Rev. Chulak offers a reflection on the meaning of freedom within the Unitarian Universalist tradition. His message explores freedom in its many expressions—freedom of belief, freedom in congregational polity, freedom rooted in love, truth, democracy, justice, and freedom from fear. Freedom is not only a core value of Unitarian Universalism; it is a defining feature … Continue reading Our Unique Way with Freedom
UUCSS member Eric Lawson takes us on a light-hearted, whimsical journey through the challenge of writing our own obituary. Does accuracy matter, or is this more akin to a creative endeavor? How would we like to be remembered in what, for most of us, is our final biography?
Through story, song and insight, Dan Berggren invites us into the creative process behind his songwriting, revealing how language and memory work together to honor the people who’ve helped hold us up—our “big beams.” Drawing from his deep roots in the Adirondacks and his decades as an educator and performer, he explores how imagination becomes … Continue reading Building Big Beams
What is it that we are really seeking when we imagine? What if our imagination could be a portal to healing and renewal? If we invite ourselves and each other to rest in a place of possibilities, might we move beyond the despair of “what next?” and closer to “what if?” Julianne Lewis is a … Continue reading Imagination as a Spiritual Practice
Whether it’s a clear, dark night sky or the first time seeing Star Wars, we’ve all experienced that moment of excitement and wonder when seeing something awesome. But what do we do with that experience after it passes? And how does that experience change us?
This morning we collaboratively create a representation of the challenging realities and possibilities for Climate Justice, as we see it, grounded in a vision of a flourishing future. We then come up with a clear set of potential actions that we can take to realize this vision.
Many UUs—probably most—struggle with what to make of Easter, with its talk of resurrection and redemption. Many of us, including me, would just as soon ignore it. But it’s here, and it’s tremendously important for millions. Does the Easter story offer anything to those who don’t resonate with the story of crucifixion and resurrection? Or … Continue reading The Easter Curmudgeon
Wayne leads a deeply reflective service for Holocaust Remembrance, not by recounting history but by grappling with the searing spiritual aftermath it left behind. Drawing on the wisdom of thinkers like Elie Wiesel, Viktor Frankl, and Wendell Berry, we explore how faith is tested—and sometimes lost—by unbearable suffering. What does it mean to believe in … Continue reading Faith in the Shadow: Wrestling with God After the Holocaust
Especially in challenging or difficult situations, our responses to the need we normally have in less troubled circumstances for a measure of kindness can be shunted aside. Today we take a closer look at what role kindness can and does play in our lives. Six-year congregation member John Fisher is a retired Episcopal priest and … Continue reading A Meditation on Kindness
We gathered in love, laughter, and a few tears to celebrate a remarkable milestone: ten years of inspired leadership and deep connection with our beloved minister, Rev. Joe Cleveland. The service was both a celebration and a heartfelt farewell as we prepared to bless him on his journey forward. Through music, story, and shared … Continue reading A Decade of Love, Leadership and Song: Celebrating the Ministry of Rev. Joe