NOTE: Sermons may be available in either text format (in PDF) or in audio (streaming mp3). Click on either "TEXT" or "AUDIO" to download the sermon. PDF format can be read on any computer with the Adobe Acrobat Reader, which is available, at no cost, at http://www.adobe.com
In order to hear the audio format, your computer must be able to play mp3. (Most computers are already equipped this way.)
| 06/19/2011 | "Acceptance " | TEXT | | Reverend Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| In the year that saw the tragic death of Tyler Clementi and then the growth of the “It Gets Better” campaign (a
video campaign started by gay columnist/writer Dan Savage http://www.itgetsbetter.org/), we reaffirm our
welcome and inclusion of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning…
|
| _____ |
| 06/05/2011 | "Becoming " | TEXT | | Reverend Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| Today we enact a uniquely Unitarian Universalist ritual, the Flower Communion. All are welcome to take part as
we celebrate the diversity and the harmony of the human community. In addition, Elizabeth Gittelman and her
students will be our special musical guests.
Worship Associate: Kim Andersen
|
| _____ |
| 05/15/2011 | "Whose Are We?" | TEXT | | Reverend Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| Just as it is important to know who you are, we cannot live fully unless we can claim some calling or connection to
something beyond ourselves. This morning’s Service opens us to the exploration of that great question, “whose are
you?”
|
| _____ |
| 05/08/2011 | " Broken and Whole" | TEXT | | Reverend Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
This morning we honor Vesak, the celebration honoring the Buddha’s birth and Enlightenment, and consider how
his teachings help us live our lives no matter what.
Worship Associate: Peter Kahn
|
| _____ |
| 01/30/2011 | "Half Full" | TEXT | | Reverend Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| This is Rev. Susan’s last Sunday in the pulpit before sabbatical. And it is the
“last” of the seven virtues sermons: focusing on Hope. Music this Sunday will
be provided by Kiya Heartwood, whose songs and voice will lift you up and
then get you singing!
Worship Associate: Paul Pineiro
|
| _____ |
| 01/23/2011 | " Building Peace" | TEXT | | Reverend Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| Drawing inspiration from the Unitarian Society “summer reading program”
book Three Cups of Tea, this morning’s service explores peacemaking from
another angle. Reading any of Greg Mortensen’s books is not a prerequisite,
but there is still time, if you haven’t!
Worship Associate: Kathy Mattingly
|
| _____ |
| 01/09/2011 | "To Save or Savor the World" | TEXT | | Reverend Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| The virtue of transcendence increases our ability to both revel in the joys of
life and to embrace and address its sorrows. Margaret Patkus will join her
grandfather Dan Lindblom providing special music for this Service.
Worship Associate: Ray Deeney
|
| _____ |
| 01/02/2011 | "Works in Progress" | TEXT | | Reverend Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| There’s something about a “new year” that begs reflecting on where we might
be headed. Do you have plans, resolutions, dreams for 2011?
Worship Associate: Michelle Vedus-Deeney
|
| _____ |
| 12/24/2010 | "Candlelight & Carols Service" | TEXT | | Reverend Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| Christmas belongs to everyone, so come share the joy and peace of the season in this
service of readings, holiday carols and special music. And we celebrate the ageless
Christmas story in this winter season with our traditional candle-lighting. This one service welcomes
everyone into an atmosphere of both festivity and contemplation. Do feel free to invite family and guests!
|
| _____ |
| 12/19/2010 | " Is It All a Humbug?" | TEXT | | Reverend Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| We usher in the season of joy and wishing and yes, wanting. What is at the heart of our longing? (and yes, the
sermon is built around that most famous of Christmas tales!)
Worship Associate: Carol Church
|
| _____ |
| 12/12/2010 | "Embracing Prudence" | TEXT | | Reverend Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| A reflection on how the ancient virtue of temperance complements holiday festivity and creativity. It will be a jazzy
morning with pianist John Bianculli providing music for our Service!
Worship Associate:Barry Miller
|
| _____ |
| 11/07/2010 | " A Simple Survival Handbook" | TEXT | | Rev. Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| This post-Election Day sermon that explores how our liberal faith and
values help us live a centered, grounded life in the face of the frustration
and turmoil we experience all too often.. The Hindu festival of Diwali
begins on November 5th - and the essence of this celebration may provide
some guidance for us, too.
Worship Associate: Ray Deeney |
| _____ |
| 10/31/2010 | "Lean on Me" | TEXT | | Rev. Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| We say we offer sympathy to the bereaved, but perhaps the virtue of compassion helps us better support one and
another and to remember well. This will also be our annual recognition of El Dia de los Muertos - The Day of the
Dead - we will set up an altar to recall those who have gone before.
We say we offer sympathy to the bereaved, but perhaps the virtue of compassion helps us better support one and
another and to remember well. This will also be our annual recognition of El Dia de los Muertos - The Day of the
Dead - we will set up an altar to recall those who have gone before.
Worship Associate: Paul Pineiro
|
| _____ |
| 10/24/2010 | "Reading the Rug" | TEXT | | Rev. Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| Did you know there is a Unitarian in the Oval Office? Some of the words woven into the new rug are from
Theodore Parker, Unitarian minister, Transcendentalist and 19th century reformer. So we belatedly celebrate his
200th birthday (24 August 1810) and honor a sometimes forgotten forebear.
Worship Associate: Kathy Mattingly
|
| _____ |
| 10/10/2010 | "Beyond Bravado" | TEXT | | Reverend Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| No matter what you do or where you reside, living – really living – takes courage. This is second in a series on
"reclaiming seven essential virtues for a human and humane life.”
Worship Associate: Kim Andersen |
| _____ |
| 09/26/2010 | " What Do You Know?" | TEXT | | Rev. Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| We study, observe, experience, and learn much in our lives. But how do we cultivate wisdom? (This is the first of
seven services that will expand on the August sermon on “virtue” (the rest will be scattered throughout the fall and
winter). A post-Service discussion (with refreshments) will follow.
Worship Associate: Peter Kahn
|
| _____ |
| 09/19/2010 | " Return Again" | TEXT | | Rev. Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| The sound of the shofar on Yom Kippur has brought the High Holy Days to a close. Our annual recognition of the
themes and inspiration of the Days of Awe focuses on resilience. The Service will, as it has in the past, include
ritual, reflection and special music.
The sound of the shofar on Yom Kippur has brought the High Holy Days to a close. Our annual recognition of the
themes and inspiration of the Days of Awe focuses on resilience. The Service will, as it has in the past, include
ritual, reflection and special music.
Worship Associate: Kim Andersen
|
| _____ |
| 08/22/2010 | " Making a Painting" | TEXT | | Rev. Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| A reflection on creative expression, drawing from my recent experiences taking an art class.
Worship Associate: Barry Miller
|
| _____ |
| 08/15/2010 | "For Goodness’ Sake" | TEXT | | Rev. Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| Virtue is its own reward – and that may have to be enough!
Worship Associate: Bob Bartynski
|
| _____ |
| 06/20/2010 | "Paternity Tests" | TEXT | | Reverend Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| What does it mean to be a father? This morning’s service will reflect on the
blessings and tensions around fatherhood.
Worship Associate: Barry Miller
|
| _____ |
| 06/13/2010 | " Community and Service" | TEXT | | Reverend Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| These two words are part of our “Bond of Union” and speak to who we are –
or aim to be. In celebration of these ideas, a “Flower Communion” will be
part of our Service this morning (see note at right). And Elizabeth Gittleman
and her flute students will be our special musical guests.
Worship Associate: Bob Bartynski
|
| _____ |
| 05/23/2010 | " I Accept the Universe" | TEXT | | Rev. Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| Come celebrate the 200th birthday of Margaret Fuller: religious radical,
avant-garde cultural critic, feminist, progressive social theorist, investigative
journalist, war correspondent, public intellectual, Unitarian.
Worship Associate: Bob Bartynski
|
| _____ |
| 05/16/2010 | " Still Sitting" | TEXT | | Rev. Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| The Buddha said, “Work out your own salvation with diligence.” Today we honor Vesak and keeping the
commitments we make, big and small.
Worship Associate: Kathy Mattingly
|
| _____ |
| 05/09/2010 | "A Good Enough Parent" | TEXT | | Rev. Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| The perfect parent, the perfect child… fodder for novelists and psychologists and our own religious journey. We
will also mark the 140th anniversary of Mother’s Peace Day.
Worship Associate: Angela Pineiro
|
| _____ |
| 04/18/2010 | " Sustainability Choices: Beyond “Paper or Plastic”" | TEXT | | Reverend Dr. Susan Veronica Rak & Green Sanctuary |
| We celebrate the 40th anniversary of Earth Day. The TUS Green Sanctuary Team joins Rev. Susan in an
exploration of sustainable living.
|
| _____ |
| 04/11/2010 | "Grief and Growth" | TEXT | | Reverend Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| ... a reflection on loss, grief and letting go.
Worship Associate: Bob Bartynski
|
| _____ |
| 03/28/2010 | " Preparing the Way" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
Palm Sunday tells of a triumphal entry that leads to the way of the cross. This ancient story still has
relevance, even if we can’t agree on the facts. Where are we on those fabled roads?
Worship Associate: Barry Miller
|
| _____ |
| 03/21/2010 | " Stand Together" | TEXT | | Reverend Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
Music by local jazz pianist John Bianculli and friends
enriches this service focused on the unity in our
diversity. The annual Fellowship Jazz Brunch will follow. Please join us for a special, festive Sunday
celebrating our community!
Worship Associate: Bob Bartynski
|
| _____ |
| 02/28/2010 | "A Difficult Woman" | TEXT | | Reverend Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
Ida B. Wells was “an inspired journalist, an uncompromising civil libertarian, and a woman far ahead of her patriarchal times.” Can her courage inspire us still?
Worship Associate: Ray Deeney |
| _____ |
| 01/10/2010 | "Constructive Community" | TEXT | | Reverend Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
What allows a disparate group of people to build “community”?
Worship Associate: Carol Church |
| _____ |
| 01/03/2010 | "To Be Determined" | TEXT | | Reverend Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
No, this is not simply a “place-holder” title… it’s time to ponder our New Year’s “resolutions”.
Worship Associate: Kathy Mattingly |
| _____ |
| 12/24/2009 | "Candlelight Service" | TEXT | | Reverend Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| Christmas belongs to everyone, so come share the joy of the season in this service of
readings, traditional carols, special music, reflection and celebration. We celebrate the
season in story, song and share our traditional candle-lighting. The earlier Service is
family-friendly, and the second offers the same content in a quieter atmosphere.
Please bring a sweet or savory (“cookies or canapés”) plate to share for a brief Reception following the first Service.
Mulled cider, coffee and tea will be served.
And we will honor the children born or welcomed into our families in the past year. If you would like to
have your family included, or need more information, please contact Rev. Susan (revsvrak@verizon.net) by 12/21 |
| _____ |
| 12/13/2009 | "What Are You Waiting for?" | TEXT | | Reverend Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| This is the season of waiting… for a lamp to be lighted, for the birth of a savior. What are we waiting?
Worship Associate: Barry Miller |
| _____ |
| 11/29/2009 | "Pause on the Threshold" | TEXT | | Reverend Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| These late autumn-early winter days present unique opportunities for flexing our “spiritual” muscles.
Worship Associate: Carol Church |
| _____ |
| 11/22/2009 | "The Welcome Table" | TEXT | | Reverend Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| There is room for everyone at our table! Join us for our annual Thanksgiving Bread-sharing (communion) intergenerational Service. Worship Associate: Ray Deeney |
| _____ |
| 11/08/2009 | "Fear Itself" | TEXT | | Reverend Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| In a worrisome world, in times of change and uncertainty, how do we go on?
Worship Associate: Angela Pineiro |
| _____ |
| 11/01/2009 | "Life and Death" | TEXT | | Reverend Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| On All Saints Day, we reflect on the preciousness of life and in the spirit of El Dia de los Muertos, the
Mexican Day of the Dead, celebrate and honor those who have gone before.
Don’t forget to set your clocks Halloween night: “fall back” one hour. And this is also “Souper Sunday” - you won’t want to miss that! Worship Associate: Michelle Vedus-Deeney |
| _____ |
| 10/25/2009 | "Mission: Impossible" | TEXT | | Reverend Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| Last year we spent a Sunday morning talking together about our mission as a Unitarian Universalist congregation. Now we take this a step further and explore how we can live into our aspirations.
This is also Association Sunday, where we join with other Unitarian Universalist congregations around the country in supporting larger UU initiatives as “we grow in diversity”. Our Cash-in-Basket collection will go toward this combined effort. Worship Associate: Kathy Mattingly |
| _____ |
| 10/18/2009 | "Relevant Religion" | TEXT | | Reverend Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| Does liberal religion have anything to say in the 21st century? Is it time for us to step forward? Worship Associate: Kim Andersen |
| _____ |
| 10/04/2009 | "Rebuilding" | TEXT | | Reverend Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| Yom Kippur brought the High Holy Days to a close, but atonement and beginning again does not stop there. We honor these special days in the Jewish calendar with ritual, reflection and music. Joel Swerdel, shofar; Rachelle Burke, music. Worship Associate: Barry Miller |
| _____ |
| 09/27/2009 | "When We Worship" | TEXT | | Rev. Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| Our religion has evolved beyond ancient people’s needs to explain the unexplained. With no deity at
hand, what are we doing here?Worship Associate: Carol Church |
| _____ |
| 09/20/2009 | "Where We Stand" | TEXT | | Rev. Dr. Susan Veronica Rak |
| The proposed changes to the wording of the UUA Principles asked Unitarian Universalists to seriously
consider what we value and where we ground our beliefs. The proposal did not pass and so the
conversation continues.
Worship Associate: Ray Deeney |
| _____ |
| 06/07/2009 | "Choosing to Be Here" | | AUDIO | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| What makes a congregation? Today we celebrate the people who create
this Unitarian Universalist community. It is also Flower Communion Sunday,
so don’t forget your “flower”
Worship Associate: Peter Kahn
|
| _____ |
| 05/03/2009 | "Getting Religion" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| The word “religion” is sometimes rejected in Unitarian Universalist circles. So what is the role of religion
in our lives? We also honor Vesak - Buddha Day.
Worship Associate: Angela Pineiro |
| _____ |
| 04/19/2009 | " Silence Speaks" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| How can we talk about the horrible, devastating aspects of life? And how should we remember? We
commemorate Yom Hashoah in our service this morning (Holocaust Remembrance Day is April 21st).
Worship Associate: Ray Deeney
|
| _____ |
| 04/12/2009 | " Out of the Dark" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| Unitarian Universalists celebrate Easter as a Spring festival, yet part of it still remains shrouded in
mystery. So we celebrate the ambiguity, the improbability and the joy of this day, and join in the
chorus of life!
Worship Associate: Stephanie Sasso |
| _____ |
| 03/29/2009 | "Drawing the Circle" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| Some thoughts on living and loving the tension of our theological pluralism
Worship Associate: Michelle Vedus-Deeney |
| _____ |
| 03/22/2009 | " Seized by Avidity" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| A sermon reflecting on the life and work of Judith Sargent Murray — honoring our Universalist heritage
and Women’s History Month.
Worship Associate: Barry Miller
|
| _____ |
| 03/15/2009 | " Who, Me?" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| On this special morning, our Service celebrates the possibility before us and
the difference we can make. Guest musicians join us to put a jazzy blues
spin on the day!
Worship Associate: Bob Bartynski
|
| _____ |
| 03/08/2009 | "Prayer: An Evolution" | | AUDIO | Reverend Barbara Gadon |
| Can Unitarian Universalists pray? We joke about addressing our prayers, “To Whom It May Concern”,
but that doesn’t have to be a stopper. Tricky decisions about salutation aside, there are riches to be found
in prayer, in ways that respect our varieties of belief about God. Rev. Barbara Gadon is the Minister of Pastoral Care and Programs at First Unitarian Church in Wilmington, DE.
She is also a collage artist, knitter and blogger, and is joyfully married to Robert Gadon, an instructor in the Iyengar
yoga tradition.
Worship Associate: Kathy Mattingly |
| _____ |
| 02/22/2009 | "The Good of the Whole" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak & Comm. on Ministry |
An exploration of the mission of a religious congregation and how we will be together.
Worship Associate: Carol Church
|
| _____ |
| 02/08/2009 | "Endless Forms Most Beautiful" | | AUDIO | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
We wish a Happy Birthday to Charles Darwin, who was born 200 years ago on February 12th. Let’s celebrate Evolution - after all, where would we be without it?
And a very merry “un-Birthday” to each of you!
Everybody’s Birthday Party will be held after the Service.
Worship Associate: Angela Pineiro
|
| _____ |
| 01/18/2009 | "Are We There Yet?" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| On the Sunday before the Martin Luther King Jr. “holiday”, the preacher wonders what she would say if she were giving “the Inauguration Day invocation...”
Worship Associate: Michelle Vedus-Deeney
|
| _____ |
| 01/11/2009 | "Cherish Your Doubts" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| Doubt is the cornerstone of religious freedom but can leave us adrift in a world that prizes certainty. Worship Associate: Barry Miller
|
| _____ |
| 01/04/2009 | "Setting Forth" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| Another “new year” arrives and we reflect on the road behind and before us in our faith journeys. Worship Associate: Kathy Mattingly
|
| _____ |
| 12/21/2008 | "Waiting for the Light" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| Honoring Yule, the coming of winter - embracing the contrasts of dark and light.
And following the Service - Mary Chinery and Rev. Susan will provide extra-special fellowship hour fare to celebrate for the winter holiday season - our annual “Io, Saturnalia!” We’ll also trim our tree in the Sanctuary. Worship Associate: Peter Kahn
|
| _____ |
| 12/14/2008 | "A Hunger for Justice" | TEXT | AUDIO | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| “Ethical eating” - can we afford anything else? Worship Associate: Carol Church
|
| _____ |
| 12/07/2008 | "Hope and Courage" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| In these uncertain times, we take heart from the words of Universalist preacher John Murray.
This is also “Souper Sunday”! Worship Associate: Stephanie Sasso
|
| _____ |
| 11/23/2008 | "Grudgingly Thankful" | TEXT | AUDIO | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| Sometimes, when life looks pretty gloomy, it’s hard to feel thankful - but gratitude may be all we’ve got! We celebrate our annual Thanksgiving Communion on this day. Worship Associate: Michelle Vedus-Deeney
|
| _____ |
| 11/09/2008 | "You Gotta Have Heart" | TEXT | AUDIO | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| Election Day has come and gone… what now? How can our religious tradition help us? Worship Associate: Peter Kahn
|
| _____ |
| 11/02/2008 | "Celebrating Life" | TEXT | AUDIO | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| This is All Souls Day, a mournful day on the Christian calendar. Yet it is also a time to celebrate and honor those who have gone before. We will do so in the spirit of El Dia de los Muertos, the Mexican Day of the Dead This is also “Souper Sunday”! Worship Associate: Kathleen Mattingly
|
| _____ |
| 10/26/2008 | "A Great Experiment" | TEXT | AUDIO | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| In this “Election Day” sermon we consider of our religious principles and why a vote - your vote - matters. Worship Associate: Barry Miller
|
| _____ |
| 10/19/2008 | "We Take No Followers" | | AUDIO | Reverend Wendy Pantoja |
| Whether born into Unitarian Universalism or having come in from elsewhere, the nature of our religious movement is such that one is called to be an active participant in carving out our spiritual path. We will explore what it means to be co-creators of what is true and meaningful in the life of the individual and in our relation with the interdependent web of all existence. Worship Associate: Bob Bartynski
|
| _____ |
| 10/12/2008 | "Can We Talk About It?" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
With hundreds of other Unitarian Universalist congregations, we celebrate Association Sunday… and explore the possibility of unity in our diversity. Worship Associate: Kim Andersen
NOTE: A Congregational Meeting will follow the Service. |
| _____ |
| 10/05/2008 | "Just Move On" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| We honor the Jewish High Holy Days with ritual, reflection and music (with contralto Kimberly Andersen) and a sermon considering the intricacies of atonement – certainly it is more than what the title of the sermon suggests!. Worship Associate: Carol Church
|
| _____ |
| 09/21/2008 | "One Day" | | AUDIO | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| The Autumn equinox ushers in a time of balance and equality. What might it teach us in this 21st century? A hint: this is also “Peace Day”, a global event that seeks to make personal and planetary peace a possibility |
| _____ |
| 09/14/2008 | "Sanctuary" | | AUDIO | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| This room, this building is not just any ordinary place. What does this physical enclosure of our spiritual/religious home mean? |
| _____ |
| 07/20/2008 | "What can UUs Learn from Shia Islam?" | | AUDIO | Amy Glenn |
| Join us for a special focus on Shia Islam. As a Religion and Philosophy teacher at The Lawrenceville School in New Jersey and as an avid world traveler who explored Iran in August 2004, Amy Glenn draws upon both scholarly and personal experience. What can Unitarian Universalists learn from the Shia tradition of Islam, which accounts for about 15% of the world's 1.3 billion Muslim population? In addition to explaining key features that distinguish Shiite and Sunni forms of worship and theology, Glenn will also address key spiritual insights that all can consider from the Shiite tradition. Following the service, Amy Glenn will present an informal and open discussion based slide presentation of her summer 2004 travels in Iran. This is an event not to miss!
Service Music: Rick Pressler. Service Lay Leader: Michelle Veedus-Deeney
|
| _____ |
| 06/29/2008 | "The Pastoral Response to Job" | | AUDIO | Rev. Dr. Nicole C. Kirk |
| The Book of Job is one of the more compelling books in the Hebrew Bible. Job is often remembered as a symbol of human suffering. He is a man whom we are told is blameless, yet all calamities fall at his doorstep. How do we care for those who face immense suffering? How would we care for Job? Come and explore through ancient story the possibilities around this weighty question. Service Lay Leader: Ray Deeney
|
| _____ |
| 06/22/2008 | "Flags and Pride" | | AUDIO | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| It’s just colorful fabric stitched together - yet whether it’s on a lapel or waving in the breeze, it says something - but what? Service Lay Leader: Mary Howard |
| _____ |
| 05/18/2008 | "Be Still" | | AUDIO | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| Perhaps the practice of Buddhism is not easy, but it may as simple as this service’s title. This will be a busy Sunday: R.E. Teacher Appreciation, a Baby Dedication; music provided by our guest Justin Roth; and the Congregational Annual Meeting following it all. Service Lay Leader: Angela Pineiro |
| _____ |
| 05/11/2008 | "Power of Truth" | | AUDIO | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| Satyagraha is Gandhi's term for "truth force" (or the power of truth) -- the animating principle of nonviolent struggle. Can these ideas help us find commonality in our disparate approaches to questions of war and peace, and confronting injustice? Kim Andersen and Fred Ford join Dan Lindblom to provide special music. Service Lay Leader: Kathy Mattingly |
| _____ |
| 05/04/2008 | "To Remember Well" | | AUDIO | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| A reflection on hope, uncertainty, trust, and love. Included in this Service will be a Yom Hashoah(Holocaust) remembrance. Service Lay Leader: Michelle Vedus-Deeney |
| _____ |
| 04/20/2008 | "Was Kermit Right???" | TEXT | AUDIO | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| Perhaps “being green” is not easy - but now more than ever it is necessary. Join us for a celebration of Earth Day! Service Lay Leader: Walter Mattingly |
| _____ |
| 04/13/2008 | "The Purpose of the Pulpit and the Pew" | TEXT | AUDIO | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| Preaching in our tradition, like in other Protestant churches, demands freedom and a shared responsibility that goes both ways. Service Lay Leader: Ray Deeney |
| _____ |
| 04/06/2008 | "Peculiar Treasures" | TEXT | AUDIO | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| What kind of relationship can independently-minded skeptics, seekers and other Unitarian Universalists have with the Bible? We explore some of our historical and contemporary connections to the Jewish and Christian scriptures in this sermon. (n.b. - this topic was “purchased” at last years Goods & Services Auction!) Service Lay Leader: Mary Howard |
| _____ |
| 03/30/2008 | "Unitarian Universalism in One Word" | TEXT | AUDIO | Raj Nigram |
| We live in the world of executive summaries, elevator speeches, one-liners and even sound-bites. Well, let’s take it to the extreme. If we were forced to choose just one word to characterize our Unitarian Universalism, what would that be? We welcome back Raj Nigram, member of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Princeton, who will disclose his choice — hopefully, it will stimulate us to think what we are all about.. Service Lay Leader: Kim Andersen |
| _____ |
| 03/23/2008 | "Invisible Easter" | TEXT | AUDIO | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| Following the Spring Equinox, we celebrate the hidden mystery of growth and ponder “resurrection”. The 10:30 AM Service will be an Intergenerational celebration and our Young People’s Chorus will perform. Service Lay Leader: Angela Pineiro |
| _____ |
| 03/16/2008 | "Transcendentalist Roots" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| We explore and reflect on this 19th century philosophy and movement - how it reverberates still in our liberal religion. Service Lay Leader: Mary Howard |
| _____ |
| 03/02/2008 | "The Law of Love" | | AUDIO | The Reverend Edmund Robinson |
| Rev. Robinson was a lawyer before entering the ministry, and this sermon describes his personal experience with the death penalty as he accompanied a death-row client to his execution ten years ago. In this crucible, he reflects on Universalist values of love, the nature of evil, redemption and salvation. Service Lay Leader: Bob Bartynski |
| _____ |
| 02/24/2008 | "This I Believe" | | AUDIO | Adult Ed. Class |
| Participants of the Adult RE Class "A Chosen Faith" and other members of our congregation share their unique spiritual journeys and their deeper understanding of Unitarian Universalism. Service Lay Leader: Kathy Mattingly |
| _____ |
| 02/03/2008 | "Fallow Times" | TEXT | AUDIO | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| On the pagan calendar it is Imbolc or Candlemas… a time when lands lie fallow before the spring plowing; and like the earth, we prepare for some new thing, perhaps yet unknown. Service Lay Leader: Brian Ryan |
| _____ |
| 01/20/2008 | "The Beloved Community" | TEXT | AUDIO | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| How can we live out the dream and the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.? Service Lay Leader: Walter Mattingly |
| _____ |
| 01/13/2008 | "You Are What You Eat" | TEXT | AUDIO | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| What does the food we put in our bodies - what we choose to eat - say about our spiritual condition? Service Lay Leader: Angela Pineiro |
| _____ |
| 01/06/2008 | "The Magi’s Gift" | TEXT | AUDIO | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| It is Epiphany day - does the story of the “wise men” offer us more than gold, frankincense and myrrh? Special music will be provided by Pat Mundy, flute, Ken Kohler, tenor, and Dan Lindblom, harpsichord. Service Lay Leader: Mary Howard |
| _____ |
| 12/24/2007 | "Steadfast Love - a Unitarian Universalist Christma" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
We celebrate the season in story, song, and spread the light, one candle kindling another. Christmas belongs to everyone - come share the joy of the season.
5:30 PM, with a special emphasis for families and a celebration of new life among us
7:00 PM offers a more contemplative style of the same service |
| _____ |
| 12/23/2007 | "The Holly and the Ivy" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
The Winter Solstice is here! We celebrate the turning of the year, ending with a Hanging of the Greens and tree-trimming.
Service Lay Leader: Kathy Mattingly |
| _____ |
| 12/16/2007 | "224 Pages Jerry Falwell Didn't Want You to Read" | | AUDIO | Marc Adams |
This Sunday we are proud to present Marc Adams, author of the Lambda Literary Award finalist and Silver Pen Award recipient autobiography, The Preacher's Son. In his talk, Adams will share some of his life’s story, share from his new book (lost)Found, as well as talk about HeartStrong, Inc., the non-profit organization he co-founded. (This Sermon has been re-scheduled from November 23)
Service Lay Leader: Michelle Veedus-Deeney |
| _____ |
| 12/09/2007 | "Comfort and Joy" | TEXT | AUDIO | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
What meaning does the "inalienable right" to the "pursuit of happiness" have in our lives? We will honor Hanukkah in the "family" portion of the second Service.
Service Lay Leader: Stephanie Sasso |
| _____ |
| 11/25/2007 | "You Are Not Alone" | TEXT | AUDIO | Rev. Susan Veronica Rak |
A reflection on being a self-reliant individual and the desire to connect with others.
Service Lay Leader:Ray Deeney |
| _____ |
| 11/18/2007 | "To Live Abundantly" | TEXT | AUDIO | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| Does the Thanksgiving holiday hold a secret, one that might help us live a richer, fuller life? Come find out what it is (you probably already know it, though). The Service includes our annual Bread Sharing, and the 10:30 Service will be an all-ages celebration. Music for flute and harpsichord, with flutist Pat Mundy will grace the morning.
Service Lay Leader: Kim Andersen |
| _____ |
| 11/11/2007 | "To End All Wars" | TEXT | AUDIO | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| On Veteran’s Day we pause to honor the lives lost to wars now and in our past, and consider the omnipresence of war - and the possibility of peace. Our music this Sunday will include a Schubert song, Soldier's Foreboding, sung by Ken Kohler
Service Lay Leader: Bob Bartynski |
| _____ |
| 11/04/2007 | "Remembrance" | TEXT | AUDIO | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| A reflection on the beauty of life, and the gift of remembering in the face of loss; the service will include special music of Brahms from contralto Kimberly Andersen.
Service Lay Leader: Angela Pineiro |
| _____ |
| 10/28/2007 | "All of the Above" | TEXT | AUDIO | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
Have you ever been drawn to option “d” or “e” in a multiple choice exam? We reflect this Sunday on a religion that invites this answer more often than not.
Service Lay Leader: Mary Howard |
| _____ |
| 10/21/2007 | "Talking with God" | | AUDIO | John Gattuso |
In his book Talking with God, John Gattuso has compiled essays on the subject of prayer from many of our most prominent spiritual thinkers, including the Dalai Lama, Desmond Tutu, C.S. Lewis, Gandhi and Thich Nhat Hanh. These essays speak about the nature of prayer from the perspective of many faiths, including issues such as:
• the “instinct” for prayer and the need of people of every creed and culture to reach out to the divine
• the meaning and efficacy of petitionary prayer
• methods of contemplative prayer and meditation, and the human need for silence and stillness
• the role of prayer in the larger community and the deepening of compassion"
Service Lay Leader: Walter Mattingly |
| _____ |
| 10/14/2007 | "A Kindred Fellowship" | TEXT | AUDIO | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
Today we celebrate our connections with 100’s of Unitarian Universalist congregations on Association Sunday. One Unitarian Universalist is a fine thing. One hundred and seventy-five in a congregation is wonderful community of purpose and fellowship. Come, let us extrapolate this further!
Service Lay Leader: Kathy Mattingly |
| _____ |
| 09/30/2007 | "A Free Faith" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| Our heritage is not cost-free Service Lay Leader - Kim Andersen |
| _____ |
| 09/23/2007 | "We Begin, Again" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| Honoring the Jewish High Holy Days Service Lay Leader - Brian Ryan |
| _____ |
| 09/16/2007 | "Whose Are We?" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| To whom or what do we owe allegiance? Service Lay Leader - Bob Bartynski |
| _____ |
| 08/26/2007 | "Walking Together" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| Service Lay Leader -Bob Bartynski |
| _____ |
| 08/19/2007 | "You’re a What???" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
|
| _____ |
| 06/03/2007 | "More Than a Roof" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
Ending homelessness in this country takes more than getting people off the street for a night or two. Come hear how we can do something to help.
Service Lay Leader - Walter Mattingly
|
| _____ |
| 05/27/2007 | "Question Box Sermon" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
Something on your mind? Wondering about a particular Unitarian Universalist religious practice or bit of history? No, this is not “stump the minister” but an opportunity for us to reflect and share our wonderings or conundrums…
Service Lay Leader – Kim Andersen |
| _____ |
| 05/13/2007 | "Ever Hopeful Gardeners" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
A reflection on parenting and growth… a rather risky business with great rewards and an equal amount of risk. It is a Family Sunday and young people will be with us for the first part of the Service.
Service Lay Leader – Kathy Scarbrough |
| _____ |
| 04/29/2007 | "A Great Heart" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
Wesak is the celebration of the “Buddha’s Birthday”. In honor of the enduring values of Buddhist practice, we examine the principles of compassion and loving kindness.
Service Lay Leader – Kathy Mattingly |
| _____ |
| 04/15/2007 | "Out of the Whirlwind" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
Today is Yom Ha’Shoah, Holocaust Remembrance day. Let us honor this day, but how can we face such horrific, human calamity and find a life-affirming message?
Service Lay Leader – Mary Howard |
| _____ |
| 04/08/2007 | "You’ve Got Potential" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
We gather for our Unitarian Universalist observance of Spring and find there’s a little bit of “Easter” in each of us! Our second Service, at 10:30 a.m., an Intergenerational Service for Kindergarten and up.
Service Lay Leader – Angela Pineiro |
| _____ |
| 03/25/2007 | "Who Was That Man?" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| Teacher, prophet, rebel, rabbi, carpenter, savior… perhaps it matters less “who” he was than it does to grasp what the “Jesus story” has to tell us.
Service Lay Leader – Bob Bartynski |
| _____ |
| 03/18/2007 | "Unique and Unrepeatable" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| A reflection on the life of Maria Montessori and the principles her methods promote - so very Unitarian Universalist! And this is a Family Sunday in our 10:30 Service.
Service Lay Leader – Kim Andersen |
| _____ |
| 03/04/2007 | "Throw It Away" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| This is our annual Canvass Sunday and the theme comes from a song by jazz artist Abbey Lincoln. We’ll explore giving until it feels good!
Service Lay Leader – Kathy Scarbrough |
| _____ |
| 02/11/2007 | "All You Need Is Love" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| Really - it’s that simple. But it all depends on what you mean by “love” |
| _____ |
| 02/04/2007 | "To Answer Life with Life" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| Insight into the richness of life from 20th century preacher and theologian Howard Thurman |
| _____ |
| 01/28/2007 | "How Can We Keep from Singing?" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| Why are Unitarian Universalists such poor hymn singers? There is an answer, but does this old saw still hold true?
Service Lay Leader - Brian Ryan |
| _____ |
| 01/14/2007 | "Who Is My Neighbor?" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| A service and sermon in celebration of the life and legacy of the Martin Luther King Jr.
Service Lay Leader - Ray Deeney |
| _____ |
| 01/07/2007 | "Why Are We Here?" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| One of life’s biggest questions invites reflection on one simple response: Unitarian minister A. Powell Davies’ oft-used phrase, “Life is just a chance to grow a soul."
Service Lay Leader - Bob Bartynski |
| _____ |
| 12/31/2006 | "Time Remembered" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| On New Year’s Eve, we pause for reflection and celebration as the calendar year changes. We will also remember those who are no longer among us and honor the memory of friends and family who have died since last year’s holiday celebrations. |
| _____ |
| 12/17/2006 | "Light It Anyway" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| Inspired by the Hanukkah story, we explore the virtues of dedication and courage. It’s a Family Sunday - young people will join us for the first part.
Following the Service, we will usher in the Christmas holiday season with a tree-trimming party. |
| _____ |
| 12/03/2006 | "Unity Within Diversity" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| Individual beliefs or theological positions cover a wide range in Unitarian Universalist congregations. What kind of community can we create with this? |
| _____ |
| 11/12/2006 | "A Natural Life" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| A late autumn reflection on Henry David Thoreau, one of our Unitarian forbears.
Kathy Scarbrough, Lay Leader |
| _____ |
| 11/05/2006 | "Love It or Leave It" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| Nearly on the eve of Election Day, does one vote, one lone voice, matter?
Mary Howard, Lay Leader
|
| _____ |
| 10/22/2006 | "Unearthed Talents" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| This being the first of our "Commitment Sundays", we focus on what we bring to this community. We will also have a Committee Fair after Services |
| _____ |
| 10/15/2006 | "Guiding Lights" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| What lights our way in life, what beacon draws us? And what kind of lights do we kindle as a guide for others? |
| _____ |
| 10/01/2006 | "Forgive & Forget?" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| In the spirit of Yom Kippur, we ponder if there any truths to this old maxim. |
| _____ |
| 09/24/2006 | "Hungry Soul" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| The fast of Ramadan, one of the five pillars of Islam, marks a moment of transformation for Muslims around the world. What can it teach us? |
| _____ |
| 09/17/2006 | "We Begin, Again" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| A new “year” begins with the Jewish holy time of Rosh Hashanah, and so we gather to consider the gift of renewal, the turning of the cycle of life. |
| _____ |
| 09/10/2006 | "Enter and Rejoice" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| Even though we hold Services all year ‘round, this second Sunday in September is observed in most Unitarian Universalist congregations as an “ingathering”, where we celebrate this community. This will be a Family Sunday (our young people will join us for the first part of the Service) and we will celebrate a Teacher Dedication. |
| _____ |
| 08/27/2006 | "A Real Job" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| With Labor Day just around the corner, we celebrate our real “work”. |
| _____ |
| 08/20/2006 | "This Amazing Life" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| A summer reflection on, well, life! |
| _____ |
| 06/04/2006 | "What's Fair" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| The Service will include our annual Flower Ceremony. So don't forget to bring your flower, flowering or leafy branch, or other item for our bouquet. |
| _____ |
| 05/21/2006 | "What Are We Doing Here?" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| An exploration of the meanings and customs of our Sunday gatherings. |
| _____ |
| 05/14/2006 | "Multiple Choice" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| Our life-long search for truth and meaning is only as open as our hearts and minds. |
| _____ |
| 05/07/2006 | "Let Go!" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| To honor the Buddhist holiday of Wesak, we reflect on the precept of non-attachment. |
| _____ |
| 04/23/2006 | "Sufficient Evidence" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| Today we welcome new members of the Society and reflect on what it means to affiliate with a Unitarian Universalist congregation. |
| _____ |
| 04/16/2006 | "Real Resurrection" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| It is Easter Sunday and we celebrate, in our Unitarian Universalist way, the return of spring and the resilience of life. |
| _____ |
| 04/09/2006 | "Worth The Cost" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| Rev. Rak returns to the pulpit and we consider, in honor of the upcoming Passover holiday, the price of freedom |
| _____ |
| 01/29/2006 | "Spiritual or Religious?" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| People rejecting the strictures of dogma or tradition often say they are not religious, but would prefer to admit to a spiritual inclination. Where do Unitarian Universalists fit? |
| _____ |
| 01/15/2006 | "WWMD" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| No, this has nothing to do with unfound weapons but rather in an increasingly volatile and violent world, we consider "What Would Martin Do?" as we honor the life of Martin Luther King, Jr. |
| _____ |
| 01/08/2006 | "The Journeys End" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| A reflection on "epiphany": we often say life is a journey, and sometimes we find our destinations different from what we expected. |
| _____ |
| 01/01/2006 | "Lights Ablaze" | TEXT | | Reverend Susan Veronica Rak |
| We gather this morning, on New Years Day, to consider the messages of Hanukkah and Kwanzaa. |
| _____ |
