The Unitarian Universalist Community Church of Santa Monica

Sermons

This is a full list of sermons presented in our church since mid-1999. Links to sermon texts are included for all sermons by the Rev. Judith Meyer and our 2005 Sabbatical minister, the Rev. James E. Grant. Text of selected guest sermons is provided when we have permission from the author/speaker. Audio recordings are also available for most sermons presented after September, 2007 by our staff ministers (just click the "Listen" link next to each sermon).

In addition, "Leaving Room for Hope: Sermons for Uncertain Times," a book of Judith Meyer's sermons, is available here.

June 28, 2009
“GLIDE: A Dialogue About Homophobia”
Michael Eselun, speaker

Michael Eselun, church member and a popular guest speaker here, is a co-founder of GLIDE, Gays and Lesbians Initiating Dialogue for Equality. GLIDE is the preeminent speakers bureau in L.A. combating homophobia in the community at large. In this critical time, Michael will share some of his experiences with GLIDE and engage the congregation in a dialogue about homophobia.

June 21, 2009
“Gathered and Sent” flower festival
Rev. Roberta Haskin, speaker

The flower festival is a ritual that many Unitarian Universalist congregations celebrate. Flowers are brought from home and then gathered into large bouquets to be distributed to each person at the service. Please bring a cut flower from home to the service.

June 14, 2009
“Holding On, Letting Go”
Rev. Roberta Haskin, speaker

(Summer schedule begins: one service at 10 a.m.)

Letting go is held up as a spiritual discipline, but what about holding on? Holding on is also a spiritual discipline. When is it appropriate to let go and when is it appropriate to hold on? New member ingathering during the service and new member reception after the service

June 7, 2009
RE Sunday Service

Join us in celebrating our wonderful RE children and youth, and the volunteers who serve as their teachers and advisors, with a very special interactive story about the power each of us has to make a difference in the world. Each of our RE classes will take part in leading the service, and we’ll also be honoring this year’s crop of graduating high school seniors with a special Bridging Ceremony.

May 31, 2009
“The Universalist Gospel”
Presented by Amy Thiel and Patrick Meighan
Sue Bickford, pulpit host

Come enjoy a narrative history of Universalism celebrated in words and music, adapted by Patrick Meighan and Amy Thiel for our Sunday service.

May 24, 2009
“Remembrance”
Rev. Roberta Haskin, speaker

The lessons of war are in the stories, not the clichés or bumper stickers. The Memorial Day service will include a time for recognition of men and women in the service of our country and a time of remembrance for those who have died. (Listen)

May 17, 2009
Coming of Age Sunday

Join us in celebrating the Coming of Age of Rosy DePaul, Helen Dwyer, Josie Eilertsen, Emma Groezinger, Brett Hart, Moira Johnston, Olivia Legan, Kevin Nakajima, Noah Reyes, Stella Saldo, and Erica Vincenzi as they share their religious credos in a worship service of their own design.

May 10, 2009
“Grandmother’s Wisdom”
Rev. Roberta Haskin, speaker

On Mother’s Day, let us pause to celebrate all who nurture in the way of the wise ones. The wisdom of May Sarton, as she writes about her mother, guides us:

True gardeners cannot bear a glove
Between the sure touch and the tender root,
Must let their hands grow knotted as they move
With a rough sensitivity about
Under the earth, between the rock and shoot,
Never to bruise or wound the hidden fruit.
And so I watched my mother's hands grow scarred,
She who could heal the wounded plant or friend
With the same vulnerable yet rigorous love;
I minded once to see her beauty gnarled,
But now her truth is given to me to live,
As I learn for myself we must be hard
To move among the tender with an open hand,
And to stay sensitive up to the end
Pay with some toughness for a gentle world.

(Listen)

May 3, 2009
"Sexuality and Spirituality"
Rev. Roberta Haskin, Speaker

Our sexuality and spirituality are interwoven to make us whole human persons and healthy faith communities. (Read Sermon Text) (Listen)

April 26, 2009
“Lessons from Transracial Adoption”
Beth Hall, speaker
Vilma Ortiz, pulpit host

Adoption brings diverse individuals together and transracial adoption further crosses racial lines. Yet families built transracially can develop strong and binding ties. Beth Hall is the co-founder and director of Pact, An Adoption Alliance and an adoptive mother.

April 19, 2009
“Honor the Earth”
The Rev. Roberta Haskin, speaker

This Sunday before Earth Day, let us gather to celebrate and honor our connections to the earth. (Read Sermon Text) (Listen)

April 12, 2009
“On the Road to Emmaus”
The Rev. Roberta Haskin, speaker

Easter celebrates the human cycles of growth and transformation. (Read Sermon Text) (Listen)

April 5, 2009
“Weave theWeb”
The Rev. Roberta Haskin, speaker

The seventh principle of Unitarian Universalismstates that we respect the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part. The interdependent web offers us a rich image of what we can be as a religious community. (Read Sermon Text) (Listen)

2 p.m. Shirlee FrankMemorial Service in the Sanctuary

March 29, 2009
“I Don’t Have a Suit”
Michael Eselun, speaker
S.J. Guidotti, pulpit host

Church member and hospital chaplain Michael Eselun will explore the experience of insiders and outsiders — our yearning to belong and the comfort we take in belonging versus our inner experience of being on the outside, often at the same time. (Read Sermon Text) (Listen)

March 22, 2009
“Not All Those Who Wander are Lost”

Annual YRUU Service In our annual Youth Sunday, the YRUU high school group presents a service that explores the journey we are all on together.

March 15, 2009
“Sharing the Ministry”
The Rev. Roberta Haskin, speaker

The ministry of the congregation is not just the minister. How will sharing the ministry impact the life of the church?

March 8, 2009
“To Love a Place”
The Rev. Roberta Haskin, speaker

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME BEGINS - SPRING AHEAD

What does it mean to love a place? What are we willing to do when we love a place?

March 1, 2009
“Change the World Before Those Other Guys Do”
Bruce Knotts, speaker
Rob Briner, pulpit host

Former Peace Corps volunteer, retired Foreign Service Officer, and current Executive Director of the Unitarian Universalist office at the United Nations Bruce Knotts will issue a call to act on a global scale to bring UU values to a world that really needs them.

February 22, 2009
New Member Ingathering
“Re-Member”
The Rev. Roberta Haskin, speaker

In a free church, membership is so important. What is the meaning of membership?

February 15, 2009
“Listen to My Heartsong”
The Rev. Roberta Haskin, speaker

Listening is a spiritual practice. How might we listen better to our inner selves and to each other?

February 8, 2009
“Good Enough”
The Rev. Roberta Haskin, speaker

We believe in the basic goodness of humans. Good enough is all right.

"February 1, 2009
“The Choosing Ones”
The Rev. Roberta Haskin, speaker

Some religious people make a claim to be the chosen ones. What would it be like if we call ourselves the choosing ones?

January 25, 2009
“From Generation to Generation”
The Rev. Roberta Haskin, speaker

Part of the mission of UUCCSM is to live in an intentionally intergenerational religious community. How do we live out that mission? How do the generations enrich one another’s lives?

January 18, 2009
“Struggling For Social Progress: From King to Obama”
The Rev. Ernie Pipes, speaker

Perspectives from veterans of the long march. (Read Sermon Text) (Listen)

January 11, 2009
“Creative Conflict”
The Rev. Roberta Haskin, speaker

Conflict need not be destructive.What makes conflict creative?

Town Hall on Peacemaking Statement of Conscience follows the January 11 second service

January 4, 2009
“Shared Silence”
The Rev. Roberta Haskin, speaker

Shared silence is not merely quietude.What is the power of silence in community?

December 28, 2008
“The Guilt of a Jewish UU ”
Carol Agate, guest speaker

(Read Sermon Text) (Listen)

December 24, 2008
6 p.m. and 8 p.m. services on Christmas Eve
The Rev. Roberta Haskin, speaker

Both services will celebrate a Unitarian Universalist Christmas with carols, the Nativity story, and the passing of the light as we tenderly embrace our religious community in the dark of a silent night. The choir will sing at the 8 p.m. service only.

December 21, 2008
Winter Holiday Pageant: “The Twelve Days of Winter”

This year we offer a pageant with a twist, celebrating 12 different holidays from a host of different traditions, all wrapped up in one (more or less) tidy pageant. Join us in celebrating the spirit of the season together as one intergenerational community.

December 14, 2008
“A Rose in the Wintertime”
The Rev. Roberta Haskin, speaker

Like the rose in the wintertime, an infant is a sign of hope. Our Unitarian Universalist message is one of hope. There will be a Child Dedication during the service.

December 7, 2008
“Practice Peace”
The Rev. Roberta Haskin, speaker

It is difficult to practice peace while the nation is at war. How might we practice peace? What does the statement of social witness on peacemaking have to offer us as we practice peacemaking?

November 30, 2008
“Feathers and Advent”
The Rev. Jim Grant, speaker
Judith Martin Straw, pulpit host

The Rev. Jim Grant says, “I am writing this three weeks before the national election, trying to envision a sermon to be given a little over three weeks af ter that election; imagine my confusion! At any rate, without regard to winners and losers in the election, Advent begins on the Sunday I will be your guest preacher. The proposed UUA Article II, “Identity” talks about our Universalist heritage ‘ . . . ever affirming the power of hope.’ If Advent is anything it is an affirmation of hope, seen in all of the traditional Christmas characters to say nothing of the hopeful fires of Winter Solstice. Druids, Shepherds, Magi, Emily Dickinson, and you and I all have in common the power of hope.” (Read Sermon Text) (Listen)

November 23, 2008
“Gather in Thanks”
The Rev. Roberta Haskin, speaker

We come with grateful hearts to give thanks for all good gifts around us.

November 16, 2008
“Come Help Us Build”
The Rev. Roberta Haskin, speaker

We pledge our gifts to the building up of our beloved community on Commitment Sunday. Please bring your 2009 pledge card to the service to present during a rite of commitment and plan to stay after service to celebrate and build community spirit.

November 9, 2008
“Stewardship”
The Rev. Roberta Haskin, speaker

Our church is a voluntary organization that depends on your monetary generosity in order to thrive and grow.

November 2, 2008
“Day of the Dead” Intergenerational Service
The Rev. Roberta Haskin, Catherine Farmer Loya, and Vilma Ortiz, speakers

(Daylight Savings Time ends - set your clocks back!)

All ages are invited to remember those who have gone before us. You may bring a photo or remembrance of someone who has died this past year to place on the altar.

October 26, 2008
“Faithful Democracy”
The Rev. Roberta Haskin, speaker

One of the principles of our faith tradition affirms the right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and society at large. How does our faith inform how we live together in a democracy?

October 19, 2008
“The Values that Sustain Us”
The Rev. Roberta Haskin, speaker

We say that we “stand on the side of love.” What values inform us as we decide on where to stand on the issues facing us today? The offering that is not pledged will go to the Unitarian Universalist Association for our Association Sunday collection.

October 12, 2008
Coming Out Day Service: “Playing the Hand You’re Dealt”
Arnold Pomerantz, speaker
Judy Federick, pulpit host

Our guest speaker, Arnold Pomerantz, will trace his journey as a gay man from invisibility and shame to self-respect and social consciousness, touching on the cultural, political, psychological, and spiritual factors in the process. With humility, he has projected himself into the role of a “tribal elder” within the GLBT community which has nicknamed him “Popi.”

October 5, 2008
“Attending to Transitions”
The Rev. Roberta Haskin, speaker

Transition is more than simply change. What is a transition like? How do we pay attention to the transition time so it can be a rich and satisfying experience?

September 28, 2008
“Hospitality”
The Rev. Roberta Haskin, speaker

In the largest sense, we are all guests, guests of life. As all the traditional views of hospitality indicate, the stranger, the unknown element, is the most important. Yet, our ideas of hospitality often leave out the element of the stranger. What are the implications of considering hospitality as a holy endeavor?

September 21, 2008
“Fitting In Is Overrated; A Survival Guide for Anyone Who Has Ever Felt Like an Outsider.”
Len Felder, Ph.D., guest speaker
Kathy Cook, Pulpit Host

Len Felder, a psychologist in private practice in West L.A., speaks about the need to honor that which makes you different and unconventional, rather than trying to twist yourself into a pretzel to conform with the majority or the clique. He will discuss ways to make sure you thrive even when you’re surrounded by people who disagree with you or who don’t get who you are — how to do this without having a chip on your shoulder and how to build allies and support for your unique gifts and perspectives.

September 14, 2008
“Walking Together”
The Rev. Roberta Haskin, speaker

Unitarian Universalist historians describe our congregational way of organizing as “walking together.” At this juncture in the life of the congregation, let us explore more deeply what it means to be a faith community in our tradition. How shall we be together during this year of transition?

September 7, 2008
Ingathering Sunday
(Return to two services at 9 & 11 a.m.)
“Life by the Ocean”
The Rev. Roberta Haskin, speaker

Ingathering of the new interim minister, the Rev Roberta Haskin, and the congregation. Bring along a small shell to give away.

August 31, 2008
“Work, Poverty, and Justice in 2008: A Report from Los Angeles’ Vast Underground Economy”
Kevin Kish, speaker
Barbara Kernochan, pulpit host

Los Angeles and its residents play a unique role at the nexus of globalization, faltering economies, and migration. The Director of the Employment Rights Project at Bet Tzedek reflects on the staggering challenges faced by undocumented, immigrant , and low-wage workers in our fair city, and discusses some prospects for global economies of the future.

August 24, 2008
"Away from Her ”
Silvio Nardoni, speaker
Judith Martin Straw, pulpit host

A brilliant work of screenwriting (from a novel by Alice Munro) and directing by 26-year-old Sarah Polley. In this film Julie Christie portrays a woman who begins to drift into dementia. How we part from those we love is, in many respects, the final test and summation of the relationship.

August 17, 2008
“The Real Dirt on Farmer John”
Silvio Nardoni, speaker
Carol Agate, pulpit host

Although a documentary, this film does not lack for drama, humor, character or plot. It is a story of a real farmer, whose quest for meaning and fulfillment on the farmland where he grew up has much to tell us about our own spiritual quest and about living a rooted existence.

August 10, 2008
“Live Simply, So That Others May Simply Live”
Ed Begley, speaker
Leslie Reuter, pulpit host

Ed Begley is an actor and environmentalist. His new book is “Living with Ed .”

Chalice Lighting : Remarks by Lisa Cahill

August 3, 2008
“Church Member Rod Serling ”
S. J. Guidotti, speaker Kathy Cook, pulpit host

Rod Serling was an American screenwriter best known for his live television dramas of the 1950s and his science fiction anthology TV series, “The Twilight Zone.” He is also a former member of our congregation and according to our speaker, “the most widely disseminated UU writer of the last century.” (Read Sermon Text) (Listen)

July 27, 2008
“Helping Muslim Immigrants Live in the U.S.”
Nayel Badareen, speaker
Didi Rea, pulpit host

Nayel Badareen will address the various obstacles Muslim immigrants face in the U.S., barriers to their assimilation, and strategies to help them acclimate to American culture and norms. He will also suggest ways Americans can aid in their transition to this country. Nayel was raised in a conservative Sunni Muslim household in Jerusalem when it was under the jurisdiction of Jordan. He came to the U.S. to pursue his education and has lived here ever since. He is married to church member Alana Wyatt.

July 20, 2008
“The Gothic Heart: Finding Meaning where You Will”
Michael Eselun, speaker
Rob Briner, pulpit host

Church member and well-received speaker, Michael Eselun is a hospital chaplain at UCLA Medical Center. He will share reflections on how we create meaning from our life experience. Is there such a thing as inherent meaning or is it all manufactured and does it matter?

July 13, 2008
“Long before Yesterday and Way before When”
Rabbi Neil Comess-Daniels, speaker
Dan Nannini, pulpit host

Rabbi Comess-Daniels has written Bible stories in a unique way for children and all the young at heart. He will share three of them with us (each with a song!): “Long before Yesterday and Way before When,” “Noah,” and “The Little Voice.” Added to that will be some of his original “Ice Cream Sabbath” stories.

July 6, 2008
“Politics without Context”
The Rev. Jim Conn, speaker
Vilma Ortiz, pulpit host

Jim Conn, Director of New Ministries for the United Methodist Church and longtime friend of our congregation, writes, “Democracy is a noble experiment. Just because it is some 225 years old does not allow us to assume that what we have become accustomed to will survive us. As we mark the birth of the American Revolution, we can ask ourselves what revolutions we could be making now that will move us into the future with strength and depth and a message for others.”

June 29, 2008
“Our Life Flows On”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

In my last Sunday service as your settled minister I’ll offer you my thoughts for the occasion. (Read Sermon Text) (Listen)

Chalice Lighting : Remarks by Pat Parkerton and Carol-Jean Teuffel

June 22, 2008
“What Can I Tell You?”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

A response to questions you have asked me. (See “From Our Minister” for the details.) (Read Sermon Text) (Listen)

June 15, 2008
“Slow Life, Fast World ”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker
(One service at 10:00 a.m.)

While many of you will be enjoying our annual retreat in the mountains, the rest of us will take another look at the quality of our lives — and spirits — in the city. (Read Sermon Text) (Listen)

June 8, 2008
“Evolving Faith”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Unitarian Universalism provided the spiritual foundation for many of the values our democratic society affirms. This is one more reason to cherish our tradition and learn from it. (Read Sermon Text) (Listen)

Chalice Lighting : Remarks by Peggy Rhoads

June 1, 2008
RE Sunday
"The Mountain That Loved a Bird"

Join us in celebrating our wonderful RE children and youth, and the volunteers who serve as their teachers and advisors. There will be a very special interactive story about love and change, brought to you by each of our RE classes, as well as our annual Bridging Ceremony in recognition of this year’s crop of graduating high school seniors.

May 25, 2008
Memorial Day Sunday
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Standard Memorial Day rhetoric suggests that there is an ultimate justification for the lives lost in war. What if there isn’t? (Read Sermon Text)

Chalice Lighting : "Hiroshima" by Natalie Kahn

May 18, 2008
Coming of Age Service

Join us in celebrating the Coming of Age of Tom Chorney, Jessie Dietz, Carey Gross, Cheyton Jain, Jessica Kendall-Bar, Skye Menzies-Langabeer, Sammy Nunan, Ian Postel, Sophia Silver, and Elliot Storey as they share their religious credos in a worship service of their own design.

May 11, 2008
"The Earth is Our Mother: Honoring Mothers and the Earth on Mother's Day"
Dr. Kerry Noonan, guest speaker
Sue Bickford, pulpit host

On Mothers’ Day we celebrate the love and care our mothers have for us; we know that too often we take our mothers for granted, relying on their love and all that they provide. For many reasons, the Earth is usually thought of as a mother — the mother of all living things, from whom we come, and who provides for us. Join us as Dr. Noonan reminds us of the often-invisible nature of mothers’ and the Earth Mother’s work and care and encourages mindfulness and respect for the Earth and all the mothers in our lives.

Dr. Noonan earned a Ph.D. in Folklore and Mythology from UCLA, has been following the path of the Goddess in earth-based spirituality for almost twenty years, and is ordained through Temple of Diana, a feminist religious organization dedicated to women and the Goddess. She teaches at UCLA and Cal State Northridge.

May 4, 2008
"If I Could Change the World"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Reflections on what I’ve learned about social justice from my years in Santa Monica. (Read Sermon Text)

April 27, 2008
"Gurus and Groups"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

The recent death of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, founder of the Transcendental Meditation movement, prompts us to look at gurus and ask why so many people are attracted to them. (Read sermon text) (Listen)

Chalice Lighting : Remarks by Melanie Sharp

April 20, 2008
"What Makes Us Free?"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Passover celebrates the struggle for freedom in the history of the Jews. We’ll explore what makes us free and why freedom is a core religious value. (Read sermon text) (Listen)

Chalice Lighting (9 a.m.) : Remarks by Robin Lowney Lankton

April 13, 2008
"Holding Tight and Letting Go"
The Rev. Bets Wienecke, guest speaker
Nedra Bickel, pulpit host

The challenges of change are many. We are called to be imaginative and persevering, to discern what to hold onto and what to let go. This is so both in our personal lives and in the life of a faith community. The Rev. Bets Wienecke, Pacific Southwest District’s Ministerial Settlement Representative, will share one of her favorite stories about adventuring into the unknown and outline the process of searching for and finding a new settled minister.

Rev. Wienecke is Minister Emerita of the Live Oa k UU Congregation of Goleta, CA and consults with UU congregations in this district in the ministerial search process. A graduate of UCSB, she holds an M.A. in counseling from Cal State Northridge and an M.Div. from Claremont Theological School. With her partner, Peter Haslund, who teaches at Santa Barbara City College, she shares four adult children and five grandchildren ranging in age from 21 to 3.

April 6, 2008
"Ethics and Authenticity"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

The recent spate of fake memoirs raises questions about ethics, authenticity, and the appropriation of o t h e r s’ experiences. These questions are especially compelling for Unitarian Universalists, whose searc h for truth leads us to borrow wisdom anywhere we can find it. (Read Sermon Text) (Listen)

Chalice Lighting (9 a.m.) : Remarks by Cynthia Cottam

March 30, 2008
“Welcoming the ‘Strangers Among Us’ in Xenophobic Times”
Norma Stoltz Chinchilla and Eduarda Diaz-Schwarzbach, guest speakers
Vilma Ortiz, pulpit host

In a post-9/11 world, immigrants have all of a sudden gone from being hard working and entrepreneurial members of society with strong family values to being security risks and the source of a wide range of economic, social, and cultural problems. Yet the Bible and other sacred texts admonish us to “welcome the strangers among you,” and our own UU principles call on us to recognize the inherent dignity of all human beings and the interdependent web of life. What should we as UUs, together with other people of conscience, be doing to promote more humane, coherent, and rational immigration policies?

Norma Stoltz Chinchilla is professor and chair of the Department of Sociology at California State University Long Beach. Eduarda Diaz-Schwarzbach is a retired professor of Chicano/Latino Studies at California State University Long Beach and a community activist. Each is a member of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Long Beach.

March 23, 2008
“After the Rain”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

What comes with the arrival of spring in California depends on how much rain we’ve had during the winter. This Easter Sunday we’ll look at our own experience of renewal through the cycles of the seasons and of life. (Read Sermon Text) (Listen)

March 16, 2008
“Journey to the End”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Palm Sunday recalls a journey that was joyful and pensive at the same time. That makes it similar to all journeys as travelers try to live in the moment yet count the days to the end. (Read Sermon Text) (Listen)

Chalice Lighting: Remarks by Rev. Ernie Pipes

March 9, 2008
“Guiding the World Toward Change”
Young Religious UU Service

Daylight Saving Time begins

This is a big year for change. The elections hold the promise of big changes ahead for our country and the world. YRUU will focus their thoughts and feelings on issues that affect our nation and other countries around the world. Among these issues are separation of church and state, global warming, conservative and liberal views. This service promises to be thought provoking and an insight into the views of today’s teens.

March 2, 2008
“Youth,Time, and Aging”
The Rev. Dr. John Alexie Crane, guest speaker
The Rev. Ernie Pipes, pulpit host

In the mass media — in magazines, books, movies, television, etc. — we endlessly celebrate youth in our society. On the other hand, the poet Marge Piercy observes,” My idea of hell is to be young again.” What on earth did she have in mind? Lex is Minister Emeritus at the Unitarian Society of Santa Barbara, where he earlier served for 19 years. Among other ministries, he also once served our church as Interim Minister.

February 24, 2008
Guest Speakers
Charles Haskell, pulpit host

9 a.m. service
The Rev. John Millspaugh
“How Can UUs Welcome the Sacred?”

Regardless of our spiritual beliefs, or lack thereof, all of us have encountered the depth of existence that reminds us that life is full of hope and dynamic possibility. Do deeply meaningful moments arise randomly, or is there something we can do to invite them into our lives? Come hear an unexpected perspective on “the Sacred” and what it has to do with pottery
and poetry, love and lower back pain.

The Rev. John Millspaugh is minister of Tapestry, a Unitarian Universalist congregation in Mission Viejo, CA.

11 a.m. service
The Rev. Sarah Millspaugh
“Living with Fear, Responding with Hope”

At a time when fear seems to pervade our political, civic, commercial, and religious institutions, how can we respond with hope? What are some spiritual resources we can draw on as Unitarian Universalists to counter cynicism and despair and embrace life in its fullness? Come explore these questions and reflect on living between fear and hope.

The Rev. Sarah Gibb Millspaugh is the UUA’s adult programs director and affiliated community minister of Tapestry.

February 17, 2008
“Womanspirit Now”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Unitarian Universalism once nurtured a strong feminist component, which changed the lives of men and women in our movement. Or did it? (Read Sermon Text) (Listen)

Chalice Lighting: Remarks by Deborah Fuller

February 10, 2008
“Everyone Is Lovable”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

There is one path to love and everyone can take it. It asks only that we allow ourselves to know and be known. (Read Sermon Text) (Listen)

Chalice Lighting: Thoughts by Laura Carlson-Weiner, Larry Weiner and Jake Weiner

A congregational meeting on the building program follows the service at 12:30 p.m.

February 3, 2008
“A Scandalous Gospel”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Chalice Lighting: Remarks by Victor Narro

A Faith in Action town hall meeting follows the service at 12:30 p.m.

January 27, 2007
“A Good Life”
The Rev. Ricky Hoyt, guest speaker

At the end of life, or in the midst of it when we have other reasons to be self-reflective, how do we judge our successful achievement of the spiritual task of living? If we knew what would help us reach a happy end we could start working on it now. Ricky is minister to the Unitarian Universalists of the Santa Clarita Valley and a former member of our congregation.

January 20, 2008
“What Would Martin Say?”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

What words of encouragement would the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. have for us in these times? I won’t match his eloquence, but I will attempt to bring you his message. (Read Sermon Text)(Listen)

Town Hall on the possibility of a UUCCSM name change follows the service.

Chalice Lighting: Remarks by Rick Rhoads

January 13, 2008
“Wounded Healers”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

What are the sources — and limits — of our capacity to be caring people? The idea of the “wounded healer” comes from Henri Nouwen, a twentieth - century Dutch priest whose life and ministry inspired people all over the world. (Read Sermon Text)(Listen)

Chalice Lighting: Remarks by Nancy Shinno

January 6, 2008
“Personal Best, 2008”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Resolutions aside, the New Year is a good time to think about living our lives as fully as possible. There are good pointers in our tradition. (Read Sermon Text)(Listen)

Chalice Lighting: "Personal Best" by Nicole Henderson-MacLennan

December 30, 2007
Kwanzaa Service
One service at 10 a.m.
Edna Bonacich, guest speaker
Vilma Ortiz, pulpit host

In this last service of the year we celebrate the African-American festival of Kwanzaa. Edna will speak about whether/how we can make UU-ism truly “a faith for everyone,” inclusive of all races and ethnicities.

December 24, 2007
Christmas Eve

6 p.m. — Family Vespers Service
A service of carols, music and stories especially for children and their families

8 p.m. — Candle Lighting Vespers Service
A quiet service of reflection and music concluding with a candle lighting ceremony (Listen)

December 23, 2007
“Come A-Wassailing”
Intergenerational Service and Pageant

We celebrate the Winter Solstice and the story of Christmas through music, words, and ritual. Friendly beasts, camels, children, youth and adults come together to entertain and inspire. Bring your spirited voices and knock down a glass of wassail once we are done!

December 16, 2007
“Our Christian Heritage”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Unitarian Universalism is rooted in Christianity. Our predecessors embraced some Christian values and rejected others, leaving us a heritage that remains relevant even today. (Read Sermon Text)

December 9, 2007
“Heroes in Every Age”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

The Hanukkah story tells of the heroic triumph of the Maccabees over hostile forces and celebrates their preservation of Hebrew tradition. Who is a hero today? What does it take to be one? (Read Sermon Text) (Listen)

December 2, 2007
“Our Pluralism Project”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

The world religion banners that hung from our walls for many years were a visual affirmation of our religious pluralism. This Sunday we’ll welcome our new banners and reaffirm their meaning for us now. (Read Sermon Text) (Listen)

November 25, 2007
“The Ordinary as Mask of the Holy”
The Rev. Jim Grant, guest speaker
Rob Briner, pulpit host

Jim writes, “Betty and I saw a play the other night, ‘Oscar and the Pink Lady.’ Written by Eric-Emmanuel Schmitt, the play is about a young boy in a cancer ward, befriended by a ‘pink lady’ volunteer. The play is about spirituality, which Schmitt says he found in a desert: ‘the lonely night under the starry sky was absolutely thrilling. I experienced the feeling of the Absolute.’ More when I see you on the Sunday following Thanksgiving.” (Read Sermon Text) (Listen)

November 18, 2007
Thanksgiving Sunday
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Is gratitude a spiritual condition to be cultivated no matter what? Or is it contingent on everything from health to economic justice? Let’s get ready for the season probing these questions. (Read Sermon Text) (Listen)

November 11, 2007
“Born to Get Old ”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

The aging process seems to have a life of its own. How are we doing? That depends on how old you are. (Read Sermon Text) (Listen)

November 4, 2007
Commitment Sunday
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Today we kick off our operating budget drive with a celebration of our vision for the future. Commitment is what
will bring it to life. Come join us after the service for a gala brunch for all. (Read Sermon Text)

October 28, 2007
The Day of the Dead
An Intergenerational Service

We continue our tradition of observing the Day of the Dead this year with a lively intergenerational service. If you would like to remember someone who has died, please bring something for the altar, such as a photo or memento. Our nursery will be open as usual; all other children and youth are invited to join the adults in our sanctuary. Halloween costumes optional!

October 21, 2007
“What Went Wrong?”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

“Any deed that any human being has ever committed, however horrible,” writes psychologist Philip Zimbardo in “The Lucifer Effect,” “is possible for any of us — under the right or wrong situational circumstances.” Zimbardo gained this insight from close analysis of his own Stanford Prison Experiment, the abuses at Abu Ghraib, and other horrors of humanity. There is hope in his grim observations. (Read Sermon Text)(Listen)

October 14, 2007
Association Sunday
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Unitarian Universalist congregations across the nation have set aside this Sunday to recognize and support, spiritually and financially, the work of our Unitarian Universalist Association. Come find out how strong we are together. We will donate our offering to the UUA capital campaign for growth projects, “Now Is the Time!”(Read Sermon Text)(Listen)

October 7, 2007
Coming Out Day
Judy Federick, pulpit host

At this year's Coming Out Day service, church members — gay and straight — talk about the events in their lives that transformed them into advocates for the civil rights of gay, bisexual, lesbian, and transgender persons.

September 30, 2007
“Carry the Fire”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

In Cormac McCarthy’s novel “The Road,” a father passes on to his son what it means to be a good person, despite all the odds. This is what we are trying to do as a community, too. Our mission? To “carry the fire.” (Read Sermon Text) (Listen)

Chalice Lighting: Remarks by Leon Henderson-MacLennan

September 23, 2007
“An Outer Life”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

As our congregation continues to explore who we are and what we are building together, we need to balance self-reflection with outreach. Our Faith in Action Issues Election takes place after the second service today. Let’s look outward together. (Read Sermon Text) (Listen)

September 16, 2007
“If Nothing Is Sacred”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

The season of Ramadan and the High Holy Days is a good time to reflect on what it means to have something we hold as sacred. What do we lose if we have nothing? (Read Sermon Text) (Listen)

Chalice Lighting: Remarks by Judy Schonebaum

September 9, 2007
(two services at 9 & 11 a.m.)
“One of Us”
Ingathering Sunday
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Welcoming the stranger is the most important spiritual practice of any community. Let’s learn together how we can grow and fulfill our promise as a welcoming congregation. (Read Sermon Text)

Chalice Lighting: Remarks by Marsha Smith and Laurel Bleak

September 2, 2007
(one service at 10 a.m.)
“Labor in the Pulpit”
The Rev. Jim Conn, guest speaker
Dan Nannini, pulpit host

Our annual Labor Day service features the Rev. Jim Conn, urban strategist for the United Methodists, former Mayor of Santa Monica, and a good friend of our congregation.

August 26, 2007
“Ratatouille: The Guiding Spirit of an Artist”
Silvio Nardoni, guest speaker
Didi Rea, pulpit host

This animated movie uses the current popularity of gastronomical adventure to address issues of creativity and the standards for judging excellence. A great artist draws upon powers available to all of us, yet we are not all great artists. Why is this so?

August 19, 2007
“Pan’s Labyrinth: Where Myth Meets History”
Silvio Nardoni, guest speaker
Carol Agate, pulpit host

Joseph Campbell once said, “Myth is the way things really are.” What, then, of “historical fact”? This intense and wonderful film (with images of violence that make it unsuitable for some children) explores the boundary and intersection of myth and history. It reveals both the power of myth and the seemingly inexorable forces that shape the world we live in.

August 12, 2007
“The Third Way”
Jim Grant, guest speaker
Joanna Woods-Marsden, pulpit host

This will be a sermon about nonviolence, which Parker Palmer calls “The Third Way.” We can do better than relying on our reptilian brain, which knows only fight or flight. The third way is beginning to receive consideration.

August 5, 2007
“Interconnections”
Zayn Kassam, guest speaker
Judith Meyer, pulpit host

Zayn Kassam is a professor of religious studies at Pomona College, Claremont, CA. She has lectured widely on gender issues, is the author of a reference guide on Islam, and offers courses on religion and the environment, Islamic philosophy and mysticism, and women in Islam. She has twice won Pomona College’s Wig Award for Distinguished Teaching and the American Academy of Religion’s national award for Excellence in Teaching.

July 29, 2007
"She Who Refused to Leave: Reflections from Putuoshan Island"
Max Johnson, guest speaker

On a recent trip to a famous Chinese island, Max Johnson discovered the irrepressible nature of the religious impulse in even the most “godless” of the communist countries. His experience sparked a few thoughts.

July 22, 2007
"Where Theology Meets the Road"
Michael Eselun, guest speaker

We think we know what we believe and what we hold to be true, but when it comes to a crisis of illness or death, often all bets are off. Church member Michael Eselun, a chaplain at UCLA Medical Center, will share an exploration of the different ways patients' theologies intersect with such crises, and the common themes that seem to surface from the atheist or fundamentalist alike.

Chalice Lighting: Remarks by Peter Van Den Beemt

July 15, 2007
"An Introduction to Vedanta"
Swami Sarvadevananda, guest speaker

Our guest, a monk with the Vedanta Society of Los Angeles, will explain the origins of Vedanta – a Hindu faith tradition that Unitarians helped to establish in the West.

July 8, 2007
"From Goodness to Greatness: When Love is Not Enough, But God Is"
Shikana Temille Porter, guest speaker

Our guest speaker, Shikana Temille Porter, is a psychologist and Director, Whitter College Student Counseling Services. She is also an expert on Pan African cultural infusion, spirituality, and health.

July 1, 2007
"Plan B 2.0: Rescuing a Planet Under Stress and a Civilization in Trouble"

Join the Rev. Ernie Pipes, Ned Wright, Rebecca Crawford, Joe Engleman, Leslie Reuter, Diane Fletcher-Hoppe, and Sandra Trutt as they offer reflections on this urgent topic, drawing on the book by Lester Brown.

June 24, 2007
“Serving Children with Special Needs”
Elias Lefferman, guest speaker
Vilma Ortiz, pulpit host

Elias Lefferman is President/Chief Executive Officer of Vista Del Mar Child and Family Services. He will focus on the programs provided by Vista that serve the emotional, physical, psychological and social needs of children and will reflect on the challenges that Vista faces in fulfilling this mission.

June 17, 2007
“Juneteenth”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, but it took two and a half years for the news to travel to Texas. “Juneteenth” is a celebration of the day the news arrived. What does this important part of our history tell us? And how does it connect to our lives as Unitarian Universalists? (Read sermon text)

June 10, 2007
“Live for Today — or Tomorrow?”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

How can we live fully in the present, when global warming, war, and a variety of threats to our well-being affect us every day? (Read Sermon Text)

June 3, 2007
RE Sunday: “Old Turtle and the Broken Truth”

Join us in celebrating our 6th and 7th UU principles with a very special interactive story about learning to live together as one interdependent community, brought to you by each of our Religious Exploration classes, as well as our annual Bridging Ceremony in recognition of this year’s graduating high school seniors.

May 27, 2007
Memorial Day Service
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Memorial Day acknowledges the lives lost in war, but what about those veterans who came back, but are lost in life? We’ll look at the total human cost in our observance this Sunday. (Read Sermon Text)

May 20, 2007
Coming of Age Service

Join us in celebrating the Coming of Age of Colette Fletcher-Hoppe, Jessie Geoffray, Madeline Hero, Angelica Jue, Rachel Moore, and Elizabeth Saldo as they share their religious credos in a worship service of their own design. (Readings and Credos)

May 13, 2007
Julia Ward Howe: Public and Private
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Julia Ward Howe’s life was full by any measure: wife of an activist doctor, mother of five children, author of “Battle Hymn of the Republic,” poet, suffragist, abolitionist, feminist, pacifist, and Unitarian. A new biography reveals just how difficult it was to juggle all these roles. (Read Sermon Text)

May 6, 2007
Unitarian Universalism: Then and Now
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

We like to point out how our faith tradition has evolved over hundreds of years. Today we’ll explore how faith changes over a single lifetime, with some examples from mine. (Read Sermon Text)

Chalice Lighting: Remarks by Karen Patch

April 29, 2007
“What Are Earth-Based Spiritualities?”
Kerry Noonan, guest speaker
Joanna Woods-Marsden, pulpit host

Dr. Kerry Noonan will talk about the commonalities among related spiritual movements that have emerged in the last thirty years, variously called “Earth-Based Spiritualities” or “Neopaganism.” She will also look at the distinctive features that differentiate them from each other, what these traditions have to teach us today, and how they dovetail with Unitarian Universalist principles.

Dr. Noonan earned a Ph.D. in Folklore and Mythology from UCLA, has been following the path of the Goddess in earth-based spirituality for almost twenty years, and is ordained through Temple of Diana, a feminist religious organization dedicated to women and the Goddess. She teaches at UCLA and Cal State Northridge.

April 22, 2007
Earth Day
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

We all know that we need to save the Earth. But we also have to consume it to survive. We’ll consider ethical eating as featured in the Spring 2007 “UU World” and in “The Omnivore’s Dilemma,” by Michael Pollan. (Read sermon text)

April 15, 2007
Yom Hashoah: Holocaust Remembrance Day
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

“Children in Crisis” is the theme the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum has chosen to explore for Holocaust Remembrance Day this year. The youngest victims of genocide, from Nazi Europe to Darfur, have left a powerful witness from their brief lives. (Read Sermon Text)

April 8, 2007
“Timeless Themes”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

With the season of Passover and Easter comes the reminder that the themes of these holidays are both timeless and deeply rooted in history and nature. (Read Sermon Text)

April 1, 2007
“Waitin’ on the World to Change”
YRUU (Young Religious Unitarian Universalists)

Solving the world’s problems is a daunting task. But if we each take a step towards positive action, we can make the world around us a better place. This annual YRUU service will explore the ways we can make a difference, from using our creativity to start social justice revolutions to doing the smallest of good deeds like sharing the gift of music or helping a friend. The service promises to be a rousing, multi-media experience.

March 25, 2007
“Justice Sunday”
Holly Near, guest speaker and musician
The Rev. Judith Meyer, pulpit host

Singer and activist Holly Near will join us for this special service dedicated to the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee work for justice. She writes, “We can gather together to remember our highest selves and find the courage to stand up for peace and justice. Our country has been a leading model of social change m ovements in the past. We can do it again.” Her presence on Justice Sunday will inspire and educate.

March 18, 2007
“The True Cost of War: A Moral Balance Sheet ”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

As the fourth anniversary of the Iraq war draws close, a timely message from UUA President William Sinkford inspires reflection on this sad occasion. (Read sermon text)

Chalice Lighting: Remarks by Ian Dodd

March 11, 2007
(Daylight Savings Time Begins)
“Our Whole Church”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Sex and religion are often in the news, but it’s usually bad news. And yet sexuality is part of being alive and part of our community, too. We’ll take a look at sexual ethics and keeping our community safe and whole. (Read sermon text)

Chalice Lighting: Remarks by Rima Snyder

March 4, 2007
“Vibrations of the Heart”
Tera Little, guest speaker
Ron Crane, pulpit host

The service will explore “how our heart vibrations transform the world through acts of love and justice.” Tera Little serves as the Director of Lifespan Programs for the Pacific Southwest District of the Unitarian Universalist Association. She is currently studying for the UU ministry at Meadville Lombard through the modified residency program.

February 25, 2007
"An Athiest Tells It Like It Is"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

It’s time to consider Richard Dawkins’ eloquent and persuasive argument that God does not exist. (Read sermon text)

Chalice Lighting: Remarks by William Dimpfl

February 18, 2007
"Spiritual Challenges on Stressful Days"
Leonard Felder, Ph.D., guest speaker
Kathy Cook, pulpit host

Leonard Felder, psychologist and author, will offer insights into how to center and bring out your best even on the most stressful or over-filled days.

February 11, 2007
"Loving the Earth"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

What does it mean to love life if not to care deeply about the earth? What can we do? The service will include a lesson for all ages, “Valentines for the Earth,” which will teach us simple energy-saving steps we can take anytime. (Read sermon text)

A Faith in Action Town Hall Meeting takes place after services today, at 12:30 p.m.

February 4, 2007
"Lessons of Loss"
Catherine Farmer & the Rev. Judith Meyer, leaders

Join us for an intergenerational service reflecting on our experience with “Lessons of Loss,” our religious exploration program for children, youth, and adults this past month.

January 28, 2007
“Soul Work”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

In recent months there has been a renewal of interest among our members in the work of anti-racism and antioppression. Responding to the 2006 Unitarian Universalist Association General Assembly resolution charging member congregations “to address racism or classism” in the coming year, the work ahead is challenging. “Soul Work” is the title of a book many of us are reading to get started. (Read sermon text)

January 21, 2007
“The Life of Words”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

In the beginning was the word. But sometimes words cause endings too. Words have a life of their own. They also have the power to heal and to destroy. Come hear why. (Read sermon text)

January 14, 2007
“Martin Luther King and Jimmy Carter”
Rabbi Steven Jacobs, guest speaker
The Rev. Judith Meyer, pulpit host

Steven Jacobs is Rabbi Emeritus of Temple Kol Tikvah, Woodland Hills. His sermon will explore how “two unpopular men faced the challenge of their times.” Rabbi Jacobs has a long-standing commitment to civil rights, Black and Jewish community relations, Muslim and Jewish relations, interfaith missions, and religious pluralism.

Chalice Lighting (9 a.m.): Remarks by Steven De Paul

January 7, 2007
“Find a Stillness”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

If the holiday season has left you wishing for contemplative time, you’ll want to know how our faith tradition can help you find it. (Read sermon text)

December 31, 2006
“The Seven Principles of Kwanzaa”
One morning service at 10 a.m.
Itibari M. Zulu, guest speaker
Vilma Ortiz, pulpit host

Our guest, a librarian and authority on African World Community, will speak about the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa and how they represent essential standards of personal and social excellence directed toward building and sustaining a moral world community.

Itibari M. Zulu is a librarian at Mesa Community College in Mesa, AZ, and was previously the head librarian at the Ralph J. Bunche Center for African American Studies Library & Media Center at UCLA.

Note: Our attendant will be on duty to allow entry of cars into the UCLA Hospital parking lot at 1311 16th St from 8:30-10:30 a.m. on December 31.

December 24, 2006
“The Annual Crisis of Love”
One morning service at 10 a.m.
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

The holiday season, according to Loudon Wainwright, is an “annual crisis of love,” and "we must suffer its effects," which are actually good for us. (Read sermon text)

December 24, 2006
Christmas Eve, 6 p.m.
Family Vespers Service

A service of carols, music and stories especially for children and their families

Christmas Eve, 8 p.m.
Vespers Service

A quiet service of reflection and music concluding with a candle-lighting ceremony.

Note: Our attendant will be on duty to allow entry of cars into the UCLA Hospital parking lot at 1311 16th St from 8:30-10:30 a.m. and 5:00-9:00 p.m. on December 24.

December 17, 2006
“Three Miraculous Births”

Back by popular demand, our annual winter holiday pageant with a twist. Join us as we celebrate the spirit of the season by re-living the birth stories of three of the world’s greatest teachers. This is an intergenerational service, and be forewarned: there may be a part for YOU to play! (Who wants to be the elephant?) So, friends, what do you get when you cross Buddha, Confucius and Jesus with a chorus of Friendly Beasts? Here’s a hint: it’s something you won’t want to miss!

December 10, 2006
“If Our Walls Could Talk”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Over the years, the world religion banners on our sanctuary walls have conveyed an important, though unspoken, message. Now that they have been absent for a while and plans are under way to replace them, we’ll explore what they can – and cannot – say about us. (Read sermon text)

December 3, 2006
“An Equal-Access Faith”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Nearly everyone faces the challenge of chronic illness or disability at some point in life. What can we do as a community to be as welcoming and accessible as we can be? The Rev. Dr. Devorah Greenstein, Accessibility Program Associate with the Unitarian Universalist Association, will be visiting our service this Sunday. She will be running a trial for a new assistive listening device. (Read sermon text)

November 26, 2006
“Until Silence Speaks”
The Rev. Jim Grant, guest speaker
Rob Briner, pulpit host

Patricia Hampl says, “Silence is the first prayer I learned to trust.” In an article in the Los Angeles Times several years ago, Vince Rause wrote, “Religious feelings ... are born in a moment of mystical union.” This sermon will be about spirituality, more particularly about meditation, which some people call prayer. (Read sermon text)

November 19, 2006
“A Late Harvest”
Thanksgiving Sunday
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

The holiday we celebrate today is quite different from feast days British settlers happened to share with members of the Wampanoag Nation in 1621. What, if anything, is left over from that first Thanksgiving? (Read sermon text)

November 12, 2006
“They Might Be Living”
Veterans Day Sunday
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

How else can we honor the sacrifice veterans make than to mourn their loss of life and potential? (Read sermon text)

November 5, 2006
“Just Imagine …”
Commitment Sunday
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Just imagine what we can do as a congregation in the coming years. We’ll take a look at that vision and how each and every one of us can help bring it to life. (Read sermon text)

October 29, 2006
(Daylight-Saving Time ends)
Day of the Dead
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Our annual observance of Day of the Dead will include the traditional altar for remembrances of those who have died in the past year. If you have something for the altar, please come a few minutes before the service begins so that your contribution can be included. (Read sermon text)

October 22, 2006
“Mixing Politics and Religion Is a Holy Task”
The Rev. Dr. George Regas, guest speaker
The Rev. Judith Meyer, pulpit host

George Regas, pastor emeritus of All Saints Episcopal Church, Pasadena, is one of the leading voices in the faith-based movement for peace and justice in Southern California. He is the founder of Regas Institute, which is dedicated to the study of progressive religious causes, and Interfaith Communities United for Justice and Peace (ICUJP), which facilitates interfaith dialogue on important moral issues of the time. A sermon he delivered at All Saints the Sunday before the 2004 election led to an audit by the IRS and public debate about the role of the pulpit and politics.

October 15, 2006
“Irreverent or Irrelevant?”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Ever since a new member told us that she discovered Unitarian Universalism from the jokes on “A Prairie Home Companion,” I have been asking myself what it means that others — and we ourselves — laugh at our idiosyncrasies. Are we not being taken seriously enough? (Read sermon text)

October 8, 2006
Coming Out Day - “The Voice of the Spirit”
The Rev. Keith Kron, guest speaker
Ron Crane, pulpit host

We welcome back the Rev. Keith Kron, Director of the Office for Bisexual, Gay, Lesbian, and Transgender Concerns for the Unitarian Universalist Association. He asks, “What does it mean to be a UU in these times? What are we called to do and how does our faith serve us as well as those around us? We will explore these questions about how each of us can be a voice of the spirit.”

October 1, 2006
“Can I Ever Forgive Myself?”
The Rev. Judith Meyer

Of the different kinds of forgiveness that life requires of us, the most difficult of all is to forgive ourselves. Yom Kippur begins this day at sundown. (Read Sermon Text)

Chalice Lighting : Remarks by Karen Brodie

Love is the doctrine of this church.
The quest of truth is its sacrament,
And service is its prayer.

We will spend our September Sundays together exploring these affirmations in our covenant, asking ourselves what they mean to us and how we can live by them in today’s world.

September 10, 2006
"Love is the Doctrine"
Ingathering Sunday
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

(Read sermon text.)

September 17, 2006
"The Quest of Truth"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Both services with conclude with a groundbreaking ceremony to launch our building program! (Read Sermon Text)

Chalice Lighting, 9:00 a.m. : Remarks by Barbara Kernochan
Chalice Lighting, 11:00 a.m. : Remarks by Alison Kendall

September 24, 2006
"Service is Our Prayer"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

(Read Sermon Text)

Chalice Lighting : Remarks by Robin Lowney Lankton

September 3, 2006
"From Wharf Rats to Lords of the Docks: The Life and Times of Harry Bridges"
Labor Day Sunday
Ian Ruskin, actor
Vilma Ortiz, pulpit host

Two services resume at 9 and 11 a.m.

Ian Ruskin presents his acclaimed one-man play depicting the life of Harry Bridges, a visionary labor leader and unique personality from the ‘30s, who, against all odds, fought against injustice, racial and religious discrimination, and the supposed threat of communism and won, becoming an inspiration for our struggles today.

Please plan on a longer than usual service this morning— about an hour and fifteen minutes.

August 27, 2006
“Our Human Birthright”
Rev. Alexia Salvatierra, guest speaker
Vilma Ortiz, pulpit host

Rev. Salvatierra will speak on the spiritual and moral aspects of current worker justice and economic justice issues, touching on immigration questions.

August 20, 2006
“A Place for Grace”
Rev. Susan Conrad, guest speaker
Charles Haskell, pulpit host

In our efforts for social justice, we Unitarian Universalists are a hard-working bunch. Sometimes we need to remember that we are partnering with what Rebecca Parker calls “a revolutionary grace.” What does this “grace” look like and feel like? And what helps us to make room for this powerful force that can transform us—and the world? We’ll explore these questions together.

Susan Conrad completed her M. Div. at Harvard Divinity School and was ordained as a Unitarian Universalist minister in 2005. In 2000–01, Susan served as UUSM’s Faith in Action Intern. She is in the process of finishing her training as a Chaplain Resident at Alta Bates Summit Medical Center in Berkeley, and will be continuing as a Clinical Fellow/Chaplain at the same hospital.

August 13, 2006
“Enchanted Agnosticism”
Rev. John Morehouse, guest speaker
Kathy Cook, pulpit host

How is it that we can reconcile our honest search for truth and meaning with the wonder and mystery of our universe? The Rev. John Morehouse explores the conjunction of wonder and curiosity in the spiritual search.

Rev.Morehouse is the Minister of the Pacific Unitarian Church in Rancho Palos Verdes. He has also served churches in Indiana, Ohio, and Maryland. Before divinity school, he did his undergraduate work in anthropology. He spent some of his childhood in India and has a deep appreciation of Eastern religion, diversity, and the need for justice as part of that experience.

August 6, 2006
“Coming Home to Religious Humanism”
Rev. Jim Grant, guest minister and speaker
Rev. Judith Meyer, pulpit host

Sometimes in UU congregations, or various UU gatherings, I hear discussion as though “humanism” and “religion” are hostile forces in a neverending struggle. Anyone who reads the 1933 “Humanist Manifesto” cannot help but notice the references to religion, but not superstitious or mindless religion. I will invite you to think with me about how religion and humanism enrich one another. (Read Sermon Text)

July 30, 2006
“Pilgrimage of Faith”
The Rev. Jim Grant, guest speaker
Rob Briner, pulpit host

Betty and I are looking forward to returning to UUSM and sharing the Sunday Service with you. We Unitarian Universalists encourage one another in a “free and responsible search for truth and meaning.” Several years ago I ran across an article and diagram by Gene Ackerman, which depicts our pilgrimage to “truth and meaning.” (Read Sermon Text)

July 23, 2006
“My Trip to the Holy Land”
Michael Eselun, guest speaker
Didi Rea, pulpit host

Michael Eselun, a member of our congregation and a guest speaker here on several occasions, will share his reflections upon his recent trip to Jerusalem with a friend facing a grave medical crisis — both the external journey to Jerusalem and the internal journey through fear and unanswerable questions.

July 16, 2006
“Grace From the Garden”
Connie Yost, guest speaker
Ernie Pipes, pulpit host

In this sermon, we’ll explore the reverential connection between food, nature and ourselves. Connie Yost has received preliminary fellowship for the Unitarian Universalist ministry and will be ordained at Neighborhood Church on October 8. She is the founder of EarthWorks Enterprises, a nonprofit grassroots organization that strives to enhance the health and economic security of at-risk high school youth, low-income families and other residents of LA County through organic sustainable agriculture.

July 9, 2006
“The Bee Season: Blessings of Imperfection”
The Rev. Silvio Nardoni, guest speaker
Dan Nannini, pulpit host

This movie explores the depths of mystical experience in a most unusual setting: a spelling bee. In the midst of such outwardly mundane activity, the opportunity for connection with the divine seems hardly likely. But a young girl has much to teach her father about the meaning of religious experience.

July 2, 2006
“Thoughts on the Consciousness of ‘Everyman’ in the Sixth year of the 21st Century”
The Rev. Jim Conn, guest speaker
The Rev. Ernie Pipes, pulpit host

Phillip Roth’s new novel, which takes its title from the medieval morality play, pushes me to ask a few questions that usually go unasked in the public arena. If we are so comfortable, why do we feel so anxious? If we are so strong, why do we feel so afraid? If we are so wealthy, why do we feel so poor? Is there a name for this dis-ease? Jim serves as the Director of New Ministries for the California-Pacific Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church, where he previously served as Urban Strategist. For 22 years he was our neighbor as minister of the untraditional “Church in Ocean Park” and, for a term, Mayor of the City of Santa Monica.

June 25, 2006
“The Tish Tones”
Rabbi Neil Comess-Daniels and his band
Sue Bickford, pulpit host

The Tish Tones, led by Rabbi Neil Comess-Daniels of Temple Beth Shir Sholom, will offer a service of music and story from the Jewish tradition for all ages.

June 18, 2006 (summer session begins; one service at 10:00 a.m.)
“Faith after Religion”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

We’ll look at the implications for our faith informed by the insights in “Breaking the Spell,” Daniel C. Dennett’s important book about religion. This Sunday is also the 25th anniversary of our church bell, a gift from Ray and Betty Goodman. (Read Sermon Text)

June 11, 2006
Religious Education Sunday
Catherine Farmer, Director of Religious Education

Join us in celebrating UUCCSM’s educational ministry to children and youth, with participation from each RE class and including a very special RE volunteer recognition.

June 4, 2006
“Church 101”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Church Talent Sunday What are the basics about belonging to a church? What are the expectations and the ethics? Come find out this Sunday, when we’ll also enjoy our own church talent as our music program and honor our departing high school seniors with a Bridging Ceremony. (Read Sermon Text)

May 28, 2006
"The Disguised Roots of Violence"
The Rev. Ernie Pipes, speaker

Memorial Day is annually set aside for remembering, in the parochial and nationalistic sense, Americans killed in warfare. But this is not emough. To the broader and humane sinsibility, Memorial Day is a time for grieving, no, for raging against the ongoing violence of people against people, nation against nation, race against race, class against class, religion and ethnicity against brothers and sisters. I will talk with you about the violence we do as individuals and as groups, its causes and its controls.

May 21, 2006
Coming of Age Service

Join us in celebrating the Coming of Age of Rachael Dodd, Zachary Geoffray, Tycho Horan, Kevin Kory, Lily Ng, Arbor Pruett, Adam Reyes, Marcus Rodgers, Colin Rush, Jessica Siegfried, and Haley Weaver as they share their religious credos in a worship service of their own design. The Annual Meeting of the congregation follows the late service at 12:30 p.m.

May 14, 2006
“What Makes a Family?”
Members of our congregation with the Rev. Judith Meyer

Adopting a child is a well-considered, intentional act of commitment. Members of our congregation will share their experience as part of this special service on Mother’s Day. Their stories are moving, their observations insightful and challenging, their families an integral part of our church community.

May 7, 2006
“To Live in This World”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

“To live in this world,” wrote poet Mary Oliver, “you must be able to do three things.” Her words – which are in our hymnbook and used often in Unitarian Universalist worship – show us the patterns of life and how to live them fully.

April 30, 2006
“The Broken Heart Is Smart”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

“When the heart is broken,” writes professor Kimberley C. Patton of Harvard Divinity School, “the soul is released from its prior constellations. . . . The soul rushes toward rebirth. This is not a comfortable process. But it is a normal one.” (Read Sermon Text)

Chalice Lighting: Remarks by Melanie Sharp

April 23, 2006
“A Slow Burn”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

This year Earth Day is a timely reminder of recent dire warnings about global warming. How are we going to reverse this trend -- if there is still time? (Read Sermon Text)

April 16, 2006
“From Exile to New Life”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Easter quickly follows Passover this year, provoking the image of people finding new life in exile. We revisit these ancient biblical themes and update them with stories from Elizabeth Gilbert’s travel memoir, “Eat, Pray, Love.” (Read Sermon Text)

9 a.m. Chalice Lighting: Remarks by Barbara Kernochan

11 a.m. Chalice Lighting: Remarks by Sharon Voigt Damerell

April 9, 2006
“The Story of Your Life”
Peter Henrickson, guest speaker
The Rev. Judith Meyer, pulpit host

Our guest is UU finance expert Peter Henrickson, who will speak to us about a congregation’s relationship to money. He writes, “I will be addressing why it is that some people seem to be more generous in charitable giving, and why it might come to look that way.” Peter Henrickson has served in a variety of UU financial leadership positions and is a recently retired finance professional living in Vancouver, WA.

Chalice Lighting: Remarks by Jacki Weber

April 2, 2006
YRUU Sunday

Members of our high school group, Young Religious Unitarian Universalists, provide their annual service this Sunday

March 26, 2006
“Social Justice as a Spiritual Practice"
The Rev. Silvio Nardoni, speaker

When Martin Luther King described the task of the civil rights movement as the challenge to “hew a stone of hope out of a mountain of despair,” his rhetorical genius spoke not only to the magnitude of the undertaking but also to the spiritual dimension in which hope would appear in the midst of (indeed, be made out of the same stuff as) despair. The most effective movements for social justice require not only organizational skills and techniques, but a solid grounding in a religious understanding of the source of power for change. There’s more to social action than clipboards, banners and mailing lists.

March 19, 2006
“Spiritually Alive in Perilous Times”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

As we note the third anniversary of the war in Iraq, we turn to consider what it takes to make a difference in our world and what we must do to nurture ourselves spiritually as we do it. (Read Sermon Text)

9 a.m. Chalice Lighting: Remarks by Stanley Johnston

March 12, 2006
“Thanks for the Memories”
The Rev. Ernie Pipes, speaker
The Rev. Judith Meyer, pulpit host

We celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of the congregation calling the Rev. Ernie Pipes to be their minister. Ernie will deliver the sermon. The choir will sing at both services. Each service will be followed by a brunch in Forbes Hall to honor Ernie and Maggie. Everyone is invited.

9 a.m. Chalice Lighting:"Ernie, Here," by Lu Ann Darling

March 5, 2006
“If God is Love”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

The Universalists asked themselves, if God is love, then who are we? Their answers remain relevant today. (Read Sermon Text)

February 26, 2006
“What We Grieve”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Joan Didion’s recent book, The Year of Magical Thinking, has brought fresh insight to the experience of grieving. Yet her story is just like all our stories. Grief is a common human bond. (Read Sermon Text)

9 a.m. Chalice Lighting: Remarks by Karen Canady

11 a.m. Chalice Lighting: Remarks by Dayla McDonald

February 19, 2006
“When We Disagree: Dealing with Religious Diversity in Our Families and Communities”
Leonard Felder, Ph.D., speaker
Kathy Cook, pulpit host

Leonard Felder, psychologist and author, discusses how to overcome the self-righteousness and divisiveness that happen in our families and groups when friends and loved ones clash about spiritual or religious beliefs. Using humor and suggestions from his counseling practice and research, he will explore why these are such loaded topics and how to resolve tensions before they tear us apart.

February 12, 2006
“What Is Evil?”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

A commentator on the radio recently described a terrible accident – the death of over 300 people on the Hajj, the annual Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca – as the work of Satan. Her words shocked me – and then led me to think long and hard about the reality of evil. (Read Sermon Text)

Chalice Lighting: "What is Evil," by Christopher Marten

February 5, 2006
“What Is Sacred?”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Influenced by Ralph Waldo Emerson, who wrote, “Nothing is at last sacred but the integrity of your own mind,” we Unitarian Universalists do not have a shared image of the sacred. Is this a serious lapse, an act of reverence, or a sign of our indifference? (Read Sermon Text)

9 a.m. Chalice Lighting: "Living a Sacred Life - One of Reverence and Respect," by Margot Page

11 a.m. Chalice Lighting: Remarks by Analee Haro-Simon and Robert Simon

January 29, 2006
Labor and Social Justice in Los Angeles
Kent Wong, guest speaker
Vilma Ortiz, pulpit host

Los Angeles has emerged as a focal point of the new American labor movement. What accounts for this change, and what can people of conscience do to support social justice organizing in our communities? Kent Wong is Director of the Center for Labor Research and Education at UCLA, where he teaches Labor Studies and Asian American Studies. He is an attorney and community activist and writes extensively on labor issues.

January 22, 2006
" The Enemy Within"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Traveling in Morocco this fall, part of the time during Ramadan, made me realize how much ignorance and fear accompany the encounter with Muslim culture today. I learned a lot about Islam while I was there. I learned even more about myself. (Read Sermon Text)

Chalice Lighting: "Understanding Self and Place Through Travel," by Jerry Gates

January 15, 2006
" One Honest Man"
Martin Luther King, Jr., Observance
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Martin Luther King, Jr. was a college student when he read Henry David Thoreau for the first time. We honor King this Sunday by exploring Thoreau’s influence as King articulated his philosophy of nonviolence in speeches, writings, and public acts of great courage. (Read Sermon Text)

January 8, 2006
"Secular Days"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

There is a big secular world outside church, I discovered this fall. People live their whole lives without ever taking part in a religious community. What are they missing? Does it matter? (Read Sermon Text)

January 1, 2006
"Borrowing Time"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

New Year’s Day we reflect on taking time out and starting over, using the rhythms of life to change and grow . . . and then get back to the present moment. (Read Sermon Text)

December 25, 2005
" Released by Love from Isolating Wrong Let Us for Love Unite Our Various Song; Each with His Gift According to His Kind Bringing This Child His Body and His Mind"
The Rev. James E. Grant

This will be the final sermon in the W.H. Auden series. In Auden’s poetic drama, Shepherds and Wise Men who have been isolated in vastly different cultures are released to unite in song. (Read Sermon Text)

Saturday, December 24, 2005
Christmas Eve
" Light Which Interrupts Our Routine"
The Rev. James E. Grant

We will follow the traditional pattern with two Christmas Eve Services: the family service at 6 p.m. and the candle lighting service at 8 p.m. (Read Sermon Text)

December 18, 2005
Winter Holiday Pageant: "The Legend of Old Befana"

This year we celebrate our annual Winter Holiday Pageant with a twist, celebrating the Christmas story with a retelling of the traditional Italian story of Old Befana, along with some Friendly Beasts and Wise People sprinkled in for good measure, all wrapped up in one (more or less) tidy pageant. This is an intergenerational service, the latest in our annual series of “pageants from the pews,” so be forewarned: there may be a part for YOU to play. Join us in celebrating the spirit of the season.

December 11, 2005
" Lost in His Freedom, Man Pursues the Shadow of His Images"
The Rev. James E. Grant

Second in the W.H. Auden series, I will invite your consideration of how our freedom may become license. This is the Sunday nearest the anniversary of the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Human freedom has sometimes resulted in inhumane license. (Read Sermon Text)

December 4, 2005
" To Discover How to Be Human Now is the Reason We Follow This Star"
The Rev. James E. Grant

This will be the first of three sermons based on W. H. Auden’s Christmas Oratorio, “For the Time Being.” Auden’s poetic license includes placing in juxtaposition the ancient story with contemporary life. One promise of the Hanukkah/Christmas holidays is a re-discovery of our humanity. (Read Sermon Text)

November 27, 2005
"Your Choice" – You may select the sermon
The Rev. James E. Grant

This will be what some people call a "Question Box Sermon." I will attempt to build a sermon by responding to any written question or topic submitted to me no later than November 15. If I don’t get any questions or topics, I’ll probably do something about Edward O. Wilson’s idea of the possible “consilience” of religion and science. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: David Ellis, guitar

November 20, 2005
"Gratitude for the Garden"
The Rev. James E. Grant

First, I shamelessly copied the title for this sermon from the Rev. Max Coots, Minister Emeritus, the UU Church of Canton, NY. This will be a Thanksgiving Sermon, with the reminder that giving thanks is a year-round attitude not confined to one day. (Read Sermon Text)

The Guest at Your Table boxes will be distributed this Sunday. The world of hurricanes and earthquakes reminds us of the many “guests”whom we need to remember as we gather at our family table.

Music: Vanessa Paloma, soprano

"November 13, 2005
"Accentuate the Possible"
The Rev. James E. Grant

On this Commitment Sunday I will encourage us to think in terms of abundance, not scarcity. We’re all familiar with an envelope — something into which we seal a letter. The opposite of envelop is develop — to unroll or "to push the envelope." This service will include the Dedication of Liliana Rodriguez, infant daughter of Roberto Rodriguez and Natalie Rusk. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Charla Gulino, flute

November 6, 2005
"Memory Informs Imagination and Vice Versa"
The Rev. James E. Grant

Last Sunday Vilma Ortiz helped us celebrate El Día de los Muertos (The Day of the Dead), which made me think about memory. Our memories are never pure, but informed by our imagination and circumstances. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Bronwen Jones, clarinet

October 30, 2005
"El Dia de los Muertos" ("The Day of the Dead") "Less Well-Known Saints"
The Rev. James E. Grant, speaker

On this annual celebration of "El Dia de los Muertos," Vilma Ortiz will arrange the altar and tell the Community Story. The sermon will remind us of the "saints" whose names never make the news, but whose deeds of courage and compassion are legendary. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Louis Durra, piano

October 23, 2005
"Spiritual Teachings of Earth- Centered Traditions"
The Rev. James E. Grant, speaker

This final "Source of the Living Tradition" deals with ways we are enriched by Native American and other "primitive" (or pagan, although that word is often misunderstood) traditions. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Larry Steen, jazz bass

October 16, 2005
"The Counsel and Warning of Humanism"
The Rev. James E. Grant, speaker

Unitarian Universalism has been enriched by humanism. In fact, the first "Humanist Manifesto" (1933) was written primarily by Unitarian ministers. One key to humanism is that we humans are responsible; we cannot wait for "deus ex machina" ("god from the machinery," in classical Greek drama, an unexpected power or event saving a seemingly hopeless situation) to make things right. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Alan Busteed, violin

October 9, 2005
"Speaking Our Truth, Sharing Ourselves"
Judy Chiasson, guest speaker
Judy Federick, pulpit host

In honor of National Coming Out Day, Judy Chiasson, mother, teacher, and director of Los Angeles Unified School District’s (LAUSD's) Project 10, will speak on the invisibility of sexual orientation and the vulnerability of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender youth. She will explore the ways each of us can help create an environment where our gay and lesbian youth will blossom and grow.

Judy Chiasson taught special education for 20 years, working with severely abused children. Recently she became the director of Project 10, LAUSD's program for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) youth. As the Project 10 Specialist, she ensures that all 1,055 schools are safe and welcoming for the 800,000 students and their families who are served by LAUSD. She is finishing a doctoral program at Claremont Graduate University on the efficacy of LGBT diversity training and is blessed with two daughters who are entering college and planning their futures.

Music: Sara Andon, flute

October 2, 2005
"Called to Respond"
The Rev. James E. Grant, speaker

Rev. Grant will continue discussing the “Sources of the Living Tradition,” dealing this Sunday with Jewish and Christian teachings which "call us to respond...by loving our neighbors as ourselves." (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Rebecca Harris, singer/songwriter

September 25, 2005
"Wisdom from the World's Religions"
The Rev. James E. Grant, Speaker

Our Unitarian Universalist "river" is made up of many "sources." One significant source, first introduced to Unitarians by Emerson and other Transcendentalists, is appreciation for and enrichment by other world religions. (Read Sermon Text)

September 18, 2005
"Challenged and Inspired"
The Rev. James E. Grant, Speaker

The second "Source of the Living Tradition" calls to mind the words and deeds of prophetic people who challenge us to words and deeds of justice and compassion. (Read Sermon Text)

September 11, 2005
"Transcendent Mystery and Wonder"
The Rev. James E. Grant, Speaker

One of our UU Principles encourages each individual to a “free and responsible search for truth." To encourage and enable that search, the Principles also include “Sources of the Living Tradition." The first source, dealing with “mystery and wonder," may be applicable on this anniversary of the other September 11. (Read Sermon Text)

September 4, 2005
"Bread and Roses: A Celebration of Labor Day"
Intergenerational Service
Ross Altman, Speaker

Los Angeles troubadour Ross Altman tells stories and sings songs from labor history, including the IWW Centennial, Joe Hill and The Rebel Girl, Woody Guthrie and the Dust Bowl refugees and the United Farm Workers. Join us for a morning of continuity and solidarity. Children and adults are invited to join us for this intergenerational celebration.

August 28, 2005
"Leaving Room for Hope"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

"Leaving Room for Hope" is the working title of my sabbatical project, a book of my sermons. As I get started, I’ll share some of the themes and questions this task has already raised. (Read Sermon Text)

August 21, 2005
"Live Like a UU"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

What demands does our Unitarian Universalist faith place on us? What does it mean to live like a UU? Not what you might think. (Read Sermon Text)

August 14, 2005:
"Mental Health One Step at a Time"
Tod Lipka, guest speaker
Charles Haskell, pulpit host

Mental illness impacts one in four families in our community. At least one-third of the homeless population has a mental illness. Untreated, mental illness can lead to a life of isolation and stigma.

Tod Lipka is CEO of Step Up on Second, a nationally recognized rehabilitation program that assists individuals with mental illness. Step Up’s programs in Santa Monica help people achieve greater integration into our community and find greater meaning and purpose.

August 7, 2005:
"Dealing with Life's Irrationalities"
The Rev. Jim Grant, guest speaker
The Rev. Judith Meyer, pulpit host

Jim Grant notes, "Many events of life are irrational, without meaning. However, we can give meaning to those events. Someone wrote, 'What happens to us is not so important as what we do with what happens to us.' We can help one another find meaning and hope even in the face of life's irrationalities."

Jim Grant is a Unitarian Universalist and former American Baptist minister from San Diego. He will be serving as our weekend minister this fall while Judith is on sabbatical.

July 31, 2005
"Sabbath Economics or What Would Jesus Do With His Dollar?"
The Rev. Altagracia Perez, speaker
Vilma Ortiz, pulpit host

Inspired by the booklet by Chad Myers and distributed to whoever had need (Acts 2:45): “The Biblical Vision of Sabbath Economics,” the Rev. Altagracia Perez will reflect on the biblical roots of economic justice as it applies in our society today. The Rev. Altagracia Perez is rector of Holy Faith Episcopal Church in Inglewood and a community activist.

July 24, 2005
"Your Scripture, or Your Life"
The Rev. Ricky Hoyt, speaker
John Schroeder, pulpit host

In the UUA statement of Principles and Purposes the first of the six listed sources of our faith is “direct experience.” While we learn from other teachers, scriptures, and traditions, our own sense of spiritual truth is the foundation of our spiritual lives and the source of the other sources.

The Rev. Ricky Hoyt, a former lay member of this congregation, now serves the Unitarian Universalists of the Santa Clarita Valley as their half-time minister.He lives in Burbank with his partner and two Dalmatians.

July 17, 2005
"Dangerous Ideas? A New Spiritual Social Justice Agenda"
Daniel Sokatch, speaker
Rob Briner, pulpit host

Daniel Sokatch is the Executive Director of the Progressive Jewish Alliance, California’s leading Jewish social justice organization focusing on advocacy, education and organizing on issues of equality, diversity, dialogue and peace.

July 10, 2005
"Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind"
The Rev. Silvio Nardoni, speaker

Very few movies have a scene in which Nietzsche and a Pope (even if it is only Alexander) are mentioned together. This thought-provoking film explores the role of memory (and deeper parts of the soul) in the elusive dimension of life we call love.

July 3, 2005
"The Terminator: Fate and Judgment Day"
The Rev. Silvio Nardoni, speaker

The "Terminator" trilogy of films examines the notion of fate in a way that is helpful for religious liberals to appreciate. A strong sense of fate is one way of understanding that history- making is not a spectator sport, but instead part of what it truly means to be human.

June 26, 2005
"God’s Politics"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker
Greg Germann, story for all ages

According to Jim Wallis, founder of Sojourners and author of the book "God’s Politics: Why the Right Gets It Wrong and the Left Doesn’t Get It," religious liberals must bring our values and morals into the public square. This Sunday is also Choir Appreciation Sunday. Please join us to thank our dedicated choir for their contribution to the Sunday music program. (Read Sermon Text)

June 19, 2005
"My Life in Church"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

I’ve spent nearly my entire life as a member of a Unitarian Universalist congregation. Today I’ll offer a few candid observations about the experience. (Read Sermon Text)

June 12, 2005
"Building Bridges"
DRE Catherine Farmer, speaker

UU Young Adults walk between worlds in many ways. What do our congregations stand to gain by recognizing ministry to 18 to 35-year-olds as a vital part of their mission? We'll also celebrate the young adulthood of this year's graduating high school seniors in a special Bridging Ceremony.

June 5, 2005
Religious Exploration (RE) Sunday

Join us in celebrating UUCCSM's educational ministry to children and youth, with participation from each RE class and including a very special RE volunteer recognition.

May 29, 2005
"El Cuento de Tres Iglesias: A Reflection on El Salvador"
The Rev. Jim Conn, guest speaker

From Savior of the World to the Cathedral in central San Salvador, we walked with 40,000 people to honor the memory of Archbishop Romero — assassinated 25 years ago by death squads paid for by American tax dollars. Three churches in the core of the city tell the story of life at the edges of the Empire. You may enjoy the architecture, but the anthropology is another story.

Jim is Director of New Ministries for the California-Pacific Conference of the United Methodist Church.

Chalice Lighting: "I'm Straight; He's Gay," by Jeff Greenman

Music: Bronwen Jones, clarinet

May 22, 2005
Coming of Age Service

Join us in celebrating the Coming of Age of Nicky DePaul, Hannah Groezinger, John-Michael Lisovsky, Kara Maas-Ruane, Conner Nannini, Tommy Nunan, Jordan Paddock, Alex Rosenthal, Natalie Storey, Alyssa Wood, and Casey Zierler as they share their religious credos in a worship service of their own design.

May 15, 2005
"Tomorrow’s Church Today"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

It will take more than a leap of faith to move our church into the future. It will take a realistic look at where we are right now and thoughtful planning about where we really want to go. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Julie Millett, vocalist

May 8, 2005
"One Mother’s Life"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Unitarian Universalist civil rights activist Viola Liuzzo, mother of five, died in 1965 on the road from Selma to Montgomery, AL. She was brutally murdered by four members of the Ku Klux Klan. On this Mother’s Day we will learn about her life, her faith, and her legacy. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Ron Djuibla, saxophone

May 1, 2005
"A Contemplative in Town"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

So how do you live a contemplative life in today’s urban world? It helps to live near the beach. But anywhere you go there will be distractions. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Nevenka (Eastern European Folk Ensemble)

April 24, 2005
"What About My Itinerary?"
Michael Eselun, speaker

Michael, a member of our congregation, is a hospital and hospice chaplain, primarily at UCLA Medical Center. He will share some of what he has witnessed in serving those who are fighting cancer, and what he has learned. More importantly, he will invite us to reflect upon some of those themes as they may speak to those of us living in less dramatic, but nevertheless difficult circumstances.

April 17, 2005
"Disappointments That Make Life Great"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

What we first take to be a disappointment — sometimes a devastating disappointment — can open up possibilities we had never anticipated. It takes patience and imagination, however, to benefit. (Read Sermon Text)

Chalice Lighting: "When I am an Old Woman," by Jackie Schwartz

April 10, 2005
YRUU Sunday

In our annual Youth Sunday, the YRUU high school group presents a service that explores our third UU Principle, and how we can go beyond acceptance to understanding.

April 3, 2005
"Once in a Lifetime"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

This Sunday we celebrate the 75th anniversary of our sanctuary building and kick off our Capital Campaign to build a facility that will last us another 75 years. It truly is a “once in a lifetime” moment in the life of our church. Don’t miss it. (Read Sermon Text)

Chalice Lighting: "If These Walls Could Talk" by Rob Briner

March 27, 2005
"Coming Back to Life"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

We readily associate the Easter season with renewal, human and natural. This year, after a difficult winter in which human and natural catastrophes caused many deaths, the yearning for life is even stronger than usual. (Read Sermon Text)

March 20, 2005
"When Jesus Came to America"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Palm Sunday marks the day Jesus made his momentous arrival in Jerusalem. His arrival in America as a multicultural icon has also been momentous in its own way. According to scholar Stephen Prothero, he has become “the man nobody hates” and everyone knows, whatever their religious faith. (Read Sermon Text)

March 13, 2005
"A Spirituality for a Pluralistic World"
The Rev. Elizabeth Conde-Frazier, guest speaker
Vilma Ortiz, pulpit host

The ability to listen until we understand differently is not a technique but a way of life or a spiritual journey. We will look at a spiritual journey that moves us from hospitality to a vision of shalom/salaam.

Elizabeth Conde-Frazier has formed a home with her husband and two children that are “HisBlackic.” She is also associate professor of religious education at the Claremont School of Theology and has written on issues of interfaith dialogue and multiculturalism.

March 6, 2005
"Do We Have to Be Good?"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

What ethical guidelines does our faith tradition offer us in the living of our daily lives? (Read Sermon Text)

February 27, 2005
"Our Peace Site Today"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

In 1986, our congregation voted to become a “Peace Site,” a place dedicated to peace education. We’ll take a look at what that means for us in 2005. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Peter Snell, guitar

February 20, 2005
"Buying Green Bananas"
The Rev. John T.Morehouse, guest speaker
Kathy Cook, pulpit host

The Rev. John T. Morehouse, minister of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Frederick, Maryland, will explore the means by which we garner hope in our lives and our world.

Music: Jonathan Davis, oboe

February 13, 2005
"Standing on the Side of Love"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

We join other Unitarian Universalist churches in California in declaring ourselves “congregations with heart” and dedicating our service to marriage equality. That is something to celebrate come Valentine’s Day. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: George Bell, violin

February 6, 2005
"Spiritual Growth Is for Everyone"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

The third of our seven Unitarian Universalist principles is “Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations.” The service will explore what this principle means for all of us – adults, children, and youth. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Christine Mourad, singer-songwriter

January 30, 2005
" Islamic Spirituality"
Zayn Kassam, guest speaker

At a time when we hear so much about Muslims and violence, it might be useful to think about the ways in which Muslims express their spirituality. This talk will explore the sources of Muslim spirituality and ethics, as well as some of the various ways in which Muslims express their deepest convictions.

Zayn Kassam is Associate Professor of Religious Studies at Pomona College and is also on the faculty at Claremont Graduate University. She teaches courses in Islamic philosophy, mysticism, gender, and literature as well as a course on philosophical and mystical texts from a comparative perspective.

January 23, 2005
" Justice is Flowing"
Charlie Clements, guest speaker

Almost 60 years ago a small group of people led by Eleanor Roosevelt gave voice to a collective yearning for justice, equality, and freedom called the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Charlie Clements will preach about its impact and its relationship to the programs of the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee.

Clements was appointed CEO and president of the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee over a year ago. He is a well known public health physician and human rights activist. His book “Witness to War” was the basis for an Academy Award-winning documentary of the same title.

January 16, 2005
"Let Us Be Maladjusted"
Martin Luther King, Jr. Observance
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

In his famous address "The American Dream," Martin Luther King, Jr. reminded his listeners that maladjusted people will save the world. (Read Text)

January 9, 2005
" Our Whole Lives"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Come learn about our UU approach to sexuality education, now offered to every child, youth, and adult in our church. (Read Text)

January 2, 2005
" The Plague"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

We are all members of the same human family. The ocean looks different to us now too. We look to it and to the new year, not knowing what will come; knowing only what we have to give. It may be all we can know; that there is something we can do. (Read Text)

December 26, 2004
" Dangerous Ideas?: A Spiritual Social Justice Agenda for the New Year"
Daniel Sokatch, guest speaker

Our guest speaker is the Executive Director of the Progressive Jewish Alliance, California’s leading social justice organization focusing on advocacy, education, and organizing on issues of equality, diversity, dialogue, and peace. His sermon will address the challenges of doing progressive “faith-based” social justice organizing and advocacy work in a world where religious voices seem increasingly fundamentalist in their approach.

December 24, 2004
Christmas Eve Services

6:00 p.m. Family Vespers Service

A service of carols, music and stories especially for children and their families.

8:00 p.m. Candlelighting Vespers Service

A quiet service of reflection and music concluding with a candlelight ceremony.

December 19, 2004
Winter Holiday Pageant:
"Twelve Days of Winter"

This year we celebrate our annual Winter Holiday Pageant with a twist, celebrating 12 different holidays from a host of different traditions, all wrapped up in one (more or less) tidy pageant. This is an intergenerational service—be forewarned: there may be a part for YOU to play. (Who wants to be Rama?) So what do you get when you cross a Bodhi tree, ligonberries, Yule logs, and Sikh gurus with a chorus of Friendly Beasts? Here’s a hint: it’s something you won’t want to miss. Join us in celebrating the spirit of the season.

December 12, 2004
"The More the Merrier"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Our Unitarian Universalist approach to the holiday season is a wide embrace of different customs. This practice says a lot about who we are. (Read Text)

December 5, 2004
"An Unrepentant Liberal"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

When Unitarian minister A. Powell Davies pronounced himself an “unrepentant liberal” in 1946, he was speaking of the need for a progressive faith to save the world. Over 50 years later, his words—and our Unitarian Universalist faith—still ring true. (Read Text)

November 28, 2004
"An Isherwood Life"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Writer Christopher Isherwood exemplified many of the qualities of a good life. He was honest, intelligent, and talented. He was also very spiritual. Our service will add to the many celebrations of his centenary this year and explore Isherwood’s life in all its fullness and originality. (Read Text)

Music: Victor Lawrence, cello

November 21, 2004
"Thanksgiving Service"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Images of abundance seem to come with the Thanksgiving holiday, suggesting that prosperity and spirituality are rooted in the history of our nation. This notion deserves closer examination. (Read Text)

Music: Sara Andon, flute

November 14, 2004:
"The Universalist Gospel"
Presented by Amy Thiel and Patrick Meighan and the UU Community Church Choir
Sue Bickford, pulpit host

Come enjoy a narrative history of Universalism celebrated in words and music, adapted by Patrick Meighan and Amy Thiel for our Sunday service.

Music: Chancel choir (both services)

November 7, 2004:
"Democracy Still Matters"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

The service offers some post-election reflections inspired by Cornel West. His new book, “Democracy Matters,” is timely and provocative, no matter who wins. (Read Text)

Music: Julie Millett, singer

October 31, 2004
Day of the Dead
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, whose 1969 book On Death and Dying broke new ground in the care of dying persons, died this summer. The Day of the Dead is a good time to celebrate her work. If you are grieving a loss, you are invited to bring an object or picture in remembrance of your loved one to place on the chancel altar before the service begins. (Read Text)

Reminder: Daylight Savings Time ends at 2 a.m., October 30. Set your clocks back one hour.

Music: Michelle McWilliams, soprano

October 24, 2004
United Nations Sunday
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

The United Nations Day theme for 2004 is women’s rights and empowerment. Unitarians and Universalists share a long history of advocacy for women. We’ll learn a few of the highlights and their lessons for today, United Nations Sunday. (Read Text)

Music: Louis Durra, piano

October 17, 2004
"The Disciplined Spirit"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

The Muslim observance of Ramadan, a month of fasting and abstinence, offers lessons in self-discipline as a spiritual practice. What can we Unitarian Universalists learn from the Muslim example? (Read Text)

Music: Michael Lamb, tenor

October 10, 2004
"Every Breath I Take"
Rebecca Weinreich, guest speaker
Michael Eselun, pulpit host

Our speaker will offer some thoughts on the all-pervasive nature of one’s sexual orientation, the ways it permeates one’s being, informing decisions, actions, and reactions. It is a core element of most people, if not every person. However, for lesbian, gay, and bisexual people, outside the realms of politics or intimate relationships, the characteristic is often thought not to exist. Rebecca will share her experiences concerning ways in which this issue plays itself out in her life.

Rebecca is a lesbian mother of two who lives in Los Angeles with her partner of 15 years and their two daughters, ages 3 and 6. She is active in her synagogue, in GLIDE (an antihomophobia speakers bureau), and in her children’s schools.

Music: Sara Andon, flute

October 3, 2004:
"Tell You a Story"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

In our Sunday service, the children’s story often serves as a text for the message of the day. We’ll explore the use of story as an expression of the religious imagination. (Read Text)

Music: Victor Lawrence, cello

September 26, 2004:
“Empowering Love: A Legislative Ministry”
The Rev. Lindi Ramsden, guest speaker
The Rev. Judith Meyer, pulpit host

“Power without love is reckless and abusive, and love without power is sentimental and anemic.”
-- The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Faith communities know about acts of charity and mercy; we also know that charity is not enough to create justice. What role should faith communities play in influencing public policy? How do we encourage spiritual depth and maturity in such work?

The Rev. Lindi Ramsden, executive director of the Unitarian Universalist Legislative Ministry of California will join the Rev. Judith Meyer to lead our service.

Faith in Action’s Fall Issues Election takes place after the second service.

September 19, 2004:
“Many Ministries”
The Rev. Judith Meyer,speaker

Being part of a church calls us to minister to one another and to serve our community. Many of us yearn to do both more effectively. Now a grass-roots movement for Small Group Ministry is showing us how we can. (Read Text)

September 12, 2004 (two services resume at 9 and 11 a.m.):
Ingathering Service
“One Church”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

We celebrate our Ingathering with an affirmation of our community and our covenant, which bring us together and make us one people. (Read Text)

September 5, 2004 (one service at 10 a.m.):
"Labor in the Pulpit"
Rev. Alexia Salvatierra, Executive Director of CLUE, speaker
Charles Haskell, pulpit host

At our annual issues election last year we voted to support the work of Clergy and Laity United for Economic Justice (CLUE) in their efforts to help low-wage workers in the hotel industry. We are pleased to dedicate Labor Day Sunday this year to an update of this important work by the Rev. Alexia Salvatierra, Executive Director of CLUE.

August 29, 2004:
“Personal Responsibility, Religion, and Politics”
The Rev. Ricky Hoyt, speaker
Nedra Bickel, pulpit host

Statistics show that most religious people are also politically conservative. David Klinghoffer of the Jewish Forward finds the connection: religions emphasize personal moral responsibility, the ability of every person to know right from wrong and to act as he or she chooses. Unitarian Universalists hold those same principles but are overwhelmingly liberal politically. Are we inconsistent with our faith and politics, or is there a better theory to explain the statistics?

Music: Julie Millet, vocals

August 22, 2004:
“Praise A Woman:The Music and Religion of Ray Charles”
The Rev. Silvio Nardoni, speaker

The life, music and religious insights of “The Genius” have much to say to those seeking a fuller expression of the “soul” in their lives. Come prepared to sing and enjoy the music and spirit of a man whose artistry will never die.

Music: Ray Charles tribute, featuring members of the congregation

August 15, 2004:
"Groundhog Day: Intimations of Mortality”
The Rev. Silvio Nardoni, speaker

When working with our Coming of Age group this year, I nominated this as my most favorite film ever. When the world he lives in begins to become increasingly familiar and smaller, Bill Murray’s character must go through several stages of transformation in order to find the elusive happiness he says he desires.While the film portrays the growth of an individual, I find myself thinking of how it applies to whole communities.

Music: TBA

August 8, 2004:
“Enlightenment Guaranteed”
The Rev. Silvio Nardoni, speaker

This is a delightful German motion picture, filmed in a Japanese monastery. It is the funny and tender-hearted story of two brothers who leave behind family, country, and the familiar in search of enlightenment in the ancient ways of Zen Buddhism. It has much to teach anyone who engages in a spiritual practice on a regular or irregular basis.

Music: Barbara Kleban, soprano

August 1, 2004:
“The Moral Imperative to Educate Our Kids”
Caprice Young, speaker
Phil Bonacich, pulpit host

Caprice Young is the CEO of the newly formed California Charter Schools Association, a membership association working to increase student achievement by strengthening and expanding public charter schools throughout California. She served from 1999 to 2003 as a member and chair of the Los Angeles Unified School District Board of Education. As a youth she was a leader in the continental UU youth movement.

Music: Louis Durra, jazz piano

July 25, 2004:
"Towards a Postmodern UUism"
Max Joffe Johnson, guest speaker
Carol Agate, pulpit host

The bold, pluralistic vision of contemporary UUism is badly in need of a new philosophical "foundation" to help it realize its potential. Here is a modest proposal for one. Max is a member of our congregation and this fall will be in the Philosophy of Religion and Theology doctoral program of Claremont Graduate University.

Music: Andy Stewart, guitar/vocals

July 18, 2004:
"The Camel, the Lion and the Dragon"
The Rev. Ernie Pipes, minister emeritus, speaker

Erik Erikson, in "Identity and the Life Cycle" writes, "The last task of life is to know who you really are and what your place in the order of things is." Walt Whitman in his preface to "Leaves of Grass" tells us to "re-examine all you have been told at school or church or in any book, dismiss whatever insults your soul..." In these quotes is hidden a sermon.

Music: Jonathan Davis, oboe

July 11, 2004:
"Those Disturbing Miracles"
The Rev. Ricky Hoyt, guest speaker
Vilma Ortiz, pulpit host

Beatification requires, according to Catholic process, the accreditation of a "miracle" accomplished by the proposed saint on behalf of someone praying in their name. Elevation to sainthood requires a second verified miracle. To call some phenomenon a miracle means more than merely saying something is wonderful, or unusual. Thus, proclaiming the existence of true miracles has broad implications for a religious worldview, some inspiring, some disturbing.

Ricky is a former member of our church and is now the consulting minister for the new congregation Unitarian Universalists of the Santa Clarita Valley.

Music: Michelle McWilliams, soprano

July 4, 2004:
"Women Speak Out"
Ellen Geer and Melora Marshall, guest speakers
Kathy Cook, pulpit host

A compilation of historic and current voices in word and song, portraying women who are not afraid to speak out about their love and care of humanity even when it is an unpopular thing to do within a society.

Ellen Geer is the artistic director of the Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum. Her sister, Melora Marshall, is a singer and songwriter.

Music: Ellen Geer & Melora Marshall

June 27, 2004
"Fifty years after Brown"
The Rev. Jim Conn, guest speaker Dan Naninni, pulpit host

Jim writes, "Yes, it was 50 years ago that the Supreme Court decided that segregation was no longer compatible with the Constitution. The decision spurred on the civil rights movement, and it forced my generation of white Americans to face our racism. Racism, of course, is no longer a problem in America...or is it? Don't white Americans still have some things to look at? Let's see..."

Jim Conn, Urban Strategist with the United Methodist Church, was formerly minister of the Church in Ocean Park and mayor of Santa Monica.

Music: Dayla McDonald, Peter Van Den Beemt and Wally Giffen

June 20, 2004:
"Common Ground"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Environmentalism has given us new language, new meaning, even new faith, which we practice more than we realize. As summer begins, we survey this common ground. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Michael Lamb, tenor

June 13, 2004:
"An Unexpected Break
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

It was only a broken hand, and I had to wear the cast for only a month. Yet my brief foray into disability taught me something, which I will share with you. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Bronwen Jones, clarinet

June 6, 2004:
RE Sunday
DRE Catherine Farmer, speaker

Join us in celebrating our RE focus for this year, the Inherent Worth and Dignity of Every Person, with participation from each RE class and including a very special RE volunteer recognition.

Music: Sara Andon, flute

May 30, 2004:
Memorial Day Service
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

America is in a state of mourning. The lives lost at war this year leave many families bereft and many more anxious and fearful. Our Memorial Day observance will look at this reality and search for hope in the sadness. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Ginger Murphy, cello

May 23, 2004:
Coming of Age Service

Join us in celebrating the Coming of Age of Katie Gross, Mayura Jain, Nick Kendall-Barr, Ananya Kepper, Emily Mann, Jo Messer, Catherine Nakajima, Claire Rush and Luke Silver as they share their religious credos in a worship service of their own design.

Music: Coming of Age Students

May 16, 2004:
“Building Momentum”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Our building program is teaching us many lessons: about planning, process, design, and money. It is also teaching us some spiritual lessons. The service today will reflect on them. (Read Sermon Text)

Our Annual Meeting will be held today at 12:30 p.m.

Music: David Ellis, guitar

May 9, 2004:
“Looking to the Growing Edge”
The Rev. Stefanie Etzbach-Dale, speaker

Black Elk shared a vision of the world as a sacred hoop within which were sheltered all the children of one mother and one father. This Mother’s Day service explores the gift of life, of hope, and of care that we each are to one another. Come celebrate with us.

Music: Julie Millett, soprano

May 2, 2004:
“Free For All”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Our faith tradition affirms the value of individuals, a stance that has undermined at times the cohesiveness of our community. We’ll explore the tensions between individualism and community, and the unique challenges they pose to us as Unitarian Universalists. (Read sermon text.)

Music: Jenifer Jurrick, soprano

April 25, 2004:
“Moving the Hinges of Destiny”
The Rev. Stefanie Etzbach-Dale, speaker

The freedom to make choices regarding one’s destiny is not always accompanied by the will or ability to do so. This sermon explores choice and freedom from a liberal religious context.

Music: Choir (9 a.m.), Louis Durra, jazz piano (11:00 a.m.)

April 18, 2004:
YRUU Service
“What It’s Like to Be Young and UU”

The YRUU high school group presents a service that explores their experiences of being young liberal religious youths, inspired by Dr. Seuss.

Music: Julie Millett, vocalist

April 11, 2004:
Easter Service
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

This Easter we celebrate new life and the many ways in which our faith helps us to grow. We will participate in an intergenerational ritual based on a tradition Norbert Capek introduced to Unitarian Universalism. Please bring a packet of flower seeds for this purpose. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Jonathan Davis, oboe

April 4, 2004:
“Courage in Both Life and Death”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Norbert Capek, founder of the Unitarian church of Prague, Czechoslovakia, was an inspiring leader, a prolific writer, and a spiritual role model. He died in Dachau, where he was imprisoned by the Nazi Gestapo, in 1942. On this Passover/Palm Sunday, we will learn his story. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Nevenka Women's Chorus

March 28, 2004:
“Life Is an Odyssey”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Learning to tell the story of our lives is a healing and spiritual practice. Not only do we understand ourselves that way, but we discover the larger patterns and meanings in life. You are invited to a community dialogue on this sermon topic Wednesday, March 31, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in Forbes Hall. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Sara Andon, flute

March 21, 2004:
“True Peace Is Always Possible”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Zen Buddhist monk and teacher Thich Nhat Hanh begins his latest book with the words “True peace is always possible.” We’ll explore his contribution to the philosophy of nonviolence and its potential in today’s world. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Christine Mourad, singer/songwriter

March 14, 2004:
“Taking Fun Seriously”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

“We don’t take fun seriously enough,” said designers Ray and Charles Eames. These words are inscribed on the wall of the Eames office on Main Street, where their work is displayed. Whenever I see that quotation, I find myself thinking about it for a long time afterward. Today I’ll tell you what it means to me. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Angela Meade, soprano

March 7, 2004:
“Golfing with Monkeys”
The Rev. Scott Alexander, guest speaker
The Rev. Judith Meyer, pulpit host

Scott writes, “Despite overwhelming everyday evidence to the contrary, most Americans seem to persist in believing that life will routinely be predictable and fair. How this notion of life’s basic reasonableness survives in the chaotic world we live in is a mystery to me. The spiritual secret to successfully getting through life as it actually comes to us lies in our ability to keep our hearts supple before life’s unexpected and unwelcome surprises. Knowing how to golf with monkeys also helps! Yes, there is a story, but you’re going to have to come to church to hear it.” Scott Alexander is senior minister of River Road Unitarian Church in Bethesda, Maryland.

Music: Victor Lawrence, cello

February 29, 2004:
“Save the Males”
The Rev. Tom Owen-Towle, guest speaker
The Rev. Stefanie Etzbach-Dale, pulpit host

“It is my firm conviction,” writes Tom Owen-Towle, “that the inner life of most adult males is sorely impoverished...and that changing men changes the world. This service supports the soulful and prophetic growth of men, to the benefit of all. Come hear some amazing stories of male transformation.”

Tom Owen-Towle has been a parish minister since 1967, currently serving the Palomar UU Fellowship in northern San Diego as its interim minister. He is the author of 16 books, some of which will be available for purchase on Sunday, including his latest, “Save the Males.” He will be with us for the entire weekend, offering a workshop, “Updating My Relationship with God,” on Saturday, February 28.

February 22, 2004:
“Six Perfect Minutes”
The Rev. Dr. Frederick S.Wooden, guest speaker
Vilma Ortiz, pulpit host

Our pulpit guest writes, “Much as May Sarton says that happiness is not a continuous state but a collection of moments, spiritual living is not a state of being but a readiness to be spiritual when the time is ripe. Sometimes it can last a long time, even six minutes.”

Fred Wooden is the senior minister of the First Unitarian Congregational Society in Brooklyn, NY.

February 15, 2004:
“Who Says ‘I Do’?”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

What is marriage? There are many answers to this question. They all affirm the right to marriage for all people. Following the second service, and after lunch in Forbes Hall, Interweave will host a panel discussion, “The Politics of Same-Sex Marriage,” at 12:30 p.m. in the sanctuary. (Read Sermon Text)

February 8, 2004:
“To Awaken, to Excite, to Cherish”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

The “great end in religious instruction,” wrote William Ellery Channing, “is to awaken the soul, to excite and cherish spiritual life.” Our service today celebrates our religious education tradition and includes a ceremony of installation of Catherine Farmer, our Director of Religious Education. Please join us and stay for the gala reception for Catherine after each service. (Read Sermon Text)

February 1, 2004:
“What Part of No”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

“No” is a powerful and sometimes necessary statement. But “yes” is what leads to growth. We’ll look at the role of the negative and the positive in religious life. (Read Sermon Text)

January 25, 2004:
“Opening Doors”
The Rev. Forrest Gilmore, guest speaker
The Rev. Stefanie Etzbach-Dale, pulpit host

Some years ago, a little girl came to my home to sell me a bar of chocolate. The encounter became one of the more transformative of my life. Olympia Brown, the first woman sanctioned as a minister by an American denomination, delivered her last sermon only weeks after women had won the right to vote. These two events speak to me of the profound power of this beautiful Unitarian Universalist faith of ours!

The speaker is the Associate Minister for Lifespan Religious Programming at the UU Church of the Monterey Peninsula.

Music: Betsy Bogart, voice, guitar, piano

January 18, 2004:
Martin Luther King, Jr. Observance
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Martin Luther King, Jr. was a Baptist minister and a man of great faith. Yet he wrote in his “Letter from Birmingham Jail” that he was deeply disappointed in the Christian church for failing to provide moral leadership in the struggle for racial and economic justice. What can we Unitarian Universalists learn from his faith and his disappointment? (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Jennifer Jurick, soprano

January 11, 2004:
“The Pastoral Imperative”
The Rev. Stefanie Etzbach-Dale, speaker

Reality, together with our social gospel history, underscores the ongoing need for prophetic action in this world. However, the external and internal pressure to act in particular ways can often undermine the essential nature of tending the “inner garden.” This service explores pastoral aspects of prophetic action, while seeking to affirm both.

Music: Jonathan Davis, oboe

January 4, 2004:
“We Gather Together”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

What happens when we gather together for Sunday morning services? What role can worship play in spiritual growth and community-building and what can each of us do to make the experience meaningful? (Read Sermon Text)

A community dialogue with Judith Meyer on this topic will be held Wednesday, January 7 from 7-8:30 p.m. in Room 4.

Music: Louis Durra, jazz piano

December 28, 2003:
“Truth and the Good Life”
The Rev. Stefanie Etzbach-Dale, speaker

"Reality is complex! Truth is complex! Searching for greater parts of it CAN be disconcerting AND uncomfortable, but this is precisely what puts an ethical spin on what it MEANS to live . . . "the Good Life."

Music: Julie Millet, soprano

Wednesday, December 24, 2003:
Christmas Eve Services

6 p.m. Family Vespers Service
A service of carols, music and stories especially for children and their families.

8 p.m. Candle Lighting Vespers Service
A quiet service of reflection and music concluding with a candle lighting ceremony.

December 21, 2003:
“Year After Year”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Times may change, but the affirmations of the holiday season do not. Hanukkah and the Winter Solstice arrive this weekend. We will celebrate what they mean to us as Unitarian Universalists. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Victor Lawrence, cello

December 14, 2003:
“Three Miraculous Births”
Winter Holiday Pageant

This year we celebrate our annual Winter Holiday Pageant with a twist by re-living the birth stories of three of the world’s greatest teachers. This is an intergenerational service, and be forewarned: there may be a part for YOU to play. (Who wants to be the elephant?) So, friends, what do you get when you cross Buddha, Confucius and Jesus with a chorus of Friendly Beasts? Here’s a hint: it’s something you won’t want to miss. Join us in celebrating the spirit of the season.

Music: Sara Parkins, violin

December 7, 2003:
“In Search of Wisdom”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Wisdom is an ancient concept, valued by all the religions of the world. Its relevance is always timely. We’ll explore what it means to be wise and how our faith helps us in the search for wisdom. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Sara Andon, flute

November 30, 2003:
"Community: Not a Neat Street"
The Rev. Stefanie Etzbach-Dale, speaker
Sue Bickford, pulpit host

We are encouraged by the world's religious traditions to live out our lives in community — and yet it is sometimes hard to reconcile group vision and individual vision. Living authentically doesn't require isolation, nor does living in a community mean we have to give up our individuality. This service honors the complexity of our individual and shared dreams, and explores covenant groups as a way in which our lives may become a fuller expression of our dreams.

Music: David Ellis, guitarist

November 23, 2003:
Thanksgiving Service
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Although the context for Thanksgiving has evolved since its beginning, the theme itself is fundamental and enduring. Come join us and remember why. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Jazz with bassist Don Kasper and pianist Louis Durra

November 16, 2003:
"What Do We Find When All Is Lost?"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Even those with a strong faith have doubts sometimes. What do we find when loss, tragedy, and the realities of everyday life leave us with no faith at all? (Read Sermon Text)

Please join us for a community dialogue with the minister about the issues raised in this sermon Wednesday, November 19, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in Forbes Hall.

Music: Jonathan Davis, oboist

November 9, 2003:
"Gloria"
The UU Community Church Choir
Steve Wight, Music Director

The choir will perform Antonio Vivaldi's "Gloria" in its entirety at both services. Composed nearly three centuries ago, the "Gloria" is one of the great masterpieces of religious art of the eighteenth century, and speaks powerfully to us today. Though many know Vivaldi as the composer of "The Four Seasons" and hundreds of instrumental concerti, he was also a master composer of opera, song, and choral music. The "Gloria" represents his highest achievement in this field.

A string ensemble and Louis Durra on harpsichord will join the choir. Soprano Angela Meade is the featured soloist.

November 2, 2003:
"Día de los Muertos" service
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Grief is an unavoidable life experience, but its many facets allow for celebration and transformation as well as for sorrow. The service will explore grief as a creative experience. You are invited to bring a remembrance or photo for our "Día de los Muertos" altar if you have lost someone in the past year. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Ginger Murphy, cellist

October 26, 2003:
“So Much More . . .”
The Rev. Terry Sweetser, guest speaker
The Rev. Judith Meyer, pulpit host

We kick off our annual pledge drive with Terry Sweetser, Senior Advisor to the President of the Unitarian Universalist Association. He writes, “We often say, ‘Things aren’t what they seem,’ and conclude the sentence with ‘they are so much less.’ The teachings of both our Unitarian and Universalist forebears are exactly the opposite. In fact, to live the lives we wish we could, our faith challenges us to find the fullness in the wonder of life. To celebrate your wonderful congregation: a service that urges us to imagine that things aren’t just what they seem, they are so much more.”

Music: Sara Andon, flute

October 19, 2003:
“Diversity and Its Discomforts”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Diversity of opinion is the hallmark of an open society – and a free church. We cherish our tradition of diversity, with its freedom to dissent. Yet we rarely discuss how uncomfortable our differences can make us feel. The service also marks our observance of United Nations Sunday. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Sara Parkins, violin

October 12, 2003:
“Coming Out: It’s Everybody’s Business”
Michael Eselun, guest speaker
Kris Langabeer, pulpit host

Our third annual Coming Out Day service, sponsored by Interweave, features guest speaker Michael Eselun, co-founder of GLIDE: Gays and Lesbians Initiating Dialogue for Equality (an anti-homophobia speakers bureau), a hospital and hospice chaplain, and a designer. He will look at the many different dimensions of coming out, something we all must do, and invite us to investigate the opportunities for us on both sides of the closet door.

Music: "Nevenka," Eastern European women's choral music

October 5, 2003:
“The Hardest Word”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

The Jewish observance of Yom Kippur offers lessons for Unitarian Universalists too. We all need to reflect on the role of forgiveness in our lives. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Vanessa Paloma, soprano & shofar

September 28, 2003:
“On Being a Person of Faith”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

In her book “Beyond Belief,” religion scholar Elaine Pagels sheds light on the meaning of faith in the time of Jesus and the early Christians. She also helps us understand what it means to be a person of faith — and a Unitarian Universalist –– today. (Read Sermon Text)

September 21, 2003:
“Our Time”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

It has been 10 years since I arrived in Santa Monica to serve this congregation as your minister. The anniversary is a good time to speak about ministry, and what I have learned in my time with you. (Read Sermon Text)

September 14, 2003:
“Tainted Legacy: 9/11 and the Ruin of Human Rights”
The Rev. Dr. William F. Schulz, guest speaker
The Rev. Judith Meyer, pulpit host

Bill Schulz, executive director of Amnesty International USA and former president of the Unitarian Universalist Association, writes, “Since 9/11, the Bush Administration’s ‘War on Terror’ has prioritized security at the expense of human rights. At the same time too many advocates of human rights have blithely dismissed the need to reexamine our thinking about rights and liberties in the face of the terrorist threat. Will more people die if we follow human rights standards or if we modify or even violate them? What happens when our right to security bumps up against other rights? How do we strike the right balance?”

September 7, 2003:
Ingathering Sunday
“To Learn, to Celebrate, to Serve”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

We start the church year with a service to affirm our calling as Unitarian Universalists. We also welcome the Rev. Stefanie Etzbach-Dale, our ministerial intern, who will be working with us this year. (Read Sermon Text)

August 31, 2003:
“Good as Gold”
Labor Day Sunday
The Rev. Jim Conn, guest speaker
Charles Haskell, pulpit host

Labor Day offers an opportunity to reflect on the role of work in our lives and in our common life. Karl Marx was not the first to say that workers are the source of a nation’s wealth. But it is the disparity between work and worth that is the source of extreme wealth. That condition creates a problem for democracy. It always has.

Jim Conn, urban strategist with the United Methodist Church, was formerly minister of the Church in Ocean Park and mayor of Santa Monica.

Music: Angela Meade, vocalist

August 24, 2003:
"At Home in the Struggle"
Susan Conrad, guest speaker
The Rev. Judith Meyer, pulpit host

The saying “la vida es la lucha” suggests that struggle is fundamental to our humanness. How can our participation in efforts for human dignity - on any scale - contribute to deepening a life of faith? This sermon will explore this question, and suggest that our own experiences of struggle can enrich the spiritual community we build together.

Susan Conrad, who served our congregation as Faith in Action Intern two years ago, is a student at Harvard Divinity School.

Music: Michael Lamb, vocalist

August 17, 2003:
“Whale Rider: The Reverent Subversive”
The Rev. Silvio Nardoni, guest speaker

The currently-playing movie “Whale Rider” depicts a community of indigenous people in New Zealand trying to adapt, survive, and thrive in the modern world. Despite the apparent differences from the situation of our own religious community, there is much we can learn about the creative tension between tradition and innovation from this charming film.

Silvio Nardoni is affiliate minister of our church.

Music: Sarah Kirkup, flute

August 10, 2003:
“A Life Worth Living”
The Rev. Ricky Hoyt, guest speaker
Vilma Ortiz, pulpit host

Each of us must feel that we have through our life contributed to something significant and larger than ourselves. What that is for you, no one can tell you, but you must be able to name it for yourself in order to achieve satisfaction in your living.

Ricky Hoyt is a minister, author, and former member of our congregation.

Music: James Raymond, jazz pianist & vocalist

August 3, 2003:
“It's Time to Speak Out”
Ellen Geer, guest speaker
Melinda Ewen, pulpit host

Ellen Geer, artistic director of the Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum, will recount what happened to her family when they spoke out during to the 1950s, and the similarity to what happens today when dissent is voiced. We find ourselves at a time that many are again afraid to speak. When that happened at mid-century it divided and isolated people, and caused some to quit being human. The important thing today is to find courage, and we hope that in communities such as ours we can help one another to find it.

Music: Jennifer Jurrick, vocalist

July 27, 2003:
“The Christians Among Us”
The Rev. Robert Jordan Ross, guest speaker
Kathy Cook, pulpit host

“Who are these people? What do they want? What are they trying to get us to believe? Why don’t they go worship with their own kind? Look, don’t get me wrong: diversity is good, but there are limits!” Sometimes the spoken anxieties among us feed a self-closeting of UU Christians, who find themselves in the unusual position of being afraid to speak their truth amongst a people who advocate for the liberty and power of all people to be able to do so.

Robert Jordan Ross is minister emeritus of the Unitarian Universalist Church of South County, Mission Viejo, and a member of the Steering Committee of the UU Christian Fellowship.

Music: Julie Millett, Vocalist

July 20, 2003:
“The Great Commandment”
The Rev. Ricky Hoyt, guest speaker
Nedra Bickel, pulpit host

Jesus quotes two of the Jewish commandments as the greatest of all: that we should love God, love our neighbors, and love ourselves. When he also commands that we should love even our enemies he presents a challenge that we must treat every particle of the universe as a container for the ultimate values we hold most dear.

Music: Dominic Genova, Jazz Bass

July 13, 2003:
“Sources of Faith”
The Rev. Ricky Hoyt, guest speaker
Judy Federick, pulpit host

So beloved are our UU seven principles that many of us forget the second half of that statement: the list of sources of our faith. I’ll review that list in light of my own analysis of the three sources of spiritual wisdom: intuition, community, and the world around us.

Music: David Ellis, Guitar

July 6, 2003:
“Beginnings”
The Rev. Ricky Hoyt, guest speaker
Carol Agate, pulpit host

A sermon about where we come from: our fathers and our mothers and also the ancestors long before them. Their lives and goals live in us. The task of our life is to remember and live out their dreams but also to transform them in line with our unique selves and times.

The Rev. Ricky Hoyt, minister, author and former member of our congregation, will be leading three services this month. We welcome him back to our pulpit.

Music: Charla Gulino, Flute

June 29, 2003:
Religious Exploration Sunday

The culmination of this year’s RE program, this service features our children, youth, and teachers. They will do a “Way Cool Sunday School” worship service. Come participate and see what it’s all about.

June 22, 2003:
“Coming and Going”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Learning how to say “hello” and “goodbye” is spiritual work. It is not always easy. But to take it seriously is to use its power well. (Read Sermon Text)

June 15, 2003:
“What It Means to Be Human”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Each Sunday, I repeat the words of James Luther Adams, who said, “Church is where we get to practice what it means to be human.” This Sunday I want to probe that thought a little deeper. (Read Sermon Text)

June 8, 2003:
“What We Believe”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

All too often we characterize Unitarian Universalism as a faith that allows us to believe whatever we want. While we do make a lot of room for individual perspectives, we hold certain beliefs in common as well. Today I’ll explain what they are. (Read Sermon Text)

This sermon is a good introduction for newcomers and new members. Newcomer orientation takes place this Sunday as well, 12:30-1:30, with Judith and Ofelia Lachtman. Invite a friend!

June 1, 2003:
Coming of Age Service

Four young women in our congregation — Jesse Figueroa, Amelia Harati, Rachel Nannini, and Hayley Paddock — will celebrate their coming of age in a service they have created after a year of reflection, study and preparation. Please join them for this special occasion.

May 25, 2003:
Memorial Day Service
The Rev. Judith Meyer, Speaker

Though opinions about war may divide us, grief over the losses unites us. In the universal human experience of grief we may find a way to heal divisions and move on together. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: David Ellis, guitar

May 18, 2003:
“High Expectations”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

A Unitarian Universalist publication recently reported that “high expectation” congregations, which stress the responsibilities of membership, come closer to fulfilling their mission than congregations with low expectations. Neighborhood Church in Pasadena, for example, has these responsibilities of membership: attendance at Sunday services, personal transformation, social justice work, and giving time and money to support the church. As we come to our Annual Meeting with high hopes for the coming year, it is time to heighten our expectations of each other as well. (Read Sermon Text)

The Annual Meeting of the congregation takes place at 12:30 p.m. today in the sanctuary.

Music: Sara Andon, flute

May 11, 2003:
“Mothers of the Mind”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Several women influenced Ralph Waldo Emerson, especially his aunt Mary Moody Emerson, his friend Margaret Fuller and each of his wives, Ellen Tucker and Lydia Jackson. In honor of Mother’s Day, we’ll honor the role women have played in nurturing others’ genius. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Ginger Murphy, cello

May 4, 2003:
"Reverence: A Portable Virtue"
The Rev. Silvio Nardoni, speaker

Our faith tradition is short on dogma, but long on reverence, at least as I see it. This sermon is part of my continuing effort to describe an "ethics of the soul," which I believe is at the heart of Unitarian Universalism.

Music: Jonathan Davis, oboe

April 27, 2003:
“Endurance Training for Life”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Is it possible to have inner peace living in a world at war? What strengths and attitudes do we need to keep our hope alive and our perspective in place? (Read Sermon Text)

April 20, 2003:
“for everything … which is yes”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

According to Christian tradition, Easter is an affirmation of life over death. Even though we don’t believe in the resurrection, Unitarian Universalists find meaning in Easter. Unitarian poet e.e. cummings helps us understand just why that is. The sermon title comes from a cummings poem. (Read Sermon Text)

April 13, 2003:
“Holy Week”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

This week, which begins with Palm Sunday, includes Passover, and ends with Easter, takes its meaning and its story from the Hebrew bible and the New Testament gospels. It gives us an opportunity to reflect on how the biblical tradition informs our contemporary faith. (Read Sermon Text)

April 6, 2003:
“Self Reverence”
The Rev. Lee Barker, guest speaker
Kathy Cook, pulpit host

The Rev. Lee Barker, senior minister at Neighborhood Church in Pasadena, writes, “To revere the self is foundational to the religious and spiritual life. There is nothing easy about it. Join me on Sunday as we take up this treacherous work.” Lee and Judith are exchanging pulpits this Sunday.

March 30, 2003:
"The Path to the Fishing Hole"
Unitarian Universalist Service Committee Sunday
Bill Docker, guest speaker
Charles Haskell, pulpit host

UUSC staff member Bill Docker says, "A lot of folks wonder what the UUSC does and how we are different from other human rights organizations." The answer is in the sermon.

Music: Sara Andon, Flute

March 23, 2003:
"Free To Be a Unitarian Universalist"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Unitarian Universalists have tremendous freedom to develop our own faith. But that doesn¹t mean it is easy. What are the advantages ­ and obstacles ­ we find along the way?

Today is a Membership Sunday. Those who are ready to join the church may sign the Membership Book after the service. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Santa Monica Woodwind Quintet

March 16, 2003:
"Taking Charge of Your Life"
The Rev. Ricky Hoyt, guest speaker
Wally Giffen, pulpit host

In order to accomplish the great goal of our life we need to love ourselves enough to overcome the obstacles that hold us back. It¹s about recognizing the precious worth of our life and refusing to spend it on anything less
than an equally precious goal.

Ricky Hoyt is minister of the Unitarian Universalist Church of the Verdugo Hills and a former member of our congregation.

Music: Angela Meade, Soprano

March 9, 2003:
"Life Is Hard"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

A humor essay in a recent issue of "The New Yorker" cited a fictional 1200-page research study proving that "life is hard." So hard, in fact, that "life is actually worse than most living beings can stand." Some days that is not too far from the truth. Is there anything we can do about it? (This sermon was originally scheduled for January 26.) (Read Sermon Text)

Today is a Membership Sunday. Those who are ready to join the church may sign the Membership Book after the service.

Music: Rivka Gottlieb, Harp

March 2, 2003:
"The Worst Spiritual Idea in the World"
The Rev. Scott Alexander, guest speaker
The Rev. Judith Meyer, pulpit host

"I, of course, have absolutely no intention of telling you here and now what the worst spiritual idea in the world is...for that would ruin the suspense and surprise of my sermon. But I can tell you that the worst spiritual idea in the world is one we regularly fall for, and it gets us into real trouble in our everyday living."

Scott Alexander is Senior Minister of River Road Unitarian Church in Bethesda, MD.

Music: Vanessa Paloma, Soprano

February 23, 2003:
"The Safest Place"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

The scandal in the Roman Catholic church has made us all aware that church is not always the safest place to be, especially for children. Let us explore what it means for us to create a safe community ­ for children and for adults. (Read Sermon Text)

Today is a Membership Sunday. Those who are ready to join the church may sign the Membership Book after the service.

Music: Ginger Murphy, Cello

February 16, 2003:
"Remember the Sabbath"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

One of the Ten Commandments is "Remember the sabbath to keep it holy." When was the last time any of us (including me) observed a sabbath? What would it take to make it a regular practice? And how is it holy? (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Jonathan Davis, Oboe

February 9, 2003:
"Faith and Freedom"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Unitarian Universalists have entered the debate about civil liberties by choosing it as our Study/Action Issue for the upcoming General Assembly. Why should people of faith get involved in such controversial questions? Come find out. Following the service, we will have a town hall meeting to discuss it ourselves. (Read Sermon Text)

Today is a Membership Sunday. Those who are ready to join the church may sign the Membership Book after the service.

Music: Mark Robertson, Violin

February 2, 2003:
"Remember This: Lessons We Learn from Alzheimer¹s"
Cilla Raughley, guest speaker
Wendy Salz Johnston, pulpit host

Studies show that one out of four of us knows someone with Alzheimer¹s disease, and for one out of ten of us, that someone is a family member. Alzheimer¹s disease, like other caregiving situations, presents us with daunting challenges and immeasurable losses. Join us this morning as our guest speaker, Cilla Raughley, explores with us the lessons we UUs can learn.

Cilla Raughley is a member of the board of trustees of the Alzheimer¹s Association and is an active member of the UU Church of Palo Alto.

Music: Christine Mourad, Singer/Sngwriter

January 26, 2003:
"Expanding the Moral Circle"
The Rev. Ernie Pipes, speaker

(Sermon description TBA)

Music: Rivka Gottlieb, harp

January 19, 2003:
"Keeping the Peace … Site"
Dr. Martin Luther King Observance
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Dr. King was an advocate of nonviolence and peace. Today we will celebrate his life and remember his message by exploring what it means for our church to be a "peace site." (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Santa Monica Woodwind Quintet

January 12, 2003:
"The Van Gogh Café"
The Rev. Keith Kron, guest speaker
Ron Crane, pulpit host

Our guest speaker, the Rev. Keith Kron, has been Director of the Office for Bisexual, Gay, Lesbian, and Transgender Concerns for the Unitarian Universalist Association since 1996. He writes, "How do we heal a world filled with oppression and evil? What can one person do to improve her or his life and the lives of those nearby? Whether the oppression is sexism, racism, heterosexism and homophobia, ableism, ageism, each of us can do something. But what? Maybe you need a little magic. This service will explore how to work to end oppression and how to create the magic that will do it."

Music: Jonathan Davis, oboe

January 5, 2003:
"How Good Do We Have to Be?"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

It’s New Year’s. Time for taking stock, making resolutions, and hoping for fresh starts. How much can we really expect of ourselves? (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Jami Lula, vocalist

December 29, 2002:
"Mind the Gap"
Youth and Young Adult Ministry Sunday
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

The Unitarian Universalist Association has asked each local congregation to dedicate a service to youth and young adult ministry. Let’s look together at how we can reach out to this age group ­ 14-35, celebrate what we have done so far and envision the future. The offering will be given to the UUA’s Campaign for Unitarian Universalism, which will help fund youth and young adult programs. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Louis Durra

December 22, 2002:
"The Seasons of Life"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

In the midst of the holiday season and the solstice, we become more aware of the seasons of life. Generations are born, grow up, age, and pass away, teaching us over and over again the wisdom implicit in the cycles. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: TBA

December 15, 2002:
"Santa’s Favorite Story"
Winter Holiday Pageant

Our winter holiday pageant this year was created for our church by Nancy Patierno and her husband Jerry Giordano. Come join us and the Friendly Beasts for the nativity, carols and holiday spirit.

December 8, 2002:
Universal Declaration of Human Rights Observance
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

December 10 marks the anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The ideal of universal human solidarity continues to inspire us, but as theologian Sharon D. Welch writes, it is "not our birthright, not a gift, not an essence, but a task." We’ll look at how to do the work together. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Mark Robertson, violin

December 1, 2002:
"Light Which Interrupts Our Routine"
The Rev. James E. Grant, guest speaker
Judy Schonebaum, pulpit host

Our guest speaker Jim Grant writes, "Both Hanukkah and Christmas are about light, as is the Winter Solstice. Light makes vision possible. Both Hanukkah and Christmas are also about vision; vision which goes beyond either the miracle of oil for eight days or Santa Claus." Jim Grant is a former American Baptist minister, now a Unitarian Universalist, serving as Consulting Minister to the UU Fellowship of Laguna Beach.

Music: Peter Gallway, singer-songwriter

November 24, 2002:
Thanksgiving Service
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Although we often think of Thanksgiving as a time to be grateful for what we have, it is also a time to be grateful for what we have given away. Today we give thanks for what we have given away. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Joshua Rich, singer-songwriter

November 17, 2002:
"Secular Faith?"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Has liberal religion moved so far away from its roots that it has become a secular faith? And how can a faith be considered secular? We’ll look at these questions this Sunday. We’ll also welcome new members into our community. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Jonathan Davis, oboe

November 10, 2002:
"Heaven Can’t Wait"
The Rev. Ricky Hoyt, guest speaker
Sue Bickford, pulpit host

"Without a certain afterlife," writes Ricky Hoyt, "earthly salvation may be all we ever get. We want the world to be better even after we’re gone but we need our own heaven right now." Ricky Hoyt, a former member of our congregation, is minister of the Unitarian Universalist Church of the Verdugo Hills in La Crescenta.

Music: David Ellis, Guitar

November 3, 2002:
"The Circle of Life"
Day of the Dead Observance
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Many cultures and religious traditions teach that it is possible to maintain a lively relationship with those who have died. The separation between life and death is not as clear for them as it is for us. What are we missing? (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Vanessa Paloma, soprano

October 27, 2002:
"When Fear Turns to Hate"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

C.S. Lewis once observed that the more we fear, the more we hate. This is the dynamic of broken lives, violent behavior and a divided world. Can we change it ­ or is this what it means, sadly enough, to be human? (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Santa Monica Woodwind Quintet

October 20, 2002:
"A Religion of Peace"
United Nations Sunday
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

We Unitarian Universalists belong to a liberal religious tradition nurturing values and ideals that offer hope for peace. On United Nations Sunday, we revisit that tradition and rekindle the hope. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Mark Robertson, Violin

October 13, 2002:
Coming Out Day Service
Terry DeCrescenzo, guest speaker
Judy Federick, pulpit host

Our annual Coming Out Day service, sponsored by Interweave, features guest speaker Terry DeCrescenzo, executive director of Gay & Lesbian Adolescent Social Services (GLASS).

Music: Sara Andon, Flute

October 6, 2002:
"Let Joy be the Foundation"
Celebration Sunday
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

We have much to celebrate as a congregation. Let joy be the foundation of our giving. Today we look at the relationship between joy and generosity as we make our annual pledges to the church. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Heather Millette, Clarinet

September 29, 2002:
“The Spiritual Life of a Church”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Communities have a spiritual life, just as individuals do. It grows through developmental stages and evolves ­ so long as we allow it to change. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: John Petring, French horn

September 22, 2002:
“Acting on Faith”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

How can a church like ours reach out beyond ourselves to the larger community? With so many individual points of view, collective action takes patience and a democratic process. Over the years we have demonstrated that the effort is worth it. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Scott Roewe, multi-instrumentalist

September 15, 2002:
“How a Broken Place Becomes Strong”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Throughout our history, our church community has experienced both the pain of conflict and the process of healing. How did we get strong again? The answer teaches us not only about church, but also about life. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Christine Mourad, singer/songwriter

September 8, 2002:
(begin fall schedule; services at 9:00 and 11:00 a.m.)
“This Story of Ours”
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Our ingathering service celebrates our 75th anniversary with a look at why it is important to know our history and tell our story.

Music: Ginger Murphy, cello

September 1, 2002:
(one service at 10:30 a.m.)
Labor Day Service
Father Mike Gutierrez, speaker
Vilma Ortiz, pulpit host

Our guest speaker, Father Mike Gutierrez, is pastor of St. Anne's Parish in Santa Monica. About his sermon, he says, "The workplace should be a place of dignity and respect. That should be reflected in the amount that workers get paid, and the benefits that they are provided."

Music: Jonathan Davis, oboe

August 25, 2002:
"Bread and Roses - The Laborer's Dream"
Jo'Ann De Quattro, guest speaker Kathy Cook, pulpit host

In anticipation of Labor Day, current Justice Outreach Director at Neighborhood Church (in Pasadena), shares her reflections on work and its reward.

Music: Sara Andon, Flute

August 18, 2002:
“The Insider: Portrait in Sacrifice”
Silvio Nardoni, speaker

The struggle to bring the truth to light is often a long and lonely one. The cost may be higher than initially considered, and the cost may not be measured in dollars alone. What part of our lives would we give up for the sake of truth?

Music: David Ellis, Guitar

August 11, 2002:
“Star Wars: Metaphors Be With You”
Silvio Nardoni, speaker

The original Star Wars trilogy is more than just a pop cultural icon, but a myth about redemption and hope. The source of that redemption and hope is “The Force,” whose ways are mysterious but not impenetrable.

Music: The Tempest String Quartet

August 4, 2002:
“Born on the Fourth of July: Evolution of a Patriot”
Silvio Nardoni, speaker

A month after the celebration of our nation’s birthday, the issue of the meaning of love of country continue to reverberate long after the glow of the fireworks has died out.

Music: Judy Schonebaum & Friends, singers

July 28, 2002:
"What Authentic Religionists Must Do"
The Rev. James Lawson, guest speaker; The Rev. Ernie Pipes, pulpit host

About himself, the Rev. James Lawson says "he is persuaded that life is a constant struggle." He is also known as a prominent civil rights activist, authority on nonviolence, and Minister Emeritus at Holman United Methodist Church here in Los Angeles. Dr. Lawson asks, "In a very religious time, when religion means any sort of chaos, what is expected of the authentic religionist?"

July 21, 2002:
"Social Justice Through Faith-Based Organizing"
Consuelo Valdez, guest speaker with Claudia Martinon and Rita Chairez; Vilma Ortiz, pulpit host

Consuelo Valdez is Director and Claudia Martinon and Rita Chairez are staff of Comunidad En Movimiento, a program of Proyecto Pastoral at Dolores Mission. It aims to prepare resident leaders to voice concerns effectively in the Latino immigrant community using the Christian Base Community organizing model.

July 14, 2002:
"The Saga Continues"
The Rev. James Conn, guest speaker; Kris Langabeer, pulpit host

Jim Conn is Urban Strategist with the United Methodist Church, and formerly Minister of the Church in Ocean Park, and Mayor of Santa Monica. He asks, "The great gifts of the Buddhist Way do not find much support in the culture of the Empire at war, but they make for good friends while living in times like these. What marks these times? What are the gifts?"

July 7, 2002:
"Building a Peace System"
Blase Bonpane, guest speaker; Carol Agate, pulpit host

Blase Bonpane, Director and Chief Executive Officer of Office of the Americas, writes about his sermon, "Nation states have been part of an international war system for centuries. For over a hundred years a system of international peace has been under construction. Our task is to make that peace system operative."

June 30, 2002:
"Watching the Water Freeze"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Henry David Thoreau’s life offers a multifaceted model of growth and fulfillment. An accomplished naturalist, essayist, social critic, student of world religions, and contemplative, Thoreau realized himself not by travelling widely but by observing acutely his own little world. (Read Sermon Text)

June 23, 2002:
"Anxiety and Insight"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Is anxiety the gateway to insight or a debilitating state to be treated? It is both. Today we’ll consider the positive value of anxiety and how it has insights to offer about life and death and the importance of being true to ourselves. (Read Sermon Text)

June 16, 2002:
"Lineage and Life"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Father’s Day reminds us that our human lineage is precious and unique, yet also connects us to creation itself. Honoring our human bonds inevitably leads us to a broader sense of relatedness and responsibility for all life. (Read Sermon Text)

June 9, 2002:
Religious Education Sunday
"The Joy of Religious Exploration"

The culmination of this year’s RE program, this Sunday service features our children, youth, and teachers sharing all they’ve learned with the congregation. Come ready to laugh and to sing and to thank all our volunteers for their important work.

June 2, 2002:
Coming of Age Service

"We Stand Before You" is a Coming of Age Worship Service. It is an opportunity for the congregation to see and hear the teenagers’ points of view of life. Please join us to understand what the truth really is for these four unique, eighth grade UUs. Discover what they believe are their own fundamental freedoms.

May 26, 2002:
Memorial Day Service
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Remembering those who died in war evokes powerful feelings in the living. What we do with those feelings may be the best tribute to the lives they lived and lost. (Read Sermon Text)

May 19, 2002:
"Community Life"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Belonging to a community is good for us in many ways. The benefits of community, however, are more than we realize. Commuity gives us life. (Read Sermon Text)

We will welcome at both services the new members who have joined our church this year. The Annual Meeting takes place at 12:30 today.

May 12, 2002:
"The Mother of All Mothers"
The Rev. Silvio Nardoni, speaker

One man's story of the attempt to come into contact with the Goddess, and his living to tell the tale. Another title for this sermon could be, "Can a Man Be a Feminist and Not Be a Wimp?"

May 5, 2002:
"The Obligations of Justice"
The Rev. Ernie Pipes, speaker

The Institute for Global Ethics has been interviewing people all over the world, asking them what they think are the most important values to hand on to the next generation. They found that, wherever you go, people will talk to you about five things: caring, fairness, responsibility, trustworthiness and respect. But, just below the surface, a sixth universal value emerged: citizenship -- contributing to the work and welfare of a community.

April 28, 2002:
"Lessons From the Choir Loft"
The Rev. Silvio Nardoni, speaker

Becoming a member of our choir has been the source of much joy, many challenges, and the occasion for deeper understanding of being part of a religious community.

April 21, 2002:
"Hard-Wired for God"
The Rev. Silvio Nardoni, speaker

Human beings are endowed with an innate capacity for religious experience. How we use or ignore that part of our humanity has important consequences for our personal lives, institutional programs and global prospects.

April 14, 2002:
"Primal Humanism: An Encounter With the Holy"
The Rev. Silvio Nardoni, speaker

Somewhere along the line humanism became equated or confused with atheism, or worse, a purely secular view of the world. The deeper meaning of humanism has strong religious sentiments as its foundation.

April 7, 2002:
"A Deeper Faith, A Wider Hope"
The Rev. Silvio Nardoni, speaker

This is "Bring A Friend Sunday," and this sermon is frankly autobiographical. I will explore the improbable string of circumstances that led me into Unitarian Universalism, and more importantly, why I continue to stay.

March 31, 2002:
"The First Resurrection"
The Rev. Silvio Nardoni, speaker

While Easter celebrates the resurrection of Jesus, the Gospels tell of an earlier event which contains helpful images for religious liberals.

March 24, 2002:
"The Bare Necessities"
The Rev. Silvio Nardoni, speaker

The story of the exodus from Egypt is one of the primal paradigms of the spiritual journey. We will explore what are the essential items to bring along (and leave behind) as we set out on our own journeys.

March 17, 2002:
"Life’s Compromises, Great and Small"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Sometimes a good, artfully created compromise offers a better resolution than anything we might have argued or imagined in the beginning. Why is that? Does it have spiritual implications? (Read Sermon Text)

March 10, 2002:
"The Man Born Blind"
The Rev. John Fanestil, guest speaker
Vilma Ortiz, pulpit host

Our guest speaker will be reflecting on a story from the gospel of John about a man born blind, and sharing a personal story from his time serving a poor, bilingual church on the U.S.-Mexico border. How difficult it is for us to "see" people for who they really are.

The Rev. John Fanestil is the Senior Pastor at Anaheim United Methodist Church. He has also served churches in West Los Angeles and Calexico, California.

March 3, 2002:
"What I Learned in Sunday School"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Growing up Unitarian Universalist was a wonderful experience for me. As we begin a congregational dialogue about Religious Education with our town hall meeting after the service today, I want to share some of my memories of my UU Sunday School. (Read Sermon Text)

Feburary 24, 2002:
"Why Change?"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Healthy, dynamic communities, as well as individuals, grow and change. Good change is grounded in strength and resilience and in the ability to make choices about where we are going. (Read Sermon Text)

Feburary 17, 2002:
"Our Faith Today, Part II
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

February 10, 2002:
"Our Faith Today, Part I"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Unitarian Universalism is an evolving faith. In this two-part series, we will look at what our UU faith offers today as a spiritual practice and as a religious movement with a distinct message to the world. (Read Part I Text, Read Part II Text)

February 3, 2002:
"What Do You Say to a Burning Bush?"
The Rev. James E. Grant, guest speaker

The scriptures of all religions include stories that are sometimes interpreted literally. As Joseph Campbell reminds us, however, the past of those stories can become present reality as we apply the deeper truths in our lives. The accounts of Moses and the Exodus can become present reality as we consider our "Eureka" or "Burning Bush" experiences as well as the various "Egypts" which may enslave us.

Jim Grant is a former American Baptist minister, now a Unitarian Universalist, serving as Consulting Minister to the UU Fellowship of Laguna Beach

January 27, 2002:
"Building Our Dream"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

It's finally time to kick off the capital campaign for our building program. It's also time to remember that the dream that inspires this effort means more than ever to all of us. (Read Sermon Text)

January 20, 2002:
"What is Courage?"
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Observance
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

A reflection on the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. can teach us much about courage, a celebrated and timely virtue. (Read Sermon Text)

January 13, 2002:
"Two Ultimates"
Rev. Ricky Hoyt, guest speaker
Nedra Bickel, pulpit host

Western and Eastern religions describe two very different spiritual ultimates: a personal God, and an impersonal beingness. Is one right and the other wrong? Does the contradiction suggest that religious thought is merely fantasy? Or could ultimate reality really have two different, equally real modes? Our guest speaker, Ricky Hoyt, is minister of the Unitarian Universalist Church of the Verdugo Hills.

January 6, 2002:
"How We Have Changed"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

The New Year is a time to take stock of where we have been and where we are going. Wherever that is, we're not the same this year. (Read Sermon Text)

Please bring back Guest At Your Table boxes this Sunday.

December 30, 2001:
"A Young Muslim Looks at the World"
Omar Haroon, guest speaker

Our guest speaker, an American-born Muslim and a 1994 graduate of Santa Monica High School, has been active in his faith community here and abroad all his life. Founder of the Muslim Student Association and co founder of the Pakistani Student Association while he was a student at UCLA, Omar serves the Islamic Center of Southern California as a volunteer and spokesperson. Now married and working in commercial real estate in downtown Los Angeles, Omar will share his perspective on Islam in America and the Koran’s acceptance of non-Muslims.

December 24, 2001:
Christmas Eve Services

6 p.m. - Family Vespers Service
This service of carols and stories is especially for children and their families.

8 p.m. - Candlelighting Vespers Service
This quiet service of reflection and music concludes with a candle lighting ceremony.

December 23, 2001:
"A Season Turns"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

With the arrival of the winter solstice, Christmas and the coming of the New Year, we have seasonal turning points we can use to rekindle hope and dream new dreams. (Read Sermon Text)

December 16, 2001:
Winter Pageant 2001
Graham Jarvis, director

The performance of the annual Winter Pageant will again grace our sanctuary. The program will be a recreation of the Nativity. To features the appearance of the Friendly Beasts and will involve congregational participation and traditional holiday music. This will be an intergenerational service and no RE classes will be held.

December 9, 2001:
"The Last of the Light"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

The Hanukkah story offers an illustration of hope in times of scarcity: what was only enough oil to keep the temple lamp burning for one night actually lasted a whole week. (Read Sermon Text)

December 2, 2001:
"By Any Other Name"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

The religious impulse – and the good it claims to do in the name of the holy – is a powerful force often used for destructive ends. How can we reconcile this fact with our own aspirations as a religious community? (Read Sermon Text)

November 25, 2001:
"All in the Family"
The Rev. Susanne Intriligator, speaker

On this weekend, and during the upcoming winter holidays, our thoughts turn naturally to families, family reunions, and memories thereof. How are today's families coping with the stresses of life? How can we support and enhance our family connections?

November 18, 2001:
Thanksgiving Service
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

The traditional time to give thanks for the harvest has arrived with fresh adversities for the human spirit. There is more reason than ever to think about the meaning of the holiday together. (Read Sermon Text)

November 11, 2001:
"When East Met West"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

When 19th century Unitarians Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau began reading and reflecting on Eastern religion, they opened a new era for their own tradition. And they knew it. (Read Sermon Text)

November 4, 2001:
"Spaces We Need"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

The need for sanctuary leads us into new territory inside and out. Our inner space offers a good place to begin on the outer one we hope to build. (Read Sermon Text)

October 28, 2001:
"Serving, Scrubbing, Selling: A Sojourn among the Working Poor"
Halloween and Día de los Muertos Sunday
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Journalist Barbara Ehrenreich recently wrote up her experiment trying to support herself on the income from unskilled, low wage jobs. She didn't make it. And neither are many other Americans, who work and are still not able to make ends meet. The situation is so dire that it has earned the attention of the religious community, and with good reason: this is one of the major human rights issues of our day. (Read Sermon Text)

October 21, 2001:
"From Many, One"
United Nations Sunday
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

"E Pluribus Unum," an American motto since 1782, now signifies greater cultural — and religious — pluralism than our forebears imagined. As the American spiritual landscape diversifies into many expressions of faith, in what ways are we still united? These issues, originally scheduled for the service September 16, are more pressing than ever.

October 14, 2001:
"Who Is Marriage For?"
Minister Emeritus, the Rev. Ernest Pipes, guest speaker
Melinda Ewen, pulpit host

National Coming Out Day (NCOD), the day set aside to encourage bisexual, gay, lesbian, and transgender (BGLT) people to be open about who they are, is October 11. To a great extent it has been the coming out of individuals to their family, friends, and coworkers that has led to steady reductions in the seemingly global condemnation of BGLTs. In celebration of NCOD, Interweave, our church's group for BGLTs and their allies, hosts the service and welcomes to the pulpit the Rev. Ernest Pipes, who will discuss his history of officiating at same-sex couple weddings long before most BGLTs even dreamed of same-sex marriages as a possibility.

October 7, 2001:
"When East Met West"
New Member Recognition Sunday
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Among the first Americans to discover eastern religions were Unitarians Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau. Emerson read and wrote about Hindu scriptures and Thoreau practiced yoga by Walden Pond. Their adventures and insights into eastern religion transformed Unitarianism forever. (Read Sermon Text)

September 30, 2001:
"Walking the Dog"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

In the past year I have spent many hours walking my dog throughout my neighborhood. This has been an absorbing (though outwardly unproductive) experience from which I’ve actually learned a lot. (Read Sermon Text)

September 23, 2001:
"Choose Life"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

As Jewish people prepare for Yom Kippur, we explore the meaning of this spiritual practice by reflecting on the value of facing the truth within ourselves. (Read Sermon Text)

September 16, 2001:
"A Stone of Hope"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Finding inspiration in Martin Luther King's words "We shall hew out of the mountain of despair, a stone of hope," our service will be a time to grieve and to affirm the values and the bonds that give us hope. (Read Sermon Text)

September 9, 2001:
(Two services resume, 9:30 and 11:00 a.m.)
"Everything Changes, Everything Passes"
Ingathering Sunday
The Rev. Judith Meyer & The Rev. Susanne Intriligator, speakers

Our ingathering service of the church year will center on the theme of transitions. The first half of the service will include a ritual and story for the children and a dedication ceremony for religious education teachers, followed by a special activity for the children and a sermon for the adults. (Read Sermon Text)

September 2, 2001:
(One service at 10:30 a.m.)
"Laboring for Justice"
The Rev. Altagracia Perez, speaker
Pulpit host Vilma Ortiz

A reflection on how critical it is for us living in this nation at this historical point to respect and value our interdependence. Rev. Perez will use examples of the workers' struggles for justice in Santa Monica and the ways in which we can be a part of the resolution of these complicated conflicts in our daily life.

Altagracia Perez is rector of the Episcopal Church of St. Philip the Evangelist in South Central Los Angeles.

"Faith on the Move: Religious 'Road' Movies"
Rev. Silvio Nardoni, speaker

The Rev. Silvio Nardoni, a member of our congregation, will be the pulpit guest for the entire month of August. He states: "The journey as a metaphor for the religious life is a common one. Each of these four films involves characters who make a journey of discovery, a discovery of the possibility for deeper understanding of life."

August 26, 2001:
"Powwow Highway: Path of Transformation"

Two modern American Indian warriors follow a meandering route to Santa Fe to "free the captive woman." Bigger things are at stake in this amusing and heartfelt film. [Note: This film may be hard to find in video stores. Copies will be available in the church office before the service.]

August 19, 2001:
"Princess Mononoke: The Epic Journey"

This beautiful Japanese animated film (with imagery that may be too strong for younger children) speaks of a long-ago faraway land where two young people struggle to come to terms with their relationship to Nature and to each other.

August 12, 2001:
"This Is My Father: A Journey to the Past"

This poignant Irish film tells a sad story, but a story that is also strangely uplifting. In a time when the "missing father" is a cultural cliche, this movie helps us to explore what that loss can mean and how we can be healed from such loss.

August 5, 2001:
"The Accidental Tourist: Jaded Perils on the Journey"

In making a journey, what is important is not only the destination and the means used to get there, but the attitudes we bring with us. As the old Zen saying goes, "No matter where you go, there you are."

July 29, 2001:
"Singing and Serving"
Susan Conrad, speaker
Abby Arnold, pulpit host

What does worship have to do with compassion? And what does love have to do with justice? Unitarian Universalist and Buddhist perspectives provide valuable insights into the relationship between faith and works.

Music: Lisa Graham, voice (last day!)

July 22, 2001:
"The Heart of Our Future"
The Rev. Susanne Intriligator, speaker
Carol Agate, pulpit host

More than any doctrine or curriculum we may teach, it is through our everyday relationships that we convey to our children the true meaning of spirituality. How can we create the loving bonds that will sustain our children (and ourselves and our church) out into the future? Susanne Intriligator is our new Director of Religious Education.

Music: The Nickerson Sisters, voice

July 15, 2001:
"Giving Up 'Them'"
Caprice Young, guest speaker
The Rev. Judith Meyer, pulpit host

Caprice Young writes, "I woke up on July 8, 1999, and I had become 'them.' After 33 years of being a relative outsider, I got my chance to lead. No more complaining about the people in charge. No more 'if only I were making the decisions . . . .' What happens when we realize there is only us, that we're all in it together, and that we're all playing for keeps? What happens when you get the chance to really sacrifice for what you believein? What's a good UU to Do?"

In July of 1999 Caprice Young was sworn into office as one of three new members of the Los Angeles School Board. She also serves as Managing Director of PeopleLink, a technology company that builds and hosts online communities. As a youth, she was a leader in the continental UU youth movement, and has served more recently as a member of the UU Fund for a Just Society Grants Panel.

Music: Jonathan Davis, oboe

July 8, 2001:
"The Faces Behind the State of Things"
The Rev. Jim Conn, guest speaker
Dan Nannini, pulpit host

Jim Conn writes that his sermon will be "a meditation on empire, democracy, and the state of our souls."

Jim is is the Urban Strategist for the California-Pacific Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church. He has served as Mayor of Santa Monica, Chair of the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, and was for 20 years the minister at the Church in Ocean Park.

Music: Damien Montano, bassoon

July 1, 2001:
"Ho's in the Bible"
The Rev. Ann Hayman, guest speaker
Abby Arnold, pulpit host

Much of the history of "the oldest profession" is recorded in scripture. The Rev. Ann Hayman is program director of the Mary Magdalene Project, a project of the Presbytery of the Pacific, which serves and advocates on behalf of women who are sex workers. She will discuss contemporary connections between communities of faith and sex workers. Ms. Hayman is also the chair of the Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice of Southern California.

Music: Jeffrey King, voice

June 24, 2001:
"Deafness: A Disability or a Culture?"
Carol Agate, guest speaker
Vilma Ortiz, pulpit host

Deaf people are often categorized as "disabled," but people who are part of the Deaf culture don't consider themselves disabled. Is deafness a disability or a culture?

Music: David Ellis, guitar

June 17, 2001:
"Our Father"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

While contemporary spiritual imagery offers many positive images of mother, father has not fared as well. I'd like to help correct the balance. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Dizzy Nelson, voice

June 10, 2001:
Religious Education Recognition Service

We give thanks for the teachers, volunteers, children, and staff who have given our Religious Education program another great year. Today we recognize and celebrate their contributions. Each class will make a presentation based on the curriculum it used.

Music: Scott Roewe, instrumentalist

June 3, 2001:
"More Kind Than Home, More Large Than Earth"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Thomas Wolfe's words from "You Can't Go Home Again" point towards a spiritual reality that we Unitarian Universalists experience in many ways, but find difficult to express. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Cherice Hall, voice

May 27, 2001:
"A Pilgrim’s Postcards"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

According to Marian Wright Edelman, there are two ways to be in the world: as a tourist or as a pilgrim. Each has a very different experience of life. (Read Sermon Text)

The service will include an observance for Memorial Day.

Music: Ivan Schulmann, oboist

May 20, 2001:
"The Glorious Golden City"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

One of our hymns offers the "glorious golden city" as an inspiring vision of the work of the church. We summon the vision and the work today, as we gather for the Annual Meeting of our congregation. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Christine Mourad, singer

May 13, 2001:
"The Mystic Path"
The Rev. Ricky Hoyt, guest speaker
Nedra Bickel, pulpit host

Mysticism is a spiritual state of directly experiencing divine reality. Across diverse religious cultures the mystic path and the goal mystics describe is similar enough to suggest a universal truth and an effective practice useful to seekers of all kinds.

Ricky Hoyt is minister of the Unitarian Universalist Church of the Verdugo Hills.

Music: Rachel Bollinger, singer

May 6, 2001:
"Racing Time"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Our speeded-up world is taking its toll on us. Can we buck the trend and still lead the life we want to lead? Ofelia Lachtman will read from her children’s story Pepita Takes Time. A new member recognition ceremony will take place at both services. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: To Be Announced

April 29, 2001:
"Claiming Your Story"
Dr. Jonathan Young, guest speaker

Dr. Jonathan Young, storyteller and psychologist, says of his sermon, "We will delight in 'The Ugly Duckling' - to consider how we find the best situations for our energies - and use ideas from Joseph Campbell on how timeless tales can help us take our own stories in new directions." Dr. Young assisted Joseph Campbell at seminars and was the founding curator of the Joseph Campbell Archives & Library from 1990-95. He also chaired the Mythological Studies Department at the Pacifica Graduate Institute and now gives courses for psychotherapists through the Center for Story and Symbol.

Music: Susan Feldman, violin

April 22, 2001:
"Spirit of Life"
Lisa Graham, Music Director,
and the Rev. Judith Meyer, speakers
Unitarian Universalist Service Committee
Membership Sunday

The Unitarian Service Committee played an active role in helping refugees escape the holocaust and internment in concentration camps. Those who were interned, however, found ways to express their wish for freedom and their common humanity. One way was through music.

Music: Inspiring music from the Holocaust

April 15, 2001:
"The Ultimate Gift of Life"
Easter Sunday
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

The ultimate gift of life, says Bishop John Shelby Spong, is that our connection and our interdependence with one another offers us the experience of eternity. The message of Easter may be as simple as that. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Choir at both services

April 8, 2001:
"Homeless Awareness Sunday"
John Maceri, Executive Director, Ocean Park Community Center
and the Rev. Judith Meyer, speakers

Homelessness in our community has increased by nearly 30% this past year. We will look at what we can do to alleviate this tragic situation. The service culminates a week of interfaith activities to raise our awareness about homelessness on the Westside of Los Angeles.

Music: J. Karen Thomas, vocalist

April 1, 2001:
"The Garden of Love"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

"You've got to learn to garden as you get older," says one authority on aging. The task is to "sow and re-sow" the seeds of love. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Church members, including Wally Giffen and Peter Van den Beem

March 25, 2001:
"Doing Justice to the West"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Helen Hunt Jackson, a nineteenth century Unitarian who moved from New England to Colorado Springs, was appalled by the U.S. government’s unfair and cruel treatment of the North American Indians. She published two enduring works, the novel Ramona, and the polemic A Century of Dishonor, to bring public attention to her cause. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Cal State Northridge Women's Chorale

March 18, 2001:
"When Faith Moves West"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Even the first Unitarian and Universalist ministers to move west had somewhat opportunistic reasons. One came in search of gold; preaching was his day job. Has our history influenced our way of being a faith community? (Read Sermon Text)

Music: David Ellis, guitar

March 11, 2001:
"Making Sense of Sin"
The Rev. Ricky Hoyt, guest speaker

Sin is an important theological category in most religions. Unitarian Universalists also need language that encourages us to admit our imperfections and accept responsibility for our actions. Is there a way to avoid the problems of sin-talk without throwing out the word entirely?

Music: Betsy Bogart, voice

March 4, 2001:
"Anywhere But Church"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Spiritual seekers from Transcendentalist Ralph Waldo Emerson to cyber-Rabbi Niles Elliott Goldstein have claimed that it’s easier to find an experience of the holy in uncommon, uncomfortable and unexpected places than it is in the traditional places of worship. Do they have a point? (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Jeffrey King, voice

February 25, 2001:
"When Faith Takes Action"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Our Faith in Action initiative has grounded the authority for our collective social action in a deliberate, democratic process for choosing our issues. It's a lot of work. But it will take us where we need to go. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Christine Mourad, Singer

February 18, 2001:
"The Last Man Jailed for Blasphemy"
The Rev. Stephan Papa, guest speaker

Our guest speaker will tell the story of Abner Kneeland, who has been called "the most controversial character ever ordained to the Universalist ministry." He was more than "100 years ahead of his time" in his theology. He spoke out for rights for women, blacks, interracial marriage, and birth control in the 1820s. Stephan Papa, Senior Minister at the First Universalist Church of Denver, will examine Kneeland’s story, views, and myths about his ministry, and ask us how we are using our religious freedom today.

Music: John Petring, Horn

February 11, 2001:
"A Faith for the Ages"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

I have followed with interest an ongoing discussion among religious observers about the unique spiritual needs each generation brings to their faith communities. As a baby boomer, do I have anything in common spiritually with members of Generation X – or their successors? (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Karen Patch, Cello

February 4, 2001:
"Healing Where It Hurts"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Two contemporary books, "Lying Awake" by Mark Salzman and "The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down" by Anne Fadiman, invite us to consider what healing is, when we need it and when we don't. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Damian Montano, Bassoon

January 28, 2001:
"Singing and Celebrating Our Living Tradition"
The Rev. Judith Meyer and Lisa Graham, Music Director, speakers

We sing our living tradition this morning by taking a closer look at the hymns in our hymnbook, learning about them musically, historically and spiritually. And we celebrate our living tradition by welcoming the new members who have joined us in the past few months.

Music: Special hymn service exploring our UU musical heritage, featuring our choir

January 21, 2001:
"Loving Your Neighbors"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

It's easy to agree with the abstract principle of "love your neighbor." It's not so easy to know what to do about the real people next door. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: TBA

January 14, 2001:
"The Most Dangerous Dream"
(Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Birthday Observance)
The Rev. Silvio Nardoni, speaker

Martin Luther King's legacy as a leader in the struggle against racism is deservedly well known. But the campaign he was leading at the time of his death had even broader implications, which we will explore on the occasion of celebrating his birth.

Music: Phoebe Alexander, singer

January 7, 2001:
"A Banner Year"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

The banners that hang on our sanctuary walls, symbolizing six of the world's religions and our own Unitarian Universalist faith, make a powerful and positive statement about us. Reaffirming our open and pluralistic approach to religion is a good way to start the new year. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Scott Roewe

December 31, 2000:
"Doing the Things We Love"
The Rev. Dr. Lee Barker, guest speaker
Joanna Woods-Marsden, pulpit host
(One service at 10:30 a.m.)

Guest speaker Lee Barker, senior minister of Neighborhood Church in Pasadena, writes "New Year’s Eve is a time to express great hopes. It is also a time to be wary when achieving them. On Sunday I will explain." Judith Meyer will be speaking in Pasadena in this annual pulpit exchange.

Music: Cherise Hall, singer

December 24, 2000:
"A Ritual Memory," A Hanukkah Observance
The Rev. Judith Meyer
(One morning service at 10:30 a.m.)

Many holiday activities are rituals that tie us to tradition and leave us with lasting memories. Our Hanukkah observance includes lighting our new menorah. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Adult and Youth Choir

Christmas Eve Services

This service of carols and stories is especially for children and their families. The children’s choir will sing.

This quiet service of reflection and music concludes with a candle lighting ceremony. (Read Christmas sermon text)

December 17, 2000:
Winter Holiday Pageant, An Intergenerational Service
Ann Swanson, Director

This year our pageant is a readers' theater filled with witty and tender moments, insight and holiday spirit. The Friendly Beasts will once again grace our service with song and costume. Please join us for this ingathering for the holiday season.

Music: Christine Mourad, singer

December 10, 2000:
"Character"
The Rev. Judith Meyer

How do we measure moral worth? And how do we get it? (Read Sermon Text)

December 3, 2000:
"Belonging"
The Rev. Judith Meyer

If there’s one thing we all agree on after the election, it’s how much voting means to us. Such an individual activity is also fundamentally communal. It helps us to understand what it means to belong — not only to a democratic society, but also to a democratic church. (Read Sermon Text)

Music: Michael Lamb

November 26, 2000:
"Stress, Serenity, and the Good Life"
The Rev. Dr. John Alexie Crane

A life entirely without stress is inconceivable. A life overburdened by stress is unbearable. Stress may press us to creation or drive us to destruction. It may press us to acts of heroism or to acts of self-destruction. Excessive, sustained stress may ruin our health, both mental and physical, if we fail to respond to it in life-giving ways. What is stress, exactly, and what can we do to ensure a constructive response?

Lex Crane, who was minister of the First Unitarian Church of Santa Barbara for sixteen years, has also served our congregation, and many others, as interim minister.

November 19, 2000:
"Giving Back"
(Thanksgiving Sunday)
The Rev. Judith Meyer

Our Thanksgiving service will celebrate the act of giving back as a way of giving thanks. The choir will sing at both services. (Read Sermon Text)

November 12, 2000:
"Of Memory and Hope"
The Rev. Jay Atkinson, guest speaker

The willingness to die for one's country and its values challenges all of us to ask what is important enough to risk our lives for. On this Veterans' Day weekend, our guest minister will offer some reflections on what it means for the church to be a community of memory and hope. The observance for Veterans Day will include a chalice lighting reflection by John Medlin, Bob Tull and Milton Holmen.

November 5, 2000:
"Why I Pray"
The Rev. Judith Meyer

Although my own beliefs about God have changed a lot over the years, my prayers have hardly changed at all. I've never asked myself why. Perhaps it’s time to do so. (Read Sermon Text)

October 29, 2000:
"After a Loss"
(Día de los Muertos Observance)
The Rev. Judith Meyer

What does it take to move on after a loss? Can we love again without fear that we are betraying the memory of one who is gone? Religious and cultural practices offer some answers to these questions. Vilma Ortiz will create the traditional Día de los Muertos altar to commemorate those who have died in the past year. (Read Sermon Text)

October 22, 2000:
"The Happy Liberal"
The Rev. Ernie Pipes, Minister Emeritus

Surely high among the tasks of our church is to help each one of us become a better person. But what might be our UU model of an ideal person, one that connects caringly to other people and strengthens socially engaged communities? One such model was depicted by the late Bonaro Overstreet, whom she called "The Happy Liberal." Our church works within a tradition that has some very clear visions of who that person would be.

October 15, 2000:
"Make No Little Plans"
(Celebration Sunday)
The Rev. Judith Meyer

This is the Sunday we set aside to celebrate who we are and what we may become as a church community. We will revisit our vision and renew our commitment to the future. (Read Sermon Text)

The adult and children’s choirs will take part in both services, after which all friends and members will enjoy a festive brunch.

October 8, 2000:
"No Future Without Forgiveness"
(Yom Kippur Observance)
The Rev. Judith Meyer

There is "no future without forgiveness," Archbishop Desmond Tutu has written in his most recent work about the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in South Africa. This truth applies not only to nations seeking to heal from turbulence and injustice, but also to all of us as we attempt to maintain relationships and community through the ups and downs of daily life. (Read Sermon Text)

October 1, 2000:
"The Culture of Peace"
(United Nations Sunday)
The Rev. Judith Meyer

We observe the "International Year for the Culture of Peace," the United Nations theme for the year, with a look at the peace movements that have shaped our culture, our hope of peace, our sense of justice, and our image of spirituality. From Gandhi to King to the Woodstock Nation, the peace movement is a diverse tradition from which we still have much to learn. (Read Sermon Text)

September 24, 2000:
"What Do We Still Believe?"
The Rev. Judith Meyer

Many liberal religious thinkers, including noted Episcopal Bishop John Shelby Spong, admit that the biblical concept of God is no longer relevant. Is the only alternative atheism? Or can religious traditions evolve along with our knowledge of the world? Our tradition offers a resolution to these dilemmas. (Read Sermon Text)

September 17, 2000:
"What Are We?"
The Rev. Judith Meyer

As religious identities blur with the impact of interfaith influences, the task of defining ourselves becomes more difficult. But the challenge is good for our souls. (Read Sermon Text)

September 10, 2000:
"Living Our Faith"
Ingathering Sunday (two services at 9:30 and 11:00 a.m.)
The Rev. Judith Meyer

We observe our fall ingathering with a celebration of our living tradition: what does it mean to live by our faith today? We will also dedicate the teachers in our Religious Education program. The choir sings at both services. (Read Sermon Text)

September 3, 2000:
"Bearing Witness, Taking Action"
(one service at 10:30 a.m.)
Susan Conrad, guest speaker
Abby Arnold, pulpit host

What does it mean to strive for social justice within a religious, Unitarian Universalist context? Why do we do this type of work? What do we gain from doing it? This sermon explores the theological roots of peace and social justice efforts within our tradition, and beyond.

"The Search for Virtue in Religion and Film"
A Summer Sermon Series
(One Service at 10:30 a.m.)
The Rev. Silvio Nardoni

The guest speaker for the entire month is The Rev. Silvio Nardoni, a member of this congregation. He is a graduate of the University of Redlands, the University of Michigan Law School, and received his Master of Divinity degree from Harvard Divinity School in 1981. He currently practices law in Los Angeles, emphasizing litigation, including elder abuse cases. Mr. Nardoni was the minister at Emerson Unitarian Church in Canoga Park from 1981 to 1985, and he served on the headquarters staff of the Unitarian Universalist Association in the Department of Ministry from 1985 to 1988. He currently serves as a member of the Ministerial Board of Review of the UUA. Currently, he lives in the Silverlake district of Los Angeles, with his wife, Wanda Teays, and an assortment of fur-bearing and feathered creatures (two cats and a bird).

Unitarian Universalism is an "ethical" religion, i.e., the true test of our faith lies in what we do, not profession of certain beliefs. My recent reading in virtue-based ethics informed the selection of these four films.All through August, our third annual summer filmfest features five very different movies, but each one provides images for strengthening and deepening our religious faith. For those not inclined to watch movies, please know that enjoyment and benefit from each sermon and service depends only on your attendance and attitude.

August 27, 2000:
"Waking Ned Devine: Waking The Divine"

A small town on the coast of Ireland confronts the question of what to do with money that "belongs to nobody." In doing so, the community reveals the social dimension of virtue, and provides an opportunity to reflect on our own practice of an important virtue.

August 20, 2000:
"Brother from Another Planet: Judgment of a Stranger"

Independent filmmaker John Sayles uses the science fiction genre to examine the state of race relations in America. This sermon centers on the question of what virtues are essential to combat the virus of racism.

August 13, 2000:
"Central Station: The Building of Character"

Once again, a character (a woman) of less than impeccable character is the focus of the film. She takes us on a journey through the desolate parts of Brazil and the human heart that ends with recognizing herself as a person of virtue.

August 6, 2000:
"Return to Paradise: The Origins of Virtue"

A film which centers on the misdeeds of three young men on an escapade in an Asian country seems an unlikely story to ponder the beginnings of virtue. The phrase "return to paradise" is used ironically in the film, but irony finally yields to something much deeper and stronger in the human spirit.

July 30, 2000:
"Urban Ministry of Los Angeles: Sharing Our Vision of Justice"
(One Service at 10:30 a.m.)
Maggie Pipes, Sally Daynes and Karan Neal, Guest Speakers

The Urban Ministry is housed at the First Unitarian Church, which is located an area greatly affected by the riots of 1992. Come learn about our innovative "Aprendamos" ("Let's Learn") educational enrichment program and the Frances Avenue Community Garden - and find out how you can become a part of this exciting UU outreach in the inner city.

Music: Rachel Bolinger, Lisa Graham, Singers

July 23, 2000:
"Love Is the Every Only God"
(One Service at 10:30 a.m.)
The Rev. Paul Sawyer, Guest Speaker

The Rev. Paul Sawyer is Minister at Throop Memorial Church, Pasadena.

Music: Betsy Bogart, Singer

July 16, 2000:
"Thresholds"
(One Service at 10:30 a.m.)
Judy Tomlinson, Director of Religious Education

Music: Dean Voegtlen, Karen Patch, Natalie Fortin, Brahms Trio

July 9, 2000:
"Peace Begins at Home"
(One Service at 10:30 a.m.)
The Rev. Sandie Richards, Guest Speaker

The Rev. Sandie Richards is Minister at the Church in Ocean Park, and works alongside Judith in the Westside Interfaith Council and on social justice issues in Santa Monica.

Music: David Ellis, Guitar

July 2, 2000:
"This is the Time We Have"
(One Service at 10:30 a.m.)
The Rev. Judith Meyer

Music: John Petring, Horn

June 25, 2000:
"Our Guilty Past"
The Rev. Judith Meyer

Music for 9:30 a.m. service: David Mozqueda (guitar) and Nury Ulate (flute). Cellist Karen Patch will perform at both the 9:30 and 11:00 services.

June 18, 2000:
"A Universalist's View of the World"
The Rev. Judith Meyer

Music for 9:30 a.m. service: Michael Lamb, Tenor

June 11, 2000:
Religious Education Sunday
Judy Tomlinson, Director of Religious Education, leader

Music for 9:30 a.m. service: Melissa Reiner, Violin

June 4, 2000:
"Recoiling Rubber Rounds"
The Rev. Jim Conn, guest speaker

Jim is currently urban strategist for the California-Pacific Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church.

Music for 9:30 a.m. service: Dreya Weber, Voice and Guitar

May 28, 2000:
Memorial Day Service
The Rev. Judith Meyer

May 21, 2000:
"The Transforming Spirit"
The Rev. Judith Meyer

The service includes a Welcoming Ceremony for new members of the congregation.

May 14, 2000:
"A Radical Woman"
The Rev. Judith Meyer

May 7, 2000:
"Unitarian Universalism in 25 Words or Less"
The Rev. Ricky Hoyt, guest speaker

Ricky Hoyt is minister at the Unitarian Universalist Church of the Verdugo Hills, La Crescenta.

April 30, 2000:
"Sweet Dreams in America: A New Spirit for Social Witness"
The Rev. Silvio Nardoni, guest speaker

The Rev. Silvio Nardoni, a member of our congregation, is a graduate of Harvard Divinity School, where he and Judith Meyer were classmates. Best known to our congregation for his popular August sermon series on spirituality and film, Silvio is an attorney at law in Glendale.

April 23, 2000:
"Seeking the Living Among the Dead," Easter Sunday
The Rev. Meg Riley, guest speaker

The Rev. Meg Riley directs the Unitarian Universalist Association's Washington Office for Faith in Acton, and serves as a Minister Associated with All Soul's Church - Unitarian in Washington, DC. She is national co-chair of Equal Partners in Faith, and serves on the national board of the Interfaith Alliance, and the Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice. She is also a member of the National Advisory Committee of Americans United for Separation of Church and State.

April 16, 2000:
"Bread of Affliction"
The Rev. Meg Riley, guest speaker

April 9, 2000:
"Ever Deepening and Healing Connections,"
The Rev. Dr. Lawrence Palmieri Peers, guest speaker

The Rev. Dr. Lawrence Palmieri Peers is the Extension Education and Research Director with the Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations in Boston. His work focuses on congregational growth and vitality. He leads trainings and consultations with congregations throughout the continent. He was the primary editor of The Congregational Handbook (1994 edition).

April 2, 2000:
"The Miracle of Dialogue"
The Rev. Dr. Lawrence Palmieri Peers, guest speaker

March 26, 2000:
"The Dance of Elderhood,"
The Rev. Ernie Pipes, Minister Emeritus

March 19, 2000:
"Doing Religion,"
the Rev Ricky Hoyt, guest speaker

Ricky Hoyt is Minister of the Unitarian Universalist Church of the Verdugo Hills.

March 12, 2000:
"Lessons from Leaving,"
The Rev. Judith Meyer

March 5, 2000:
"Sanctuary"
The Rev. Judith Meyer

February 27, 2000:
"When Life Deals You a Lousy Hand"
The Rev. Scott Alexander, guest speaker

Scott Alexander is minister of River Road Unitarian Church in Bethesda, Maryland.

February 20, 2000:
"Menaced by Faith"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

February 13, 2000:
"Love is Still the Answer," Solidarity Sabbath
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

February 6, 2000:
"Covenants"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

January 30, 2000:
"What I Tell Myself When Times are Tough"
The Rev. Judith Meyer

January 23, 2000:
"The Heights of Humility"
The Rev. Judith Meyer

January 16, 2000:
"The Trouble With Religion,"
The Rev Kenneth Torquil

Kenneth MacLean became a Unitarian while he was a member of our congregation. He is minister of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of the Desert. He and Judith Meyer are exchanging pulpits this morning.

January 9, 2000:
"In My Study My Faith is Perfect,"
The Rev. Judith Meyer

January 2, 2000:
"This Future That is Now"
The Rev. Judith Meyer

December 26, 1999:
11:00 a.m. only
"The Truth About Religious Tolerance,"
The Rev. Dr. Lee Barker, guest speaker

December 24, 1999:
Christmas Vespers Services

6 p.m. Family Vespers Service

8 p.m. Candlelighting Vespers Servic

December 19, 1999:
Winter Holiday Pageant, Intergenerational Celebration

December 12, 1999:
"The Last New Jerusalem"
The Rev. Judith Meyer

December 5, 1999:
"The Long Run"
The Rev. Judith Meyer

November 28, 1999:
"The Spirit of Joy"
A service for all ages with Bren Chambers and Marilyn Van Veersen, guest musicians
Sue Bickford, pulpit host

November 21, 1999:
Thanksgiving Service
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

The Youth Choir will sing at the 11 a.m. service. Please bring bread to break together during our coffee hour.

November 14, 1999:
"Spiritual Politics: The Archetypes in Dreams and Waking Life"
The Rev. Jeremy Taylor, guest speaker
Judy Tomlinson, pulpit host

November 7, 1999:
"What is Sacred?"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

October 31, 1999:
"Revisiting the Secular City"
The Rev. Judith Meyer

October 24, 1999:
"Growing Old Goes Global"
The Rev. Judith Meyer

October 17, 1999:
"Two Truths About Travel"
The Rev. Judith Meyer

October 10, 1999:
"Witnessing Respect"
The Rev. Judith Meyer

October 3, 1999:
"In the Smithy of the Soul: Spirituality and Social Justice"
The Rev. Nicholas Cardell, Jr.
The Rev. Judith Meyer, pulpit host;
USC Men's Chorus, with Ethan Sperry, Director, guest musicians

September 26, 1999:
"Every Small Step, Celebration Sunday"
The Rev. Judith Meyer

The choir will sing at both services.

September 19, 1999:
"Beginning to Forgive, Yom Kippur Service"
The Rev. Judith Meyer

Religious Education classes for children begin at both services today.

Cellist Karen Patch will perform the Kol Nidre at both services.

September 12, 1999:
"Ingathering"
The Rev. Judith Meyer

Reunions are occasional rites of passage, filled with curiosity and fraught with anxiety. They confront us with change and comfort us with what never changes. Join us for our Fall Ingathering to contemplate this experience together.

We will welcome and dedicate our Teachers of Religious Education. Children may leave for supervised activities after the Teacher Dedication, or remain with their families for the entire service. The choir will sing at both services.

September 5, 1999:
"Working for What?"
The Rev. Jim Conn
Abby Arnold, pulpit host

"Seeking the Wisdom Within the Moving Image"
A Summer Sermon Series
The Rev. Silvio Nardoni

August 29, 1999:
"Gods and Monsters: Transforming Horror into Grandeur"

August 22, 1999:
"Shall We Dance: The Power of Ritual Touch"

August 15, 1999:
"Alice: The Quest for A Moral Life"

August 8, 1999:
"Lone Star: A New Understanding of the West and the Western"

August 1, 1999:
"Life Is Beautiful: The Stories We Tell Our Children"

July 25, 1999:
"Science and Religion"
The Rev. Ricky Hoyt, guest speaker
Jim Cadwell, pulpit host

A former member of our congregation, the Rev. Ricky Hoyt is now minister at the Unitarian Universalist Church of the Verdugo Hills, La Crescenta.

July 18, 1999:
"Patterns of Power: Who Owns the U.S.?"
Dr. Lex Crane, guest speaker
Jack Behr, pulpit host

July 11, 1999:
"Does God Hate Fags?'"
The Rev. Gail Geisenhainer, guest speaker
Valerie Haynes, pulpit host

Judith Meyer will be speaking at Emerson Church this Sunday on a pulpit exchange with Gail Geisenhainer.

July 4, 1999:
"Keeping the Faith in Ourselves"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

June 27, 1999:
Rabbi Neil-Comess Daniels, guest speaker
Dan Nannini, pulpit host

Neil Comess-Daniels is Rabbi of Beth Shir Sholom, a Jewish synagogue in Santa Monica. He is also President of the Westside Interfaith Council, a musician and a prominent social activist.

June 20, 1999:
Religious Education Sunday
Judy Tomlinson, Director of Religious Education

On Religious Education Sunday we celebrate with a Flower Communion. Please bring a flower to church.

Teacher Appreciation luncheon follows on the courtyard immediately after the 11:00 service.

June 13, 1999:
"Music All Around Us"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

The choir will sing at both the 9:30 and 11:00 services.

June 6, 1999:
Coming of Age Celebration
honoring Megan Early, Rebecca Marmorstein, Diana Wright

May 30, 1999:
"What the Living Do"
A Service for Memorial Day
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

The service will include a New Member Recognition ceremony at 9:30 and 11:00.

May 23, 1999:
"Imagining the Millenium:
Apocalyptic and Utopian Fantasies"
Dr. Elizabeth A. Castelli, guest speaker
Sue Bickford, pulpit host

Elizabeth Castelli is Assistant Professor of Religion at Barnard College/Columbia University, a specialist in biblical studies and the religions of late antiquity.

May 16, 1999:
"Catch the Spirit -- or Give it to a Friend?"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

The Annual Meeting of our congregation will take place in the sanctuary after the 11:00 service.

May 9, 1999:
"A Romantic Woman"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

May 2, 1999:
"Our Forgotten Faith"
The Rev. Judith Meyer, speaker

Though we often delve into other religions for spiritual disciplines and practices, it is our own Transcendentalist heritage that yields a hardy, accessible spirituality we still use.