This sermon explores the spiritual call to give and receive with intention, generosity, and faith during times of uncertainty. Drawing from the seven principles of The Louis D. Brown Peace Institute—love, unity, faith, hope, courage, justice, and forgiveness—and the Unitarian Universalist Seven Principles, it provides a framework for living as people of faith in a complex and challenging world.
Worship Leader: Chaplain Clementina Chéry
Worship Associate: Michelle Oyie
Music Leaders: Dr. Ana Sorina Popa & the FPD Choir
Chaplain Clementina Chéry is the Founder, President, and CEO of the Louis D. Brown Peace Institute, a center dedicated to healing and supporting families and communities impacted by murder, trauma, and loss. She established the institute in 1994 following the tragic loss of her 15-year-old son, Louis, to gun violence. Drawing on over 25 years of experience, Chaplain Chéry has pioneered survivor-led, trauma-informed methodologies that emphasize dignity, compassion, and healing. A recognized leader and educator, she has trained public health professionals, law enforcement, and faith leaders nationwide. Guided by principles of love, unity, faith, hope, courage, justice, and forgiveness, she works tirelessly to transform responses to homicide and foster peace in communities.
“We welcome you, whoever you are, whatever tradition, gender, race, class, sexual identity, ability, or age you represent. May you grow in the ways of respect, service, and wholeness. And through all your days may you know that you are loved.“
We are a lay-led congregation, meaning services and spiritual leadership are provided by community members rather than a designated minister. This reflects our commitment to shared ministry, where all members participate in roles such as worship leading, pastoral care, social justice work, and other community activities.
🛜 Join us at Meetinghouse Hill every Sunday at 11AM either in person in the Sanctuary or in spirit from wherever you may be using this Worship Link.
👪 Family-Friendly Services: Families, we cherish your presence. Bring your children and let them be part of our Worship Service until the Time for All Ages concludes. Following that, they can join their Sunday School teachers. Nursery care is available starting at 9:30 AM each week.
☕ Social Hour: Following the service, we invite you to join us in the Parish Hall for a cozy community coffee hour, offering a chance for fellowship and lively conversation. We hope to see you there!
🎧 Accessibility: To enhance your experience, we offer child and sensory-friendly fidgets and noise-canceling headphones.
Did you miss last week’s Service? Past recordings can be found here: https://tinyurl.com/FPDpast-services