The life of Amanda America Dickson offers insight into courage in the face of change and seizing opportunities for freedom. Come learn about her and how we move forward in courage when times are difficult or complex. Checking out First Unitarian Oakland? If you’re joining us for the first time, we would like to extend … Continue reading Where do we come from?
In August and September, First Unitarian Oakland has turned our attention to some of the things that make congregational life essential and life-giving, worship, pastoral care, and opportunities for connection, like covenant groups. As we look at the world beyond the congregation, however, we observe much cultural fracture and pain. Where does it come from? … Continue reading The Cost of Complicity: The Power of Love to Heal What Is Broken
The photographs of the James Webb Space Telescope remind us that on every level, from molecule to galaxy, we are interconnected. What does that mean for a congregation or an individual? How can we become more connected and caring? We will examine the meaning in the beauty of outer space, along with our inner spaces, … Continue reading Connections Across the Universe
In 1967, the Beatles told us all you need is love. We definitely need love, but what does that mean in community? Dr. Brene Brown, a social work researcher tells us that, “Love isn’t something we give or we get; it is something we nurture and grow. Join is to celebrate both connection to community … Continue reading Like the Water in a River: Celebrating Water Communion, Nurturing Our Connections
As we return to the rhythm of the year of congregational life, we have the opportunity to cultivate, practice, and share joy. But what does that look like in these difficult times? Join us to explore. This service will include reflection on Disability Pride. Checking out First Unitarian Oakland? If you’re joining us for the … Continue reading Becoming Champions of Joy
December gave us exuberant rain, but January and February have been very dry. We hope it will rain and wonder about how our ancestors ceremonially solicited rain. We more scientifically-oriented people believe that we can’t control the weather. This leads us to consider just what we can and can’t control, no matter how we try. … Continue reading Control, eh? Fergit about it!
This Sunday we will join with Unitarian Universalist congregations across the country to participate in this annual tradition! Come to experience stirring music, deep-hearted reflection, and moving testimonies from a range of UU leaders. If you’re joining us for the first time, we would like to extend a full welcome! Please answer a few questions … Continue reading SIDE WITH LOVE SUNDAY 2022: “What If I Only Had 30 Days to Love?”
Rev. Soto and Journey Toward Wholeness Transformation Team offer an introduction for our community to, “Widening the Circle of Concern” a book that represents the work of the Commission on Institutional Change. We will worship together and honor the spirit of the mission of the congregation. If you’re joining us for the first time, we … Continue reading Mindful of the Past, Hope for the Future
As the new year rolls in, reflecting on the opportunity for reconciliation and transformation calls us forward. This service invites us to explore what it means to stay connected through struggle and change. What do we do when relationships and covenant are broken? Join us to explore further as we include moving away from an … Continue reading There is no away
Given the complexity of racial justice in our country, it’s possible than any mention of privilege would lead folks to think of white privilege and whether or not they think that is real. We won’t be specifically focusing on that, but rather, spend time considering privileges and responsibilities in community and how they connect with … Continue reading The Terrible Privilege (and not white privilege per se)
