Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Greater Cumberland

December 1, 10:45 – JD Stillwater

“Peace, Love, Understanding, and Manure”

Social polarization is a natural, predictable phenomenon. So is manure. JD Stillwater recounts a profound event of peace-making and innovation that happened one afternoon long ago in a warehouse full of manure. The technology required for conflict resolution and group intelligence is simple and ancient. Manure is optional.

December 8, 10:45 – Rev. Paul Britner

“The Scrooge in All of Us”

Charles Dickens’ Ebeneezer Scrooge has become an archetype, and there’s a little bit of him in each of us, more or less. This message will suggest how we may use our “inner-Scrooge” to cope with the many stresses of the holiday season.

December 15, 10:45 – Rev. Martha Macgill

“Community Cafe is Up and Running!”

Maryland’s first pay-as-you-are-able restaurant is now open on Sundays from 11-2 for lunch at 127 N. Centre Street, Cumberland.  UUFGC has been a faithful supporter of the Cafe since its conceptual beginnings in 2019.  The Rev Martha Macgill, Chair of the Cafe board, will join UUFGC for worship and share an update on the Cafe since opening including how to volunteer and more.  Rev Martha is the retired Rector of Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Cumberland and is now working on a variety of community projects including the Community Cafe, Wills Creek Museum and an In-Patient Hospice House.

December 22, 10:45 – A Celebration of the Season

The Program Committee will share a service of seasonal readings and music. There will be an opportunity for sharing memories of holiday traditions. After the service we will gather for refreshments and fellowship. If you would like, bring something to share for refreshments that represents your family’s holiday traditions.

December 29, 10:45 – Rev. Jonalu Johnstone

“The Work of Christmas Begins”

Mystic and preacher Howard Thurman taught us that “When the song of the angel is stilled… the work of Christmas begins.” What is the work of Christmas? If we turn back to Mary’s Magnificat, we find praise for throwing down the mighty and lifting up the lowly. How could that call work in today’s America (and world!) where the rich grow richer and the poor poorer, where oppression is likely to grow rather then decline. Can the work of Christmas inspire and enspirit us?