harsh words in the Gospel lesson from Mark. Jesus does not mean the words literally but metaphorically. The harsh language is meant to get our attention. The message is the same. What you do for the least of these, you do … Continue reading “Get Rid of the Dead Weight,” by Rev. Michelle Freeman
