Archives: Services
Comfort the Afflicted/Afflict the Comfortable
This juxtaposition is most frequently expressed in reference to the pastoral vs justice functions of a congregation’s mission. Today, since we will hold our Annual Congregational Meeting following the service, I’ll offer some reflections on the phrase related to interpersonal skills, and group dynamics, that I will encourage you to consider in the coming months—when … Continue reading Comfort the Afflicted/Afflict the Comfortable
BUF and Spirituality
What is spirituality? What does spirituality mean to members and friends of the Bellingham Unitarian Fellowship? To what extent do they experience Sunday services at BUF as spiritual? Please join us as we explore these questions and share various responses to them.
Monthly Taizé Service
Taizé services originated in the monastic community in Taizé, France in the 1940s. At BUF, we have created our own UU-style Taizé service that draws from one of our sources — direct experience of that transcending mystery and wonder.
May the Forest Be With You
Meditation and lamentation: an immersion into our grief and appreciation of our revered forests. Come dressed as you would to go hiking!
Expressing Our Values Publicly
Rev Stephen Fritchman, subpoenaed to testify before the House Unamerican Activities Committee in 1951, answered with a fiery explanation of why he would not do so. He was subpoenaed again in 1956 for simply opposing legislation aimed at restricting immigration. Today we’re called once again to uphold our values not just in private but in … Continue reading Expressing Our Values Publicly
Easter and Earth Day – To Rise Together
Our interdependence with one another calls us to lift each other up. Since interpretations of the meaning of Easter vary widely—with some emphasizing punishment instead of reconciliation—it’s important to lift up the latter. Likewise, a naturalistic approach to Easter fits with honoring our interdependence with Mother Earth.
Afraid of Being with the Dying? Don’t be.
I will share personal stories and stories from my chaplaincy in hospitals that highlight different kinds of experiences that hopefully, help you to feel more comfortable being present, when the opportunity comes. Especially in these days, we need courage to face the difficult social conditions we are experiencing. Stepping up to the challenges that come … Continue reading Afraid of Being with the Dying? Don’t be.
Monthly Taizé Service
Taizé services originated in the monastic community in Taizé, France in the 1940s. At BUF, we have created our own UU-style Taizé service that draws from one of our sources — direct experience of that transcending mystery and wonder.
Nuances of Masculinity
Men are known for being stoic and for not openly discussing their feelings. But is that all there is to masculinity? In Sunday’s service, we take a critical look at the nuances of masculinity today, both good and bad, in this time of great uncertainty and upheaval