What Does Easter Mean to Unitarian Universalists? | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 041
Welcome to a special edition of Tiny Pulpit Talks — from the minister’s study! Today, Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter, Rev. Beth Dana, and Rev. T. J. FitzGerald sit down to wrestle with a big question on many Unitarian Universalist minds: What do Unitarian Universalists believe about Easter? And why do Unitarian Universalists celebrate Easter?
Tune in to explore:
Why Easter still matters, even for those who don’t embrace a literal resurrection
How reclaiming religious language and traditions is a powerful act of justice and resistance
The deep, universal themes of death, rebirth, and new beginnings
How Easter connects to broader stories of liberation like Passover
How to find joy, meaning, and community even when Easter feels complicated
The ministers also share a few laughs about Easter eggs on lawns, discuss the struggles many feel with how Christianity is sometimes weaponized, and invite you to find your own meaning in this special season. Come celebrate with us! Whether you’re skeptical, seeking, or full of Easter joy, there’s a place for you here.
00:00 – Welcome to a special Tiny Pulpit Talks from the minister’s study
00:57 – Why are so many Unitarians asking about Easter this year?
01:25 – Reclaiming Easter as an act of justice and resistance
01:46 – Easter’s deeper meaning beyond literal resurrection
02:16 – Finding value in ancient stories without needing them to be “true”
04:11 – Easter eggs, Passover connections, and ancient symbols
04:57 – What to say to those feeling exasperated by Easter messaging
05:48 – Christian nationalism vs. the real teachings of Jesus
06:35 – Reclaiming symbols that have been used to harm
06:51 – Why Easter is a joyful and meaningful day in our community
07:10 – Final thoughts: Celebrate 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.
