In harmony with this month’s Soul Matters theme, I will talk about the meaning and importance of integrity in this week’s sermon. I will draw on some ancient and modern resources to help illuminate the significance of integrity for our lives and society.
This Sunday, I will join many other religious leaders throughout the country in honoring the life and work of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. I will focus on the legacy of his life and work as it casts light on the political and social scene of our society today. I look forward to … Continue reading In Tribute to Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr.
The Christmas Eve Service will consist of readings from the Christmas Story, meditative readings, traditional Christmas hymns, and brief reflections on the meaning of the season. The Christmas Eve Service is open to all. Often members bring visiting relatives to this service.
This Sunday I will talk about the role and meaning of revelation and scripture for traditional religion and how poetry sometimes serves those same purposes. Poets often speak from a perspective outside the normal and common cultural assumptions of society. Some poems convey a truth or image that is like a revelation, awakening us to … Continue reading “Poems as Revelation and Scripture” By Rev. Ed Brock
Unitarian Universalist congregations agree to affirm and promote seven Principles. These Principles are not part of a system of doctrine, nor are they religious dogma, but rather guides for living. They provide direction for those of us who choose to participate in an Unitarian Universalist religious community. They help us navigate life in a way … Continue reading “Reflections on the First Principle” By Rev. Ed Brock
This Sunday – a day when we will be welcoming new members – I will discuss the impact of loneliness in our society, the factors that strengthen loneliness, the importance of the church’s social impact, and why it is important to expand the membership of the church.
Our fifth principle states that we affirm and promote “The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large. “ The Unitarian Universalist Association of congregations is the most democratically based religious movement in America. Our Unitarian roots have strong connections with early American political history. … Continue reading “The Roots and Meaning of Our Fifth Principle”
Loss and suffering are inescapable aspects of life. An additional layer of suffering is added to the initial reaction to suffering and loss as we seek to hide our suffering. By hiding our suffering and loss from others, we think that will be saved from rejection, judgement, or censure from others. Suffering can be redemptive … Continue reading Loss, Suffering, and Healing
One of the lessons of decades of experience as a minister has been the power of shame in the lives of individuals, families and groups. Conversely, experience has also taught me the power of blessing in the lives of individuals, families and groups. I will explore how shame and blessing can be powerful forces in … Continue reading “The Power of Shame and the Power of Blessing”
Soon, I hope, I will be introducing my new book about the Serenity Prayer to the congregation. In the meantime, I wish to talk this Sunday about the basic idea of prayer. Prayer is a verbal ritual, comparable to other types of rituals, rooted in history and tradition. Prayer has been honored by millions … Continue reading “What is Prayer?”
