News: July 10, 2026
Dear Members and Friends of First UU,
What a joy these first four months have been! First Unitarian Universalist Church of Houston has welcomed me with open arms, and I am deeply grateful for the warmth and kindness I have experienced. It has been especially meaningful to see how lovingly my son, Levi, has been embraced by this congregation. We are both growing spiritually, and I truly believe we are exactly where we are meant to be.
Our weekly choir rehearsals have been both energizing and inspiring. Choir members have generously shared stories of the music ministry's rich history, as well as their hopes and ideas for the future. Week after week, they arrive ready to rehearse, sing, and support one another, communicating clearly whenever they need to be away. Together, we have explored music from a variety of spiritual traditions and musical styles in meaningful ways.
One service I continue to reflect on fondly is Punk Music Sunday. I was fascinated by the concept, though I readily admit it was unlike anything I had ever done before. In my professional work, I often encourage teachers and future educators not to limit themselves to what feels familiar or comfortable. Growth happens when we are willing to step beyond our areas of expertise, embrace new experiences, and recognize that we do not always have to be the expert in the room. Punk Music Sunday became my opportunity to practice what I preach.
I was certainly nervous, but as soon as the band launched into "Prayer of the Refugee," I was completely captivated. What an incredible gift it is to have such talented musicians sharing their gifts in worship. The band's artistry brought remarkable energy to the service, while Rev. Colin thoughtfully explored punk music's tradition history of dissent, weaving every element of the service into a meaningful whole. My mother happened to be visiting that Sunday, and she sang "I Fought the Law" for days afterward. The experience broadened my understanding of what worship can be and reminded me of the remarkable creativity and openness of this congregation. It left me excited for all the possibilities still to come.
If you've ever considered singing with the choir, I warmly invite you to join us for our first rehearsal on August 12. Whether you have years of musical experience or simply enjoy singing, there is a place for you. Music is about more than beautiful sounds—it is about building community, expressing our shared values, and enriching worship together. I hope you'll come and be part of it.
With Love,
Dr. Loneka
What a joy these first four months have been! First Unitarian Universalist Church of Houston has welcomed me with open arms, and I am deeply grateful for the warmth and kindness I have experienced. It has been especially meaningful to see how lovingly my son, Levi, has been embraced by this congregation. We are both growing spiritually, and I truly believe we are exactly where we are meant to be.
Our weekly choir rehearsals have been both energizing and inspiring. Choir members have generously shared stories of the music ministry's rich history, as well as their hopes and ideas for the future. Week after week, they arrive ready to rehearse, sing, and support one another, communicating clearly whenever they need to be away. Together, we have explored music from a variety of spiritual traditions and musical styles in meaningful ways.
One service I continue to reflect on fondly is Punk Music Sunday. I was fascinated by the concept, though I readily admit it was unlike anything I had ever done before. In my professional work, I often encourage teachers and future educators not to limit themselves to what feels familiar or comfortable. Growth happens when we are willing to step beyond our areas of expertise, embrace new experiences, and recognize that we do not always have to be the expert in the room. Punk Music Sunday became my opportunity to practice what I preach.
I was certainly nervous, but as soon as the band launched into "Prayer of the Refugee," I was completely captivated. What an incredible gift it is to have such talented musicians sharing their gifts in worship. The band's artistry brought remarkable energy to the service, while Rev. Colin thoughtfully explored punk music's tradition history of dissent, weaving every element of the service into a meaningful whole. My mother happened to be visiting that Sunday, and she sang "I Fought the Law" for days afterward. The experience broadened my understanding of what worship can be and reminded me of the remarkable creativity and openness of this congregation. It left me excited for all the possibilities still to come.
If you've ever considered singing with the choir, I warmly invite you to join us for our first rehearsal on August 12. Whether you have years of musical experience or simply enjoy singing, there is a place for you. Music is about more than beautiful sounds—it is about building community, expressing our shared values, and enriching worship together. I hope you'll come and be part of it.
With Love,
Dr. Loneka
