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Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter's post-election sermon "A Love of Liberty" reminds us that even in the face of despair, love endures. Through grief, rage, and exhaustion, the message is clear: we are called to action. Together, we confront injustice, uphold freedom, and refuse to let love be extinguished. Join us as we recommit to a future rooted in compassion. Listen now and be inspired to rise, because love will not die here today—or any day. First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at https://dallasuu.org/ New sermon every week. Subscribe here: https://tinyurl.com/1stchurchyoutubesubscribe Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1stuchurch/ Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1stUChurch Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: https://dallasuu.org/live/
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Together we remember and honor the lives of those who have died this year in our annual service of All Souls. First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at https://dallasuu.org/ New sermon every week. Subscribe here: https://tinyurl.com/1stchurchyoutubesubscribe Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1stuchurch/ Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1stUChurch Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: https://dallasuu.org/live/
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Episodi mancanti?
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In this Election Week edition of Tiny Pulpit Talks, we dive into the fine lines between politics and political speech within churches. Rev. T. J. FitzGerald unpacks how these concepts differ and how history has shaped the complex role of religion in public life. From the origins of religious freedom to the nuances of what churches can say politically, this episode takes a close look at how some churches navigate the boundaries of political speech and charitable tax exemptions. Why do these exemptions exist, and why are they rarely revoked? Tune in to explore the evolving relationship between faith, speech, and civic life—and why it matters today. 🎧 Listen now and don’t forget to subscribe! Make your 2025 pledge here: 00:00 - Welcome to this Election Week episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks 00:31 - Introduction: Politics vs. political speech 01:16 - Religious freedom in the First Amendment 01:57 - Historical state religions and church taxes 03:11 - Civic religion and capitalism 03:37 - Political speech boundaries in churches 05:00 - Purpose of charitable tax exemptions 07:44 - Enforcement challenges for tax exemption 08:50 - Debate on wealth caps for churches 09:22 - Church’s role in community support First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at New sermon every week. Subscribe here: Follow us on Instagram: Follow us on Facebook: Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: Give - your support allows us to transform lives and make UU values real in our community and beyond:
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With Halloween arriving today and our All Souls worship service happening on Sunday, we are diving into one of life’s biggest questions: What happens after we die? Join the ministers as they explore this profound topic from different perspectives, offering insights on how our actions, relationships, and legacies live on after death. From soul discussions and mystical experiences to navigating the mystery of what lies beyond, the team shares personal stories, cultural reflections, and faith-based perspectives. Whether you're curious, grieving, or simply pondering the unknown, this episode is a thoughtful exploration of life, death, and everything in between. We'd love to hear your thoughts, so feel free to share them in the comments. Remember to like, subscribe, and review the podcast if you enjoyed this conversation! Make your 2025 pledge here: 00:00 - Introduction: Exploring what happens when we die. 00:41 - The question of the soul: What do Unitarian Universalists believe? 01:27 - Beth’s perspective: The unknown after death. 2:27 - Daniel’s Buddhist perspective on habits and impact. 03:28 - Agnosticism on the afterlife: Embracing uncertainty 04:00 - Personal hopes for an afterlife and experiences of loss 06:09 - The mystery surrounding death and the acceptance of the unknown. 09:35 - Discussion on cultural practices surrounding death, particularly in India. 10:49 - Shared beliefs and experiences across cultures regarding death. 11:31 - The tradition of memorials in the church. 12:14 - Investigative approach to memorials: Learning about the deceased. 14:46 - Reflection on how the church navigates grief. 15:08 - Encouragement to reach out with questions about death and grief First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at New sermon every week. Subscribe here: Follow us on Instagram: Follow us on Facebook: Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: Give - your support allows us to transform lives and make UU values real in our community and beyond:
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We finally unpack a last part of Daniel Limbaugh’s founding sermon of our church from 1899 in which he said, “What shall I do with my life? How can I make the most of it?” They had answers to these questions, let’s see if we can find some for today. This sermon is part of our Chart & Compass series – Our Unitarian Universalist faith is a beacon of hope for people seeking a religion free from “old dogmas, doctrines, and creeds.” On May 12, 1899, Mr. Daniel Limbaugh gave a talk on the Unitarian religion at Temple Emanu-El where he described such seekers as being “at sea without a chart or compass.” This sermon led to the founding of the First Unitarian Church of Dallas. In this series, we will take a closer look at Limbaugh’s pivotal message and explore how Unitarian Universalism can serve as our chart and compass in modern times. First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at https://dallasuu.org/ New sermon every week. Subscribe here: https://tinyurl.com/1stchurchyoutubesubscribe Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1stuchurch/ Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1stUChurch Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: https://dallasuu.org/live/ Œ
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Welcome to this week's episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks! Today, we dive into a topic that's on everyone's mind: how do we find peace and grounding when the world feels overwhelming? With a looming election, global conflicts, and personal challenges, it's easy to feel lost in the storm. So, how do we find our footing? Do we retreat, take a break, or step forward and engage? In this episode, your three ministers reflect on how they navigate these times of chaos. We discuss the balance between self-care, community, and action—whether it's seeking solitude, connecting with others, or embracing new spiritual practices. We also touch on the importance of storytelling, journaling, and sharing our experiences to heal. Join us for this important conversation about self-care, community support, and finding hope in difficult times. Don’t forget to leave your thoughts, experiences, or tips in the comments, and let us know what practices help you stay grounded. Thanks for tuning in! Make your 2025 pledge here: 0:00 - Welcome to Tiny Pulpit Talks with Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter, Rev. Beth Dana, and Rev. T. J. FitzGerald 00:18 - Balancing retreat and engagement in the world. 00:51 - Feeling overwhelmed by current events and the need for peace. 02:28 - Extrovert vs. introvert approaches to self-care. 03:25 - The value of retreat and stepping back for reflection. 04:19 - Community support: The importance of gathering together. 05:11 - Finding solace in fiction and storytelling. 06:30 - Healthy habits: Meditation, reading, and self-centering. 09:08 - Avoiding the "pull yourself up by the bootstraps" mentality. 10:10 - Journaling and storytelling as spiritual practices 13:45 - Thanks for tuning in and being part of this conversation First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at New sermon every week. Subscribe here: Follow us on Instagram: Follow us on Facebook: Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: Give - your support allows us to transform lives and make UU values real in our community and beyond: https://dallasuu.org/give-now
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We unpack more of Daniel Limbaugh’s founding sermon of our church from 1899 in which he said, “We believe God to be one, not three or more; an intelligent first cause, not an ultimate blind force… We have said that we believe God is love.” Let’s look for God in our version of faith for today through his eyes. This sermon is part of our Chart & Compass series – Our Unitarian Universalist faith is a beacon of hope for people seeking a religion free from “old dogmas, doctrines, and creeds.” On May 12, 1899, Mr. Daniel Limbaugh gave a talk on the Unitarian religion at Temple Emanu-El where he described such seekers as being “at sea without a chart or compass.” This sermon led to the founding of the First Unitarian Church of Dallas. In this series, we will take a closer look at Limbaugh’s pivotal message and explore how Unitarian Universalism can serve as our chart and compass in modern times. First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at https://dallasuu.org/ New sermon every week. Subscribe here: https://tinyurl.com/1stchurchyoutubesubscribe Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1stuchurch/ Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1stUChurch Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: https://dallasuu.org/live/ Œ
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In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, we dive into the heart of community and connection with Sharon Thompson, Director of Membership and Hospitality. Sharon shares stories about welcoming newcomers to the church, the simple process of becoming a member, and the meaningful tradition of signing the Book of Names. She highlights the inclusive and flexible ways both in-person and online members can engage with the church community, from small groups to volunteer opportunities. Sharon also discusses how the church ensures members—whether local or remote—feel connected and supported through various initiatives like virtual new member classes, rose ceremonies, and online coffees. For those curious about joining or getting more involved, this episode offers a heartfelt exploration of building a beloved community. Tune in to learn how the church balances tradition with innovation to serve both long-standing members and new faces alike. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave a review to share your thoughts! Make your 2025 pledge here: 0:00 - Welcome Sharon Thompson! 00:20 - Sharon Thompson introduces her role as Director of Membership and Hospitality. 01:56 - Story about a new member joining the church on her first visit. 02:47 - Explanation of the membership process and signing the Book of Names. 04:42 - Events and ceremonies for new members, including the rose ceremony. 05:31 - Engaging online members and growing online membership options. 07:49 - Online member contributions, such as co-chairing committees. 09:12 - How the church is enhancing online connections and small group ministry. 13:49 - Ways to move from guest to fully engaged member through connection and service. 16:29 - Introduction to Inquirers Class for newcomers and guests. 18:10 - How the church helps members find the right spiritual community, even if it’s not here. First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at New sermon every week. Subscribe here: Follow us on Instagram: Follow us on Facebook: Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: Give - your support allows us to transform lives and make UU values real in our community and beyond: https://dallasuu.org/give-now
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We continue to explore Daniel Limbaugh’s 1899 founding sermon for our church by finding in it kernels of interest for them and for us today. In it he said, “Ours is not a system so much as it is a tendency. It is embraced by the spirit rather than by any formal statement of language. The seeking of truth, actuated by a love for it and its application to the religious nature of man is the spirit that animates us in all our investigations, statements and work.” We will unpack this for today’s spiritual needs of our church. This sermon is part of our Chart & Compass series – Our Unitarian Universalist faith is a beacon of hope for people seeking a religion free from “old dogmas, doctrines, and creeds.” On May 12, 1899, Mr. Daniel Limbaugh gave a talk on the Unitarian religion at Temple Emanu-El where he described such seekers as being “at sea without a chart or compass.” This sermon led to the founding of the First Unitarian Church of Dallas. In this series, we will take a closer look at Limbaugh’s pivotal message and explore how Unitarian Universalism can serve as our chart and compass in modern times. First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at https://dallasuu.org/ New sermon every week. Subscribe here: https://tinyurl.com/1stchurchyoutubesubscribe Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1stuchurch/ Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1stUChurch Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: https://dallasuu.org/live/ Œ
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In this special edition of Tiny Pulpit Talks, we step inside the Minister's Study with Revs. Daniel, Beth, and T. J. to reflect on our recently wrapped-up sermon series on Luminaries of Truth & Justice. This conversation digs deep into the powerful legacies of justice-seekers within Unitarian Universalism and how their work connects to today's efforts for reproductive justice, racial equity, and more. 🔍 What does it mean to inherit a radical legacy? How do we reckon with history’s messiness, and what truths must we face to truly move forward? Tune in as we dive into these big questions, hear insights from sermon prep, and even some fascinating quotes that didn’t make the cut! 💡 Don’t miss this candid, thought-provoking conversation about the power of history, justice, and truth-telling in our community. Listen now and let us know what you think! 🔥 Support this podcast and the work of our church. Make your 2025 pledge here: 0:00 - Welcome to Tiny Pulpit Talks with Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter, Rev. Beth Dana, and Rev. T. J. FitzGerald 01:08 - Theodore Parker: Radical intellectual and abolitionist. 03:57 - Women leaders in the movement: Reverend Ada C. Bowles and more. 05:49 - The legacy of women in suffrage and reproductive justice. 06:07 - The Unitarian Church: A place for free discussion or driven by extraordinary people? 06:56 - Frances Ellen Watkins Harper’s contributions. 08:18 - Egbert Ethelred Brown: Founding the Harlem Community Church. 09:41 - Black Pioneers in a White Denomination by Mark Morrison-Reed. 10:46 - The importance of racial justice and the church’s efforts today. 12:31 - Truth-telling and reconciliation within Unitarian Universalism. First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at New sermon every week. Subscribe here: Follow us on Instagram: Follow us on Facebook: Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: Give - your support allows us to transform lives and make UU values real in our community and beyond:
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The church was founded this day in 1899 with the words of Daniel Limbaugh who preached, “Many souls are hungering and thirsting for religious knowledge, truth and righteousness, to whom the old dogmas, doctrines and creeds appear outgrown. These persons are at sea without chart or compass, and many are making shipwreck of their religious natures.” His call was for Unitarians to gather and become a church that addressed these issues of the day. Let’s look back on our history and see who we have become and why. This sermon is part of our Chart & Compass series – Our Unitarian Universalist faith is a beacon of hope for people seeking a religion free from “old dogmas, doctrines, and creeds.” On May 12, 1899, Mr. Daniel Limbaugh gave a talk on the Unitarian religion at Temple Emanu-El where he described such seekers as being “at sea without a chart or compass.” This sermon led to the founding of the First Unitarian Church of Dallas. In this series, we will take a closer look at Limbaugh’s pivotal message and explore how Unitarian Universalism can serve as our chart and compass in modern times. First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at https://dallasuu.org/ New sermon every week. Subscribe here: https://tinyurl.com/1stchurchyoutubesubscribe Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1stuchurch/ Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1stUChurch Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: https://dallasuu.org/live/ Œ
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In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Reverend T. J. FitzGerald sits down with Brennan Greef, Director of Adult Ministries and Leadership Development, for a heartfelt conversation you won’t want to miss! Brennan shares how she guides the congregation through their spiritual journeys, creating spaces for deep growth and transformation. Whether you're someone seeking religious education or looking for spiritual healing, this episode dives into how the church fosters connection, education, and personal growth for everyone—from youth to elders. Brennan also reveals behind-the-scenes insights on how the church integrates worship and learning, ensuring that the themes from the pulpit resonate throughout the classroom. If you’ve ever wondered how to get more involved, whether as a learner or a facilitator, Brennan covers that too—explaining how members can bring their passions to life in a class or ministry. Join us for this uplifting conversation that showcases the unique and transformative work happening at the heart of the community. Tune in, leave us a review, and see how you can deepen your connection with us. We’re so glad you’re here! Make your 2025 pledge here: 00:00 - Welcome Brennan Greef 01:08 - Brennan’s role at the church and an overview of her responsibilities. 02:12 - Brennan’s start during the COVID-19 pandemic and the transition to in-person work. 03:19 - The role of spiritual grounding and deepening in adult religious education. 06:31 - Transformative spiritual experiences and helping people heal from past religious trauma. 09:05 - Meeting people where they are on their spiritual journey. 10:57 - Opportunities for congregants to get involved in teaching and facilitating classes. 11:58 - The process of connecting different talents to enhance teaching experiences. 12:50 - The joy of working with lifelong teams and forming deep connections. First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at New sermon every week. Subscribe here: Follow us on Instagram: Follow us on Facebook: Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: Give - your support allows us to transform lives and make UU values real in our community and beyond: https://dallasuu.org/give-now
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Unitarian Universalism and our church would not be what it is today without the people of color who have led our faith into the future. We will talk about how our faith and church have been shaped by these leaders and their prophetic vision. This sermon is part of our Luminaries of Truth and Justice series – finding inspiration in the radical voices of our faith’s history, present, and future. As we embark on a new church year and prepare to celebrate our church’s 125-year history of truth and justice, we look to the radical visionaries of our past, present, and future for spiritual inspiration. How have radical voices shaped our church’s history? How do we find courage to lift our voices when it feels challenging? And, what do we proclaim to the world as Unitarian Universalists? First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at https://dallasuu.org/ New sermon every week. Subscribe here: https://tinyurl.com/1stchurchyoutubesubscribe Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1stuchurch/ Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1stUChurch Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: https://dallasuu.org/live/ Œ
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Unitarian Universalism welcomed and blessed women in leadership roles before any other tradition. Then and now, this is one of the great strengths of our faith and of this church. This sermon is part of our Luminaries of Truth and Justice series – finding inspiration in the radical voices of our faith’s history, present, and future. As we embark on a new church year and prepare to celebrate our church’s 125-year history of truth and justice, we look to the radical visionaries of our past, present, and future for spiritual inspiration. How have radical voices shaped our church’s history? How do we find courage to lift our voices when it feels challenging? And, what do we proclaim to the world as Unitarian Universalists? First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at https://dallasuu.org/ New sermon every week. Subscribe here: https://tinyurl.com/1stchurchyoutubesubscribe Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1stuchurch/ Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1stUChurch Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: https://dallasuu.org/live/ Œ
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In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald hosts an inspiring conversation with Rev. Angela Tyler-Williams, co-Executive Director for Movement Building of SACReD (Spiritual Alliance of Communities for Reproductive Dignity). They delve into the power of bringing one's whole self into the intersection of faith and reproductive justice. Rev. Angela shares her journey as a Presbyterian pastor, her calling to justice work, and the vision behind SACReD's mission to equip a network of spiritual communities with liberative religious education & practices that shift our culture to advance Reproductive Justice. Together, they explore how faith-based action can promote dignity, health, and liberation for all. Register for Woven Together: Religion & Reproductive Justice - Learn more about SACReD - Register for the SACReD Course at First Unitarian Church of Dallas, starts October 7: 00:00 - Welcome Rev. Angela Tyler-Williams 01:21 - Overview of SACReD: Angela explains what SACReD does, including the SACReD Congregations program and national gatherings, media advocacy, and direct services. 02:55 - Angela describes SACReD’s core team of three full-time staff and its board, emphasizing the organization's grassroots approach. 04:02 - Angela’s journey into reproductive justice work: From her background as a Presbyterian pastor to her experiences in the Philippines and Washington D.C., Angela reflects on her call to justice. 07:03 - The Reproductive Justice Framework: Angela explains the four tenets of reproductive justice and its origins with 12 Black women in 1994. 09:00 - Wholeness in ministry: Angela discusses the importance of bringing her full self to her work, influenced by leaders like Audre Lorde, Angela Davis, and Shirley Chisholm. 13:13 - Creating sacred spaces: Angela and T. J. discuss the importance of churches creating spaces where people can share their reproductive and faith stories without shame or judgment. 17:31 - Action steps: Angela talks about how churches and communities can take specific actions based on their local needs, such as offering Plan B and other resources. About Rev. Angela Tyler-Williams: Angela is a queer pastor ordained by the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) into her call to engage people of faith to speak publicly and politically in support of reproductive health, rights, and justice and LGBTQIA+ equality. Angela holds a Master of Divinity from Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary. The Center for American Progress named Angela as one of the 22 Faith Leaders to Watch in 2022. Angela learned about faith-based community organizing and building people power to create positive social change from the Industrial Areas Foundation. In her free time, Angela volunteers as a clergy counselor with Faith Aloud Talkline. She finds life in experiencing music, listening to podcasts, exploring creation, and engaging in theological discussions that go off the beaten path. First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at Make your 2025 pledge here: New sermon every week. Subscribe here: Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1stuchurch/ Follow us on Facebook: Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: Give - your support allows us to transform lives and make UU values real in our community and beyond: https://dallasuu.org/give-now
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In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, we dive into the important work behind the scenes at the church with special guest Martha Norton, a long-time congregant and staff member who currently works in stewardship and finance. Martha shares her journey of gratitude and how she has spent the last decade helping sustain the church’s mission by thanking members for their generosity. Martha and Rev. T. J. FitzGerald discuss what stewardship means, the upcoming Canvass 2025 campaign, and how contributions directly impact the community. They explore how the church reaches beyond its walls to spread love and inclusion to families across the world, and how giving reflects the values of its members. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about generosity, purpose, and the future of the church’s outreach. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave your comments to keep the dialogue going! Make your 2025 pledge here: Register for Martha's upcoming "Behind the Chalice" workshop to learn more about how the church operates: 0:00 - Welcome Martha Norton! 01:26 - Martha introduces herself and her role in stewardship and finance. 03:16 - Martha reflects on the church's role in personal and family life. 04:40 - Martha's background growing up in Louisiana and her Episcopal roots. 05:53 - Spirituality in discussing money and financial transparency. 07:30 - Explanation of Canvass, the church’s pledge campaign. 09:03 - The church's financial priorities and reflecting values through the budget. 11:25 - The growing impact of the church’s work in the U.S. and globally. 12:52 - Reflection on COVID, the church’s resilience, and the role of generosity. First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at New sermon every week. Subscribe here: Follow us on Instagram: Follow us on Facebook: Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: Give - your support allows us to transform lives and make UU values real in our community and beyond:
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Our faith is filled with radicals who fought for what was right and took on systems of injustice. Our own church is part of this fight and is in it for the long haul. This sermon is part of our Luminaries of Truth and Justice series – finding inspiration in the radical voices of our faith’s history, present, and future. As we embark on a new church year and prepare to celebrate our church’s 125-year history of truth and justice, we look to the radical visionaries of our past, present, and future for spiritual inspiration. How have radical voices shaped our church’s history? How do we find courage to lift our voices when it feels challenging? And, what do we proclaim to the world as Unitarian Universalists? First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at https://dallasuu.org/ New sermon every week. Subscribe here: https://tinyurl.com/1stchurchyoutubesubscribe Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1stuchurch/ Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1stUChurch Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: https://dallasuu.org/live/ Œ
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In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald welcomes Jean Ann Powers, Director of Pastoral Care, to dive into the heart of her ministry at the church. Jean Ann shares the incredible work of her 125+ volunteers, describing them as the "foot soldiers" who bring warmth, connection, and care to the congregation. She talks about the importance of matching volunteers with roles that resonate with their hearts and the crucial role of self-care for those who give their time. A major focus of this conversation is the launch of a new program called Unforgettable Friends, a volunteer-driven day program for members of the church with mild to moderate dementia. Jean Ann explains how this initiative not only supports those living with memory loss but also provides a much-needed respite for caregivers. Inspired by similar programs, Jean Ann is excited to create a space where participants find joy, connection, and healing. This episode is full of heartfelt insights into pastoral care, volunteerism, and the transformative power of community engagement. Tune in to learn more about this exciting new initiative and how you can get involved! Learn more about participating or volunteering with Unforgettable Friends: https://dallasuu.org/unforgettablefriends/ 00:00 - Introduction and Welcome Back - Tiny Pulpit Talks returns after summer break; introduction to Jean Ann Powers, Director of Pastoral Care. 01:11 - Jean Ann’s Role in the Church - Jean Ann discusses her role as the Director of Pastoral Care since 2012, focusing on personalized care for church members. 01:53 - Volunteer Work in Pastoral Care - Discussion about the 125+ pastoral care volunteers and the profound impact they have on the community. 03:26 - How to Get Involved in Volunteering - Insights on how new members can get involved in pastoral care, with an emphasis on matching individuals to roles they resonate with. 04:25 - The Importance of Self-Care for Volunteers - Jean Ann highlights the significance of self-care for volunteers and encourages flexibility when commitments become overwhelming. 05:37 - The Intersection of Music and Care - Jean Ann talks about the connection between her love for music and her pastoral care work, and the emotional connection music creates. 06:59 - Addressing Dementia and Memory Loss in the Community - Introduction to the new initiative "Unforgettable Friends," a day program for members with mild to moderate dementia. 09:25 - Call for Volunteers and Community Collaboration - Discussion about the need for volunteers and the collaborative efforts across different churches in the community to support the initiative. 11:38 - Spiritual Impact of Caring for Others - Reflection on the spiritual importance of caring for elders and building common ground across denominations for compassionate care. 13:04 - Conclusion and Call to Action - Final thoughts on the excitement for the new program, encouraging listeners to volunteer and stay connected with Tiny Pulpit Talks. Tiny Pulpit Talks is a podcast series from First Unitarian Church of Dallas that takes a behind-the-scenes look at ministry from a Unitarian Universalist perspective. This is a rare opportunity to see what goes into crafting meaningful and inspirational sermons, learn how worship comes together each Sunday, and explore the many facets of spiritual leadership. Subscribe to get updates about new episodes here on YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. 🌎 Join our global movement of truth, justice, and love. No matter where you are in the world, we invite you to be a part of our community. Fill out a welcome card at the following link and we'll be in touch with resources to get started: https://dallasuu.org/welcomecard/ Make your 2025 pledge here: https://dallasuu.org/2025pledge/ First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at https://dallasuu.org/ New sermon every week. Subscribe here: https://tinyurl.com/1stchurchyoutubesubscribe Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1stuchurch/ Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1stUChurch Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: https://dallasuu.org/live/ Give - your support allows us to transform lives and make UU values real in our community and beyond: https://dallasuu.org/give-now
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Ingathering is our kick–off to the theme year. We will explore 125 years of progressive religious impact and what it means to be a Dallas UU today. Keeping the Flame: Then, Now, and Always Celebrating 125 Years of Progressive Religion in Dallas Our 2024-25 theme year “Keeping the Flame: Then, Now, and Always,” is a call to action and reflection for our congregation. It’s an invitation to honor the legacy of our spiritual community, to engage deeply with the principles of our Unitarian Universalist faith, and to forge a future where the light of the flaming chalice continues to burn brightly, guiding us in love, justice, and truth. As we celebrate 125 years of liberal religion in Dallas, we recommit ourselves to keeping the flame alive—then, now, and always. First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at https://dallasuu.org/ New sermon every week. Subscribe here: https://tinyurl.com/1stchurchyoutubesubscribe Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1stuchurch/ Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1stUChurch Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: https://dallasuu.org/live/ Œ
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We can’t wait for someone or something to make good things happen, to bring about change, to do justice. Join us as we explore the prophethood of all and the foundations of Unitarian Universalism that call us to be part of building a just and loving community. This sermon is part of our Foundations series – inspired by John Luther Adams’ essay in which he writes about the five smooth stones of liberal religion. We use these ideas throughout our Faith Forward offerings and religious education. First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at https://dallasuu.org/ New sermon every week. Subscribe here: https://tinyurl.com/1stchurchyoutubesubscribe Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1stuchurch/ Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1stUChurch Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: https://dallasuu.org/live/ Œ
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