As the UUA's Article II commission explores the inclusion of our 8th principle it is simultaneously exploring an expansion of our 1st principle to include the inherent worth and dignity of all beings. In our faith with no dogmatic tests, what new avenues of spiritual growth might emerge were we to adopt such an expansion? What challenges might we face? What new depths of compassion might we be called into? 

*NOTICE* In most cases, the podcast consists only of the primary presentation. From time to time, our “Story For All Ages” is also included; a question and answer period is sometimes included as well. Due to copyright law regarding music performances, music is never included.

Our theme this last year has been “Widening the Circle,” in keeping with our denominational call to grow the diversity of our communities.  Using drums as a model for understanding how we call one another into the circle of community, we ask what ‘widening the circle’ means for each of us and for our community.  Plan to play percussion or move your body as part of our circle-calling percussion jam session.

Fasting has long been a practice that has religious or spiritual significance.  In modern times the health benefits of various fasting practices have been touted. If you are considering giving it a try, what do you need to know before you start, how long should you fast for, and what can you expect to experience during a fast? This topic was suggested by a member as part of our Sermon Smorgasbord series.

On December 31st, the Planned Parenthood of East Tennessee clinic was totally destroyed by fire. It is unclear how the fire started, though the building was being renovated. This event, paired with the upcoming anniversary of the Roe v Wade decision, have Reproductive Rights and Reproductive Justice at the forefront of our attention. This week, we learn about the broader meaning of these terms, and consider their focus on supporting families for being healthy and thriving.

It is the season of lights.  Around the world, in many different cultures and ways, we greet the darkness that settles on the northern hemisphere with celebrations that involve bringing in light.  Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, Divali, and Yule or the Winter Solstice--all of these traditions invite us to bring light where there is darkness, joy where there might be sadness, and hope in times of fear.  Let's honor the light within by honoring all the different celebrations of light that abound this time of year.

It has been nearly 21 months since we last gathered indoors in our sanctuary for worship together.  We welcome one another back to a familiar place, but in unfamiliar times, and we may be anticipating both risks and rewards as we return to our church home.  How is this a metaphor for our larger lives, and the times in which we live?

How does the risk of ‘welcome’ or hospitality during a pandemic parallel other kinds of welcoming risks we might take, both as individuals and as a community?

*NOTICE* In most cases, the podcast consists only of the primary presentation. From time to time, our “Story For All Ages” is also included; a question and answer period is sometimes included as well. Due to copyright law regarding music performances, music is never included.

Join us on YouTube, and prepare your bread and wine or grape juice.  We will give thanks for the miracles of this life and take communion "together" from where-ever we happen to be.

Halloween, as we know it today, is a day of candy and costumes, and a day to indulge our beliefs in the unseen or the unknown. With its roots in the Celtic tradition of Samhain, the haunted holiday has transformed from a day of protection to one of revelry.  Join us as we explore what this day can teach us about the intersections of play and protection, and what little bit of magic we can find for ourselves today. Costumes are encouraged!

You're listening to the podcast for Westside Unitarian Universalist Church. in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Your kind donations help make this podcast possible, as well as support the community work of Westside.

Visit www.westsideuuc.org/donate today.

Robert Frost's poem evokes the transitory nature of the things we love.  As we gather to mark the coming observance of All Souls' Day (which will occur on Tuesday, November 2), we pause to remember those who have passed, and to honor the beauty and magic of their lives.  We will share poems and readings, and speak the names of those who have passed from this life but are still in our hearts.

You're listening to the podcast for Westside Unitarian Universalist Church. in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Your kind donations help make this podcast possible, as well as support the community work of Westside. Donate here: https://www.westsideuuc.org/donate

Intention and Commitment
Presented by Rev. Carol Bodeau

The core of Unitarian Universalism is our 7 Principles, which guide our decision-making and actions.  We say that we “covenant to affirm and promote” these values, but what does it mean to put those values into action?  There are lots of ways to live the 7 Principles.  This week, let’s consider the difference between intention and commitment, as we look more closely at the denomination’s call for us to “widen the circle of concern” in our congregations and communities.

You're listening to the podcast for Westside Unitarian Universalist Church. in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Your kind donations help make this podcast possible, as well as support the community work of Westside. Please consider donating by visiting https://www.westsideuuc.org/donate