Archives: Services

Such a Curious People!

The virtues of curiosity are becoming increasingly well known.  Curiosity drives scientific discoveries, serves as an important tool for building bridges between people, and even advances the cause of justice.  In this sermon, Rev. Susan will not only remind us of curiosity’s superpowers but discuss why Unitarian Universalists are especially curious.    Join us at … Continue reading Such a Curious People!

What Fresh New Hell is This?

Because of a schedule conflict at The Barn, today’s worship is VIRTUAL ONLY. In light of the crisis in the Middle East, Rev. Susan looks into the Unitarian and Universalist theologies of evil that teach the importance of not dehumanizing ourselves through the demonization of others or through the simplification of history and context. To … Continue reading What Fresh New Hell is This?

Drawing Down the Moon

Rev. Susan offers an Introduction to Wiccan beliefs and practices. Join us at 10:30 AM for worship, coffee and fellowship time to follow worship.  Attend in worship in person at the Barn at Stratford, or online (link provided below). We are worshiping at   the Barn at Stratford while our building is under construction. The Barn … Continue reading Drawing Down the Moon

The Truth about Witch Hunts

Are there really clandestine groups in America plotting to subvert democracy and actively persecuting people with unorthodox beliefs?  Rev. Ritchie examines the role that religion has had in the development of this very strange, paranoid and toxic component of our national DNA.  After the service:  Our 2nd Annual Flower Bar Event after the service. Molly … Continue reading The Truth about Witch Hunts

Things that Matter (Virtual Only)

Things That Matter In the midst of today’s cultural change,political uncertainty, and economic confusion, how often do we get a chance to deeply discuss with other members of our congregation those things that really matter?  On Sunday Oct. 15 we will have a chance to meet with other NUUC members in small groups on zoom and discuss … Continue reading Things that Matter (Virtual Only)

Pointing Me in a Crooked Line

Rev. Susan reflects on the sometimes surprising shapes of spiritual journeys. Join us at 10:30 AM for worship, congregational meeting to approve the budget and answer any questions about the building expansion project will be held immediately after worship. Attend in worship in person at the Barn at Stratford, or online (link provided below). We … Continue reading Pointing Me in a Crooked Line

Unbelievable!

Did you know that beliefs in unprovable and irrational phenomenon are actually on the rise?   In this sermon, Rev. Ritchie wrestles with what constitutes irrational belief, what to do when you encounter them in others (or yourself!) and why, in a time when scientific explanations are stronger than they have been at other points in … Continue reading Unbelievable!

Hanging in the Balance: Delight, Despair, and Making Amends with the Natural World

As we approach Yom Kippur, it is customary to spend time in self-reflection and making amends with those we have harmed. What might we learn from this practice and what might repentance look like in a time of anthropogenic climate change, wildfires, and other disasters? Morgan Patten will explore how we might make amends while also … Continue reading Hanging in the Balance: Delight, Despair, and Making Amends with the Natural World

The Pumpkin Spice Worship

Rev. Susan looks at different ways that religious traditions have marked the transition to autumn, and explores how embracing seasonality can enhance the spiritual life.  Join us at 10:30 AM for worship, coffee and fellowship time to follow worship. Attend in worship in person at the Barn at Stratford, or online (link provided below). We … Continue reading The Pumpkin Spice Worship

Ingathering: The Power of Third Places

On Ingathering Sunday, we will celebrate the start of the new church year by noting the importance of “third places”—places (like churches!) where people gather that are not home or work. Third places provide a sense of respite from ordinary preoccupations, and they make for healthy communities and individuals.  No water celebration this year, but … Continue reading Ingathering: The Power of Third Places