When there are times that we are tempted to throw our hands up in the air and say “what is the point?” Let us remember that despair gets us nowhere and sows the seeds of apathy. Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on the things for which we are grateful. But perhaps we should also ask: To whom do we owe our thanks? We’ll explore the ancient traditions of giving thanks, the origins of the American holiday, and its complicated and often troubling history with Native Americans. Along the way, we’ll consider how gratitude can mean more than simply appreciating what we have. For some, thanksgiving is an expression of gratitude to God or the divine. For others, it is an appreciation of life, nature, and humanity. From religious teachers and reformers to scientists, physicians, advocates for justice, and countless ordinary people, we’ll recognize those whose courage, compassion, discoveries, and sacrifices have improved our lives. Through history, reflection, music, and a little humor, we’ll recognize some familiar names, discover some perhaps unfamiliar ones, and consider the people in our own lives who deserve our appreciation. Ultimately, Thanksgiving is not just about what we have received, but about those who made it possible. We are entering a time of year where the earth grows colder, the animals begin to hibernate, and the days become continually shorter. In the Christian tradition, Advent is the beginning of the church year, recognizing the transforming power of God in the world and looking forward toward the birth of Jesus and the celebration of spiritual light. And Christianity is not alone in celebrating light at this time of year: Hanukkah, Solstice, and Kwanzaa all involve candles, fire, and lights as part of their celebrations. This service honors the creative, restorative power of the dark season, using the traditional themes of Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love to ground our commitment to personal renewal and collective social justice.
November 15, 2026 @ 11:15 am - 12:15 pm
Morning Worship - Topic "Less Worse is Better Than More Worse" - Rev. Dr. Mark Y.A. Davies
November 22, 2026 @ 11:15 am - 12:15 pmMorning Worship - Topic “Thanksgiving” - Curtis Severns
November 29, 2026 @ 11:15 am - 12:15 pmMorning Worship - Topic “Advent” - Worship Team
December 6, 2026 @ 11:15 am - 12:15 pmMorning Worship - Topic “TBA” - Rev. Dr. Mark Y.A. Davies
December 13, 2026 @ 11:15 am - 12:15 pmMorning Worship - Topic “TBA” - Rev. Dr. Mark Y.A. Davies
December 20, 2026 @ 11:15 am - 12:15 pmMorning Worship - Topic “Legends of St. Nicolas” - Worship Team
December 27, 2026 @ 11:15 am - 12:15 pmMorning Worship - Topic “Sharing” - The Congregation
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Red River Unitarian Universalist Church
515 North Burnett Avenue,
Denison, TX 75020
Mail: PO Box 1806
Denison, Tx 75021
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