When it comes to imagery for transformation, change, and reinvention, some people gravitate towards the metaphor of molting one’s skin to make room for a new one. I prefer the symbolism of the chrysalis that shelters a developing butterfly. We’re all destined to form and shed many chrysalises throughout our human lives. This morning, with … Continue reading A Chrysalis Year
Resistance in America takes many forms in 2026. One is the whistle brigade to prevent or interrupt ICE abductions. Chicagoans assembled 4000 ICE-watch whistle kits and the intervention is spreading. How do we fight back on the creeping authoritarianism in our country? In this sermon for Martin Luther King, Jr. Sunday, we’ll revisit Timothy Snyder’s … Continue reading Come Blow Your Whistle… Revisiting “On Tyranny”
In a world that would like to push us toward conformity and a capitalist version of productivity, what might we gain from pursuing activities that are, well, just odd? Rev. Dr. Lynn Ungar preaching with Worship Leader Jan Apland-Curtis. Music from Mary R. and A Time for All Ages from Tara T. AV tech services … Continue reading Dances with Dogs: The Power of Joyful Non-Conformity
It has been said that the essence of monastic life is summed up in one phrase: “chop wood and carry water.” That is, as part of a structured day of habits and rituals that begins in the early morning light with meditating on death, making one’s bed, chanting, and sweeping. How can the power of … Continue reading Waking Up with the Monks and the Power of Habit
Once upon time, during another outbreak of fascism, thousands of villagers worked together to save the dehumanized from hateful violence. Rev. Tony Lorenzen reflects on their story and ours. Rev. Tony Lorenzen preaching with Worship Leaders Eric Tschuy. Music from Micah S. and AV tech services by Jon N. The Rev. Tony Lorenzen grew up … Continue reading I Only Know Human Beings
On Wednesday, December 24 at 4:30pm join us for a joyful service of readings, reflection, choir selections and congregational caroling. Rev. Robin Landerman Zucker with Worship Leader Rev. Suzie Matranga Watson. Music from Mary R. and the Sunrise Choir, under the direction of Tyler P. AV tech services by Jon N. Cookie exchange after the service. … Continue reading Christmas Eve – Sidewalk Joy
In the Western Abrahamic religious traditions, God is seen as a source of light, banishing darkness, and bringing hope. Yahweh impressively “let there be light,” Jesus is famously “the way, truth and light,” and Allah is characterized as the “Universal Light.” Darkness is seen as an enemy, associated with evil, with the shadow. It wasn’t … Continue reading Luminescence – Welcoming Light, Honoring Darkness
To deny that life has its share of disappointments, frustrations, losses and setbacks would be unrealistic and ultimately, counterproductive to our personal growth and well-being. Coach Ted Lasso, the folksy protagonist of the hit TV show, doesn’t deny it. Yet, he posts “Believe” signs around the locker room and asks his English football team at … Continue reading Ted Lasso, Maccabees, and the Miracle of Hope
The Speech Choir is reuniting for a special December performance and will lead today’s service! It focuses on poet Mary Oliver who overcame an abusive childhood through nature, books and poetry. Speech Choir lead by Char W. and Worship Leader Jean W. Music from Mary R. and A Time for All Ages from Tara T. … Continue reading Speech Choir: Mary Oliver
Which barriers do immigrants face in feeling welcomed to the U.S.? Why do other groups of people feel like outsiders, as though they can’t find a place in our society? What does it take for people to feel at home, as though they belong? How can we UUs in particular make a difference? Join us … Continue reading Immigrants & Outsiders: A Dream of Belonging
