Summary:
In this sermon, the speaker uses the Jewish Shema and the mezuzah as metaphors to examine the spiritual identity of Unitarian Universalism. He argues that the faith has become a “religion of doing” focused on social justice and announcements at the expense of “being” and deep religious connection. Drawing comparisons to the rapid growth of Buddhism, the sermon highlights how a lack of symbolism and tradition contributes to stagnant membership numbers. The speaker challenges congregants to stop distancing themselves from the term “religious” and to address internal cultures that can feel judgmental or exclusive to newcomers. Ultimately, he calls for a more spiritually inclusive community that prioritizes personal belief and shared humanity over political litmus tests or administrative tasks.