The most effective anti-poverty program this nation has ever had is labor unions. They help workers get paid fairly for a day’s work, some measure of safety in the workplace, a health plan, provision for overtime pay, and a pension plan. The principles of Unitarian Universalism call us to action. We can fight here for … Continue reading “Putting ‘Labor’ Back in Labor Day,” by the Rev. Dr. David Breeden
This Sunday worship service at the 2025 Unitarian Universalist General Assembly focused on responding with moral courage, shared wisdom, and faithful imagination to societal injustices like attacks on immigrants, the marginalized, DEI programs, and LGBTQ+ dignity. In this time of global and national uncertainty, we will look through a historical lens at the beginnings of … Continue reading “Revolution Begins With A Dream,” by Rev. Dr. Nicole C. Kirk
In these times of both challenge and possibility, Congressman Mark Takano will share his vision and priorities for this congressional term, offering insight into how we can collectively shape a more just, compassionate, and inclusive society. Grounded in our shared values of Love, Justice, Equity, and Interdependence, this service invites us to reflect on the … Continue reading “Faithful Action,” by Rep. Mark Takano
UUs believe in a fluid faith, that we must embrace change and growth and not etch our answers in stone. UUism is unique because we value the beliefs and shared hunanity of all people and because we believe we do not have the once-and-for-all answers. We must respond to the real demands of our world; … Continue reading A Living Tradition
The world has celebrated the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights — a document that is much more than a cornerstone of international law: it is a guide to navigate a deeply divided world, a set of values that everyone can live by, and ultimately a force for good. And yet, we … Continue reading “International day against Queer Oppression,” by Wren Monsour
Art, music, and song generally accompany the culture of any society. Sometimes songs can lead to a revolt against that society. We will explore examples by singing songs of peace and rebellion against war, oppression and exploitation from our world today.
In this talk, I share my journey from Afghanistan to Riverside and how my experiences as a mother, educator, and advocate shaped my mission to support girls’ education. I discuss the impact of the current crisis on Afghan girls and introduce Success Journey Academy, an online school that brings learning to those who are now … Continue reading “A Seed of Hope: Educating Afghan Girls for a Brighter Future,” by Friba Dawar
After the spur of the #metoo movement in 2018, Rev. Debus was inspired to rewrite this sermon to reflect on systemic sexism and gender inequality. Women’s personal freedoms are under even more threat now, and we must reflect deeply, confront discomfort, and work towards a beloved community of justice, dignity, and interdependence. We must validate … Continue reading Reclaiming My Time, by Rev. Kimberley Debus
Gospel Music Part II: For Women’s Month, we will look at the life and legacy of Bernice Johnson Reagon and how Gospel music was woven so tightly throughout the Civil Rights marches and demonstrations on the 1960s. Tinka Friend and her husband, Nick, joined UUCR in 1996. After decades of trying to find the “right” church … Continue reading “Nothing But Love in God’s Water” Part 2
“Nothing But Love in God’s Water” Part 1: What constitutes Gospel music? Where and how does it fits into American history? And the legacy of Thomas A. Dorsey, who is universally considered to be the Father of Gospel music. Tinka Friend and her husband, Nick, joined UUCR in 1996. After decades of trying to find … Continue reading “Nothing But Love in God’s Water” Part 1
