September 15, 2019
by Reverend Anthony Makar with
Reverend Chris Long,
Layne Richard-Hammock
Director of Lifespan Faith Development and
Marty Blachly-Cross
Worship Associate
Today, we begin a new year of religious education classes, and that means we begin again the powerful work of supporting the intellectual, emotional, and spiritual growth of our children and youth. But what does it mean to grow? Rev. Makar shares a story about his Baba (that’s Ukranian for “grandmother”) and, through it, explores three dimensions of the growing journey as it impacts all ages.
![Making the World More Beautiful]()
September 8, 2019
by Reverend Anthony Makar and
Reverend Chris Long
Gerry Meader
Worship Associate
Now that school has started again, and we have returned from summer travels away or “staycations” in Cleveland, we come home to West Shore and begin a new program year. Our multigenerational service draws from the classic story “Miss Rumphius” by Barbara Cooney. Here’s a short excerpt: In the evening Alice sat on her grandfather’s knee and listened to his stories of faraway places. When he had finished, Alice would say, “When I grow up, I too will go to faraway places, and when I am old, I too will live beside the sea.” “That is all very well, little Alice,” said her grandfather, “but there is a third thing you must do.” “What is that?” asked Alice. “You must do something to make the world more beautiful,” said her grandfather. “All right,” said Alice. But she didn’t know what that could be. What might you do to make the world more beautiful? Let’s explore this together as we usher in a new program year at West Shore
September 1, 2019
by Christine Salontay and
Vicky Warden
Worship Associates
“I can’t stop thinking.” “Am I doing this right?” “There is no way I can sit still that long” “This is boring.” We spend most of our lives lost in thoughts. And although there is a growing body of scientific evidence that strongly suggests meditation is another important pillar of wellness, why is it so hard to get ourselves to spend a few minutes each day meditating? This Sunday, explore why meditation can be so difficult but how sticking with a meditation practice can have life long benefits.
August 25, 2019
by Reverend Anthony Makar and
Michael Miller
Worship Associate
Worldwide, there are approximately 50 million people with Alzheimer’s, and the ripple effects of this mean that millions of more lives of family, friends, and others have been impacted. It’s a difficult journey, but one that contains many lessons for UUs of all ages about human dignity, the nature of caregiving, and the depths of human devotion and love.
August 18, 2019
by Reverend Anthony Makar
Author, poet, and civil rights activist Maya Angelou once said, “We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty.” We explore some of these changes in Maya Angelou’s amazing life, across a span of almost 90 years
August 11, 2019
by Reverend Anthony Makar
Life is full of challenge and change, and it can wear down even the strongest person. Today, join Reverend Makar for an exploration of ways we can proactively nourish our hearts and spirits. Our Unitarian Universalist spiritual way wants all people to stay refreshed and renewed for the journey of life!
August 8, 2019
by Intern Minister Michelle Ma and
Elizabeth Gerencser
Worship Associate
Time has sure flown during my internship, and I’ve learned so much! Now it’s time for me to reflect back some of what I’ve learned; maybe you’ll learn something about yourselves.
July 28, 2019
by Rev. Chris Long & Michelle Ma, Worship Leaders
Justice work isn’t just about transforming the world: it’s about transforming ourselves. Transformation leads to transformation.
July 21, 2019
by Marty Blachly-Cross, Worship Leader
As civil discourse becomes more uncivil, what are the guidelines for respectful interactions, and does our Covenant with each other support this?
July 14, 2019
by Worship Associate Gerry Meader
We will explore mindfulness and some of the ways in which we accept ideas without the benefit of any serious intellectual rigor. How do we come to accept “truth” when real evidence doesn’t exist, or when the “evidence” is misleading? And how might these precarious beliefs affect our commitment to social justice or our world view?
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July 14, 2019
by Worship Associate Gerry Meader
We will explore mindfulness and some of the ways in which we accept ideas without the benefit of any serious intellectual rigor. How do we come to accept “truth” when real evidence doesn’t exist, or when the “evidence” is misleading? And how might these precarious beliefs affect our commitment to social justice or our world view?
July 7, 2019
by Maura Garin, Worship Leader and
Elizabeth Gerencser
Worship Associate
We learn and remember from stories our elders have told us. What will we leave behind for those who follow?
June 30, 2019
by Intern Minister Michelle Ma and
Worship Associate Maura Garin
Intersex people “do not fit the typical definitions for male or female bodies” and were–and still are–subject to stigma and discrimination. What do intersex people have to teach Unitarian Universalists about science, gender, and ambiguity?
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June 30, 2019
by Intern Minister Michelle Ma and
Worship Associate Maura Garin
Intersex people “do not fit the typical definitions for male or female bodies” and were–and still are–subject to stigma and discrimination. What do intersex people have to teach Unitarian Universalists about science, gender, and ambiguity?
June 16, 2019
by Reverend Patricia Hart
The very best way to get ready for a wonderful new beginning is to pay attention to the ending of what came before. Thoughts on the gifts and losses of transitions in our lives, on Rev. Tricia Hart’s last Sunday worship service at West Shore.
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June 16, 2019
by Reverend Patricia Hart
The very best way to get ready for a wonderful new beginning is to pay attention to the ending of what came before. Thoughts on the gifts and losses of transitions in our lives, on Rev. Tricia Hart’s last Sunday worship service at West Shore.
June 9, 2019
by Reverend Chris Long,
Guest Speaker Jessica York
Director of Congregational Life at the Unitarian Universalist Association and
Marty Blachly-Cross
Worship Associate
Jessica York will share a sermon grounded in themes and ideas related to dance, specifically dancing in partnerships, in our work toward racial and social justice. She will also share how our efforts here at West Shore are connected to the racial and social justice mission of Unitarian Universalism. We will celebrate the 10th Anniversary of Rev Chris’ Ordination as a UU Minister, as well as the “bridging” of West Shore high school graduates into young adulthood.
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June 9, 2019
by Reverend Chris Long,
Guest Speaker Jessica York
Director of Congregational Life at the Unitarian Universalist Association and
Marty Blachly-Cross
Worship Associate
Jessica York will share a sermon grounded in themes and ideas related to dance, specifically dancing in partnerships, in our work toward racial and social justice. She will also share how our efforts here at West Shore are connected to the racial and social justice mission of Unitarian Universalism. We will celebrate the 10th Anniversary of Rev Chris’ Ordination as a UU Minister, as well as the “bridging” of West Shore high school graduates into young adulthood.
June 2, 2019
by Reverend Patricia Hart and
Reverend Chris Long with
Michael Miller
Worship Associate
The theme for this all-ages Pride service is Sanctuary, focusing on how the Unitarian Universalist faith and West Shore embraces and creates a safe space and culture of all. Especially youth! We will recognize all those who served this year as West Shore’s Religious Education teachers. Children of all ages are welcome to stay for the entire service.
May 26, 2019
by Reverend Patricia Hart and
Maura Garin
Worship Associate
On this Memorial Day Sunday, we will tell stories of communities living out their promises to remember the gifts of those who have died, long into the future. The service ceremony will conclude with a brief dedication of the now-complete Memorial Garden and a reception in the Courtyard for everyone.
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May 26, 2019
by Reverend Patricia Hart and
Maura Garin
Worship Associate
On this Memorial Day Sunday, we will tell stories of communities living out their promises to remember the gifts of those who have died, long into the future. The service ceremony will conclude with a brief dedication of the now-complete Memorial Garden and a reception in the Courtyard for everyone.
May 19, 2019
Reverend Anthony David Makar and
Michael Miller
Worship Associate
Unitarian Universalists speak of their faith as a “living tradition.” We see that language on what might be the most popular and used book in our congregations, our hymnal entitled, “ Singing the Living Tradition.” But what is the story of our Tradition that Lives? Join Rev. Makar for an inspiring and uplifting message about who we are in the world and who we aspire to be. Immediately following the service, please plan to attend the Congregational Meeting. This will be a two-part meeting. The first part will be our Annual Meeting to elect the new Board of Trustees and Nominating Committee members. The second part will be a special congregational meeting on calling Rev. Anthony Makar as our NEW Senior Minister.
May 12, 2019
by Reverend Anthony Makar and
Marty Blachly-Cross
Worship Associate
Each of us has a story about how we discovered Unitarian Universalism and why we have chosen it as our religious path. It reflects a unique combination of people, circumstances, and personal needs and hopes. Timing is also important. West Shore's Candidate for Senior Minister, Rev. Makar, shares some of the stories of why he’s a Unitarian Universalist, what it means to him, why he's so grateful for it. Come see how his story might speak to your own!
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May 12, 2019
by Reverend Anthony Makar and
Marty Blachly-Cross
Worship Associate
Each of us has a story about how we discovered Unitarian Universalism and why we have chosen it as our religious path. It reflects a unique combination of people, circumstances, and personal needs and hopes. Timing is also important. West Shore's Candidate for Senior Minister, Rev. Makar, shares some of the stories of why he’s a Unitarian Universalist, what it means to him, why he's so grateful for it. Come see how his story might speak to your own!
May 5, 2019
by Reverend Patricia Hart and
Gerry Meader
Worship Associate
“Rebellion against tyrants is obedience to God.” These words, spoken by Benjamin Franklin, speak volumes about the political ideas that shaped our country and the religious convictions that would become Unitarianism. There are many points in history when those two movements converged. To some extent, they still do.
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May 5, 2019
by Reverend Patricia Hart and
Gerry Meader
Worship Associate
“Rebellion against tyrants is obedience to God.” These words, spoken by Benjamin Franklin, speak volumes about the political ideas that shaped our country and the religious convictions that would become Unitarianism. There are many points in history when those two movements converged. To some extent, they still do.
![What We Owe to Each Other]()
April 28, 2019
by Intern Minister Michelle Ma and
Marty Blachly-Cross
Worship Associate
We are whole beings, each and every one of us, with inherent worth and dignity. It's easy to say those words out loud and agree; another thing to put it into practice. How do we hold each other accountable for our actions in this world while still treating one another with compassion and kindness?
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Seven Principles (from Wikipedia)
Adopted in 1960, the Principles, Purposes and Sources can be found in the Bylaws of the Unitarian Universalist Association.[50] The Principles are expressed,
We, the member congregations of the Unitarian Universalist Association, covenant to affirm and promote:
- The inherent worth and dignity of every person;[51]
- Justice, equity and compassion in human relations;[52]
- Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations;[53]
- A free and responsible search for truth and meaning;[54]
- The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large;[55]
- The goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all;[56]
- Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part.[57]
![What We Owe to Each Other - sermon only]()
April 28, 2019
by Intern Minister Michelle Ma and
Marty Blachly-Cross
Worship Associate
We are whole beings, each and every one of us, with inherent worth and dignity. It's easy to say those words out loud and agree; another thing to put it into practice. How do we hold each other accountable for our actions in this world while still treating one another with compassion and kindness?
Seven Principles (from Wikipedia)
Adopted in 1960, the Principles, Purposes and Sources can be found in the Bylaws of the Unitarian Universalist Association.[50] The Principles are expressed,
We, the member congregations of the Unitarian Universalist Association, covenant to affirm and promote:
- The inherent worth and dignity of every person;[51]
- Justice, equity and compassion in human relations;[52]
- Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations;[53]
- A free and responsible search for truth and meaning;[54]
- The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large;[55]
- The goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all;[56]
- Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part.[57]
April 21, 2019
by Reverend Patricia Hart and
Maura Garin
Worship Associate
Easter is a complicated celebration for Unitarian Universalists of any theological disposition. The stories in the Bible are unclear as to what happens and why...so much so that Christians have been debating what it all means for millennia. Is there a place for you in the mystery? What is the work of joy in our lives? Erin Gyomber, who won this service in the 2018 Auction, wonders if joy shows up to remind us to look up from the tedium and disappointment that surround us, and find beauty again--and hope.
CLICK HERE FOR SERMON ONLY
April 21, 2019
by Reverend Patricia Hart and
Maura Garin
Worship Associate
Easter is a complicated celebration for Unitarian Universalists of any theological disposition. The stories in the Bible are unclear as to what happens and why...so much so that Christians have been debating what it all means for millennia. Is there a place for you in the mystery? What is the work of joy in our lives? Erin Gyomber, who won this service in the 2018 Auction, wonders if joy shows up to remind us to look up from the tedium and disappointment that surround us, and find beauty again--and hope.
April 14, 2019
by Reverend Patricia Hart and
Gerry Meader
Worship Associate
What is the work of joy in our lives? Erin Gyomber, who won this service in the 2018 Auction, wonders if joy shows up to remind us to look up from the tedium and disappointment that surround us, and find beauty again--and hope.
CLICK HERE FOR SERMON ONLY
April 14, 2019
by Reverend Patricia Hart and
Gerry Meader
Worship Associate
What is the work of joy in our lives? Erin Gyomber, who won this service in the 2018 Auction, wonders if joy shows up to remind us to look up from the tedium and disappointment that surround us, and find beauty again--and hope.
April 7, 2019
by Reverend Patricia Hart and
Michael Miller
Worship Associate
Being afraid (cautious, terrified, wary, uncomfortable) is a common condition in life. We human beings spend remarkable amounts of time, energy and money trying to avoid fear, with limited success. Perhaps our fears have something to teach us. The Free Spirit Band will play, and Caprice Wright, West Shore Child Care Center Director, will talk about the Center and the “Week of the Young Child.”
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April 7, 2019
by Reverend Patricia Hart and
Michael Miller
Worship Associate
Being afraid (cautious, terrified, wary, uncomfortable) is a common condition in life. We human beings spend remarkable amounts of time, energy and money trying to avoid fear, with limited success. Perhaps our fears have something to teach us. The Free Spirit Band will play, and Caprice Wright, West Shore Child Care Center Director, will talk about the Center and the “Week of the Young Child.”
March 31, 2019
by Reverend Patricia Hart and
Marty Blachly-Cross
Worship Associate
Reflections on the lessons and gifts of interim ministry.
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March 31, 2019
by Reverend Patricia Hart and
Marty Blachly-Cross
Worship Associate
Reflections on the lessons and gifts of interim ministry.
March 24, 2019
by Reverend Patricia Hart and
Christine Salontay
Worship Associate
Thoughts about where we are—as a nation, culture, religious tradition, congregation—not to mention as citizens of the world. What part are you playing in this journey we’re all on, together?
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March 24, 2019
by Reverend Patricia Hart and
Christine Salontay
Worship Associate
Thoughts about where we are—as a nation, culture, religious tradition, congregation—not to mention as citizens of the world. What part are you playing in this journey we’re all on, together?
March 17, 2019
by Reverend Patricia Hart and
Layne Richard-Hammock
Director of Lifespan Faith Development
We will mark the “graduation” of eight of our 2nd and 3rd-grade children who are completing the Age of Reason program, who will share their credos from the pulpit. Parents will be witnesses for their children, offering words of appreciation and hopes for the future.
March 10, 2019
by Intern Minister Michelle Ma and
Maura Garin
Worship Associate
Life is full of surprises, and it’s not until later that we can look back with any perspective on whether or not those surprises were good or bad ones. We never really know how any of the decisions we make will shake out. How do we face the uncertain future, and how do we support each other as a community on our respective journeys?
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March 10, 2019
by Intern Minister Michelle Ma and
Maura Garin
Worship Associate
Life is full of surprises, and it’s not until later that we can look back with any perspective on whether or not those surprises were good or bad ones. We never really know how any of the decisions we make will shake out. How do we face the uncertain future, and how do we support each other as a community on our respective journeys?
March 3, 2019
by Reverend Patricia Hart and
Michael Miller
Worship Associate
Spring is (almost) here—hearts and imaginations dare, again, to believe in growth and new life. How can we plant seeds of possibility, in our own lives and those around us? What do you need to un-become in order to begin your journey?
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March 3, 2019
by Reverend Patricia Hart and
Michael Miller
Worship Associate
Spring is (almost) here—hearts and imaginations dare, again, to believe in growth and new life. How can we plant seeds of possibility, in our own lives and those around us? What do you need to un-become in order to begin your journey?
February 24, 2019
by West Shore UU Church Youth and
Jack Smith
Youth Ministry Coordinator
It takes a lot to build and gain trust, especially as teenagers grow and see their friends change, become more aware of the current social and economic climate, and enter the working world. Find out what trust means to the youth in the congregation as they navigate through schools, church, spiritual lives, social justice activities, and their community. Our youth will discuss who and what they trust and how it will help shape their future worldview.
February 17, 2019
by Reverend Patricia Hart and
Marty Blachly-Cross
Worship Associate
West Shore has made a commitment to be a force for racial justice in the life and communities of its people. But before anyone can change the world (or themselves), they must understand how things came to be the way they are. Some thoughts on being a white person, and telling the whole truth.
February 10, 2019
by Reverend Patricia Hart and
Gerry Meader
Worship Associate
What lessons did you learn about money as a child? Was it the key to security, or happiness – or was money’s power a temptation to guard against, a pathway to immorality? We tend to carry such early lessons into adulthood, where they can exert more influence than we know. What money lessons do you hope to demonstrate in your life? What money stories do you hope your church will teach?
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February 10, 2019
by Reverend Patricia Hart and
Gerry Meader
Worship Associate
What lessons did you learn about money as a child? Was it the key to security, or happiness – or was money’s power a temptation to guard against, a pathway to immorality? We tend to carry such early lessons into adulthood, where they can exert more influence than we know. What money lessons do you hope to demonstrate in your life? What money stories do you hope your church will teach?
