Author: Tree of Life Office

With Renewed Purpose – October 26, 2014

Each Sunday we recite our Statement of Purpose as a reminder of all that we strive to do and to be as a community. This Sunday, Rev. Sean will explore the concept of purpose and the need to renew our commitment to our highest ideals. – Rev. Sean Parker Dennison

October 19 – Spiritual Recycling

Recycling may not just be for stuff. Fascinating stories of near death experiences are opening both spiritual and biological questions and stories of the “undead” are everywhere. Rev. Sean will take on the possibilities in this sermon, purchased at last year’s auction by Ed Robbins. – Rev. Sean Parker Dennison with Laurie Barnes

October 12 – Renewing the Earth for All People

Protecting our environment is not just about green space and organic vegetables, but about acknowledging the complex systems that are only concerned with commodities and consumers. How can working to renew the earth also heal the divisions among people and build a better world for all? – Rev. Sean Parker Dennison

October 5 – Beginning Again in Love

In the Jewish tradition, this is the holiest day of the year–the Day of Atonement. In the spirit of the High Holy Days, we will explore the ideas of covenant, forgiveness, and beginning again. – Rev. Sean Parker Dennison

September 21–Everything’s a Mess

“Everything’s a Mess…From Adam & Eve to Bill Gates and Antonin Scalia” Is it Preferable to be kept (safe and secure) or to be free (subject to the whims of chance) and take risks? presented by Don Metivier

Insights from the DRE

And How Are the Children? Among the many fabled and accomplished tribes of Africa, no tribe was considered to have warriors more fearsome or more intelligent than the mighty Masai. It’s surprising, then, to learn the traditional greeting passed among the Masai warriors; “Casserian Engeri,” one would always say to each other. And what it … Continue reading Insights from the DRE

Guitar Concert Friday, August 8 at 8:00 PM

Internationally-touring guitarists will be performing, blending musical styles as diverse as Beethoven symphonies, progressive rock, jazz, and unique takes on well-known covers. Opening for Bert Lams and Tom Griesgraber will be the Greater Midwest Guitar Circle, an ensemble of acoustic guitarists from throughout the Chicagoland area. Tickets are available for $18 advance/$20 at the door. … Continue reading Guitar Concert Friday, August 8 at 8:00 PM

Insights From the D.R.E.

Recently I had the privilege to attend a training for Religious Educators.  The training was on Unitarian Universalism, specifically UU identity.  I thought it would be nice to share some of what I learned, and share some of my own personal story.  When the Unitarians and Universalists merged in 1961, the association agreed upon 6 … Continue reading Insights From the D.R.E.

Wedding Service

Invocation   Dearly Beloved, We have a joyful and profound purpose here today and it is fitting to begin with a moment of reverence, aware of and grateful for the innumerable forces that have made this moment possible.   In this moment of promising May each of us be present to love And aware of … Continue reading Wedding Service