Central East Region of the UUA

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Antoinette Scully

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The chaos of the world can feel overwhelming, but that doesn’t mean we are powerless. Every act of care, every commitment to justice, makes a difference. ✨💙

In Denver, one Unitarian Universalist congregation saw a growing crisis—people living in their cars with nowhere safe to park—and took action. The First Universalist Church of Denver partnered with the Colorado Safe Parking Initiative to offer a safe, legal, and supportive place for people experiencing homelessness. Their work didn’t just provide parking spaces—it built community, restored dignity, and helped people move toward stability.

Their story is a powerful reminder that we can all be part of the solution. 🌍🙌

Read more about their efforts in UU World: https://www.uuworld.org/articles/denver-safe-parking-program-affordable-housing-ministry-unitarian-universalism.

#community #UU #UnitarianUniversalist #housing #volunteer #faith #UUSharedValues #family #friends #church



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Jasmine Vaughn-Hall

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💜 Equity: A UU Shared Value 💜

With equity, we come full circle. From our Universalist roots declaring that every soul is held in love to our ongoing commitment to justice, Unitarian Universalism calls us to build communities where all can flourish with dignity, love, and compassion.

As Rev. Dr. Sheri Prud’homme writes, our faith mandates us to dismantle systems of harm and create spaces where no one is excluded. Equity is more than an ideal—it is the practice of using our time, wisdom, and resources to ensure true belonging for all.

How are you working to make equity real in your life and community?

Read more from Rev. Dr. Prud’homme on Equity and UU Shared Values: https://bit.ly/uu-equity

#UUSharedValues #equity #UnitarianUniversalism #UU #Faith #Family #Friends #Church #Community #Justice #Inclusion



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Entering this week of possibility and challenge, we invite you to listen to "Shelter Me" by Lea Morris. Its simple refrain—"Sweet Spirit of Light and Love, Spread your wings and shelter me"—reminds us of the love that holds us steady through every storm. These words encourage us both to receive love openly and extend it generously, nurturing kindness and hope within our community. As we navigate the days ahead, may love shelter and guide us, inspiring our actions and strengthening our bonds. Listen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5IXx_7JXuXc



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🔄 Transformation: A UU Shared Value 🔄

We adapt to a changing world. Unitarian Universalism affirms that revelation is not sealed—our faith evolves as we discover new truths and perspectives. As Rev. Dr. Sheri Prud’homme writes, transformation is at the heart of our tradition, shaping how we grow spiritually and ethically throughout our lives.

Our communities are places of deep listening, learning, and change. We are invited to reflect, respond, and continually reshape our understanding of the sacred and our role in the world. This openness calls us to embrace complexity, hold paradox, and act with courage.

How has transformation shaped your spiritual journey?

Read more from Rev. Dr. Prud’homme on Transformation and UU Shared Values: https://bit.ly/uu-transformation

#UUSharedValues #Transformation #UnitarianUniversalism #SpiritualGrowth #LifelongLearning #UU #Faith #Family #Friends #Church #Community



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🌱 Tiny Forests, Big Possibilities 🌱

In the fight against climate change and biodiversity loss, small but mighty Miyawaki Forests are making a difference. These dense, fast-growing urban forests help restore ecosystems, cool cities, and bring communities together.

Thanks to the efforts of Bio4Climate, co-led by Unitarian Universalist Beck Mordini, these forests are now taking root in the Northeast, offering a powerful, community-led solution to environmental challenges. As Mordini puts it, “Humans can be a positive part of the web of life—we don’t have to choose to be destructive.”

📖 Read more about how these forests are transforming urban spaces: tinyurl.com/tiny-forest.

#ClimateSolutions #MiyawakiForests #UrbanGreening #Biodiversity #ClimateJustice #Rewilding #UUValues #UU #UnitarianUniversalist #ClimateRevival #community #faith #church



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🔥"democracy, today we will love you alive
make you ours, make you thrive." – Lucas Hergert🔥

Today, our democracy may feel fragile—unraveling, under threat, slipping away. While we know that democracy can die, we must hold fast to the truth that it can also be loved alive.

Democracy is not something we inherit; it’s something we build. It thrives when we refuse to stay silent—when we raise our voices, organize our communities, and vote as if the future depends on it. Because it does.

Now is the time to act with courage, to protect what is sacred, and to ensure our democracy not only survives but flourishes.

💬 How will you help love democracy alive today? Tell us in the comments.

📖 Read the full benediction: uua.org/worship/words/benediction/democracys-benediction

#UUSharedValues #Democracy #Justice #LoveDemandsAction #UU #UnitarianUniversalist #Faith #Community #democracy #Community



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📢 Join Us for an Important Conversation on Defending Sanctuary

The UUA has joined a multifaith coalition to challenge the federal administration’s rollback of the sensitive locations policy—a move that threatens religious freedom and the sanctity of our sacred spaces.

To learn more about our legal strategy and partners, join us online for “Defending Faithful Sanctuary and Hospitality” on Friday, February 21 at 2pm ET / 1pm CT / 11am PT. This event will include a Q&A session on how congregations can respond to immigration enforcement.

🔗 Register now: https://bit.ly/3X26NNa.

Join us as we uphold our faith’s call to be a sanctuary for all who face oppression.

#SideWithLove #FaithfulSanctuary #ReligiousFreedom #UUSharedValues #UU #UnitarianUniversalist #Faith #Family #friends #community #immigration



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In times of crisis, it is often grassroots networks—not governments or large institutions—that step in to provide care, solidarity, and real solutions. This piece from our partners at the UUSC: Unitarian Universalist Service Committee highlights how local activists, volunteers, and mutual aid groups are building resilient communities across borders. Their work reminds us that global solidarity is not just about charity—it’s about relationships, shared struggles, and the radical power of community care. Read more:

https://www.uusc.org/beyond-borders-community-care-as-the-deepest-act-of-global-solidarity/



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❤️ Love is the power that holds us together and calls us to live our values with care and accountability. As Rev. Dr. Sheri Prud’homme writes, love has been central to Unitarian Universalism for centuries—rooted in the Universalist belief that no one is ever beyond love’s embrace.

Our tradition has evolved, deepening our understanding of love beyond theological boundaries. We affirm love’s power to heal, to connect, and to guide us toward justice. In a world of division and struggle, choosing love is a radical act of faith.

✨ Where is love calling you to grow beyond comfort, to challenge injustice, or to repair what has been broken? ✨

Read more from Rev. Dr. Prud’homme on Love and UU Shared Values: https://www.uua.org/beliefs/shared-values/theological-reflection/love

#UUSharedValues #Love #UnitarianUniversalism #SideWithLove #RevolutionaryLove #FierceLove #BelovedCommunity #Justice #Faith #Family #Friends #Church



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With humanitarian aid under attack and global crises escalating, UUSC: Unitarian Universalist Service Committee and Unitarian Universalists for Justice in the Middle East (UUJME) are calling UU's to take action. Injustice anywhere affects people everywhere—our fight for human dignity is bound together across borders.

UUSC has launched “Together, We Rise,” a rapid-response network to defend civil liberties and human rights worldwide. Meanwhile, UUJME is mobilizing against the U.S. aid blockade that threatens the survival of Palestinian refugees.

Read more about these efforts and find resources at: https://www.uua.org/global/uu-orgs-support-global-human-rights

#UU #UnitarianUniversalist #DignityforAll #UUSharedValues #HumanRights #Justice #ActForChange #USAID #Community #BeyondBorders



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The work of climate justice calls us into deep connection— with each other, with the earth, with the generations to come. This song, 🌍🎶”We Part of It”🎶🌍, commissioned for the UU Climate Justice Revival and performed by Lea Morris and Adam Podd, lifts up that truth with power and beauty.

💚 Here as one voice we choose survival... now is our moment for revival. 💚

May this music be a call to action and a reminder that we are part of something larger—a sacred circle of life, love, and responsibility. Watch, share, and let it move you: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UicUUR3O0yo.

#ClimateJustice #ReimagineTogether #UU #UnitarianUniversalist #SacredCircle #BelovedCommunity #Faith #Family #Friends #Church #uusharedvalues


We’re releasing the commissioned song for the UU Climate Justice Revival on September 28-29, 2024. Much appreciation to writers and performers Lea Morris and...

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The Trump administration's recent rollback of the sensitive locations policy allows ICE to conduct enforcement actions in places previously deemed off-limits, such as schools, hospitals, and places of worship. This federal overreach violates the First Amendment and the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, threatening our ability to live our faith and keep our sacred spaces safe. As UUA Executive Vice President Carey McDonald emphasized, Unitarian Universalists are called to fight for justice and liberation, and our sacred spaces must remain sanctuaries for those facing oppression.

We will not be silent.

#SideWithLove #SacredSanctuary #UUsharedvalues #FaithInAction #UU #UnitarianUniversalist #ReligiousFreedom #SanctuaryForAll #HumanRights #SocialJustice #ImmigrantRights





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What would it feel like to move through the world without hesitation? To exist in our bodies—without shame, without constraint—free to take up space as we are?

In her book “Sitting Pretty,” Rebekah Taussig challenges us to imagine a world that doesn’t force us into sameness—a world that sees those on the margins and says, **You have what we need. How can we remove barriers so you can fully be here?**

Accessibility isn’t just about compliance. It’s about liberation—reshaping our communities so that belonging isn’t an afterthought, but a guiding principle.

UU’s are called to this work. Explore resources from EqUUal Access and learn how we can create a more accessible world: uua.org/accessibility.

Read the full excerpt from “Sitting Pretty” at https://www.uua.org/worship/words/reading/wild-emancipation-all-us

#UU #UnitarianUniversalist #RebekahTaussig #AccessibilityForAll #UUSharedValues #LoveAtTheCenter #Community #Faith #Family #Friends #Church



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It's Sex Ed Week of Action! 📢 Quality, inclusive sex ed changes lives and strengthens communities. This year marks the **25th anniversary** of **Our Whole Lives (OWL)**—the comprehensive, values-based sexuality education program offered by Unitarian Universalists. If you haven’t explored it yet, now’s the time!

Learn more at https://www.uua.org/re/owl.

##SexEdIsSacred #HealthEquity #OurWholeLives #UU #unitarianuniversalist #community#faith #family #sexeducation #welcoming


📢 Day 1 of the #2025WeekofAction is here!
Today we’re focusing on Advocating for Equity: How Sex Ed Affects Health Outcomes. 🌟

📊 When we prioritize health equity in sex education, we create healthier, more informed communities. Let’s explore the “if/then” scenarios: If we invest in quality sex ed, then we can reduce health disparities.

💡 Join the conversation and share your thoughts: https://siecus.info/SEWOAWebinarRegistration

#HealthEquity #SexEdForSocialChange

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Daniel Lawlor

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Lindasusan Ulrich

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The UUA is proud to join a multifaith coalition and the Institute for Constitutional Advocacy and Protection (ICAP) in opposition to the rescission of ICE’s sensitive locations policy, which is a direct violation of the First Amendment and the Religious Freedom Restoration Act. This decision directly interferes with our ability to fulfill our religious mandate and serve all of our congregants equally and with the dignity they deserve. We don’t make this decision lightly, but this extreme action from the federal government challenges a foundation of our faith and threatens to shatter our consecrated spaces. Our faith compels us to take action and protect our places of worship.

Read more about the lawsuit and other plaintiffs joining us in this action:

https://www.uuworld.org/articles/immigration-lawsuit-unitarian-universalist-association



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Elaine McArdle

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Jeff Milchen

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Elaine McArdle

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Cassandra Montenegro

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As harmful policies continue to roll out, Unitarian Universalists are called to protect our communities and stand show up for justice. But when risks are real, how can congregations decide which actions and partnerships align with both their values and their capacity?

Side with Love offers a Risk Discernment Toolkit to help congregations navigate these choices together. Originally created in 2023, it includes:

🔹 A train-the-trainer webinar recording
🔹 A slide deck
🔹 A facilitator guide with two 90-minute conversation plans

Now is the time for thoughtful, collective decision-making. Find the resources here: ⬇️

https://bit.ly/risk-discernment



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📢 "The president thinks he has a lot of power. He does not have the power to determine your gender. He does not have the power to define your identity." – Rev. Julie Conrady, Unitarian Universalist minister, speaking at a protest outside the Alabama Statehouse (read about it here: https://bit.ly/4gxG7L4 )

In Alabama and across the country, people are gathering to oppose policies that seek to restrict rights and redefine personal freedoms. From efforts to limit LGBTQ+ protections to broader government overreach, these actions impact real lives. As Rev. Conrady reminded the crowd, no leader has the authority to dictate who we are.

Our identities are not up for debate, and neither are our rights.

#DefendDemocracy #LGBTIA+ #transrights #community #humanrights #UU #UnitarianUniversalism #socialjustice #belovedcommunity #faith #family #friends #protest



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In her book “Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants,” Robin Wall Kimmerer shares a powerful lesson from the natural world: survival depends on reciprocity.

Scientists found that when algae and fungi were given everything they needed, they lived separate lives. But when resources were scarce, they turned toward each other, forming the lichen partnerships that allow them to thrive in the harshest conditions.

So say the lichens—when the world is harsh, we survive through interconnection. When systems fail, when the path ahead feels uncertain, it is our commitment to each other that carries us forward. Mutual aid, shared struggle, and collective care are not just moral ideals; they are survival strategies, woven into the fabric of life itself.

Where do you see reciprocity at work in your own life? In your congregation and community? How can we, like the lichens, turn toward one another in times of need? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Read the full excerpt here: https://www.uua.org/worship/words/reading/surviving-through-reciprocity

#UU #mutualaid #UnitarianUniversalism #community #faith #church #resilience #UUSharedValues #family #friends





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In accordance with Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) Bylaws, Section 9.6(a) Nomination by Petition, any individual seeking nomination for the office of Moderator or President of the UUA must submit a petition to the Secretary of the Association by February 1 of the election year.

As of the deadline, no petitions for the office of Moderator have been received. Therefore, the candidates for the office of UUA Moderator remain:

- Rev. Kimberly Quinn Johnson and Bill Young (as a candidate team)
- Natasha Walker (as a single candidate)

Your UUA Board of Trustees is invigorated by this election and deeply appreciates the engagement and dedication of our Unitarian Universalist community. Together, we will continue to care for one another and strengthen the future of the Association.

We thank you for your commitment to this important process.

Please follow the link below for the official announcement on UUA.org

https://www.uua.org/uuagovernance/board/announcements/uua-moderator-election-update

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Staff Writer

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📚 Black History Month Reads 📚

As Unitarian Universalists, we are called to confront injustice, uplift Black voices, and engage in lifelong learning—not just during Black History Month, but always. One way to honor this commitment is by seeking out stories and perspectives that challenge and inspire us.

To support this work, InSpirit: The UUA Bookstore and Gift Shop has curated a selection of books that honor and celebrate people, moments, and movements in Black history. From Imani Perry’s exploration of Blackness and blues to George M. Johnson’s celebration of Queer figures in the Harlem Renaissance, these selections tell important truths, highlight radical and remarkable voices, and point to the crucial work that remains.

📖 See the full list here: https://bit.ly/3PZl49r

#BlackHistoryMonth #ReadBlackHistory #UUSharedValues #SocialJustice #BelovedCommunity #UU #UnitarianUniversalist #Faith





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Elizabeth Nguyen

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Erika Hewitt

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📢 Federal workers are being forced to bear the burden of political decisions beyond their control. Many are facing uncertainty, financial hardship, and stress as they struggle to provide for their families while continuing to serve the public.

The Unitarian Universalist Association joins in solidarity with federal workers and their families during this difficult time. Your dedication keeps our communities running, and you deserve stability, respect, and fair treatment. We call on leaders to prioritize the well-being of workers and their families.

If you are impacted, you are not alone. We see you. We support you. 💛

#Solidarity #UU #UnitarianUniversalist #Community #Justice #UUSharedValues #Faith #Family #Friends



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Mní Wičóni. Water is life.  This sacred truth, which echoed around the world as the Standing Rock Sioux Nation led the movement to resist the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline across the Missouri River, reveres the interdependence that defines all of our existence. In both the orig

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🏳️‍⚧️💙 What does it mean to be truly seen? 💙🏳️‍⚧️

Last week, Side with Love shared the children’s book “Calvin” as part of 30 Days of Love.

In “Calvin,” a beautifully told story by J.R. Ford and Vanessa Ford and illustrated by Kayla Herren, a young transgender boy steps into the fullness of who he is, supported by the love of family, friends, and community. He has always known himself, but sharing that truth brings both uncertainty and possibility.

💛✨This book reminds us of the power of affirmation and belonging, and as UU’s, it’s crucial that we ask ourselves: How often do we create spaces where someone can share who they are and be met with warmth, trust, and joy? Where the "what-ifs" of fear melt away in the presence of love? 💛✨

Watch Calvin come into his own in this read-aloud:
https://youtu.be/1Xq_995qFUw?si=S9iwLFJ454HpkeRp

#TransJoy #BelovedCommunity #BeingSeen #UU #UnitarianUniversalist #UUSharedValues #LoveAtTheCenter #Faith #Family #Friends #Church #GenderAffirming


Happy Pride! Today's Story DetailsTitle: CalvinAuthor: J.R. Ford Vanessa FordIllustrator: Kayla HerrenPlease support the author and illustrator and purchase ...

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Caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.” -Audre Lorde

✨ New Blog Alert! ✨

Self-care isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a feminist practice. 💜🌿 Our latest blog explores Feminist Self-Care Praxis and why caring for ourselves is a radical act of resistance.

Read now: uuwf.org/blog-2/

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🌿✨ Imbolc Blessing to All Who Celebrate ✨🌿

As the light begins to grow and the earth stirs with new life, we honor the turning of the seasons and the promise of renewal. May this time of hope and inspiration brighten your days.

#Imbolc #UnitarianUniversalism #SeasonOfLight #UU #Faith #Family #Friends #Blessing



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Aija Duelm

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Central East Region of the UUA

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Trans people are divine. This profound truth, first gifted with the world by J. Mase III and Lady Dane Figueroa Edidi in their Black Trans Prayer Book , is not just a statement but a powerful declaration of sacredness and resilience. It reminds us that trans and nonbinary existence is ancient,

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Megan Foley

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Liz Weber

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Oscar Sinclair

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Natalie Briscoe, Lead for the UUA Southern Region, offers a thoughtful reflection on connecting with the "still small voice" within each of us. She reminds us that this voice guides us toward love, justice, and interdependence. Yet, accessing it requires practice, intentionality, and community.

In Unitarian Universalism, this voice is central to aligning ourselves with values like equity, generosity, and pluralism. Natalie underscores that our congregations serve as spaces where we can cultivate this connection, aligning our inner truths with collective action to create Beloved Community.

Read Natalie’s full reflection in the January 2025 Southern Region newsletter: https://bit.ly/4hsadQM .

🎵 Reflect on this theme through the hymn "Voice Still and Small," as performed Brian Kenny, Alena Hemingway, and Mike Menefee: https://bit.ly/40wwA0S .

#UUSharedValues #BelovedCommunity #Faith #UU #UnitarianUniversalism #Reflection #Mindfulness #Church #Family #friends #hymns #music



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In the spirit of courage and compassion, we lift up Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde for her powerful witness to justice and love, expressed through her Episcopal tradition. Her unwavering advocacy for immigrants, LGBTQ+ individuals, and marginalized communities resonates deeply with Unitarian Universalist shared values of equity, pluralism, and transformation.

In a time when harmful policies and actions threaten the dignity and rights of so many, Bishop Budde reminds us that faith calls us to mercy. As Unitarian Universalists, mercy calls us to action—to amplify voices of the oppressed and to act in solidarity for a more just and loving world.

Hear her powerful message here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xwwaEuDeqM8.

#UUSharedValues #ImmigrantJustice #FaithInAction #LoveAtTheCenter #UU #UnitarianUniversalist


Explore Washington National Cathedral: https://cathedral.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wncathedral/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WNCathedralT...

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Central East Region of the UUA

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Ethan Loewi

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🌟 Justice: A Reflection on Our Shared Values 🌟

Rev. Dr. Sheri Prud’homme reminds us that Unitarian Universalism calls us to dismantle systems of oppression and build communities where all can thrive. Our theological heritage teaches that salvation lies not in escaping a vengeful God, but in co-creating a world rooted in love, justice, and flourishing.

From abolition to today’s movements for equity, our tradition has sought to uphold these values. Yet, as Rev. Dr. Prud’homme reflects, our history also holds lessons in humility—times when we failed to live up to these ideals or stood complicit in harm.

Today, we honor this legacy by working toward just, compassionate communities. The journey is ongoing, but together, we strive to embody the shared value of Justice.

🔗 How do you engage with the call to dismantle oppression in your daily life? Share in the comments.

Read Rev. Dr. Prud’homme's full theological reflection on Justice at https://bit.ly/4h6RV7Z.

#UnitarianUniversalism #Justice #SharedValues #BelovedCommunity #SheriPrudhomme #faith #faithinaction



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We join the National Congress of American Indians in celebrating the news of Leonard Peltier’s clemency after nearly fifty years of unjust imprisonment. This historic moment reflects the power of grassroots advocacy and collective action. As Unitarian Universalists, we are committed to partnering with Indigenous communities and supporting movements that center dignity, equity, and justice for BIPOC individuals. Together, we continue the work to build a more just and compassionate world.


After nearly fifty years of unjust imprisonment, Leonard Peltier has been granted clemency. This moment marks a historic victory for Indian Country and all who have come together in solidarity for justice. It is a testament to the power of grassroots advocacy, collective action, and unwavering resilience. Read NCAI's full statement on this monumental step towards justice below.

🔗 https://www.ncai.org/news/leonard-peltier-is-going-home-a-step-toward-healing-and-justice

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We share this message from UUA President Rev. Sofía Betancourt, PhD.


Beloveds, in these fearful and difficult days I send my love and solidarity – to each of you and to your families, communities, and organizing networks. As the executive orders rolled out of the office of the US President on Monday, we witnessed the attempted unravelling of decades of work for a more fair and free nation.

As Unitarian Universalists, we are personally, theologically, and covanentally bound together by the expansive Love that has always been the animating center of our faith. Far more powerful than any faction, leader, nation, or creed, it is this fierce Love that compels our deepest loyalty and our most courageous action.

I join you in meeting the days and years to come with faith and renewed purpose. Please find a link in the comments below to a pastoral message from me that includes ways to take faithful action in support of our ourselves, our congregations, and our communities.

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🌟 Discover the 2024/2025 UU Common Read: “Authentic Selves”🌟

📖 “Authentic Selves: Celebrating Trans and Nonbinary People and Their Families” invites us to honor and uplift the lives of trans and nonbinary people through the transformative power of storytelling.

🎥 In this video, Sara Lewis, a religious educator and parent of a trans child, shares why Authentic Selves is such a vital resource:
“This is how faith formation happens. Not through statistics or facts, but through stories and relationships that bring us into greater love, greater justice, and greater authenticity.” Watch it here: https://youtu.be/feuB3ID9reY?feature=shared.

✨ Whether you're exploring it in a congregation or on your own, this Common Read is an invitation to grow, to listen, and to celebrate the authenticity and resilience of trans and nonbinary people and their families.

👉 Learn more about the Common Read and get your copy here: https://www.uua.org/lifespan/curricula/read

#UUCommonRead #AuthenticSelves #TransRights #FaithFormation #UU #UnitarianUniversalism #SharedValues #BelovedCommunity #Faith


The 2024-2025 UU Common Read is "Authentic Selves: Celebrating Trans and Nonbinary People and Their Families". Join us to read and discuss this beautiful and...

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Week One of 30 Days of Love invites us to dream and act around the theme "We Are Home," inspired by immigrant-led coalitions fighting for justice and humanity.

”As the governing and power structures of our world rely more and more on domination, exploitation, and disposability to consolidate power, we must hold onto and grow ours." – Nicole Pressley, UUA Organizing and Strategy Director.

Together, we are the antidote to fear.

Explore resources, reflect, and take action with Side With Love: https://sidewithlove.org/ourstories/2025/1/21/week-one-of-30-days-of-love-we-are-home

#30DaysOfLove #WeAreHome #UU #UnitarianUniversalism #BelovedCommunity #faith #faithinaction #SharedValues


In January 2021, immigrant communities, organizers, and their allies met the change in the US Presidential Administration with determination and courage, focused on ending the cruel, xenophobic policies from the Trump administration. Envisioning a pathway toward healing, over 20 immigrant-led co

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Sofía Betancourt

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Susan Maginn

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Julián Jamaica Soto

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🚨 Final Call: Help the Pink Haven Coalition Today! 🚨

The Faithify fundraiser for the Pink Haven Coalition closes on January 24th, but there’s still time to make a difference!

Our trans, Two-Spirit, and gender-expansive (2STGE+) kin are in crisis, and the time to act is now.

Founded and led by 2STGE+ organizers, the Pink Haven Coalition has built an international mutual-aid network that provides life-saving aid to those living under hostile governments in the U.S.

💡 How you can help:

Donate now: faithify.org/campaign/402/pink-haven-coalition

Share this campaign with your networks to expand its reach.

Every contribution matters. Your support ensures Pink Haven can continue meeting this unprecedented crisis with fierce love, compassion, and action.

#TransRights #PinkHaven #Faithify #UU #UnitarianUniversalists #SharedValues #LoveInAction



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Rev. Julián Jamaica Soto’s “The Butterfly Effect” reminds us that even the smallest actions ripple outward, shaping the world in ways we may never fully comprehend. This truth resonates deeply on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a time to reflect on Dr. King's enduring legacy and the individuals who have propelled movements for #justice, #equality, and #love. 🦋❤️🌍

Dr. King dreamed boldly, organizing change that seemed insurmountable, yet his faith in collective action and moral truth created a powerful wave of transformation. 🗣️📢 Let us scream the truth, amplifying the call for justice, until every stone and leaf bears witness to the dream of a world where dignity and freedom flourish for all. 🗣️📢

💡 How will you honor Dr. King’s dream today? What small action can you take to create ripples of justice and love? 💡

Read Rev. Soto's full poem at: https://www.uuworld.org/articles/poem-the-butterfly-effect-rev-juli%C3%A1n-jamaica-soto-unitarian-universalism

#MLK #UU #UnitarianUniversalism #UnitarianUniversalists #LoveAtTheCenter #SharedValues #friends #family #church #faith #BelovedCommunity #Poetry



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🌟 Join Us for ‘For Such a Time As This': A Prophetic Response to America’s Defining Moment 🌟

On January 20, as we honor the life and prophetic vision of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., we gather at a pivotal moment in our nation’s history. In partnership with the United Church of Christ and a coalition of faith communities, the UUA invites you to be part of a transformative Interfaith Service and Moral Mass Meeting, where voices unite for justice, equality, and collective action.

While UUA President Rev. Dr. Sofía Betancourt originally planned to participate, she will no longer be joining due to illness in her household. While the situation is not serious, Dr. Betancourt has made the decision to prioritize communal wellness and cancel her appearance. She encourages everyone to join this important gathering, whether in person or online, to honor Dr. King’s legacy and continue the shared work of justice and collective action.

📍 When & Where
🗓️ January 20, 2025
⏰ 6 p.m. CT / 7 p.m. ET
🏛️ Healing Cathedral Christian Church, Memphis, TN
🎥 Livestream available

Together, let us rise to the call of justice and carry forward Dr. King’s powerful legacy.

👉 Register now to join in person or online: https://bit.ly/4ag6S52

#MLK #FaithInAction #JusticeForAll #UUValues #InterfaithSolidarity #BelovedCommunity #UU #UnitarianUniversalist #SocialJustice



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Maryann Batlle

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Jo VonRue's "Prayer for Moving Forward" speaks directly to the heart of Unitarian Universalist values—resilience, hope, and the relentless pursuit of justice. It acknowledges the weariness many of us feel in the face of systems that devalue human lives while simultaneously calling us to draw strength from the collective action of our communities and the deep well of courage within ourselves.

This prayer reminds us that even when the path feels muddy and rough, the burning coal of hope within us sustains us. It urges us to hold fast to the vision of equity and peace, to join our neighbors in solidarity and shared purpose, and to trust in the power of our shared humanity to bring about change.

How can we inspire and support one another to keep moving forward toward justice? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Read the full prayer on WorshipWeb: https://www.uua.org/worship/words/prayer/prayer-moving-forward

#UU #UnitarianUniversalism #UnitarianUniversalists #LoveAtTheCenter #SharedValues #friends #family #church #faith #welcome Courage #Resilience #Reflection



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✳️ Navigating Social Change Without Burning Out ✳️

In a world of ongoing crises—global conflicts, political upheavals, and threats to equity—it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. How can we stay engaged without losing ourselves in the process? Activist and author Deepa Iyer offers a thoughtful framework to help you align with your values, embrace your unique role in social change, and build meaningful connections to sustain both your efforts and well-being.

💡 Swipe through the images for actionable tips inspired by her work!

Read Iyer’s article in UU World to learn more about finding balance and purpose: https://bit.ly/UUWorldTips

For a deeper dive, explore her book, “Social Change Now: A Guide for Reflection and Connection”: https://bit.ly/SocialChangeNowBook

#SocialChange #CommunityCare #BurnoutPrevention #DeepaIyer #UU #UnitarianUniversalism #UnitarianUniversalists #LoveAtTheCenter #SharedValues #Resilience #SocialJustice #SocialAction #FaithInAction #organize









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Julie Yeeun Kim

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🌟 Generosity: A UU Shared Value 🌟

This week, as we reflect on Generosity—one of our UU Shared Values—we honor the life and legacy of Jimmy Carter, a powerful example of giving with gratitude and hope.

From his work with Habitat for Humanity to his global efforts for peace and justice, President Carter embodied generosity in action, showing how transformative giving can be.

In her reflection on generosity, UU Rev. Dr. Sheri Prud’homme reminds us that generosity is rooted in seeing the world as sacred and interconnected. As Unitarian Universalists, we are called to carry this value forward, practicing generosity in all its forms—financial, personal, and communal—to nurture hope and compassion in our communities.

How does generosity show up in your life? 💛

Read Rev. Prud’homme’s full theological reflection at https://bit.ly/42wBain.

#JimmyCarter #Generosity #UU #UnitarianUniversalism #SharedValues #LoveAtTheCenter #Justice #Hope





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Renee Ruchotzke

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Central East Region of the UUA

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We share this message from UUA President Rev. Sofía Betancourt, PhD.


The fires rage once again in California, coming so close in the aftermath of North Carolina’s rising water. We are surrounded by evidence of how precarious our tilting planet and precious lives are in the age of climate catastrophe. We hold all those impacted in our hearts today even as we process personal and collective tragedies that are not brought about by forces of nature, but by forces of coercion and human failure.

We know that the impact of this fire on all in the Los Angeles region will be tremendous. We also understand that already vulnerable populations often have fewer resources to draw on and therefore will need greater assistance in response.

This afternoon, we know that many Unitarian Universalists have been evacuated from the greater Los Angeles area. Still others have lost their homes entirely. As of this writing, our congregational spaces in the LA area remain largely undamaged, though access to them is increasingly difficult with many power lines and trees blocking roadways. We are aware that other faith communities have already lost their buildings to the fire. We offer our condolences to and prayers for them.

As I have had too many occasions to say in the last year, we are a sanctuary people. Unitarian Universalists are literally taking one another in, offering support to those in their surrounding communities, and creating pockets of relative safety amid so many challenges. Let us continue that work in many ways, now and in the days and months to come.

Today we are once again mobilizing our UUA Disaster Relief Fund to provide grant relief to impacted communities. Thanks to overwhelming recent generosity from individuals and congregations, grant funds are available. The need, however, is great and growing. If you have not yet made a gift to the Disaster Relief Fund, please consider lifting up your Sunday offering or making a personal gift now. We need one another, now more than ever.

Donations can be directed to the UUA Disaster Relief Fund at this link: https://www.uua.org/giving/disaster-relief

Resources for congregational special collections may be found here: https://www.uua.org/giving/areas-support/funds/disaster-response/disaster-relief-fund-collections

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Nancy McDonald Ladd

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Ethan Loewi

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🌈 We’re thrilled to share “Living for Change as a Queer Military Chaplain with a Queer Faith” by UU Chaplain Capt. Sarah Caine, published in ‘Modern Military Magazine.’ Sarah reflects on their journey as a UU Army chaplain, navigating authenticity, love, and liberation in a system steeped in tradition. 🌈

Sarah explores what it means to queer faith, challenge the status quo, and hold space for those often left out of traditional narratives. Their story invites us to imagine a world where liberation and love guide every step of our shared journey.

📖 Read the full article at https://modernmilitarypublications.publi.dev/faith-issue/queer-military-chaplain-sarah-caine.

#UU #UnitarianUniversalism #UnitarianUniversalists #LoveAtTheCenter #SharedValues #friends #family #church #faith #welcome #Courage #Resilience #faithinaction



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DanaLee Simon

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🌟 Today is Epiphany 🌟

Today, many observe Epiphany—a time to reflect on moments of revelation and illumination. For some, it marks the end of the Christmas season; for others, it’s a reminder to seek truth, clarity, and connection in the year ahead.

This year, Epiphany arrives amidst heavy hearts, as we grieve the tragic attack in New Orleans on January 1st that claimed the lives of 15 people and injured 30 others along Bourbon Street. A city known for its vibrant spirit and celebration of life is now mourning profound loss.

For Unitarian Universalists, Epiphany can inspire us to shine a light on injustice, to hold space for grief, and to recommit to building safer, more loving communities. With Mardi Gras approaching—a time when New Orleans typically comes alive with joy and celebration—we are reminded of the strength and resilience of this community and others like it.

May this Epiphany call us to action:
✨ To honor those we’ve lost with acts of justice and compassion.
✨ To seek clarity and courage as we confront violence and injustice.
✨ To celebrate resilience and work for a future where all can live and thrive.

How will you honor this day of light and insight in the face of the world’s challenges?

#Epiphany #UnitarianUniversalist #NewOrleans #Justice #Healing #SharedValues #UU #UnitarianUniversalism #LoveAtTheCenter #SharedValues #friends #family #church #faith #welcome #BelovedCommunity



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📅 On January 20, 2025, UUA President Rev. Dr. Sofía Betancourt joins interfaith leaders, including those from the Poor People's Campaign: A National Call for Moral Revival and the United Church of Christ, for "Justice Rising: A Moral Call to Action in America’s Defining Moment."

✨ This day marks both the national Inauguration Day and the commemoration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s enduring legacy. 🕊️ Inspired by Dr. King’s prophetic vision, we are grateful that Unitarian Universalism will be represented in this event uniting leaders, advocates, and all committed to justice, equity, and love. Together, faith leaders will respond to regressive forces with hope, moral courage, and an unyielding commitment to a more just world.

🔗 More information, including the livestream link, is available at: https://bit.ly/3ZKwnqw

#JusticeRising #FaithInAction #MLKLegacy #UU #UnitarianUniversalist #Interfaith #SocialJustice #PropheticVoices #BelovedCommunity



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🌟 Happy New Year, 2025! 🌟

Let’s start the year by inspiring ourselves and others. Reflect on your values and dreams with this challenge:

🎉 Create a six-word story about your aspirations for 2025. 🎉 Here’s an example: "Kindness grows; justice blooms for all."

Share yours and spark inspiration! ✨ Cheers to hope and community! ✨

#NewYear2025 #UU #SharedValues #Faith #Justice #UnitarianUniversalist #UnitarianUniversalism #Goals



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🏆 UU World Staff's Favorite Stories of 2024

As 2024 comes to a close, the UU World team reflects on their most memorable and meaningful stories of the year. Here are some of their top highlights:

🌱 “Tiny Forests Sow Possibility and Cultivate Resilient Communities”
Managing Editor Sonja L. Cohen shares her experience exploring the Miyawaki Forest movement, complete with fresh air, sunshine, and a fascinating look at restoring ecosystems. Read at: https://bit.ly/49JPQfz

💖 “After Her Viral GA Moment, Rev. JeKaren Olaoya Has More to Say About Love”
Senior Editor Elaine McArdle reflects on Rev. Olaoya’s powerful declaration of love at GA 2024 and what it means for our faith and community. Read at: https://bit.ly/3DrDXi8

🏳️‍⚧️ “Pink Haven Coalition Helps Transgender People Relocate and Access Gender-Affirming Care”
Executive Editor Kristen Cox Roby highlights the lifesaving work of the Pink Haven Coalition, a vital network providing support to trans individuals. Read at: https://bit.ly/3DqjlqB

🎲 “Game Changer: UU Elizabeth Hargrave is Reimagining How We Play”
Advertising Assistant Josh Degregorio celebrates the creativity and values UU game designer Elizabeth Hargrave brings to the world of board games. Read at: https://bit.ly/4iIYJtR

✨ What was your favorite UU World story of 2024? Let us know in the comments!

#UUWorld #UU #UnitarianUniversalism #UnitarianUniversalists #LoveAtTheCenter #SharedValues #friends #family #church #faith #welcome



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Wishing a joyful and meaningful Kwanzaa to all who celebrate! May this time bring connection, reflection, and celebration of community, culture, and tradition. Happy Kwanzaa!

#Celebrate #Community #Connection #Kwanzaa #UU



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Happy Hanukkah! ✨🕎

Hanukkah reminds us that even in the darkest times, small acts of faith and persistence can ignite a lasting flame. 🕯️💙 We honor the resilience and courage of those who kept the flame alive against all odds, a reminder of the power of hope and unity.

May the sacred light of this season inspire love, renewal, and a brighter future for you and your loved ones.

Chag Sameach to all who celebrate! 🎉🌟

#HappyHanukkah #FestivalOfLights #ChagSameach #UU #UnitarianUniversalist #Faith #Family #Friends #Pluralism



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🎄 Merry Christmas! 🎄

Did you know that the Christmas tree tradition in America has Unitarian roots tied to the fight for justice and freedom?

In 1832, the Rev. Charles Follen—a Unitarian minister, abolitionist, and advocate for liberty—introduced one of the first decorated Christmas trees in New England. Inspired by his German heritage and a desire to create joy for his young son, Follen adorned the tree with candles, gilded ornaments, and treats. This magical display left guests in awe and became one of the earliest documented Christmas trees in the United States.

But Follen’s legacy extends beyond festive traditions. A passionate abolitionist, he risked his career speaking out against slavery and designed his Lexington congregation's octagonal church to symbolize equality—where no one stood above another.

This season, as many of us gather around twinkling trees, let’s remember the light Follen brought into the world—not just through his Christmas tree, but through his commitment to freedom and justice.

✨ Wishing you a holiday filled with joy, reflection, and the enduring spirit of community. ✨

Read more about Rev. Charles Follen in UU World here: http://bit.ly/follen-tree.

#MerryChristmas #UnitarianUniversalist #AbolitionistHistory #CharlesFollen #ChristmasTraditions #UUHistory





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As we enter into the fourth and final week of Advent, we turn to 🕯️hope — a hope grounded not in naïve optimism but in the resilient practice of liberation.

Dayna Edwards’ prayer, “Our Lifelong Work of Liberation,” reminds us that hope is a call to action, connecting us to generations of freedom fighters who envisioned a more equitable world. Their hope was revolutionary, sustaining them through struggle and transformation.

Even now, in times of division and injustice, hope calls us to build communities rooted in care and liberation. 💕 By carrying hope forward with courage and resolve, we honor the legacy of those who came before us and move closer to the vision of a more loving world. 🌍

✨Where do you see hope at work in the world around you? ✨

Read the full prayer here: https://www.uua.org/worship/words/prayer/our-lifelong-work-liberation.



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As we mark the Winter Solstice, Stephanie Noble’s poem, "In Celebration of the Winter Solstice," invites us to embrace the gifts of darkness. It reminds us that darkness is not to be feared but celebrated—a source of mystery, renewal, and promise. In the quiet of these longest nights, we find rest, reflection, and the fertile ground where the seeds of our inner light take root.

Let us honor this time of stillness and renewal, allowing the darkness to hold us as we prepare for the return of the light.

Read the full poem here: uua.org/worship/words/reading/celebration-winter-solstice.

May this Solstice bring you peace and joy in the richness of the present moment. 🌙✨

#WinterSolstice #EmbraceTheDarkness #SolsticeReflection
#UUSharedValues #SacredSeasons #WinterMagic #Rest #Renewal
#CelebratingSolstice #UnitarianUniversalist #UU



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“I seem to be witnessing it everywhere these days – UUs rising to meet the moment…We are learning to live with the daily risk of just being who we are... It is not easy, but it is the wellspring of honesty and courage that will feed our ministry in the years ahead.” - UUA Executive Vice President Carey McDonald.

As Unitarian Universalists succeed in advancing our values in these challenging times, our UUA Executive Vice President Carey McDonald shares some reflections on the threads of hope and care that run through safety considerations:

“While there is tremendous opportunity for UU’s to meet the needs of this moment, the truth is that risks and costs of our ministry are likely to be concentrated in our most impacted communities. As our exposure grows, we must not only be ready to protect those who are most likely to be targeted, and the fear is real. We need to prepare our institutions as a whole, institutions increasingly led by those of us who are BIPOC, trans and queer, or disabled, so that we can continue to be safe havens.”

🌟✺What are some ways your UU congregation or community is creating stronger, safer foundations for community care? What supports would help you lean in more deeply to these practices?✺🌟

#CommunityCare #UU #HopeAndResilience #FaithInAction #SharedValues #UnitarianUniversalism #UnitarianUniversalist #Friends #Family #Church







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Jeff Milchen

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"We celebrate that we are all sacred beings, diverse in culture, experience, and theology." - Rev. Dr. Sheri Prud’homme

Pluralism is the recognition and celebration of diversity in beliefs, cultures, and experiences, affirming that no single perspective holds all the truth.

In her theological reflection on UU Shared Values, Rev. Dr. Sheri Prud’homme writes that Unitarian Universalism embraces pluralism by affirming that there are many paths to the sacred. We hold fast to the idea that no single religion holds all the truth—not even our own.

Through free, open, and respectful dialogue, we honor the diversity of beliefs and experiences that shape our communities. This ongoing exchange allows our theological perspectives to evolve and grow, deepening our understanding and connection to one another.

How do you create space for dialogue and learning across differences in your life?

Read more from Rev. Dr. Prud’homme about Pluralism and its place in our shared values: https://www.uua.org/beliefs/shared-values/theological-reflection

#UU #Pluralism #UnitarianUniversalism #Diversity #SharedValues #LoveAtTheCenter #Faith #Church



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Geoff Duke

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As we move through the third week of Advent we invite you to reflect on joy—a joy that sustains us even in the hardest, darkest places. As Unitarian Universalists, we understand joy as a vital force that keeps us grounded in our values while giving us the strength to continue the work of compassion and justice. As founder and CEO of International Justice Mission Gary Haugen says, “Joy is the oxygen for doing the work of justice.”

Kate Bowler’s words from her Everything Happens podcast episode with Haugen offer a powerful reminder of this truth:

“Sometimes it can feel like you carry the weight of the world on your shoulders. You might wake up tired and go to bed tired. You feel as though you can't possibly fix every problem that comes your way because it's simply too much. We all need the reminder that joy is the way forward—that there's still room for laughter, beauty, and joy even in the hardest, darkest places. It is the only way to continue to do this hard, important work.

So, what is the moment when you feel the most levity? When it feels like you're taking a big, deep breath of fresh air? When joy comes naturally? Double down on that. Get in the snuggle zone with your kid. Pet your dog or your cat, if they're into that sort of thing. Take a long walk or a long bubble bath. Watch that hilarious show on Netflix everyone is talking about.

Yes, compassion is the job, but joy is the oxygen."

✨What moments bring you joy? How do you double down on those moments in your own life? Share your reflections in the comments below and join us in embracing joy as we move through this sacred season.✨

#Advent #UU #UnitarianUniversalism #UnitarianUniversalist #Joy #SharedValues #Faith #Hope #Justice #church #family #friends #holiday





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Central East Region of the UUA

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On December 9th, Nikki Giovanni, one of the most celebrated poets of our time, passed away. A revolutionary voice in the Black Arts Movement and a champion of social justice, Giovanni used her words to challenge oppression, celebrate love, and reflect on the human condition.

In her poem “Allowables,” she confronts how fear can drive us to harm, even when no real threat exists. It’s a powerful call to pause, question our instincts, and resist letting fear control our actions.

As we honor Nikki Giovanni’s life and legacy, may her words inspire us to confront how fear shapes our lives and consider the choices we make in its grip.

ALLOWABLES
By Nikki Giovanni

I killed a spider
Not a murderous brown recluse
Nor even a black widow
And if the truth were told this
Was only a small
Sort of papery spider
Who should have run
When I picked up the book
But she didn’t
And she scared me
And I smashed her

I don’t think
I’m allowed

To kill something

Because I am

Frightened.



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What does it mean to truly live as part of an interconnected web of existence?

✨Interdependence✨, one of our Unitarian Universalist Shared Values, calls us to recognize the sacred connections that bind us to one another and the Earth, inspiring us to live with reverence, humility, and care for the world we share.

Rev. Dr. Sheri Prud’homme reminds us that our UU heritage has long embraced the integration of science and reverence for the natural world. From the Transcendentalists' awe of nature to today’s urgent call to action against climate change, our theology affirms that we are not separate from, but deeply connected to, the Earth and all its life systems.

This interdependence humbles us and inspires us to cherish both our own lives and the life of the planet and all its inhabitants. Yet, as we embrace this truth, we must also confront the harm of past arrogance and colonialism, striving toward accountability and repair.

How does recognizing your interdependence with others and the Earth shape the way you move through the world?

Read Rev. Dr. Prud’homme’s full reflection at https://bit.ly/49Ajh3G.

#SharedValues #Interdependence #UnitarianUniversalism #Theology #UU #UnitarianUniversalists #LoveAtTheCenter #friends #family #church #faith #welcome







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Ethan Loewi

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Rumni Saha

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Beth Casebolt

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