Speaker: Reverend Dr. Rob Hardies

A Human Face Can Save Your Life

The Jewish mystic and theologian Martin Buber conceived of human connection as a covenant between I and Thou, between two people relating authentically and humanly. Scientists have since confirmed that such relationships help us lead longer, more fulfilling lives. As we anticipate our return to in-person worship in Stevens Chapel, we will reflect on the transformative power of … Continue reading A Human Face Can Save Your Life

Slings and Arrows

Pain and suffering are an inevitable part of life. None of us can avoid what William Shakespeare called “the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune.” But sometimes we compound our suffering by the way we respond to it, and by the stories we tell ourselves about it. How can we be more gentle with ourselves … Continue reading Slings and Arrows

Be Who You Are

We spend a lot of time trying to be the person that we or others think we ought to be. What if, instead, we accepted ourselves for who we are and followed our life’s calling?

Do What You Can

We can sometimes be overwhelmed by the amount of work it will take to build a more just and equitable world. Don’t be overwhelmed. Instead, begin where you are and do what you can. The longest journey begins with a single step.

Beginning in the Dark

Many of our spiritual journeys begin in the dark—the dark of mystery, unknowing, doubt and struggle. For most of the holiday season, though, it’s the light that gets all the attention. This Sunday we’ll pause to honor the gifts of the dark.   Rev. Rob Hardies is our part-time minister for 2021. He is a … Continue reading Beginning in the Dark

Great Expectations

“The extraordinary thing that is about to happen,” writes the minister and author Frederick Buechner, “is matched only by the extraordinary moment just before it happens. Advent is the name of that moment.” The winter holidays teach us that sometimes the extraordinary can emerge from the ordinary. Where is the extraordinary emerging in our lives? … Continue reading Great Expectations

Getting Ready to Forgive

We all know that forgiving (ourselves, another) is the right thing to do. But what happens when we’re not yet ready to forgive? How do we prepare our hearts for forgiveness?

See, Savor, Save

More than a century ago the philosopher William James spoke words that are more true today than when he first uttered them. He said: “We live in a world that is uncertain of being saved.”  And then he asked: “Are you willing to participate in such a world? How can we be spiritually whole while … Continue reading See, Savor, Save

Want What You Have

  “This could be our revolution,” writes Alice Walker, “to love what is plentiful as much as what is scarce.” Rather than strive for more, how can we learn to live content with the many gifts we’ve already been given?