Topic: Soul Matters Themes

Stories about Fathers and Fathering: Pathways to Spiritual Freedom

,

Writer, historian, and activist Rebecca Solnit writes that “We are our stories, stories that can be both prison and the crowbar to break out of that prison.” Stories we create do, indeed, constrict or liberate our spirit, especially when they involve parents and parenting. On Father’s Day 2025, we’ll hear Fellowship members’ narratives about their … Continue reading Stories about Fathers and Fathering: Pathways to Spiritual Freedom

Imagine All The People…

What would the world look like without possessions, countries or religion? John Lennon, in his 1971 song “Imagine”, imagined that a world lacking a few things would be more peaceful and loving. Are there beliefs or systems which humanity would be better off without? I hope, Sunday, you’ll join us…

Flower Communion

In June 1923, Rev. Norbert Čapek created a worship service imagining a more loving and beautiful world. He invited his congregation to bring a flower to church, and exchange for a different bloom. Flower Communion is a celebration of individuality and a hope for unity in diversity. Bring a flower from your yard, from a … Continue reading Flower Communion

Sing for Joy: UU Troubadours Sunday 2025

,
Thomas Paine UU Fellowship
Thomas Paine UU Fellowship
Sing for Joy: UU Troubadours Sunday 2025
Loading
/

Eminent psychiatrist and author, George Vaillant, observes in Spiritual Evolution: A Scientific Defense of Faith that “It is so much easier to sing of joy than to talk about it.” In keeping with April 2025’s Soul Matters theme, The Practice of Joy, this year’s UU Troubadours service will feature music expressing joy and celebrate the … Continue reading Sing for Joy: UU Troubadours Sunday 2025

The Joy of Easter

The Christian holiday Easter (and the pagan festival it originates from) are celebrations of rebirth and life. They are also holidays of joy – joy in a faith that death is not the final end. Can we also find a sense of joy when thinking about our mortality? What can the joy of Easter teach … Continue reading The Joy of Easter

Put Something In

Thomas Paine UU Fellowship
Thomas Paine UU Fellowship
Put Something In
Loading
/

The ministry theme for April is Joy and our spiritual practice is to bring joy into the world. This begs a question: how do we “bring joy” when we aren’t joyous? How can we be authentic to ourselves and embody something we don’t necessarily feel? Come to explore through story and song. Then stay after … Continue reading Put Something In

The Joy of Remembrance

,

Our Soul Matters theme for April is “Joy.” Our service this week will celebrate the joy of remembering members and friends we lost during the COVID pandemic. It may seem paradoxical to look for joy in such tragic loss, but time and gentle, joyful remembrance can replace sorrow. In remembering the connections we shared with … Continue reading The Joy of Remembrance

In Celebration of Women

,

In recognition of Women’s History Month, Cindy Westphal and Linda Weaver will reflect on the profound impact women have had throughout history.  Their message will emphasize the strength and resilience of women who have fought for justice, equality, and the worth and dignity of every human being.  Join us as we recognize the vital role … Continue reading In Celebration of Women

Perspective Taking

Are DEI (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion) workshops, affirmative action and hiring/membership quotas helpful? Although classes may educate and initiatives may change populations, neither are great at shifting mindset. One way to increase personal and communal understanding and inclusion is experiencing the world from another person’s point of view – to walk a mile (or more) … Continue reading Perspective Taking