Rev. Robert Close is an ordained Presbyterian minister most recently retired from Naomi Makemi Presbyterian Church in Onancock, Virginia. Rev. Close lives in Purcellville. He leads workshops at Shalom Mountain, is a yoga teacher, and writes the blog Soul Nuggets.
Summary:
In this sermon, a speaker addresses a Unitarian Universalist congregation to explore profound existential and social questions submitted by the audience. He emphasizes the importance of global unity and the rejection of narcissism, urging individuals to confront their own biases while advocating for social justice and environmental protection. Through personal anecdotes, he describes his own spiritual evolution from a traditional Presbyterian background to a more inclusive, “pagan” reverence for the earth. The sermon covers topics ranging from the mystery of death to the necessity of standing against political intolerance and systemic racism. Ultimately, the speaker encourages his listeners to live with authenticity and presence, filling their lives with love and justice rather than falling into the trap of apathy.