“Persevering in Changing Times”– 9:15 and 11:00am

The particulars may change, but the arc of history teaches that change may be the only constant in the universe. In our community, country, church—all changing, all the time.
How do we adapt when we don’t know what is coming next?   ~Rev. Bret Lortie, preaching

“Ending the Silence: Getting Vocal About Mass Incarceration”– 9:15 and 11:00am

Based on changes to criminal law and racism, in the past 30 years the US penal population has increased from 300,000 to 2 million. To bring about the demise of the prison industrial complex, it will take not only changing those laws, but a cultural shift in how Americans treat those touched by the judicial system. This week, we will think about how we can join our voices to the struggle to end mass incarceration.

Susan Frances, preaching

“What Is Liberal Religion, And Why Should We Care?” – 9:15 and 11:00am
The question is not whether we will be extremists, but what kind of extremists will we be, the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr., tells us. “Will we be extremists for hate or will we be extremists for love?” Following the tradition of liberal religion, a tradition that travels from the Buddha and Jesus to Ghandi and to you, we must be extremists for love. That is the root of liberal religion. Rev. Bret Lortie speaking.

“Planet Called Home,” a musical service with our guest, Holly Near – 9:15 and 11:00am
For 40 years Holly Near has been combining her music and activism, sharing her joy and passion. She accesses all of these to celebrate the human spirit. Rev. Eileen Wiviott will be the worship leader for Holly at both of our Sunday services.

“Along the Road of Good Intentions” – 9:15 and 11:00am
In these times of media blitzes, Facebook, Twitter, etc., claims that ‘we didn’t know’ just don’t cut it. Our words, actions, and inaction have consequences that sometimes block the efficacy of the hope we want to bring into the world. We are often on the Road of Good Intentions, but where does that lead us, Allies? Rev. Lynnda White speaking.

January 28, 2018 – Rev. Lynnda White

“Sexual Liberation in the Age of #MeToo” – 9:15 and 11:00am
Sexual misconduct and abuse are present in every community and sector of society, causing harm to people of all ages, genders, and identities. This isn’t news, of course, for much of the population. However, the sheer number of public figures accused of sexual assault recently has exposed the pervasiveness of the issue. Sexual morality has often been falsely equated with denying desire, limiting freedom, and stifling expression. As religious progressives – affirming the inherent worth and dignity of each person, promoting freedom of expression, and understanding sexuality as a sacred and integral part of who we are – how do we practice a sexual ethic that is life-giving, honoring, and empowering rather than harmful? Rev. Wiviott will lead worship and Henry Pleas will be our musical guest.

January 21, 2018 – Rev. Eileen Wiviott

“Whose Are We?” – 9:15 and 11:00am
On Martin Luther King’s birthday we consider what calls us to the work of justice. Who claims our hearts? Who owns our intentions? Rev. Bret Lortie speaking.

January 14, 2018 – Rev. Bret Lortie

“Empire and Epiphany: With Our Annual Burning Bowl Ritual” – 9:15 and 11:00am
For the traditionalists, the Christmas tree doesn’t come down and the season doesn’t end until Epiphany, which celebrates the three magi who visited Jesus the night of his birth and decided not to report back to the tyrant king Herod. Epiphany can be a powerful time to reflect on these oppressive times of empire — and what we will do in the coming year to be a resisting influence in our own ways. Rev. Bret Lortie speaking.

January 7, 2018 – Rev. Bret Lortie

“Compassion Leads the Way” – 9:15 and 11:00am
As you journey into the New Year, let compassion lead your way. Our service will engage in meditative ways to create and grow compassion for ourselves, our neighbors, and our world. Susan Frances, Ministerial Intern leading.

December 31, 2017 – Susan Frances

9:15 and 11:00am
Special returning guest preacher and musician (you’ve heard him at General Assembly!) Matt Meyer will lead a Christmas Eve morning worship with song and poetry.