This week’s service will focus on tension as a creative, not a destructive force, and the differences between dialogue (a conversation, exchange of ideas, or verbal interaction between people), and debate (a regulated discussion between individuals holding opposing viewpoints on a specific topic), along with the concepts of humility as strength, and how to exhibit respect without erasure (appreciate elements of another culture, tradition or identity without distorting the original context or meaning).

Staying present in tension is moral courage in miniature. Respecting another’s identity, culture, or viewpoint without the need to dominate or replace it allows the differences to coexist side-by-side, the elements to retain their meaning, and shows goodwill without sacrificing one’s own comfort or personal identity.

As part of our March series on the discipline of attention, this sermon explores how paying attention to one another becomes a form of moral courage. It is also a step on our seasonal path toward Easter, where attention deepens into clarity, courage, and renewed possibility.

Join us at 10 am in our Worship and Gathering Center in downtown Norwich.

Holding Tension without Breaking – Sermon (PDF)

Topics: Attention, Challenges, Courage, Identity, Inspiration, Intention, Pluralism, Respect, UU Values, Wisdom