by Rev Michelle Scott-Huffman

An exploration of the many ways we practice love, especially those that build Beloved Community.

As Love Moves Outward Activity

Our Director of Religious Education, AJ Fox, shared this meditation on love as part of the Valentine’s Day service on February 14th, 2021. It was partially inspired by a meditation that was included in the February 2021 Soul Matters Religious Education Materials.

Our opening words today are One Love by Rev. Hope Johnson.

We are one,
A diverse group
Of proudly kindred spirits
Here, not by coincidence–
But because we choose to journey–together…

Learning to love our neighbors
Learning to love ourselves.
Apologizing and forgiving with humility
Being forgiven, through Grace.
Creating the Beloved Community–Together
We are ONE.

Plaisir d’Amour

Written by Martini and Claris de Florian – 1784
Performed by Rebecca Holt and Paul Phariss

Always
Written by Irving Berlin
Public Domain work
Performed by Rebecca Holt and Paul Phariss

We Are
by Dr. Ysaye Barnwell
Performed by Dr. Barnwell and the UUA General Assembly 2020 virtual choir

Meditation on Loving Kindness
Words: Trad. Metta Loving kindness Meditation
Music by Emily McKinney
Performed by the First UU Virtual Choir

Our closing words are The Broken World Awaits by L.R. Knost.

Do not be dismayed by the brokenness of the world. All things break.
And all things can be mended.
Not with time, as they say, but with intention.
So go. Love intentionally, extravagantly, unconditionally.
The broken world waits in darkness for the light that is you.