Improv performances are based on a simple formula of saying “yes” to whatever is given — a word, a scenario, an action — and adding to it, to create a rich story of shared authorship. Far from the panacea of positive thinking, this challenging practice can be useful when living through significant change, especially in community. It can be a form of blessing that offers us the authority to change the story while accepting what is given. (NOTE: In the afternoon, Karen will lead a guided writing session on “Awakening: Writing to Wake the Soul.”)

The Rev. Karen Hering, author of Writing to Wake the Soul (Atria Books/Beyond Words, 2013), returns to our pulpit. Karen serves as consulting literary minister at Unity Church-Unitarian in St. Paul, MN and leads retreats and workshops in congregations, retreat centers, and conferences near and far, engaging writing as a spiritual practice and a tool for healing and social action. Her book won a Silver Nautilus Award for books “contributing to spiritual growth, conscious living, . . . responsible leadership and positive social change” and will be available for purchase after the service with proceeds supporting the Fellowship.* www.karenhering.com