Services

Building Up in a Time of Tearing Down

The book of Ecclesiastes famously states that there is “a time to tear down and a time to build up.” Sometimes both must occur simultaneously. In the current era of tearing down democratic processes and social safety nets, it is time to build something new. What are we building together in this congregation, and why … Continued

Covenant of the Ark

In the Bible, when Noah built the ark and set out on the journey of a lifetime, what were the promises that were made among those who were on board? In our journey through the stormy seas of life in the 21st century, what are the most important promises we need to make, and how … Continued

Building a Boat

According to theologian Timothy Gorringe: “[I]n the face of the present global emergency, ark-building might be the task to which theological ethics leads us.” Building an ark, in this context, does not mean giving up on addressing our current problems and simply floating away. Rather, it means making space “for the flourishing of those who … Continued

The Quiet Strength of Kindness

Personal stories will help illustrate the role that kindness plays in maintaining connection and creating community. Kindness is part of the foundation of Unitarian Universalist principles and is a common thread in the tapestry of our Sunnyhill community.  This service will explore how we can all practice kindness to create a better world and support … Continued

Resistance is Living

In these times that are growing ever darker it is easy to feel like nothing we do is making a difference, and the energy to fight waning. So how can we resist while ensuring we are still able to live and thrive at the same time? Why is self care, self love and fellowship so … Continued

What is Unitarian Universalism?

Unitarian Universalism is sometimes wrongly described as not having its own theology. Although it’s true that there is a great deal of theological diversity within our congregations, we do have our own unique theology—both historically and contemporarily. This service will provide an overview of Unitarian Universalist theology and why it is important to us and … Continued

Why Going to Church Is Good for You

In a bygone era, it was assumed that almost everyone would belong to a religious community of one kind or another, but that assumption no longer holds, as more and more people are unchurched.  What are the real benefits of going to church and what does it mean to belong to a church in our … Continued

Should You Have? Could You Have?

We all have “should have dones” in our lives, and this sermon deals with whether you truly could have accomplished what you longed for. Whether you saw yourself as an Olympic figure skater or as an international financial expert, could you really have achieved those dreams if you could go back in time? Maybe what … Continued

The Long Road to Sunnyhill: A Faith Journey

For those in our congregation who’s spiritual beginnings were in a different faith tradition, the path to Unitarian Universalism can feel like an epic, and sometimes tumultuous, journey. Mary Pratt, Sunnyhill’s Music Director, will share her own journey from Catholicism and reflect on the strength that comes from sharing our diverse spiritual paths and beliefs … Continued

Let America Be America

Langston Hughes wrote a poem with this title in 1935 as a rallying cry for greater freedom and inclusion. 90 years later it has lost none of its power in calling for an as-yet unborn America that makes real the dream of justice and liberty for all. How can we help make this dream a … Continued