News – July 1, 2022

Dear Members and Friends,

      I got back in town from attending the UUA General Assembly on Monday, and GA is inherently eventful, plus it usually coincides with the end of the Supreme Court term. I remember the announcement of Marriage Equality seven years ago; I happened to be preaching in Dallas that year while all those ministers were at GA.

This year’s news was, of course, less welcome, going backwards to limit women’s bodily autonomy. If you didn’t see the letter that was sent out Friday giving the link to my reading the statement by Houston area UU ministers, you can still watch here.

      GA coincided with Houston Pride again, as well, so I didn’t get to participate in the parade with UUs from area congregations, including some of you. Thanks to those who showed up to support the LGBTQ community! I was quoted in an article in the Houston Chronicle about churches that celebrate Pride which you can read here.

      The Rev. Dr. Stephen G. Ray, Jr. kicked off our lineup of stellar guest preachers this past Sunday. If you missed his really excellent sermon, please check it out online here. This upcoming Sunday, the Minister and Executive Director of the Texas Unitarian Universalist Justice Ministry, the Rev. Erin Walter, will kick off our monthly theme of “Reimagining Democracy.” Her message is titled, “Ten Years of TXUUJM: Democracy as a Spiritual Practice.” The Justice Coordinating Council will welcome her, and our new Voting Justice Organizer, Jordan Ostrum, at a reception between services.

      We’ve had several congregants and members of the staff test positive for Covid lately, but people seem to be recovering pretty well, thanks to their having been vaccinated and boosted. Please continue to take care of yourselves and others, be mindful of your health, and be blessed.

Rev. D. Scott Cooper
Assistant Minister of Congregational Life
First Unitarian Universalist Church of Houston
scott@firstuu.org

Where are the Ministers in July?

      Rev. Colin remains on sabbatical, researching his book and enjoying England. You can follow along on his adventures via his blog. He’ll be back in the pulpit on September 11.

      Rev. Scott will be in the pulpit on July 10, then leave for vacation later that week.