“Flower Ceremony Centennial” and “Universalism: Past, Present and Powerful,” June 4, 2023

UUCC celebrates the 100th Anniversary of the Flower Ceremony on Sunday, June 4th. The Flower communion service was created by Norbert Capek (1870-1942), who founded the Unitarian Church in Czechoslovakia. He introduced this special service to that church on June 4, 1923. For some time he had felt the need for some symbolic ritual that would bind people more closely together, and hence the Flower Communion was born.

People are asked to bring a flower of their choice, either from their own gardens or from the field or roadside, and at the end of the service requested to take a different flower home. This service reflects the Touchstone theme for June, Ritual, and recognizes Gay Pride Month.

And Rev. Kalen Fristad is to deliver a sermon entitled “Universalism: Past, Present and Powerful.” In addition to speaking on the long rich history of Universalism, he explains how the teaching of eternal damnation is not merely a harmless untruth that we might appropriately ignore and allow to stand, but it has serious consequences. It leads to the possibility, perhaps even the inevitability, of wars, bigotry, oppression and abuse. On the other hand, the teaching of Universalism leads to equality, respect, love and dignity for all.

Musical instrumentals are provided by Diedrik and Kaj Edholm (piano, violin) and Vera Vanderschalk (classical guitar).

This live in-person service takes place at Odd Fellows Hall, 526 Main Street, Half Moon Bay, CA, 94019. A Zoom-based option is also available.

Links: (a) to the order of service and (b) to our most recent newsletter. (c) The Zoom link to this service is now enabled.