First Unitarian Society
Sermons (2005-2006)
By
Rev. Kendyl Gibbons
Sermons on tape and as printed booklets are available in the FUS Bookstore.
(FUS Bookstore webpage under construction)
*Sermon in Spanish/Espanol*
Lessons of the Storm
November 27, 2005
It has now been several months since the devastations of hurricanes Katrina and Rita showed how vulnerable the infrastructure of our collective safety and comfort can be. The storms and their aftermath shocked the American public with tales of desperate suffering, gratuitous violence, and callous neglect. In the light of a calmer day, how much of it all was true, and what conclusions might we accurately draw from these calamitous events? Flowers of caring and celebration will be shared at this service.
What to Do About Money?
November 6, 2005
It seems that the traditional Christian community is engaged in a vigorous, and somewhat comical, debate about the Biblical basis for tithing. I suggest that no matter what the Bible does or doesn't say, the concept of tithing is still an important idea - not for your religious institution, but for you. Setting aside ten percent of income for the support of your values in the world is good for you -- but don't give it all to FUS; I have a better idea. This service will include presentation of the Unsung UU award, as well as flowers of caring and celebration.
Courage and Consolation
October 30, 2005
The tradition of Dia de los Muertos calls upon us to confront the reality of death as a constant companion in the course of our everyday lives, and urges us to remain in relationship with the community of the dead whose memories continue to influence us. As liberals, we are sometimes tempted to label such awareness as "superstition," and seek to relegate our own mortality to a suppressed corner of the mind. Can we learn to find our consolations in courage rather than denial? The FUS Chorus and Orchestra will enrich our reflections with another superb musical requiem.
Sex and Superstition
October 9, 2005
Once again, national Solidarity or Coming Out Sunday reminds us that human sexuality is a hugely anxious topic in culture. Much of our society's discomfort around such matters is focused by advice and opinions from several thousand years ago, as codified in various scriptures. How should these texts be understood, and addressed, as we strive for a cultural consensus that honors the role of sex in our lives as diverse people who share a common dignity?
Doing Peace
October 2, 2005
The intellectual affirmation that a world at peace would be a good thing is easy; living out the value of peace in our own daily circumstances and relationships is more challenging. Does it really begin within each of us? How are strength, integrity, and strategic wisdom compatible with a discipline of peace? Is there such a thing as a commitment to peace that goes too far?
Living Humanism
September 18, 2005
To live well is an on-going challenge for all human beings in any circumstances; for Humanists in this decade, it requires a determined optimism that can be difficult to sustain. When we are confronted by public opinions, cultural trends, and national policies that seem to oppose our deepest values, how do we remain consistent to what we have said we believe in? Is our philosophy only useful to us when it comes easily, or does it have something to say - and require something of us - in harder times? Today's collection will support Peace Partners, the northside Minneapolis organization that seeks to promote neighborhood cooperation and nonviolence.