Questions for Reflecting on the Fall/Winter 2024 Issue of UU World

The Fall/Winter 2024 issue of UU World focuses on Unitarian Universalists’ long-haul efforts that support, sustain, and renew, even—and especially—in times when the world seems bleak and overwhelming. We invite you to use the following questions for personal reflection, or to spark a guided conversation in your own congregation or small group.

In " Strength from the Smallest Seeds," UUA President Rev. Dr. Sofía Betancourt writes of Unitarian Universalism, “Our pluralism invites us to embrace our differences and commonalities with love, curiosity, and respect.”

• In what ways are you challenged by differences with those around you? In what ways do you think those differences have helped you or your community flourish?
• Can you think of a time when your congregation embraced differences in the beliefs and traditions of its members especially well? Where might it have room to improve?
• What are some commonalities you see in your interactions with UUs? What commonalities have you experienced among people in the wider world?

In "Through Grief, a Chance for Growth," Rev. Joan Javier-Duval describes emotions felt while cleaning up from flood damage to her congregation in Montpelier, Vermont. “Grief is a powerful, complex constellation of emotions. It is an alchemy of heartache brewing within. It can be a potion for creativity generating new ways built upon imagination. What if we allowed our grief to be the fertile ground for new possibilities?”

• When has grief served as a catalyst for change in your life? What was the result?
• Has your congregation or community shared a tragedy that forced it to think creatively about possibilities? What helped channel collective grief into a growth opportunity?

In “Tiny Forests Teem with Hope,” Beck Mordini says of communities planting Miyawaki micro forests to counteract urban heat islands and the effects of climate change, “People feel empowered that this is something they can do” that will benefit future generations.

• How have you observed the effects of climate change in your community?
• Do you live in an area that could benefit from a Miyawaki Forest? Where might it go, and what sorts of plants would grow there?
• In what ways would working on such a project empower you?

In “Safe Haven for Migrant Families,” Unitarian Universalist Association Executive Vice President Carey McDonald says of setting up an emergency shelter at UUA headquarters, “[W]e consider it an act of faithful witness to use our facilities to do our part to support families in need, including migrant families who are simply seeking safety for their loved ones. We hope other building owners will take seriously whether their space can also be used in this way.”

• What do you think of McDonald’s call to action? Are there spaces in your community you think could be used creatively in this way? If you are a member of a congregation, could it be equipped to offer temporary housing to someone in need?
• What value do you personally place on acts of “faithful witness” as a way of honoring your UU faith?

In the article "In Concord, Promoting Civic Engagement with Democracy Festival,” Elaine McArdle describes a now-annual community event at First Parish Unitarian Universalist in Concord, Massachusetts, to “celebrate democracy and encourage civic engagement.” The event includes panel discussions, informational booths, games, music, food, and exhibits.

• If you are a member of a congregation, has it ever hosted an event for the wider community? If so, what were the goals of the event?
• Do you think your community would benefit from a democracy festival? Could you see yourself volunteering to organize or host such an event?
• What obligation do you think citizens have to be civically engaged? Have you noticed an increase or decrease of this engagement in your lifetime?

In “Faith Journey: The Bass Made Me a UU,” David Kaye describes his personal path to Unitarian Universalism, which started with a deep connection to music throughout his life.

• Share the story of your own faith journey. Were you raised a UU, or did you find it later in life?
• What about Unitarian Universalism has kept you coming back?
• What do you think Unitarian Universalism could do to help more people find—and stay engaged with—the faith? Does your local congregation do a good job of outreach in your community?

• If you like, share your faith journey with UU World at world@uua.org.