Past Worship Services
“Thriving with the Planet”
April 18th at 10:00 amThere is no Audio file for this date
“Where Hopes & Dreams Thrive: Our Annual Giving Drive Kickoff”
April 11th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this datewith special musical guests, Emma’s Revolution! Join us for BUUF’s Annual Giving Drive kick-off. VIRTUAL SANCTUARY
Easter Sunday “Do Not Hold on to Me: Resurrection & Becoming”
April 4th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateRev. Sara with Patricia Heeb We are facing our own moment of collective resurrection as we slowly emerge from this global pandemic; battered, worn, grief stricken, but also filled with gratitude, hope, and a new sense of normal. The resurrection story offers us insight into how we ... read more.
“Shaping Our Post-Pandemic Future”
March 28th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateWith Sharene Watsen & Debra Smith What might life look like after living through a pandemic? Who do we want to become as individuals and as a BUUF community after the pandemic? What have we learned? What do we want to keep in our lives going forward from this ... read more.
“Traveling the Path of Commitment or What Happens When We Fail?”
March 21st at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateSermon by Rev. Sara LaWall, & Gwyn Reid, Celebrant Music from Carrie Bastian The path of commitment is sometimes like climbing a mountain, but it is just as often more like trudging through a thick forest where all sorts of paths complicate our journey. Not every path of ... read more.
Pandemic Commitment: One Year Later
March 14th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateSermon by Rev. Sara LaWall, & Kacee O’Connor, Celebrant Music from Liza Long & Brandon One year ago the world shut down and everything changed. One year later, we look back to honor our commitment to these changes, our adaptability and hold our collective grief for all ... read more.
“Leaving a Light On: Commitment in the Light of Change”
March 7th at 10:00 amThere is no Audio file for this date
The Hill We Climb: Living the 8th Principle
February 28th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateRev. Sara LaWall & Racial Justice Team
It has been a little over a year since we adopted the 8th UU Principle focused on dismantling racism and other oppressions and building multicultural beloved community. So much growth and deep work transpired over that year. We want ... read more.
Epistles to the Boiseans
February 21st at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateRev. Sara LaWall & Wyatt Schroeder
Join members of our recent class on Paul’s epistles who explored the early gatherings of Christians as collectives pushing back against the empire and committing to building communities of love, moral conscience and faith. Imagining how we might build such ... read more.
Side With Love Sunday
February 14th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateWith Rev. Sara LaWall
A special worship service provided by our UU Association and Side With Love staff.
What if to “side with love” meant making bold, faith-full choices? What if it were even a little bit scary? This worship service brings together worship leaders and musicians ... read more.
Building Beloved Community
February 7th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateRev. Sara & Sharene Watsen; Gem Emerson Paige; Carrie Bastian
VIRTUAL SANCTUARY“Everything Possible”
January 31st at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateRev. Sara LaWall with very special guest, “Rev.” Rose Murphy, Rachel Murphy, Celebrant
Explore the imagination of your inner child when you could imagine yourself doing anything and a world where everything felt possible!
VIRTUAL SANCTUARY“Imagination Within”
January 24th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateMark McGinnis
Imagination Within is a slide sermon by artist Mark McGinnis that encourages nurturing the imagination that resides within all of us. A list of ways are presented we all can use to rejuvenate our imagination.
“Before the Song at Sea”
January 17th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateMatt Meyer, Guest Preacher; Rev. Sara LaWall
As people of faith we’re called to work together to create the world as it might be. Living the change we wish to see, particularly for racial justice, can bring us through discomfort and troubled water. In the midst ... read more.
“Imagination for an Emerging World”
January 10th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateRev. Sara LaWall, Debra Smith, Carrie Bastian, Gem Emerson Paige
Faced with the existential threats of a climate crisis, racial injustice and deep division, a new world view is emerging that invites us to embrace radical change and collaboration for the sake of our shared humanity. ... read more.
Fire Communion
January 3rd at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateSunday service with Rev.Sara LaWall and Sharene Watsen
Music & Poetry
December 27th at 10:00 amThere is no Audio file for this date
Christmas Eve Service
December 24th at 4:00 pm
There is no Audio file for this dateJoin four UU congregations across all four time zones for this special Christmas Eve collaboration complete with candle lighting and Silent Night. The service will premiere on our YouTube Channel at 4:00pm.
Special Service! “Winter Solstice Celebration”
Rev. Sara LaWall
December 21st at 7:00 pmThere is no Audio file for this dateAnnual winter solstice celebration, with virtual candle lighting.
With Rev. Sara & the Pagan/Nature Centered Spirituality Group
Sabbath Sunday – No Worship Service on 12/20
December 20th at 12:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateJoin us Saturday, December 19th at 4pm for a Holiday service filled with music, story, and fun!
Special Saturday Worship! “Holiday Music, Story, & Fun”
December 19th at 4:00 pm
There is no Audio file for this dateJoin us for this fun Holiday celebration, sharing music, stories, and poetry to celebrate the season!
“Stillness of the Heart”
December 13th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateDebra Smith & Sharene Watsen
How can we create “stillness of heart” in a time of turbulence and cruelty? Is it even appropriate to long for a still heart when the world cries for real action? Debra Smith will share her journey to the heart of social ... read more.“Finding Stillness in the Chaos”
December 6th at 10:00 amThere is no Audio file for this date
“Wholehearted Healing”
November 29th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this datePatricia Heeb & Rachel Murphy
It’s been a hard year for all of us. With pandemic fears and grief, social upheaval, political destruction, we are tired to the bone, in need of healing. In this service, we turn to Leonard Cohen’s song, “Come Healing,” which offers ... read more.
“Apple Communion”
November 22nd at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateRev. Sara LaWall, Sharene Watsen, Gem Emerson Paige
A multigenerational service celebrating gratitude for the abundance in community (even virtually). Remember to buy an apple to join in communion this Sunday.“Asylum Seeker Project Celebration”
November 15th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateRev. Sara LaWall & Asylum Team Members
Virtual Sanctuary“The Future is Calling”
November 8th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateRev. Sara LaWall & Debra Smith
We find ourselves on yet another precipice-leaning over the edge of freedom, balancing on the tight rope of democracy. What happens when we fall (not if, but when)? Do we have the right to hope? Our hope lies in the net ... read more.“Healing Bodies, Hearts, and Spirits”
November 1st at 10:00 amThere is no Audio file for this date
“Blessing of the Animals”
October 25th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateSunday Service with Rev. Sara LaWall & Gem Emerson Paige
“Listening to the Voices that Matter”
October 18th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateSunday Service with Carrie Bastian & David Scott
It’s 2020. We have more modes of communication than ever before. Sometimes it feels like everyone is talking at once and not listening to each other. Listening–deep listening–might just be necessary for our survival. How do we practice deep listening? ... read more.“Becoming a Good Ancestor”
October 11th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateHonoring Indigenous People’s Day
Rev. Sara LaWall with Rachel Murphy, Celebrant
Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9828075151 Meeting ID: 982 807 5151
“UU the Vote”
October 4th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateHomily from Rev. Susan Frederick-Gray, UUA President; with Rev. Sara LaWall; Gwyn Reid, Celebrant; Carrie Bastian, Music; additional music and reflections from members of the national UU the Vote team. In these midst of global pandemic, rising authoritarianism, and uprising, lives hang in the balance and the future ... read more.
“What We Can Save”
September 27th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateSunday Service via ZOOM
Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9828075151 Meeting ID: 982 807 5151
Rev. Lee Paczulla, Executive Minister at Wellsprings Congregation, continues our Good News of Unitarian Universalism series with this heart-felt homily centered around the idea of saving what we love instead ... read more.
“Renewal for Our Planet”
September 20th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateSunday service via Zoom.
Rev. Sara LaWall; Gwyn Reid, Celebrant; and the Climate Action Team
Annual Water Communion
Rev. Sara LaWall
September 13th at 10:00 amThere is no Audio file for this dateEach year we begin a new program year together with a special in-gathering Water Communion service. In this unique annual UU ritual, we gather the waters of our community, whether from your adventures, our very own backyard rivers, creeks, and canals, the backyard garden hose, or ... read more.
“Amen to Uprising”
September 6th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this date10:00 Virtual Sunday Service
Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9828075151
Meeting ID: 982 807 5151
“Rest as Resistance: Practicing Sabbath”
August 30th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateWe live in a culture that centers work and celebrates “working hard.” Our society tells us our value lies in our productivity and output. Even in justice work we encounter messages that suggest we cannot rest until justice comes. But what if rest was the ... read more.
Connections for the Body & Spirit
August 23rd at 10:30 am
There is no Audio file for this dateConnections for the Body and Spirit
Our ties with others including family, friends and spiritual communities are so important to our mental, physical and spiritual health. Our faith communities are key connections for so many of us, but the pandemic, economy and social unrest has made ... read more.
“What is a Life Worth?”
August 16th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateHow do you determine the value of a life? What are the means by which you weigh the significance of one person over another? How much of history plays into it? What makes Black Lives Matter?
Live service via zoom with Nancy Harms, sermon; Gwyn Reid, ... read more.
“Atonement”
August 9th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateLive service via zoom with Mark McGinnis, sermon; Debra Smith, Celebrant
Mark reflects on the racism that was present in his family’s history and his own experiences with race during his life. In light of the rising awareness of racism he considers the place of hope ... read more.
“How to Dismantle an Empire and What Happens When We Become the Romans”
August 2nd at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateWe live in a time of empire. Our Unitarian faith is based on the Judeo-Christian tradition, a narrative that is rooted deeply in the struggle against empire. Jesus was a protestor, a countercultural force that spoke to the disinherited. His apostle, Paul, took up the ... read more.
“The Virtues of Dirt”
July 26th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateSermon by Rev. Patricia Owen; Sharene Watsen, Celebrant
“There is much to be said these days of getting dirt under your nails. In a time when so much seems to be out of our control we can find solace, happiness and renewed faith in soil, seeds ... read more.
General Assembly Sunday Worship
July 19th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateThis year marked the first-ever virtual General Assembly of Unitarian Universalist Association of congregations, the largest annual gathering of UUs. We’ll view this powerful, communal worship service shared by thousands of UUs across the country on June 28. Rev. Joan Javier-Duval delivers the sermon. She ... read more.
“What Happens Next”
July 12th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateThis Sunday launches our summer series with a virtual visit to All Souls UU in Kansas City. Sermon from Rev. Kendyl Gibbons, special appearance from Rev. Sara.
Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9828075151
Meeting ID: 982 807 5151
“No Justice, No Peace, No Freedom”
July 5th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateRev, Sara LaWall, Celebrant
Recorded sermon from Rev. Karen Hutt (1st UU Minneapolis)
Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9828075151
Meeting ID: 982 807 5151
“Practicing Self-Compassion”
June 28th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this date10:00 Virtual Sunday Service from June 7 through Labor Day weekend.
Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9828075151
Meeting ID: 982 807 5151
Summer Solstice Celebration
June 21st at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this date10:00 Virtual Sunday Service from June 7 through Labor Day weekend.
Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9828075151
Meeting ID: 982 807 5151
“On Fatherhood”
June 14th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateRoger Sherman and David Scott join Rev Sara.
“Compassion of Pride – All of Us Are Beautiful”
June 7th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateJoin us for this collaboration with our partners from the Magic Valley UU Fellowship as we honor Pride month. Our LGBT community has been hit hard this year. As UUs we answer the call of love to rise in solidarity with them for the dignity, ... read more.
“Farewell to Mary Beth” via ZOOM
May 31st at 10:00 am
The Threshold of Our Earth: Sacred Spaces Worship via ZOOM
Rev. Sara LaWall
May 24th at 10:00 amThere is no Audio file for this dateWe wrap-up Earth Month 2020 exploring the ways in which this pandemic has helped us recognize our ability to adapt and change in healthier ways for ourselves and our planet. This service was originally scheduled to be held outside on our campus and we hope ... read more.
Crossing Bridges (via Zoom)
May 17th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateJoin Rev. Sara in celebrating the thresholds of our community with a special bridging ceremony & tribute for our graduating seniors. Music from Gordon & Tamera Hamilton
“Daughterhood: Caring for Our Mothers” via ZOOM
May 10th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateDebra Smith, Kacee O’Connor, Emmie Schlobohm, and Mary Beth Bolin, Ministerial Intern
In honor of Mother’s Day, hear personal, poignant reflections from three members about their experiences caring for the aging mothers.
Encountering Thresholds
May 3rd at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateOur lives are filled with thresholds, spaces we pass in transition from one big thing to the next. We find ourselves in a major threshold moment right now. Perhaps the true invitation of a threshold is to invite pause? What if we saw thresholds as ... read more.
Sunday Service “Honoring our Earth”
April 26th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateJoin our Ministerial Intern Mary Beth Bolin and our Climate Action Team to kick off Earth Month 2020.
Celebration Sunday
Rev. Sara LaWall
April 19th at 10:00 amSingle Service, 10:00 a.m.
With Rev. Sara and the Soulful Sundown Band
Easter Sunday Celebration
Rev. Sara LaWall
April 12th at 10:00 amThere is no Audio file for this dateWe’re teaming up with our neighbors to the north, the UU Church of the Palouse, for a special Easter collaboration. Join us for this day of light and gladness, this day when we speak of transformation and resurrection; of love and hope and possibility. Hymn ... read more.
“Grant Me Serenity” Annual Giving Drive Kick-off
Rev. Sara LaWall
April 5th at 10:00 amThere is no Audio file for this dateJoin Rev. Sara and our special guest speaker, Dr. Dan Prinzing of the Wassmuth Center for Human Rights as we kick-off our pledge drive and celebrate our community!
“The Wisdom of Our Elders” Sunday Service via ZOOM
Rev. Sara LaWall
March 29th at 10:00 amJoin us for Sunday Services virtually.
Join us for Sunday Services virtually.
Join Zoom Meeting
Meeting ID: 982 807 5151
“The Wisdom of Our Youth” Sunday Service via ZOOM
Rev. Sara LaWall
March 22nd at 10:00 amJoin us for Sunday Services virtually.
https://boiseuu.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/BUUF-worship-20200322.mp4Online Sunday Service
Rev. Sara LaWall
March 15th at 10:00 amThere is no Audio file for this dateOnline Service only. Please be patent with us as we adapt.
https://boiseuu.org/wp/wp-content/uploads/BUUF-worship-20200315.mp4“The Wisdom of the Condor”
Rev. Sara LaWall
March 8th at 9:15 amThere is no Audio file for this dateMinisterial Intern, Mary Beth Bolin
“The Wisdom of Our UU Sources”
Rev. Sara LaWall
March 1st at 9:15 amThere is no Audio file for this date9:15 & 11:15 a.m.
“Look to the Growing Edge: Resilience & Spiritual Practice”
Rev. Sara LaWall
February 23rd at 9:15 amThere is no Audio file for this date9:15 & 11:15 a.m.
Rev. Sara LaWall; Music by BUUF Choir
“Soulful Sunday:Let the Human In”
Rev. Sara LaWall, Michael Alvarado, Sarah Olson, Emily & William Emerson Paige, Mike Lemieux
February 16th at 9:15 amThere is no Audio file for this date9:15 & 11:15 a.m.
Soulful Sundown Team
“This Little Light of Mine”
Rev. Sara LaWall
February 9th at 9:15 am9:15 & 11:15 a.m.
Mary Beth Bolin, Ministerial Intern; Rev. Sara LaWall Celebrant
“Still I Rise: An Auction Sermon in Celebration, Possibility & Resilience”
Rev. Sara LaWall
February 2nd at 9:15 am9:15 & 11:15 a.m.
Rev. Sara LaWall
Auction Sermon for 2019 winner Ann Sabin.
“Behind the Sermon: Integrity & Preaching”
Rev. Sara LaWall
January 26th at 9:15 am9:15 & 11:15 a.m.
Rev. Sara LaWall; Sharene Watsen, Celebrant; Choir, Music
“Journeying Toward Spiritual Wholeness”
Rev. Sara LaWall
January 19th at 9:15 am9:15 & 11:15 a.m.
Rev. Sara LaWall; Mary Beth Bolin
“Embodying Integrity”
Rev. Sara LaWall
January 12th at 9:15 am9:15 & 11:15 a.m.
Mary Beth Bolin, ministerial intern; Debra Smith, Celebrant
Poetry & Music
Rev. Sara LaWall
December 29th at 10:00 amThere is no Audio file for this dateMary Beth Bolin and the musical stylings of Mike Lemieux at a single service at 10:00 a.m.
Christmas Eve Service
Rev. Sara LaWall
December 24th at 5:00 pmThere is no Audio file for this dateHoliday Pageant
Rev. Sara LaWall
December 22nd at 11:15 amThere is no Audio file for this dateJoin fellow BUUFers for this special Sunday. We will begin with a pancake breakfast at 9:15.
All the fixings. Delicious pancakes including gluten free. “Sharing a meal is a tradition as old as humanity. The attention we bring to one another when we break bread together ... read more.
Pancake Breakfast
Rev. Sara LaWall
December 22nd at 9:15 amThere is no Audio file for this datePancake Breakfast served in the north wing
Winter Solstice Service
Rev. Sara LaWall
December 21st at 7:00 pmThere is no Audio file for this dateAnnual winter solstice celebration and candle lighting with potluck desert merry-making to follow.
With Wondering Awe: Celebrating the Season with Song
Rev. Sara LaWall
December 15th at 9:15 amThere is no Audio file for this dateBUUF Choir, Rev. Sara LaWall & Mary Beth Bolin
Finding Awe in the Invisible Places
Rev. Sara LaWall
December 8th at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall
Music of Our Lives
Rev. Sara LaWall
December 1st at 9:15 amThere is no Audio file for this date9:15 & 11:15 a.m.
Annual Music program from the congregation’s musicians and friends.
Apple Communion
Rev. Sara LaWall
November 24th at 9:15 am9:15 & 11:15 a.m.
Attention to Transformation: Toward Radical Welcome & Inclusion
Rev. Sara LaWall
November 17th at 9:15 am9:15 & 11:15 a.m.
We are a spiritual community where all are welcome, where we promote the inherent worth & dignity of all people. How can we continue to live more fully into that spirit of radical welcome & inclusion such that our LGBTQ+ members and ... read more.
Where Deep Joy Meets the World’s Deep Need
Rev. Sara LaWall
November 10th at 9:15 am9:15 & 11:15 a.m.
Mary Beth Bolin
Attention: Our Planet is Calling
Rev. Sara LaWall
November 3rd at 9:15 am9:15 & 11:15 a.m.
Rev. Sara LaWall; Gwyn Reid, Celebrant
Whose Are We: Strange and Beloved – Soulful Sunday
Rev. Sara LaWall
October 27th at 9:15 am9:15 & 11:15 a.m.
Join the SoulFolks band for a halloween inspired exploration of belonging. Celebrating the freaks and geeks and monsters and mavens; all the ways we feel on the outside of life, sometimes looking in. We ask the question, “Whose Are We?” How can ... read more.
Letters Home From Boston
Rev. Sara LaWall
October 20th at 9:15 am9:15 & 11:15 a.m.
Boston Bounders
Flip Flop Sunday
Rev. Sara LaWall
October 13th at 9:15 amThere is no Audio file for this date9:15 & 11:15 a.m.
A Dream Deferred
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
October 6th at 9:15 am9:15 & 11:15 a.m.
Rev. Elizabeth Greene; Sharene Watsen, Celebrant
Partner Church Celebration Day – Oh We Give Thanks
Rev. Sara LaWall
September 29th at 9:15 am9:15 & 11:15 a.m.
Join Rev. Sara LaWall and Rev. Robert Balint of Transylvania
Music by BUUF’s Choir
20th Anniversary Bridge Celebration Sunday, September 29, 12:45 p.m. after Second Service Featuring Duet of “Cradle of Dawn” performed by Mary Schwartzman & Lessie Brown Speakers include Reverends LaWall and Bálint (from Transylvania), ... read more.Simple Twist of Fate
Rev. Sara LaWall
September 22nd at 11:15 am9:15 & 11:15 a.m.
Mary Beth Bolin, Ministerial Intern; Rev. Sara LaWall, Celebrant
Simple Twist of Fate
Rev. Sara LaWall
September 22nd at 9:15 am9:15 & 11:15 a.m.
Mary Beth Bolin, Ministerial Intern; Rev. Sara LaWall, Celebrant
Expectations for a New Life
Rev. Sara LaWall
September 15th at 11:15 am9:15 & 11:15 a.m.
Rev. Sara LaWall
Expectations for a New Life
Rev. Sara LaWall
September 15th at 9:15 am9:15 & 11:15 a.m.
Where the River Never Runs Dry
Rev. Sara LaWall
September 8th at 9:15 amMingling of the Waters – Annual Water Communion Rev. Sara LaWall
Join us for our annual multi-generational Water Communion; a “welcome back” service when we regather as a whole community after our summer adventures. In a unique UU ritual, we’ll gather the waters of our community, ... read more.
Maybe So, Maybe Not
Rev. Sara LaWall
September 1st at 10:00 am10:00 a.m. single service through Labor Day weekend
Rachel Murphy, Guest Preacher; Patricia Heeb, Celebrant; Mike Lemieux, April Ward, Music
What Does it Mean to be in UU Community?
Rev. Sara LaWall
August 25th at 10:00 am10:00 a.m. single service through Labor Day weekend
Rev. Sara LaWall; Patricia Heeb, Celebrant; Carrie Bastian, Music
“Soulful Sunday”
Rev. Sara LaWall, Michael Alvarado, Sarah Olson, Emily & William Emerson Paige, Mike Lemieux
August 18th at 10:00 amThere is no Audio file for this date10:00 a.m. single service through Labor Day weekend
“Spiritual Practice of Stubborn Love”
Rev. Sara LaWall
August 11th at 10:00 am10:00 a.m. single service through Labor Day weekend
Rev. Tandi Rogers; Rev. Sara LaWall, Celebrant
It has been said that church is where we come to learn to be human. It’s been said it’s where we go to be countercultural, to learn and practice new ways. I ... read more.
“The Care and Feeding of Beloved Community”
Rev. Sara LaWall
August 4th at 10:00 am10:00 a.m. single service through Labor Day weekend
Rev. Sara LaWall; Debra Smith, Celebrant
Who Shall We Save?
Bill Reid
July 28th at 10:00 amIdentity, intersectionality, and ideology. Mark Zimmerer, Celebrant; Mike Lemieux and Bill Reid, music.
The Wonders & Strengths at the Broken Places
Carolyn Bevington
July 21st at 10:00 amOne ordinary woman’s extraordinary journey toward healing by wonders and strengths found at the broken places.
Gwyn Reid, Celebrant; Liza Long, William Emerson Paige, Musicians
Walking in the Desert: Reclaiming My Narrative of Faith
Wyatt Schroeder
July 14th at 10:00 amWhere is your identity left when your childhood faith matures into adulthood? And further, when your adulthood faith yearns for a child’s understanding? We explore the personal need for a spiritual conversation and how important our choice of narrative plays in shaping a faith community. ... read more.
Where is the Healing?
Dena Duke
July 7th at 10:00 amDid you know that right under your nose lies one of the greatest tools to help you care for whatever it is that ails you? It’s just waiting to be recognized and invited in to lend you a hand. And not only that, but it ... read more.
“Live Poetry”
Debra Smith
June 30th at 10:00 amSix poets who participated in the Drop-in Poetry Workshop share their poems and demonstrate how writing poetry can be a spiritual practice that opens new pathways for seeing the self and seeing the world. Debra Smith, Celebrant, and poet; Lessie Brown, Greg Duffy, Eileen Oldag, ... read more.
Beauty as a Spiritual Practice
Mark McGinnis
June 23rd at 10:00 amThe slide-sermon will deal with how we experience beauty in nature and beauty in visual art. The message will focus on how we can transform common visual experience to a spiritual practice making our lives more enjoyable and meaningful. Patricia Heeb, Celebrant.
Saying Hello to the Stranger in the Red MAGA hat
Sarah Googe
June 16th at 10:00 amSarah Googe, Guest Preacher; Gwyn Reid, Celebrant; Sue Langley, music.
Queer Inclusivity
Tessa Veto
June 9th at 10:00 amThere is no Audio file for this dateTessa Veto, Guest Preacher; Debra Smith, Celebrant
Can Beauty Save the World?
Rev. Sara LaWall
June 2nd at 10:00 amSharene Watsen, Celebrant
Flower Communion
Rev. Sara LaWall
May 26th at 9:15 amCuriosity & Contemplation
Rev. Sara LaWall
May 19th at 9:15 amLean in to May’s spiritual theme of curiosity! Bring your open-minded, curious self to this alternative worship experience. … The service will also recognize our graduating seniors with our annual bridging ceremony at our little bridge after the second service. Emmie Schlobohm, Celebrant. Carrie Bastian, ... read more.
Coming of Age Youth
Rev. Sara LaWall
May 12th at 9:15 amSpring Music Service
Carrie Bastian
May 5th at 9:15 amFilling the Holes Doesn’t Get You to Wholeness
Debra Smith
April 28th at 9:15 amDebra Smith, Guest Preacher; Patricia Heeb, Celebrant; William Emerson Paige, Music.
Letting In the Wholeness of the World
Rev. Sara LaWall
April 21st at 9:15 amEaster Sunday
Rev. Sara LaWall
Celebration Sunday!
Rev. Sara LaWall
April 14th at 11:15 amRev. Sara LaWall
An incredible Celebration Sunday service on April 14th worshipping all together with ONE SERVICE at 11:15am followed by a big party in our courtyard in the style of an old-fashioned church picnic with food, cake, lawn games, UU trivia, BUUF clowns, bounce house, and more! ... read more.
Whole is Where the Heart Is
Rev. Sara LaWall
April 7th at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall; Wholeness
Journey or Destination?
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
March 31st at 9:15 amRev. Elizabeth Greene
Somewhere Between – A 50 Year Journey
Gwyn Reid
March 24th at 9:15 am“To make a record: Take one miracle and add two dreams”. Thus begins the cover note from the first record album, “Somewhere Between, by Rosalie Sorrels” under BUUF’s record label. The miracle makers and dreamers among the 50 members of BUUF’s congregation in the late ... read more.
Soulful Sundown
Rev. Sara LaWall
March 17th at 5:00 pmThe Journey Towards Justice
Rev. Sara LaWall
March 17th at 9:15 amMary Hester, Celebrant; Carrie Bastian, Lessie Brown, April Ward, Music.
Our Journey of Becoming: Being the Change
Rev. Sara LaWall
March 10th at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall
The Journey of Education
Rev. Sara LaWall
March 3rd at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall
Soulful Sundown
Rev. Sara LaWall
February 24th at 4:30 pmThere is no Audio file for this dateRev. Sara LaWall
Trust the Process: Flip Flop Sunday
Rev. Sara LaWall
February 24th at 9:15 amThere is no Audio file for this dateRev. Sara LaWall
Variations on the Theme Trust
February 17th at 9:15 am
Celebrant, Patricia Heeb
In Guns We Trust
Rev. Sara LaWall
February 10th at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall; Debra Smith, Celebrant
Building Little Bridges of Partnership
Rev. Sara LaWall
February 3rd at 9:15 amAn international partnership such as BUUF’s with the Unitarian church in Mészkö, Transylvania builds bridges: for BUUF folks to the deep history and heritage of our faith going back more than 450 years in Transylvania, to an important wellspring of historic Unitarian theology and identity, ... read more.
Ask What’s Possible
Rev. Sara LaWall
January 27th at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall
Nine on the Bench
Rev. Sara LaWall
January 20th at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall
Possibility at the Border
Rev. Sara LaWall
January 13th at 9:15 amFire Communion
January 6th at 9:15 am
Gwyn Reid, Celebrant
10:00 Poetry & Music
Rev. Sara LaWall
December 30th at 10:00 amThere is no Audio file for this dateRev. Sara LaWall; Michael Alvarado, Celebrant; Mike Lemieux, Music
Christmas Eve Service
Rev. Sara LaWall
December 24th at 5:00 pmRev. Sara LaWall
A celebration of the Season, featuring stories, carols, poetry and a candle lighting to the music of Silent Night.
It’s a Mystery
Rev. Sara LaWall
December 23rd at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall
Solstice Celebration
December 21st at 7:00 pm
Join us for a time of reflection and respite on the longest night of the year. Before we turn back to the light, let us sit in the dark together, accepting the blessings and the lessons that darkness offers. Come celebrate an earth-centered Winter Solstice ... read more.
Holiday Pageant
Rev. Sara LaWall
December 16th at 9:15 amRev. Sara, multi-generational service
Holiday Music Service
Rev. Sara LaWall
December 9th at 9:15 amBUUF choir and musicians
Justice Sunday
Rev. Sara LaWall
December 2nd at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall
Music of Our Lives
Carrie Bastian
November 25th at 9:15 amApple Communion & Soulful Sunday
Rev. Sara LaWall, Michael Alvarado, Sarah Olson, Emily & William Emerson Paige, Mike Lemieux
November 18th at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall
We Remember
Rev. Sara LaWall
November 11th at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall
DACAmented & Stories from the Border
Rev. Sara LaWall
October 28th at 9:15 amSeeing Sanctuary Differently
Rev. Sara LaWall
October 21st at 9:15 amThere is no Audio file for this dateRev. Sara LaWall
Be Filled and Go! Giving and Receiving Sanctuary
Rev. Sara LaWall
October 14th at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall
Sanctuary for All: Immigrant Rights are Human Rights
Rev. Sara LaWall
October 7th at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall
A Justice Sunday connecting with and honoring the work of our October Plate Partner, PODER of Idaho. PODER (Protecting Our Dreams and Empowering Resilience) is a collective collective of undocumented and Latinx organizers in Southwest Idaho working to raise awareness, mobilize, and empower ... read more.
Vision, History & Pilgrimage: Reflections from Transylvania
Rev. Sara LaWall
September 30th at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall, Carrie Bastian
Join our BUUF pilgrims as they share their about their summer pilgrimage to Transylvania, the birthplace of Unitarianism and the celebration of our 25th anniversary with our partner church in Mészkő.
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Blurred Vision: How Our Stories Shape Our World
Rev. Sara LaWall
September 23rd at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall; Sharene Watsen, Celebrant
Soulful Sundown – Vision
Rev. Sara LaWall
September 16th at 4:30 pmJoin Soulful for an evening filled with our brand of creative, connective worship! Together we’ll reach for the spiritual connections needed to come to peace with the mundane, unappealing, and lackluster of our days; because the uneventful sustains the whole of our lives. In the ... read more.
A Vision for Democracy – Hands on the Arc of Justice
Rev. Sara LaWall
September 16th at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall; Debra Smith, Celebrant
A justice Sunday honoring the work of our Plate Partner the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Idaho.
Water Communion – Let Justice Roll Down Like Water
Rev. Sara LaWall
September 9th at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall
Multi Generational Service
Join us for our annual multi-generational Water Communion; a “welcome back” service when we regather as a whole community after our summer adventures. In a unique UU ritual, we’ll gather the waters of our community, whether from your summer travel, a ... read more.
Where Did All the Good People Go?
September 2nd at 10:00 am
Bill Reid, Guest Preacher; Mary Hester, Celebrant; Mike Lemieux, Musician
Worship Service – Reimaging Sunday School: Growing Passionate UUs
Rev. Sara LaWall
August 26th at 10:00 amRev. Sara LaWall, Emmie Schlobohm- DRE, Debra Smith
Imagine a future filled with engaged adults steeped in the philosophy of open minds, loving hearts, and helping hands. Adults who live their lives so thoroughly connected to and immersed in our Unitarian Universalist Seven Principles that the ... read more.
Soulful Sunday
Rev. Sara LaWall
August 19th at 10:00 amRev. Sara LaWall, Michael Alvarado, Emily & William Emerson Paige, Mike Lemieux, Sarah Olson
Soulful Sunday is Boise UU’s alternative worship, focusing on contemporary music, poetic readings and contemplative moments. We join together every month for participatory, intimate services, nourishing our spiritual lives and sharing it ... read more.
How We Care: hUUs Respond to Life Crises
Jeannette Ross
August 12th at 10:00 amhUUmanists; Gwyn Reid, Celebrant
This search for meaning and purpose is, for humanists, mostly making our way through the daily business of life, until we confront an extraordinary test, our own or that of another. How do we respond to the unthinkable, the impossible, one crisis ... read more.
This is the Moment: RiseUp Idaho
Adrienne Evans, Guest Preacher
August 5th at 10:00 amIn this volatile moment of our nation we are witnessing a widening divide in our communities as well as our government. We all sense a change is needed; a revolution, to fulfill the promise to unite people, to remind us of our connection to one ... read more.
A Humanist Dies
Ken Watts
July 29th at 10:00 amAt one point in our history over fifty percent of those who identified themselves as Unitarian Universalists called themselves Humanists in one form or another. That number is somewhat lower today, but Humanists are still of significant numbers and influence in Unitarian Universalism. Today we will ... read more.
Your Hero’s Journey
Liza Long
July 22nd at 10:00 amWhat is your story? Why does it matter? How do the stories that we tell ourselves affect our reality? We will explore how the universal hero’s journey myth applies to the stories we tell ourselves and others about our lives and the world we live ... read more.
When Someone Told Me I Live in a Fantasy Land, I Almost Fell Off My Unicorn
Earle Canfield, Guest Preacher
July 15th at 10:00 amWhat is Happiness? Who is Happy? How Happy? Can Nations be ranked by Happiness? Thus, began Earle’s personal exploration of Happiness while working in Nepal and then visiting Bhutan. Two countries on the polar opposites of the Happiness scale. As the director of a large Educational ... read more.
Living with Pain and Appreciating Life: A Stoic’s Approach
Mark McGinnis
July 8th at 10:00 amStoicism, an ancient Greek/Roman philosophy, is often understood as basically “grin and bear it.” It is much more than that. Stoicism teaches a practical way to live in a difficult world. Drawing on his own experience with pain, Mark McGinnis will put forward ways we ... read more.
Connecting Through Vulnerability
Sharene Watsen, Guest Preacher
July 1st at 10:00 amAs Unitarian Universalists, many of us are motivated by a strong belief in helping others. But what about those times when “helping” doesn’t help? In this service, we will explore what happens when we carry stuff that doesn’t belong to us and consider what we ... read more.
Whose Pack are You Carrying?
Rachel Murphy, Guest Preacher
June 24th at 10:00 amAs Unitarian Universalists, many of us are motivated by a strong belief in helping others. But what about those times when “helping” doesn’t help? In this service, we will explore what happens when we carry stuff that doesn’t belong to us and consider what we ... read more.
What Does It Matter?
Nancy Harms
June 17th at 10:00 amDo you think our nation is divided? Will you be active in the movement for what is good and right? Unitarians are needed now more than ever to protect the freedom to vote. Liza Long Music.
Covenants and Creeds: Our UU Faith
Kacee O’Connor, Guest Preacher
June 10th at 10:00 amIn this service we will explore the significance of our UU covenant-based faith and how our principles and traditions challenge us when we do not have doctrine and dogma to direct us.
Justice is a Blessing
Rev. Sara LaWall
June 3rd at 10:00 amCelebrating this Fellowship’s commitment to justice, equity, and compassion and our partnership with this month’s Plate Partner, Interfaith Sanctuary. Together we choose to bless the world and work for Justice in all its varied forms.
Flower Communion
Rev. Sara LaWall
May 27th at 9:15 amJoin us for this beloved and beautiful UU ritual of Flower Communion. We will create a rainbow altar of flowers to honor the diversity and creativity of creation. In celebration the unique beauty all around us, in nature and in humanity, we open up space ... read more.
Soulful Sundown
Rev. Sara LaWall
May 13th at 5:00 pmCreative Resistance & Empowerment: We Side with Planned Parenthood
Rev. Sara LaWall
May 13th at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall; Gwyn Reid, Celebrant
Join us for our monthly Justice Sunday as we honor the work of this month’s Social Justice Plate Partner, Planned Parenthood. For 100 years, Planned Parenthood has been a leader in reproductive rights and women’s rights. Today their mission ... read more.Pilgrims We: Partnership, Pilgrimage and Creativity
Rev. Sara LaWall
May 6th at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall; Mary Hester, Celebrant; BUUF Choir, Music
This month marks the 25th anniversary of our Partner Church relationship with the Unitarian Church of Mészkő, Transylvania. In June, a group of 23 members will embark on a pilgrimage and Choir Tour of the region ... read more.The Suspension of Disbelief
Rev. Jackie Kelly
April 29th at 9:15 amIn this time of heightened awareness and outrage about coercion, bullying and victimization, we hear different perspectives and often know pretty quickly where our allegiances lie. We desire justice as well as safety and peace. But, as author Salmon Rushdie has said, “Nobody has the ... read more.
Emergence Between Earth & Sky!
Rev. Sara LaWall
April 22nd at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall
Multi-generational service in celebration of Earth Day.
The landscape of North America is filled with places that hold deep, sacred meaning to the native people. Some are locations where special ceremonies took place. Other places are related to stories from long ago. Many of ... read more.
Soulful Sunday
Rev. Sara LaWall
April 15th at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall, Michael Alvarado, Emily & William Emerson Paige, Mike Lemieux, Sarah Olson
Join us for this special service as we wrap up our Annual Giving Drive.
#MeToo: Emerging out of the Darkness
Rev. Sara LaWall
April 8th at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall
Easter Sunday: Choose Resurrection
Rev. Sara LaWall
April 1st at 9:15 amCelebrate Easter in a new light as we explore our role in choosing resurrection for ourselves and our world community. How do we choose to roll away the metaphorical stone? How can we embrace the theologies (old and new) of our Unitarian Universalist identity? Featuring ... read more.
Yes We Can Can
Rev. Sara LaWall
March 25th at 9:15 amSermon by Jackie Groves; Patricia Heeb, Celebrant; Special Music by Rebecca Scott
Celebration Sunday
Rev. Sara LaWall
March 18th at 4:00 pmThere is no Audio file for this dateRev. Sara LaWall
4:00 p.m. at the Egyptian Theatre, Downtown Boise
Justice Sunday
Rev. Sara LaWall
March 11th at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall, Liza Long; Mark Zimmerer, Celebrant; Carrie Bastian, Music
The Taoist’s View of Balance and the Divine
March 4th at 9:15 am
With guest speaker Dr. Michael Bittner and Celebrant Mary Hester.
Soulful Sunday
February 25th at 9:15 am
To persevere isn’t to necessarily push as hard as you can until you have nothing left. Perseverance also involves celebration, rest, connection and spiritual nourishment. Join the Soulful Sundown worship team to explore our theme through music, poetry and reflection. We are asking, how can ... read more.Community Sunday: Variations on the Theme
Cory Strop, Sue Chew, Sue Philley
February 18th at 9:15 amExplore a variety of perspectives on this month’s theme of perseverance as fellow members and friends share their reflections from the pulpit.
A Cold and Broken Hallelujah: Perseverance in the Storm
Rev. Sara LaWall
February 11th at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall; Sharene Watsen, Celebrant; BUUF Choir, Music
To persevere in life (whether in private or public spaces) often requires us to face the darkness, the storms, turmoil and heartbreak. But what if experiencing these moments in their depths is an invitation to discover the ... read more.
Persevering Liberty
Rev. Sara LaWall
February 4th at 10:00 amRev. Sara LaWall; Gwyn Reid Celebrant
A Justice Sunday, honoring the work of our plate partner, the ACLU, working to uphold the freedoms enshrined in our constitution for every single American. IN a time when our civil liberties feel more fragile and subject to attack, the ... read more.
No One Shall Compel Them
Gwyn Reid
January 28th at 9:15 amThis month, Unitarian congregations around the world are honoring and celebrating the 450th anniversary of the Edict of Torda – a document declaring religious freedom and tolerance. The framers’ intention was to overturn over 1,000 years of orthodoxy and conflict and allow an environment in ... read more.
Pilgrims We – Making Travel Sacred
Carrie Bastian
January 21st at 9:15 amOur congregation is sending a choral delegation to Romania this summer, in celebration of our 25 year partnership with Mészkő. How can this be more than just a trip for a small band of BUUFers, but a true pilgrimage in which the entire congregation takes ... read more.
Intention and Impact: Keeping King’s Flame Burning
Rev. Sara LaWall
January 14th at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall
Living with Intention
Rev. Sara LaWall
January 7th at 9:15 amFire Communion – more details to come.
Poetry & Music
Rev. Sara LaWall
December 31st at 10:00 amThere is no Audio file for this dateJoin Rev. Sara LaWall and musician Mike Lemieux for a lovely contemplative service.
Christmas Eve Service
Rev. Sara LaWall
December 24th at 5:00 pmChristmas Eve Morning Service
Rev. Sara LaWall
December 24th at 10:00 amWinter Solstice Celebration
Rev. Sara LaWall
December 21st at 7:00 pmThere is no Audio file for this dateThis annual favorite is a reflective service celebrating light’s return and pondering what we want to leave in the darkness and what to bring into the light. About an hour long, it’s very appropriate for children who can sit relatively quietly for that long. The ... read more.
Holiday Pageant: The Star
Rev. Sara LaWall
December 17th at 9:15 amCelebrate the season with this fun and festive worship service for all ages. Children and youth worship with their families for our annual multigenerational Holiday Pageant. This year we present, “The Star,” the well-known players in the nativity story (Angeles, Shepherds, Magi and the Star) ... read more.
Soulful Sunday
Rev. Sara LaWall
December 3rd at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall, Wyatt Schroeder, William & Emily Emerson Paige, Sarah Olson,Michael Alvarado
The Music of Our Lives
November 26th at 9:15 am
There is no Audio file for this dateCarrie Bastian, Music Director; Gwyn Reid, Celebrant
Apple Communion – Multigenerational Celebration
Rev. Sara LaWall
November 19th at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall; Emmie Schlobohm, Celebrant
A multigenerational celebration of the abundance of community, families worship together with story, song and spirit! We’ll enjoy our annual Apple Communion Ritual, sharing in the fruits of the season in sacred space.
Serving with Abundance
Rev. Sara LaWall
November 12th at 9:15 amRev Sara LaWall; Patricia Heeb, Celebrant
Service is an act of one’s heart. It comes from a place of connection and spiritual depth. Serving is different from helping; requiring no obligation or quid pro quo. As participants in this beloved community, the call to serve is a ... read more.
Thick and Thin: The Abundance of Community (the auction sermon)
Rev. Sara LaWall
November 5th at 9:15 amIn a New York Times op-ed piece, David Brooks reflected on institutions that leave a mark on people. He wrote, “Some organizations are thick, and some are thin. Some leave a mark on you, and some you pass through with scarcely a memory.” How ... read more.
The Courage to Remember: A Transylvanian All Souls Day Celebration
Rev. Sara LaWall
October 29th at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall; Mary Hester, Celebrant; BUUF Choir Music
In this year of honoring our 25th Anniversary with our Partner Church in Mészkő, Transylvania and our upcoming Boise UU Pilgrimage, we celebrate the traditions of All Saint’s Day and All Souls Day from a Unitarian lens. At ... read more.
Boston Bound and Back Again
Rev. Sara LaWall
October 22nd at 9:15 amRev. Sara with BUUF’s Boston Bounders
This past summer, 15 youth and 6 adults embarked on this congregation’s 8th Boston Bounder pilgrimage to explore the birthplace of American Unitarianism. Imagine a lively bunch of 21 UUs on the streets in Boston; visiting our UUA headquarters, ringing ... read more.Soulful Sunday
Rev. Sara LaWall
October 15th at 9:15 amThere is no Audio file for this dateSoulful Sundown is Boise UU’s interpretation of alternative worship, focusing on contemporary music, poetic readings and contemplative moments. Since this worship team their monthly services in February of 2016, we have enjoyed bringing the monthly themes to life in new and creative ways–creating participatory and ... read more.
Community Sunday: Variations on the Theme – Courage
October 8th at 9:15 am
Theme: Courage
Debra Smith; Sharene Watsen, Celebrant
Four Shillings Short, Music
Variations on a Theme of Courage: Why is talking about racial prejudice so complicated nowadays? Fiona Montagne, Gwyn Reid and Debra Smith will share their experiences and memories of trying to talk honestly about what Rev. Jim Wallis ... read more.The Courage of Being Invisible
Rev. Sara LaWall
October 1st at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall & Philip Thompson; Patricia Heeb, Celebrant
A Justice Sunday sermon reflecting on the power and legacy of our October Plate Partner: The Idaho Black History Museum. The Museum not only celebrates black history locally and nationally, but also plays a vital role in ... read more.
Soulful Sundown
Emily Emerson Paige
September 24th at 5:00 pmSoulful Sundown is Boise UU’s interpretation of alternative worship, focusing on contemporary music, poetic readings and contemplative moments. Since this worship team their monthly services in February of 2016, we have enjoyed bringing the monthly themes to life in new and creative ways–creating participatory ... read more.
We are a Promise Making, Promise Breaking, Promise Renewing People
Rev. Sara LaWall
September 24th at 9:15 amWe UUs are a conventional tradition (as opposed to creedal one). Explore the meaning of covenant and our very first congregational covenant, voted on during our May Annual Meeting. Covenants express our highest aspirations about who we hope to be in relationship together. Our covenant ... read more.
Welcoming Vision – What Matters Most?
Rev. Sara LaWall
September 17th at 9:15 amAs we wrap up our Next Steps Weekend and dive into this year-long strategic planning process, we are charting a course for our future. How do we welcome the vision for that future with openness and joyful anticipation? We’ll reflect on these essential questions to ... read more.
Make Waves – Water Communion
Rev. Sara LaWall
September 10th at 9:15 amJoin us for our annual multi-generational Water Communion; a “welcome back” service when we regather as a whole community after our summer adventures. In a unique UU ritual, we’ll gather the waters of our community, whether from your summer travel, a token from our overflowing ... read more.
Spiritual Context
September 3rd at 10:00 am
Mary Hester, Guest Preacher; Wanda Jennings, Celebrant; Carrie Bastian, Musician
We all have heard the expression that context is decisive. What does that really mean – and how can we apply that to our spiritual lives to have them expand in areas we never imagined?Soulful Sunday – Fortifying Your Soul
Rev. Sara LaWall
August 27th at 10:00 amWelcome to the resistance! Over the last seven months, we’ve been overwhelmed new challenges testing our commitment to justice, human dignity, and compassion for each other and the world. How are we called to respond and what fortification do we need to be able to move forward from ... read more.
UU Jihad
August 20th at 10:00 am
Patricia Heeb, Guest Preacher; Sharene Watsen, Celebrant; Carrie Bastian, Musician
UU Jihad. Is that a thing? Should it be? Do the times call for a holy war by reasonable fanatics of peace and moderation?Living the Questions
August 13th at 10:00 am
Emily Emerson Paige, Guest Preacher; Gwyn Reid, Celebrant; Will Emerson Paige & Carrie Bastian, Musicians
When was the last time you said “Yes!” and then watched the world take your hand and dance? Explore searching for our voices through the questions that live inside us. This ... read more.
Holding Hands and Climbing Mountains
August 6th at 10:00 am
Ann Sabin, Guest Preacher; Debra Smith, Celebrant; Carrie Bastian, Music
What do holding hands and climbing mountains have in common? Holding hands and climbing mountains are a couple of examples Ann uses to explain to others how her bipolarity impacts her capacity for intimacy, connectedness and ... read more.
A Merry Heart Doeth Good Like a Medicine
July 30th at 10:00 am
Rev. Elizabeth Green, Guest Preacher; Mark Zimmerer, Celebrant; Liza Long, Musician
Joy in the Journey: Faith, Transitions, Recovery & Hope
July 23rd at 10:00 am
Liza Long, Guest Preacher; Patricia Heeb, Celebrant; Mike Lemieux, Musician
Religious Freedom and the Rights of Children
July 16th at 10:00 am
Roger Sherman, Guest Preacher; Debra Smith, Celebrant
What are the limits of religious freedom? Do parents have the right to allow their children to die for their beliefs? In Idaho the answer is yes. How do religious liberals reconcile their respect for other faith traditions and ... read more.
The UU Justice League
Rev. Sara LaWall
July 9th at 10:00 amExplore the spiritual themes of the summer blockbuster, Wonder Woman, woven together with stories from our annual UU General Assembly and our collective superpowers in serving the call for justice.
The Practice of Being More Than Yourself
July 2nd at 10:00 am
Wyatt Schroeder, Guest Preacher
What’s the daily regime of the Unitarian? It’s a walk in nature. An hour volunteering at the shelter. But are we challenging our assumptions? How do we create a daily practice that doesn’t just affirm our stereotypes, our biases, and slowly shape ... read more.Much Ado About…
Ken Watts
June 25th at 10:00 amKenneth Watts, Guest Preacher
It’s a story about a tiny meteorite and a seemingly unending universe that continues to be the focus much discovery and theorizing. Both can bring forth a sense of awe and wonder. Where do we fit? What do we make of it ... read more.In Search of Identity
Jodi Peterson
June 18th at 10:00 amJodi Peterson has worked with Interfaith Sanctuary for the past 11 years helping with fundraising efforts and programming for the guests at the shelter. In 2015, a tent city rose behind Interfaith Sanctuary dubbed Cooper Court.
Jodi brought aid to this group of chronically homeless and ... read more.
Soulful Sundown
June 13th at 7:00 pm
There is no Audio file for this dateJoin us for our intimate alternative worship service, Soulful Sundown. Our hour-long service will explore our spiritual theme this month: Resistance.
What if the world needs your praise as much as your picket signs? What if it needs the creation of beauty as much as ... read more.
Designs of Faith
Mark McGinnis
June 11th at 10:00 amA sermon by artist Mark W. McGinnis on his 1990s project, “Designs of Faith,” that explores in both paintings and essays four Western, four Eastern and four Tribal religions. The studies for the paintings are in BUUF’s collection and hang in the north and south ... read more.
Flower Communion
Rev. Sara LaWall
June 4th at 9:15 amCelebrate the wonder of our beauty and diversity with our annual Flower Communion. This ritual first began in the Unitarian Church in Prague, Czechoslovakia by the Rev. Norbert Capek who wanted to honor the beauty in the diversity with a spiritual moment of liturgy. Today, ... read more.
Can We Just Listen: Reflections on Race in our UUA
Rev. Sara LaWall
May 28th at 9:15 amOur Unitarian Universalist Association is in a time of great turmoil as we confront our institutional failure to become an anti-racist, anti-oppressive organization. Some brilliant and brave self-examination and real soul work is being done. Several leaders have stepped down, and a new leadership team ... read more.
The Roots and Wings of the Free Church – Bridging Sunday
Rev. Sara LaWall
May 21st at 9:15 amWe’ll explore a bit of the past and present of what it means to be part of the “Free Church” tradition as we celebrate our graduating seniors with the special UU Bridging ritual.
The Freedom of Youth – Coming of Age Sunday
Rev. Sara LaWall
May 14th at 9:15 amThis special service is one of our UU traditions. Join our Coming of Age (Junior High) youth as they present this service of their creation and share their personal credos.
Soulful Sundown
May 9th at 7:00 pm
There is no Audio file for this dateJoin us for our intimate alternative worship service, Soulful Sundown. Our hour-long service will explore our spiritual theme this month: Freedom.
What if the world needs your praise as much as your picket signs? What if it needs the creation of beauty as much as ... read more.
Freedom is Life
Rev. Sara LaWall
May 7th at 9:15 amSpecial Music from the BUUF Women’s Chorus including the popular Women’s March anthem, “I Can’t Keep Quiet” by MILCK.
Join us for this Justice Sunday honoring and connecting with our May Plate Partner, The Women and Children’s Alliance as we explore the theme’s of women’s freedom, liberation, ... read more.
Those Who Ignore History Are Condemned to Retweet It
Dr. Said Ahmed-Zaid
April 30th at 9:15 amSermon by Dr. Said Ahmed-Zaid, Islamic Center of Boise
Explore some powerful speeches of the four Caliphs or successors of Prophet Muhammad and what they understood as the role of government in society. Commentaries will be added to explore the revolutionary ideas put forth 1400 years on how to transform ... read more.
Resistance of the Earth – An Earth Day Sermon
Rev. Sara LaWall
April 23rd at 9:15 amIt is no secret we are in the midst of an ecological crisis. The impact of climate change continues to grow. This is nor merely a scientific crisis, but an spiritual one. As UUs committed to environmental justice and supporting our interdependent web, how are ... read more.
Easter Sunday: Resistance & Resurrection
Rev. Sara LaWall
April 16th at 9:15 amNew Member Joining Ceremony
Sermon by Rev. Sara LaWall
Explore the Easter Story through the framework of Jesus’ ministry in standing against the systems of power and control of his time. What does resurrection look like for contemporary UUs in our own time and in our UU culture? Where are ... read more.
Soulful Sundown
April 11th at 7:00 pm
There is no Audio file for this dateJoin us for our intimate alternative worship service, Soulful Sundown. Our hour-long service will explore our spiritual theme this month: Resistance.
What if the world needs your praise as much as your picket signs? What if it needs the creation of beauty as much as ... read more.
11:00 a.m. Yes, and…The Circle of Love
Rev. Sara LaWall
April 9th at 11:00 amThere is no Audio file for this date11:00 single service at the BSU Stueckle Sky Center
Join us for this joyous service of all ages as we celebrate the Circle of Love that is this beloved community. Enjoy music from our fabulous BUUF choir and our Soulful Sundown band as we say “Yes, and” ... read more.
Can Resistance be a Spiritual Practice?
Debra Smith
April 2nd at 9:15 amWe learn over time that for our spiritual health, we must learn to yield to forces outside our control. But then that advice became obsolete. A new call went out, urging us to stand and resist what was happening to our country. Maybe resistance is ... read more.
Promise & Covenant
Matthew Sabin
March 26th at 9:15 amThe foundation of our UU tradition is covenant; the promises we agree to hold for ourselves, each other, and the world. BUUF has begun the process of creating its own “Covenant of Right Relations” specifically for our community. This can be a guiding document, and ... read more.
We Sing of Golden Mornings: The Promise of Spring!
Music and Choir, Rev. Sara LaWall
March 19th at 9:15 amThis special music service features our talented choir under the direction of Music Director, Carrie Bastian. enjoy music, poetry, celebrating the coming of spring and the turning of the Earth once again; honoring the cycle of evolution and revolution and the promise of renewal.
Soulful Sundown
March 14th at 7:00 pm
There is no Audio file for this dateJoin us Tuesday evening for our March alternative worship service. We will be exploring our shared worship theme: Promise. What does promise mean to you?
Soulful Sundown is a monthly alternative worship service that combines music, poetry, readings and personal reflections to explore our monthly worship themes.
William Emerson ... read more.
The Promise in the Circle of Love
Cherie Buckner-Webb
March 12th at 9:15 amJoin us for the kick-off of our Annual Giving Drive with special guest preacher, Cherie Buckner-Webb. Cherie is a fifth-generation Idahoan whose enthusiasm is as boundless as her talents. She is currently serving as Idaho State Senator for District 19 reaching across party lines ... read more.
The Promise of Choice
Rev. Sara LaWall
March 2nd at 9:15 amThere is no Audio file for this date9:15 & 11:15 a.m.
Rev. Sara LaWall
A Justice Sunday honoring and connecting with our March Plate Partner, Planned Parenthood.
Blessings of Our Brokenness
Rev. Sara LaWall
February 26th at 9:15 amStubborn Gladness and Delight
Rev. Sara LaWall
February 19th at 9:15 amService times: 9:15 AM and 11:15 AM
Rev. Sara LaWall
This one line of a dark poem by Jack Gilbert reminds us that in times of doubt, fear, darkness and uncertainty, we must risk delight, we must allow music and beauty into our souls as nourishment for ... read more.
Soulful Sundown
Rev. Sara LaWall
February 14th at 7:00 pmThere is no Audio file for this dateSoulful Sundown returns this month with a special Valentine’s Day service to wrap up our 30 Days of Love Campaign–Fortifying the Movement. Whether you have a valentine or not, come celebrate with this beloved community with an intimate service of contemporary music and poetry.
Soulful Sundown is our monthly, ... read more.Generosity and Delight
Rev. Sara LaWall
February 12th at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall; Sharene Watsen, Celebrant
Services at 9:15 and 11:15
Many religious traditions teach the essential spiritual practice of generosity, giving of yourself, your inspiration, vision, and commitment without expectation of direct reciprocity. And yet, when we practice that kind of generosity we often receive much ... read more.The Delight in a Community of Learning
Rev. Sara LaWall
February 5th at 9:15 amThere is no Audio file for this dateRev. Sara LaWall, Patricia Heeb Celebrant
Kinship of Living and Dying
Rev. Sara LaWall
January 29th at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall
Kinship Across the World
Rev. Sara LaWall
January 22nd at 9:15 amJoin us as we honor our 23-year partnership with the Unitarian congregation in Mészkő , Transylvania. We’ll explore how this kinship is a sacred covenant that connects us to our historical roots and to others across the globe offering opportunities for transformation along the way. Music ... read more.
Kinship & Identity: Whose are We?
Rev. Sara LaWall
January 15th at 9:15 amA service honoring the vision and teaching of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. We’ll explore how his message continues to call us to our own commitments to justice and resistance and shape them for our time. We’ll also launch the Standing on the Side of Love’s campaign, ... read more.
Church Services and Activities Cancelled Today
Rev. Sara LaWall
January 8th at 12:00 amThere is no Audio file for this dateSunday Services & Activities Canceled (1/82017)!
Due to a severe winter storm alert issued by the National Weather Service, the Board of Directors and Rev. Sara have made the decision to cancel Sunday morning services and activities tomorrow, (January 8, 2017).
We do so to minimize the ... read more.
10 a.m. Fire Communion – The Miracle Flame of Kinship
Rev. Sara LaWall
January 1st at 10:00 amOn this final night of Chanukah. What does this miracle story have to teach us about the miracle of light and kinship in our own lives? We’ll join together in reflection with our own Fire Communion ritual.
Archive of Selected Sermons
201610 a.m. Quaker Service
December 25th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateThe early Quakers considered silence to be a direct path to God. This was a radical idea in its time. Silence remains a radical idea today. In our culture of iPhones, cell phones, the Internet, high-definition TV and continual bombardment of advertising, cultivating silence – ... read more.
7 p.m. Christmas Eve – Two Miracles
Rev. Sara LaWall
December 24th at 7:00 pmRev. Sara LaWall
Celebrate Christmas Eve and the first night of Hanukkah as we reflect on the many miracles of the season and in our lives. How might these ancient stories teach us about connecting with our monthly theme, Defying Hate? We’ll open up a reverent space to ... read more.7 p.m. Winter Solstice Service
Jay Wechselberger
December 21st at 7:00 pmThere is no Audio file for this dateHoliday Pageant – Night of the Dancing Goats
Rev. Sara LaWall
December 18th at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall & Emmie Schlobohm, DRE
A multigenerational service (all ages worship together) to celebrate the Holiday Season in story, song and spirit.
7 p.m. Soulful Sundown
Emily Emerson Paige
December 13th at 7:00 pmThere is no Audio file for this dateSoulful Sundown is a contemporary, intimate, music-filled alternative service. Each month’s service follows the worship theme for that month.
Service coordinators: Emily Emerson Paige, William Emerson Paige, Sarah Olson, Wyatt Schroeder, Michael Alvarado and Rev. Sara LaWall
Music by: William Emerson Paige, Wyatt Schroeder, Sarah Olson and Michael ... read more.Choir Music Sunday
December 11th at 9:15 am
Justice Sunday: We are All Idahoans
Rev. Sara LaWall
December 4th at 9:15 amA service about refugee justice, connecting with honoring our December Plate Partner the Family Medical Center Refugee Justice Program.
Community Sunday: The Music of Our Lives
November 27th at 9:15 am
There is no Audio file for this dateThe second annual Music service featuring BUUF members and friends and the hymns and music that have inspired and informed their lives.
Apple Communion Sunday
Rev. Sara LaWall
November 20th at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall & Emmie Schlobohm, DRE
A multigenerational celebration of community, families worship together with story, song and spirit! We’ll enjoy our second annual Apple Communion Ritual, sharing in the fruits of the season in sacred space.
7 p.m. Soulful Sundown
Emily Emerson Paige
November 15th at 7:00 pmThere is no Audio file for this dateSoulful Sundown is a contemporary, intimate, music-filled alternative service. Each month’s service follows the worship theme for that month.
Service coordinators: Emily Emerson Paige, William Emerson Paige, Sarah Olson, Wyatt Schroeder, Michael Alvarado and Rev. Sara LaWall
Music by: William Emerson Paige, Wyatt Schroeder, Sarah Olson and Michael ... read more.Resilience and the State of the Union: The Good Will Go On
Rev. Sara LaWall
November 13th at 9:15 amRev. Sara LaWall
This Sunday will offer a space of healing, reflection post-election.
Justice Sunday
Rev. Sara LaWall
November 6th at 9:15 amThe Blessing of Remembering Well – Honoring El Dia de los Muertos
October 30th at 9:15 am
Bring a small memento or photo of a dear departed loved one for the ofrenda (altar). Make sure it is well marked so that it will be returned to you after service.
Rev. Sara LaWall
Wanda Jennings, Celebrant
Community Sunday: Variations on the Theme of Blessing
October 23rd at 9:15 am
Community Sunday: Variations on the Theme of Blessing
Hear reflections from our members and friends about our monthly spiritual theme: Blessing. We’ve asked them to reflect on the following questions: Do you believe you are a blessing? How has this community been a blessing to you?
... read more.Choose to Bless the World
October 16th at 9:15 am
Rev. Sara LaWall
In the words of Rev. Dr. Rebecca Parker, “Your gifts-whatever you discover them to be-can be used to bless or curse the world.” In this time of uncertainty how will we use our gifts to bless the world?
Child Dedication Sunday: We will ... read more.7 p.m. Soulful Sundown – Blessing
Emily Emerson Paige
October 11th at 7:00 pmThere is no Audio file for this dateDo you that believe you are a blessing?
Do you own and honor your uniqueness?
Do your words bless others?
Are there any words that have fallen from your lips lately that you need to go back and turn into a blessing?Soulful Sundown is a contemporary, intimate, ... read more.
The Blessing of Atonement
October 9th at 9:15 am
Rev. Sara LaWall Exploring and honoring the Jewish holiday of Yom Kippur. Atonement is akin to our practice of right relationship, it is the ritual that allows us to renew that relationship with one another, with the world, and with the holy. BUUF Choir, Music Sharene Watsen, Celebrant
Community Sunday: Variations on the Theme
September 25th at 9:15 am
Hear reflections from our members and friends about our monthly spiritual theme: Anticipation. We’ve asked them to reflect on the following questions: Has anticipation ever surprised you or let you down? What is your greatest anticipation? Do you anticipate a brighter future for your children? What ... read more.
Being a Pessimist Probably Won’t Work Anyway
September 18th at 9:15 am
In exploring our monthly theme of anticipation, how does pessimism get in the way? When Unitarian minister Rev. Waitstill Sharp and his wife Martha left their family for Europe to help save scores of Jews from Nazi terror, there was no room for pessimism, only ... read more.
7 p.m. Soulful Sundown
Emily Emerson Paige
September 13th at 7:00 pmThere is no Audio file for this dateThis month we are exploring the theme of Anticipation. What are you anticipating right now? Are you doing anything to make that happen?
Soulful Sundown is a contemporary, intimate, music-filled alternative service. Each month’s service follows the worship theme for that month.
Service coordinators: Emily Emerson Paige, William ... read more.
Love is the Water that Wears Down the Rock
September 11th at 9:15 am
Join Rev. Sara LaWall and Emmie Schlobohm, Director of Religious Education, for our annual gathering of the waters and Multi-generational Water Communion Ritual to officially begin our new program year. Participants of all ages are invited to bring water from a special place, from your summer travels, or from your home. Think about ... read more.
The Labor of Our Faith
Rev. Sara LaWall
September 4th at 10:00 amThis national holiday is about more than backyard barbecues. Labor day honors the creation of the labor movement who fought for fair labor conditions and wages for those whose work, yesterday and today) helps build this country, contributing to our social and economic achievements. But ... read more.
Disability and Religion in the United States
August 28th at 10:00 am
Disability, in one form or another, affects all of us. Whether it is our own disability, or that of a friend or relative, disability is part of the human experience. How we deal with disability, both personally and publicly, is influenced by many factors including ... read more.
But How Do We Get There From Here?
August 21st at 10:00 am
The work of being a “good” U.U. to say nothing of being a “good” human is enriching and rewarding, but often arduous and demanding. What guides your directions and perceptions? We’re going to be talking about maps.
Sermon by Patricia Heeb
David Scott, Celebrant
Carrie Bastian, MusicSoulful Sunday
Emily Emerson Paige
August 14th at 10:00 amThe Soulful Sundown worship team is bringing their contemporary, music-filled service to the Sunday crowd! This service’s theme is Rootedness and will explore ideas of what it truly means to be rooted. Get a chance to experience this new form of worship, or, if you’ve been ... read more.
White Allyship and #BlackLivesMatter
August 7th at 10:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateSermon by Bryan Lyda and Deanah Messenger of Anti-Racists in Idaho
We all must show up for racial justice. We need white people to show up for racial justice with both passion and accountability. Unfortunately, we can do more harm than good if we do not ... read more.
How Will You Decide? Rev. Kenneth Watts
July 31st at 10:00 am
Gwyn Reid, celebrant: Liza Long, music
Who Is My Neighbor? Moving beyond the stigma of mental illness
Liza Long
July 24th at 10:00 amMike Lemieux, music
You Just Don’t Understand, Mary Hester
July 17th at 10:00 am
Sharene Watsen, celebrant; Sue Langley, music
Ask What Makes You Come Alive, Wyatt Schroeder
July 10th at 10:00 am
Dena Duke, celebrant; Liza Long, music
Watching the Wheels, Mark Zimmerer
July 3rd at 10:00 am
Debra Smith, celebrant; Mike Lemieux, music
The Priesthood and Prophethood of All Believers, Bill Reid
June 26th at 10:00 am
Nancy Harms, celebrant; Mike Lemieux, music
Universalism: Past, Present and Powerful, Rev. Kalen Fristad
June 19th at 10:00 am
Rev. Kalen Fristad has been a United Methodist minister for more than 38 years, is a member of the Unitarian Universalist Christian Fellowship, and is President of the Christian Universalist Association. He traveled the country full time with his wife, Darlene, from 2003 to 2006 ... read more.
Survival of the Kindest
Rev. Sara LaWall
June 12th at 10:00 amSue Langley, music
Flower Communion
Rev. Sara LaWall
June 5th at 10:00 amMulti-Generational Service, with Rev. Sara LaWall Music from the BUUF choir.
Celebration Sunday: Now, More Than Ever, We are Called
Rev. David Miller
April 10th at 9:00 amApril 10, 2016
“Celebration Sunday: Now, More Than Ever, We are Called,” Rev. David Miller
The Magic Continues as we wrap up our Annual Giving Drive with special guest preacher, Rev. David Miller, Lead Minister of the UU ... read more.
Metamorphosis: Shedding the Culture of Violence
Rev. Sara LaWall
April 3rd at 9:00 am“Metamorphosis: Shedding the Culture of Violence,” Rev. Sara LaWall
A Justice Sunday sermon honoring our April Plate Partner, The Women and Children’s Alliance
Hitchhiking With Jesus
Rev. Sara LaWall
March 27th at 9:00 am“Hitchhiking With Jesus” Rev. Sara LaWall (transcript), (Audio) March 27, 2016
Welcome Spring
March 20th at 9:15 am
There is no Audio file for this dateCelebrating the vernal equinox in word and song
Where the Magic Happens
Rev. Sara LaWall
March 13th at 9:00 am“Where the Magic Happens” Rev. Sara LaWall (transcript) (Audio) March 13, 2016
Don’t forget to SPRING FORWARD! (Daylight savings time begins March 13.)
Offering Sanctuary
Rev. Sara LaWall
March 6th at 9:00 amThe Spiritual Practice of Lecttio Divina
Rev. Sara LaWall
February 28th at 9:00 amAn ancient spiritual practice, derived from a Latin term, meaning “divine reading.” It describes a way of reading spiritual texts whereby we gradually let go of our own agenda and open ourselves to what the spirit/the divine/our heart/the universe wants to say to us.
Belovedness: The Antidote to Fear
Rev. Sara LaWall
February 21st at 8:00 amLove, How Many Kinds?
Elton Hall
February 14th at 9:00 amAnd How Are the Children?
Rev. Sara LaWall
February 7th at 9:00 amPoetry & Piano
January 31st at 8:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateRev. Sara LaWall & Mike Lemieux
A special service, featuring art in word and music; no hymns, no sermon.
(And no audio recording, sorry.)The Generosity Path
Rev. Sara LaWall
January 24th at 8:00 am(transcript) January 24, 2016
Partners in Community
January 17th at 9:00 am
Becky Groff, Wanda & Bryan Jennings, Bill & Gwyn Reid, Nancy Harms January 17, 2016
Five BUUF members who traveled to Mészkő to participate in the dedication of the new Community House will share insights from their travels and visit in our partner village.Radical Hospitality #2
Rev. Sara LaWall
January 10th at 9:00 am(transcript) A second sermon in a series exploring the concept of radical hospitality in our church, our lives and our community.
Fire of Commitment, Fire Communion
Rev. Sara LaWall
January 3rd at 9:00 amA justice Sunday sermon connecting with our Plate partner for the month, BUUF’s own Partner Church Boise/Mészkő Annual Scholarship Fund. We’ll reflect on our own passions and commitments as we join together in a Fire Communion, letting go and setting ablaze those things in our ... read more.
Quaker Service
Nancy Harms
December 27th at 8:00 amThere is no Audio file for this dateA silent service.
(No audio recording.)Preparing Room
Rev. Sara LaWall
December 24th at 8:00 am“Christmas Eve Service, “Preparing Room”,” Rev. Sara LaWall
Winter Solstice
December 21st at 8:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateAn ritual from our earth-centered tradition
(No audio recording.)Multigenerational Holiday Pageant
Rev. Sara LaWall
December 20th at 8:00 am“Multigenerational Holiday Pageant,” Rev. Sara LaWall and Emmie Schlobohm
All ages worship together to celebrate the holiday season.
The Open Heart: Music and Meditation for the Holidays
Rev. Sara LaWall
December 13th at 9:00 amCatch the Stones: Mercy, Brokenness, and Compassion
Rev. Sara LaWall
December 6th at 8:00 am“Catch the Stones: Mercy, Brokenness, and Compassion,” Rev. Sara LaWall
A Justice Sunday sermon connecting with our December plate partner, the ACLU of Idaho and their work on criminal justice reform and the death penalty.
The Music of Our Lives
November 29th at 9:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateCarrie Bastian, joined by musical members Mike Lemieux, Patti Raino, Sarah Cox, Will Smith
(No audio recording.)Apple Communion
November 22nd at 9:00 am
“Apple Communion,” Rev. Sara LaWall
All ages worship together to celebrate this season of gratitude. We will also be officially welcoming our Minister Emerita, Rev. Elizabeth Greene.
Radical Hospitality
November 15th at 9:00 am
“Radical Hospitality,” Rev. Sara LaWall
This service also honors the Transgender Day of Remembrance, nationally recognized on Nov. 20.
Experiencing the Holy
Rev. Sara LaWall
November 8th at 9:00 amInch by Inch to Fertile Ground
Rev. Sara LaWall
November 1st at 9:00 am“Inch by Inch to Fertile Ground,” Rev. Sara LaWall
A sermon about food justice, connecting with our November Plate Partner, the Boise Farmers’ Mobile Market
Stories From the Way
October 25th at 8:00 am
Stories from the Way Carrie Bastian and David Scott
How a 500 mile pilgrimage across Spain can change the stories we tell ourselves
We Were Boston Bound
October 18th at 9:00 am
“We Were Boston Bound,” Boston Bounders
Our Religious Exploration’s biennial “Coming of Age” program culminates in a pilgrimage to Boston to learn about our UU roots. The 2015 Bounders share their experience with us.
Your Liberating Ministry: Toward a Shared Vision
October 11th at 9:00 am
Giving Life the Shape of Justice
October 4th at 9:00 am
Building Sacred Trust
Rev. Sara LaWall
September 27th at 9:00 amA Blessing for Beginning
September 20th at 9:00 am
Gathering of the Waters
Rev. Sara LaWall
September 13th at 9:00 amExtinction, Ecological Collapse and Pope Francis
Mark McGinnis
September 6th at 9:00 am“Extinction, Ecological Collapse and Pope Francis,” Mark McGinnis
Painter and writer Mark McGinnis will present work from his current project “Extinct and Almost Extinct: 50 Paintings” and discuss aspects of our current ecological crisis, referring to Pope ... read more.
Moving Beyond the ‘Why?
Ken Watts
August 30th at 9:00 am“Moving Beyond the ‘Why?’ Questions,” Rev. Kenneth Watts
So often in the hospital I hear the “Why?” questions from family members, patients, and others in the midst of painful medical realities. In my early days of ministry ... read more.
Journey
August 23rd at 9:00 am
This spring saw the end of the first offering at BUUF of the 19 month program for spiritual development, “Quest: A Spiritual Journey.” Fifteen participants, four leaders, and a back-up ministry team completed the ... read more.
On Being a Heretic, Long Strange Trip
Mary Hester
August 16th at 9:00 amThe six part series may have been a UU history series, but it had some major spiritual impacts on me. We will explore how the journey of our UU ancestors can impact us in the present day.
What is it about listening?
Matthew Sabin
August 9th at 9:00 am“What is it about listening?” Matthew Sabin
In college I read John Brunner’s The Shockwave Rider wherein he proposed “a service that allows people to anonymously talk with another person who only listens.” I’ve been noticing this special ... read more.
General Assembly: Who Knew It Would Be So Spiritual!
August 2nd at 9:00 am
“General Assembly: Who Knew It Would Be So Spiritual!” GA Attendees
The Unitarian Universalist Association General Assembly, a five day annual meeting of delegates and attendees from congregations all over the United States met in Portland at ... read more.
Spirituality, innovation, diversity, and radical inclusion
Bill Reid
July 26th at 8:00 am“Spirituality, innovation, diversity, and radical inclusion,” Bill Reid
I will be asking a lot of questions this Sunday. Possible questions include, “Who is spiritual and who is not?” “Who decides?” “If we really welcomed everyone, what would ... read more.
Songs of Solidarity
Marshall Voit and Ibis Laurel
July 19th at 9:15 amThis summer, Marshall and Ibis embark on their Songs of Solidarity tour, on which journey they will sing with nearly a dozen faith congregations in six weeks. They will lead singing in English, Spanish and Hebrew, and invite participants to experience the galvanizing power of ... read more.
Charity: What could possibly go wrong?
Debra Smith
July 12th at 9:15 amClara Barton, Universalist and founder of the American Red Cross, fought against slavery and the unfair treatment of women, the unacknowledged suffering and sacrifice of soldiers, the intransigence of American politics, and–at last–against the people in the very organization she founded. In this service we ... read more.
The Demise of Democracy in America
July 5th at 9:15 am
There is no Audio file for this dateAmerican servicemen and women, and their families, for two and one half centuries, have given and sacrificed mightily to achieve and preserve freedom and democracy for us. As we pay tribute to them, it is our duty and responsibility to honor them by reflecting and ... read more.
Maturity—What Is That and How Do I Get It?
Elton Hall
June 28th at 9:15 amMaturity is a condition that we hope comes with age and experience, but just what it is and what we can do to gain it can be elusive. We will explore emotional, moral, mental and spiritual aspects of maturity and ways we mature.
Summer Solstice
June 21st at 9:15 am
The longest day of the year occurs on this Sunday during the service. At the summer solstice, the Sun travels the longest path through the sky, and that day therefore has the most daylight. Join us to sing and chant and meditate as we celebrate ... read more.
Who’s Your Daddy?
Rev. Dana Worsnop
June 14th at 9:15 amOn this Sunday before Father’s Day, we will consider role of fathers and masculine energy in the world, in us all.
Flower Power – Flower Communion Service
June 7th at 9:15 am
All Generations: Flower Power was the cry of a whole generation. The Flower Communion ritual represents the power and beauty the arises in a diverse community. What is BUUF’s flower power?
The Good and the Perfect
Rev. Dana Worsnop
May 31st at 9:15 amMy time with you as your Interim Minister is coming to a close. We have done so much good work together, made a misstep or two, traveled some rocky roads, and come out happily at the end of our journey together. I will reflect on ... read more.
Peace and Freedom
Rev. Dana Worsnop
May 24th at 9:15 amEven as the wars that are raged in our name are winding down at last, we are still a nation at war. Men and women are fighting in distant lands to protect us. Protect us from what? On this Memorial Day Weekend, we will consider ... read more.
Free Thinking Mystics With Hands
Rev. Dana Worsnop
May 17th at 9:15 amRev. Tom Owen-Towle describes Unitarian Universalists this way. How might we live up to this description? Which of these three parts are we best at – thinking freely, engaging mystery and the mystical, using our hands to be of use in the world?
Coming of Age
Rev. Dana Worsnop
May 10th at 9:15 amOur Coming of Age youth will share their statements of faith that they have developed over the years and through the journey of discovery that has been our Coming of Age program for the last eight months. Join in on this celebration of youth and ... read more.
Why Church?
Rev. Sara LaWall
May 3rd at 9:15 amStatistics paint a bleak picture for mainstream religion in America. Attendance is way down across denominations and churches are closing their doors. We Unitarian Universalists sit near the bottom, remaining stagnant in our numbers for decades. To many, it seems we are dying. Couple that ... read more.
Dare Greatly
Rev. Sara LaWall
April 26th at 9:15 amLife is full of challenges, adventures, opportunities for transformation and lots of the unknown. To dare greatly is to live with wholeheartedness, to step into uncertainty with a spirit of joyful optimism and love. Sometimes we will stumble and even fail. But if we pay ... read more.
Alive with Faith! Growing and Transforming from the Ground Up
Rev. Barbara Wells ten Hove
April 19th at 9:15 amLet’s celebrate the ways our faith helps us dig in and reach out to make a real difference in the world. In this single service at 10 a.m, we will celebrate all that BUUF is and will be and make our pledges for the coming ... read more.
Senior Bridging
April 12th at 9:15 am
Come get an infusion of hope for the future! Our Bridging Ceremony is a Sunday where we hear words of wisdom from our graduating high school seniors. Experience our next crop of community leaders and rejoice! Come help our graduating youth bridge to young adulthood ... read more.
We Are Risen
Rev. Dana Worsnop
April 5th at 9:15 amResurrection is such a powerful metaphor. Even if we don’t believe in the literal and physical resurrection of the body, we get to consider what the metaphor can mean in our spiritual lives. Easter is both a holy day for us as Unitarian Universalists, and ... read more.
Stand With Me
Rev. Dana Worsnop
March 29th at 9:15 amWe can only accomplish the great work we yearn to do if we are standing together. The work of transformation, the work of justice, the work of growing compassionate hearts. When we stand together, our voices, our generosity of spirit, our financial and personal resources, ... read more.
Our Better Angels
Rev. Dana Worsnop
March 22nd at 9:15 amThe world often seems more frightening than ever before and new threats seem to confront us almost daily. Yet the longer and larger trends show this to be the least violent time in human history. How can this be so? And if it is so, ... read more.
Coming Alive
Rev. Dana Worsnop
March 15th at 9:15 amWe talk often of the shared ministry of the church, shared among minister, staff and the laity. Yet often people invest only the minister with the authority to “do ministry.” If the work of the church is all ministry – from pulling weeds to serving ... read more.
The Shorter Longer Way
Rabbi Dan Fink
March 8th at 9:15 amRabbi Dan Fink of Congregation Ahavath Beth Israel will be speaking on: “The Shorter Longer Way.” The title is drawn from a tale from the Talmud, which speaks of our journeys and transitions, as individuals and in community. Rabbi Fink will focus on the way ... read more.
Curiosity as a Spiritual Practice
Rev. Dana Worsnop
March 1st at 9:15 amOur world is so polarized and people are becoming more and more entrenched in their views. It seems each side thinks of themselves as virtuous and the other side as deluded if not outright evil. How might bringing an attitude of curiosity shift our polarization?
Ferguson in Boise?
Sue Chew
February 22nd at 9:15 amWhat about the experience of being singled out and assumptions made because of culture (ala Ferguson). What can those from “white” culture do to learn more and communicate better with others from different cultures, etc. Sue is the representative from Boise’s District 17.
The Free Pulpit and the Free Pew
Rev. Dana Worsnop
February 15th at 9:15 amOurs is a tradition of the free pulpit and the free pew. Whose pulpit is it anyway and who is free to speak in it? What is freedom of the pew and how is it exercised. Important questions all, especially as you prepare to offer ... read more.
Love Will Guide Us
Rev. Dana Worsnop
February 8th at 9:15 amPrivilege and oppression have been themes in American culture throughout our history. We all have parts of ourselves that are privileged and parts that are oppressed. How can we come to recognize our own privilege and examine it so that the world can be a ... read more.
The Sum of All Known Reverence
Rev. Dana Worsnop
February 1st at 9:15 amOurs has been a humanist faith, long before the advent of the Humanist movement in the early 20th century. From Renaissance humanists to the advent of Universalism to William Ellery Channing to Walt Whitman, ours has been a faith concerned with human lives and human ... read more.
The Sum of All Reverence
Rev. Dana Worsnop
February 1st at 8:00 amThe Sum of All Reverence, Rev. Dana Worsnop (Feb. 1, 2015)
CCT, BUUF’s Arm of Comfort and Support
Rev. Jackie Kelly
January 25th at 9:15 amSharing the joys and celebrations of our community are a real bonus of being a part of the Fellowship. And, sometimes we need to reach out to one another when times are not so joyous. What are lessons from a pastoral care perspective—Rev. Jackie shares ... read more.
Lift Every Voice
Debra Smith
January 18th at 9:15 amSunday’s service will focus on the fourth of six steps (Discussion/Negotiation) towards attaining “Beloved Community,” as outlined by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. It matters how we talk to one another. It especially matters how we listen. It matters that all voices be lifted. Honored. ... read more.
Loving Alike
Rev. Dana Worsnop
January 11th at 9:15 amMore than 400 years ago, our Unitarian forebears spoke as a voice for religious tolerance in the midst of the violence of the Reformation. For this they were targeted by both Catholics and Protestants. What do we yet have in common with those Unitarians’ direct ... read more.
Sharing Our Strength – Fire Communion
Rev. Dana Worsnop
January 4th at 9:15 amJoin us for a Fire Communion Service as we burn away what is no longer needed from the past year and face the future together. The future is always uncertain and we live in times when many are predicting disaster from many points of view. ... read more.
Quaker Service
December 28th at 9:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateThe early Quakers considered silence to be a direct path to God. Join Nancy Harms for this simple service. We will have our traditional silent Quaker service in the sanctuary for adults and older children and youth.
(No audio recording.)Finding Christmas Mystery
Rev. Dana Worsnop
December 24th at 7:00 pmWe will celebrate Christmas Eve with stories of Christmas that renew our sense of mystery and wonder at this time of the year. We will sing carols, light candles and welcome magic and mystery once more into our lives at this darkest time of the ... read more.
Winter Solstice Celebration
December 21st at 7:00 pm
Come celebrate an earth-centered service as we welcome the dark and the return of the light. We will celebrate the Solstice on Sunday, Dec. 21.
(No audio recording.)Believing in Christmas
Debra Smith
December 21st at 9:00 am“Believing in Christmas,” Debra Smith and Emmie Schlobohm
Come join us for a lively All Generations Holiday service. There will be carols and reflections and we invite everyone – children, youth and adults – to come aboard ... read more.
Peace on Earth
Rev. Dana Worsnop
December 14th at 9:00 am“Peace on Earth,” Rev. Dana Worsnop
One of the central messages of the winter holidays is “peace on earth, goodwill to all.” In celebration of the season, the choir and our BUUF musicians will take us on ... read more.
Saving Christmas
Rev. Dana Worsnop
December 7th at 9:00 amOur Christmas traditions as we celebrate them now are not even 200 hundred years old. In many parts of Colonial America, celebrating Christmas was banned. Find out how Unitarians helped save Christmas from itself.
Take the Lead
Matthew Sabin
November 30th at 9:15 amDuring the week of the 10th of August, three pilgrims attended the Russell Lockwood Leadership School training. Dana told us that it would be transforming, but that turned out to have been an understatement.
To Have and Have Not
Rev. Dana Worsnop
November 23rd at 9:15 amWe will once again celebrate a Bread Communion in an All Generations Thanksgiving Service. So often we speak of gratitude for all that we have. Sometimes it is also useful to consider that which we do not have, and how both can enrich our lives.
Pilgrims in a Strange Land
Rev. Dana Worsnop
November 16th at 9:15 amThere are so many stories we tell about the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag and Thanksgiving, complicated by many layers and many perspectives on the truth. The Pilgrims at the heart of it are our direct religious forbears.
Ode to Joy
Rev. Dana Worsnop
November 9th at 9:15 amNeither happiness nor joy last, nor are they supposed to. Joy is perhaps more intense and more ephemeral. When have you felt the ecstatic uplift of sheer joy? How does it inform your spiritual Life?
Achieving Immortality
Rev. Dana Worsnop
November 2nd at 9:15 amWe celebrate All Souls Day with a ritual of remembrance. It is said that the veil between the living and dead grows thinner at this time of year. Though perhaps our connection to those who have passed simply feels closer when we create such rituals ... read more.
Good Fences
Rev. Dana Worsnop
October 26th at 9:15 amAs the saying goes, Good fences make good neighbors. Sometimes fences can be unnecessary obstacles and yet they also set good, clear, healthy boundaries. How do we discern when to say yes and when to say no? An age-old human conundrum.
The Church as Guest House
Rev. Dana Worsnop
October 19th at 9:15 amHow do you invite the shyest parts of your self to come out and play? What sorts of people and experience do you invite into your life? Who is invited into the church and by whom? How might we all make a practice of inviting ... read more.
Instant Karma
Rev. Dana Worsnop
October 12th at 9:15 amJohn Lennon warns us about Instant Karma. Sometimes the powerful truths of life and death and love will catch us unawares and we come face-to-face with ourselves and the world in an instant. What do we do next when that happens?
Beyond Categorial Thinking
Jo Victoria and Gil Guerrero
October 5th at 9:15 amCo-facilitators Jo Victoria and Gil Guerrero from the UUA Transitions office will share their personal perspectives on the experience of identity, and how our understanding of identities impacts the ministerial search.
The Price of Silence: Speaking Up, Ending Stigma
Liza Long
September 28th at 9:15 amLiza Long is the mother of a child who has bipolar disorder. She wrote an emotional response to the tragic school shooting in Newtown, which the Boise State University online journal The Blue Review published as “I Am Adam Lanza’s Mother.” In her book, The ... read more.
We are the Church that…
Rev. Dana Worsnop
September 21st at 9:15 amAfter a year-plus of preparation and consideration, who are you now, and who do you still want to be? These are the perpetual questions of interim ministry … and of life.
All Are Called
Rev. Dana Worsnop
September 14th at 9:15 amIf the church is doing its good work in our lives, we should feel called forth in some way. How are you called, and to what?
The Trouble with Bubbles
Rev. Dana Worsnop
September 7th at 9:15 amWe will re-gather as an entire worshiping community with the annual Merging of the Waters Service. We’ll hear the story of a certain queen in a distant land who had some trouble with a particular bubble and learn how we might avoid similar troubles.
How to be a UU Missionary
David Scott
August 31st at 9:15 amAlthough many associate missionaries with Christianity, especially with Mormons and Jehovah’s Witnesses, there have been, historically, missionaries from a multiplicity of faiths. Typically, however, people do not associate Unitarian Universalists with missionaries. So, why not us? This and other burning questions will be pondered (perhaps ... read more.
A Palestinian Speaks
Reem Anani
August 24th at 9:15 amThere is no Audio file for this dateReem Anani is a displaced Palestinian who will share out of her knowledge and personal experience, broadly covering the history of the Palestinian-Israeli issue, as well as touch on what is happening today, making us aware of the social justice issues involved and why it ... read more.
Beyond BUUF, Beyond Belief!
August 17th at 9:15 am
BUUF members who attended the Pacific Northwest District Assembly in Spokane and the Unitarian Universalist Association General Assembly in Providence, RI will be relating highlights of those forays into the UU world beyond BUUF!
Two Weddings and a Funeral
Roger Sherman
August 10th at 9:15 amEarlier this year many of us participated in an Appreciative Inquiry process to learn from each other what it is that we care about in our past, what we want to keep and leave behind on our continuing journey and what we want the future ... read more.
Gods, God, No God: Can We Accept Them All?
Elton Hall
August 3rd at 9:15 amThe great diversity of views held by UUs include monotheism, polytheism, atheism and many spiritual traditions. How can they all be “true”? We will explore what is going on in our experience that allows—indeed, makes necessary—this diversity and why it is important to us and ... read more.
Metaphorical Toolbox
Matthew Sabin
July 27th at 9:15 amWe all have a box full of (metaphorical) tools. Our social, technical and professional tools we use daily and are probably in good repair. Do you consider religion to be in your tool box? If so what condition is it in? Whether you think of ... read more.
What’s In Your Toolbox?
Matthew Sabin
July 27th at 9:00 amWhat’s In Your Toolbox? Matthew Sabin (July 27, 2014)
Quest: A Spiritual Journey
July 20th at 9:15 am
Last August, 18 intrepid members of BUUF entered the Quest program, a two year personal spiritual development curriculum including 6 weekend retreats, monthly meetings, and instruction and support to commit to a daily spiritual practice. Together with 14 Spiritual Companions and supported by a seven ... read more.
The Secret to Life in a Children’s Song
Carrie Bastian
July 13th at 9:15 amThis summer, let’s set sail down the river of life and discover if all we really need to know, we learned in a song we sang in kindergarten. Perhaps “Row, Row, Row Your Boat” was penned by a mystic sage or Zen master?
The Flipside of Service
Mary Hester
July 6th at 9:15 amWe all like to be of service to others. But what happens when we get asked “If there is anything I can do, let me know.” Are we too independent? Proud? What if allowing others to give to us, is in fact a service to ... read more.
Refugees in our Backyard
June 29th at 9:15 am
Rabiou Manzo, Shannon Davis-Jones, Danel Jones; International Rescue Committee
During the past decade, more than 5,000 refugees have resettled in Boise. Who are these people and how have they fared in Boise? How do they find housing and jobs, and deal everyday with the myriad challenges ... read more.
The Strength of the Pack is the Wolf
Bryan Jennings
June 22nd at 9:15 amI have only one message. Every sermon or part of a sermon I have done at BUUF over the past nineteen years has been, at heart, about one thing, and this is another of the same!
Taking Pride
Rev. Dana Worsnop
June 15th at 9:15 amAs we enter Pride season, this congregation has much to be proud of in its advocacy for the LGBT community. We will consider what has been accomplished in bending the “moral arc of the universe” toward justice, as well as what there is still to ... read more.
Earth was Given as a Garden – Flower Communion
Rev. Dana Worsnop
June 8th at 9:15 amIn this all-generations service, we will take up the story of the Garden of Eden and how we can see all the earth as a garden in which to flower. We will share in BUUF’s annual Flower Communion.
The Sacred Art of Appreciation
Debra Smith
June 1st at 9:15 amHow does an institution such as a church go about showing appreciation? Today, we will formally appreciate the service of a number of stalwart members who have decided it’s time to step aside to make room for a new generation of volunteers. And we will ... read more.
Our American Roots
Rev. Dana Worsnop
May 25th at 9:15 amOn this Memorial Day Weekend, we will consider the deep connections of our religious heritage to the founding values as a nation. And we will consider how those values might call us to respond to those who have fallen in military service.
Why I Cannot Give Up on God (Even Though I’ve Tried)
Rev. Dana Worsnop
May 18th at 9:15 amOften when we speak of God, we do it in the negative, speaking of the God we don’t believe in – the bearded grandfather in the sky, the smiting and vengeful omniscient presence that alternately judges us and answers prayers. Yet is there another way ... read more.
Many Mothers
Rev. Dana Worsnop
May 11th at 9:15 amWe all have had many people—women and men—who have mothered us through our lives. We have all been mothers, whether we have children in our lives or not. On this Mother’s Day, may we honor all our mothers.
Senior High Bridging
May 4th at 9:15 am
Come get an infusion of hope for the future! Our Bridging Ceremony is a Sunday where we hear words of wisdom from our graduating high school seniors. Experience our next crop of community leaders and rejoice! Come help our graduating youth bridge to young adulthood ... read more.
The Sutras
Mark Zimmerer
April 27th at 9:15 amThe Yoga Sutras are 195 short aphorisms written by someone named Patanjali 2500-3000 years ago, as an instruction manual for living a life that will lead to enlightenment. In January of 2014, Mark Zimmerer began a project of compiling different English translations into one document. ... read more.
Falling and Rising Again – A Human Story
April 20th at 9:15 am
Resurrection, rebirth, new life arising from the ashes are powerful archetypes. The story of Easter is one of them. How do we embrace the concept and reality of resurrection in our lives and in the world?
Falling and Rising
Rev. Dana Worsnop
April 20th at 9:00 amFalling and Rising, Rev. Dana Worsnop (April 20, 2014)
The Wolf, I’m Afraid, Is Inside Tearing Up the Place
Rev. Jackie Kelly
April 13th at 9:15 amThe title of this sermon comes from a letter written by author Flannery O-Connor a month before her death from lupus. It provides us with a way to consider suffering: how it is experienced and how it may be reflected upon, both by those who ... read more.
Loving the Hell out of this World – Celebration Sunday
April 6th at 9:15 am
“Loving the Hell out of this World – Celebration Sunday,” Rev. Cecilia Kingman and Rev. Dana Worsnop
The religious life can break our hearts, and break our hearts open. What do you find heartbreaking? What gifts can flow ... read more.
Peacemaking as a Spiritual Path
March 23rd at 9:15 am
“Peacemaking as a Spiritual Path,” M’Tae
M’Tae will present the tenets of the Zen Peacemaker Order: Not Knowing, Bearing Witness and Loving Action and discuss their origin and ways to observe them in daily life.
Imagine the Possibilities – A presentation of provocative proposals
March 16th at 9:15 am
Based on the Appreciative Inquiry Workshop a team of experts has stretched, challenged and put their imaginations to the test to come up with inspiring ideas to consider for the future of BUUF. We will be sowing seeds for the imagination. To further provoke you ... read more.
Our Heritage of Love
Rev. Dana Worsnop
March 9th at 9:15 amOur tradition arises from deep Judeo-Christian roots. What does this mean for those among us who reject a more traditional view of Christianity? What does it mean for those among who still find meaning and spiritual depth in those roots?
Follow Your Folly
Rev. Dana Worsnop
March 2nd at 9:15 amThe trickster spirit of foolishness and folly has much to teach us, especially when times seem overfull, anxious or simply serious. On this Sunday we will invite whimsy and delight into lives that can often seem too serious.
Sustaining Ministry
Rev. Dana Worsnop
February 23rd at 9:15 amDuring this interim time, you get to reflect on ministry. What are the qualities you want in your next minister? What do you want your next minister to do among you? Ministry is a 24-7, and yet no minister can do it all. Rev. Dana ... read more.
Living Without Hope
Ken Watts
February 16th at 9:15 amWhat would our lives look like without Hope? Is Hope a help or hindrance? When Pandora opened the lid to her jar all the evils that befall the human race escaped: “burdensome toil and sickness that brings death to men”, diseases and “a myriad other ... read more.
Loving Alike
Rev. Dana Worsnop
February 9th at 9:15 amWe often say we are a covenantal rather than a creedal faith. We come together not because we share beliefs but because of the promises we make to one another. So that we can learn and practice loving well. As 16th century Unitarian Francis David ... read more.
Creating Generosity
Rev. Dana Worsnop
February 2nd at 9:15 amWe are called as humans seeking connection to be generous to and with one another. Living with an open-heartedness, giving and receiving love and kindness and forgiveness. What does practicing such generosity look like?
Community House – A Dream and a Legacy
January 26th at 9:15 am
The congregation of our Unitarian Partner Church in Mészk? dreamed for decades of having a community house where the congregation could gather altogether for meetings, classes, programs, and for regional youth gatherings. Most of the people who originally conceived of such a place are no ... read more.
An Inescapable Web of Mutuality
Rev. Dana Worsnop
January 19th at 9:15 amOn this Martin Luther King Sunday we will consider the intricate and intimate connections of mutuality which bind us to one another. What might Dr. King have had to say about economic justice and the vast economic inequities of our present day?
The Gentle Art of Hospitality
Rev. Dana Worsnop
January 12th at 9:15 amHospitality – Being open and welcoming to one another – is one of the highest values in most all the religions of the world. Yes, even as so many mis-use their religion to separate themselves from others. It is the message of Jesus, of the ... read more.
Burning the Old Year – A Fire Communion Service
Rev. Dana Worsnop
January 5th at 9:15 amWhat do you need to burn away from the old year that you might enter the new one more lightly? Come to this fiery and lively service in which we will burn away old burdens, old habits, old patterns in a flash. Come consider what ... read more.
Quaker Style
December 29th at 9:15 am
There is no Audio file for this dateThe early Quakers considered silence to be a direct path to God. This was a radical idea in its time. Silence remains a radical idea today. In our culture of iPhones, cell phones, the Internet, high-definition TV and continual bombardment of advertising, cultivating silence—as opposed ... read more.
Lessons and Carols
December 24th at 9:15 am
“Lessons and Carols,” Rev. Dana Worsnop & Emmie Schlobohm, Director of Religious Exploration
The Stable of Our Hearts
Rev. Dana Worsnop
December 22nd at 9:15 amWith all the voices shouting out about the meaning of Christmas, how can we find our own way into the message of this time of year? How can we enter the story of the myth and the mystery of the birth of Jesus in a ... read more.
Waiting in the Dark – A Solstice Celebration
December 20th at 9:15 am
There is no Audio file for this dateIn our modern world, we can become distant from the rhythms of nature. Technology can insulate us from the turning seasons. We lose these rhythms at the cost of our wholeness. As we approach the darkest and longest night of the year, let us gather ... read more.
Deck the Halls
December 15th at 9:15 am
“Deck the Halls,” Children & Youth from Religious Exploration & Emmie Scholbohm (Two recordings: 9:30 and 11:15)
It’s time again for our annual tradition of Deck the Halls Sunday! This ... read more.
Some Children See Him: Embracing the Holy Child Within
December 15th at 9:15 am
Through readings and through Christmas music from around the world, the BUUF choir and musicians will explore the idea of the holy child of Bethlehem, as created in each culture and as found within each person. This will be a mostly music Sunday.
All Things Shining—How We Live Meaningful Lives
December 8th at 9:15 am
There is no Audio file for this dateParticipants in the Adult RE class All Things Shining will share their insights and discoveries of how people understood a meaningful life at various times in Western history, from ancient Greece to the present. They will also share their own ways of making their lives ... read more.
Giving Thanks
December 1st at 9:15 am
Come join all ages – from infants to sages – to give thanks for our many blessings. We will tell stories, sing songs, celebrate community as we turn toward the Thanksgiving holiday. We will partake in a Bread Communion, so please bring bread in small ... read more.
So Many Choices, So Little Time
Rev. Dana Worsnop
November 24th at 9:15 amWe often think that choice is a good thing, that the more choices we have the happier people are. But there is a point at which the returns start to diminish and in fact even reverse. We will consider our choices as we anticipate a ... read more.
Idaho Safe Schools
November 17th at 9:15 am
“Idaho Safe Schools,” Zach Bramwell and Anna McClain-Sims
Idaho Safe Schools Coalition is the only organization in Idaho that serves Idaho’s LGBTQ youth. Our mission is to help Idaho schools become safe places where every family can belong, where every educator can teach, and where every ... read more.
Día de los Muertos – A Day of Remembering
Rev. Dana Worsnop
November 3rd at 9:15 amWe will celebrate the Mexican holy day Día de los Muertos and consider what death has to teach us about living. We will also share a Ritual of Remembrance honoring those who have passed from our lives.
Telling Your Story
Rev. Dana Worsnop
October 27th at 9:15 amThe stories we tell end up defining who we are. What are the stories of this congregation? How do they define you? Are they a complete view? Which stories will carry you into the future and which do you want to move beyond?
Past, Present & Future Tense
October 20th at 9:15 am
Though we are often encouraged to live in the present, be mindful in the moment, in truth the past and the future are present in every breath. Everything that has gone before has brought us to this particular moment, and the future is forming even ... read more.
Boston Bound and Back Again
October 13th at 9:15 am
Our Junior High youth once again journeyed to Boston this past summer on their bi-annual pilgrimage. Come hear from this crop of Boston Bounders about their adventures in Beantown and beyond.
Changing, Changing, Changing
Rev. Dana Worsnop
October 6th at 9:15 amThe great insights of the Buddha include the realization that everything is always changing – arising and passing away. Human suffering arises when we resist this deep truth, when we wish to hold onto the way things have been or wish to avoid some future ... read more.
A Wide Embrace
Rev. Dana Worsnop
September 29th at 9:15 amOurs is a faith with a wide theological embrace. Francis David said we need not think alike to love alike. Keeping our embrace wide and open is one of our highest values and one of our greatest challenges.
Practice Makes Progress
Rev. Dana Worsnop
September 22nd at 9:15 amPractice makes perfect, the saying goes. Yet perfection is a daunting standard. How does that change if we shift perspective and seek and affirm progress over perfection?
Beginning Again in Love
Rev. Dana Worsnop
September 15th at 9:15 amDuring the Jewish High Holy Days from Rosh Hashanah to Yom Kippur the Book of Life is (metaphorically) open and we have a chance to make amends, to turn a new page, to renew our Yes! To life. We will enter the spirit of the ... read more.
Diving In
Rev. Dana Worsnop
September 8th at 9:15 amWater Communion All Generation Service. Let us dive in to this year of changes, challenges and opportunity together. We’ll hear the poetry of Shel Silverstein and music from the choir and we’ll engage in covenant with our Interim Minister, Rev. Dana Worsnop.
The Politically Correct Book of Job
David Scott
September 1st at 9:15 amYou may remember reading The Book of Job back in Sunday School and thinking it was a huge bummer. It kind of was. But could our man Job have lessons for the 21st century reader? This and other burning questions will be pondered as David ... read more.
What do you do when you discover that what you thought you knew isn’t true?
Debbie Espen
August 25th at 9:15 amA moving story of a world turned upside down by a moment that forever changed a life.
Four Spiritualities: Are we all spiritual, even if we don’t use the word ‘spiritual?’
Bill Reid
August 18th at 9:15 am100 years of psychological and religious study have led many researchers to the conclusion that the human search for meaning (spirituality?) is expressed in four major ways, based on four major personality temperaments.
UUA President Peter Morales has called us to create an expansive and inclusive ... read more.
Amor & Exile
August 11th at 9:15 am
Boise-based journalist Nathaniel Hoffman will present a brief history of migration and marriage from the earliest human wanderings to the era of the “Deporter in Chief,” based on his new book, Amor and Exile: True Stories of Love Across America’s Borders, co-written with Nicole Salgado, ... read more.
Faith – What is That?
Elton Hall
August 4th at 9:15 amWe speak of Unitarian Universalism as a “faith tradition.” But what is faith? We will reflect on this question, and on what faith might be especially for UUs, as well as what it is not or should not be.
What Would Joseph Do?
Ann Sabin
July 28th at 9:15 amMary knew the baby Jesus was her son. But what if the kid wasn’t yours? Not just in a village 2000+ years ago, but today. Your sister’s kid. The local schoolchildren. Our congregation’s youth. When a child acts out, is it someone else’s problem? Or ... read more.
The Moon: Symbolic, Sacred and Spiritual
Miriam Woito
July 21st at 9:15 amThought about how the moon has inspired us, motivated us and been an ever present part of all our lives?
How to Pray
Coston Frederick
July 14th at 9:15 amDo Unitarian Universalists pray? I believe they do if they are alive and serious about life. So, I’d like to spend a few minutes thinking about how we can do it — and still be Unitarian Universalists. I will suggest some possible implications of daily ... read more.
Smelling the Roses
Rick Groff
July 7th at 9:15 amCaught between anxieties about tomorrow and fretting about yesterday with thoughts streaming through your mind, it can be very difficult to be in the present moment. Rick will be talking about learning to live in the present through mindfulness. Mindfulness is an ancient Buddhist practice, ... read more.
What has General Assembly to do with Us
Elton Hall
June 30th at 9:15 amWanda, Bryan and Elton will share their experiences at this year’s GA in Louisville, KY. Much is changing this year with the shrinkage of the UUA Board, moving of UUA headquarters, and general reorganization. Learn what all this means for BUUF and the future of ... read more.
Church for Atheists and Others
Rev. Kenneth Watts
June 23rd at 9:15 amWhat does it mean to be “the church”? What benefits are to be gained by being part of an organization that still ties itself to terminology used for two thousand years by the Christian tradition and our own UU tradition that was born out of ... read more.
A Conversation of Kindness
Jeanette Maré
June 16th at 9:15 amJeannette Maré, Ben’s Bells founder and Executive Director, will lead an in-depth discussion of the challenges and opportunities we encounter in every interaction as we strive to create a kinder community. During this conversation, Jeannette will reflect on her own personal experiences with kindness in ... read more.
On Sex, On Money, On Coffee and Looking for Ministry
Matthew Sabin
June 9th at 9:15 amWhether being webmaster, trying to be committee chair (twice), teaching sexuality to our youth or serving espresso most Sundays, I’ve been looking for where I fit. Early on the way I was told to look for my ministry. That sounded like excellent advice. It turns ... read more.
Let’s Cross Over
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
June 2nd at 9:15 amCarrie Bastian and musicians, Janine Larsen, Pacific Northwest District Executive, Linda Laskowski, Unitarian Universalist Board trustee from the Pacific Central District and Virginia Phillips, Elizabeth’s sister join Elizabeth with Music! Poetry! Colorful stoles for everyone! A glorious farewell as Elizabeth and her guests cross our ... read more.
Story Link, Linking parents in prison with their children, through stories
May 26th at 9:15 am
“Story Link, Linking parents in prison with their children, through stories,” Eileen Dingledein and Wanda Jennings
Your heart will be moved by the stories told of keeping family connections alive as inmates record stories for their children.
The Last Laugh
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
May 19th at 9:15 amThis is the LAST official sermon Elizabeth will preach as our minister! In it, she would like to deliver Serious Advice Learned Over the Years—but it seems a little earnest for the occasion. Instead, she will share her favorite jokes, and reflect on what “lessons” ... read more.
Coming of Age
May 12th at 9:15 am
Our Coming of Age youth will share their statements of faith that they have developed over the years and through the journey of discovery that has been our Coming of Age program for the last eight months. Join in on this celebration of youth and ... read more.
No Simple Highway
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
May 5th at 9:15 amRecollecting a long-ago sermon she presented here (1988) on a much-loved song, the Grateful Dead’s “Ripple,” Elizabeth will share some of her truths that have remained pretty much intact through the years.
In Their World
Mary Hester
April 28th at 9:15 amThe book “Three Cups of Tea” inspired us with stories of building schools in their world. In spite of the recent controversy, what inspired us remains valid. Come hear what was different about this story, and how we can apply it to our lives.
Dirt – A Love Story
Debra Smith
April 21st at 9:15 amScientists teach us cause and effect and how to sustain (or not) systems. Poets teach us how to love. This morning, in honor of Earth Day, we’ll look at a very mundane topic—dirt, through the eyes of a scientist and the heart of a poet. ... read more.
The Scholar’s Lamp: Passing on the Light
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
April 14th at 9:15 am“The Scholar’s Lamp: Passing on the Light,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene, Susan Beasley & Carrie Hope
Susan and Carrie are our “Bridgers” this year, seniors in high school who are making that first step into what we traditionally call adulthood. Both young women will share some of ... read more.
Owlie Searches for the Truth
April 7th at 9:15 am
Follow the adventures of woodland creatures as they explore our fourth principle – a free and responsible search of truth and meaning. Please join us for this service involving all ages with stories, music, and merriment.
Stories of Spring and Resurrection
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
March 31st at 9:15 amThere’s Demeter and her daughter Persephone. There’s Jesus on the cross, brought to life two days later. There’s Isis and Osiris. There’s Elizabeth’s little rhubarb plant, living miraculously through neglect and presumed death. Resurrection abounds!
No Offense Intended
Rev. Jackie Kelly
March 24th at 9:15 amAs the Supervisor of Clinical Pastoral Education at St. Luke’s Medical Center, Jackie works with chaplaincy students with diverse beliefs and ways of understanding spirituality. Her students, in turn, learn to minister to patients, family and staff with equally diverse beliefs. It’s no wonder that ... read more.
The Wheel that moves the Sun and Stars
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
March 17th at 9:15 amNearing the Vernal Equinox, when day and night are equal, the star wheel is turning, moving us into spring. Join us for this mostly music Sunday, featuring our choir and additional guest musicians. There will even be a wee bit o’ Celtic music for St. ... read more.
How Far We’ve Come
Mary Schwartzman
March 10th at 9:15 amThe Fellowship has survived many transitions in the past and will continue to do so. Mary Schwartzman will describe the evolution of our beloved Fellowship from 1967, when she and Alan arrived as newlyweds, to Elizabeth’s arrival in 1988. We each play a part in ... read more.
What We Value Most
Rev. John Thornton
March 3rd at 9:15 amElizabeth attends St. Michael’s Episcopal Church when she is not at the Fellowship, and deems John Thornton, former Episcopal Bishop of Idaho to be one of the best preachers she has ever heard. John will speak to us about stewardship, what that means in the ... read more.
The Fingerprints of God
Emmie Schlobohm
February 24th at 9:15 amIs spiritual experience real? When we pray, what happens? Does consciousness depend entirely on your brain and the unique way it works? Can science explain God? Join us for an exploration of how faith and spirituality affect us physically, emotionally, and spiritually as set out ... read more.
Reverence
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
February 17th at 9:15 amElizabeth believes firmly that an attitude of reverence can be the concept that unites Unitarian Universalists of all beliefs and philosophies. It is deeply spiritual, and it cuts across the distractions of falsely-divisive belief systems.
Black History in Idaho
Cherie Buckner-Webb
February 10th at 9:15 amMany of us probably think that Idaho has no African-American history. Cherie Buckner-Webb, a several-generation Idaho African-American, will let us know otherwise. And, she will sing, always a wonderful experience.
What I’ve Learned
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
February 3rd at 9:15 amWhat does a person learn from 25 years of parish ministry, with the same congregation? Elizabeth will share a few of her learnings—some of which might surprise you.
The Ideas Peddler
Don Rollings
January 27th at 9:15 amAs we continue our preparation for the interim period, accredited UU interim minister, Don Rollins, will lead us in a look at the good things that lie ahead. Don is the Interim Minister at the UU Church of Eugene, Oregon.
Roots Hold Us Close: Approaching 20 Years of Partnership
Gwyn Reid
January 20th at 9:15 amIn May 1993, BUUF became one of a number of UU congregations to enter into a partnership with a Unitarian congregation in Transylvania. Our partnership with Mészkõ has been an incredible 20 years for both congregations. The sixth principle of the Unitarian Universalist Association is ... read more.
O Pioneer!
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
January 13th at 9:15 amFor the Second Annual BUUF Pioneer Sunday, Elizabeth will reflect on the life and service of Jim Tompkins, who served our church deeply and widely, in earlier days. We will also ponder what it is to be a pioneer, how we all are—sometimes unknowingly—pioneers in ... read more.
A New Year Beckons
Nancy Harms
January 6th at 9:15 amOur task as we enter this New Year is to renew ourselves in the love and labor of filling out our individual biography. We do that by taking hold of the threads in life that seem to assist in this enterprise, in our vocation, our ... read more.
Quaker Style
December 30th at 9:15 am
There is no Audio file for this dateThe early Quakers considered silence to be a direct path to God. This was a radical idea in its time. Silence remains a radical idea today. In our culture of iPhones, cell phones, the Internet, high-definition TV and continual bombardment of advertising, cultivating silence—as opposed ... read more.
Come Celebrate the Light!
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
December 24th at 9:15 amThere is no Audio file for this dateCan you find the Christmas Eve star, one of the mainstays of Elizabeth’s childhood? Can we feel the joy of a light blazing in the winter sky, announcing humanity’s divine births? On Elizabeth’s last Christmas Eve with us, can we join in the love that ... read more.
Can an Atheist Worship?
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
December 23rd at 9:15 amThe question declares itself, bringing up questions like: what god does an atheist not believe in? what is the role of language in our lives, and is it static? are there words that fundamentally should be off-limits in a Unitarian Universalist congregation?
Solstice
December 21st at 9:15 am
There is no Audio file for this dateThis annual favorite is a reflective service celebrating light’s return and pondering what we want to leave in the darkness and what to bring into the light.
Amazing Grace
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
December 16th at 9:15 amWe Unitarian Universalists often substitute “soul” for the original “wretch” in the beloved hymn “Amazing Grace.” Elizabeth’s position is that we’re fooling ourselves when we do this, not to mention missing the possibility of real transformation, especially of suffering.
O Come Let Us Adore
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
December 9th at 9:15 amThe gospels say there was “no room at the inn” for the birth of the infant king. Is there room in our hearts this holiday season to adore the holy and beloved, in all its many forms and traditions? Come explore this question through music ... read more.
Deck the Halls for the WinterGreene Holidays
December 2nd at 9:15 am
There is no Audio file for this dateIt’s time again for our annual tradition of Deck the Halls Sunday! (Two recordings: 9:30 service and 11:15 service) On this year of celebrations for and with Elizabeth, this year’s Deck the Halls is all about WinterGreene Holidays. Come explore worldwide and green traditions, the ... read more.
Thank God for Evolution
Loren Bergeson
November 25th at 9:15 amBack in 2009 Loren read a book by Michael Dowd titled “Thank God for Evolution,” which really changed his perspective on the relationship between science and spirituality. In the book, it says that evolution is the greatest religious story ever told. Loren’s belief is that ... read more.
Transgendered Day of Remembering
November 18th at 9:15 am
You do not have to be transgendered or have transgendered friends, to find this issue moving and relevant. Who are we, as humans? What is it to find yourself “other” in our society? What are the ties that bind?
The Greater Causes
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
November 11th at 9:15 amCommemorating Veteran’s Day, Elizabeth will reflect on patriotism and other commitments to causes larger than ourselves. What calls us to move “out of ourselves,” to step from the ordinary into areas we might not have ever thought we would dwell in?
My Afterlife
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
November 4th at 9:15 amElizabeth is retiring in June, after 25 years as our minister, and the most common question she hears these days is, “What are you going to do?” She will offer some sort of answers to that question.
My Own Country
Rev. Keith Kron
October 28th at 9:15 amI spent nearly three years living in Canada, and I loved it there. But it was not my country. My country was the United States, even when the changing times here was bad. When faced with change in the places we know, how do we ... read more.
BUUF: A Spiritual Co-op?
Elton Hall
October 21st at 9:15 amBUUF is a remarkable spiritual community. What makes it so? Elton will reflect on how congregations like BUUF are meaningful and essential to individual transformation and collective growth and why they are vital to our democratic culture.
The Hunger Words
October 14th at 9:15 am
How do we talk about hunger? What assumptions underlay the language we use in America when talking about hunger and poverty? “Public assistance,” “entitlement,” “welfare,” “food insecurity,” and “charity.” Our word choice relates to a way of seeing the poor. It relates to a story, ... read more.
Forming, Storming, Norming, Performing, Transforming: Creating Community
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
October 7th at 9:15 amWe are always creating, building, maintaining—and sometimes tearing down—community, each of us in different places all the time. How do we deal transformatively with this fact of existence? How do we cherish being together, respecting each other and the whole that is greater than the ... read more.
Relationships for a Reason, a Season, and a Lifetime
Andrew Spencer
September 30th at 9:15 amOur speakers are members of BUUF Medians, the church’s young adult group (about 20-40 years old), rising up to let us “oldsters” know something about their lives and values.
Saving Lives
September 23rd at 9:15 am
Linda Laskowsky, Elizabeth’s beloved roommate on the national Unitarian Universalist Board, is honoring us with a visit. She asks, “Why do we pay dues to our national and district organizations?” and comes up with surprising answers
Building Your Own Theology
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
September 16th at 9:15 amWhat goes into creating one’s personal theology/philosophy? Elizabeth will share experience, authors and people that have contributed to hers.
Wanderer, Worshipper: Coming Home
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
September 9th at 9:15 amOnce again—for the last time while Elizabeth is our minister (she’s retiring in June)—we join for “homecoming,” the first Sunday in the program year. Bring water from your summer travels, for Water Communion.
It’s Not A Train
Don Schutte
September 2nd at 9:15 amLife is often not easy. So how do we survive when life becomes very difficult? What is it that we can use to go another week, or day, or even hour? This is a story of the survival of one person who had their share ... read more.
Spiritual Program Coming!
August 26th at 9:15 am
Members of the newly formed BUUF Quest Steering Committee, Jackie Groves, Elizabeth Greene, Mike Philley, Jay Wechselberger, Lynne Tolk, Bill Renwick and Mark Zimmerer share our hopes, dreams and concrete plans to offer this curriculum developed by First Unitarian Society in Madison WI, to the ... read more.
Spirituality Progression
August 19th at 9:15 am
How has your spirituality progressed? Other than your outright experiences, who or what has helped you along? Come listen to Gail share with us some of her spiritual gurus, sayings, and practices that help her with her along this trek we call human life.
Come Healing… a morning with Leonard Cohen
Patricia Heeb
August 12th at 9:15 amA reviewer recently wrote “The old sage (Cohen) may not have any more answers than when he started, but he’s still asking questions to the end, looking for the truth and the holiness.” The metaphors and melodies of this venerable musician inspire our own look ... read more.
The Slow Read Movement
Debra Smith
August 5th at 9:15 amThis spring, 10 or so people read and discussed what many consider “the great American novel,” F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby.” Some were impressed with a theme that resonates today: how the concentration of wealth leads to corruption. Others were taken by the author’s ... read more.
How to Worry: Recipes for the Disasters You Know are Coming!?
David Scott
July 29th at 9:15 amDavid Scott will take a light-hearted look at worry and attempt to answer the following questions: What is worry? What behaviors do we engage in that allows worry to flourish? When is worry useful and when does it become non-productive? Security blankets are optional.
Grand Adventure: Rafting the Colorado through the Grand Canyon
Cathy Carmen
July 22nd at 9:15 amA recipe for fun = 6 kids + 10 adults for 16 days on 6 rafts through the most beautiful canyon in North America! So begins the Boice, Carmen’s family adventure in June 2011! How they did it and why they’d do it again (in ... read more.
Exploring General Assembly
July 15th at 9:15 am
Immigration was the Big Topic of the Justice Unitarian Universalist General Assembly! Wanda and Bryan Jennings and Elizabeth Greene went to the Unitarian Universalist Association Justice General Assembly in Phoenix in June where the theme was Social Justice with a strong emphasis on Immigration. Come ... read more.
Finding Social Hope
Sue Philley
July 8th at 9:15 amWe are living in chaotic and challenging times. Why and how can we find the strength and courage to go forward? During her lifetime of non-profit work, Sue’s thinking has evolved about self-improvement, work, and retirement. Joanna Macy (one of the wisdom voices of our ... read more.
Body and Spirit
Mark Zimmerer
July 1st at 9:15 amExploring the ways in which our body, mind and spirit influence each other. As Mary Oliver says: The spirit likes to dress up like this: ten fingers, ten toes, shoulders, and all the rest
It ain’t unnecessarily so
June 24th at 9:15 am
“It ain’t unnecessarily so,” John Connors
Zen is commonly thought to be some some blissful state where all is wonderful and serene. Zen Buddhism is not what you think. Rather, it is more about how you live. It is about paying attention. Join us, for a ... read more.
Fathers’ Day
June 17th at 9:15 am
Four years ago, Greg Duffy, went to the Midwest to take part in a writing workshop. His journey took him through a period in his family’s life that was challenging to say the least. Greg tells his touching story, which explains his plan, which was ... read more.
What I know For Sure: My Spiritual Journey
June 10th at 9:15 am
“What I know For Sure: My Spiritual Journey,” Janette Young
Midlife is traditionally a time of great transition. Many changes occur naturally at this time of life. Your children grow up and move away from home. Your aging parents may become more in need of care. ... read more.
Flower Communion
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
June 3rd at 9:15 amOn this first-Sunday-of –summer-schedule, we have a briefer-than-usual service, starring Flower Communion: everyone brings a flower to put in the community vases, then, at a certain point in the service, we each take a flower back. If you forget your flower, Providence always steps in— ... read more.
Complain or Not to Complain
Mary Hester
May 27th at 9:15 amWe all have complaints in life. We don’t like this about one person, or don’t like that about another. Why do we complain? Does it cost us anything to complain? Does it accomplish anything? In this service we will examine ways we can approach life ... read more.
The Second Fifty
Debra Smith
May 20th at 9:15 amThis year marks the 50th anniversary of the formation of the Pacific Northwest District of the Unitarian Universalist Association. As a UUA National Trustee, Elizabeth is performing her duties at the District Assembly in Anchorage this weekend. In her stead, Board President Debra Smith will ... read more.
Our Unitarian Universalist Stories
May 13th at 9:15 am
There is no Audio file for this date“Our Unitarian Universalist Stories,” Children and Youth of Religious Exploration (Two recordings: 9:30 service and 11:15 service)
Come celebrate our children on this second annual Religious Exploration Celebration Sunday! Find ... read more.
Song of the Soul: the Power of Music
May 6th at 9:15 am
What is the song of your soul? What music, your own and others, inspires you to follow your passion? Elizabeth and church musicians explore music’s power.
Senior High Bridging
Emmie Schlobohm
April 29th at 9:15 amDo you need an infusion of hope for the future and to know that the world will be in good hands after we’re gone? Our senior high youth who are taking that monumental next step forward into their future will share their journeys and visions. ... read more.
The Power of Yes
Miriam Woito
April 22nd at 9:15 amOrganic Growth – Change, Passion, Action. Some thoughts on becoming a thriving community.
Prayer?
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
April 15th at 9:15 amIn a revisiting of one of those “wounded words” we UUs can find problematical, Elizabeth reflects on the larger meaning of the word “prayer.”
Rejoice and Bloom
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
April 8th at 9:15 amOn Easter, diverse faith traditions celebrate the way that life arises from literal and metaphorical death. This Easter, we rejoice at how all creation can bloom, even in the face of despair.
Fooling Around
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
April 1st at 9:15 amThe mytho-poetic implications of the Fool are legion, as are the philosophical and religious undercurrents of why we laugh. Or maybe Elizabeth just likes to tell jokes from the pulpit?
The Places That Scare You
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
March 25th at 9:15 amPema Chodron is a well-known Buddhist nun. She writes with compassion about facing our fears, becoming greater-hearted people. Elizabeth will reflect on how we approach this.
Celebration Sunday: Rejoicing in our Roots and Our Vision
March 18th at 9:15 am
Today, we bring our smiles, vision and commitment, as we are inspired by one of our favorite preachers. The lively Rev. Montagnes serves as associate minister to the Eastshore UU congregation, in Bellevue WA.
Namaste: the Light That Shines in All
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
March 11th at 9:15 amHow often do we recognize the light in others? Does it reflect (or not reflect) what we are putting forth? What community results shine forth (or don’t), when our lights mingle?
No One Can Whistle a Symphony
March 4th at 9:15 am
There is much work to do in this world. When we work together towards a common goal, the hard work becomes a thing of joy and a blessed act of community. Come explore the joy of heart work with Emmie Schlobohm, our Director of Religious ... read more.
How Big is the Sky?
Rev. Sean Parker Dennison
February 26th at 9:15 amA frog in a well does not know the great ocean and cannot imagine the vastness of the sky. (Japanese proverb) What keeps our vision small? What limits our aspirations? Should we seek to change the world? Should we seek to truly make a difference ... read more.
Rescuing St. Paul
Elton Hall
February 19th at 9:15 amSpiritual seekers leave the religions of their childhoods for complex reasons, but one reason some of us left the Christian tradition was the severe attitudes of St. Paul which seem focused on sin, are harsh in respect to women, and have no sense of joy. ... read more.
Ubi Caritas: Charity and Love
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
February 12th at 9:15 amThe Christian tradition is full of references to love: for friends (philia), for God (caritas and agape), with not a lot about eros, or body-and-soul, lover-ly love. What does it all mean, anyhow?
Stories of Change and Transition
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
February 5th at 9:15 amLife is just one darned change after another, some more “successful” than others, each similar to others and also unique. How do we roll with the taps and punches of seemingly-continual transition?
Yearning to Breathe Free: the Immigration Issue
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
January 29th at 9:15 amThis June, the Unitarian Universalist Association is holding a Justice General Assembly (GA) in Phoenix, Arizona, hotbed of immigration abuses. Elizabeth will reflect on “the immigration issue,” and will have information available on this potentially life-changing GA.
Musical Pilgrimage
January 22nd at 9:15 am
Last summer Tom von Alten and Jeanette Ross participated in a choir that sang through Transylvania and Hungary. Peace pilgrim advised “A pilgrim is a wanderer with purpose.” Jeanette and Tom will share stories and insights from their purposeful wanderings.
Deserving and Undeserving
Gary Wyke
January 15th at 9:15 amOn this Martin Luther King Sunday, we welcome Emerson Hunger Fellows. John Pevy will be talking about giving individuals power and control over their lives and livelihood and Aleta Sprague will talk about how public discourse about recipients of government assistance tends to focus on ... read more.
Celebrating Our Pioneers
January 8th at 9:15 am
What does it mean to be a pioneer? Do we appreciate those “whose shoulders we stand on”? In what ways are we pioneers: historically, spiritually, socially?
The Creation of God
John Munson
January 1st at 9:15 amMany Christians eagerly await the second coming of Christ. A much more interesting (and more probable) event is the impending arrival of God. In the relatively near future we will create an intelligence that has the capability of recursive self-enhancement. This event is called the ... read more.
Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
December 24th at 9:15 amWhat gifts do we bring to the Divine Child, inside us and in others? How hard a journey are we willing to undertake to see that our gifts are given well?
Channukah
Emmie Schlobohm
December 18th at 9:15 amThree of our very long time church members (Bob and Alan date back to the ’70s, Emmie since the early ’90s) are Jews, and will share their memories of family Channukah celebrations.
Ringing True: The Bells of Christmas
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
December 11th at 9:15 amBells are a prominent Christmas symbol: silver bells, sleigh bells, steeple bells. They call out, but to what are they calling us? Come explore this question on this mostly music Sunday while the choir and BUUF musicians share the joy and music of Christmas.
Deck the Halls
Emmie Schlobohm
December 4th at 9:15 amThere is no Audio file for this date“Deck the Halls” (11:15) Emmie Schlobohm and Congregational Youth
“Deck the Halls” (9:30) Emmie Schlobohm and Congregational Youth
It’s time again for our annual tradition of Deck the Halls Sunday! Our ... read more.
BUUF Pilgrims
November 27th at 9:15 am
Ax Axmaker, Besse LaBudde, Sheila Dengler Shaw, Joe Wechselberger
For many of us Chaucer’s account of a group pilgrimage to Canterbury was our first knowledge of this practice. Most of us have never been on a physical pilgrimage, but while the custom has waned in the ... read more.
Transgender Day of Remembrance
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
November 20th at 9:15 amThis day is dedicated nationwide to memorializing the transgendered person who have died because of their gender. Emilie is a local trans* person and friend of BUUF. She and Elizabeth will reflect in an appropriately memorial way, and Emilie will share hopeful parts of her ... read more.
Bridging the Gaps
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
November 13th at 9:15 amWe Unitarian Universalists pride ourselves on our diversity. Is this entirely justified? Are there any “categories” that we do not feel compelled to embrace? How do we deal respectfully with genuine difference?
Band of Brothers (and Their Daughters)
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
November 6th at 9:15 amThe fathers of our Board vice president Judy Holcombe and our minister Elizabeth Greene were career US Navy men, and close friends. Their daughters will reflect on their lives, in honor of Veterans’ Day.
Dia de los Muertos
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
October 30th at 9:15 amThe lively and colorful Mexican holiday, Day of the Dead, fascinates us Norteamericanos, who tend to be pretty “Protestant” in our attitude toward death. Come join in a more unfettered celebration of our beloved dead than we are accustomed to.
Privilege, Dignity & Joy
Richard Adams
October 23rd at 9:15 amThere is no Audio file for this dateTwenty back-and-forth trips to Zimbabwe over the past two decades have led Richard to reflect about his place, and that of other privileged people, in the larger world. He’ll use an example from his experience with Zimbabwe Artists Project to help ground some of the ... read more.
Boston Bound and Back
October 16th at 9:15 am
Our Junior High youth once again journeyed to Boston this past summer on their bi-annual pilgrimage. Come hear from this crop of Boston Bounders about their adventures in Beantown and beyond. Child Dedication.
U + U = U2
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
October 9th at 9:15 amIn this incarnation (official incorporation in 1961), the Boise Unitarian Universalist Fellowship has been in our Valley for 50 years! Join Elizabeth and several of her inter-faith colleagues, as she shares our history, and they share blessings.
Listen, Listen, Listen to My Heart’s Song
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
October 2nd at 9:15 amHow many of us actually pay attention to the act of listening? Do we listen to nature? Each other? Ourselves? There will be good listening, as Elizabeth and the choir explore the subject.
WWWWD? (What Would Walt Whitman Do?)
Debra Smith
September 25th at 9:15 amWalt Whitman is called “The Bard of Democracy,” for giving voice to the (once upon a time?) egalitarian aspirations of our country. He came from a family of progressives and embraced the causes of social justice, and yet in his poetry he often takes a ... read more.
Laughter, Community, and Spirit
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
September 18th at 9:15 amElizabeth will preach her annual “humor sermon,” in which she delves profoundly into the religio-intellectual-social implications of humor. Or—well—maybe it’s her excuse for telling jokes from the pulpit?
Flowing Together
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
September 11th at 9:15 amOn this Homecoming Sunday, celebrating the beginning of our “regular” program year, we rejoice in community, even as we pause to remember 9/11/2001. Don’t forget to bring water from your summer places.
The Other Side of Christianity
Don Schutte
September 4th at 9:15 amA look at the other side of Christianity. The First 400 years the religion of Christianity was not what we know today. A look at how Christianity got to where it is today.
Whatever You Do, Don’t Mention Money
Sharon Barlow Palm
August 28th at 9:15 amMost people will talk about almost anything before they talk about money. Sharon gets down and gets comfortable speaking about one of our culture’s well know conversational taboos.
What’s in a Name?
Roger Sherman
August 21st at 9:15 amWho knew? At least 6 elementary schools in Boise are named after famous UUs. What were they all about? What were some of the virtues that our children might learn from them? Who wants to bet no one knew they were UU’s when they named ... read more.
Transformations
August 14th at 9:15 am
Dan Hotchkiss, in his book, Governance and Ministry states, “Religion transforms people; no one touches holy ground and stays the same.” Bill and Gwyn will use this statement to launch an exploration of the tension between the need for stability in a religious organization’s governance ... read more.
Wholehearted Living
Patricia Heeb
August 7th at 9:15 amThe heart is a muscular pump little larger than a fist that moves one million barrels of blood in the average lifetime—enough to fill three oil supertankers. All that and it has its own brain. What does it mean to live with a whole heart?
Through the Eyes of Beauty
Miriam Woito
July 31st at 9:15 amOur values guide our beliefs, actions, and behaviors. They are the lenses through which we see the world and measure our understanding. Beauty is a value that is more than just “skin deep”. Join me in celebration of beauty.
Pioneer Day
Lance Pitman
July 24th at 9:15 amLance will explore Pioneer Day celebrating the perseverance and dedication of the early settlers. On July 24th many in the west celebrate and honor our pioneer heritage, those who crossed the plains and created many of the cities and towns where we live today.
Our Role in the Politics of Food
July 17th at 9:15 am
Service and Advocacy are the two feet of social Justice. When we fill backpacks for the Idaho Foodbank or help people at the Capital City Market use their food stamps at the market, we are doing service. Advocacy allows us to address the root causes ... read more.
Touchstones
July 10th at 9:15 am
Memories can accumulate importance over the years. Members of the 2010/2011 BUUF memoir group will share stories from their childhoods and youth. Music will range through camp and scout songs to rousing renditions of Sunday School favorites in order to share the joy and further ... read more.
Defying Gravity
Bill Reid
July 3rd at 9:15 amWe live in troubled times. Things are grave, indeed, but lest we start to take ourselves too seriously—as individuals, as a community, as a religion—I think I’ll try defying gravity!
Communities of Faith
Gwyn Reid
June 26th at 9:15 amSo a Jew, a Muslim, a Christian, and a UU walk into a bar. Well we have the chance to hear what they have to say this Sunday on tolerance. The panel of speakers will be Gene Badesheim, Said Ahmed-Zaid, and Gwyn Reid.
Spiritual Procrastination
Bill Hoffman
June 19th at 9:15 amDo you proudly count yourself among those who are productive and get things done—those who are so conscientious, busy and driven to do good work that you put off allowing yourself to slow down, and disengage? Do you ponder the irony that you don’t have ... read more.
Kirtan
Mark Zimmerer
June 12th at 9:15 amKirtan is the ancient Hindu practice of call and response chanting. While I will talk briefly, the service will be more concerned with being surrounded by the voices of the people around us, and then experiencing the silence that follows.
Flower Communion
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
June 5th at 9:15 amOn this first-Sunday-of-summer-schedule, we have a briefer-than-usual service, starring Flower Communion: everyone brings a flower to put in the community vases, then, at a certain point in the service, we each take a flower back. If you forget your flower, well, Providence always steps in, ... read more.
On Aging
May 29th at 9:15 am
Aging is really a new experience and something of a surprise for anyone who reaches retirement age so it’s is no wonder that so much foolishness is written about its “prevention.” There are physical and mental manifestations we could all do without, but a sense ... read more.
A Home Where All Belong
Emmie Schlobohm
May 22nd at 9:15 amCome celebrate our children on this first annual Religious Exploration Celebration ! Find out what our children & youth have explored this year in their classes. Love, home, and family have been the over-arching themes this year, so join us for discoveries galore for all ... read more.
A Spiritual Year in Review
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
May 15th at 9:15 amEach year, on the of the Annual Meeting, Elizabeth muses on the “state of the Fellowship.” How have we been with each other? Have we nurtured souls? Helped heal the world? Practiced generosity?
Coming of Age
May 8th at 9:15 am
There is no Audio file for this date“Coming of Age” (9:30 service and 11:15 service), BUUF Junior High Youth and Mentors
Our Coming of Age youth will share their statements of faith that they have developed over ... read more.
Senior High Bridging
May 1st at 9:15 am
Do you need an infusion of hope for the future and to know that the world will be in good hands after we’re gone? Our graduating seniors will share their journeys and visions for their futures and ours. Come celebrate their bridging from youth to ... read more.
In Time of Daffodils
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
April 24th at 9:15 amIt’s Easter, when our hearts stray toward the miracles of new life, rebirth—even resurrection! This year, e.e. cummings provides our text.
Go in Peace
April 17th at 9:15 am
The worship service will feature readings and personal reflections by Returned Peace Corps Volunteers and musical accompaniment by the Common Ground Community Chorus.
The van Gogh Café
Rev. Keith Kron
April 10th at 9:15 amRev. Keith Kron is the UUA’s Transitions Director. Keith was Director of the UUA’s Office for Bisexual, Gay, Lesbian, and Transgender Concerns for over 14 years, and is a valued friend of our minister. We are delighted to welcome him this morning, as he speaks ... read more.
From My Life
April 3rd at 9:15 am
Several members of Jeanette Ross’ BUUF Memoir class will share selections from writings out of their own lives.
Fear of Falling
Rev. Margaret Keip
March 27th at 9:15 amTreasures hiding in plain sight are easy to miss. The profound dynamic threaded through our seven UU principles is one of them. It’s a truth too rarely perceived, though it’s vital to life itself.
Loyalty
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
March 20th at 9:15 amWhat does it mean to be loyal? Is there truth in that old statement “loyal to a fault”? This is an old-fashioned virtue—do we value it?
Hinduism in a Nutshell
March 13th at 9:15 am
Hinduism is the oldest living religion in the world, and it embraces many paths to the holy from polytheism to monotheism to atheism. This presentation will explore various aspects of the religion that make this diversity possible. UUs will detect strong resonances with some of ... read more.
Where Do You Draw the Line?
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
March 6th at 9:15 amIf we are socially aware, wishing to respect other cultures and worldviews, is there ever a time when our respect runs into conflict with our sense of justice? If that happens, what do we do?
Make a Joyful Noise
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
February 27th at 9:15 amToday, we kick off our Annual Stewardship Drive, focusing for a bit on the material that underlies our vision of love and justice. What song echoes in our hearts, uniting us in joy and connection?
Who Needs God?
Rev. Jackie Kelly
February 20th at 9:15 amAs a UU minister, Jackie Kelly serves as the Clinical Pastoral Education Supervisor at St. Luke’s. Join Jackie as she reflects on how talking with hospital patients, family, staff and CPE students about their relationships with God has influenced her thinking about how Unitarian Universalists ... read more.
Secrets
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
February 13th at 9:15 amWhat sorts of secrets do we keep? What effect do secrets have on our lives and relationships? There is still time to type your secret, seal it and get it to Elizabeth!
Love … or Something Like It
Wanda and Bryan Jennings
February 6th at 9:15 amWith Valentine’s Day coming, remember what Clint Black said, “Love isn’t something that you feel, it’s something that you do.”
Turn the Principles Upside Down
Rev. Gail Lindsay Marriner
January 30th at 9:15 amCreativity consists of looking at the familiar with new eyes. This sermon reflects on what might happen if we were to look at our principles in a new way and read them starting with the seventh and ending with the first. Rev. Marriner graduated from ... read more.
Discovery and Re-Discovery
January 23rd at 9:15 am
Each time BUUF members visit with our partners in Mészkõ, our relationship is discovered in a new way. Alan and Mary Schwartzman, and Ed and Irene Rush traveled to Mészkõ last summer. For Mary, it was her fourth trip. Alan, Irene, and Ed were there ... read more.
We Have a Dream
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
January 16th at 9:15 amJanine Larsen, our Pacific Northwest District Executive, will speak with us about our vision, as we move into the final years of Elizabeth’s ministry.
Margaret Fuller: a Woman For all Times
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
January 9th at 9:15 amMargaret Fuller was an amazing 19th-century woman, whose life and thought can inspire us. Elizabeth & Elton will present her words & some reflection.
Whose God is This?
January 2nd at 9:15 am
Nancy will explore why we believe whatever it is we believe. And what does it mean to be Unitarian. She will talk about the metamorphosis of her own beliefs.
O Magnum Mysterium
Carrie Bastian
December 19th at 9:15 amThe ancient chant O magnum mysterium (“Oh great mystery”) invites us to contemplate Divine mystery in the birth of a child. Join with the choir and BUUF musicians as we sing and celebrate the mysteries of the holiday season.
Just Before the Dawn
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
December 12th at 9:15 amThis is a dark, reflective time of the year, with the shortest day approaching very soon. What does it mean to be in the wintry darkness, and what does the light bring?
Deck the Halls!
December 5th at 9:15 am
It’s time again for our annual tradition of Deck the Halls Sunday! Our children and youth will share their discoveries of the wonders of our “Blue Boat Home.” Join us for a celebration of traditions from around the world and right under our feet. Plays, ... read more.
Gratefulness
November 28th at 9:15 am
Now that Thanksgiving is over, how can we remember to live in a state of gratefulness and learn to remain grateful not only for what we perceive as the blessings in our lives, but also for the difficult times?
We Are All Pilgrims
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
November 21st at 9:15 amA special Sunday, featuring woodblock slides and words from a wonderful book about our ancestors, the Puritans. Elizabeth will reflect on this heritage, and we will all enjoy the book (with permission from Annie Bissett, author and artist).
The Power of Story
Emmie Schlobohm
November 14th at 9:15 amStories have been central to humanity for as long as people have been speaking to each other. How else do we really learn what other people’s lives are like, feel what they feel, and belong together in community?
Spiritual or Natural?
November 7th at 9:15 am
Elizabeth and Mark are self-confessed “mystic” and “naturalist,” respectively. They both practice devotional disciplines. Are they more alike or different?
All Souls
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
October 31st at 9:15 amOn this day, when the veil between this world and the next is said to be thinnest, Elizabeth will reflect on witch hunts and generosity of spirit.
Circle of Life
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
October 24th at 9:15 amOur Seventh Principle states that we affirm & support the interdependent web of all existence. Is that mysticism, science, or something else?
Sustainability Didn’t Catch On – Now What?
Loren Bergeson
October 17th at 9:15 amDespite the best efforts of many dedicated people, humanity continues to damage the planet and use up non-renewable resources at an ever accelerating rate. What are the chances of creating enough political will to turn things around? If the chances aren’t good, what does that ... read more.
Sustainability Didn’t Catch On, Now What?
Loren Bergeson
October 17th at 9:00 amSustainability Didn’t Catch On, Now What? Loren Bergeson (Oct. 17, 2010)
Standing On the Side of Love
October 10th at 9:15 am
The Congregational Care Committee brings love & care to the congregation. Our denomination is also involved in Standing on the Side of Love. How do they mesh?
A Brief History of the Future of School
Debra Smith
October 3rd at 9:15 amUUs have a long history of promoting free, non-sectarian public schools. In the 19th century, one of our country’s most eloquent advocates was the Unitarian, Horace Mann. Today, public schools are buffeted by reform advocates of all kinds. It seems that everyone who has ever ... read more.
A Brief History of the Future of School
Debra Smith
October 3rd at 9:00 amA Brief History of the Future of School, Debra Smith (Oct. 3, 2010)
What Motivates a Truly Religious Person?
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
September 26th at 9:15 amIf you look deep inside, looking at your heart honestly, what do you find motivates you? Elizabeth will reflect (honestly!) on this big question.
History, Hopes & Dreams
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
September 19th at 9:15 amOur Fellowship is dynamic, changing-but-solid. In the best of all possible worlds, what do we long to create?
Bringing Our Water Home
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
September 12th at 9:15 amOfficial start of the program year! Bring water from your summer travels, come check in with everyone.
Who are these Pagans
Don Schutte
September 5th at 9:15 amWhat does it mean to be Pagan and how is it different or the same as other belief systems. Let’s explore these questions. Let’s see if we can find how Pagans are alike and how they are different. You may find Unitarian Universalists have a ... read more.
Everyday Spirituality and Meaningful Rituals
August 29th at 9:15 am
The Chalice Circle by the same name will present an experience which shows what makes the “Cool Group” Concept so cool. Special music with flutes, drumming, and didgeridoos!
Through This We Live
August 22nd at 9:15 am
Dr. Cutler will share Lakota/Dakota traditional culture, its values, beliefs, and rituals as he learned and experienced them. Specifically, he will provide a brief overview of the Inipi ceremony including some specifics on materials, meanings of the fire/altar/lodge, how an individual comes to be qualified ... read more.
Spirituality at Work: Churchy Stuff I’ve Learned in My Job as a Psychotherapist
Patricia Heeb
August 15th at 9:15 amThough I have attended church forever, it has been in my work life that I have found meaningful experience of the “religious” concepts I heard while sitting in the pew. I’ll be sharing that journey with you. Brace yourself: I may mention the word “sin.”
Found in Translation: A Rough Guide to Self Discovery through Travel
August 8th at 9:15 am
BUUF’s music director and her husband will discuss ways in which travel can be a soul expanding experience. They will share some of their travel experiences, both humorous and meaningful, and talk about ways to access the benefits of travel, even when you think you ... read more.
Waikiki Walk Lights
Bryan Jennings
August 1st at 9:15 amSooner or later everyone rides THE BUS. Hello, is anyone really in charge here?
Infectious Greed—America’s slide from Democracy to Oligarchy
Bob Huntley
July 25th at 9:15 amSocial Justice and Religious Freedom thrive only in the crucible of a society of involved people who are effectively engaged in the direction and actions of the institutions of government. An infectious greed now grips much of our business community. America is beset by the ... read more.
Loving Yourself
July 18th at 9:15 am
12:00 AM
Our Second Principle: Justice, equity and compassion in human relations; A cross generational dialogue on social change
July 11th at 9:15 am
Our UU principles and especially our second principle, lead us to work for justice. But what is the path to justice, equity and compassion? Anthony and Roger, both raised UU in different times, will talk about the paths they’ve traveled as they have worked for ... read more.
Integrity, Service and Excellence: Lessons from Air Force Basic Training
July 4th at 9:15 am
Airman 1st Class Bonnie Harper Bonnie Harper, daughter of our music director Carrie Bastian, will speak on her recent experience in basic military training and on the core values of the United States Air Force: integrity first, service before self and excellence in all we ... read more.
The History and Evolution of 12 Step Recovery
June 27th at 9:15 am
Problem drinking has plagued mankind from the beginning of recorded history. It has affected peasant to king, followers to great leaders. From the “Pledge” to Prohibition, no program or movement made any inroads toward recovery until the founding of AA in 1935 and its 12 ... read more.
Solstice Earthworks
Mark Zimmerer
June 20th at 9:15 amThe Summer Solstice is Jun 21, 2010 at 5:28am MDT. Come take a tour of earthworks, ancient and contemporary, that help us to understand, appreciate, and marvel at our position in relationship to the rest of our solar system.
BUUF’s Outdoor Treasures
June 13th at 9:15 am
A large part of what makes BUUF “BUUF” are the Grounds, the Grove, Jeremiah’s Adventure Garden and A Walk Through Time. Learn how this magical place came to be from Barb Alexander. Jolene Schow will share how JAG was created and John Jacobsen will tell ... read more.
Flower Communion
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
June 6th at 9:15 amThere is no Audio file for this dateThis is the first Sunday of summer schedule, and our chance to say farewell to this program year. Bring a flower for the communion, and a dish for the potluck. After the service, we will process to Little Bridge to celebrate (with plum brandy and ... read more.
The search for meaning in our lives
Bill Reid
May 30th at 9:15 amWhen we reflect upon the people and events that have shaped our lives, we invest them with meaning and value. We name them good and bad, blessings and disasters. Are these value judgments useful products of our imaginations? As I approach my 60th birthday, I ... read more.
The Glastonbury Covenant
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
May 23rd at 9:15 amOn a Sunday packed with many things (new member joining, celebration of our stewardship campaign, the second annual Rock Communion), Elizabeth will reflect on an agreement that makes sense.
State of the Fellowship (or a Spiritual Retrospective)
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
May 16th at 9:15 amIt’s often too easy to give a glib reply to the tossed off statement “how are you doing?” Let’s hear a thoughtful, nuanced answer (what else?) to the question of how we’ve done, spiritually speaking, in 2009-2010
After Enlightenment, the Laundry
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
May 9th at 9:15 amEnlightenment seems a noble and high-falutin’ concept. But there’s a school of thought that says it’s not much use if the laundry doesn’t get done, too.
Senior High Bridging
May 2nd at 9:15 am
We hear words of wisdom from our high school seniors, about to “go out into the big world.” Experience our next crop of community leaders. Come help our graduating youth bridge to young adulthood and celebrate!
The Sanctuary of Greenness
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
April 25th at 9:15 amOur church is a Unitarian-Universalist-Association-recognized Green Sanctuary, a designation of which we may be proud. What does it mean? How do we continue, as a congregation, to make our step light on the earth?
The Medicine Wheel’s Still Pertinent Lessons
April 18th at 9:15 am
Somewhere at the interface of religion, psychology, philosophy and self help is the Medicine Wheel of the American Indians. It is a guide to self actualization and the understanding of self and others. It requires no shaman, priest, feathers or drums. It is a guide ... read more.
Day Selves, Night Selves
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
April 11th at 9:15 amTruth is a pretty tricky concept, often put forth as the result solely of scientific observation, or at least processes to which we all apply our brains. What, though, of our “night selves,” the parts of us that learn truths through myth, intuition, dream and ... read more.
The Time For Singing Has Come
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
April 4th at 9:15 amIt’s Easter! Many religious stories tell of the deaths that lead to new life, to redemption and resurrection. Today, we celebrate life and light’s emergence from sorrow and dark.
Dayenu
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
March 28th at 9:15 amIn this Passover season, Elizabeth will retell the central Jewish story related to this holiday, and will lift up the gratitude that characterizes this celebration.
Passion
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
March 21st at 9:15 amElizabeth reminds us that UUs have historically been a lot more comfortable with thought than passion, which sounds like we live from our heads rather than our hearts. Can we live more from our hearts, or is there at least a middle ground? As Joseph ... read more.
The Legacy of Forrest Church
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
March 14th at 9:15 amRev. Forrest Church died on September 24, 2009, at the age of 62, leaving what may be the late 20th century’s most significant Unitarian Universalist theological and human legacy. Elizabeth will share some of his life and thoughts.
Social Action: Practical or Theological?
March 7th at 9:15 am
Unitarian Universalists do not spend undue time, as a rule, reflecting on their theological foundations. But, can we really act responsibly in the world if we do not know what our assumptions are, behind our work to bring justice and charity in the world? Louise ... read more.
We’re All Student Humans
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
February 28th at 9:15 amKnow those “Student Driver” signs on cars? Would we treat each other differently if we all wore “Student Human” signs? Elizabeth and our fabulous house band will explore this question.
Death as Part of Life
February 21st at 9:15 am
Most of this country has accepted, as de facto social law, the notion that life itself is essential precious, and more important than pain and suffering. But the times might be changing, toward acceptance of the right to die with dignity, on one’s own terms.
Love: Many-Splendored or Just Confusing?
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
February 14th at 9:15 amElizabeth reflects on the impossible subject of love, that consumerist-mangled, advertising-perverted human feeling, springing from the depths of our souls.
The Tao of Ipod
February 7th at 9:15 am
David presents a sermon written by the President of the First UU Church of Wichita, Anne Welsbacher, concerning our lives in the Age of Gadgetry.
Where Do We Stand?
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
January 31st at 9:15 amLast spring, about 120 of us participated in a survey conducted by the respected Lilly Foundation, and they have sent us our results. How do we compare with others? With our own aspirations?
The Rise of Evolutionary Spirituality
Loren Bergeson
January 24th at 9:15 amLoren shares how 2009 was a year of spiritual insight for him, gleaned from Michael Dowd’s book, Thank God For Evolution, among other sources. TGFE offers a powerful way to reconcile science with the best of religion, in a way that has the potential to ... read more.
The Rise of Evolutionary Spirituality
Loren Bergeson
January 24th at 9:00 amThe Rise of Evolutionary Spirituality, Loren Bergeson (Jan. 24, 2010)
Making a Difference
January 17th at 9:15 am
Our faith has blazed a trail to a more caring, more just society, in part living up to Dr. King’s “Dream.” We will look at the contributions and life of Martin Luther King, Jr. and what we can do to fulfill his prophetic words. From ... read more.
Hey, boys, how’s the oxygen?
Mark Zimmerer
January 10th at 9:15 amIn the practice of yoga, doing poses is only the beginning of the work. More importantly, yoga focuses on the breath and its effect on our bodies, minds and spirits. Mark Zimmerer will discuss the act of breathing with stories from Thich Nhat Hanh, BKS ... read more.
Laugh, I Thought I’d Die
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
January 3rd at 9:15 amOnce a year or so, Elizabeth does a “humor sermon,” delving deeply into the profound theological significance of laughing. Or, well, does she actually mostly enjoy an opportunity to tell jokes from the pulpit?
Mother Mary Comes to Me
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
December 24th at 9:15 amWhat must Mary have been going through, as she “pondered all these things in her heart?” Here she is, a teenager, holding the light-filled blessing of new life—which seems to have invited a whole array of amazing visitors. She had been warned beforehand, of course, ... read more.
Circles of Dark and Light
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
December 20th at 9:15 amIt is almost Winter Solstice, the darkest day of the year, turning then toward more and more light. To reach the lightest day of the year, turning then toward more and more dark. How does this echo our lives?
Sure On This Shining Night
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
December 13th at 9:15 amAmidst dark Winter nights, we find the lights of the December holidays, bringing us healing, wholeness and peace. This mostly music service will feature the choir, Natalie Whiting (alto), Mark Zimmerer (baritone), Michael Stevenson (violinist) & Janelle Brown (cellist)
Deck the Halls
December 6th at 9:15 am
May the merry mayhem continue! Join the fun while our children and youth of all ages present plays, songs, poems and more exploring the power of community for the conclusion of our annual Deck the Halls celebration weekend.
Beethoven’s Daiku Unbound
November 29th at 9:15 am
On May 7, 1824, Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony received its premier in Vienna, Austria. During its 185-year history the “Ode to Joy” Symphony has provided audiences throughout the world spiritual inspiration and jubilation. In Japan massed choral groups and orchestras come together in December of each ... read more.
Getting To Yes: a Brief History of Our Fellowship
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
November 22nd at 9:15 amOur congregation has been a part of the Treasure Valley community for many decades. Elizabeth will speak about some of the high (and low!) spots.
It’s Not the Changes, It’s the Transitions
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
November 15th at 9:15 amAll our life, we are in change & transition. A change may happen quickly—but how do we handle the longer process of transition? Elizabeth has an important announcement.
Where is my Inspiration?
November 8th at 9:15 am
The Minister of our partner church in Mészkõ brings blessings and greetings from Transylvania to Boise, connecting the struggle for religious freedom in central Europe with the principles and purposes of the Unitarian Universalist Association. Our shared inspiration is the love in our hearts, expressed ... read more.
What Do You Have to Be To Have a Spiritual Practice?
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
November 1st at 9:15 amIf Unitarian Universalism is to be a genuine religious community, UUs need to have regular centering & transcending practices. Elizabeth will offer examples & ideas.
Boston Bound and Back Again
October 25th at 9:15 am
Our Junior High youth once again journeyed to Boston this past summer on their semi-annual pilgrimage. Come hear from this crop of Boston Bounders about their adventures in Beantown and beyond.
Music through Community – Community through Music
Carrie Bastian
October 18th at 9:15 amBUUF Music Director Carrie Bastian will relate her musical and spiritual journey, explore our human impulse to make music, examine music as spiritual practice and discuss how we can create a stronger religious community through musical experience.
Coming Out For Justice
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
October 11th at 9:15 amOct. 11 is National Coming Out Day, in which gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people are encouraged to express their true selves. What can allies do to “come out” in support?
Living in Community
October 4th at 9:15 am
Elizabeth and Lisa will reflect on how we can get our own needs met by paying better attention to the communities we care about. The Committee on Ministry will be part of this, and Congregational Care Team will be encouraging you to join them in ... read more.
Where Children Are Wise and Adults Can Play
Emmie Schlobohm
September 27th at 9:15 amOur young people’s Religious Exploration program is an extraordinary place where you can find your inner whimsy, wonder and awe! People of all ages grow and learn in our RE wings during any given Sunday. Your Director of Religious Exploration, Emmie Schlobohm, invites you on ... read more.
Restless Souls
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
September 20th at 9:15 amElizabeth will reflect on spirituality “from Emerson to Oprah,” to quote from the book Restless Souls. Starting Oct. 7, she and Elton Hall will teach a class on this book. (See Adult Education offerings for this fall.)
Water: Its Cosmic Origins
September 13th at 9:15 am
We are 55 to 60% water; our blood is 95% water. We depend on water for our very existence. Connie Barlow will explain how much deeper our water connection is—all the way back to the stars!
The End Starts the Beginning
September 6th at 9:15 am
Here we are on Labor Day Weekend Sunday, the official end of summer before the start of our program year. All summer long did you realize you’ve been preaching to the world around us? We said it with our t-shirts, our actions and our lives. ... read more.
Standing on the Side of Love
August 30th at 9:15 am
Come hear six different impressions of the Unitarian Universalist Association’s (UUA) General Assembly (GA) held in June in Salt Lake City where we stood on the side of love on several issues. We elected a new UUA president, Peter Morales; and BUUF was recognized for ... read more.
Time has come today
August 23rd at 9:15 am
Noted pastor Rick Warren writes extensively about the importance of giving your time and energy to your loved ones. He states that the way you spell love is “T-I-M-E.” David agrees wholeheartedly, and is asking you to spend some time with him this Sunday to ... read more.
Humanism, Unpacked
August 16th at 9:15 am
The confidence that we humans can, and must, take responsibility for ourselves and each other, is one shared by humanists both theistic and non-theistic. What sets us apart from UUs, if anything? Several members of BUUF’s humanist group will speak to our philosophy, our ethics, ... read more.
Gardens: life, wonder, awe and sustenance
August 9th at 9:15 am
Boise Urban Garden School (BUGS) students explore the question, “Where does our food come from?” and reconnect to nature in a hands-on learning environment. Come join BUGS students and Becky Morgan, BUGS executive director, as they share their adventures in dirt, water, weeds, and wonder!
The Melody of Life – in the key of ‘UU’
Dale Winke
August 2nd at 9:15 amExamining the overarching theme of Battlestar Galactica, Dale Winke looks at the connections, meanings, and melodies from one individual UU’s viewpoint.
The Calming Breath of Meditation Quenches the Fire of Suffering
July 26th at 9:15 am
There is no Audio file for this date“The Calming Breath of Meditation Quenches the Fire of Suffering,” Tony DeAngelis
What are Relics to UUs?
Elton Hall
July 19th at 9:15 amBUUF is hosting the Buddhist Relic Tour, though UU’s are not known for their appreciation of relics. Why do some people find relics meaningful, while others are indifferent and some even repulsed by them? Can relics cause epiphanies? We will explore these questions as well ... read more.
What is This Thing Called Love?
July 12th at 9:15 am
What is this thing called love? Maybe it’s something more than in the music. Maybe it’s something more than we’ve ever been aware.
Food Ways: When Wretched Excess is Barely Enough
July 5th at 9:15 am
Graduate of University of Oregon in folklore, Dan Peterson speaks on noting three historical stages of food ways. Join Dan on his international travels his stories relate. His concept of “excess” has nothing to do with calories. Like James Beard, Dan feels a day is ... read more.
Hey, boys, how’s the oxygen?
Mark Zimmerer
June 28th at 9:15 amIn the practice of yoga, doing poses is only the beginning of the work. More importantly, yoga focuses on the breath and its effect on our bodies, minds and spirits. Mark Zimmerer will discuss the act of breathing with stories from Thich Nhat Hanh, BKS ... read more.
A Whole Lotta Heaven!
June 21st at 9:15 am
David spent the majority of his life conveniently ignoring the big questions. Is there a God? What happens when we die? Why are we here? It wasn’t like he was afraid to face them or anything. Certainly not! Leave it to his 4-year-old son, Michael, ... read more.
Our Debt to the Universalists
June 14th at 9:15 am
Compiled by John Harms to explore what Universalism is. Come hear this presentation, back by popular request.
Flower Communion
June 7th at 9:15 am
There is no Audio file for this dateFor All That Is Our Life
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
May 31st at 9:15 amCelebrating the successful end of the Annual Stewardship Drive, Elizabeth reflects on the many gifts that we are given and that we give, creating dynamic, challenging community.
The Young Soldiers
May 24th at 9:15 am
This Memorial Day Sunday explore the resiliency of people during conflict. Daniel Wright has been in Iraq, Bosnia, Kosovo, Central America and Africa with the Army and as a contractor rebuilding the countries’ infrastructure.
…What’s Goin’ On?
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
May 17th at 9:15 amEach year, our minister Elizabeth Greene delivers a “state-of-the-church” sermon on Annual Meeting day, sharing her take on the significance of the almost-finished program year.
Coming of Age
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
May 10th at 9:15 amThere is no Audio file for this date“Coming of Age (9am),” BUUF youth, Rev. Elizabeth Greene, Emmie Schlobohm, Cathy Carmen
“Coming of Age (11am),” BUUF youth, Rev. Elizabeth Greene, Emmie Schlobohm, Cathy Carmen
This Sunday is an every-other-year ... read more.
Senior High Bridging; BUUF high school seniors
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
May 3rd at 9:15 amA Sunday always awaited eagerly by our congregation, this is the Sunday we hear words of wisdom from our high school seniors, about to “go out into the big world.”
Reflections on a Sabbatical, Part 3
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
April 26th at 9:15 amAs the “church year” is moving toward its busy close (in June, but it happens fast!), Elizabeth will reflect one final time on her sabbatical experiences last week.
It’s In Your Hands
April 19th at 9:15 am
Earth Day is about two environments, yes it is about raising awareness on environmental issues and promoting environmental action; but it is also about the human environment, the inner life that directs us. It is what we think about the Earth as well as our ... read more.
Up From the Dark We Arise
April 12th at 9:15 am
It’s Easter, the day we celebrate emerging from the nurturing and mysterious dark. Wear your Easter bonnet, your John Harms tie, and celebrate in community.
Laugh? I Thought I’d Die
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
April 5th at 9:15 amElizabeth holds the position that laughing is a religious activity. Or maybe she just likes to tell jokes. Come find out!
We Ain’t Afraid of No Ghosts
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
March 29th at 9:15 amMost of us are haunted by the “ghosts” from our past. Times in our lives wrought with embarrassment or regret. David recently returned to Pocatello for a little “ghost-busting” from his college days. Armed with the healing power of love, David sought to silence his ... read more.
The Fire of Commitment
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
March 22nd at 9:15 amOn this new-member-joining Sunday, Elizabeth will explore what it means to commit one’s self: to another person, an organization, a particular course of events.
We Are Not the News. Or Are We?
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
March 15th at 9:15 amSo many of us are “news junkies,” a habit that can be detrimental to our health. How do we stay aware of our world, and also maintain our sense of hope, let alone optimism?
A Complaint-Free World
March 8th at 9:15 am
What do you suppose the world would be like if everyone spoke honestly but non-judgmentally, without “whining.” Elizabeth will share her odyssey of trying to achieve this, with the help of a book.
“How Can I Keep From Singing?” The Spirituality of Social Action
Rev. Ralph Galen
March 1st at 9:00 am“How Can I Keep From Singing? The Spirituality of Social Action,” Rev. Ralph Galen and Pam Kelly
After spending exciting time together on Friday and Saturday, we will have the chance to hear our presenters share worship ... read more.
So Say We All
Dale Winke
February 22nd at 9:00 amCome join Dale as he explores how the themes of science fiction can plumb the depths of humanity’s spiritual and transcended yearnings.
Becoming Ourselves
James Mack
February 15th at 9:00 amHow might things have been different if I hadn’t felt the need to deny my own uniqueness and imitate the other “normal” kids around me as I grew up? Following his musical revue, Just Married, the Musical! on Valentine’s Day at BUUF, James Mack will ... read more.
Norbert Capek’s Odyssey
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
February 8th at 9:00 amNorbert Capek, best known as the creator of the Flower Communion, had a fascinating history, moving from a conservative religion into Unitarianism. He was a man of inspiration and integrity, and paid for his principles.
Groundhog Day
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
February 1st at 9:00 amAre there any patterns in your life you don’t want and don’t seem to be able to rise above? After a Saturday-night viewing of the movie “Groundhog Day,” Elizabeth will talk about how we do and don’t change.
Reflections on a Sabbatical, Part II: The Shadow Knows
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
January 25th at 9:00 amSharing more of her six-month sabbatical, Elizabeth will focus on the 30 days she spent on retreat at St. Gertrude’s Monastery in Cottonwood, Idaho. Things arise, when you live with just yourself for that long.
Martin Luther King, Obama and Great Expectations
Elton Hall
January 18th at 9:00 amMartin Luther King, Jr., transcended his own religious tradition, learned from Mahatma Gandhi, and set a course that led to the election of Barack Obama as president. We will explore what he knew and how it applies to our nation, our expectations and ourselves.
What Are We Here For?
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
January 11th at 9:00 amOn the weekend of January 23rd and 24th, we will all join in asking questions like Who are we? What makes us unique? What is our purpose? Elizabeth reflects a bit, in a preliminary way.
Beginnings
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
January 4th at 9:00 amOf course, life is always beginning anew every day. But humans take certain times to reflect on what has gone before, and what we hope will happen.
A Spiritualist, a Skeptic, or a Child?
December 28th at 9:00 am
“A Spiritualist, a Skeptic, or a Child?” Nancy Harms
We will explore the spiritual, skeptic and child that exists in each of us; manifesting in one form or another depending on a particular moment in time in ... read more.
Christmas Eve service
December 24th at 7:00 pm
There is no Audio file for this dateChristmas Eve service – not recorded.
The Blessed Sound of Silence
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
December 21st at 9:00 amThere is no Audio file for this date“The Blessed Sound of Silence,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene
Continuing the tradition of a Quaker-style meeting on the Sunday before Christmas. After a reading, chalice lighting, simple song and brief explanation, we sit in silence for about 45 minutes, emulating the excellent practice of our sisters ... read more.
Where Are You Christmas? Finding Meaning in the Holiday Season—A Mostly Music Sunday
December 14th at 9:00 am
Celebrating the colorful tapestry of nature, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and Christmas—Elizabeth, the choir and soloists will illuminate the common ... read more.
“Deck the Halls”
December 7th at 9:00 am
There is no Audio file for this date“Deck the Halls”
Come one, come all to BUUF’s Deck the Halls celebration! This is our own intergenerational welcome to the winter holidays. Our wonderful RE children and youth will share with us “A Thousand and One Ways to Love and to Care.”
(No audio ... read more.In the Spirit of Thanks
November 30th at 9:00 am
“In the Spirit of Thanks,” Sarah Bratley
This Thanksgiving holiday, Sarah explores a thankful presence in prayers, everyday life, and social interactions.
The Lord Loves a Cheerful Receiver
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
November 29th at 9:15 amThere is no Audio file for this dateThe Lord Loves a Cheerful Receiver, Rev. Elizabeth Greene (November 29, 1998)
Ministry: Our Partnership
November 23rd at 9:00 am
“Ministry: Our Partnership,” Gini Courter, Moderator of the Unitarian Universalist Association
This is a very big-deal Sunday. The witty, articulate, and grounded Gini Courter, moderator of our entire Association, will preach to us as we celebrate the ... read more.
Moving Forward in Faith
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
November 16th at 9:00 amNovember 16, 2008
“Moving Forward in Faith,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene
It’s “Miracle Sunday”! Today, we wrap up our fall stewardship drive and begin celebrating 20 years of ministry partnership. If you haven’t pledged yet, bring your pledge form. ... read more.
Partners in Faith,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene, Miriam and David Woito, Will Smith
November 9th at 9:00 am
“Partners in Faith,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene, Miriam and David Woito, Will Smith
Four members of our church traveled as pilgrims to Mészkõ, Transylvania, to visit fellow Unitarians, with whom we have been partners for going on 20 ... read more.
Día de Los Muertos
November 2nd at 9:00 am
“Día de Los Muertos,” Sharon and Charles Barlow Palm
At this “All Souls” time of year, we honor the Mexican custom of Day of the Dead, light-hearted and reverent.
Creation of Spirituality
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
November 1st at 9:15 amThere is no Audio file for this dateCreation of Spirituality, Rev. Elizabeth Greene (November 1, 1998)
The Flaming Chalice
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
October 26th at 9:00 am“The Flaming Chalice,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene
We UUs have fewer symbols that most religions. But we do cherish the flaming chalice, a beacon to us for many years. Elizabeth will tell the story of this symbol, and ... read more.
Pebbles In a Pond
October 19th at 9:00 am
“Pebbles In a Pond,” Don Schutte
As children we often pitched pebbles into a pond. Maybe we still do as adults. I know I do. What lesson is there in this innocent action? David Ward, service coordinator; ... read more.
Of Such is the Kingdom of Heaven
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
October 12th at 9:00 am“Of Such is the Kingdom of Heaven,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene
This is National Children’s Day, and we will consider that “childlike” attitude seen in advanced teachers like the Dalai Lama. It is also Association Sunday, celebrating this ... read more.
Religiously Liberal
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
October 11th at 9:15 amThere is no Audio file for this dateReligiously Liberal, Rev. Elizabeth Greene (October 11, 1998)
Let Us Cultivate Boundless Goodwill
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
October 5th at 9:00 am“Let Us Cultivate Boundless Goodwill,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene
What did the Buddha mean by “boundless good will”? On this Congregational Care Team-sponsored Sunday, Elizabeth will reflect on the nature of good will—usually bounded— in community. Nancy Harms, ... read more.
Days of Awe
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
September 29th at 9:15 amThere is no Audio file for this dateDays of Awe, Rev. Elizabeth Greene (September 20, 1998)
Who Is My Neighbor?
September 28th at 9:00 am
“Who Is My Neighbor?” Rev. Elizabeth Greene
We Unitarian Universalists hold diversity as a high value. Today, Elizabeth will look at some ways about we may embody this value, and some ways where we may opt for ... read more.
Reflections on a Sabbatical, part one: Experiencing the Holy
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
September 21st at 9:00 am“Reflections on a Sabbatical, part one: Experiencing the Holy,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene
Over this program year, Elizabeth will be sharing various aspects of her recent sabbatical. On this Sunday, she will reflect on the many and varied ... read more.
Don’t Be Afraid of Some Change
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
September 14th at 8:00 am“Don’t Be Afraid of Some Change,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene
On this weekend when we will have been stimulated and inspired by a visit from UUA consultant Larry Wheeler Elizabeth will discuss the spiritual, emotional and practical implications ... read more.
Re-Connecting in Love
September 7th at 9:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateSeptember 7, 2008
“Re-Connecting in Love,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene
(Sorry, this sermon was not recorded.)
Silencing Mr. Negativepants
August 31st at 9:00 am
“Silencing Mr. Negativepants,” David Ward
David desperately wants to break free from his comfort zone. Throw caution to the wind and take complete advantage of this incredible gift we call life. Unfortunately, David’s subconscious is dominated by ... read more.
Polishing the Mirror” or “You don’t like my Kung Fu?
August 24th at 9:00 am
“Polishing the Mirror” or “You don’t like my Kung Fu?” Tony DeAngelis
Reflections on the spiritual aspects of the Martial Arts.
Here Comes the Sun
August 17th at 9:00 am
“Here Comes the Sun,” Debbie Espen
We are physical, material, biological beings who not only need the light and warmth of the sun to live, but also respond emotionally and spiritually to the sun. Debbie shares a ... read more.
Shifting Sands in Religion and Politics: A Contemporary Historical Look
August 10th at 9:00 am
August 10, 2008
“Shifting Sands in Religion and Politics: A Contemporary Historical Look,” Jill Gill
Jill will explore changes currently afoot within the religious right as we approach the 2008 presidential election, and place these changes into some ... read more.
Science Fact and Fiction—How they informed my faith and world
August 3rd at 9:00 am
“Science Fact and Fiction—How they informed my faith and world,” Dale Winke
Let us see where that takes us.
The Grand Metaphor – Life on (and off) a raft in the Grand Canyon.
July 27th at 9:00 am
BUUF members Linden Boice and Gordon Hamilton will recount highlights of their three week rafting trip through the ... read more.
The Velveteen Minister
July 20th at 9:00 am
The Velveteen Minister, Sharon Barlow Palm
Exploring the role of the minister in all of us.
Honoring the Spirited Child – Within and Without
July 13th at 9:00 am
Honoring the Spirited Child – Within and Without, Sarah Bratley
With some group participation, Sarah Bratley shares lessons learned about recognizing the inherent worth and dignity of every person – even in those times when you are ... read more.
The History Project
July 6th at 9:00 am
July 6, 2008
The History Project, Sheryl Dowlin, Alan and Mary Schwartzman, and Coston and Judy Frederick
America is a youth-worshipping culture, and that is appropriate for such a young country, celebrating, as it is, its birthday on ... read more.
The Power of Four,” by Tom Hanks
June 29th at 9:00 am
“The Power of Four,” by Tom Hanks, delivered by Dale Winke
How many cars would you have to take away from California’s crowded roadway to rid them of gridlock? A computer simulation supplied the answer: four percent, ... read more.
The Shorter Longer Way
June 22nd at 9:00 am
“The Shorter Longer Way,” Guest speaker Rabbi Daniel B. Fink
Sometimes what looks like a short cut, isn’t. The easy way out is not the path preferred. Rabbi Fink, rabbi of Congregation Ahavath Beth Israel in Boise, ... read more.
Father’s Day
June 15th at 9:00 am
Several years ago, Greg Duffy, then a chimney-sweep, suffered a fall from a roof. He nearly died. Since that time his brain sometimes struggles to find words to express his thoughts. On this ... read more.
Making Room for Hummingbirds and Hope
June 8th at 9:00 am
“Making Room for Hummingbirds and Hope,” Nan Harms
Every creature on earth has approximately two billion heartbeats to spend in a lifetime. You can spend them slowly, like a tortoise, and live to be two hundred years ... read more.
What’s so new about New Age Spirituality?
May 25th at 9:00 am
“What’s so new about New Age Spirituality?” Panel of speakers
While current conventional wisdom would suggest that our culture’s experimentation with Eastern religions and unorthodox Christianity is new, a closer familiarity with American Unitarian and Universalist histories ... read more.
For the Long Haul: Eco-justice for a Sustainable Future
Rev. Katherine Jesch
May 18th at 9:00 am“For the Long Haul: Eco-justice for a Sustainable Future,” Rev. Katherine Jesch
Our personal lives, congregational life, and the health and well-being of all life on Earth are intertwined. This sermon invites us to imagine our congregation ... read more.
The Great Mother Virtue
Rev. Margaret Keip
May 11th at 9:00 am“The Great Mother Virtue,” Rev. Margaret Keip
Margaret will wrap Gaia, Mothers Day, and a magnificent ethic for living into a message about “size” on the last of her scheduled sabbatical-anchor Sundays with us.
The Last-minute Suprise
May 4th at 9:00 am
Our planned guest speaker, Rabbi Daniel Fink, of Congregation Ahavath Beth Israel in Boise, had a family emergency. David Ward stepped in with a special delivery.
Audio: “The Last-minute Surprise”
Each night a child is born is a holy night…
Sophia Lyon Fahs
April 27th at 9:00 amRev. Margaret Keip, our high school seniors, and Religious Education Co-Directors Cathy Carmen and Karen Raese
Come join us in celebrating passages of our children and youth during this service when we have Children’s Dedication and Sr. High Bridging. It is sure to be a ... read more.
Are You Interconnected?
Wanda and Bryan Jennings
April 20th at 9:00 amWe talk a lot about being part of the interconnected web of all things. Do we ever check to see if we are really connected? Would the world be a better place if you were truly connected?
Audio: ... read more.
The Conversation
Rev. Thomas Anastasi
April 13th at 9:00 amNo matter how much disagreement and conflict there in any aspect of our lives—in our families, in the government, in our congregation—the answer is always to be found, I believe, “in the conversation”. We need to talk to one another on all these levels.
Audio: ... read more.
Cliches Lies and Love
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
February 14th at 9:15 amThere is no Audio file for this dateCliches Lies and Love, Rev. Elizabeth Greene (Feb. 14, 1998)
Journeys in the Wilderness: Humility in the Wild or “Small in the Midst of it All,”
February 10th at 9:00 am
There is no Audio file for this dateJourneys in the Wilderness: Humility in the Wild or “Small in the Midst of it All,” Nicole LeFavour (Feb. 10, 2008)
What is Worthy?
Rev. Elizabeth Greene
January 29th at 9:00 amThere is no Audio file for this dateWhat is Worthy? Rev. Elizabeth Greene (Jan. 29, 2006)
Enough Already!, Rev. Elizabeth Greene (Jan. 2, 2005)
Laughing as a Religious Activity, Rev. Elizabeth Greene (Jan. 23, 2005)
A Many-Splendored…? Rev. Elizabeth Greene (Feb. 13, 2005)
“Don’t Get Sick!”, Rev. Elizabeth Greene (Feb. 27, 2005)
How to Get to Heaven, Rev. Elizabeth Greene (Apr. 10, 2005)
Flaming Chalice: UU Symbol, Rev. Elizabeth Greene (March 7, 2004)
Lucy Stone: Making Her Own Way, Rev. Elizabeth Greene (March 14, 2004)
What Touches One Affects Us All, Rev. Elizabeth Greene (March 26, 2004)
Spectrum or Pendulum? Rev. Elizabeth Greene (April 4, 2004)
Passion and Resurrection: The Connection, Rev. Elizabeth Greene (April 11, 2004)
A Spiritual Retrospective, Rev. Elizabeth Greene (May 16, 2004)
Generation Gasp? Rev. Elizabeth Greene (May 23, 2004)
Tikkun Olam: Healing the World, Rev. Elizabeth Greene (Sept. 19, 2004)
The Lord Loves a Cheerful Receiver, Rev. Elizabeth Greene (Nov. 28, 2004)
And the Greatest of These is Hope, Rev. Elizabeth Greene (Dec. 19, 2004)
Right Brain, Left Brain, Rev. Elizabeth Greene (January 12, 2003)
Sense of Place, Rev. Elizabeth Greene (January 19, 2003)
Whose Rights? Who Is Right? Rev. Elizabeth Greene (February 9, 2003)
The Power of the Ring, Rev. Elizabeth Greene (March 2, 2003)
The End of Education, Rev. Elizabeth Greene (March 16, 2003)
Two Wings and Prayer, Rev. Elizabeth Greene (September 7, 2003)
Rights for which Humans? Rev. Elizabeth Greene (September 14, 2003)
Alabaster Village Beyond, Rev. Elizabeth Greene (September 21, 2003)
The Thousand Natural Shocks, Rev. Elizabeth Greene (December 14, 2003)