Tag Archives: unitarian universalism

Tears of Joy and Sorrow: The Work Is Not Yet Done

In the beloved community I serve time is set aside on most Sundays for something called “Joys and Sorrows”.  Valued as a time in which to plum the depths of our hearts, to affirm the complexity of grief and of … Continue reading

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A Poem Inspired by Holy Week

Much has been said of the brokenness That brings us – to our knees That causes us to lift our hands to the heavens Twinkling with “indifference”. Many tears are shed each and every day. Songs of desperation sung. What … Continue reading

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“Sometimes”

“Sometimes” A poem shared with UUFRC 01/04/15 By Reverend Stefanie Etzbach-Dale PART 1 Sometimes Life just bowls you over with – “Grace”! Knocks you down, So you have no choice But to let those shimmering, soul-quenching waves of “Undeserved” bliss Seep into … Continue reading

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LOVE, LENT AND LETTING LOOSE

In preparation for Lent 2015 I’ve written the following poem, to be shared during the 02/15 Worship Service at the UU Fellowship of Redwood City. You are welcome to share it with attribution – and I’d love to hear from … Continue reading

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Ordination Charge to the Minister, 12/07/14

The following charge was written in honor of the ordination of Reverend David Helfer, 12/07/14 Reverend Helfer: Shema. Listen! Listen, as if your Soul depended upon it. Because it does! Listen, as you travel forward along this ancient sacred road, … Continue reading

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Today Is The First Day of The Rest of Your Life!

Opening Words for the 09/14/14 Worship Service: “Fresh Start” Today is the “first day, of the rest of your life”! A time to step out, of old sorrow or strife! To lay down the burden, of “things left undone” To … Continue reading

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Interview Questions!

I was recently sent a list of questions intended to inspire a press release in support of my new position as Minister to the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Redwood City. Here are the responses (press release text to follow soon!): … Continue reading

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MERCY > COMPASSION

Mercy is defined as “compassion shown toward someone whom it is within one’s power to punish or harm”. It is considered by many to be one of the most important attributes of God, and is lifted up as one of … Continue reading

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Tears, Fears & Redemption (Who is your neighbor?)

A few months back I found myself going through a really difficult time.  And since I’ve found over the years that fresh air can help clear the mind I went to a local park – trying to focus on the … Continue reading

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How Do You Know What You Know?

There’s this thing, that happens all the time but that I notice, particularly each year in late February, she said. It’s a kind of “stirring” under the earth that I feel in my heart; in  that space between one beat and another.     … Continue reading

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