Worship Service Archive
We are pleased to share that many of our recent worship services are now available to be viewed on our YouTube channel.
Catch up on services you missed, or re-watch your favorites!
Catch up on services you missed, or re-watch your favorites!
Services for Spring 2021
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Sunday, May 9
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Mothering Ourselves with Rev. Linda Goodman Please email templenews@tolit.org to request the Zoom link. Everyone needs to feel approval, cared for, loved. These things are typically associated with mothering. But our own mothers may be unavailable to us, physically or emotionally. Being "unmothered" or not well mothered can be healed by learning to mother ourselves. Happy Mother's Day to us all! About Rev. Linda: Rev. Linda is mother of Anna, daughter of Margaret, who is daughter of Mae, who is daughter of Rosanna, who is daughter of Hannah, who is daughter of Margaretta, who is daughter of a long line of mothers and grandmothers who all did the best they could. |
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Sunday, May 2
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Lovely, Lusty, Embodied Spirituality with Rev. Carrie Ives Please email templenews@tolit.org to request the Zoom link. “It’s May! The lusty month of May!” ~Camelot Abrahamic (Jewish-Christian-Muslim) ideals often stress the separation of spirit and body, with the former being of God and the latter of our base instincts, or even of the devil. But not all spiritualities agree with this! Today we’ll explore the idea of Embodied Spirituality, from yoga and Tai Chi, to Tantra, to ancient May Day fertility practices and sacred sexuality. Bring your flower crowns and May baskets! About Rev Carrie: Carrie is a Tree of Life minister, interfaith spiritual director, and lover of life and learning. |
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Sunday, April 25
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Sacred Cosmos, Sacred Earth with Rev. Carol and Dr. Albert LaChance “Love is the most universal, the most tremendous and the most mystical of cosmic forces.....Love is a sacred reserve of energy; it is like the blood of spiritual evolution.” ~ Fr. Pierre Teilhard de Chardin (The Spirit of the Earth, 1931, VI, 32, 33, 34) We need a new paradigm. Join us as we share the scientific and spiritual story of the earth's unfolding, a sacred story, a story of the unfolding of Love. About the presenters: Albert is a poet and a doctor of spirituality and psychology. Carol is a teacher of gifted students. They are both writers. They have been married for more than 40 years, and they still like each other! |
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Sunday, April 18
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Enlightenment, Cat by Cat with Joe Pollock Stories of life lessons we learn from our cats. Bring your own "enlightenment" stories learned from your furry friends. About Joe: Joe says he's not a minister, but we beg to differ. He is a Tree of Life Music Minister and a lover of cats. Perhaps this t-shirt describes him best: "I play guitar and I know things." |
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Sunday, April 11
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ When Faces Called Flowers Float Out of the Ground with Rev. Stephanie Rutt In this worship celebration, we'll use ee cummings poem, "When Faces Called Flowers," to ignite a celebration punctuated by chantin', dancin,' and journeyin' to align our inner joy with the outer wonder and invite mystical unity with our Beloved. Come and let your inner voice sing a silent or audible song; your inner muse move or swirl in stillness; and, let your spirit stand in awe at the center of all creation. About Rev. Stephanie: Rev. Dr. Stephanie Rutt is the founder of the Tree of Life Interfaith Temple. For more about her, click here. |
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Sunday, April 4
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ A Tomb is No Place to Stay with Rev. Linda Goodman We celebrate the triumph of life over death. Whether we celebrate the goddess of spring emerging from her cave or the Christ emerging from the tomb, resurrection is an ongoing celebration of life. The Christ spirit lives eternally in each of us. Be open to resurrection! About Rev. Linda: Rev. Linda is the Presiding Minister of the Tree of Life Temple. For more about her, click here. |
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Sunday, March 28
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Your Donkey Awaits with Revs Debb-Ellen and Kathleen Brown-Alger “Ride on Ride on in majesty! As all the crowds hosanna cry; through waving branches slowly ride, O Savior to be crucified.” Palm Sunday ~ the agony of Jesus’ passion and the joy of the resurrection to come. But wait! What is the lowliest thread that ties Jesus’ birth and His death? Revs Debb-Ellen and Kathleen will explore the relationship and theology of the donkey. Here ~ your donkey awaits. Will you untie it? About the Revs: Two simple pilgrims exploring practically unheard of relationships of the past, present and future...come join us...on your donkey, your eagle, your peacock, or your elephant...all are welcome! |
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Sunday, March 21
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Welcome the Spring Goddess Ostara, the Vernal Equinox and the Celebration of the Light with Rev. Ahjan Grossman Ostara returns! The earth responds to her passing with abundant new life! At the spring equinox the Wheel of the Year turns further towards more warmth and growth. At this balance point of the seasons, we celebrate what is awakening in ourselves. About Rev. Ahjan: Reverend Ahjan is a Tree of Life Interfaith minister. She marvels at our Earth's suspension in space, her ever-changing rotation through the cycles of life and the Mysteries of Spirit. |
Services for Winter 2020-21
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Sunday, March 14
11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. ~ An Interfaith Look at the Intersection of Time and Eternity in the Season of Lent with Seminarian Gail Barrows Come, join in a walk with the Judeo-Christian season of Lent where we will look at time and human being through the eyes of faith. About Gail: Gail is a second year TOL seminarian, a spiritual director, and MDiv graduate of Andover Newton Theological School. She is a mother, grandmother, wife, sister, daughter, and most importantly, beloved of God. Her focus in life is to receive God's love and to be It's vessel in the world. |
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Sunday, March 7
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Motherland with Rev. Carol LaChance "But wherein I am most different from others is In knowing to take sustenance from my Mother" Tao Teh Ching In troubled times we turn to our Mother. How does the Divine Mother sustain us? How can we connect with the divine mother in ways that nourish our Earth, our roles as mothers of all and our inner selves? About Rev. Carol: Rev. Carol LaChance is a mother, a grandmother, a writer and a lover of the earth and all her creatures, especially horses! She believes strongly in the gentle power of the Divine Mother. She is the Director of the Tree of Life Interfaith Seminary. |
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Sunday, February 28
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Hang On, Spring Is Coming! with Rev. Peggy Petahtegoose It's almost time for us to come out of hibernation. From our cozy cabins to the calling of a new spring. Rejoice that there is always light at the end of the tunnel. Let us revel in the light of love that springs forth. About Rev. Peggy: I am a being of light, imagine me surrounded by crystals large and small, glistening in the sun. That is where you will find me. |
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Sunday, February 21
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ "The Spiritual Path of Generosity" or "The Sermon on the Amount" with Rev. Linda Goodman Let's celebrate the gifts we have received from The Tree of Life Temple with song, with gratitude, and a dash of humor. Let's also consider what gifts we have that we can offer back to the community. About Rev. Linda: Rev. Linda is a singer, a dreamer, and the Presiding Minister of Tree of Life Interfaith Temple. |
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Sunday, February 14
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Puppy Love: Lessons from My New Puppy for All of Us with Rev. Carrie Ives Our new puppy, Star, came to live with us on January 15, 2021. Tune in to find out what lessons she has for all of us! I’m guessing they will have to do with patience and cuteness.... but what else? About Rev. Carrie: Rev. Carrie Ives has been an interfaith minister since 2013 and spiritual director since 2015. She had three dogs between 2004 and 2017. Her new dog Star is her first puppy. |
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Sunday, February 7
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ The Avatar Meher Baba, The Who? with Rev. Steven Schultz This service is about an introduction to Meher Baba. His life and message. God cannot be explained, He cannot be argued about, He cannot be theorized, nor can He be discussed and understood. God can only be lived. Meher Baba About Rev. Steven: Rev Steven Schultz is the Founder of Jesus and Friends Interfaith Ministries and graduate of Tree Of Life Seminary. |
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Sunday, January 31
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ The Way You Think It is is Not the Way It Is At All! (attributed to St. Olan, early Christian Irish Saint) with Rev. Ilona Kwiecien Have you ever been “stuck in a certainty” only to discover it was “not the way you thought, at all!” This Sunday morning, we will ponder “Not Knowing.” Is that comfortable? How much do we prefer having all the answers? Mystery – is that a scary word? To what extent are we open to it and the wonder and awe it can evoke? How do various faith traditions help us connect with that “Cloud of Unknowing?” We are faced with much uncertainty as we enter 2021. How can we deal with it in ways which lead us closer to God and to a grateful heart? If you think you know…maybe not?! About Rev. Ilona: Rev Ilona Kwiecien is a 2013 graduate of Tree of Life Seminary, a retired hospice chaplain (after 10 years) who also served as chaplain in a hospital and nursing homes, and a lover of Mystery. |
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Sunday, January 24
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ From Here to There; The Path of Least Resistance with Rev. Ahjan Grossman Please email templenews@tolit.org to request the Zoom link. How is it that we get to where we are going? Is it by sheer determination or by going with the flow? Or, as we shift out of our one-or-the-other consciousness is it a bit of both? East and West pose divergent approaches considering the Path of Least Resistance and God. Using visuals from above and personal tales from the river, we'll go inward to explore our own reliance on the flow of the Divine. About Rev. Ahjan: A Tree of Life Minister and holder of Divine Consciousness and the spark of Worthiness in all. |
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Sunday, January 17
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Now is the Time with Rev. Kathy Alger Remember your great field of labor is yourself. That is your first task. The weeding, planting, digging, pruning, bearing fruit. There is a time for each of these tasks "Like the exposed roots of the tree, reality unveiled can be many things at the same time: sharp, smooth, ugly, beautiful, painful and healing." Unveiling reveals both gifts and sacrifices..So what are you unveiling in this new year? About Rev. Kathy: Kathy was ordained through Tree of Life Interfaith Seminary in 2018. |
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Sunday, January 10
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Lighten Up: Make this Year Awesome with Rev. Debb-Ellen Brown Coming from a year of tremendous intensity and challenge, let's pay heed to the challenges of a child... Lighten Up, let's make this new year awesome. Looking back, looking forward, creating a heart that is young, pliable, optimistic, hopefilled, playful and undaunted...thru videos, prayer, song, reflection, chant, silence. About Rev. Debb-Ellen: I work in the Funeral and Cemetery Industry and it has truly been my practice, my playfulness, my belief in the New Jerusalem that gives me the heart to enter into this oh so very intense and serious ministry. Let's take on this New Year together... |
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Sunday, January 3, 2021
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ We Begin Again in Love with Rev. Linda Goodman Join us in a ritual of release, bidding good-bye to the disappointments, sorrows, anger that the past year may have brought and starting a "viral" spread of love in the new year! About Rev. Linda: Rev. Linda Goodman has been fully "infected" with love of God/dess and wants to invite you to join the movement to make it a pandemic. She is the Presiding Minister of Tree of Life Interfaith Temple. |
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Sunday, December 27
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Embracing the Dark with Rev. Linda Goodman Blessed be! The light is returning! Yet we are still in a dark season, both earthly and emotionally. Let us explore the gifts of the dark. As Wendell Barry says in To Know the Dark. To go into the dark with a light is to know the light. To know the dark, go dark, with no sight, And find that dark too blooms and sings, and is traveled by dark feet and dark wings. About Rev. Linda: Rev. Linda is the current Presiding Minister of the Tree of Life Temple. She is offering this service in place of the annual Solstice Spiral ceremony. We can still gather on Zoom to share the warmth of community and light of love in cold dark times. |
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Wednesday, December 23
7:00-8:00 p.m. ~ Blue Christmas Vespers Service with Rev. Linda Goodman A gentle, contemplative service for those feeling less than joyous. Some may feel out of step with the hap-hap-happiest time of the year. The constant reminders of the joyfulness of the season, the gathering together of family and friends, reminds many people of what they have lost. Offer up your sadness to the virtual altar of community and know that you are not alone. About Rev. Linda: Rev. Linda is the current Presiding Minister of the Tree of Life Interfaith Temple. |
Services for Fall 2020
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Sunday, December 20
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Star of Wonder...Star of Night with Rev. Stephanie Rutt In this Christmas celebration, we'll follow the star of wonder, star of night, that will lead us to that perfect light. We'll walk in the footsteps of Mary, the wise men and the shepherds and see how we too may find that perfect light in our lives today, most wondrously hidden in the words of Jesus. Come . . . you just may discover the wonder! About Rev. Stephanie: Rev. Stephanie is the founder of Tree of Life Interfaith Temple. |
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Sunday, December 13
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ A God Who Looks Like Me with Seminarian DeAnne DeVaul Advent, with all of its anticipations and longings, is a time of preparation. This year is no different than any other (except that we seek for something deeper). There are no gifts wrapped and gently placed under our trees that answer the question we have been asking for months: "Where is God in all of this?" Immediately, images of the Divine pass through my mind. "Baby Jesus" isn't old enough yet... I need to have a "sit down" or a "drag out" with....Well, with a God who looks like me. At this time of the year, my search for a deeper understanding of "God-with-Us" has led me to a prehistoric Aztec city, Teotihuaca, the "City of the Gods," near the famed Great Pyramids of the Sun and Moon. It is there, where millions throng to the Basilica in Mexico City to get a glimpse of a 500 year old tilma with a miraculous image imprinted upon it. It is the image of a woman who looks like me. It is Our Lady of Guadalupe, the Goddess of the Americas for some. She is the One with the key, the One who will show us the "face of God". Come and see! About DeAnne: DeAnne is a Tree of Life Seminarian with a Master's degree from Seattle University's School of Theology. She has worked as a Director of Music and Religious Education, and as a Director of a 90-bed Domestic Violence shelter. She loves teaching middle school! Her motto: Teach and be PEACE. |
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Sunday, December 6
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Don’t Scare the Dough with Rev. Debb-Ellen Brown Waiting....is it a hindrance, a necessary evil? Could it be a spiritual practice? A birthing? An art? A lesson or ever so precious gift? And what is waiting anyway? Let us gather in sacred stillness to celebrate the rising of the yeast, the baking of the bread, that first bite of fresh sweetness at the end of our wait. Before joining us for worship, why don't you add to your experience by teasing your senses, put a loaf of bread into your oven ... enjoy its aroma as we gather in waiting. About Debb-Ellen: I am a woman in waiting...wrapped tenderly in an amazing cocoon...oh my, what transformation must be occurring in my 66th year. |
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Sunday, November 29
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ SPECIAL SERVICE: Deep Roots, New Branches - Installation Service Please join us for this very special service where we will honor our past and explore our future with an official installation of Rev. Linda Goodman as the Presiding Minister of the Tree of Life Interfaith Temple and Seminary. Please CLICK HERE to view the formal invitation and information on how to send prayers and blessings for Rev. Linda (to be included in the service!). |
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Sunday, November 22
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Finding the Heart of Love: A Journey of Gratitude in Three Stories with Rev. Stephanie Rutt In this Thanksgiving Celebration, you'll be invited into a journey of gratitude where you'll be led straight into the heart of love by three stories: The Kiss; A Cab Ride; and, The Umbrella. At each stop, you'll be invited to pause and reflect tenderly upon the love that cracks you open and brings only the silent whisper of eternal gratitude...a love that can only say, "Thank you." About Rev. Stephanie: Rev. Stephanie is the Founder and Vision Seed of Tree of Life Interfaith Temple, including the Tree of Life Interfaith Seminary, and also serves the world through the Tree of Life School for Sacred Living. |
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Sunday, November 15
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ AFGO with Rev. Kathleen Alger “This is the day the Lord hath made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Are they just spoken words? What if the day is filled with terror, pain and disbelief? Can it also be filled with grace and gratitude? Can I really rejoice? Journey with me as we explore the “dog days of summer” through the lens of an AFGO and at the end of the day truly rejoice. Tune in to find out what AFGO means! Rev. Kathleen is a 2018 graduate of the Tree of Life Interfaith Seminary. |
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Sunday, November 8
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Walking in a Sacred Manner with Rev. Ahjan Grossman While reading Black Elk Speaks, I was moved by this warrior and medicine man's reference to "seeing" and "walking in a Sacred Manner." How might operating from a Sacred Manner impact our lives? We will reflect on some of the teachings of Black Elk's Great Vision with the hope that we can look beyond the broken hoop of humanity, touching the center within our hearts where the Great Spirit resides. About Ahjan: Reverend Ahjan is an ardent explorer of Sacred Studies and is an Interfaith Minister with the Tree of Life Interfaith Temple. She has had a Native American spirit guide with her since her youth. |
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Sunday, October 25
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Taking Ourselves Lightly with Rev. Ilona Kwiecien, Alexis Eaton, and guest Gene Faxon Let’s take ourselves lightly this morning…give it our best shot, anyway! Join Ilona, Alexis, and Gene Faxon (our guest and music minister of First Church in Jaffrey) to take a look at humor…our need for it, especially during these times; how it plays in our lives…and God’s; how it enhances joy and gratitude; plus some history and interfaith perspectives on the subject. Come prepared to laugh, not take yourselves seriously for a while, stomp your feet and/or clap, share a joke or two, stand on your head (GOTCHA!!). Have a "noise maker" handy! |
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Sunday, November 1
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Dia le Los Muertos with Rev. Peggy Petahtegoose and guest Senorita Victoria Carrington Discover more about this Mexican celebration of the loved ones who have passed. How they are honored and remembered each year in this 3 day celebration. Guest speaker, Senorita Victoria Carrington, will share her understanding and love of this beautiful vibrant and touching holy tradition. About Peggy: I am a dedicated member of the Tree of Life Interfaith Temple. My passion is earth based ancient spiritual practices. I honor the beauty of each belief system, as we all climb to reach our Beloved known by a thousand names. |
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Sunday, October 18
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Wild Jesus with Rev. Steven Schultz How do you know what you know? Christ is wild and can never be domesticated. God cannot be explained, he cannot be argued about, he cannot be theorized, nor can he be discussed and understood. God can only be lived. Maher Baba About Steven: I am Reverend Steven Schultz, a graduate of Tree Of Life interfaith seminary. My spiritual work in the world is to make known the unknown. If only we could see, what a beautiful world it would be. |
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Sunday, October 11
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Americans Finding Balance with Rev. Carrie Ives As we are on the verge of what many have called a ‘potentially life-changing’ election, many of us struggle to find spiritual balance. Balancing the spiritual practice of social justice work; grief and atonement for the sins and struggles of our country, both past and present; hope for a future of love and dignity for all - it’s a lot to juggle! Today we will explore finding spiritual balance in this special time of history. About Carrie: I graduated from Tree of Life Seminary in 2013, a much simpler time. I focus my work on spiritual direction, and especially appreciate working with people with serious and/or chronic illness. I am continually trying to find spiritual balance while striving to create a better world. |
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Sunday, October 4
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Looking into the Eyes of the Other with Rev. Deb-Ellen Brown and DeAnne DeVaul On this, the feast of St. Francis, we would like us to prayerfully learn to move beyond our own fears and instead, look with profound love and compassion, into the eyes of those whom we might otherwise avoid, be fearful or ignorant of, have reservations or misunderstandings about. This will be a time of song, art, meditation, prayer and reflection, and commissioning. About Deb-Ellen: Once a Franciscan, always a Franciscan--lay or professed. One of our professed sisters taught me this beautiful yet simple song to live by: "pauper sum ego/ nihil habeo / cor meum dabo" About DeAnne: DeAnne is a Tree of Life Seminarian and holds a Master's degree from Seattle University's School of Theology. She has worked in ministry as a music and religious education Director from ages 10 to 90! She claims to have Franciscan blood in her as she proclaims "Peace and Good" to all! |
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Sunday, September 27
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Mindful Walking: A Path to Grace with Joe Pollock The coming autumn is a perfect time to try the practice of walking meditation. Join us for an exploration of literally "walking our path" through music, poetry, and homily. About Joe Pollock: Joe will say he's not a minister, but he is a frequent and valued contributor to the music and meaning offered at Tree of Life Interfaith Temple services. |
Services for Summer 2020
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Sunday, September 20
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Noninterference with Rev. Peggy Petahtegoose We all started from Stardust and yet now we are the most destructive creatures on earth. Can we find guidance in prayers and indigenous people of the world? About Rev. Peggy Petahtegoose: I am Anishnawbek, one of the orginal people, created from stardust as our stories of creation go. I follow the guidance of our Beloved each day. Trusting in faith the outcome for the highest good of those I am asked to serve, even myself. |
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Sunday, September 13
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ See No Stranger with Rev. Linda Goodman When fear is used to divide and control, love is revolutionary. In this, our official welcoming service of our church year, we will explore together how to build beloved community from insulated and deeply polarized bubbles of humanity. In Valarie Kaur's newly released book, See No Stranger, we are enjoined to view the other from the perspective of "You Are A Part of Me I Don't Yet Know." About Rev. Linda Goodman: Rev. Linda is the current Presiding Minister of the Tree of Life Interfaith Temple and Seminary. |
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Sunday, September 6
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Our Sacred Dreams with Carolyn Tobin The service will provide an exploration of the concept of sacred dreams. During the course of an interactive hour I intend to address three questions: 1. What is a sacred dream? 2. How do we access or identify our sacred dreams? 3. How do we manifest our sacred dreams in our lives? Time will be provided for reflection and sharing. About Carolyn Tobin: I am a recent graduate of the Tree of Life Interfaith Seminary. I come from Dublin, Ireland and moved to the USA with my family 15 years ago to take up a post as a nursing professor at UNH. I currently live in Portsmouth New Hampshire. |
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Sunday, August 30
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Animal Speak with Joe Pollock Do you know your spirit animal, animal guide, animal speak? The animals that share our dreams, our world, and our inner journeys have much to reveal to us if we understand how to interpret our encounters with them. About Joe Pollock: Joe is every animal's favorite person. He speaks animal. |
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Sunday, August 23
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Conversations of the Heart - Love Over Fear with Rev. Linda Goodman We are living in a deeply polarized time of us vs. them. Sharing another's perspective from a place of love for the Divinity in all, we may find common ground to create a more peaceful world for all. We will be joined in this conversation by my son, Police Sergeant Schneider. About Rev. Linda Goodman: Rev. Linda is the current Presiding Minister of the Tree of Life Interfaith Temple and a Braver Angels trained moderator of conversations with the "other." |
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Sunday, August 16
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Call the Midwife - My Song is in Labor with Rev. Debora-Ellen Brown Each of us is born with a personal song...our culture has not yet recognized this incredible gift and treasure of our birthright. Let us listen to its heartbeat and prepare ourselves for its birth. About Rev. Debora-Ellen: I am a simple soul, a pilgrim of many years. Currently my ministry takes me into the tombs of death as I work in an SCI funeral home and cemetery, and I am pregnant with song, my song “Burning Ember.” Rev. Debora-Ellen was ordained at Tree of Life Interfaith Seminary in 2015. She is a certified spiritual director; a Dream Group Leader, Facilitator and Presenter; and a grief counselor, funeral director's assistant and minister for Service Corporation International in the Chicago area. |
Ruth Cunningham, Sound Healer
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Sunday, August 9
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Music as Spiritual Practice with Sound Healer Ruth Cunningham, introduced by Seminarian Gail Barrows Singer, Sound Healer, and former member of the women's vocal quartet Anonymous 4, Ruth Cunningham will treat us to an exploration of music as a spiritual practice and a musical meditation. Gail was so moved by Ruth’s recent virtual retreat, she invited the retreat leader to join us! A question and answer period will follow. About Ruth Cunningham: Ruth is a sound healing practitioner and was a founding member of the group Anonymous 4. She specializes in early music performance as well as improvisational sacred music from varied spiritual traditions in both liturgical and concert settings. She works with individuals and groups on using the voice and music for healing and creating a spiritual practice using sound. She has performed and recorded with Anonymous 4, Ana Hernandez, Pomerium, and individually. She is a member of the core faculty for The Chartres Academy Wisdom School that meets in Chartres, France each summer. www.ruthcunningham.com About Gail Barrows: I am currently a Tree of Life Interfaith Seminary seminarian who loves music, movement, and dance as well as every kind of reading. I have a spiritual direction practice. I am a spouse, grandmother, mother, sister and global citizen. I am energized by compassionate connection with all of creation. |
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Sunday, August 2
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Exploring the Thresholds in our Lives with Barbara Thorngren Thresholds are those spaces between, when we move from one place to the next, from inner journey to outer worldly pilgrimage; from dawn to day we pass over/through a threshold. During our time together we will explore thresholds, both their challenges and their gifts. To support our exploration of thresholds, we will engage in the ancient contemplative practice of praying with sacred texts called Lectio Divina which means, "sacred reading." About Barbara Thorngren: I am a former nurse, educator and currently a seminary student. My homestead welcomes visitors to be with our animals (post COVID-19) and participate in a variety of Healing Arts programs including Reiki. |
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Sunday, July 26
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ "It is not so much presence of God. God is always present. It is we humans who are absent from our own heart." with Rev. Ahjan Grossman “Nothing in existence can overcome you when you know who you really are. This discovery begins to unfold when your mind enters your heart." Mooji We will draw from the wisdom of an Islamic Prayer of the Heart and experience Satsang, Truth, through a shared guided meditation with Moojibaba. "Once you have the eyes and heart to see it, all of life is Satsang, calling you home to your limitless Being." About Rev. Ahjan Grossman: I am That. |
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Sunday, July 19
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Who We Are with Rev. Linda Goodman In a time of rapid transition we may feel a need to revisit who we are as a community. Grounded in our long established vision and mission, we move forward knowing that our forms may change but we are secure in our purpose. |
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Sunday, July 12
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Stories from the Original Peoples of This Land with Rev. Peggy Petahtegoose Stories from the Original Peoples of this land. Please join me, Reverend Peggy Petahtegoose, as I share some teaching stories from the Native culture. What’s a Rose got to do with it? And what about How Mosquitoes came to be!! Get your coffee and cinnamon rolls and enjoy! |
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Sunday, July 5
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Ho'oponopono with Rev. Debora-Ellen Brown Forgiveness, releasing the ties one has on us, we have on another. We are one Village, if we continue to hold one another in bondage, the collective We, the sacred I, will never burst into the Lotus Blossom Please bring a candle (real or battery-powered) to the service. About Rev. Debora-Ellen: I.....I am...I am still trying to find who I am, what song was song at my birth, where the Beloved calls me into Service. I am evolving, stumbling, and all is well (on most days). Rev. Debora-Ellen was ordained at Tree of Life Interfaith Seminary in 2015. She is a certified spiritual director; a Dream Group Leader, Facilitator and Presenter; and a grief counselor, funeral director's assistant and minister for Service Corporation International in the Chicago area. |
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Sunday, June 28
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Isis, Goddess of 10,000 Names with Rev. Carrie Ives The Ancient Egyptian Goddess Isis is known as the Goddess of 10,000 Names. She is the Divine Feminine in all her manifestations, including many of the Greek and Roman goddesses and even - it is said - of the Virgin Mary of Christianity. We will explore together the myth of Isis and how her following continues to the present day. We will honor together the Divine Feminine in all her forms. I invite your curiosity! Rev. Carrie Ives was ordained at Tree of Life Interfaith Seminary in 2013. She is a spiritual director, a lover of God, and has been honoring Isis since 2018. |
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Sunday, June 21
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Conversations of the Heart: The Conversation Continues with Members of the Leadership Council The conversation around finding the best location vessel to hold the vision seed of the Tree of Life continues. Let us be reminded of our vision as we ponder how best to serve the world at this tipping point in how we choose to live in the world. We look forward to your thoughts, comments and suggestions. Ballots for the vote on the direction for obtaining a new space are active online until June 30. If you are a member, go to the TOL website and you will find it under the "Temple" tab - LINK HERE. If you are not a member and would like to be, that form is also under the Temple tab on the website. |
Services for Spring 2020
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Sunday, June 14
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Conversation of the Heart: SPACE with Members of the Leadership Council A task force of our Leadership Council has done some great work looking at potential new homes for Tree of Life Interfaith Temple. In discussion with the full Leadership Council, these options have been narrowed to our three best contenders. At this conversation with the community, the choices will be shared and reviewed. We look forward to your thoughts, comments and suggestions. A vote on which option we choose will be upcoming; date TBA! |
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Sunday, June 7
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ “Changes are Afoot!” Coffee & Conversation with Tree of Life Founding Minister Rev. Stephanie Rutt and Presiding Minister Rev. Linda Goodman As Rev. Stephanie steps away from the role of presiding minister and Rev. Linda picks up the mantle, the two acknowledge the changes, share an appreciation of what has been, and welcome in who and what will be. Bring your coffee, your comments, and your questions to this informal gathering, and help us envision the future of our Temple. |
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Sunday, May 31
10:00-11:00 a.m. ~ Mourning our Losses - Past and Present with Rev. Peggy Petahtegoose Please gather some photos of loved ones around you. We will offer prayers and comfort to one another in this very difficult time, knowing also that “This too shall pass.” |
Sunday, May 10
10:00 - 11:00 am ~ Sunday Worship with Steven Schultz
On love
What do we know about love?
What do we know about how to love God and each other?
A bit about Steven Schultz: I am a Tree of Life Seminarian. Carol ask if I would consider doing a worship Service. I believe this will be good practice for me and think all Seminarians should do the same. I am honored to be ask.
10:00 - 11:00 am ~ Sunday Worship with Steven Schultz
On love
What do we know about love?
What do we know about how to love God and each other?
A bit about Steven Schultz: I am a Tree of Life Seminarian. Carol ask if I would consider doing a worship Service. I believe this will be good practice for me and think all Seminarians should do the same. I am honored to be ask.
Sunday, May 24 (rescheduled)
10:00 – 11:00 a.m. ~ Loneliness or Solitude with Rev. Kathy Alger
Henri Nouwen said, “to live a spiritual life we must first find the courage to enter into the desert of loneliness and to change it by gentle and persistent efforts into a garden of solitude.” During this time of isolation, do you find yourself in the desert or in the garden? Come find healing in knowing that we are not al-one, but all one with our Beloved
A bit about Rev. Kathy: Ordained 2018
10:00 – 11:00 a.m. ~ Loneliness or Solitude with Rev. Kathy Alger
Henri Nouwen said, “to live a spiritual life we must first find the courage to enter into the desert of loneliness and to change it by gentle and persistent efforts into a garden of solitude.” During this time of isolation, do you find yourself in the desert or in the garden? Come find healing in knowing that we are not al-one, but all one with our Beloved
A bit about Rev. Kathy: Ordained 2018
Sunday May 3 via Zoom
10:00-11:00~ Sunday worship with Lyrion ApTower
Death in the Spring
Lyrion ApTower will present the Wiccan view of the seasons and the Cycles of Life, Death and Rebirth. At this time, when life is supposed to flourish so many people have been devastated by the Covid-19 pandemic, Lyrion offers an alternative Spiritual approach to explain the inevitable Cycles that are in play.
Musical selections will (hopefully) be offered at each of the four segments.
A bit about Lyrion: Lyrion ApTower is a Wiccan Priestess of the Granite Tower in Wilton. She has been ministering to the Pagan Community for ~30 years and is consulted by members of the general public on spiritual matters. She is involved in all Cycles of life from birthing, unity, partings, separations and death.
10:00-11:00~ Sunday worship with Lyrion ApTower
Death in the Spring
Lyrion ApTower will present the Wiccan view of the seasons and the Cycles of Life, Death and Rebirth. At this time, when life is supposed to flourish so many people have been devastated by the Covid-19 pandemic, Lyrion offers an alternative Spiritual approach to explain the inevitable Cycles that are in play.
Musical selections will (hopefully) be offered at each of the four segments.
A bit about Lyrion: Lyrion ApTower is a Wiccan Priestess of the Granite Tower in Wilton. She has been ministering to the Pagan Community for ~30 years and is consulted by members of the general public on spiritual matters. She is involved in all Cycles of life from birthing, unity, partings, separations and death.
Sunday, April 26
10:00 – 11:00am ~ Sunday Worship with Rev. Ilona Kwiecien
Letting the Story Unfold
Life consists of stories within inter-related stories. If in our impatience/need for immediate closure we stop listening, we won't get the "whole picture," missing the lessons offered. How can we unfold into the story...our own and that of our community? Mark Nepo writes, "In the unfolding is the way." Let's unfold!! Ilona
10:00 – 11:00am ~ Sunday Worship with Rev. Ilona Kwiecien
Letting the Story Unfold
Life consists of stories within inter-related stories. If in our impatience/need for immediate closure we stop listening, we won't get the "whole picture," missing the lessons offered. How can we unfold into the story...our own and that of our community? Mark Nepo writes, "In the unfolding is the way." Let's unfold!! Ilona
10:00 – 11:00 am ~ The Long and Winding Road with Rev. Ahjan Grossman
Drawing from the wisdom of "Power v. Force" we'll explore how all of our shared human experiences place us on a path, if we're awake, toward a singular yearning; knowing and experiencing the "Unified Presence". This end destination of highest vibration is common across all faith traditions.
We'll look at Dr. David Hawkin's Map of Consciousness and how this wisdom might ease our tendency to place judgement on others and accept the world as it is.
Drawing from the wisdom of "Power v. Force" we'll explore how all of our shared human experiences place us on a path, if we're awake, toward a singular yearning; knowing and experiencing the "Unified Presence". This end destination of highest vibration is common across all faith traditions.
We'll look at Dr. David Hawkin's Map of Consciousness and how this wisdom might ease our tendency to place judgement on others and accept the world as it is.
April 12 Easter Service with Rev. Dr. Stephanie Rutt
April 5, 2020 With Rev. Kathy Alger ; via Zoom Palm Sunday
Palm Sunday signifies the beginning of Holy Week in the Christian Faith Tradition. Sounds of joyous “Hosanna” to angry “crucify him” ring out through the week. Is it Triumph or Tragedy? Explore with me the events that lead up to Easter. Come, your donkey awaits...
A bit about Rev. Kathy: Ordained 2018
Palm Sunday signifies the beginning of Holy Week in the Christian Faith Tradition. Sounds of joyous “Hosanna” to angry “crucify him” ring out through the week. Is it Triumph or Tragedy? Explore with me the events that lead up to Easter. Come, your donkey awaits...
A bit about Rev. Kathy: Ordained 2018
March 29 Julie Beauchemin
March 22 with Joe Pollock
The World According to Joe
Joe will share with us a perspective on how the sightless “see” life.
The World According to Joe
Joe will share with us a perspective on how the sightless “see” life.
Services for Winter 2019-2020
March 15 with Rev.Peggy Petahtegoose
Creation Story and Water Walker
"There is one God looking down on us all. We are all children of one God. God is listening to me. The sun, the darkness, the winds, are all listening to what we now say"
Goyathlay (Geronimo), Apache Medicine Man and War Chief, 1829-1909
Stories from the Anishnawbek people.
A bit about Re. Peggy: I am passionate about my Anishnawbek heritage and our Mother Earth. I believe are all created from and carry within us the divine spark of the Beloved. Cherish one another each day.
Creation Story and Water Walker
"There is one God looking down on us all. We are all children of one God. God is listening to me. The sun, the darkness, the winds, are all listening to what we now say"
Goyathlay (Geronimo), Apache Medicine Man and War Chief, 1829-1909
Stories from the Anishnawbek people.
A bit about Re. Peggy: I am passionate about my Anishnawbek heritage and our Mother Earth. I believe are all created from and carry within us the divine spark of the Beloved. Cherish one another each day.
March 8 with Rev. Linda Goodman
Please note that this Services is starting on Daylight savings time.
Across the Great Divide
We seem to live in a country hopelessly polarized on a number of levels? How do we see the face of God/dess in our neighbors when their religious or political beliefs are so completely opposite our own? Join me in a conversation about how to depolarize our conversations and recognize ourselves in all.
A bit about Rev. Linda: Linda is a Better Angels moderator, trained to teach skills of communication with the "other."
Please note that this Services is starting on Daylight savings time.
Across the Great Divide
We seem to live in a country hopelessly polarized on a number of levels? How do we see the face of God/dess in our neighbors when their religious or political beliefs are so completely opposite our own? Join me in a conversation about how to depolarize our conversations and recognize ourselves in all.
A bit about Rev. Linda: Linda is a Better Angels moderator, trained to teach skills of communication with the "other."
March 1 with Rev. Dr. Stephanie Rutt
Into the Wild: Where Heaven Lives
This service will share stories (and pictures:) of my time with Doug in our annual trips to the Maine wilderness. Funny, heartwarming, delicately light as well as profoundly delicious stories that will offer a gift to all who gather. Come...untether yourself...and step into the wild...
A bit about Stephanie: You know :)
Into the Wild: Where Heaven Lives
This service will share stories (and pictures:) of my time with Doug in our annual trips to the Maine wilderness. Funny, heartwarming, delicately light as well as profoundly delicious stories that will offer a gift to all who gather. Come...untether yourself...and step into the wild...
A bit about Stephanie: You know :)
February 23 Rev. Julie Beauchemin
This service will be from 10-11 am due to Rev. Julies commuting distance!
Faith, Hope, and Love
And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. 1 Corithians13:13
Faith, hope and love are as essential to our souls nourishment and survival as the air we breathe. Let us explore how these three virtues will help us move forward during this time of uncertainty.
This service will be from 10-11 am due to Rev. Julies commuting distance!
Faith, Hope, and Love
And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. 1 Corithians13:13
Faith, hope and love are as essential to our souls nourishment and survival as the air we breathe. Let us explore how these three virtues will help us move forward during this time of uncertainty.
February 16 with Joe & Linda
Love Out of Nowhere
Sometimes we intentionally manifest the relationships we want (or think we want). Sometimes they just come and hit you on the head out of nowhere. In this season of love, Joe and Linda will share their love story and the exciting and wondrous spiritual path that it opened.
A bit about Joe and Linda: Joe and Linda met while making world sacred music recordings with Robert Gass and the On Wings of Song chorus. They have been making music together since 1997. They currently guide the Tree of Life Sacred Singers.
Love Out of Nowhere
Sometimes we intentionally manifest the relationships we want (or think we want). Sometimes they just come and hit you on the head out of nowhere. In this season of love, Joe and Linda will share their love story and the exciting and wondrous spiritual path that it opened.
A bit about Joe and Linda: Joe and Linda met while making world sacred music recordings with Robert Gass and the On Wings of Song chorus. They have been making music together since 1997. They currently guide the Tree of Life Sacred Singers.
February 9 with Barbara Thorngren
Compassionate Service for Australia: Honoring and Exploring Our Interconnectedness
What do we do with all our individual and collective grief? How can we hold this pain and find room for compassion? Through A.R.T., we can Access and acknowledge our pain; Release fear and surrender to nature’s infinite wisdom; and Transform our limitations into possibilities that inspire action and service that we may know the holiness of wholeness, that is grounded in glory.
A bit about Barbara Thorngren, M.Ed. has a background in nursing, healing and peace education. She is passionate about The Circle Way, a collaborative leadership model; expressive arts; animals and spirituality in nature. She is currently enrolled at One Spirit Interfaith, Inter spiritual Seminary.
Compassionate Service for Australia: Honoring and Exploring Our Interconnectedness
What do we do with all our individual and collective grief? How can we hold this pain and find room for compassion? Through A.R.T., we can Access and acknowledge our pain; Release fear and surrender to nature’s infinite wisdom; and Transform our limitations into possibilities that inspire action and service that we may know the holiness of wholeness, that is grounded in glory.
A bit about Barbara Thorngren, M.Ed. has a background in nursing, healing and peace education. She is passionate about The Circle Way, a collaborative leadership model; expressive arts; animals and spirituality in nature. She is currently enrolled at One Spirit Interfaith, Inter spiritual Seminary.
February 2, 2020 with Rev. Carol LaChance
Winter Wisdom
"In the depths of Winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible Summer" Albert Camus
What wisdom does Winter have to teach us? The earth is still, the trees are bare, the landscape is buried in snow. How do we bring nature's wisdom to our spiritual journeys during this season? Come and contemplate the cold in the warmth of community.
Winter Wisdom
"In the depths of Winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible Summer" Albert Camus
What wisdom does Winter have to teach us? The earth is still, the trees are bare, the landscape is buried in snow. How do we bring nature's wisdom to our spiritual journeys during this season? Come and contemplate the cold in the warmth of community.
January 26, 2020 with Jim Curley, Seminarian
Carry on, with Love
Sometimes the universe speaks to us; sometimes we listen.
I’m sure we’ve all had some occasion when you stepped back & thought about some sort of sign that either affirmed what we were doing, or provided some sort of impact to us or our family.
I will share a couple of signs from the universe that I received this past year or so- signs that, to me, affirmed my course of actions.
A bit about Jim
A Unitarian Universalist from Chelmsford, MA, and a student at Tree Of Life Seminary - with plans to complete the course in June this year.
Carry on, with Love
Sometimes the universe speaks to us; sometimes we listen.
I’m sure we’ve all had some occasion when you stepped back & thought about some sort of sign that either affirmed what we were doing, or provided some sort of impact to us or our family.
I will share a couple of signs from the universe that I received this past year or so- signs that, to me, affirmed my course of actions.
A bit about Jim
A Unitarian Universalist from Chelmsford, MA, and a student at Tree Of Life Seminary - with plans to complete the course in June this year.
January 12 with Rev. Ilona Kwiecien
Chaos and “beautiful accidents!” Can they “mutually co-exist?” Come, listen to, and share your beautiful stories.
Chaos and “beautiful accidents!” Can they “mutually co-exist?” Come, listen to, and share your beautiful stories.
January 5, 2020 from 9:30 – 10:30 ~ Miracle Mornings with Rev. Linda Goodman
What if we are the “stem cells” needed to regrow a broken world to a healthy, loving world, supportive for all? Let's look at step-by-step processes that will support change, not just in the new year, but in every single morning.
What if we are the “stem cells” needed to regrow a broken world to a healthy, loving world, supportive for all? Let's look at step-by-step processes that will support change, not just in the new year, but in every single morning.
December 29 with Rev. Karen Manchester
Reflections on the gifts received in 2019
Please join me on the last Sunday of the year, for Reflections on Gifts a difficult year can bestow. Come! The Kal Akal is calling us to find the gifts this year has bestowed as it bows to history and becomes a new year.
Reflections on the gifts received in 2019
Please join me on the last Sunday of the year, for Reflections on Gifts a difficult year can bestow. Come! The Kal Akal is calling us to find the gifts this year has bestowed as it bows to history and becomes a new year.
December 22 - Christmas Service with Rev. Dr. Stephanie Rutt
A Bell and a Nickel
You are joyfully invited to join me on Sunday, December 22, 9:30 AM, for a special Christmas celebration, "A Bell and a Nickel". Come! Remember the Christ within yearning to light the world! Come! Hear the bells from afar and rejoice in the message from the nickel.
Ding Dong...Ding Dong...Christmas is here!
With Abounding Joy!
Stephanie
A Bell and a Nickel
You are joyfully invited to join me on Sunday, December 22, 9:30 AM, for a special Christmas celebration, "A Bell and a Nickel". Come! Remember the Christ within yearning to light the world! Come! Hear the bells from afar and rejoice in the message from the nickel.
Ding Dong...Ding Dong...Christmas is here!
With Abounding Joy!
Stephanie
Services for Fall 2019
December 15 ~ Sunday Worship with Rev. Peggy Petahtegoose
“Join me in a service of giving to one another the peace love and joy that is within our reach each day. Lifting our hearts and voices filling the world with that abundance of love that we each have ready to burst out for ourselves and our Beloved Creator.”
“Join me in a service of giving to one another the peace love and joy that is within our reach each day. Lifting our hearts and voices filling the world with that abundance of love that we each have ready to burst out for ourselves and our Beloved Creator.”
December 8 ~ Are we there yet? with Rev. Ilona Kwiecien
Spiritual teachers remind us time and time again that we are but wanderers in this life (methinks in the next, also!). Yet we often long for reaching some final destination and just staying put. How have we packed for this nomadic life of ours?
Spiritual teachers remind us time and time again that we are but wanderers in this life (methinks in the next, also!). Yet we often long for reaching some final destination and just staying put. How have we packed for this nomadic life of ours?
December 1, 2019- Barbara Thorngren
Embracing the Darkness through the Light of the first Sunday of Advent
For many people, celebrating Advent becomes a joyful time of preparation during the darkest month of the year leading up to Christmas. With traditions and symbolic rituals this very old tradition has transformed in many ways through the ages. Please join us as we explore these traditions, sharing our stories and bring our light to these dark times.
Barbara Thorngren, M.Ed has a background in nursing, healing and peace education. She is passionate about The Circle Way authentic leadership, peace education, expressive arts, spirituality and nature. She is currently enrolled at One Spirit Interfaith, Interspiritual Seminary.
Embracing the Darkness through the Light of the first Sunday of Advent
For many people, celebrating Advent becomes a joyful time of preparation during the darkest month of the year leading up to Christmas. With traditions and symbolic rituals this very old tradition has transformed in many ways through the ages. Please join us as we explore these traditions, sharing our stories and bring our light to these dark times.
Barbara Thorngren, M.Ed has a background in nursing, healing and peace education. She is passionate about The Circle Way authentic leadership, peace education, expressive arts, spirituality and nature. She is currently enrolled at One Spirit Interfaith, Interspiritual Seminary.
November 24 - Thanksgiving Service with Rev. Dr.Stephanie Rutt
Join me in celebration of Thanksgiving with a reflection of wonder, alchemy and ahhhmazing gratitude in As Big as the Sky.
Join me in celebration of Thanksgiving with a reflection of wonder, alchemy and ahhhmazing gratitude in As Big as the Sky.
November 10 - Sunday Morning Sound Bath
Gently vibrate open your soul connections with the sounds of the gongs, crystal bowls, drums, and sweet harmonic vocals of our Tree of Life Sacred Singers.
Gently vibrate open your soul connections with the sounds of the gongs, crystal bowls, drums, and sweet harmonic vocals of our Tree of Life Sacred Singers.
November 3, 2019 ~ 9:30-10:30
with Rev. Linda Goodman
Will the Real Witches Please Stand Up?
What is your service about (75 word maximum)In this “season of the witch” we can see scary images of pointy-hatted hags on broomsticks everywhere. But there is a tradition of wise women, herbalists, and healers who practiced the craft long before they became demonized and persecuted by the patriarchal powers. Let's take a look at the nature-based spirituality of our crafty ancestors and ancestresses.
About Rev. Linda Goodman: Rev. Linda is an ordained Interfaith Minister, Music Minister, and Mentor. She has been leading interfaith and multi-cultural worship in various Unitarian Universalist churches for over 20 years.
with Rev. Linda Goodman
Will the Real Witches Please Stand Up?
What is your service about (75 word maximum)In this “season of the witch” we can see scary images of pointy-hatted hags on broomsticks everywhere. But there is a tradition of wise women, herbalists, and healers who practiced the craft long before they became demonized and persecuted by the patriarchal powers. Let's take a look at the nature-based spirituality of our crafty ancestors and ancestresses.
About Rev. Linda Goodman: Rev. Linda is an ordained Interfaith Minister, Music Minister, and Mentor. She has been leading interfaith and multi-cultural worship in various Unitarian Universalist churches for over 20 years.
October 27, 2019 ~ 9:30-10:30
with Rev. Peggy Petahtegoose
If you merely take in a breath and stop there, you will die. Likewise if you merely breathe out. Life is not giving OR taking, but give and take.
with Rev. Peggy Petahtegoose
If you merely take in a breath and stop there, you will die. Likewise if you merely breathe out. Life is not giving OR taking, but give and take.
October 20, 2019 ~ 9:30-10-30
with Rev. Carol LaChance
To Surrender Like Autumn Leaves
The beautiful leaves of Autumn show us how to surrender gracefully. Come join us in Sacred Circle as together we let go like the leaves to dance on the wind towards the ground of our Being.
About Rev. Carol LaChance: Rev. Carol serves the Tree of Life Interfaith Temple as the Seminary Director. She loves to share her passion for the spiritual journey with others. Carol is presently writing a memoir about her relationship with her horse Max, who was one of her wisest spiritual guides.
with Rev. Carol LaChance
To Surrender Like Autumn Leaves
The beautiful leaves of Autumn show us how to surrender gracefully. Come join us in Sacred Circle as together we let go like the leaves to dance on the wind towards the ground of our Being.
About Rev. Carol LaChance: Rev. Carol serves the Tree of Life Interfaith Temple as the Seminary Director. She loves to share her passion for the spiritual journey with others. Carol is presently writing a memoir about her relationship with her horse Max, who was one of her wisest spiritual guides.
September 29, 2019 ~ 9:30-10:30
with Rev. Jan (Ahjan) Grossman
The Bhagavad Gita:
All world traditions, once one has sat in the silence of their deep Mystery, have the potential to awaken and release untold peace and freedom. Reverend Ahjan will reflect on her journey through the Hindu tradition of the Bhagavad Gita and how it crept in to release some surprising, very human, self-limiting beliefs. We each have the capacity to touch the wonder that awaits us. It is both a birth right and challenge. Feel welcome to explore.
with Rev. Jan (Ahjan) Grossman
The Bhagavad Gita:
All world traditions, once one has sat in the silence of their deep Mystery, have the potential to awaken and release untold peace and freedom. Reverend Ahjan will reflect on her journey through the Hindu tradition of the Bhagavad Gita and how it crept in to release some surprising, very human, self-limiting beliefs. We each have the capacity to touch the wonder that awaits us. It is both a birth right and challenge. Feel welcome to explore.
The Wheel of the Year Turns
with Rev. Linda Goodman
Sept 22, 2019 ~ 9:30 - 10:30
We are at a point in the Wheel of the Year where the energies of earth support reflections on balance. The hours of day and night are in balance. What else might come into balance? Male/female energies? Bhakti/shakti? Devotion and action? Breathing in and breathing out? Come breathe with us.
A bit about Rev. Linda Goodman:
Rev. Linda's spiritual journey went through earth-based spirituality. She is happy to share reflection on tuning our spirits to the energy of the earth cycles.
with Rev. Linda Goodman
Sept 22, 2019 ~ 9:30 - 10:30
We are at a point in the Wheel of the Year where the energies of earth support reflections on balance. The hours of day and night are in balance. What else might come into balance? Male/female energies? Bhakti/shakti? Devotion and action? Breathing in and breathing out? Come breathe with us.
A bit about Rev. Linda Goodman:
Rev. Linda's spiritual journey went through earth-based spirituality. She is happy to share reflection on tuning our spirits to the energy of the earth cycles.
Kick-off Service
"It's a New Day" Mini Retreat and Brunch
with Rev. Dr. Stephanie Rutt
Sept 15, 2019 ** special time** 9:30 - 12:00
Wherever you are in your spiritual walk, come and feel the fingers of another fall into your hands. Perhaps, just perhaps, you may find your heart leaping into the rapture of living seized by that size-less truth of a dream that is right before us...for most truly my beloveds...For love are in you am in i are in we...
"It's a New Day" Mini Retreat and Brunch
with Rev. Dr. Stephanie Rutt
Sept 15, 2019 ** special time** 9:30 - 12:00
Wherever you are in your spiritual walk, come and feel the fingers of another fall into your hands. Perhaps, just perhaps, you may find your heart leaping into the rapture of living seized by that size-less truth of a dream that is right before us...for most truly my beloveds...For love are in you am in i are in we...
Summer Services
Sacred Circles
Thursday evenings, 6:30 - 8:00
Weekly starting Thursday July 11th - August 29
This alternative worship service for the summer months may be in the format of a "Conversation of the Heart", where we practice deep listening, as well as sharing on topics close to our hearts.
It may also take the form of a healing circle, a dance circle, a prayer circle, or a chant circle. Please consider facilitating one of these informal summer circles. Please contact Rev Linda Goodman to schedule your offering.
Thursday August 29
6:30-8:00 Scared Circle with
Rev. Dr. Stephanie Rutt
Come dip your toe in the Well of Love that our founder and Presiding Minister has honed with devotion, care and surrender.
6:30-8:00 Scared Circle with
Rev. Dr. Stephanie Rutt
Come dip your toe in the Well of Love that our founder and Presiding Minister has honed with devotion, care and surrender.
Thursday, August 1
6:30 – 8:00 pm ~ Sacred Song Circle with Linda & Joe
Please join us in a sacred circle of song. Feel free to bring instruments or a favorite chant or song to share.
6:30 – 8:00 pm ~ Sacred Song Circle with Linda & Joe
Please join us in a sacred circle of song. Feel free to bring instruments or a favorite chant or song to share.
Thursday, July 25
6:30 – 8:00 pm ~ Sacred Circle with Joe Pollock
Please join us in a conversation of the heart around the topic of our animal companions, past and present, and our animal guides and totems.
6:30 – 8:00 pm ~ Sacred Circle with Joe Pollock
Please join us in a conversation of the heart around the topic of our animal companions, past and present, and our animal guides and totems.
Thursday Sacred Circle with Barbara Thorngren
July 18, 2019
Gardens: what you sow, so shall you reap
Barbara will hold the circle for us as we discuss tending our own gardens: what you sow, so shall you reap. This will be a great followup to Damanjeet's “Planting Seeds” topic last week. Please join us in a conversation of the heart around the topic of what we are planting in our own gardens today... do we need to plant a little more unconditional love? Do we need to plant a little more forgiveness? Do we need to plant a little more release and letting go? And what are we putting into our soil in order to grow such beautiful plants? And how are we cultivating our soil with love and intention?
July 18, 2019
Gardens: what you sow, so shall you reap
Barbara will hold the circle for us as we discuss tending our own gardens: what you sow, so shall you reap. This will be a great followup to Damanjeet's “Planting Seeds” topic last week. Please join us in a conversation of the heart around the topic of what we are planting in our own gardens today... do we need to plant a little more unconditional love? Do we need to plant a little more forgiveness? Do we need to plant a little more release and letting go? And what are we putting into our soil in order to grow such beautiful plants? And how are we cultivating our soil with love and intention?
Thursday Sacred Circle with Rev. Damanjeet Kaur;
July 11, 2019
Awareness of moving with the seasons and celebrating the season of Summer
Damanjeet invites you to offer a sharing about what the season of Summer means to you. Music and ritual honoring this blessed season of play, rest and patience to receive that which we will reap from that which we have sown are some of the ways we will explore during this first in the Summer Sacred Circle Service.
July 11, 2019
Awareness of moving with the seasons and celebrating the season of Summer
Damanjeet invites you to offer a sharing about what the season of Summer means to you. Music and ritual honoring this blessed season of play, rest and patience to receive that which we will reap from that which we have sown are some of the ways we will explore during this first in the Summer Sacred Circle Service.
June 30,2019; Barbara Thorngren
Spiritual Lessons learned from Loving Trees and the Importance of our Interdependence
Can you remember your first encounter with a tree? Do we really SEE them now?
We know intuitively that a walk in the woods will help us feel better, why is that?
How is our spiritual and physical health and well-being so interconnected with the trees? How is their ancient wisdom shared that is so vast and deep?
Please join me on June 30th as we take a fresh look at our beloved trees
Barbara Thorngren, M.Ed., has a background in nursing and education. She loves working and teaching with her animals, art, spirituality, nature, and especially the trees on her small farm in Temple. She will be starting seminary in September and is excited about embracing and sharing her spiritual life more publicly.
Spiritual Lessons learned from Loving Trees and the Importance of our Interdependence
Can you remember your first encounter with a tree? Do we really SEE them now?
We know intuitively that a walk in the woods will help us feel better, why is that?
How is our spiritual and physical health and well-being so interconnected with the trees? How is their ancient wisdom shared that is so vast and deep?
Please join me on June 30th as we take a fresh look at our beloved trees
Barbara Thorngren, M.Ed., has a background in nursing and education. She loves working and teaching with her animals, art, spirituality, nature, and especially the trees on her small farm in Temple. She will be starting seminary in September and is excited about embracing and sharing her spiritual life more publicly.
Rev. Peggy Petahtegoose; June 23,2019
2019 Services
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June 23,2019;
Rev. Peggy Petahtegoose 
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Love your sacred life
The many wondrous and blessed ways we can love our sacred life each and every day. Join us for an hour of peace love and joy. Beloveds together sharing the abundance of each moment, and whatever else comes up for us! I am an Earth-walker who is in love with her divine and blessed life. Grateful for the Beloveds ever watchful eye. We are all holy and loved,,OH JOY, that is life! |
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June 16, 2019;
Tree of Life Sacred Singers 
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Music Sunday
Tree of Life Sacred Singers will lead an around the world journey of sacred song. |
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June 9, 2019; Rev. Ilona Kwiecien
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On Being Perfect
“I demand imperfection!!” These are words a certain guru is reported to have said. Would we take them to heart? Do we truly believe “we are enough?” What do we do when we fall short? Where do we turn to? Come explore these questions...and perhaps more! Who knows? Ilona’s journey has been one of many twists and turns. It has taken her from Parochial school, to becoming a “stray,” to 26 years in the Army, to re-engagement in an international community in Moscow, to “finding” Hartford Seminary, then Hospice Chaplaincy, and— yeah! — Tree of Life. Whew...what next? |
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June 2, 2019;
Rev. Linda Goodman 
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Sharing Our Stories
Our stories are holy, demonstrating the work of the Divine in our lives. Sharing our spiritual journey is a gift to our fellow seekers, enriching to all. Rev. Linda is a facilitator of small group ministry circles, holding space for each to share the gift of who they are. |
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May 26, 2019;
Rev. Pamela Nowell 
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I wonder and I wander: On Being Ripe
Have you ever wondered if you are doing the right thing? I know I have! I have wondered this often. I just want to get on with it! After all I've been tasked with this life. Tasked with the doing of Gods will. Yet I so often feel not ready, unable, I just don't have what I think I need to do a good job. Sunday I will explore my wondering soul and my life's journey on the art of wandering and being ripe. Let's see where it takes us! Rev. Pamela Nowell has held many hats and explored many curiosities. This life has reached out and grabbed me by the heart. I love God, I love life and I love to explore this world through this lens of love with all who share in it! |
May 19, 2019; Rev. Julie Beauchemin
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The Art of Being Alive
Ella Wheeler Wilcox,an American poet and journalist, wrote "Stop wondering why you were born into this world. Stop looking for faults and flaws. Rise up today with joy and say, “I am going to be alive!" Let us explore together what it means to be alive! Julie Beauchemin is an ordained Interfaith minister. Although she has taken a break from hospice work, her passion lies in ensuring that those who are near the end of their life and their families are provided with caring and compassionate emotional and spiritual support. |
God the Mother
Humankind worshiped the great Goddess for 25,000 years before patriarchal societies repressed her, casting the creator as God the Father. It is time to reclaim and honor the sacred feminine, and to find balance in masculine and feminine aspects of the Divine.
Rev. Linda Goodman is an ordained Interfaith Minister, Music Minister, and Mentor. She has been leading interfaith and multi-cultural worship in various Unitarian Universalist churches for over 20 years.
Humankind worshiped the great Goddess for 25,000 years before patriarchal societies repressed her, casting the creator as God the Father. It is time to reclaim and honor the sacred feminine, and to find balance in masculine and feminine aspects of the Divine.
Rev. Linda Goodman is an ordained Interfaith Minister, Music Minister, and Mentor. She has been leading interfaith and multi-cultural worship in various Unitarian Universalist churches for over 20 years.
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April 28, 2019: Ilona Kwiecien
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Living Prayer
“It doesn’t have to be the blue iris, it could be weeds in a vacant lot...” (from “Praying” by Mary Oliver.). How do we pray? We all have our personal encounters. Come! Experience, reflect on, and share the many ways we pray. Oh, Divine Mystery! Ilona’s journey has been one of many twists and turns. It has taken her from Parochial school, to becoming a “stray,” to 26 years in the Army, to re-engagement in an international community in Moscow, to “finding” Hartford Seminary, then Hospice Chaplaincy, and— yeah! — Tree of Life. Whew...what next? |
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April 21, 2019;
Rev. Stephanie Rutt 
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Alleluia!!!
Easter is a time of celebration - of life, love and wings - yes, wings of the rising Spirit. Come and make a joyful noise as we rise up together fully supported on those blessed wings of Grace. Alleluia!!! Rev. Dr. Stephanie Rutt
Founder and Presiding Minister |
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April 14, 2019;
Rev. Linda Goodman 
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Faith with Feet
How can we best “walk our talk?” When we rise from our meditation cushions and prayers, we need our feet to carry us out into the world to complete the assignments given to us in prayer. This Palm Sunday we will look at the core value of social justice work in all major world religions. "I wake up in the morning and whichever way God turns my feet, I go." Pearl Bailey Rev. Linda Goodman is an ordained Interfaith Minister, Music Minister, and Mentor. She has been leading interfaith and multi-cultural worship in various Unitarian Universalist churches for over 20 years. |
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April 7, 2019:;
Rev. Carol LaChance 
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To God's Hands
"I have carved you in the palm of my hand" Isaiah. How do we hold the paradox that everything is in God's hands, yet God has no hands on earth but our's. Let us come together to celebrate the preciousness and the creativity of our human and divine hands. Rev. Carol LaChance serves the Tree of Life Interfaith Temple as the Seminary Director. She loves to share her passion for the spiritual journey with others. Carol is presently writing a memoir about her relationship with her horse Max, who was one of her wisest spiritual guides.Be Announced |
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March 31, 2019;
Rev. Peggy Petahtegoose 
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Looking to Spring and all it's promise.
The warmth of Spring is shining upon us. We are seeking the new growth in it's many forms. Light from the sun, growth from the earth, new beginnings surround us each way we turn. Rising up from the shelter of winter we will blossom. What does your garden look like in the heart and soul of your God self? Let us come together and celebrate the birth of new beginnings in it's many different forms. Rev. Petahtegoose is a follower of a faith guided life. Having witnessed the blessing of our Creator in a lifetime of twists and turns that have brought her to a wonderful life of Peace Love Joy.
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March 24, 2019;
Rev. Dr. Stephanie Rutt 
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Journey of the Heart: Transition and Transformation
You are most lovingly invited to join me March 24th for "Journey of the Heart: Transition and Transformation." What an exciting time we are in - that exquisite, delicate, challenging, holding-all-possibility place between what was and what will be. Yet, most wondrously, our only job is to stay tuned to our collective heart so we may hear the glorious new song we are carrying already birthed in the mind of God. Come. Tune. And expect only delight. Rev. Dr. Stephanie Rutt
Founder and Presiding Minister |
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March 17 2019;
Rev. Linda Goodman 
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Welcome Ostara, Eostre, Goddess of Spring! At the spring equinox, the goddess of spring and fertility awakens from her winter nap and walks the hills with her hare, turning everything to green, awakening the hibernating creatures, and bringing renewal and rebirth. We will welcome her with story and song. The days of more light than darkness are nearly here!
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March 10, 2019;
Rev. Julie Beauchemin |
What does it mean to be alive? To be open to each moment? To live consciously?
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March 3, 2019;
Rev. Karen Manchester |
To The Choice in the Moment ~ All moments provide us with a choice, it's how we use that choice that helps to design who we are on our walk through this world
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February 17, 2019;
Joe Pollock 
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One More River
In honor of Black History Month, Joe will explore with us the songs of slavery, the underground railroad and their hidden meanings. Join us to celebrate, sing, and honor what courageous, divinely guided people can do against impossible odds. Joseph Pollock, a well known area musician and an avid historian will lead this service, combining his favorite things. |
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February 10, 2019;
Rev. Linda Goodman 
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The Turning of the Wheel of the Year ~ Imbolc
Imbolc, St. Brighid's Day, Candlemas, Groundhog Day - Yes, it's cold outside, and snow still covers the earth. But deep in the earth, creatures are beginning to waken from hibernation. Seeds and bulbs are beginning to send out their tendrils to receive nourishment for a new season of growth. The days are getting longer. Can you begin to feel an awakening; the stirrings of new possibilities? It is time to set our intentions and make plans for our beloved community. Join us for a ritual of planting intentions, followed by a celebratory feast and joyful sacred singing. Rev. Linda Goodman is an ordained Interfaith Minister and has been leading interfaith and multi-cultural worship in various Unitarian Universalist churches for 20 years.
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February 3, 2019;
Rev. Ahjan Grossman 
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To“We believe that God is expressed as the body of all creation, the heart of each faith tradition and the infinite Soul of each person.”
The Tree of Life Interfaith Temple The Sonic Trilogy of Love, Mystical Unity and the Morphing of the Tree of Life Logo You are invited to join Reverend Jan ‘Ahjan’ Grossman, artist and vision holder of the Tree of Life, as she explores her understanding of Dr. Rev Stephanie Rutt’s Sonic Trilogy of Love, the divine core of Unity within each of us and the struggle to create a visual image to represent our potential imprint on this world. Who are we? Where does Interfaith come in? Why your heart matters. |
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January 20, 2019;
Rev. Barbara Landry & Bob Chapin 
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Remembering our Instructions - Lessons Learned from my Grandfather
This is in honor of Medicine Story and will celebrate the Circle Way as well as other wisdom from the Native American tradition. Rev. Damanjeet Kaur and Bob Chapin have been co-journeyers for more than 10 years when Bob joined Damanjeet’s yoga class at Amherst Yoga. Since that time they have done yoga together, studied together, co- facilitated a book club, as well as shared great friendship and laughter. Bob currently serves as Treasurer of the Tree of Life Interfaith Temple and is a member of the Board. Damanjeet is an ordained Interfaith Minister through the Tree of Life and serves as Programs Liaison and sits on the Board. |
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January 6, 2019;
Rev. Peggy Petahtegoose 
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Standing in the Shadows
Are you standing in the shadows? What is it that you learn from this distance. It is one of my vows to offer my hand into the darkness to help bring another into the light. But what if it is me standing there. Perspective is everything when you consider your answer to this question. Lets share our thoughts on this double edged sword. Rev. Peggy Petahtegoose
Most days I am with my grandchildren, teaching yoga, or contemplating my wonderful life. When you as blessed as I am you can't help but shine in the light of the Beloved. |
2018 Services
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December 21, 2018:
Winter Solstice Spiral Ceremony 
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Winter Solstice Spiral Ceremony
On the solstice (sun stands still), the earth will pause at a still point, then turn towards more light. Let us pause in this busy season and join our light with others to the growing light of community. We can brighten the world, one light at a time. Drink in the soft music, candlelight, wonder, and peace. This ceremony is being offered at the UUCM at 6:30pm. REV. LINDA GOODMAN & REV. AHJAN GROSSMAN Rev. Linda Goodman and Rev. Ahjan Grossman have presented this ceremony for many years separately at the Tree of Life Interfaith Temple and at UUCM. This year they join together in a truly interfaith offering. |
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December 16, 2018: REV. LINDA FRASER
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I, like most, delight in this season and do my best to focus on being present to everything. I can't wait to hear ideas, share memories and enjoy each other's presence on Sunday. Let's have fun with this! I am ready!
Come! Come! Come!
We will share practical ideas for how we navigate through these 'busy' days. We will share memories of past seasons. We will share what this season means to us spiritually. We will sing. And we will pray together! For our presence is our present to one another and the world! Let us come together. |
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December 2, 2018
REV. LINDA GOODMAN Rev. Linda Goodman is an ordained Interfaith Minister and has been leading interfaith and multi-cultural worship in various Unitarian Universalist churches for 20 years. Something Wonderful Comes!
Can you feel it? The dark of the day lengthens, but there is a feeling of anticipation. The earth is always turning towards the morning. Soon there will be more light. Take a tour around the world and find the many ways we celebrate the return of the light, lighting many candles to encourage its triumph. Advent, Hannukah, Kwanza, Diwali, Yule. We gather to share music and ritual magic celebrating the light! (It's coming.) |
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November 18, 2018
REV. DR. STEPHANIE RUTT Founder and Presiding Minister The Blessing of Thanksgiving: How Gratitude Unlocks the Secrets of the Universe
Shhhhhhhhh:) Everyone loves a secret! A special Thanksgiving service was offered where we explored how gratitude unlocks the wondrous secrets of the universe...how awe becomes a natural occurrence when we've unlocked the mystery...and how joy then becomes the only possible outcome to infuse our daily living. We also received the gift from the harp lovingly brought forth by our Rev. Pam Nowell. |
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November 4, 2018
REV. PAMELA NOWELL Reverend Pamela Nowell has been a working pottery, musician, sacred artist and general chief cook and bottle washer for over 30 years. She has studied at the Tree of Life for 23 years with Dr. Rev. Stephanie Rutt and ordained in 2011. Love is her guide and mission. In the Potters' Hands
Walk with me as I explore a spiritual path using the practice of forming and firing clay through a potter's perspective. As a potter of 31 years and a lover of God for all of my Life, I have discovered a beautiful truth through my everyday living. Come and hear my story and discoveries. God has wonderful expressions! Come, listen and explore. See you there because all are welcome! |
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October 21, 2018
REV. LINDA FRASER Reverend Linda Fraser loves simple stories for their ability to speak profound truths which just might change the way we see ourselves and rejoice in others. And... Linda promises to share her favorite pumpkin soup as we reflect on transformation. I Am Here in the Pumpkin Patch
It's the perfect time of year to find ourselves in a pumpkin patch! This will not be a Halloween story! No ghosts or goblins or haunted mansions. God created pumpkins. Let's consider this creation in the farmer's field. Join us and see what happens. Rev. Linda's post service comment: "As we reflected on the Pumpkin who is transformed after being cleansed, and hollowed out and given eyes to see clearly, a nose to smell, and a broad smile and whose light shines forth for for all, we were brought to spontaneously sing 'This little light of mine, I'm going to let it shine'. We touched our collective Joy, and we smiled broadly!" |
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October 7, 2018
REV. LINDA GOODMAN As a guest minister in a number of Unitarian Universalist and Interfaith Temple pulpits for nearly twenty years, it is my great pleasure to offer reflections and/or music on inclusiveness, meaningful actions, earth based rituals, world spiritual practices, and being the change. The Legend of the Rainbow Warrior
"Indigenous Peoples Day" re-imagines Columbus Day and changes a celebration of colonialism into an opportunity to honor the humble path of mutual relations, a path rooted in relationships with the earth and other living beings, the path that leads from exploitation and excess to sustainability and spiritual connection. "There will come a day when all races shall bind together under the sign of the rainbow and spread the wisdom of living in harmony with all." |
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September 16, 2018: REV. DR. STEPHANIE RUTT
Founder and Presiding Minister 
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Answering the Call to Change the World One Encounter at a Time!
Come and join us in humble, ecstatic, celebration for our new home on the Milford Oval, where we are launching our vision in answer to that which has been asked of us: to change the world one encounter at a time. Rev. Dr. Stephanie's key quote from this service: "In great deeds, something abides. On great fields, something stays.
Forms change and pass. Bodies disappear but spirits linger to consecrate the ground for the vision place of the soul. And reverent men and women from afar and generations that know us not and that we know not of shall come here to ponder and to dream and the power of the vision shall pass into their souls." Joshua Lawrence Chamberlain, 1828-1914 |