In many traditions, ancestors are considered a part of the ‘interdependent web of all existence,’ and connections between them and the living are recognized and celebrated. Our all-ages observance of the Wiccan highest holy day will include rituals marking the end of the harvest, the beginning of winter/New Year, and honoring the dead. We’ll examine how Samhain, and paganism, are important to UUism. All are invited to bring photos/mementos of deceased loved ones for the Samhain altar. Music by Elana Floyd-Kennett. (Services are in person and on Zoom.)

We belong to our pets as much as they belong to us. They bless our lives with companionship and unconditional love; this service is an opportunity for us to bless them in return. This service welcomes well-behaved, non-anxious pets** to be with the human congregation. Zooming in? — bring a photo of your pet(s) for a virtual blessing. Music by Bob and Karen Swenson. **Pets must be on a leash or in a carrier. More info in the email Bulletin. (Services are in-person and on Zoom.)

Two very courageous Afghan refugees will share their experiences with us, as we continue exploring this month’s theme of Courage. Sekandar and Nilofar are a married couple who were sponsored by members of the Peace Coalition of Southern Illinois and are living and working in Carbondale. Music by Glenn McLernon. (Services are in-person and on Zoom.)

These are the three components of courage, according to social science researchers. If we think about courage in these simple terms, we may be able to embrace our own and others’ capacity for courage. Individually, and as a congregation, we have shown courage in the past, and if we resist cynicism and fear, we will continue to act with courage. In this service, Rev. Sarah shares some science, some stories, and some CUF folks’ experiences of courage. Music by Warren Bush. (Services are in-person and on Zoom.)

NOTE — this service is at 9:30 am, at First Presbyterian Church, 310 S. University Ave. in Carbondale, in person, or via this Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82484553329. CUF hosted the first Pride Sunday Service held in June of 2017, and it has since grown to include Church of the Good Shepherd, First Christian (DoC), and this year’s host, First Presbyterian. It’s part of the Southern IL LGBTQ Fest. (CUF Zoom coffee hour is at 11:30 a.m. at the usual link.)