Upcoming Services
Summer Services
There are no services scheduled for July and August.Regular services will resume in September.
Enjoy the Vermont summer and we'll see you in September.
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Past Services
June 27
Church Picnic at the Weller's FarmTonie and George Weller, hosts
We will be located on the hill next to our upper pond in our picnic area. We will supply cups, plates, water, ice tea, marshmallows and fire, bring lawn chairs...and something to share...There are ponds, trails, orchard and gardens as well as the double labyrinth. Children love it. Frogs and tadpoles in the pond. Bring guests -- there's always room for more.
June 20
Let It Be a Song and DanceSusan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
Following a brief service in the church, we will adjourn to the hall for a workshop performance by participants in a South African choral music weekend. The workshop is being led by Matlakala Bopape, director of the Polokwane Choral Society, Polokwane, South Africa and Allyna Harris, director of the Choromondo Women's World Music and River Voices choirs in Ayers Cliff and Stanstead. Come feel the beat!
June 13
Flowers Feed the SoulSusan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
Our Annual Flower Communion and Appreciation Sunday comes a little early this year. The title of this service is taken from The Quran: "Bread feeds the body, indeed, but flowers feed also the soul." Poetry is also necessary food for the soul, and it is through this medium that we will honor flowers and friends. If you would like to read a poem at this service, or know of one you'd like to have read for you, contact Susan-Lynn (334-7703). Please bring a flower from your garden (or the roadside) to share.
June 6
To Tell the TruthSusan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
Many of you may remember the old TV show, "To Tell the Truth." The show featured a panel of four celebrities attempting to correctly identify a described contestant who typically had an unusual occupation or experience. This central character was joined by two impostors who pretended to be that central character. The celebrity panelists questioned the three contestants; the impostors were allowed (if not encouraged) to lie, but the central character was sworn "to tell the truth". I think many of us have learned over the years that being the "impostor" can save a whole lot of heartache and explanations. But are we doing a disservice to ourselves and others when we tell those "little white lies"?
May 23
A Covenant For Our ChurchDana Baron, Guest Facilitator
We welcome Dana Baron back to First Parish. This time he will be helping us through the process of forming a covenant for First Parish -- a statement about how we will treat each other. Please join us and share your ideas.
May 30
No Worship Service TodayNo Worship Service Today
May 16
First Parish: "A Soft Place to Fall."Judy D. Young, Worship Leader
Reflections on twenty years in each of two UU communities: belonging, participating, rejoicing and being there for one another. "How are things at the Derby Line Church these days?" Come and hear one member's perspective.
May 9
Like Lemmings to the EgressSusan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
"Every exit is an entry somewhere." This quote by British playwright Tom Stoppard, provides fodder of Susan-Lynn's reflection. Have you ever said to yourself, "Thank goodness that's over" only to turn around and immediately run into another "that"? Does it happen because of poor planning or is it just one of those delightful hazards of daily life? Can we choose the "that's" we'd like to deal with? Of course not, but we can deal with our reactions to them.
May 2
To Leave Behind a Creative Gift (What the Playwrights Have Taught Me)Susan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
In his book Creativity, theologian Matthew Fox quotes Otto Rank, who spent his life counseling great artists: "The artist is one who wants to leave behind a gift." In his musings on that statement, Fox holds that artists are not in denial about death and don't exit quietly. Artists leave us with a memorial, a painting, a song . . . that can be recognized as a gift. He says, "There is a blessing to this left-behind thing, there is a goodness to it."
In an updated presentation of the second service she did at First Parish, in 2003, Susan-Lynn will "re-gift" a few left-behind things from some of her favorite playwrights, whose compelling words and characters are filled with gems of philosophy, spirit, humor, grittiness, and downright orneriness that have helped form her own character.
April 25
PerceptionsSusan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
How do we see the world? Can any two people really perceive the same things? How does perception color our lives and our interactions? How can we change our perceptions--if, indeed, we really want to change them? The questions are too numerous to mention--as well as the answers--but it's interesting to consider!
April 18
Political CorrectnessBrendan Hadash, Guest Speaker
Agreeing on a common language concerning racism is a challenging task. People need time to struggle with core concepts in order for that to happen. This process can be especially challenging for those of us who are white. It calls us to again and again do the work of reflection. That struggle with language is what I would like to discuss especially in the light of the December 15 letter condemning UUs written by none other than Garrison Keillor of Prairie Home Companion fame.
April 11
Ralph Waldo Emerson was the First Living UU Principle -- Or Was He?Pam Crandall, Worship Leader
Emerson's life is held up as a fine example of what one might think of as the best life. He was a wonder, no doubt, but was he perfect? Was he human enough that we imperfect beings need not feel the lesser in his presence? This is what I think.
April 4
Civil war II: What Would Jesus Do?Susan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
The reflection for this wildly non-traditional Easter service will be in a dialogue format. The hatred and threats of death that are malignantly alive in our society following the signing of the Health Care bill, are frightening at the very least and insane at most. Something must be done and the UU Association surely will be one of the national organizations at the forefront. What ideas can we provide to help our chosen faith deflect the lies, threats, obstruction, and stupidity that's running rampant in the country at this time? How does this situation compare with the mythic story of Jesus and the government of his times prior to the crucifixion? (The real meaning of "Tea-Bagging" will be disclosed.)
March 14, 2010
Canvass SundayBrought to you by the Board and Worship Committee
Another promising presentation by the Board -- as they ask for us to open our hearts and wallets -- through poetry, song, and dance (well, maybe not dance.) Pam will deliver the reflection and Paul will give us the nitty gritty details.
March 21, 2010
ReconciliationSusan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
We've been hearing the word "reconciliation" bandied about by politicians for the past few weeks, but the word has more than one meaning. Susan-Lynn will explore the definitions and what they might mean to us.
March 28, 2010
The Perfect BlendDouglas Flint, Guest Speaker
Developing the "Perfect Blend", and I am not talking just sugar on snow. Let's look at the special challenge of blending spiritual, family and cultural beliefs in trying to find that elusive ideal of the "perfect marriage". Personal and professional reflections from one who is actively in the process and also as a Marital Therapist who has been developing the tools to help attain or maintain the more realistic "good enough" marriage.
March 7, 2010
Stewardship of the EarthBrendan Whittaker, Guest Speaker
Join us to hear guest speaker Brendan Whittaker, an Episcopalian priest, speak about stewardship of the environment and his role as a forester.
February 28, 2010
Music Is...Susan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
We're told, that among other things, it "soothes the savage breast;" it is "the soul of life," "an art form," "unconscious arithmetic;" and that it is "love in search of a word." Music holds meanings and memories in all of us and can profoundly affect our lives for good or ill if we let ourselves be drawn into it. What power does music have over you?
February 21, 2010
The GiftNick Kaiser, Guest Speaker and Musician
Former VPR announcer Nick Kaiser will talk about "The Gift," one man's journey to rediscover his musical identity, and along the way, dealing with tragedy, loss, anger, recovery and faith. Hear his story and share his love of music with songs he and others have written as ways to provide support, enlightenment, inspiration and hope for spiritual beings living the human experience. (This program was canceled in January due to bad weather.)
February 14, 2010
Standing on the Side of LoveSusan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
Every major religion has compassion and love at its center. Staying true to our religious values means standing on the side of love. Too much of our public discourse is driven not by love, but by fear, which often scapegoats particular people and deems them somehow less than human. This is a violation of all faiths which are centered in love. The UUA has created a campaign, "Standing on the Side of Love," to harness the power of love to stop oppression, exclusion, and violence. It's an invitation to all people to stand on the side of love. How difficult is this to put into practice?
February 7, 2010
Exploring Our MissionDana Baron, Guest Facilitator
What is our "mission" as a congregation? What is our reason for being? How do we change the world, or at least our small corner of it? We will discuss these questions as part of the service on Sunday, February 7 as the next step in developing our congregation's Mission Statement. Once again, Dana Baron will be on hand to facilitate the discussion.
January 31, 2010
Learning UU Principles Through HumorRev. Brendan Hadash, Guest Speaker
January 24, 2010
Living in the PresentSusan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
We hear much advice given by ministers, psychologists, characters in television shows, and friends and neighbors about "living in the present." But can we really do that? Doesn't the past and the future need to be drawn upon to make the present a satisfying place to be?
January 17, 2010
The Beautiful Joy of BrotherhoodSusan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
On August 28, 1963, in Washington, DC, The Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King delivered his famous "I Have a Dream" speech. In August of 2009, we celebrated the 46th anniversary of this speech about hopes and dreams that Dr. King believed would come true. We may have come a long way in the past 46 years, but given the current state of chaos in this country, we still have a very long way until we achieve "the beautiful joy of brotherhood."
January 10, 2010
The Path of the LabyrinthSusan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
Following a brief service, everyone is invited to walk our labyrinth. First Parish's 11- circuit labyrinth is a replica of the one at Chartres Cathedral, and provides a wonderful opportunity for reflection. One may use it for meditation, relaxation, or any other desired intention. The labyrinth is also reputed to have healing effects.
January 3, 2010
The January 3 Service was canceled due to the weather!December 27
Small Group MinistryPlease join us to experience the connection of a Small Group Ministry experience.
December 20
Priceless GiftsWinter Solstice/Candlelight Service 4:00 p.m. Susan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
Our annual Solstice/Candlelight service revolves around the pleasurable sacrifices we make to engender happiness in others. We will be joined by the Shape Note Singers of Canada and the U.S. The evening will end with a circle dance in the hall, followed by a pot luck dinner.
December 13
Some Angles on AngelsSusan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
In his speech endorsing Barak Obama, Senator Ted Kennedy, borrowing from Abraham Lincoln, said that Obama had an uncommon capacity to appeal to "the better angels of our nature." Can we get in touch with these angels on our own, or does it take some other person or event to bring them out?
December 6
Generosity in Troubled TimesSusan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
This Sunday is St. Nicolas' Day, the saint known for his gift-giving. Over the years, Christmas gift-giving has had its ups and downs, but this year many people may be sacrificing other things in order to provide gifts, they might have to cut back on the number of gifts, or they simply won't be able to afford anything. How do we celebrate under these circumstances?
November 29
Happy Thanksgiving, no service today.November 22
So To Whom Are We Giving Thanks?
Susan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
The point of Thanksgiving, of course, is to remember the things we have to be grateful for. It's our special time to give thanks--not just for the obvious, like food--but for the thousands of fortunate moments, the multitude of blessings that we receive throughout the year. Susan-Lynn has questions (and answers, she hopes!) about just who and/or what is on the receiving end of the gratitude we show on Thanksgiving Day.
November 15
Hello, My Name is GodJeremy Nickel, Guest Speaker
I have known for most of my conscious life that the stereotypical bearded old white man in the sky was not the god that I was looking for. Luckily, my faith adventure began at a UU Church, which allowed me to freely explore the collected wisdom of the ages without having any one concept forced upon me. My search took me through countless books, involved a seemingly endless stream of conversations with teachers, preachers, charlatans, friends, fellow-travelers, skeptics, myself, my heart and finally a class on Process Thought. I hope to share what I found along this journey, and introduce you to the god I met and am continuing to get to know.
Jeremy Nickel was raised in the UU Church of Newton, MA. and has spent the past seven years preparing for ordained Unitarian Universalist ministry while living in the Bay Area. Now back on the east coast and just months away from ordination, his interests lie in social justice work as well as using technology to drag our movement into the 21st century, and perhaps even back to relevancy!
November 8
Between the Potter and the Clay: The Creative Act in Art and ReligionCris Criswell, Guest Speaker
There are important connections between religion and art: both are oriented toward meaning, both seek transcendence, and both deal in universal human values; both are fundamental to being human. What is more, religion and art share remarkably similar discourses. Each works primarily through story, image, symbol and performance. This sermon explores the creative act in art and religion by addressing the question: what does art and religion do and how do they do it?
The Reverend Doctor H. Cris Criswell is an ordained minister in the United Church of Christ and a founding member and President of the North Country Unitarian Universalist Society in Littleton, NH. He also has a background in psychotherapy, organization development and worked with organizations as diverse as the World Bank, Shell Oil, Boeing, Northern States Power, and Digital Equipment and once pursued a degree in fine arts. He has dedicated the past 14 retirement years to the development and growth of sports and recreation for persons with disabilities.
November 1
Samhain, Souls and SaintsSusan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
October 31st is Samhain, a pagan festival that signals the beginning of the dark half of the year. It is a day for honoring those who have died--human and animal--and a day for new beginnings. November 1st is All Souls' or All Saints' Day, festivals of the Christian church, and also a day to remember the departed. What are the similarities and differences in the two festivals? What meaning do they have for those of us who are neither Christian nor pagan? Please bring a photo or memento of a loved one who has meant a lot to you. This can be a person or an animal whose life has had an impact on you, whether the death was recent or some time in the past.
October 25
What Does Church Mean?Dana Baron, Facilitator
Please join us as we welcome Dana Baron back to First Parish for a facilitated community discussion of "What Does Church Mean?" Dana's last visit to Derby Line was well received and we are fortunate he has made time available for a three part series of discussions on this theme as we explore it through the year. Come participate, or just be present, as we kick off with part one which will surely prove a great foundation as we move forward.
October 18
Word PowerSusan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
The old saying, "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me," is at best a lie. Recently, we've seen how enough people speaking the same untruths can make them appear to be facts. On the other hand, technology has grown so rapidly that the most innocuous written words might be magnified to the extreme with frightening results. As we move away from spoken language to emails, Face Book, Twitter, and texting, the possibilities for misunderstanding grow exponentially. There's a lot of frustration surrounding these phenomenons and a wariness as to where they might lead us. Can we effect any change?
October 11
Why I Choose Church Sunday MorningsBob Johnson, Worship Leader
The days aren't long enough, in these busy times, to accomplish all that is expected of us. Why should we spend our precious time in Church? Bob's stories and selected readings will make you laugh, make you cry, inspire you, and help you understand why Bob chooses to spend his time in Church on Sunday mornings.
October 4
Caring For the UniverseSusan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
On the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi, Susan-Lynn examines our role as caretaker/caregiver to "Brother Sun, Sister Moon, Mother Earth, Brother Fire . . . and brother and sister creatures." How far does our individual responsibility reach in our care for others?
September 27
Mark Twain, Humanist HeroRev. Douglas K. Peary, Guest Speaker
Samual Langhorne Clemens, known by a river depth measure as Mark Twain, lived from 1835 to 1910. His father and his Uncle had slaves so he was aware of slave lingo. He was raised as a Presbyterian where they taught infant damnation. Twain wrote many popular books, and several books attacking fundamentalist Christian theology. He was a best friend to liberal Congregational Minister Rev. Joseph Twitchell and said he could accept the idea of the more Deist God found at the time in the teachings of the Unitarian Church and by many of the U.S. founding fathers.
Bio: Douglas Peary was raised as a Conservative Baptist Christian Fundamentalist on a farm in Northern Maine. In his late 20's he became a UU and a Religious Humanist. He attended Starr King School for Religious Leadership and was a classmate of Brendan Hadash. Peary went on to become a Federal Labor Investigator with the National Labor Relations Board but continued to write and speak throughout the north eastern U.S., Quebec, and the Virgin Islands on the lives and beliefs of "Humanist Heroes," Publishing a book on that subject, of 17 heroes.
September 20
Wabi-Sabi: Imperfection in our daily livesGabriella Brand, Guest Speaker
All people and all institutions have shortcomings. Self-help books call them challenges, and traditional religions often call them sins. How can we learn to look at our shortcomings with wisdom and patience? And what exactly is Wabi-Sabi? Gabriella Brand will give you some answers and some more questions as she explores imperfection in our daily lives.
Bio: Gabriella Brand is a writer, educator, and inspirational speaker. A former school principal, she has had many multi-cultural experiences and enjoys learning foreign languages. She lives near New Haven, Connecticut, but spends the summer in North Hatley, Quebec, where she often addresses the UU congregation there. This fall, she and her husband, the Reverend Douglas Peary, will return to the UU Fellowship of the Virgin Islands, as guest ministers.
September 13
Annual Water CeremonySusan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
As we celebrate our annual Water Ceremony and see friendly faces we've missed all summer, we are aware on many levels of how important church fellowship is to us. Susan-Lynn reflects on the theme of carpe diem and how it connects with the enormity of "what church means" for us both as individuals and as a congregation.
September 6
Labor Day Picnic 11:00 a.m.Worship Committee
Please join us as we gather back together with a Labor Day potluck picnic celebration. We will gather in the sanctuary for a brief service, and then enjoy Ginny Martin playing steel drum while we eat.
June 21
The Joys of Giving: Fathers, Friends, and FlowersSusan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
Fathers' Day, will also be our Annual Flower Communion and Recognition Sunday. Please bring a flower to share with another. (We'll have some for you if you forget!) If there's anyone you'd like to see recognized for their service and commitment to the church, please talk with Susan-Lynn.
June 14
Religion vs. Spirituality: And the Winner Is . .Susan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
Is the difference between religion and spirituality simply a matter of semantics? Could they possibly be one and the same? Can they be seen in terms of black and white? Is one better than the other? These questions and more will be considered by Susan-Lynn as she reflects on issues of faith and belief or lack thereof.
June 7
TransitionsJulia Rumery, Worship Leader
Julia will reflect upon her life up until now, including her main influences and role models, as well as discussing her future plans and all the decisions she has made in this time of transitions.
May 31
Ordinary People Who Inspire MeRobert Johnson, Worship Leader
Everyone's inspired by famous leaders and heros. People like you and I can be a source of inspiration as well. Come find out how.
May 24
Letting GoSusan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
How heavily invested are you in the people, places, things, and events that are an integral part of your life? Susan-Lynn Johns will reflect upon mortality and immortality, with a stop on the way to look at poems by Robert Frost and William Wordsworth.
May 17
Que Sera SeraSusan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
Do you subscribe to the philosophy of "whatever will be, will be," or do you will what you want to be? In light of the anniversary of the eruption of Mt. St. Helens on May 18th, 1980, Susan-Lynn explores prophecy, acceptance, denial, and the will to change.
May 10
What is a Church?Jeremy Nickel, Guest Speaker What holds us together? Why does it matter to the inhabitants of Derby Line that you are a UU congregation and not the Kiwanis Club? Come get pumped up about the essential nature of the work YOU are doing in the name of Unitarian Universalism. It is relatively easy to be a Unitarian Universalist in Boston, NYC and San Francisco, but my strong belief is that our most important congregations are the ones that bring our liberal voice to the places where it is not already.
Bio: Jeremy Nickel was raised in the UU Church of Newton, MA. and has spent the past seven years preparing for ordained Unitarian Universalist ministry while living in the Bay Area. Now back on the east coast and just months away from ordination, his interests lie is social justice work as well as using technology to drag our movement into the 21st century, and perhaps even back to relevancy!
May 3
Social Action in Our Little Groupsermon by Rev. Richard S. Gilbert, delivered by Judy Nommik " 'Ten commandments for the mission of faith' or, if you prefer, 'ten suggestions for repairing the world'." A Church on Loan service presented by Judy Nommik
April 26
Intimacy and UltimacyRev. M'ellen Kennedy, Guest Speaker
Why do people come to church? Why do You attend? Many congregations are looking for ways to respond effectively to the deep needs for community and meaning that many of us are seeking on our spiritual journey. One way of meeting these needs is through Small Group Ministry. Small groups have the potential for revitalizing our congregations and our movement. Come explore how You may discover and actualize in your own life what draws You to a church community.
April 19
Traditional Methods of Food Storage,or "Mom and Dad, the Sauerkraut's Exploding Again!"
Ashirah and Chris Knapp, Guest Speakers
Before canning and freezing, there were fermenting, drying, and root cellaring. These traditonal food storage methods still have a place in our modern world! They are simple to follow, use very little energy, and make delicious food that is alive with all its vitamins and nutrients. We will bring examples of some of the foods that we make at Koviashuvik- wine and vinegar, sauerkraut and kimchi, no-water-bath pickles and dilly beans, and solar dried fruit leather and herbs. We'll share our recipes and stories of failed experiments. A talk for those interested in boldly voyaging into new food territory!
April 12
Explaining EasterSusan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
Could you explain Easter so that your UU congregation could understand? Susan-Lynn's gonna try.
April 5
Resurrection -- Do U Believe It?Rev. Carole Martignacco, Guest Speaker
March 29
The Wages of Sin are NonconsequentialSusan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
It's the wages of workers that can make a difference in solving our economic crisis. This year, Justice Sunday will focus on economic justice and the need for a living wage in the United States. But what's the economic justice situation here in the Northeast Kingdom?
March 22
Searching for SpringSusan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
On this Sunday we will celebrate our traditional Sap Communion, when we share the gift of sap from our glorious maples and greet the Vernal Equinox, when it is said that all is in balance. Although the cold and predictions of more snow make it difficult to picture the tipping point that leads us into Spring, we realize deep down inside, that it will come. Sometimes we just have to search a little harder to find it.
March 15
Community CircleDana Baron, Group Facilitator
Dana Baron will lead a community circle to collect further input and to refine our priorities to help the search committee for our next minister.
March 8
ExtravaganzaThe Board, Worship Leaders
On March 8, Sunday morning, the Board of First Universalist Parish presents its first annual conscious-raising, fund appeal -- an extravaganza, more extrava than ganza. Don't expect too much from a collection of amateurs, but bring your checkbooks and be ready to enjoy yourself, even if we do inspire you to cut loose some of your money. You can't have a minister for nothing.
March 1
Charles DarwinIn celebration of evolution Sunday, Charles Darwin, on his 200th birthday, will speak on how he became an agnostic.
February 22
Life Is Like a Movable FeastSusan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
. . . or it could be like a box of chocolates. It depends upon your outlook. As we approach Mardi Gras and Ash Wednesday, Susan-Lynn will take a look at dichotomies and our ways of adapting to change.
February 15
Kindness and FriendshipJudy Nommik and Julia Rumery, Worship Leaders
Exploring why we are kind, along with some experiences to have fun and help us get to know each other a bit better.
February 8
The Day of Enlightenment is NighSusan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
This Sunday is known as Nirvana Day in the Buddhist tradition. What is nirvana? Can only Buddhists attain it? Whether we can or cannot, what can we learn from it? Susan-Lynn will try to answer these questions in light of the UU Fourth Principle: A free and responsible search for truth and meaning . .
February 1
Rodgers and Hammerstein's AmericaBill Stott, Guest Speaker and Musician
Dr. Bill Stott, professor, author, and occasional actor, will speak about what the great musicals, Oklahoma!, Carousel, South Pacific, and the King & I tell us about the society in which they were created. As he examines their cultural meanings and themes-including war, sacrifice, democracy, individualism-expect a lot of singing (a maybe a little dancing). Gail Caldwell, in her memoir, A Strong West Wind, characterized Stott as a "middle-aged teacher of literature . . . known to tap-dance on the seminar table to wake lethargic students."
Broadway musicals are much loved up here in the northern, eastern corner of the Northeast Kingdom. "But there is more than music and dancing to musicals," says Bill Stott, American Studies Professor Emeritus, University of Texas at Austin.
Refreshments and opportunities to talk with Stott follow the talk. For more on this talented man, google "William Merrell Stott".
January 25
Once More, With FeelingSusan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
. . .Even though it's said that we never have a second chance to make a first impression, life is full of second chances. Do we jump at them or do we let them pass us by? Susan-Lynn reflects on how probability gets in the way of possibilities.
January 18
Passing the TorchSusan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
Martin Luther King Sunday seems an appropriate time to look back to Dr. King's accomplishments as we also look forward to the promise of better times as the nation awaits the historic inauguration of Barack Obama in two days. Susan-Lynn will reflect on how far we've come and how far we still have to go.
January 11
The Sources of Our SpiritualityRev. Carole Martignacco, Guest Speaker
Carole will be speaking about the sources of our spirituality.
January 4
Monasteries, Castles and Villages: A Musical Archaeology of ChristmasEric J. Erwin, Guest Speaker
The celebration of Christmas is so ingrained within our culture and society that we rarely think about its origins. It is often surprising to people to discover that Christmas (that is: "Christ Mas" or the feast of Christ) was not celebrated by the upper classes of Medieval society until the Eleventh or Twelfth Century ... and even then reluctantly. It was thought of by most Church leaders as too "pagan" (or rural, peasant-ish, and boorish). We will explore the birth and development of Christmas through music, discovering how a holiday that once glorified the lower economic classes, excess, and revelry was transformed into a feast celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. We will also see how the ideas found in Medieval music still linger in our modern celebrations.
December 28
KwanzaaKwanzaa is a unique African American celebration with focus on the traditional African values of family, community responsibility, commerce, and self-improvement. Kwanzaa is neither political nor religious and despite some misconceptions, is not a substitute for Christmas.
December 23
Candlelight Solstice Service 6:00 p.m.Susan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
We present our annual Solstice candlelight service with readings, poetry, and songs of the season. Immediately following we will have a spiral and candle lighting with music and singing followed by a holiday potluck supper.
December 14
The Seventh PrincipleSusan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
Susan-Lynn reflects upon the 7th principle, "We promote and affirm the following principle... Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part..." in light of the approaching season and the hope for the future of the country.
December 7
The Country's in the Very Best of HandsBrendan Hadash, Guest Speaker
How do we bridge the differences in our country?
November 30
Exploring What We Want From Our Next MinisterCircle of Community to discuss what we want from our new minister.
Pot-luck social hour to follow.
November 23
Nothing Comes from NothingBread and Cider / The Seventh Principle
Susan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
Sharing bread and cider and giving thanks for all of the bounty in our lives draws our attention to the interdependent web that holds us all together and provides sustenance for us and our world. Susan-Lynn reflects on bounty in terms of the philosophical expression of the thesis, "Nothing comes from nothing", first argued by the Greek philosopher, Parmenides.
November 16
Heart to HeartSha'an Mouliert, Guest Speaker
These are interesting times we're experiencing. As a result of the Presidential election, racism is in the forefront -- it's being talked about everywhere. Sha'an Mouliert will lead our service which includes a viewing of the video "Mirrors of Privilege: Making Whiteness Visible" -- a brilliant documentary and a must-see for all people who are interested in justice, spiritual growth and community making. It features the experiences of white women and men who have worked to gain insight into what it means to challenge notions of racism and white supremacy in the United States. The video will be followed by Heart-to-Heart Conversations, a facilitated dialog.
November 9
Contemplating What's NextDouglas Flint, Guest Speaker
"By the time I present to you the election will be decided, but until that time we'll be in that agonizing place of "What's next and what will life be like?" I think this secular process we're going through-replete with many opinions, but no absolute proof, is also what drives us to seek a spiritual resource to buffer us in fearful times of the great unknown. As we look towards the scarier notion of aging, infirmity, and death, how is it and perhaps why is it we may lean on the spiritual as a guiding resource?"
November 2
Touch and GoSamhain/All Saints
Susan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
"For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out." [1 Timothy 6:7]. Even though we can't carry anything out of this world when we die, we can try to leave it a better place by touching as many lives as we can. As we look inward during the darkening days leading to the Winter Solstice, it is comforting and healing to remember and honor those who have touched us in very special ways. You are encouraged to bring a photo or memento of a loved one (pets, included) to honor and perhaps to share how that loved one has affected your life.
October 26
United Nations SundaySusan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
October 19
Healing OurselvesJudy Nommik, Worship Leader
Looking at some ways that might help.
Also on October 19th
Labyrinth 4 p.m.David Whitesell, Greeter and Host
Sylvia Woodmansee, Musician
A Candlelit Labyrinth will be offered in the First Parish courtyard. Fall is a time for introspection and contemplation; let us take a moment and open to the meditation we find in ourselves.
October 12
Living the Seven Principles IISusan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
October 5
Jewish High Holy DaysSteve Finner, Guest Speaker
Steve will be working with a volunteer choir(i.e. anyone who wants to sing!) beginning at 9:00AM. The choir will then sing for the 10:00am service. This is Steve's second visit with us and it will be just as much fun as last time. He will be speaking about the Jewish High Holy Days and the music associated with them.
September 28
Living the Seven PrinciplesSusan-Lynn Johns, Worship Leader
Susan-Lynn Johns explores the UU Seven Principles to discover just what it takes to live by our Principles. The first in a series of three reflections will deal with the first two Principles: ". . . the inherent worth of and dignity of every person" and " . . . justice, equity, and compassion in human relations."
September 21
The Gift of AngerJudy Nommik, Worship Leader
...What our anger can tell us about our values.
September 14
Mayan SpiritualityDaisy McCoy, Guest Speaker
A talk informed by Daisy's recent sabbatical spent with the Mayans.