The seven UU principles are the foundation of modern Unitarian Universalism. The principles express important values. But, what is their history and how can philosophy help us understand their importance? Today’s message will look at a categorization of the principles from a philosophical perspective and at two important theories of 17th and 18th century philosophy […]
Christianity is one of a group of mystery religions. Mystery diminishes the more you throw the light of understanding at it. Often, mystery led to manipulation, those in positions of power and authority, preyed on the fears and superstitions and ignorance of the common people. But there is no need to be ignorant to feel […]
The Reverend Drew Kennedy will invite us to reflect on how we ought to live in light of the fact that life is precious and all of us, one day, must die. Centering on a startling and poignant story of a woman at a crossroads in her life, we’ll explore two of life’s interrelated, basic […]
Sin is not a topic we discuss very often. Do we even remember the “seven deadly sins” of Christian theology? Are they relevant today? If not, how would we answer the question posed by the title of today’s talk? How about some other questions: If you believe in God, what is your god’s job description? […]
Along with Judaism, Hinduism is the world’s most ancient wisdom tradition. And it is exceedingly wise. Hindu theology offers a non-Christian trinity, a more useful list of “commandments” and understands that God always enters a person’s life through a private door. Huston Smith, the great religious scholar, wrote, “I was perfectly content with Christianity until […]
Bodhisattvas, “enlightening beings,” embody the core values of Mahayana Buddhism. The Bodhisattva ideal is what fuels a Zen practitioner’s approach to life. The talk on September 30th will answer some important questions: How did the Bodhisattva ideal emerge? What are their great vows? And, finally, who are today’s Bodhisattvas and can that include us? Rev. […]
Thoreau once wrote, “Though I do not believe that a plant will spring up where no seed has been, I have great faith in a seed. Convince me that you have a seed there, and I am prepared to expect wonders.” We’ll consider what the natural world teaches us about faith, wonder, and hope, especially […]
Tony’s sermon will explore the subtle power of threesomes—in religion, psychology, and philosophy (to name just 3 areas!). You could also learn a little about our Unitarian history from this sermon. Rev. Dr. Tony Larsen recently retired as pastor of the Olympia Brown UU Church in Racine. He served this role since 1975 (yes, that’s […]
Some religions say the answers are already given. (“It’s in the Book. I believe it. Period.”) Others say revelation is not sealed. (“Don’t put a period where God has put a comma.”) What difference does it make?! Rev. Dr. Tony Larsen recently retired as pastor of the Olympia Brown UU Church in Racine. He served […]
What happens when we hide from our true self? Blanche Brown is an art therapy/counselor practitioner who believes in the power of art to heal. She is a supporter and facilitator of the changes that people seek to make in their lives. Brown serves survivors of abuse, violence, and disaster as a trainer in the […]