"History Vs. Nostalgia (Revisited)"

Service Presenter: Tom Edge

In December, our congregation had a group discussion about the importance of engaging "hard history" and truthfully examining the history of our country. This talk is a follow-up to that discussion, examining recent attacks on the teaching of critical or pluralistic perspectives on American history. How does our view of history also reflect our shared values as Unitarian Universalists?

"Longing to Belong"

Service Leader: Ann Gill

Service Presenter: Megan Rancier

Service Coordinator: Lynn Israel

There are good ways of belonging and bad ways of belonging. Rev. Rod Richards says, “We all have an innate longing to belong. But belonging always requires something of us.” The question is, what does it require? When should we join and when should we walk away? Join us this Sunday as we consider belonging.

"The Stillness of New Beginnings"

Service Leader: Tom Edge

Service Presenter: Sophia Singleton

The turning of the year happens as it always does. What would happen if instead of rushing to the fresh start, we allowed it to bloom in the quiet and chaos of the changing of the times? We hope you can join us for this service which will explore this idea and what it means to honor the need for rest when the noise around you calls for rapid transformation.

"History & Nostalgia"

Service Presenter: Tom Edge

Throughout this year, institutions across the United States have faced pressures to change the way they tell the story of American history. Much of this has emphasized the need for a more “positive” rendering of the past, one that centers stories of progress. This presentation will focus on the importance of an honest, difficult discussion about history and how it shapes our society today. What can “hard history” tell us about who we are? And what happens when we try to avoid those difficult lessons?

"Completing the Gift of Gratitude & Welcoming New Members"

Service Leader: Megan Rancier

Reflection: Kevin McCluney

Join us this Sunday as we welcome new members to the MVUUC Community and explore the entwined concepts of generosity and gratitude. Rev. Janet Parsons writes: “Generosity requires that we relinquish something, and this is impossible if we are not glad for what we have. Are we generous if we can give something away without caring? Without appreciating the importance of the gift? Can we be genuinely grateful to receive a gift if we don’t notice the generosity behind it? The connection between generosity and gratitude is a profound one, and it is an important topic right now for Unitarian Universalists."

"POV: Asian American Moms Deserve Better"

Service Leader: Tom Edge

Reflection: Trinidad Linares 

We often hear people say that "representation matters". What does that really mean? This week’s speaker, Trinidad Linares, will describe how limited representations of Asian/Asian American moms in American popular culture has often cast them in a negative light. Speaking from the perspective of an Asian American woman, she will look at Asian dramas, showing that it doesn’t have to be that way. How are these women affected when we fail to recognize their full humanity? And how can we change this to create a better, stronger country?

"Coming Home"

Service Presenter: Tom Edge

Over the last few weeks, we have talked about our feelings of isolation and the need for connection. For most people, home is the place where we are supposed to feel safe, supported, and in the company of those who love us. This talk will not only look at how to create such a home for people within MVUUC, but how to prepare ourselves for the gifts and challenges that come with building spaces to call "home" throughout our lives.

"Moving Through Loneliness: A Discussion"

Service Leader: Kevin McCluney

Presenter: Dr. Dryw Dworsky

Dr. Dryw Dworsky, clinical psychologist and Director of the Psychological Services Center at BGSU, will be answering questions posed by members of our congregation surrounding the themes of loneliness and belonging.

"True Belonging"

Service Leader: Lisa Merrill-Price Reflection

Presenter: Demetrius Ingram

"We continue this Sunday with another reflection by Rev. Dr. Sandra Fees, this time focusing on what it means to truly belong. Brene Brown has researched and written extensively about this topic. Fees uses this body of work to inform her own understanding of belonging to share will all of us. Join us Sunday to hear more. Remember: if you show up, you belong."

"Bread Communion"

Service Presenter: Sophia Singleton

As the leaves begin to change and we move further into autumn, we find ourselves at the table together to share in the bounty of the harvest. Let us break bread together and celebrate the work we do to get it to our table and the community that is found when we share our blessings with one another.

"Peace- A Healing for the World" Intergenerational Worship Service

Special Guest Presenter: Jim Scott Service

Leader: Lynn Israel

Jim Scott, UU composer, singer, guitarist and activist, will join us this Sunday presenting an intergenerational musical service that celebrates peace, justice and the earth. His much loved “Gather the Spirit” is included in the UU hymnal.

"Mabon: A time to gather blessings and look inward"

Service Leader: Su Drake

Service Presenters: Su Drake, Sophia Singleton & Ann Gill

 

The autumnal equinox has been celebrated for hundreds of years by many cultures. Mabon is a pagan sabbat that ties that ancient tradition with pagan values and rituals. Join us on Sunday as Su, Sophia and Ann lead us in this special experience.

"Solidarity Forever" 

Service Presenter: Megan Rancier

 

This Sunday we will explore the history and significance of Labor Day and labor unions in the U.S. through stories, photos, and songs.

"True belonging?"

Service Leader: Lisa Merrill-Price

Reflection Presenter: Demetrius Ingram

 

"We continue this Sunday with another reflection by Rev. Dr. Sandra Fees, this time focusing on what it means to truly belong. Brene Brown has researched and written extensively about this topic. Fees uses this body of work to inform her own understanding of belonging to share will all of us. Join us Sunday to hear more. Remember: if you show up, you belong."

"Loneliness: A Door to Belonging?"

​Service Leader: Kevin McCluney

Reflection Presenter: Colleen Fitzgerald

 

The world is full of daunting challenges currently, putting a strain on many people's sense of belonging. Often this leads to feelings of loneliness and isolation. Rev. Dr. Sandra Fees' work suggests that loneliness can serve as a doorway back to belonging. Join us Sunday to hear more. Remember: if you show up, you belong.

"Bread Communion"

Service & Reflection Presenter: Sophia Singleton

 

As the leaves begin to change and we move further into autumn, we find ourselves at the table together to share in the bounty of the harvest. Let us break bread together and celebrate the work we do to get it to our table and the community that is found when we share our blessings with one another.

"Team Interdependence"

Service Leader: Susan Rogers

Reflection Presenter: Melanie Stinson

 

 

"You are never alone" in this multidimensional reality in which we live. So writes metaphysical teacher, author, sound & energy healer and acupuncturist, Aleya Dao. She had an "awakening" during a sound bath session. Thereafter, she was able to see and learn from spiritual beings of love and light all around her. Along with metaphysical teacher and author, Sonia Choquette, Aleya says it is possible for all of us to receive the support of the etheric dimensions. Join us as we learn just what that means about the subtle realms in which most of us have only heard that angels may exist.

"Mabon"

Service Leader: Su Drake

Reflection Presenters: Su Drake, Sophia Singleton & Ann Gill

​

The autumnal equinox has been celebrated for hundreds of years by many cultures. Mabon is a pagan sabbat that ties that ancient tradition with pagan values and rituals. Join us on Sunday as Su, Sophia and Ann lead us in this special experience.

"Peace- A Healing for the World"

Service Leader: Lynn Israel

Special Guest Presenter: Jim Scott

​

Jim Scott, UU composer, singer, guitarist and activist, will join us this Sunday presenting an intergenerational musical service that celebrates peace, justice and the earth. His much loved “Gather the Spirit” is included in the UU hymnal.

"Gathering of the Waters!"

Service & Reflection Presenter: Buffi Elwazani

​

Summer has drawn to a close for most of us. It's time to return to your spiritual home and to refresh your spirit in the company of this Beloved Community. If you collected water from your travels or from a special place nearby, bring it to contribute to our gathering of waters. We will have water for all to use as well.

"Solidarity Forever!"

Service & Reflection Presenter: Megan Rancier

​

This Sunday we will explore the history and significance of Labor Day and labor unions in the U.S. through stories, photos, and songs.

"You Live In a Multidimensional Reality"

Service Leader: Megan Rancier

Reflection Presenter: Melanie Stinson

​

We know we live on earth-the physical plane. We know we have five senses. Is there more to life than this? According to authors Aleya Dao, acupuncturist and sound and energy healer, and Sonia Choquette, Ph.D., spiritual/metaphysical teacher and vibrational healer: there's a lot more! Join us as we delve into new ways of sensing and perceiving our lives.

"Meditation for Wandering and Wondering Minds"

Service Leader: Kim Sautter

Reflection Presenter: Ann Gill

 

"Would you like to meditate, but feel like you need to be an expert? Does your mind wonder as well as wander? Ann Gill and Kim Sautter will share some meditation practices this Sunday, including Present Centered Awareness Practice and the Loving Kindness Meditation Practice. The emphasis is on practice, rather than perfection. Join us!

"No Matter Where You Go, There You Are!"

Service & Reflection Presenter: Sophia Singleton

​

What does science fiction and the fourth UU principle have in common? To walk the ever winding path of life, never fully knowing what you'll find? Join us this Sunday for a meditation on the fourth principle and an exploration of what confronting the unknown can mean for all of us.

"The Parable of the Sower"

Service & Reflection Presenters: Megan Rancier and Kelci Crawford

​

Octavia E. Butler's 1993 dystopian novel The Parable of the Sower depicts a struggle for survival in a world where resources are scarce, and where relying on faith - in religion, authorities, and even other people - is risky. This Sunday, we'll look at how the novel explores the nature of human relationships and spirituality, and what we can learn from Butler's vivid cautionary tale.

"Poetryfest"

Service & Reflection Presenters: Susan Rogers

​

Poetry's power to touch the heart lies in its ability to evoke emotions, express universal experiences, and offer solace or inspiration through carefully chosen words and imagery. It provides a space for reflection, connection, and a deeper understanding of oneself and the world. During this service, several members of the congregation will share a poem that has deep meaning for them. Join us as we share the beauty of poetry.

"Spirituality and Art"

Service Leader: Sophia Singleton

Reflection Presenter: Rev. Beth Dana (video)

​

Have you ever felt a stirring in your soul when observing a piece of art? Theater? Or when listening to music? Has someone else's artistic expression given you a new perspective or a way to feel grounded in the moment? This Sunday we consider the role that art and creativity has on spirituality. The Rev. Beth Dana, of First Unitarian of Dallas, provides a thought-provoking reflection on the topic.

"Summer Solstice Celebration"

Service & Reflection Presenters: Su Drake & Buffi Elwazani

​

Last weekend marked the summer solstice, but we are celebrating it this weekend! Join us for a Summer Solstice Circle and an honoring of the four directions and elements.

"The Hands of Our Fathers"

Service Leader: Kevin McCluney

Service Presenters: Gregg Brownell, Lisa Merrill-Price

                          Tina Jones, Megan Rancier (via reader)

​

For many of us, fathers loom large in our lives. Our hands were swallowed up by his when we were small. Those hands represented presence, safety, strength, or sadly, for some, fear. They helped shape the people we've become, directly or indirectly. Whatever type of dad or father figure you had, he has left his mark on your life. Come listen to the stories congregants are sharing about their dads this Father's Day.

"The Nutty Professor: The Power of Critical Thinking"

Service Leader: Susan Rogers

Service Presenter: Rick Rogers

​

University professors sometimes appear nutty. Why? Hollywood! Yes! But they may appear to the public and especially to their undergraduate students to think a little differently. Professors teach a subject in which they are experts. But much more importantly they are expected to be a paradigm of “Critical Thinking.” What is that? Why is it so important? Join professor Rick Rogers on Sunday (June 8), who will reflect with you on why Critical Thinking is essential for all of us.

"Songs and Stories"

Service Leader: Megan Rancier

Service Presenter: Gregg Brownell

​

Through the performance of songs and stories, Gregg Brownell will offer a reflection related to the UU values of Justice, Pluralism, and Transformation.