Starr King Unitarian Universalist Church

UNITED NATIONS SUNDAY – LOVING THE WORLD

Led by Rev. Joy Atkinson.

There is much in today’s world that is heartbreaking and worrisome.  But there are glimmers of hope in many places, one of which is in the ongoing work and special projects of the United Nations. The sermon will explore how United Nations programs help to carry out some of the values that we Unitarian Universalists hold dear, and that we share with those who would build world community.

Thinking Past Our Expectations: Beyond Categorical Thinking

Led by UUA search committee.

After the service, a workshop will be held and lunch served.

LOOKING FOR AMERICA

Led by Rev. Joy Atkinson

523 years ago this day, land was sighted from the port side of the Santa Maria, the ship on which Columbus sailed in search of new lands and wealth. The sermon will explore the “discovery” of America and the legacy of this and other European conquests of lands already occupied by indigenous peoples.

UNCONDITIONAL LOVE – OUR ANIMALS / OUR PETS

Led by Stuart Fink, pulpit guest.

The UU principles set forth our relations with other persons. How do they apply to our relations with animals, especially our pets. Pets give us unconditional love. This lay led service will explore how we have included animals in our everyday lives. Members of the congregation are encouraged to bring photos of their pets to be displayed at the front of the sanctuary.

THE LEGACY OF HERESY: THE STORY OF MICHAEL SERVETUS

Led by Rev. Joy Atkinson

Near the 504th anniversary of his birth around 1511, we will take a fresh look at the contributions of an important forebear of our free faith: the Spanish nobleman Michael Servetus, whose questioning of accepted church practices and beliefs got him into serious trouble but inspired many who came after him.

WHATEVER BECAME OF GUILT?

Led by Rev. Joy Atkinson

High Holy Days Service – We Unitarian Universalists boast a “guilt-free” religion, without the threat of eternal punishment for our wrongdoings. Freedom from religious guilt is liberating for many of us. The emotional experience of guilt can certainly be debilitating. But can guilt also be useful and motivating? Does guilt have a positive side?

LABOR DAY SERVICE – NOT YOUR FATHER’S LABOR MOVEMENT

Service led by Bob Britton.

While some believe they have heard the death knell of unions, a new generation of union leaders has found astounding success in progressive coalitions organizing minimum wage workers. While union membership is declining, public sector unions are stronger than ever, but now in the gun sights of the Right. Learn more and join us at our annual Labor Day Service for a high energy hour of music, song and poetry as we celebrate our work and our struggles. The offertory this Sunday will be donated to the Faith Alliance for a Moral Economy.

SOUL POEM: THE ART AND PRACTICE OF SPIRITUALITY

Led by Rev. Joy Atkinson.

What is spirituality? What are the components of a spiritual journey? Joy will explore five steps on the spiritual path: longing, intention, mindfulness, surrender and connection.

What Happens When We Die

Led by Jim Craig, pulpit guest.

What Happens When We Die: – Popular opinion is that the majority of people who are religious main concern is immortality. What do you think? The service will include an open Q&A and discussion. Jim is a former Presbyterian Minister, and is currently serving as President of the Board at the UU facility in Napa.

PATHWAYS TO REDEMPTION: CLIMATE CHANGE/JUST TRANSITION

Led by Rev. Kurt Kuhwald, pulpit guest.

Kurt will present the issue of climate change as a moral calling.