Speaker: Rev. Paul Beckel

Flower Communion / Mandala

Our annual Flower Communion ceremony will remind us of the beauty earth gifts to us thru its magnanimous variety of living shapes, colors, and purposes. Our ritual of creating a mandala with our flowers will remind us of the preciousness and transience of all that is. Please bring flowers to help with the creation of … Continue reading Flower Communion / Mandala

Songs of Hope and Humanity

Tracy’s music will unite and renew us: “If our every act can ease some pain, then the hero has a thousand names. One act, one play, one step each day…of work, and hope.”

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

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.