Sunday Services
Sundays at 10:30 am September through June
We Are Travellers
May 24 at 10:30 am
In-person and online
Speaker: Janice Thomas with Widening the Circle
Service Leader: Cecile Coppens
This year, members of Widening the Circle have been on many journeys. Individually and as a group, we have been exploring our understanding of racism and oppression through books, films, conversations, and courses. Most recently, we have been reflecting on privilege and what it means to live as white people within systems that were socially and politically constructed to benefit us. At times we catch glimpses of how these systems continue to shape everyday experiences in ways we may not always notice.
Along the way, many questions arise. How do we become change-makers in a world that feels increasingly troubled, polarized, and at times more right-leaning? How do we continue learning while remaining open, humble, and hopeful? This Sunday, we will hear Janice’s review of The Medicine Chest and her reflections on experiences within the healthcare system, including how those experiences can differ greatly from one person to another.
Are ALL questions okay?
May 31 at 10:30 am
In-person and online
Speaker: Liz James
Service Leader: TBD
Like many UUs, I spent time when I was younger in a religion where certain questions were out of bounds. I was delighted to find a faith where those questions were welcomed, and we embodied the idea that the truth has no reason to be afraid of any question. But… Is that true? Are there some questions that can be weapons and shouldn’t be asked? Is it okay to say some questions are out of bounds?
We will be hosting a post-service discussion, everyone is welcome.
Liberating Love
June 7 at 10:30 am
In-person and online
Speaker: Shawn Sanford-Beck
Service Leader: Doug Daniels
Greenpriest Shawn Sanford-Back will introduce us to the sweeping ecology of “Kith and Kin”, a view of the world where everything is related, spirited, and sacred. In this ‘more-than-human’ world, nature is wholly alive; humans are inseparable from nature, and may learn from and care for it.
After the service, we’ll enjoy a simple finger-food potluck lunch and a discussion with Shawn. Please bring a dish to share if you can.
About Sunday Services
All our programs are run by volunteers, with the support of our part-time paid administrator. Most of our Sunday services are created and led by teams from within our congregation, each with its own focus. These teams include:
- Cultivating Caring Communities: Learning about values and caring practices that help us be effective community members
- Green Sanctuary: Celebrating and caring for the interdependent web of life
- Widening the Circle: Developing our understanding of racism/anti-racism and other forms of discrimination and oppression
- Earth-Based Spirituality: Celebrating the sacredness of nature through the seasonal cycle of the year, in story, music and ritual
In addition, we are offering a series of eight services developed by Unitarian Universalist ministers across Canada, “Meaning Making in Liminal Times – Roots of Resilience,” which addresses themes from Intentional Rest to Cultivating Joy.
While every service has some consistent elements, the content and style vary from one Sunday to the next. Some services are informal and conversational; others are explorations of ideas or reflections on how to live life well. While there are often opportunities for participation, it’s never required; we trust everyone will take part as they feel comfortable. The general format of most services involves lighting our chalice (symbol of Unitarianism), sharing milestones, usually music and/or singing, and a brief talk by a member of the congregation or a guest speaker.
After the service ends (around 11:30 am), coffee, tea, and treats are provided in the foyer and everyone is invited to stay and chat. On some Sundays, there is an opportunity to return to the sanctuary to discuss the service topic or engage in a related activity.
Those who attend online are welcome to connect via Zoom a little ahead of the service to get to know other online attendees. We encourage but don’t require you to keep your camera on. After the service, you are welcome to stay online to visit, too.
Missed a service? You can request a recording. We only record the speaker (if they have agreed).