This week, we ask, “How can we find our center by addressing fundamental life problems?” We will draw wisdom from the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, who addressed inherent problems of injustice. We will also draw wisdom from the monotheistic religions – Judaism, Christianity, and Islam – and how they addressed problems of exile, sin, and pride, respectively. As we join to celebrate the anniversary of our church, we reflect on how we, together, find our shared center through common problems, and how we craft meaning as a sacred collective.

Loss and the change that accompany it are unavoidable and necessary. Without death we would not know life, without heartbreak we would not know love, and without ailments we would not know health. We react, adapt, let go, and grow in ways unique to each individual and each loss. Together, let us explore life-giving reactions to these inevitable life transitions. 

Before we create anything new, we need to craft it in our minds; to change our current lives we need to envision a new one. This Sunday, through an exploration of origin stories, world religions, and our own family histories, we explore the roles our imaginations play in generating a courageous way forward.

As we transition into our theme of courage, we honor those seemingly small acts of bravery that nonetheless alter the course of our lives. By delving deep into Buddhist practices and ideas, we learn how to intentionally and courageously avoid suffering. Together, we will share wisdom tales and explore the Noble Eightfold Path, gaining direction, skills, and insights that serve to transform the actions, thoughts, and intentions in each of our days.

In commemorating the Jewish High Holidays, we will reflect on the sacred theme of forgiveness. In engaging with Jewish history, we will also examine the hope necessary for the Exodus story. How do these teachings affect us as Unitarian Universalists? How can we use Jewish wisdom to encourage us on our individual journeys of belonging?