Recent Programs

 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, specifically with regard to animal welfare, labor rights, and environmentalism.  

Note: This service WILL NOT include video of industrial farming or other media meant to upset or disturb viewers. 

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

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 Join us Sunday, January 15 at 11am  in person or on Zoom as we welcome back Rev. Elizabeth King to celebrate Rev. Dr Martin Luther King’s Birthday! 

On the 94th anniversary of Martin Luther King's birth, Rev. Elizabeth King  will be sharing some special stories from his life that are not well known. These stories from his childhood and beyond will serve to deepen and enrich our understanding of this preeminent leader of the Civil Rights movement from 1953 until his death in 1968. During the service we will join in singing spirituals, gospels and civil rights ballads. Come and join us for an inspirational morning!

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

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Jan. 1, 2023 - "As Above, So Below; So Below, as Above" Richard and Catherine Nasch

 As Above,So Below; So Below, as Above: Join us Sunday, January 8 at 11am  in person or on Zoom as we explore this principle and how it relates to our lives, the Universe, and beyond.  What is our place in the cosmos and what is our universal bond?   How are we connected to Earth and to Heaven?  What is a Human Being?  Is death the end?   This service is an exercise to stretch our minds and challenge our beliefs.   

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

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Let's start the year laughing!

Join us in person or on Zoom  as we come together to celebrate the new year with humor and some inspirational music!

For this "LUUF Share" we ask that everyone who is willing,  bring something appropriately  humorous to share. It can be something of your own or something created by others. Jokes, poems, (very) short stories, songs, skits, or  whatever else you can think of are welcome.  Noisemakers are optional.

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Dec 25, 2022 - LUUF Share "Holiday Memories and Traditions" (and fun gift exchange)

Happy Holidays!

Join us in person or on Zoom December 25, 2022 11am as we celebrate the holidays by sharing our holiday memories and traditions and have a fun gift exchange.

For this "LUUF Share" service we ask that everyone who is willing bring their holiday memories to share. Although this is Christmas Day, any seasonal holiday memory or tradition is welcome, , whether Hanukkah. Yule, Kwansaa, New Year's, the season in general, or even Christmas!. Expect familiar seasonal songs and fellowship. Anyone interested can also participate in a "Fun Gift Exchange" by bringing an extremely inexpensive and perhaps silly or whimsical gift to share with someone at the service. 

Everyone is welcome to stay for Coffee and Conversation following the service.

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Dec 18  "Winterpretations: Looking at Winter Through a Different Lens" 

Happy Hanukkah! and Happy Yule!

Join us in person or on Zoom December 18, 2022 11am as we welcome the holidays of Hanukkah and Yule (Winter Solstice) while looking back in time to what winter might have been to our ancient ancestors, lead by LUUF member Carol Swift.

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 ancient times as winter continued after the December 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.

Coffee and Conversation will follow the service.

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Dec 11, 2022  "Blue Christmas" Rev. Elizabeth King 

Join us on Sunday, Dec. 11, 2022, in person only as Rev. Elizabeth King  returns to present 

 "Blue Christmas" 

For another 2 weeks (until December 21 - Winter Solstice) we will continue to experience greater darkness during our days as the nighttime grows longer. During this season, our hearts hunger for light and the warmth of a fire. Blue Christmas is

about naming the fact that for many of us, the joy of this season is often tinged with sadness. During this service we take the time to sit in darkness, to feel our sadness and sorrows, to recognize there are no quick fixes. We will sing several beloved Christmas carols finishing with Silent Night as we pass the light of love from one to another. Let us find comfort in sharing this sacred time together.

Everyone is encouraged to stay after for Coffee and Conversation.

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Join us on Sunday, Dec 4, 2022, in person only as our own Min Mulholland leads us in a

              " Holiday Sing" 

On Sunday December 4 2022 at 11 am, the inestimable Min Mulholland will lead  us to revel in the magic of songs performed by members of the Fellowship featuring Puccini, Sondheim, and The King.  In the spirit of the season, sing-along numbers will include Good Morning Starshine, Ramblin’ Rose of Nat King Cole fame, and meditative prayers for peace. All are welcome to join in, or simply enjoy the music and fellowship.

Everyone is encouraged to stay after, for smok’n hot coffee, tea, treats,  and conversation.

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 Nov. 27, 2022-“Bread Communion: Family Stories"- Holly Anderson

Join us on Sunday, November 27, in person or on ZOOM as our own Holly Anderson presents   

              “Bread Communion: Family Stories"

Breads of all sorts have been the staple of cultures the world over.  Bread  has been used for everything from just keeping people alive in the harshest of times to decorating and enhancing celebrations in the best of times. This Sunday, everyone is encouraged to bring a kind of bread that has special significance to them to share - as well as any family stories  that might go along with their bread.

Everyone, and their bread, are invited to stay for Coffee and Conversation after the service.

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Nov. 20, 2022-“Being an Ally to Our Transgender Community” - Damien Lopez

Join us in person or on ZOOM as we welcome guest speaker  Damien Lopez as he presents,

“Being an Ally to Our Transgender Community”

Although progress has been made, the transgender community still faces huge disparities of all kinds in our society. Meanwhile, the best ways to support the trans community may not always seem obvious to even the most well meaning ally. On this, the 23rd annual Transgender Day of Remembrance, Mr. Lopez will tackle these issues, helping us understand how to cultivate safe spaces, and how to be the allies we want to be and the transgender members of our community deserve. 

Damien Alan Lopez was born and raised in Newark, New Jersey. A published Queer author, he is a proud transgender man with hopes to shift the conversation of trans identities represented in children’s books and other mediums. His story has been recognized by First Lady Tammy Murphy of New Jersey, the 2021 dotCOMM Platinum Awards, El Vocero de Puerto Rico, and ThemsHealth 2021 Children’s Book Recommendation List. He is a Transgender advocate and keynotes health and education seminars that assist with Trans inclusion and the experience of being Trans. He recently was recognized on Insider’s NJ Insider OUT 100: LGBTQ Power List. He is passionate about transgender issues, education, and culinary arts!

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

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Nov. 13, 2022-Rev. Elizabeth King via Zoom: "What if the Hokey Pokey Really Is What It’s All About?"

Join us in person or on ZOOM as we welcome guest speaker Rev. Elizabeth King via Zoom as she presents 

"What if the Hokey Pokey Really Is What It’s All About?" 

 Rev. Elizabeth King writes, “It’s been several months since we were last together. I’ve missed you! I look forward to spending the morning with you and catching up. 

At some point in your lives, you’ve no doubt danced the Hokey Pokey. This dance will serve as the focal point of our time together. I’ll never forget walking through the town of Ogunquit ME with my partner several years ago when I saw a sign hanging in the window of a gift shop. It was so startling that I stopped dead in my tracks and backed up to take a closer look. The sign read, “What If the Hokey Pokey Is What It’s All About?” To be perfectly honest I was stumped! I didn’t have a clue what it would mean, but this is the question we are going to explore on this coming Sunday. I hope you come ready to “shake it all about!” 

All are encouraged to stay for Coffee and Conversation after the service.

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Nov. 6, 2022-Rev. Anthony Johnson: Life at the Intersection of Race and Class

Join us as we welcome guest speaker Rev. Anthony Johnson as he presents 

"Life at the Intersection of Race and Class" 

Rev. Johnson describes the service this way, "The child of an immigrant father and first generation mother, I grew up in racially and economically diverse neighborhoods in the Bronx and Danbury, Connecticut. I will not be the only one present this Sunday who lives or has lived at or near the intersection of race and class. Where we live or have lived is relevant to personal and civic choices--including our votes on Tuesday--but the sermon is not about the election per se.

 Rev. Anthony P. (Tony) Johnson, MDiv, MS, DMin, AIM is from Orange, NJ. He is a parish, community, and accredited interim minister. He currently serves at the First Unitarian Church of Ithaca, NY and has served urban and suburban congregations in seven states on three coasts.  He is the editor of Urban Discipleship, published by the Veatch Urban Social Justice Project.    

All are encouraged to stay for Coffee and Conversation after the service.

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Oct. 30, 2022 A Course of Obstacles - Steve Cohn

Join us as we welcome back guest speaker Steve Cohn as he presents 

"A Course of Obstacles" 

Steve Cohn will introduce us to the theory and technique of his original 25-card Tarot deck during a shortened service with an actual workshop afterwards. Mr. Cohn is a musician, composer, and painter who has shared this presentation at the Metaphysical Center of NJ and various other venues.

The workshop after the service will last until approximately 1:00pm beginning during Coffee and Conversation. Everyone is welcome to stay for all or part of it . There will be enough decks for 8 participants to pair off and do actual readings! No special ability is needed to have great results. 

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 Oct. 23, 2022  MEDITATION IN MOVEMENT: TAI CHI & YOGA! 

 Join us as we welcome Jody Rubel and Ina Franck to present MEDITATION IN MOVEMENT: TAI CHI & YOGA! With the aid of a few simple Tai Chi movements and Yoga postures, Jody Rubel and Ina Franck will present strategies for utilizing softness, listening, and receptivity in dealing with everyday stress. They will share their understanding of the importance of good alignment in any sitting or standing meditative posture and examine why MOVING while in alignment can further aid us in opening our breath, soften the joints, and connect our entire being to ground and spirit.
Wear low heeled shoes -- or even just your socks -- and enjoy participating in trying out some of the moves on a gorgeous wood floor. Advanced Tai Chi students will demonstrate the form and share their experience and understanding of Tai Chi.  All are invited to Coffee and Conversation after the service. 

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Oct. 16, 2022, 11am Jeffrey Antonucci  "Love and Peace, A Sign for Our Times" 

 Join us as we welcome longtime Wayne resident and author of the book, "Deep Within Blueberry Sky", Jeffrey Antonucci as our guest speaker. Mr. Antonucci will discuss the  theme, “The Power of Love” and his new Love and Peace, A Sign for Our Times initiative.  This initiative is a social movement to bring awareness that our world is in a tumultuous state and in desperate need for improvement. Through this initiative, Mr. Antonuccci is using a new, nonthreatening three-finger hand sign that he hopes will become known and used universally to symbolize love and peace to all people and all things.   All are invited to Coffee and Conversation after the service. 

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Oct. 2, 11am "Piano Jubilee" with Yejin Han 

Join us for this special service, as we welcome guest pianist Yejin Han to perform selected works of  Rachmaninoff, Chopin, Debussy, and Gershwin.  Ms. Han is the founder/director of the New York and New Jersey Pianist clubs.  Lakeland Unitarian Universalist Fellowship welcomes the community and public to enjoy this wonderful gift of music. 

Following the service, all are encouraged to stay for robust coffee with crafted pastries and friendly conversation.  

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Sept. 25, 2022 11am-Blessing of the Animals

Bring your animals! We are excited to welcome Rev. LoraKim Joyner to conduct a Blessing of the Animals service.  During this outdoor service, Rev. Joyner will guide us in reflecting upon how the many species of this earth bless our lives, and how we can care for and cherish them in return.  

We will finish the service with an Animal Blessing.  You may bring animals to the service as long as they are healthy and would enjoy being present. Please provide safety and protection for others by having them on a lead or in a kennel or cage.  We will also have a table for pictures and mementos of those animals who cannot be with us either because of circumstances or because they are no longer with us.  In case of inclement weather, we will meet indoors. 

All are invited for Coffee and Conversation following the service. 

Rev.  Joyner is both a wildlife veterinarian and Unitarian Universalist minister. Currently she serves as a community minister in Multispecies Ministry and Compassionate Communication, affiliated with the Community Unitarian Universalist Congregation at White Plains.  She draws on her training as a Certified Trainer in Nonviolent Communication and over 35 years as a conservationist and wildlife veterinarian to co-lead One Earth Conservation.  With her team, they support others through their international Nurture Nature Program that seeks to empower the people saving the planet. She directs projects in Latin America and has written three books, “Conservation in Time of War,” and “Nurturing Discussions and Practices,” and “Prion.” Currently she serves as the Acting Secretary of the Parrot Researchers Group.

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Ingathering Water Service, Sunday, Sept, 11, 2022  11:00am

 It is time to come together again!Join us at 11:00 am this Sunday, September 11, 2022 in-person for our annual In-gathering Water Service.All are encouraged to participate in the service by bringing a sample of water from a place you have visited or that is meaningful to you in some way. Water will be available for symbolic use for those that are unable to bring their own. (Please do not add food coloring to the water.)As always, everyone is invited for Coffee and Conversation following the service.We are excited to see everyone! 

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 Sunday, June 19, 2022- Rev. Paul Dodenhoff 

 PRAYER MEANS MANY THINGS TO MANY DIFFERENT PEOPLE. THIS IS ESPECIALLY TRUE IN OUR UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FAITH.   There is no book or “sacred text” that will give you all of the answers, all of the “truth,” all of the tools you need to live a life of joy. You can cultivate all of the habits, follow all of the steps, learn all of the methods, practice all of the yogas, eat all of the right foods, say all of the right prayers, go to all of the meetings, sing all the right notes, believe all of the correct doctrines, trust in all of the right messiahs, gurus, and spiritual beings, and these will never be what “saves” you. Ultimately you are responsible for your own awakening, your own salvation, your own fulfillment. And that takes work and it takes belief in yourself. You must, after all is said and done, whack away and cut your own path through the deep forest of Life. It’s not easy work. There will be times when you come into a clearing where the sun shines and  all is at peace. And you may think, 'Yes, this is it! This is the ultimate place of Truth. I’ll stay here and not wonder what may lie farther on ahead in the woods.' But deep down you know that it’s our nature as human beings to explore, to seek farther horizons. And if you’re honest with yourself, you eventually move on and begin creating and walking that path again. That’s the journey. That’s the work. And that’s the joy. 

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Sunday, June 5, 2022 - Healing from the Ancestors - Mikki Baloy  

Who are the ancestors, and how and why should we connect with them? We’ll briefly explore the cross-cultural and historical prevalence of ancestral practices, including the contemporary modality of Ancestral Lineage Healing, as a way to understand the reciprocity and possibility of these connections.    Mikki Baloy has been practicing shamanic healing for over a decade. She has studied with shamans, ritual-keepers, and mystics from around the world, as well as with Western-minded teachers and peers. Mikki offers private healing sessions, rites of passage and weddings, and retreat and workshop experiences for modern people called to grounded spiritual explorations. Apropos of today's talk, her ancestors hail from Ireland, Scandinavia, Germany, Hungary, and Luzon, Philippines. She is currently a practitioner-in-training in Ancestral Lineage Healing, and has also studied Animist Psychology, Reiki, Yoga (certification), and Mental Health First Aid.  https://mikkibaloy.com/ 

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Sunday, May 22, 2022 - Potluck and Poetry

Poetry and Potluck  People will be reading poetry or other selected text, followed by a potluck lunch. There will be some pre-annual meeting discussion too.

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Sunday, May 15, 2022 - Rev. Elizabeth King - Two Raised Glazed Donuts  

Rev. King will be presenting on Zoom

Sunday, May 8, 2022 - Holly Anderson and Cat Cavello

It is our annual Flower Communion for Mother’s Day presented by Cat and Holly. Please bring a fresh flower or two to service with you.  This service will not be Zoomed.

Sunday, May 1,  2022 - Harriet Wagniere  

Harriet Wagniere will have crystal singing bowls for sound healing. Harriet Is Vice-President of the Metaphysical Center of New Jersey. As Director Emeritus, she led the organization for 12 years. Harriet has been with MCNJ since the late 1970s as a student of the founder, Donald Yott. She has served on the board in many roles and has taught the 13 level course of study as well as courses in Tarot, Meditation, and Dreams. She enjoys travel, teaching, reading, nature walks, and spiritual counseling.

Sunday, Apr. 24, 2022

Eugène Fucetola will be presenting on Reiki

Sunday, Apr. 17, 2022 · The Resurrection - Rev. Elizabeth King

The Resurrection - Rev. Elizabeth King  This coming Sunday we will consider Wendell Berry’s challenge to “Be joyful though we have considered all the facts and to practice resurrection.” What in the world does he mean? And what’s the big deal about resurrection anyway? There are 9 instances or stories of bodily resurrection in the Hebrew Bible and the New Testament. It’s not as if it was a one time event! And why such a fuss about the empty tomb? If you would like to learn more about these “Easter miracles” come and join us this Sunday morning.  Rev. Elizabeth King, her partner Laurie Ure and their dog Maya will be joining us! Come let us ponder what it means to “practice resurrection” on the day many people around this world celebrate as Easter Sunday.  There may be an easter egg or 2!

Sunday, Apr. 10, 2022 - The DeMasi Brothers

If We Really Want Peace - The DeMasi Brothers  In these trying and uncertain times,  contemporary UU folk singers The DeMasi Brothers present a musical service that celebrates peace, inspires hope and is filled with love.  

Sunday, Apr. 3, 2022 · Dr. Carol Robinson  

Dr. Carol Robinson from St. Louis will be speaking via zoom on Sunday.

Sunday, Mar. 27, 2022 · Human Need vs. Corporate Greed by Sandra Ramos

Human Need vs. Corporate Greed by Sandra Ramos  Ms. Ramos will guide us in a mini meditation and for the main presentation give a lively talk on "Human need vs. Corporate Greed".  It promises to be a lively service -- invite your friends --  and plan for it to be a bit longer than usual!  Here's a recent article about her.   https://www.jerseysbest.com/community/the-purple-lady-who-lives-in-a-purple-hut-in-the-woods-of-n-j/ . 

Sunday, Mar. 20, 2022 · THE GARDEN

Rev. Elizabeth King will be leading our service this Sunday. She has just returned from an extraordinary trip to Kauai, known as the garden island of Hawaii. During her daily swims she communed with humpback whales, spinner dolphins, monk seals and sea turtles. She was surrounded by lush vegetation, banana, lime, avocado, orange, mango trees and encouraged to pick the fruit and enjoy it as she wished. All of this led her to wonder, “was Eden something like this?” She hiked to several different waterfalls and felt a profound sense of connection or communion with all of creation. Elizabeth would like to share some of these  experiences with us, and will invite us to reflect on those moments when we have had similar experiences. Let us explore what lies is at the heart of our deepest spiritual experiences. 

Sunday, Feb. 27, 2022 · CONSCIOUSNESS KARMA

Albert Einstein famously wrote that “We cannot solve a problem with the same consciousness out of which we created it." Rev. Allen Wells will reflect upon Einstein’s wisdom and apply it to our current climate crisis.  A Buddhist UU, Rev. Allen bridges the internal world of personal and spiritual aspiration with activism for social justice, environmental sustainability and peace. Practicing mindfulness based psychotherapy for many years, he also teaches meditation at Buddhist sanghas. 

Sunday, Feb. 6, 2022 · "Surprising Presence of Jewish and Muslim Practices  in Traditional Protestant Worship"

Rev. Elizabeth King will be leading our service this Sunday. She has spent 35 years studying the different elements that make up Christian worship particularly prayers and hymns. She had discovered 2 different elements that come to us, one from Judaism and the second from Islam. Their origin becomes clear once we view them with new eyes. Rev. King believes the way in which they became embedded within Christian liturgy is genius. There are so many things that we are blind to. Things right in front of our eyes that we cannot comprehend let alone treasure. We will look at two such hidden gems during our time together! 

Sunday, Jan. 23, 2022 · "Democratic Socialism in the Growing Movement for Social Democracy in America" Dan Wyman

Come join us for this service in person if you are able to! There will be a sing-along of 3 movement classics from the the 60s! We have air filtration set up in addition to required masking. Plus great coffee! Dan Wyman is an active member of the New York City Democratic Socialists of America, where he is currently leading its Religious Leader Interviewing Project to build DSA among NYCs religious congregations. He is the former president of the City Congregation for Humanistic Judaism and was active for many years as a labor- and community- organizer in southern New England. For the last 20 years Dan has worked as a seller of rare Jewish books, specializing in Yiddish and American Jewish History.  He lives in Brooklyn with his spouse Marcela, a public high school art teacher.

Sunday, January 9, 2022  “Between A Rock and a Hard Place”   

Rev. Elizabeth King 

Rev. King will share her own experiences of times when she has felt caught between 2 (or more) very difficult positions or sides. Sometimes she was able to support and protect one who was vulnerable and about to be attacked and other times she was not. She suspects she is not alone in having experienced moments when she found herself between a Rock and a hard place. Please bring a rock with you to fellowship on Sunday. One that fits comfortably in the palm of your hand, a rock you like the feel and weight of. 

 Sunday, January 2, 2022 - Burning Bowl Ceremony 

 Happy New Year! Join us in person or on Zoom at 11:00 am when we put the old year behind us and welcome the new year with a  Burning Bowl Ceremony. The New Year  brings celebration, but also self reflection.  What do you want to  leave behind in 2021? What do you want to bring about in 2022? Before setting goals or trying to manifest our wishes for the new year, we will take a few moments to release those things we are carrying with us, that do not serve our future plans. They may be old wounds, resentments, disappointments, or situations that keep us from living our best lives. As we release those, we will each consider what we want to add or nurture in our lives, whether ideas, goals, behaviors or attitudes. And, of course, we will celebrate the New Year and new beginnings!  Coffee and Conversation will follow.  

Sunday Dec. 26, 2021  A Beethoven Tribute!   Min Mulholland 

The music and life of Ludwig van Beethoven animate our lives with wonder and optimism. This Sunday, a celebration of his legacy will include tributes in song and piano works. A robust coffee hour to follow.  

 Sunday,  Dec. 19 , 2021, 11:00am  Critical Race Theory-Dr. Carol Robinson    

  Join us in person or on Zoom as we explore"Critical Race Theory"with first time guest speaker, Dr. Carol Robinson.Critical Race Theory has become a point of controversy throughout the nation and a talking point for conservatives. What is the controversy and, for that matter, what is Critical Race Theory? Join us as we explore the topic to find the answers. All are welcome for Coffee and Conversation following the service.  

Sunday, December 12, 2021 at 11:00am  "Blue Christmas"  Reverend Elizabeth King

  Join us in person or on Zoom as guest speaker   Reverend Elizabeth King presents "Blue Christmas"  Rev. King is from Gloucester, Massachusetts and will be joining us in person for the first time this Sunday.  Come meet her and enjoy this special service.The song Blue Christmss was recorded by Elvis Presley in 1964 and soon became a Christmas favorite because it captures the heartache and loneliness that is as much a part of this season as is warmth and joy. Please bring an ornament to place on the Blue Christmas tree that will serve the focus of our service. (It will be returned to you.)  Wear something blue if you feel like! And please bring a candle or 2 to add to the light around the room.All are welcome to Coffee and Conversation that will follow the service. See you Sunday.  

 Sunday,  December 5 , 2021, 11:00am   

  "Living Social Justice"  Janice Kirn- Sottilaro Join us as LUUF  takes part in a discussion centered on the topic of Social Justice, sharing ideas on how to infuse the practice of living Social Justice into our daily interactions with those around us on an everyday basis.  All are welcome for Coffee and Conversation following the service.    

Sunday, November 28, 2021, 11:00am                  "WHEN THINGS DON’T FIT"          Rev. Allen Wells   

Much of our spiritual journey involves an attempt to make sense of things.  But what do we do when things don’t make sense?  Join us, Sunday November 28, 2021 at 11 am in-person or on Zoom as we welcome Rev. Allen Wells as he presents  "WHEN THINGS DON’T FIT"  Everyone is welcome to Coffee and Conversation after the service. 

Sunday Nov. 21, 2021, “The Awe of NATURE” - Part 2  Rev. Sonia Ketchian  

   From the beginning of human existence, it is through NATURE that we've innately experienced AWE. In current times our western culture has brought us indoors, separating us from what was a daily experience.. Yet, there are many ways that we can consciously cultivate a relationship with Nature in our lives.  Join us this Sunday in-person or on ZOOM for Part 2 of this 2 part series as we explore our interconnectedness of existence through the Awe of Nature.     

Sunday, November 14, 2021  "Let Me Shine"             John DeMasi 

 Join us as we sing-a-long on Sunday, November 14, 2021 at 11:00am, in-person or on Zoom when we welcome guest speaker and musician John DeMasi to present"Let Me Shine"Gandhi said,"be the change you wish to see in the world". Join award winning contemporary UU folk singer/songwriter John DeMasi as he presents a musical service that celebrates our UU principles and beliefs and challenges us to use them to be the best we can be. Celebrate! and then stay for Coffee and Conversation following the service.  

“Living Well, Dying Well”  Sunday, November 7, 2021 

Join us, Sunday, Nov. 7th at 11:00 am in person or on ZOOM as guest speaker Rev. Elizabeth King presents “Living Well, Dying Well”Last week we celebrated Dia de los Muertos, by learning more about the rich tradition of the holiday, as well as lighting candles and sharing special memories of our loved ones who have died. We will continue exploring this theme with Rev. Elizabeth King this Sunday as she shares her reflection, “Living Well, Dying Well." Elizabeth has supported individuals and their families as they approach and experience death for over 35 years, first as their local church minister and then as hospice chaplain. She experienced death at an early age when her father died quite suddenly of a heart attack at age 35. She has been immersed in this unavoidable life experience ever since. Come and join the discussion regarding what a good death looks like and how to go about creating one for yourself and those you love.All are invited for Coffee and Conversation following the service.  

 "Dia de los Muertos"  Sunday, October 31, 2021 

Join us Sunday, October 31, 2021 at 11:00am in-person or on Zoom as LUUF members Holly Anderson and Cat Cavallo present"Dia de los Muertos"Dia de los Muertos, or The Day of the Dead, originated in Mexico and is about remembering the dead, celebrating their lives, and acknowledging the pain of losing loved ones. Join us this Sunday as we joyfully celebrate our loved ones who have gone before. Please BRING something for the altar that reflects something that each of your loved ones enjoyed.  Coffee and Conversation will follow. All are welcome.  

 "The Pragmatic Necessity of Forgiveness"  Sunday, October 24, 2021  

 Join us Sunday, October 24, 2021 at 11:00 am in-person or on Zoom as LUUF member Alex Swift presents, "The Pragmatic Necessity of Forgiveness"The word forgiveness is bandied around in many venues, with people and institutions being called upon to practice forgiveness without a clear understanding of the word itself or its implications. This Sunday, we will explore the practical reasons why forgiveness is beneficial to us all on both a personal and global scale. 

Coffee and Conversation will follow with all welcome to join in.  

“The Nature of AWE” Sunday Oct. 17, 2021 

Join us Sunday Oct. 17th at 11am in-person or on Zoom, as we welcome guest speaker, Rev. Sonia Ketchian for
“The Nature of AWE” - Part 1
AWE is one of the most powerful and transformative emotions humans can experience. We know that feeling, our mouth drops open, we forget to breathe and for just a moment we are transformed by the vastness of something we sense is beyond our comprehension.  Whether we are conscious of it or not humans are ever seeking the experience of AWE.  Join us this Sunday for Part 1 of a 2 part series as we explore our experience of AWE and how we might invite this into our lives.
Rev. Sonia Ketchian is an Interfaith/Inter-Spiritual Minister, Love Activist, Wedding and Sacred Service Officiant, Meditation Facilitator and Inspirational Speaker. She's currently the co-minister of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of the Palisades in Englewood, New Jersey.   

"To Do What Must be Done" October 10, 2021  

Join us this Sunday, at 11:00 am in-person or on Zoom, when we welcome guest speaker, Charles Loflin, Executive Director of UU Faith Action New Jersey, an organization LUUF proudly supports.  Unitarian Universalism has historically been devoted to social justice action. We live in a time that is calling us to action. In this service, we’ll explore how to discern the core values that compel us to do what must be done. All are welcome for Coffee and Conversation after the service.  

"Tai Chi" Sunday September 26, 2021 

Join us at 11:00 am this Sunday, September 26, 2021 in-person or on Zoom as we welcome guest speaker, Ann Wheeler presenting,"Tai Chi."Tai Chi has a long history with roots in disciplines thousands of years old. It's slow, gentle, fluid motion serves to exercise the body, mind, and spirit in such a way that people of most ages and physical abilities can take part. Whether you are familiar with Tai Chi or it is new to you, there is always more to explore in this centuries old practice.All are invited for Coffee and Conversation following the service.  

 "Aging" by Sophia Magee, September 19, 2021 

Join us  in-person or on Zoom as we welcome guest speaker, Sophia Magee presenting,"Aging."Aging is something we all deal with in ourselves, our parents, our children, our friends, our coworkers, and even our leaders. It begins before birth, and ends as far in the future as we can push it. Any stage of the journey can be mysterious and confusing.Sophia Magee is a graduate student at William Paterson University in the field of Psychology. She will discuss aging from the perspective of her field.

All are invited for Coffee and Conversation following the service.  

 Water Ceremony, Sunday, September 12, 2021 

It is time to come together again! Join us at in-person or on Zoom for our annual In-gathering Water Service. This year we are excited to welcome special musical guest artist, Steve Cohn. (Prelude music will begin at 10:45, so come early.)All are encouraged to participate in the service by bringing a sample of water from a place you have visited or that is meaningful to you in some way. Water will be available for symbolic use for those that are unable to bring their own.Steve Cohn will provide atmospheric prelude music beginning at 10:45, on the shakuhachi and temple bell to enhance our theme of bringing water. He will also bring his special style on piano to accompany favorite songs.Through his early and continued cultural immersion and studies in Japan to the innovative workshops he holds stateside and abroad, Steve bends the Shakuhachi to resonate with today’s spirit and imagination. Pronounced “sha  coo ha chee” , this bamboo flute originally aided Buddhist monks in their meditation called  'suizen' -- blowing Zen. All are invited for Coffee and Conversation following the service.