First Existentialist Congregation
An independent member of the Unitarian Universalist Association
Dr. Umoja will apply the main messages of Dr King’s January 1968 Drum Major Instinct to the social and political issues of 2025.
Facilitator: Marsha Mitchiner
Musician: Kristen Hampton
This talk will consist of two parts: 1. I will reflect on insights by some of history’s greatest philosophers (concerning moral worth) who have helped me deal with the November election. 2. Shrey will talk about what, as a 9th grader, gives him hope about the world his generation will inherit.
Facilitator: Charlene Ball
Musician: Charli Vogt
Facilitator: Libby Ware
Musician: Bill Chelton
Facilitator: D. Patton White
Musician: Craig Rafuse
Inspired by Marian Wright Edelman, a longtime civil and children’s rights advocate, her book Lanterns: A Memoir of Mentors, and as we find ourselves in the darkest time of the year: we’ll focus on who and what has provided us light and guided our way through life. As we look forward, we will also consider how we might serve as lanterns to our communities – shining some hope where we find darkness.
Facilitator: D. Patton White
Musician: Mick Kinney
As the year winds down and we gather in the holiday season, we turn to the timeless gifts of hope, faith, and joy. But what do these words truly mean in our ever-changing world? Together, we will explore new and ancient ways to understand these qualities, inviting in both the warmth and the challenges they bring. How do hope, faith, and joy show up in our lives amid uncertainty? Can we hold space for joy while facing life’s struggles? Join us as we deepen our connection to these sacred principles and find new ways to let them light our way forward.
Facilitator: Cindy Lou Who
Musician: Jean Heinrich and the E-Chorus
Science and religion are two sides of the same coins, which are spent on figuring out the nature of reality and the human condition. America is in a big mess; can science and religion looked at this way get us moving forward better? I’ll tell a few stories to get you thinking on the answer.
Facilitator: Charlene Ball
Musician: Kristen Hampton
A post Thanksgiving look at the history of and contemporary practices of holiday gifting. From the absurd to the spiritually generous. Confession of the speaker: she once “observed” Black Friday and the lessons there from.
Facilitator: Stell Simonton
Musician: Jean Heinrich
To whom much is given, much is required.
Facilitator: Wade Marbaugh
Musician: Craig Rafuse
This time of year is always busy and full between holidays and life’s demands. The additional impacts of a major election, of which we may not know the results by this discussion, could potentially add distress or conflict. Let us gather together for support and to talk about our ways forward.
Facilitator: D. Patton White
Musician: Mick Kinney