The guru of household organizing, Marie Kondo, has either struck a chord or hit a nerve in our recent popular culture, depending on your perspective. Her konmari method of tidying and decluttering has roots in her Shinto religious practice. Join Service Leader Patty Klingenberg for an exploration of the philosophy behind the method and its promise … Continue reading Sunday Service: “The Spirit of Objects-Uncovering a Better World with Marie Kondo”.

Instead of looking forward to 2020, we will spend time on Sunday, December 29th looking back at the things we were grateful for in 2019.  We might learn some strategies for making the new year even better!  This is a circle worship led by Linda Amspaugh and Susan Thrasher.

Join us at 7 pm on Christmas Eve for lessons and carols (mostly carols).  Service Leaders:  Jennifer Blue and Genevieve O’Malley Knight.

In this intergenerational Christmas service, participants will present this Hans Christian Andersen story about a Fir Tree who became a Christmas tree. This story for all ages reminds us to be present and cherish the moments that we have together.  Participants will personalize the story to showcase our unique talents in the community.  Service Leader:  … Continue reading Sunday Service: The Fir Tree by Hans Christian Andersen

While many of our cultural traditions and even our own childhood memories regarding Christmas are rooted in the Christian tradition, many at Hopedale may feel as though Christmas doesn’t ‘belong’ to them anymore.  But as UUs we must remember that Christmas was originally, and still is for many, a celebration of life and all its … Continue reading Sunday Service: That Spirit of Christmas

For those of the Catholic faith, December 8 is celebrated as the Feast of Mary’s freedom from the “stain of original sin.”  Join Diane Wright for a unique Unitarian perspective on this ancient feast day, which is the one day in many countries when Catholic clergy may wear blue vestments.  Wear your own blue, and … Continue reading Sunday Service: Day of the Blue Vestments: A Unitarian Perspective on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception

Homelessness in Butler County is an issue that often goes unnoticed.  When it is noticed, it is often addressed in negative ways.  Lauren Marsh and others are trying to implement caring solutions to help those  greatest need.  This morning Lauren will be joined by members of the Safe Havens Hospitality Network Leadership team. Service Leader: … Continue reading Sunday Service: No Room at the Inn

On Thanksgiving, families gather to be together and to eat. On this Sunday before Thanksgiving, let’s gather as a Hopedale family to share themes of the holiday, including recipes, dishes and stories from our personal Thanksgiving traditions. For this intergenerational service, bring a special recipe (and any story that might accompany it), and maybe a … Continue reading Sunday Service: Thanksgiving with our Hopedale Family

Join Diane Wright as we think about  Preparing for the Journey: Reflections on National Take a Hike Day. Thoreau said, “Me thinks that the moment my legs begin to move, my thoughts begin to flow.” November 17 is “National Take a Hike Day.”  Come join Diane Wright as we consider the importance of venturing out … Continue reading Sunday Service: Preparing for the Journey

Our UU Principles point us towards universal responsibility for the well-being of all members of our community.  Food insecurity is one indicator of the struggles that the most vulnerable among us face on a daily basis.  Ann Fuehrer, Consulting Executive Director of TOPSS, Talawanda Oxford Panty and Social Services, will update us on the organization’s … Continue reading Sunday Service: A Celebration for Good