Recent Programs

Join us on Sunday, November 17, 2024 at 11am in person or on ZOOM for

"I Am What I Am: An Exploration of Identity"

Identity  of kinds is an inherent part of the human experience. It can bring  unity to a group just as  it can be used to cause division. It can make  individuals feel a sense of wholeness as well as alienation. 

Unitarian  Universalism's first, third and fourth Principles are about the  inherent worth and dignity of every person, acceptance of one another,  and a free and responsible search for truth and meaning respectively.  Gender identity has been and is being used as a political football to  divide us, but it is not the only identity being used this way. More  often than not, we will be identified by others in the way most obvious  or important to them, whether race, gender, age, ethnicity, religion,  physical ability, mental ability, political affiliation, legal status,  or any of a myriad of other things. 

However,  though we may outwardly be part of the groups other people identify us  with, it may not reflect what is most important to us and how we  identify internally. Each of us has many different cultures and  subcultures we belong to, and often parts of our sense of identity have a  relationship to those cultures. But what elements actually end up being  most important to us, and how does that combine into who we feel we  truly are?  

We  will explore these questions together, as well as taking time to  observe Transgender Day of Remembrance by acknowledging the transgender  members of our larger community who we have lost through violence in the  United States this past year. 

Everyone is invited to stay for Coffee and Conversation after the service.

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Join us on Sunday, November 10, 2024 at 11am in person or on ZOOM as we welcome Rev. Charles Loflin,  Executive Director of UU Faith Action NJ to present

"We Can Do Hard Things"

In   planning and policy  fields, a "wicked problem” is one that is   difficult or impossible to  solve because of incomplete, contradictory,   and changing requirements  that are often difficult to recognize.   Classic examples of wicked  problems include: Climate change,  Education,  Sustainability, and Income  Inequality. How can  our  Unitarian  Universalist faith perspective guide  us in our approach to  wicked  problems? 

Everyone is invited to stay for Coffee and Conversation after the service.

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Join us on Sunday, November 3, 2024 at 11am in person or on ZOOM as LUUF member Janice Kirn presents

"One Vote, One Voice"

The  only way to ensure democracy, is to value our vote and to  participate  in elections. This year the status of our country as a free  nation is  on the ballot. Please join us on November 3rd as we dive into  the  importance of the individual vote. The importance of speaking up.  The  importance of turning voices into action by virtue of exercising our   vote. 

Election Day is November 5th, but early voting has started on NJ and ends at 6:00 pm November 3rd. Click here for more information on early voting in NJ.

All are invited for Coffee and Conversation after the Service.

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Join us on Sunday, October 27, 2024 at 11am in person or on ZOOM as LUUF members Cathy and Rich Nasch present

"All Saints Day aka Day of the Dead"

This  is the time of year when many cultures honor the dead and consider the  veil between the living and the dead to be thinnest. On November 1st All  Saints Day is celebrated by various Christian denominations all over  the world by going to church to honor Christian saints and martyrs who  are in heaven, and to pray for the dead. The Day of the Dead or el Día  de los Muertos , is also celebrated on November 1st and  2nd in Mexico  honoring deceased loved ones by various traditions including bringing  food and flowers to their graves to share.

Join  us to explore ALL SAINTS DAY aka DAY OF THE DEAD. Bring a  photo, a  special food, or just a fond recollection in remembrance of a deceased  loved one for a short, respectful ritual in the traditional  Mexican  way. 

All are invited for Coffee and Conversation after the Service.

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Join us on Sunday, October 20, 2024 at 11am in person or on ZOOM as we welcome back Rev Allen Wells to present

"LIVING WELL WITH CLIMATE CHANGE"

The  naturalist poet, Wendell Berry has written:  “Be joyful though you   have considered all the facts.”  From a different perspective, if you   look deeply and distinguish between the oneness of the world which is a   fact and our historical mythology and theology which has taught us   separation and professed the need for dominance, we can find meaning  and  even live with joy!  

Rev.   Wells  has been part of the UU world since the 1960s, and has been a   Guest Minister at LUUF for at least 20 years.  He is now the community    minister at the Morristown Unitarian Fellowship, and once served    congregations in Weymouth, MA,  Hollis Queens, Brooklyn, and Rockland   County, NY.  He directed  The Allen Wells Center for Psychotherapy and   Healing in Morristown NJ.  He now teaches meditation and has a private   practice in mindfulness  based counseling.   

All are invited for Coffee and Conversation after the Service.

Click here to see Upcoming Services or go to the tab under "News."

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October 13, 2024 Poetry Slalom

Join us on Sunday, October 13, 2024 at 11am in person or on ZOOM as LUUF member Moira leads us through a 

"Poetry Slalom: Where Text and Art Hit the Wall"

This  Sunday Moira will take us on a journey through how and when Poetry and  visual arts connect with, and  reflect each other in fully realizing the  composer's message.  She will present a brief overview of poets who  have done this, before opening the floor for attendees to either share  poetry and art that follows the same general theme, or to share anything   that is meaningful to them, whether serious or comic, original or  written by others. So bring your contribution to share, or just come to  listen and discuss. 

Anyone who would like to share visuals electronically, can send a photo or graphic to Luufnews@gmail.com for inclusion in the service presentation.

All are invited for Coffee and Conversation after the Service.

Click here to see Upcoming Services or go to the tab under "News."

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Join us on Sunday, October 6, 2024 at 11am in person or on ZOOM as LUUF member Janice Kirn leads us in a 

"Blessing of the Animals"

A  version of The Blessing of the Animals is held in many different  religions world wide. In  Catholicism, it is performed on the Feast of  Saint Francis of Assisi, October 4th.  It is a celebration of the animals of the world by honoring and blessing those animals that enrich or have enriched our lives. 

Saint Francis is associated with the patronage of animals and the environment.  October 4 has since become World Animal Day.

This  service will take place outdoors either in our walled garden, or on our  wrap around porch. Everyone is encouraged to bring their pet, companion  animal, or a picture of a special animal in your life. Please bring  appropriate restraints and snacks to make sure your animal can be  controlled for the safety of everyone. 

All are invited for Coffee and Conversation after the Service. 

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Join us on Sunday, Sept 29, 2024 at 11am in person or on ZOOM as we examine the way that

"Every Issue Has Many Sides"

As humans we like things to be simple, but whether we are  talking about interpersonal relationships,  social situations, or political conflicts, most things are complex. This desire for simplicity can make people vulnerable to jumping to conclusions or being manipulated by others.

Unitarian Universalism's 1st and 2nd Principles recognize " The inherent worth and dignity of every person" and call on us to practice "Justice, equity and compassion in human relations."  We will explore why a willingness to  look at issues from many sides and factoring in many components can help us in trying to follow these Principles.

All are invited for Coffee and Conversation after the Service. 

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Happy Fall!

Join us on Sunday, Sept 22, 2024 at 11am in person or on ZOOM as we celebrate the turning of the seasons  with

"Autumnal Equinox Traditions"

The  2024 Autumnal or Fall Equinox will happen at 8:43 am ET on Sunday,  September 22nd. Together we can explore the traditions practiced to mark  this often overlooked milestone. 

This  time of year is busy and we are often distracted, but it is time of  year that has been spiritually significant for various cultures for  millennia. Most traditions in the Northern Hemisphere connect it to the  harvest and for some, the beginning of the new year. Let's take some  time to focus on this moment in the natural world and see what  traditions speak to us.

All are invited for Coffee and Conversation after the Service. 

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Join us on Sunday, September 15, 2024 at 11am in person or on ZOOM as LUUF member Min Mulholland leads us in a program celebrating Hispanic-American Heritage,

"Flight of Dreams"

On  Sunday September 15, we will celebrate the robust influences  emanating  from our ancestral Latin America.  There is no escaping  Hispanic  Heritage Month because we live and enjoy it daily. 
Does an  hour pass without thought or mention of any one of the  following:  Alex  Rodriguez, Frida Kahlo, Sonia Sotomayor, JLo, potato,  corn?  Join us  with a memory of the hour that excluded any such thought  or  mention. 

All are invited to Coffee and Conversation following the service.

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Join us on Sunday, September 8, 2024 at 11am in person or on ZOOM as we come back together to begin the 2024-2025 Service Year with our

"In-Gathering Water Service"

LUUF's   Water Ceremony is based on the Unitarian Universalist ceremony started   in 1980. The original authors have said "the ocean is considered by  many  to be the place from which all life on our planet came—it is the  womb  of life—and that amniotic waters surround each of us prenatally,  we now  realize that [the service]was for us a new story of creation.”

Bring   water to share from a place that is important to you or use the water   we will have available. We will combine the waters while participants   share water's personal connections as well as any global thoughts they   may care to share. As we combine the water from all our sources, we   commit ourselves to each other and our larger community in the coming   year.

All are invited to Coffee and Conversation following the service.

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Join us on Sunday, June 30, 2024 at 11am in person or on ZOOM for 

"Summer Solstice Traditions"

The summer solstice occurred last week and is the official beginning of summer.   Like the winter solstice, the summer solstice has been celebrated throughout history by cultures all over the world. We will look at some of those traditions as we celebrate our last regular program of the service year, and look forward to the beginning of of our Summer Sunday Porch chats each Sunday at 10 am from July 14-Aug 25.

Everyone is encouraged to stay for Coffee and Conversation after the service.

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Join us on Sunday, June 23, 2024 at 11am in person or on ZOOM for 

"Nurturing a Beloved Community"

The term "Beloved Community" was first coined by  philosopher-theologian Josiah Royce in the early 20th century, then popularized by Martin Luther King Jr. as he envisioned a global movement dedicated to the principles of nonviolence and the wellbeing of all peoples throughout the world. Since then it has been redefined many times to fit the needs of  various groups, including by Unitarian Universalists. 

This Sunday, while respecting the history and complexity of the Beloved Community, we will recognize it on a smaller scale, that of a small congregation made up of individuals who support each other and the work of the congregation to create a better future in whatever ways we can. 

Everyone is encouraged to stay for Coffee and Conversation after the service.

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Join us on Sunday, June 16, 2024 at 11am in person or on ZOOM as LUUF Co-President, Rich Nasch leads our 

"Father's Day Celebration!"

Father's Day was inaugurated in 1910  by a woman who was raised by a single father to celebrate fathers, fathering and fatherhood. In many ways the concept of   what fatherhood entails has changed and expanded since then.  Rich Nasch,  as a father, will give his take on the subject and invite discussion from everyone present.

Everyone is encouraged to stay for Coffee and Conversation after the service.

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Join us on Sunday, June 9, 2024 at 11am in person or on ZOOM as we  come together to celebrate community and the natural diversity of our world with the 

"Flower Ceremony"

One of the things that the Flower Ceremony symbolizes is the way diverse individuals come together to make a beautiful whole. For this celebration, bring flowers virtually or in-person, or use one from those that will be supplied  to make our bouquet. Then share, if you are willing, your connection to the flower you brought and a different one you choose from the bouquet to take home. (Virtual flowers can be sent to LUUFnews@gmail.com through Saturday, June 8 for inclusion in the service.)

Everyone is encouraged to stay for Coffee and Conversation after the service.

Join us on Sunday, June 2, 2024 at 11am in person or on ZOOM as we welcome back Rev. Allen Wells for

"PERSONAL IDENTITY AND IDENTITY POLITICS" 

Personal identity is a huge issue for everyone as they are growing up trying to understand who they are and how they fit into their society. For many people this becomes even more difficult if they do not naturally fit into the expected "norms" of the society they are raised in.  No matter  what one's personal identity is, identity politics inevitably impacts each of us in both obvious and subtle ways.  Let’s evaluate the personal identity and identity politics benefits and bedevilments from a spiritual perspective. 

Everyone is encouraged to join us for the  Wayne for Change 4th Annual Pride Festival after the service!  See below or on our special events page for more information.

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Join us on Sunday, May 26, 2024 at 11am in person or on ZOOM for

"Memorial Day Remembrance" 

The catastrophe that was the U.S. Civil War was the impetus for Decoration Day, the original name for Memorial Day.  It was a day to decorate graves of fallen soldiers with flowers, remember them, and mourn them. In this service, attendees will be free to express the thoughts and feelings this day inspires in them both positively and negatively in an open discussion.  

Everyone is encouraged to join for Coffee and Conversation following the service.

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May is Jewish-American Heritage Month!

Join us on Sunday, May 19, 2024 at 11am in person or on ZOOM for

"Honoring Jewish-American Contributions" 

 In 2006, President George W. Bush proclaimed May as Jewish American Heritage Month.  This Sunday we will explore some of the myriad of contributions, from science to the arts to spirituality, that Jewish-Americans have made  in the last 370 years since the first permanent Jewish community was established in what would become the United States of America.   

Everyone is encouraged to join for Coffee and Conversation following the service.

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Happy Mothers Day!

Join us on Sunday, May 12, 2024 at 11am in person or on ZOOM for a 

" Mothers Day Celebration!" 

Mothers have been recognized by societies throughout history in many different ways and for many different reasons. We will look at this history while celebrating all the people who take on the mothering role. We will take time for everyone to share thoughts on mothers, on being mothers and on those who  act as mothers.

Everyone is encouraged to join for Coffee and Conversation following the service.

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Join us on Sunday, May 5, 2024 at 11am in person or on ZOOM as we welcome back Rev. Allen Wells to present 

" Everything is a  Verb,  Including You " 

Language is a powerful tool in all elements of human society.  Grammar is used  to help standardize the language to enhance communication while at the same time can also be used as a means of control by societies, subcultures and individuals. However, grammar, like language and life itself, is fluid  changing over time  though natural forces, but also through personal intention.

Rev Wells says, "With you I'd like to play with the thought that variations in our grammar can introduce us to new ways of being in the world."

Rev. Wells  has been part of the UU world since the 1960s, and has been a Guest Minister at LUUF for at least 20 years.  He is now the community  minister at the Morristown Unitarian Fellowship, and once served  congregations in Weymouth, MA,  Hollis Queens, Brooklyn, and Rockland County, NY.  He directed  The Allen Wells Center for Psychotherapy and Healing in Morristown NJ.  He now teaches meditation and has a private practice in mindfulness  based counseling.   

Everyone is encouraged to join for Coffee and Conversation following the service.

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Join us on Sunday, April 28, 2024 at 11am in person or on ZOOM as we welcome guest speaker  Bill Prinzivalli to present 

"Improv as a Spiritual Practice" 

Improvisational theater, or improv, is performed spontaneously without a written script through collaboration with other performers. As with so many other art forms, it can be used in many ways far beyond that of its original intent. The art-form of improv has many principles that are considered spiritual, including acceptance, generosity, authenticity, deep listening, and selflessness. The session will describe and demonstrate these interconnections. 

Bill Prinzivalli is President of the Metaphysical Center of NJ.  He has been with MCNJ for many years as a student, teacher, advisor, and now President.  He is also an  entrepreneur, executive coach, organizational consultant, author, speaker, improviser, and program creator/facilitator. 

Everyone is encouraged to join for Coffee and Conversation following the service.

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April is Earth Month!

Join us on Sunday, April 21, 2024 at 11am in person or on ZOOM for 

" Earth Day: How Are We Doing? " 

The first Earth Day was April 22, 1970. That day galvanized  the country, inspiring 20 million people, 10% of the population, to rally in streets, parks, auditoriums and schools to demonstrate for change in government policies, business policies and cultural attitudes toward how we treat the Earth. It has been 54 years. So how are we doing?

We will look at the progress and the disappointments as we try to answer that very important question.

Everyone is encouraged to join the coffee and conversation following the service.

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April is Poetry Month!

Join us on Sunday, April 14, 2024 at 11am in person or on ZOOM for our

" Annual Poetry Celebration " 

Bring poetry to share or just come to enjoy what others bring. It can be original or simply something you found that speaks to you. It can be serious or comic, full of hidden meaning or bluntly said.  Come and celebrate the varied joys of poetry!

Everyone is encouraged to join the coffee and conversation following the service.

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Join us on Sunday, April 7, 2024 at 11am in person or on ZOOM as we welcome back Rev. Allen Wells to present:

" You Aren’t Who You Think You Are " 

The subject of identity is complex. It us both a personal and social/political. Rev Wells will take a brief look at how we develop personal identity, how  "identity politics”, contributes to political incohesion, and how we have the marvelous ability to dissolve our identity into the experience of oneness.   

Everyone is encouraged to join the coffee and conversation following the service. 

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Happy Easter!

Join us on Sunday, March 31, 2024 at 11am in person or on ZOOM as we explore:

"Easter and Resurrection" 

Easter ends Christian Holy Week. This week consists of an arc going from triumph through betrayal and tragedy, finally ending with hope in the form of resurrection.   Unitarian Universalism  draws from sources as diverse as science, poetry, scripture, and personal experience. Among the six sources our congregations affirm and promote is Jewish and Christian teachings as well as other world religions. We will look at the story of the Christian Holy Week and explore the concept of Hope as embodied in the concept of resurrection.

Everyone is encouraged to join the coffee and conversation following the service.

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Happy Spring!

Join us on March 24, 2024 at 11am in person or on ZOOM as we explore the question:

"What is the Meaning of the Spring Equinox?" 

There is the astronomical meaning of the Spring, or Vernal Equinox, but beyond that definition, cultures, religions and individuals have imbued it with deep spiritual and emotional significance throughout history up to the present day. This can be said of the Autumnal Equinox and both Solstices as well. However, since the Vernal Equinox of 2024 will usher in the Spring season at 11:09 pm on Tuesday, March 17, this Sunday we will explore some of the various meanings of the  Spring Equinox. A discussion will follow the presentation.

Everyone is encouraged to join the coffee and conversation following the service.

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Join us on March 17, 2024 at 11am in person or on ZOOM as we welcome back guest speaker Rev. Allen Wells to present, 

"Two Kinds of People" 

Rev. Wells says:

There are two kinds of people, those who believe there are two kinds of people and those who do not.  Those who believe there are, see the world as divided.  Those who do not, see the world as fundamentally whole.  Let’s explore this paradox together this Sunday!    

Everyone is encouraged to join the coffee and conversation following the service.

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Happy Women's History Month! 

Join us in person or on Zoom Sunday, March 10, 2024 at 11am as we explore

          "Contribution of Unitarian and Universalist Women"

The Unitarian Universalist History and Heritage Society compiled a listing of over 800 UU women that have made contributions that have been talked about in publications, presentations and/or worship services. Some,  like Abigail Adams, Clara Barton, Dorothea Dix, Louisa May Alcott and many others are well known for their contributions in fields such as politics, health, social reform, and literature. Others like Antoinette Brown Blackwell and Olympia Brown, against great odds, broke the ban on women in the ministry moving Unitarianism and Universalism and women's rights forward.

We will explore the stories of a selected  few of these extraordinary women and their contributions to our denominations and society.

Everyone is encouraged to join the coffee and conversation following the service.

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Join us in person or on Zoom Sunday, March 3, 2024 at 11am as we welcome back guest speaker Ina Cabrera to present a

          "Binaural Sound Bath"

Sound can strongly impact us emotionally and physically. Whether if it is our favorite relaxing music or an explosion that makes our ears ring, we have all experienced, and often used the effects of sound to induce emotional or physical reactions.

This Sunday,  Ina Cabrera  will use finely tuned crystal bowls  to create an oscillation to produce an inner Theta brainwave state in the listeners. Theta Waves are associated with the deepest form of relaxation. The Theta state is when the brain slows almost to the point of sleep while one is still fully conscious. Clear your mind and retune your body with slow yoga movement followed by the healing vibration of crystal bowls tuned to 432 and 440hz.

Everyone is encouraged to join the coffee and conversation following the service.

Join us in person or on Zoom Sunday, February 25, 2024 at 11am for 

          "What is Animism?"

It has been suggested that a type of Animism is likely humanity's original religion. Forms of Animism are practiced as a primary religion by cultures throughout the world, while elements of Animism are recognizable in religions often described as "mainstream"  as well as in our language and culture. Animism is different depending upon the culture, but generally asserts the belief that everything has a spirit of some kind. We will explore some of those beliefs and some of the ways Animism is practiced today.

Everyone is encouraged to join the coffee and conversation following the service.

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Join us in person or on Zoom Sunday, February 18, 2024 at 11am for 

          "Our Black Unitarian Universalist Ancestors and Leaders"

Unitarian Universalism has a rich legacy of independent thinkers who challenged society's norms. Even so,  African-American Unitarians and Universalists had an uphill battle for acceptance. This week we will look at  the stories of some of those pioneering ancestors  as well as some of our African American leaders of today. 

Everyone is encouraged to join the coffee and conversation following the service.

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Join us in person or on Zoom Sunday, February 11, 2024 at 11am as we welcome back Rev.Allen Wells to present

          " IS LIVING WITHOUT A BELIEF IN SIN POSSIBLE?"

Except for a few mystics, most of us, and most of our culture, depends upon a belief in sin, at least to the extent that’s there’s something fundmantally wrong with us which we must improve upon or fix.

What would our lives be like if this belief were not true?

Rev. Wells  has been part of the UU world since the 1960s, and has been a Guest Minister at LUUF for at least 20 years.  He is now the community  minister at the Morristown Unitarian Fellowship, and once served  congregations in Weymouth, MA,  Hollis Queens, Brooklyn, and Rockland County, NY.  He directed  The Allen Wells Center for Psychotherapy and Healing in Morristown NJ.  He now teaches meditation and has a private practice in mindfulness  based counseling.  

Everyone is encouraged to join the coffee and conversation following the service.

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Join us in person or on Zoom February 4, 2024 at 11am as we welcome back Rev. Charles Loflin to present

          "This I Know"

What do you know for certain? How can you know it’s true? What do our collective answers to those questions say about the Unitarian Universalist faith? 

Unitarian Universalists are known for asking questions and discussing the answers rather than dictating beliefs. This week we will be lead in that discussion by Rev. Charles Loflin, Executive Director of Unitarian Universalist Faith Action NJ who is one of our most requested past speakers. 

UU Faith Action NJ is a wonderful organization LUUF is proud to support. It  coordinates grassroots social justice advocacy with member congregations (including LUUF) and individual UUs and allies across the state of New Jersey.  They work to establish a just and compassionate public policy that is consistent with Unitarian Universalist principles and purposes. 

Everyone is encouraged to join the coffee and conversation following the service.

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Join us in person or on Zoom January 28, 2024 11am as we welcome back musical guests The DeMasi Brothers to present

          "It's a Celebration!"

Join contemporary UU folk singers Joseph and John DeMasi as they start the New Year with a Musical Celebration of our UU Principles and Values.  

Award-winning twin brothers Joseph and John DeMasi are contemporary folk singers, songwriters and recording artists whose songs are imbued with their Unitarian Universalist beliefs of love, inclusion, tolerance, understanding, and worth and dignity for all. With Joseph on guitar and John on guitar and fiddle, the DeMasi Brothers bring a unique musical experience full of wit, humor, intellect, and poignancy to every concert and  show they perform. 

Everyone is encouraged to join the coffee and conversation following the service. 

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Join us in person or on Zoom January 21, 2024 11am as we welcome back guest speaker  Ayşe Gürcanlı to present

          "What is Ramadan?"

Ramadan,  the holiest month in Islam, will start at sundown on  Sunday, March 10, and end at sundown on Tuesday, April 9, 2024.   It is marked by a period of fasting and spiritual reflection. Chosen by God, it involves special worship practices such as fasting from dawn to sunset, engaging in tarawih prayers, reciting the entire Qur'an, giving to charity (almsgiving), and participating in a festival prayer at the end. Muslims worldwide undergo a temporary lifestyle change, dedicating themselves to earning spiritual rewards during this month. It serves as a time to draw closer to God through diverse worship activities, inviting all who can to partake in these sacred practices. 

Ayşe Gürcanlı, Islamic Studies Teacher and Peace Island Interfaith Events Coordinator, will give an overview of this important Islamic holiday and take questions. 

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Join us in person or on Zoom January 14, 2024 11am as we continue

          "Exploring Personal Spirituality"

The 3rd Principle in Unitarian Universalism includes "encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations," while the 4th Principle calls for "a free and responsible search for truth and meaning." In light of these two Principles, and that our congregation includes monotheists, polytheists, agnostics, and atheists as members, we recognize that spirituality comes in different forms for different people and that  the definition of  spirituality often differs for individuals depending on their beliefs. In this service, we will explore what personal spirituality can and does mean in the world and to our congregation.

Everyone is encouraged to join the coffee and conversation following the service.

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Happy New Year!

Join us in person or on Zoom December 31, 2023 11am as we celebrate the New Year by welcoming guest artist Michelle Tong to present

          "From Chaos to Inner Peace"

She will perform and discuss piano works that nurtured a musical journey from childhood to artistic commitment - 

Michelle is a classically trained pianist.  A prominent member of the Association of Classical Musicians and Artists (ACMA) and the New York Pianist Club (NYPC), Michelle frequently performs at the National Opera Center and venues in the NYC area.  Highlights for Michelle in 2023 include the invitational performances for the Friends of Maple Grove Concert Series and the Langston Hughes Cultural Center in New York.  In June 2024, Michelle will present a solo composition for Passion Through Performance at Carnegie Hall.

Everyone is encouraged to join the coffee and conversation following the service.

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Happy Holidays!

Join us in person or on Zoom December 24, 2023 11am as we celebrate the holidays by sharing our holiday stories and songs.

For this  service we ask that everyone who is willing, bring their holiday stories to share. Although this is Christmas Eve, any seasonal holiday story is welcome,  whether Yule, Kwanzaa, New Year's, the season in general, or even Christmas! Expect candles, familiar seasonal songs and fellowship. 

Everyone is encouraged to stay for Coffee and Conversation after the service.

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Join us in person or on Zoom December 17, 2023 11am as we welcome the holiday of Yule (Winter Solstice) while looking back in time to what winter might have been to some of our ancestors.  

This year the Winter Solstice, also known as the  Yule holiday, is at 10:27 pm on Thursday Dec. 21. It signals the beginning of winter and the return of longer days and shorter nights. 

Our modern view of winter often involves constant movement and struggle with arduous commutes through snowstorms, picking our way through ice and slush, and fighting holiday crowds. However, is that what winter was in the distant past and can we rediscover some of the positive aspects we sometimes overlook?

In the cold climates, in much older times, as winter continued after the autumn holidays, families gathered close together in a time of  rest, reflection and re-connection . We will endeavor to  reconnect with those aspects of the season that we sometimes lose sight of in our hustle and bustle, non-stop world.

Everyone is encouraged to stay for Coffee and Conversation after the service.

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Join us Sunday, Dec. 10 at 11 am in-person or on Zoom as we have a guided discussion concerning

In a congregation whose members contain monotheists, polytheists, atheists and agnostics, how do we define spirituality? Is it a word that only applies to experiences in a religious service, or can it have a larger and more personal meaning? Some would define it as whatever makes you feel connected to something larger than yourself, others may disagree. 

Unitarian Universalism does not dictate theological beliefs that members must adhere to. Instead we have Principles and Sources that we use to  help guide us in our everyday actions. Therefore our congregations can contain people with many different religious beliefs as well as those who are atheists and agnostics. In this service, we will look at various definitions of spirituality and discuss our personal reactions to the word itself as well as what we each consider spiritual.

Everyone is encouraged to stay for Coffee and Conversation after the service.

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Join us Sunday, Dec. 3 at 11 am in-person or on Zoom as we welcome back Rev. Allen Wells to present

Many of us feel overwhelmed by the multitude of alarming events and issues that bombard us every day.  Sharing our thoughts about how we react and deal with these emotions can be valuable to us all.

Rev. Wells shared, " I was affected more than I would like to admit by reading an article in the Sun. NY Times of 11/19/23 about an environmental activist who immolated himself in a public park because he felt he could not make a difference in reducing our impending overheating climate and its inevitable impact upon all species, including ourselves. I wonder if his extreme disillusionment doesn’t resonate with others of us as well as we consider the multitude of ill omens we face. I’d like to talk to you about perspective and means of healing."   

Everyone is encouraged to stay for Coffee and Conversation after the service.

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Nov. 26, 2023 The Impossible Dream
Join us Sunday, Nov. 26 at 11 am in-person or on Zoom as we welcome musical guest John Bowen to present

John Bowen will lead us in song as well as perform works from the baroque and 20th c. keyboard repertoire.   As a working musical director, John will share moments of backstage “fires” and peak performance experiences. 

John’s work, nationally and in the NYC area,  encompasses the complete repertory which includes - Tommy  (the Who), Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, Anything Goes, Fiddler On The Roof, Gypsy, Aida, and You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown.  Venues of recent classical recitals include Weill Recital Hall/Carnegie Hall, Symphony Space, Minsky Recital Hall and Scorca Hall at Opera America. 

Everyone is encouraged to stay for Coffee  and Conversation after the service.

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Join us Sunday, Nov. 19 at 11 am in-person or on Zoom as LUUF member Carol Swift presents

As the winter holidays approach they bring a multitude of emotions. In this time of social division and world-wide discord it can be easy to be overwhelmed by the problems surrounding us.  

We will concentrate this week on remembrance of people and events both personal and global as well as the thankfulness that many of those same things engender.  We will explore the duality of the sadness of loss with the gratitude of having had the experience either with people or events. Whether it is gratitude for people we have known but lost, or thankfulness that certain people existed in the world to enrich the lives of others, we will acknowledge the loss as we celebrate their lives. In honor of Transgender Day of Remembrance, this will include a reading of the transgender victims of violence who have died in 2023.

Everyone is encouraged to stay for Coffee and Conversation after the service.

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Join us Sunday, Nov. 12 at 11 am in-person or on Zoom as LUUF member Richard Nasch presents

Symbols, Totems and Signs are a fundamental part of human culture and communication, serving as powerful tools for conveying meaning, expressing identity, and connecting with one another.  They can also be a beacon for inspiration and spiritual connection.  This will be an exploration into the origins and meanings of some of our sacred guideposts. 

Everyone is encouraged to stay for Coffee and Conversation  after the service.

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Join us Sunday,Nov. 5 at 11 am in-person or on Zoom as LUUF member Min Mullholland leads the

 An important Chinese tradition, the Mid-Autumn Festival,  also known as the Moon Festival or Mooncake Festival,  is yet another occasion for families and friends to gather in exuberance of gratitude and positive expectations.  

The Mid-Autumn Festival  is held on the 15th day of the 8th month of the Chinese lunisolar calendar with a full moon at night, corresponding to mid-September through early October on the Gregorian calendar. On this day, the Chinese believe that the moon is at its brightest and fullest size, coinciding with harvest time in the middle of autumn.

The Mid-Autumn Festival is one of the most important holidays in Chinese culture; its popularity is on par with that of Chinese New Year, and dates back over 3,000 years. The custom of eating a mooncake in this tradition pays homage to the legendary loyalty shared between Goddess Chang’e and  Hou Hyi the Archer.   Now knowing about the origins of mooncakes, come and eat a few on November 5 !

Everyone is encouraged to stay for Coffee and Conversation (and mooncakes) after the service.  

Oct. 29 Mother Mary from an Islamic Perspective

Join us Sunday, October 29 at 11 am in-person or on Zoom as we welcome guest speaker,  Ayşe Gürcanlı  to present

"Mother Mary from an Islamic Perspective"

In our ongoing exploration of spiritual beliefs in the culturally diverse society that we are all a part of, LUUF has invited Ayşe Gürcanlı, Islamic Studies Teacher and Peace Island Interfaith Events Coordinator, to examine the life of Mary, mother of Jesus, from an Islamic perspective through Qur’anic verses . Mary is  described for Muslims as a  distinguished , revered and respected figure. Many Muslims love Mary , name their daughters after her and consider her as the mother of believers.

 A discussion will follow the presentation.

Everyone is encouraged to stay for Coffee and Conversation after the service.

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Oct. 22 From Healing to Living: Learning to Accept my Chronic Pain

Join us Sunday, October 22 at 11 am in-person or on Zoom as LUUF member, Wirt Honnick presents

"From Healing to Living: Learning to Accept my Chronic Pain"

Much of the focus of spirituality is about healing oneself: Christian miracles of Jesus healing the sick, Pagan deities who have a healing aspect to them, and the general concept of "spiritual health" is widespread in society and culture. What if you could never be better? What if you are always going to be sick? As a chronically ill person, what role does healing play in ones path? And when is it more valuable to focus on other, more reachable goals? 

Everyone is encouraged to stay for Coffee and Conversation after the service.

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 Oct. 8 Joseph Campbell and the Power of Myth part II: The Message of the Myth

Join us Oct. 8 at 11am in person or on Zoom as we explore 

Joseph Campbell and the Power of Myth Part II: 

‘The Message of the Myth’

Myth has been used to communicate spiritual, cultural, and societal expectations and warnings throughout human history in all parts of the world. In order to spur discussion, we will use selections from the Bill Moyers conversation with mythologist Joseph Campbell as they  compare creation myths from the Bible and elsewhere, and talk about how religions and mythologies need to change with time in order to maintain their relevance in peoples’ lives. A discussion will follow the presentation.

Everyone is invited to stay for Coffee and Conversation after the service.

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Oct. 1 - Joseph Campbell and the Power of Myth: 'The Hero’s Adventure' part I

Join us Oct. 1 at 11am in person or on Zoom as we explore 

Joseph Campbell and the Power of Myth: 'The Hero’s Adventure' Part I

Myth has been used to communicate spiritual, cultural, and societal expectations and warnings throughout human history in all parts of the world. We will use selections from the Bill Moyers conversation with mythologist Joseph Campbell about the consistent and enduring hero patterns steeped in the spiritual and social contexts of their cultures, to begin an ongoing exploration of spiritual beliefs in the culturally diverse society that we are all a part of. A discussion will follow the presentation.

Everyone is invited to stay for Coffee and Conversation after the service.

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Join us 11 am in-person or on ZOOM as LUUF's Co-President Richard Nasch presents

Observing the Jewish High Holidays (from a non-observant Jew) 

He says, "Growing up in a Jewish Household with an Orthodox Jewish Grandfather, a Conservative Jewish Mother and Reformed Jewish Father has exposed me to all the degrees of Jewish faith and all the traditions that we so cherish and keep.

Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are the most sacred holidays of the Jewish faith and have shaped the beliefs of the collective tribes of the Hebrew people for over 2000 years.  My hope is to deepen an understanding of the spiritual significance of these sacred holiday traditions with all of you. "

Everyone is invited to stay for Coffee and Conversation after the service.