“God for Unitarian Universalists” 9:15 and 11:00am
What’s God got to do with your life? How is the concept of God useful to Unitarian Universalists, for whom the divine name may not hold imaginative power? How are we supposed to think about God in a post-modern world of inclusion and religious pluralism? Each year at our annual fundraising auction, one member wins a sermon to be preached on the topic of their choice, and this year Ellen Rieger has chosen the topic of “God for UUs.” Rev. Bret Lortie speaking.

March 12, 2017 – Rev. Bret Lortie

“Together We Can” – 9:15 and 11:00am

In Edward Packard’s 1970s “Create Your Own Adventure” book series, at the end of each page or so the reader was offered a choice, and in the choices taken, the story would unfold. It didn’t take but a few books to realize that the more daring a choice, the more interesting a storyline. As we explore this year’s pledge theme of “together we can,” we create the adventure of our church bounded only by the risks we take and the vision we share—together. Rev. Bret Lortie speaking.

March 5, 2017 – Rev. Bret Lortie

“The View From Senior High” – 9:15 and 11:00am
Members of our senior high youth group will share their thoughts and feelings through words and music.

“Serving Those Who Served Us” – 9:15 and 11:00am
Due to the recent news that the federal hiring freeze will affect veterans and the services they will receive, Ministerial Intern Kevin DeBeck will discuss ways in which this congregation can help expand the our ministry to help serve those who served our country.

February 19, 2017 – Kevin DeBeck

“Marriage that Works” – 9:15 and 11:00am
What does it take to form a lasting marriage partnership with another? Romance is nice. Common interests are nice. But these are not what will keep you going toward what songwriter Patty Griffin calls a “mad mission” to the finish line. Maintaining our personal identity while opening ourselves to the language of another’s heart are keys to a lasting union. Rev. Bret Lortie speaking.

February 12, 2017 – Rev. Bret Lortie

“Are You Your Work?” – 9:15 and 11:00am

This month’s theme of identity begins with exploring the question “Are you your work?” The idea of vocation is often misunderstood to be question of employment, but it goes deeper. Continuing the conversation begun in “The Meaning of Ministry,” we will explore what it means to be called to serve the world in your unique way. Rev. Bret Lortie speaking.

February 5, 2017 – Rev. Bret Lortie

“Our Famlies” – 9:15 and 11:00am
Families come in many shapes and sizes, and evolve through stages of life. Members of some UCE families will help us explore the question “What makes a family?” A worship service for all ages. Rev. Connie Grant and Rev. Bret Lortie leading.

“The Meaning of Ministry” –  9:15 and 11:00am  
We are mistaken if we think that only ministers get to minister. Have you heard your call to ministry … yet? There are no spectators in our faith, only participants. Your ministry is vital to our faith and its future. Rev. Bret Lortie speaking.

January 22, 2017 – Rev. Bret Lortie

“Dr. King’s Legacy: Supporting Standing Rock” – 9:15 and 11:00am
What does it mean to stand on the side of love as an ally? Sometimes it means showing up just to listen to another’s story, respond to another’s call to action on their terms, and learn to follow more than lead. As I return from North Dakota to support our congregation that has been supporting the Water Protectors, I consider how this work relates to Dr. King’s legacy of resistance. Rev. Bret Lortie speaking.

January 15, 2017 – Rev. Bret Lortie

“Resolutions and Revolutions” – 9:15 and 11:00am
Some thoughts about hope, resolve, and action for the new year. Rev. Connie Grant speaking.