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

Respecting the worth and dignity of others is a core value for Unitarian Universalists. This morning we'll consider the ways that moving beyond our binary ways of thinking and being--beyond good and bad, right and wrong, black and white, male and female--can create more spaciousness and grace in our relationships.

What expectations do we bring to our lives--to spiritual community, work, family? This morning we'll explore when to let go of them and when to set greater expectations.

Matt Owen, Worship Associate

The Buddha said: “Hatred does not cease by hatred, but only by love; this is the eternal rule.” It is not just "those people" who struggle with hatred, we all do. How do we take the pain at the injustice we witness and resist diverting it into our own blame and hatred of others? These times are crying out for a deepened dedication to love. Cultivating compassion for ourselves and others, is an act of social justice and a way we can directly contribute to the evolution of consciousness in our world.

A desire for belonging brings many of us into spiritual community. This morning we'll consider how we can build a living bridge that allows us to be connected to each other across the generations and to something greater than ourselves.

Rev. Sage Olnick, Worship Associate

This Sunday we will explore Joyful Play as a spiritual practice. Even in the midst of injustice and unrest, we can have joy.

This Sunday we will explore what 'Life in the Shape of Justice' truly looks like when inspired on a personal and individual level.

Worship Associate: Rev. Sage Olnick

This Sunday we will explore how Mindful Embodiment can help us be our most authentic selves.

Service led by members of the Berks UU LGBTQ Caucus, exploring what it means to be a people of pride.

Rev. Sage Olnick, Affiliated Community Minister

This Sunday we will explore what it means to make space in our minds and hearts for what is already there through reflection, music, and a Glitter Blessing.

Tracie Greth, Worship Associate

This service in inspired by the word “centering “which is an open UU-compatible word that can cover many forms of meditation or prayer. It is also based on a comment made by Rev. Fees that there must be many centers. The word “center” will be used for those things that truly matter, those things that give meaning to worship and to life.