http://www.fusmadison.org/index.shtml en-us Some rights reserved; 2007 Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 2.5 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/2.5/; First Unitarian Society of Madison. Unitarian Universalist perspectives from Wisconsin's capital city. First Unitarian Society of Madison Thought-provoking presentions from the nation's largest UU Church, in one of its most progressive small cities Housed in the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed National Historic Landmark Unitarian Meeting House, sermons and reflections from FUS-Madison are challenging and thoughtful, whether presented by our three resident ministers, or a guest speaker. First Unitarian Society of Madison Wisconsin webmaster@fusmadison.org by Kelly J. Crocker, Minister of Religious Education and Stacy Harbaugh, Jim Jaeger and Vicky Jones A program about General Assembly What happens when 4,000 or more Unitarian Universalists gather in one place? They sing, they dance, and they create a community that covenants to dwell together in peace, seek the truth in love, and help one another. Last year's General Assembly of the Unitarian Universalist Association met in St. Louis with many of our own FUS members in attendance. The theme was "Right Relations." Join us as we examine what it means to covenant with one another, what it takes to build the beloved community, and why to do this together as people of faith http://www.fusmadison.org/media/2007-03-04-people-gathered-in-covenant-kjc.mp3 Thu, 08 Mar 2007 12:00:00 CST 00:26:14 Unitarian, Universalist, progressive, liberal, by Michael A. Schuler, Parish Minister, First Unitarian Society of Madison How gardening is analagous to nurturing a church As spring approaches and much of the world turns its attention to the care and cultivation of the soil, it seems an opportune time to explore the metaphorical meanings of gardening. Having been raised in a bucolic country setting, the parallels between growing healthy crops and maintaining robust communities are perhaps more apparent to me than to some of you. I would suggest that to become better stewards of the communities we cherish, the principles of gardening are a good place to start. Tue, 13 Mar 2007 14:07:00 CDT 00:26:14 Unitarian, Universalist, progressive, liberal, Wisconsin by Michael A. Schuler, Parish Minister, First Unitarian Society of Madison Some things in life are worth a risk to do. I am not, by nature, a gambler. Taking chances, betting on long-shots holds little appeal. Indeed, I’ve yet to buy my first lottery ticket and I’ve never risked more than a roll of pennies on a poker game. My rule of thumb for investing is simple: a bird in hand is worth more than two in the bush. But while it may behoove us to exercise caution in money management, it may not serve us quite so well in other aspects of life. When, and on what, is it legitimate to gamble? Wed, 21 Mar 2007 11:00:00 CDT 00:21:48 Unitarian, Universalist, progressive, liberal, by Kelly J. Crocker, Minister of Religious Education, First Unitarian Society of Madison Wisconsin Why some current popular ideas are potentially dangerous. A recent book and DVD entitled "The Secret" promises to give you the instructions to getting everything you need: money, health, relationships, happiness. It claims to hold a Great Secret that has been known by the powerful and wealthy throughout the ages. Now that secret is available to you as well. We’ll explore their ideas, some interesting and some potentially dangerous and ask ourselves “what is the secret to a good life?” Mon, 26 Mar 2007 14:00:00 CDT 00:21:11 Unitarian, Universalist, progressive, liberal, Schuler, Crocker, Prinster by Scott Gerard Prinster, Associate Minister, First Unitarian Society of Madison Wisconsin How humor, spontaneity and creativity all contribute to a religious community. Because religion deals in part with weighty matters like evil and morality, one might get the impression our communty is intended to humorless, rule-bound and serious. But what about the playful side of spirituality and religion? Yes, playful! In this program Scott explores how humor, spontaneity and creativity all contribute to the possibility of "Holy Play." Tue, 17 Apr 2007 12:00:00 CDT 00:22:22 Unitarian, Universalist, progressive, liberal by Michael A. Schuler, Parish Minister, First Unitarian Society of Madison Wisconsin An alternate vision of the “saving work” of Jesus of Nazareth. We are all familiar with the “orthodox” take on Easter: by dying on our behalf the Son of God atones for human sin, and his subsequent resurrection conveys to believers the prospect of eternal life. That, in a nutshell, is the “good news” Christians from the Apostle Paul to Rick Warren have been preaching. Here I offer an alternate vision of the “saving work” of Jesus of Nazareth. Tue, 17 Apr 2007 14:15:00 CDT 00:22:22 Unitarian, Universalist, progressive, liberal by Scott Gerard Prinster, Associate Minister, First Unitarian Society of Madison Wisconsin What role can a congregation play in supporting our friends with mental illness, and what are the limits to helpfulness? Many of us count “wholeness” as one of the qualities we seek to nurture in ourselves, but when this also means struggling with serious mental illness, participation in a spiritual community can be quite complicated. Although mental illness is more common than cancer, diabetes or heart disease, it often remains hidden and a source of shame for sufferers and their families. What role can a congregation such as ours play in supporting our friends with mental illness, and what are the limits to helpfulness? Tue, 17 Apr 2007 15:15:00 CDT 00:20:15 Unitarian, Universalist, progressive, liberal by Michael A. Schuler, Parish Minister, First Unitarian Society of Madison Wisconsin To create a sustainable future we need more than new technologies, we also need to “recycle” a few traditional values. In recent years I’ve thought long and hard about the planet and its future. The knowledge and virtuosity of our species is awesome, and our Western lifestyle (from a material standpoint, at least) is enviable. But the cost of creating so much abundance has been considerable. To create a sustainable future we need more than new technologies, we also need to “recycle” a few traditional values. The four I discuss here are particularly relevant. Thu, 3 May 2007 13:36:00 CDT 00:32:20 Unitarian, Universalist, progressive, liberal by Michael A. Schuler, Parish Minister, First Unitarian Society of Madison Wisconsin Join me for a commemoration of our rich feminine heritage. It was Abigail Adams, wife of America’s second president and mother of its sixth, who lobbied her husband to take women’s interests and rights into account in the drafting of the new nation’s founding documents. “Remember the ladies,” the Unitarian First Lady wrote. Since then, Unitarianism and Universalism have produced many women of note, including Susan B. Anthony, Clara Barton, Jane Addams, Margaret Sanger, Louisa May Alcott and Beatrix Potter. Less famous but no less effective were the woman ministers who established and served dozens of our frontier congregations in the latter half of the 19th century. Join me for a commemoration of our rich feminine heritage. Tue, 15 May 2007 14:51:00 CDT 00:21:43 Unitarian, Universalist, progressive, liberal by Scott Gerard Prinster, Associate Minister, First Unitarian Society of Madison Wisconsin Why the topic of God such a hot potato in our congregations and in society at large? Is there a God, or isn’t there? Don’t expect this sermon to try to answer that question! Rather, we’re going to explore why the topic is such a hot potato in our congregations and in society at large. What do the theologian, the poet, the scientist, the skeptic, the dreamer and the laborer all have to say about the marvelous, complex world we live in, that we could all celebrate together? Tue, 15 May 2007 14:51:00 CDT 00:20:50 Unitarian, Universalist, progressive, liberalr by Micheal A. Schuler, Kelly J. Crocker, and Karen Gustafson, First Unitarian Society of Madison Wisconsin The flower communion is a ceremony and symbol of tolerance and diversity, unlike Jerry Falwell... Our annual Flower Communion services and intergenerational celebration is truly lovely and afford a stellar opportunity for community buliding. This recording includes Michael Schulers remarks on the passing of Jerry Falwell, conservative christian leader, who died just a few days before. Thu, 30 May 2007 16:00:00 CDT 00:15:44 Unitarian, Universalist, progressive, liberal by Michael A. Schuler, Parish Minister, First Unitarian Society of Madison Wisconsin The craving for attention is something most of us never outgrow. What do we owe one another? The craving for attention is something most of us never outgrow. As children, we demanded it, but even as adults we feel diminished when it’s missing. To not receive one’s due in this department leaves us feeling discounted and superfluous. Today we’ll explore how this basic need can better be met. Ultimately, it’s all about having realistic expectations and clarity about what we owe one another. Thu, 30 May 2007 16:00:00 CDT 00:28:34 Unitarian, Universalist, progressive, liberal by Scott Gerard Prinster, Associate Minister, First Unitarian Society of Madison Wisconsin What do myths mean to modern man? What do we, who often think of ourselves as "self-made" have to learn from the stories of the ages? How can ancient symbols and narratives inspire and shape our own stories? Join Scott as he explores the power of the Great Stories to enrich and enliven life in the modern day. Mon, 11 Jun 2007 15:50:00 CDT 00:21:30 Unitarian, Universalist, progressive, liberal by Scott Gerard Prinster, Associate Minister, First Unitarian Society of Madison Wisconsin Thoughts about the sharing of ministry between a congregation and minister A large portion of the ministerial role is that of “teacher,” but ministry is also about learning and growing throughout our careers. In my last sermon to First Unitarian before I leave to pursue my doctorate, I’ll explore how valuable a community of teachers our congregation has been to me. Thu, 14 Jun 2007 12:46:00 CDT 00:21:39 Unitarian, Universalist, progressive, liberal by Michael A. Schuler, Parish Minister, First Unitarian Society of Madison Wisconsin A few fresh thoughts on the subject of fatherhood,in both the physical and metaphysical spheres In September, our son Kyle turns twenty-one. According to most prevailing cultural norms, he will, at that point, have "officially" entered adulthood. I find myself wondering whether the father-son relationship will shift and what the nature of that copnnection will then be. Kyle was only an infant when I last sermonized on this subject. I have a few fresh thoughts on the subject in both the physical and metaphysical spheres. Tue, 26 Jun 2007 16:04:00 CDT 00:20:07 Fatherhood, Unitarian, Universalist, Schuler by Denis Collins What principles would guide your life after you survived cancer against the odds? Everyone lives his or her life according to a set of principles, whether intentional or not. What principles would guide your life after you survived a medical death sentence against all odds? Learn about Denis Collins’ journey in answering that question a decade later. Thu, 28 Jun 2007 10:09:00 CDT 00:42:17 Cancer, Survival, Unitarian, Universalist, Collins Michael A. Schuler, Parish Minister Happiness is a rather paradoxical emotion Although people will oftem remark that their objective in life is "be happy," they frequently are frustrated with the attempt. Happiness is, in fact, a rather paradoxical emotion; it requires us to take our eyes off the prize in order to experience and retain it. Mon, 9 Jul 2007 16:02:00 CDT 00:22:25 Happiness James A. Jaeger Ms. Harper can be an example for modern-day UUs in the struggle for justice. The history of Unitarian and Universalist movements in the struggle for human rights has often been the story of one person standing up for freedom and justice. This service examines the life and writings of the African American Unitarian, Frances Ellen Watkins Harper. An abolitionist, teacher of freed slaves and advocate for women's rights, Ms. Harper is an example for modern day UUs engaged in the ceaseless struggle for justice. Fri, 20 Jul 2007 11:00:00 CDT 00:21:27 Slavery by Joyce Carey, Kelly Crocker and Andrew Kerr In this economy, how do we live local? Where do we start? And why would we try? Our world is becoming more and more global every day. It’s difficult to find products not “Made in China.” The ingredients in an average meal come from more than 1,500 miles away. Our local businesses are going out of business with the growth of large “big box” stores. In this climate, how do we live local? Where do we start? And why would we try? Join us as we explore family farms, local economies, the importance of knowing what you’re eating and knowing your neighbors. Mon, 13 Aug 2007 14:00:00 CDT 00:30:40 Llocally, farmers, markets by Cheri Maples Translating the language and practice of mindfulness for criminal justice professionals. Cheri Maples is uniquely qualified to speak on this subject. A Madison police officer for 20 years, she has also been Wisconsin Assistant Attorney General and head of Probation and Parole. Cheri is also an attorney, a social worker, and was the first Director of the Wisconsin Coalition Against Domestic Violence. This winter, Thich Nhat Hanh will honor Cheri by making her a dharma teacher in his Order of Interbeing. She is now working as a private consultant and trainer, focusing on translating the language and practice of mindfulness into a framework criminal justice professionals can relate to. Mon, 13 Aug 2007 14:00:00 CDT 00:29:51 spirituality, meditation, police, justice by Michael A. Schuler, Andrea Potos, Karen Updike and Friends A Poetic Collaboration This service has a decidedly poetic flavor. In addition to verses contributed by members of our own spiritual community, the music and liturgical elements are drawn from poetic compositions. Like music, poetry helps awaken us to the world around us and heightens our appreciation for hidden gems and little gestures that in our busy-ness we tend to overlook. Michael Schuler leads the service and provides appropriate commentary. Mon, 13 Aug 2007 14:00:00 CDT 00:38:24 poetry by Kelly Jane Crocker, Minister of Religious Education What is "A Living Tradition"? It is said that Unitarian Universalism is "A Living Tradition." Our hymnal is even titled Singing the Living Tradition. What does it mean to say that our tradition lives and grows? How do we live within a faith that is not firmly planted in the beliefs of our ancestors but looks to our own experiences and our own reason to adapt, change, build and rebuild? We'll explore what all of this means for us as Unitarian Universalists seeking truth and meaning for our FUS community and how we live and grow together. Mon, 13 Aug 2007 14:00:00 CDT 00:17:01 growth, change, religins, Unitarian, Universalist, UU by Michael A. Schuler, Parish Minister This is the second in a five-part series focused on the four classic elements plus Spirit. This is the second in a five-part series focused on the four classic elements (Water, Earth, Fire and Air) and a less tangible fifth element (Spirit). For the first time in my ministry at FUS, September activities in the children’s religious education program will complement the themes of adult worship. Join us as we revisit ancient wisdom teachings on the five elements, explore new information and deepen our appreciation and understanding of the world about us. Wed, 12 Sep 2007 15:15:00 CDT 00:22:14 earth, religions, Unitarian, Universalist, UU by Kelly J. Crocker, Minister of Religious Education This is the first in a five-part series focused on the four classic elements, plus Spirit. This is our end-of-the-summer celebration of that ubiquitous liquid that serves so many important purposes in our lives and the life of planet Earth. During this intergenerational service we “mingle the waters” of many places and enhance our appreciation for this liquid gold through stories, poetry, music and commentary. This recording includes two songs by singer/songwriter Josh Roth. Wed, 12 Sep 2007 15:15:00 CDT 00:41:49 water, religions, Unitarian, Universalist, UU by Community Minister Jody Whelden How did we learn racism’s invisible rules? In this service we explore the idea that we have each had a personal journey with racism. We look together at when and how we learned racism’s invisible rules. We hear stories from others, and have time to consider our own. The Rev. Jody Whelden, Community Minister, leads worship and offers reflections. Members of the newly formed ‘FUS Journey Toward Wholeness Task Force’ participate in the service. Wed, 12 Sep 2007 15:15:00 CDT 00:22:18 racism, religion, Unitarian, Universalist, UU by Michael A. Schuler, Parish Minister Finding balance beween skepticism and spirituality. I suspect that most Americans, if asked, would place skepticism and spirituality in separate, oppositional categories. Spirituality, we suppose, requires faith, trust and suspension of disbelief. Unitarian Universalism doesn’t share this perspective. Without a healthy dose of skepticism, an honest, mature spirituality may not be possible. The trick, however, is to find the proper balance. Wed, 12 Sep 2007 15:15:00 CDT 00:21:37 skepticism, spirituality, religion, Unitarian, Universalist, UU by Michael A. Schuler, Parish Minister Exploring the "element" of fire. From the metabolic processes that take place in the tiniest of human cells to the nuclear reactions that bathe our planet with life-giving solar energy, we encounter (literally, if not metaphorically) the ancient element of Fire. The ancient Zoroastrians worshiped it and the flame continues to be symbolically significant for both Unitarian Universalists and Christian Pentecostals. Join us for the third in our series on the classic elements. Mon, 8 Oct 2007 15:12:00 CDT 00:19:09 fire, spirituality, religion, Unitarian, Universalist, UU by Michael A. Schuler, Parish Minister Exploring the "element" of air. I’m not a chemist but the 18th century British Unitarian minister Joseph Priestly was and he deserves credit for some of the most important early discoveries about the composition of the earth’s atmosphere. In our fourth in this series on the Elements we’ll learn more about this fascinating figure, as well as the connection humans have routinely made between air and spirit. Mon, 8 Oct 2007 15:12:00 CDT 00:16:20 air, spirituality, religion, Unitarian, Universalist, UU by Kelly J. Crocker, Minister of Religious Education and Karen Gustafson, Minister Exploring the "element" of spirit. This is our fifth and final service of our series focused on the elements. We will be exploring that less tangible element of Spirit. In Native American spirituality, the center is the Spirit, it is the metaphysical other, that invisible essence that lives and moves throughout all life. Join us as we look at ancient and modern wisdom teachings about spirit and how it informs our understandings of our lives and our world. Mon, 8 Oct 2007 15:12:00 CDT 00:21:45 spirit, spirituality, religion, Unitarian, Universalist, UU by Michael A. Schuler, Parish Minister Human rights as a concept. The notion that human beings possess certain rights – inalienable or otherwise – is relatively modern. For much of history and in many cultures the idea didn’t sink in. But the question “what is a human right” still has not been settled and has been muddied by claims that animals and ecosystems also possess them. Today we’ll try to shed a bit more light on rights and their implications. Mon, 8 Oct 2007 15:12:00 CDT 00:20:28 human rights, Unitarian, Universalist, UU by Michael A. Schuler, Parish Minister Without responsibility, rights soon begin to erode and are rendered meaningless. We follow up last weeks reflections on “rights” with a consideration of responsibility – the other side of the moral coin. Regrettably, all the public clamor for rights is seldom accompanied by comparable agitation for greater responsibility. Many people prefer to think they are accountable only to themselves and/or their closest loved ones. But without responsibility, rights soon begin to erode and are rendered meaningless. Tue, 16 Oct 2007 08:29:00 CDT 00:20:48 responsibility, rights, Unitarian, Universalist, UU by Michael A. Schuler, Parish Minister What is the real meaning of the “inherent worth and dignity of every human soul?" Once a month, throughout the year, worship and religious education will focus on one of Unitarian Universalism’s seven core principles. Hopefully, this will give families an opportunity to engage in deeper and more meaningful conversation about these key spiritual concepts. We begin with a consideration of the “inherent worth and dignity of every human soul." Mon, 11 Nov 2007 013:30:00 CST 00:18:57 inherent worth, Unitarian, Universalist, UU by Karen Gustafson, Minister What does “community” mean? How do we know we have found it? The word “community” appears frequently throughout literature and conversation about Unitarian Universalism. On our FUS web-page we refer to FUS as a “religious community”; in our UU Statement Principles we refer to “the goal of world community”; in the New UU classes participants often speak of “seeking community” as a reason for coming to FUS. What might “community” mean in those contexts? When we seek it, how do we know we have found it? Does community exist independent of our participation in it? Mon, 11 Nov 2007 013:30:00 CST 00:15:20 Community, Unitarian, Universalist, UU by Michael A. Schuler, Parish Minister How important is hospitality? These days, hospitality is often characterized as a minor virtue, a gesture meant to grease the gears of human interchange. However, many traditional cultures place far greater emphasis on this principle and regard modern Western mores as crude and insensitive. This weekend we’ll give hospitality a second look. We will also celebrate All Souls Day and honor those members of our congregation who have passed in the last year. Mon, 11 Nov 2007 013:30:00 CST 00:26:41 Hospitality, Unitarian, Universalist, UU by Michael A. Schuler, Parish Minister What might it mean to cultivate a spirituality of the senses? The topic around which this service will revolve was suggested by the highest bidder for a “sermon of your choice” at last spring’s Cabaret Service Auction. What might it mean to cultivate a spirituality of the senses, as well as of the mind and emotions? Mon, 11 Nov 2007 013:30:00 CST 00:26:10 Sensuality, Unitarian, Universalist, UU by Karen Gustafson, Minister As a tradition whose participants are largely white and middle class, what makes this Principle a particular challenge? The second of the Unitarian Universalist statement of Principles challenges our congregations to “affirm and promote justice, equity and compassion in human relations.” Well,” we might say, “of course. Why not?” As a tradition whose participants are largely white and middle class, what makes this Principle a particular challenge? Mon, 4 Jan 2008 015:00:00 CST 00:25:06 Equity, justice, compassion, Unitarian, Universalist, UU with Kelly J. Crocker, Minister of Religious Education and Karen Gustafson, Minister It is not what we have but rather what we enjoy, which constitutes our abundance. During the Thanksgiving season, our minds naturally turn toward thoughts of abundance. We think of all that is present in our lives for which we are grateful. Join us for this service (suitable for ages 5 years and up) in which, through story and song, we will examine abundance and perhaps realize, as John Petit-Senn once wrote, “It is not what we have but rather what we enjoy, which constitutes our abundance. Mon, 7 Jan 2008 013:05:00 CST 00:26:01 Abundance, Unitarian, Universalist, UU by Michael A. Schuler, Parish Minister Does a negative outlook or so-called “stinking thinking” increase the odds of failure? Are we more likely to realize our dreams, fulfill our ambitions, find happiness if we cultivate optimism? Does a negative outlook or so-called “stinking thinking” increase the odds of failure. I’ve heard more than one person say they prefer pessimism to hope because it keeps disappointment at bay. Mon, 7 Jan 2008 013:10:00 CST 00:39:44 optomism, Unitarian, Universalist, UU The FUS Music Department, Dan Broner, Music Director A sample from our a music choral festival. A sample of our a music choral festival, here our two FUS adult choirs, the Society Choir and Meeting House Chorus, join forces in The Shepherds’ Chorus from Gian Carlo Menotti’s “Amahl and the Night Visitors.” Singing the roles of the Three Wise Men are John Kruse, Dennis Reece and Nick Schweitzer. Enjoy! You may download the entire file at our sermons page. Mon, 7 Jan 2008 013:21:00 CST 00:04:01 music, Unitarian, Universalist, UU by Drew C. Kennedy, Senior Minister, First Unitarian Society of Milwaukee, WI Can we bless our pain and somehow transform the struggles of our lives into wisdom? Drews sermon focuses on spiritual “soul-work,” and in particular the need to find ways to bless our pain and to somehow transform the struggles of our lives into wisdom. This is, arguably, a perennial spiritual challenge. Mon, 7 Jan 2008 013:31:00 CST 00:32:27 transformation, Unitarian, Universalist, UU by Michael A. Schuler, Parish Minister What are our options when life lets us down? Although many people take pleasure in the holidays and find them to be quite satisfying, others experience them as stressful and disappointing. Indeed, all the tinsel, gaiety and good cheer may deepen the latter’s negative mood by making them feel odd and excluded. Some congregations have attempted to address this issue by observing a “Blue Christmas.” What are our options when life lets us down? Thu, 31 Jan 2008 011:15:00 CST 00:16:43 unfairness, blue Christmas, Unitarian, Universalist, UU by Michael A. Schuler, Parish Minister Increasing numbers of durable products aree being replaced with ones with a much shorter life-expectancy. According to some, human beings past the age of forty suffer a similar fate. The concept of “planned obsolescence” acquired a certain notoriety several decades ago when it became apparent that increasing numbers of durable products were being replaced with ones with a much shorter life-expectancy. Today, a piece of electronic equipment can become obsolete in a matter of months. According to some, human beings past the age of forty suffer a similar fate. At the end of another year we’ll explore our options in this era of rapid change. Thu, 31 Jan 2008 011:20:00 CST 00:18:35 obsolescence, Unitarian, Universalist, UU by Kelly J. Crocker, Minister of Religious Education Can we encourage and challenge while accepting one another fully where they are? Our third UU principle is “we covenant to accept one another and encourage each other toward spiritual growth.” At first glance this may seem like two disparate goals lumped together. Can we encourage and challenge while accepting one another fully where they are? We’ll explore what this principle means for ourselves, our religious community, and our larger world. Thu, 31 Jan 2008 011:22:00 CST 00:19:40 accepting, encouraging, Unitarian, Universalist, UU by Karen Gustafson, Minister What does peacemaking mean and what might any of us do to more effectively speak truth to unreasonable power? Having tackled “community” and “justice” in her first two sermons at FUS, our newest minister, Karen Gustafson joins with a group of committed lay people to take up the question of “peacemaking.” The Unitarian Universalist Association has selected this topic as its four year “study/action issue” Come and find out what that means and what any of might do to more effectively speak truth to unreasonable power. Thu, 31 Jan 2008 11:30:00 CST 00:27:09 peacemaking, Unitarian, Universalist, UU by Michael A. Schuler, Parish Minister When religion goes bad, it really stinks up the place. Over the years a number of well-known commentators have placed the blame for many, if not most, of this planet’s problems at the doorstep of religion, including Mark Twain and most recently Christopher Hitchens. Such sweeping condemnations are typically based on selective evidence, but the fact remains that when religion goes bad, it really stinks up the place. Nevertheless, the solution is not the elimination of religion but mindful cultivation of its better varieties. Thu, 31 Jan 2008 11:35:00 CST 00:23:42 religion, Unitarian, Universalist, UU by Michael A. Schuler, Parish Minister Darkness as a physical and figurative fact is our focus at our reflection. One of Simon and Garfunkel’s better known songs begins with the line “Hello darkness my old friend, I’ve come to talk with you again…” The fact is, though, darkness is not considered the least bit “friendly” by most of us. The vast majority of our cultural metaphors for goodness, holiness and safety refer to light. Moreover, our preference for a well-lit environment has made it difficult, in many parts of the country, to recognize familiar constellations in the night sky. Darkness as a physical and figurative fact is our focus at our reflection. Mon, 4 Feb 2008 13:56:00 CST 00:20:29 racism, darkness, winter, Unitarian, Universalist, UU by Michael A. Schuler, Parish Minister Although Unitarian Universalists are often said to have “authority problems,” there are sources to which we, too, appeal. Religions vary widely over the question of authority: whose words, teachings and instructions, and which bodies of doctrine are followers obliged to heed? The Buddha famously urged seekers to “be lamps unto themselves.” Hierarchical religions, on the other hand, vest significant authority in a small council of elders (Mormonism) or a single figurehead (Roman Catholicism). Although Unitarian Universalists are often said to have “authority problems,” there are sources to which we, too, appeal. Mon, 11 Feb 2008 08:47:00 CST 00:19:09 authority, Unitarian, Universalist, UU by Karen Gustafson, Minister In order to be truly grateful and enriched, we need to continue to seek opportunities to move beyond mere tolerance of difference. The closing line of our Unitarian Universalist statement of Principles and Purposes says, “Grateful for the religious pluralism which enriches and ennobles our faith, we are inspired to deepen our understanding and expand our vision.” This weekend we will explore the possibility that in order to be truly grateful and enriched, we need to continue to seek opportunities to move beyond mere tolerance of difference and into authentic engagement. Thu, 28 Feb 2008 15:25:00 CST 00:28:23 pluralism, Unitarian, Universalist, UU by Karen Gustafson, Minister Let us consider a definition of “spirituality” that focuses as much on outcomes as upon practice. Critics and seekers alike often find Unitarian Universalism to be a tradition lacking in “spiritual depth.” Let us consider yet another definition of “spirituality” that focuses as much on outcomes as upon practice. Mon, 17 Mar 2008 15:30:00 CDT 00:21:29 spirituality, Unitarian, Universalist, UU by Michael A. Schuler, Parish Minister Are we free to shape our own destiny, or are we players working from someone else’s script? Mythology and/or religion frequently suggest that individuals (Frodo Baggins), communities (the Jews) and countries (the United States) are assigned a role in history that they cannot easily evade and are morally obliged to fulfill. Is there merit in that idea? Are we free to shape our own destiny, or are we players working from someone else’s script? Mon, 17 Mar 2008 15:30:00 CDT 00:18:37 destiny, Unitarian, Universalist, UU by Michael A. Schuler, Parish Minister Are there instances where, as a religion or as a society, we might want to embrace a non-democratic approach to decision-making? The fifth Principle of Unitarian Universalism guarantees freedom of individual conscience and encourages UUs to practice and promote democracy both within and beyond our movement. But how absolute a standard are we talking about here? Are there instances where, as a religion or as a society, we might want to embrace a different approach to decision-making? Mon, 17 Mar 2008 15:30:00 CDT 00:17:27 democracy, Unitarian, Universalist, UU by Michael A. Schuler, Parish Minister "Salvation" as interpreted by orthodox Christians is a narrow reading of the term. For orthodox Christians, Easter celebrates the risen Christ as a sure sign of the defeat of death and guaranteed salvation. For most Westerners, therefore, “salvation” has come to mean one thing: an eternity of care-free living in the company of God. However, this narrow reading of the term may make it difficult to perceive other ways in which we might individually or collectively be “saved.” Mon, 24 Mar 2008 09:45:00 CDT 00:15:22 salvation, Unitarian, Universalist, UU by Kelly J. Crocker, Minister of Religious Education Love may be perfect, but people, and relationships, clearly are not. Love may be perfect, but people, and relationships, clearly are not. We’ll look at love from a different perspective – not as a feeling but as a way of being in the world. We won’t focus on finding that ideal mate but on becoming a more loving, realistic, and mindful person. Love is a spiritual and heroic journey. Join us as we try to find insights into the lifelong journey of love. Mon, 14 Apr 2008 13:35:00 CST 00:21:11 love, Unitarian, Universalist, UU by Michael A. Schuler, Parish Minister Is heroism a matter of timing or of talent? What does it take to make a difference in the world? Some would say history is made by individuals exercising exceptional power or exhibiting uncommon brilliance. Others contend that “being in the right place at the right time” is what matters. Is heroism a matter of timing or of talent? Do we give the great souls of the human race too much or too little credit? Mon, 28 Apr 2008 14:21:00 CDT 00:20:20 heroism, Unitarian, Universalist, UU