Today we take it for granted that we ought, at the very least, pretend to be tolerant of those with whom we disagree. This moral sentiment, however, is relatively new in human history. Until recently, the very notion that a society should be tolerant of differing ideas was considered preposterous, and, in some cases, the suggestion alone was enough to get a person condemned. In this sermon, we’ll explore the roots of moral tolerance.

This will be the first in a seven-part monthly series on mind blowing ideas, beginning with the biological concept known as neoteny. Neoteny is the tendency of some species to retain juvenile characteristics throughout their entire lives. Humans are among the most neotenous species in the history of Life.

Philosopher Gilles Deleuze believed the purpose of life and ethics is to become able to be reborn in confronting the challenging events of our lives. In this message, we’ll explore how this becomes possible.

As we return to in-person services after more than a year of isolation, it would be appropriate to consider all the good that is happening in our world today. The half empty cup is also half full, so let’s take this momentous occasion to celebrate the fullness and richness of our lives.

Some have said the tension between freedom and belonging is the fundamental source of human anxiety. Many attempt to cope with this tension through unhealthy power dynamics that leave some in positions of authority and others as their willing followers. Healthy communities and individuals, on the other hand, are based upon mutual respect and care. In this sermon, we’ll go deeper into what this does and doesn’t look like.

Despite being a devout Star Trek fan, I have only ever given one sermon about the iconic TV series, during which I said it would be my last. Yet, the ethics and hopes inspired by this science fiction phenomenon, which millions like me have integrated into our lives, are as relevant today as ever. So I will indulge my obsession once again to talk about how the crew of the Starship Enterprise continues to inspire and influence my life here on Earth.

During this year’s “Sermon on the Amount” (pun intended) kicking off our annual stewardship campaign, we will explore Jesus’ parables about gardening as a metaphor for sustaining and maintaining a healthy church community.

As a lover of learning with four graduate and post graduate degrees, it pains me to say I believe the time for higher education as we know it has ended. In this sermon, I’ll talk about the reasons I believe college is predominantly failing college students and failing society, while also talking about alternatives and new directions.

As we celebrate our annual Partner Church weekend, the minister at our partner Church in Felsőrákos, Romania, Rev. Palkó Zalán, will provide us with a message about our way forward together.

It may be that some are natural born pessimists or optimists, but it is also possible to reprogram our brains to recognize the good things happening. Our mindset impact the way we view the world, so retraining our brains to recognize the positive things we often miss, while also helping us feel more contented, is a task worth considering.