Unitarian Universalist Church of Kent
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228 Gougler Avenue |
Sunday Services
Summer Services are at 10:30 am
| Upcoming Services |  |
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| July 6th, 2008 | Challenging Apathy Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and worship associate Marion Yeagler The title for this morning’s service comes from Beth Wills who purchased the chance to select a theme for a service at last year’s service auction. We will be kicking off our month long food drive for Kent Social Services this morning so please bring a canned or boxed food item with you to the service. The children and youth will join us for the first 15 minutes of the service and will have a chance to both contribute to and assist with the collection of the food before they head for their classes. |
| July 13th, 2008 | Humanism and Spirituality Brent Bowen and worship associate Lori McGee The word "spirituality" takes on different meanings for different people. Humanists, who don't necessarily believe in a supernatural spirit who guides the universe and our lives, build their life meaning around a human spirit and a sense of connectedness. A sense of awe about our planet and the universe, the excitement of living the full life, and the humility that comes with the limits of knowledge inform the humanist's spirituality. Brent Bowen is a humanist from the Center for Free Inquiry in Cleveland. |
| July 20th, 2008 | Living Out Loud! Linda Mishler, Kathy Walker, and musicians Why wait until this fall? Join us this summer for a fun-filled and lively Music Sunday as members share their insights into “living out loud” as Unitarian Universalists. Are you living out loud? Do you want to share the good news of Unitarian Universalism? Sunday Program committee members Linda Mishler & Kathy Walker will lead this lively service along with the music makers & Hal fresh from Summer Institute and few other surprises. |
| July 27th, 2008 | Inspiration! Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer I will surely return from our annual Unitarian Universalist Association General Assembly with much to share. This morning’s service will be inspired by my experience. You will read in this newsletter about how our church expenses remain constant in the summer months even though our revenues often go down. For those who may have gotten behind in your planned contributions, we dub this morning “Catch Up On Your Pledge Day” if you are able. |
Past Services
| June 29th, 2008 | Creating the Beloved Community: The Path of Active Non-Violence Social Justice Committee We will explore the tradition of active non-violence as a way of making peace and creating social justice. Our main text will be Martin Luther King Jr.'s "Pilgrimage to Non-Violence" from his book Stride Toward Freedom: The Montgomery Story. We will also draw from the writings and examples of Thoreau and Gandhi. |
| June 22, 2008 | The Flame of Her Spirit Still Burns Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Worship Associate Kristofer Sperry Olympia Brown was the first woman to graduate from St. Lawrence Theological School in 1863. Her Universalist ordination made her the first woman in the country to achieve full ministerial standing recognized by an established denomination. We will celebrate the life and work of this preacher of Universalism and champion of women’s rights this morning. |
| June 15th, 2008 | Harry Potter and the Seventh Principle Hogwarts Kent Faculty and Students This interactive service will immerse all in the Kent Hogwarts experience. Not only will you see what our wee wizards do, you will be asked to join in this fun and educational activity. |
| June 8, 2008 | Spiral of Flowers Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Worship Associate Christie Anderson Come celebrate our annual flower ceremony during this special intergenerational service at Plum Creek Park in Kent. This morning we will begin meeting on our summer schedule. Our single service will begin at 10:30 and will be immediately followed by our annual all church spring picnic in the park. Please bring a lawn chair with you if you have one to help provide seating for those who will need it during the service along with a flower (or two) to share during the flower ceremony. *** Please note*** This special service for all ages begins our summer schedule. The service will begin at 10:30 and will be held at Plum Creek Park in Kent. |
| June 1, 2008 | Each One Teach One Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Worship Associate Elaine Bowen We are all learners. We are all teachers. This morning we will recognize and celebrate this truth. As we do we will also honor the ones who share their gifts as teachers in our children’s religious education ministry and the ones who share by serving on our board of trustees. We will have the great pleasure of listening and singing with Singers of United Lands during our service. The Singers of United Lands hail from Brazil, Zimbabwe, the Republic of Georgia and the Czech Republic. Their music has been enjoyed by schools and churches across the country and we are delighted to welcome them to Kent. The children, youth and their teachers will begin with us in the sanctuary and then gather outside for a special gardening project on this last day of children’s religious education for individual classes. After our intergenerational service on June 8, summer religious education for children and youth begins on June 15. |
| May 25th, 2008 | Art - truth versus TRUTH KSU professor Gingr Vaughn assisted by Linda Mishler Gingr will discuss a sculpture of the Hindu god Shiva, Michelangelo's Pieta, a Tibetan Sand Mandala and Mark Rothko's Chapel with Barnett Newman's Broken Obelisk. |
| May 18th, 2008 | Race, Politics and the Kitchen Table This morning we will take up Barack Obama’s recent invitation to conversation on race. Our service will explore the controversy around the Rev. Jeremiah Wright’s now famous sermon sound bytes by placing them in the context of black liberation theology and wondering about what it all means for us. After the second service we will screen Obama’s speech on race and politics and invite you to engage in conversation with one another. We won’t be sitting around the kitchen table for the conversation, but you can have coffee or tea if you like. We will begin the screening at 12:45 and finish our conversation by 2:00. All are welcome. |
| May 11th, 2008 | Mothers of War Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Worship Associate Elaine Bowen In honor of Mother’s Day and in celebration of the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee’s Justice Sunday, we will focus our attention today on the mothers of war. What are their stories? How can we make a difference for them and their children? |
| May 4th, 2008 | Spring Reborn – A Beltane Celebration Members of Kent CUUPS and Celtic Clan Beltane is a celebration of life. Traditionally this holiday is associated with bonfires, maypole dancing, and festooning the village and houses with garlands of newly sprouted twigs and flowers. Join the members of our CUUPS group as we celebrate this joyous occasion with song and ritual. |
| April 27th, 2008 | Ethical Eating for the Earth Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Worship Associate Ted Voneida Come and celebrate Earth Day with us! Listen to joyous music, sing praises, consider how our everyday food choices impact the planet we love and taste the flavor of the earth. After the second service, all are invited to participate in a family friendly Earth Day Luncheon. Each individual or family is asked to bring a dish to share. Here is the challenge: each dish should feature locally grown food. If you can’t find locally grown for a particular ingredient, see if you can find it organically grown further away. At the luncheon, everyone will have a chance to share the story of their dish. |
| April 20th 2008 | April 20 A Cup of Hope Renee Zimelis Ruchotzke and the Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer We will explore some of the themes of Passover, including community, hospitality, and hope. The student ministry transition committee will also be honored for their work during this service. After the second service, all are invited to participate in a family friendly Passover Seder hosted by Lonnie Hawks, Nancy Barbour and Melissa Carvill-Ziemer. Each individual or family will be asked to bring a particular item to share. Look for sign up sheets and recipes in Fessenden Hall in early April. |
| April 13, 2008 | God’s Absence (rescheduled from March) Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Worship Associate Lori McGee We often celebrate the fact that Unitarian Universalism has room enough for theists and atheists alike. What does it mean for our spiritual lives when what we know most of God is absence? |
| April 6th, 2008 | Gay Men and The Church Jamie Goodwin and Worship Associate Marion Yeagler We as Unitarian Universalists are in the forefront of welcoming gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered and queer people into our churches and yet the numbers of gay men continue to be small. In this service we will explore what we offer and what we can improve to reach out to the community of gay men. Jamie is a member of the UU Church of Akron and a Guest in Your Pulpit volunteer of the Ohio Meadville District. He has been leading and assisting in worship for several years, is the past coordinator of Akron's Worship Committee, and was a member of small team that began a non traditional service at Akron. Jamie lives in Akron with his partner Rich, Rich's mother, and two noisy schnauzers. |
| March 30th, 2008 | Willing to Be Changed (rescheduled from early March) Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Worship Associate Lori McGee What do you envision? The poet Rainer Maria Rilke suggests that our visions change us, even when we cannot fully grasp them; even when we do not fully realize them. This morning we will explore the power of naming, the risk of daring and the promise of dreaming. |
| March 23, 2008 | God's Presence Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Worship Associate Christie Anderson Lo the earth awakes again and we rejoice. This Easter morning we will tell the ancient story and celebrate the abiding presence it triumphantly proclaims. The first service will be fully intergenerational and especially welcoming of families. The second service will be designed with adults in mind. |
| March 16, 2008 | Approaching the Story of Jesus' "Passion" Rev. Harold Walker and Worship Associate Christie Anderson "Palm Sunday" or "Passion Sunday" is the beginning of Jesus' last week in Jerusalem. The service will suggest some considerations in approaching the story of Jesus' "passion", and reflect on possible meanings of this narrative for the liberal religious imagination. |
| March 9, 2008 | Willing to Be Changed Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Worship Associate Lori McGee What do you envision? The poet Rainer Maria Rilke suggests that our visions change us, even when we cannot fully grasp them; even when we do not fully realize them. This morning we will explore the power of naming, the risk of daring and the promise of dreaming. |
| March 2, 2008 | Crossroads Our annual Youth Sunday. |
| February 24th, 2008 | A Greater Loyalty Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Worship Associate Kristofer Sperry This sermon takes the theme we began exploring last week a step farther. How can we live with a sense of security and confidence in a time like this? What does it take to live with fidelity to our greater loyalties? |
| February 17th, 2008 | A Culture of Fear Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Worship Associate Ted Voneida How do we distinguish between legitimate fears and marketed fears? How can we learn to see the manipulation that is creating a pervasive sense of anxiety and insecurity in our culture today? What can we do to undo the culture of fear? |
| February 10th, 2008 | This Moment in Music Hal Walker This Sunday is our annual "Music Sunday." Members of our congregation will share music and memorable moments in music. |
| February 3rd, 2008 | We Live on the Edge of the Miraculous Kathy Walker and Saul Flanner Happy Chinese New Year! When you peer over the edge of the new year, what do you see? The miraculous or the abyss? In anticipation of the Year of the Rat, we will share their understanding and appreciation of luck and how ideas about good fortune (or as Kathy's mother insists, "blessings") shape our daily lives and personal worldviews. |
| January 27th, 2008 | A Wide and Welcoming Tent Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Worship Associate Christie Anderson What is unique about what we have to offer in religious life today? Our service this morning will explore questions of Unitarian Universalist identity and purpose. This afternoon we begin the first of two all congregation conversations about our mission as a faith community. |
| January 20th, 2008 | Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Worship Associate Ted Voneida It is known now as the Black Empowerment Controversy. In the 1970’s Unitarian Universalists struggled mightily to understand what racial justice means in practice. Today we will look back at our history as we consider what the future demands if we are to become an anti-racist, multi-cultural association. |
| January 13th, 2008 | Depression and the Soul Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Worship Associate Elaine Bowen Millions of people struggle with depression. Many of us have become familiar with the medical and psychological approaches to understanding and treating depression. This morning we will explore depression though the lens of spirituality and the language of the soul. |
| January 6th, 2008 | Breakfast With The Enemy |
| December 30, 2007 | Remembrance Susan Goekler, with many contributors in person and recorded Remembering some of those who have died in the past year and their influence on us, individually and collectively, acknowledges their contributions as it raises awareness of how we are living our lives today. It raises the questions: Who are we influencing? Toward what end? |
| December 24, 2007 | Christmas Eve Candlelight Services 6:30 pm A special family friendly service of lessons and carols to welcome the spirit of Christmas into the world. Led by Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Director of Religious Education Diana Van Winkle 8:30 pm A special service of lessons and carols to welcome the spirit of Christmas into the world. Led by Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Worship Associate Elaine Bowen |
| December 23, 2007 | A Christmas Epiphany Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer, Worship Associate Marion Yeagler and children and youth of our church We all know how the story goes and every year it is the same. But what happens when the stranger arrives making us just a little uncomfortable? Children and youth of the church will help us discover again the surprising epiphany of the Christmas story - there is always room. |
| December 16, 2007 | There Is Joy in the Being Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Worship Associate Kristofer Sperry Days are short now and so very full. This morning we will orient our hearts and minds to the joy we can find in simply being present. |
| December 9, 2007 | Getting down off the Hook Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Worship Associate Lori McGee Many of us are touched by addictions, either personally or in our circle of family and friends. Our service this morning will explore the landscape of addiction and recovery. If you are in recovery and would be willing to share some of what you have discovered about the spiritual dimension of recovery, Melissa would like to hear from you. You can call or email her with her your thoughts by December 4. |
| December 2, 2007 | "A Language of Reverence" Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer |
| November 25, 2007 | "Sing When the Spirit Says Sing" with Ellen Carvill-Ziemer As a "tone-deaf" kid I was told to sing quietly. In doing so, like so many others, I lost the chance to become fully human and fully alive in music. The good news is that what I was told as a child was incorrect. No one is tone-deaf, everyone can learn to sing, and music is our birthright. Let us come alive with music and song. |
| November 18, 2007 | Thanksgiving Made Whole Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Marion Yeagler The roots of the North American Thanksgiving holiday are less than noble, but the contemporary expression can yet be a reflection of our most gracious values. All are invited to share in the joyous communion that will be our annual whole church Thanksgiving celebration. |
| November 11, 2007 | A Treatment for Compassion Fatigue Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Ted Voneida War. Genocide. Crushing poverty. Ravaging storms. Each day it seems the headlines bring us more bad news. How do we remain present to and engaged with the world without becoming completely overwhelmed? This morning we will explore what it means to live well in a world with such trouble. Our special offering this morning will be given in support of the work of Freedom House, the shelter for homeless veterans in Portage County. |
| November 4, 2007 | Who Is My Neighbor? Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer, Christie Anderson, Ted Voneida and Mike Kreyche Race, ethnicity, language, nationality and citizenship status are among the central referents that come up again and again in our national immigration debate. This morning we will consider immigration through the lens of the neighbor. Who are our neighbors? All are welcome. |
| October 28th, 2007
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The Language of Loss Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Kristofer Sperry The language of loss is at once universal and profoundly particular. All of us grieve the reality of death while no two of us do so in exactly the same way. A meditation on the themes of death and dying, this service will also include an opportunity to remember those who we have loved and lost. |
October 21st, 2007 |
God vs. Science (Audio available at link, Click to play in place or right-click to save mp3 download) Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Marion Yeagler
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October 14th, 2007 |
Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Christie Anderson
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| October 7th, 2007 | Angels with Feathers, Fins, and Fur Lori McGee and Elaine Bowen
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| September 30th, 2007 |
Envision our Masterpiece. Paint our Canvass. Revs. Nancy Arnold and Melissa Carvill-Ziemer It is an exciting time to be a member of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Kent. We are a growing, vital congregation |
| September 23rd, 2007 | Understanding War. Visualizing Peace Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Kathy Walker
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| September 16th, 2007 | A Theology of Friendship Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Kristofer Sperry
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| September 9th, 2007 | Gathering In (Audio available at link, Click to play in place or right-click to save mp3 download) Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Elaine Bowen
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| September 2nd, 2007 |
Kathie Slater, Marion Yeagler |
| August 26, 2007 | On Happiness (Audio available at link, Click to play in place or right-click to save mp3 download) Mike Hovancsek
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| August 19, 2007 | Our Universalist Heritage (Audio available at link, Click to play in place or right-click to save mp3 download) Christie Anderson
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| August 12, 2007 | The Journey Continues…A Class Reunion (Audio available at link, Click to play in place or right-click to save mp3 download)
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| August 5, 2007 | Healthcare is a Religious Issue Audio (Audio available at link, Click to play in place or right-click to save mp3 download) Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer
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| July 29, 2007 | GNU / Ubuntu: Communities of Sharing (Audio available at link, Click to play in place or right-click to save mp3 download) Lay Leader Julie Swango and Michael Kreyche Yes, even the computing world has embraced UU principles. This service will explore their story. |
| July 22, 2007 | Healing Energy Lay Leaders Linda Mishler and Lori McGee We will explore energy sources in our lives and how they affect us. We will use guided meditation to enhance "good" energy. |
| July 15, 2007 | The Truth Is In the Story Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Worship Associate Elaine Bowen |
| July 08, 2007 | Inspiration! (Audio available at link, Click to play in place or right-click to save mp3 download) Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Worship Associate Marion Yeagler |
| July 01, 2007 | On Progress Kristofer Sperry Are we "hard wired" to desire anything but our here and now? This service will explore the concept of progress within our church, our society, and our daily lives. |
June 24th, 2007 One Service 10:30 am This I Believe Lay leader Lori McGee and Worship Associate Linda Mishler |
After nearly a year's work of religious exploration and study of Richard S. Gilbert's Building Your Own Theology, this Adult Religious education group will present their own "credos", based on our 7 UU principles. You will hear the culmination of this year of study, honestly and openly. |
June 17th, 2007 On Perfection Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Worship Associate Kristofer Sperry |
We know no one is perfect. We know that perfection is impossible. And yet . . . This morning we will explore the power of perfectionism and possibilities for liberation. |
June 10th, 2007 Surprise and Delight Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Worship Associate Christie Anderson |
What more can we say? Come join us for our celebration of life. |
June 3rd, 2007 In Praise of the Wild Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Worship Associate Ted Voneida |
This morning we will celebrate wildness together in this special worship service for all ages. Please bring a single flower to share in our ritual of the Flower Communion. |
May 27th, 2007 10:30 am only In Memoriam
and Worship Associate Ted Voneida |
We will gather this Memorial Day to remember those who have died, to honor those who have served and to reflect on how we are called in this time of war. Please note, we will have one service only at 10:30 am |
May 20th, 2007 Teamwork and Community
and Worship Associate Marion Yeagler |
The longing for a people and a place to belong is fundamental to the human experience. This morning we will celebrate the power and possibility that comes of belonging together. |
May 13th, 2007 The Truth Behind the Story Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Worship Associate Lori McGee |
Our ideals can be a wonderful source of inspiration and motivation. Aspiring to the ideal is a good thing right? Well, except when those aspirations prevent us from embracing the real. This service will explore idealism, especially when it comes to family life. |
May 6th, 2007 We Are the Music Music director Hal Walker |
Music is born in us and emerges from us in many different ways. Music Sunday will explore the diversity of musical expression within our congregation. |
April 29th, 2007 Growing Up Unitarian Universalist |
Learn of our church youth's experiences growing up in our faith tradition. The youth will also serve as greeters and ushers, and host the coffee hour on this special Sunday. |
April 22nd, 2007 Women Rising |
Members of the Social Justice Committee will explore the activism, leadership, and work for women's equality by women in the history of our Kent church. This service is the third in our series of services celebrating our church's 140 Years of Standing Witness. |
April 15th, 2007 Never Again Rev. Melissa Ziemer and Worship Associate Elaine Bowen |
Each year the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee (UUSC) designates one pressing human rights concern as the focus for Justice Sunday. This year we are called to focus on the genocide taking place in Darfur. Today is Yom Hashoa, Holocaust Remembrance Day. Together we will remember and recommit to the unrealized pledge - never again. |
April 8th, 2007 Who Do They Say That I Am? Rev. Melissa Ziemer and Worship Associate Marion Yeagler |
Informed by the insight of contemporary scholarship and inspired by the radical promise of his ministry, we will celebrate Easter this morning by looking again at the life and teaching of Jesus of Nazareth. |
April 1st, 2007 On Good and Evil Rev. Melissa Ziemer and Worship Associate Christie Anderson |
Alexander Solzhenitsyn wrote, "The line between good and evil lies in the center of every human heart . . . not in some abstract moral, celestial space, but right here in each of our individual and collective beings." This morning we will explore that line and reflect together on our human capacity to choose. |
March 25th, 2007 Rev. Melissa Ziemer and Worship Associate Lori McGee |
By facing our fears and risking living into them, we stand to crack open possibility. This service is an invitation to greater wholeness and to love more abundant. |
March 18th, 2007 The Book of Job, Revisited Tom Beck with Worship Associate Elaine Bowen and pianist Alan Coker |
In the Message "The Book of Job, Revisited" guest speaker Tom Beck will explore the question "why me?" when tragedy strikes, and then examine the follow up question - "What should I do next?" |
March 11th, 2007 Poetry! Rev. Melissa Ziemer and Worship Associate Ted Voneida |
The poets will be our guide and inspiration this morning in our celebration of life. We will also have the privilege of formally welcoming several new members to our church during our services. |
March 4th, 2007 Caring for Others, Caring for Ourselves Rev. Melissa Ziemer and Worship Associate Kristofer Sperry |
As we commission our new team of Pastoral Associates this morning, it seems a timely occasion to reflect together on the virtue of caring. What is the nature of caring? What does caring require? |
| February 25th, 2007 | Special guest speaker More information about this service will be available in the Thread from the Web. |
February 18th, 2007 Heresy |
The first few centuries of Christianity were a time of great diversity and creativity. The contemporary theologian Elaine Pagels has spent her career studying and writing about the diversity of the early Christian church. This service will be inspired by her latest work. What can we learn from these early Christians? |
February 11th, 2007 Celebration Sunday! |
This morning we bring our "Close the Gap" Stewardship Campaign to a close. The members of the Canvass Committee and I hope you will join us for a special worship service to celebrate our shared commitment to this beloved community. |
February 4th, 2007 Music Sunday (tentative, depending on Hal Walker's availability) |
Please join us for Music Sunday, a special service of music and song with the many talented musicians of our congregation. |
January 28th, 2007 The Alchemy of Disappointment Rev. Melissa Ziemer |
No person or institution is perfect. Sometimes we disappoint ourselves and each other. How do we heal from the hurt? How do we transform the common pain of disappointment into something precious? Come explore together the alchemy of disappointment. |
January 21st, 2007 Loneliness and Solitude Rev. Melissa Ziemer |
What is the difference between the isolation of loneliness and the serenity of solitude? And how do we transform the former into the latter? This morning will explore the spiritual dimensions of loneliness and solitude. |
January 14th, 2007 Calling, Commitment, Courage Rev. Melissa Ziemer |
This morning we will celebrate the life and work of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Inspired by his calling, commitment and courage we may find our own anew. We are excited to welcome musical guests Bob Erdman, Brad Bolton, Ted Witt and Al Kinney who will be offering special blues music for the service. |
January 7th, 2007 When the Line Isn't Clear H. Paul Schwitzgebel |
Habits, boundaries, standards, pigeonholes and lines: we use them all the time to simplify our lives. But what happens when the pigeon won't fit in the hole; the habit doesn't fit the times; or the line isn't clear? Let's explore together gender lines and our spirituality. |
December 31st, 2006 To Be announced |
Please note – we will have one service only at 10:30 am |
December 24th, 2006 The Empty Present
Rev. Melissa Ziemer and Director of Religious Education Michelle Culley |
For those who celebrate Christmas, the hour draws near. In this special intergenerational service we will celebrate the fullness that can be found in emptiness. Please plan to join us after the service for a special coffee hour to celebrate our outgoing Director of Religious Education, Michelle Culley. This is an opportunity to thank Michelle for her hard work and caring leadership and to wish her well as she embarks upon the next chapter in her life. Everyone is invited! |
December 17th, 2006 The Ground of Our Hope Rev. Melissa Ziemer and Worship Associate Christie Anderson |
How do we find hope? How do we sustain hope? What is the source of hope in the Unitarian Universalist tradition? Come join us for a theological and experiential exploration of hope. |
December 10th, 2006 Compassionate Practice Rev. Melissa Ziemer and Worship Associate Mike Kreyche |
This service will be inspired by the work of the Rev. Bill Schulz and by the lecture he delivers to members and friends of our congregation on December 9, 2006. |
December 3rd, 2006 Be Here Now Rev. Melissa Ziemer and Worship Associate Heidi Shaffer |
The holidays often evoke both a sense of anticipatory excitement and anxiety nurtured by the hectic pace of the season. In this meditative service we will reflect on the spiritual discipline of living in this very moment. |
November 26th, 2006 Light at the End of the Tunnel Ted Voneida, Social Justice Committee |
Two themes will be explored: 1) The role of our church founders in the establishment of Kent State and Akron Universities, and 2) The role of UU educators in reforming educational aims, philosophy, and practices in this country from the 19th to the 21st century. |
November 19th, 2006 Radical Hospitality Rev. Melissa Ziemer |
Rev. Melissa Ziemer and members of our church community Come celebrate Thanksgiving with our whole church! We will share music, story, sustenance and inspiration in this special service of gratitude and welcome. |
November 12th, 2006 Honoring the Elders Rev. Melissa Ziemer and Worship Associate Kristofer Sperry |
With wisdom wrought of age and experience, elders have much to teach us about life. This morning we will explore and celebrate the gifts of sages. |
November 5th, 2006 Religion and Politics: Imperfect Union Rev. Melissa Ziemer and Worship Associates Mike Kreyche, Christie Anderson, Kristofer Sperry and Elaine Bowen |
This Sunday morning before our national elections we will explore liberal religion, political passion and the bridge called respect. |
October 29th, 2006 Day of Remembrance Rev. Melissa Ziemer and Worship Associate Christie Anderson |
The pagan holiday Samhain invites us to remember those we have loved and lost. The members of our CUUPS (Coven of Unitarian Universalist Pagans) group will lead us in a ritual of remembrance. You are invited to bring photographs, memorabilia or favorite foods of your loved ones to share in the ritual. |
October 22nd, 2006 United Nations Sunday Rev. Melissa Ziemer and Worship Associate Mike Kreyche |
We will celebrate United Nations Sunday this morning with other Unitarian Universalists around the world. The themes for reflection this year are Peacebuilding and Sustainable Development. |
October 15th, 2006 New UU Sunday |
This Service is being brought to you courtesy of the Membership Committee. It will be presented entirely by people who have joined the church this year. We hope to be informative, and take some of the "mystery" out of our "history" We promise some surprises and some fun. |
October 8th, 2006 In Whose Eyes? Rev. Melissa Ziemer and Worship Associate Kristofer Sperry |
Many people consider civil and religious marriage to be the same thing. In this sermon Melissa will reflect on the merits of disentangling those two threads. |
October 1st, 2006 Lay Your Burden Down Rev. Melissa Ziemer and Worship Associate Elaine Bowen |
Yom Kippur is among the most significant of Jewish holy days. Inspired by the wisdom of the Day of Atonement, we will explore the pathway to liberation carved by forgiveness. |
September 24th, 2006 A Bold Vision Rev. Melissa Ziemer |
Our annual canvass provides us with an opportunity to dedicate our financial resources to the fulfillment of our ministry. This is a good time to take a look at the shape and scope of the ministry we share today and dream together about our ministry for tomorrow. |
September 17th, 2006 The Gift of Faith Rev. Melissa Ziemer |
From worship and coffee hour to potlucks and committee meetings, everything we do in church is religious education. My sermon this morning will reflect on the lifelong process of teaching and learning about faith. We will also celebrate a child dedication for Lola Snyder. |
September 10th, 2006 Journeying Rev. Melissa Ziemer |
The whole extended family is invited to gather together for our annual Ingathering service. Bring a small sample of water and soil from a place that has been important to you this summer to share in our celebration. Beginning today we return to two Sunday worship services - 9:45 and 11:30. |
September 3rd, 2006 After Katrina Renee Zimelis Ruchotzke |
After working in the hurricane-devastated Gulf Coast last spring with 400 college students, Renee Zimelis Ruchotzke shares her experiences and reflects on the question: "Who is our neighbor?" We will also be installing the Transition Committee, who are charged with supporting and challenging Renee in her ministerial formation. |
August 27th, 2006 "From Vacation Bible School to Hogwarts Kent: A Continuing Evolution in Religious Education" Kathy Walker and Saul Flanner |
As many of you know, Hogwarts Kent is a magical place for UU children and adults alike. During the Winter 2005 session, Quibbler reporters Sunny Showers and Ferrus Equinus got an inside look, observing classes, interviewing students and professors, and experiencing the magic for themselves. During our service, we'll show you what they found and share our own experiences in religious education: the lessons learned, the values practiced, and the surprisingly common ground discovered. |
August 20, 2006 "Baseball: A Sermon on the Mound?" Judy Brannan & Bill Eldredge |
People find strength, spirituality, beauty and transcendence in all kinds of unlikely places. Some people even find those things at the ball park. Rich in tradition and rife with metaphors, baseball continues to be both a mirror and a distiller of all that it means to be human. |
August 13, 2006 "Walking With Snyder" Tom Beck Music: Alan Coker |
When I was a child, my mother was assisted in raising us kids by our neighbors, an elderly couple named Mr. and Mrs. Snyder. The Snyders passed away long ago, but when I think about them I'm reminded about how important it is for us to deal with people in a way that is meaningful. The Snyders took the time to really care about other people . and that made all the difference. |
August 6, 2006 Michelle Culley |
TBA |
July 30, 2006 Humor Sunday Cari Orris |
Come share a laugh with me. This service explores the role that humor and laughter can play in a person's spiritual life. |
July 23, 2006 African Spirituality Susan and Mac Goekler |
Experiencing village life and villagers' spiritual practices provides insights into community that are universal and might provide ideas or strengthening our own church community. |
July 16, 2006 The One Who Isn’t Busy Dean Williams, visiting Buddhist priest |
The One Who Isn’t Busy |
July 9, 2006 Inspiration! Rev. Melissa Ziemer |
In late June I will be attending the Unitarian Universalist Association General Assembly, which is an annual gathering of congregations. There I know that I will be stimulated and inspired. In this service I will share with you some of that inspiration. |
July 2nd, 2006 Elaine Yehle Bowen. |
"Redefining the American Dream" |
Jun 25th, 2006 Mike Hovancsek |
" Putting the Fun back in Dysfunctional" |
June 18th, 2006 To Nurture Rev. Melissa Ziemer and Worship Associate Damien Chapman |
How do we nurture ourselves and each other? What does healthy nurture look like? This morning we will explore the ways we give care. |
June 11th, 2006 The Mind on Fire Rev. Melissa Ziemer and Worship Associate Mike Kreyche |
** Begin single 10:30 am. summer service schedule June 11 ** Ralph Waldo Emerson is one of the most influential figures in United States literary history and in the history of Unitarian Universalism. We will explore some of the ways in which his thought continues to inform our faith. We will also celebrate a child dedication for William David Lang. |
June 4th, 2006 Love is Life Believing In Itself Rev. Melissa Ziemer and Michelle Culley |
All are invited – encouraged even – to come participate in this special all church worship (childcare will be available for the little ones). On this last Sunday of two services until September, we will hold an Ingathering for new members. We will also engage in the ritual of the Flower Ceremony – please bring a flower to share. |
May 28th, 2006 140 Years of Standing Witness Members of the Social Justice Committee |
Service is in planning process. |
May 21st, 2006 Melissa Ziemer and members of the youth group |
We are still in the planning process for this service. Look to the Thread from the Web for more information about our theme. |
May 14th, 2006 Healthy, Hale, Whole Melissa Ziemer and Worship Associate Linda Mishler |
Sickness doesn’t always equal brokenness, nor does good health guarantee wholeness. This morning is a meditation upon well-being. |
May 7th, 2006 One morning service only- 10 AM- Facing the Future Rev. Dr. Thandeka preaching, Melissa Ziemer leading |
When we face the future together, the spiritual power of our Unitarian Universalist faith gives us the courage and
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April 30th, 2006 Money, Work and Spirituality Melissa Ziemer and Worship Associate Mike Kreyche |
Money and work are matters that occupy much of our life energy. What relationship do they have to spirituality? Together we’ll explore. |
April 23rd, 2006 Faith in Action in the City Doris Matthey and Worship Associate Susan Goekler |
The Urban Hope UU Community will lead a service about their presence and activities on Cleveland's Near West Side (Ohio City). This is a lay-led congregation originally initiated a decade ago by the Rev. Mary Grigolia. Many of Urban Hope's members are also active in at least one other UU church as well. |
April 16th, 2006 Risking Resurrection Melissa Ziemer and Worship Associate Kristofer Sperry |
This morning we will celebrate Easter and the coming of spring while we explore what meaning there may yet be for us in the old story of resurrection. |
April 9th, 2006 On Suffering Melissa Ziemer and Worship Associate Christie Anderson |
No one escapes it. Some endure so much more than their share. What meaning can there be in suffering? And what response can be adequate to its terrible power? |
April 2nd, 2006 Chocolate - A Religious Experience Kat Holtz |
Chocolate and religion have long been intertwined at this time of year. This is a slightly indulgent service as we explore this relationship and share a chocolate communion and meditation. |
March 26th, 2006 Wholly Family Sunday Melissa Ziemer, Michelle Culley and members of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Kent |
What makes a family? You are invited to come explore this and other important questions about family during this special intergenerational service celebrating families of all kinds. |
March 19th, 2006 Human Spirit, Holy Spirit: Renee Zimelis - Ruchotzke |
Student minister Renee Zimelis Ruchotzke will engage issues raised in the Religious Humanism course she just completed at Meadville Lombard Theological School: What does it mean to be a humanist? Can you be a humanist and still use a language of reverence? What is mystical humanism? What is the relationship between Religious Humanism and Unitarian Universalism? |
March 12th, 2006 Moral Ambiguity or The Problem with Righteousness Melissa Ziemer |
This sermon is inspired by conversation with Clinton Hobbes, winner of the chance to choose a sermon topic at our service auction. Special musical guest Pieces of East will add depth and rhythm to our worship (see page 5 for more information about the band). |
March 5th , 2006 Hunger Enough Melissa Ziemer |
Many are those whose work is devoted to cultivating our appetites. This morning is a chance to remember the abundance that truly satisfies. |
February 26th, 2006 Loneliness and Community Hal Walker |
Through songs and storytelling, Hal recounts some of his life experience. |
February 19th , 2006 Temporary State of Grace Melissa Ziemer |
We have all experienced grace periods - and not just the kind offered by credit card companies. In this service we will explore the nature of grace. |
February 12th, 2006 Questions That Matter with People Who Care Melissa Ziemer and the Small Group Ministry Steering Committee |
Small group ministry is coming to our church and with it the chance to grow our souls. Come explore the exciting possibilities! |
February 5th, 2006 Searching for Spirituality Melissa Ziemer |
This morning we will explore some big questions: What is spirituality anyway? Why are we compelled to seek it? How we know when we've found it? |
January 29th, 2006 Music Sunday Hal Walker |
Hal Walker and members |
January 22nd, 2006 Faith and Action Susan and Mac Goekler |
People of faith have wrestled with the "proper" ways to express their faith when it comes to making the world a better place. In this service, we will explore the tensions historically as well as currently in our congregation and denomination. |
January 15th, 2006 MLK Jr. Celebration Sunday Melissa Ziemer |
Martin Luther King Jr.'s life and work continues to spark inspiration and vision in those who would lead us today. In this service we will honor King's legacy and turn again to the teaching that lives on still. Also, today is New Member Sunday. We will formally welcome all new members during worship and celebrate with them during coffee hour. |
January 8th, 2006 Interdependence Day Melissa Ziemer |
Every summer our nation celebrates Independence Day. Half a year away from that parade studded holiday we will gather in worship to celebrate the spiritual reality of interdependence. |
January 1st, 2006 A New Day Melissa Ziemer |
Welcome in the new year with spirit and song. All are invited to gather for one service only at 10:30 am. |
December 25th, 2005 On This Morning Melissa Ziemer |
Words, music, song and silence. This service will draw inspiration from the Quaker practice of worship. All are invited to gather for one service only at 10:30 am. |
December 24th, 2005 Christmas Eve Candlelight Service Melissa Ziemer |
6:30 pm A special service of lessons and carols designed with families with young children in mind. 8:30 pm A special service of lessons and carols to welcome the spirit of Christmas into the world. |
December 18th, 2005 A Tapestry of Hope and Possibility Melissa Ziemer and Michelle Culley |
All are invited to join this special multi-generational service celebrating the gifts of the season. Childcare will be available for the littlest ones during both services. |
December 11th, 2005 Joyful, Joyful! Are you? Melissa Ziemer |
Tis the season. On happiness and joy and the hunger of the heart. |
December 4th, 2005 The Heart's Discontent Melissa Ziemer |
So much anticipation. The drumbeat of expectation. But what of the heart's discontent in this waiting time of the year? |
November 27th, 2005 Lessons Learned On a Bike Ride Tom Beck |
Tom Beck is an avid bicyclist. In the Summer of 2003 an incident occurred during a bike ride on the Towpath Train in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park that changed Tom's perception regarding the age old question of "Who is my neighbor?" The message will examine the story of the Good Samaritan and evaluate an important aspect of that ancient story that is frequently missed when the story is told in our modern times. Tom Beck is a faculty member and administrator at The University of Akron. Alan Coker is employed as an administrator at Children's Hospital in Akron. Tom and Alan are called upon from time to time to present Sunday Services for UU Congregations in NE Ohio. |
20 November 20th, 2005 Harvest of Gratitude Michelle Culley and Melissa Ziemer |
People of all ages are welcome to share in this special celebration of Thanksgiving. Families with children are invited to attend either service. |
November 13th, 2005 To Come Together Melissa Ziemer |
Our tradition is rooted in the history of covenant, literally "to come together." What might be the covenant of our church today? |
November 6th, 2005 Call to Prayer Melissa Ziemer |
Is there an authentic way for you to pray? This service is an invitation to explore and possibly re-imagine the role of prayer in our lives. |
October 30th, 2005 Our Beloved Dead |
As this service is an opportunity to honor and memorialize those we have loved and lost, you are invited to bring a photograph or small object as a remembrance of your loved one. |
October 16th, 2005 The Courage to Be |
This service will explore the courage it sometimes takes simply to be ourselves. |
October 9th, 2005 A New Heart |
In recognition of Yom Kippur, we will explore the meaning and power of forgiveness. |
October 2nd, 2005 The Demand of Conscience |
In this service we will wrestle with the implications of the Social Justice Committee’s decision to work against the war in Iraq. |
September 25th, 2005 'A Look into the Past' Clinton and Olive Hobbs |
This church society and building have had a long history: from the late 1860's to the present. One couple, still active, has seen 60 years of this history- Clinton and Olive Hobbs. In this recollection Clinton will trace some of their many experiences. Some of these observations are particularly apropos in light of current renovations of the building. |
September 18th, 2005 "By their groups you shall know them... " Reverend Melissa Ziemer |
We are social beings. We need one anther for our very existence. So why do so many of us find it difficult to build and nurture relationships? This service will be an exploration of community. |
September 11th, 2005 "Life In-Between" Reverend Melissa Ziemer |
The past, so full of memory and power, holds all we have ever been or done. The future, blessedly unformed, is a tempting canvass for all our hopes and dreams. The present, filled with terror and wonder, is our invitation to life. |
September 4th, 2005 "In Gathering" Reverend Melissa Ziemer |
Please bring water and or earth/sand from some place where you spent time this summer that was significant to you. (Empty film canisters are excellent containers.) |
August 28th, 2005 "Walking the Talk" Renee Zimelis (Pam Mitchell coordinating) |
In exploring how we practice our own lay ministries in the world, everyone is encouraged to share a T-Shirt (or placard) that expresses a religious, ethical or moral belief. You will have an opportunity to share why it is special -- how it shows your own UU faith. |
August 21st, 2005 "Social Justice as Spiritual Practice" Mac Goekler (Susan coordinating) |
We UUs are engaged in social justice as an integral part of our faith. We are truly "Justice Seeking People." This service will explore one person's social justice work and how these actions are intertwined with personal spiritual practices. We will look beyond the intellectual basis for social justice to the core passions and soul searching that drives us forward. |
August 14th, 2005 "Seven Amazing Principles" Tom Myers |
A group of UU stalwarts will describe what the Seven Principles mean to them. Each person will speak to one of the principles. This is a good opportunity to discover the views of several members and new friends concerning the basic tenets which bind us together. And probably be the starting point for some interesting discussions. |
August 7th, 2005 "Modern Portrayals of Jesus Christ" Mike Hovancsek |
A humorous look at ways people portray Jesus in order to "own" him. Mike will share stories about growing up in the Roman Catholic Church and observations about ways Jesus is marketed in our culture. |
July 31st, 2005 We and Me: Individualism and Collectivism. Kamaria Wolf |
How do collectivist societies and individualist societies differ from and resemble each other? Would you prefer to spend every waking moment in the company of others, or would you require some "alone" time, too? The two weeks I spent teaching English in Korea last year sparked these and other questions and observations. Join me as we look at the "me" and the "we". |