Neighborly Evangelism: Living Your UU Values in Difficult Interactions | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 039

How do we relate to people who demonstrate values that are offensive or fundamentally different from our own? What does it mean to engage with integrity, especially when we encounter messages—on yard signs, bumper stickers, or even in casual conversations—that challenge our beliefs?

In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Reverend T. J. FitzGerald, Minister of Community Care and Engagement, and Reverend Beth Dana, Minister of Faith Development, dive into these tough questions. They explore the importance of relationship context, personal boundaries, and how to respond with authenticity. Plus, they break down the difference between evangelism and proselytizing, redefining what it means to live our values rather than imposing them on others.

Tune in to hear share stories, strategies, and reflections on how to approach these challenging interactions while staying true to our faith and principles.

00:00 – Welcome to Tiny Pulpit Talks!
01:09 – How do we engage with people who don’t share our values?
01:43 – The role of relationships in tough conversations.
02:22 – Deciding when (or if) to engage.
03:40 – Navigating encounters with offensive messages.
04:35 – A real-life example: Challenging harmful stereotypes.
05:43 – What is evangelism vs. proselytizing?
07:09 – Living your values as a form of evangelism.
08:10 – How embodying joy can inspire change.
09:23 – See you on Sunday—worship with us!

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.