Topic: Freedom

Interfaith Pride Service at First Christian Church

First Christian (Disciples of Christ) Church is the host of this year’s joyous interfaith celebration of LGBTQ+ inclusion. CUF will “decamp” to join with Church of the Good Shepherd (UCC), First Presbyterian Church, First United Methodist Church, St. Peter’s Church (UCC). Music by Interfaith Pride … read more.

Life Cycles

Every living organism experiences changes during the period between birth and death, however long it may be. The same is true for communities. Rev. Sarah leads this meditative service on the marking of life stages for individuals and for our Fellowship community. Music TBA

Flower Communion

Our annual multigenerational Flower Communion service will focus on those CUF people and experiences that have sustained us over the past year. We’ll create a bouquet of blessings for all of those folks and moments. Whether you’re participating online or in person, please bring a … read more.

Ensuring Justice Through the Gift of Freedom

Please join members of the Reproductive Justice Group as they reflect on this past year as the Social Justice Action for CUF. A few members will share personal stories, as well as a look back at our UUA grant, comfort bag assemblies, and the books and films that have been shared this past year. Music by Terri Sullivan. (Services are in person and on Zoom.)

The Gift of Freedom: A Readings Service

Help create this DIY service by bringing a short (under four minutes), favorite reading or quote on the topic of Freedom, our theme for July! “Modern” quotes preferred (20th-21st centuries). Music by Elana Floyd-Kennett. (Services are in person and on Zoom.)

Freedom and Responsibility

CUF member and Carbondale city council member Clare Killman will explore with us the concept of freedom, human nature’s innate thirst for limitlessness, and how responsibility (as a set of self-impositions) is the price we pay for admission where freedom is concerned. Music by Candy Davis and Marty Merrill. (Services are in-person and on Zoom.)

Matin on Freedom

Traditionally, a “matin” is a service of song and prayer. It has also been used to refer to the morning song of birds. Our version of a matin is a service of music, reflection, and blessings. Join us for meditations and music on “Freedom,” our theme for July. Music by Curt Wilson. (Services are in-person and on Zoom.)

Reentry and Civic Engagement

Guest speaker Quianya Enge will share with us the importance and understanding that the reentry process is a community sustainability issue. Ms. Enge is the Founder and Executive Director of Beyond the Walls, a not-for-profit organization that empowers those directly impacted by the criminal legal systems (especially women) through education and entrepreneurship. Music by Michael Thompson. (Services are in person and on Zoom.)

What Is Freedom in Religion?

CUF’s Emeritus Minister, the Rev. Bill Sasso, will present the message. Unitarian Universalism is often described as a free religious movement, but what does that mean? Are we a religious community where “anything goes?” If not, what does “freedom” mean, and where are the limits? In what might be called “an adventure of the spirit,” we’ll engage these and related questions, and perhaps even try out some answers! Music by Glenn McLernon. (Services are in person and on Zoom.)

The Song of Social Justice and Resistance

People working on social justice have long used and appreciated music and song as powerful tools to amplify the message and invoke solidarity. Curt Wilson will lead us in an inspirational exploration of these themes, which will hopefully inspire us to continue the work. Music by Warren Bush. (Services are in person and on Zoom.)