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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Sept. 24, 2023-Water Ceremony
Join us 11 am in-person or on ZOOM as LUUF's Co-President, Carol Swift presents
LUUF's Water Cermony
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.
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.
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Join us on June 25, 2023 at 11am in-person or on Zoom as we welcome guest speaker Elizabeth Tamboulian to present a musical service
"Sound—Catalyst for Creation and Healing"
Ms. Tamboulian will give us an overview of healing traditions and practices that utilize sound vibration produced through instruments and the human voice. Attendees will be invited to experiment with creating overtones with the intention to catalyze new patterns of wellness.
Everyone is encouraged to stay for our Annual Year End BBQ after the service!
Bio: Elizabeth Tomboulian’s path today is the integration of her musical work with her healing work. Science tells us that everything is energy. Certified in multiple modalities including CranioSacral Therapy, Reiki, and Quantum Energetics Structured Therapy, she uses the voice and its overtones as a healing instrument. It’s a bridge between Eastern Medicine, which has acknowledged human energy systems for thousands of years, and Western Medicine, which focuses on anatomy and physiology.
Having served many denominations as church music minister through the years, Elizabeth is presently Music Director for Grace UMC in Mesa, AZ. Her live performances, culling from a vast repertoire ranging from jazz to Brazilian to the Great American Songbook and more, have had enthusiastic reception from audiences across this continent – and Japan – who enjoy her “ebullient celebration of life and love and the power of music to make it all better”.
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Happy Father's Day! Happy Summer Solstice!
Join us on June 18, 2023 at 11am in-person or on Zoom as we welcome back Rev. Allen Wells as he presents
“THE BUDDHA’S SMILE: A peak at the role of humor in religion, philosophy, and life.”
LUUF has had the pleasure of having Rev. Wells as a guest speaker for at least two decades. He is a Buddhist Unitarian Universalist, adept at bridging the internal world of personal, spiritual aspiration with activist oriented work for social justice, environmental sustainability and peace. He maintains a mindfulness based psychotherapy practice in Morristown, NJ, and teaches meditation at Buddhist sanghas. He is particularly interested in the interplay between neuroscience and Buddhism. Rev. Wells serves as the Affiliated Community Minister of The Morristown Unitarian Fellowship, Morristown, NJ. He has served UU congregations in Weymouth, MA, Hollis Queens, The First Unitarian Church of Brooklyn and the First Unitarian Society of Rockland County, NY.
Rev. Wells loves poetry and acknowledges that he hasn’t written any books because he says he would rather spend the time ballroom dancing.
All are welcome for Coffee and Conversation after the service.
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Join us on June 11, 2023 at 11am in-person or on Zoom as LUUF member, Wirt Honnick leads a discussion as we explore our
"Personal Spirituality"
Unitarian Universalism is a faith based upon a shared covenant, but not a shared religious system. This allows for a variety of thoughts, opinions, and conclusions that UUs may have. It's time we talked about them! Join us for a facilitated discussion on our beliefs and how they intersect with our shared Unitarian Universalist values.
Everyone is encouraged to stay for a short Coffee and Conversation
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Join us on June 4, 2023 at 11am in-person or on Zoom as we welcome back guest speaker Deborah Pires as she presents
"A House Is Not a Home"
Do we all “see” the same thing when we hear the word “home”? Where does our sense of home come from? What’s the difference between a house and a home? If we live with intentionality and gratitude in our homes, they will reflect who we are and be the places of comfort and refuge that we desire. In this service, we will deepen our understanding of the significance, symbolism, and importance of house and home.
Everyone is encouraged to stay for Coffee and Conversation afterwards.
LUUF's Annual Meeting has been rescheduled to take place immediately after our June 11 service .
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May 28, 2023 Flower Service
Join us on May 28, 2023 at 11am in-person or on Zoom as we come together to celebrate Spring and the natural diversity of our world with the
"Flower Communion Service"
One of the things that the Flower Communion Service symbolizes is the way diverse individuals come together to make a beautiful whole. On this centennial celebration of the Flower Communion, 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, May 27 for inclusion in the service on an interactive platform.)
Everyone is encouraged to stay for Coffee and Conversation afterwards.
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Join us at 11am in person or on Zoom as we are excited to welcome back UU folk singing duo The DeMasi Brothers presenting
"LET FREEDOM RING"
Many of our freedoms and rights that we have long taken for granted are under attack: reproductive rights, environmental rights, civil and human rights, our democracy itself.
Join UU contemporary folk singers Joseph and John DeMasi for a musical service that will explore these issues and inspire us as UU's in the fight to make our world a kinder, more loving and inclusive place for all.
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 invited to stay for Coffee and Conversation following the service.
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Happy Mother's Day!
Join us on May 14 at 11am in-person or on Zoom as LUUF member Carol Swift leads a discussion of
"Mothers and Motherhood"
Mothers and motherhood have been romanticized and deified, but also regulated and sometimes vilified by society. Women's attitudes, experiences and expectations towards becoming mothers vary wildly even as they are raised with strong pressures to accept what society presents as the norms. To make the subject more complex, every person has their own unique experiences with their mother(s) and/or people who have taken on the role of a mother in their lives. We will discuss complex nature of motherhood, and our own experiences while also honoring the people who have made our world better by having that role in our lives.
Everyone is encouraged to stay for Coffee and Conversation after the service.
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Join us on May 7, 2023 at 11am in-person or on Zoom as we welcome back Rev. Elizabeth King to present
" Our Work is Loving the World "
Rev. Elizabeth King will invite us to explore the profound impact the experiences of awe and wonder have on our physical, emotional and spiritual well being. Dacher Keltner, professor of psychology at the University of California, recently published a book entitled “Awe; The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life.” He and his colleagues have been researching awe for more than two decades. They have identified 8 different “wonders of life.” Come! Let’s see if we can identify some of those wonders before turning to Keltner’s research.
Everyone is encouraged to stay for Coffee and Conversation after the service.
Join us on April 30 at 11am in-person or on Zoom as we welcome guest speaker Deborah Pires as she presents
"Nurturing the Beauty of Elderhood"
As we age, we are confronted by physical ailments and a society that tells us we are no longer beautiful or useful. It's time to change the paradigm as we acknowledge and embrace the beauty and gifts of elderhood.
Deborah Singer Pires is a retired college professor having taught English as a Second Language to foreign students for forty-three years. She has been a UU since 1988, has been co-president of her congregation for ten years, and has written and delivered over seventy services. LUUF is excited to have her explore this topic with us.
Everyone is invited to stay for Coffee and Conversation after the service.
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April 16, 2023 “Overcoming Anthropocene* Anxiety" Rev. Allen Wells
Join us on April 16 at 11am in-person or on Zoom as we welcome back Rev. Allen Wells as he presents
“Overcoming Anthropocene* Anxiety"
How may we deal with, and even overcome, the anxiety caused by apocalyptic changes the world is experiencing? We are caught in a perfect storm of our New Age that's being formed from the confluent challenges of Self-learning AI and Climate Crisis, worse case scenarios being accentuated by the world’s increasing Wealth/Power Disparity, and all of them escalating at the same time. Rev. Wells will present ideas for dealing with the anxiety this causes in each of us
Everyone is invited to stay for Coffee and Conversation after the service.
* Anthropocene. noun. period of time during which human activities have impacted the environment enough to constitute a distinct geological change. ***************
Join us on Sunday April 9 at 11:00 in person or on Zoom when LUUF member Min Mulholland will initiate a discussion titled
“The Calm of Fury Scorned”
The Buddhist monk Thich Nhat Hahn observed that when we express anger in the absence of Mindfulness, it is disturbing to others around ourselves. His suggestion to tenderly embrace and understand one’s suffering (source of anger) can benefit and strengthen the healing of others. That is the action of compassionate and transformative energy. Special music from Charlie Himel with Min, including complementary Fellowship singing is on the menu.
Everyone is invited to stay for Min's Spectacular Coffee Hour de rigueur after the service.
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April 2, 2023 LUUF Share " In Appreciation of Poetry"
Bring your poems whether original or written by others. Bring the serious or humorous, meaningful or escapist poetry and share, or just come and enjoy the sharing by others.
Everyone is invited to stay for Coffee and Conversation after the service.
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There are 2 times in my life that I have asked (demanded if I’m being honest) for a sign from the Spirit, the Universe, somebody, anybody please give me a sign! The first time was when I was awaiting news regarding the biopsy results from my breast. The second was last night, praying about my mom. Helium balloons (which I seldom give or receive) play a leading role.
If you would like to hear about the sign I received you need to come to LUUF next Sunday, March 26, or tune in via Zoom! This is a message you won’t want to miss! See you soon, Rev. Elizabeth Ann King.
Everyone is invited to stay for Coffee and Conversation after the service.
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March 19, 2023- "Somewhere Over the Rainbow; Life After Life" Janice Kirn
Join us Sunday March 19 at 11 am in person or on Zoom, as LUUF member, Janice Kirn presents
"Somewhere Over the Rainbow; Life After Life"
One of the big questions of life throughout human history has been what happens to the being when the body ceases to function. This Sunday's service will address the idea that life goes on, even when both our heart and mind, have stopped.
As always. everyone is encouraged to stay for Coffee and Conversation following the service.
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Join us Sunday March 12 at 11 am in person or on Zoom, as guest speaker Linda DeLap, Co-leader of Morristown CCL group presents
"My Journey with Citizens' Climate Lobby"
Linda DeLap writes, "My journey with Citizens' Climate Lobby (CCL) began in 2014. I wanted to take focused, meaningful action against climate change. Values that are important to me are promoted by Unitarian Universalism and CCL. Working with people on shared goals can be an antidote for anxiety, and there is always much to be done."
Citizens’ Climate Lobby is a non-profit, nonpartisan, grassroots advocacy organization focused on national policies to address climate change. It is committed to building the political will for the climate solutions we all need. As empowered citizens, we talk with neighbors, friends, and local officials about how national climate action can help ensure a healthy future while strengthening the American economy. By focusing on shared values rather than partisan divides, we build relationships with community leaders and with federal elected officials and with Congress, always starting from a place of respect, gratitude, and appreciation.
Linda DeLaps will introduce us to this organization and the important climate issues they are focusing on.
As always. everyone is encouraged to stay for Coffee and Conversation following the service.
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Join us Sunday March 5 at 11 am as we welcome back long time friend of LUUF, the Rev. Allen Wells, to present,
“IT’S ALL MEANINGLESS AND VERY PRECIOUS"
Rev. Wells has a long and storied religious history with an especial affinity for Buddhism. Perhaps his explanation of the service is not as cryptic as it seems. He writes, "I’d like to try out my Zen sermon on you all. I’ve proposed a koan: ‘What is the meaning of meaning?’ The title above is a spoiler.”
When asked to explain further he added, "In regard to further explanation I’m in a double bind of trying to explain the lack of need for an explanation! it’s sort of like trying to explain a joke or riddle, and all the harder if it's before you’ve heard it.
Whether this is totally clear to you or a bit of a puzzle, please join us to explore these concepts together.
Everyone is encouraged to stay for Coffee and Conversation following the service. ********************************************************
Join us in person or on Zoom when LUUF member Carol Swift presents
"Out of Tragedy: Accomplishments of the UU Black Affairs Council 1967-1970/1973"
The 1960's saw social revolution that rocked the United States as a whole, and came close to destroying the recently formed Unitarian Universalist Association. The UU "Black Empowerment Controversy" of the late 1960's that still impacts the greater UU community to this day, is documented with timelines of the events, descriptions of the animosities, breakdowns of the issues, regrets about the what-ifs, and finally the unresolved ending of its battles.
What is rarely talked about are the accomplishments of the Black Affairs Counsel, (BAC) the UU organization at the center of the controversy. Throughout the battles being waged in the UU leadership and community at large, the BAC was determined to make a difference by seeding projects to achieve long term goals in the black community. We will hear about, and then discuss, some of those accomplishments and the positive impact their actions still have through the ripple effect of history, through video, from one of the founders of the BAC, Dr. Mtangulizi Sanyika, previously known as Haywood Henry.
Everyone is encouraged to stay for Coffee and Conversation following the service.
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Feb. 12, 2023- "WHAT’S LOVE GOT TO DO WITH IT?" Rev. Elizabeth King (via Zoom)
Join us in person or on Zoom when we welcome back guest speaker Rev. Elizabeth Ann King (via Zoom) to present
"WHAT’S LOVE GOT TO DO WITH IT?"
In just a few days time most of us we will celebrate Valentine’s Day on February 14. Many of us will share heartfelt messages of love and appreciation with friends, family and neighbors of all ages. If we are lucky we might even receive chocolates or flowers from our special someone.
Do you know where this tradition of writing a note or letter to our loved ones comes from? Come to LUUF on Sunday February 12 at 11am to find out!
In addition to learning the origin of this tradition, come and learn how love might be the best tool we have to begin transforming our nation from frustrated contemptuous enemies into fellow citizens committed to finding common ground.
Everyone is encouraged to stay for Coffee and Conversation following the service.
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Join us in person or on Zoom when Guest speaker John Freund gives a frank and personal message about finding racism in a most unexpected place: Within himself.
The dynamics of reckoning with racism and racial issues are... fraught. A more modulated discussion of these dynamics in our media and culture has led to greater level of awareness that these issues are far from solved; and there seems to be a more subtle degree of knowledge of the mechanics and default persistence of racism among white people.
And there is also the co-requisite defensiveness, equivocation, and straight-up backlash from white culture. Even among white people who feel they want change and to "be an ally", there is deferral and redirection; talk about "promoting diversity" and "reaching out". Yet the talk white people need to be having is an honest discussion with other white people; starting with the person in the mirror. The privilege that white people still regularly enjoy is the ability to be blithe about race, and to fail to reckon with our role in it's persistence.
Everyone is encouraged to stay for a moderated discussion during Coffee and Conversation following the service.
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Join us Sunday, January 29 at 11am in person or on Zoom as we welcome back the
Executive Director of UU Faith Action NJ, Charles Loflin!
Karen Hering, in her book Trusting Change, describes the transformative process of a caterpillar becoming a butterfly as living "through a time of goo.” For many that is an apt description for what feels like these times in which we live—an in-between space when familiar ways are dissolving (or already long gone) but where the new ways have not yet quite taken shape. Even when experiencing change we value, the process can feel overwhelming. In this service, we will consider some practical ways of leaning into the adaptive challenges we face—of trusting change with all its “gooeyness”.
Everyone is encouraged to stay for Coffee and Conversation following the service.
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Join us Sunday, January 22 at 11am in person or on Zoom as our own Wirt Honnick will facilitate a respectful discussion on ethical food choices, specifica
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