Adapting the words of 18th century American philosopher and revolutionary leader Thomas Paine for our time, “these are the times that try our souls.” Anxiety, anger, polarization, despair, and fear seem widespread and appropriate. In the context of such troubling times, we need authentic community and truth telling, plus the deep spiritual practices of faith, hope, and abiding love, in all their complexity, to ground us and strengthen us. In embracing these practices, we may thrive and reclaim as well the essential human experience of joy.  Worship leaders this week are Sharon Arpoika and Rev. Yvonne Schumacher Strejcek. 

There will also be a special Story for all Ages. The children will do a reader’s theater style performance of a story about children and youth who answered a call to action by Martin Luther King Jr.