In celebration of the 7th Principle of the Unitarian Univeralists “Promoting respect for the interdependent web of all existene of which we are a part,” let’s share with each other how animals have touched our lives.

This service will be a potluck at Meloday and Charlie Lenkner’s home.

Please email mvuuf83301@yahoo.com for location and additional details.

Rafting the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon is one of the greatest whitewater boating adventures in America.  The journey includes 225 river miles through one of the great natural wonders in the world.  Rock layers of many kinds become visible, the oldest about 2 billion years old.  In addition to fascinating geology, flora and fauna, flat water and huge rapids, the Canyon provides sufficient time to leave behind the usual constraints of society. 

With 18-21 days on the river, there is an opportunity to find your own natural rhythms and get in touch with who you really are.  There is ample opportunity for meditation and self-exploration both during and separate from the group chores.

There is magic in every direction.  The trip takes planning, commitment, teamwork, toil, the requirement to meet many challenges and to improvise.  The opportunity for personal growth there is greater than any other trip I have been on.  And even when it has been a difficult day, all you have to do is open your eyes, look anywhere, and enjoy some of the most spectacular views anywhere.

Join us as we discuss what is involved in such a trip, and some of the growth you can experience.

Newcomers of all religious paths or none at all are always welcome. Unitarian Universalists believe in the dignity of every person regardless of race, creed [or none at all], immigrant status or sexual orientation. 

Presented by Aurora Bolt

Worship Associate Michael Becerra

Contentment is often defined as a sense of happiness and satisfaction with one’s current circumstances. It is often associated with achievement of personal goals or having pleasurable experiences. Yoga teaching considers contentment or Santosha as an inner sense of ease that is not dependent on life circumstances. Contentment is having a calm and grateful heart and not desiring a certain outcome. This discussion will explore these ideas further and the practice of contentment.

“A contented heart is a calm sea in the midst of all storms.” Anonymous

“Contentment is the only real wealth.” Alfred Nobel

Presented by Collete Hogland

Worship Associate is Melody Lenkner

We depend on the efforts of insects for about 1/3 of the food that we eat. Bees and man have been connected historically almost from the beginning of written history. What is it about these stinging insects that inspires both fear and amazement?

Please join us as Kirk and Heidi Tubbs from Tubbs Berry Farm share their knowledge of bees and our connection to them.

Worship Associate is Melody Lenkner

From the time we were children, telling the truth and not lying are values that are ingrained in us. Telling the truth is probably one of the most difficult values to adhere to, but as we grow up, most of us understand the consequences of truths and lies. What is the impact of dishonesty by individuals in power have on us and our society? Is it okay to lie for “the good of the people”? Our fourth principle of Unitarian Universalism is a free and responsible search for truth and meaning. Not only is this important in our spiritual journeys, but also for the health of our society. Join us as Don Morishita leads an exploration of the consequences lying has on society and what we as everyday citizens can do about it.

Associates are Aurora Bolt and Pam Blankenheim

Join us as we welcome local change-maker Winnie Christensen, founder of Culture for Change Foundation, for a powerful exploration of cultural connection and community. Drawing on her lived experience and wide-ranging leadership in advocacy, the arts, and inclusion work, Winnie will share insights about bridging divides and cultivating empathy across differences. Her message invites us to celebrate the richness of diversity while building stronger, more compassionate communities—right here in Idaho and beyond.

Worship Associate Perri Gardner

Aurora Boldt will lead the discussion on Poetry and Ponderings.  Aurora believes we all have a favorite poem, one that speaks to our souls and will live with us forever.  Our service Sunday is an invitation to share words that have moved, inspired and changed us.

Aurora would love it if you bring one of your favorite poems to share with us.  If you prefer not read it aloud instead, please send it  to Aurora at cmitson36@gmail.com. Otherwise come prepared to get your snapping fingers ready for an interactive reading of poems and ponderings.”

Worship Associate Anne Martin

As we prepare to mark the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, join CSI political science professor and congregant Perri Gardner for a reflection on its lesser-known section—the grievances—and what they reveal about justice, power, and moral courage. Let’s explore how these revolutionary complaints speak to our Unitarian Universalist principles today and consider what it means to be a people still becoming free. What might a modern declaration call us to do? Come for history, stay for hope.

Presented by Perri Gardner

Worship Associate Jonathan Thompson

What do Unitarian Universalists believe?
What values do Unitarian Universalists hold highest? Is Unitarian Universalism really a religion? Can anyone be a Unitarian Universalist? What are some characteristics of UUs? Are UUs Christian? How do UUs explain evil? Can UUs go to heaven or hell? Can a UU be saved? These are a few of the 100 questions that nonmembers ask Unitarian Universalists  from the book by the same name by John Sias from interviews with the Rev. Steve Edington.

By Michael Becerra

Worship Associate Anne Martin

Sunday morning is picnic morning at Harmon Park in Twin Falls. We will meet at 10:30 AM at the Red Shelter in Harmon Park in Twin Falls. Everyone is invited especially immigrants and refugees.  This is a potluck so please bring something to share but please do not bring pork products so our Muslim friends can join in eating with us.

Pam Blankenheim and Jen Okelberry