Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas

We unpack more of Daniel Limbaugh's founding sermon of our church from 1899 in which he said, "We believe God to be one, not three or more; an intelligent first cause, not an ultimate blind force… We have said that we believe God is love." Let's look for God in our version of faith for today through his eyes. This sermon is part of our Chart & Compass series – Our Unitarian Universalist faith is a...

In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, we dive into the heart of community and connection with Sharon Thompson, Director of Membership and Hospitality. Sharon shares stories about welcoming newcomers to the church, the simple process of becoming a member, and the meaningful tradition of signing the Book of Names. She highlights the inclusive and flexible ways both in-person and online members can e...

We continue to explore Daniel Limbaugh's 1899 founding sermon for our church by finding in it kernels of interest for them and for us today. In it he said, "Ours is not a system so much as it is a tendency. It is embraced by the spirit rather than by any formal statement of language. The seeking of truth, actuated by a love for it and its application to the religious nature of man is the spirit th...

In this special edition of Tiny Pulpit Talks, we step inside the Minister's Study with Revs. Daniel, Beth, and T. J. to reflect on our recently wrapped-up sermon series on Luminaries of Truth & Justice. This conversation digs deep into the powerful legacies of justice-seekers within Unitarian Universalism and how their work connects to today's efforts for reproductive justice, racial equity, and m...

The church was founded this day in 1899 with the words of Daniel Limbaugh who preached, "Many souls are hungering and thirsting for religious knowledge, truth and righteousness, to whom the old dogmas, doctrines and creeds appear outgrown. These persons are at sea without chart or compass, and many are making shipwreck of their religious natures." His call was for Unitarians to gather and become a...

In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Reverend T. J. FitzGerald sits down with Brennan Greef, Director of Adult Ministries and Leadership Development, for a heartfelt conversation you won't want to miss! Brennan shares how she guides the congregation through their spiritual journeys, creating spaces for deep growth and transformation. Whether you're someone seeking religious education or looking f...

Unitarian Universalism and our church would not be what it is today without the people of color who have led our faith into the future. We will talk about how our faith and church have been shaped by these leaders and their prophetic vision. This sermon is part of our Luminaries of Truth and Justice series – finding inspiration in the radical voices of our faith's history, present, and future. As...

Unitarian Universalism welcomed and blessed women in leadership roles before any other tradition. Then and now, this is one of the great strengths of our faith and of this church. This sermon is part of our Luminaries of Truth and Justice series – finding inspiration in the radical voices of our faith's history, present, and future. As we embark on a new church year and prepare to celebrate our ch...

In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald hosts an inspiring conversation with Rev. Angela Tyler-Williams, co-Executive Director for Movement Building of SACReD (Spiritual Alliance of Communities for Reproductive Dignity). They delve into the power of bringing one's whole self into the intersection of faith and reproductive justice. Rev. Angela shares her journey as a Presbyteria...

In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, we dive into the important work behind the scenes at the church with special guest Martha Norton, a long-time congregant and staff member who currently works in stewardship and finance. Martha shares her journey of gratitude and how she has spent the last decade helping sustain the church's mission by thanking members for their generosity. Martha and Rev. T. J...

Our faith is filled with radicals who fought for what was right and took on systems of injustice. Our own church is part of this fight and is in it for the long haul. This sermon is part of our Luminaries of Truth and Justice series – finding inspiration in the radical voices of our faith's history, present, and future. As we embark on a new church year and prepare to celebrate our church's 125-ye...

In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald welcomes Jean Ann Powers, Director of Pastoral Care, to dive into the heart of her ministry at the church. Jean Ann shares the incredible work of her 125+ volunteers, describing them as the "foot soldiers" who bring warmth, connection, and care to the congregation. She talks about the importance of matching volunteers with roles that reso...

Ingathering is our kick–off to the theme year. We will explore 125 years of progressive religious impact and what it means to be a Dallas UU today. Keeping the Flame: Then, Now, and Always Celebrating 125 Years of Progressive Religion in Dallas Our 2024-25 theme year "Keeping the Flame: Then, Now, and Always," is a call to action and reflection for our congregation. It's an invitation to honor the...

We can't wait for someone or something to make good things happen, to bring about change, to do justice. Join us as we explore the prophethood of all and the foundations of Unitarian Universalism that call us to be part of building a just and loving community. This sermon is part of our Foundations series – inspired by John Luther Adams' essay "Guiding Principles of a Free Faith," in which he writ...

Was David optimistic when he slain Goliath? The story says everyone was afraid. What role does optimism play in stories of triumph and in our lives. In uncertain times our theologian James Luther Adams calls for 'Ultimate Optimism.' Let's look at that more closely. This sermon is part of our Foundations series – inspired by John Luther Adams' essay "Guiding Principles of a Free Faith," in which he...

In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald welcomes Bill Holston, Chief Executive Officer of Dallas Eviction Advocacy Center, to talk about his organization's mission to serve tenants facing housing insecurity with pro bono legal advice and representation, housing assistance, rent relief and a clearinghouse of tenant and eviction information. DEAC assists all Dallas County tenants...

Have you ever wondered why Unitarian Universalists seem so focused on justice and equity. Some of the theological foundations of our faith are about mutuality between one another and the agency we believe all persons should have. We will deepen our understanding of these concepts together. This sermon is part of our Foundations series – inspired by John Luther Adams' essay "Guiding Principles of a...

Unitarian Universalism is a living tradition that remains open to new truths that shape our faith. Let's explore the evolution of Unitarian Universalism taking place around us today. We will also celebrate our annual Back to School Blessing, inviting students and educators of all kinds to bring their backpacks or school bags and to receive a gift. This sermon is part of our Foundations series – in...

In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Revs. Beth and T. J. talk about our upcoming sermon series "Foundations," which is inspired by James Luther Adams' essay "Guiding Principles of a Free Faith." In his essay, Adams introduces the 5 smooth stones of liberal religion, ideas that we use throughout our Faith Forward offerings and religious education. Whether you're new to our church or looking to de...

In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, you get the chance to meet our new Director of Music, Grant Wareham. Learn more about Grant and hear what he has planned for the music program in the coming year. 00:00 - Welcome Grant! 02:23 - Get to know Grant. 04:22 - Grant share about his experience at Rice University. 06:41 - How to bring out the best in a choir. 08:31 - The beauty of group singing. 09:46...

Celebrate the artistic genius of Beyoncé, a global icon whose music, performances, and activism have transcended boundaries and inspired millions. Explore how her work celebrates Black culture, empowers women, and challenges societal norms. Reflect on the intersection of art, fame, and social responsibility in shaping our collective consciousness. This sermon is part of our Artists Who Inspire ser...

We are thrilled to announce the 125th anniversary of the First Unitarian Church of Dallas! In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Revs. Kanter and FitzGerald reflect on the church's founding and share the fun ways we can celebrate together this year. Find all things related to the 125th anniversary here: https://dallasuu.org/125 00:00 - Welcome to this special 125th anniversary edition of Tiny Pulp...

Through her masterful blend of traditional Chinese techniques and contemporary themes, Hung Liu brings to life the stories of the overlooked and forgotten. Her art, steeped in symbolism and cultural resonance, challenges us to reflect on themes of migration, identity, and resilience, transforming the canvas into a powerful narrative of human endurance and the quest for dignity. This sermon is part...

In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. Beth Dana answers questions from our members and friends. Learn more about Rev. Beth, get tips on how talk to your teenagers that don't want to come to church, and hear what Rev. Beth is looking forward to in the coming church year. 00:00 - Rev. Beth is ready to answer your questions 01:02 - If you hadn't gone into ministry, what career would you have pur...

Ludwig Van Beethoven's music transcends barriers of time and space to touch the depths of the human soul. Despite facing profound personal challenges, Beethoven composed symphonies of unparalleled beauty and resilience, reminding us of the transformative power of art in times of adversity. This sermon is part of our Artists Who Inspire series – a journey into the world of artistic brilliance and s...