Service video This is the second in an going series. Miss Potter is best known for her writing and illustrations of children’s books. However this talk will focus on the less well-known aspects of her life; as an amateur scientist, a scientific illustrator, an environmental activist, a philanthropist, and her views as a Unitarian and … Continue reading “Famous UUs II: Beatrix Potter,” by Lauren Young
Our diversity is a strength when we share and help each other and treat each other with equal respect. When we are generous in offering and creating opportunities for each other to fulfill the promise of who we are. The promise of who we are as a people rests on who we are individually—out of … Continue reading “Bending Toward Justice: One More Step,” by Rev. Paul R. Beedle
Service video Gratitude is about a Gift, and a Response. Real gratitude begins with a gift freely given. To know the mystery of life is to be grateful in all things. Today we reflect on how we can we freely choose to live a life of thankfulness in response to all the gifts we have … Continue reading “Gratitude: Gift and Response” by Rev. Margaret A. Beckman
“You are perfect the way you are … and you could use a little improvement,” writes Japanese Zen teacher Shunryu Suzuki. This sermon, given at the University Unitarian Church of Seattle, WA on July 9, 2023, explores our interior sense of being both judged and accepted. Rev. Bruce A. Bode, a native of Lynden, WA, … Continue reading “Something Judges Us, Something Accepts Us,” by Rev. Bruce A. Bode
Prayer is a form of communication with a divine higher power, encompassing various forms such as supplication, thanksgiving, and praise. It is a central act found in all spiritual traditions. Whether spoken or silent, as a personal act or part of a larger religious practice, prayer offers a way to connect with the divine and … Continue reading “Simply Pray,” by Pastor Kimberley Debus
“The Egg” by Andy Weir, is a short story first published online in 2009 about the afterlife, humanity, and empathy. Since then, it has been translated into at least 30 languages and inspired people around the world. On this Sunday, we will read this short story and then give our reflections in an open-mic discussion.
The “American Dream” represents the ideals of freedom, equality, and the pursuit of happiness that have evolved throughout the country’s history. It is a phrase that describes the purported ethos of the United States: that every person has the freedom and opportunity to succeed and attain a better life. Last week’s sermon, “Reimagining the American … Continue reading “Reflections on The American Dream,” by Mairi Moores
Our greatest gift is just to love and to be loved in return. We seek to build a beloved community where to love is to care for our souls. May we learn together the beauty that lives with loving kindness. The transmutation of suffering into understanding love. The caring which bless the world. John A. … Continue reading “Caring,” by Avery Burrows
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
