To Know Another: ‘Love is the doctrine of this church’, ‘To seek the truth in Love’, ‘Beloved Community’, ‘Beloveds’. These are some of the mantras, if you will, and covenantal language we embrace to express our UU commitment to moving from a foundation of alove, working for equality, and seeing environmental justice as a core issue of human rights. Do I know my neighbors?
Unitarian Universalism calls us not only to affirm our values but to live them boldly in the world. In times of injustice, when systemic oppression and inequality persist, how do we move beyond words into direct action? What does it mean to engage in faithful resistance, to put our principles into practice with courage and integrity?
This sermon will explore the rich history of direct action within faith communities, including Unitarian Universalist movements for justice, and reflect on how we, as individuals and congregations, can answer the call to embodied love and liberation. From protest to mutual aid, from sanctuary to solidarity, we will consider the sacred work of showing up—especially when it is uncomfortable, especially when it demands risk, especially when love and justice require more than thoughts and prayers.
Together, we will reflect on how we can make our faith tangible, stepping into the prophetic tradition of those who have come before us, as we discern what it means to be a people of action in this moment.
Safe and stable housing is fundamental to human dignity, yet many in our community continue to face housing insecurity. This Sunday, we welcome a guest speaker from Habitat for Humanity to share their mission and vision for creating permanent housing and fostering pathways to stability in Grants Pass. Since its founding in 1976, Habitat for Humanity International has worked in all 50 U.S. states and 79 countries, helping more than 59 million people secure safe, affordable shelter. Together, we will explore how sustainable housing transforms lives and how we can strengthen our partnership with an organization committed to upholding the inherent worth and dignity of all people—ensuring that every person has the foundation they need not just to survive, but to thrive.
