Lois Markham

Four years ago I gave a talk at NSUU titled “Everything I Need to Know I Learned from Musical Theater.” Even as I wrote that talk, I realized there were so many more songs I wanted to talk about than I could fit into one service. Today, I will present Part II of my musical upbringing. This time, I focus on optimism, a trait I believe we must all cultivate ferociously as we face the many challenges of contemporary life. What does musical theater have to teach us about optimism? I’ll share some insights as we enjoy some glorious songs from musical theater, performed by members of the NSUU singing group.

Rev. Julie Lombard, Minister

We gather this day to celebrate the life of our shared ministry. Although our time together is ending, we will take a moment to hold up what has made the life of this community vibrant. We will recall our many achievements and lift our voices in song as we bless all on the journey ahead. This is the last Sunday that I will be with you. Let us give thanks and praise for our time together. Please join us for worship and fellowship.

Rev. Julie Lombard, Minister

Fifty years ago the Woodstock festival brought together half a million people in a celebration of peace, music and love. This year there have been many anniversary celebrations of Woodstock taking place around the world, confirming what we all feel: the spirit of Woodstock is still alive and flourishing. We will reminisce and review all we learned about unity and diversity from this festival. We will also celebrate a child dedication within our community of care. Join us as we celebrate this honor with the Gravina Family in a brief ceremony during our Time for All Ages.

Rev. Julie Lombard, Minister

“We all have the capacity to heal each other – healer is a possibility in each of us.” ~ Adrienne Maree Brown. Her book, Emergent Strategy, inspired by Octavia Butler’s explorations of our human relationship to change, offers us a design for shaping the futures we want to live. Brown believes healing happens when a place of trauma or pain is given full attention, really listened to; and that healing is the resilience instinct of our bodies, skills she believes we unlearn as we are taught to pay for and rely on data and medicine outside of our awareness. Come, explore what we might gain by Brown’s passionate perspective on human nature.

Rev. Julie Lombard, Minister

In the overflowing wake of family separation, children in cages, gun violence inspired by the rhetoric of some of our nation’s leaders, we are grateful to hear another voice… a cry of love. The fight between good and evil is as old as humankind, and here we are, again. Come and examine what our faith is calling us to do now. What did Emma Lazarus mean in her poem? “Give me your tired, your poor.” How are we responding to” the huddled masses yearning to breathe free”? Join us for worship as the songs we sing show us how to love.

Write Your Own Bible class will be held in the Wilson Library from 12 noon to 2 pm.

Rev. Julie Lombard, MInister

Robert Greene is a master guide for millions, especially his readers who like distilling ancient wisdom and philosophy into essential texts for seekers of power, understanding and mastery. In his latest book, The Laws of Human Nature, he gives us more to consider as he unpacks the various laws of human nature and explains what makes us tick. Today, we will focus on his perspective of The Law of Aimlessness by looking at some strategies for developing a high sense of purpose. What does this master have to teach us about ourselves, one another, and the human traits we all share? Join us for worship and an inspiring guided tour towards a purposeful faithful journey forward.

Rev. Julie Lombard, Minister

In the fullness of shared tradition, we gather by bringing waters from the many directions of our faith journeys. This ingathering, also called a “Water Communion,” is a beloved UU tradition. This ritual is celebrated as folks return and bring water that has sacred significance for them. Poured into a common bowl, these
waters signify our coming together again, as a of symbol of many becoming one. It’s a celebration and blessing of our unique unity, not a competition to see who travelled the farthest. Please join us for this multigenerational worship service where we will explore human nature and the warm welcome of another new church year.