January’s theme: Liberating Love
Summary:
This sermon documents three members of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Loudoun sharing their personal histories and paths toward their current spiritual home. Colleen Kubont describes a complex evolution from early skepticism and 12-step recovery to a restored faith that eventually embraced the comfort of uncertainty and community. Andrew Dunham details his transition from a rural Lutheran upbringing to a science-based worldview he calls a “compost religion,” which emphasizes the interconnectedness of all life. Monica Seidel outlines her departure from a rigid Missouri Synod Lutheran background, eventually finding a sense of belonging in various UU congregations across the country. Each sermon highlights a move away from dogmatic religious structures in favor of a community that values personal inquiry, social justice, and emotional support. Through these diverse accounts, the sermon illustrates the Unitarian Universalist commitment to spiritual growth without the requirement of absolute answers.