The Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Columbia

Easter Sunday | Rev. Lisa Bovee Kemper

This Sunday, we’ll engage the story of Jesus’ death and resurrection from a Unitarian Universalist perspective. This is an all-ages worship service; children will stay with families in Sanctuary C during the entire service.

For this Sunday’s Easter Service, the Music Ministry is pleased to welcome guest musicians Zach Nelson and Hilary Dean to the chancel, for some special music to celebrate the Easter season. Zach Nelson will join me for some festive and brilliant fanfares for trombone and organ, by the wonderful composer/arranger Phil Lehenbauer. And we welcome back wonderful soprano Hilary Dean, who will offer the well-known and beloved Panis Angelicus by composer Cesar Franck. We are grateful that these talented musicians are willing to share their gifts with us in worship. Thank you, Hilary and Zach!

Rev. Lisa Bovee Kemper, Kelli Danaker, Hannah Nelson, Michael Adcock, Hilary Dean, Zach Nelson, Lorien Haavik, Michael Phillips, Anita Long

 

Making Meaning | Rev. Lisa Bovee Kemper

As we continue to find ways to resist authoritarianism and cultivate resilience, the practice of making useful objects is one popular coping mechanism. Let’s talk about the history of crafting as resistance found in quilts, knitted objects, weaving, and more. During the service we will honor Transgender Day of Visibility.

For this Sunday’s service entitled “Making Meaning”, the Chalice Choir shares a favorite hymn-anthem usually sung during the harvest season — “Bringing in the Sheaves” — in a rhythmic and fun arrangement by John Coates. The offertory, “Weaving”, is a relatively new work by Native American composer Connor Chee. The meditation will be a familiar “Gnossienne” by the French composer Erik Satie.

Rev. Lisa Bovee Kemper, Michael Adcock, The Chalice Choir, Becky Reese, Kathy Leonard, Miriam Pokharel-Wood, Tina Horn

 

Imagining Abolition | Rev. Michael Tino

At GA 2025, our delegates chose Abolition, Transformation, and Faith Formation as our denomination-wide study-action issue. In order to begin thinking about prison abolition, we need to be able to imagine the world in which it is possible. This Sunday guest minister, Rev. Dr. Michael Tino, will address questions like, “What needs to change in order to get everyone truly free?” It starts with theology, believe it or not.

Rev. Michael Tino, Tom Monroe, Becky Reese, Betsy Osterman, Ken Rock

 

The Edge of Change | Rev. Lisa Bovee Kemper

When all the systems around us are in disarray, a community like this one is a center of resistance, community care, and spiritual depth. In the process of living the mission and vision that inspire this congregation, we find ourselves constantly on the edge of change. Let’s work together to make the most of the opportunities change brings.

Rev. Lisa Bovee Kemper, Kelli Danaker, Michael Adcock, The Chalice Choir, Laura Cox (soloist), Lisa Marini, Steve Parr, Laurie Coltri

 

Learning to be Brave | Rev. Alexa Fraser

Rt. Rev. Bishop Mariann Budde has taught us all about courage multiple times in her actions with regard to President Trump.  Join guest minister, Rev. Alexa Fraser, as we study how Rt. Rev. Budde learned to be brave.

Rev. Alexa Fraser, Michael Adcock, Kelli Danaker, Jill Cairns, Alex Cauthen-Zach, April Lee

 

Ordinary Miracles | Rev. Lisa Bovee Kemper

Families and other emotional systems develop patterns and habits that can confuse and/or enhance our relationships. The movie Encanto offers a window into these processes. Please note, there will be spoilers, you may want to watch the movie first!

Rev. Lisa Bovee Kemper, Michael Adcock, Regina Verow, Betsy Osterman, and the Chalice Choir

 

Practicing Trust, Staying Present | Rev. Lisa Bovee Kemper

In any diverse community, individual identities and needs overlap and sometimes are at odds. How do we support and make room for each other to bring our whole self to the table? Is “right relationship” just a buzzword, or can it be a path to deeper, more meaningful connections within and beyond the congregation?

Rev. Lisa Bovee Kemper, Tom Monroe, Jen Siegal, Kathy Leonard

 

Leap of Faith | Rev. Lisa Bovee Kemper

Giving is an act of trust that shapes our shared future. In uncertain times, it is easy to look to the past for comfort and familiarity. However, liminal spaces are full of possibility if we embrace our shared vision and focus forward.

Rev. Lisa Bovee Kemper, Michael Adcock, Kelli Danaker, Steve Parr, Alex Cauthen-Zach, The Chalice Choir

 

 

From Whence We Come | Rev. Lisa Bovee Kemper

“From whence we come and how and whither,” are the lyrics of an old, beloved Unitarian Universalist hymn. You may have sung it at an ordination or installation. The Transition Team, joined by Rev. Lisa and members of UUCC, will consider UUCC’s historical timeline and how our heritage calls us to move into our future together.

Rev. Lisa Bovee Kemper, Kelli Danaker, Michael Adcock, Marlena Jareaux, Gail Thompson, Teaghan Verow McLaughlin, Meagan Lopes, Linda Adcox-Kimmel, Mikayla Kurkjian, Tim Lattimer, Tessa Stevens.

Help! Wow! Oops. Thanks. | Rev. Lisa Bovee Kemper

What is prayer? It’s one of those words that means different things to different people. It can feel intimidating or comfortable, confusing or meaningful. Rev. Lisa will explore different types of prayer – with examples you can try!

Rev. Lisa Bovee Kemper, Jill Cairns, Michael Phillips, Kelli Danaker, Michael Adcock, The Chalice Choir