While Unitarian Universalists and UU ministry have long been part of the military, UU communities have often struggled with the topics of war, peace, the military, those who serve, and their relationships to each other. What place have Unitarian Universalists historically had in the military, … read more.
In times like these, it’s easy to freak out, numb out, check out, burn out. But as Bayo Akomolefe says, “The times are urgent; let us slow down.” Let us take care of ourselves and each other, let us gain perspective, let us ground ourselves … read more.
What might change if we treated ourselves with the same compassion we so freely offer to others? This week, we’ll spend time exploring what it means to turn that kindness inward as we learn to show ourselves compassion in small, intentional ways. Together, we’ll reflect … read more.
We’ve all heard of the Golden Rule: “So in all things, do to others what you would want them to do to you—for this is what the law and the prophets are all about” (Matthew 7:12, First Nations Version).
What if instead of treating others … read more.
In times of conflict and division, what does it mean to embody true compassion? This Sunday, we reflect on the life of Clara Barton, a nurse, humanitarian, and founder of the American Red Cross, and the radical lesson her actions on a Civil War battlefield … read more.
This past Thursday was Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the year in Judaism. Yom Kippur concludes the High Holy Days that began on September 22 with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. The Hebrew traditions are a piece of our Unitarian Universalist sources, and … read more.
We live in a time when the world can feel unfamiliar, one marked by division, conflict, and disconnection. How do we find our way in such a “strange and distant land”? This Sunday, we’ll explore what it means to live by a Unitarian Universalist ethic … read more.
Rev Bret will share a little of the story that brought him to Rockford. After sojourns in places as far flung as Texas, Chicago, California, and Japan (and most recently, trying out vanlife for the better part of a year), he will share some tips and … read more.
This month we explore the theme of Building Belonging. During this special service, community members will share personal reflections on what belonging looks like in their lives at work, in schools, in community spaces, and here in our church. Their stories remind us that … read more.
Belonging is complex. It’s not fitting in at all cost or giving up something of yourself. And it’s not running roughshod through a place to make it your own. This is the paradox of belonging. Brene Brown writes it takes courage to experience true belonging … read more.
