UU Community Visits
The Sunshine State
Amongst the idyllic beauty of Sarasota’s foliage lined streets is the beautifully manicured gardens and sanctuary of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Sarasota, Florida. With our motorhome settled in under a magnificent tree, Austin and I enjoyed a peaceful and gratifying weekend on the grounds.
The UUC of Sarasota has the largest membership in Florida and on this Sunday the sanctuary was literally standing room only for the 11:00 service. New to the church in 2012, the Rev. Roger Fritts is a charismatic speaker that draws one in comfortably to the warm atmosphere of the community. Speaking on Buddhism, as a part of an ongoing World Religions series, Rev. Fritts blended meditative readings, music, and the roots of the religion with a playful touch of humor. A popular belief system among Unitarians, he went on to explain the Buddhist belief that as we do not have souls, our rebirths are resultant from the “inexhaustible force of karma” that keeps us tied to the confines of physical being. Also similar to the UU chalice symbol as a focus within our sanctuaries is the Buddhist centering on the light or lamp within ourselves.
When visiting UUCS, one must take the time to tour the campus which easily fills an hour when taken in fully. The sanctuary, designed by architect Tollyn Twitchell, brings warmth into the space using a cypress beamed ceiling over glass and Ocala stone walls, and topped at the ends with stained glass windows by artist Syd Solomon. Opposite the sanctuary, and on the other side of the courtyard, is the office building which also holds a meeting space and art gallery in the Lexow Wing courtesy of the UUCS Arts Council. But not to be outdone is the magnificent Memorial Garden on the west side of the sanctuary, a sacred space tended to in memory of those lost to the community. Even in winter, the garden is full of colorful and fragrant blooms in tribute to the many gifts the earth provides.
For more information on attending the UUC of Sarasota: http://www.uusarasota.com/
To learn about Buddhism in Sarasota, visit: http://www.meditationinsarasota.org/
UUSC Art Gallery with hours for viewing: http://www.uusarasota.com/our-church/art-gallery.php
Architecture and photos of the inner sanctuary: http://www.uusarasota.com/our-church/architecture.php
The Peach State
Standing on the Side of Love, Peter Mayer in concert, and the National Preach-In on Global Warming had the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Gwinnett in Lawrenceville, Georgia, and its minister Rev. Jan Taddeo, in a whirl this past Sunday. Not to be weighed down by a busy schedule, the community affirmed Love with grace, enjoyed Peter Mayer with the strength of UU spirit, and was moved by Rev. Taddeo’s emotional plea for our Earth.
Standing on the Side of Love is “an interfaith public advocacy campaign that seeks to harness love’s power to stop oppression. It is sponsored by the Unitarian Universalist Association and all are welcome to join” in this fight for social justice. And join it has, as with many other congregations in the United States, the UUCG has joined in the “30 Days of Love” movement which ends its annual drive this Sunday, February 17th, 2013.
Rev. Taddeo focused her moving talk, “Living the Beauty Way,” around the need for Unitarians to focus their lives lessening our footprint on the earth, and in taking steps such as lowering the use of its resources by simple means like recycling and driving electric vehicles. Of course, her concern was far deeper, bringing her emotions within reach as she discussed a documentary, “The Hungry Tide,” about a tropical island that is slowly disappearing due to Global Warming and in the process taking the home of its residents and the land from our earth. Joining Rev. Taddeo, the congregation signed postcards to be mailed to the White House requesting that President Obama and the United States exert itself as the international leader in the war against Global Warming and in the support of peoples displaced by its destruction.
Lifting the spirits of everyone was the addition of one of our own, Unitarian folk singer Peter Mayer, to the weekly service. Mayer sang three of his songs including “Blue Boat Home” and “Church of the Earth,” following the day’s theme on the wonders of our earth. A bonus for me was meeting Mayer and sharing our pilgrimage with him, and then enjoying one of the CDs he gave me, “Heaven Below,” as we drove east through the Georgia rain.
Unique to the service was the format of the day’s events, a once monthly practice. After attending the regular service, we then got our drinks and snacks and formed circles of six people where we joined in listening groups focused on the monthly theme “Evil.” On the surface a strange topic, but we took turns discussing evil and how it has affected our lives. It proved to be a moving and bonding exercise for all in our circle. And while the adults were focused in our groups, Austin was with the middle-school kids discussing topics related to the congregation’s quest for becoming a Welcoming Congregation.
For information on attending the UUC of Gwinnett: www.uucg.org
Standing on the Side of Love: www.standingonthesideoflove.org
Interfaith Power & Light, A Religious Response to Global Warming: www.interfaithpowerandlight.org
Video trailer for “The Hungry Tide” documentary about the nation of Kiribati: http://www.imdb.com/video/withoutabox/vi727292953?ref_=tt_pv_vi_1
To see Peter Mayer’s concert schedule or purchase CDs, visit: http://www.petermayer.net/news/
For information on the UUA and Welcoming Congregations, click on the chalice to the right or go to: www.uua.org
The Heart of Dixie
Located in Alabama, near the home of the Civil Rights Institute, is the beautiful mountain crested sanctuary of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Birmingham, a church with a proud history of uncountable contributions to the promotion of racial equality in the South. Nestled in the woods, it is surrounded by patios with full gardens and a scrolled gateway, welcoming even in the stark of winter.
On my visit, the Rev. Lone J. Broussard spoke about “Our Blue Boat Home.” Although the song of the same name (by folk singer Peter Mayer) is familiar to most Unitarians, Rev. Broussard stressed the need for our faith to overcome our “compassion fatigue” as related to the ongoing issues of global warming, and to humankind’s limitless reaping of the earth’s bounty without regard to her future. While requesting such a task, she also explained how the possibility of self-sufficiency has been achieved by many, including the Danish Isle of Samsø, a model for eco-friendly living as well as progressive example to us all.
Metaphorically speaking, she went on to describe the “elephant in the room” that sits and makes himself at home, eventually wandering off when ignored, well expressing our own convictions as they come and go with whatever happens to be the ‘popular’ cause of the day. Yes we need improved gun regulations, and yes we need to be concerned with equal rights, and yes we need an end to war–but what are these issues without a home for humankind and the abundance of life that we share our earth with?
In ending, Rev. Broussard asked the old question, “How do you eat an elephant?” (Of course, the answer is one bite at a time!) However, I would love to now ask that we all invite Mr. and Ms. Elephant into our homes for tea, questioning them in detail, inquiring, drilling and finding our compassion once again within their stories.
To learn more about the UUC of Birmingham: http://www.uucbham.org/
For information on the Isle of Samsø: http://www.visitsamsoe.dk/en/
Peter Mayer’s website: http://www.petermayer.net/news/
To hear Peter Mayer’s “Blue Boat Home”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YtZUM0JhLvc&list=PLD5C3A9F3B5204E83
The Magnolia State
Mississippi is a land of hospitality, history and unlimited beauty, and there was no shortage of that true southern hospitality as we arrived to the home of Ole Miss in Oxford (University), Mississippi. With weekend parking and electric hookups provided by the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Oxford, Austin and I were able to get comfortable and even disconnect the Jeep to do some more personal tourism in the area.
A young community by Unitarian standards (formally joined the UUA in 1997), this lay led congregation is overwhelmingly representative of our seven principles while ready and eager for the growth it is destined to receive. On this Sunday, guest minister, the Rev. Fred L. Hammond (The Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Tuscaloosa, Alabama) presented “Violence in America,” focusing on the existence of micro-aggressions within society. Rev. Hammond expressed the need for the recognition and reevaluation of our own roles as UUs in the presentation and acceptance of micro-aggressions in our communities and in our governments as these apply to social justice needs and improved gun ownership legislation with mental health provisions.
After the service was an amazing “potluck,” (a term not fitting the cloth napkins, table coverings, and dinnerware!) Also not fitting the term was the fabulous diversity of food for vegans, vegetarians and carnivores alike. I can honestly say that I have never attended such a thoughtful potluck gathering–and amongst such wonderful people–before this day.
Not to be outdone, Rev. Hammond came back after our meal and presented an eye-opening workshop on Heterosexism, including revealing unethical and even unenforceable laws within the state of Mississippi that limit and undermine the education of Mississippi’s youth about the LGBTIA community (sexual minorities) within society. And, although already a diverse and open community, the UUC of Oxford is currently working towards the formality of becoming a UUA recognized “Welcoming Congregation,” arranging the workshop as a part of their venture.
For information on attending the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Oxford, visit: http://www.uuoxford.com
For a wonderful sampling of Rev. Hammond’s thoughts, visit his blog “A Unitarian Universalist Minister in the South”: http://serenityhome.wordpress.com/
To better understand the requirements for becoming a Welcoming congregation, visit: http://www.uua.org/lgbtq/index.shtml
The Pelican State
There’s something about being in the Deep South for such an important national holiday as the celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday. Fortunately for me, the service at The Unitarian Church of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was one of progress, enlightenment and growth amongst adversity.
The sermon centered on a scene from “In the Heat of the Night,” in which Chief Gillespie (Carroll O’Conner) finds himself struggling with his own institutionalized racial discrimination. Walking into his office, Gillespie finds his newly appointed African American Chief of Detectives, Virgil Tibbs (Howard E. Rollins, Jr.) hammering a nail into the wall to hang a picture. Innocent enough until he realizes that the picture Tibbs is hanging is that of Martin Luther King, Jr. After suggesting that Tibbs replace it with something ‘more personal’ like a ‘desktop photo’ that can be whisked away into a drawer, he in turn finds himself attempting to defend a much larger portrait above his own desk (which appeared to be a portrait of General Robert E. Lee), only finding within himself the response, “It came with the office.” A small scene, but such a powerful testament to those that practice life by keeping the status quo regardless of how those practices affect the lives of others.
The sermon was not just one of history, but of the difficulties of overcoming racial degradation in modern America. As the Rev. Steve J. Crump, Senior Minister, expressed the pride of sharing the second inauguration day of President Obama–a monumental event in modern history–he also shared the struggles of today’s Baton Rouge, a city with a higher murder rate than Chicago and only second to Atlanta for HIV cases. A city where the average age of those murdered is at a mere 26-years-old, and of those committing the murders at an even younger 22-years-old.
Although laced with the importance of our continuing fight, the service also celebrated modern progression and reminded all Unitarians of our own role in the advancement of social justice and racial equality. There were beautiful voices raised by the church’s own Marie Flowers and Seynabou Diack, and a poignant dance presentation by the LSU MLK Dance Ensemble. All framed by the sanctuary’s large circle window inspired by an Edwin Markham poem stating, “They drew a circle and shut me out, A heretic, a rebel, a thing to flout. But love and I had the wit to win, We drew a circle and took them in.” So perfect an homage to this church and the wonderful members and staff that I had the privilege of meeting!
For more information on attending The Unitarian Church of Baton Rouge: http://www.unitarianchurchbr.com/
To enjoy the works of Edwin Markham, visit: http://www.poetryfoundation.org/bio/edwin-markham
Link to a previous performance by the LSU MLK Dance Ensemble at the Unitarian Church, 2009: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=36TmQ51eCCU
The Lone Star State
Texas! Back to my home state but still so far from home! Today Austin and I attended the First Unitarian Church of Dallas in none other than the Lone Star State. Although the church community began there over 100 years ago, the current Frank Lloyd Wright-esque sanctuary is an homage to fluid space and shared community. The architect, Harwell Hamilton Harris, truly designed what he described as “a clearing in the forest,” all completed with a dominant burning chalice guiding attendees to the peace within the space.
Led by Senior Minister, Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter, today’s service was one honoring the church’s “UU of the Year” for service and deeds completed within the church community (and in the greater Dallas community at-large), followed by a sermon titled, “Too Christian, Not Christian Enough.” Dr. Kanter well expressed the historical ties to Unitarianism, but also to those that led to the path of his suggested true labeling as a “Free Church.” One that is neither too Christian, nor Christian enough, in that so it is perfectly balanced without confines to secular and non-secular labeling alike. A place where Christians and Atheists commingle in celebration of diversity and compassion. A place where all whom support and commit to the seven UU Principles can live, learn, and love without judgment or inequity.
(Photo from http://www.dallasuu.org)
Stirring the passion was music provided by “emma’s revolution,” a fun and modernly folksy duo of Sandy O. and Pat Humphries. Austin and I both especially loved their song, “Peace, Salaam, Shalom,” written in response to reactions to the attacks on 9/11.
If you live in the Dallas area and would like to attend First Unitarian, you can find information about their services and events at www.dallasuu.org. Be sure to take time to explore the campus and have coffee with the UUs attending there. They will be glad to welcome you!
From the First Unitarian website, “As the largest liberal religious congregation in Dallas and one of the largest Unitarian Universalist congregations in the country, our history lives on today. We remain a progressive oasis in Dallas; a harbor for lost and wandering people without a compass for their religious natures; a place to read, discuss and move against tyrannies of the mind, heart and body; a treasure of wisdom and strength for our children; a community within which to weather the difficult times and celebrate the joyous times of life; and a voice of reason and challenge in an increasingly conservative religious landscape.”
The Land of Enchantment
Today we are in beautiful New Mexico! The first state of our year-long journey on the road. Although we have traveled within her borders many times, it’s always a new and exciting experience driving through the desert river valley of the Rio Grande as the mountains guide us north.
This morning Austin and I attended the First Unitarian Church of Albuquerque, led by Rev. Christine Robinson. The church has 785 members, including three branches in Carlsbad, East Mountains, and Socorro. With it’s community growing in size, First Unitarian is in the midst of building a new, larger sanctuary, as even attending on this cold winter day I found the existing sanctuary full to the brim with fellow UUs. This was only one of three Sunday services held at the Albuquerque sanctuary each Sunday, and did not include children from the Religious Education (RE) classes which Austin attended.
Rev. Robinson’s message was a popular, annual “Obituary” service, honoring with esteem (and much friendly humor!) selected people from our world that passed during the year 2012. Along with uplifting and inviting music and song by the church band, Spare Parts, and a familiar singing of “Spirit of Life,” the community provided a warm, meditative, and inspiring contemporary service.
If you live within the reaches of First Unitarian and would like to attend, you can find information on their upcoming services, events, and locations at www.uuabq.org or by calling (505) 884-1801.
Hey you, over there, even you are welcome here!
“Whatever the faiths you have known or the flags of your heritage, you are welcome here. Whoever you are and whomever you love, you are welcome here. Whether you ran in here today on little feet, or walked briskly, or ambled in, or rolled in, you are welcome here.”
(UUCEP Worship Associate Script)
Above are some of the first words you will hear when attending a Sunday Service at the UU Community of El Paso. They are truly heartfelt by those among us.
Ours is a faith of acceptance and each one of these words can be taken in the most literal sense. Whomever you are, no matter your background, you are welcome without regard to race, class, national origin, physical or mental ability, sexual orientation, or gender identity/expression.
Unfortunately, many are in search of our faith without realizing it even exists! If you would like a more liberal, educational, and accepting faith environment, visit a UU community this Sunday. If you’re unsure where your beliefs lie, a great way to get help is to take the “Belief-O-Matic” quiz at Belief Net: http://www.beliefnet.com/Entertainment/Quizzes/BeliefOMatic.aspx It is a truly fun and enlightening quiz that can both affirm your chosen faith, or show you a new path to spiritual exploration.
As a creedless faith, UU’s rely on the support and acceptance by our members of our 7 Principles:
Our 7 Principles
1. The inherent worth and dignity of every person
2. Justice, equity, and compassion in human relations
3. Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations
4. A free and responsible search for truth and meaning
5. The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large
6. The goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all
7. Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part of
As I go on my 2013 pilgrimage, I hope to bring the meanings of these words to heart and to share. It’s simple to list words as they come–simple to list the principles. But what I hope to convey is the emotion behind the words and more importantly, the belonging to the words that come with our faith.
To learn more about Unitarian Universalism, or to find a community near you, please visit: www.uua.org or click on the chalice in the right-hand column of my blog. If you are unable or unwilling to attend a physical location, you can explore UU’ism through the Church of the Larger Fellowship: http://www.questformeaning.org/
For more information on the UU Community of El Paso, visit: www.uuelpaso.org
Our full schedule, let us know when we’ll be near you!
*** PLEASE NOTE: This schedule has been updated as a living document.
Click on “Schedule” above for our most current listing!
traveling tUUsome 2013 schedule
January 1: Leave from UUCEP
January 6: Albuquerque, New Mexico
January 13: Dallas, Texas
January 20: Baton Rouge, Louisiana
January 27: Oxford, Mississippi
February 3: Birmingham, Alabama
February 10: Lawrenceville, Georgia
February 17: Sarasota, Florida
February 24: Greenville, South Carolina
March 3: Fayetteville, North Carolina
March 10: Williamsburg, Virginia
March 17: Washington, D.C.
March 24: Frederick, Maryland
March 31: Wilmington, Delaware
April 7: Devon, Pennsylvania
April 14: Cherry Hill, New Jersey
April 21: New York, New York
April 28: West Hartford, Connecticut
May 5: Providence, Rhode Island
May 12: Concord, Massachusetts
*Insert visit to CLF and UUA this week!
May 19: Portsmouth, New Hampshire
May 26: Portland, Maine
June 2: Burlington, Vermont
June 9: Ottawa, Canada
June 16: Ann Arbor, Michigan
June 23: Columbus, Ohio
June 30: Charleston, West Virginia
July 7: Lexington, Kentucky
July 14: Knoxville, Tennessee
July 21: Little Rock, Arkansas
July 28: Tulsa, Oklahoma
August 4: Overland Park, Kansas
August 11: Kirkwood, Missouri
August 18: Bloomington, Indiana
August 25: Oak Park, Illinois
September 1: Madison, Wisconsin
September 8: Minneapolis, Minnesota
September 15: Des Moines, Iowa
September 22: Lincoln, Nebraska
September 29: Sioux Falls, South Dakota
October 6: Bismarck, North Dakota
October 13: Laramie, Wyoming
October 20: Golden, Colorado
October 27: Salt Lake City, Utah
November 3: Bozeman, Montana
November 10: Moscow, Idaho
November 17: Seattle, Washington
November 24: Anchorage, Alaska (by air!)
December 1: Portland, Oregon
December 8: Reno, Nevada
December 15: Berkley, California
December 22: Honolulu, Hawaii (flying again!)
December 29: Paradise Valley, Arizona
December 31: Back home to El Paso!
2013 Schedule
Austin and I spent the afternoon Wednesday mapping and tweaking our route for next year. After getting a few spots on the map we could see some better patterns and it changed all of our dates for the year! It was very exciting to see the locations in a concrete form, knowing we’ll be starting out in just one more month. Amazing to have this opportunity!
This map will stay at the UU Community of El Paso (UUCEP) in the Children and Youth Religious Education (CYRE) department. UUCEP is our starting point on January 1st and our ending point on December 31st.
I’ll be posting the entire year’s schedule this weekend. Hope to see many of you as we reach your locale!
*You can also find us on Facebook as “traveling tUUsome”
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