Shows
Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of DallasPilgrimage to the Khasi Hills: A Deep Dive into Our UU Partnership in India | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 044In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter talks with Rev. T. J. FitzGerald and Rev. Beth Dana about the annual First Church pilgrimage to the Khasi Hills of Northeast India, where over 10,000 Unitarians have built a deeply rooted, indigenous faith community. He shares powerful stories from the Annie Margaret Barr Children's Village, and explores what it means to build lasting relationships across cultures. The India Pilgrimage is about more than service. It's about mutual growth, connection, and faith lived out in real time. Learn how this unique pilgrimage shapes lives and how members of the congregation...2025-05-0809 min
Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of DallasProgressive Religion vs Progressive Politics: What's the Difference? | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 043What does it mean to be a progressive Unitarian Universalist faith? In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald, and Rev. Beth Dana sit down in the Minister’s Study to explore what it really means when Unitarian Universalists call themselves a progressive religious community. They reflect on the bold ideas that shaped the earliest movements toward Unitarianism and Universalism, including the radical belief that Jesus could have been fully human and that revelation is never sealed. Together, they trace how these revolutionary beginnings have shaped a tradition that values growth, openness, and an...2025-05-0111 min
Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of DallasWhat Does Easter Mean to Unitarian Universalists? | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 041Welcome to a special edition of Tiny Pulpit Talks — from the minister’s study! 🕊️ Today, Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter, Rev. Beth Dana, and Rev. T. J. FitzGerald sit down to wrestle with a big question on many Unitarian Universalist minds: What do Unitarian Universalists believe about Easter? And why do Unitarian Universalists celebrate Easter? Tune in to explore: Why Easter still matters, even for those who don't embrace a literal resurrection How reclaiming religious language and traditions is a powerful act of justice and resistance The deep, universal themes of death, rebirth, and new beginnings How Easter connects to broader stories o...2025-04-1708 min
Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of DallasHow UU Churches Address Mental Health with Love and Action | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 040Welcome to Tiny Pulpit Talks! We're so glad you're here. In this episode, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald and Rev. Beth Dana dive into a deeply important conversation about mental health—why it matters, why the church should care, and how we can create a faith community that supports every person’s well-being. Too often, mental health struggles are met with shame, silence, or pressure to "be okay." But in Unitarian Universalism, we believe it's okay to NOT be okay. Our faith calls us to care for the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—and to support one another in times of strugg...2025-03-1909 min
Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of DallasNeighborly Evangelism: Living Your UU Values in Difficult Interactions | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 039How do we relate to people who demonstrate values that are offensive or fundamentally different from our own? What does it mean to engage with integrity, especially when we encounter messages—on yard signs, bumper stickers, or even in casual conversations—that challenge our beliefs? In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Reverend T. J. FitzGerald, Minister of Community Care and Engagement, and Reverend Beth Dana, Minister of Faith Development, dive into these tough questions. They explore the importance of relationship context, personal boundaries, and how to respond with authenticity. Plus, they break down the difference between evangelism and proselytizing, rede...2025-03-1210 min
Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of DallasMonthly Service | Spiritual Practices to Light the Way | Rev. Beth Dana | 03.23.2025What does it mean to truly serve others? Is it about helping, fixing, or something deeper? In Rev. Beth’s sermon “Monthly Service,” we explore the difference between simply offering assistance and engaging in service as a spiritual practice. Drawing from the wisdom of Dr. Rachel Naomi Remen, the Apostle Paul, and Unitarian Universalist teachings, we reflect on how service—when grounded in faith and connection—can transform both the giver and the receiver. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed by the world’s needs or searching for a way to make a meaningful impact, this sermon invites you to reflect on how service...2025-03-0918 min
Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of DallasDaily Practice | Spiritual Practices to Light the Way | Rev. Beth Dana | 03.09.2025In this Lenten sermon, Rev. Beth Dana explores the spiritual practice of letting go in order to make space for renewal and deeper connection. Reflecting on the Unitarian Universalist traditions of the Burning Service and Ash Wednesday, she shares how saying no to what no longer serves us allows us to say yes to truth, love, and a more intentional life. As we journey through wilderness times, how do we sustain our spirits? How do daily spiritual practices—whether prayer, meditation, journaling, or acts of service—help us navigate uncertainty and discern what truly matters? Rev. Dana invites us to enga...2025-03-0914 min
Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of DallasWhat Does Lent Mean to Unitarian Universalists? | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 038In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald and Rev. Beth Dana dive into the meaning and traditions of the Lenten season—a time of reflection, connection, and transformation. Lent isn't just about giving something up; it's about making space for something deeper. We explore the history of these 40 days, the significance of sacrifice and renewal, and the communal journey of spiritual growth. From personal stories of Lenten practices to the rituals of Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, and beyond, we invite you to reflect on what this season means for you. Join us in exploring how Lent can...2025-03-0509 min
Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of DallasA Place to Belong: How UU Communities Support Children & Youth | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 037How do we nurture young people in the Unitarian Universalist faith while balancing the many demands of life? In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Reverend T.J. Fitzgerald (Minister of Community Care Engagement) sits down with Reverend Beth Dana (Minister of Faith Development) to explore what it means to raise children in Unitarian Universalism. Rev. Beth shares her personal experience as both someone raised in the faith and a parent raising her own children within Unitarian Universalism. Together, they discuss the many ways our church community supports young people—from early childhood experiences in the nursery to engaging curricula fo...2025-02-1913 min
Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of DallasGrowing Up UU and Answering the Call to Ministry: Rev. Beth Dana’s Journey | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 036Welcome to Tiny Pulpit Talks! In this episode, Reverend T. J. FitzGerald, Minister of Community Care and Engagement, sits down with Reverend Beth Dana, Minister of Faith Development, to explore her call story—her journey to Unitarian Universalist ministry. What does it mean to be “called”? How do we discover the work we are meant to do? Rev. Beth shares how she grew up in the UU faith, her early leadership experiences, and the moments that led her to pursue ministry. From college studies in religion and sociology to seminary, chaplaincy, and ultimately serving in congregational life, her story is an ins...2025-02-1214 min
Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of DallasLaw, Faith, and the Call to UU Ministry: Rev. T. J. FitzGerald's Journey | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 035Welcome to another episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, the podcast from First Unitarian Church of Dallas! In this episode, Rev. Beth Dana, Minister of Faith Development, sits down with Rev. T.J. Fitzgerald, Minister of Community Care and Engagement, to explore his unique journey to ministry. From growing up in an Irish Catholic family to studying law and eventually finding his way to Unitarian Universalism, Rev. T.J. shares the twists, turns, and spiritual moments that led him to his calling. What sparked his shift from a legal career to faith leadership? How did an encounter with a Unitarian Universalist...2025-02-0513 min
Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of DallasAffirming Gender Identity: A UU Message of Love and Trust | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 034Welcome to Tiny Pulpit Talks! In this episode, Rev. T.J. FitzGerald (Minister of Community Care and Engagement) and Rev. Beth Dana (Minister of Faith Development) dive into the Unitarian Universalist understanding of gender—what it means, how it shapes identity, and why trusting people to know themselves is a core spiritual practice. They explore the difference between gender and sex, discuss how gender expression is a beautiful act of self-discovery, and reflect on the harm caused when individuals are not trusted to define their own identity. Drawing from faith, history, and personal experiences, they highlight the importance of listening, su...2025-01-2911 min
Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of DallasHow Unitarian Universalist Communities Launch Resistance Movements | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 033In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald (Minister of Community Care and Engagement) and Rev. Beth Dana (Minister of Faith Development) kick off the 2025 season with an honest and heartfelt discussion about the power of community in times of resistance. As we navigate feelings of fear, unease, and even despondency, we explore the essential role of community in both holding us together and launching us into meaningful action. From the core principles of Unitarian Universalism—like the inherent worth and dignity of every person—to the practical steps of resistance and self-care, this conversation dives deep into...2025-01-2311 min
Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of DallasHomily - "Coming Home to the Stable"Rev. Beth Dana delivers a Christmas homily during our annual Pageant. First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at https://dallasuu.org/ New sermon every week. Subscribe here: https://tinyurl.com/1stchurchyoutubesubscribe Follow us on Instagram: ht...2024-12-1507 min
Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of DallasSermon - “The Welcome Table” - Rev. Beth DanaAs we gather around Thanksgiving tables this week, how will we practice our values of generosity and welcome? First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at https://dallasuu.org/ New sermon every week. Subscribe here: https://ti...2024-11-2416 min
Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of DallasSelf-Care for Turbulent Times | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 026Welcome to this week's episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks! Today, we dive into a topic that's on everyone's mind: how do we find peace and grounding when the world feels overwhelming? With a looming election, global conflicts, and personal challenges, it's easy to feel lost in the storm. So, how do we find our footing? Do we retreat, take a break, or step forward and engage? In this episode, your three ministers reflect on how they navigate these times of chaos. We discuss the balance between self-care, community, and action—whether it's seeking solitude, connecting with others, or embracing new sp...2024-10-2414 min
Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of DallasThe Radical Unitarian Universalists Who Shaped Our Faith | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 024In this special edition of Tiny Pulpit Talks, we step inside the Minister's Study with Revs. Daniel, Beth, and T. J. to reflect on our recently wrapped-up sermon series on Luminaries of Truth & Justice. This conversation digs deep into the powerful legacies of justice-seekers within Unitarian Universalism and how their work connects to today's efforts for reproductive justice, racial equity, and more. 🔍 What does it mean to inherit a radical legacy? How do we reckon with history’s messiness, and what truths must we face to truly move forward? Tune in as we dive into these big questions, hear insights from...2024-10-1013 min
Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of DallasAsk A Unitarian Universalist Minister with Rev. Beth Dana | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 015In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. Beth Dana answers questions from our members and friends. Learn more about Rev. Beth, get tips on how talk to your teenagers that don't want to come to church, and hear what Rev. Beth is looking forward to in the coming church year. 00:00 - Rev. Beth is ready to answer your questions 01:02 - If you hadn't gone into ministry, what career would you have pursued? 03:22 - What do you advise parents when they tell you that their high school age kids who participated in church school for many years no longer want...2024-07-2413 min
Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of DallasAgnosticism, Atheism, and Humanism in our Unitarian Universalist Community | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 013Can you be Agnostic, Atheist, or Humanist AND Unitarian Universalist? In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Revs. Beth Dana and T. J. FitzGerald discuss the differences between these systems of thought and how they fit into our Unitarian Universalist community. 00:00 - Welcome to episode 13 of Tiny Pulpit Talks. 00:43 - "Is it okay if I come to this church if I'm an atheist?" 01:11 - Exploring what atheism means. 03:19 - Young people's journeys with atheism throughout the course of our Coming of Age program. 06:34 - Different types of humanism. 09:05 - Discussing what it means to be agnostic. 11:12 - The role of...2024-07-1014 min
Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of DallasOriginal blessing vs. original sin, the importance of play, and how we minister to youth and children | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 006In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald interviews Rev. Beth Dana, as she reflects on the recent Child Dedication and prepares for Bridging Sunday, when we will celebrate and bless our youth coming of age and graduating seniors bridging into young adulthood . They discuss everything from the theology behind Unitarian Universalist child dedications to the importance of play to the many ways we minister to our youth and children. Tiny Pulpit Talks is a podcast series from First Unitarian Church of Dallas that takes a behind-the-scenes look at ministry from a Unitarian Universalist perspective. This is a...2024-05-1616 min
From Beneath the Hollywood Sign"MOTHER KNOWS BEST: CLASSIC CINEMA'S BEST (AND WORST!) MOMS" (034)In “It’s A Wonderful Life,” BEULAH BONDI played the most loving mother to JAMES STEWART. Ma Bailey is the epitome of sweetness, kindness, and supportiveness so it’s quite shocking when we meet the Ma Bailey who would have existed had George Bailey not been born. She’s cold, bitter, and unkind. It gives Bondi the wonderful opportunity to play two versions of the same character, which she does flawlessly. So to celebrate Mother’s Day, Nan and Steve are taking a page from Bondi’s playbook as they discuss the good and bad mothers of classic cinema. 2024-05-0647 min
Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of DallasThe celestial peeping Tom, Saint Mary Oliver, and free-range Unitarian Universalists | Tiny Pulpit Talks 001In the first episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald interviews Rev. Beth Dana about her recent sermon "A Place of Practice," in which she explores church as a place to practice living in this world and building the world we dream about. Tiny Pulpit Talks is a new podcast series from First Unitarian Church of Dallas that takes a behind-the-scenes look at ministry from a Unitarian Universalist perspective. This is a rare opportunity to see what goes into crafting meaningful and inspirational sermons and how worship comes together each Sunday. Subscribe so you don't miss an episode! 🌎 Joi...2024-04-1017 min
Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas04.07.24 Sermon - "A Place of Practice" - Rev. Beth DanaWhat is the church’s purpose and what are we for? Join us as we explore church as a place to practice living in this world and building the world we dream about. This sermon is part of our the final series of our church year. After a year-long journey of discovering and activating our purpose as individuals, we are exploring how we can come together as spiritual people to change the world. First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, wo...2024-04-0717 min
Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of DallasHomily: "The Christmas Story"Rev. Beth Dana preaches The Christmas Story. First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at https://dallasuu.org/ New sermon every week. Subscribe here: https://tinyurl.com/1stchurchyoutubesubscribe Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1st...2023-12-1714 minUnitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas“Redeeming Words: Revelation”“Redeeming Words: Revelation” - Rev. Beth Dana Revelation is a scary word for some Unitarian Universalists. We’ll explore what it has to do with us and what the Palm Sunday story of Jesus riding into Jerusalem on a donkey revealed then and now.2023-04-0216 minUnitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas“Choose Joy” - Rev. Beth DanaJoin us for a message about finding joy in this moment.2023-02-2012 minUnitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas12.18.22 HOMILY: “A Time for Wonder” - Rev. Beth DanaIn her Homily “A Time for Wonder,” delivered before our annual Christmas Pageant, Rev. Dana asks, "How can a familiar story inspire wonder?"2022-12-2006 minUnitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas“Who Is My Neighbor?”Rev. Beth Dana reflects on what the pandemic and sabbatical taught her about this question2022-08-1518 minUnitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas"Life Isn't Fair"Interestingly, given the title, this sermon, written by Rev. Kanter, had to be "preached" at the last minute by Rev. Beth Dana because Daniel was under the weather and unable to do it himself.2022-07-1216 min
Pacific Street Blues & AmericanaMore new tracks including Dana Fuchs (pictured) including a spotlight on Jackson Browne's new song21. Dana Fuchs / Hard Road 22. Black Crowes / Jealous Again23. Sarah Benck & the Bankrobbers / Tidal Waves 24. Lucinda Williams / Southern Accents25. Ann Pebbles / I'm Gonna Tear Your Playhouse Down26. Playing for Change (feat Taj Mahal) / Gimme Shelter 27. Tedeschi Trucks Band / Bell Bottom Blues 28. Carolyn Wonderland / Broken Hearted Blues 29. Joan Osbourne / Late for the Sky 30. Jackson Browne / Still Looking for Something31. Paul Thorn / Doctor My Eyes 32. Los Lobos / Jamacia Say You Will 33. Tommy Castro / Women, Drugs, Alcohol34. Sue Foley / Dallas Man35. Kris Lager Band / Man of Many Words36. B...2022-04-261h 06Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas"Time to Pause"In this week between two big holidays, we take time to pause and explore the spiritual practice of sabbath. This is Rev. Beth Dana’s last Sunday with us before leaving for sabbatical.2021-12-2821 min
Jobbing OutJobbing Out March 4, 2020 (We recap an absolutely insane week and Dana Brooke joins us!)It has been quite a week. There is a LOT to react to between WWE Super Showdown, AEW Revolution, Smackdown and RAW. We know much of it is a mess, the Goldberg stuff is a disaster, the Fiend stuff is too, so is the Cena stuff, etc. But Drew McIntyre got a good segment and oh boy did Randy Orton and Beth Phoenix ever have an AMAZING segment. Plus Revolution was good and we finally got around to making Elimination Chamber picks.
In Segment 3 (1:12:07), WWE superstar Dana Brooke joined us to discuss her hopes for a big 2020, her friend Dave...2020-03-041h 35Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas"Giving Thanks" ~ Rev. Beth Dana– What can we be grateful for? In a time when the world presents so many challenges to our sense of gratitude and abundance, let’s practice giving thanks together.2017-11-2015 minUnitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas"Rationally Spiritual" ~ Rev. Beth DanaWe are a faith in which reason and spirituality go hand in hand. Join us to explore our rationally spiritual identity and practice.2017-10-2317 minUnitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas"Why Pray?" ~ Rev. Beth Dana– For many people, “prayer,” means something different now from what we were taught as children. How do today's Unitarian Universalists understand and practice prayer? 2017-09-0615 minUnitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas"What Is Holy" ~ Rev. Beth Dana– Why do ministers wear robes and stoles? Why come to church instead of praying at the lake? Is there something special about particular prayers, times, or places in our lives? These questions and more.2017-09-0613 minUnitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas"Is This a Christian Church?" ~ Rev. Beth Dana– Sure, our church comes from the Judeo-Christian family tree, but don’t we also find wisdom in many other sources? Are we a Christian church or something else?2017-09-0622 minUnitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas"Loving and Living the Questions" ~ Rev. Beth DanaGot questions? This summer in worship we’re exploring the spiritual questions that keep you up at night. This Sunday kick off the series by exploring the role of questions (and answers) in the spiritual life.2017-08-3114 minUnitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas"Mother's Day Lessons" ~ Rev. Beth Dana– On this day we reflect on the lessons we can learn from motherhood (whether or not we’ve experienced it ourselves). We will also have our twice-yearly child dedication ceremony, blessing some of the youngest members of our community and dedicating ourselves as a congregation to supporting their spiritual growth.2017-08-3117 minUnitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas"Creation Care" ~ Rev. Beth Dana– Our faith calls us to care for this one earth that holds us all. Join us to explore creation care this Earth Day.2017-08-3115 minUnitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas"Humility and Humor" ~ Rev. Beth Dana– Unitarian Universalism calls us to profound theological humility, rather than making idols of our churches, our opinions, or ourselves. We explore a Lenten practice of cultivating such humility.2017-08-3115 minUnitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas"Lives of Courage - Olympia Brown" ~ Rev. Beth DanaWomen’s suffragist and first woman minister ordained by full denominational authority. Her life spanned the era from the first suffrage organizing to passage of the 19th Amendment.2017-08-3017 min