October 6

"Escalating Economic Inequality"
Dr. Richard Wood

Dr. Wood, a retired professor of economics from Stetson University, will address the issues of poverty, inequality, and discrimination from an economic - social science perspective and offer possible solutions. Postponed from Labor Day weekend due to Hurricane Dorian, it’s never too late to honor our fellow workers and consider how to increase the fruits of their labors.

October 13

“Annual UUUF Water Ritual & New Member Service”
UUUF Members

The annual water ritual is a time for members, friends, and guests to share water from places that are special to them: new places visited; special times with family and friends; traditions closer to home; or perhaps symbolic water that represents life, energy, or conservation. The mingling of water and voices sharing from the heart represents the diversity of our congregation, our world, and the many sources of our faith tradition. Join us in sharing and as we welcome new members to our congregation.

October 20

“Religion and Government, Christian Nationalism and Fundamentalist Fears”
James Coffin

As Americans, we’ve irritated and alienated many people from outside our country by our use of the expression “American Exceptionalism.” However, one place where our nation’s founders truly were exceptional was in their desire to keep religion out of the government and government out of religion. Still, when one religion has a super-majority, it’s a huge temptation to use the ballot box to veto the vision of our founders. And fear is the prime motivator for doing so. James Coffin, Executive Director of the Interfaith Council of Central FL and a pastor for over 40 years, returns to our pulpit to share his insight and thoughts on this timely subject.

October 27

“Why Become a Welcoming Congregation?”
Dr. Greg Cavenaugh

Dr. Cavenaugh, a returning favorite, speaks today about the challenge of becoming a welcoming congregation for people of all sexual and gender orientations. Unitarian Universalist congregations have taken a lead in U.S. society on addressing the roles of sexuality, gender, and identity in the context of a spiritual community. When becoming a truly welcoming community, however, it is important to go beyond mere tolerance for the difference to develop a deep interest in and respect for those differences and how to negotiate those differences with a loving spirit.