Sermon Archive

Service Recordings since Covid-19 began can be found here: https://www.uufco.org/online-worship

April 5, 2020 - “Purpose”

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
Our lives are changing. Perhaps your purpose has become distilled. Or maybe it is now less defined and you are being called to consider anew how you will be in the world. One thing remains true amidst all the shifting…what you do matters.

March 29, 2020 - “ Yup. This Stinks.”

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
We have all had to let go of things and face some disappointment. From the loss of our routine life to large milestones in our lives postponed. Or even being seperated from loved ones. Everything is rearranging. We will jmake some space to hold these feelings of loss. And we will share in the truth that we are all in this together.

March 22, 2020 - “Playing Catch Up”

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
So much has happened so fast. We are living in a new reality shaped by necessity. While everything around us has changed, it is possible that our minds, hearts, and souls had not yet had the chance catch up with all the change. On Sunday, we will slow down and allow ourselves a moment to let everything settle in and adjust to this new world.   

March 8, 2020 - “Learning Love”

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
In 1837, Unitarian minister William Ellery Channing wrote, "The great end of religious instruction is not to stamp our minds irresistibly upon the young but to stir up their own." We learn things as children that stick with us for life. So let’s teach our children well.

March 1, 2020 - “I Confess, Confession is Hard”

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
The practice of confessing is a powerful way to confront ourselves and be in relationship with other people. Confession requires that we are honest with other people. But before that, it asks something sometimes even more difficult – being honest with ourselves. Confession ain’t just for the Catholics!

February 23, 2020 - “254 Days”

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
A lot is going to happen between now and November 3, 2020. There will be ups and downs. Anger and hope. Sadness and anticipation. There are 254 between now and the general election for the presidency of the United States of America. It will stress our country and our personal souls. Let’s ground for the coming days ahead with resilience and love.

February 16, 2020 -“Six Qualities of Strong Families”

Dr. Dennis Lynn, Guest Speaker
What are some characteristics of strong, healthy, happy families? Though we are surrounded with magazine cover “quick fix tips” and an abundance of on-line suggestions from a variety of sources, what might individuals in strong families attribute to their success? Findings from a national research effort indicated six consistent themes. Dennis Lynn will talk about these qualities in practical and encouraging ways.

February 9, 2020 - “Imagine Connection”

THE ASL SIGN FOR "CONNECT" IS DONE BY STARTING WITH YOUR HANDS IN "OPEN-F" HANDSHAPES AND THEN BRINGING THE HANDS TOGETHER INTO INTERLOCKING "F" HANDSHAPES.
Rev. Scott, Kim Gunderson-Moore, and members of our deaf community create our gathered space. How do we find deeper understanding and possibility through communication? Communication leads to connection. And as humans, isn’t that what we all long for?

February 2, 2020 - “Be Here Now”

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
Our congregation celebrates five years in our building as well as the community we have created. On this Stewardship Sunday kick off Sunday, we look forward to our future. As we consider the past, and as we dream to the future, we strive to Be Here Now.

January 26, 2020 - “Book of Nature: Nature as a Source of Spiritual Wisdom in Traditional Stories

Susan Strauss, Guest Speaker
“The Great Spirit placed everything we need to know as a lesson in Nature. Nature is a sacred book.” These words were spoken by Brave Buffalo, a Lakota Elder. With ever-increasing speed, we overrun or drown out the voice of spirit and the sacred text all around us. In this sermon, storyteller, Susan Strauss will bring alive traditional stories from St. Francis, Sufism, the Zuni Creation and Japan.

January 19, 2020 - “Shouting Hate Never Turns a Heart”

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
Shouting pundits, inflammatory media, escalation, and screaming matches! Breathe deep. There are ways of making your self seen, of working for justice, and seeking a better tomorrow that don’t resort to yelling matches or tirades. Shouting love sometimes can feel pretty darn good though.

January 12, 2020 - “Just Who Do You Think You Are?”

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
Who gets to say who you are? Whose ideas are rattling around in your head that make up your concept of Self? And what is a “Self” anyway? Who are you? Who am I? Who knows? Join us Sunday morning as we melt into an existential puddle.

*Not to the listener - During the sermon Rev. Scott begins with a solid dark blanket around him which he then later flips around to a colorful quilt and then towards the end thrown off to reveal a vibrant multicolored quilt.

January 5, 2020 - “Oh No! Status Quo”

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
The “status quo” is the water we swim in. It is easy to drift along with the current. But as spiritual people, we are not called to drift. We are called to swim for our lives, make waves, dive to the depths, and splash around with joy.

December 29, 2019 - “Nature, Awe, and Hope”

Chela Sloper, Congregational Life Facilitator
The beginning of the New Year provides an opportunity to simply pause, catch our breath, and reset.  Offering a quiet antidote to the busy-ness and distraction of the holidays, and following the tracks of Jon Young, wildlife tracker and nature connection mentor, we will explore one of the paths back to our humanity: a deepening connection with nature.

December 22, 2019 - “Dawn After the Longest Night: A Solstice Service”

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
On Saturday night, December 21, we will move though the deepest core of seasonal darkness. The days have grown shorter and colder. Come explore the place of interplay between dark and light, the mystery and the revealed, hardship and joy.

December 15, 2019 - “Holidays & Human Ways, A Pageant”

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
Children and youth in our Religious Exploration classes demonstrate their ideas about holidays with the guidance of their teachers and Rev. Scott. Children and Youth participate in the pageant at both services and enjoy a light lunch between performances. Nursery care provided for children ages 3 and younger.

December 8, 2019 - “The Good Enough Holiday Season”

Rev. Scott Rudolph
As activities begin to swirl around during this holiday season, we will be encouraging the following attitudes - good enough, that’s passable, adequate will work, I’ll pass this time, that works just fine, whoops…oh well, and that’ll do. We are hoping to be present this season rather than simply survive.

December 1, 2019 - “The Magnificat”

Rev. Shimiko Montgomery, Speaker
The Magificat is the song sung by Mary when she learns she is expecting the baby Jesus. She sings with awe about God's love for the lowly that know no barriers and no boundaries. How might her words shine a light for us today in the midst of the immigration crisis at our border?

November 24, 2019 - “We Give Thanks”

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
As the season turns with a chill in the air, we pause at this time of year to focus on gratitude for all that we have in life. No life is perfect, but our blessings are there. Let’s slow down together to give thanks for this precious day.

November 17, 2019 - “Star Trek and a Vision of the Future”

Rev. Scott Rudolph
The world of Star Trek offers us an imaginary version of humanity’s future should we ever learn to sail among the stars and to other worlds. There is a lot in this sci-fi show for religious progressives, whether you are a fan or not. Beam us up, Rev. Scotty.

* We are having issues with our recording software but are on the cusp of success. Thank you for your patience, we’ll be back in business next week!

November 10, 2019 - “Where We Find Hope”

Sarah Skochko, Lay Leader
Hope is an essential part of human life and human religion. In difficult times, where can we look for encouragement about the future? Is hope always a good thing? And how can our faith inform our sense of hope?

Sarah Skochko is a ministerial candidate and seminarian at Meadville Lombard Theological School, who also serves the Unitarian Universalist Church in Eugene as their Coordinator of Outreach and Engagement.

* We are having issues with our recording software and trying to work a solution. Thank you for your patience until this issue is fixed.

November 3, 201 - “Spiritual Justice”

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
We work for justice in the world as a spiritual practice. Because of our relational theology, acts of justice are central to Unitarian Universalism. The people of our fellowship are making a difference in Central Oregon and filling their spirits while they do.

* We are having issues with our recording software and trying to work a solution. Thank you for your patience until this issue is fixed.

October 27, 2019 - “Forgiving Death”

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
Life can be sweet and precious. And so when death visits, we may be angry at death or rage against death. But the Grim Reaper is just doing his job, and even he needs little understanding.

* We are having issues with our recording software and trying to work a solution. Thank you for your patience until this issue is fixed.

October 20, 2019 - “Oneness”

Rachelle Indra, Lay Leader
As Americans we're taught that being an individual and unique is what will make us happy. But too much separateness causes us to feel anxious, isolated and depressed. It’s when we lean into what makes us the same that we truly find happiness and a sense of peace.

October 13, 2019 - “Longing for Belonging”

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
Humans crave connectivity. Few things feel as good as belonging and yet, in the Western world it can be hard to truly connect with others. How do you find your tribe? 

October 6, 2019 - “What Do You Mean By That?”

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
Words matter. We can help people or hurt people with the words we use. But there is some rocky terrain in the world of political correctness. Which words should you use? Which ones shouldn't you use? Who gets to decide? Choose your words wisely.

*The initial upload of this sermon sounded like an alien transmission and has now been fixed! Sincere apologies if you were subjected to the first upload…

September 29, 2019 - “Beyond Welcoming”

Susan Kinney, Lay Leader
Every week we enter our beloved building, passing by a bench that says, “All are welcome here.” We start each service telling everyone that, no matter their life story, he/she/they are welcome here. I believe we mean it and I believe most people do feel welcomed when they come to visit us. But what comes after that? How might the work of creating a truly inclusive fellowship be a spiritual practice to bring us closer to our higher selves?

September 22, 2019 - “The World is on Fire”

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
So much tumult in the world. Death, destruction, violence, injustice, environmental degradation. It is overwhelming. These are trying times. And yet also incredible times. Births, stargazing, friendships, justice works happening. Such is the human experience. Our days come together in a mix of reality, grief, and hope.

September 15, 2019 - “When Life Happens to You”

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
Bad things happen to good people. Sometimes good things. Sometimes strange things. In life, we do not control the waters we sail or the winds of change that can upend our expectations. It is good to expect the unexpected. This will be such a morning. 

September 8, 2019 - Ingathering Service and Water Communion: “The Water Heals My Soul”

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
We gather together this morning to celebrate the new church year with our Water Communion. Our church is our spiritual home. It is the place where we return to again and again as our lives change around us. Welcome home! Please feel free to bring some water (real or symbolic) from your life. 

September 1, 2019 at 10 a.m. - "Labor Day: Remembering the Past by Taking Action in the Present"

Emma Ronai-Durning, Guest Speaker
As we celebrate Labor Day this year, let’s recognize the immigrant workers fighting for justice in the workplace and in our country. How can we mark this weekend with meaningful action and push our society further towards a day where Labor Day is purely a historical remembrance? 

Emma Ronai-Durning is an organizer with the Rural Organizing Project. ROP supports autonomous volunteer-run Human Dignity Groups across Oregon to advance human dignity and democracy in small town and rural Oregon.

August 18, 2019 - "The Value of Lifelong Learning"

Kathryn Cullen, Lay Leader
Never stop learning because life never stops teaching. Your friends and neighbors at UUFCO will discuss the value of lifelong learning and provide real life examples of what values they have discovered on their journey, e.g. more connected to friends and community, new perspectives about life, confidence in their capabilities and more. With Dick Linford, Maggi Machala, Max Merrill and John Rhetts.

August 11, 2019 - "What Does it Mean to Be a People Whose Souls Matter?"

Soul Matters Participants
This fall we begin our fifth year participating in Soul Matters: the Unitarian Universalist program for personal and congregational reflection. From September through June, each month's packet focuses a theme to reflect on, such as "What does it mean to be a people of ... Attention? [or] Resilience?" We will hear from congregants who have participated in Soul Matters this past year.

August 4, 2019  - “From Fear to Serenity”

James Simmons-Cox, Lay Leader
For more than two years there has been an increasing use of fear within our world and national politics.  It is an emotion that stagnates spirituality, love and inward peace.  James will explore ways that diminish fear within - and increase our ability to love, live and laugh again.

July 28, 2019 - “Playing the Infinite Game of Gardening”

Tom Wykes, Lay Leader
Finite games have rules, goals, winners, and losers. Infinite games have no winners or losers, no beginning or end, and are always played in the present moment. Infinite games are always about life and are played on many fields including sport, relationships, art, and even gardens. Tom will explore life through the lens of games and gardening.

Tom Wykes is a long-time member of UUFCO who practices the infinite game through reading, gardening, meditation, and service.

July 21, 2019 - “Happiness”

Lay Leader, Carol Sisson Ph.D.
Professor Emeritus Oregon State Univ., retired
Counselor Educator and Profession Counselor

What does it mean to be happy? Heredity and environment play major roles in determining the level our happiness. We will examine aspects of behavior and thought patterns that stand in the way and those that enhance the attainment of happiness.  Can we change our brain to make new connections that provide opportunities for greater happiness? We will look at characteristics of happy people and examine habits that promote joy and contentment.

July 14, 2019 - “Guide Me Toward Love”

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
“So much trouble in the world…” sang Bob Marley. Then and now, there are so many troubles in the world that can keep us up at night. And yet, in front of us every day are our daily lives - sometimes mundane, sometimes miraculous. We are left with a tension in this age of information created by our knowledge of all the troubles of the world and the simple (or complicated) task of living our own lives. What to do with this tension? Listen for love. Let it guide you.

July 7, 2019 - “Let Freedom Ring”

Chela Sloper, Congregational Life Facilitator
We celebrate the 243rd birthday of the United States of America this year, dated to the ratification of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. Some of the great ideals that undergird our American identity are contained in the preamble of the Declaration. How does our Unitarian Universalist faith inspire us to keep pressing toward the ideals articulated there? Are we called similarly to “mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor” toward those ideals? And is there room in Unitarian Universalism for patriotism?

June 30, 2019 - “The Power of Wow”

Rev. Laurie Lynn Newman
Keeping abreast of world events, and engaging in efforts to alleviate suffering  is not for the faint of heart.  We can become overwhelmed by disappointment, fear and grief. We can be so overwhelmed that we move through the hours and days, through our work and homes and relationships, without seeing wonder and beauty.  What is the relationship between beauty and the Divine?  What knocks our socks off?  Does that have any bearing on how we live together on this fragile home?

June 23, 2019 - “In This Delicate Turning”

Livestream worship from UU General Assembly in Spokane, WA
After exploring el poder de nosotros/the power of we [theme of GA 2019], what are we ready to do/¿que estamos listo para hacer? Let’s not be servants of the past in new cups. Let’s all get free by planting faithful seeds of change and together turn to free the faith we love.  
*No Audio from the service but you can view the livestream here: https://www.uua.org/ga/off-site/2019/worship/sunday

June 16, 2019 - Flower Communion: “Good Day Sunshine”

Dana Regan, Interim Director of Religious Exploration
Our connection to the sun and the seasons has been going on for millennia. To live in harmony with our own personal cycles of sowing and reaping in celebration and reflection is what reconnects us to the sun and its cycles. Through ritual and song we will explore the solstice in summer and what it means for us.  

June 9, 2019 - Flower Communion: “Happy You Are You”

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
Join us this morning as we come together as a community to celebrate Flower Communion. Bring a flower to share if you can. We will celebrate the beauty our diversity creates. This all-ages service lifts up our common purpose, our shared identity, and our commitment to Love. The choir will sing. The brass group will play. All these are wonderful reasons to be happy. If you don't believe me, ask Pharrell Williams.

June 2, 2019 - “The Question Box”

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
Unitarian Universalists love questions. Ever had a question you wanted the minister to answer? Now is your chance! We will fill a box with questions and have a time for Rev. Rudolph to answer some of them during our service. Hmmmm... now: what to ask?    

May 26, 2019 - “Modern-Day Mindfulness”

Jenni Peskin, Guest Speaker
Ancient practices are available to live in a modern world. This morning, join us to learn to move through the inner and outer storms of life and gain access to a genuine inner-peace and contentment.

May 19, 2019 -"Say 'No' So You Can Say 'Yes'"

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
Say "yes" to coming to Sunday morning service today. Because we all need to say "no" sometimes and that can be hard. Our time is our most precious resource. So many things pull us in different directions and clamor to be a priority. Do you choose priorities, or do they choose you? You could say "no" this morning and stay home. But we will be saying "yes" to choosing life here and hope you will join us.

May 12, 2019 - "From There to Here to Where: Unitarian Christianity Turns 200"

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
In May of 1819, 200 years ago, William Ellery Channing put a stake in the ground for our religious ancestors declaring what it meant to be rational and moral people of religion. He was a radical--claiming that we should use our full reason to interpret the Bible. On this anniversary, we look to this pivotal sermon to see what in our religion has remained the same, what has changed, and where the "Father of American Unitarianism" might call us toward today.    

May 5, 2019 - "The Feminine Face of the Divine: A Story of Healing & Transformation"

Richard Groves, Guest Speaker
In honor of the day, Cinco de Mayo, Richard Groves will offer a reflection and experience on the most important icon in Mexican culture, La Guadalupana. Regardless of our spiritual orientation, she represents a universal story of family, healing and hope for our world and for ourselves individually. Richard will share a few minutes of a special film he created in Mexico City with several local voices to help us appreciate what the feminine face of the Divine might mean for each of us in the larger human family.

(part of the audio recording includes quiet moments while a dance ritual is performed around the perimeter of the sanctuary)

April 28, 2019 - "Harvesting Your Life"

Chandra Smith, Lay-Led 
“Harvesting your life" can begin at any age but is especially important in the later stage of life. It is a way of gleaning all you have learned as well as knowing who you are now, especially as an elder. 

April 21, 2019 - "The Promise of a Seed"

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
Easter morning is full of promise. As the world returns to life and the blossoms begin to bloom, we are reminded of the miraculous. From a tiny seed springs forth a mighty Ponderosa pine. So, too, in our lives, often time great change begins from a small, subtle shift.
*No audio for this Sunday

April 14, 2019 - "Why Are We Here?"

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
In January, the Board of Trustees invited the congregation to dream of our future and began a visioning process. Our congregational vision provides direction and addresses questions of purpose - why are we here and what shall we do together? There is no set answer to this. Our vision represents a unique expression of our current fellowship and points to what the coming years might hold. These are exciting times.

April 7, 2019 - "How Grace Got Her Name"

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
For this multi-generational service, we will be turning to local lore for inspiration. Grace is a trumpeter swan that captured the hearts of the people of Bend. Alice Elshoff recently published a book all about Grace. There are lessons for all of us about what it looks like when a community believes that we are one.

March 31, 2019 - "Finding Our North Star"

Chela Sloper, Congregational Life Facilitator
How are we led through the uncharted waters of life? Do we look for outward signs along the way, winks from the Universe to tell us we're on the right path? Or do we cultivate a sense of direction or purpose from within? 

March 24, 2019 - "One Wild and Precious Life: Journeying with Mary Oliver "

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
This past January, the poet Mary Oliver died. She witnessed the world around her and heard the gentle questions that arise from a field of lilies or a grasshopper. She wrote accessible poetry that invites us into a moment. We will use her words and life to guide our morning together.

March 17, 2019 - "Approaching the Unapproachable: Climate Change"

Chris Herrick, Martha Lussenhop, Amie Walter, Alison Wells; Lay-Led
Why are we called to action? How can we take on so monumental a problem as global warming without being overwhelmed? Does what we do really matter?

March 10, 2019 - “The Journey of Life”

Rev. Scott Rudolph
The passing of time finds that we live through different ages. These are reflected in our own personal lives as well as the way the world changes around us. We are always moving through these ages of our life. Our hope can only be to be as present to each before they pass.   

March 3, 2019 “Spiritual but Not Religious”

Rev. Scott Rudolph
“I’m spiritual but not religious.” This might be a phrase you hear from time to time. (You might even say it yourself.) The number of Americans who say they have no religious affiliation or preference has hit an all-time high – one in five. Our religious journeys often find us trying out new religions just to have them fail us over and over. So, what went wrong with religion?

February 24, 2019 - “Waves of Change: Women’s Spirituality, Women’s Voices”

Marean Jordan, lay-led
In this time of change and upheaval in our country and world, women are speaking out and stepping up. Through music, storytelling and the spoken word, women of UUFCO will share stories and insights into their social and spiritual journey.

February 17, 2019 - "Galileo and the Truth Police "

Rev. Scott Rudolph
Truth in the era of fake news, confirmation bias, and a country divided. Our fellowship covenant asks us to "seek the truth in love." What does this really mean? What is Truth (capital "T") and how do we know when we find it? This much is true... I hope you are always questioning truths.

February 10, 2019 - "Practicing Spiritual Practices Spiritually"

Rev. Scott Rudolph
You already know what to do. Don’t you? Actually doing it is the tricky part. Let’s talk about how to make it happen.

February 3, 2019 - "Sex and Money (Politics and Religion, too!)"

Rev. Scott Rudolph
If you want things to go well at your dinner party, they say that you are not supposed to talk about sex, politics, religion, or money. These are taboo topics for a reason. They can create discomfort and division. But if we create a space grounded in our values and relationship, then all these are topics we should be talking about at church. This Stewardship kick-off Sunday, we will invite the conversation about sex and money (and politics and religion

**Due to technical difficulties we apologize for not having a recording of the sermon for this Sunday.** 

January 27 - “Tending the Mythic Fire”

Will Hornyak, Storyteller, Guest Speaker
Winter is a time for tending the fire of imagination that glows from the depth of our being. In the darkness and stillness of winter the outer world rests and the inner eye opens. Stories and dreams are a type of inner fire that can illuminate the past and inspire new possibilities for the future. From Irish myths and Mexican folktales to Grimm's fairy tales and beyond, storyteller Will Hornyak shares stories from the heart of winter to spark creativity, kindle vision and reconnect us to the timeless threads of meaning woven through our own lives.

January 20 - “None Of Us Are Free”

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
At its core, the theology and worldview of Martin Luther King, Jr. was deeply relational. He once said, "Life's most persistent and urgent question is, 'What are you doing for others?'" We all share a destiny. Our lives - both physical and spiritual - are intertwined. We simply cannot look to Life without seeing connection, dependence, and interrelatedness. So... let's look.

January 13 - “How Do I Do Church? (If You Choose To Call It That)”

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
What is a church? How does it work? Why does it work? Where do I fit in? A lot of folks who come to Unitarian Universalist congregations are people that never thought they would attend a church. Many of us are "non-joiners" at heart. And our fellowship runs a little bit different than most churches. So, it is worth slowing down at the beginning of the year to ask, "Just what exactly is going on here?"

January 6 - “Not Throwin’ Away My Shot”

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
The story of Alexander Hamilton is inspiring. So is the story of “Hamilton,” the musical. We begin our new year with both stories to remind us that each of us only gets one shot at life. Rise up!

At 8:00 a clip of Lin-Manuel Miranda performing a song from “Hamilton” was played in the Sanctuary. You can pause it and watch by clicking here!

December 30 - “Raising Our Voices Together in Song”

Mark Hickman, Music Director
For years, the phrase "raising our voices together" has been a rallying cry for social justice advocates. The theme of this service is the power and unity that we create when we sing together. Ian Carrick (of Open Hub Singing Club) will lead us in "community singing" as part of this worship service, and we will experience and reflect on "raising our voices together in song".

No audio was recorded for this service.

December 23 - “Migrant in the Manger”

Rev. Scott Rudolph, Minister
Jesus was a refugee. His parents fled for their own safety and for that of their unborn child. People have long sought safety in neighboring lands to escape danger. They still do today. Rev. Scott will be exploring his experiences at the protest at the U.S. border by interfaith religious leaders from across the country, a justice action in Tijuana, and spending time with migrants and relief workers. Now, as in the nativity story, beauty and hardship exist side by side.

The accreditation of the opening reading, “The Refugees” by Ann Weems, was cut off of the recording.

December 16 - "December's Mystery and Wonder"

Retired minister, Rev. James Simmons-Cox
Who doesn't like a good mystery, or isn't inspired by life's wonders? On this Sunday we will examine the first of our Unitarian Universalist "sources" which states, "Direct experience of transcending mystery and wonder, affirmed in all cultures, which moves us to a renewal of the spirit and an openness to the forces which create and uphold life."  With the emphasis upon mystery and wonder, we will explore how mystery and wonder impact us, not only during this Holiday Season but also within our own spiritual development and maturity. Winter Solstice (Friday, December 21) will also be commemorated.

December 9 - “The Interactive, No-rehearsal Christmas Pageant”

Paul Bennett, lay-led
Join us this morning as we have some fun together in this multigenerational worship service. We are going to throw together a Christmas Pageant with our kids and our congregation.

December 2 - “Knowing the Mystery”

Rev. Scott Rudolph
“I don’t know” can be one of the most profound things we can say. We live amidst a deep and abiding Mystery. Humility calls on us to acknowledge the unknown, so a healthy dose of agnosticism is appropriate and even helpful. And yet, right from that place of assured unknowing, the Mystery still calls us into relationship.

November 25 - “Trans-cending the Binary”

Dustin Fanning-Painter, lay-led
Allies are an important part of the journey for trans persons. Let's explore what people can do to be fierce allies for LGBTQ+ individuals.

The recording was started a few seconds late. Transcript of the missed dialogue: “It is a strange thing, to…”

November 18 - “Gratitudesgiving”

Rev. Scott Rudolph (Multi-Generational)
World news got you down? I get it. That makes sense. These are hard times. This morning at a multi-generational service we will lift up all that is good in our life and in our world! It will be a party of gratitude and thanks! A celebration of what is going right! A song of praise for what is beautiful and true! Sound good to you? Sounds good to me!

No audio was recorded for this service.

November 11 - "Death Shows Us Life"

Rev. Scott Rudolph
Through death, we understand what it means to be alive. When a person we care for dies, we experience the pain of their absence, which happens because of the love we shared while they were alive. And for our own life as well, death reminds us that each day is precious.

November 4 - "The Power of Place in a Wandering World”

Rev. Scott Rudolph
Physical spaces in our lives can affect us deeply and linger in our mental and emotional memory. Our surroundings fill our senses and create the playgrounds and battlegrounds of our past. All of us at one time or another have had to leave a place behind that we cared for. Sometimes we go back. Other times never to return. The power of place can ground us. It can also let us know just how far we have traveled over time.

October 28 - "The Power, the Pain and the Promise of Silence”

Susan Kinney, lay led
There are many sounds of silence -some that heal and some that harm. In a world full of noise, let us come together to listen deeply for the stillness that renews and to speak out when giving voice to the truth is calling to us.

October 21 — “Something I Can Do”

Rev. Scott Rudolph (featuring the Social Justice Committee)
"I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something. And because I cannot do everything I will not refuse to do the something that I can do." ~ Edward Everett Hale

This morning Rev. Scott will speak to why Unitarian Universalists consider justice issues an important part of our faith life. Our congregation has a wide variety of service and justice programs. We will hear some stories from the congregants who have incorporated justice into their religious response to life.

October 14 — “Border Crossings of the Heart”

Rev. Scott Rudolph
Our country is struggling for its soul. Issues of immigration, race, #MeToo, and LGBTQ rights pull the fabric of our country in opposite directions. We are called to cross the imaginary borders that keep us separate from a greater compassion and understanding. Love knows no borders. 

October 7 — "Sounds of the Spirit - Or, Uh-huh, Nuh-uh, Huh, A-ha, Ugh, Ooh, and Ahh…"

Rev. Scott Rudolph
We often hear these sounds in church. These are the sounds of a spiritual journey. A world of ideas and experience swirl around us all the time. After we process this swirl, we respond. Sometimes this response is verbal. Let’s make some spiritual sounds together!

September 30 — "Life as a Spiritual Fugitive"

Heidi Johnson, guest speaker
People are leaving religious communities in record numbers. Many of these people are fleeing spiritually controlling places for the sake of their
sanity, self, and soul; and have become spiritual fugitives in the wilderness. Their underground stories of struggle and setbacks towards spiritual healing need to be told. Because anytime we speak our truth we don't just survive the wild, we thrive in it.

September 23 — "Thank You, Mr. Rogers"

Rev. Scott Rudolph
It was a beautiful day in the neighborhood every time Mr. Rogers showed up. This is because he brought with him care, curiosity, and kindness. This morning we turn to the gospel of Fred Rogers. Join us. Won’t you be our neighbor? (We have always wanted to have a neighbor just… like... you…)

September 16 — "Ingathering Service & Water Communion - The Watercourse Way"

Rev. Scott Rudolph
This morning we will gather to celebrate Ingathering and Water Communion. Please bring a small amount of water to represent somewhere special from your summer (either actual or symbolic). We will join to celebrate and look forward to our new year. Please note that our services will be at 9 and 11 a.m. with Community Hour and religious education for our children and youth taking place between the services.

September 9 — "Dinosaurs, God (or Not), and You (and Us)"

Rev. Scott Rudolph
Dinosaurs had a good run, but they are no where to be found these days. Since change is constant, adaptation is essential in helping us adjust and go forward in new ways, often in directions we never imagined. Here we go!

September 2 — "Bread and Roses: Thoughts on Labor and Justice"

Chela Sloper, Lay-led
"What do you want to be when you grow up?" "What kind of work do you do?" Considering these age-appropriate getting-acquainted questions is just a launching point to ask other questions about what significance "work" has in our society and how we might begin to envision a more just world with regard to work and labor. Is it unreasonable to want a life that has “bread, and roses, too”?

August 26 — "Who Gives a Care?"

Rev. Scott Rudolph
As a caring community, we have the chance to practice compassion all the time. When we invite people to bring their whole selves to our congregational life, this requires us to care for others as well as care for ourselves. This morning we will introduce the Pastoral Care Team as well as look to the ways each of us is called to care.

August 19 — "Connecting the Dots"

Rev. Scott Rudolph
Humans have been playing connect the dots for a long time, from crayons in a child's coloring book to looking at constellations in the night sky. If we start to look around us, we notice lots of dots. Lots and lots of dots. Not a single one stands alone.

August 12 — "Letting the Shy Soul Speak: Soul Matters Sunday" 

Soul Matters panel, lay-led
Our congregation has been engaging with Soul Matters — a monthly digest of readings, exercises, and links to online resources, offered by a team of Unitarian Universalists — for four years. From September through June our worship services incorporate the monthly Soul Matters theme that helps to shape our congregational reflections. In additional to receiving the monthly packet, many have participated in small groups that meet once per month to share their experiences and insights.   

August 5 — “Awake to Joy: A Celebration of Poetry and Music”

Joy is about being fully awake, and the language and music of poetry can awaken us to that joy. In these troubled times, come share in a joyful celebration of summer and of being awake together through poetry and music. The service will be led by members of our UUFCO Fellowship.

July 29 - "Healthy Practices: Healthy Communities"

Ellen Mercer, guest speaker
As members of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Oregon community, we recognize the importance of creating a safe, welcoming environment that values diversity of belief and opinion and supports examined life journeys. In that spirit, we agree to abide by the UUFCO Relational Covenant. What practices nourish and exercise the good health of a community?

July 22 — "Otzi's Mountain: From the Iceman to Mallory, Messner and Me"

Doug Mercer, guest speaker
On this Sunday we will explore the role of place in our search for identity, meaning, and purpose. Have you felt the imminence of a place? What did it feel like? Where did it take you? Why? Mountains have been that place for many people and cultures. Many have died for them. I almost
did. Why?

July 15 — "In Praise of Doing Nothing"

Rev. Scott Rudolph
There is so much to be done in our own lives and in the world of justice seeking. Life gets frantic sometimes. And so we must be sure to do nothing.... at least every once in a while. Clearing a space for rejuvenation makes us clearer, more grounded, and ready to engage a life of love. The spiritual practice of saying "no" sits right beside the practice of saying "yes." Come join us and kick back for a Sunday morning to relax and slow down enough to hear the precious murmurs of life all around you. Your "to do" list can wait for a moment.

Prior to the sermon, a sample from Marconi Union's song "Weightless" was played. Listen to the extended cut (or at least a few minutes!) by clicking here.

July 8 — "I Love to Tell the Story"

Rev. Erika Spaet, guest speaker  
When we tell our stories, we find that we are more deeply connected to one another than we imagined. We are also more powerful. This core principle of community organizing also has been the core spiritual practice of our guest speaker, a Lutheran minister planting a new church in Bend.

July 1 — "Hooray! I Failed!"

Rev. Scott Rudolph
Being wrong and failing are generally not considered to be good things. We avoid these when possible. No one likes to feel foolish, small, or ignorant. But, with a little courage, failing is the doorway to a whole new world of understanding and growth. A willingness to start off on the wrong foot helps us correct those steps and find a solid stride. 

At 11:20 in the recording, a YouTube video was aired in the Sanctuary. You can watch it by clicking here.

June 24 — "Love, Harmony, and Beauty"

Chela Sloper, Congregational Life Facilitator
Fifty years ago today, Murshid Samuel L. Lewis — an ardent student and recognized teacher of Sufism and Zen Buddhism — first shared the Dances of Universal Peace in a public setting in San Francisco. Since that time, the Dances have spread around the world — cultivating love, harmony and beauty through simple circle dances. Today's service will be in the round, and all who wish to participate may do so; just observing is also welcome!

No audio recorded for this service.

June 17 — "Transforming the Divine: A Theology Beyond Gender"

Rev. Amy Beltaine, guest speaker
with ASL Interpreter
Transcending the binary and celebrating with Queer and non-conforming people.  What does it mean to leave "tolerance" in the dust, to embrace and engage? How are we changed when we see the divine differently? The Rev. Amy Beltaine invites anyone who is curious about earth-relating or deities-relating spirituality, or about the Covenant of UU Pagans, to a gathering in the conference room following the service.

June 10 — "You Bless. Bless You. It's Flower Communion Sunday" 

Rev. Scott Rudolph
with ASL Interpreter
You are a blessing. And we are grateful for you! This morning we are busy! We will celebrate our yearly multigenerational Flower Communion, honor our retiring musicians, appreciate volunteers, and look back on the blessings of the year. If you can, bring a flower for our year-end ritual. If not, no worries. We will have plenty of petals to share!

No audio was recorded for this "sermon-free" service.

June 3 — "Divine Dissatisfaction"

Rev. Scott Rudolph
with ASL Interpreter
There is something sacred about our feelings of unrest. While sometimes they can be unhealthy, they can also remind us of a way forward into a life that eludes us. If we seek a better world for our children or a better life for ourselves, listening to those places of dissatisfaction can help nudge us forward.  

Due to technical difficulties, no audio was recorded for this service.

May 27 — "The Promise and the Practice of Our Faith" 

Rev. Scott Rudolph
with ASL Interpreter
This morning our UU worship service will center entirely on the voices and the experiences of black Unitarian Universalists. What truths might we hear, however difficult, that might teach us to be better allies, better siblings in faith, and even better citizens in our community?

Due to the "creative" format of this service, no audio was recorded.

May 20 — "Blank Canvas"

Rev. Scott Rudolph
Life emerges from the creative moment. Creativity is a partnership between life happening and our unique part in this continual unfolding. We are all co-creating this world together. This morning we will create a worship service together.

Due to the "creative" format of this service, no audio was recorded.
 

May 13 — "God Places a Classified Ad" 

Rev. Scott Rudolph
with ASL Interpreter
Help Wanted - People to co-create the Universe with me. Must have a creative spirit, an eye for beauty, and a strong stomach. No references needed. Apply in person. Compensation is in the form of life. Sliding scale according to productivity. 

May 6 — "Processing Creative Process Creatively"

Rev. Scott Rudolph
with ASL Interpreter
Creativity is that place where new thought, new action, and new life show up. We are all creative in some way. It is not just artists putting paint to canvas or musicians playing an instrument. Each of us is creating throughout our day in ways big and small.

Due to the "creative" format of this service, no audio was recorded.
 

April 29 - "Vulnerability and UU" 

Derrick Mustelier, guest speaker

Being authentic and vulnerable is one of the hardest things we can do but it is essential to connection. And yet, we, as Unitarian Universalists often get stuck in our own heads at the expense of our hearts. Why are we like this? Is this necessarily a bad thing? Do we want to change and if so, how? Let's explore these questions together.

April 22 — "Emerging from Darkness to Light"

Richard Groves, guest speaker
As spring emerges and the days lengthen, there is a changing mood in nature. While most people appreciate nature’s beauty, we often lose sight of that fact that human beings are not separate the natural world; rather, we are an integral part of it. Likewise, when dealing with life’s difficulties and pain, we can benefit from the subtle lessons that nature teaches us. The miracle of life, death, and emergence is hard-wired into everything in the universe. Today’s message is a hopeful and practical reflection on the wisdom that is as close to us as a tree in the wind, the smell of springtime, and the song of a bird.

April 15 — “Emergence”

Rev. Scott Rudolph
Emergence is when the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. This is where new and mysterious things take form and come alive. We witness this in the natural world, in art, and in human communities. We are all a part of something greater than ourselves. We are all connected and a part of an emerging story. 

Prior to the choir anthem, a video on Emergence was shown in the sanctuary. Watch it here.

April 8 — “Attention to Tension”

Rev. Scott Rudolph
Unitarian Universalism embraces tension. There is an opening often found in points of tension that can break through to new spaces. By embracing this idea, we hold that religious truth is an ongoing, continuous revelation. The same is true of our own spiritual growth. If we embrace creative tension, we continue to grow as well.

Prior to the sermon, "So Long Lonesome" by Explosions In The Sky was played as a musical demonstration of tension and release. You can listen to it here.

April 1 — "The Transient and the Permanent in Easter"

Rev. Scott Rudolph
 

There is something inside this spring season that stirs us. This is true across the world religions and across the ages. The traditions and stories may differ, but the truth that life springs forth again and again is as constant as the spring blossom.  

March 25 — “An Unbalanced Meritocracy”

John Horwich, lay-led
with ASL Interpreter

It's been nearly three years since UUFCO initiated Project GRACE (Giving Respect And Choosing Equality), which seeks to balance the scale of equality of income, wealth, and opportunity. This morning we'll focus on opportunity. Economic success in the U.S. may still be based on merit, but the competition is anything but balanced. As UUs, this inequitable contest offends several of our UU Principles. We'll work to understand the dynamics responsible for this predicament, and consider what we might do to address this injustice.

No audio recorded for this service.

March 18 — “Questioning Questions”  

Rev. Scott Rudolph
with ASL Interpreter

Unitarian Universalists are very proud of how we champion questions. And rightfully so. A process of inquiry leads to new and deeper understandings. Questions are so great! But…what about answers? They aren’t so bad either.

March 11 — “Give a Little, Take a Little”   

Rev. Scott Rudolph
with ASL Interpreter

Life is a lot about balance. Back and forth. Give and take. This and that. It is important to be aware how much we are taking and how much we are giving. This morning, everyone is encouraged to bring and give two items smaller than a cantaloupe and of little to no value. These will be items lying around your house that you don’t want anymore – think White Elephant gifts at Christmas. From you I receive, to you I give.

At 11 minutes, 30 seconds in the recording, a gift exchange ritual was conducted. The music played during the ritual can be found here.

March 4 — “Mind Your Body”

Rev. Scott Rudolph
with ASL Interpreter

Often, we are so wrapped up in our thoughts that we walk around like floating heads, forgetting that there is a miraculous body underneath. Our head guides us, confounds us, and makes us human. Our body is full of wisdom, possibility, and feeling. Today, we celebrate embodiment knowing that our spiritual life invites a balance between mind and body.

Prior to the sermon, Scott, Chela and Aaron performed "Lost In My Mind" by The Head And The Heart. Click here to watch the official video!

February 25 — “If Ya Can't Fix 'Em, Join 'Em”

Rev. Scott Rudolph

We want to fix the world's problems. I suspect we also want to fix some parts of ourselves. But sometimes, things just won't fix right away...  

February 18 — "The Bold and The Beautiful"

James Simmons-Cox, with ASL interpreter

How is it possible for UU introverts to put on the "cape of boldness" as our Covenant calls us to courageous actions of social justice; compassionate outreach to those in need; and a commitment to lend our voice for this world's voiceless? Today we will address how every diverse personality can display tenacity within their world. This in itself is a remarkable "beauty."

February 11 — “The Free and Bleeding Heart”

Heidi Johnson, guest speaker

The Chinese character for perseverance is a knife hovering over a human heart. The image depicts the paradoxical reality of being human: A heart open to beauty, love, and joy is also a heart open to pain, heartbreak, and betrayal. And yet, we cannot live our lives in disillusionment or fear of the knife poised over or pierced through our vulnerable hearts. Perseverance is the gritty embrace of wholeheartedness, which frees us to choose love even with a bleeding heart.

February 4 — “More Than Loose Change — Stewardship Sunday”

Rev. Scott Rudolph, with ASL interpreter

There has been a lot of change in this fellowship in recent years. Now is a good moment to pause and look to all that we have created. We have seen some random, “loose” change. We also have made creative, intentional, life-giving changes. Which do we prefer? Our future is found in the answer.  

January 28 — "Embracing Spiritual Discipline"

Susan Kinney, lay member
 

Coming to church on Sunday is easy.  But how might we carry out the work of deepening our spiritual practice the rest of the week? As we conclude January’s Soul Matters theme, “Intention,” let us consider how we might bring more thoughtful, purposeful attention to our personal spiritual development.

No audio will be recorded for this service.

January 21 — "Our Covenantal Faith - Part 2: Bound and Determined"

Rev. Scott Rudolph

Promises are full of intention, purpose, and dedication. Though some say that promises are made to be broken. In Unitarian Universalism, we gather around the promises we make to one another, and those commitments guide our relationships. We are a faith of promises. And a faith of promise.   

January 14 — "Our Covenantal Faith - Part 1: Walking Together"

Rev. Scott Rudolph

What do Unitarian Universalists believe? Is there actually a unified answer to this? YES! THERE IS! Though we are a theologically diverse congregation when we consider our personal beliefs, there is a theological core to Unitarian Universalism that connects us to one another and to all around us. Aren't you curious?

January 7th — "Intentional Tubes"

Rev. Scott Rudolph

Everything comes from somewhere. Your thoughts. (I put this one there.) Your breakfast. (I did not make your breakfast.) Our religion. (We have a fascinating history!) Our planet. (Big Bang. But where did that come from...) Existence. (Whoa...) Look around you. Consider the sources. Look at yourself. Consider the sources. You are what you eat.

n.b. - At the 13-minute mark, a musical interlude was played in the Sanctuary. You may pause the sermon and visit this link for the full experience.

December 31 — "Make a Joyful Noise"

Marean Jordan, Kristel McCubbin Masterson and Mark Hickman, lay-led

On December 31 we will Make a Joyful Noise in the final service of 2017. Join us as we explore the role of music in our lives. Mark Hickman, Marean Jordan and Kristel McCubbin Masterson will speak on the unique role music has held in their lives.

No audio was recorded for this service.

December 24 — "Solstice Solace"

Rev. Scott Rudolph

While the night of December 24 will bring Christmas Eve and festivities, we will take the morning to observe the midwinter solstice that occurs on December 21.  This solstice observes and celebrates the shortest period of daylight and the longest night of the year. No matter your religion or philosophy, this celestial turning affects us all. 

No audio was recorded for this service.

December 17, 2017 - "Each Night a Child is Born is a Holy Night"

Ayla Halberstadt, Director of Religious Exploration

Let us remember the magic each child brings to our world as we put on our annual multigenerational, "no fuss, no stress, no rehearse" holiday pageant.

No audio was recorded for this service.

December 10, 2017 — "May the Force Be with You . . . and You . . . and You . . ."

Rev. Scott Rudolph

The mythos of Star Wars has continued for forty years! This is because it draws upon classic archetypes, the hero’s quest, and the ever-present predicament of good versus evil. There is a lot of overlap between the world’s religions and Star Wars. Where the ancient themes and stories of humanity are told around the campfire, the people gather to listen…and Yoda is awesome! 

December 3, 2017 — "From Hopefool to Hopeful"

Rev. Scott Rudolph

Sometimes I wonder if being hopeful isn’t a foolish path. Our hopes often don’t pan out how we want. But, hope is not about what happens in the end. Hope is what happens to us along the way. 

November 26, 2017 — "Orange You Glad We Are Growing Young?"

Ayla Halberstadt, Director of Religious Exploration

Inspired by the books Growing Young and Think Orange, let us imagine the impact when church and families are brought together and how we as a congregation and beloved community can continue to grow young together.

No audio was recorded for this service.

November 19, 2017 – "Giving Thanksgiving"

Rev. Scott Rudolph

At this this time of year, we are invited to remember our blessings. We will have a joyous multigenerational service this morning as we take a moment to pause and give thanks. We will also celebrate New Member Sunday during our worship time.  

No audio was recorded for this service.