Truly living into a vision of deep inclusion can be a daunting expectation. It means continually changing ourselves and our communities. It’s hard for our actions to consistently match our words, yet as Unitarian Universalists this is what we are called to do. At this service with Rev. Sue Browning we’ll consider the ways we collectively sustain “brave space” as a foundation of deep inclusion.

This Sunday will conclude the two part “sermon series” presented by Benjamin Van Dyne using the works of the well-loved writer James Baldwin. This week will focus on what it means to be human in a world that doesn’t  always honor human dignity. Using the short story, Sonny’s Blues, we’ll explore the uniqueness of our shared humanity and how it can be rooted in loving and lasting ways.  Ninety-five years after his birth, James Baldwin’s life and writing continue to teach us about our own challenges and joys. Come join us!

Welcome all to the start of traditional Sunday services.  This is the beginning of UUCR’s 27th year,  which we will celebrate with an “Incoming and Water Communion.” The sermon will begin a two-part series addressing the challenges and joys we face in seeking to live with love and hope even when those seem impossible. Benjamin Van Dyne returns to our pulpit bringing the wisdom of novelist James Baldwin to shed light on troubled times. It will focus on Baldwin’s novel, If Beale Street Could Talk, a story of surviving violence, danger and racism. It has lessons for us about how to love and persevere.

If you have water from summer travels – near or far — remember to bring it for our traditional Water Communion ceremony. We’ll also have water from the beautiful Chester to share.

“‘School Days’: Readings Good Enough to Share and Hear Again.” There are no censors but what is anticipated is a nice combination from scripture readings to the words of favorite folk songs. Please come to share and hear.

Truth: 1) The quality or state of being true. “She had to accept the truth of his accusation.” Synonyms: veracity, truthfulness, verity, sincerity, genuineness. 2) That which is true or in accordance with fact or reality, “the truth.” “Tell me the truth.” Synonyms: the fact of the matter; what actually/really happened; the case. 3) A fact or belief that is accepted as true. (plural noun = “truths.” “The emergence of scientific truths . . . .” Synonyms: fact; verity; certainty; certitude.

Join Harry for our look at “truth,” and what it means (or doesn’t mean) in today’s world.

Join us for coffee and fellowship after the service.

As an introvert, Diane will explore what it means to be introverted/extroverted, and how that relates to being advocates for social justice, environmental justice, and justice in general. How can we all contribute, no matter what our personality types dictate?

For the second session on August 4 we’ve assembled quotes as”food for thought” to get your own reflections primed. We will be using the same “careful listening on a difficult topic” process, and what you speak about is entirely up to you.

 Kevin will compare and contrast Western and Chinese ways of thinking about this issue. . Join us for coffee and fellowship after the service.