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State Secrets: Inside The Making Of The Electric State


Host Francesca Amiker sits down with directors Joe and Anthony Russo, producer Angela Russo-Otstot, stars Millie Bobby Brown and Chris Pratt, and more to uncover how family was the key to building the emotional core of The Electric State . From the Russos’ own experiences growing up in a large Italian family to the film’s central relationship between Michelle and her robot brother Kid Cosmo, family relationships both on and off of the set were the key to bringing The Electric State to life. Listen to more from Netflix Podcasts . State Secrets: Inside the Making of The Electric State is produced by Netflix and Treefort Media.…
06.16.24 Sermon - "Heaven is Real" - Rev. T.J. FitzGerald
Manage episode 425197563 series 1624443
Вміст надано First Unitarian Church of Dallas. Весь вміст подкастів, включаючи епізоди, графіку та описи подкастів, завантажується та надається безпосередньо компанією First Unitarian Church of Dallas або його партнером по платформі подкастів. Якщо ви вважаєте, що хтось використовує ваш захищений авторським правом твір без вашого дозволу, ви можете виконати процедуру, описану тут https://uk.player.fm/legal.
If you’re hoping to go to heaven, we’ve got some good news for you. Come and join us this Sunday to hear all about it. This week’s film: Field of Dreams – Field of Dreams intertwines themes of faith, redemption, and the power of following one’s dreams. It challenges us to trust in the unseen, to have faith in our visions, and to build bridges between the past and the future. Through its portrayal of second chances and the importance of community, it reminds us of the transformative power of forgiveness and the potential for miracles in our everyday lives. Join us for our first summer sermon series as we journey through the realms of faith, humanity, and the divine, illuminated by the magic of film. Each Wednesday evening we will gather in community to view a diverse selection of films that captivate the heart and mind. Each screening will be followed by a discussion where we unpack the film’s themes, symbolism, and relevance to our shared journey. Films start at 6pm sharp in the Don Krehbiel Music Center. Discussion is from 7:45-8:15pm. On Sunday mornings, join us as we continue to explore the films and their lessons in worship. Whether you’re a film enthusiast, a seeker of truth, or simply curious about the intersection of faith and storytelling, you’ll find inspiration, community, and spiritual nourishment during this fun series! First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at https://dallasuu.org/ New sermon every week. Subscribe here: https://tinyurl.com/1stchurchyoutubesubscribe Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1stuchurch/ Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1stUChurch Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: https://dallasuu.org/live/ Œ
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462 епізодів
06.16.24 Sermon - "Heaven is Real" - Rev. T.J. FitzGerald
Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas
Manage episode 425197563 series 1624443
Вміст надано First Unitarian Church of Dallas. Весь вміст подкастів, включаючи епізоди, графіку та описи подкастів, завантажується та надається безпосередньо компанією First Unitarian Church of Dallas або його партнером по платформі подкастів. Якщо ви вважаєте, що хтось використовує ваш захищений авторським правом твір без вашого дозволу, ви можете виконати процедуру, описану тут https://uk.player.fm/legal.
If you’re hoping to go to heaven, we’ve got some good news for you. Come and join us this Sunday to hear all about it. This week’s film: Field of Dreams – Field of Dreams intertwines themes of faith, redemption, and the power of following one’s dreams. It challenges us to trust in the unseen, to have faith in our visions, and to build bridges between the past and the future. Through its portrayal of second chances and the importance of community, it reminds us of the transformative power of forgiveness and the potential for miracles in our everyday lives. Join us for our first summer sermon series as we journey through the realms of faith, humanity, and the divine, illuminated by the magic of film. Each Wednesday evening we will gather in community to view a diverse selection of films that captivate the heart and mind. Each screening will be followed by a discussion where we unpack the film’s themes, symbolism, and relevance to our shared journey. Films start at 6pm sharp in the Don Krehbiel Music Center. Discussion is from 7:45-8:15pm. On Sunday mornings, join us as we continue to explore the films and their lessons in worship. Whether you’re a film enthusiast, a seeker of truth, or simply curious about the intersection of faith and storytelling, you’ll find inspiration, community, and spiritual nourishment during this fun series! First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at https://dallasuu.org/ New sermon every week. Subscribe here: https://tinyurl.com/1stchurchyoutubesubscribe Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1stuchurch/ Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1stUChurch Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: https://dallasuu.org/live/ Œ
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462 епізодів
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Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas

Welcome to Tiny Pulpit Talks! We're so glad you're here. In this episode, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald and Rev. Beth Dana dive into a deeply important conversation about mental health—why it matters, why the church should care, and how we can create a faith community that supports every person’s well-being. Too often, mental health struggles are met with shame, silence, or pressure to "be okay." But in Unitarian Universalism, we believe it's okay to NOT be okay. Our faith calls us to care for the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—and to support one another in times of struggle. We are here to affirm your experiences, offer real support, and connect you with resources that help—not just with faith, but with practical care for your mental health. UUA Peer Pastoral Care Training for Youth: Mental Health First Aid for Youth: Resources that can help: 🌱 Enjoy the podcast? Consider a one-time gift to support the staff & resources required to keep it going. 💲 Give through PayPal, Venmo, & Apple Pay here: 00:00 - Welcome to Tiny Pulpit Talks! 00:35 - Why mental health belongs in church discussions 01:05 - The pressure to always be "good enough" 01:29 - It’s okay to not be okay 01:48 - When faith communities focus too much on achievement 02:04 - The risk of people disappearing from church due to struggle 02:20 - Taking care of yourself comes first 02:53 - The impact of stress and societal pressure on mental health 03:13 - Small wins: Some days, just getting through is enough 05:09 - Faith and mental health: More than just prayer 05:14 - The harm of being told "just have more faith" 05:25 - How our church provides real mental health resources 06:46 - Supporting youth mental health and community care 08:21 - Need help? Reach out. We're here for you. 08:42 - Closing words: We love you. Be well. First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at New sermon every week. Subscribe here: Follow us on Instagram: Follow us on Facebook: Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: Give - your support allows us to transform lives and make UU values real in our community and beyond:…
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Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas

1 Neighborly Evangelism: Living Your UU Values in Difficult Interactions | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 039 10:00
How do we relate to people who demonstrate values that are offensive or fundamentally different from our own? What does it mean to engage with integrity, especially when we encounter messages—on yard signs, bumper stickers, or even in casual conversations—that challenge our beliefs? In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Reverend T. J. FitzGerald, Minister of Community Care and Engagement, and Reverend Beth Dana, Minister of Faith Development, dive into these tough questions. They explore the importance of relationship context, personal boundaries, and how to respond with authenticity. Plus, they break down the difference between evangelism and proselytizing, redefining what it means to live our values rather than imposing them on others. Tune in to hear share stories, strategies, and reflections on how to approach these challenging interactions while staying true to our faith and principles. 🌱 Enjoy the podcast? Consider a one-time gift to support the staff & resources required to keep it going. 💲 Give through PayPal, Venmo, & Apple Pay here: 00:00 - Welcome to Tiny Pulpit Talks! 01:09 - How do we engage with people who don't share our values? 01:43 - The role of relationships in tough conversations. 02:22 - Deciding when (or if) to engage. 03:40 - Navigating encounters with offensive messages. 04:35 - A real-life example: Challenging harmful stereotypes. 05:43 - What is evangelism vs. proselytizing? 07:09 - Living your values as a form of evangelism. 08:10 - How embodying joy can inspire change. 09:23 - See you on Sunday—worship with us! First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at New sermon every week. Subscribe here: Follow us on Instagram: Follow us on Facebook: Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: Give - your support allows us to transform lives and make UU values real in our community and beyond:…
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Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas

What change do you want to see around you? How we serve our communities says a lot about who we are and what we value. This sermon is part of our Spiritual Practices to Light the Way series – Supported by the strong foundation of our living Unitarian Universalist faith and our vibrant church community, we are each called to deepen our spiritual lives so that we can have a positive and meaningful impact on the world around us. In this series, we’ll explore the five spiritual practices that light the path forward as we work toward a more just and peaceful world. First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at https://dallasuu.org/ New sermon every week. Subscribe here: https://tinyurl.com/1stchurchyoutubesubscribe Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1stuchurch/ Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1stUChurch Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: https://dallasuu.org/live/ Œ…
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Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas

Some tell us “You are what you worship.” We talk about what worship means and all it offers us as members of this community. This sermon is part of our Spiritual Practices to Light the Way series – Supported by the strong foundation of our living Unitarian Universalist faith and our vibrant church community, we are each called to deepen our spiritual lives so that we can have a positive and meaningful impact on the world around us. In this series, we’ll explore the five spiritual practices that light the path forward as we work toward a more just and peaceful world. First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at https://dallasuu.org/ New sermon every week. Subscribe here: https://tinyurl.com/1stchurchyoutubesubscribe Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1stuchurch/ Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1stUChurch Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: https://dallasuu.org/live/ Œ…
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Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas

This sermon is part of our Spiritual Practices to Light the Way series – Supported by the strong foundation of our living Unitarian Universalist faith and our vibrant church community, we are each called to deepen our spiritual lives so that we can have a positive and meaningful impact on the world around us. In this series, we’ll explore the five spiritual practices that light the path forward as we work toward a more just and peaceful world. First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at https://dallasuu.org/ New sermon every week. Subscribe here: https://tinyurl.com/1stchurchyoutubesubscribe Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1stuchurch/ Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1stUChurch Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: https://dallasuu.org/live/ Œ…
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Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas

In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald and Rev. Beth Dana dive into the meaning and traditions of the Lenten season—a time of reflection, connection, and transformation. Lent isn't just about giving something up; it's about making space for something deeper. We explore the history of these 40 days, the significance of sacrifice and renewal, and the communal journey of spiritual growth. From personal stories of Lenten practices to the rituals of Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, and beyond, we invite you to reflect on what this season means for you. Join us in exploring how Lent can be a time of meaningful change—not just for individuals, but for our whole community. How are you observing Lent this year? Let us know in the comments! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and join us on Sundays throughout Lent for the sermon series "Spiritual Practice to Light the Way." 🌱 Enjoy the podcast? Consider a one-time gift to support the staff & resources required to keep it going. 💲 Give through PayPal, Venmo, & Apple Pay here: 00:00 - Welcome to Tiny Pulpit Talks! Introduction to Lent and today’s discussion. 00:49 - What is Lent? The 40-day journey leading up to Easter. 01:18 - The significance of '40' in scripture. Biblical connections to the number 40. 01:58 - Personal Lenten practices. Rev. T.J. and Rev. Beth share their experiences. 04:04 - More than just giving something up. How Lent can be about creating space for something new. 04:45 - The burning service and Ash Wednesday. How our church begins the season. 06:44 - The communal journey of Lent. Why we don’t do this alone. 07:32 - Maundy Thursday and Good Friday. The powerful traditions leading up to Easter. 08:34 - Looking ahead. Inviting you to reflect and engage with Lent in your own way. First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at New sermon every week. Subscribe here: Follow us on Instagram: Follow us on Facebook: Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: Give - your support allows us to transform lives and make UU values real in our community and beyond:…
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Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas

We explore the roots of Mardi Gras and hold close the place that brings those traditions to so many, even still, New Orleans. First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at https://dallasuu.org/ New sermon every week. Subscribe here: https://tinyurl.com/1stchurchyoutubesubscribe Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1stuchurch/ Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1stUChurch Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: https://dallasuu.org/live/ Œ…
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Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas

Join us for a much loved and meaningful tradition – Youth Sunday! Our YRUU teens lead the service, sharing their musical gifts and reflections on the theme of “Becoming.” First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at https://dallasuu.org/ New sermon every week. Subscribe here: https://tinyurl.com/1stchurchyoutubesubscribe Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1stuchurch/ Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1stUChurch Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: https://dallasuu.org/live/ Œ…
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Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas

How do we nurture young people in the Unitarian Universalist faith while balancing the many demands of life? In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Reverend T.J. Fitzgerald (Minister of Community Care Engagement) sits down with Reverend Beth Dana (Minister of Faith Development) to explore what it means to raise children in Unitarian Universalism. Rev. Beth shares her personal experience as both someone raised in the faith and a parent raising her own children within Unitarian Universalism. Together, they discuss the many ways our church community supports young people—from early childhood experiences in the nursery to engaging curricula for all ages, including beloved programs like OWL (Our Whole Lives), Odyssey, and YRUU (Young Religious Unitarian Universalists). More than just education, they talk about how Unitarian Universalist communities uplift young voices, encourage leadership, and walk alongside children and youth on their spiritual journeys. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or simply curious about what our church offers families with children, this episode if for you! If you enjoyed this discussion, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with others! We’ll see you next time on Tiny Pulpit Talks—and until then, we’ll see you on Sunday! 🌱 Enjoy the podcast? Consider a one-time gift to support the staff & resources required to keep it going. 💲 Give through PayPal, Venmo, & Apple Pay here: 00:00 - Welcome to Tiny Pulpit Talks 01:32 - Why raise children in Unitarian Universalism? 02:32 - How UU communities support young people 03:27 - Preschool and early childhood learning 04:19 - Faith development starts in the nursery 04:59 - Growing with stories, questions, and values 05:29 - The role of teachers and mentors in UU education 07:11 - OWL (Our Whole Lives) – Comprehensive s3xuality education 08:52 - Odyssey – The 9th-grade coming-of-age program 09:26 - YRUU – Youth leadership and community engagement 10:24 - Supporting youth participation without overwhelming them 12:32 - Final thoughts and how to get involved 12:53 - Subscribe and see you on Sunday! First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at New sermon every week. Subscribe here: Follow us on Instagram: Follow us on Facebook: Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: Give - your support allows us to transform lives and make UU values real in our community and beyond:…
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Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas

Love’s in need of love today. We gather to feel love’s power and discern what it calls us to do in hard times. First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at https://dallasuu.org/ New sermon every week. Subscribe here: https://tinyurl.com/1stchurchyoutubesubscribe Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1stuchurch/ Follow us on Facebook: https://sstSSSSwww.facebook.com/1stUChurch Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: https://dallasuu.org/live/ Œ…
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Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas

1 Growing Up UU and Answering the Call to Ministry: Rev. Beth Dana’s Journey | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 036 14:45
Welcome to Tiny Pulpit Talks! In this episode, Reverend T. J. FitzGerald, Minister of Community Care and Engagement, sits down with Reverend Beth Dana, Minister of Faith Development, to explore her call story—her journey to Unitarian Universalist ministry. What does it mean to be “called”? How do we discover the work we are meant to do? Rev. Beth shares how she grew up in the UU faith, her early leadership experiences, and the moments that led her to pursue ministry. From college studies in religion and sociology to seminary, chaplaincy, and ultimately serving in congregational life, her story is an inspiring reflection on faith, community, and purpose. Join us as we discuss the many paths ministry can take, the importance of faith development, and how answering a call isn’t always a straight path. What calls you in your life? Let us know in the comments! 🌱 Enjoy the podcast? Consider a one-time gift to support the staff & resources required to keep it going. 💲 Give through PayPal, Venmo, & Apple Pay here: ✨ (Member & pledge-holders, please give in Realm.) 00:00 - Welcome to Tiny Pulpit Talks! 0:45 - What does “call” mean? 01:12 - Rev. Beth Dana’s UU beginnings 02:45 - Finding leadership in UU youth programs 03:44 - Choosing to study religion in college 07:27 - The moment Beth felt called to ministry 08:20 - Exploring different ministry paths in seminary 10:26 - Moving to Texas and finding community 12:09 - Discovering a passion for faith development 13:06 - Ministry beyond the pulpit 13:56 - Final thoughts on calling and vocation 14:09 - Closing and how to connect with us! First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at New sermon every week. Subscribe here: Follow us on Instagram: Follow us on Facebook: Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: Give - your support allows us to transform lives and make UU values real in our community and beyond:…
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Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas

What is faith in such times as these? Caught in the spin cycle of tortured truths, and the siren call of influencers, where do we put our trust? How do we ground our faith? This Sunday we explore faith, stripped down and essential. About Rev. Ruth MacKenzie Rev. Ruth served First Universalist Church of Minneapolis for ten years as Minister of Worship and Pastoral Care, and received Minister Emerita designation upon her retirement in 2020. Having served as Minister in Residence at First Unitarian of Dallas in 2021/2022, Ruth is happy to return in February to this congregation that she holds dear during Rev. Daniel’s sabbatical. Ruth has continued her ministry as Adjunct Minister at First Unitarian Universalist Church of Rochester MN, adjunct professor of worship at United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities and volunteers as a chaplain at Lino Lake prison of Minnesota. Born and raised in Denver, Colorado, Ruth moved to Minnesota to pursue a singing career. She toured the country and began to write her own plays and music in her late thirties with much success, produced by major theaters of the Twin CitIies. In her late forties, Ruth answered an insistent calling of a deeper spiritual life and ministry. She attended seminary and embarked on a new professional journey of discovery about how the arts and creativity can enliven the life of worship, and the life of the spirit, while bringing our imaginations and resolve to the work of racial justice, and healing this broken and beautiful world. It is with much joy and anticipation that Ruth joins our community of faith.…
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Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas

1 Law, Faith, and the Call to UU Ministry: Rev. T. J. FitzGerald's Journey | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 035 13:24
Welcome to another episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, the podcast from First Unitarian Church of Dallas! In this episode, Rev. Beth Dana, Minister of Faith Development, sits down with Rev. T.J. Fitzgerald, Minister of Community Care and Engagement, to explore his unique journey to ministry. From growing up in an Irish Catholic family to studying law and eventually finding his way to Unitarian Universalism, Rev. T.J. shares the twists, turns, and spiritual moments that led him to his calling. What sparked his shift from a legal career to faith leadership? How did an encounter with a Unitarian Universalist hymnal and a powerful coming-of-age service change everything? Tune in to hear his compelling story of discovery, faith, and purpose. 🔔 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave a comment! Have questions for Rev. T.J.? Let us know—we’d love to hear from you! 🌱 Enjoy the podcast? Consider a one-time gift to support the staff & resources required to keep it going. 💲 Give through PayPal, Venmo, & Apple Pay here: ✨ (Member & pledge-holders, please give in Realm.) 00:00 - Welcome to Tiny Pulpit Talks 00:59 - Rev. T.J.’s early connection to church 01:37 - Making deals to escape church as a kid 02:14 - Exploring different Christian traditions in college 03:06 - Discovering Unitarian Universalism through family 04:06 - The impact of Emerson’s The Over-Soul 05:13 - Studying law before feeling the call to ministry 07:13 - The moment Unitarian Universalism "clicked" 07:48 - A life-changing visit to All Souls in Manhattan 09:44 - Seminary, internships, and moving to Hawaii 10:16 - The call to Dallas and ministry at First Unitarian 11:34 - The deep impact of a spiritual life 12:09 - Closing thoughts & how spirituality enriches life 12:47 - Like, subscribe, and share your thoughts! First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at New sermon every week. Subscribe here: Follow us on Instagram: Follow us on Facebook: Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: Give - your support allows us to transform lives and make UU values real in our community and beyond:…
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Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas

First Unitarian Church of Dallas is pleased to welcome guest preacher Rev. Ruth MacKenzie. Stepping into Risk and Landing in Trust We often want to know the answers before we are tested. We want to know the ending before the story has even begun. Yet that is not the way of life, nor the way of faith. Risk and trust are entwined in an intricate webbing we navigate everyday. In the days ahead, how will we risk trust and trust risk? About Rev. Ruth MacKenzie Rev. Ruth served First Universalist Church of Minneapolis for ten years as Minister of Worship and Pastoral Care, and received Minister Emerita designation upon her retirement in 2020. Having served as Minister in Residence at First Unitarian of Dallas in 2021/2022, Ruth is happy to return in February to this congregation that she holds dear during Rev. Daniel’s sabbatical. Ruth has continued her ministry as Adjunct Minister at First Unitarian Universalist Church of Rochester MN, adjunct professor of worship at United Theological Seminary of the Twin Cities and volunteers as a chaplain at Lino Lake prison of Minnesota. Born and raised in Denver, Colorado, Ruth moved to Minnesota to pursue a singing career. She toured the country and began to write her own plays and music in her late thirties with much success, produced by major theaters of the Twin CitIies. In her late forties, Ruth answered an insistent calling of a deeper spiritual life and ministry. She attended seminary and embarked on a new professional journey of discovery about how the arts and creativity can enliven the life of worship, and the life of the spirit, while bringing our imaginations and resolve to the work of racial justice, and healing this broken and beautiful world. It is with much joy and anticipation that Ruth joins our community of faith.…
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Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas

Welcome to Tiny Pulpit Talks! In this episode, Rev. T.J. FitzGerald (Minister of Community Care and Engagement) and Rev. Beth Dana (Minister of Faith Development) dive into the Unitarian Universalist understanding of gender—what it means, how it shapes identity, and why trusting people to know themselves is a core spiritual practice. They explore the difference between gender and sex, discuss how gender expression is a beautiful act of self-discovery, and reflect on the harm caused when individuals are not trusted to define their own identity. Drawing from faith, history, and personal experiences, they highlight the importance of listening, supporting, and celebrating gender diversity within our communities. Rev. T. J. and Rev. Beth also share some powerful book recommendations, including I Am Jazz and Beyond Magenta, to help families and individuals navigate gender identity with understanding and compassion. Tune in for this conversation about love, trust, and faith in the truth of who we are. RESOURCES: The Trevor Project‘s 24/7/365 Lifeline at 866-4-U-TREVOR (866-488-7386) or TrevorChat, their online instant messaging option or TrevorText, a text-based support option: The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (8255) Trans Lifeline at 877-565-8860 Do you live outside the United States? If so, check out The Trevor Project’s list of international resources here: 🌱 Enjoy the podcast? Considering a one-time gift to support the staff & resources required to keep it going. 💲 Give through PayPal, Venmo, & Apple Pay here: ✨ (Member & pledge-holders, please give in Realm.) 00:00 – Introduction to Tiny Pulpit Talks 00:46 – What is gender? 01:18 – Gender as freedom and truth 01:52 – Gender identity as an art form 02:28 – The power of self-discovery 03:02 – How Unitarian Universalism supports gender identity 03:42 – The history of UU and personal freedom 04:38 – Gender and colonial influence 05:21 – Polynesian culture and gender diversity 06:12 – Banned books on gender identity 07:11 – The importance of listening to lived experiences 07:43 – Trusting people to know who they are 08:48 – The harm caused by doubting gender identity 09:34 – Faith, theology, and gender identity 10:15 – Why trust is a spiritual practice 10:36– Final thoughts and words of support First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at New sermon every week. Subscribe here: Follow us on Instagram: Follow us on Facebook: Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: Give - your support allows us to transform lives and make UU values real in our community and beyond:…
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