We are coming to accept and expect that there are more things to pay attention to than we can possibly hold in our hearts. This week is no exception. Today is International Women’s Day. Hollywood pushes forward on issues of equality for women, while a … read more.
The Berenstain Bears are not often recognized as theologians, but their children’s stories point to important religious questions. “Inside, Outside, Upside Down,” the story of the friendly family of bears dealing with a large cardboard box, tries to teach children the concepts of “within,” and … read more.
Guest Blog by Dana Buhl, Acting Social Justice Director
For When I Really Don’t Want to Learn This, by Reverend Elizabeth Nguyen
Spirit, I would really rather not learn this.
Didn’t think I needed to.
I thought someone else could do it. Thought a leader was coming to do it. … read more.
Another tragedy, another disturbed young man with an assault rifle and plenty of bullets, another set of parents whose hearts will never heal. Valentine’s Day, 2018. The 18th school shooting this year. All of our children are growing up in a world where “active shooter” … read more.
“You have to know your body as the home of God.” – Rebecca Parker
At the close of our service on prayer last Sunday we sang, “I Need You to Survive.” It is a Hezekiah Walker song that has become closely associated with the Black Lives … read more.
On Saturday, February 10th, First Unitarian and the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Salem will jointly ordain Mary Gear to the Unitarian Universalist ministry. Mary is serving as our Acting Assistant Minister and was Intern Minister with us three years ago.
Even for those who pay close … read more.
Many of you have heard the news that Cathy Cartwright-Chow has decided to retire, this June, as our Director of Family Ministries. Cathy has served the families and children of First Unitarian since 2003. When she was hired, religious education classes were held in the … read more.
In Newgrange, Ireland, 5000 or so years ago, people constructed a huge circular earthen structure with an opening that allowed a shaft of light to travel deep into a central chamber on the morning of the winter solstice. There the light illuminated intricate symbols, including … read more.
The Sweet Gum tree outside my kitchen window has finally dropped all of its leaves. It is a sure sign that winter is here. The nights are lengthening toward the Solstice next week when the longest dark will, once again, begin to make room for … read more.
O Come, O Come, Emmanuel,
And with your captive children dwell.
Give comfort to all exiles here,
And to the aching heart bid cheer.
That hymn is one of only three Advent songs in our hymnal.
Emmanuel means, literally, “God with us.” Religious liberals hold varied ideas … read more.
