Reverend John Manwell’s sermon reflects on the experiences of Unitarian Universalist ministers who answered Dr. King’s call to Selma fifty years prior, drawing from Reverend Mark Morrison Reed’s book, The Selma Awakening. These ministers, despite their liberal backgrounds, were profoundly impacted by the visceral realities of the civil rights struggle, facing violence and intimidation while working alongside Black activists for voting rights. The sermon highlights the transformative effect of this period on their lives and their faith, shifting their understanding of community, justice, and the purpose of their religious tradition. It connects the historical events of Selma, including Bloody Sunday and the subsequent march to Montgomery, to the passage of voting rights legislation. Manwell’s message further calls on the present-day congregation to embrace the ongoing work of building a truly inclusive and just “blessed community,” inspired by the courage and lessons learned from the Selma movement.
Speaker: Rev. John Manwell
Reaction to Baltimore Riots
This sermon captures a meditative sermon delivered in response to the Baltimore riots following Freddie Gray’s death. The speaker reflects on Howard Thurman’s ideas about keeping dreams alive as essential for meaningful life, contrasting this with a pragmatic but ultimately shallow modern mindset. Connecting Baltimore’s history as the birthplace of American Unitarianism, the speaker laments the persistence of “two Americas,” echoing Dr. King’s observations of deep inequality and racial injustice highlighted by the recent unrest. Despite the pain and destruction, the speaker finds hope in the community’s response and calls for reflection and action to bridge the divides of race and class.
We’ve Been Waiting For You
This sermon emphasizes the crucial role of hospitality, drawing a parallel between the hotel industry’s need to make guests comfortable and the church’s higher calling to welcome newcomers into their community. It argues that genuine hospitality in a church requires overcoming personal discomfort with those who are different and making space for their participation. The speaker stresses that the core of their religious tradition is living with love and practicing openness, not adherence to specific beliefs. Ultimately, the message encourages active and heartfelt welcoming of all individuals, echoing a historical moment of unexpected connection that led to the foundation of their beliefs.
Build a Cradle
The sermon reflects on the Advent season as a time for inward preparation amidst the pressures of the December holidays, regardless of specific religious affiliation. It suggests “building a cradle” by intentionally focusing on the hopes and longings associated with this time, such as peace, goodwill, and renewed connections. The speaker emphasizes prioritizing what truly matters during the holidays and offers steps like reflection, enhancing necessary preparations, and appreciating others. A concluding story illustrates the potential for unexpected kindness and miracles during the Christmas season when one’s heart is open.
To Bless and to Be Blessed
This sermon explores the meaning of blessing and how it intersects with the realities of racial prejudice, using the experience of an affluent Black family and the events surrounding Michael Brown’s death as examples. It highlights that despite outward signs of blessing, systemic racism can deeply impact individuals and limit opportunities, emphasizing the importance of understanding these experiences. The speaker calls upon the congregation to consider how they can actively bless the world by confronting racial injustice and supporting those affected by it, drawing inspiration from the efforts of the church’s founders who were formerly enslaved people. The message underscores a commitment to love, justice, and standing in solidarity with marginalized communities.
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.
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.
The Upside Down Church
Summary:
This sermon reflects on a previous sermon about community and encourages the congregation to embrace the church’s potential for conflict as a necessary part of spiritual growth. Using the example of a resort developer’s excessive spending, the speaker contrasts this self-centered ambition with the church’s focus on making a difference in the world and finding deeper meaning. The church is presented as a transformative space, challenging societal values and offering a community where individuals can discover their gifts, practice love, and support each other through difficult times. Forgiveness is emphasized as essential for personal and communal healing, while recognizing the inherent challenges in creating a covenant of mutual support and understanding. The speaker acknowledges the potential for pain and joy as part of a shared spiritual journey and extends an invitation to embrace the “upside down church,” where lives can be transformed through service and connection.
Faith
Summary:
This sermon explores the multifaceted nature of faith, presenting it not just as belief, but also as action and trust. It examines how faith can manifest in different ways, from institutionalized religion to personal experiences. The speaker shares stories, including one about rebuilding burned churches, to illustrate the power of faith in action and the sense of community it fosters. Contrasting intellectual and emotional approaches to faith, it highlights the importance of both head and heart. Ultimately, the sermon suggests that faith, whether connected to God or not, is a form of trust in a greater dream, inspiring action and sustaining individuals through challenges. It underscores the importance of questioning and doubt as companions to faith, and the transformative potential of embracing a dream of equality, compassion, and justice.
Come together
Summary:
This sermon excerpts document a reflection on a three-year interim ministry. The speakers assess the congregation’s strengths, noting its caring nature and commitment to diversity and justice. However, financial struggles and a lack of enthusiasm for change are significant concerns. The speakers encourage the congregation to seek a shared vision of the future by considering how it will best serve its mission and community. They advocate for open communication and introspection. The message emphasizes the importance of embracing change while remaining true to the congregation’s core values.
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