Over the years many Unitarian Universalist communities have taken steps to become Welcoming Congregations. Along with Welcoming, many UU communities are engaged in Sanctuary movements across the country. At the heart of Sanctuary and Welcoming lies something deeper — caring. How we care for one another and the world around us matters. Join us as we explore what it means to deeply care for one another in these times.

As people committed to justice, it’s easy to loose ourselves in the midst of a hectic world which seems to be brimming with chaos and uncertainty. But also in the midst of this chaos and uncertainty is a growing spirit of resistance. All around us people are coming together and learning how to face this world together. Join us as we explore the heart of resistance and how we can care for and sustain one another through it all.

April 2020 will mark the 50th annual celebration of Earth Day in the United States. That means there are nearly two whole generations of earthlings incorporating this type of appreciation and learning into their lives. We have made great strides and also grave mistakes. How do we celebrate the Earth while facing the realities of its destruction? How do we cope with the losses and also make a positive impact? Join guest preacher, Christin Green, to explore life-giving responses to our planet.

Have you ever experienced a deep connection to a tree or forest? After learning about the complex life of trees and related themes in UU history, you will feel more connected to the interdependent web of all existence.

In the stories told of the Hebrew Exodus, teachers have long recounted the tale of Nahshon – the one who took the very first step into the Red Sea before it parted, without whose courage the freedom of the people could not be won. Who takes the first step toward freedom today?

RRUUC, River Road Unitarian Universalist Congregation, UU, Unitarian Universalist

RRUUC, River Road Unitarian Universalist Congregation, UU, Unitarian Universalist

Author and activist Adrienne Maree Brown reminds us that starlings move as a “murmuration” – a flocking behavior that naturally creates patterns of shared movement that look like art. How can groups of people move together in such beautiful ways? Where is the beauty in our togetherness?

Listen to our May 5, 2019 sermon, "Believing and Beholding," by Rev. Nancy McDonald Ladd.