Our Fellowship Programs
At the Durham Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, our Sunday morning programs are a cornerstone of our community, reflecting our commitment to diverse perspectives and meaningful engagement. Join us each Sunday from 10 – 11:00 AM near downtown Durham, as we explore a rich tapestry of insights and connections.
If you are searching for greater meaning, and connection to community, please join us Sundays from 10 – 11:00 AM, followed by a coffee hour with conversation and refreshments. We meet the first Sunday after Labor Day through the last Sunday in May, and hold our annual picnic during May.
What to expect?
During the first hour enjoy music, the sharing of joys and concerns, and unique, community-based programs with local speakers, artists, musicians, civic and spiritual leaders. All programs include time set aside for participant comments, questions and discussion. The program is followed by an opportunity to collaborate and socialize over coffee and snacks.
Upcoming Services
Mar 1
Rev. Craig Werth
Deriving persistent hope from community engagement through the medium of music, Craig will bring us a presentation/discussion/sing-a-long on “The Power of Song in Community.”
Craig Werth is a singer-songwriter from New Hampshire. Craig serves as pastor at Nottingham Community Church (UU). He teaches for the Chaplaincy Institute of Maine (ChIME) and serves as artist-in-residence and facilitator at Krempels Center – in support of people living with brain injury.
Mar 8
“Welcoming the Unwelcome” presented by Dawn Meredith.
We will hear from several spiritual leaders: poet Rumi; Frank Ostaseski, author of “The Five Invitations, Discover What Death Can Teach us About Living Fully;” and Buddhist Monk Pema Chodran about how and why we can welcome even difficult experiences.
Mar 15
“Who Am I Going To Be?” is a universal question asked by young people, the answer to which is deeply influenced by opportunity and circumstance.
It is also the name of a documentary made a decade ago by Fellowship member Christopher Dunning in collaboration with a small team of NH filmmakers, following the journey of high school-aged refugees who settled in the Granite State with their families.
We’ll watch excerpts from the film, and discuss how it came to be made, how things have changed in the decade since, and consider the question, “Who am I going to be?”
Mar 22
Personalizing gender by Dylan Babon (they/them) of our Fellowship’s family.
A collection of perspectives about gender identity, highlighting stories from our local non-binary and transgender friends.
Mar 29
“Sound Meditation : Bloom with Spring,” Presenter: Peggo Horstmann Hodes
Transformational is the word used most often to describe Sound Meditation with Peggo Horstmann Hodes. Using the resonant vibration of crystal bowls, tuning forks, shakers, chimes, an ocean drum, a gong, and her voice, a sacred space is created in which stress melts and hearts open. The power of vibration helps people to travel to a place of deep relaxation and peace within themselves. People feel expanded and amplified, energized and renewed. As one participant said, “It was sound bath bliss.”
Today’s presentation will include some practical and scientific context for why and how Sound Meditation works. followed by the receptive experience of Sound Meditation.
Peggo Horstmann Hodes (Northern Lights Vocal Ensemble) holds an M.A. in Elementary Education from Lesley College and an M.M. in Vocal Pedagogy from the New England Conservatory. Peggo has been on the faculty of Concord Community Music School for nearly 40 years doing all things vocal, including voice teacher, Voice Department chair, past director of Songweavers and current director of Northern Lights Women’s Vocal Ensemble. Peggo is an expressive soprano soloist and also performs folk music and original songs with her husband, Paul Hodes. Peggo has added to her long experience with voice and vibration by becoming an Advanced Biofield Tuning practitioner, using the power of vibration to bring coherence and healing to the body, mind, and emotions.
Exploring Diverse Perspectives
As a lay-led congregation, our Sunday services are a dynamic fusion of voices. From clergy representing various faiths to speakers from academic, civic, environmental, and social justice backgrounds, our programs embrace a wide spectrum of perspectives. This diversity enhances our understanding of the seven principles of Unitarian Universalism, guiding us in the pursuit of wisdom, spirituality, and impactful daily actions.
A Haven for Friendship and Connection
Our fellowship goes beyond spiritual exploration; it’s a haven for friendship, connection, and shared values inspired by Unitarian principles. Experience a safe and inclusive environment that encourages genuine connections, community events, and a profound sense of belonging. Despite our modest exterior, our interior boasts a beautiful sanctuary, gifted by the Marjorie Milne Estate.
Our Gallery
Enriching Families and Children
One of our primary goals is to enrich individuals and families with young children. We provide a space where children can learn from their elders, explore spiritual topics, and understand the importance of inclusivity, equity, and justice.
Welcoming All Voices
We seek to be a place where each person’s unique worth and beliefs are acknowledged and respected, and where each person’s voice may be heard. Committed to providing a welcoming and safe space for all, we recognize the valuable perspectives of our LGBTQIA+ communities and allies.
Community Engagement
Beyond the sanctuary, our fellowship is a hub for community involvement. We prioritize sustainability within our sanctuary, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere for all. Guided by the principle of “respect for the interdependent web of all existence,” we actively participate in local charitable efforts. From fundraising and volunteering to providing community support, we extend our principles into tangible actions.