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 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)

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

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!

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

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

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

Rev. Ritchie explores how we’ve let down the working class in this country, and what we can do about it as a community of faith. 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 Stiffed

Whether they describe how the universe was made, how a people, nation or family was formed, or how we have become the individuals we are, the origin stories we choose to tell have great power in shaping our futures.  In today’s worship, Rev. Susan delves into origin stories that we love, as well as those … Continue reading Origin Stories

More than just something we pay or give, our attention can be a precious resource, an embodied experience, and a tool through which we can grow what we value most. Guest preacher Rev. Meg McGuire will explore the significance of what we give attention to and how bringing intention to our attention matters, as individuals … Continue reading The Practice of Attention