The Illusion of Certainty
UU Church of Annapolis Podcast
In this sermon, Rev. John explores the tension between what changes and what endures. Drawing on the theme of “the transients and the permanents,” this message invites us to reflect on how we find grounding, meaning, and even faith in a world shaped by uncertainty and unpredictability.
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The World on Fire: A Sermon on Hope
UU Church of Annapolis Podcast
Back by popular demand, Rev. John re-shares his powerful April sermon on transformation and hope. In a time when so much feels like it’s burning, this message reminds us that fire doesn’t just destroy—it refines, awakens, and calls us to courageous change within ourselves and the world we share.
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The Worst Thing We Ever Did
UU Church of Annapolis Podcast
Cindy Atlee invites us to talk about a surprising root cause of many troubles in our world today through her message, The Worst Thing We Ever Did. Join Cindy Atlee to explore how an awakened brain and spiritual consciousness--along with the core UU values of interdependence and transformation--can shape an evolutionary way forward and change how we live together.
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Ordination of Ryan McCray Ely
UU Church of Annapolis Podcast
In this special episode, Rev. Anthony Jenkins, Lead Minister of Paint Branch Unitarian Universalist Church and U.S. Navy Chaplain delivers the Homily for the ordination of Rev. Ryan McCray Ely Offered in the spirit of joy, calling, and community, this message reflects on the sacred journey to ministry, the relationships that sustain it, and the deep commitment to faith and service at its core. Whether you were present for this meaningful celebration or are joining us now, we invite you to listen, reflect, and be inspired by this moment of dedication and hope.
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The Man From Cachoeira
UU Church of Annapolis Podcast
On the occasion of his ordination, Ryan McCray Ely returns from Brazil to share a powerful story of transformation. Through the life of José Ramos do Nascimento, known as Traíra, Ryan invites us to reflect on our shared values of equity and growth.
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A Living Prayer
UU Church of Annapolis Podcast
Guest minister Rev. Nancy McDonald Ladd, Director of Communications and Public Ministry at the Unitarian Universalist Association delivers the sermon, A Living Prayer. The message invites us to reimagine prayer not as a task to complete, but as something woven into the fabric of our daily lives. What does it mean to “pray without ceasing” in these times? How might our shared congregational life become a living prayer, grounded in discernment, connection, and faithful movement toward the future? Join us as we explore how our lives, our community, and our faith can embody prayer in action.
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All the Colors
UU Church of Annapolis Podcast
In this homily from our beloved Flower Communion service, Rev. John Crestwell reflects on the beauty and meaning of all the differences that make up our shared community. Rooted in a Unitarian Universalist tradition dating back to 1923, Flower Communion invites us to celebrate diversity, connection, and renewal. As each person brings a unique flower and leaves with another, we are reminded that none of us blooms alone. Through this message, Rev. John explores what it means to honor our differences, embrace our interconnectedness, and live into the promise of love and...
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A Sharp Refusal
UU Church of Annapolis Podcast
UUCA President Nicole Bruno shares a powerful message, A Sharp Refusal. Civil disobedience is rooted in the courage to say “no” to injustice. Through the stories of women in our Unitarian history who challenged slavery, exclusion, and violence, we’ll explore what love, courage, and conscience ask of us today. Tune in as we ground ourselves in faith, community, and the call to live our values boldly. ✨
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Poetry Pals led Service
UU Church of Annapolis Podcast
In this collaborative arts worship service, the UUCA Poetry Pals led us in an exploration of paying attention through poetry enriched by musical accompaniment and shared community experience. This episode showcases the service framework followed by five poems.
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The Power of Symbols
UU Church of Annapolis Podcast
Rev. John reflects on the power of symbols and the ways they shape our shared spiritual life. Centered around our Blessing of the Chalices service, this message explores how simple objects can carry deep meaning, connecting us to one another and to the values we hold dear. Together, we honor the chalice as a symbol of warmth, hope, and unity in the Unitarian Universalist tradition. As we bless the chalices that hold our shared light, we renew our commitment to community, compassion, and spiritual reflection. Join us for a thoughtful reflection on how symbols help tell our story, strengthen our...
info_outlineThe holidays are here which means—among so many other things—it’s story time! I recently read a poem that begins: “it is our human tendency to think of life in terms of story arcs.” (Whitney Hanson) What is the story arc you are reciting? Join me, Rev Fred, as we explore the stories we tell—and what they tell about us.