Services

Sunday February 26, 2012

2012-02-26T21:19:00.000-05:00

SING YOUR SONG, LIFT YOUR SPIRIT
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela and the Spirit of Life Choir
Music: Stephen Preece

As a “UUvangelist,” I am always wondering how to describe Unitarianism to outsiders. When we tell our congregation’s history, we model the values we stand for in the wider community.

The service is followed by our Annual General Meeting. This year we vote on a budget, a new board member, and a possible new name for the congregation.

Sunday February 19, 2012

2012-02-19T21:18:00.000-05:00

BETWEEN SOLITUDE AND ISOLATION
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Boyd McDonald

Being alone and being lonely are not the same thing. While others celebrate “Family Day” weekend, how do those in a ‘family of one’ cope?

Sunday February 12, 2012

2012-02-12T21:17:00.000-05:00

THIS ONE WILD AND PRECIOUS LIFE
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela and friends
Music: Stephen Preece

Allan, Brenda, Carol and Michele respond to the question posed by Unitarian Universalist poet Mary Oliver: “Tell me, what else should I have done? Doesn't everything die at last, and too soon? Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?”

Stay after the service for a delicious bowl of spicy chili

Sunday February 5, 2012

2012-02-05T21:15:00.000-05:00

WHEN RAINBOWS FADE
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Stephen Preece

Teenager Jamie Hubley of Ottawa committed suicide last year, citing depression, the pressures of being openly gay, and school bullying. As a welcoming congregation to the lesbian/gay/bi/trans/queer community, we have voted to ‘stand on the side of love.’ Today, let us consider how to practice that commitment to honour diversity of sexuality.

After the service, you are invited to attend a special Take 40 presentation on “Being a Good Ally” by university student Nadia Hutton of GLOW.

Sunday January 29, 2012

2012-01-29T23:28:00.000-05:00

SHAKING THE DRAGON’S TALE
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Stephen Preece

Carl Glick writes: “If the dragon is nature in all her terror and majesty, let us not be afraid. Let us go out and meet that fear... Shake hands with the dragon, that’s the way of Tao, the way of peace.” Today we observe Chinese New Year 2012: The Year of the Dragon.

Sunday January 22, 2012

2012-01-22T23:27:00.000-05:00

A BREATH OF FRESH AIR
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Stephen Preece

The English chemist Joseph Priestley, who ‘discovered’ oxygen, also founded some of the first Unitarian congregations. Rev. Priestley said: “I have always been delighted at the prospect of a new day, a fresh try, one more start, with perhaps a bit of magic waiting somewhere behind the morning...”   Come hear a story of inspiration and exasperation.

Join us for Souper Sunday after the Service.
The Name the Name Forum follows the Souper.

Sunday January 15, 2012

2012-01-15T23:25:00.000-05:00

CHOICE IN DYING: IT’S A MATTER OF JUSTICE
Wanda Morris
Music: Boyd McDonald

In May 1993 the member congregations of the Canadian Unitarian Council adopted a resolution supporting choice in dying. Almost twenty years later that support has not wavered. For many Unitarians, choice in dying is a matter of justice. In this service Wanda Morris, the Executive Director of Dying with Dignity Canada, will review some of the arguments around choice in dying and their relationship to our Unitarian Principles and Sources. Service Leader: Mavis Kerr.

Please return after lunch for a workshop from 1:30 until 3:00 pm where you can learn more about the current legal status of end of life choices and the current court challenge being supported by the CUC.

Sunday January 8, 2012

2012-01-08T23:23:00.000-05:00

THE TOLERATION OF HAPPINESS
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Stephen Preece

What do the theologies of Muslims, Universalists, and Thomas Jefferson have in common? Islamic mystic Al’Arabī writes, “No reward that a human being can receive for his achievements can compare with the felicity awarded to whoever shows compassion to humanity.”

Sunday January 1, 2012

2012-01-01T21:19:00.001-05:00

FIRE COMMUNION: RESOLVE
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela with Stephen Preece
Music: Stephen Preece

What will you leave behind, and what do you look forward to in 2012? Come share your New Year’s Resolutions in an informal service of readings, poetry, and music we will create together. Everyone is encouraged to bring poems, readings, musical instruments and songs to share.

Sunday December 25, 2011 - No Service

2011-12-25T21:16:00.000-05:00

There will be no service on Christmas Day Sunday.
You are invited instead to the Christmas Eve on Saturday Dec 24, 7:00 pm.

Saturday December 24, 2011 7:00 pm

2011-12-24T21:14:00.000-05:00

EVERY NIGHT A CHILD IS BORN IS A HOLY NIGHT
CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLELIGHT SERVICE
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela and Stephen Preece

Come, let us hear again the ancient story that reminds us of the holiness of every child’s birth, and raise our voices in the familiar carols celebrating the love and mystery of our highest hopes for humanity.

Sunday December 18, 2011

2011-12-18T21:11:00.000-05:00

DANCING LIGHTLY IN THE DARK
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Stephen Preece and the Spirit of Life Choir

We observe the Solstice today with music, poetry, and reflections.

Sunday December 11, 2011

2011-12-11T21:10:00.000-05:00

DECK THE HALLS
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela and friends
Music: Sydney Street Trio

One time-honoured holiday ritual is decorating the tree. At this year’s annual Christmas Party Service, we put bows on the boughs together with a holiday ornament communion.

Please bring a dish to share for a community potluck following the service.

Sunday December 4, 2011

2011-12-04T21:09:00.000-05:00

HOW UNITARIANS CREATED CHRISTMAS
Rev. Shawn Newton
Music: Stephen Preece

It is a question we all get at some point: "Do Unitarians actually celebrate Christmas?" Too often our answer is a tepid, "Well, it depends," when it should be "Why, yes, we practically invented Christmas!" Come find out how we did it. Shawn Newton is the minister at the First Unitarian Congregation of Toronto.

Sunday Novemberr 27, 2011

2011-11-27T22:37:00.000-05:00

HOW THE LIGHT GETS IN
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Boyd McDonald; and Colin Read, Joanne Davis, and Judith Koeller.

There is a delicate balance in the spiritual practice of acceptance and the psychological ability of assertiveness. How do we know when to let go?

Sunday Novemberr 20, 2011

2011-11-20T22:35:00.000-05:00

FINDING UU PRINCIPLES IN UNLIKELY PLACES
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Stephen Preece and the Unitunz group from the Unitarian Congregation of Guelph.

We come together from diverse backgrounds and histories carrying bags that are loaded with a wide assortment of experiences, beliefs and thoughts. We come together with spirits that are seeking. We come together to join in community, knowing that there is more that makes us the same than makes us different. This service will focus on the Seven UU principles which bind us together and form the basis of our spiritual community. Come prepared to sing, clap your hands and tap your feet!

Sunday Novemberr 13, 2011

2011-11-13T22:34:00.000-05:00

THE DEMARCATION OF DEMOCRACY
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Sydney Street Trio: Tom Nagy, Colin Read, and Stephen Preece.

At this summer’s Question Box sermon, a congregant asked me to address the definition and limits of the democratic process that we affirm in our fifth principle. Reinhold Neibuhr wrote: “Man’s capacity for justice makes democracy possible, but man’s inclination to injustice makes democracy necessary.”

Today we also celebrate New Member Sunday. (Those interested in joining the congregation, please contact Rev. Jess for an appointment.)

Sunday Novemberr 6, 2011

2011-11-06T22:33:00.000-05:00

WRESTLING WITH REALITY: A DREAMSCAPE
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Stephen Preece (piano) and Andy Klaehn (flute and clarinet).

Joseph Campbell says: “Myths are public dreams; dreams are private myths.” From nightmare to daydream, a dream is so many things – fantasy and predictors; projection and reflections; illusion and goal; motivations and distractions. Are we truly awake to a dream’s potential?

Sunday October 30, 2011

2011-10-30T21:12:00.001-05:00

REQUIEM: KNOCKING ON HEAVEN’S DOOR
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela

Unitarians carry no ‘life insurance policy’ guaranteeing an afterlife. So how do we face our
finite lives in light of an infinite future? What lies beyond?

Children's Halloween party after the service. Bring costumes.

Sunday October 23, 2011

2011-10-23T21:10:00.000-05:00

VIOLENCE AND COMPASSION
Steve Higgins

His Holiness the Dalai Lama once remarked, 'It may surprise you, but I am not necessarily against the spectacle of violence. It all depends upon what lessons one draws from it!'

Violence is a difficult subject for most religions. Within Buddhist culture, for example, room must be made not only for pacifist Theravadin monks, but also for Zen-inspired samurai and for Tibetan bandits-turned-guard-monks equipped with great big nasty swords! Focusing primarily on the Buddhist tradition, Steve Higgins, sifu at Cold Mountain Internal Arts, will explore some of the difficulties, tensions and rationales surrounding the treatment of violence within the contexts of spirituality and religion.

Sunday October 16, 2011

2011-10-16T21:09:00.000-05:00

YOU CAN COUNT ON ME
Rev. Jess and Jane Bell

In turbulent times, where might we turn? Come celebrate the potential of commitment, and covenant as we consider the ways we count on our Unitarian Universalist community.

Sunday October 9, 2011

2011-10-09T21:08:00.000-05:00

THE BREADTH OF BREAD
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela

The act of breaking bread together is a time-honoured communal act. Today we celebrate
Thanksgiving with our traditional annual Food Drive.

Please bring a donation for the annual Food Drive.

Sunday October 2, 2011

2011-10-02T20:59:00.000-05:00

WHOSE ARE WE?
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela

My mentor in ministry used to pose three questions of discernment regarding our Unitarian Universalist theologies: “What do we believe? Whom do we serve? To whom or to what are we responsible?” How would you answer?

Sunday September 25, 2011

2011-09-25T13:24:00.000-05:00

BEFRIENDING THE HOUSE OF FRIENDSHIP
Rev. Michael Hackbusch
Music: Stephen Preece.

Last year’s Social Action Committee worked with The House of Friendship. This regional charity serves over 42,000 low-income people to promote opportunities for personal growth, wholesome relationships and community development. Come learn how you can help.

Sunday September 18, 2011

2011-09-18T13:21:00.000-05:00

THE PRINCIPLE OF LEARNING
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela and the Adult Religious Education Committee
Music: Boyd McDonald.

Come celebrate our third principle affirming “the acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations.”

Sunday September 11, 2011

2011-09-11T13:19:00.000-05:00

NOT WAVING . . . DROWNING: ANNUAL INGATHERING AND WATER COMMUNION
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Judith Koeller, Tom Nagy, Stephen Preece, and Colin Read.

Alan Watts said, “To have faith is to trust yourself to the water. When you swim you don't grab hold of the water, because if you do you will sink and drown. Instead you relax, and float.” You are invited to bring a small sampling of water representing your summer travels as we mingle our experiences in this uniquely Unitarian ritual.

A potluck lunch will follow today’s service. Please bring a dish to share.
Swimming party 1:30 - 3:30

Sunday September 4, 2011

2011-09-04T13:15:00.000-05:00

CHANGING THE NARRATIVE, CHANGING THE OUTCOME
Tui Torrie
Service Leader: Janis Collins.
Music: Stephen Preece.

Dry autumn leaves will fall and dance ahead of the crisp wind that was yesterday’s warm summer breeze. Inevitable change, predictable - yet not. How do we grab hold of our reality and drive it in the direction we need? A verbal sprint through issues, meaning, and our futures.

Sunday August 28, 2011

2011-08-28T21:39:00.000-05:00

TIME LORDS AND LANDLORDS
Service Leader: Marc Xuereb
Fiona Heath
Music: Boyd McDonald

How does watching Doctor Who, going back to the land in Saskatchewan, and apartment living develop into choosing UU ministry as a vocation? Our own Fiona Heath, candidate for Unitarian Universalist Ministry, will share her path.

Sunday August 21, 2011

2011-08-21T21:38:00.000-05:00

THE MYTHOLOGY OF HUMANISM
Service Leader: Mag Horman
Peggy Hagen
Music: Rosemarie Harris

For the first time in the history of our planet one myth has gone global encompassing all cultures and all religions. We have run out of "gods" and "heroes" to save us. Instead we have the creativity and resourcefulness of our own species.

Sunday August 14, 2011

2011-08-14T21:36:00.000-05:00

SPIRITUAL LIBERATION
Susan Howard
Music: Bruce Torrie

Let your life become your artwork. Recognize and release what the outer world has taught you about yourself and claim the power to participate in your own destiny! Susan Howard is a Unity Centre Licensed Teacher.

Sunday August 7, 2011

2011-08-07T21:34:00.000-05:00

THE DAY EVERYTHING WENT TERRIBLY, HORRIBLY RIGHT
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Tom Nagy

Desperate for direction, we sometimes seek a ‘sign’ as a clue to which way our lives might unfold. But, how might we interpret declarations like: “One Way?” “Yield?” “No exit?”

Sunday July 31, 2011

2011-07-31T21:32:00.000-05:00

WHEN IS A SERMON NOT A SERMON?
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Boyd McDonald

In this interactive Sunday service, YOU pick the topics. Come with your questions for Rev. Jess when we put our time-cherished doctrine of “freedom of the pulpit” and “freedom of the pew” into action.

Sunday July 24, 2011

2011-07-24T21:30:00.000-05:00

THIS LITTLE LOAN OF MINE
Service Leader: Janis Collins
Jessica Bayne
Music: Judith Koeller.

We all know that there are things in our world that need changing - sometimes it can seem overwhelming and we do not know where to start. Find out how you can make a personal difference in the lives of people around the world through Kiva.org, an organization whose goal is to change people's lives through access to credit.

Sunday July 17, 2011

2011-07-17T21:29:00.000-05:00

CHANT: THE POWER OF SOUND TO CREATE CHANGE IN EVERYDAY LIFE
Michele Cadotte and Elizabeth Van Rij
Music: Dianne Heise-Bennett and Colin Read

The chanting human voice is the world’s oldest instrument. Join us as we tap into its magical power by exploring chants from different religious and spiritual traditions. By creating sacred sounds together, we experience an ancient practice that creates positive energy for transformation and for some us, transcendence.

Sunday July 10, 2011

2011-07-10T21:26:00.000-05:00

THE LIVING BALANCE OF THE WORLD
Service Leader: Ruth Gilbert
Fiona Heath
Music: Jay Moore

With thought provoking words from the Daoist text the Daode Jing, we will explore how opposites shape our understanding of the world. Fiona Heath, a congregation member, is a candidate for Unitarian Universalist Ministry.

Sunday July 3, 2011

2011-07-03T21:24:00.000-05:00

AN AGING POPULATION AND THE WEB OF CONNECTEDNESS
Service Leader: Margaret Insley
Jennifer Jackson
Music: Colin Read

Old age is said to be a time for honour, dignity and respect. Unfortunately, that is not the experience of many seniors. Elder abuse is a complex issue that, slowly, is gaining the attention it deserves. Jennifer Jackson, who is a founding member of the Waterloo Region Committee on Elder Abuse and the current Education Chair, will reflect on this issue today.

Sunday June 26, 2011

2011-06-26T21:45:00.000-05:00

FLOWER COMMUNION: "PRAISE CREATION!"
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Stephen Preece

Environmentalist activist James Thornton declares us to be on the cusp of history, "poised to become a new species . . . so different in our power and perspective that . . . our descendants will merit a new name: Homo gaians". Let's imagine the possibilities together!

Please bring flowers for the children’s parade, and stay afterwards to join our annual Picnic Potluck!

Sunday June 19, 2011

2011-06-19T21:43:00.000-05:00

FATHER’S DAY: “WE ARE THE ONES WE’VE BEEN WAITING FOR.”
Rev. Jess Rodela with Herb Lefcourt and Helen Armstrong
Music: Stephen Preece

We are the heirs of those whose vision sustains us still. How do we now prepare the way for the next generation of Unitarians in the Waterloo Region?

Sunday June 12, 2011

2011-06-12T21:41:00.000-05:00

HEART OF EMBERS, COVERED IN ASH
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Stephen Preece

In the face of tragedy, we learn how tenuous our trust in ‘cause and effect’ really is. Walter Bruggeman wrote: “the book of Job in an artistic way is endlessly contemporary because the inability to reduce raw life to explanation is a perennial human reality.”

Sunday June 5, 2011

2011-06-05T21:40:00.000-05:00

THE PAPER BAG PRINCESS AND OTHER UNITATARIAN HEROES
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela and The Whatevers Youth Group
Music: Stephen Preece.

Living our principles and sharing our values, Canadian Unitarian author Robert Munsch tells tales of empowerment and equality through his stories for all ages.

Sunday May 29, 2011

2011-05-29T19:04:00.000-05:00

A UNITARIAN – TRIED AND CONVICTED
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Boyd McDonald

A minister once asked his congregation: “If you were accused of being a Unitarian, would there be enough evidence to convict you?” Let’s commit to ‘walk the walk,’ and not just ‘talk the talk.’

Sunday May 22, 2011

2011-05-22T19:02:00.000-05:00

TRUST THE DAWNING FUTURE
Else Barg - from a sermon by Rev. Shawn Newton of First Unitarian Congregation of Toronto.

Today many of our members are attending worship en masse at the 50th Anniversary of the Canadian Unitarian Council celebration in Toronto. We will be sharing that experience here by sharing the same liturgy and message, calling us to treasure the past while encouraging a relevant and powerful future.

Sunday May 15, 2011

2011-05-15T19:00:00.000-05:00

WOULD-A, SHOULD-A, COULD-A
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Sydney Street Trio

Yogi Berra once said, “When you come to a fork in the road . . . take it!” We can all get stuck when it’s time to make a decision. Besides weighing the pros and cons, we may also use ‘spiritual technologies’ of discernment.

Sunday May 8, 2011

2011-05-08T18:56:00.000-05:00

LESSONS FROM KEZIA
Lee Horton-Carter, Kezia, and Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Stephen Preece

There are all kinds of children and all kinds of mothers the world over. Let me tell you about the gift of Kezia in my life and what I have learned … or not ... from mothering her. She and I and some of her friends from the “Buddy Choir” will be singing for you. Come and enjoy. Happy Mother's Day.

Sunday May 1, 2011

2011-05-01T21:42:00.000-05:00

THE SIMPLE JOYS OF THE MAYPOLE!
Melissa Rockenfield & Catherine Lizotte
Music: Stephen Preece and Glen Soulis

Spring is here! Come and dance the Maypole with us! Today we celebrate Beltane and our seventh principle, reminding ourselves that we are part of the web of all beings on this earth and embracing the childlike joy within us all. Our service will be multi-generational and interactive: bring your dancing shoes for our maypole dance - we will begin upstairs and proceed downstairs for the dancing. All ages are invited to participate in the service. There are no classes for children or youth this day but child care is available as an option for those under the age of four.

Special note: We invite all to come early for facepainting, wand and garland making. We invite all to come in costume, celebrating the outdoors - fairies and lions all welcome!

Sunday April 24, 2011

2011-04-24T21:40:00.000-05:00

EASTER: ON THE FACE, FATE, AND FAITH OF JESUS
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Stephen Preece and the Spirit of Life Choir

Albert Schweitzer, in his Quest for the Historical Jesus, suggests that when we peer down to the bottom of a well looking for Jesus, we see our own faces reflected in the water. Jay Moore, Ken Brown and Janis Collins share their reflections on the face, fate, and faith of Jesus.

Sunday April 17, 2011

2011-04-17T21:38:00.000-05:00

CREATE YOUR OWN REALITY
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela & Ruth Gilbert
Music: Boyd McDonald

How much of what we call "reality" is objective, and how much of it is subject to our expectations, beliefs, and focus?   Come try an experiment in attention and intention as we entertain the concept of creating our own daily experiences. Today's sermon topic is brought to you by Ruth Gilbert, the winning bidder at the 2010 Dream Auction: Stump the Preacher.

Sunday April 10, 2011

2011-04-10T21:24:00.000-05:00

BELIEFS, BIAS AND THE SKEPTIC MOVEMENT
Dr. Jeff Orchard
Service Leader: Judith Koeller
Music: Stephen Preece

How do we form beliefs about the world? What are some pitfalls of our senses and intuitions? Dr. Jeff Orchard is a contributor to Skeptic North, a collection of skeptics, science advocates and critical thinkers. He will share some of his experiences with science and the skeptic movement, and what the skeptic movement means to him.

Sunday April 3, 2011

2011-04-03T21:22:00.000-05:00

LOST AND FOUND
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela & Linda Thomson
Music: Stephen Preece

In 1972, comedian George Carlin made famous the “Seven Words You Can Never Say on Television.” But who do our taboos serve and how do they harm us? What is our most treasured Unitarian taboo? In giving it up, what might we gain?

Sunday March 27, 2011

2011-03-27T22:35:00.000-05:00

THE “PROOF” OF TRUTH AND OTHER MYTHS
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Sydney Street Trio and Stephen Preece

Rumi wrote: “You are the truth from foot to brow. Now, what else would you like to know?” How do Unitarians balance faith, reason, science, and experience?

Sunday March 20, 2011

2011-03-20T22:34:00.000-05:00

DARE OUR HEARTS ACKNOWLEDGE SPRING?
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Stephen Preece

According to the calendar, Spring begins today! Let us celebrate the Vernal Equinox with special music and optimistic reflections about the thawing earth.

Sunday March 13, 2011

2011-03-13T22:32:00.000-05:00

THE GEOMETRY OF RELATIONSHIPS
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Boyd McDonald

In the quest for self-differentiation, we have to move as individuals through spheres of influence and triangles of relationships.

Sunday March 6, 2011

2011-03-06T22:31:00.000-05:00

WHAT DOES A LAY CHAPLAIN DO ANYWAY?
David Keller, Karen Cummings, and Craig Beam
Service Leader: Mary Sander
Music: Stephen Preece

This Sunday your Lay Chaplains, new Lay Chaplain Committee chair and retiring chair will share some of their more memorable experiences relating to lay chaplaincy and being an Officiant. Whether of weddings, funerals, memorials, child namings or other rites of passage, the stories can be both funny and heart warming - all are worth the hearing and perhaps repeating.

Sunday February 27, 2011

2011-02-27T21:06:00.000-05:00

A ROSE BY ANY OTHER NAME…
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Spirit of Life Choir and Stephen Preece.

Paolo Friére writes: “Within the word we find two dimensions: reflection and action. . . . Thus, to speak a true word is to transform the world. . . . To exist, humanly, is to name the world, to change it.” Or, in the words of television’s Dr. Phil: “You’ve got to name it to claim it!” Come explore the implications of the names we choose.

The service is followed by our congregation’s Annual General Meeting.

Sunday February 20, 2011

2011-02-20T21:04:00.000-05:00

HOW CAN WE USE THE EARTH’S RESOURCES WISELY?
Margaret Insley
Music: Boyd McDonald

Our second UU Principle calls for justice, equity and compassion in human relations. As an economist I am frequently called on to make recommendations about how to use natural resources efficiently so costs and wastage are minimized. However, decisions about natural resource usage have implications for equity and fairness in the sharing of the earth’s resources amongst current and future generations. Are equity and efficiency incompatible? I will explore this question from my perspectives as a natural resource economist and a Unitarian Universalist.

Sunday February 13, 2011

2011-02-13T21:03:00.000-05:00

ROMANCE AND RELIGION: A VALENTINE FOR THE LONELY HEART
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Sydney Street Trio

The heart speaks one beat at a time. Come explore the rhythm of romance with a Valentine communion.

Stay for Souper Sunday following the service.

Sunday February 6, 2011

2011-02-06T20:59:00.000-05:00

A RABBIT IN THE BRIAR PATCH
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Stephen Preece

The Year of the Rabbit is upon us. As we head past the “newness” of the year, have we heeded our earnest resolutions? Are your new year’s commitments resolved or dissolved?

Sunday January 30, 2011

2011-01-30T22:34:00.000-05:00

LESSONS OF THE LOTUS: ON LIGHTNING, LIGHTENING AND ENLIGHTENMENT
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Stephen Preece and Gerard Yun (Shakuhachi Flute)

A week-long retreat with Western Lama Surya Das yields lessons in letting go, letting be, renewal and awakening.

Sunday January 23, 2011

2011-01-23T22:33:00.000-05:00

THE COST OF MARTYRDOM
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Stephen Preece.

Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote: “The torments of martyrdom are probably most keenly felt by the bystanders.” As the survivors of a faith history marked by the sacrifices of many, we reflect on the price paid, lessons lost, and benefits gained by extremism.

Sunday January 16, 2011

2011-01-16T22:31:00.000-05:00

HOW WE PLAY AT THE CANYON’S RIM
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Stephen Preece and the Sydney Street Trio

Dianne Ackerman wrote: “Consciousness is the great poem of matter, whose opposite extreme is a Grand Canyon. In between, matter has odd fits and whims . . . .” Let us play with things that matter to our hearts, heads, and hands.

Sunday January 9, 2011

2011-01-09T22:29:00.000-05:00

ADAM AND EVE REVISITED
Susan Howard
Service Leader: Margaret Insley
Music: Boyd McDonald

Adam and & Eve are not two separate people; they represent our masculine and feminine natures. What happens to our lives and our world when we allow one aspect to dominate the other? How can we use this story metaphysically to bring them into balance? Susan Howard, from Interfaith Grand River, serves as a licensed teacher with the Unity Centre for Practical Christianity in Kitchener.

Sunday January 2, 2011

2011-01-02T10:18:00.000-05:00

COME SING A SONG WITH ME
Judith Koeller and the Sydney Street Trio and Friends

Come sing in the New Year with a music service. We'll learn new songs, revisit old favourites, and share the importance of music in our gatherings.

Sunday December 26, 2010

2010-12-26T10:10:00.000-05:00

THE MORNING AFTER – A SHARING SERVICE
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Rosemarie Harris.

The year turns, and our thoughts turn toward resolutions as a new year begins. You are invited to share your thoughts, a poem, a reading, or song, that expresses your hopes for renewal and rejuvenation.

Friday December 24, 2010. 7:00 pm

2010-12-24T10:06:00.000-05:00

I WONDER AS I WANDER
CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLELIGHT SERVICE
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela and Boyd McDonald

What wonders does this night of stars and candlelight portend? Come, let’s hear again the ancient story that reminds us of the holiness of every child’s birth, and raise our voices in the familiar carols celebrating the love and mystery of our highest hopes for humanity.

Sunday December 19, 2010

2010-12-19T10:03:00.000-05:00

A LITTLE CHILD SHALL LEAD THEM
Neil Carver
Service Leader: Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela.
Music: Glen Soulis (violin & flutes) and Stephen Preece.

How might the archetypal meanings of the Christmas story move us beyond theism into places we would rather not go? We explore its original agenda and examine how this reconnects with the emerging world of our time. Neil Carver is a retired Anglican priest. In the past, he has provided leadership in inter-faith relations and lectured in mystical theology. Neil embraces the principles of the First Unitarian Congregation of Waterloo and is grateful for its hospitality and the opportunity to participate among a community of seekers.

Sunday December 12, 2010

2010-12-12T10:01:00.000-05:00

THE TWELVE GIFTS OF CHRISTMAS
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela and Friends
Music: Spirit of Life Choir and Stephen Preece.

Our annual Christmas Party Service celebrates the gifts of our free faith for the twelve days of Christmas. Come share the fun, and stay for the party and carolling!

Please bring a dish to share for a community potluck, to be followed by Christmas carolling around the neighbourhood!

Sunday December 5, 2010

2010-12-05T10:00:00.000-05:00

HE WOULD HAVE RIDDEN A HARLEY…
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Sydney Street Trio and Andy Klaehn (clarinet)

Unexpected Santas, in the form of a motorcycle club, descend on a suburban shopping mall. Join Rev. Jess for a story about her own ‘Christmas Past’.

Sunday November 28, 2010

2010-11-28T20:29:00.000-05:00

FOUR GIFTS TO NOT FORGET
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Boyd McDonald

Advent is the season of anticipation. What are you waiting for?

Sunday November 21, 2010

2010-11-21T20:28:00.000-05:00

ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY: UTOPIAN DREAM OR ACHIEVABLE REALITY?
Alisa McClurg
Music: Stephen Preece

Many writers and activists have worked to raise awareness about the importance of living in a more environmentally sustainable fashion. But how and, perhaps more importantly, can this be achieved? This talk seeks to explore these questions by drawing upon the writings of Pat Murphy and others.

Sunday November 14, 2010

2010-11-14T20:27:00.002-05:00

GOOD ENOUGH?
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Stephen Preece (piano), Jerzy Kaplanek (violin)

In theology school, I repeatedly heard claims that as humans, we are necessarily broken and need to be made whole. But what if we are perfect just the way we are? What if we learned to be content with being “good enough”?

Sermon: Good Enough

Sunday November 7, 2010

2010-11-07T20:25:00.000-05:00

WE’RE GONNA NEED A BIGGER BOAT
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Stephen Preece

A frustrated Unitarian asked me why there are only 5,000 Unitarians in our Canadian congregations even though surveys suggest 20% of the Canadian population is like-minded. Rather than rest in “paralysis by analysis,” let’s explore how to popularize the life-transforming promise of Unitarian Universalism.

Sunday October 31, 2010

2010-10-27T20:33:00.003-05:00

REQUIEM: UNMASKED
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Requiem Vocal Quartet

What if we stopped hiding behind our masks of perfection, stoic smiles, and nonchalance? If we dared to expose our true selves, what would be revealed in the mirror of another’s eyes? What if we were able to see that our most hidden grief was a shared human experience, and not the isolating journey we allow it to become?

Sunday October 24, 2010

2010-10-20T20:32:00.004-05:00

MAKING CONNECTIONS
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela & Community Builders
Music: Spirit of Life Choir

Our Community Builders (formerly known as the Membership Committee) will share their spiritual journeys that led to Unitarian membership in honour of our Canvass Kick-off Celebration and New Member Sunday.

Our annual Stone Soup lunch and Canvass Conversation follows this service. Please bring chopped vegetables to add to the communal pot, or a dessert to share.

Sunday October 17, 2010

2010-10-13T20:31:00.006-05:00

POSTCARDS FROM 1(HEL)L: A STUDENT'S REFLECTIONS ON HER FIRST YEAR AT LAW SCHOOL
Susan Deefholts, Chaplain
Music: Sydney Street Trio.

They say that the first year at law school is the hardest. They may be right. 1L, as it is known, can be difficult, gruelling and deeply stressful. But it can also be fascinating. A study of the law opens access to the world in a whole new way. It is empowering, engaging, and enlightening--a paradigm shift. But there is also another way to look at the law: as story. It is the story of people and their conflicts--and, at a higher level, the story of a society's aspirations and its shortcomings. Come join me as I discuss my first, delirious, and often tempestuous, encounter with the study of law.

Sunday October 10, 2010

2010-10-10T06:56:00.003-05:00

MANURE: IT HAPPENS
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela & Mavis Kerr
Music: Stephen Preece

The loveliest pearls are created from irritating grains of sand, our finest feasts and cornucopia from compost.

Please help us build a “food chain” around the sanctuary by bringing canned goods for our Thanksgiving Food Drive.

Sunday October 3, 2010

2010-10-03T06:54:00.001-05:00

MESQUITE AND PALM: A PARABLE OF TEXAS TREES
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Gwen Buttemer (oboe) and Stephen Preece (piano)

Our familiar pastoral hymn says: “roots hold me close, wings set me free,” but how do we find the balance of when to hold tight and when to let go? The encroaching autumn season holds a lesson for us.

Sunday September 26, 2010

2010-09-26T06:52:00.000-05:00

THE SHELTER OF SUSTAINING FAITH
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Stephen Preece

Rebecca Parker writes of Unitarian Universalism: “A theological house can be a place of hospitality to any who seek its shelter; it can honor religious diversity and welcome creative exchange among multiple religious practices and perspectives. . . . This is the way of progressive faith: An open door stands at the threshold of our theological house, its doorsill well-worn by comings and goings. . . . Let the walls of our theological house symbolize the shelter of community.” Come imagine the possibilities we can create through engagement, connection, commitment, and faith.

This is Bring-A-Friend Sunday.

Sunday September 19, 2010

2010-09-19T06:51:00.000-05:00

PRAYER OF THE WAR ATHEIST
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Jay Moore and Stephen Preece.

History is told through the landmarks of war. But what if we told our stories of peace instead? Come hear perspectives of peace in honour of International Peace Day, and highlighting the work and hopes of our Unitarian Peace Monitoring Group.

Sunday September 12, 2010

2010-09-12T11:57:00.002-05:00

SOUL OF THE RIVER – ANNUAL INGATHERING AND WATER COMMUNION
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Spirit of Life Choir, Sydney Street Trio, Jay Moore and Jazz Williams

Langston Hughes wrote: “My soul has grown deep like the rivers.” Let us navigate the rapids together in our annual ingathering multigenerational celebration. You are invited to bring a small sampling of water representing your summer travels as we mingle our experiences in this uniquely Unitarian ritual to celebrate this community of seekers.

A potluck will follow today’s service. Please bring a dish to share.

Sunday September 5, 2010

2010-09-05T11:55:00.002-05:00

MINDING THE GAP
Jessica Bayne and Young Adults
Music: Boyd McDonald

Join us for reflections from young adults from across Canada on being Unitarian and on how we can support 18 - 35 year olds in our movement.

Sunday August 29, 2010

2010-08-29T21:08:00.000-05:00

MADNESS AND CIVILIZATION
Jack MacAuley
Service Leader: Jessica Bayne.

Experiences in finding and losing one's way in the Mental Health system.

Sunday August 22, 2010

2010-08-22T21:07:00.000-05:00

A MESSAGE OF L0VE
Chattar Ahuja
Service Leader: Kristen Wilson
Music: Rosemarie Harris

Many of us, during the spring Building Bridges visits, were amazed at the common message of universalism between our faith and that of Sikhism. We are graced this morning to host Chattar, of the Golden Triangle Sikh Association and Interfaith Grand River, as our featured speaker.

Sunday August 15, 2010

2010-08-15T21:06:00.000-05:00

….EMPTY THE WAY THE UNIVERSE IS EMPTY
Fiona Heath, Ministerial Candidate

This service explores the mystery at the centre of Unitarian Universalism. What does it mean if the chalice is empty? Join Fiona for reflection and an extended meditation.

Sunday August 8, 2010

2010-08-08T21:05:00.000-05:00

STEPPING INTO FREEDOM
Melina Bundy
Service Leader: Mag Horman
Music: Rhoda Riemer

From the front lines of activism in war-torn Vietnam to worldwide prominence as a Buddhist teacher, every step of Thich Nhat Hanh’s 80+ years of life has been for peace and the dharma. Melina Bondy, of the Unitarian Congregation of Guelph, met his teachings seven years ago and they have transformed her life to the point that she is preparing to leave Canada in the fall to undergo the discernment process for ordination as a Buddhist nun. In this service, hear about Nhat Hanh's life, Melina's encounter with this great teacher and experience elements of the practice for yourself.

Sunday August 1, 2010

2010-08-01T21:03:00.000-05:00

PROCRASTINATION - OR WHY I NEVER GOT AROUND TO WRITING THIS SERMON
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Mag Horman

In this interactive sermon, YOU pick the topics. Come with your questions for Rev. Jess when we put our time-cherished doctrine of “freedom of the pulpit” and “freedom of the pew” into action.

Sunday July 25, 2010

2010-07-25T21:02:00.000-05:00

GREEN BURIAL: THRIFTY GREEN ALTERNATIVES TO TRADITIONAL BURIAL
Allan Grose
Service Leader: Margaret Insley
Music: Boyd McDonald

Cremation, Resomation, Promession, Solar Cremation, Natural Burial - would one of these be right for you?

Sunday July 18, 2010

2010-07-18T21:00:00.000-05:00

A TRIBUTE TO MARGUERITE PORETE: MYSTIC, HERETIC AND POSSIBLY PROPHET
Bob Chodos
Service Leader: Margaret Insley
Music: Rhoda Riemer

Marguerite Porete, author of the spiritual classic The Mirror of Simple Souls, was burned at the stake as a relapsed heretic in Paris on June 1, 1310. In this talk, Bob Chodos (of Temple Shalom and Interfaith Grand River) explores who Marguerite was and why she still matters 700 years after her death.

Sunday July 11, 2010

2010-07-11T20:58:00.000-05:00

TRINITIES, COSMOLOGIES AND ENLIGHTENMENT
Steve Higgins
Service Leader: Margaret Insley
Music: Rosemarie Harris.

Do things come in threes? So superstition would have it, and various religions, too! From the study of time to our investigations of the consciousness, there seems to be an instinct for a tripartite division of things. Basing his talk on ancient Chinese and Mahayana Buddhist cosmologies, Steve Higgins, of Cold Mountain Internal Arts and Interfaith Grand River, will discuss the concept of Trinity in locating ourselves spiritually.

Sunday July 4, 2010

2010-07-04T08:08:00.001-05:00

STAR-SPANGLED BORDER TANGLES
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Sydney Street Trio and special guests

Unitarian Universalism is billed as “one faith, many beliefs.” But how we express that faith in the culture of “this fair country” necessarily differs compared to that of our southern neighbours. In a travelogue of confessions, I’ll reflect on my spring travels to two Unitarian conferences – one here in Canada, and one in the United States.

Sunday June 27, 2010

2010-06-27T08:07:00.001-05:00

REINVENTING THE SACRED
Karis Burkowski
Music: Boyd McDonald

When our habitual ways no longer work for us, how might we reclaim the sacred? Consider this: Science does not take away the mystery and magic of Life, science merely rephrases it. When the existing religions no longer meet the needs of a group of people, a new religion evolves. The Biosphere is our true progenitor; it, in itself, is sacred.

An Interfaith Grand River Series discussion on this topic follows the service.

Sunday June 20, 2010

2010-06-20T08:05:00.001-05:00

FLOWER COMMUNION: THE DIVINE MASCULINE
Rev. J. P. Rodela
Music: The Gospel Refugees and Stephen Preece

Each year we celebrate International Women’s Day with a special service, but I found myself wondering why there isn’t a concurrent “Manly Day?” Has the pendulum swung so far that it is no longer ‘politically correct’ to be male? Let’s explore the virtues of masculinity that men are allowed or forbidden in our modern culture as exemplified by Rev. Norbert Capek, creator of our Unitarian Flower Communion.

Please bring a flower to place on the chancel for our annual flower communion and bridging celebration.
Congregational Picnic after the service

Sunday June 13, 2010

2010-06-13T08:04:00.002-05:00

HOW WE HURT
Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Stephen Preece

Ben Stiller, in the movie Greenberg, confesses that “Hurt people hurt people.” How do we balance the sometimes seemingly conflicting needs of accountability and compassion? responsibility and inclusion? truth and tolerance?

Soup Sunday follows today’s service.

Sunday June 6, 2010

2010-06-06T08:01:00.001-05:00

DEFINING AND DEFYING NORMAL
UU Whatever Youth Group
Music: Aden Seaman and Stephen Preece

We all face pressures to conform to society's idea of what is "normal", or to live within certain bounds. In this youth-led service we investigate questions such as: what does "normal" really mean?, what do we gain or lose by conforming, and aren't we all a little weird? Everyone is invited to come dressed in their favourite non-conformist outfit!

Sunday May 30, 2010

2010-05-30T21:33:00.001-05:00

Rev. Jessica Rodela and Friends

YOU CAN COME 'FROM HERE' NOW
Last November, Liliana Castaneda, a refugee from Colombia who had been living in Kitchener for less than a year, asked our congregation to help sponsor her sister Soffi's family. Soffi's family are living in a safe house in Bogota while the Canadian government considers their refugee applications. Learn more about the situation in Colombia the Castenedas are fleeing, and how you can be part of the welcoming message from our congregation: "you can come from here now."

Sunday May 23, 2010

2010-05-23T21:31:00.001-05:00

Craig Beam
Music: Stephen Preece

THE GOLDEN RULE
This seemingly simple ethical principle is present in many traditions. Professor Beam will present alternative versions of it from philosophical and theological traditions, and explore some of its limitations as an ethical guide.

Sunday May 16, 2010

2010-05-16T21:31:00.001-05:00

Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Boyd McDonald

ZENtrifugal Force
What do a 20-second kiss, a bookmark urging, “It’s good to let go,” and the coming Tri-Pride Week have in common with engaged Buddhism? Thich Nhat Hanh says, “When bombs begin to fall on people, you cannot stay in the meditation hall all of the time. Meditation is about the awareness of what is going on-not only in your body and in your feelings, but all around you.”

Sunday May 9, 2010

2010-05-09T21:29:00.001-05:00

Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Stephen Preece and Judith Koeller

GREAT EXPECTATIONS!
Becoming someone’s mother was nothing like I expected – but nothing can prepare us for the heart, hurt, and healing that characterizes our mixed experience of the experiment of parenting.

Sunday May 2, 2010

2010-05-02T21:03:00.002-05:00

Melissa Rockenfield and Kimberly Williams

BELTANE SERVICE AND MAYPOLE DANCE
Celebrating Earthly Love, Life and Aliveness
Spring is here! Come and dance the Maypole with us! Today we celebrate Beltane and our seventh principle, reminding ourselves that we are part of the web of all beings on this earth and embracing the childlike joy within us all. Our service will be multi-generational and interactive: bring your dancing shoes for our maypole dance - we will begin upstairs and proceed downstairs for the dancing. All ages are invited to participate in the service. There are no classes for children or youth this day but child care is available as an option for those under the age of four.

Special note: We invite all to come early for facepainting, wand and garland making. We invite all to come in costume, celebrating the outdoors - fairies and lions all welcome!

Should you want to help with all this merrymaking, please contact Melissa Rockenfield

Sunday April 25, 2010

2010-04-25T21:00:00.000-05:00

Rev. Fred Cappucinno
Music: Stephen Preece

HOW TO SURVIVE 56 YEARS OF MARRIAGE IN SPITE OF EXTREME PROVOCATION
Come hear the story of Fred and Bonnie Cappuccino, founders of Child Haven International, and their 21 children. Rev. Fred has vowed, in honour of the topic’s tragic nature, to say nothing funny. Rev. Jess will be there to ensure the morning’s enduring and inevitable solemnity while we survive at least 56 minutes of this Sunday’s service.

Sunday April 18, 2010

2010-04-18T20:58:00.000-05:00

Rev. Jessica Purple Rodela
Music: Stephen Preece

TO SERVE, SAVE, AND SAVOUR
In honour of National Volunteer Week, our Membership Committee devotes this service to this congregation’s most precious resource – its people power!