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

Each of us has a story to tell about our life's journey. And that story is always changing. This morning we'll embrace the power of describing those stories in six words.

Mary Oliver writes that "there are moments that cry out to be fulfilled." Oliver was describing moments when we set aside caution because what we do might save a life, might save our own lives, or the planet. Today we'll reflect on what those moments are in our individual lives and in our church.

This morning we'll explore how to overcome self-doubt. Is it best to take a leap of faith or baby steps? How can we overcome our fears and flex our "I believe in myself" muscles?

With Jane Palmer

We’ve lived two years under the Trump administration, two months since an historic “blue wave” upset the power balance in Washington, and two weeks since the wheels came off the bus.  The intensity of our public life has taken a toll, and it’s natural to long for an easier, softer way of life. But when everything we hold dear is on the line, and the path forward is lined with fear and anger, we have to find new ways of being – and doing.

A contemplative service with Matt Owen, worship associate, which will explore the intersections of meditative practice with the spirituality of the end.

Celebrate the Christmas holiday with a lively service filled with song, readings, reflections, and story for all ages. This week we share our full service, and this morning we light our fourth Advent candle for love.

Thanksgiving is a great time to renew the practice of gratitude. Come and celebrate the season with our Breads of the World ceremony and the story of Stone Soup.

Memories can define us and set us free. They can also limit our ability to see other perspectives and keep us from being able to reframe our own narrative. Join us this morning as we reflect on how memory helps and sometimes hinders us in creating who we are as a people and as individuals. Our offering today will benefit the Reading Public Library.

This morning we explore what it means to be part of a religious community that challenges and inspires us, that heals and holds us. New members will join the church, and all members will be celebrated for their years of devotion to UU Berks.

Companioning means being present, listening, and bearing witness to another person's struggles without trying to fix things. This morning we'll explore the ways that companioning supports the pastoral needs of those who are grieving and in pain, and also leads to social change.