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The Rev. Chris J. Antal of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation at Rock Tavern, New York, visited Hiroshima during the 70th anniversary of the nuclear attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan. The trip was in part an effort to prepare to work for nuclear abolition. While there, he also planned to do his patriotic duty as an American and apologize to bombing survivors on behalf of his country. (Times Herald-Record - 8.5.15)
The Rev. Jeff Liebmann of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Midland, Michigan, participated in a public memorial marking the 70th anniversary of the bombings. Liebmann believes that the continued stockpiling of nuclear weapons today is a way of thinking that we must outgrow. (WSGW.com - 8.6.15)
More coverage:
"70th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima" (The Morning Call - 8.7.15)
"Clergy call for end of nuclear weapons on Hiroshima anniversary week" (Knoxville News Sentinel - 8.4.15)
Connecting with communities for racial justice
The Rev. Robin Tanner of Piedmont Universalist Unitarian Church and Anthony Smith of Mission House Church in North Carolina continue their work for racial justice with Peace Circle talks held in a local coffee shop. Tanner notes that deep listening is an important part of the lively discussions in the group because it creates accountability and builds community. (Salisbury Post - 8.5.15)
More coverage:
"The next step: After dialogue on race, what’s the way forward?" (Salisbury Post - 8.2.15)
"Ministers question history of Confederate Monument" (WBTV.com - 8.5.15)
Seeing stories of police violence and protests across the country, the Rev. Lisa Ward of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Harford County in Churchville, Maryland, asked local Sheriff Jeff Gahler to host a discussion with police officials and community members. Despite some of the contentious issues raised, the meeting ended with all parties talking and shaking hands. (The Baltimore Sun - 8.7.15)
UU ceremony honors member in transition
An article looking at different ways trans people of faith incorporate ritual or religious tradition into their transitioning experience highlights one family that attends the Unitarian Church of Evanston, Illinois. In a ceremony with the congregation, the Linsell family celebrated a ‘golden birthday’ for their child, Forrest, referring to her as their daughter for the first time. (Chicago Tribune - 8.3.15)