Archived Services

Dec 13: Choose Something Like a Star - Music Sunday (.mp3 ) Humans have long revered the night sky for its awe-inspiring testament to the vastness of the universe. On Music Sunday the UUFSD Choir will sing some of the beautiful works which have been written about stars, night, and themes of light and darkness by such 20th century composers as Samuel Barber, Randall Thompson, and John Rutter. Our new staff pianists will perform to include works by Mozart and Faure. As the Winter Solstice approaches, the opportunity for retreat and reflection is upon us. Come and enjoy this meditative program inspired by the beautiful and mysterious sky at night. Christine Lehman, Director of Music

Dec 6: What takes us Beyond (.mp3 ) Our second principle promotes our acceptance of one another and encourages spiritual growth in our congregations. In a diverse spiritual community where we support each other in our individual search for truth and meaning, we look at some of the things that take us beyond. Rev. David Miller

Nov 29: Passages: UUth (.mp3 ) A Bridging Ceremony is the UU tradition where we wish our high school graduates well. Is the bridge enough? Does mourning get in the way of an embrace? Expect the voices of young and old on this Sunday.

Nov 22: A Normal Rockwell Thanskgiving ... or is it? (.mp3 ) The current portrait of America on this holiday of thanks is far different from the traditional images of 1940's America. As we enter this holiday week, how do we define our family, our community and how do we share in a holiday of meaning? Rev. David Miller

Nov 15: Concepts of Death from Different Faiths (.mp3 ) Different faiths hold varying beliefs on death. On this day we will explore some of the most prevalent ideas on death from some of the world's most practiced faith traditions. Rev. David Miller

Nov 8: What Does Winter Bring? (.mp3 ) There is a natural cycle to the seasons of the year, a cycle that allows for death, panting, rebirth, growth, and harvest. As we cycle through the seasons of our lives., how do we recognize, understand and become enriched by the natural occurrence of loss. Rev. David Miller

Oct 25: The Time for the Harvest (.mp3 ) During this time of year when we celebrate the harvest, our new community garden offers not only physical nourishment but welcome portions of spiritual sustenance as well. We join together today to celebrate our garden and the lessons it brings. Rev. David Miller

Oct 18: When is Enough Enough? (.mp3 ) Faced with the realities of the recent recession and living in a western culture that promotes conspicuous consumption, we can be left wondering, what in life do we really value and for what are we truly grateful? Rev. David Miller

Oct 11: The Theology of Gratitude (.mp3 ) For the first in our monthly series on the theme of gratitude, we will explore some thoughts from Rev. Galen Guengerich of the Unitarian Church of All Souls in New York City who believes that gratitude should be the center of Unitarian Universalist theology. Rev. David Miller

Sept 27: The Jewish High Holidays (.mp3 ) As members of the Jewish faith prepare for the holiest day of the year, some of us remember the lengthy services and associated rituals. Today we seek the core meaning of the holidays and how these messages continue to provide us with wisdom for today. Rev. David A. Miller

Sept 20: Back to school, you have got to be kidding! (.mp3 ) This week marks the first day of autumn, the traditional return to school. Education has always played an important part in our Unitarian Universalist history and this service will explore how lifespan religious education continues to be a vital part of our shared search for truth and meaning. Rev. David Miller

Sept 13: Standing On the Side of Love (.mp3 ) Join our new settled minister Reverend David A. Miller as he cites words and deeds of prophetic women and men who challenge us to confront powers and structures of evil with justice, compassion, and the transforming power of love.

Sept 6: Labor Day Service (.mp3 ) Members of the San Diego County Interfaith Committee for Worker Justice, and representatives from AFSCME Local 3299, a statewide union organizing University of California service and patient care workers to stand up for better working conditions, join us in this "Labor From The Pulpit" service.

Aug 30: "This I Believe" - Jeff Severinghaus (.mp3 ) Is God the unconscious mind? The unconscious mind generally wants what is good for us, healing and wholeness. It also seems to have an omnipotent quality, like that ascribed to God. Jeff shares his belief that they may indeed be the same thing.

Aug 23: UUFSD Social Action Ministry (.mp3 ) What's it all about, this commitment to social change? Find out more about the efforts UUFSD's Social Action Team is working on to help our Fellowship deepen our connections to each other, the community and the planet.

Aug 16: UUFSD Ministerial Search Committee (.mp3 ) Reverend David Miller's acceptance culminated a three year search by the UUFSD Ministerial Search Committee. Hear MSC members recall the joys and challenges of that journey together.

Aug 9: You Keep Your Delusion, I'll Keep Mine (.mp3, .pdf) Jay Vreeland's send-up of "scientific atheism" with reference to Professor Richard Dawkins, author of "The God Delusion" and "The Selfish Gene," and Sam Harris author of "The End of Faith" and "Letter to a Christian Nation." (Sermon read by Robin Mitchell)

July 19: Mindfulness in Our Midst (.mp3 ) Our Fellowship hosts two meditation groups dedicated to exploring the intersection between mindfulness, Buddhism and UUism. This Sunday, members from both groups will share some of the ideas and practices from those traditions which have shaped their lives.

July 12: Feminism and Spirituality - Can they coexist? (.mp3 ) Dr. Pamela Redela discusses the centuries old rift between feminist movement and religious practice. Her talk provides an overview of the history of the fight for women's rights as well as thoughts on how independent minded women can also lead a fulfilling spiritual life.

June 21: Farewell, My Faithful Companions! ( .pdf) On Father's Day, and as summer officially arrives, I will share my final Sunday in your midst. Thank you, one and all, for what have been two most gratifying years in my ministry. My car will leave your parking lot, but our memories of shared achievement and joy, live on in my heart. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

June 14: Yes! We Are A Life-Affirming Religion (.mp3 , .pdf) On this Sunday, when we welcome our latest batch of San Dieguitans, I want to preach on the positive core of our faith. From my perspective, Unitarian Universalists major in saying and doing Yes with our lives!. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

June 7: Music Sunday: "What a Wonder! A Celebration of Earth" (.mp3 ) UUFSD Choir Director, Christine Lehman, leads our Choir with guest artists Mary Jaeb, soprano, Rick Hernandez, tenor, and David Hertzel, baritone. Included are selections from Joseph Haydn's "The Creation", and earth-centered repertoire from other music traditions.

May 31: YRUU Sunday (.mp3 ) Our service will focus on exploring Religious Principles of Unitarian Universalism, and interpreting them from our perspectives. Alison Crotty

May 24: The Theology of Play (.mp3 , .pdf) I've preached on some fairly heavy topics during the past two years, but I want you to know that I consider playfulness to be one of our most crucial human endeavors. Serious folks know how to play, play, and play. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

May 17: Peels, Visionaries and Dancers (.mp3 , .pdf) This is my one and only sermon squarely on what constitutes a mature shared ministry, now that you have selected Rev. David Miller as your settled minister. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

May 10: Difficult Parenting Truths (.mp3 , .pdf) On Mother's Day, I will pay homage to the mothering energy in all who dare to birth, protect, and nurture the little ones among us. Since the pathway is rigorous and means holding to the difficult, this sermon won't transmit platitudes. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

May 3: What About My Itinerary? (.mp3 ) Michael Eselun, a member of Santa Monica UU and a hospital chaplain at UCLA Medical Center will share some of what he has witnessed and learned while serving those who are fighting cancer. He will invite us to reflect upon some themes as they speak to those living in less dramatic, but nevertheless difficult circumstances.

Apr 26: Sunday Morning and Beyond (.mp3 ) Our Search for meaning and the covenant of spiritual community Rev. David Miller

Apr 12: Resurrection Morn (.mp3 , .pdf) On Easter morning, we will rejoice in the reality of the spiritual resurrections in all of our lives - what a blessing! Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Mar 29: Children's Sunday (.mp3 ) Our first annual Children's Sunday! Each classroom will participate with activities showcasing their personal take on Unitarian Universalism. There will be singing, personal statements of faith, a play and much more. Come and celebrate this year's achievements with our youngest RE participants!

Mar 22: Flowers on the Mountain (.mp3 , .pdf) Member Karl Weston will discuss ways to find peace during times of personal challenge, leading to spiritual understanding and profound change. We will share sources and ideas that may be useful as you walk your own spiritual path.

Mar 8: Revisting the 10 Commandments (.mp3 , .pdf) Few of us wouldn't hold that today's central crisis is one of meaning and values. We hunger for a moral vision beyond either rigid conservatism or permissive liberalism. I recommend that we replumb the richness of the classic 10 commandments. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Mar 1: Everything Religious From Sin to Salvation (.pdf) Unitarian Universalists tend to reject classic religious concepts of sin and salvation, guilt and grace, without any attempts at useful revision. But it's my conviction that our current world could benefit from our peculiar language of reverence. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Feb 22: The Disease of Perfection (.mp3 , .pdf) Lamentably, religion has too often been obsessed with purity, precision, and perfection. Unitarian Universalists hold a different perspective; we claim that the human mission is to be whole not perfect. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Feb 15: Anniversary Celebration! (.mp3 , .pdf) I will be joined in worship by our dedicated and capable District Executive, Rev. Ken Brown, who will bring greetings from our Pacific Southwest District and greater Unitarian Universalism. I will also share letters of appreciation and congratulations from UUFSD's only two settled ministers for nearly half of its history: Anne Hines and Kathy Hurt. What a delight that will be! Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Feb 8: Unitarian Universalist Sunday (.mp3 , .pdf) I was invited, by our UUFSD spirituality circle, to address the topic of what might be distinctive features of our liberal religious version of feeding the soul? I'm glad to take up the offer. Two of my books: Sauntering and Spiritual Fitness will be available for purchase, with proceeds again going to support the Fellowship. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Feb 1: Save the Males (.mp3 , .pdf) On Super Bowl Sunday, millions of Americans will be glued to a TV spectacle which features male testosterone on parade. It's precisely the right time to address what it means to practice a mature, liberal religious masculinity in today's world. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Jan 25: Menu for the Future (.mp3 , .pdf) Food and its big role in life. Louise Garret

Jan 18: Rosa Parks: The Woman Who Changed a Nation (.mp3 , .pdf) On Martin Luther King, Jr. weekend, 80 years after he was born, I can't imagine preaching on a finer champion of racial justice than the woman who died but a couple years ago without garnering the full recognition she deserved. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Jan 11: Reflections on Truth (.mp3 , .pdf) From the beginnings of human history, religion has majored in capturing 'the Truth', then vigorously peddling it to others. Our approach, as Unitarian Universalists, clearly differs. For us, truths are multiple and penultimate, and prove most useful and satisfying when discovered through personal experience. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Jan 4: Words Hurt and Words Heal (.mp3 , .pdf) As we launch a fresh new year, it's wise to commit ourselves to the practice of what the Buddhists call 'right speech'. In the world in which we live, words matter greatly. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Dec 28: As Time Goes By (.mp3 ) UUFSD'S Annual New Year's Service

Dec 21: Alone... Together! (.mp3 , .pdf) One of the crucial challenges in the religious life is to negotiate the distinction between being alone and being lonely. The first is our existential human condition; the second can become a spiritual malaise, especially during the holidays. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Dec 14: The Year They Cancelled Christmas! (.mp3 , .pdf) I want to relate a story we rarely tell during the holidays. As our trees sparkle with cherished ornaments, children are giddy with delight, and spicy cookies bake in our ovens, it's difficult to imagine a world with no Christmas at all. But it happened. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Dec 7: Music Sunday-Love, Power, Grace: A Gospel Celebration (.mp3 ) This is choir director Chris Lehman's first holiday concert in our midst. Mary Jaeb is our guest soprano soloist, with guest musicians Sean Sobsh, bass and Nathan Chong, drums.

Highlights from this service:

• "Lord, Listen to Your Children Playing"
• "Jesus, What a Wonderful Child"
• "Christmas Amen"
• "City Called Heaven"
• "Keep Your Lamps"
• "Walkn' Down That Glory Road"
• "Go Where I Send Thee"

Nov 30: Homestretch: The Art of Finishing Life Well! (.mp3 , .pdf) This is the title of my forthcoming book, where I salute the hallmarks of graying gracefully. But this sermon isn't only for geezers; after all, we're all aging, aren't we! Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Nov 23: Wrestling with God! (.mp3 ) I am simultaneously a card-carrying atheist, agnostic, and affirmatist. I will unravel this theological riddle, even as I describe where and when omens of the divine manifest in my spiritual journey. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Nov 16: Our Joy Doubles when Shared! ( .pdf) Today is my 35th wedding anniversary, so I plan to explore some seven lessons for deepening our committed partnerships. I hope you'll find my learnings transferable to our other love-bonds as well. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Nov 9: Caring is Everything! (.mp3 ) As a religious people, caring is our ultimate calling, and everyone is called to care, both within and beyond the premises of our Fellowship. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Nov 2: Election Day Sermon (.mp3 , .pdf) It is an historic and widely-practiced Unitarian Universalist custom to preach a sermon every four years when there is a presidential election. Have no fear, I will lift up what I consider pressing ethical and social issues rather than push partisan politics. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Oct 26: Day of the Dead (.mp3 ) Find that favorite photo or trinket of your dead loved ones. Let's celebrate their lives, and the continuance of those lives in yours. We'll build a communal offrenda or altar. We'll invite their spirits to return for a moment, nourishing their souls and ours at our annual Day of the Dead celebration.

Oct 19: Who Are We UUs Anyway? (.mp3 ,.pdf) As we welcome New Members into our Fellowship family, I will explore the core message and meaning of our chosen faith. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Oct 12: Making Our Losses Matter (.mp3 ,.pdf) As we celebrate the season of Rosh Hashanah, we would address the theme of spiritual renewal, especially during our rough life-passages. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Oct 5: Buddhism: Be Lamps Unto Yourselves! (.mp3 ,.pdf) On his deathbed, Buddha exhorted his followers not to become his disciples but rather to become themselves. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Sept 28: Are Unitarian Universalists Christian? (.mp3 ,.pdf) No question has been asked more frequently of me during my 41 years of ministry than this one. I'll give it my best answerings Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Sept 21: The Enduring Values Of Judaism (.pdf) As we engage the season of Rosh Hashanah, I want to highlight Unitarian Universalism's major indebtedness to the philosophy and principles of Judaism. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Sept 14: Our UU Mission in The Philippines (.mp3 ) Four lay leaders from First UU Church-Lisa Hartman, Kathleen MacLeod, Len Pellettierri and Mary Rose went on a special pilgrimage to visit and support our UU congregations in the Philippines. Their stories will stir your souls.

Aug 31: Living One Day at a Time! (.mp3 ,.pdf) On Labor Day weekend, I will accent my governing mantra: seize each day as a precious gift, whether one is playing, working or juggling a combo of both. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Aug 24: Songs of Soulful Joy! (.mp3 ) This Sunday poses an utterly new adventure for me. I have chosen a few poignant songs from my collection of 1000+ ballads that salute familial and spiritual bonds. I will talk about each song's power in my daily journey, as well as sing them for and with you. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Aug 17: Peace Corps in the Modern Age (.mp3 ) Perspectives of Matthew Turner who grew up in UUFSD and has spent two years in southern Kazakhstan and who will be returning for a third year in September. He will share lessons learned in the Kazakh steppes.

Aug 10: "This I Believe" — Alison Crotty (.mp3 ) Alison Crotty, our beloved Director of Religious Exploration, will share her journey and gems of inspiration on a life immersed in Unitarian Universalism here at our Fellowship.

Aug 3: "This I Believe — Two Kinds of People" (.mp3, .pdf) Anne Larocca begins her This I Believe statement with a joke that reflects the core of her spirituality.

July 13: "CREDO" (.mp3 ) Join several UUFSD members as they portray various famous historical Unitarian Universalists. Based on the books CREDO and CREDO International by member Don McEvoy.

July 6: "Interdependence Day" (.mp3 ) Our national spirit dances round and round between independence and interdependence. Speaker is Larry Jones

June 29: "A Gay Man Dances Through His Memories and Through History" (.mp3 ) Ed Burditt invites you to join in this dance. He will speak about his own personal history as a gay man and how that connects with modern day BGLT history and with the history of the BGLT movement in the Unitarian Universalist Association. His talk may include a challenge or two.

June 22: "Being Lazy in all Good Conscience" ( .pdf) We live in a culture of drivenness, where we've lost sight of the graceful art of moving at a restful pace. As we celebrate the passage of summer solstice, it's time to regain the graceful skill of laziness... and to do so in all good conscience. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

June 15: "Making Peace with our Fathers" ( .pdf) On Father's Day, I want to explore what it means to make sufficient peace in our bonds with our fathers, be they alive or dead. The quality of our lives banks on it. We will have a bridging ceremony for our senior youth. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Jun 8: "Becoming a Trustworthy People" (.mp3 .pdf) The basic task of all religion is to reaffirm the first relationship of trust between mother and child. Easier said than done, nonetheless crucial in the shaping of our personal and social worlds. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

May 25: "Calling All Patriots!" ( .pdf) I will share some of the telling origins of the Memorial Day observance, then relate its power and pertinence for America today. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

May 18: "God Fearing Humanism" (.mp3 .pdf) As Unitarian Universalists, we dwell in the creases between creative skepticism and heartfelt belief. We are theological hybrids. One of the crucial bridges to grow as a spiritual pilgrim is between earth and heaven, humanity and divinity. I'll give it my best try. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

May 11: "YRUU Sunday - Activism at its best!" (.mp3 ) See what Social Justice topic is near and dear to our High School students!

May 4: "The Pursuit of Self-Care" (.mp3 .pdf) The foundation of any spiritual growth program is taking good care of ourselves: from our bodies to our souls to our hearts and more. Indeed, the greatest gift we have to give to the world is our own holistic self-care. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Apr 27: No Sunday Service due to District Assembly

Apr 20: "Hopers Unite!" ( .pdf) The apostle Paul wrote: "Faith, hope and love and the greatest of these is love..." Well, I would argue that they're all necessary and they're all great. Hope is the underrated dynamic of history and the energy of transformation. Hope is what gives you and me a passion for the possible. We simply can't make it individually or institutionally without a hefty dosage of hopefulness. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Apr 13: "Thomas Jefferson Deserves a Holiday!" (.mp3 .pdf) Jefferson is considered by Unitarian historian Henry Steele Commager to be 'the central figure in American history'. I find it hard to argue with that assessment. On his very birthday, I will make a case for Jefferson's relevance, indeed, his greatness. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Mar 30: "Flowers in the Desert" ( .pdf) A spiritual journey presented as Karl Weston shares a "This I Believe" and discusses deeply personal challenges and his embracing UU Principles and Sources to share love as he walks the path.

Mar 23: "The Healing Power of Natural Places" ( .pdf) On Easter Sunday, I will salute the holy forces of life-and-death. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Mar 16: "The Healing Power of Natural Places" (.mp3, .pdf) Our Fellowship is blessed to have a spacious outdoor site where we can worship amidst the magnificence of the cosmos. As spring launches, I will explore the healing power of natural beauty. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Mar 2: "On the Verge of Something Great!" (.mp3) In your exceptional ministerial search packet, chair Diane Masser-Frye has informed all potential candidates that UUFSD is on the verge of something great! I agree and want to explain why 2008 is truly a turning point in the life of your fine Fellowship. Rev. Tom Owen- Towle

Feb 24: "Love Can Build a Bridge" (.mp3, .pdf) Our American culture is geared to choosing sides and picking fights, as well as prone to ideological self-righteousness, especially as we round into the "heat" of the 2008 campaign. Unitarian Universalism counters this reality with our unswerving commitment to the way of dialogue and bridge-building. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Feb 17: "Nothing Dies That's Remembered" (.mp3) We will honor the early pioneers and past-Presidents of UUFSD on this 49th anniversary of the founding of the Fellowship. Our choir will sing. A Sunday not to be missed, as we cherish the past, celebrate the present, and chart the future. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Feb 10: "This I Believe (or rather) These I Believe" (.mp3, .pdf) Robin Mitchell is a one-woman ecumenical movement, actively participating in three very different religions. She reflects on her evolving understanding of how that's possible and why it's so important to her.

Feb 3: "The Positive Core of Unitarian Universalism" (.mp3, .pdf) Too often we religious liberals describe ourselves in negative terms, emphasizing what we deny or reject, when, in truth, ours is a positive religion, soaked in affirmations and possibilities. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Jan 27: "Religion and Social Justice - Successes and Failures" (.mp3) Rabbi Laurie Coskey, Executive Director of the Interfaith Committee for Worker Justice, is our guest speaker for this Sunday's service. Rabbi Coskey shares her views on the responsibilities and obligations of religious organizations to participate vigorously in the secular life of our communities and nation.

Jan 20: "Martin Luther King, Jr.: An Inconvenient Hero" (.mp3, .pdf) King was a moral-spiritual giant, and his legacy continues to transform our American soul and society, particularly when we're willing to engage the inconvenience of his message. Generosity Sunday. Our choir will sing. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Jan 13: "To Forgive or Not Forgive" (.mp3, .pdf) To forgive or not forgive is perhaps the trickiest religious question of them all. Over time, I've modified my views on forgiveness due to public events, personal soul-searching, and ministerial counseling. I offer the findings of my heart. Pacific Women's Chorus will perform. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Jan 6: "Greater than the Name of God!" (.mp3, .pdf) Every world religion declares one virtue to be more crucial even than divinity itself. What is it? Come and learn the answer, as we launch this most important year in the life of partisan San Dieguitans! Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Dec 30: "As Time Goes By" (.mp3) Our traditional year-end service features Fellowship members, Karen Bullette, Dianne Graham-Weaver, Jay Vreeland, Karl Weston, Jill Ballard, Elaine Lewinnek sharing their thoughts on the passing of time.

Dec 23: "The Birth Stories" (.mp3, .pdf) The four earliest recorded accounts of the birth of Jesus are markedly different, thus illustrating our bedrock diversity as religious liberals. Last time to hear our choir sing in 2007! Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Dec 16: "Staying Joyful During the Holidaze!" (.mp3, .pdf) My religious faith commits me to embody a life of "wholly joy", but that's easier said than done, especially given the recent wildfires and the "seasonal affective disorders" that insinuate their way into our holiday journeys. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Dec 9: "Music Sunday – Building Bridges" (.mp3 ) Three excerpts from our Fall Music Sunday service featuring the UUFSD Choir, Sally Husch Dean, Director: "Joy In Jerusalem"; "A Mirror From Another" Max Henkart, vibraphone: and "Bridge Over Troubled Water".

Dec 2: "The Blessings of Darkness" (.mp3, .pdf) During December, as we naturally gravitate toward sources of light, we are also reminded to welcome, make that embrace, the subtle, oft-ignored seasonal blessings of darkness. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Nov 25: "Lucky to be Here in the First Place!" (.mp3, .pdf) Thanksgiving is one of the greatest of all our American holidays because it honors not military prowess but spiritual freedom. It affirms that authentic religion is born and lives in a state of gratitude. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Nov 18: "To Love and Be Loved" ( .pdf) Our religion is ultimately not about beliefs but behaviors, commitments over chatter, vows rather than creeds. And the central vow of human existence is loving and being loved. Our Choir will sing. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Nov 11: "What Makes America Good" (.mp3, .pdf) On Veteran's Day, my goal is to paint a balanced portrait of America. I will speak to three qualities that make our country good, not perfect or great but a good enough homeland. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Oct 21: "Knocking on the Gates of Heaven" (.mp3) Eileen Maurer from the Palomar Fellowship will give a sermon that explores ideas of life after death through Sufi and Hindu parables as well as thoughts from current American Jewish and Christian leaders and others.

Oct 14: "Spreading Our UU Gospel!" (.mp3, .pdf) Did you know that the word "gospel" simply means "good news", and no religion has the corner on that? This I know to be true: Unitarian Universalism delivers a life-affirming, hopeful message that enables us to deepen our daily lives and make a difference in our worlds. You bet it does! This "generosity" Sunday we will take a special offering to support our Pacific Southwest District that does so much to enable our Fellowship to flourish. Our Choir will lead us in song. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Oct 7: "The Deep Humanity of Prayer" ( .mp3, .pdf ) How do we reach the nourishing depths of gratitude and hopefulness while acknowledging the pitfalls of conventional prayer? On this Sunday, we will welcome new members. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Sept 30: "Children of Heresy" (.mp3, .pdf) To be a heretic literally means to be a choice-maker in matters of moral and spiritual importance. Our Unitarian Universalist heritage is loaded with card-carrying heretics. We proudly join their number. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Sept 23: "Art as a Spiritual Journey: Touching the Feminine Face of God" (.mp3) First UU Church of San Diego member, Diane Lowrie, will speak about the ways making art has deepened her connection to the Spirit of Life. Note: This recording begins about two minutes into the presentation.

Sept 16: "Growing the Beloved Community" (.mp3, .pdf) This is a foundational sermon for the entire year. I will wrestle out loud with what I deem the touchstone of healthy religious life. Bring water from summer travels for a co-mingling Water Ceremony this Sunday. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Sept 9: "Jewish New Year: The Art of Falling Forward!"" (.mp3, .pdf) A good jazz musician knows; the key to a satisfying life is making our mistakes mean something. As we welcome back our outstanding choir and celebrate Involvement Sunday, all UUFSD partisans will have a golden chance to find a job/joy with their name on it. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle.

Sept 2: "Making Your Work Holy" (.mp3, .pdf) This aspires to be an uplifting Labor Day sermon wherein I empower us to make our daily duties sacred, whether or not we engage in paid or volunteer labor or a combination thereof. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Aug 26: "Staying Awake" (.mp3) As you launch your concluding year of interimship and prepare for your new settled minister, I offer one major piece of counsel: stay awake, stay awake, stay awake to all the wondrous changes and possibilities that lie before you as stakeholders of your sacred enterprise called UUFSD! Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Aug 19: "Shaking Hands with our Dragons" (.mp3) By way of introducing myself as your "final, temporary shepherd", I will share central pieces of my life-odyssey and religious philosophy, garnered from 40+ years of serving the "second oldest" profession on record. I eagerly await our worshiping together as fellow Unitarian Universalists in-training. Rev. Tom Owen-Towle

Aug 12: "Because Someone Asked: A Life Shaped by A Response" (.mp3) The theme for my "This I Believe perspective is the role of community and how the greatest rewards and joys of my life have been shaped by the responses to others requests for help. UUFSD member, Wenda Alvarez.

Aug 5: "Some Mistakes of Moses" (.mp3) Joan Kantar, former President of Coronado UU Church, will give us a sermon entitled "Some Mistakes of Moses". This is the intriguing title of a book she found in her father's library as she was helping him move out of the family Massachusetts home. Written in 1897, by Robert J Ingersoll, Joan was surprised to find thoughts very familiar to UUs of today, but truly iconoclastic when written more than a century ago! A fascinating look at one of the early humanists who was influential in our movement.

July 29: "The World View of a Little Rascal" Fellowship member Lola Larson was one of the original "Little Rascals", known as Li'l Caroline. For our children she will recount some of her experiences as a child actress. For the adult presentation, Lola will reflect on the subsequent eighty years, sharing her perspective on life through the prism of Unitarian Universalist values. Unfortunately, this presentation was not recorded. We apologize for the inconvenience.

July 22: Liz Barr and Jeff Harris (Liz and Jeff Barris) - "Living Life Not Worried About Time or Money" (.mp3) Liz and Jeff say, "While we'll touch on the trip highlights and different religions we saw - devout Tibetan Buddhists, Hindus in Varanasi, Muslims in Agra, etc. the outlook on being content with their lives rather than trying to constantly advance is something that was striking."

July 15: Betty Brink "From Who Am I to I Am" (.mp3) Fellowship member Betty Brink invites the congregation to walk with her on her spiritual journey, as she marks the events of her life and learning that have brought her to this time and place. Susan Hahm is Lay Leader.

July 8: Kathryn Sturch's "This I Believe" (.mp3) Kathryn Sturch's "This I Believe" is about her Buddhist journey and The Four Thoughts that Turn the Mind to the Dharma.

July 1: "To Kiss the Joy" (.mp3, .pdf) On this, my final Sunday with you, I'll talk about how to say goodbye. Rev. James E. Grant.

June 24: "What Really Happened in July 1925" (.mp3) What really happened in July 1925 when the State of Tennessee put John Scopes on trial for the crime of having taught evolution to his high school biology class? Fellowship members Chuck Hahm, Greg Brown, Don McEvoy, Miles Anderson, Ed Washington, Dan Ness, Richard Anderson, and Jeff Severinghaus will enact the roles of the major participants in this event. William Jennings Bryan, Clarence Darrow, presiding judge Raulston, journalist H.L. Mencken, and others will describe the proceedings as they perceived them. Written and directed by Don McEvoy. Susan Hahm is Lay Leader.

June 17: "YRUU Bridging Ceremony" (.mp3) A celebration of the bridging of two of our High School Youth. It is a very exciting time for our YRUU! Highlights from our high school youth's annual Sunday service presentation.

June 10: "The Eye of the Target" (.pdf) The Search Committee has led most of you in "focus groups" focusing on the kind of Minister you want the committee to find for the Fellowship. Now it's my turn. I talk about the good and not so good as the center of all the focus. Rev. James E. Grant

There is no audio file of this sermon. This PDF file can be read on line, or downloaded to your computer.

June 3: "Going for Baroque" (.mp3) It's the UUFSD Choir's Spring Music Sunday featuring music by Henry Purcell, George Frederic Handel and others. Choir Director Sally Dean conducts our choir and chamber orchestra.

May 27: "What do Ministers Do and Why?" (.pdf) The Search Committee is hard at work to find just the right Minister for this Congregation. I want to share some insights about ministry. Rev. James E. Grant

There is no audio file of this sermon. This PDF file can be read on line, or downloaded to your computer.

May 20: "Question Box Sermon" (.mp3) Jim Grant answers penetrating questions submitted by congregation members. Rev. James E. Grant

May 13: Real Family Values" (.mp3) We've heard too much talk about, but not much support of what I believe to be the real value of families, which has nothing to do with same-sex unions, etc. Rev. James E. Grant.

May 6: "Coming of Age Ceremony" (.mp3) The COA ceremony is the Unitarian equivalent of a Bar/Bat Mitzvah, Sweet Sixteen Party and/or Quinceanera. This year represents a commitment of study by the students and has taken hard work, diligent questioning and an active pondering of religious ideals. Participants include: Natalie Allen, Christina Bortnick, Ben Burgoon, Haley Cynar, Lydia Friedman, Alexi Foster, Jake Kelso, Katy Kelso, Jordan Lamp, Nick Lyon, Sean Milmo, Sammy Ness, Alex Savage, Ulysses Savage, Katie Scott, Zach Solomon, Allison Steitz, and Annie Tarabini.

April 29: "Why should I respect your position rather than just 'tolerate' it?" (.mp3) Fellowship members Greg Brown, Niel Lynch and Allan Sohl tell us about a religious belief or political position that is important to them, and give some answers to this question. Allan Sohl, Lay Leader.

April 22: "Earth Sunday" (.mp3) Members of the Green Sanctuary Action Committee Anne Larocca and Raf Muilenburg speak about Deep Ecology. Proponents of Deep Ecology believe that the Earth does not exist as a resource to be freely exploited by human, and that the entire earth system is superior to any of its parts.

April 15: "Less Well Known Saints" (.mp3) Today is Holocaust Remembrance Day, noted by most Jewish Congregations. I will share the story of the righteous people of Le Chambon and what their story can mean to us. Rev. James E. Grant

April 8: "Easter, Communion and Flower Communion" (.mp3) What is the message of Easter for Unitarian Universalists? Note: This audio file begins in the middle of the first sentence. Rev. James E. Grant

April 1: "The DRUUMM Ya YA Spring Summit" (.mp3) The DRUUMM Ya YA Spring Summit is being held this week at First Church in San Diego. DRUUMM is the organization for UU people of color. It stands for Diverse Revolutionary Unitarian Universalist Ministries. Several people from this group tell us about their program.

March 25: "Youth Homelessness in San Diego" (.mp3) As UU congregations across the United States observe "Justice Sunday", our guest speaker, Laura Beadles, will address the injustice of children forced to live on the streets of our cities, as national leaders praise our country's ability to create wealth and abundance. Karl Weston will be our lay leader.

March 18: We Are (or Become) Who We Celebrate" (.mp3) By the time you hear this sermon all the hype about Anna Nichole Smith, a tragic figure, will we hope have ended. The tabloids have a field day with "celebrities", which may say more about us than about the celebrity. Rev. James E. Grant

March 11: Accentuate the Possible" (.mp3) One of the things I've noticed about some people at UUFSD is the tendency to talk about this Congregation in negative terms such as "what we can't do". This is an excellent Congregation with great possibilities. Let's "accentuate the possible"! Rev. James E. Grant

March 4: Giving From the Heart" (.mp3) Today will be the "kick off" for our Annual Pledge drive. The title of this sermon comes from an article in a recent New York Times about charitable giving. Rev. James E. Grant

February 25: "Beyond Categorical Thinking" (.mp3) A service to inspire and inform the Congregation in the value of inclusive thinking during the process of ministerial search and selection. Everardo Aguilar leads this service.

February 18: "Memory Informs Imagination and Vice Versa" (.mp3) Our memories are at once good and bad. Good because without memories we would be amnesiacs; bad because memories can be skewed. Rev. James E. Grant

February 11: "Spiritual Teachings of Earth-Centered Traditions" (.mp3) Only too gradually our Western culture is learning the truths of some of the earth-centered traditions, whether of ancient Celtic or traditional Native American peoples. Rev. James E. Grant.

February 4: "The Counsel and Warning of Humanism" (.mp3) Unlike most other western religions, one source of our UU liberal religion is humanism which helps us claim our responsibility to create a better world. Rev. James E. Grant.

January 28: "Called to Respond" (.mp3) In addition to world religions, we UUs have a tradition which grows out of Jewish and Christian teachings. Rev. James E. Grant.

January 21: "Wisdom from the World's Religions" (.mp3) One important, if not essential source for our search can be the wisdom which comes from other world religions. Rev. James E. Grant.

January 14: "Challenged and Inspired" (.mp3) On Martin Luther King, Jr. weekend we will reflect together about how prophetic people have both challenged and inspired us. Rev. James E. Grant.

January 7: "Transcendant Mystery and Wonder" (.mp3) The first in a series of sermons interpreting the Unitarian Universalist Sources of the Living Tradition, this sermon deals with personal experience through reflection of a reasonable religion. We are encouraged to take time to meditate or reflect about life as one way to be in touch with the wonder of Mystery. Rev. James E. Grant.

For recordings of specific services, please contact our Congregational Administrator, Patricia Weld at 858-755-9225 or email office@uufsd.org

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