Our monthly theme-based program

Our congregation uses monthly themes to guide our consideration of important aspects of our lives. These themes are Touchstones* that we explore on selected Sundays and in other ways. We hope these themes will inform, challenge, and support our members and friends through our shared exploration.

Touchstones Journal, published monthly by Touchstones Consulting, is an in-depth exploration of a theme. Members can request a copy of the journal by contacting harold@uuvisalia.org.  Each 8-page issue of the journal offers:

• An introduction to the theme of the month;
• A Wisdom Story for All Ages;
• A Faith & Theology article that explores the theme in-depth;
• The Family Matters section for use by parents and religious educators with materials on the theme and 1 to 2 activities to explore the theme with children;
• A Small Group Discussion Guide for adults;
• Readings from the Common Bowl (a quotation on the theme for each day of the month); and three or four other articles on the theme.

Below are the monthly themes for September 2016 through August 2017.

September 2016: Worth & Dignity

October 2016: Emotional Intelligence

November 2016: Care of the Soul

December 2016: Healing

January 2017: Courage

February 2017: Respect

March 2017: Balance

April 2017: Consolation/Desolation

May 2017: Acceptance

June 2017: Prophetic Imperative

July 2017: Circle of Life

August 2017: Ambiguity/Paradox

*In its original meaning, a touchstone was a stone that was used to test the purity of gold or silver. A touchstone has come to mean a quintessential feature. We explore these touchstone themes of our tradition to nurture us and inform our actions, to deepen our understanding and expand our vision, and to support us in leading lives of integrity and authenticity.