There is a story in the Jewish Talmud about planting trees. A sage is walking along the road and sees someone planting a carob tree. The sage asks the person, “How long will it take for this tree to bear fruit?” “Seventy years,” replies the gardener. The sage then asks: “Are you so healthy a…
I got a question for you people: of all the recent Marvel movies, who is your favorite superhero? Ironman? Black Panther? Groot? Does Groot count? Is he a tree or a superhero? I have a confession to make, my friends. I have not seen all the Marvel universe movies, I’ve seen three or four of…
Four members of the congregation speak about the history and legacy of UUCSS’s journey as a Welcoming Congregation, a church intentionally open to the participation of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender people. This service from November 18, 2018, was part of a series celebrating the 65th anniversary of the congregation. Jo Paoletti- Welcoming Kevin Drewery…
This homily was preached on January 6, 2019, as part of the multigenerational Fire Celebration service to mark the new year. Happy new year! Let us rejoice and be glad in this day, this moment, this year of promise. Let us marvel at a sky full of stars at night and of one particular star…
The moment of the Winter Solstice is rich in direct experience, mythic stories, and layers of meaning and tradition. Of all of the gifts we can receive by observing the Winter Solstice, there are three in particular that are calling out to me this year: Reflection, Resilience, and Rejoicing.
Together, we kindle the lights of memory and hope.
When we are overwhelmed by the world and are not sure what to do, let us start where we are. Where we are is rooted in the here and now, in a network of living relationships with people and plants and beings all around us. When we are preoccupied with the forces of death and destruction, we can reframe by reconnecting with the forces that create and uphold life.
We reflect on the legacies of our beloved ancestors through story, song, and ritual.
Interim Minister Rev. Lyn Cox
Mindfulness, being fully present in the moment, sounds simple. Simple is different than easy. There are a few approaches that may help us get closer to mindfulness. We explore together where we are, when we are, and how we are.
Interim Minister Rev. Lyn Cox
As our Jewish neighbors get ready to observe Yom Kippur, we may be inspired to take stock of our own spiritual lives and of the responsibilities we have for each other. Certain practices can help us to strengthen ourselves and our congregation. Return to sources of strength and resilience. Maintain a spiritual practice. Connect with and care for the divinity in each other.
Interim Minister Rev. Lyn Cox