07.28.24 Sermon - "Artists Who Inspire: Hung Liu" - Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter Unitarian Universalist Sermons And Conversations From First Unitarian Church Of Dallas podcast

8:18

Welcome to a special edition of Tiny Pulpit Talks — from the minister’s study! 🕊️ Today, Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter, Rev. Beth Dana, and Rev. T. J. FitzGerald sit down to wrestle with a big question on many Unitarian Universalist minds: What do Unitarian Universalists believe about Easter? And why do Unitarian Universalists celebrate Easter? Tune in to explore: Why Easter still matters, even for those who don't embrace a literal resurrection How reclaiming religious language and traditions is a powerful act of justice and resistance The deep, universal themes of death, rebirth, and new beginnings How Easter connects to broader stories of liberation like Passover How to find joy, meaning, and community even when Easter feels complicated The ministers also share a few laughs about Easter eggs on lawns, discuss the struggles many feel with how Christianity is sometimes weaponized, and invite you to find your own meaning in this special season. Come celebrate with us! Whether you’re skeptical, seeking, or full of Easter joy, there’s a place for you here. 🌱 Enjoy the podcast? Consider a one-time gift to support the staff & resources required to keep it going. 💲 Give through PayPal, Venmo, & Apple Pay here: 00:00 – Welcome to a special Tiny Pulpit Talks from the minister’s study 00:57 – Why are so many Unitarians asking about Easter this year? 01:25 – Reclaiming Easter as an act of justice and resistance 01:46 – Easter’s deeper meaning beyond literal resurrection 02:16 – Finding value in ancient stories without needing them to be "true" 04:11 – Easter eggs, Passover connections, and ancient symbols 04:57 – What to say to those feeling exasperated by Easter messaging 05:48 – Christian nationalism vs. the real teachings of Jesus 06:35 – Reclaiming symbols that have been used to harm 06:51 – Why Easter is a joyful and meaningful day in our community 07:10 – Final thoughts: Celebrate with us! 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:…

Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas

1
A Desperate Mad Hope | Easter | Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter | 04.20.25 UU Sermon 17:56

9 дней назад17:56

17:56

In his Unitarian Universalist Easter sermon, Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter invites us to rethink resurrection — not as an ancient miracle, but as a living, breathing hope we carry into today's complicated world. In "A Desperate Mad Hope," Rev. Kanter explores the Unitarian Universalist tradition of questioning and seeking deeper truth: 🌸 What does Easter mean when viewed through love instead of fear? 🌸 How does resurrection show up in our lives amid anxiety, division, and change? 🌸 How can spiritual resilience and hope reshape society for the better? We are reminded: resurrection begins with us — in acts of kindness, courage, and building a moral foundation rooted in love. 💚 Consider making a one-time contribution to First Church today. Your financial support allows us to provide our weekly livestream, produce Tiny Pulpit Talks - our weekly podcast, pay our staff, and make our UU values real in the world. 💲Give through PayPal, Venmo, & Apple Pay 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 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…

Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas

1
Make Way | Palm Sunday | Rev. T. J. FitzGerald | 04.13.2025 22:12

9 дней назад22:12

22:12

On this Palm Sunday, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald invites us into a journey to explore what it means to choose the path of love in a time of fear. Drawing from the story of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, the poetry of Mary Oliver, and the complexities of modern life, this Unitarian Universalist sermon speaks to those seeking courage, clarity, and spiritual depth in troubled times. In this reflection, we ask: What is the passion that moves us forward, even through pain? How do we recognize the “voice still and small” calling us to act? What idols are being welcomed in today’s cities of power—and what does our faith say in response? How does the story of Palm Sunday guide Unitarian Universalists in living our values of justice, love, and freedom? 💚 Consider making a one-time contribution to First Church today. Your financial support allows us to provide our weekly livestream, produce Tiny Pulpit Talks - our weekly podcast, pay our staff, and make our UU values real in the world. 💲Give through PayPal, Venmo, & Apple Pay here: https://tinyurl.com/firstchurchpaypal 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…

Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas

1
How UU Churches Address Mental Health with Love and Action | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 040 9:15

5 weeks назад9:15

9:15

Welcome to Tiny Pulpit Talks! We're so glad you're here. In this episode, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald and Rev. Beth Dana dive into a deeply important conversation about mental health—why it matters, why the church should care, and how we can create a faith community that supports every person’s well-being. Too often, mental health struggles are met with shame, silence, or pressure to "be okay." But in Unitarian Universalism, we believe it's okay to NOT be okay. Our faith calls us to care for the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—and to support one another in times of struggle. We are here to affirm your experiences, offer real support, and connect you with resources that help—not just with faith, but with practical care for your mental health. UUA Peer Pastoral Care Training for Youth: Mental Health First Aid for Youth: Resources that can help: 🌱 Enjoy the podcast? Consider a one-time gift to support the staff & resources required to keep it going. 💲 Give through PayPal, Venmo, & Apple Pay here: 00:00 - Welcome to Tiny Pulpit Talks! 00:35 - Why mental health belongs in church discussions 01:05 - The pressure to always be "good enough" 01:29 - It’s okay to not be okay 01:48 - When faith communities focus too much on achievement 02:04 - The risk of people disappearing from church due to struggle 02:20 - Taking care of yourself comes first 02:53 - The impact of stress and societal pressure on mental health 03:13 - Small wins: Some days, just getting through is enough 05:09 - Faith and mental health: More than just prayer 05:14 - The harm of being told "just have more faith" 05:25 - How our church provides real mental health resources 06:46 - Supporting youth mental health and community care 08:21 - Need help? Reach out. We're here for you. 08:42 - Closing words: We love you. Be well. 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:…

Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas

1
Neighborly Evangelism: Living Your UU Values in Difficult Interactions | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 039 10:00

6 weeks назад10:00

10:00

How do we relate to people who demonstrate values that are offensive or fundamentally different from our own? What does it mean to engage with integrity, especially when we encounter messages—on yard signs, bumper stickers, or even in casual conversations—that challenge our beliefs? In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Reverend T. J. FitzGerald, Minister of Community Care and Engagement, and Reverend Beth Dana, Minister of Faith Development, dive into these tough questions. They explore the importance of relationship context, personal boundaries, and how to respond with authenticity. Plus, they break down the difference between evangelism and proselytizing, redefining what it means to live our values rather than imposing them on others. Tune in to hear share stories, strategies, and reflections on how to approach these challenging interactions while staying true to our faith and principles. 🌱 Enjoy the podcast? Consider a one-time gift to support the staff & resources required to keep it going. 💲 Give through PayPal, Venmo, & Apple Pay here: 00:00 - Welcome to Tiny Pulpit Talks! 01:09 - How do we engage with people who don't share our values? 01:43 - The role of relationships in tough conversations. 02:22 - Deciding when (or if) to engage. 03:40 - Navigating encounters with offensive messages. 04:35 - A real-life example: Challenging harmful stereotypes. 05:43 - What is evangelism vs. proselytizing? 07:09 - Living your values as a form of evangelism. 08:10 - How embodying joy can inspire change. 09:23 - See you on Sunday—worship with us! 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:…

Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas

1
04.06.25 Sermon - “Pilgrimage” - Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter 25:33

6 weeks назад25:33

25:33

Adventure awaits those who seek it…but planning is important. The ancient discipline of pilgrimage has ever more to teach us in a world that seems smaller every day. This sermon is part of our Spiritual Practices to Light the Way series – Supported by the strong foundation of our living Unitarian Universalist faith and our vibrant church community, we are each called to deepen our spiritual lives so that we can have a positive and meaningful impact on the world around us. In this series, we’ll explore the five spiritual practices that light the path forward as we work toward a more just and peaceful world. 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…

Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas

1
03.30.25 Sermon - “Retreat” - Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter 15:56

6 weeks назад15:56

15:56

The world we live in wants our attention all the time. We touch on ways to experience a retreat from the familiar and what this practice can yield in a life. This sermon is part of our Spiritual Practices to Light the Way series – Supported by the strong foundation of our living Unitarian Universalist faith and our vibrant church community, we are each called to deepen our spiritual lives so that we can have a positive and meaningful impact on the world around us. In this series, we’ll explore the five spiritual practices that light the path forward as we work toward a more just and peaceful world. 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…

Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas

1
03.23.25 Sermon - “Monthly Service” - Rev. Beth Dana 18:53

6 weeks назад18:53

18:53

What change do you want to see around you? How we serve our communities says a lot about who we are and what we value. This sermon is part of our Spiritual Practices to Light the Way series – Supported by the strong foundation of our living Unitarian Universalist faith and our vibrant church community, we are each called to deepen our spiritual lives so that we can have a positive and meaningful impact on the world around us. In this series, we’ll explore the five spiritual practices that light the path forward as we work toward a more just and peaceful world. 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…

Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas

1
03.16.25 Sermon - “Weekly Worship” - Rev. T.J. FitzGerald 21:53

6 weeks назад21:53

21:53

Some tell us “You are what you worship.” We talk about what worship means and all it offers us as members of this community. This sermon is part of our Spiritual Practices to Light the Way series – Supported by the strong foundation of our living Unitarian Universalist faith and our vibrant church community, we are each called to deepen our spiritual lives so that we can have a positive and meaningful impact on the world around us. In this series, we’ll explore the five spiritual practices that light the path forward as we work toward a more just and peaceful world. 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…

Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas

1
03.09.25 Sermon - “Daily Practice” - Rev. Beth Dana 14:51

6 weeks назад14:51

14:51

This sermon is part of our Spiritual Practices to Light the Way series – Supported by the strong foundation of our living Unitarian Universalist faith and our vibrant church community, we are each called to deepen our spiritual lives so that we can have a positive and meaningful impact on the world around us. In this series, we’ll explore the five spiritual practices that light the path forward as we work toward a more just and peaceful world. 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…

Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas

1
What Does Lent Mean to Unitarian Universalists? | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 038 9:18

7 weeks назад9:18

9:18

In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald and Rev. Beth Dana dive into the meaning and traditions of the Lenten season—a time of reflection, connection, and transformation. Lent isn't just about giving something up; it's about making space for something deeper. We explore the history of these 40 days, the significance of sacrifice and renewal, and the communal journey of spiritual growth. From personal stories of Lenten practices to the rituals of Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, and beyond, we invite you to reflect on what this season means for you. Join us in exploring how Lent can be a time of meaningful change—not just for individuals, but for our whole community. How are you observing Lent this year? Let us know in the comments! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and join us on Sundays throughout Lent for the sermon series "Spiritual Practice to Light the Way." 🌱 Enjoy the podcast? Consider a one-time gift to support the staff & resources required to keep it going. 💲 Give through PayPal, Venmo, & Apple Pay here: 00:00 - Welcome to Tiny Pulpit Talks! Introduction to Lent and today’s discussion. 00:49 - What is Lent? The 40-day journey leading up to Easter. 01:18 - The significance of '40' in scripture. Biblical connections to the number 40. 01:58 - Personal Lenten practices. Rev. T.J. and Rev. Beth share their experiences. 04:04 - More than just giving something up. How Lent can be about creating space for something new. 04:45 - The burning service and Ash Wednesday. How our church begins the season. 06:44 - The communal journey of Lent. Why we don’t do this alone. 07:32 - Maundy Thursday and Good Friday. The powerful traditions leading up to Easter. 08:34 - Looking ahead. Inviting you to reflect and engage with Lent in your own way. 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:…

Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas

1
03.02.25 Sermon - “Easy Grace” - Rev. T.J. FitzGerald 20:35

7 weeks назад20:35

20:35

We explore the roots of Mardi Gras and hold close the place that brings those traditions to so many, even still, New Orleans. 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…

Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas

1
02.23.25 Sermon - “Becoming” - YRUU of First Unitarian Church of Dallas 14:28

8 weeks назад14:28

14:28

Join us for a much loved and meaningful tradition – Youth Sunday! Our YRUU teens lead the service, sharing their musical gifts and reflections on the theme of “Becoming.” 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…

Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas

1
A Place to Belong: How UU Communities Support Children & Youth | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 037 13:28

9 weeks назад13:28

13:28

How do we nurture young people in the Unitarian Universalist faith while balancing the many demands of life? In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Reverend T.J. Fitzgerald (Minister of Community Care Engagement) sits down with Reverend Beth Dana (Minister of Faith Development) to explore what it means to raise children in Unitarian Universalism. Rev. Beth shares her personal experience as both someone raised in the faith and a parent raising her own children within Unitarian Universalism. Together, they discuss the many ways our church community supports young people—from early childhood experiences in the nursery to engaging curricula for all ages, including beloved programs like OWL (Our Whole Lives), Odyssey, and YRUU (Young Religious Unitarian Universalists). More than just education, they talk about how Unitarian Universalist communities uplift young voices, encourage leadership, and walk alongside children and youth on their spiritual journeys. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or simply curious about what our church offers families with children, this episode if for you! If you enjoyed this discussion, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with others! We’ll see you next time on Tiny Pulpit Talks—and until then, we’ll see you on Sunday! 🌱 Enjoy the podcast? Consider a one-time gift to support the staff & resources required to keep it going. 💲 Give through PayPal, Venmo, & Apple Pay here: 00:00 - Welcome to Tiny Pulpit Talks 01:32 - Why raise children in Unitarian Universalism? 02:32 - How UU communities support young people 03:27 - Preschool and early childhood learning 04:19 - Faith development starts in the nursery 04:59 - Growing with stories, questions, and values 05:29 - The role of teachers and mentors in UU education 07:11 - OWL (Our Whole Lives) – Comprehensive s3xuality education 08:52 - Odyssey – The 9th-grade coming-of-age program 09:26 - YRUU – Youth leadership and community engagement 10:24 - Supporting youth participation without overwhelming them 12:32 - Final thoughts and how to get involved 12:53 - Subscribe and see you on Sunday! 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:…

Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas

1
02.16.25 Sermon - “The Doctrine of Our Church” - Rev. T.J. FitzGerald 23:13

9 weeks назад23:13