Capital Unitarian Universalist Congregation

The phrase “The Disappeared Ones” comes from Central and South America. It was originally used to describe the people who were abducted for real or perceived offences against the various military governments and juntas of the Americas, and whose status was never determined. Presumed dead, but never known, they became the martyrs of people striving, usually peacefully, for a more democratic society and transparent government. But the term, in its broadest sense, is applicable in Canada and in the US. There are disappeared among us, even in our own cities and communities, people who are allowed to be invisible among us. Borrowing the phrase Los Desaparecidos, internationally renowned performer, songwriter and lay preacher Joe Jencks will lead a New Year’s service in music and story, inviting re-commitment to Unitarian and Universalist principles, and focusing on how we can take specific action to prevent people from being disappeared in our own societies. Considering homelessness, addiction, mental illness, disability, racism, and justice for veterans, you are invited to come join together in a spirit of renewed commitment to our liberal religious movement, and to each other.

How can we deepen our spiritual practice through laughter? Laughter is wonderful physical medicine, but what about mirth as a way to enlightenment? In the sometimes bleak mid-winter let’s look at how laughter can help us live in a more meaningful way.

One settler’s experience thinking through colonialism and decolonization in 21st century Canada, from academics to Idle No More and beyond.

Emma is a settler feminist living on unceded Lekwungen territory. She has a BA in Gender & Canadian Studies and an MA in Indigenous & Canadian Studies. Her interests include decolonialism, feminism, and theatre for social change.

That one’s memory is not as good as it used to be is the most common complaint of middle-aged and older adults.  Dr. Friesen will describe changes that occur in memory in healthy aging and how it may be distinguished from pathological changes that may occur as we age.  She will also discuss ways to optimize memory functioning at all ages and how to minimize memory loss in late life.

Peter will briefly describe how — and more importantly why — this congregation was formed back in 1996. In the second half of the service we will remember Belsonia “Bel” Bogatin Paul, one of the leaders of our little group.

It is not who or what you believe in that is important, but rather, how you live your life. Based on an event in our congregation and a homily by Unitarian Minister, Rev. Mathew Johnson – Doyle.

Dr. Dalton is an Associate Professor, Art Education at the University of Victoria, he received his PhD (Art Education), from Ohio State University and his MFA (Painting), University of Washington.

Many of us want to deepen our spiritual lives but are not sure how to do it. Having a regular spiritual practice helps you connect with what inspires and challenges you—whether that is a divine power, inner wisdom, and/or nature. Rev. Meg will explore what is involved in creating such a practice and benefits that come as a result.

Today’s service will also include a Celebration of Life for Ted Harrison, Officiated by Peter Scales.

What does it mean to be a person of honesty?” What is the truth, where do we find it? Can we find a deeper connection to each other and to our principles by living with honesty? How often do we say “In all honesty…” and why do we preface a sentence with a proviso that we are being honest? How are honesty and spirituality connected?  Join us as we explore the nature of honesty.

A look back from the IARF Congress 2015, held at Birmingham University,. The University was founded by Unitarian Mayor and MP Chamberlin (Neville’s father).