Lighting the Chalice: Sermons from the First Unitarian Universalist Church of Berks County

This morning we explore the ways we can create beauty in community from what we already have – from empty lots, thorn bushes, and a little bit of faith.

The work of liberation is just that, work. Right? Yes, and no. Sometimes learning to let go – of a bad mood, a grudge, an addiction – can be just the thing we need to realize justice, truth, and freedom.

Join us for a celebration of Earth Day and a call to sacred activism.

This morning we’ll explore Unitarian Universalist minister Rev. Theresa Soto’s words: “All of us need all of us to make it.” Right now, we are witnessing human interconnectedness in new ways that are heightening awareness that none of us can be truly free until all of us are free.

There’s an old story about a pot that gets broken and pours forth wisdom. Where does your wisdom come from? This morning we will explore the many containers of wisdom–stories, practices, other people, and ourselves.

Special note: This sermon was recorded during a virtual church service. Members of the congregation came together online to connect even in this time of uncertainty and social distancing due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

A central task of religious community is to form connections, to create living bridges with and to others. Today we’ll explore the many ways our community builds bridges of understanding, relationship, and justice.

Ancient wisdom advises us to listen to our inner voice, the still small voice. When we do, we come closer to our own true nature and learn to honor the wisdom within.

Special guest: Rev. Israel Buffardi

Hope has been called the anchor of the soul, yet hope is hard to find today for many of us. Together we will reflect on hope as an imperfect practice of working for our ideals, as they pass from generation to generation.

Special guest: Paula Cole-Jones

Whether we consider faith formation, growth, social justice and/or dismantling white supremacy, Unitarian Universalists could use an identity update. This presentation embraces who we are and challenges who we think we are. Seeing ourselves as a Community of Communities changes our future and it is  key to the Beloved Community. Paula Cole Jones is the founder of ADORE (A Dialogue on Race & Ethnicity), a former president of DRUUMM (Diverse and Revolutionary Unitarian Universalist Multicultural Ministries) and our congregation’s Primary Contact in the Central East Region of the Unitarian Universalist Association.

Reading: from Welcoming the Unwelcome by Pema Chödrön

What are the practices that can help us build resiliency in terms of personal struggle and national or global crisis? Today we’ll share and seek some practical guidance for developing resiliency practices in our daily lives.