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Sabbatical and Pilgrimage: Finding Transformation in Meaningful Journeying | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 031

In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, we’re discussing the sacred practice of pilgrimage and its profound spiritual significance. Join us to hear from our senior minister, Rev, Dr. Daniel Kanter, about his upcoming sabbatical—a journey intended for exploration, reflection, and renewal.

Revs. Daniel, Beth, and T. J. also discuss the essential Unitarian Universalist spiritual practices we encourage at First Church—daily, weekly, monthly, yearly, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences—and how pilgrimage stands apart as a journey toward transformation. Whether it’s a heritage trip to Boston or a trek across continents, pilgrimages invite us to step away from the ordinary and return forever changed.

Curious about how to choose your own pilgrimage or what makes it different from a vacation? Tune in to explore how travel to sacred spaces can deepen your faith and reshape your perspective.


00:00 – Welcome to Tiny Pulpit Talks
00:45 – Overview of spiritual practices: daily, weekly, monthly, yearly, and lifetime.
01:14 – What does sabbatical mean for a minister?
02:11 – Rest and renewal: parallels between Sabbath and sabbatical.
02:40 – Daniel’s upcoming sabbatical plans and destination.
03:03 – Exploring indigenous hymns in Northeast India.
03:44 – Preaching in Auckland and learning about Maori spirituality.
04:32 – A reverse pilgrimage: cycling from Naples to London.
06:16 – Faith Forward classes: how to learn more about pilgrimage.

Tiny Pulpit Talks is a podcast series from First Unitarian Church of Dallas that takes a behind-the-scenes look at ministry from a Unitarian Universalist perspective. This is a rare opportunity to see what goes into crafting meaningful and inspirational sermons, learn how worship comes together each Sunday, and explore the many facets of spiritual leadership. Subscribe to get updates about new episodes here on YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts.

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