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The Wellspring of our Unitarian Universalist Faith

In these challenging times it is especially important – and especially comforting – to draw from the deep well of our faith. Rooted in the Judeo-Christian tradition and enriched by the insights and lessons of the world’s myriad religions, Unitarian Universalists have access to an inexhaustible source of wisdom. This Sunday, we’ll explore how the gifts of our faith might strengthen us for the work ahead.

Rev. Norman Allen is Intern Minister at Cedar Lane UU Church in Bethesda, MD

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A Ship of Dreams

This church building stands here because a small group of people had a dream they achieved through patient perseverance enduring challenges we can never understand. What is their lesson to us today?

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A Ship of Dreams

This church building stands here because a small group of people had a dream they achieved through patient perseverance enduring challenges we can never understand. What is their lesson to us today?

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El Dia de los Muertos

Together we’ll call on the wisdom and beauty of El Dia De Los Muertos (The Day of the Dead) to help us remember our ancestors and loved ones who have died. We’ll create an altar to welcome our ancestors into the sanctuary. We invite you to bring a photo or memento of those you wish to remember.

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The Blind and the Elephant

We experience the holy in different ways. By clinging to our own experience of the holy maybe we are living out the story of the sightless experiencing the elephant.

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Moral Imperatives: Choices that Matter?

We who call ourselves Unitarian Universalists hold ourselves accountable for upholding and promoting certain common principles, including trusting democratic processes, even when it’s difficult. In this week’s worship service, echoing the ancient Jewish tradition of Yom Kippur, our Minister will reflect with us about how we might forgive ourselves for falling short of our highest goals, AND renew our resolve to make optimal ethical choices.

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Embracing Diverse Perspectives: Revolution or Reformation?

Our Children’s Religious Education curriculum this year will include exploration of selected aspects of the Hebrew and Christian scriptures to offer grounding in the common cultural stories and ethics which are still dominant elements of most of our society.  In this worship service, our Minister will share his own reflections on some historic threads of Unitarians and others who dissented from dogmatic interpretations of that scripture.

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We remember them

Summary:

This sermon explores the enduring connection between the living and the deceased, emphasizing how memories and inherited traits keep ancestors present. It suggests that loved ones continue to influence us through shared history, cherished objects, and even physical resemblances. The speaker draws on literature and personal anecdotes to illustrate how reflecting on the past can enrich our present and guide our future. Honoring our ancestors, even with their imperfections, enables us to appreciate their impact and pass on blessings to future generations. The text reflects on the idea of “coming home” to one’s true self through faith, family history, and recognizing the continuity of life across generations. Ultimately, it proposes that remembering and celebrating our ancestors deepens our sense of belonging and purpose.

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Of, By, and For All the People

Summary:

This sermon discusses the climate crisis and the need for democratic action. It references Theodore Parker’s ideal of a government “of, by, and for all the people” as inspiration. The speech highlights the unsustainable practices of fossil fuel corporations and the resulting environmental and social consequences. It stresses the urgency of addressing climate change, pointing out the limited amount of fossil fuels that can still be burned without catastrophic warming. The speaker advocates for policy changes like a carbon fee and dividend, and encourages individual and community-level action. Ultimately, it argues that realizing a true democracy is essential to tackling the climate crisis and ensuring a sustainable future for all.

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Surprised by Joy

Summary:

This sermon is about marriage equality and the landmark Loving v. Virginia case. It highlights Mildred and Richard Loving’s struggle against racial discrimination and their fight for the right to marry. The speaker draws parallels between the Loving’s case and the fight for same-sex marriage, emphasizing the importance of fairness and equal rights for all. They celebrate the recent Supreme Court decision allowing same-sex marriage in Virginia and reflect on the congregation’s active support of marriage equality. The sermon concludes with a call to action, urging listeners to continue advocating for justice and fairness in housing, employment, and other areas.