Yule is an ancient pagan holiday that celebrates the winter solstice and the return of light and warmth. The word “Yule” comes from the old Norse word for “wheel”, which symbolizes fresh starts and the cyclical nature of the planet. It’s a perfect time for reflection as we look forward to the new year.
A practice is something you commit to doing on a regular basis. If you practice something with intention and commitment, it eventually becomes “second nature,” an intrinsic part of who you are. Today we will examine a way we can cultivate and practice gratitude in a manner that will enrich not only our lives, but … Continue reading “Practicing Gratitude,” by
Autumn is a season for reflection and transition… as we leave the lighter half of the year (summer) and enter the darker half (winter). It is a time to harvest before the winter and to wait for the next cycle of renewal to begin as the wheel of the year turns once again.
Easter Sunday sermon is always a tough one for most UU ministers and lay leaders unless the UU congregation is predominantly Christian. The usual default is to focus on the Spring season, the Spring Equinox or Ostara. That has shown to be pretty safe topics, and no one is usually offended by those kinds of … Continue reading “Is There a Place for Resurrection in the UU Faith?,” by Tinka Friend
On Feb 11, we explored the tradition and origin of Valentine’s Day. Today we will continue the discussion by contemplating the nature of love in light of Valentine’s Day celebrations around the world, as well as cultures that forbid public demonstrations of romantic love.
The daylight hours have been dwindling, and we are at the time of year where the night reaches its prominence. The earth swings around the sun and brings us with it into the new year. This is the season of Yule. Today, we celebrate this ancient, pagan tradition as an interconnected part of our world.
Service video Gratitude is one of the greatest gifts we can give to ourselves and to others. With gratitude, everything that we have is more than enough. Gratitude multiplies joy, expands possibilities, and inspires us to share with others. Today, we turn our attention to the transformative power of thankfulness for all the blessings that … Continue reading “Let Us Give Thanks ,” by Grace Preuss
Service video “Seize the day, for this moment will never come again.” This age-old wisdom is hard enough to internalize, and yet we must also seize this week, this year, this life. It is every person’s birthright to live with dignity in a life that fulfills them. Life on Earth is a miracle, and we … Continue reading “Living the Life We Want,” by Alec Peck
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
