Rev. Bill Gupton.
In the week that we celebrate freedom and American independence, it might behoove us to revisit the foundational Unitarian concept of “religious freedom.” Hint: It doesn’t mean the freedom to impose your religious values and strictures on others, as many in our society today would have you believe. There is a long and storied tradition of “free religion” in America, and our religious ancestors were the authors of it.
Worship Associate: Teresa Robinson.
2019.
Chocolates in a Box, à la Forrest Gump
Rev. Bill Gupton.
The title of today’s sermon is meant literally. You’ll have to come to church this morning to find out what Rev. Bill will be reflecting on – since even he doesn’t know! Together, let’s find out what topic he will explore on this, on the very final day of the “church year.”
Worship Associate: Kathy Wade.
2019.
Lou Kerr.
Despite progress, the circumstances that gave rise to the rebellion that began the contemporary gay rights movement haven’t changed as much as we might think. This morning we look at 50 years of Gay Rights history and where we are today.
Worship Associate: Bob Drake.
2019.
Rev. Bill Gupton.
On Father’s Day 2004, Rev. Bill preached to us about fatherhood. His son Patrick had just finished second grade. Well, Patrick is now a grown young man, living in New Zealand – where Bill and Jennifer traveled for an extended visit last month. Fifteen years after his first reflection on the subject, our Senior Minister will consider what that fatherhood means to him today, now that the nest is empty, and “raising a child” is in the rearview mirror.
Worship Associate: Roger Miller.
2019.
Walden Pond
Rev. Bill Gupton.
In the early 19th century, a group of New England mystics – including Henry David Thoreau, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Margaret Fuller and William Ellery Channing – embraced a new philosophical and theological outlook that included (to quote our first UU Source) a “direct experience of that transcending mystery and wonder, affirmed in all cultures, which moves us to a renewal of the spirit and an openness to the forces which create and uphold life.” They centered Nature in their lives, and in their actions. Today, two centuries later, we need another such renewal. With climate catastrophe on the horizon, what can “New Transcendentalists” look to for inspiration in the struggle to save our world?
Worship Associate: Regina Pugh.
2019.
Rev. Bill Gupton.
After our annual congregational meeting, let’s compare T-shirts! Every other summer, Rev. Bill invites us to wear to church a T-shirt that has special meaning for us. It’s a causal Sunday when we can express ourselves (as many Americans do) through what’s printed on our shirts. Wear your heart on your chest for all to see. What’s important to you? Make a statement. Also this morning we will honor those church members who have reached membership milestones of 10 and 20 years.
Worship Associate: Suzanne Horton.
2019.
Sparkle Leigh.
Join us for this unique and fun extended Time for all Ages where we will hear stories of Love, Light, Bravery and PRIDE that celebrate diverse and beautiful families. There might also be songs and games and possibly a dance party. Bring the whole family and maybe even a friend and neighbor.
Sparkle Leigh is a Cute & Kooky Cartoon Clownfish! The self- proclaimed love child of Roger & Jessica Rabbit, a cartoon trapped in reality and often mistaken for a “Drag Queen.” From the Emerald City to the Queen City, Sparkle Entertains, Educates, and/or Advocates for you! Sparkle’s alter ego is local Performer, Activist and Educator, Dan Davidson.
Worship Associate: Regina Pugh.
2019.
Rev. Leslie Woodward and Steph Tacy.
Welcome Spring with music and singing! We’ll sing our favorite hymns and learn some new ones, perhaps with hand motions and movement. Come to sing or simply sit and listen. We’ll also recognize our graduating seniors during this worship-for-all-ages. Nursery care is available for children under three.
Worship Associate: Bob Drake.
2019.
Rachael Hayes
Rachael Hayes.
Last year Sara Cunningham posted on Facebook, “If you need a mom to attend your same sex wedding because your biological mom won’t, call me. I’m there.” The post went viral. Whether we received the love and parenting we needed or not, whether we are parents or not, we have the opportunity to provide that kind of love to others.
Rachael Hayes is a graduate of Union Theological Seminary in New York City. She recently served as ministerial intern at the UU Fellowship of Boca Raton. She has preached in congregations in New York, New Jersey, Florida, Massachusetts, and Kentucky.
Special music will be provided by Mimi Sinclair.
Worship Associate: Regina Pugh.
2019.
Rev. Connie Simon.
In our busy, complicated lives and our troubled world, we are often faced with illness, despair and other difficult situations. Well-meaning friends encourage us with platitudes like “hope for the best.” What is “hope” and where do we find it when all seems lost?
Rev. Connie Simon is a 2018 graduate of Meadville Lombard Theological School and in her first year as minister of First Unitarian Church of Cincinnati. Prior to entering the ministry, she served as a lawyer, a political consultant, small business owner, an event planner, professor, realtor and program director for a non-profit. At the heart of each position has been a desire to serve others. Rev. Connie describes her ministry as “healing people from the inside-out so they can do the outside-in work our world so desperately needs.”
Come to hear Rev. Connie’s message today, as well as beautiful music from the Heritage Church Choir.
Worship Associate: Chris Whittaker.
2019.
