This week’s sermon features guest speaker Julie Miller, a former high school librarian who was “reassigned” to a different job when she questioned the book challenges that were taking place in Clay County. A freedom-to-read advocate, Julie appeared in the PBS documentary, The Librarians, which aired in February. Librarians commit to provide materials and information

What does it truly take to defend freedom and democracy today? In this introduction to our upcoming Summer Speaker Series, Jeff Funderburk explores the “Three R’s”—Resignation, Resilience, and Resistance—drawing inspiration from the Declaration of Independence, historic struggles, and modern-day callings to action. Join us as we launch a season dedicated to examining how local activists,

In this inspiring mid-year reflection, *Peter Racine* dives into three of life’s most profound questions: “Where do we come from? What are we? Where are we going?” Grounded in Unitarian Universalist values, Peter explores the power of legacy, the paradox of our shared spiritual identity, and what it means to boldly chart a path forward

What kind of mark will you leave on the world, and how do you handle the hand you’ve already been dealt? In this sermon, Peter Racine explores the complex, often “mixed bag” of generational legacy—from our biological ancestors to our spiritual forefathers and foremothers. Moving from the collective historical reflections of Juneteenth to deeply personal

What makes a space sacred? Is it the walls, the architecture, or the meaning we bring to it? In this special dedication service, Minister Peter Racine explores the profound concept of “sacred space”—moving beyond traditional boundaries to celebrate the grand reopening of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Jacksonville’s (UUCJ) newly renovated social hall and campus.

What does Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s dream look like when viewed through the lens of 2026? In this powerful and timely sermon, speaker Todd Bettis revisits the iconic “I Have a Dream” speech, interweaving Dr. King’s original, revolutionary words with contemporary commentary. From addressing modern pushbacks on diversity initiatives to confronting systemic inequalities, this

In this sermon, longtime UUCJ member and Navy veteran Jeff Funderburk reflects on the true meaning of Memorial Day weekend. While sharing the distinct histories behind the “Big Three” military holidays—Armed Forces Day, Veterans Day, and Memorial Day—Jeff honors the memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Through the lens of his own military

What does the word “prayer” mean to a Unitarian Universalist? For many, the word can carry a sense of hesitation, often associated with hypocrisy or empty words. In this thought-provoking sermon, Peter Racine explores how we can reclaim prayer not as a passive plea, but as an active, powerful force in the world through service

What does it mean to be brave when the world feels like it’s shaking? Is courage something we are born with, or is it something we build, one small decision at a time? Rev. Linda Hart Green explores the “spiritual toolkit” required for survival and action in difficult seasons. Drawing on the powerful examples of