The state of Florida has passed a law called Stop the Wrongs to Our Kids, which stands for “Stop Woke.” What is “woke” and why is anyone so concerned about it that they’d pass a law against it? Worship Leader Corless Smith and Worship Associate Emily Stoper will look at the history ot the term in the black community and the subsequent events that have revived it. Do we want to be woke? Music by Vincent Raines. Next Sunday, August 9th, Rev. Laurel Liefert will return from her summer break to lead the service.

Like many Unitarian Universalist churches, First Unitarian has a tradition of offering summer Sunday services crafted entirely by congregants and guest service leaders. We get the chance to hear new voices, and get to know some of the talented people who call this church home. Next week on August 9th, Rev. Laurel Liefert will return to lead four services. Member and guest-led services will then temporarily recommence through September 27”.

Each Sunday, the First Unitarian Church of Oakland hosts worship that connects us both to shared values in community and to something larger than ourselves. True to our Unitarian Universalist practice, what we connect to ranges from theistic to nature-based to non-theistic and many things in-between, but is always held as part of the multifaceted beauty and care that we embrace. We appreciate music from the Crescendo and Pop-Up Choirs, as well as the Joyful Noise Band that plays live music for services and adds to the celebration of our community. Join us to hear messages on a range of subjects that encourage us to live into the selves and the community we dream of.

There are two ways to attend this worship service:

• In person: Music commences before the Worship service begins at 10:30 AM. Masks are optional while in the building. All are invited to stay after worship for Coffee Hour in Wendte Hall.

• Via Zoom: Click here to join us online for the service and Virtual Coffee Hour. Closed captions will be provided. The first part consists of watching the live stream, and the second part continues our practice of online Coffee Hour. The virtual “doors” open at 10 AM and music commences before the service begins at 10:30.

Checking out First Unitarian Oakland?

If you’re joining us for the first time, we would like to extend a full welcome!  Please answer a few questions on our online Newcomer Connection Card.  When at church on Sunday, you can also ask questions and get help at the Greeting Table on the patio before the service.

On most Sundays right after the service, we have a quick Newcomer Welcome in the sanctuary — meet up with a church member in front by the pulpit, for a quick introduction to the church and answers to your questions — then join us in Wendte Hall for Coffee Hour.  If you attend via Zoom, you can stay in the Zoom session after the service for informal discussion in our Virtual Coffee Hour.

We look forward to you joining us for worship service each week! For more information, check out About Worship.