Dec 2017 Nov 2017 Oct 2017 Sept 2017 Aug 2017 July 2017 Jun 2017 May 2017 Apr 2017 Mar 2017 Feb 2017 Jan 2017

Dec Nov Oct Sep Aug Jul Jun 2016 May Apr Mar Feb Jan

Dec Nov Oct Sep Aug Jul Jun 2016 May Apr Mar Feb Jan

 

Stories from the Way Carrie Bastian and David Scott (October 25, 2015)
On Listening, Matthew Sabin (August 9, 2015)
The Demise of Democracy in America (Implications for UUs Everywhere?)Bob Huntley (July 5, 2015)
The Sum of All Reverence, Rev. Dana Worsnop (Feb. 1, 2015)
Loving Alike, Rev. Dana Worsnop (Jan. 11, 2015)
Sharing our Strength, Rev. Dana Worsnop (Jan. 4, 2015)

Dec Nov Oct Sep Aug Jul Jun 2016 May Apr Mar Feb Jan

 

Saving Christmas, Rev. Dana Worsnop (Dec. 7, 2014)
What’s In Your Toolbox? Matthew Sabin (July 27, 2014)
Falling and Rising, Rev. Dana Worsnop (April 20, 2014)
Avoiding the Energy Crisis, Rev. Dana Worsnop (March 30, 2014)
Sustaining Ministry, Rev. Dana Worsnop (Feb. 23, 2014)
Loving Alike, Rev. Dana Worsnop (Feb. 9, 2014)
Creating Generosity, Rev. Dana Worsnop (Feb. 2, 2014)
The Gracious Art of Hospitality, Rev. Dana Worsnop (January 12, 2014)

Dec Nov Oct Sep Aug Jul Jun 2016 May Apr Mar Feb Jan

 

On Sex, On Money, On Coffee and Looking for Ministry, Matthew Sabin (June 9, 2013)
Dirt: A Love Story, Debra Smith (April 21, 2013)

Dec Nov Oct Sep Aug Jul Jun May Apr Mar Feb Jan

 

PRAYER? Rev. Elizabeth Greene (April 15, 2012)
FOOLING AROUND, Rev. Elizabeth Greene (April 1, 2012)
NAMASTE: Honoring the Light Within, Rev. Elizabeth Greene (March 11, 2012)
Rescuing St. Paul, Elton Hall (Feb. 19, 2012)
YEARNING to BREATHE FREE: The Immigration Issue, Rev. Elizabeth Greene (January 29, 2012)
PIONEERS, Rev. Elizabeth Greene (January 8, 2012)

Dec Nov Oct Sep Aug Jul Jun 2016 May Apr Mar Feb Jan

 

Annual Stewardship Drive Status Check, Debra Smith’s March 20, 2011 vision statement

Dec Nov Oct Sep Aug Jul Jun 2016 May Apr Mar Feb Jan

 

Sustainability Didn’t Catch On, Now What? Loren Bergeson (Oct. 17, 2010)
A Brief History of the Future of School, Debra Smith (Oct. 3, 2010)
The Rise of Evolutionary Spirituality, Loren Bergeson (Jan. 24, 2010)

Dec Nov Oct Sep Aug Jul Jun 2016 May Apr Mar Feb Jan

Dec Nov Oct Sep Aug Jul Jun 2016 May Apr Mar Feb Jan

No Archived Sermons this year

No Archived Sermons this year

 

What is Worthy? Rev. Elizabeth Greene (Jan. 29, 2006)

No Archived Sermons this year

 

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)

No Archived Sermons this year

 

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)

No Archived Sermons this year

 

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)

 

March 20, 2016

“Welcome Spring,” Carrie Bastian, BUUF Choir & Musicians

Celebrating the vernal equinox in word and song
(No audio recording.)

 

March 6, 2016

“Offering Sanctuary,” Rev. Sara LaWall

February 28, 2016

“The Spiritual Practice of Lecttio Divina,” Rev. Sara LaWall (transcript) (Audio) February 28, 2016
An 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.

An 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 (transcript) (Audio) February 21, 2016

“Love, How Many Kinds?” Elton Hall (Audio) February 14, 2016

“And How Are the Children?” Rev. Sara LaWall (transcript) (Audio) February 7, 2016

January 31, 2016

“Poetry & Piano,” Rev. 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” (transcript) (Audio) January 24, 2016

“Partners in Community,” Becky Groff, Wanda & Bryan Jennings, Bill & Gwyn Reid, Nancy Harms (Audio) 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 (transcript), (Audio) January 10, 2016
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  (transcript), (Audio) January 3, 2016
A 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 life that no longer service us and hold us back.

 

December 2015

December 27, 2015

“Quaker Service,” Nancy Harms

A silent service.
(No audio recording.)

December 24, 2015

“Christmas Eve Service, “Preparing Room”,” Rev. Sara LaWall

December 21, 2015

“Winter Solstice”

An ritual from our earth-centered tradition
(No audio recording.)

December 20, 2015

“Multigenerational Holiday Pageant,” Rev. Sara LaWall and Emmie Schlobohm

All ages worship together to celebrate the holiday season.

December 13, 2015

“The Open Heart: Music and Meditation for the Holidays,” Rev. Sara LaWall and Emmie Schlobohm

December 6, 2015

“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.

November 2015

November 29, 2015

“The Music of Our Lives,” Carrie Bastian, Music Director

Carrie Bastian, joined by musical members Mike Lemieux, Patti Raino, Sarah Cox, Will Smith
(No audio recording.)

November 22, 2015

“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.

November 15, 2015

“Radical Hospitality,” Rev. Sara LaWall

This service also honors the Transgender Day of Remembrance, nationally recognized on Nov. 20.

November 8, 2015

“Experiencing the Holy,” Rev. Sara LaWall

November 1, 2015

“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

October 2015

October 25, 2015

“Stories from The Way,” Carrie Bastian and David Scott

How a 500 mile pilgrimage across Spain can change the stories we tell ourselves

October 18, 2015

“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.

October 11, 2015

“Your Liberating Ministry: Toward a Shared Vision,” Rev. Sara LaWall

October 4, 2015

“Giving Life the Shape of Justice,” Rev. Sara LaWall

September 2015

September 27, 2015

“Building Sacred Trust,” Rev. Sara LaWall

September 20, 2015

“A Blessing for Beginning,” Rev. Sara LaWall

September 13, 2015

“Gathering of the Waters,” Rev. Sara LaWall

September 6, 2015

“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 Francis’ encyclical letter, “On Our Common Home,” a profound document that gives direction and hope to what seems like a hopeless situation.

August 2015

August 30, 2015

“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 in the conservative Christian tradition I tried hard to have all the right answers. After all, I was the minister. Nowadays, I find that keeping my mouth shut and listening is much more helpful than spewing forth my seminary wisdom.

August 23, 2015

“Journey,” Quest participants

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 journey. Spirits were deepened, lives were changed. In this service, several will share their experience and the impact of the program on their lives.

August 16, 2015

“On Being a Heretic, Long Strange Trip,” Mary Hester

The 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.

August 9, 2015

“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 form of listening ever since.

August 2, 2015

“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 the end of June. Twenty-four members of the BUUF congregation attended. The event was packed full of energy, education and inspiration: a more than “What We Did on Our Summer Vacation” report.

July 2015

July 26, 2015

“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 happen?” “Is there such a thing as too much diversity?” “Are we as inclusive and welcoming as we think we are?” I have lots more questions, and I don’t know the answers. Please join me for the beginning of a conversation.

July 19, 2015

“Songs of Solidarity,” Marshall Voit and Ibis Laurel

This 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 communal song. The Rev. Dr. Beth Johnson of Palomar UU Fellowship remarked, “Marshall and Ibis are musical masters and inspirational activists. My congregation was captivated by the beauty of their voices, their compelling musicianship, and their weaving together of spirituality and activism.”

July 12, 2015

“Charity: What could possibly go wrong?” Debra Smith

Clara 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 will draw inspiration from this visionary and persevering woman, and draw lessons about how we might “do” social justice work in the world. We will acknowledge her significant contribution to our world by conducting a blood drive on Thursday, July 16.

July 5, 2015

“The Demise of Democracy in America,” Bob Huntley

American 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 asking ourselves: “Are we, the present generation, living up to our duty to insure that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth?”
(No audio recording, but the text is available from our archive.)

June 2015

June 28, 2015

“Maturity—What Is That and How Do I Get It?” Elton Hall

Maturity 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.

June 21, 2015

“Summer Solstice”

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 the sun.

June 14, 2015

“Who’s Your Daddy?” Rev. Dana Worsnop

On this Sunday before Father’s Day, we will consider role of fathers and masculine energy in the world, in us all.

June 7, 2015

“Flower Power – Flower Communion Service,” Rev. Dana Worsnop and Emmie Schlobohm

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?

May 2015

May 31, 2015

“The Good and the Perfect,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

My 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 my time at BUUF, what I have learned about you and what you have taught me.

May 24, 2015

“Peace and Freedom,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

Even 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 where our responsibility to those women and men.

May 17, 2015

“Free Thinking Mystics With Hands,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

Rev. 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?

May 10, 2015

“Coming of Age,” Junior High youth and mentors along with Rev. Dana Worsnop and Emmie Schlobohm, Director of Religious Education

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 share in the journey with these incredible young people!

May 3, 2015

“Why Church?” Rev. Sara LaWall

Statistics 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 with the high numbers of young adults that are distrustful of religious institutions and we might begin to ask, “Why bother with church at all?” And yet, this church community means so much in the lives of all of you, the answer to “Why Church?” lies right here among us.

April 2015

April 26, 2015

“Dare Greatly,” Rev. Sara LaWall

Life 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 attention along the way, noticing the spaces in between, the journey offers great beauty, deep wisdom and opportunities for transformation. As we begin a new ministry together, full of hope for a strong future, how will we dare greatly?

April 19, 2015

“Alive with Faith! Growing and Transforming from the Ground Up,” Rev. Barbara Wells ten Hove

Let’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 year. We welcome the Rev. Barbara Wells ten Hove to share the pulpit with Rev. Dana.

April 12, 2015

“Senior Bridging,” BUUF Senior High Youth

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 and celebrate!

April 5, 2015

“We Are Risen,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

Resurrection 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 one that we continue to wrestle with. Let us wrestle and wonder and embrace resurrection.

March 2015

March 29, 2015

“Stand With Me,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

We 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, and our passion gain strength and purpose beyond our individual lives. Will you stand with me?

March 22, 2015

“Our Better Angels,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

The 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, how might it change how we live?

March 15, 2015

“Coming Alive,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

We 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 on the Finance Committee to being a worship celebrant – does it change what you do for the church and how you do it?

March 8, 2015

“The Shorter Longer Way,,” Rabbi Dan Fink

Rabbi 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 we mark passages in our lives as congregants and congregations.

March 1, 2015

“Curiosity as a Spiritual Practice,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

Our 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?

February 2015

February 22, 2015

“Ferguson in Boise?” Representative Sue Chew

What 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.

February 15, 2015

“The Free Pulpit and the Free Pew,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

Ours 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 freedom of the pulpit to a new minister.

February 8, 2015

“Love Will Guide Us,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

Privilege 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 place where fewer are oppressed?

February 1, 2015

“The Sum of All Known Reverence,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

Ours 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 character. What can we learn from our earliest humanist forebears about ourselves and the theological threads we trace?

January 2015

January 25, 2015

“CCT, BUUF’s Arm of Comfort and Support,” Rev. Jackie Kelly

Sharing 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 her unique understanding based on experience as a UU chaplain for St. Luke’s Regional Medical Center and the BUUF Congregational Care Team (CCT) talks about its role in providing support and service to our congregants in need.

January 18, 2015

“Lift Every Voice,” Debra Smith

Sunday’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. Even the cantankerous. How do we manage this? “Using grace, humor, and intelligence,” according to The King Philosophy.

January 11, 2015

“Loving Alike,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

More 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 descendants? Why do people travel half-way around the world to reconnect with those roots with your Partner Church in Mészkő?

January 4, 2015

“Sharing Our Strength – Fire Communion,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

Join 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. How do we live with strength and purpose in uneasy times?

December 2014

December 28, 2014

“Quaker Service”

The 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.)

December 24, 2014

“Finding Christmas Mystery,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

We 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 year.

December 21, 2014

“Winter Solstice Celebration”

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.)

December 21, 2014

“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 the Polar Express in their pajamas. And we’ll top it all off with BUUF’s traditional rendition of the Twelve Days of Christmas. Rev. Dana Worsnop and Emmie Schlobohm, Director of Religious Exploration.

December 14, 2014

“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 a musical journey to places across the globe where music has helped bring peace to a world in conflict, and peace to the soul.

December 7, 2014

“Saving Christmas,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

Our 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.

November 2014

November 30, 2014

“Take the Lead,” Robyn Broyles, Matthew Sabin, Tony Zornik

During 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.

November 23, 2014

“To Have and Have Not,” Rev. Dana Worsnop and Emmie Schlobohm

We 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.

November 16, 2014

“Pilgrims in a Strange Land,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

There 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.

November 9, 2014

“Ode to Joy,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

Neither 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?

November 2, 2014

“Achieving Immortality,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

We 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 of remembrance.

October 2014

October 26, 2014

“Good Fences,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

As 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.

October 19, 2014

“The Church as Guest House,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

How 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 the holy, the mysterious and each other into our lives?

October 12, 2014

“Instant Karma,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

John 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?

October 5, 2014

“Beyond Categorial Thinking,” Jo Victoria and Gil Guerrero

Co-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.

September 2014

September 28, 2014

“The Price of Silence: Speaking Up, Ending Stigma,” Liza Long

Liza 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 Price of Silence, she takes a devastating look at how we address mental illness, especially in children, who are funneled through a system of education, mental healthcare, and juvenile detention that leads far too often to prison. She is speaking in a way that we cannot help but hear, and she won’t stop until something changes.

September 21, 2014

“We are the Church that…,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

After 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.

September 14, 2014

“All Are Called,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

If 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?

September 7, 2014

“The Trouble with Bubbles,” Rev. Dana Worsnop and Emmie Schlobohm, Director of Religious Exploration

We 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.

August 2014

August 31, 2014

“How to be a UU Missionary,” David Scott

Although 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 fruitlessly) by David Scott and some special guests through the power of theatrical arts and oratory.

August 24, 2014

“A Palestinian Speaks,” Reem Anani

Reem 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 should concern we UU’s. Debbie Espen, director of the Boise chapter of Unitarian Universalists for Justice in the Middle East is sponsoring Reem’s presentation and will introduce her.
(No audio recording.)

August 17, 2014

“Beyond BUUF, Beyond Belief!” BUUF Members who attended the PNWD’s AGM and GA

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!

August 10, 2014

“Two Weddings and a Funeral,” Roger Sherman

Earlier 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 to look like. This next year we will be choosing a settled minister. Much change is in the offing. How will we continue to build our beloved community? Some reflections on where we are going as I begin my year as the president of the Boise UU Fellowship board.

August 3, 2014

“Gods, God, No God: Can We Accept Them All?” Elton Hall

The 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 to the world.

July 2014

July 27, 2014

“Metaphorical Toolbox,” Matthew Sabin

We 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 religion as like a hammer, an axe? A spoon? Maybe a sail? I have some thoughts on the use and maintenance of our religious tool set.

July 20, 2014

“Quest: A Spiritual Journey,” Quest team and participants

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 member Ministry Team, we have journeyed together through our first year. Come join us hear what we’re learning and consider if Quest might be in your future.

July 13, 2014

“The Secret to Life in a Children’s Song,” Carrie Bastian

This 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?

July 6, 2014

“The Flipside of Service,” Mary Hester

We 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 them.

June 2014

June 29, 2014

“Refugees in our Backyard,” 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 of life in the U.S.? A panel of speakers from the International Rescue Committee (IRC) will tell us about their work with refugees.

June 22, 2014

“The Strength of the Pack is the Wolf,” Bryan Jennings

I 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!

June 15, 2014

“Taking Pride,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

As 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 do.

June 8, 2014

“Earth was Given as a Garden – Flower Communion,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

In 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.

June 1, 2014

“The Sacred Art of Appreciation,” Debra Smith

How 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 reflect on how appreciation is a sacred practice that enriches all.

May 2014

May 25, 2014

“Our American Roots,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

On 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.

May 18, 2014

“Why I Cannot Give Up on God (Even Though I’ve Tried),” Rev. Dana Worsnop

Often 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 to positively name the sense of transcendence and connection that feels like it lies beyond us?

May 11, 2014

“Many Mothers,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

We 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.

May 11, 2014

“Many Mothers,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

We 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.

May 4, 2014

“Senior High Bridging,” BUUF high school seniors

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 and celebrate!

April 2014

April 27, 2014

“The Sutras,” Mark Zimmerer

The 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. What might this ancient text have to say to us in the 21st century?

April 20, 2014

“Falling and Rising Again – A Human Story,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

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?

April 13, 2014

“The Wolf, I’m Afraid, Is Inside Tearing Up the Place,” Rev. Jackie Kelly

The 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 experience it (which is all of us at one time or another) and those who are in relationship with the sufferer (which is also all of us).

April 6, 2014

“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 out of you, into an aching world? Let’s give ourselves away, together! Come hear the Boise Cello Collective and join in the party. The Rev. Cecilia Kingman is a member of the Red Pill Brethren, a group of people who seek to turn our lives and churches inside out and bring love into the most broken places of our society. She is an award winning preacher and has served congregations throughout the West. Rev. Kingman is President of the Pacific Northwest Chapter of the Unitarian Universalist Ministers Association, and resides in Seattle with her family.

March 2014

March 30, 2014

“Avoiding the Energy Crisis,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

Where do you expend most of your energy? How does it reflect your deepest values? Where do you spend your financial resources? How does that reflect your fondest dreams for your life? How can we feel abundant and generous even in uncertain times? We consider these questions as we consider dreams for the future of this community.

March 23, 2014

“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.

March 16, 2014

“Imagine the Possibilities – A presentation of provocative proposals,” Miriam Woito and the Interim Ministry Transition Team

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 Will Smith and a friend will be performing so you don’t want to miss this service!

March 9, 2014

“Our Heritage of Love,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

Our 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?

March 2, 2014

“Follow Your Folly,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

The 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.

February 2014

February 23, 2014

“Sustaining Ministry,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

During 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 will share what she is learning so far about how to make a ministry both rich and sustainable for minister and congregation.

February 16, 2014

“Living Without Hope,” Rev. Ken Watts

What 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 pains”. Only Hope remained. What was Hope doing in a jar full of “all the Spites that plague mankind: such as Old Age, Labor, Sickness, Insanity, vice, and Passion” (Graves 1955:145), unless Hope was an evil itself?

February 9, 2014

“Loving Alike,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

We 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 said, “We need not think [or believe] alike to love alike.”

February 2, 2014

“Creating Generosity,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

We 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?

January 2014

January 26, 2014

“Community House – A Dream and a Legacy,”

The congregation of our Unitarian Partner Church in Mészkő 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 longer with us. But their dream lived on and was finally realized last year. This service will explore through words and pictures how dreams, actions, and love make a community and a Community House.

January 19, 2014

“An Inescapable Web of Mutuality,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

On 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?

January 12, 2014

“The Gentle Art of Hospitality,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

Hospitality – 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 Buddha and of Mohammed among so many others. How do you invite others into your lives? Into this community?

January 5, 2014

“Burning the Old Year – A Fire Communion Service,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

What 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 the New Year invites.

December 2013

December 29, 2013

Quaker Style

The 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 to consuming products—is a radical idea. But it can connect us to—and keep us on—the path we’re supposed to be on.
(No audio recording.)

December 24, 2013

“Lessons and Carols,” Rev. Dana Worsnop & Emmie Schlobohm, Director of Religious Exploration

December 22, 2013

“The Stable of Our Hearts,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

With 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 way that satisfies both mind and heart?

December 20, 2013

“Waiting in the Dark – A Solstice Celebration,”

In 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 to celebrate the turning of the year. Let us come together to pay attention to these rhythms and cycles in the midst of the swirling maelstrom of the holidays. What gifts does this dark time offer?
(No audio recording.)

December 15, 2013

“Some Children See Him: Embracing the Holy Child Within,”

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.

December 8, 2013

“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 year we celebrate and reflect on the winter traditions of heart and hearth. Join us for poems, stories, cookies, and beautiful music.

December 1, 2013

“All Things Shining—How We Live Meaningful Lives,” Members of “All Things Shining” Adult Education class

Participants 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 meaningful today.

November 2013

November 24, 2013

“Giving Thanks,” Rev. Dana Worsnop and Emmie Schlobohm, Director of Religious Exploration

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 pieces to place in baskets upon the altar.

November 17, 2013

“So Many Choices, So Little Time,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

We 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 holiday season filled with them.

November 10, 2013

“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 child can learn, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Zach Bramwell is one of two Youth Liaisons on the board for ISSC, the president of Capital High Schools’ GSA. Anna McClain-Sims is a nineth grader at East JHS and Treasure Valley Math and Science. She been involved with ISSC for 18 months and has participated in events for LGBTQ youth. She’s also active with the teen youth group at The Community Center.

November 3, 2013

“Día de los Muertos – A Day of Remembering,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

We 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.

October 2013

October 27, 2013

“Telling Your Story,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

The 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?

October 20, 2013

“Past, Present & Future Tense,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

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 as we breathe.

October 13, 2013

“Boston Bound and Back Again,” Boston Bounders 2013

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.

October 6, 2013

“Changing, Changing, Changing,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

The 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 change. The path to liberation lies in holding everything more lightly.

September 2013

September 29, 2013

“A Wide Embrace,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

Ours 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.

September 22, 2013

“Practice Makes Progress,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

Practice 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?

September 15, 2013

“Beginning Again in Love,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

During 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 High Holy Days and begin together in love.

September 8, 2013

“Diving In,” Rev. Dana Worsnop

Water 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.

September 1, 2013

“The Politically Correct Book of Job,” David Scott

You 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 attempts to humorously reinterpret the Old Testament story for a more modern UU congregation.

August 2013

August 25, 2013

“What do you do when you discover that what you thought you knew isn’t true?” Debbie Espen

A moving story of a world turned upside down by a moment that forever changed a life.

August 18, 2013

“Four Spiritualities: Are we all spiritual, even if we don’t use the word ‘spiritual?’,” Bill Reid

100 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 faith, a “big tent with no borders.” We usually think of inclusion and diversity in terms of race, gender identity, religious belief, or sexual orientation. What if our inherent personalities and spiritualities separate us more than race, sexual orientation, or belief? What if the real challenge facing us is to overcome our personality and spirituality differences? Perhaps embracing the four spiritualities will enable us to create the “big tent” that includes everyone, even those of us who might not fit into someone else’s definition of “spiritual.”

August 11, 2013

“Amor & Exile,” Nathaniel Hoffman

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, an American writer in exile in Mexico. Salgado’s husband faces a permanent ban from the United States for immigration violations despite his marriage to an American citizen. The book chronicles the social, political and historical context of citizenship for mixed immigration status couples—both gay and straight. Books will be available for a signing following the service. More information is available at amorandexile.com.

August 4, 2013

“Faith – What is That?” Elton Hall

We 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.

July 2013

July 28, 2013

“What Would Joseph Do?” Ann Sabin

Mary 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 do you look beyond yourself at a larger outcome? Thoughts, musings and possible first steps in creating empowered, just and ethical adults out of today’s children.

July 21, 2013

“The Moon: Symbolic, Sacred and Spiritual,” Miriam Woito

Thought about how the moon has inspired us, motivated us and been an ever present part of all our lives?

July 14, 2013

“How to Pray,” Coston Frederick

Do 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 prayer opportunities; and no one has to close his or her eyes, or kneel down, or say a word.

July 7, 2013

“Smelling the Roses,” Rick Groff

Caught 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, but he follows a secularized version restated in modern terms.

June 2013

June 30, 2013

“What has General Assembly to do with Us,” Wanda & Bryan Jennings, Elton Hall

Wanda, 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 the UU movement.

June 23, 2013

“Church for Atheists and Others,” Rev. Kenneth Watts

What 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 18th century liberal understandings? And most importantly, “Why not just abandon all religious groups and stay home or go golfing?” (That last one is very tempting at times and I must admit to giving in on occasion!) I have a chaplain friend who says she worships at the “Church of Serta” every Sunday morning! This service will offer a few ideas for Atheists and non-Atheists to ponder.

June 16, 2013

“A Conversation of Kindness,” Jeanette Maré

Jeannette 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 the face of devastating grief, as well as her work with Ben’s Bells Project and the power of kindness to transform people and communities.

June 9, 2013

“On Sex, On Money, On Coffee and Looking for Ministry,” Matthew Sabin

Whether 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 out there are pitfalls on the road to finding your ministry – I’ve fallen in quite a few so far. I’ll relate some of them, as well as a success or two. My search is ongoing… I share it in the hope that I can provide help for, or at least serve as a warning to others.

June 2, 2013

“Let’s Cross Over,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene and friends

Carrie 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 bridge, celebrating 25 years of a wonderful relationship, and looking forward in hope and jubilation. Here we embody the old hymn that says we celebrate our past and also trust the dawning future.

May 2013

May 26, 2013

“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.

May 19, 2013

“The Last Laugh,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

This 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” emerge from our laughter.

May 12, 2013

“Coming of Age,” Jr. High Youth and Mentors

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 share in the journey with these incredible young people!

May 5, 2013

“No Simple Highway,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Recollecting 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.

April 2013

April 28, 2013

“In Their World,” Mary Hester

The 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.

April 21, 2013

“Dirt – A Love Story,” Debra Smith

Scientists 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. Perhaps we will be re-enchanted with the very ground we walk upon, that in the spring becomes “mud-lucious and puddle-wonderful.” This is a “Sermon to Service Sunday,” so be prepared to learn about ways you can do work in the world to show your love for the earth.

April 14, 2013

“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 their journey, their hopes and plans.

April 7, 2013

“Owlie Searches for the Truth,” Emmie Schlobohm and members of our Religious Exploration Community

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.

March 2013

March 31, 2013

“Stories of Spring and Resurrection,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

There’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!

March 24, 2013

“No Offense Intended,” Rev. Jackie Kelly

As 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 sometimes people feel offended when confronted with deeply held convictions that are polar opposites of their own. So what happens when we choose not to be offended?

March 17, 2013

“The Wheel that moves the Sun and Stars,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene and BUUF Choir

Nearing 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. Pat’s Day as we rejoice in the greening of the year! What can that mean in our lives?

March 10, 2013

“How Far We’ve Come,” Mary Schwartzman

The 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 the ongoing evolution. Prepare to welcome some of the people who made the Fellowship what it is today. They are the shoulders upon which we stand. They dug the wells from which we drink. They planted the trees in whose shade we sit.

March 3, 2013

“What We Value Most,” Rt. Rev. John Thornton

Elizabeth 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 institutions we love most.

February 2013

February 24, 2013

“The Fingerprints of God,” Emmie Schlobohm, Director of Religious Exploration

Is 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 by Barbara Bradley Hagerty in her book of the same title.

February 17, 2013

“Reverence,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Elizabeth 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.

February 10, 2013

“Black History in Idaho,” Cherie Buckner-Webb, Jan Salisbury, Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Many 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.

February 3, 2013

“What I’ve Learned,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

What 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.

January 2013

January 27, 2013

“The Ideas Peddler,” Rev. Don Rollings

As 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.

January 20, 2013

“Roots Hold Us Close: Approaching 20 Years of Partnership,” Gwyn Reid

In 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 the goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all. On January 20, we will explore how the transformative, shared experiences of our global partnership have increased our awareness of the interdependency of all people and our common struggles for human rights, social justice, and well being.

January 13, 2013

“O Pioneer!” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

For 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 our lives.

January 6, 2013

“A New Year Beckons,” Nancy Harms

Our 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 relationships, in what we speak for, and in how we live. In these various ways, through these secondary threads, we stay connected to that changeless, invisible thread that loops through our selves and all being, linking all of them.

December 2012

December 30, 2012

“Quaker Style,”

The 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 to consuming products—is a radical idea. But it can connect us to—and keep us on—the path we’re supposed to be on.
(No audio recording.)

December 24, 2012

“Come Celebrate the Light!,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Can 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 has always brought us together?
(No audio recording.)

December 23, 2012

“Can an Atheist Worship?” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

The 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?

December 21, 2012

“Solstice,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene and the Solstice Team

This 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.
(No audio recording.)

December 16, 2012

“Amazing Grace,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

We 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.

December 9, 2012

“O Come Let Us Adore,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

The 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 and spoken word as the choir and BUUF musicians share our annual mostly-music Christmas and winter holiday service.

December 2, 2012

“Deck the Halls for the WinterGreene Holidays,” Emmie Schlobohm and Congregational Youth

It’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 power of transitions and transformations, and much much more. Join us for singing, skits, cookies, and music with guest appearances from holiday celebrities.

November 2012

November 25, 2012

“Thank God for Evolution,” Loren Bergeson

Back 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 if we can truly internalize the story, it will accelerate both personal spiritual growth and the improvement of the communities to which we belong. There’s lots of good work being done on how to do this in practical terms, and Loren will be sharing his latest efforts.

November 18, 2012

“Transgendered Day of Remembering,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene and guests

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?

November 11, 2012

“The Greater Causes,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Commemorating 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?

November 4, 2012

“My Afterlife,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Elizabeth 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.

October 2012

October 28, 2012

“My Own Country,” Rev. Keith Kron

I 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 adapt to the change and yet maintain connection to the groundedness on which we have relied? Where do we ultimately plant our stakes?

October 21, 2012

“BUUF: A Spiritual Co-op?” Elton Hall

BUUF 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.

October 14, 2012

“The Hunger Words,” Rev. Greene and the Hunger Task Force

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, or a narrative—a way of telling about the facts. What ARE the facts about poverty and hunger? And what stories are being told to justify particular policies and actions, or lack of action? And what can you do about it? This is the first of what we are calling “Sermon to Service Sundays,” a new initiative described in the October newsletter.

October 7, 2012

“Forming, Storming, Norming, Performing, Transforming: Creating Community,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

We 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 sum of our parts.

September 2012

September 30, 2012

“Relationships for a Reason, a Season, and a Lifetime,” Sharene Gossen, Will Smith, Andrew Spencer

Our 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.

September 23, 2012

“Saving Lives,” Linda Laskowsky

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

September 16, 2012

“Building Your Own Theology,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

What goes into creating one’s personal theology/philosophy? Elizabeth will share experience, authors and people that have contributed to hers.

September 9, 2012

“Wanderer, Worshipper: Coming Home,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Once 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.

September 2, 2012

“It’s Not A Train,” Don Schutte

Life 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 of difficulties and survived.

August 2012

August 26, 2012

“Spiritual Program Coming!” Quest Steering Committee

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 BUUF community in 2013. Quest is an 18 month multi-faceted personal spiritual development curriculum in which participants learn how to honor their spirituals selves, awaken their own inherent wisdom and knowledge, and create intentional spiritual community in part through retreats, integration groups, interacting with a spiritual companion, spiritual practice and personal work. This recognition and affirmation of each individual allows an intentional spiritual community to unfold.

August 19, 2012

“Spirituality Progression,” Gail Haldeman

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.

August 12, 2012

“Come Healing… a morning with Leonard Cohen,” Patricia Heeb

A 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 in this service for some truth and holiness. Thoughts from Patricia Heeb; images from Mark McGinnis; music from Leonard himself (alas, prerecorded).

August 5, 2012

“The Slow Read Movement,” Debra Smith

This 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 exquisitely precise, and yet poetic language. Still others were impressed with the author’s steely self evaluation. What is it like, in this day of superficial and slap-dash writing, to read attentively, something written with deliberate attention? Fast food and page-turners have their places, but how about a “slow read” movement to complement the slow food movement? Come and hear what 4 slow readers learned about this novel, and about themselves.

July 2012

July 29, 2012

“How to Worry: Recipes for the Disasters You Know are Coming!?” David Scott

David 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.

July 22, 2012

“Grand Adventure: Rafting the Colorado through the Grand Canyon,” Cathy Carmen, Linnea, Megan & Linden Boice

A 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 a heartbeat!) along with stories of side canyon hikes, floating through rapids in life jackets and how to catch lizards with a noose included. Come along for an action-packed ride!

July 15, 2012

“Exploring General Assembly,” Rev. Greene, Wanda & Bryan Jennings

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 hear about our experiences.

July 8, 2012

“Finding Social Hope,” Sue Philley

We 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 time), a BUUF Dream group, a World Calling Women group, 4-H teens, and diverse community members starting a new non-profit are helping her to embrace the future.

July 1, 2012

“Body and Spirit,” Mark Zimmerer

Exploring 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

June 2012

June 24, 2012

“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 quick trip to another viewpoint.

June 17, 2012

“Fathers’ Day,” Greg Duffy

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 to help someone, and how it played out in real life.

June 10, 2012

“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. Your relationship focus may change as you contemplate retirement or a change in location. Or your marital status may even change due to divorce or death, causing you to be alone at just the time when you were expecting to enjoy your lives together. Career changes may occur as you begin to realize that you have met your major career goals-or that you haven’t really met them. Viewing these transitions from the spiritual perspective brings acceptance, strength and serenity to live our best lives now.

June 3, 2012

“Flower Communion,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

On 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— in the form of other people!

May 2012

May 27, 2012

“Complain or Not to Complain,” Mary Hester

We 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 without complaints and yet still address our concerns.

May 20, 2012

“The Second Fifty,” Debra Smith

This 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 engage us in thinking about the spiritual health of our Fellowship today, and about how we stand in preparation for our next fifty years.

May 13, 2012

“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 out what our children and youth have explored this year in their classes. Unitarian Universalist faith traditions, our BUUF religious community, and intangible gifts have been the over-arching themes this year, so join us for stories galore for all ages!

May 6, 2012

“Song of the Soul: the Power of Music,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene and BUUF Choir

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.

April 2012

April 29, 2012

“Senior High Bridging,” BUUF High School Seniors, Emmie Schlobohm, Director of Religious Exploration, and Rev. Elizabeth Greene

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 senior high youth who are taking that monumental next step forward into their future will share their journeys and visions. Come celebrate their bridging from youth to young adulthood during these vibrant alternative services!

April 22, 2012

“The Power of Yes,” Miriam Woito

Organic Growth – Change, Passion, Action. Some thoughts on becoming a thriving community.

April 15, 2012

“Prayer?” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

In a revisiting of one of those “wounded words” we UUs can find problematical, Elizabeth reflects on the larger meaning of the word “prayer.”

April 8, 2012

“Rejoice and Bloom,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

On 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.

April 1, 2012

“Fooling Around,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

The 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?

March 2012

March 25, 2012

“The Places That Scare You,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Pema 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.

March 18, 2012

“Celebration Sunday: Rejoicing in our Roots and Our Vision,” Rev. Joan Montagnes

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.

March 11, 2012

“Namaste: the Light That Shines in All,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

How 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?

March 4, 2012

“No One Can Whistle a Symphony,” Emmie Scholbohm, Director of Religious Exploration”

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 Exploration.

Mary Hester

February 2012

February 26, 2012

“How Big is the Sky?” Rev. Sean Parker Dennison

A 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 in our communities? What might happen if we let our vision of ourselves and our congregations grow?

February 19, 2012

“Rescuing St. Paul,” Elton Hall

Spiritual 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. Scholars have shown that St. Paul did not write all the epistles assigned to him. When we look at his authentic writings, a radically different St. Paul emerges, one UUs can respect and perhaps even embrace.

February 12, 2012

“Ubi Caritas: Charity and Love,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

The 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?

February 5, 2012

“Stories of Change and Transition,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Life 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?

January 2012

January 29, 2012

“Yearning to Breathe Free: the Immigration Issue,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

This 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.

January 22, 2012

“Musical Pilgrimage,” Jeanette Ross and Tom von Alten

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.

January 15, 2012

“Deserving and Undeserving,” John Pevy, Aleta Sprague, Gary Wyke, Rick Groff

On 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 drawing a line between those who are “deserving” and “undeserving,” instead of being guided by love and forgiveness. Gary Wyke and Rick Groff will talk about hunger related social justice work our congregation is doing. We will welcome social justice community partners during and after the second service.

January 8, 2012

“Celebrating Our Pioneers,” Elton Hall and Rev. Elizabeth Greene

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?

January 1, 2012

“The Creation of God,” John Munson

Many 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 Singularity. Its ability to understand and control events in the universe will be unlimited. The time has come to anticipate this event and to explore and understand our role with our new God.

December 2011

(no audio for Christmas day service)

December 24, 2011

“Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

What 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?

(no audio for Solstice service)

December 18, 2011

“Channukah,” Emmie Schlobohm, Alan Schwartzman, Bob Wallace

Three 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.

December 11, 2011

“Ringing True: The Bells of Christmas,” BUUF Choir, Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Bells 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.

December 4, 2011

“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 children and youth share stories of the season from their unique perspectives. Join us for a celebration of exploration and discovery of the season! Skits, singing, music, music and more music, along with treats and cookies.

November 2011

November 27, 2011

“BUUF Pilgrims,” 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 Western world, some Eastern religions still maintain the practice. And then there are spiritual pilgrimages which are universal and usually private, and while not physically arduous, they are nonetheless demanding. Today several members of the congregation will speak of their spiritual journeys to Unitarian-Universalism.

November 20, 2011

“Transgender Day of Remembrance,” Emilie Edney, with Rev. Elizabeth Greene

This 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 life.

November 13, 2011

“Bridging the Gaps,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

We 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?

November 6, 2011

“Band of Brothers (and Their Daughters),” Judy Holcombe and Rev. Elizabeth Greene

The 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.

October 2011

October 30, 2011

“Dia de los Muertos,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene, Carlos Palm

The 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.

October 23, 2011

“Privilege, Dignity & Joy,” Richard Adams

Twenty 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 conclusions he has drawn.
(No audio recording.)

October 16, 2011

“Boston Bound and Back,” Boston Bounders

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.

October 9, 2011

“U + U = U2,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene, Judy Austin, Linden Boice, Mary Daley, Toshi Dondup, Ellie McKinnon, Jeanette Ross, Gayle Speizer

In 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.

October 2, 2011

“Listen, Listen, Listen to My Heart’s Song,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

How 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.

September 2011

September 25, 2011

“WWWWD? (What Would Walt Whitman Do?),” Debra Smith and Mark McGinnis

Walt 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 stance of classic Buddhist “detachment,” as described by and exemplified by Rabindranath Tagore. Did Whitman ever reconcile detachment and his yearning for social justice? Can we?

September 18, 2011

“Laughter, Community, and Spirit,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Elizabeth 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?

September 11, 2011

“Flowing Together,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

On 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.

September 4, 2011

“The Other Side of Christianity,” Don Schutte

A 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.

August 2011

August 28, 2011

“Whatever You Do, Don’t Mention Money,” Sharon Barlow Palm

Most 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.

August 21, 2011

“What’s in a Name?” Marcia Lyons and Roger Sherman

Who 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 the schools? Jim Lyons and Roger Sherman will explore those questions and more in this service for the curious.

August 14, 2011

“Transformations,” Bill and Gwyn Reid

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 and community, and the instability that religious transformation brings.

August 7, 2011

“Wholehearted Living,” Patricia Heeb

The 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?

July 2011

July 31, 2011

“Through the Eyes of Beauty,” Miriam Woito

Our 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.

July 24, 2011

“Pioneer Day,” Lance Pitman

Lance 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.

July 17, 2011

“Our Role in the Politics of Food,” Roger Sherman and Leo Morales

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 of hunger by addressing policies that lead to food insecurity. Roger Sherman and ICAN Policy Director Leo Morales will present their thoughts about advocacy, social justice, and our role in the politics of food.

July 10, 2011

“Touchstones,” Shari Wallace, Lothar Pietz, Greg Duffy, Sandy Layser

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 spark congregational reverie. Bob Wallace will provide campfire guitar accompaniment.

July 3, 2011

“Defying Gravity,” Bill Reid (for Bryan Jennings)

We 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!

June 2011

June 26, 2011

“Communities of Faith,” Gene Badesheim, Sai Ahmed-Zaid, Paul Aitken, Gwyn Reid

So 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.

June 19, 2011

“Spiritual Procrastination,” Bill Hoffman

Do 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 enough time to open up to and explore a more spiritually rewarding and less stressful life? If so, have you considered that you–the busy one—may be procrastinating? Yes, drawing on the wisdom of sages like Ellen Degeneres, Eckhart Tolle, Pema Chrodron, Woody Allen and Mark Twain, Bill will turn procrastination upside down and explore how “busy people” can become more comfortable and less anxious about slowing down.

June 12, 2011

“Kirtan,” Mark Zimmerer

Kirtan 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.

June 5, 2011

“Flower Communion,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

On 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, in the form of other people.

May 2011

May 29, 2011

“On Aging,” Besse LaBudde

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 of humor helps tremendously, and there are preparations one can set in motion earlier in adulthood. The saddest of both young and senior citizens are those who have no sense of wonder or enthusiasm.

May 22, 2011

“A Home Where All Belong,” Emmie Schlobohm and Congregational Youth

Come 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 ages!

May 15, 2011

“A Spiritual Year in Review,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Each 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?

May 8, 2011

“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 the years and through the journey of discovery that has been our Coming of Age program for the last nine months. Join in on this celebration of youth and share in the journey with these incredible young people! (Both services recorded)

May 8, 2011

“Coming of Age,” BUUF Junior High Youth and Mentors

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 nine months. Join in on this celebration of youth and share in the journey with these incredible young people! (9:30 service)

May 1, 2011

“Senior High Bridging,” BUUF HS Seniors, Emmie Scholbohm, Rev. Elizabeth Greene

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 young adulthood!

April 2011

April 24, 2011

“In Time of Daffodils,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

It’s Easter, when our hearts stray toward the miracles of new life, rebirth—even resurrection! This year, e.e. cummings provides our text.

April 17, 2011

“Go in Peace,” Dan Broockmann, Kristi Brumley, TJ Little & Heather Jasper

The worship service will feature readings and personal reflections by Returned Peace Corps Volunteers and musical accompaniment by the Common Ground Community Chorus.

April 10, 2011

“The van Gogh Café,” Rev. Keith Kron and Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Rev. 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 to us about the importance to each of us of telling our story.

April 3, 2011

“From My Life,” Jeanette Ross and Memoir class participants

Several members of Jeanette Ross’ BUUF Memoir class will share selections from writings out of their own lives.

March 2011

March 27, 2011

“Fear of Falling,” Rev. Margaret Keip

Treasures 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.

March 20, 2011

“Loyalty,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

What 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?

March 13, 2011

“Hinduism in a Nutshell,” Mohan R. Limaye

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 our seven principles.

March 6, 2011

“Where Do You Draw the Line?” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

If 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?

February 2011

February 27, 2011

“Make a Joyful Noise,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Today, 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?

February 20, 2011

“Who Needs God?” Rev. Jackie Kelly

As 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 might also need a personal relationship with God.

February 13, 2011

“Secrets,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

What 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!

February 6, 2011

“Love … or Something Like It,” Wanda and Bryan Jennings

With Valentine’s Day coming, remember what Clint Black said, “Love isn’t something that you feel, it’s something that you do.”

January 2011

January 30, 2011

“Turn the Principles Upside Down,” Rev. Gail Lindsay Marriner

Creativity 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 Harvard Divinity School where she won the Billings Prize for preaching in 1995. She has served congregations in Massachusetts and Texas and is currently the consulting minister at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Duluth, Minnesota.

January 23, 2011

“Discovery and Re-Discovery,” Mészkõ travelers

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 for their first visit. Come learn how the visit affected each traveler.

January 16, 2011

“We Have a Dream,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene and Janine Larsen

Janine Larsen, our Pacific Northwest District Executive, will speak with us about our vision, as we move into the final years of Elizabeth’s ministry.

January 9, 2011

“Margaret Fuller: a Woman For all Times,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene & Prof. Elton Hall

Margaret Fuller was an amazing 19th-century woman, whose life and thought can inspire us. Elizabeth & Elton will present her words & some reflection.

January 2, 2011

“Whose God is This?” Nancy Harms

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.

December 2010

(No audio for Solstice, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day services.)

December 19, 2010

“O Magnum Mysterium,” BUUF Choir, Carrie Bastian, Rev. Elizabeth Greene

The 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.

December 12, 2010

“Just Before the Dawn,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

This 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?

December 5, 2010

“Deck the Halls!” Children, Youth, and Emmie Schlobohm, Director of Religious Exploration

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, singing, parades, and cookies abound!

November 2010

November 28, 2010

“Gratefulness,” Gail Haldeman

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?

November 21, 2010

“We Are All Pilgrims,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

A 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).

November 14, 2010

“The Power of Story,” Emmie Schlobohm, Director of Religious Exploration

Stories 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?

November 7, 2010

“Spiritual or Natural?” Rev. Elizabeth Greene and Mark McGinnis

Elizabeth and Mark are self-confessed “mystic” and “naturalist,” respectively. They both practice devotional disciplines. Are they more alike or different?

October 2010

October 31, 2010

“All Souls,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

On 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.

October 24, 2010

“Circle of Life,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Our Seventh Principle states that we affirm & support the interdependent web of all existence. Is that mysticism, science, or something else?

October 17, 2010

“Sustainability Didn’t Catch On – Now What?” Loren Bergeson

Despite 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 mean for us personally and for our families? What specifically should we do at this point in time? I’ll give my answers to these questions which will hopefully generate a productive discussion, followed by useful action.

October 10, 2010

“Standing On the Side of Love,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene and Congregational Care Committee

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?

October 3, 2010

“A Brief History of the Future of School,” Debra Smith

UUs 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 attended a school offers a solution for how to improve School. Underlying these reform efforts are two very different visions of what it means to be an educated person. Might it be time for the UUA to weigh in on this discussion?

September 2010

September 26, 2010

“What Motivates a Truly Religious Person?” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

If you look deep inside, looking at your heart honestly, what do you find motivates you? Elizabeth will reflect (honestly!) on this big question.

September 19, 2010

“History, Hopes & Dreams,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Our Fellowship is dynamic, changing-but-solid. In the best of all possible worlds, what do we long to create?

September 12, 2010

“Bringing Our Water Home,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Official start of the program year! Bring water from your summer travels, come check in with everyone.

September 5, 2010

“Who are these Pagans,” Don Schutte

What 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 lot in common with Pagans.

August 2010

August 29, 2010

“Everyday Spirituality and Meaningful Rituals,” Everyday Spirituality and Meaningful Rituals Chalice Circle (aka “The Cool Group”)

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!

August 22, 2010

“Through This We Live,” Dr. Mike Cutler, a Native American professor in the BSU Counseling Department

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 to pour water. He will also share some Taku Wakan (things that are holy) and some Inipi Olowan (sweat songs) with Fellowship members and friends. Liz Mummey (Assiniboine), a member of the Native American Coalition of Boise, will share one of her oral tradition stories with the children entitled Why the Bear Has a Short Tail. After the candle is extinguished at the end of the service, we will invite everyone (adults and children) to take part in a friendship round dance.

August 15, 2010

“Spirituality at Work: Churchy Stuff I’ve Learned in My Job as a Psychotherapist,” Patricia Heeb

Though 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.”

August 8, 2010

“Found in Translation: A Rough Guide to Self Discovery through Travel,” Carrie Bastian and David Scott

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 can’t leave town.

August 1, 2010

“Waikiki Walk Lights,” Bryan Jennings

Sooner or later everyone rides THE BUS. Hello, is anyone really in charge here?

July 2010

July 25, 2010

“Infectious Greed—America’s slide from Democracy to Oligarchy,” Bob Huntley

Social 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 depredations of six mega-banks (shortly ago thirteen) whose influence over the operations of both Congress and the Executive is destructive of democracy. This, because the merger of excessive corporate wealth and power with political power constitutes a “Ruling Oligaechy”, serving not the interests of the people, but only the accumulation of power and wealth in the hands of the few.

July 18, 2010

“Loving Yourself,” Guy Perkins

July 11, 2010

“Our Second Principle: Justice, equity and compassion in human relations; A cross generational dialogue on social change,” Roger Sherman and Anthony

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 greater justice, equity and compassion. While their views have been shaped by different forces, many underlying principles remain the same but they have also reached some significantly different conclusions.

July 4, 2010

“Integrity, Service and Excellence: Lessons from Air Force Basic Training,” Bonnie Harper

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 do.

June 2010

June 27, 2010

“The History and Evolution of 12 Step Recovery,” Bill Pulley

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 step program. Its success has spawned 12 step programs for many if not most identified addictions including Narcotics, Over Eaters and Gamblers. The lives of millions have been changed through 12 step recovery.

June 20, 2010

“Solstice Earthworks,” Mark Zimmerer

The 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.

June 13, 2010

“BUUF’s Outdoor Treasures,” Landscape Committee

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 of his spiritual journey as a Master Gardener. Alan Schwartzman will wrap it up with a special surprise.

June 6, 2010

“Flower Communion,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

This 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 sparkling cider) our relationship with our Partner Church.
(No audio recording.)

May 2010

May 30, 2010

“The search for meaning in our lives,” Bill Reid

When 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 find myself wondering “why, why, why,” like one of Kurt Vonnegut’s characters. Join me as I explore disasters and blessings in my life.

May 23, 2010

“The Glastonbury Covenant,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

On 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.

May 16, 2010

“State of the Fellowship (or a Spiritual Retrospective),” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

It’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

May 9, 2010

“After Enlightenment, the Laundry,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Enlightenment 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.

May 2, 2010

“Senior High Bridging,” BUUF high school seniors

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!

April 2010

April 25, 2010

“The Sanctuary of Greenness,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Our 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?

April 18, 2010

“The Medicine Wheel’s Still Pertinent Lessons,” Besse LaBudde

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 to change within oneself. Besse will share some of her struggles with the wheel and its possible uses in psychological therapy.

April 11, 2010

“Day Selves, Night Selves,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Truth 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 story?

April 4, 2010

“The Time For Singing Has Come,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

It’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.

March 2010

March 28, 2010

“Dayenu,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

In this Passover season, Elizabeth will retell the central Jewish story related to this holiday, and will lift up the gratitude that characterizes this celebration.

March 21, 2010

“Passion,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Elizabeth 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 Campbell said, follow your bliss and as UUs everywhere might add—but think!

March 14, 2010

“The Legacy of Forrest Church,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Rev. 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.

March 7, 2010

“Social Action: Practical or Theological?” Louise Jacobsen and Rev. Elizabeth Greene

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 and Elizabeth will share their personal takes on this fundamental question.

February 2010

February 28, 2010

“We’re All Student Humans,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Know 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.

February 21, 2010

“Death as Part of Life,” Ed Rush

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.

February 14, 2010

“Love: Many-Splendored or Just Confusing?” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Elizabeth reflects on the impossible subject of love, that consumerist-mangled, advertising-perverted human feeling, springing from the depths of our souls.

February 7, 2010

“The Tao of Ipod,” David Ward

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.

January 2010

January 31, 2010

“Where Do We Stand?” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Last 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?

January 24, 2010

“The Rise of Evolutionary Spirituality,” Loren Bergeson

Loren 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 accelerate our spiritual growth and the life improvements that go with it.

January 17, 2010

“Making a Difference,” Besse LaBudde and Nancy Harms

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 Martin Luther King, Jr: “Any religion which professes to be concerned about the souls of men and women, and is not concerned about the social and economic conditions that can scar the soul, is a spiritually moribund religion only waiting for the day to be buried.”

January 10, 2010

“Hey, boys, how’s the oxygen?” Mark Zimmerer

In 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 Iyengar, Al Gore and his own experience that help us to understand its importance to a balanced life in the world.

January 3, 2010

“Laugh, I Thought I’d Die,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Once 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?

December 2009

December 24, 2009

“Mother Mary Comes to Me,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

What 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, but must she not have felt that age-old human question: is this mostly a

December 20, 2009

“Circles of Dark and Light,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

It 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?

December 13, 2009

“Sure On This Shining Night,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Amidst 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)

December 6, 2009

“Deck the Halls,”

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.

November 2009

November 29, 2009

“Beethoven’s Daiku Unbound,” Dr. Lawrence Huntley

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 year to give performances of Daiku —”The Big Nine”. We will explore elements in the finale of this monumental work that may account for its universal appeal and immortality. Rev.

November 22, 2009

“Getting To Yes: a Brief History of Our Fellowship,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Our congregation has been a part of the Treasure Valley community for many decades. Elizabeth will speak about some of the high (and low!) spots.

November 15, 2009

“It’s Not the Changes, It’s the Transitions,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

All 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.

November 8, 2009

“Where is my Inspiration?” Rev. Robert Balint

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 in the respect for the inherent worth and dignity of every human being.

November 1, 2009

“What Do You Have to Be To Have a Spiritual Practice?” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

If Unitarian Universalism is to be a genuine religious community, UUs need to have regular centering & transcending practices. Elizabeth will offer examples & ideas.

October 2009

October 25, 2009

“Boston Bound and Back Again,”

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.

October 18, 2009

“Music through Community – Community through Music,” Carrie Bastian

BUUF 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.

October 11, 2009

“Coming Out For Justice,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Oct. 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?

October 4, 2009

“Living in Community,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene and Lisa Johnson

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 their community-building activities.

September 2009

September 27, 2009

“Where Children Are Wise and Adults Can Play,” Emmie Schlobohm

Our 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 a journey of discovery where play is transformative.

September 20, 2009

“Restless Souls,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Elizabeth 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.)

September 13, 2009

“Water: Its Cosmic Origins,” Reverend Elizabeth Greene and Connie Barlow

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!

September 6, 2009

“The End Starts the Beginning,” Nancy Harms

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. Now at Labor Day we rest, and think about how we spent our summer, our yesterdays, our present, and a glimpse into tomorrow. Summer has ended, everything has its season; there is a time for every purpose under heaven. Wear your favorite t-shirt.

August 2009

August 30, 2009

“Standing on the Side of Love,” BUUFers who attended GA

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 having earned our Green Sanctuary Certification.

August 23, 2009

“Time has come today,” David Ward

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 help spread the love.

August 16, 2009

“Humanism, Unpacked,” BUUF Humanist Group

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, our strength in times of crisis.

August 9, 2009

“Gardens: life, wonder, awe and sustenance,” BUGS

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!

August 2, 2009

“The Melody of Life – in the key of ‘UU’,” Dale Winke

Examining the overarching theme of Battlestar Galactica, Dale Winke looks at the connections, meanings, and melodies from one individual UU’s viewpoint.

July 2009

July 26, 2009

“The Calming Breath of Meditation Quenches the Fire of Suffering,” Tony DeAngelis

(No audio recording.)

July 19, 2009

“What are Relics to UUs?” Elton Hall

BUUF 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 as the closely related phenomenon of idolatry, looking at the idolatries every human being confronts.

July 12, 2009

“What is This Thing Called Love?” E. Coston Frederick

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.

July 5, 2009

“Food Ways: When Wretched Excess is Barely Enough,” Dan Peterson

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 incomplete without learning something new about food.

June 2009

June 28, 2009

“Hey, boys, how’s the oxygen?” Mark Zimmerer

In 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 Iyengar, Al Gore and his own experience that help us to understand its importance to a balanced life in the world.

June 21, 2009

“A Whole Lotta Heaven!” David Ward

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, to bring these issues front and center in the most interesting of ways. Ah, the joys of fatherhood.

June 14, 2009

“Our Debt to the Universalists,” Nancy Harms

Compiled by John Harms to explore what Universalism is. Come hear this presentation, back by popular request.

June 7, 2009

Flower Communion

No audio recording.

May 2009

May 31, 2009

“For All That Is Our Life,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Celebrating 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.

May 24, 2009

“The Young Soldiers,” Daniel Wright

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.

May 17, 2009

“…What’s Goin’ On?” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Each 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.

May 10, 2009

“Coming of Age (11am),” BUUF youth, Rev. Elizabeth Greene, Emmie Schlobohm, Cathy Carmen

This Sunday is an every-other-year favorite. Our Coming of Age youth, after spending fun-filled and action-packed months with their mentors, Cathy Carmen and Elizabeth, will share their credos with us.

“Coming of Age (9am),” BUUF youth, Rev. Elizabeth Greene, Emmie Schlobohm, Cathy Carmen

May 3, 2009

“Senior High Bridging; BUUF high school seniors,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene, Emmie Schlobohm

A 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.”

April 2009

April 26, 2009

“Reflections on a Sabbatical, Part 3,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

As 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.

April 19, 2009

“It’s In Your Hands,” Nancy Harms

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 actions and behavior toward the Earth that is at the heart of religion. UUs believe our faith tradition makes a difference and that distinction is what we pass on to our children.

April 12, 2009

“Up From the Dark We Arise,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene and BUUF Choir

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.

April 5, 2009

“Laugh? I Thought I’d Die,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Elizabeth holds the position that laughing is a religious activity. Or maybe she just likes to tell jokes. Come find out!

March 2009

March 29, 2009

“We Ain’t Afraid of No Ghosts,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Most 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 ghosts once and for all. Come to BUUF, and together we’ll embark on a thorough ghost-busting of the soul.

March 22, 2009

“The Fire of Commitment,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

On 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.

March 15, 2009

“We Are Not the News. Or Are We?” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

So 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?

March 8, 2009

“A Complaint-Free World,” David Ward

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.

March 1, 2009

“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 with us, reflecting on the spiritual path of justice and service.

February 2009

February 22, 2009

“So Say We All,” Dale Winke

Come join Dale as he explores how the themes of science fiction can plumb the depths of humanity’s spiritual and transcended yearnings.

February 15, 2009

“Becoming Ourselves,” James Mack

How 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 be the speaker at our Sunday Service. He will tell his personal journey as a gay man in America today.

February 8, 2009

“Norbert Capek’s Odyssey,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Norbert 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.

February 1, 2009

“Groundhog Day,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Are 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.

January 2009

January 25, 2009

“Reflections on a Sabbatical, Part II: The Shadow Knows,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Sharing 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.

January 18, 2009

“Martin Luther King, Obama and Great Expectations,” Elton Hall

Martin 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.

January 11, 2009

“What Are We Here For?” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

On 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.

January 4, 2009

“Beginnings,” Rev. Elizabeth Greene

Of 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.