Feeling overwhelmed by the state of the world? Look to our history. This Sunday, we look back at the incredible journey of Rev. Olympia Brown—the first woman ordained with full national denominational standing. From a hostile seminary campus to the frontlines of the women’s suffrage movement, Rev. Brown’s life proves that long-term change is won not all at once, but “stitch by stitch.” Discover how her fiery spirit can inspire us to overcome frustration, combat injustice, and pass the torch to the next generation.

Rev. Stephani M. Skalak is a hospital chaplain and Unitarian Universalist minister whose ministry is rooted in compassionate curiosity and the lifelong practice of reaching across difference to co create meaning. Stephani believes that every human encounter is its own kind of cross-cultural conversation—an invitation to connection, insight, and transformation. She lives in Portland, with her love, Mark, and their two young-adult children, Ukiah and Seneca.

Rev. Stephani Skalak preaching, with Worship Leader Phyllis A. Music from Mary R and a Time for All Ages from Tara T. AV Services from Ayla B.