How Unitarian Universalist Communities Launch Resistance Movements | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 033

In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald (Minister of Community Care and Engagement) and Rev. Beth Dana (Minister of Faith Development) kick off the 2025 season with an honest and heartfelt discussion about the power of community in times of resistance.

As we navigate feelings of fear, unease, and even despondency, we explore the essential role of community in both holding us together and launching us into meaningful action. From the core principles of Unitarian Universalism—like the inherent worth and dignity of every person—to the practical steps of resistance and self-care, this conversation dives deep into how we can stand up for justice while taking care of ourselves and each other.

We reflect on:
✨ The revolutionary roots of Unitarian Universalism.
✨ How communities can inspire powerful social change.
✨ The balance between action, rest, and self-preservation.
✨ Tuning out the noise and finding your unique contribution to the cause.

Whether you’re ready to march, organize, or simply find moments of joy in a chaotic world (even if that means binging The Great British Baking Show or RuPaul’s Drag Race), this episode is here to remind you: You are not alone, and you are enough.

00:00 – Welcome to Tiny Pulpit Talks (2025 Season)
00:49 – Starting with despondency, fear, and finding joy
02:01 – Community as a launching place for resistance
02:27 – Unitarian Universalist roots in justice and action
03:31 – Theology centered on inherent worth and dignity
04:42 – Action doesn’t require expertise—community matters
05:06 – Margaret Mead’s wisdom on small groups and change
05:29 – Personal stories of community organizing
06:19 – Learning and educating as forms of resistance
07:37 – Self-care as part of sustainable resistance
07:55 – Recognizing weaponized anxiety in media
09:31 – Support and action from your faith community
10:11 – Advice for finding your sustainable path
10:31 – Permission to rest and recharge (Baking shows and Drag Race)
10:58 – Closing: Stay connected, stay organized, and we love you.

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.