As a spiritual community that welcomes all, we focus this morning on contemplative practices and reflection on our home within the universe.

As other states “fall back” and change their clocks, we Arizonans must remember that our temporal relations with the rest of the nation have shifted. If we were not mortal, time would not so much matter. How do we live in a world where permanence and evanescence are inextricably linked?

At this traditional time honoring our connection with the spirit world, we acknowledge our losses, celebrating the rich heritage and sacrifice of those who have gone before. All are welcome to bring a photo or memento of a beloved who has died to place upon the ceremonial altar. Multigenerational service.

Understanding and combating white supremacy culture is a theological and practical endeavor for Unitarian Universalists everywhere, as we work to live the principles that guide our faith commitments. Let us join with courage in exploration and experiences to become more awakened to the work that lies before us.

Love is the doctrine of this congregation, and radical inclusion is our vision. We have the opportunity to create the space for our vision of inclusive love to unfold in tangible ways. Everyone has a part to play as we make room for the future we build together.

As we explore the interplay of identities within and among us, we ask: how does each individual find the deep courage to explore the roots and branches of their true identity, and how do we open our hearts to affirm the varied and evolving identities of all?

Witnessing the courageous actions of another, whether they feel it is courageous or not, often inspires bravery in ourselves. Given all the issues we are facing right now in the world, we need a major outbreak of courage to spread and infect us all!

In this time of High Holy days in the Jewish tradition, we are called to consider the integrity of our choices and actions in alignment with our values and commitments. How do we welcome the grace of atonement and the power of new beginnings into our lives?

Sometimes we find ourselves on a threshold, entering a time of discovery with unexpected potential for transformation. Welcoming the opportunity, we prepare to explore and celebrate the joy of new beginnings as we reconnect with the abundance of gifts and grace in our lives.

Through storytelling, song, and obituary this service will grieve the women we have disappeared. As a community learning intersectionality, we find that naming and examining all of our aspects is hard, heartbreaking work. We look to our foremothers to remind us that it is the only work that has ever made us whole.