Law, Faith, and the Call to UU Ministry: Rev. T. J. FitzGerald’s Journey | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 035

Welcome to another episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, the podcast from First Unitarian Church of Dallas! In this episode, Rev. Beth Dana, Minister of Faith Development, sits down with Rev. T.J. Fitzgerald, Minister of Community Care and Engagement, to explore his unique journey to ministry.

From growing up in an Irish Catholic family to studying law and eventually finding his way to Unitarian Universalism, Rev. T.J. shares the twists, turns, and spiritual moments that led him to his calling. What sparked his shift from a legal career to faith leadership? How did an encounter with a Unitarian Universalist hymnal and a powerful coming-of-age service change everything? Tune in to hear his compelling story of discovery, faith, and purpose.

00:00 – Welcome to Tiny Pulpit Talks
00:59 – Rev. T.J.’s early connection to church
01:37 – Making deals to escape church as a kid
02:14 – Exploring different Christian traditions in college
03:06 – Discovering Unitarian Universalism through family
04:06 – The impact of Emerson’s The Over-Soul
05:13 – Studying law before feeling the call to ministry
07:13 – The moment Unitarian Universalism “clicked”
07:48 – A life-changing visit to All Souls in Manhattan
09:44 – Seminary, internships, and moving to Hawaii
10:16 – The call to Dallas and ministry at First Unitarian
11:34 – The deep impact of a spiritual life
12:09 – Closing thoughts & how spirituality enriches life
12:47 – Like, subscribe, and share your thoughts!

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.