UPCOMING WORSHIP SERVICES

August 3

The Freedom of Play

10:30 AM

Luke Williams

Throughout our stressful lives we often need an escape. Not just to relax but also to reflect on who we are. For many, tabletop role playing games like Dungeons and Dragons have provided a space for that escape. In this service we will explore how role play can provide a place for communities to support each other in their journeys to find their identity and strength.

August 10

Free Verse - TUUC Poetry Service

10:30 AM

Dominique Hall, Andrew Greenwood

In TUUC’s annual poetry service, members and friends share poetry related to the summer’s theme of Freedom. Andrew Greenwood will provide a spirited and thoughtful piano accompaniment.

After the service, feel free to join the congregation for a potluck picnic on TUUC grounds from 12:00 - 2:00 PM.

August 17

Just a Closer Look at “Just a Closer Walk”

10:30 AM

Sarah Googe, with the debut appearance of the TUUC Dixieland Band

Years ago, a close friend (the pianist) in our amateur Idaho dixieland band asked me how “Just a Closer Walk with Thee” could be one of my favorite pieces, when I was a non-believer. It took me years to find the answer. I hope this sermon answers her question.

August 24

Mercy To Animals Means Mercy To Humankind

BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS SERVICE

10:30 AM

Rev. Clare L. Petersberger, Andrew Hager, Mia Hager, Tracy Hall, Music Director, and members of the TUUC Choir

Henry Bergh, the founder of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and fellow Unitarian, was born 212 years ago this week! Over two centuries ago, he concluded that “Mercy to animals means mercy to humankind.” Come celebrate his legacy with our annual Animal Blessing service. You are invited to bring your pet(s) to be blessed. Bring your furry, feathered, webbed, scaled and other animal friends, as long as you are confident that you have control over them (cats in cat carriers; dogs always on leash; etc.) If bringing the actual animal won’t work, bring their collar, leash, chew toy or other representation!

If you will be joining us on Zoom, or if your pet would prefer to NOT be in the Meeting Room, please send a photo of your pet to revclare@towsonuuc.org by Tuesday, August 19. And if you are mourning the loss of a beloved pet, please send a photo of your pet by August 19 and some adjectives to describe them and what they taught you about mercy to animals and to humankind.

August 31

And Hope Carried Me….

WATER CEREMONY

Please bring water representing an experience of hope

10:30 AM

Rev. Clare L. Petersberger, Kara Tyler, Director of Religious Education, Tracy Hall, Music Director and members of The TUUC Choir

John Roedel writes about carrying hope in his pocket like a polished gemstone for years. But then, one day, he realizes hope was no longer in his pocket. He feels he lost it. As a result, he feels lost. Perhaps you know the feeling. But, then, hope unexpectedly finds him….in the form of a river. Today we celebrate when and where we’ve been found by hope. Today, we share these stories as part of our annual water ceremony. In so doing, may we feel ourselves buoyed and carried by hope.