Curiosity as a Spiritual Practice
The Zen teacher Shunryu Suzuki once said, “In the beginner’s mind there are many possibilities, but in the expert’s mind there are few.” The world is lonely, dogma is doing harm, and people are hungry for a place where they can bring their whole, questioning selves and be loved exactly as they are. And OCUUC offers this world such a place of healing and acceptance. The question is: how do we open the door wider without losing what makes this…
Events & Gatherings in May
Excitement is building as several important events will be occurring in May. The Wild & Scenic Film Festival Committee, led by Peggy Hepler, is pulling together all the details to create a wonderful event on Saturday, May 16th. Because we’re unable at this time to black-out the sanctuary, the movies will be shown in Daniels Hall but we’ll be hosting local organizations concerned about the environment to share information and recruit volunteers. Our purpose is to inspire activism! So be…
Congregational Singing: Sing Lustily and With a Good Courage
Many churches have hymnals, but perhaps the Methodist Hymnal is unique for including its “Directions for Singing”–a list of 7 principles regarding how to sing during worship services. Before becoming Unitarian Universalists, Susan and Steve were each members of the United Methodist Church for over 20 years, and so we appreciate that both the United Methodist church that we attended and our UU church emphasize active engagement in congregational singing as a vital part of the worship service. In the…
Social Change Now: A Guide for Reflection and Connection
Sign Up For:Social Change Now: A Guide for Reflection and Connection Let’s join in the UUA common read! This year’s selection is: Social Change Now: A Guide for Reflection and Connection by Deepa Iyer. Iyer presents a practical workbook for individuals and organizations seeking to deepen their commitment to social justice through an “ecosystems framework” (think enneagram) that identifies ten roles in social change. Learn to identify your role and bring your best gifts as we lean into social change,…
Embracing Possibility
I know how it feels right now. The news cycle is relentless. The executive orders come faster than we can process them. News of war, bombs, violence. Some mornings it takes a little extra courage just to open your phone. I feel it too. But when I look around, I don’t feel despair. I feel the possibilities and hope. Last month, many of us from Orange Coast UU showed up for the No Kings protest — one of thousands happening…
Unsung UU Nominations
Spring is a very busy time at OCUUC. The Pledge Drive is going on, the Wild & Scenic Film Festival is coming up, and many groups are meeting on campus and on Zoom. As VP of Programs, I am available to help get groups started, resolve problems and help connect new members. If you want to know more about how to get involved in a group or to volunteer to help with an event, come to the new Programs table…
April Events
April is full of fun, learning, and community in our Religious Exploration classes! On April 5th, middle school youth will gather for their twice-monthly class, exploring the topic of communication, while elementary students will dive into the 4th UU value through engaging games, crafts, and snacks. After the service, all are invited to join our exciting Egg Hunt & Spring Carnival from 11:45am–1:30pm, featuring games, face painting, crafts, and an egg hunt for toddlers through 8th grade. On April 12th,…
A Music Video for Earth Day
Our 56th Earth Day is coming up on April 22nd, and this year’s trip around the sun is a chance to appreciate the wonders of this planet we share. During our worship service on Sunday, March 29th, we featured a music video created by singer-songwriter, activist, and UU member, Pat Scanlon, that speaks to, not only the wonders and beauty of the earth, but the challenges as well.Music is a natural vehicle for celebration and inspiration, as is Pat’s video,…
Religious Exploration in March
Elementary Class Through the month of March, the elementary class will be continuing learning the 7 UU Values! On March 8th the class will learn about the 2nd principal of justice. We will explore equality and compassion in human relations, this principle is often taught by encouraging kids to be themselves, fostering kindness, and exploring themes of fairness and inclusivity through stories and activities. March 15th the elementary class will be learning on the 3rd UU Value of interdependence! In…
Pledge Drive
From Your Board… Our church calendar tells us that the coming of March means it is time for the Pledge Drive. This is a crucial time each year when it’s essential that each of our Members – and even those who attend as Friends – think about their finances and make a commitment to OCUUC for the 2026-27 fiscal year. Here are some FAQs from our VP of Finance, Jamie Pendarvis: What Is the Pledge Drive? The Pledge Drive is…
Paying Attention
There is a quiet spiritual practice at the heart of every healthy congregation: paying attention. In a world full of noise, attention is an act of care. When we slow down enough to truly notice, we see the person who is new and unsure, the long-time member carrying quiet responsibility, the child asking big questions, the neighbor searching for meaning. Paying attention is how love begins and how community deepens. As we reflect on what it means to Raise the…
On Repeat
Why We Repeat Songs in Worship If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Didn’t we just sing that?” — you’re not alone. In a culture that prizes novelty and speed, repetition can feel unusual. But in worship, repeating a song is not filler. It is formative. It is intentional. It is spiritual practice. From Head to Heart The first time we sing a new song, most of us are just trying to find our place: The second time, With each repetition,…