With inspiration from Joanna Macy’s philosophy of Active Hope, we can find new, sustainable pathways to seek justice for the Earth.

We can learn how to become “Shambhala warriors” – ordinary individuals, armed with compassion and insight, who work to dismantle destructive forces from within.

“Embracing Active Hope”

Rev. George Grimm-Howell

April 19, 2026

Chiming of the Singing Bowl Rhodeena Gonzalez

Words of Welcome and Announcements Rhodeena Gonzalez

Season of Giving Update Meg Hoke

Love in Action Update Kaleb Graves,
UU Justice NC 

Prelude – “River Flows In You” Melissa Meghdadi

Yiruma                                                            

Chalice Lighting and Call to Worship Rev. George Grimm-Howell, Rhodeena Gonzalez

Inspired by Joanna Macy

Singing – Centering Hymn* The Congregation

#163 “For the Earth Forever Turning”

Time for All Ages– “Hippo’s Hope” by Shel Silverstein

read by Sunday Parker

Singing the Children Out The Congregation

#402 “From You I Receive”

Stones of Joys and Sorrows Rhodeena Gonzalez

Prayer and Meditation Rev. George Grimm-Howell

Tera Landers

Reading – “The Shambala Warrior Prophecy” Rhodeena Gonzalez

Joanna Macy, after Dugu Choegyal Rinpoche

Choral Anthem – “Pacem” UUFH Choir; Janey Ryan, Director

Andy Beck, Brian Fisher

Sermon – “Embracing Active Hope” Rev. George Grimm-Howell

Invitation to the Offering Rhodeena Gonzalez

Offertory – “My Heart Will Go On” Melissa Meghdadi

James Horner, arr. Philip Keveren

Dedication of the Offering (in unison) The Congregation

To the work of this congregation,

which is weaving a tapestry of love and action,

we dedicate our offerings and the best of who we are.

Singing – Closing Hymn* The Congregation

#1064 “Blue Boat Home”

Benediction* Rev. George Grimm-Howell

Postlude – “Song From A Secret Garden” Melissa Meghdadi

Rolf Lovland

*Please rise in body or spirit.