Service

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.

Service

Who we are, what we do

Summary:

This sermon captures the beginning of a new church year at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Loudoun. The speaker reflects on the church’s identity, drawing inspiration from the Wegman’s company mantra of “who we are, what we do.” The congregation engages in a discussion to define the core values and actions of their community, emphasizing inclusivity and spiritual growth. The sermon connects these values to their covenant, mission, and principles, advocating for a “works theology” where actions reflect beliefs. The speaker encourages the congregation to strive for continuous improvement in loving others and addressing societal challenges. The message concludes with a call to action for the new year, urging the congregation to resolve to embody their values through love, justice, and care for the planet.

Service

Ahead of the crowd

Summary:

This sermon reflects on the pursuit of perfection through the lens of horse racing, specifically referencing Secretariat’s record-breaking Triple Crown win. The speaker uses Secretariat and other figures like Gabby Douglas and historical figures to illustrate dedication and sacrifice. She contrasts this with the dangers of obsessive perfectionism and advocates for a more balanced approach, drawing from Buddhist philosophy. The message encourages listeners to embrace Unitarian Universalist values such as love, compassion, and justice, recognizing that the quest for self-improvement is a continuous journey, not a destination. The sermon serves as a call to action, urging individuals to embark on a path of moral reflection and strive for a more perfect embodiment of their ideals in daily life.

Service

Another Side of Thanksgiving

Summary:

This sermon presentation examines the traditional Thanksgiving narrative, contrasting it with the harsh realities faced by both the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag. It highlights the complexities of the “first Thanksgiving,” emphasizing the pre-existing relationships between Europeans and Native Americans, and the subsequent devastation wrought by disease and conflict. The speaker encourages listeners to remember not only the joys associated with the holiday, but also to confront the historical injustices perpetrated against Native Americans. It challenges listeners to acknowledge the “other side of Thanksgiving” by considering the sins of our ancestors and working toward reconciliation and justice today. The presentation ultimately promotes a more comprehensive and compassionate understanding of Thanksgiving, one that acknowledges both the blessings and the burdens of the past.

Service

Unitarian Universalism: A Faith based on Datebook Theology

Summary:

The sermon explores the challenge of defining Unitarian Universalist beliefs. The speaker grapples with the diversity of thought within the faith, recounting past attempts to formulate a concise explanation. Instead of focusing on specific theological doctrines, the speaker suggests that Unitarian Universalism is better understood through its actions and values. Embracing diversity, promoting justice, and striving for a better world are key tenets. Ultimately, the speaker posits that Unitarian Universalism centers on orthopraxy—right practice—over orthodoxy—right belief, emphasizing love, compassion, and the pursuit of peace and justice as the core of the faith.

Service

Present Moment, Peaceful Moment

Summary

This sermon discusses finding hope and peace amidst suffering, using the example of Thich Nhat Hanh, a Buddhist monk who endured war and exile. The speaker highlights Nhat Hanh’s practice of mindfulness, emphasizing the importance of finding the “wonderful moment” in the present, even during hardship. The sermon explores the idea that suffering, while painful, is part of a larger reality encompassing love and beauty. It encourages the congregation to find gratitude and meaning, even in difficult circumstances, drawing inspiration from Nhat Hanh’s resilience and teachings. The speaker uses the phrase “present moment, wonderful moment” as a mantra for mindful living.