Rev. Jim Magaw

Hanukkah

Religious freedom and political resistance are major themes in the story of Hanukkah and the Maccabean revolt against the Seleucid Empire. In this service we will explore how and why these themes are just as relevant now as they have ever been.

Into the Mystery

While we might like to think that everything that happens is somehow logical and understandable, the truth is that all of existence is shrouded in mystery. Carl Sagan said, “The universe will always be much richer than our ability to understand it.” How do we lean into, and learn from, a sense of the mystery … Continued

Prayer of Thanksgiving

The great Christian mystic famously said, “If the only prayer you ever say in your entire life is thank you, it will be enough.” Of the various kinds of prayers, prayers of thanksgiving might be the most powerful. How do we practice giving thanks, even in challenging times?

The Prophetic Imperative

We live in an era that screams out for prophets—people who not only expose the evils of society but also offer a vision of hope and healing. How do we embody the prophetic vision and prophetic voice right now, right here?

All Souls

In the Christian tradition, All Souls Day has been a time to remember everyone who has died, everyone who has been part of the gathered community. The phrase “All Souls” has a particularly Unitarian connotation because of something that one of our own “saints,” William Ellery Channing, said: “I am a living member of the … Continued

Something About Rivers

Rivers–especially the confluence of two or more rivers–can provide rich metaphors for life and living, especially at a time when factionalism and violence are on the rise. How can we live in this place of coming together rather than coming apart?

Accidental Generosity (Services at 9 and 11:15am)

Acts of generosity–even those that are incidental or accidental–can trigger a chain reaction of unselfishness that reaches far beyond the original act. How can we harness the power of viral generosity to build a more just and compassionate community, within and beyond our walls?

Radical Theology of Fred Rogers

Pittsburgh children’s television icon Fred Rogers preached and practiced a radical theology which advocated for cultivating empathy for all, making sure that every child was cared for, and loving your neighbor as yourself. What can we learn from Mr. Rogers today?

Founders’ Day: Heritage & Future

This service will celebrate our founding members, who, more than 50 years ago, made the bold decision to form a UU congregation in the South Hills of Pittsburgh. What can we learn from their example, and what’s in store for Sunnyhill in the years to come?

UU Revival

Unitarianism and Universalism arose in America as a backlash against the first major American religious revival movement, known as the Great Awakening, in the 18th century. But here in the 21st century American religion is in need of a new kind of revival movement, and UUism may have an important role to play.