Best First Universalist Church Podcasts (2024)

1
07.21.24 Sermon - "Artists Who Inspire: Ludwig Van Beethoven" - Rev. T.J. FitzGerald 25:43

1h ago25:43

25:43

Ludwig Van Beethoven’s music transcends barriers of time and space to touch the depths of the human soul. Despite facing profound personal challenges, Beethoven composed symphonies of unparalleled beauty and resilience, reminding us of the transformative power of art in times of adversity. This sermon is part of our Artists Who Inspire series – a j…

1
Awe and the Spirit of Life 23:45

2h ago23:45

23:45

The Spirit of Life is the animating birthright that pulses through all of us. How do we access its aliveness to keep us connected to ourselves, our beloved community and the interdependent web of all things? Find out how awe experiences and the 8 Wonders of Life can fuel our inner joy and our outer contributions. Led by Cindy Atlee…

1
Resources & care for Texans facing pregnancy-related decisions | Rev. Deneen Robinson | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 014 29:10

4h ago29:10

29:10

In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald welcomes Deneen Robinson, Executive Director of Truth Pregnancy Resource Center in Dallas, Texas for a conversation about caring for pregnant people in a state where abortion is illegal, making dignity a non-negotiable in reproductive care, and how faith can inform social work and healthca…

1
07.14.24 Sermon - "Artists Who Inspire: Aurora Levins Morales" - Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter 19:21

3d ago19:21

19:21

Join us as we delve into the powerful storytelling of Aurora Levins Morales, a writer, activist, and artist. Explore how her work amplifies marginalized voices, advocates for justice, and celebrates the resilience of oppressed communities. Reflect on the role of art in activism and its potential to inspire social change. This sermon is part of our …

1
Agnosticism, Atheism, and Humanism in our Unitarian Universalist Community | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 013 14:21

3d ago14:21

14:21

Can you be Agnostic, Atheist, or Humanist AND Unitarian Universalist? In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Revs. Beth Dana and T. J. FitzGerald discuss the differences between these systems of thought and how they fit into our Unitarian Universalist community. 00:00 - Welcome to episode 13 of Tiny Pulpit Talks. 00:43 - "Is it okay if I come to thi…

1
Left Brain Right Brain Balance A New Lens on our World 16:06

6d ago16:06

16:06

Dr. Scott Eden describes how the Brain Balance Concept can lead to answers to the age-old questions of where do we come from, what are we, and what are we supposed to do?

1
07.07.24 Sermon - "Artists Who Inspire: Marina Abramović" - Rev. Beth Dana 21:45

6d ago21:45

21:45

Explore the transformative power of performance art as we reflect on the groundbreaking work of Marina Abramović. Through her daring and provocative performances, Abramović challenges conventional notions of art, time, and the self, inviting us to contemplate the profound connections between body, mind, and spirit. This sermon is part of our Artist…

1
Spiritual Practices and Climate Justice 1:07:39

6d ago1:07:39

1:07:39

"Spiritual Practices and Climate Justice" Sunday, July 7, 10:50 am, 2024 "We can never return to innocence, but we can move forward with integrity." - Rev. Dr. Howard Thurman The 20th-century spiritual leader, Rev. Dr. Howard Thurman, loved San Francisco. A mentor to Martin Luther King, Jr., and Pauli Murray, Thurman found in this city a special dy…

1
Spiritual Practices and Climate Justice 30:36

6d ago30:36

30:36

"Spiritual Practices and Climate Justice" Sunday, July 7, 10:50 am, 2024 "We can never return to innocence, but we can move forward with integrity." - Rev. Dr. Howard Thurman The 20th-century spiritual leader, Rev. Dr. Howard Thurman, loved San Francisco. A mentor to Martin Luther King, Jr., and Pauli Murray, Thurman found in this city a special dy…

1
Bringing Inclusive, Affirming, & Anti-Racist Sex Ed to Dallas | Sherri Cook | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 012 11:12

13d ago11:12

11:12

In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald welcomes Sherri Cook, Executive Director of Wholly Informed Sex Ed (WISE) for a conversation about inclusive and affirming sexuality education, literacy about our emotions and our body, and helping youth to grow into sexually healthy adults. 00:00 - Rev. T. J. Fitzgerald welcomes Sherri Co…

1
The Liberal Ocean Sings Louder 24:23

12d ago24:23

24:23

Fifty-two years ago, the trajectory of my life changed. On a balmy April afternoon, the words of "Saint Waldo" moved me. His heretical, radical ideas have been inspiring Unitarian Universalists for 185 years. Come learn about and affirm our faith journey. Led by Rev. Dr. Fred Muir Delivered: Sunday June 30, 2024…

1
06.30.24 Sermon - "Happy Ever After" - Rev. T.J. FitzGerald 20:34

13d ago20:34

20:34

This week’s film: The Princess Bride – Storybook endings are usually reserved for storybooks. Life is rarely what you plan, though. What can we make of our lives while we are living? The Princess Bride is a timeless tale of love, adventure, and the triumph of the human spirit. Its blend of humor, romance, and swashbuckling action serves as a remind…

1
Radical Rethinking of God: God is Queer 1:25:14

13d ago1:25:14

1:25:14

"Radical Rethinking of God: God is Queer" Sunday, June 30, 10:50 am, 2024 On this Pride Weekend, we will dive into Queer Theology: What does it have to say about the nature of God and of the holy? Why is that important for all of us? Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister; Rev. Laura Shennum, Minister of Congregational Life; Carmen Barsody, Wo…

1
Radical Rethinking of God: God is Queer 30:36

13d ago30:36

30:36

"Radical Rethinking of God: God is Queer" Sunday, June 30, 10:50 am, 2024 On this Pride Weekend, we will dive into Queer Theology: What does it have to say about the nature of God and of the holy? Why is that important for all of us? Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister; Rev. Laura Shennum, Minister of Congregational Life; Carmen Barsody, Wo…

1
Sumfun Spotlight - Meet campers from our Unitarian Universalist day camp | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 011 11:23

17d ago11:23

11:23

Welcome to a very special Sumfun edition of Tiny Pulpit Talks! In this episode, Rev. T. J. is talking to some of the campers attending our Unitarian Universalist day camp to find out what's Sumfun is all about and to answer questions like: What's it like being a minister? What's your favorite book? Do you ever get nervous before your sermons? And..…

1
Longing; The Language of the Soul 18:37

19d ago18:37

18:37

What is longing teaching us, what can we learn from the yearnings of our soul? We explore longing for justice, for love, for purpose, and examine readings by Bénézet Bujo, Tara Brach, Thomas Merton, and the story of Peter Pan, which all tell us of embracing longing as a spiritual practice. Led by SarahRuth Davis. Delivered: June 23,2024…

1
06.16.24 Sermon - "Heaven is Real" - Rev. T.J. FitzGerald 23:57

20d ago23:57

23:57

If you’re hoping to go to heaven, we’ve got some good news for you. Come and join us this Sunday to hear all about it. This week’s film: Field of Dreams – Field of Dreams intertwines themes of faith, redemption, and the power of following one’s dreams. It challenges us to trust in the unseen, to have faith in our visions, and to build bridges betwe…

1
Harmony Unveiled: The Secret Music of the Renaissance 1:10:51

20d ago1:10:51

1:10:51

"Harmony Unveiled: The Secret Music of the Renaissance" Sunday, June 23, 10:50 am, 2024 "Bigger" Music Sunday is thrilled to present "Harmony Unveiled: The Secret Music of the Renaissance," a mesmerizing service full of vocal and instrumental masterpieces sung by Areté Singers, an East Bay ensemble renowned for their innovative vocal performances. …

1
Harmony Unveiled: The Secret Music of the Renaissance 1:01:30

20d ago1:01:30

1:01:30

"Harmony Unveiled: The Secret Music of the Renaissance" Sunday, June 23, 10:50 am, 2024 "Bigger" Music Sunday is thrilled to present "Harmony Unveiled: The Secret Music of the Renaissance," a mesmerizing service full of vocal and instrumental masterpieces sung by Areté Singers, an East Bay ensemble renowned for their innovative vocal performances. …

1
What makes First Unitarian Church of Dallas unique? | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 010 10:00

25d ago10:00

10:00

Every Unitarian Universalist church has a unique way of approaching faith, community, and care. In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald shares three (plus) ways First Unitarian Church of Dallas differentiates itself from other churches. 00:00 - Welcome to episode 10 of Tiny Pulpit Talks! 01:11 - A commitment to intentional, cohe…

1
Blessings and Farewell 58:07

1M ago58:07

58:07

On this last Sunday with Rev. Anastassia, let us reflect on these four years of shared ministry, receive and give blessings, and release her from ministry at UUCA.

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06.16.24 Sermon - "I'm not dying today!" - Rev. Beth Dana 16:42

28d ago16:42

16:42

This week’s film: Soul – Soul takes us on a journey exploring the meaning of life, purpose, and the interconnectedness of all living beings. Through the eyes of its protagonist, it prompts us to reflect on our own passions, dreams, and the beauty of simply being alive. It inspires us to cherish each moment and find fulfillment in the pursuit of our…

1
What They Taught Us? 1:13:59

27d ago1:13:59

1:13:59

“What They Taught Us?” Sunday, June 16, 10:50 am, 2024 What does it mean to be a man? What did we learn, from whom, and how? What do we want to pass on? Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister; Sam King, Worship Associate; Trio: Akané Ota, Kei Uchida, Tetsuya Taura, singers; Yuki Ota and Haruka Ota, cellists; Mark Sumner, pianist Jonathan Silk,…

1
What They Taught Us? 28:21

1M ago28:21

28:21

“What They Taught Us?” Sunday, June 16, 10:50 am, 2024 What does it mean to be a man? What did we learn, from whom, and how? What do we want to pass on? Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister; Sam King, Worship Associate; Trio: Akané Ota, Kei Uchida, Tetsuya Taura, singers; Yuki Ota and Haruka Ota, cellists; Mark Sumner, pianist Jonathan Silk,…

1
Are Unitarian Universalists Christian? | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 009 10:21

1M ago10:21

10:21

In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald answers one of our most commonly asked questions: Are Unitarian Universalists Christian? - Welcome to episode 9 of Tiny Pulpit Talks! - A brief history of Christianity - Are we Christian? - Practicing the religion of Jesus - Is our church more Christian-based than other UU churches? - The …

1
The Meaning of Membership 35:39

1M ago35:39

35:39

What does membership mean, at first and through the decades? We want to honor the act of committing to a community of faith. Come welcome new members, hear several UUCA members share stories, music, and reflections about their journey with UUCA, and thank our Radical Hospitality Team.

1
06.09.24 Sermon - "An alien's view of our world." - Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter 25:12

1M ago25:12

25:12

This week, as part of our Faith & Film series, we are exploring the spiritual lessons and themes from the film “The Brother from Another Planet.” Join us for our first summer sermon series as we journey through the realms of faith, humanity, and the divine, illuminated by the magic of film. Each Wednesday evening we will gather in community to view…

1
Blessings Abound 15:52

1M ago15:52

15:52

By Sophia Doescher

1
"Metaphors for Us 1:21:06

1M ago1:21:06

1:21:06

"Metaphors for Us" Sunday, June 9, 10:50 am, 2024 Bring your flowers this week as we engage in the ritual of the end of our year, where we make visible the life we have made tangible among us. Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister; Rev. Laura Shennum, Minister of Congregational Life; Dennis Adams, Worship Associate; Liz Strand, Secretary, Boa…

1
A Look Back 30:27

1M ago30:27

30:27

"A Look Back" Sunday, June 2, 10:50 am, 2024 Let's look back on our year together. Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister; Rev. Laura Shennum, Minister of Congregational Life; Mari Magaloni Ramos, Worship Associate; Galen Workman, Trustee; Reiko Oda Lane, Organist; UUSF Choir led by Mark Sumner, Music Director; Andrew Kessler, Guest Director; …

1
Nietzsche & Camus, Faith & Film, and the UU History in Boston | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 008 13:22

1M ago13:22

13:22

In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Revs. Daniel, Beth, and T. J. discuss what we can expect from this month's Faith and Film series and a little bit of UU history as Beth plans to take our Coming of Age 9th graders on the Boston Heritage Trip this week. 01:36 - Palm Springs with Andy Samberg 02:35 - The myth of Sisyphus 04:09 - The Brother from …

1
06.02.24 Sermon - "Faith and Film: Sisyphus Never Had It So Good" - Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter 19:15

1M ago19:15

19:15

This week’s film: Palm Springs – In this existential rom-com, Palm Springs invites us to ponder the cyclical nature of life and the transformative power of love and connection. Through its exploration of time loops and self-discovery, it prompts reflection on the interconnectedness of all beings and the importance of embracing the present moment. J…

1
Covenant The First Word The Last Word 18:09

2M ago18:09

18:09

When Rev. Anastassia joined us for candidating week, before being called as a minister of equal standing with Rev. John, she preached about covenant. In this last sermon of hers, let's revisit the collective power and sustenance of covenantal community. (Delivered Sunday June 2, 2024)

1
A Look Back 1:26:21

2M ago1:26:21

1:26:21

"A Look Back" Sunday, June 2, 10:50 am, 2024 Let's look back on our year together. Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister; Rev. Laura Shennum, Minister of Congregational Life; Mari Magaloni Ramos, Worship Associate; Galen Workman, Trustee; Reiko Oda Lane, Organist; UUSF Choir led by Mark Sumner, Music Director; Andrew Kessler, Guest Director; …

1
Metaphors for Us 13:53

2M ago13:53

13:53

"Metaphors for Us" Sunday, June 9, 10:50 am, 2024 Bring your flowers this week as we engage in the ritual of the end of our year, where we make visible the life we have made tangible among us. Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister; Rev. Laura Shennum, Minister of Congregational Life; Dennis Adams, Worship Associate; Liz Strand, Secretary, Boa…

1
Heaven and the Afterlife 24:04

2M ago24:04

24:04

What happens after we die? What awaits us? Time Magazine dedicated a special edition to this topic converging science and faith. I will share some of what they found as well as my own personal beliefs on the subject. (Delivered: Sunday, May 26, 2024)

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05.26.24 Sermon - "Civil Religion, War, & Other Troubling Things in the Face of Joy, Hope, & Other Amazing Things" - Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter 19:37

2M ago19:37

19:37

Let’s come together on Memorial day and have church lift us. First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made…

1
Meditations on the Transformative Power of Street Ministry 1:09:28

2M ago1:09:28

1:09:28

"Meditations on the Transformative Power of Street Ministry" Sunday, May 26, 10:50 am, 2024 Join Rev. Charlotte as she reflects on her experiences as a street minister in Marin, the transformative power of connecting with our unhoused neighbors (and how it changed her life), and her new project helping communities create spaces of belonging for all…

1
Meditations on the Transformative Power of Street Ministry 30:12

2M ago30:12

30:12

"Meditations on the Transformative Power of Street Ministry" Sunday, May 26, 10:50 am, 2024 Join Rev. Charlotte as she reflects on her experiences as a street minister in Marin, the transformative power of connecting with our unhoused neighbors (and how it changed her life), and her new project helping communities create spaces of belonging for all…

1
Ask A Unitarian Universalist Minister with Rev. T. J. FitzGerald | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 007 10:13

2M ago10:13

10:13

In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald answers questions from our members and friends. Learn more about Rev. T. J., what it's like to be a Unitarian Universalist minister, and how to talk about Unitarian Universalism with your friends. 00:00 - Rev. T. J. is ready to answer your questions! 00:27 - How do our online members exper…

1
The Fight to be Authentic, and Loved 1:19:42

2M ago1:19:42

1:19:42

"The Fight to be Authentic, and Loved" Sunday, May 19, 10:50 am, 2024 It is so central to want to be seen and loved for who we are, understood, if we can be so lucky. It is also the source of so much pain (and power) to make that journey in a world, in a family, at a time that won't easily make a place for you in the family of things, to paraphrase…

1
The Fight to be Authentic, and Loved 26:28

2M ago26:28

26:28

"The Fight to be Authentic, and Loved" Sunday, May 19, 10:50 am, 2024 It is so central to want to be seen and loved for who we are, understood, if we can be so lucky. It is also the source of so much pain (and power) to make that journey in a world, in a family, at a time that won't easily make a place for you in the family of things, to paraphrase…

1
05.19.24 Sermon - "Our Stories Not Yet Written" - Rev. Beth Dana 10:31

2M ago10:31

10:31

Join us as we celebrate and bless our youth coming of age and graduating seniors bridging into young adulthood with an exploration of the stories of our lives that are not yet written. First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899…

1
Original blessing vs. original sin, the importance of play, and how we minister to youth and children | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 006 16:22

2M ago16:22

16:22

In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald interviews Rev. Beth Dana, as she reflects on the recent Child Dedication and prepares for Bridging Sunday, when we will celebrate and bless our youth coming of age and graduating seniors bridging into young adulthood . They discuss everything from the theology behind Unitarian Universalis…

1
Lessons My Mother Left Me 20:10

2M ago20:10

20:10

You read my sermon title right: Mothers (plural). Join me this morning as I explore the qualities and characteristics of good mothering - from a personal point of view. Rev. Fred preaching. (Delivered: May 12, 2024)

1
05.12.24 Sermon - "Doing the Impossible" - Rev. T.J. FitzGerald 20:51

2M ago20:51

20:51

This Sunday we dedicate children to this faith and hold close what parenting in all its forms means to us all. First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do.…

1
Steel Centered, a Celebration of Mothers 17:08

2M ago17:08

17:08

By Rev. Lauren Smith

1
A Polymath Nun and Why She Matters on this Mothers' Day 1:22:33

2M ago1:22:33

1:22:33

"A Polymath Nun and Why She Matters on this Mothers' Day" Sunday, May 12, 10:50 am, 2024 Reflections on Hildegard von Bingen: The Patron Saint of Late Bloomers. She founded her own abbey, created her own language, and wrote one of the first musical plays. She was a wonderful composer who set her own lushly poetic texts. Hildegard was 42 before she …

1
A Polymath Nun and Why She Matters on this Mothers' Day 29:50

2M ago29:50

29:50

"A Polymath Nun and Why She Matters on this Mothers' Day" Sunday, May 12, 10:50 am, 2024 Reflections on Hildegard von Bingen: The Patron Saint of Late Bloomers. She founded her own abbey, created her own language, and wrote one of the first musical plays. She was a wonderful composer who set her own lushly poetic texts. Hildegard was 42 before she …

1
The healing and unifying power of music & memories from the last 34 years with Don Krehbiel | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 005 17:42

2M ago17:42

17:42

In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald interviews Don Krehbiel, who is retiring as Director of Music after 34 years of service. They discuss everything from growing up in the Mennonite church to finding your path as a musician to the power of music to heal and unify. Tiny Pulpit Talks is a podcast series from First Unitarian Ch…

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