Podcasts by Unitarian Church of Edmonton (UCE)
The Unitarian Church of Edmonton is a liberal, multi-generational, religious community. We celebrate a rich mosaic of free-thinking, spiritually-questing individuals joined in common support and action. We welcome diversity including diversity of beliefs from divine believers to humanists, from pagans to atheists and agnostics. We believe in the compassion of the human heart, the warmth of community, the pursuit of justice and the search of meaning in our lives.
We gather with gratitude on traditional Cree lands that are now a part of Treaty Six and shared by many nations. A treaty is an inheritance, a responsibility and a relationship. May we be good neighbours to one another, good stewards to our planet and good ancestors to our children.
Further podcasts by Unitarian Church of Edmonton (UCE)
Podcast on the topic Religion und Spiritualität
All episodes
“The Gifts of Interfaith Dialogue” - Feb 20, 2022 from 2022-02-21T00:56:48
Order of Service
Chimes
Greeting and Announcements
Prelude
Welcome and Land Acknowledgment
Chalice Lighting “For Each and For All” by Erik Walker Wikstrom
Hymn188 “Come, Com...
Taizé 2022, February 13, 2022 from 2022-02-14T03:41:43
Order of Service
February 13 2022,
Taizé 2022
Enter the Circle
In the unity of the spirit, in the sanctity of this blessed community, let us quiet ourselves as we settle into a me...
"A Journey of Faith", Feb 6, 2022 from 2022-02-07T00:22:44
"A Journey of Faith", Feb 6, 2022. In the Islamic tradition, the many names of God is a reminder that God is a reality woven into the very fabric of being. God cannot be named or held or possessed...
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“Children Are Sacred” - Jan 30, 2022 from 2022-01-30T19:59:19
Order of Service - Jan 30, 2022
“Children Are Sacred”
Chimes
Greeting
Prelude “Breathe with the Trees” by WindWeaver
Welcome and Land Acknowledgement
Theme Introduction - S...
“Intention: Let it flow to your heart’s content”- Jan 23, 2022 from 2022-01-24T03:15:52
The idea of 'Flow' as coined by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, is an altered state where great creativity happens. How does intention and flow work together? Rev. Rosemary will explore some of these conc...
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“Thomas Merton: A Unitarian Universalist at Heart”- Jan 16, 2022 from 2022-01-17T20:51:53
This service will explore the life and writing of Thomas Merton. He was a cad, a devoted Cistercian Monk, and someone with a view of the world that was exceptional. They say he was thinking of beco...
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“Why I Go to Church”- Jan 9, 2022 from 2022-01-10T23:03:36
“Why I Go to Church”- Jan 9, 2022
Why do we go to church anyway? What do we actually get out of it? In this service Rev. Rosemary will talk about why church is important to her, and what others...
"Reflections on 2021" – Jan 2, 2022 from 2022-01-02T21:48:16
Reflections on 2021 - Order of Service – Jan 2, 2022
Welcome and Land Acknowledgement
Prelude/ year-end anthem: “Four Strong Winds” by Ian Tyson, sung by Erin Vandermolen-Pater
Chalic...
"A Joyful & Gentle Christmas Eve” – Dec 24, 2021 from 2021-12-28T17:30:53
A Joyful & Gentle Christmas Eve” – Dec 24, 2021
This year our Christmas Eve service will be online exclusively. This service will be full of stories, music, and warmth. Please join Rev. Rosemar...
“Surprised by Joy” – Dec 26, 2021 from 2021-12-28T02:44:20
“Surprised by Joy” – Dec 26, 2021
Explore some of the surprises that this time of year has to offer us, and our favourite seasonal stories. Online exclusively, to give our hard-working voluntee...
“The Joy of Wintertime”, Dec 12, 2021. from 2021-12-22T22:10:37
ORDER OF SERVICE
Chimes
Greeting
Prelude
Welcome and Land Acknowledgment
Chalice Lighting - Deep Calls Unto Deep, Joy Calls Unto Joy by Gordon B. McKeeman
Deep calls unto...
“The Mitten Tree”, Dec 19, 2021, presented by the UCE Youth Group from 2021-12-19T22:32:16
ORDER OF SERVICE
Welcome
Prelude – White Winter Hymnal
Opening Words
Kindling the Chalice and Advent Candle
Hymn 237 - The First Nowell
Christmas Story - Wren Harder-Tessie...
Dec 5 "Joy to Our World" - Carols & Lessons, with Chorealis Choir and Rev Rosemary from 2021-12-06T00:59:13
Order of Service, Dec5, 2021 Carols and Lessons
Chimes
Greeting “Open to Awe” by Shari Woodbury
Prelude “Winter Comes” performed by Chorealis; by Henry J. Gauntlett, arranged by John Ne...
“Truth, Honesty and Reconciliation” - Nov 21, 2021 - Social Justice Working Group from 2021-11-22T01:08:49
Note: audio volume low till 0:01:20
Order of Service, Nov 21, 2021, 10:30 am
“Truth, Honesty and Reconciliation,” a UCE Social Justice Service - Rev Audrey Brooks, Chantal Chagnon, Sylvia ...
“What Mark Said” - Nov 14, 2021 from 2021-11-14T23:40:32
Ingathering Music
Welcome and Land Acknowledgement
Chimes
Prelude
Opening Words
Lighting the Chalice “A Community of Faith” by Judith L. Quarles
Hymn 38 “Morning Has Broken”...
“Holding History: Trailblazer Olympia Brown”, Nov 7, 2021 from 2021-11-08T18:11:08
ORDER OF SERVICE
Ingathering Music
Chimes
Welcome and Land Acknowledgement
Prelude
Opening Words
Lighting the Chalice - For the Freedom of Faith by Heather K. Janules
Ou...
"Samhain; Hallows Blessing for the Ancestors" Oct 31, 2021 from 2021-10-31T22:44:53
ORDER OF SERVICE
Ingathering Music
Chimes
Greeting
Prelude - Where Do We Come From, music by Brian Tate, words by Paul Gaugin, performed by Chorealis
Welcome and Land Acknowled...
“Longing and Belonging”, Oct 24, 2021 from 2021-10-25T17:01:39
Order of Service
NOTE: Apologies – static ends 3 minutes in.
lngathering Music
Chimes
Welcome and Land Acknowledgement
Prelude
Opening Words
Lighting the Chalice
"A Harvest of Hope", Oct 10, 2021 from 2021-10-10T22:39:23
“A Harvest of Hope”, Oct 10, 2021
Order of Service
Ingathering Music
Chimes
Welcome and Land Acknowledgement
Prelude
Opening Words
Lighting the Chalice “The Abundance o...
“Before the Residential Schools” – Oct 3, 2021 from 2021-10-03T20:40:35
Order of Service – Oct 3, 2021
Service leaders: Susan Ruttan, Corinne Jackson, Elin Logan
Chimes
Welcome & Land Acknowledgement
Prelude
Introduction by Susan Ruttan
Lighting...
“Rewrite the Ending, Then Anything Is Possible” – Sept 26, 2021 from 2021-09-26T20:02:24
Order of Service, Sept 26, 2021
In-gathering Music
Chimes
Welcome and Land Acknowledgement
Prelude
Lighting the Chalice “Welcome to this Place of Possibility” by Marianne Hachte...
“Ask What’s Possible, Not What’s Wrong” – Sept 19, 2021 from 2021-09-19T21:56:59
Sept 19, 2021 - Order of Service
Ingathering Music
Chimes
Welcome and Land Acknowledgement
Prelude “You Can Do this Hard Thing” by Carrie Newcomer
Call to Worship
Ligh...
"Water Is Life" - Sept 12, 2021 from 2021-09-13T01:10:46
Sept 12, 2021 - Order of Service "Water Is Life"
Prelude
Welcome and Land Acknowledgement
Call to Worship
Lighting the Chalice “The Spirit of Water” by Katie Gelfand
Hymn 38 “M...
"A House For Our Dreams" - Sept 5, 2021 (poor audio quality this week) from 2021-09-07T13:34:14
Sept 5, 2021 - Order of Service
Welcome
Land Acknowledgement: "Territorial Acknowledgment" by Sean Neil-Barron
Reading “To The Four Directions” by Joan Goodwin
Chalice Lighting “F...
13th Annual Genocide Memorial Service July 11, 2021 Rev Audrey Brooks & friends from 2021-07-24T13:55:05
Each year, persons from many faiths and cultures come to share names and stories of people who died because of planned attacks against them, because of wars, greed, “ethnic cleansing,” slavery, gen...
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“Becoming Beloved Community” July 4, 2021 from 2021-07-05T00:00:47
Order of Service, Sunday, July 4, 2021
Gathering Music “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” Composed by Bach, performed by Anna Comellas (cello) and Rosalind Beall (guitar)
Welcome
Land Acknow...
“Recollections of Our Fathers & Board Installation” June 20, 2021 from 2021-06-20T20:37:54
Order of Service, Sunday, June 20, 2021
Recollections of Our Fathers & Installation of the Board
Gathering Music “Etude op. 76 no. 2” by Jean Sibelius
Welcome
Land Acknowledgment
“Gay Heroes of Edmonton” Pride 2021 June 13, 2021 from 2021-06-14T01:59:10
Order of Service - June 13 PRIDE 2021
Prelude “I’m Coming Out”
Welcome
Land Acknowledgement
Chalice Lighting “The Pride Flame” by Linda lee Franson
Opening words “Holy Stuff” b...
“Flower Communion: God Loves a Garden” June 6, 2021 from 2021-06-06T20:21:15
Order of Service - June 6, 2021 "Flower Communion"
Gathering Music “Spring” By Vivaldi
Welcome
Land Acknowledgment
Call to Worship
Chimes
Chalice Lighting “Like the First Hi...
The Human Life Equation - May 30, 2021 from 2021-05-30T22:13:19
Order of Service - May 30, 2021
"The Human Life Equation"
Gathering Music “O What a Piece of Work We Are” - Hymn #313
Welcome
Land Acknowledgment
Call to Worship - Psalm #139
"Tell Me a Story" - May 23, 2021 from 2021-05-23T20:35:07
Order of Service
Tell Me a Story
Gathering Music “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” by Bach, performed by Anna Comellas (cello) and Rosalind Beall (guitar)
Welcome
Land Acknowledgment
Mother's Day - May 9, 2021 from 2021-05-09T21:58:28
Order of Service
Gathering Music
Welcome
Land Acknowledgment
Call to Worship “Circle of Care” by Rev. Lisa Bovee-Kemper
Chimes
Chalice Lighting “For Mothers & Mothering” by ...
"May Day" - May 2, 2021 from 2021-05-03T17:42:54
Order of Service
Prelude “Laudnum Bunches” An English Morris Dance Tune
Introduction
Land Acknowledgment
Opening words “Blessed Is the Sky” by Eric Williams
Kindling the Chalice...
Nurturing The Tree Of Life from 2021-04-25T19:02:46
In honor of Earth Day (April 22), Rev. Lee Anne will introduce us to some of the many ways in
which the metaphorical tree of life has been used to signify difficult and complex concepts.
Ap...
"Why Were You Not More Like Zusya?" - April 18, 2021 from 2021-04-18T21:02:51
Order of Service
Gathering Music
Welcome
Land Acknowledgment
Call to Worship “Transfiguring Love” written by Chip Roush
Chalice Lighting “Amid all the noise in our lives” Tim Ha...
Becoming – A Taize Style Service from 2021-04-11T18:51:22
We are all imperfect beings, broken by the careless or deliberate actions of others, sometimes by ourselves, sometimes by the world. However, by rebuilding after failures or hurt, we develop the re...
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Easter: When Things Are Not As They Appear - April 4, 2021 from 2021-04-05T15:17:23
Order of Service Apr 4, 2021
Gathering Music
Welcome & Land Acknowledgment
Call to Worship
Chalice Lighting Come In Amy Russell
Opening Song Here we Have Gathered Hymn #360
...
What a Donkey Knows from 2021-03-28T21:57:47
March 28, 2021
What a Donkey Knows
In recognition of the Christian Palm Sunday, Rev. Lee Anne will explore the use of donkeys to make important points in the Hebrew and Christian scriptures...
Committed Co-creation - Mar 21, 2021 from 2021-03-21T20:35:45
Order of Service
Gathering Music “Always” - Written & Performed by Gordon Ritchie
Welcome
Land Acknowledgment & Call to Worship
Chimes
Chalice Lighting “Our Commitment” - Rev. D...
Our Gay Rights Commitment - March 14, 2021 from 2021-03-14T22:46:19
Our Gay Rights Commitment
In 1973, UCE made a bold commitment to gay rights, one that continues to this day. We look back at that proud history and the blessings it has brought us.
I...
The Powerful, Capable, Wise, and Wealthy Woman – March 7, 2021 from 2021-03-07T22:28:54
Gathering Music Always Written & Performed by Gordon Ritchie
Welcome
Land Acknowledgment
Call to Worship Choose to Challenge
Written & Performed by Anisa Nandaula, a spoken word poe...
Black History Month: The Promise and the Practice from 2021-02-21T19:21:22
Black History Month: The Promise and the Practice
Unitarian Universalist congregations across the continent claim to be welcoming congregations. But are we . . . really? This service will cente...
A Valentine To The Beloved Community from 2021-02-16T01:26:16
A Valentine to The Beloved Community
Do you bristle at the ubiquitousness of the Hallmark branded Valentine’s Day? Come explore alternative understandings and applications of love as applied to...
Poetry Sunday from 2021-01-31T22:15:41
January 31, 2021
Poetry incites the imagination with imagery, similes, and other literary devices. Poetry, like music, moves us in ways that prose does not. On this fifth Sunday of the month,...
Laughter Is The Best Medicine from 2021-01-25T06:16:20
January 24, 2021
Laughter is the Best Medicine -- Belly Laugh Day
Some believe that humor depends upon the perception of an appropriate incongruity. And, that a good sense of humor...
World Religion Day - UU And Baha'i from 2021-01-18T00:24:03
World Religion Day
Celebrated around the world, World Religion Day is an observance initiated in 1950 by the National Spiritual Assembly of the Baha'is of the United States. It is celebrated on...
Entrances and Exits - Jan 10, 2021 from 2021-01-12T03:09:19
In this service, we will welcome precious new humans whose spiritual journeys began in 2020. We will also remember members and friends whose spiritual journeys came to an end in 2020. Additionally,...
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Reflections on 2020 - Jan 3, 2021 from 2021-01-03T21:36:33
This service will be a shared reflection on the year past. 2020 has been the most dramatic of years. This service will feature your picks - the top news stories of the year, the top creative arts s...
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Desperately Seeking Stillness (Stillness Meditation)Dec 27, 2020 from 2020-12-30T18:33:51
Pls note the audio is silent in several spots. These are in the recording itself. There is no order of Service for Dec 27
What comes after the fear of not having enough; after the frenzy of b...
Blue Christmas from 2020-12-30T16:45:22
Blue Christmas: Leaning into the Stillness
Rev. Lee Anne continues the time honored tradition of recognizing that the Christmas Season isn’t a joyous occasion for everyone.
Many of us are ...
Christmas Eve Service - Dec 24, 2020 from 2020-12-25T18:22:04
In the story of Jesus’ birth there is a blessing: a possibility of a better world. This possibility arises when we remember that we are all connected; when we choose kindness and generosity; when w...
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A Solstice Celebration - Dec 20, 2020 from 2020-12-20T21:16:21
Order of Service for Sunday, December 20, 2020, 10:30 am Solstice
Prelude – Solstice Night performed by Chorealis
Welcome
Land Acknowledgment
Opening words – Winter Solstice by ...
Celebrating the Joy of Community . . . Mitten Tree Service Dec 13, 2020 from 2020-12-13T22:17:51
Gathering Music - Bring a Torch Jeanette Isabella
Welcome
Land Acknowledgement
Opening Words
Chalice Lighting - Joy and Gladness By Rev. Jude Geiger
Lighting Th...
Stillness as Resistance, Dec. 6, 2020 from 2020-12-09T23:45:56
Gathering Music Find a Stillness
Welcome
Land Acknowledgment
Call to Worship #441 To Worship
Chimes
Chalice Lighting Spark of Life, Rev. Dr. Linda Hart
Lighting Second Adv...
Loving Kindness Meditation Heals Nov. 29, 2020 from 2020-11-29T22:30
Gathering Music Come Into This Place of Peace
Gordon Ritchie and Chorealis
Welcome
Land Acknowledgment
Opening Words & Call to Worship
Blessings on Those Staying Home, By Lind...
Spiritual Healing Through Storytelling from 2020-11-23T02:35:58
Spiritual Healing Through Storytelling - Nov 22, 2020
Interim Minister - Rev Lee Anne Washington
Gathering Music Come Into This Place of Peace
Gordon Ritchie and Chorealis
We...
Sustaining Our Light from 2020-11-19T15:31:01
SUSTAINING OUR LIGHT | NOV 15, 2020
Music: Prelude in C Major; Variations on Spirit of Life ~ Elliott Dainow & Minjee Yoon, Vancouver
Invocation: Call to Worship ~ Rev. Fulgence Ndagijimana...
The Threat to AISH from 2020-11-08T22:58:36
As a spiritual community committed to social justice, how do we respond when our provincial government talks about cutting back the Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped program, on which th...
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The Healing Power of Rituals from 2020-11-08T22:08:04
The loss of a loved one -- whether by death or by separation -- is excruciatingly painful and disorienting. The world as we know it is turned upside down and inside out.
Rev. Lee Anne will exp...
Naming What Pains Us and What Gives Us Hope from 2020-11-07T22:02:43
October 25: Naming What Pains Us and What Gives Us Hope
We cannot recover from that which we cannot name. During our normal services, we limit our joys and sorrows to those occurring in our pe...
Learning From The Past from 2020-10-18T18:21:05
Learning from the Past
A wise choir director once said, “If you don’t know where you’re going, look where you’ve been.” One of our UU sources is "words and deeds of prophetic people”. Perhaps...
A Time of Reconciliation from 2020-09-27T21:18:29
A time of reconciliation. Sept 27, 2020
In this season of change, we reflect on atonement and forgiveness. We will honour Orange Shirt Day, to remember survivors of Canada’s residential schools...
The Gifts of Wandering through the Wilderness from 2020-09-23T22:02:40
September 20, 2020:
The Gifts of Wandering through the Wilderness
Likening the interim period between settled ministers to the Israelites’ wandering through the wilderness, Rev. Lee A...
Leaving Egypt in Faith from 2020-09-20T20:12:10
September 13:
Leaving Egypt in Faith
Every journey from here to there begins with moving away from that which has become familiar and
moving toward possibilities that have not yet mani...
Justice Justice Shalt Thou Pursue from 2020-09-07T18:42:15
September 6, 2020 :
Justice, Justice Shalt Thou Pursue
Rev. Lee Anne Washington will introduce herself to us by sharing her journey from pursuing legal justice in state and federal courts ...
Reimagining City Life During a Pandemic, lead by John Pater from 2020-08-23T18:26:54
A discussion on some current research and thinking on the impact of COVID-19 on Edmonton (the corporate entity and the community we live in)
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Theatre is Religion, led by John Sproule, Coralie Cairns from 2020-08-16T18:21:16
Theatre is Religion, led by John Sproule, Coralie Cairns by Unitarian Church of Edmonton (UCE)
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"Finding Our Way to the UCE", Susan Ruttan from 2020-08-09T18:09:29
Our faith community is unique in the number of people who aren't born into it, but who find us as adults. Those spiritual journeys to our UU church are always fascinating, and they make us the spec...
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"Any Bowl Can Be a Chalice," Beth Jenkins from 2020-07-26T18:53:35
A service exploring sources of comfort and inspiration during difficult times.
Order of Service
Welcome
Chalice Lighting / Opening Words: “Any Bowl Can Be a Chalice” (Hugh MacPherson)<...
How has Pandemic Isolation Changed You? from 2020-07-19T18:28:47
This pandemic has robbed us of all sorts of comforts and pleasures, but many of us have found ways to survive the social distancing. We’ll share some of those stories.
Order of Service, July 19...
“12th Annual Genocide Memorial,” Rev. Audrey Brooks & Guests, July 12, 2020 from 2020-07-13T00:00
This year the theme is “Witness, Hope, Interconnections.” We will gather on Zoom, with speakers from countries where people die violent deaths because of intentional attacks against them. We give w...
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“Beloved Companions: A Blessing of the Animals,” Rev. Anne Barker & Heather, June 28, 2020 from 2020-06-29T20:44:16
Joint Service With Westwood Unitarian Congregation: Join us for our 4th All-Edmonton UUs Service, closing out the regular church year together. “Beloved Companions” will be a celebration of our dea...
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“Litha (Summer Solstice),” Ali Hammington, June 21, 2020 from 2020-06-22T00:00
Summer solstice is normally a time of abundance. This year, it’s a time of pandemic. When we think about our sacred relationship with the Earth and with all living things, we cannot help but ask: w...
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“Being Queer but not Sexual: Pride Service”, UCE Youth, June 14, 2020 from 2020-06-15T00:00
Moving away from the idea of over-sexualized pride events, and tying to the idea being in Covid isolated. Our theme “Being Queer But Not Sexual” is not discussed nearly as much as it should be. By ...
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“Flower Communion,” Beth Jenkins, June 7, 2020 from 2020-06-08T00:00
The Flower Communion is an annual service that celebrates beauty, human uniqueness, diversity, and community. Please select a fresh flower, or a picture of a favorite flower, to place near your web...
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“Radical Theology,” Andrew Mills, May 31, 2020 from 2020-06-01T00:00
Unitarianism originated in a dispute over an interpretation of the bible and the concept of the trinity. I will explore the roots of this dispute and use modern translations of the gospels to show ...
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“Architecture for Social Justice,” Lillias Cowper, May 24, 2020 from 2020-05-25T00:00
How can Design promote Social Justice? Designers, Architects, Urban Planners and Landscape Designers can promote Social Justice because spaces, both interior and exterior, can honour its users and ...
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“What Does It Mean to Do Good?”, Rev. Anne Barker & Jeff Bisanz, May 17, 2020 from 2020-05-16T00:00
Our commitment to “justice, equity, and compassion in human relations” draws us to social justice and compels us to contribute our resources-donations, volunteering, or political action-to that end...
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“Cultures of Motherhood,” Rev. Audrey Brooks & Dr. Jennifer Askey, May 10, 2020 from 2020-05-11T00:00
Beginning with the OWL curriculum, we UUs teach and believe that family comes in myriad constellations. We celebrate LGBTQ+ chosen family, extended family, aunties of all sorts, and brothers and si...
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“Jewish Traditions for Today’s UUs,” Karen Mills & Gordon Ritchie, May 3, 2020 from 2020-05-04T00:00
What comes to your mind when you think of Sabbath? Do you think of rest? A break from work? What might it mean in this time of uncertainty and unrest? What does it mean to be and do good? We'll pon...
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“Protecting Pollinators,” Beth Jenkins and Mike Jenkins, 26 Apr 2020 from 2020-04-27T00:00
Mike Jenkins, City of Edmonton, will talk about native species as pollinators, how to encourage them, and why they're important even if you aren't interested in honey. #UU #YEG
1 Welcome b...
“New Birth Earth Day,” Corinne Jackson & Maria Jenkins, 19 Apr 2020 from 2020-04-19T00:00
April 23, 2020 is the 50th anniversary of the first Earth Day celebration in North America. Rebirth - a celebration of spring through poetry and song. #UU #YEG
1 Welcome by Corinne Jackson...
“Easter Spirit, Open Mind,” Rev. Anne Barker & Dawn Hunter, 12 Apr 2020 from 2020-04-12T00:00
How do we engage with the spirit of Easter if we don’t connect with the Easter story? Join us as we explore a potentially complicated topic in a surprisingly simple way. Guest Musicians: Carrie Day...
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“Wisdom From Africa,” Karen Mills and Gordon Ritchie, 5 Apr 2020 from 2020-04-06T00:00
Every continent has its proverbs: single sentences crafted with wisdom and passed down through the generations. Africa is no exception, and each of its countless ethnic groups has its own set of tr...
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“How to Connect in This Time of Physical Isolation,” UCE Youth, 29 Mar 2020 from 2020-03-29T00:00
1 Welcome by Declan 0:00
2 “Dancing with Myself” by Billy Idol 1:52
3 Chalice Lighting by Maria Jenkins 5:07
4 Hymn 123 “Spirit of Life” by Orange County Unitarian Universalist Choir 5:...
“Connection in a COVID-19 World,” Rev. Anne Barker, 22 Mar 2020 from 2020-03-22T00:00
Join Edmonton UUs for our 1st ever ALL-Zoom service - as we experience the impacts of solidarity distancing.
1 Welcome by Rev. Anne Barker 0:00
2 Prelude Hymn 188 “Come, Come, Whoever...
“The Rhythms in Life,” Chorealis, 15 Mar 2020 from 2020-03-16T00:00
Music acts as a through line or soundtrack for many of our lives. Snippets of a song can take us back in time or propel us forward. Certain lyrics may be our “go to” tools if we need cheering, calm...
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“International Women’s Day,” Rev. Audrey Brooks with Yvonne Mireau & Ruth Patrick, 8 Mar 2020 from 2020-03-08T00:00
We invite all to celebrate International Women’s Day at UCE. We recognize the achievements within Unitarianism as well as the many gains in the wider world, and we recommit ourselves to protecting ...
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“Radical Hospitality,” Jennifer Askey & Yvonne Mireau, 1 Mar 2020 from 2020-03-02T00:00
Churches and religious organizations all over North America are writing blog posts and think pieces and sermons on radical hospitality and the UUA and CUC are no exception. Join us this Sunday for ...
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“Making Waves,” Rhonda Jessen & Maureen Crawford, 23 Feb 2020 from 2020-02-23T00:00
Let’s look to water to explore how we can have an impact while being yielding, adaptable and in the flow. This is a Sharing Our Faith service, designed to encourage greater associational awareness ...
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“You People...,” Susan Ruttan, 16 Feb 2020 from 2020-02-17T00:00
How is Canada doing as a multi-ethnic nation? We mark Black History Month by reflecting on how Canadians have behaved, in the past and today, toward minorities like indigenous peoples and those who...
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“Joining Hands, Changing Lives,” Social Justice Group, 9 Feb 2020 from 2020-02-10T00:00
The service will focus on the importance of building relationships with persons living in poverty as an integral part of UCE’s anti-poverty efforts. We will be joined by Lisa P., of SMiLE, who will...
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“Taizé Service,” Chorealis, 2 Feb 2020 from 2020-02-03T00:00
Taizé, though Western European in origin, has sought to include people and traditions worldwide. They have sought to demonstrate this in the music and prayers where songs are sung in many languages...
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“So Long and Thanks for All the Fish,” Rev. Brian J. Kiely, 26 Jan 2020 from 2020-01-26T00:00
This is the title of the fourth book in Douglas Adams’ five-book trilogy “The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy,” a comedy sci-fi series from the early 1980s. That description demonstrates the silli...
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“What You Bring,” Rev. Brian J. Kiely, 19 Jan 2020 from 2020-01-20T00:00
Sometimes UUs wonder what effect they can have on the wider world, since we are small in numbers. Today I am going to resurrect and adapt an exercise from very early in my career as a minister that...
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“A Different Kind of New Year,” Rev. Brian J. Kiely, 12 Jan 2020 from 2020-01-12T00:00
Join us for a special service that will include the dedication of two babies who have come into our congregation. I will also reflect on the role and importance of Rites of Passage in our Unitarian...
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“Endings and Beginnings,” Chorealis, 5 Jan 2020 from 2020-01-06T00:00
The turning of the year is a good time to reflect on what we will say hello and goodbye to in the year ahead. It’s a time of possibility, of fresh starts. But it can also be tinged with regret, a s...
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“The Healing Power of Music,” Chorealis, 6 Jan 2019 from 2019-12-31T17:50:51
Music has a way of touching our souls in a deep and subtle way. No other form of creativity has the lasting power of music because it speaks to us in so many different ways – healing us, inspiring ...
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“Christmas Tradition,” Rev. Brian J. Kiely, 8 Dec 2019 from 2019-12-09T05:49:07
I'm a fan of Christmas, and love the traditions. Looking back, I realize that even holiday tradition (for me) has changed, adapted, morphed, been rediscovered or dropped entirely. Perhaps tradition...
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“A Pioneer Christmas,” Chorealis, 1 Dec 2019 from 2019-11-30T00:00
On this first Sunday of Advent, we harken back to the days of yore. The Christmas holidays have come a long way from the early days of the Pioneers. Even though the Christmas tree wasn't loaded wit...
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“Risk,” Rev. Brian J. Kiely, 24 Nov 2019 from 2019-11-25T00:00
One of the first questions a financial planner will ask is how much risk you are willing to accept when it comes to investing your money. There is always a risk, and hopefully a reward. How do we d...
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“Connection in a Social Media World,” Rev. Brian J. Kiely, 17 Nov 2019 from 2019-11-16T00:00
A colleague told me that some of her young congregants prefer to text (or use some other message format) and dislike phone calls. The young person attributed it to ‘social anxiety’ around direct co...
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“Find Yourself First,” Rev. Brian J. Kiely, 10 Nov 2019 from 2019-11-10T00:00
Before we can think a lot about finding each other, we have to find ourselves. To be truly present with the people we love, we need to know where we stand, what our limits are and where we are prep...
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“Finding Each Other,” Chorealis, 3 Nov 2019 from 2019-11-02T00:00
“We are together in this holy moment, and were grateful for the winding road that brought us to this place.” Those are the words of the prelude, and the theme of this service. We’ll look at the win...
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“The Future is Nigh!,” Rev. Brian J. Kiely, 27 Oct 2019 from 2019-10-27T00:00
With only three months to go before my final service at UCE, it’s time to think a bit about what that means for me and for the congregation. I won’t be suggesting a future course for you, that’s no...
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“Towards a Thriving Future,” Rev. Brian Kiely & Ministers of Western Canada, 20 Oct 2019 from 2019-10-20T00:00
This weekend we welcome members from the congregations of Western Canada for the annual Regional Fall Gathering. The ministers have a tradition of sharing the service with the sermon being done by ...
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“For All That Is Our Life,” Rev. Brian J. Kiely, 13 Oct 2019 from 2019-10-11T00:00
In a month when we start thinking about what lies ahead, it’s good to pause and take stock of where we have been personally and as a congregation.
1 Welcome by Rev. Brian Kiely 0:00
2 ...
“The Journey of a Thousand Miles,” Chorealis, 6 Oct 2019 from 2019-10-05T00:00
It is said that “The Journey of a Thousand Miles Begins with One Step”. Once we join hands and hearts in common endeavour, there will be no limit to what we can achieve together.
1 Welcome...
“The Seven Principles of Unitarian Universalism,” Rev. Brian Kiely, 2 Sep 2018 from 2019-10-04T03:56:32
Core elements of Unitarian Universalism: The Seven Principles
The Unitarian Church of Edmonton is a liberal, multi-generational, religious community. We celebrate a rich mosaic of free-thi...
“Walking with Our First Nations Families,” Rev. Audrey Brooks & Eryn Straube, 29 Sep 2019 from 2019-10-01T22:05:43
The UCE Social Justice Working Group is committed to supporting the calls to action that came from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. This service continues this commitment.
1 Prelud...
“On This Rock,” Rev. Brian Kiely, 15 Sep 2019 from 2019-09-20T11:57:17
Today we install the Board of Trustees that will guide our church in the next year. And while my title is a bit pretentious, it’s important to remember that the ground of this congregation is its p...
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“Yin and Yang,” Rev. Brian J. Kiely, 22 Sep 2019 from 2019-09-20T00:00
In these days of polarization about nearly everything, it seems the world is out of balance. The Taoist philosophy of seeking balance and harmony might be a useful base on which to build.
...
“On Unitarian Ground,” Rev. Brian Kiely, 8 Sep 2019 from 2019-09-03T00:00
It can be difficult to be part of a religion that has no creed. What connects us? Inspires us? Guides us? I think it is a set of ideas and principles based on a common theology.
The Unitar...
“Finding Our Ground,” Rev. Brian Kiely, 1 Sep 2019 from 2019-08-25T00:00
As the calendar page turns, let us regather and note the start of the new church year. It’s time to reflect on the summer (such as it was!) and shake hands with people we might not have seen for a ...
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“Pride Service,” UCE Youth, Erica DeNeve, Rev. Brian Kiely, 9 Jun 2019 from 2019-06-08T00:00
This Pride Service is hosted by our Youth to celebrate diversity and the value of all peoples.
UCE Youth: Violet, Nakai, Lillyanna, Lily, Kadance, Elora, Alya, Alex
0:00:00 1 Welc...
“And in the Future?” Rev. Brian J. Kiely, 26 May 2019 from 2019-05-27T00:00
My favourite question has long been “What’s next?” Where do we go from here? How do we set a course for sailing into the future?
Special thanks for our guest musician Margaret Fisher (Fren...
“Divine Curiosity,” Rev. Brian J. Kiely, 19 May 2019 from 2019-05-20T00:00
Many people have made their way to Unitarianism because they were dissatisfied when given pat answers about the existence and nature of God. But many of us are still curious. Is there a concept of ...
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“Where Do I Come From?” Rev. Brian J. Kiely, 12 May 2019 from 2019-05-13T00:00
A Mother’s Day service that looks at our basic curiosity about our origins as children and then as more thoughtful adults.
Guest Musician: Maria Jenkins
00:00 1 Welcome by Rev. Brian...
“Questioning Our Way to a Better World,” Chorealis, 5 May 2019 from 2019-05-05T00:00
Curiosity makes us ask questions. Whether deeply personal or expansively global, our questions can be the catalysts to a better version of ourselves, our communities or our world.
00:00 1 ...
“Indigenous Spirituality,” Elder Rose, Gordon, Revs. Brian & Audrey, Jeff, Lloyd, 28 Apr 2019 from 2019-04-28T00:00
The banners in our sanctuary reflect our commitment to seek “wisdom from the world’s religions that inspires us in our ethical and spiritual life.” Today we unveil a new banner that represents Indi...
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“Wholehearted,” Rev. Brian Kiely with UCE Youth, 21 Apr 2019 from 2019-04-21T00:00
This morning is Easter Sunday. While few UUs celebrate the magical resurrection of Jesus, there is still much we can learn from the stories we tell about him. If nothing else, he deserves our respe...
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“Put Your Whole Self In,” Rev. Brian J. Kiely, 14 Apr 2019 from 2019-04-13T00:00
Caution has its place, but I am not sure it is wise to let our lives be only governed by caution. Sometimes we have to just dance the Hokey Pokey and put our whole selves in.
00:00 1 Welco...
“We Are Whole,” Chorealis, 7 Apr 2019 from 2019-04-07T00:00
We are whole where we would doubt our own goodness, richness, fullness and depth, where we would doubt our own significance, our own profoundness. We meet together this morning to celebrate the joy...
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“Evolving Nation,” Rev. Brian J. Kiely, 31 Mar 2019 from 2019-04-01T00:00
I am something of a moderate and fascinated by history. Many more passionate folks than I are concerned that our nation and culture is not changing fast enough regarding any number of concerns. Me?...
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“On the Path,” Rev. Brian J. Kiely, 24 Mar 2019 from 2019-03-24T00:00
“On the Path” is the name of a UU adult program that was popular a couple of decades ago. It encourages people to view their spirituality in terms of a Journey, one that may never end as long as we...
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“Black History Month,” Social Justice Committee, 24 Feb 2019 from 2019-03-24T00:00
Social Justice presents Black History Month with guest speaker Deborah Dobbins of the Shiloh Centre for Multicultural Roots. Guest musicians are members of Pepperseed Steel Orchestra.
00:0...
“Journey to This Land,” Rev. Brian J. Kiely, 17 Mar 2019 from 2019-03-18T00:00
On a day when Irish descendants celebrate their roots, I want to think a bit what it means to risk all and immigrate to Canada. It’s a delicate subject these days since, as a society, we are contem...
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“Sharing Our Faith,” Rev. Brian Kiely and UCE Youth, 10 Mar 2019 from 2019-03-11T00:00
Sharing Our Faith is a chance to celebrate and mark our national connections with the Canadian Unitarian Council. We have a wonderful community, but we also exist as a nationwide network of fellow ...
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“Taking the First Step,” Chorealis, 3 Mar 2019 from 2019-03-04T00:00
A journey of a thousand miles may begin with a single step, but what makes us take that first step and what keeps us going on the journey?
00:00 1 Welcome
01:32 2 Prelude “Gathering He...
“The Worth and Dignity of Every Person,” Rev. Brian J. Kiely, 17 Feb 2019 from 2019-02-17T00:00
I have always maintained that following our first Principle is the toughest thing Unitarianism asks of us. If we do it well, the Principle will keep asking us to go deeper and deeper in confronting...
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“Understanding Racism,” Rev. Brian J. Kiely, 10 Feb 2019 from 2019-02-11T00:00
Racism is a relatively new phenomenon in human history, though distrusting ‘others’ isn’t. Today I look at what racism actually is.
00:00 1 Sermon (already in progress) “Understanding Raci...
“One Race,” Chorealis Taizé Service, 3 Feb 2019 from 2019-02-03T00:00
Chorealis presents its annual Taizé-inspired service. Come be reminded, through meditative readings and song, that although the people of the world have different religions, different languages and...
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“Buddhist Influences on Unitarianism,” Rev. Brian J. Kiely, 27 Jan 2019 from 2019-01-28T00:00
From the 19th century onward, Buddhism played a significant role in the development of some parts of Unitarianism. Indeed, we played a small role in bringing that faith to North America.
R...
“Spreading Enlightenment,” Rev. Brian J. Kiely, 20 Jan 2019 from 2019-01-20T00:00
The Buddha spent the five decades following his Enlightenment spreading the word of his inner peace and devising a path for his followers. Today we will delve into some of the elements of his messa...
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“Awakened Prince,” Rev. Brian J. Kiely, 13 Jan 2019 from 2019-01-13T00:00
This month we will look at the religion of Buddhism in some depth. This week we will start with the man who became the Buddha.
The Unitarian Church of Edmonton is a liberal, multi-generati...
“The Mystery of Christmas,” Rev. Brian J. Kiely & Corinne Jackson, 9 Dec 2018 from 2018-12-09T00:00
Whether it is the story of the nativity or the legends of Santa Claus, we wrap our winter festivals in mystery. Is there something in the human make-up that requires such non-rational outlets?
...
“Annual Carols and Lessons,” Chorealis, 2 Dec 2018 from 2018-12-02T00:00
Today we celebrate three major festivals; the first Sunday of Advent, the beginning of Hanukkah, and the Celebration of Chalica. Join Chorealis for some cool tunes and heart warming stories.
“Reclaiming Liberalism,” Rev. Brian J. Kiely & John Pater, 25 Nov 2018 from 2018-11-23T00:00
Is there a future for classic liberal views in our society today? How might we reclaim those values and promote them? Or should we even bother?
Readings
CNN, “Trump's mood takes a foul...
“The Threat to Liberalism,” Rev. Brian J. Kiely & Kat Hartshorne, 18 Nov 2018 from 2018-11-17T00:00
The results of the US midterm elections are in. The attack on liberal values there, here and elsewhere in the world where populism holds sway is real and significant. How does this affect communiti...
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“Unitarians and the Liberal Tradition,” Rev. Brian J. Kiely, 11 Nov 2018 from 2018-11-10T00:00
We have traditionally characterized ourselves as liberals, but what does that mean? What is the root of that idea and how does it describe our religious tradition?
Readings
Heather Jan...
“Snowflakes and Sailors,” Chorealis, 4 Nov 2018 from 2018-11-04T00:00
Liberal thinkers are often accused of being unrealistic or soft. This service will look at why nothing could be further from the truth and why sometimes having things be hard is good.
Fred...
“Making the World Safer,” Rev. Brian J. Kiely, 21 Oct 2018 from 2018-10-22T00:00
Obviously this is too large a topic for a sermon, but today I will discuss what we can do to make our own small part of the world safer and better for ourselves and those around us.
Save t...
“Safe Community,” Rev. Brian J. Kiely, Will Adair, & UCE Youth, 14 Oct 2018 from 2018-10-14T00:00
In this all-ages service we will look at the steps we take to protect our children, our youth, our elders and all our members in this congregation.
The Unitarian Church of Edmonton is a li...
“Sanctuary,” Rev Brian J. Kiely & Ali Hammington, 7 Oct 2018 from 2018-10-08T00:00
In ancient times it was said that someone escaping the law could claim sanctuary in any church and be kept safe. Today the meaning of the word has become more diffuse. I will look at the broader id...
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“One Vision, Many Hearts,” Chorealis, 30 Sep 2018 from 2018-09-30T00:00
Chorealis kicks off our 2018-19 season by looking at ways we might put UCE’s vision into practice. How can we best foster one shared vision while honouring the diversity or people and ideas we know...
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“UCE Vision Statement,” Rev. Brian J. Kiely, 16 Sep 2018 from 2018-09-17T00:00
Continuing a month-long look at vision, this morning we consider a statement the congregation collectively approved a couple of years ago. It states how we see ourselves and where we hope to go.
“What Next? A Community Conversation,” Rev. Brian J. Kiely, 16 Sep 2018 from 2018-09-16T00:00
Let’s have a conversation this morning. Having looked at where we have come from, let’s look at how we might shape the years ahead.
Carole Martignacco, “The Everything Seed”: https://www.u...
“Unitarian Vision: How Did We Get Here?” Rev. Brian J. Kiely, 9 Sep 2018 from 2018-09-09T00:00
Ours is a living faith that is always changing. Today let’s look at the journey through our philosophical history noting the pendulum swings from humanism to spirituality.
“What is a Unita...
“Why I Walk the Labyrinth,” Bonnie Kyle, 13 Jul 2008 from 2008-07-14T00:00
1 Announcements 0:00
2 Prelude 1:53
3 Opening Reading 661 “The Heart Knoweth” 5:47
4 Hymn 188 “Come, Come, Whoever You Are” 6:39
5 Sharing Our Abundance 8:38
6 Reading by Willia...