May 1st:

The Blessing of the Animals:

We bless our animals to remind ourselves that they, in their ability to live gently on the earth and to be
present in every moment, bless us by their presence in our lives. All are welcome to bring pets and farm
animals. Children are welcome to bring a favorite stuffed animal for a blessing. Animals should be up
to date on vaccinations, non-aggressive toward humans and other species, and leashed, bridled, caged,
boxed or otherwise safely contained. In order to maintain the peaceable kingdom, please note there will
be separate seating for dogs and cats. You are also welcome to bring photos of animals who are
deceased or unable to travel.
May 8th:
Occupy Mother's Day
Rev. Aaron will explore the Unitarian and Pacifist origins, and evolution of Mother's Day. We will also
explore how we might be re-imagine this holiday in the modern day.
May 15th:
Solace of Fierce Landscapes
I take this week's sermon title from a book by Belden C. Lane who writes vividly about a Desert
theology. How do we find solace in fierce landscapes as Unitarian Universalists?
May 22nd:
Coming Home,
Guest preacher: The Rev. Marisol Caballero
As Unitarian Universalists, we pride ourselves in being open and affirming toward all
who come through our doors, yet it seems like many people still do not know of our existence. "Uniwhat?" is a common response when speaking of our congregations to co-workers and other associates.
With such a rich history and with so many possibly searching for a church home such as our faith
offers, why are UU's, in general, so notoriously shy about talking about where we go to church?
This sermon will challenge us to be more willing to share our faith.
Rev. Marisol Caballero is a born and raised Texan. Mari, as she is often called, was first introduced to
Unitarian Universalism as a toddler and has loved this faith ever since. After obtaining her B.A. in
Liberal Studies (concentration in Religious Studies and English Literature) from St. Edwards
University, she attended Union Theological Seminary in New York City, where she earned a Masters of
Divinity. She then went on to work as a hospital chaplain, first participating in a year-long, intensive
Residency program at University of California, San Franciscos Medical Center; then as an overnight,
on-call Chaplain at St. Davids Medical Center in Austin. In April of 2013, Marisol was ordained into
Unitarian Universalist ministry by the congregation of First UU Church of Austin, where she is now the
Minister of Lifespan Faith Development and Congregational Engagement. She currently serves our
Unitarian Universalist movement as the President Elect of DRUUMM (Diverse and Revolutionary UU
Multicultural Ministries). She is a member of the advisory board of Just Texas, an interfaith grassroots
coalition of religious leaders committed to ensuring access to reproductive health care for all Texans.
Marisol lives in Austin, the most wonderful place on Earth, with her wife, the lovely Ms. Erin Wolf,
their dogs, Bongo Drums and Diego, & cat, Peppercorn Cottonpaws.
May 31st:

Teaching Peace
On the Sunday before Memorial Day, Rev. Aaron explores our 6th Principle and our commitments to
teach peace.