New Families Gathering
2026-03-01 10:00 - 10:45 (America/Chicago) | First Unitarian Church of Dallas, 4015 Normandy Ave., Dallas, TX, 75205, United States
Sunday, March 1 from 10 to 10:45 am
Children’s Commons. 2nd Floor, Hallman

Start growing your village at First Church! Join us for our New Families Gathering—an opportunity for families with children to get connected within the church community, whether you’re brand new to the church or have been attending for a while. Meet fellow families, get to know our dedicated staff and ministers, and learn about our ministries for children, youth, and families. Coffee and a light breakfast will be provided.

Join the “Parents of First Unitarian” Group in Realm to RSVP and stay connected. (Groups > Find Groups > Children & Youth)

New to Realm? Click here to learn more.

Reclaiming Religious Language: Blessing | Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter
2026-03-08 09:30 - 12:00 | Sanctuary, 4015 Normandy Ave, Dallas, TX, 75205, United States
We say “bless you” without thinking, yet blessing can be a profound act of connection. In this service, we’ll explore what it means, as Unitarian Universalists, to offer and receive blessings.
Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter is preaching. Music provided by the First Church Jazz Band.
Worship at 9:30am and 11am CST in-person or online • 7:00pm ONLINE ONLY
Reclaiming Religious Language Series
In this series, we explore the religious words that shaped traditions before us and ask: What still speaks? What needs healing? What can we reclaim?
Together, we will return again to the language of faith and engage with it honestly. We will reimagine what these words can mean for us now.

Reclaiming Religious Language: Sacrament | Rev. Beth Dana
2026-03-15 09:30 - 12:00 | First Unitarian Church of Dallas, 4015 Normandy Ave., Dallas, TX, 75205, United States
“Sacrament” is not a common word in Unitarian Universalist discourse, but we say it every Sunday in our Affirmation. Let’s explore what we really mean when we say “the quest of truth” is our sacrament.
Rev. Beth Dana is preaching. Music provided by Kindred Voices.
Worship at 9:30am and 11am CST in-person or online • 7:00pm ONLINE ONLY
Reclaiming Religious Language Series
In this series, we explore the religious words that shaped traditions before us and ask: What still speaks? What needs healing? What can we reclaim?
Together, we will return again to the language of faith and engage with it honestly. We will reimagine what these words can mean for us now.

Realm Training for Church Members
2026-03-15 13:00 - 14:00 | First Unitarian Church of Dallas, 4015 Normandy Ave., Dallas, TX, 75205, United States
Sunday, March 15, 20261:00 – 2:15 pm, Hallman Room 305
Want to get more comfortable using Realm, our church app and communication platform?
Join Sharon Thompson, Director of Membership & Hospitality, for a training session where you’ll learn the basic how-to’s, discover helpful features, and get your questions answered.
Tired of receiving too many email notifications—or wish you got more of the ones that matter? We’ll also show you how to adjust your email and notification settings so Realm works best for you.
CLICK TO REGISTER IN REALM

Reclaiming Religious Language: Confession | Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter
2026-03-22 09:30 - 12:00 | First Unitarian Church of Dallas, 4015 Normandy Ave., Dallas, TX, 75205, United States
Many of us have never sat in a confessional but have had to break ourselves open to the truth of who we are. What is confession in a Unitarian Universalist context?
Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter is preaching. Music provided by the Sanctuary Choir.
Worship at 9:30am and 11am CST in-person or online • 7:00pm ONLINE ONLY
Reclaiming Religious Language Series
In this series, we explore the religious words that shaped traditions before us and ask: What still speaks? What needs healing? What can we reclaim?
Together, we will return again to the language of faith and engage with it honestly. We will reimagine what these words can mean for us now.

Spring Concert Series: Organ and Trumpet Recital
2026-03-22 13:30 - 14:30 | First Unitarian Church of Dallas, 4015 Normandy Ave., Dallas, TX, 75205, United States
Grant Wareham presents a recital of music for organ and trumpet with trumpeter Tim Andersen. The program will feature Okna, written by composer Petr Eben as a musical depiction of the glorious stained glass windows crafted by artist Marc Chagall, which feature Jewish sacred art.
In-person and streaming on dallasuu.org/live.
Click to register in Realm.

Reclaiming Religious Language: Christ | Rev. T. J. FitzGerald
2026-03-29 09:30 - 12:00 | First Unitarian Church of Dallas, 4015 Normandy Ave., Dallas, TX, 75205, United States
More than a person; more than God. This Palm Sunday, we will reflect on how Unitarian Universalism might engage with this often-misunderstood theological idea.
Rev. T. J. FitzGerald is preaching. Music provided by the Sellers family.
Worship at 9:30am and 11am CST in-person or online • 7:00pm ONLINE ONLY
Reclaiming Religious Language Series
In this series, we explore the religious words that shaped traditions before us and ask: What still speaks? What needs healing? What can we reclaim?
Together, we will return again to the language of faith and engage with it honestly. We will reimagine what these words can mean for us now.

Aging Well: How to Have Difficult Conversations
2026-03-29 12:30 - 14:00 | First Unitarian Church of Dallas, 4015 Normandy Ave., Dallas, TX, 75205, United States
Uncertain about how to talk to your family about your or their end-of-life wishes? Not sure how to discuss with your loved ones if it’s time to stop driving, accept additional care, or move out of their home?
Join Carol Franzen, Elder Care Consultant and Care Manager, to learn how to discuss all aspects of aging and end-of-life choices with those you care for and about, from living situations to your final wishes.
A guide from The Conversation Project and other practical information will be provided.
Click to register in Realm.

Maundy Thursday
2026-04-02 19:30 - 20:30 | First Unitarian Church of Dallas, 4015 Normandy Ave., Dallas, TX, 75205, United States
Pause for a reflective, moving service. Communion will be followed by a candlelight Tenebrae reading of the story of Jesus’ betrayal. Music provided by the Sanctuary Choir and Désirée Elsevier, viola. In-person only.

Easter Sunday
2026-04-05 09:30 - 12:00 | First Unitarian Church of Dallas, 4015 Normandy Ave., Dallas, TX, 75205, United States
A celebration of love, hope, and renewal! Invite your friends, family, and neighbors to join us for worship and our annual Egg Scramble. Be prepared for lots of beauty and special surprises this year.

Egg Scramble between services at 10:40am
Bring a basket and don’t be late!
Children 4 years and younger meet on the Preston playground.
Children Kinder – 3rd grade meet on the playground patio
Children 4th grade and over meet on the patio between the playground and Memorial Garden.

Multi-Generational Worship at 9:30am and 11am
Rev. Daniel Kanter is preaching and music will be provided by the Sanctuary Choir.

No Sunday School classes.

Livestream at 9:30am, 11am and 7pm.

Reimagining and Remaking: Not a Box | Rev. Beth Dana
2026-04-12 09:30 - 12:00 | First Unitarian Church of Dallas, 4015 Normandy Ave., Dallas, TX, 75205, United States
Let’s think outside the box together about what creativity and imagination is called for in this time. How far can our imagination take us?
Rev. Beth Dana is preaching. Music provided by the Kindred Voices. (Children’s Choir at 11 am only.)
Worship at 9:30am and 11am CST in-person or online • 7:00pm ONLINE ONLY
Reimagining and Remaking Series
The world as we’ve known it is shifting, shaped by climate crisis, injustice, polarization, and deep longing for something better. In this closing series of our Return Again theme year, we ask: What now? What next? What if?
This is a time for spiritual imagination. Let’s explore the creativity needed to dream beyond the limits we’ve known, the courage to honor the Earth and our shared destiny, the persistence to make racial equity real, and the wisdom that comes when we return to our beginnings with new eyes. Together, we will imagine what is possible and take the first steps toward making it real.

Legacy Giving Informational Meeting
2026-04-12 12:30 - 13:30 | TX
Learn how legacy giving can sustain your values and your church into the future.
Presented by Martha Norton, Director of Finance and Stewardship
Register in Realm

Reimagining and Remaking: Our Rock and Our Salvation | Rev. T. J. FitzGerald
2026-04-19 09:30 - 12:00 | First Unitarian Church of Dallas, 4015 Normandy Ave., Dallas, TX, 75205, United States
On this Earth Day, we honor our deep interdependence with the living world and reflect on how we might care for our planet as a shared destiny.
Rev. T. J. FitzGerald is preaching. Special Irish music.
Worship at 9:30am and 11am CST in-person or online • 7:00pm ONLINE ONLY
Reimagining and Remaking Series
The world as we’ve known it is shifting, shaped by climate crisis, injustice, polarization, and deep longing for something better. In this closing series of our Return Again theme year, we ask: What now? What next? What if?
This is a time for spiritual imagination. Let’s explore the creativity needed to dream beyond the limits we’ve known, the courage to honor the Earth and our shared destiny, the persistence to make racial equity real, and the wisdom that comes when we return to our beginnings with new eyes. Together, we will imagine what is possible and take the first steps toward making it real.

Earth Day Sunday - 10th Anniversary
2026-04-19 10:00 - 12:30 | First Unitarian Church of Dallas, 4015 Normandy Ave., Dallas, TX, 75205, United States
Sunday, April 19, 2026
10 am – 12:30 pm in Channing Social Hall
Celebrate and learn with the Climate Action Team! Join us for a Native Plant Sale with Texas Conservation Alliance plus art sales, info tables, electric vehicle showcase, and family fun.

Spring Concert Series: Earth Day Concert with the Sanctuary Choir
2026-04-19 13:30 - 14:30 | First Unitarian Church of Dallas, 4015 Normandy Ave., Dallas, TX, 75205, United States
A program celebrating the Earth, featuring selections from Randall Thompson’s Frostiana and Nancy Galbraith’s setting of the Aurora Levins Morales poem Resurrection, which we commissioned and premiered in May of 2025.
In-person and streaming on dallasuu.org/live.
Click to register in Realm.

Creative Community Art Show - Reception
2026-04-25 14:00 - 17:00 | First Unitarian Church of Dallas, 4015 Normandy Ave., Dallas, TX, 75205, United States
Celebrate creativity at First Unitarian’s Creative Community Art Show and Sale! Enjoy an inspiring display of artwork, meet the talented artists behind the pieces, and find beautiful works to take home. It’s a wonderful opportunity to meet artists from the church and connect with our vibrant community. We hope to see you there!
Reception in Channing Hall
Saturday, April 25
2 PM – 5 PM
Show in Channing Hall
Sunday, April 26
9 AM – 1 PM

Creative Community Art Show - Sunday Show
2026-04-26 09:00 - 13:00 | First Unitarian Church of Dallas, 4015 Normandy Ave., Dallas, TX, 75205, United States
Celebrate creativity at First Unitarian’s Creative Community Art Show and Sale. Enjoy an inspiring display of artwork, meet the talented artists behind the pieces, and find beautiful works to take home. It’s a wonderful opportunity to meet artists from the church and connect with our vibrant community. We hope to see you there!
Reception in Channing Hall
Saturday, April 25
2 PM – 5 PM
Show in Channing Hall
Sunday, April 26
9 AM – 1 PM

Reimagining and Remaking: In the Balance | Rev. T. J. FitzGerald
2026-04-26 09:30 - 12:00 | Sanctuary, 4015 Normandy Ave, Dallas, TX, 75205, United States
In the Balance
The work of Racial Equity is essential for all our flourishing. We will remember and learn from the work of activist and artist Ernest McMillan, who helped to transform many lives in Dallas and beyond.
Rev. T. J. FitzGerald is preaching. Celebrated musician Matthew Babineaux will provide music by Stevie Wonder, Sam Cooke and Marvin Gaye.
Worship at 9:30am and 11am CST in-person or online • 7:00pm ONLINE ONLY
Reimagining and Remaking Series
The world as we’ve known it is shifting, shaped by climate crisis, injustice, polarization, and deep longing for something better. In this closing series of our Return Again theme year, we ask: What now? What next? What if?
This is a time for spiritual imagination. Let’s explore the creativity needed to dream beyond the limits we’ve known, the courage to honor the Earth and our shared destiny, the persistence to make racial equity real, and the wisdom that comes when we return to our beginnings with new eyes. Together, we will imagine what is possible and take the first steps toward making it real.

A History of Race and Racism in Dallas, Part 1: Highlighting the Women who Fought for Equality and Equity in Dallas
2026-04-26 12:30 - 14:00 | Sanctuary, 4015 Normandy Ave, Dallas, TX, 75205, United States
Please join Jerry Hawkins, Director of Equity Initiatives, as he explores Part 1 of a chronological history of race and racism in Dallas, featuring stories, primary sources and event recaps. This presentation will highlight women in Dallas who struggled to make Dallas a more equitable city!

90 minute presentation with a 10 minute Q&A break in the middle and 20 discussion/Q&A at the end.

Click to register in Realm.

Childcare is available for this event. Please register in advance by clicking here.

Reimagining and Remaking: To Arrive Where We Started | Rev. Beth Dana
2026-05-03 09:30 - 12:00 | First Unitarian Church of Dallas, 4015 Normandy Ave., Dallas, TX, 75205, United States
T. S. Eliot wrote about the experience of seeking and exploring, only to return to where you started and to know the place for the first time. Looking back on our church’s theme year, what do we know now – about ourselves, our faith, our community, our world – that we didn’t know when we started?
Rev. Beth Dana is preaching. Music provided by the Sanctuary Choir.
Worship at 9:30am and 11am CST in-person or online • 7:00pm ONLINE ONLY
Reimagining and Remaking Series
The world as we’ve known it is shifting, shaped by climate crisis, injustice, polarization, and deep longing for something better. In this closing series of our Return Again theme year, we ask: What now? What next? What if?
This is a time for spiritual imagination. Let’s explore the creativity needed to dream beyond the limits we’ve known, the courage to honor the Earth and our shared destiny, the persistence to make racial equity real, and the wisdom that comes when we return to our beginnings with new eyes. Together, we will imagine what is possible and take the first steps toward making it real.

Men's Retreat - Spring 2026
2026-05-07 18:00 - 21:00 | First Unitarian Church of Dallas, 4015 Normandy Ave., Dallas, TX, 75205, United States
We will join to discuss how to deepen supportive relationships in our lives and our communities. Retreat Leader Dave Snell will return to share some of us new findings about connection and community building. Dinner will be provided.

Click to register in Realm.

Recompense | Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter | Mother's Day & Child Dedications
2026-05-10 09:30 - 12:00 | First Unitarian Church of Dallas, 4015 Normandy Ave., Dallas, TX, 75205, United States
What do we owe to mothers on Mother’s Day. Lets talk about it!
Child dedications will take place at the 11 am service.
Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter is preaching, music provided by the First Church Mothers Band
Worship at 9:30am and 11am CST in-person or online • 7:00pm ONLINE ONLY

Bridging Sunday for Coming of Age Youth and Graduating Seniors
2026-05-17 09:30 - 12:00 | Sanctuary, 4015 Normandy Ave, Dallas, TX, 75205, United States
Join us as we celebrate and bless our youth coming of age and graduating seniors bridging into young adulthood.
Rev. T. J FitzGerald is preaching, music provided Kindred Voices
Worship at 9:30am and 11am CST in-person or online • 7:00pm ONLINE ONLY

Divine Intervention in a Post-Modern World with special guest Cameron Young
2026-05-24 09:30 - 12:00 | First Unitarian Church of Dallas, 4015 Normandy Ave., Dallas, TX, 75205, United States
With many of our foundations in reason and Enlightenment-era thinking, Unitarian Universalists often struggle with mystery. We’re often averse to things we might perceive as stories and beliefs that present as “supernatural.” But what if “real” and “not real” is a false binary? Perhaps we’re not asking the right questions when it comes to grappling with the unexplainable.
About Cameron Young (they/them)
Cameron is a lifelong Texan and Unitarian Universalist- prior to assuming the position as Lead for the UUA Southern Region Congregational Life staff, Cameron worked as field staff since 2019. Before joining the UUA, Cameron served as a lifespan religious educator in Fort Worth, Texas. Cameron has a Bachelor of Music from Louisiana State University and a Master of Divinity at Brite Divinity School where they graduated Summa Cum Laude and received the Sexual and Gender Justice certificate and the prestigious Walker Preaching Scholarship- they are currently a candidate for UU Ministry. A professional musician and classically trained singer, Cameron has performed in numerous operas and musicals, is a member and co-founder of the singing group Uptown Carolers and recorded with Grammy award winner Leon Bridges on his debut album. In their spare time, Cameron is an avid traveler, diehard fan of DFW sports teams, and devoted coffee drinker.
Cameron Young is preaching, music provided by acclaimed organist Ken Cowan.
Worship at 9:30am and 11am CST in-person or online • 7:00pm ONLINE ONLY

Ken Cowan, Organ & Lisa Shihoten, Violin: Concert Celebrating the Walker Pipe Organ 35th Anniversary
2026-05-24 13:30 - 14:30 | Sanctuary, 4015 Normandy Ave, Dallas, TX, 75205, United States
Internationally celebrated organist Ken Cowan is joined by his wife, violinist Lisa Shihoten, for a recital commemorating the 35th anniversary of our Walker pipe organ.
About Ken Cowan
Regarded as one of North America’s finest concert organists and praised for his dazzling artistry, impeccable technique, and imaginative programming by audiences and critics alike, Ken Cowan maintains a rigorous performing schedule that takes him to major concert venues in America, Canada, Europe, and Asia.
Mr. Cowan has been a featured artist in recent years at national conventions of the American Guild of Organists in Los Angeles, Minneapolis and Houston. He has performed at many regional conventions of the AGO and has been featured at several conventions of the Organ Historical Society and the Royal Canadian College of Organists.
A native of Thorold, Ontario, Canada, Mr. Cowan received the Master’s degree and Artist Diploma from the Yale Institute of Sacred Music, studying organ with Thomas Murray. Prior to attending Yale, he graduated with a Bachelor of Music degree from the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia where he studied with John Weaver. Following initial studies with his father, David Cowan, his primary teacher during his high school years was James Bigham.
Numerous critically acclaimed compact disc recordings by Mr. Cowan are available. His most recent releases are Dynamic Duo, (Pro Organo), featuring Mr. Cowan and Bradley Welch in a program of works for duo organists, performed on the monumental Casavant organ at Broadway Baptist Church in Fort Worth, TX and Ken Cowan plays The Great Organ (Pro Organo), recorded at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, New York City. Many of Mr. Cowan’s recordings and live performances have been featured on the nationally distributed radio show PIPEDREAMS from American Public Media.
Mr. Cowan is currently Professor of Organ and head of the organ program at The Shepherd School of Music at Rice University. He is additionally Organist and Artist-in-Residence at Palmer Memorial Episcopal Church in Houston, TX

About Lisa Shihoten
Violinist Lisa Shihoten enjoys an active career as a chamber musician, soloist, and teacher. She is a member of the prestigious New York City-based Jupiter Symphony Chamber Players, where she appears regularly alongside some of the world’s most prominent musicians. Her solo appearances have included concerto performances under the direction of Kurt Masur, Robert Spano, and David Shallon. As a chamber musician and soloist, she has appeared in concert halls throughout the United States, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Her numerous awards include honors from the National Foundation for Advancement in the Arts, the Caramoor Center’s Evnin Rising Stars program, the Menuhin International Competition for Young Violinists, and the Paganini International Violin Competition. Her appearances at summer festivals have included the Caramoor Music Festival, the Ravinia Festival, the North Shore Chamber Music Festival, the Norfolk Music Festival, the Aspen Music Festival, and the Verbier Music Festival. She regularly performs duo recitals throughout the U.S. with her husband, organist Ken Cowan. Upcoming engagements include solo appearances in China.
A native of Chicago, Ms. Shihoten earned her bachelor’s degree at The Juilliard School as a student of Dorothy DeLay and Masao Kawasaki, and her master’s degree from the Yale School of Music as a student of Peter Oundjian. After a decade on the violin faculty at Princeton University, she is currently a faculty violin instructor at the Michael P. Hammond Preparatory Program at Rice University in Houston. Ms. Shihoten is also a guest instructor at the Betty Haag Academy of Music in Chicago, where she has the great honor of working with her childhood violin teacher, Betty Haag-Kuhnke.

Three for Free: Folktale Sermon Series | Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter
2026-05-31 09:30 - 12:00 | First Unitarian Church of Dallas, 4015 Normandy Ave., Dallas, TX, 75205, United States
What does it mean to live in a world that is driven by greed? This popular Tawainese folktale helps us think about fairness and selflessness as life values.
Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter is preaching, music provided by Grant Wareham.
Worship at 9:30am and 11am CST in-person or online • 7:00pm ONLINE ONLY

Meet & Greet Your Elected Church Leaders
2026-05-31 12:15 - 13:00 | First Unitarian Church of Dallas, 4015 Normandy Ave., Dallas, TX, 75205, United States
Sunday, May 31
12:15 – 1:00 pm
Don Krehbiel Music Center
The Nominating Committee invites members interested in exploring service on the Board, Nominating Committee or Endowment Committee to a special opportunity to meet and hear from our elected officials currently serving on these groups. This is your chance to engage, learn about their work, ask questions, consider serving and connect!
Click here to learn more about volunteer leadership at First Church.
CLICK TO REGISTER IN REALM.

Teig O'Kane and the Corpse: Folktale Sermon Series | Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter
2026-06-07 09:30 - 12:00 | First Unitarian Church of Dallas, 4015 Normandy Ave., Dallas, TX, 75205, United States
Through the Irish folktale “Teig O’Kane and the Corpse,” we reflect on the weight of moral obligation, the consequences of our choices, and the enduring truth that responsibility cannot be avoided.
Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter is preaching, music provided by Andrea Weidemann.
Worship at 9:30am and 11am CST in-person or online • 7:00pm ONLINE ONLY

Parish Meeting
2026-06-07 12:30 - 13:30 | First Unitarian Church of Dallas, 4015 Normandy Ave., Dallas, TX, 75205, United States
Click to register in Realm.
The Board of First Unitarian Church of Dallas invites you to join them on Sunday, June 7th at 12:30pm in the Sanctuary or on Zoom for the Parish Meeting. (Zoom link provided with registration.)
🍕There will be pizza before the meeting in Channing Social Hall.
Rev. Kanter will share updates about the work of the church and the Board will provide updates on their priorities for the coming year.
All are welcome – youth, adults, new members, friends of the church, people who have never been to a Parish meeting, and those who have attended for years. We hope to see you there.
Childcare is available during the Parish Meeting until 2:00 p.m. Pizza lunch is provided to all Meeting attendees, including their children. If your child needs snacks or food other than the pizza, please bring it with you. Paid caregivers will be ready to receive your child at the Nursery Desk shortly before Parish meeting begins. Please register in advance at this link.

The Political Theologies of Populism: Virtual Book Talk
2026-06-11 18:00 - 20:00 | TX
CLICK TO REGISTER IN REALM
Join us for a virtual book talk with Rev. Dr. Colin Bossen, discussing his new book “The Political Theologies of Populism.”
The Zoom link will be sent upon registration to the email address you used to register.
Click here to purchase the book from the publisher.
It is also available from Amazon, www.bookshop.org, and for order through local bookshops.
An excavation of populist movements in the US and their associated religious tropes.
In this work, author Colin Bossen argues that for over a century, American populist movements—even explicitly secular ones—have drawn on religious ideas and practices to infuse their politics and bring people together. Bossen explores Pan-African populism, white supremacist populism, and early twentieth-century pluralistic populism in the United States that coalesced into well-known, vastly different groups with a lasting presence in the American imagination: the Universal Negro Improvement Association (also known as the Garveyites), the Ku Klux Klan, and the Industrial Workers of the World (also known as the Wobblies). This book employs both historical analysis and political theory to unpack the trajectory of these groups and to illustrate how their respective search for belonging showcases as similar principles, despite their extremely different beliefs. This is a finding that, Bossen argues, exemplifies the mechanisms behind twenty-first-century politics, including the rise of Trumpism. This groundbreaking comparative analysis challenges readers to consider the repetition of history in today’s political landscape and shows them how to rise to the challenges of our current political moment.
About Colin Bossen
Rev. Dr. Colin Bossen is senior minister of the First Unitarian Universalist Church of Houston and a visiting fellow with Harris Manchester College at the University of Oxford. He is the coauthor of Resistance and Transformation: Unitarian Universalist Social Justice History and author of the forthcoming publications American Populism and Unitarian Universalism and Unitarian Universality Theologies: A Global Study.
