Sunnyhill Unitarian Universalist

A reflection on how our lives are shaped by the surprises we never asked for — the wounds, the wonders, and the strange gifts along the way. Through story, science, and the poetry of Naomi Shihab Nye, Will invites us to see our journeys with new eyes. www.sunnyhill.org

In recent decades, John 3:16 has become perhaps the most famous (or infamous) verse in the Bible, and has served as shorthand for a fundamentalist understanding of Christianity. But there are other ways of reading this Bible passage that might lead to a more expansive understanding of the life and teachings of Jesus. www.sunnyhill.org

The Sunnyhill High School Youth Group will discuss the Unitarian Universalist Values that they connect with the most during their time together. We will also celebrate Bridging, which honors our high school seniors as they move into their next chapter of life. www.sunnyhill.org

If contemporary Unitarian Universalism were to have its own Book of Common Prayer, it would almost certainly include some of the poems of Mary Oliver. This service will explore why one of Oliver’s poems, “The Summer Day,” is especially powerful and relevant. www.sunnyhill.org

For generations, humanity has been fascinated with the question “Are we alone in the universe?” This fascination has recently been further piqued with the release of government files related to possible extraterrestrial life. In this service, we’ll explore how humanity might change philosophically, existentially, and/or theologically in the event of first contact. www.sunnyhill.org

National holidays in America have largely become occasions for shopping mall sales, sporting events and backyard barbecues. Many of these holidays have also become celebrations of materialism and militarism–and a good bit of narrow moralizing around these themes. How might we honor these holidays while resisting their less savory aspects? www.sunnyhill.org

Curiosity and wonder can be much-needed antidotes to feeling overwhelmed and stuck. Instead of remaining mired in frustration and anger, how might we cultivate a sense of curiosity and a sense of wonder, even in the most challenging of times? www.sunnyhill.org

Much religious discussion focuses on the belief or disbelief in God or a higher power. Today, we shine the spotlight on “I don’t know,” the unsung path of agnosticism. www.sunnyhill.org

The sci-fi/fantasy television series “Stranger Things,” set in the 1980s, explores a number of themes relevant to our own times and the challenges we are facing. What might it say to us about countering authoritarianism with radical solidarity? www.sunnyhill.org