Unitarian Universalists provided leadership in reaching moral victories such as abolition, women’s suffrage, equal marriage; however, since the election, policy changes affecting race relations, climate change, income inequality, immigration, and more assault us continually. How can we sustain ourselves as we resist divisiveness and hate? How can we remain resilient?

What are the impacts of being in a “never give up” society? A look at the ways we internalize the expectation and glorification of perseverance.

Join the children of our community and the children’s ministry team to explore how Superheroes fit into our principles and values. Does Batman always defer to inherent worth and dignity? Are villains just pursing their independent search for truth and meaning? We’ll tackle some really big questions, as the kids of UUCP always do, but this time we’ll be wearing capes!

The focus of this transitional time is preparing for the future. That includes understanding the rich heritage here, preparing for new ministerial leadership, electing the team to conduct the search on behalf of the congregation, and supporting the search. Every voice, every perspective, is vital to a successful search process.

UUCP is shifting our typical Sunday services and encouraging a multi-gen presence at this year’s Women’s March. A multi-faith, women-led service will be held at 8:30 AM at First Church UCC, followed by carpooling to the march. Emrys, Benjie and Katie will be present at the state capitol at 10:00 AM to organize our presence with chants, songs, and signs. Rev. Margret will lead the two Sunday morning services at UUCP for those who are unable to attend the march.

The work of combating white supremacy culture is a critical engagement for Unitarian Universalists, as we seek to live into our values and principles. This multigenerational conversation continues the ongoing work of this congregation to be fully present to the realities of our world, working to recognize, disrupt and heal from the impacts of racism.

In January we look forward and back. Today we look way back to nuggets of wisdom from traditional religious sources that we rarely make use of. While the mechanics of life have changed dramatically, the difficulties of living a good life in human society have not. Let’s go digging.

Human communities throughout the northern hemisphere celebrate the winter solstice as a reawakening of the light – here in the desert, the quality of the light is subtly different as the longest night approaches. Together let us celebrate this ancient recognition of light returning to a darkened world.

When challenging times leave us stony and closed, joy may not find a place to nest within us. Opening our hearts In this season of hope and love, we seek to deepen our capacity for emotional response to welcome all that life may offer.

In this time of Advent, we feel the stirrings of hope below the surface, as in the growing dark we await the return of light to the world. Dedicating children into the care of this congregation, we celebrate the light that glows within.