First Unitarian Church of Dallas

We can’t wait for someone or something to make good things happen, to bring about change, to do justice. Join us as we explore the prophethood of all and the foundations of Unitarian Universalism that call us to be part of building a just and loving community.

This sermon is part of our Foundations series – inspired by James Luther Adams’ essay “Guiding Principles of a Free Faith,” in which he writes about the five smooth stones of liberal religion. We use these ideas throughout our Faith Forward offerings and religious education.

Rev. Beth Dana is preaching, music provided by the Eckert family.

PLUS -

❓ No Inquirer's Class this week.

🛝 No Children's Classes This Sunday - Check in children as usual. Children ages Kindergarten and up will start worship with parents and be “sung out” for supervised playground time during the 11am service. Children may also stay with their parents for service. Nursery is open for infants and preschool.

🛍 Pick up your First Church t-shirts on Sunday, wear next week for Ingathering!
T-shirts can be picked up in Channing on Sunday, September 1st and 8th after both services. If you didn't order a t-shirt, there will be a limited supply available for purchase at $10 each.

In-person worship at 9:30 and 11 am. Livestream at 9:30 am, 11 am, and 7pm CST.

Livestream can be accessed here: https://www.dallasuu.org/live/
💚Visiting First Unitarian in-person for the first time? Go here for more information: https://dallasuu.org/visitors

🎧 Tiny Pulpit Talks is taking a break this week as ministers and staff prepare for our new theme year, starting on September 8th.

In the meantime, please enjoy some of our recent episodes including conversations with Sherri Cook, executive director of Wholly Informed S*x Ed - WISE, Deneen Robinson, executive director of Truth Pregnancy Resource Center, and Bill Holston, chief executive officer of Dallas Eviction Advocacy Center.

✨ Also - have you left a review of the podcast in the Apple Podcast app? Reviews help more people find our community! To leave a review, find our podcast in the Apple Podcast app and scroll to the bottom. (Not available on desktop.)

Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas Listen to First Unitarian Church of Dallas's Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas podcast on Apple Podcasts.

We all face giants in varying proportions. Giants that cause fear, anger, pain, and hopelessness. Giants that require us to make very difficult decisions.

In his sermon, "Giants Like Goliath," Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter reminds us that our faith is here to help us disarm the giants that threaten us.

Read, watch, or listen to the sermon here: https://dallasuu.org/08252024sermon/

Was David optimistic when he slain Goliath? The story says everyone was afraid. What role does optimism play in stories of triumph and in our lives. In uncertain times our theologian James Luther Adams calls for ‘Ultimate Optimism.’ Let’s look at that more closely.

This sermon is part of our Foundations series – inspired by James Luther Adams’ essay “Guiding Principles of a Free Faith,” in which he writes about the five smooth stones of liberal religion. We use these ideas throughout our Faith Forward offerings and religious education.

Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter, music provided by Alan Dyer and Grant Wareham.

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❓ Inquirer's Class this week is on Pastoral Care. Meet at 11am in the Parlor.

💡 The Strategic Planning Steering Team wants to meet you! Stop by Channing on Sunday to learn about their work and how you can join the journey.

🏕 Cub Scout Pack 1899 will have an information table in the courtyard on Sunday. Stop by if you have a child in grades K-5 and want to learn more.

In-person worship at 9:30 and 11 am. Livestream at 9:30 am, 11 am, and 7pm CST.

▶️Livestream can be accessed here: https://www.dallasuu.org/live/
💚Visiting First Unitarian in-person for the first time? Go here for more information: https://dallasuu.org/visitors

Foundations: Giants Like Goliath | Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter - First Unitarian Church of Dallas Was David optimistic when he slain Goliath? The story says everyone was afraid. What role does optimism play in stories […]

"Working for justice is a fundamental spiritual practice."

In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald welcomes Bill Holston, Chief Executive Officer of Dallas Eviction Advocacy Center, to talk about his organization’s mission to serve tenants facing housing insecurity with pro bono legal advice and representation.

Eviction Advocacy: A Conversation About Housing Justice in Dallas with Bill Holston | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 019 - First Unitarian Church of Dallas In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald welcomes Bill Holston, Chief Executive Officer of Dallas Eviction […]

Our liberal religion is imbued with a freedom that allows us to love others bravely and fiercely.

In his sermon "All or Nothing," Rev. T. J. FitzGerald draws from James Luthers Adams' 5 Smooth Stones of Liberal Religion with a focus on mutuality and how it calls us to work for peace and justice.

Read, watch, or listen to the sermon here: https://dallasuu.org/08182024sermon/

Have you ever wondered why Unitarian Universalists seem so focused on justice and equity? Some of the theological foundations of our faith are about mutuality between one another and the agency we believe all persons should have. We will deepen our understanding of these concepts together.

This sermon is part of our Foundations series – inspired by James Luther Adams’ essay “Guiding Principles of a Free Faith,” in which he writes about the five smooth stones of liberal religion. We use these ideas throughout our Faith Forward offerings and religious education.

Rev. T. J. FitzGerald, music provided by the First Church Summer Choir.

PLUS -
❓ Inquirer's Class this week is on Adult & Children's Ministries. Meet at 11am in the Parlor.

In-person worship at 9:30 and 11 am. Livestream at 9:30 am, 11 am, and 7pm CST.
▶️Livestream can be accessed here: https://www.dallasuu.org/live/
💚Visiting First Unitarian in-person for the first time? Go here for more information: https://dallasuu.org/visitors

Foundations: All or Nothing | Rev. T. J. FitzGerald - First Unitarian Church of Dallas Have you ever wondered why Unitarian Universalists seem so focused on justice and equity. Some of the theological foundations of […]

In her sermon, “Revelation is Continuous,” Rev. Beth Dana reminds us that Unitarian Universalism is a living tradition and encourages us to embrace new truths and stay open to possibilities.

This sermon is the first in our Foundations series – inspired by James Luther Adams’ essay “Guiding Principles of a Free Faith,” in which he writes about the five smooth stones of liberal religion. Join us throughout August as we explore these foundational principles of Unitarian Universalism.

Read, watch, or listen to the sermon here: https://dallasuu.org/08112024sermon

Unitarian Universalism is a living tradition that remains open to new truths that shape our faith. Let’s explore the evolution of Unitarian Universalism taking place around us today.

🎒 We will also celebrate our annual Back to School Blessing, inviting students and educators of all kinds to bring their backpacks or school bags and to receive a gift.

This sermon is part of our Foundations series – inspired by James Luther Adams’ essay “Guiding Principles of a Free Faith,” in which he writes about the five smooth stones of liberal religion. We use these ideas throughout our Faith Forward offerings and religious education.

Rev. Beth Dana is preaching, music will be provided by Alan Dyer and baritone David Grogan.

PLUS -

❓ Inquirer's Class this week is on Worship & The Liturgical Year. Meet at 11am in the Parlor.

In-person worship at 9:30 and 11 am. Livestream at 9:30 am, 11 am, and 7pm CST.

▶️Livestream can be accessed here: https://www.dallasuu.org/live/
💚Visiting First Unitarian in-person for the first time? Go here for more information: https://dallasuu.org/visitors

We're sharing next week's episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks a few days early so that you can learn about our new sermon series, Foundations, which starts this Sunday!

Foundations is inspired by James Luther Adams’ essay “Guiding Principles of a Free Faith." In his essay, Adams introduces the 5 smooth stones of liberal religion, ideas that we use throughout our Faith Forward offerings and religious education.

Whether you’re new to our church or looking to deepen your understanding of Unitarian Universalism, this series will help you discover and embrace the principles that shape our faith community.

Watch the video below and share with friends who are curious about our church and our UU faith!

5 Smooth Stones of Liberal Religion | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 018 In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Revs. Beth and T. J. talk about our upcoming sermon series "Foundations," which is inspired by James Luther Adams’ essa...

In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, you get the chance to meet our new Director of Music, Grant Wareham. Learn more about Grant and hear what he has planned for the music program in the coming year.

Meet Grant Wareham, Our New Director of Music | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 017 In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, you get the chance to meet our new Director of Music, Grant Wareham. Learn more about Grant and hear what he has planne...

In the final sermon of our Artists Who Inspire series, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald highlights the revolutionary, countercultural power of Beyoncé.

Read, watch, or listen to the sermon here: https://dallasuu.org/08082024sermon/

                                     

Celebrate the artistic genius of Beyoncé, a global icon whose music, performances, and activism have transcended boundaries and inspired millions. Explore how her work celebrates Black culture, empowers women, and challenges societal norms. Reflect on the intersection of art, fame, and social responsibility in shaping our collective consciousness.

This sermon is part of our Artists Who Inspire series – a journey into the world of artistic brilliance and spiritual resonance. We are delving into the lives, works, and philosophies of five remarkable artists who have left an indelible mark on the canvas of human expression.

Rev. T. J. FitzGerald preaching, music will be provided by George Cornelius, Debra Morrison, Jean Ann Powers, April Sellers, and Les Sellers.

PLUS -

❤️ Blood Drive – 8:30 am – 12:30 pm in the front driveway. Sign up at dallasuu.org/blooddrive.

🕊 UUs for Justice in the Middle East Study Group - 1 pm, Rm 305. Learn more about the conflict in Gaza and the history of Palestine.

In-person worship at 9:30 and 11 am. Livestream at 9:30 am, 11 am, and 7pm CST.
▶️Livestream can be accessed here: https://www.dallasuu.org/live/
💚Visiting First Unitarian in-person for the first time? Go here for more information: https://dallasuu.org/visitors/

Artists Who Inspire: Beyoncé Carter-Knowles | Rev. T. J. FitzGerald - First Unitarian Church of Dallas Celebrate the artistic genius of Beyoncé, a global icon whose music, performances, and activism have transcended boundaries and inspired millions. […]

❤️ Carter BloodCare will be at First Church on Sunday, August 4th from 8:30am – 12:30pm. Please consider giving the gift of life!

Sign up for an appointment at dallasuu.org/blooddrive

We are thrilled to announce the 125th anniversary of the First Unitarian Church of Dallas! In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Revs. Kanter and FitzGerald reflect on the church's founding and share the fun ways we can celebrate together this year.

Join the Celebration: First Unitarian Church of Dallas Turns 125 | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 016 We are thrilled to announce the 125th anniversary of the First Unitarian Church of Dallas! In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Revs. Kanter and FitzGerald ...

In his sermon for our Artists Who Inspire series, Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter honors Hung Lui - an inspiring artist and person who lived a life of resistance through her creative art.

Read, watch, or listen to the sermon here: https://dallasuu.org/07282024sermon/

Through her masterful blend of traditional Chinese techniques and contemporary themes, Hung Liu brings to life the stories of the overlooked and forgotten. Her art, steeped in symbolism and cultural resonance, challenges us to reflect on themes of migration, identity, and resilience, transforming the canvas into a powerful narrative of human endurance and the quest for dignity
▪️Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter is preaching

We are excited to welcome Grant Wareham this Sunday for his first worship service as our Director of Music. He officially started in his role on Monday, July 22nd and has spent this week meeting with staff and getting settled in. Please give him a warm welcome this Sunday!

In-person worship at 9:30 and 11 am. Livestream at 9:30 am, 11 am, and 7pm CST.
▶️Livestream can be accessed here: https://www.dallasuu.org/live/
💚Visiting First Unitarian in-person for the first time? Go here for more information: https://dallasuu.org/visitors/

Despite facing profound personal challenges, Ludwig Van Beethoven composed symphonies of unparalleled beauty and resilience, reminding us of the transformative power of art in times of adversity.

In his sermon from our Artists Who Inspire series, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald reminds us that our faith can help us find sacred joy amidst pain and suffering.

Read, watch, or listen to the sermon here: https://dallasuu.org/07212024sermon/

“It is part of our DNA here to advocate for and to lift up the voices of those fighting for the autonomy of their bodies.” - Rev. T. J. FitzGerald

Click the link below to hear more about the Ride to Decide Bus Tour that made a stop at our church today.

Women who sued Texas over abortion law share stories in Dallas On Monday, three women who sued the state for the right to get an abortion held a panel discussion at the First Unitarian Church of Dallas.

The Ride to Decide Bus Tour made a stop at First Church this morning. The tour is hitting the road this summer to highlight the need for national abortion protections and hold extremist lawmakers accountable for rolling back our rights.

Rev. T. J. moderated a panel that included Deneen Robinson, executive director of Truth Pregnancy Resource Center and several women who shared real stories of the consequences of attacks on our reproductive freedom.

🔗 Learnp more about the tour at freeandjust.us

Join us this Sunday as we explore the life and work of Ludwig Van Beethoven, whose music transcends barriers of time and space to touch the depths of the human soul.

This sermon is part of our Artists Who Inspire series – a journey into the world of artistic brilliance and spiritual resonance. We are delving into the lives, works, and philosophies of five remarkable artists who have left an indelible mark on the canvas of human expression.

Rev. T. J. FitzGerald is preaching, music provided by cellist Gayane Manasjan Fullford and Alan Dyer.

In-person worship at 9:30 and 11 am. Livestream at 9:30 am, 11 am, and 7pm CST.
▶️Livestream can be accessed here: https://www.dallasuu.org/live/
💚Visiting First Unitarian in-person for the first time? Go here for more information: https://dallasuu.org/visitors/

Artists Who Inspire: Ludwig Van Beethoven | Rev. T. J. FitzGerald - First Unitarian Church of Dallas Ludwig Van Beethoven’s music transcends barriers of time and space to touch the depths of the human soul. Despite facing […]

🎥 New Tiny Pulpit Talk premiering tomorrow at 2 pm CST on YouTube!

Tune in as Rev. T. J. FitzGerald welcomes Deneen Robinson, Executive Director of Truth Pregnancy Resource Center 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 healthcare.

🔻 Click the link below to turn on turn on notifications for the premiere!

Resources & care for Texans facing pregnancy-related decisions | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 014 In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald welcomes Deneen Robinson, Executive Director of Truth Pregnancy Resource Center in Dallas, Texas ...

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 Artists Who Inspire series – a journey into the world of artistic brilliance and spiritual resonance. We are delving into the lives, works, and philosophies of five remarkable artists who have left an indelible mark on the canvas of human expression.

Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter is preaching, music provided by Alan Dyer, George Cornelius, and Gary Eckert.

PLUS -
❓Inquirer’s Class this week is a Campus Tour - meet at 11 am in the Parlor.
✍️ Membership Sunday: Ready to make First Church your spiritual home? This Sunday you're invited to become a member by signing the book of names after either service.

In-person worship at 9:30 and 11 am. Livestream at 9:30 am, 11 am, and 7pm CST.

▶️Livestream can be accessed here: https://www.dallasuu.org/live/
💚Visiting First Unitarian in-person for the first time? Go here for more information: https://dallasuu.org/visitors/

🎥 New Tiny Pulpit Talk premiering tomorrow at 2 pm CST on YouTube!

Can you be Agnostic, Atheist, or Humanist AND Unitarian Universalist? Tune in as Revs. Beth Dana and T. J. FitzGerald discuss the differences between these systems of thought and how they fit into our Unitarian Universalist community.

🔻 Click the link below to turn on turn on notifications for the premiere!

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

In the first sermon of our Artists Who Inspire series, Rev. Beth Dana explores the transformative work of Marina Abramović, whose performance art reminds us to be present and feel part of something bigger - messages we need in these turbulent times.

Read, watch, or listen to the sermon here: https://dallasuu.org/07072024sermon/

Our Artists Who Inspire sermon series kicks off this Sunday!

Join us to 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.

PLUS -

❓Inquirer’s Class this week is Connect Groups - meet at 11 am in the Parlor.
🗳 Visit the Social Action Council at their table in Channing Hall between services for Democracy in Action Day to learn ways you can engage during this important election year and beyond.

In-person worship at 9:30 and 11 am. Livestream at 9:30 am, 11 am, and 7pm CST.
▶️Livestream can be accessed here: https://www.dallasuu.org/live/
💚Visiting First Unitarian in-person for the first time? Go here for more information: https://dallasuu.org/visitors/

Rev. Beth Dana is preaching and music will be provided by flutist Ebonee Thomas and oboist Willa Henigman.

Artists Who Inspire: Marina Abramović | Rev Beth Dana - First Unitarian Church of Dallas Explore the transformative power of performance art as we reflect on the groundbreaking work of Marina Abramović. Through her daring […]

Our Artists Who Inspire sermon series kicks off this Sunday!

Join us to 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.

Rev. Beth Dana is preaching and music will be provided by flutist Ebonee Thomas and oboist Willa Henigman.

PLUS -

❓Inquirer’s Class this week is Connect Groups - meet at 11 am in the Parlor.
🗳 Visit the Social Action Council at their table in Channing Hall between services for Democracy in Action Day to learn ways you can engage during this important election year and beyond.

In-person worship at 9:30 and 11 am. Livestream at 9:30 am, 11 am, and 7pm CST.
▶️Livestream can be accessed here: https://www.dallasuu.org/live/
💚Visiting First Unitarian in-person for the first time? Go here for more information: https://dallasuu.org/visitors/

Artists Who Inspire: Marina Abramović | Rev Beth Dana - First Unitarian Church of Dallas Explore the transformative power of performance art as we reflect on the groundbreaking work of Marina Abramović. Through her daring […]

💚 First Unitarian Church of Dallas has an ongoing commitment to our Unitarian partners in India to ensure that the children in the Annie Margaret Barr Children's Village have the resources they need to thrive.

Right now, the Village is in need of sponsors for individual children and monetary donations for ongoing needs. Click the link below to learn more about the partnership and how you can help.

India Partnership Update: Sponsors needed for Children's Village, donations needed for ongoing needs - First Unitarian Church of Dallas First Unitarian Church of Dallas has partnered with the Annie Margaret Barr Children’s Village since 2018. The Children’s Village is […]

🎥 New Tiny Pulpit Talk premiering today at 2 pm CST on YouTube!

Tune in as Rev. T. J. FitzGerald welcomes Sherri Cook, Executive Director of Wholly Informed S*x Ed - WISE for a conversation about inclusive and affirming sexuality education, taking a multi-literacy approach to media, emotions, and our bodies, and helping youth to grow into sexually healthy adults.

🔻 Click the link below to turn on turn on notifications for the premiere!

Bringing Inclusive, Affirming, & Anti-Racist S*x Ed to Dallas | Sherri Cook | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 012 In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald welcomes Sherri Cook, Executive Director of Wholly Informed S*x Ed (WISE) for a conversation abou...