Coordinated and Sponsored by Thom Botsford. The holidays can bring joy, but also the blues. And sometimes it seems that the holidays are only truly for Christians. Non-Believers cannot escape! For this program, a specially assembled ensemble will play secular tunes that convey a range of emotions. The musicians are Lisa Kirkland, vocals; George Petropoulas, piano; … Continue reading Holiday Moods in Music (The Secular Version)
“Ralph Waldo Emerson: Renegade Unitarian,” presented by Thom Botsford, UUCP friend. A new biography of Emerson — “Glad To the Brink of Fear” by James Marcus– reminds us that the great thinker and man of letters was considerably ahead of his time compared with the Unitarians of his day and much at odds with religious … Continue reading Ralph Waldo Emerson: Renegade Unitarian
Presenter: Thom Botsford, friend of UUCP. This hot topic is much discussed in the coverage of the Gaza war, but poorly understood by the public. Our presentation will not take a “side” as much as point out the key elements of the current situation, both in the Middle East and at home. Watch this video … Continue reading Antisemitism and Antizionism: Are They the Same?
Thom Botsford, a friend of our congregation, presents an Easter message: You Are Accepted. Christian existentialist Paul Tillich–one of the 20th century’s most influential theologians–distilled the essence of Christianity in his sermons, including “You Are Accepted,” published in 1948. We will review that surprising sermon and consider its implications 75 years later. Tillich declares, “You … Continue reading You Are Accepted
Our New Year’s Eve music service will feature singer-pianist Burt Kimberl and his musical friends. Join in celebrating the New Year together! Watch this service on our YouTube channel.
Thom Botsford, member of UUCP, will present on the late Professor Montcastle’s book. Is it possible that Jesus escaped death on the cross and traveled to the East, where he conversed with Buddhist and Taoist sages? The late Professor William “Monty” Mountcastle thought so and published a scholarly book about it in 2008. This service … Continue reading Monty Mountcastle’s “Secret Ministry of Jesus”
This is the second in a series highlighting our resident musicians. Longtime saxophonist Thom Botsford feels a little immodest talking about music with any authority; after all, he’s not a working pro or a well-schooled musician. Yet, for Botsford, the saxophone has been a lifelong friend and instrument of passion. “There are more photos with … Continue reading The Personal Power of Music
Compassion and Choices, the renamed Hemlock Society, is lobbying for right-to-die measures nationwide. Is there any plan to introduce legislation in Florida to allow “assisted suicide” for those dying of terminal illnesses? Is there any place in the U.S. where one can choose to end one’s life for “psychological” or rational reasons? Should there be? Thom Botsford considers … Continue reading Compassion and Choices
Our Annual New Year jazz Sunday Service with member Thom Botsford on saxophone, member Jack Wolverton on drums, and their friend Chris Saunders on keyboards. Welcome the New Year with great live music, always seasoned with a little enlightening commentary.
Critical Race Theory (CRT) has entered partisan politics in a big way. It has even been banned in Florida public schools. Thom Botsford – UUCP Member, retired professor and former department head of English and Communications at Pensacola Collge – will describe CRT and explore why it is both important and troubling to the status quo. … Continue reading Some Critical Thoughts about Critical Race Theory
