In recent decades, John 3:16 has become perhaps the most famous (or infamous) verse in the Bible, and has served as shorthand for a fundamentalist understanding of Christianity. But there are other ways of reading this Bible passage that might lead to a more expansive understanding of the life and teachings of Jesus. 

If contemporary Unitarian Universalism were to have its own Book of Common Prayer, it would almost certainly include some of the poems of Mary Oliver. This service will explore why one of Oliver’s poems, “The Summer Day,” is especially powerful and relevant.

In recent decades, we have seen the rise of a new “religious” nationalism that presents itself in the guise of a particular brand of “patriotism.” As members of a liberal religious community, we are guided by values that transcend national interests, so it is important to examine the difference between true patriotism (a noble virtue) … Continued