https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.orgWeekly messages from Unity of Walnut Creek.enUnity of Walnut CreekUnity of Walnut Creekpodcast@unityofwalnutcreek.orgfalsehttps://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2025-06-08-many-colors-of-the-one-part-2/431945b1-2f43-41f7-aaa2-21201e696440Sun, 08 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000In this inspiring continuation of "Many Colors of the One," the speaker explores the transformative power of imagination through Joseph's remarkable journey from rejected dreamer to nourisher of nations. Drawing parallels between Joseph's gift of dream interpretation and Unity co-founder Charles Fillmore's visionary dreams that guided the movement's founding, the message reveals how our imaginative capacity allows us to envision possibilities beyond current circumstances. The speaker emphasizes that true spiritual nourishment comes through three essential practices - engaging our imagination to see the bigger picture, embracing radical honesty in our relationships, and choosing forgiveness as a pathway to reconciliation and love.In this inspiring continuation of "Many Colors of the One," the speaker explores the transformative power of imagination through Joseph's remarkable journey from rejected dreamer to nourisher of nations. Drawing parallels between Joseph's gift of dream interpretation and Unity co-founder Charles Fillmore's visionary dreams that guided the movement's founding, the message reveals how our imaginative capacity allows us to envision possibilities beyond current circumstances. The speaker emphasizes that true spiritual nourishment comes through three essential practices - engaging our imagination to see the bigger picture, embracing radical honesty in our relationships, and choosing forgiveness as a pathway to reconciliation and love.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2025-06-01-many-colors-of-the-one-part-1/6294cc52-1374-4f14-8b6a-c3491b4a31b1Sun, 01 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000In this powerful opening to "Many Colors of the One," Rev. Kristin explores the biblical story of Joseph and his coat of many colors as a metaphor for celebrating our authentic selves and embracing diversity. Through Joseph's journey from being different and rejected by his brothers to ultimately thriving by remaining true to himself, she illuminates how our perceived differences are actually divine gifts meant to be celebrated rather than hidden. Rev. Kristin challenges the congregation to move beyond tolerance to true celebration of all people, particularly during Pride Month, emphasizing that authentic belonging comes not from conforming to others' expectations but from courageously being who we are meant to be.In this powerful opening to "Many Colors of the One," Rev. Kristin explores the biblical story of Joseph and his coat of many colors as a metaphor for celebrating our authentic selves and embracing diversity. Through Joseph's journey from being different and rejected by his brothers to ultimately thriving by remaining true to himself, she illuminates how our perceived differences are actually divine gifts meant to be celebrated rather than hidden. Rev. Kristin challenges the congregation to move beyond tolerance to true celebration of all people, particularly during Pride Month, emphasizing that authentic belonging comes not from conforming to others' expectations but from courageously being who we are meant to be.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2025-05-11-may-11-2025-divine-mother-supports-me/d48e7750-8a41-4017-9f70-35c527a97a6cSun, 11 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000In this heartwarming Mother's Day message, Rev. Kristin explores the profound and accessible nature of Divine Mother Love, drawing from both personal experiences and universal spiritual truths. She invites listeners to recognize the many forms of nurturing support they've received - from biological mothers to caregivers, mentors, and the Divine Mother herself - encouraging gratitude for the "nest builders" who have shaped their lives. Through beautiful imagery of hummingbird mothers and ancient symbols like the Egyptian throne of Isis, she illustrates how this unconditional love manifests as both gentle compassion and powerful strength. Rev. Kristin offers practical spiritual tools for accessing this support, including finding one's personal "throne" or sacred space for renewal and learning to lean into the scaffolding of love that surrounds us always.In this heartwarming Mother's Day message, Rev. Kristin explores the profound and accessible nature of Divine Mother Love, drawing from both personal experiences and universal spiritual truths. She invites listeners to recognize the many forms of nurturing support they've received - from biological mothers to caregivers, mentors, and the Divine Mother herself - encouraging gratitude for the "nest builders" who have shaped their lives. Through beautiful imagery of hummingbird mothers and ancient symbols like the Egyptian throne of Isis, she illustrates how this unconditional love manifests as both gentle compassion and powerful strength. Rev. Kristin offers practical spiritual tools for accessing this support, including finding one's personal "throne" or sacred space for renewal and learning to lean into the scaffolding of love that surrounds us always.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2025-05-04-may-4-2025-learning-to-trust-yourself/e388649a-d253-4bde-8715-89f223cc0a69Sun, 04 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000In this inspiring message on "Learning to Trust Yourself," the speaker shares her transformative journey from a successful but unfulfilling law career to becoming a bestselling author by following her inner guidance. She explores three essential practices for trusting yourself: following your breadcrumbs by listening to moment-by-moment spiritual guidance rather than trying to plan an inspired life, seeing yourself differently as "the beloved" who is connected to divine love and limitless possibilities, and undoing limiting beliefs that block you from recognizing love's presence in your life. Through powerful personal stories, including her miraculous path to publishing and childhood memories about red shoes, she demonstrates how our beliefs shape our reality and how learning to trust our inner wisdom opens us to infinite possibilities and allows us to become the answer the world needs.In this inspiring message on "Learning to Trust Yourself," the speaker shares her transformative journey from a successful but unfulfilling law career to becoming a bestselling author by following her inner guidance. She explores three essential practices for trusting yourself: following your breadcrumbs by listening to moment-by-moment spiritual guidance rather than trying to plan an inspired life, seeing yourself differently as "the beloved" who is connected to divine love and limitless possibilities, and undoing limiting beliefs that block you from recognizing love's presence in your life. Through powerful personal stories, including her miraculous path to publishing and childhood memories about red shoes, she demonstrates how our beliefs shape our reality and how learning to trust our inner wisdom opens us to infinite possibilities and allows us to become the answer the world needs.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2025-04-20-april-20-2025-rise-and-shine/a968672d-0de6-4816-8316-bf42601bf899Sun, 20 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2025-04-13-april-13-2025-jesus-fears-too/d6f9a8ff-6e7f-4d1a-a6f7-751096c7653dSun, 13 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin delivers a powerful Palm Sunday message exploring Jesus' full humanity during Holy Week, highlighting how even this master teacher experienced anger, sadness, disappointment, loneliness, and fear. She invites listeners into the Garden of Gethsemane where Jesus prayed "take this cup from me," showing that acknowledging fear is not weakness but a doorway to courage and deeper surrender to divine will. Rev. Kristin reminds us that fear need not paralyze us - instead, we can befriend it, give our burdens over to spirit, and rise to meet our circumstances with love and truth, just as Jesus modeled for us all.Rev. Kristin delivers a powerful Palm Sunday message exploring Jesus' full humanity during Holy Week, highlighting how even this master teacher experienced anger, sadness, disappointment, loneliness, and fear. She invites listeners into the Garden of Gethsemane where Jesus prayed "take this cup from me," showing that acknowledging fear is not weakness but a doorway to courage and deeper surrender to divine will. Rev. Kristin reminds us that fear need not paralyze us - instead, we can befriend it, give our burdens over to spirit, and rise to meet our circumstances with love and truth, just as Jesus modeled for us all.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2025-04-06-april-6-2025-the-alchemy-of-reconciliation/5c99931d-23da-4648-97b3-8051cf9c0f8cSun, 06 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000Annette Williams and Max DeArmon explore the sacred journey of reconciling the masculine and feminine through their work with the Jerry program, a global community dedicated to transforming systemic violence and oppression around gender and sexuality. Annette shares how embracing the sacred feminine brought her home to herself, while Max invites us to see beyond toxic masculinity to the wounded masculine that needs healing through safe spaces and vulnerable truth-telling. Together they illuminate how creating beloved community - where people share their deepest stories without judgment - enables an alchemical process of reconciliation that awakens our shared divinity and moves us toward mutual reverence across all human differences.Annette Williams and Max DeArmon explore the sacred journey of reconciling the masculine and feminine through their work with the Jerry program, a global community dedicated to transforming systemic violence and oppression around gender and sexuality. Annette shares how embracing the sacred feminine brought her home to herself, while Max invites us to see beyond toxic masculinity to the wounded masculine that needs healing through safe spaces and vulnerable truth-telling. Together they illuminate how creating beloved community - where people share their deepest stories without judgment - enables an alchemical process of reconciliation that awakens our shared divinity and moves us toward mutual reverence across all human differences.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2025-03-30-march-30-2025-peace-begins-with-me/36de29a8-9427-433c-87fc-73e80738052bSun, 30 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin delivers a heartfelt exploration of how true peace starts within each of us and radiates outward into our relationships and the world. Drawing from her sabbatical experience in Egypt - where a diverse busload of strangers became friends on a pilgrimage to ancient monasteries - she illustrates how the same person can embody both division and connection, reminding us that every person we encounter is somebody's child, sibling, or parent. Rev. Kristin invites us to examine how we show up in our closest relationships, encouraging us to shift from judgment to compassion and to recommit to being the peace we wish to see in the world.Rev. Kristin delivers a heartfelt exploration of how true peace starts within each of us and radiates outward into our relationships and the world. Drawing from her sabbatical experience in Egypt - where a diverse busload of strangers became friends on a pilgrimage to ancient monasteries - she illustrates how the same person can embody both division and connection, reminding us that every person we encounter is somebody's child, sibling, or parent. Rev. Kristin invites us to examine how we show up in our closest relationships, encouraging us to shift from judgment to compassion and to recommit to being the peace we wish to see in the world.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2025-03-16-march-16-2025-the-olive-branch/1493f5c5-42f0-49d6-b821-99e14962ac49Sun, 16 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin opens this powerful three-part series on peace by weaving together the ancient symbolism of the olive branch with the transformative practice of radical forgiveness. Drawing from her own pilgrimage to Assisi, the resilient olive trees of Athens, and Colin Tipping's five steps of radical forgiveness, she invites us to consider to whom we might extend an olive branch in our own lives. Rev. Kristin closes with the breathtaking true story of an unnamed South African woman at the Truth and Reconciliation Commission who embodied extraordinary forgiveness - reminding us that we too are capable of the profound, healing love that brings us home to peace.Rev. Kristin opens this powerful three-part series on peace by weaving together the ancient symbolism of the olive branch with the transformative practice of radical forgiveness. Drawing from her own pilgrimage to Assisi, the resilient olive trees of Athens, and Colin Tipping's five steps of radical forgiveness, she invites us to consider to whom we might extend an olive branch in our own lives. Rev. Kristin closes with the breathtaking true story of an unnamed South African woman at the Truth and Reconciliation Commission who embodied extraordinary forgiveness - reminding us that we too are capable of the profound, healing love that brings us home to peace.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2025-03-09-march-9-2025-stay-spiritually-current/ae2f3d48-5cf3-4298-b061-1832fc925c6fSun, 09 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin invites us to stay spiritually current by exploring what it means to live fully in the present moment and flow with divine energy. Drawing on wisdom from Lao Tzu, John O'Donohue, and the contemplative traditions of Lent and Ramadan, she encourages us to release the mental blocks - worry, unfelt grief, and future-focused anxiety - that keep us from experiencing our true aliveness. Rev. Kristin reminds us that when we allow ourselves to be fully present in the now, we naturally move into the wow - that place of wonder, surprise, and deep connection with the divine flow that is always available to us.Rev. Kristin invites us to stay spiritually current by exploring what it means to live fully in the present moment and flow with divine energy. Drawing on wisdom from Lao Tzu, John O'Donohue, and the contemplative traditions of Lent and Ramadan, she encourages us to release the mental blocks - worry, unfelt grief, and future-focused anxiety - that keep us from experiencing our true aliveness. Rev. Kristin reminds us that when we allow ourselves to be fully present in the now, we naturally move into the wow - that place of wonder, surprise, and deep connection with the divine flow that is always available to us.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2025-03-02-march-2-2025-clear-the-path/0a9c9ecd-60c5-4cfa-ac47-e27e7957dd72Sun, 02 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin delivers a powerful message about clearing the physical, mental, and emotional clutter that blocks our connection to the divine flow. Drawing on the KonMari method, train-of-thought metaphors, and chaos theory's butterfly effect, Rev. Kristin illustrates how releasing worry, fear, and limiting beliefs opens pathways to peace and prosperity. She reminds us that even small shifts in our thinking can create massive positive change in the world, encouraging us to trust divine order beneath apparent chaos. Rev. Kristin invites us to remember who we truly are - ambassadors of light whose cleared paths make way for fulfillment, freedom, and collective healing.Rev. Kristin delivers a powerful message about clearing the physical, mental, and emotional clutter that blocks our connection to the divine flow. Drawing on the KonMari method, train-of-thought metaphors, and chaos theory's butterfly effect, Rev. Kristin illustrates how releasing worry, fear, and limiting beliefs opens pathways to peace and prosperity. She reminds us that even small shifts in our thinking can create massive positive change in the world, encouraging us to trust divine order beneath apparent chaos. Rev. Kristin invites us to remember who we truly are - ambassadors of light whose cleared paths make way for fulfillment, freedom, and collective healing.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2025-02-23-february-23-2025-come-in-closer/a4cac438-7b01-465c-8f56-8a25c5cd7f4cSun, 23 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin opens this three-part "How Now?" series with a tender invitation to come closer - closer to Spirit, closer to ourselves, and closer to one another. Drawing on the wisdom of Unity co-founder Myrtle Fillmore, the mystic Julian of Norwich, and the poet Hafiz, Rev. Kristin reminds us that love, peace, and comfort are always available when we simply pause, slow down, and open the door to what is already within us. She encourages us to lower our shields, build bridges of trust, and remember that drawing near to the Divine and to each other is how we heal, connect, and embody the unconditional love that is our true nature.Rev. Kristin opens this three-part "How Now?" series with a tender invitation to come closer - closer to Spirit, closer to ourselves, and closer to one another. Drawing on the wisdom of Unity co-founder Myrtle Fillmore, the mystic Julian of Norwich, and the poet Hafiz, Rev. Kristin reminds us that love, peace, and comfort are always available when we simply pause, slow down, and open the door to what is already within us. She encourages us to lower our shields, build bridges of trust, and remember that drawing near to the Divine and to each other is how we heal, connect, and embody the unconditional love that is our true nature.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2025-02-16-february-16-2025-cultivating-a-heart-of-peace/ff4eb732-6106-48fd-a79f-ddccf7794771Sun, 16 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Dr. Johanna van Gelder explores the transformative power of cultivating a heart at peace during the Season for Nonviolence, drawing inspiration from Senator John Lewis's commitment to seeing the divine spark in every person - even those who opposed him. She distinguishes between acting from a heart at peace versus a heart at war, showing how justification and "horribilizing" can escalate when we resist returning to love. Rev. Dr. Johanna van Gelder offers practical tools for this daily practice, including listening to the body's wisdom, inviting just two percent more love, and channeling beloved mentors in difficult moments.Rev. Dr. Johanna van Gelder explores the transformative power of cultivating a heart at peace during the Season for Nonviolence, drawing inspiration from Senator John Lewis's commitment to seeing the divine spark in every person - even those who opposed him. She distinguishes between acting from a heart at peace versus a heart at war, showing how justification and "horribilizing" can escalate when we resist returning to love. Rev. Dr. Johanna van Gelder offers practical tools for this daily practice, including listening to the body's wisdom, inviting just two percent more love, and channeling beloved mentors in difficult moments.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2025-02-09-february-9-2025-discover-a-deeper-love/16eee2bb-bf74-43d9-9ddb-3600abbbff1cSun, 09 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin invites us to discover a deeper, more embodied love by exploring the surprising spiritual pathway of longing - that deep yearning within us that we so often suppress or run from. Drawing on the rich history of Saint Valentine, Rumi's poetry, and her own transformative experience on a recent retreat, Rev. Kristin reveals that our longing is not a sign of lack but is itself the return message from the Divine - the very connection we seek. She encourages us to welcome our longing, honor the sacredness of our bodies, and allow this reunion to lead us home to the everlasting pool of love that lives within each of us.Rev. Kristin invites us to discover a deeper, more embodied love by exploring the surprising spiritual pathway of longing - that deep yearning within us that we so often suppress or run from. Drawing on the rich history of Saint Valentine, Rumi's poetry, and her own transformative experience on a recent retreat, Rev. Kristin reveals that our longing is not a sign of lack but is itself the return message from the Divine - the very connection we seek. She encourages us to welcome our longing, honor the sacredness of our bodies, and allow this reunion to lead us home to the everlasting pool of love that lives within each of us.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2025-02-02-february-2-2024-a-brief-mystery-of-god/737f5591-fe9b-4818-acaf-cde368ef766dSun, 02 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000Greg Tamblyn brings his unique blend of humor, music, and spiritual curiosity to Unity of Walnut Creek in this delightful exploration of life's biggest mysteries - from the nature of God to love to cosmic connection. Through original songs like "A Brief History of God" and personal stories - including a memorable tale about a destroyed guitar that became an unexpected blessing - Greg Tamblyn invites us to embrace wonder and humor as our healthiest responses to the unknowable. He reminds us that whether through string theory or mystical wisdom, we are all connected as vibrating strings in one cosmic symphony, and that seeking understanding serves us far better than demanding certainty.Greg Tamblyn brings his unique blend of humor, music, and spiritual curiosity to Unity of Walnut Creek in this delightful exploration of life's biggest mysteries - from the nature of God to love to cosmic connection. Through original songs like "A Brief History of God" and personal stories - including a memorable tale about a destroyed guitar that became an unexpected blessing - Greg Tamblyn invites us to embrace wonder and humor as our healthiest responses to the unknowable. He reminds us that whether through string theory or mystical wisdom, we are all connected as vibrating strings in one cosmic symphony, and that seeking understanding serves us far better than demanding certainty.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2025-01-26-january-26-2025-the-divine-gender-dance/1c33d7cc-b291-47ba-999e-76f52e8d81cbSun, 26 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin delivers a powerful and deeply personal exploration of the divine feminine and sacred masculine, tracing how patriarchy disrupted the original wholeness of creation and wounded humanity's collective spirit. Drawing from scripture, history, and her own childhood experience of being denied the role of acolyte simply for being a girl, she illuminates how the suppression of feminine energy has left us all feeling insecure and out of balance. Rev. Kristin calls us to welcome home the fragmented parts of ourselves, embrace both sacred masculine and divine feminine energies, and commit to healing through grace, compassion, and courageous truth-telling in community.Rev. Kristin delivers a powerful and deeply personal exploration of the divine feminine and sacred masculine, tracing how patriarchy disrupted the original wholeness of creation and wounded humanity's collective spirit. Drawing from scripture, history, and her own childhood experience of being denied the role of acolyte simply for being a girl, she illuminates how the suppression of feminine energy has left us all feeling insecure and out of balance. Rev. Kristin calls us to welcome home the fragmented parts of ourselves, embrace both sacred masculine and divine feminine energies, and commit to healing through grace, compassion, and courageous truth-telling in community.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2025-01-19-january-19-2025-not-my-problem-or-is-it/63c9fd30-2126-4b35-9b2e-32083fed7d0aSun, 19 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin delivers a powerful message about the interconnectedness of all our actions, drawing from a Burmese folk tale about a king who dismisses a small drop of honey on a windowsill - only to watch it escalate into the destruction of his entire kingdom. Weaving in the wisdom of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Gandhi, Rev. Kristin reminds us that no action is too small to matter, and that we are all caught in an "inescapable network of mutuality." She encourages us to ground ourselves in spiritual power, embrace right action, and recognize that our very presence - however we show up - has profound impact on the world around us.Rev. Kristin delivers a powerful message about the interconnectedness of all our actions, drawing from a Burmese folk tale about a king who dismisses a small drop of honey on a windowsill - only to watch it escalate into the destruction of his entire kingdom. Weaving in the wisdom of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Gandhi, Rev. Kristin reminds us that no action is too small to matter, and that we are all caught in an "inescapable network of mutuality." She encourages us to ground ourselves in spiritual power, embrace right action, and recognize that our very presence - however we show up - has profound impact on the world around us.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2025-01-12-january-12-2025-the-hidden-gifts-we-exchange/d0d341fb-6b42-4c1f-928d-de681b05dfcaSun, 12 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin invites us to discover the hidden gifts exchanged in every interaction - from a chance conversation with a young server in Costa Rica to a silent encounter with a great horned owl on a hike. Through the charming story of a boy who frees an owl and discovers he has already received the gift of animal communication, Rev. Kristin illuminates how presence, wonder, and openness reveal the magic woven through our daily exchanges. She encourages us to show up with full attention, listen with our hearts, and dwell in possibility - trusting that spirit reveals our hidden capabilities through the connections we share.Rev. Kristin invites us to discover the hidden gifts exchanged in every interaction - from a chance conversation with a young server in Costa Rica to a silent encounter with a great horned owl on a hike. Through the charming story of a boy who frees an owl and discovers he has already received the gift of animal communication, Rev. Kristin illuminates how presence, wonder, and openness reveal the magic woven through our daily exchanges. She encourages us to show up with full attention, listen with our hearts, and dwell in possibility - trusting that spirit reveals our hidden capabilities through the connections we share.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2025-01-05-january-5-2025-dissolving-drama-the-white-stone-ceremony/d26aaa5d-239d-4a93-8777-ede3c59489b6Sun, 05 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin opens the new year by sharing the delightful children's book "Jolly the Llama Who Helps Dissolve Drama" - the sequel to last year's beloved "Chip the Monk" - drawing out profound spiritual teachings about releasing drama through stillness, refusing to engage in gossip, and remembering that drama is simply "the great forgetting" of love. She then guides the congregation through Unity's traditional White Stone Ceremony, a ritual rooted in biblical history where each person receives a single guiding word from Spirit to carry as their north star throughout 2025. Rev. Kristin invites everyone to embrace both intentions - dissolving drama and evolving into their truest selves - as they step into the new year lighter, freer, and more connected to divine love.Rev. Kristin opens the new year by sharing the delightful children's book "Jolly the Llama Who Helps Dissolve Drama" - the sequel to last year's beloved "Chip the Monk" - drawing out profound spiritual teachings about releasing drama through stillness, refusing to engage in gossip, and remembering that drama is simply "the great forgetting" of love. She then guides the congregation through Unity's traditional White Stone Ceremony, a ritual rooted in biblical history where each person receives a single guiding word from Spirit to carry as their north star throughout 2025. Rev. Kristin invites everyone to embrace both intentions - dissolving drama and evolving into their truest selves - as they step into the new year lighter, freer, and more connected to divine love.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-12-29-december-29-2024-the-gift-is-you/05eaf2f0-aeac-46e2-b04b-473be08e7638Sun, 29 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000Ron Salazar delivers a heartfelt and humorous message reminding us that we ourselves are the greatest gift we can offer the world. Drawing on Charles Fillmore's 1923 Christmas talk and Paul Hasselbeck's teachings on divine purpose, Ron explores how our intuition connects us to our truest selves and how giving and receiving gifts are equally sacred acts of love. He encourages us to carry the Christmas spirit of generosity and blessing into every day of the year - whether in a crowded mall or a quiet moment - because the love within us is always present and always worth sharing.Ron Salazar delivers a heartfelt and humorous message reminding us that we ourselves are the greatest gift we can offer the world. Drawing on Charles Fillmore's 1923 Christmas talk and Paul Hasselbeck's teachings on divine purpose, Ron explores how our intuition connects us to our truest selves and how giving and receiving gifts are equally sacred acts of love. He encourages us to carry the Christmas spirit of generosity and blessing into every day of the year - whether in a crowded mall or a quiet moment - because the love within us is always present and always worth sharing.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-12-22-december-22-2024-airy-fairy-joy/b01493a4-6bbd-4b7d-9fb5-0ba83bd26817Sun, 22 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin delivers a delightful and thought-provoking Advent message on joy, weaving together childhood wonder, astrology, and spiritual transformation to illuminate how joy is not merely a fleeting emotion but a deep, ever-available truth accessible through faith. She explores how the magi - learned astrologers who followed a star - were overwhelmed with joy upon finding the Christ child, and draws parallels to our own spiritual breakthroughs and the dawning Age of Aquarius. In a magical surprise, the Grinch himself appears to share his testimony of transformation, reminding us that no one can steal our joy when it lives within our hearts.Rev. Kristin delivers a delightful and thought-provoking Advent message on joy, weaving together childhood wonder, astrology, and spiritual transformation to illuminate how joy is not merely a fleeting emotion but a deep, ever-available truth accessible through faith. She explores how the magi - learned astrologers who followed a star - were overwhelmed with joy upon finding the Christ child, and draws parallels to our own spiritual breakthroughs and the dawning Age of Aquarius. In a magical surprise, the Grinch himself appears to share his testimony of transformation, reminding us that no one can steal our joy when it lives within our hearts.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-12-15-december-15-2024-peace-like-water/eb45b258-5749-409f-86ca-ab72015880b2Sun, 15 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin explores the deep connection between water and peace during this Advent reflection, drawing on the imagery of desert wadis, the shepherds' starry night, and Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well. She invites us to recognize that when fear or a sense of lack disrupts our inner calm, we can return again and again to the living water within - that deep well of Christ consciousness available to all. Through meditation and spiritual practice, Rev. Kristin reminds us, we become a peaceful presence that naturally flows outward, calming those around us and helping create the world we long to share.Rev. Kristin explores the deep connection between water and peace during this Advent reflection, drawing on the imagery of desert wadis, the shepherds' starry night, and Jesus' encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well. She invites us to recognize that when fear or a sense of lack disrupts our inner calm, we can return again and again to the living water within - that deep well of Christ consciousness available to all. Through meditation and spiritual practice, Rev. Kristin reminds us, we become a peaceful presence that naturally flows outward, calming those around us and helping create the world we long to share.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-12-08-december-8-2024-fire-up-love/f052021c-84d4-4f69-b740-3ac98a08caf8Sun, 08 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin explores the powerful connection between fire and love during this Advent message, drawing from ancient fire-gathering traditions, the Christmas story of Zachariah, and the poetry of Rumi to illuminate how divine love ignites and transforms us from within. She invites us to enter the center of love's fire - to be consumed by it and become it - sharing moving stories of how open-hearted love can heal even the most callous encounters. Rev. Kristin reminds us that our sacred hearts, like those of Mary and Jesus, are meant to blaze openly, shaped by both grief and joy, compelling us to spread revolutionary love far, wide, and deep.Rev. Kristin explores the powerful connection between fire and love during this Advent message, drawing from ancient fire-gathering traditions, the Christmas story of Zachariah, and the poetry of Rumi to illuminate how divine love ignites and transforms us from within. She invites us to enter the center of love's fire - to be consumed by it and become it - sharing moving stories of how open-hearted love can heal even the most callous encounters. Rev. Kristin reminds us that our sacred hearts, like those of Mary and Jesus, are meant to blaze openly, shaped by both grief and joy, compelling us to spread revolutionary love far, wide, and deep.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-12-01-december-1-2024-grounded-in-faith/14eedb11-e418-4275-a4d2-d6c56336aad6Sun, 01 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin invites us into a richly embodied exploration of faith during this Advent season, weaving together the Christmas story characters of Mary, Elizabeth, and Zachariah to illuminate how faith is not merely a transcendent idea but something we feel, carry, and birth through our very bodies. Drawing on Unity teachings, ancient Egyptian mythology, and everyday moments of intuitive knowing, Rev. Kristin encourages us to welcome spiritual guidance with the same willingness Mary showed - accepting what wants to come through us and taking the next right step. This message reminds us that grounded faith moves like a strong, rooted tree - not easily shaken by life's winds - as we prepare to rebirth the Christ consciousness within.Rev. Kristin invites us into a richly embodied exploration of faith during this Advent season, weaving together the Christmas story characters of Mary, Elizabeth, and Zachariah to illuminate how faith is not merely a transcendent idea but something we feel, carry, and birth through our very bodies. Drawing on Unity teachings, ancient Egyptian mythology, and everyday moments of intuitive knowing, Rev. Kristin encourages us to welcome spiritual guidance with the same willingness Mary showed - accepting what wants to come through us and taking the next right step. This message reminds us that grounded faith moves like a strong, rooted tree - not easily shaken by life's winds - as we prepare to rebirth the Christ consciousness within.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-11-24-november-24-2024-designing-your-abundance-blueprint/7f540df1-66fc-4d0b-b7af-2cd33be84025Sun, 24 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000In this inspiring conclusion to the eight-week Abundance Project series, Rev. Kristin invites listeners to move from inspiration into action by designing a personal abundance blueprint rooted in the truth that everything we need already resides within us. Drawing on the stories of Unity co-founders Charles and Myrtle Fillmore and activist Lynn Twist, Rev. Kristin illustrates how disciplined practice and committed action can transform dreams into reality. She introduces the LIFT practice - Living Into Feeling Tone - as a daily tool for expanding consciousness and encourages the community to embrace their visions with courage, reminding us that our greatest breakthroughs await just beyond the threshold of resistance.In this inspiring conclusion to the eight-week Abundance Project series, Rev. Kristin invites listeners to move from inspiration into action by designing a personal abundance blueprint rooted in the truth that everything we need already resides within us. Drawing on the stories of Unity co-founders Charles and Myrtle Fillmore and activist Lynn Twist, Rev. Kristin illustrates how disciplined practice and committed action can transform dreams into reality. She introduces the LIFT practice - Living Into Feeling Tone - as a daily tool for expanding consciousness and encourages the community to embrace their visions with courage, reminding us that our greatest breakthroughs await just beyond the threshold of resistance.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-11-17-november-17-2023-healing-abundance-shadows-values-conflicts/34b3253f-3a79-4115-8787-dc905b060c95Sun, 17 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin guides the community through powerful shadow work as part of the Abundance Project series, exploring how disowned parts of ourselves - those traits we were told were unacceptable - create blocks to our abundant good. Drawing on Carl Jung's depth psychology and the wisdom of King Solomon, Rev. Kristin leads a guided meditation to help listeners identify, befriend, and reintegrate their shadows, transforming inner conflict into wholeness. She connects this personal healing work to the collective, reminding us that each individual who reclaims their power through the divine "I am" contributes to the healing of community and country alike.Rev. Kristin guides the community through powerful shadow work as part of the Abundance Project series, exploring how disowned parts of ourselves - those traits we were told were unacceptable - create blocks to our abundant good. Drawing on Carl Jung's depth psychology and the wisdom of King Solomon, Rev. Kristin leads a guided meditation to help listeners identify, befriend, and reintegrate their shadows, transforming inner conflict into wholeness. She connects this personal healing work to the collective, reminding us that each individual who reclaims their power through the divine "I am" contributes to the healing of community and country alike.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-11-10-november-10-2024-many-channels-one-source/8644d381-e734-4c83-b758-b5b5dc894ac3Sun, 10 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin explores the powerful concept of our co-creation covenant with Spirit, reminding us that we are each clear channels for divine good and that every person in our lives serves as a potential channel for our abundance. Drawing from the story of Jesus raising Lazarus, Rev. Kristin illustrates how we must first honor our human emotions - clearing grief, anger, and fear from our channels - before miracles can flow through us. She emphasizes that our perception of others directly determines how much good they can bring into our lives, inviting us to widen our perspectives and ask for help as we step fully into our sacred agreement to be embodied expressions of Spirit in the world.Rev. Kristin explores the powerful concept of our co-creation covenant with Spirit, reminding us that we are each clear channels for divine good and that every person in our lives serves as a potential channel for our abundance. Drawing from the story of Jesus raising Lazarus, Rev. Kristin illustrates how we must first honor our human emotions - clearing grief, anger, and fear from our channels - before miracles can flow through us. She emphasizes that our perception of others directly determines how much good they can bring into our lives, inviting us to widen our perspectives and ask for help as we step fully into our sacred agreement to be embodied expressions of Spirit in the world.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-11-03-november-3-2024-the-law-of-circulation/6325c476-f71d-4be3-919b-2f370d23dea1Sun, 03 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin explores the law of circulation through the powerful metaphor of the Dead Sea and the Sea of Galilee, illustrating how the flow of giving and receiving creates abundant life. Drawing from Derek Rydell's Abundance Project, she reveals three essential components - having, giving, and receiving - and shows how the simple practice of conscious breathing can reconnect us to our inherent wholeness. Rev. Kristin invites us to slow down, fill our own cups first, and recognize that everything we need already exists within us, reminding us that true abundance flows from an internal source rather than external circumstances.Rev. Kristin explores the law of circulation through the powerful metaphor of the Dead Sea and the Sea of Galilee, illustrating how the flow of giving and receiving creates abundant life. Drawing from Derek Rydell's Abundance Project, she reveals three essential components - having, giving, and receiving - and shows how the simple practice of conscious breathing can reconnect us to our inherent wholeness. Rev. Kristin invites us to slow down, fill our own cups first, and recognize that everything we need already exists within us, reminding us that true abundance flows from an internal source rather than external circumstances.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-10-27-abundance-project-part-4-seven-gifts-that-give-you-everything/ddc0039f-bf89-4d4f-acc8-c6907bd08f9cSun, 27 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Dr. Johanna van Gelder explores the transformative power of giving as part of the Abundance Project series, drawing from Derek Rydell's teaching that whatever is missing in our lives is what we are not giving. She illuminates seven "abundance activators" - giving out, giving away, giving up, giving in, giving thanks, giving to yourself, and forgiving - showing how each practice opens the channel for spirit to flow more freely through us. Using personal stories and the beautiful metaphor of a dried fern returning to life with attention and care, Rev. Dr. Johanna van Gelder reminds us that our source of abundance is not external but the infinite invisible energy within.Rev. Dr. Johanna van Gelder explores the transformative power of giving as part of the Abundance Project series, drawing from Derek Rydell's teaching that whatever is missing in our lives is what we are not giving. She illuminates seven "abundance activators" - giving out, giving away, giving up, giving in, giving thanks, giving to yourself, and forgiving - showing how each practice opens the channel for spirit to flow more freely through us. Using personal stories and the beautiful metaphor of a dried fern returning to life with attention and care, Rev. Dr. Johanna van Gelder reminds us that our source of abundance is not external but the infinite invisible energy within.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-10-20-october-20-2024-more-reversing-abundance-blind-spots-truths/b79cc246-4ea1-4d74-8e87-517d8541110eSun, 20 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000In this third installment of the Abundance Project series, Rev. Kristin explores two powerful abundance blind spots - the belief that you must believe before you can receive, and the tendency to shrink and adapt to challenging circumstances. Rev. Kristin shares her own journey from fearing public speaking to embracing ministry, illustrating that action precedes confidence rather than the other way around. Using the metaphor of a pedal-assist electric bike, Rev. Kristin reminds us that spirit engages when we start pedaling - we must act and ask rather than wait on the sidelines. Rev. Kristin invites us to expand rather than contract when life brings challenges, opening our channel of abundance through spiritual expansion and courageous action.In this third installment of the Abundance Project series, Rev. Kristin explores two powerful abundance blind spots - the belief that you must believe before you can receive, and the tendency to shrink and adapt to challenging circumstances. Rev. Kristin shares her own journey from fearing public speaking to embracing ministry, illustrating that action precedes confidence rather than the other way around. Using the metaphor of a pedal-assist electric bike, Rev. Kristin reminds us that spirit engages when we start pedaling - we must act and ask rather than wait on the sidelines. Rev. Kristin invites us to expand rather than contract when life brings challenges, opening our channel of abundance through spiritual expansion and courageous action.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-10-13-october-13-2024-reversing-abundance-blind-spots/177b14f9-f2e0-4229-84b7-09fca73d0e02Sun, 13 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000In this powerful second installment of the Abundance Project series, Rev. Kristin explores the hidden blind spots that keep us from experiencing our true abundance - the unconscious beliefs that we are separate from our good, that wealth is purely material, and that money is somehow unspiritual. Through the parable of the prodigal son and practical one-minute mystic exercises, Rev. Kristin guides listeners back to the land of their soul, reminding us that real wealth is invisible, infinite, and already within us. She encourages us to be unapologetic about our divine birthright to have, give, and receive, recognizing that the creative power of the universe lives inside each of us.In this powerful second installment of the Abundance Project series, Rev. Kristin explores the hidden blind spots that keep us from experiencing our true abundance - the unconscious beliefs that we are separate from our good, that wealth is purely material, and that money is somehow unspiritual. Through the parable of the prodigal son and practical one-minute mystic exercises, Rev. Kristin guides listeners back to the land of their soul, reminding us that real wealth is invisible, infinite, and already within us. She encourages us to be unapologetic about our divine birthright to have, give, and receive, recognizing that the creative power of the universe lives inside each of us.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-10-06-october-6-2024-the-real-source/b45e0a6a-e35d-4410-9b67-15e1146eeccbSun, 06 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin launches the eight-part Abundance Project series by inviting listeners to look beyond material symbols of prosperity and reconnect with the real source of abundance - the divine intelligence that holds the pattern of all creation, including each of us. Drawing on Derek Rydall's work, the teachings of Jesus, and the Unity principles, Rev. Kristin reminds us that we are not lacking but simply forgetting who we truly are. She offers simple, powerful practices - shift to source and share - as the path to unlocking our natural abundance-creating capacity and living as generous channels of abundant life.Rev. Kristin launches the eight-part Abundance Project series by inviting listeners to look beyond material symbols of prosperity and reconnect with the real source of abundance - the divine intelligence that holds the pattern of all creation, including each of us. Drawing on Derek Rydall's work, the teachings of Jesus, and the Unity principles, Rev. Kristin reminds us that we are not lacking but simply forgetting who we truly are. She offers simple, powerful practices - shift to source and share - as the path to unlocking our natural abundance-creating capacity and living as generous channels of abundant life.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-09-29-september-29-2024-spiritual-maintenance/a20a8b27-6d3c-4e8c-85ff-6658f9963868Sun, 29 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000Ron Salazar shares a deeply personal and often humorous message about the power of spiritual maintenance in navigating life's most challenging moments. Drawing from his own experiences over the past two and a half years - including health scares, job loss, cancer, and family emergencies - Ron reveals how consistent spiritual practice and consciousness of the divine oneness within kept him from "melting" under pressure. He explores how Unity's five principles are not something we need to seek externally but are inherent within us, awakened through daily spiritual practices that connect us to our true goodness. Ron encourages everyone to keep walking their spiritual path, reminding us that whatever form our spiritual maintenance takes, it opens the door to peace and resilience.Ron Salazar shares a deeply personal and often humorous message about the power of spiritual maintenance in navigating life's most challenging moments. Drawing from his own experiences over the past two and a half years - including health scares, job loss, cancer, and family emergencies - Ron reveals how consistent spiritual practice and consciousness of the divine oneness within kept him from "melting" under pressure. He explores how Unity's five principles are not something we need to seek externally but are inherent within us, awakened through daily spiritual practices that connect us to our true goodness. Ron encourages everyone to keep walking their spiritual path, reminding us that whatever form our spiritual maintenance takes, it opens the door to peace and resilience.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-09-22-september-22-2024-dont-fight-with-reality/6ed839d8-8c67-4d94-b660-4173259681acSun, 22 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000Christopher Brown delivers a powerful message on the freedom found in accepting life exactly as it is rather than fighting against reality. Through humor, personal stories, and vivid analogies - including his own 15-year journey with chronic back pain - he illustrates how our instinct to resist what we cannot change drains the very energy we need to adapt and find new possibilities. Christopher invites us to put down our metaphorical swords, recognizing that true power comes not from battling circumstances but from surrendering to what is and choosing our present experience fully. His message reminds us that acceptance is not defeat but liberation - the freedom to be exactly as we are without needing to improve or struggle.Christopher Brown delivers a powerful message on the freedom found in accepting life exactly as it is rather than fighting against reality. Through humor, personal stories, and vivid analogies - including his own 15-year journey with chronic back pain - he illustrates how our instinct to resist what we cannot change drains the very energy we need to adapt and find new possibilities. Christopher invites us to put down our metaphorical swords, recognizing that true power comes not from battling circumstances but from surrendering to what is and choosing our present experience fully. His message reminds us that acceptance is not defeat but liberation - the freedom to be exactly as we are without needing to improve or struggle.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-09-15-september-15-2024-the-law-of-expression/731bf335-29f3-44ff-afd1-4b1f1604fdd7Sun, 15 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000In this powerful conclusion to the CREATE Laws series, Rev. Kristin explores the Law of Expression - the idea that when we open to spirit and authentically express from our souls, the divine is revealed on earth. Drawing on vivid examples from art, dance, the film Like Water for Chocolate, and the extraordinary story of Balinese high priestess Ida Risi Alit, Rev. Kristin reminds us that our unique creative expression is not meant to be arduous but joyful, and that the world is hungry for the spiritual gifts only each of us can give. She invites us all to say yes to courageous, vulnerable, soulful expression.In this powerful conclusion to the CREATE Laws series, Rev. Kristin explores the Law of Expression - the idea that when we open to spirit and authentically express from our souls, the divine is revealed on earth. Drawing on vivid examples from art, dance, the film Like Water for Chocolate, and the extraordinary story of Balinese high priestess Ida Risi Alit, Rev. Kristin reminds us that our unique creative expression is not meant to be arduous but joyful, and that the world is hungry for the spiritual gifts only each of us can give. She invites us all to say yes to courageous, vulnerable, soulful expression.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-09-08-september-8-2024-the-grace-of-god/fc56195a-9156-4c00-8428-fc765533cea8Sun, 08 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000Bob Hardy delivers a heartfelt exploration of divine grace, reminding us that grace is not something we earn but something we inherently are as expressions of God. Through personal stories - from a childhood roller coaster ride with his father to a transformative process painting of a ship being guided by God's hand - Bob illustrates how grace flows through every moment of our lives, even amid the distractions and anxieties of modern living. He invites the congregation to share their own experiences of grace, revealing powerful testimonies of divine protection and transformation, and encourages everyone to remember that the grace of God flows through us and expresses as us in all that we do.Bob Hardy delivers a heartfelt exploration of divine grace, reminding us that grace is not something we earn but something we inherently are as expressions of God. Through personal stories - from a childhood roller coaster ride with his father to a transformative process painting of a ship being guided by God's hand - Bob illustrates how grace flows through every moment of our lives, even amid the distractions and anxieties of modern living. He invites the congregation to share their own experiences of grace, revealing powerful testimonies of divine protection and transformation, and encourages everyone to remember that the grace of God flows through us and expresses as us in all that we do.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-09-01-september-1-2024-the-law-of-tithing/5ae10776-ad57-4cf3-bd96-340da366c559Sun, 01 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-08-25-august-25-2024-the-law-of-appreciation/6411f85e-d883-4d84-ae09-d94f0a753a91Sun, 25 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000In this inspiring message from the CREATE Laws Series, Rev. Kristin explores the Laws of Attraction and Appreciation - the double A in the series - sharing how thoughts and feelings attract like experiences and how what we praise increases. Rev. Kristin weaves in her personal story of moving from Missouri to California with no concrete plan, trusting that the "how" was none of her business, and watching as blessings unfolded in miraculous ways. She offers practical tools for resetting our minds - including dumping unhelpful thoughts and diverting attention to the divine - while reminding us that gratitude is the engine that moves us from despair toward joy. Rev. Kristin invites us to stay aware of our thoughts and feelings, bless others silently and openly, and trust that anything is possible when we align with our co-creative partnership with Spirit.In this inspiring message from the CREATE Laws Series, Rev. Kristin explores the Laws of Attraction and Appreciation - the double A in the series - sharing how thoughts and feelings attract like experiences and how what we praise increases. Rev. Kristin weaves in her personal story of moving from Missouri to California with no concrete plan, trusting that the "how" was none of her business, and watching as blessings unfolded in miraculous ways. She offers practical tools for resetting our minds - including dumping unhelpful thoughts and diverting attention to the divine - while reminding us that gratitude is the engine that moves us from despair toward joy. Rev. Kristin invites us to stay aware of our thoughts and feelings, bless others silently and openly, and trust that anything is possible when we align with our co-creative partnership with Spirit.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-08-18-august-18-2024-the-law-of-expansion/6b28d0a6-f2c1-43e2-aca7-89442a7e5e85Sun, 18 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000In this inspiring continuation of the CREATE Laws Series, Rev. Kristin explores the Law of Expansion - the spiritual truth that creation by its very nature expands, and as we recognize our divine essence, it expands into lived experience. Drawing from her transformative sabbatical experiences, the story of the golden Buddha hidden beneath clay, and the example of a peaceful warrior navigating a difficult divorce, Rev. Kristin invites us to approach our spiritual journey with curiosity, desire, and motivation. She reminds us that we are spiritual beings having a human experience, and as we remember who we truly are, our expansion ripples outward in sacred service for all.In this inspiring continuation of the CREATE Laws Series, Rev. Kristin explores the Law of Expansion - the spiritual truth that creation by its very nature expands, and as we recognize our divine essence, it expands into lived experience. Drawing from her transformative sabbatical experiences, the story of the golden Buddha hidden beneath clay, and the example of a peaceful warrior navigating a difficult divorce, Rev. Kristin invites us to approach our spiritual journey with curiosity, desire, and motivation. She reminds us that we are spiritual beings having a human experience, and as we remember who we truly are, our expansion ripples outward in sacred service for all.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-08-11-august-11-2024-the-law-of-resonance/71dbf115-e169-471b-b219-2ab5202b637bSun, 11 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000In this inspiring message from the CREATE Laws series, Rev. Kristin explores the Law of Resonance - the principle that the resonance we keep with the divine determines the quality of reality we experience. Drawing from physics, personal stories from her ministerial journey, and the ancient wisdom of "know thyself," Rev. Kristin invites us to tune into what rings true and feels right in our hearts as a pathway to divine flow. She encourages us to ask soul-nourishing questions - what lights me up, what makes my heart sing - and to trust the answers that arise when we focus within, communicate with the divine presence, and simply relax into receiving.In this inspiring message from the CREATE Laws series, Rev. Kristin explores the Law of Resonance - the principle that the resonance we keep with the divine determines the quality of reality we experience. Drawing from physics, personal stories from her ministerial journey, and the ancient wisdom of "know thyself," Rev. Kristin invites us to tune into what rings true and feels right in our hearts as a pathway to divine flow. She encourages us to ask soul-nourishing questions - what lights me up, what makes my heart sing - and to trust the answers that arise when we focus within, communicate with the divine presence, and simply relax into receiving.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-08-04-august-4-2024-the-law-of-co-creation/717ba387-1337-4608-a031-97b06ef59577Sun, 04 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin launches the CREATE Laws series with the Law of Co-Creation, using her exhilarating skydiving experience as a metaphor for trusting in divine partnership. Drawing from the story of Job, she explores how challenges invite us to release self-righteousness and spiritual complacency, returning to stillness where we can reconnect with the creative power within. Rev. Kristin illuminates how masculine and feminine energies dance together with spirit in the manifestation process, reminding us that our role is to follow spirit's lead. She affirms that conscious partnership with spirit co-creates boundless life possibilities when we remain open, humble, and teachable.Rev. Kristin launches the CREATE Laws series with the Law of Co-Creation, using her exhilarating skydiving experience as a metaphor for trusting in divine partnership. Drawing from the story of Job, she explores how challenges invite us to release self-righteousness and spiritual complacency, returning to stillness where we can reconnect with the creative power within. Rev. Kristin illuminates how masculine and feminine energies dance together with spirit in the manifestation process, reminding us that our role is to follow spirit's lead. She affirms that conscious partnership with spirit co-creates boundless life possibilities when we remain open, humble, and teachable.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-07-28-humanitys-evolution-part-3-mind-of-peace/fd1ea9fc-f031-47d8-a3cf-abe4197c68d5Sun, 28 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000In this third installment of the Humanity's Evolution series, Rev. Kristin explores how we can cultivate a mind of peace by understanding the three phases of mind - conscious, subconscious, and super conscious - and learning to let divine intelligence guide our thoughts rather than old reactive patterns. Rev. Kristin invites us to accept that life is change, to shine a light on false core beliefs that keep us stuck, and to return to the present moment where true power resides. Drawing on teachings from Charles Fillmore, Byron Katie, and Eckhart Tolle, Rev. Kristin reminds us that we are not our thoughts but the knowing consciousness itself - and from that place, we can shepherd our minds back to peace and create the world we long to live in.In this third installment of the Humanity's Evolution series, Rev. Kristin explores how we can cultivate a mind of peace by understanding the three phases of mind - conscious, subconscious, and super conscious - and learning to let divine intelligence guide our thoughts rather than old reactive patterns. Rev. Kristin invites us to accept that life is change, to shine a light on false core beliefs that keep us stuck, and to return to the present moment where true power resides. Drawing on teachings from Charles Fillmore, Byron Katie, and Eckhart Tolle, Rev. Kristin reminds us that we are not our thoughts but the knowing consciousness itself - and from that place, we can shepherd our minds back to peace and create the world we long to live in.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-07-21-july-21-2024-heart-of-love/3d3ad579-e008-42a3-a1ae-85dd3a1ec4f0Sun, 21 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000In this powerful second installment of the Humanity's Evolution series, Rev. Kristin explores the heart as our ultimate solution center and portal to divine love, drawing from First Corinthians 13 to illuminate how spiritual maturity moves us from ego consciousness to eco consciousness. Rev. Kristin reminds us that love is not something we need to figure out but rather something we are built to flow out - through patience, courage, vulnerability, and open-heartedness in every relationship and circumstance. With personal stories and profound wisdom, Rev. Kristin affirms that our lives are fail-safed in love and that we are here, together, to let divine love evolve our human family.In this powerful second installment of the Humanity's Evolution series, Rev. Kristin explores the heart as our ultimate solution center and portal to divine love, drawing from First Corinthians 13 to illuminate how spiritual maturity moves us from ego consciousness to eco consciousness. Rev. Kristin reminds us that love is not something we need to figure out but rather something we are built to flow out - through patience, courage, vulnerability, and open-heartedness in every relationship and circumstance. With personal stories and profound wisdom, Rev. Kristin affirms that our lives are fail-safed in love and that we are here, together, to let divine love evolve our human family.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-07-14-humanitys-evolution-part-1-body-of-light/104d9314-e90c-413c-a131-8527490256adSun, 14 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin launches an inspiring new series on humanity's evolution by reminding us that we each hold a "golden ticket" - the gift of being embodied on earth during this extraordinary time of spiritual awakening. Drawing from the transfiguration story in the Gospels and the teachings of Charles Fillmore, Rev. Kristin illuminates the scientific and spiritual truth that our bodies are literally made of stardust and light. She invites us to stop diminishing ourselves through criticism and instead treat our bodies as sacred temples, practicing habitual uplift of life and thought as we participate in humanity's collective evolution.Rev. Kristin launches an inspiring new series on humanity's evolution by reminding us that we each hold a "golden ticket" - the gift of being embodied on earth during this extraordinary time of spiritual awakening. Drawing from the transfiguration story in the Gospels and the teachings of Charles Fillmore, Rev. Kristin illuminates the scientific and spiritual truth that our bodies are literally made of stardust and light. She invites us to stop diminishing ourselves through criticism and instead treat our bodies as sacred temples, practicing habitual uplift of life and thought as we participate in humanity's collective evolution.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-07-07-july-7-2024-juneteenth-or-july-4th-steps-toward-freedom/8c9f3039-333a-4c3b-93cb-f0fda5308990Sun, 07 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000Dr. Cindy Acker delivers a powerful and thought-provoking message examining the true meaning of freedom through the lens of Juneteenth and July 4th, revealing the historical complexities often omitted from our understanding of emancipation. Drawing on Frederick Douglass's words, the details of General Granger's order in Galveston, and her own family's experience with racial profiling, Dr. Acker challenges the assumption that freedom was achieved on any single date. She reminds us that no one is truly free until we are all free, and that the ongoing struggle for liberation requires knowledge, allyship, and courage from every one of us.Dr. Cindy Acker delivers a powerful and thought-provoking message examining the true meaning of freedom through the lens of Juneteenth and July 4th, revealing the historical complexities often omitted from our understanding of emancipation. Drawing on Frederick Douglass's words, the details of General Granger's order in Galveston, and her own family's experience with racial profiling, Dr. Acker challenges the assumption that freedom was achieved on any single date. She reminds us that no one is truly free until we are all free, and that the ongoing struggle for liberation requires knowledge, allyship, and courage from every one of us.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-06-16-june-16-2024-fatherly-care/e19ac9d0-6adc-443e-8892-1e80e1f90a23Sun, 16 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin delivers a heartfelt Father's Day message that goes beyond traditional notions of fatherhood to explore the deeper spiritual meanings of being a provider and protector. Drawing from a childhood memory of her father investigating imaginary monsters in the basement, she illustrates how true protection offers emotional anchoring and peace - qualities we can access through our own divine connection. Rev. Kristin encourages the community to begin relationships with trust, cultivate large ideas of prosperity as Charles Fillmore taught, and recognize that we each hold the power to contribute, protect, and provide for one another through spiritual strength and sacred masculine energy.Rev. Kristin delivers a heartfelt Father's Day message that goes beyond traditional notions of fatherhood to explore the deeper spiritual meanings of being a provider and protector. Drawing from a childhood memory of her father investigating imaginary monsters in the basement, she illustrates how true protection offers emotional anchoring and peace - qualities we can access through our own divine connection. Rev. Kristin encourages the community to begin relationships with trust, cultivate large ideas of prosperity as Charles Fillmore taught, and recognize that we each hold the power to contribute, protect, and provide for one another through spiritual strength and sacred masculine energy.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-06-09-june-9-2024-getting-to-know-your-spiritual-self/03326bee-8cf4-49aa-aa35-cd89ac849b4bSun, 09 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000Rev. David MacArthur explores the nature of our spiritual selves and how we can access this dimension of our being that exists beyond physical measurement. Drawing on fascinating research from HeartMath - where the heart responded to emotional stimuli nearly five seconds before they occurred - along with teachings from Krishna, Jesus, and Unity teacher Dr. Emily Cady, he reveals that our spiritual connection flows through the heart. Rev. David MacArthur invites us into the transformative practice of choosing care, demonstrating how this simple yet powerful heart-feeling deepens our spiritual connection and brings healing energy into every encounter and relationship.Rev. David MacArthur explores the nature of our spiritual selves and how we can access this dimension of our being that exists beyond physical measurement. Drawing on fascinating research from HeartMath - where the heart responded to emotional stimuli nearly five seconds before they occurred - along with teachings from Krishna, Jesus, and Unity teacher Dr. Emily Cady, he reveals that our spiritual connection flows through the heart. Rev. David MacArthur invites us into the transformative practice of choosing care, demonstrating how this simple yet powerful heart-feeling deepens our spiritual connection and brings healing energy into every encounter and relationship.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-06-02-june-2-2024-rainbow-sightings-and-pots-of-gold/736c18fc-3082-4629-99d8-58733c47e721Sun, 02 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin delivers an inspiring message weaving together the symbolism of rainbows, the courage of authenticity, and the celebration of diversity. Drawing from her own journey of coming out and the wisdom of teachers like Brene Brown and Audre Lorde, Rev. Kristin explores how shame thrives in secrecy and judgment - and how stepping into our wholeness frees us to truly see and celebrate others. She reminds us that just as a single color cannot make a rainbow, our differences are meant to enrich rather than divide us, and that the pots of gold we seek are found in personal wholeness and collective oneness.Rev. Kristin delivers an inspiring message weaving together the symbolism of rainbows, the courage of authenticity, and the celebration of diversity. Drawing from her own journey of coming out and the wisdom of teachers like Brene Brown and Audre Lorde, Rev. Kristin explores how shame thrives in secrecy and judgment - and how stepping into our wholeness frees us to truly see and celebrate others. She reminds us that just as a single color cannot make a rainbow, our differences are meant to enrich rather than divide us, and that the pots of gold we seek are found in personal wholeness and collective oneness.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-05-26-may-26-2024-death-is-a-doorway/cbdb0ee2-ed2d-4aa5-8dc6-4f3163825ae1Sun, 26 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin offers a powerful and uplifting exploration of death - not as a finality, but as a doorway into deeper love, spiritual growth, and abundant new life. Drawing from diverse wisdom traditions including Buddhist impermanence teachings, ancient Egyptian spirituality, indigenous death lodge ceremonies, and the demonstrations of Jesus, she invites us to face our fears of endings with courage and even humor. Rev. Kristin reminds us that every ending - whether the loss of a loved one, a relationship, or even a beloved car - carries within it the seed of rebirth and new possibility, calling us to close our eyes, let the mind expand, and step through into the fullness of who we truly are.Rev. Kristin offers a powerful and uplifting exploration of death - not as a finality, but as a doorway into deeper love, spiritual growth, and abundant new life. Drawing from diverse wisdom traditions including Buddhist impermanence teachings, ancient Egyptian spirituality, indigenous death lodge ceremonies, and the demonstrations of Jesus, she invites us to face our fears of endings with courage and even humor. Rev. Kristin reminds us that every ending - whether the loss of a loved one, a relationship, or even a beloved car - carries within it the seed of rebirth and new possibility, calling us to close our eyes, let the mind expand, and step through into the fullness of who we truly are.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-05-19-may-19-2024-soulful-service/7c073c36-8338-4522-8cae-907605538ed9Sun, 19 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-05-12-may-12-2024-becoming-godmothers/0a022e09-abf9-4537-be90-ca644fb4b56bSun, 12 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin returns from sabbatical on Mother's Day to expand our understanding of motherhood into the powerful concept of becoming godmothers - spiritual nurturers who support the soul expression of children, each other, and all life. Drawing on the wisdom of King Solomon and the poetry of Chalene Harkin, Rev. Kristin invites us to restore the divine feminine energy within ourselves and our world, recognizing it not as something limited to gender but as an immense creative power available to all. She celebrates how community members embodied this godmother energy by holding space during her absence, proving that sacred presence and collective care can transform both our lives and the world.Rev. Kristin returns from sabbatical on Mother's Day to expand our understanding of motherhood into the powerful concept of becoming godmothers - spiritual nurturers who support the soul expression of children, each other, and all life. Drawing on the wisdom of King Solomon and the poetry of Chalene Harkin, Rev. Kristin invites us to restore the divine feminine energy within ourselves and our world, recognizing it not as something limited to gender but as an immense creative power available to all. She celebrates how community members embodied this godmother energy by holding space during her absence, proving that sacred presence and collective care can transform both our lives and the world.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-05-05-may-5-2024-the-beauty-of-community/3ea14a32-5d86-4a2b-b7d8-e21a8199f3feSun, 05 May 2024 00:00:00 +0000In this heartfelt message, Johanna van Gelder, Felicia McBarton, and Don Shaw reflect on what Unity of Walnut Creek experienced during Rev. Kristen's three-month sabbatical, celebrating the depth and resilience of their spiritual community. Johanna reminds us that Unity is far more than Sunday services - it is a living tapestry woven by every person who shows up, whether casually or in deep commitment. Don uses the beautiful metaphor of a community garden that thrives even when the gardener is away, while Felicia shares her personal treasure hunt of discovering growth, healing, and collaboration among the staff. Together, they affirm that this community is healthy, vibrant, and built on mutual love and support.In this heartfelt message, Johanna van Gelder, Felicia McBarton, and Don Shaw reflect on what Unity of Walnut Creek experienced during Rev. Kristen's three-month sabbatical, celebrating the depth and resilience of their spiritual community. Johanna reminds us that Unity is far more than Sunday services - it is a living tapestry woven by every person who shows up, whether casually or in deep commitment. Don uses the beautiful metaphor of a community garden that thrives even when the gardener is away, while Felicia shares her personal treasure hunt of discovering growth, healing, and collaboration among the staff. Together, they affirm that this community is healthy, vibrant, and built on mutual love and support.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-04-28-april-28-2024-love-and-connection-bringing-peace-into-our-relationships/6cf05bff-4749-4790-a662-c8220fe4d53dSun, 28 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Bob Hardy shares his personal journey from a rigid Catholic upbringing through the loss of his father at 17, a successful engineering career, and ultimately finding spiritual freedom in Unity - weaving humor and vulnerability throughout. Drawing on his experience as an ordained interfaith minister, artist, and engineer, Rev. Bob Hardy introduces a powerful practice called "Setting the Arena," developed by coach Maria Nemeth, which involves asking two transformative questions before any interaction to cultivate openness and connection. He invites the congregation to actively practice choosing qualities of being that produce extraordinary, delightful outcomes in every conversation and relationship.Rev. Bob Hardy shares his personal journey from a rigid Catholic upbringing through the loss of his father at 17, a successful engineering career, and ultimately finding spiritual freedom in Unity - weaving humor and vulnerability throughout. Drawing on his experience as an ordained interfaith minister, artist, and engineer, Rev. Bob Hardy introduces a powerful practice called "Setting the Arena," developed by coach Maria Nemeth, which involves asking two transformative questions before any interaction to cultivate openness and connection. He invites the congregation to actively practice choosing qualities of being that produce extraordinary, delightful outcomes in every conversation and relationship.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-04-21-april-21-2024-preserving-things-in-the-good/40e39f76-ea08-4364-b47e-d7df4d2c8d49Sun, 21 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0000https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-04-14-rev-darlene-strickland-treasures-of-transformation/b2bf0838-7420-4e6a-8669-7e92d245a188Sun, 14 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Darlene Strickland continues her "Treasures of Transformation" series by exploring the five keys to spiritual growth found in the parable of the hidden treasure from Matthew 13:44. Building on the first two keys - discovery and letting go - she illuminates the power of raising consciousness, stepping into divine ownership through the "I Am" presence, and ultimately living as an instrument of spirit without separation. Through inspiring stories of Myrtle Fillmore's healing journey, opera singer Enrico Caruso's triumph over fear, Rev. Mary Morrissey's personal transformation, and Michael Beckwith's teaching on gratitude and unlimited possibility, Rev. Darlene Strickland reminds us that something within each of us is actively reshaping our existence and realizing our highest potential.Rev. Darlene Strickland continues her "Treasures of Transformation" series by exploring the five keys to spiritual growth found in the parable of the hidden treasure from Matthew 13:44. Building on the first two keys - discovery and letting go - she illuminates the power of raising consciousness, stepping into divine ownership through the "I Am" presence, and ultimately living as an instrument of spirit without separation. Through inspiring stories of Myrtle Fillmore's healing journey, opera singer Enrico Caruso's triumph over fear, Rev. Mary Morrissey's personal transformation, and Michael Beckwith's teaching on gratitude and unlimited possibility, Rev. Darlene Strickland reminds us that something within each of us is actively reshaping our existence and realizing our highest potential.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-04-07-april-7-2024-treasures-of-transformation/f6891de8-76d4-4e90-85cc-550d3fda0922Sun, 07 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Darlene Strickland opens this two-part series "Treasures of Transformation" by exploring the profound discovery that the kingdom of God is not a tiny spark hidden within us but is our very nature - woven into the fabric of our being. Drawing from the parable in Matthew 13:44, Buddhist teachings, Rumi's poetry, and a moving story from her time studying Hawaiian culture in Maui, she invites us to ask life's most important question: who do you know yourself to be? Through the inspiring example of Unity co-founder Myrtle Fillmore's healing journey, Rev. Darlene Strickland reminds us that there is something within each of us actively releasing our limitations and realizing our potential.Rev. Darlene Strickland opens this two-part series "Treasures of Transformation" by exploring the profound discovery that the kingdom of God is not a tiny spark hidden within us but is our very nature - woven into the fabric of our being. Drawing from the parable in Matthew 13:44, Buddhist teachings, Rumi's poetry, and a moving story from her time studying Hawaiian culture in Maui, she invites us to ask life's most important question: who do you know yourself to be? Through the inspiring example of Unity co-founder Myrtle Fillmore's healing journey, Rev. Darlene Strickland reminds us that there is something within each of us actively releasing our limitations and realizing our potential.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-03-31-march-31-2024-the-emerging-brilliance-of-now-viewing-the-easter-story-through-the-mystical-lens/8a5317d9-9ef9-474b-9d29-9b0aa52e2eb3Sun, 31 Mar 2024 00:00:00 +0000Rev. TJ Woodward offers a deeply personal and refreshing exploration of the Easter story through a mystical lens, inviting listeners to see it not as a distant religious narrative but as a profound remembrance of our true nature. Drawing from his own journey of growing up in Indiana and spending years trying to change his thinking, Rev. TJ Woodward shares how the resurrection is really about uncovering the wholeness we were born with - not achieving something new. He encourages us to move beyond core false beliefs, spend time in the "tomb" of stillness, and remember that we each came into this world as a spark of divinity that has never left us.Rev. TJ Woodward offers a deeply personal and refreshing exploration of the Easter story through a mystical lens, inviting listeners to see it not as a distant religious narrative but as a profound remembrance of our true nature. Drawing from his own journey of growing up in Indiana and spending years trying to change his thinking, Rev. TJ Woodward shares how the resurrection is really about uncovering the wholeness we were born with - not achieving something new. He encourages us to move beyond core false beliefs, spend time in the "tomb" of stillness, and remember that we each came into this world as a spark of divinity that has never left us.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-03-24-march-24-2024-the-real-meaning-of-palm-sunday/8d649234-10a0-4760-aeb3-49eb73c2a252Sun, 24 Mar 2024 00:00:00 +0000Christopher Brown explores the deeper significance of Palm Sunday as a pivotal turning point in spiritual consciousness - the moment when humanity began shifting from a paradigm of fear and obedience to one rooted in love, intimacy, and compassion. He illuminates how Jesus introduced a radically personal relationship with the Divine, using the Aramaic word "Abba" to convey closeness rather than distance. Through powerful stories - from a young girl sharing bread with her brother to the Peace Pilgrim's encounter with generous strangers - Christopher Brown reminds us that true spirituality lives not in right belief but in right action, kindness, and love with work boots on.Christopher Brown explores the deeper significance of Palm Sunday as a pivotal turning point in spiritual consciousness - the moment when humanity began shifting from a paradigm of fear and obedience to one rooted in love, intimacy, and compassion. He illuminates how Jesus introduced a radically personal relationship with the Divine, using the Aramaic word "Abba" to convey closeness rather than distance. Through powerful stories - from a young girl sharing bread with her brother to the Peace Pilgrim's encounter with generous strangers - Christopher Brown reminds us that true spirituality lives not in right belief but in right action, kindness, and love with work boots on.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-03-17-march-17-2024-dare-to-be-great-you-already-are/32fd666f-67c5-47c7-8550-905d5627907eSun, 17 Mar 2024 00:00:00 +0000Ron Salazar, LUT delivers a heartfelt and humorous message reminding us that greatness is not reserved for world leaders or spiritual icons - it already lives within each of us. Drawing on Unity's teaching that God is 100% present in every person, Ron Salazar, LUT encourages us to embrace our inner critic not as an enemy but as a loving part of our wholeness, much like a security officer on a starship who simply needs to work alongside the rest of the crew. Through personal stories of sobriety, self-discovery, and pushing open doors that were never truly locked, he invites us to express our unique purpose - whether we are a rose, an oak tree, or seaweed - knowing that our greatness serves the world.Ron Salazar, LUT delivers a heartfelt and humorous message reminding us that greatness is not reserved for world leaders or spiritual icons - it already lives within each of us. Drawing on Unity's teaching that God is 100% present in every person, Ron Salazar, LUT encourages us to embrace our inner critic not as an enemy but as a loving part of our wholeness, much like a security officer on a starship who simply needs to work alongside the rest of the crew. Through personal stories of sobriety, self-discovery, and pushing open doors that were never truly locked, he invites us to express our unique purpose - whether we are a rose, an oak tree, or seaweed - knowing that our greatness serves the world.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-03-10-march-10-2024-embracing-change/2251a574-3e51-4c78-9f5f-5ebb7c7387bdSun, 10 Mar 2024 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kevin Ross delivers a heartfelt and powerful message on embracing change rather than resisting it, drawing from his personal experience of recently losing his beloved grandmother - the matriarch of his family. He shares practical spiritual pivots for navigating transitions with grace, including assessing our relationship to change, recognizing that life happens for us rather than to us, maintaining a beginner's mind as candidates for wisdom, and remembering our divine nature as a source of resilience. Rev. Kevin Ross reminds us that everything is working for our highest good and that we can choose to celebrate change rather than fear it.Rev. Kevin Ross delivers a heartfelt and powerful message on embracing change rather than resisting it, drawing from his personal experience of recently losing his beloved grandmother - the matriarch of his family. He shares practical spiritual pivots for navigating transitions with grace, including assessing our relationship to change, recognizing that life happens for us rather than to us, maintaining a beginner's mind as candidates for wisdom, and remembering our divine nature as a source of resilience. Rev. Kevin Ross reminds us that everything is working for our highest good and that we can choose to celebrate change rather than fear it.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-03-03-march-3-2024-prayer-from-the-heart/d852f27c-a79f-445d-8bc1-6a3c1a2412e6Sun, 03 Mar 2024 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Dr. Johanna Van Gelder explores the transformative practice of affirmative prayer, explaining how this form of prayer used in the Unity and New Thought traditions is not about begging God to change circumstances but about shifting our consciousness to recognize the divine qualities already within us. She walks through the five steps of affirmative prayer - preparation, purpose, recognition, gratitude, and release - while emphasizing that authentic prayer comes from the heart and engages our feelings and senses rather than being merely a mental exercise. Through powerful stories, including a personal experience praying for her brother's wholeness and the inspiring work of an interfaith prayer group in Jerusalem, Rev. Dr. Johanna Van Gelder illustrates how prayer strengthens community, honors human dignity, and makes a difference whether we pray for ourselves, our loved ones, or the world.Rev. Dr. Johanna Van Gelder explores the transformative practice of affirmative prayer, explaining how this form of prayer used in the Unity and New Thought traditions is not about begging God to change circumstances but about shifting our consciousness to recognize the divine qualities already within us. She walks through the five steps of affirmative prayer - preparation, purpose, recognition, gratitude, and release - while emphasizing that authentic prayer comes from the heart and engages our feelings and senses rather than being merely a mental exercise. Through powerful stories, including a personal experience praying for her brother's wholeness and the inspiring work of an interfaith prayer group in Jerusalem, Rev. Dr. Johanna Van Gelder illustrates how prayer strengthens community, honors human dignity, and makes a difference whether we pray for ourselves, our loved ones, or the world.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-02-25-february-25-2024-you-are-enough/9129ad69-e00a-4008-9db3-3b95e4728d98Sun, 25 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0000Susan Angelos delivers a powerful and heartfelt message exploring what it truly means to be enough - not perfect, not self-sufficient, not flawless, but simply fit for purpose exactly as we are. Drawing from scripture, personal stories, and nearly a decade of her own spiritual journey, she invites listeners into what she lovingly calls "the cult of enough," a radical embrace of our perfectly imperfect selves. Susan reminds us that enoughness is not earned or conditional - it is the spark of the divine already within each of us, waiting to be revealed rather than achieved.Susan Angelos delivers a powerful and heartfelt message exploring what it truly means to be enough - not perfect, not self-sufficient, not flawless, but simply fit for purpose exactly as we are. Drawing from scripture, personal stories, and nearly a decade of her own spiritual journey, she invites listeners into what she lovingly calls "the cult of enough," a radical embrace of our perfectly imperfect selves. Susan reminds us that enoughness is not earned or conditional - it is the spark of the divine already within each of us, waiting to be revealed rather than achieved.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-02-18-february-18-2024-can-your-love-ailerons-take-the-pressure/f56a4249-2ce1-47d9-8184-6edc4b6314c2Sun, 18 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Verona Garland draws on her years as an international flight attendant to offer a powerful aviation metaphor for navigating life's challenges, exploring how the three movements of an aircraft - pitch, yaw, and roll - correspond to spiritual stamina, tungsten tenacity, and remembrance resilience. She shares the inspiring story of Mildred and Richard Loving, whose interracial marriage in 1958 required all three qualities to overcome legal persecution, and reflects on her own experience presenting before an idol at a conference in Kenya. Rev. Verona Garland invites us to consider what pressures our "love ailerons" face and reminds us that spirit may be using that very pressure to shape us into magnificent expressions of the divine, with self-love lighting the way forward.Rev. Verona Garland draws on her years as an international flight attendant to offer a powerful aviation metaphor for navigating life's challenges, exploring how the three movements of an aircraft - pitch, yaw, and roll - correspond to spiritual stamina, tungsten tenacity, and remembrance resilience. She shares the inspiring story of Mildred and Richard Loving, whose interracial marriage in 1958 required all three qualities to overcome legal persecution, and reflects on her own experience presenting before an idol at a conference in Kenya. Rev. Verona Garland invites us to consider what pressures our "love ailerons" face and reminds us that spirit may be using that very pressure to shape us into magnificent expressions of the divine, with self-love lighting the way forward.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-02-11-february-11-2024-cultivating-compassion/f899e729-9365-4ff8-a715-427b16669237Sun, 11 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin concludes the five-week "Jump Start Your Heart" series by exploring the transformative power of compassion through an ancient Jewish temple ritual where those walking in opposite directions would pause to ask one another, "What happened to you?" - a profound act of witnessing that reminds us grief does not heal in isolation. Drawing on the parable of the Good Samaritan, the story of Anthony Hinton on death row, and the Buddhist tale of Kiso Gotami, Rev. Kristin invites us to go to the edges of our circles of love, release tribal thinking, and embrace our shared humanity. She reminds us that compassion flows from an infinite spiritual source that energizes rather than depletes, and that by staying open-hearted - including toward ourselves - we participate in healing communities, nations, and our world.Rev. Kristin concludes the five-week "Jump Start Your Heart" series by exploring the transformative power of compassion through an ancient Jewish temple ritual where those walking in opposite directions would pause to ask one another, "What happened to you?" - a profound act of witnessing that reminds us grief does not heal in isolation. Drawing on the parable of the Good Samaritan, the story of Anthony Hinton on death row, and the Buddhist tale of Kiso Gotami, Rev. Kristin invites us to go to the edges of our circles of love, release tribal thinking, and embrace our shared humanity. She reminds us that compassion flows from an infinite spiritual source that energizes rather than depletes, and that by staying open-hearted - including toward ourselves - we participate in healing communities, nations, and our world.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-02-04-february-4-2024-love-and-leadership/57c4c46e-cfbe-4edd-b683-567c6a5db980Sun, 04 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin and Vicky Elder engage in a rich conversation about love, leadership, and purpose, exploring how true leadership is not confined to formal roles but lives within each of us as we navigate our daily lives. Vicky Elder shares how her journey from state government to ministry revealed that lasting change comes through shifting consciousness rather than top-down authority, and that spiritual leadership operates as "power under" rather than "power over" - lifting others up through love. Together they explore how life's difficulties arrive like personal letters addressed to us, offering opportunities for growth, and how surrendering to divine purpose allows us to lead with wholeness and authenticity.Rev. Kristin and Vicky Elder engage in a rich conversation about love, leadership, and purpose, exploring how true leadership is not confined to formal roles but lives within each of us as we navigate our daily lives. Vicky Elder shares how her journey from state government to ministry revealed that lasting change comes through shifting consciousness rather than top-down authority, and that spiritual leadership operates as "power under" rather than "power over" - lifting others up through love. Together they explore how life's difficulties arrive like personal letters addressed to us, offering opportunities for growth, and how surrendering to divine purpose allows us to lead with wholeness and authenticity.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-01-28-january-28-2023-grounded-in-stillness/180894c1-d396-4498-ac2a-4d64c11f8062Sun, 28 Jan 2024 00:00:00 +0000In this contemplative message, Rev. Kristin explores the transformative power of stillness as part three of the Jump Start Your Heart series, drawing inspiration from Pico Iyer's writings and Leonard Cohen's monastic journey to reveal how going nowhere can fill us with everything. Rev. Kristin weaves together wisdom from world scriptures, personal stories, and practical insights to show that stillness is not a retreat from life but a doorway to seeing the world more clearly and loving it more deeply. Through playful anecdotes - from meditating through a snoring dog to a football player finding empty spaces on the field - Rev. Kristin invites us to mind the gaps between thoughts, look for the empty spaces, and discover that it is in stillness where creativity, joy, and divine presence await us.In this contemplative message, Rev. Kristin explores the transformative power of stillness as part three of the Jump Start Your Heart series, drawing inspiration from Pico Iyer's writings and Leonard Cohen's monastic journey to reveal how going nowhere can fill us with everything. Rev. Kristin weaves together wisdom from world scriptures, personal stories, and practical insights to show that stillness is not a retreat from life but a doorway to seeing the world more clearly and loving it more deeply. Through playful anecdotes - from meditating through a snoring dog to a football player finding empty spaces on the field - Rev. Kristin invites us to mind the gaps between thoughts, look for the empty spaces, and discover that it is in stillness where creativity, joy, and divine presence await us.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-01-21-january-21-2024-creative-passion/e8a83d99-7d78-4956-b7ca-73870b37d227Sun, 21 Jan 2024 00:00:00 +0000https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-01-14-january-14-2024-the-law-of-circulation/f87aed46-15c2-42de-95c2-48663a13381eSun, 14 Jan 2024 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin launches a powerful new series on the Law of Circulation by weaving together the parable of the Good Samaritan with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s transformative insight - that the question "If I do not stop to help, what will happen to him?" is the catalyst for true change. She explores how giving from a pure heart initiates an infinite flow of abundance, much like blood circulating through the body, and challenges listeners to release contracted thinking about scarcity and fixed limitations. Rev. Kristin reminds us that we cannot outgive God, inviting us to bust open our limited thinking and trust the divine flow of generosity that makes us fully alive.Rev. Kristin launches a powerful new series on the Law of Circulation by weaving together the parable of the Good Samaritan with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s transformative insight - that the question "If I do not stop to help, what will happen to him?" is the catalyst for true change. She explores how giving from a pure heart initiates an infinite flow of abundance, much like blood circulating through the body, and challenges listeners to release contracted thinking about scarcity and fixed limitations. Rev. Kristin reminds us that we cannot outgive God, inviting us to bust open our limited thinking and trust the divine flow of generosity that makes us fully alive.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2024-01-07-january-7-2024-white-stone-ceremony-your-gift-for-2024/4458ca54-be5e-4938-93cb-183648bb3ce7Sun, 07 Jan 2024 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin leads Unity of Walnut Creek's traditional White Stone Ceremony for 2024, weaving together the charming story of "Chip the Monk" to illustrate our spiritual journey - from the great forgetting of our true nature, through our soul's arrival and training, to stepping boldly into our purpose. Through this delightful allegory and guided meditation, Rev. Kristin invites each person to receive a sacred word or quality from spirit, written on a white stone as a reminder of the fresh start and divine gift available to us in the new year.Rev. Kristin leads Unity of Walnut Creek's traditional White Stone Ceremony for 2024, weaving together the charming story of "Chip the Monk" to illustrate our spiritual journey - from the great forgetting of our true nature, through our soul's arrival and training, to stepping boldly into our purpose. Through this delightful allegory and guided meditation, Rev. Kristin invites each person to receive a sacred word or quality from spirit, written on a white stone as a reminder of the fresh start and divine gift available to us in the new year.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-12-31-december-31-2023-uncherished-gifts-vanish/8eecce38-e8da-4513-9077-0219297aff60Sun, 31 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000Christopher Brown delivers a heartfelt message on the transformative power of gratitude as we stand at the threshold of a new year. He reminds us that uncherished gifts vanish - that when we fail to appreciate what we already have, we lose sight of the abundance surrounding us. Through personal stories, including his own journey with chronic back pain and a life-changing encounter with a blind man on the street, Christopher Brown illustrates how shifting our focus from complaint to gratitude opens the heart and becomes the creative force that moves mountains. He invites us to feed the wolf of gratitude, fill our grace bank accounts, and remember that cherishing our lives exactly as they are is the foundation for all transformation.Christopher Brown delivers a heartfelt message on the transformative power of gratitude as we stand at the threshold of a new year. He reminds us that uncherished gifts vanish - that when we fail to appreciate what we already have, we lose sight of the abundance surrounding us. Through personal stories, including his own journey with chronic back pain and a life-changing encounter with a blind man on the street, Christopher Brown illustrates how shifting our focus from complaint to gratitude opens the heart and becomes the creative force that moves mountains. He invites us to feed the wolf of gratitude, fill our grace bank accounts, and remember that cherishing our lives exactly as they are is the foundation for all transformation.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-12-24-december-24-2023-living-joy/f5484322-890c-4113-81d2-015e97790743Sun, 24 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin delivers a deeply moving Advent message on living joy, weaving together the dramatic first-person narrative of Mary's journey to Bethlehem with powerful modern parallels - from the Grinch's discovery that Christmas cannot be stolen, to the faithful young Christians gathering in Bethlehem this year despite canceled celebrations. Rev. Kristin reminds us that no outer circumstance can touch the sacred light within us, inviting us to follow our intuition like the wise men followed the star, trusting the promise of goodness even through fear and uncertainty. This message calls us to courageously birth forth the Christ consciousness within us, knowing that new life and joy await on the other side of our yes.Rev. Kristin delivers a deeply moving Advent message on living joy, weaving together the dramatic first-person narrative of Mary's journey to Bethlehem with powerful modern parallels - from the Grinch's discovery that Christmas cannot be stolen, to the faithful young Christians gathering in Bethlehem this year despite canceled celebrations. Rev. Kristin reminds us that no outer circumstance can touch the sacred light within us, inviting us to follow our intuition like the wise men followed the star, trusting the promise of goodness even through fear and uncertainty. This message calls us to courageously birth forth the Christ consciousness within us, knowing that new life and joy await on the other side of our yes.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-12-17-december-17-2023-living-love/55d3cd98-22b7-4c1a-af72-582f745c11c6Sun, 17 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin delivers a moving Advent message on the transformative power of love, using Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem as a lens for understanding how love dissolves anger, restores balance, and awakens us to our divine nature. She explores how anger signals a loss of light and how dropping into the heart reveals deeper feelings that open the door to healing. Rev. Kristin passionately speaks to the restoration of the divine feminine - our feeling nature and intuition - as essential for bringing balance to a world dominated by overt masculine energy, reminding us that love is both our origin and our pathway home.Rev. Kristin delivers a moving Advent message on the transformative power of love, using Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem as a lens for understanding how love dissolves anger, restores balance, and awakens us to our divine nature. She explores how anger signals a loss of light and how dropping into the heart reveals deeper feelings that open the door to healing. Rev. Kristin passionately speaks to the restoration of the divine feminine - our feeling nature and intuition - as essential for bringing balance to a world dominated by overt masculine energy, reminding us that love is both our origin and our pathway home.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-12-10-december-10-2023-living-peace/7d631807-cf46-47d3-95e4-bdc8f7dfc292Sun, 10 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin explores the sacred gift of "light-minded soul companions" - those who walk beside us on our spiritual journey, helping us find peace even in dark and challenging times. Drawing from the story of Mary and Elizabeth finding reassurance together during Advent, Rev. Kristin distinguishes between "like-minded" and "light-minded" connections, encouraging us to seek companions who may come from diverse backgrounds yet share a commitment to spiritual growth. Through inspiring examples ranging from the Three Amigos interfaith clergy to Charles and Myrtle Fillmore, she invites us to open our hearts to prayer partnerships and soul friendships that stretch us toward our magnificence while helping us discover peace through both light and darkness.Rev. Kristin explores the sacred gift of "light-minded soul companions" - those who walk beside us on our spiritual journey, helping us find peace even in dark and challenging times. Drawing from the story of Mary and Elizabeth finding reassurance together during Advent, Rev. Kristin distinguishes between "like-minded" and "light-minded" connections, encouraging us to seek companions who may come from diverse backgrounds yet share a commitment to spiritual growth. Through inspiring examples ranging from the Three Amigos interfaith clergy to Charles and Myrtle Fillmore, she invites us to open our hearts to prayer partnerships and soul friendships that stretch us toward our magnificence while helping us discover peace through both light and darkness.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-12-03-december-3-2023-living-faith/3462f531-2074-4cfa-a59b-537a99074bf4Sun, 03 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin delivers a powerful message about trusting our spiritual experiences rather than discounting them over time, sharing her own profound story of direct communication with her father after his passing. Through the metaphor of breaking through a board - where muscling through with bravado failed but softening into fear and opening to divine presence made it feel like butter - Rev. Kristin illustrates that faith is not about powering over fear but moving through it with compassion and surrender. She invites the community to lean into their inner knowing, honor their spiritual experiences, and live in constant connection with spirit, walking "right down the line" toward the ever-unfolding revelation of Christ consciousness within.Rev. Kristin delivers a powerful message about trusting our spiritual experiences rather than discounting them over time, sharing her own profound story of direct communication with her father after his passing. Through the metaphor of breaking through a board - where muscling through with bravado failed but softening into fear and opening to divine presence made it feel like butter - Rev. Kristin illustrates that faith is not about powering over fear but moving through it with compassion and surrender. She invites the community to lean into their inner knowing, honor their spiritual experiences, and live in constant connection with spirit, walking "right down the line" toward the ever-unfolding revelation of Christ consciousness within.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-11-26-november-26-2023-living-the-questions/9cb6820d-fa4b-4dfa-beb4-350f9e3467f9Sun, 26 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin leads an engaging open forum where she responds to heartfelt spiritual questions from her community, exploring themes of forgiveness, Advent preparation, navigating the "middle muddle" of spiritual growth, finding hope during chronic challenges, and staying present to God amid worldly chaos. With warmth and wisdom, Rev. Kristin reminds us that the spiritual journey is not a solo endeavor - guiding the community through a powerful visualization of shared Christ light expanding outward to transform suffering into harmony. She encourages curiosity, self-compassion, and the courage to follow our hearts as we live into life's deepest questions together.Rev. Kristin leads an engaging open forum where she responds to heartfelt spiritual questions from her community, exploring themes of forgiveness, Advent preparation, navigating the "middle muddle" of spiritual growth, finding hope during chronic challenges, and staying present to God amid worldly chaos. With warmth and wisdom, Rev. Kristin reminds us that the spiritual journey is not a solo endeavor - guiding the community through a powerful visualization of shared Christ light expanding outward to transform suffering into harmony. She encourages curiosity, self-compassion, and the courage to follow our hearts as we live into life's deepest questions together.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-11-19-november-19-2023-the-two-branches-of-gratitude/ee051389-b265-471e-b3ab-092c0824a1f0Sun, 19 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin explores the transformative power of gratitude through the parable of two sets of travelers encountering a shade tree - one pair longing for what they lack, the other overflowing with appreciation for what is present. Drawing on the wisdom of Brother Steindl-Rast's two branches of gratitude - gratefulness that fills us up and thanksgiving that flows outward to others - Rev. Kristin invites us to live within this beautiful cycle of receiving and giving. She also honors Native American Heritage Month with a call toward truth-telling and shares the inspiring story of the Pachamama Alliance as a modern Thanksgiving vision of shifting consciousness toward sufficiency and connection.Rev. Kristin explores the transformative power of gratitude through the parable of two sets of travelers encountering a shade tree - one pair longing for what they lack, the other overflowing with appreciation for what is present. Drawing on the wisdom of Brother Steindl-Rast's two branches of gratitude - gratefulness that fills us up and thanksgiving that flows outward to others - Rev. Kristin invites us to live within this beautiful cycle of receiving and giving. She also honors Native American Heritage Month with a call toward truth-telling and shares the inspiring story of the Pachamama Alliance as a modern Thanksgiving vision of shifting consciousness toward sufficiency and connection.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-11-12-november-12-2023-hope-the-renewable-resource/3ea872d8-618b-4880-80a9-fab802b16f9bSun, 12 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0000https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-11-05-november-5-2023-faiths-evolution/3c379f07-d390-4f73-812e-93a063f24c47Sun, 05 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin explores the dynamic evolution of faith - both personal and collective - as part of the Becoming Wise series inspired by Krista Tippett's work. Drawing on the story of Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well, her own journey with a beloved dog named Chaos, and the inspiring example of intentional communities, Rev. Kristin illustrates how faith is not static certainty but a living, breathing courage to embrace mystery, cross boundaries, and remain curious about one another. She reminds us that as we say yes to our own spiritual evolution, we contribute powerfully to humanity's unfolding, worshiping together in spirit and truth across all traditions and differences.Rev. Kristin explores the dynamic evolution of faith - both personal and collective - as part of the Becoming Wise series inspired by Krista Tippett's work. Drawing on the story of Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well, her own journey with a beloved dog named Chaos, and the inspiring example of intentional communities, Rev. Kristin illustrates how faith is not static certainty but a living, breathing courage to embrace mystery, cross boundaries, and remain curious about one another. She reminds us that as we say yes to our own spiritual evolution, we contribute powerfully to humanity's unfolding, worshiping together in spirit and truth across all traditions and differences.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-10-29-becoming-wise-part-4-wholehearted-love/48bc9437-ff66-47a5-a860-e70c4563b3a0Sun, 29 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin explores love as the most challenging yet supreme calling of our spiritual lives, drawing from Krista Tippett's "Becoming Wise" series and the vision of the beloved community. She invites us to move beyond loving only when it is easy and instead embrace wholeheartedness - loving without exception, even those who perpetrate harm - recognizing that hurting people have lost sight of their divine nature and need our love most. Rev. Kristin reminds us that spiritual practice fortifies us to stay open and sensitive in a world that tries to desensitize, and that our wholehearted love serves as the "critical yeast" needed to co-create heaven on earth together.Rev. Kristin explores love as the most challenging yet supreme calling of our spiritual lives, drawing from Krista Tippett's "Becoming Wise" series and the vision of the beloved community. She invites us to move beyond loving only when it is easy and instead embrace wholeheartedness - loving without exception, even those who perpetrate harm - recognizing that hurting people have lost sight of their divine nature and need our love most. Rev. Kristin reminds us that spiritual practice fortifies us to stay open and sensitive in a world that tries to desensitize, and that our wholehearted love serves as the "critical yeast" needed to co-create heaven on earth together.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-10-22-october-22-2023-joy-and-grace-in-the-body/939304a4-bbf7-4d9c-b6f9-2c8de8759c48Sun, 22 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000Johanna Van Gelder explores the sacred wisdom of the body through the powerful story of Matthew Sanford, a paralyzed yoga practitioner who discovered that our bodies store what our minds cannot process, and she invites us to reconnect with our physical selves as divine expressions. Drawing on teachings from mindfulness meditation, trauma research, and her own experience with illness, Johanna Van Gelder reminds us that bringing awareness, breath, and compassion to our bodies allows energy to flow freely and healing to unfold. She emphasizes that inhabiting our bodies with love not only restores our personal wholeness but ripples outward, deepening our compassion and connection to the world around us.Johanna Van Gelder explores the sacred wisdom of the body through the powerful story of Matthew Sanford, a paralyzed yoga practitioner who discovered that our bodies store what our minds cannot process, and she invites us to reconnect with our physical selves as divine expressions. Drawing on teachings from mindfulness meditation, trauma research, and her own experience with illness, Johanna Van Gelder reminds us that bringing awareness, breath, and compassion to our bodies allows energy to flow freely and healing to unfold. She emphasizes that inhabiting our bodies with love not only restores our personal wholeness but ripples outward, deepening our compassion and connection to the world around us.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-10-15-october-15-2023-words-poetic-and-prophetic/db6e3d24-cd58-4fce-be16-dfaea1007151Sun, 15 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin explores the sacred power of words as part of the Becoming Wise series, drawing from Krista Tippett's work to illuminate how our language shapes reality, heals wounds, and co-creates the world we long to inhabit. She invites us to discover words that "shimmer" - words spoken from the heart that stop people in their tracks and reverberate with truth and beauty. Acknowledging the heartbreak of global conflict, Rev. Kristin calls each person to embrace their inner poet and prophet, using the power of their word to honor the sacredness of all life and meet one another in Rumi's field beyond wrongdoing and rightdoing - a field of love.Rev. Kristin explores the sacred power of words as part of the Becoming Wise series, drawing from Krista Tippett's work to illuminate how our language shapes reality, heals wounds, and co-creates the world we long to inhabit. She invites us to discover words that "shimmer" - words spoken from the heart that stop people in their tracks and reverberate with truth and beauty. Acknowledging the heartbreak of global conflict, Rev. Kristin calls each person to embrace their inner poet and prophet, using the power of their word to honor the sacredness of all life and meet one another in Rumi's field beyond wrongdoing and rightdoing - a field of love.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-10-08-october-8-2023-listen-and-walls-tumble/f46a185a-37c7-486e-afda-120554420114Sun, 08 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin opens this inspiring message with a vivid personal story of visiting divided Berlin in 1986, using the contrast between East and West as a powerful metaphor for the walls we build - both collectively and individually - through ideology, fear, and limitation. She introduces Krista Tippett's book "Becoming Wise" as a guide for the community's fall study series, emphasizing that listening is the essential pathway to wisdom and the key ingredient within all peace work and productive conversation. Rev. Kristin invites us to recognize that we are living in a new "axial age" of spiritual awakening, encouraging generous listening as a practice that releases our spiritual genius and helps turn the world toward greater connection, compassion, and oneness.Rev. Kristin opens this inspiring message with a vivid personal story of visiting divided Berlin in 1986, using the contrast between East and West as a powerful metaphor for the walls we build - both collectively and individually - through ideology, fear, and limitation. She introduces Krista Tippett's book "Becoming Wise" as a guide for the community's fall study series, emphasizing that listening is the essential pathway to wisdom and the key ingredient within all peace work and productive conversation. Rev. Kristin invites us to recognize that we are living in a new "axial age" of spiritual awakening, encouraging generous listening as a practice that releases our spiritual genius and helps turn the world toward greater connection, compassion, and oneness.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-10-01-october-1-2023-prospering-and-healing-through-love/a24330d5-3d27-41f4-80d7-b06a41c2cfd9Sun, 01 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin explores the transformative power of love through a remarkable true story of a father and son separated by fear and reunited through prayer at the Wailing Wall, illustrating how we can touch with love what we have previously touched with fear. She guides us to recognize that love is both a personal portal and an expansive divine force - that through our passionate commitment to the well-being of others, we access a universal love where all spiritual powers become available to us. As the final teaching in the 12 Powers series, Rev. Kristin reminds us that love is the bridge that overcomes every obstacle, heals every relationship, and carries us through any challenge life presents.Rev. Kristin explores the transformative power of love through a remarkable true story of a father and son separated by fear and reunited through prayer at the Wailing Wall, illustrating how we can touch with love what we have previously touched with fear. She guides us to recognize that love is both a personal portal and an expansive divine force - that through our passionate commitment to the well-being of others, we access a universal love where all spiritual powers become available to us. As the final teaching in the 12 Powers series, Rev. Kristin reminds us that love is the bridge that overcomes every obstacle, heals every relationship, and carries us through any challenge life presents.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-09-24-september-24-2023-prospering-and-healing-through-wisdom/66dd692c-29ea-4103-a983-3fd0138718f4Sun, 24 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin guides the community through an experiential exploration of wisdom as one of the 12 Powers, located in the solar plexus and represented by the color yellow. Through storytelling, humor, and an interactive body-awareness exercise, Rev. Kristin invites listeners to discover how their bodies communicate yes and no - revealing the "second brain" of gut intuition that connects us to divine guidance. Drawing on the Sufi tale of Nasruddin, the story of King Solomon, and her own memorable life lessons, Rev. Kristin reminds us that true wisdom arises when we slow down, trust our inner knowing, and act from that grounded, spirit-led place rather than from fear or impulse.Rev. Kristin guides the community through an experiential exploration of wisdom as one of the 12 Powers, located in the solar plexus and represented by the color yellow. Through storytelling, humor, and an interactive body-awareness exercise, Rev. Kristin invites listeners to discover how their bodies communicate yes and no - revealing the "second brain" of gut intuition that connects us to divine guidance. Drawing on the Sufi tale of Nasruddin, the story of King Solomon, and her own memorable life lessons, Rev. Kristin reminds us that true wisdom arises when we slow down, trust our inner knowing, and act from that grounded, spirit-led place rather than from fear or impulse.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-09-17-september-17-2023-prospering-and-healing-through-order/9dc5a233-c276-4fe8-8c89-905dc210454dSun, 17 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin explores the spiritual power of Order as part of the 12 Powers series, revealing how our very navels serve as reminders of our divine connection to source and our agreement to be born into this life. She weaves together chaos theory, sacred geometry, and personal stories to illustrate that beneath life's apparent messiness lies a divinely intelligent pattern moving all things toward ideal behavior. Rev. Kristin encourages us to remember that we chose to be here, that our contributions matter - even small butterfly-wing prayers can transform the world - and that ultimately, all is well within this beautifully orchestrated universe.Rev. Kristin explores the spiritual power of Order as part of the 12 Powers series, revealing how our very navels serve as reminders of our divine connection to source and our agreement to be born into this life. She weaves together chaos theory, sacred geometry, and personal stories to illustrate that beneath life's apparent messiness lies a divinely intelligent pattern moving all things toward ideal behavior. Rev. Kristin encourages us to remember that we chose to be here, that our contributions matter - even small butterfly-wing prayers can transform the world - and that ultimately, all is well within this beautifully orchestrated universe.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-09-10-september-10-2023-celebrating-75-years-a-campus-of-consciousness/1f64a497-5ced-4a60-97d9-b448e38161b6Sun, 10 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin leads a heartfelt celebration of Unity of Walnut Creek's 75th anniversary, weaving together the community's rich history - from its humble beginnings as a study group in Alamo in 1948 to the vibrant, thriving spiritual home it is today. Through stories of founding minister Rev. Marie Giles, the transformative leadership of Rev. Carol Ruth Knox, and video messages from beloved former ministers, Rev. Kristin honors the roots that ground this community while casting a joyful vision for its future. She reminds us that this sacred space exists to rekindle faith, nurture purpose, and embody radical inclusivity, all anchored in the profound truth that "there's only one of us here."Rev. Kristin leads a heartfelt celebration of Unity of Walnut Creek's 75th anniversary, weaving together the community's rich history - from its humble beginnings as a study group in Alamo in 1948 to the vibrant, thriving spiritual home it is today. Through stories of founding minister Rev. Marie Giles, the transformative leadership of Rev. Carol Ruth Knox, and video messages from beloved former ministers, Rev. Kristin honors the roots that ground this community while casting a joyful vision for its future. She reminds us that this sacred space exists to rekindle faith, nurture purpose, and embody radical inclusivity, all anchored in the profound truth that "there's only one of us here."https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-09-03-september-3-2023-consciousness-is-us/d5f8ade3-9dba-4f36-bfae-13b011a629dcSun, 03 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0000Ron Salazar delivers a heartfelt and deeply personal message about the consciousness of oneness - not as something outside of us, but as the very essence of who we are. Drawing from his 30-year spiritual journey through AA and into Unity, he shares how understanding that "our will be done" replaced "thy will be done" as he discovered the power within rather than seeking it externally. Through vulnerable stories of health challenges and workplace struggles, Ron illustrates how staying conscious of our true nature gives us the strength, creativity, and love to navigate life's hardest moments while remaining authentically ourselves.Ron Salazar delivers a heartfelt and deeply personal message about the consciousness of oneness - not as something outside of us, but as the very essence of who we are. Drawing from his 30-year spiritual journey through AA and into Unity, he shares how understanding that "our will be done" replaced "thy will be done" as he discovered the power within rather than seeking it externally. Through vulnerable stories of health challenges and workplace struggles, Ron illustrates how staying conscious of our true nature gives us the strength, creativity, and love to navigate life's hardest moments while remaining authentically ourselves.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-08-27-august-27-2023-prosperity-and-healing-through-release/093b7fd1-acd8-4705-ba55-1e2c2d77a20aSun, 27 Aug 2023 00:00:00 +0000https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-08-20-august-20-2023-prospering-and-healing-through-life/ccee766e-9bcc-4aae-9fbd-39d37d2e88d5Sun, 20 Aug 2023 00:00:00 +0000Will Tuttle shares his remarkable journey from walking across America with his brother in search of cosmic consciousness to becoming a Zen Buddhist monk in Korea, earning his PhD at Berkeley, and eventually dedicating his life to serving Unity churches across all 50 states with his wife Madeline. Drawing on Charles Fillmore's 12th power of generative life, Will explores how we must channel our life energy toward wisdom rather than allowing it to be diminished by craving and low-level striving. He celebrates Unity's inclusive honoring of all wisdom traditions and its empowering teaching that each person can connect directly with their own inner guidance system to discover the bubbling spring of joy that is our true nature.Will Tuttle shares his remarkable journey from walking across America with his brother in search of cosmic consciousness to becoming a Zen Buddhist monk in Korea, earning his PhD at Berkeley, and eventually dedicating his life to serving Unity churches across all 50 states with his wife Madeline. Drawing on Charles Fillmore's 12th power of generative life, Will explores how we must channel our life energy toward wisdom rather than allowing it to be diminished by craving and low-level striving. He celebrates Unity's inclusive honoring of all wisdom traditions and its empowering teaching that each person can connect directly with their own inner guidance system to discover the bubbling spring of joy that is our true nature.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-08-13-august-13-2023-prospering-and-healing-through-power/d09dfe16-dc89-4efc-ae77-6f7488a86744Sun, 13 Aug 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin explores the spiritual power of finding and using our true voice as part of the 12 Powers series, drawing a rich parallel between Dorothy's journey in the Wizard of Oz and our own quest to overcome fear and step into spiritual authority. She distinguishes between worldly domination and divine dominion - a God-sized responsibility for all life rooted in love rather than control. Rev. Kristin reminds us that our words are living identities with creative power, and that when we ground ourselves in truth and speak from the sacred space between heart and mouth, we become co-creators of a more loving world.Rev. Kristin explores the spiritual power of finding and using our true voice as part of the 12 Powers series, drawing a rich parallel between Dorothy's journey in the Wizard of Oz and our own quest to overcome fear and step into spiritual authority. She distinguishes between worldly domination and divine dominion - a God-sized responsibility for all life rooted in love rather than control. Rev. Kristin reminds us that our words are living identities with creative power, and that when we ground ourselves in truth and speak from the sacred space between heart and mouth, we become co-creators of a more loving world.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-08-06-august-6-2023-prospering-and-healing-through-zeal/06c9e8e3-fd5e-4ece-960d-92700e11295dSun, 06 Aug 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin explores the spiritual power of zeal - that inward fire of the soul that propels us forward with purpose and enthusiasm. Drawing from Charles Fillmore's famous declaration at age 94 that he "fairly sizzled with zeal," she reveals how enthusiasm literally means "filled with God" and invites listeners to reconnect with what lights them up and brings them alive. Rev. Kristin also offers a thoughtful exploration of how zeal can either unite or divide, encouraging us to direct our passion toward what we are for rather than what we are against, seeking common ground even with those whose visions differ from our own.Rev. Kristin explores the spiritual power of zeal - that inward fire of the soul that propels us forward with purpose and enthusiasm. Drawing from Charles Fillmore's famous declaration at age 94 that he "fairly sizzled with zeal," she reveals how enthusiasm literally means "filled with God" and invites listeners to reconnect with what lights them up and brings them alive. Rev. Kristin also offers a thoughtful exploration of how zeal can either unite or divide, encouraging us to direct our passion toward what we are for rather than what we are against, seeking common ground even with those whose visions differ from our own.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-07-30-july-30-2023-prospering-and-healing-through-will/b367acdd-a28e-491c-bf5a-d5807ae26336Sun, 30 Jul 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin explores the spiritual power of will as part of Unity of Walnut Creek's 12 Powers summer series, illuminating the spectrum between willfulness and willingness. She explains how will serves as the executive faculty of the mind - our power to choose, commit, and follow through - while emphasizing that our deepest will aligns with divine will when we attune to our heart's true desires rather than surface-level impulses. Drawing from Charles Fillmore's teachings, scripture, and even the Barbie movie, Rev. Kristin shows how will works alongside understanding and imagination to help us become the light-filled creators we are meant to be.Rev. Kristin explores the spiritual power of will as part of Unity of Walnut Creek's 12 Powers summer series, illuminating the spectrum between willfulness and willingness. She explains how will serves as the executive faculty of the mind - our power to choose, commit, and follow through - while emphasizing that our deepest will aligns with divine will when we attune to our heart's true desires rather than surface-level impulses. Drawing from Charles Fillmore's teachings, scripture, and even the Barbie movie, Rev. Kristin shows how will works alongside understanding and imagination to help us become the light-filled creators we are meant to be.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-07-23-july-23-2023-prospering-and-healing-through-understanding/71a1457f-a289-4f58-bec1-b27eb7c6430dSun, 23 Jul 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin explores the spiritual power of understanding as part of the 12 Powers series, illuminating how true understanding encompasses both comprehension and compassion - moving beyond intellectual knowing into an embodied, full-being experience of truth. Through compelling stories and the examples of the disciples Mary of Bethany and Thomas, she invites us to cultivate curiosity as a spiritual practice, to listen deeply, and to digest truth into every cell of our being. Rev. Kristin reminds us that understanding flourishes when we remain teachable, open-hearted, and willing to release old assumptions that separate us from our divine connection.Rev. Kristin explores the spiritual power of understanding as part of the 12 Powers series, illuminating how true understanding encompasses both comprehension and compassion - moving beyond intellectual knowing into an embodied, full-being experience of truth. Through compelling stories and the examples of the disciples Mary of Bethany and Thomas, she invites us to cultivate curiosity as a spiritual practice, to listen deeply, and to digest truth into every cell of our being. Rev. Kristin reminds us that understanding flourishes when we remain teachable, open-hearted, and willing to release old assumptions that separate us from our divine connection.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-07-16-july-16-2023-prospering-and-healing-through-imagination/56d487c4-8619-4358-9166-e1bb53a253f2Sun, 16 Jul 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin explores the spiritual power of imagination as part of the 12 Powers series, inviting listeners to activate their inner vision - the "single eye" that Jesus described in the Sermon on the Mount - as a tool for healing and prosperity. Drawing on the symbolism of the Eye of Providence on the dollar bill, she illustrates how shifting from limited physical perspective to higher spiritual seeing opens us to infinite possibility. Rev. Kristin offers practical ways to engage this power, from revisioning old memories to holding images of wholeness for loved ones, reminding us that imagination is a joyful, playful gift that can transform every area of our lives.Rev. Kristin explores the spiritual power of imagination as part of the 12 Powers series, inviting listeners to activate their inner vision - the "single eye" that Jesus described in the Sermon on the Mount - as a tool for healing and prosperity. Drawing on the symbolism of the Eye of Providence on the dollar bill, she illustrates how shifting from limited physical perspective to higher spiritual seeing opens us to infinite possibility. Rev. Kristin offers practical ways to engage this power, from revisioning old memories to holding images of wholeness for loved ones, reminding us that imagination is a joyful, playful gift that can transform every area of our lives.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-07-09-july-9-2023-prospering-and-healing-through-faith/79928c5a-4fca-4b0f-a632-546a26f7452eSun, 09 Jul 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin opens this inspiring exploration of Faith - the first in a 12-week series on the spiritual powers of humankind - by drawing on the wisdom of Lewis Carroll's queen who practiced believing impossible things before breakfast. Using the biblical story of the woman who touched the hem of Jesus' garment, Rev. Kristin illustrates how desire, belief, and reaching for Christ consciousness activate our innate healing power. She connects faith to its energy center in the mind, encouraging listeners to master their focus, feed their minds with spiritual food, and hold steady attention on what they wish to create - reminding us that faith the size of a mustard seed can move mountains.Rev. Kristin opens this inspiring exploration of Faith - the first in a 12-week series on the spiritual powers of humankind - by drawing on the wisdom of Lewis Carroll's queen who practiced believing impossible things before breakfast. Using the biblical story of the woman who touched the hem of Jesus' garment, Rev. Kristin illustrates how desire, belief, and reaching for Christ consciousness activate our innate healing power. She connects faith to its energy center in the mind, encouraging listeners to master their focus, feed their minds with spiritual food, and hold steady attention on what they wish to create - reminding us that faith the size of a mustard seed can move mountains.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-07-02-july-2-2023-where-is-the-love/a0c70541-e853-452c-9728-8cb5bea48fb1Sun, 02 Jul 2023 00:00:00 +0000In this heartfelt and humorous message, Melissa and Z explore how to reconnect with love - especially when we feel disconnected from it. Melissa shares how identifying the lies we believe about ourselves can reveal truth on the flip side, recounting her own breakthrough discovery that spirit wanted her here, evidenced by every breath she takes. Z builds on this by sharing a powerful story from a spiritual retreat where overhearing someone's judgment became a catalyst for self-acceptance and the liberating realization that everyone wants to love. Together, they remind us that love is always the truth waiting on the other side of every lie we believe.In this heartfelt and humorous message, Melissa and Z explore how to reconnect with love - especially when we feel disconnected from it. Melissa shares how identifying the lies we believe about ourselves can reveal truth on the flip side, recounting her own breakthrough discovery that spirit wanted her here, evidenced by every breath she takes. Z builds on this by sharing a powerful story from a spiritual retreat where overhearing someone's judgment became a catalyst for self-acceptance and the liberating realization that everyone wants to love. Together, they remind us that love is always the truth waiting on the other side of every lie we believe.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-06-25-june-25-2023-responses-to-your-spiritual-questions/c6609139-a67a-4775-b73e-e70b3cf5f444Sun, 25 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0000In this engaging open forum, Rev. Kristin responds to heartfelt spiritual questions from the community, covering topics ranging from Unity's understanding of God as all-encompassing love to navigating spiritual dryness and staying informed without being overwhelmed by world events. Rev. Kristin offers practical wisdom on activating the feeling nature in prayer, embracing liminal spaces of stillness, and Unity's tradition of metaphysical Bible interpretation. With warmth and authenticity, Rev. Kristin reminds us that we already hold the answers within and encourages the power of breath, community, and trust as tools for staying aligned with spirit.In this engaging open forum, Rev. Kristin responds to heartfelt spiritual questions from the community, covering topics ranging from Unity's understanding of God as all-encompassing love to navigating spiritual dryness and staying informed without being overwhelmed by world events. Rev. Kristin offers practical wisdom on activating the feeling nature in prayer, embracing liminal spaces of stillness, and Unity's tradition of metaphysical Bible interpretation. With warmth and authenticity, Rev. Kristin reminds us that we already hold the answers within and encourages the power of breath, community, and trust as tools for staying aligned with spirit.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-06-18-june-18-2023-fathers-foundation-of-light/65ab0c1c-f18d-4832-865c-c9d1ac82f2f1Sun, 18 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin explores the sacred masculine as a guiding light that creates safety, confronts injustice, and supports others on their journey. Through powerful stories - including two fathers whose friendship defied racism, the Pullman porters who stood for Emmett Till's family, and St. Ramold who chose compassion over violence - Rev. Kristin illustrates how divine father energy shows up as courageous action, validation, and loving presence. She invites us to recall those who helped us feel safe, recognize what made that possible, and become that illumined presence for others as we awaken together.Rev. Kristin explores the sacred masculine as a guiding light that creates safety, confronts injustice, and supports others on their journey. Through powerful stories - including two fathers whose friendship defied racism, the Pullman porters who stood for Emmett Till's family, and St. Ramold who chose compassion over violence - Rev. Kristin illustrates how divine father energy shows up as courageous action, validation, and loving presence. She invites us to recall those who helped us feel safe, recognize what made that possible, and become that illumined presence for others as we awaken together.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-06-11-june-11-2023-how-to-truly-prosper/50fb1197-a136-44e7-8c45-e4865596332bSun, 11 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin invites us to explore a deeper understanding of prosperity - one that goes far beyond material wealth to encompass a rich consciousness rooted in being fully present. Drawing from her own journey of leaving a well-paying career for ministry and discovering profound abundance while making very little money, Rev. Kristin shares how true prosperity flows through us when we center ourselves in spirit and practice "be here now." She illuminates four pillars of prosperity - forgiveness, giving, gratitude, and vision - all built on a foundation of faith, encouraging us to open our hearts, clear old grudges, and trust in the infinite source that meets our every need.Rev. Kristin invites us to explore a deeper understanding of prosperity - one that goes far beyond material wealth to encompass a rich consciousness rooted in being fully present. Drawing from her own journey of leaving a well-paying career for ministry and discovering profound abundance while making very little money, Rev. Kristin shares how true prosperity flows through us when we center ourselves in spirit and practice "be here now." She illuminates four pillars of prosperity - forgiveness, giving, gratitude, and vision - all built on a foundation of faith, encouraging us to open our hearts, clear old grudges, and trust in the infinite source that meets our every need.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-06-04-june-4-2023-exploring-pride/14178975-a49c-4c13-9dcb-cfd5cc7066a0Sun, 04 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0000TJ Woodward delivers a deeply personal and thought-provoking message exploring the intersection of pride, consciousness, and spiritual awakening. Drawing from his experience as a gay man growing up in 1960s Indiana, TJ Woodward shares how childhood programming and unconscious beliefs can shape our reality - and how true freedom comes from healing those deep-seated wounds rather than fighting external battles. He outlines four levels of consciousness - martyr, magical thinking, metaphysical, and mystical - inviting listeners to move beyond division and into a lived experience of oneness where we celebrate our differences while recognizing our shared divine nature. TJ Woodward reminds us that the greatest freedom we can experience is freedom from the reactive impulse, calling each of us to simply be love and light in the world.TJ Woodward delivers a deeply personal and thought-provoking message exploring the intersection of pride, consciousness, and spiritual awakening. Drawing from his experience as a gay man growing up in 1960s Indiana, TJ Woodward shares how childhood programming and unconscious beliefs can shape our reality - and how true freedom comes from healing those deep-seated wounds rather than fighting external battles. He outlines four levels of consciousness - martyr, magical thinking, metaphysical, and mystical - inviting listeners to move beyond division and into a lived experience of oneness where we celebrate our differences while recognizing our shared divine nature. TJ Woodward reminds us that the greatest freedom we can experience is freedom from the reactive impulse, calling each of us to simply be love and light in the world.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-05-28-i-am-remembering/ffd702b2-6558-4fa9-a49c-f8084fc02139Sun, 28 May 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin offers a powerful Memorial Day reflection that honors military veterans while inviting us to remember our deepest spiritual identity. Drawing on the story of Moses and the burning bush, she explores how the sacred "I AM" presence lives within each of us - not as beings born of original sin, but as original blessings made in the image of the divine. Rev. Kristin encourages us to move beyond ego-driven fear and reconnect with our true essence through stillness, authentic self-expression, and mindful use of our words, reminding us that the only difference between us and the spiritual masters is that they never forgot who they were.Rev. Kristin offers a powerful Memorial Day reflection that honors military veterans while inviting us to remember our deepest spiritual identity. Drawing on the story of Moses and the burning bush, she explores how the sacred "I AM" presence lives within each of us - not as beings born of original sin, but as original blessings made in the image of the divine. Rev. Kristin encourages us to move beyond ego-driven fear and reconnect with our true essence through stillness, authentic self-expression, and mindful use of our words, reminding us that the only difference between us and the spiritual masters is that they never forgot who they were.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-05-21-your-service-is-sacred/bcc89b69-98f5-47d7-8dfb-2c1e2fe98c1aSun, 21 May 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin explores the sacred nature of service through the ancient Hebrew story of Reb Nakem, whose smallest act of kindness - flicking mud from a farmer's shoulder - ultimately tipped the scales in his favor at life's review. She reminds us that service is a free and powerful antidote to isolation, depression, and low self-esteem, connecting us with the divine and with one another in ways both grand and simple. Drawing on scripture, Gandhi, and the random acts of kindness movement, Rev. Kristin invites everyone to recognize their unique gifts and share them generously, affirming that every act of service - no matter how small - creates ripples of goodness throughout the world.Rev. Kristin explores the sacred nature of service through the ancient Hebrew story of Reb Nakem, whose smallest act of kindness - flicking mud from a farmer's shoulder - ultimately tipped the scales in his favor at life's review. She reminds us that service is a free and powerful antidote to isolation, depression, and low self-esteem, connecting us with the divine and with one another in ways both grand and simple. Drawing on scripture, Gandhi, and the random acts of kindness movement, Rev. Kristin invites everyone to recognize their unique gifts and share them generously, affirming that every act of service - no matter how small - creates ripples of goodness throughout the world.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-05-14-may-14-2023-the-wholly-mother/7ac50d90-7e2d-46d6-885c-aed1f83b6969Sun, 14 May 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin delivers a heartfelt Mother's Day message exploring the sacred and expansive nature of motherhood as spiritual practice. Through a touching story of two elephants embodying the cycle of giving and receiving - "first you, then me" - she illuminates how the love ethic of the mother lives within all of us, regardless of gender or parental status. Rev. Kristin weaves together wisdom from indigenous grandmothers, Myrtle Fillmore, and the divine feminine tradition to invite us into fierce, compassionate, wholesome love that can transform our relationships and our world. She encourages us to be mindful sowers of seeds - choosing words of kindness and compassion - and to recognize ourselves as holy mothers called to bring forth healing for each other and for Mother Earth.Rev. Kristin delivers a heartfelt Mother's Day message exploring the sacred and expansive nature of motherhood as spiritual practice. Through a touching story of two elephants embodying the cycle of giving and receiving - "first you, then me" - she illuminates how the love ethic of the mother lives within all of us, regardless of gender or parental status. Rev. Kristin weaves together wisdom from indigenous grandmothers, Myrtle Fillmore, and the divine feminine tradition to invite us into fierce, compassionate, wholesome love that can transform our relationships and our world. She encourages us to be mindful sowers of seeds - choosing words of kindness and compassion - and to recognize ourselves as holy mothers called to bring forth healing for each other and for Mother Earth.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-05-07-may-7-2023-journey-to-the-ancestors/475e1e22-eb35-4648-9a8c-46b8d936687bSun, 07 May 2023 00:00:00 +0000Michelle Cicala shares her passion for ancestor work, guiding the community through a beautiful ritual of building a sacred altar and connecting with ancestral guides. She explores the many types of ancestors who support us - those of blood and bone, lineage, affinity, and our beloved dead - while also honoring the descendants who will come after us. Through offerings of roses, water, light, and gratitude, Michelle creates a sacred space for a guided journey to the ancestral realm, reminding us that when we heal ourselves and align with our divine purpose, we heal our entire lineage across time and space.Michelle Cicala shares her passion for ancestor work, guiding the community through a beautiful ritual of building a sacred altar and connecting with ancestral guides. She explores the many types of ancestors who support us - those of blood and bone, lineage, affinity, and our beloved dead - while also honoring the descendants who will come after us. Through offerings of roses, water, light, and gratitude, Michelle creates a sacred space for a guided journey to the ancestral realm, reminding us that when we heal ourselves and align with our divine purpose, we heal our entire lineage across time and space.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-04-30-april-30-2023-riding-the-wave-of-transition/2e444da1-9b71-4f79-97f9-91eb6a4a44a9Sun, 30 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0000In this first of a two-part series, Rev. Kristin explores the spiritual art of navigating life's inevitable changes through four phases - embracing, emoting, emptying, and envisioning. Rev. Kristin invites us to befriend the "nothingness" that lives between one door closing and another opening, reframing that uncomfortable hallway as one of life's richest spiritual spaces. Using the metaphor of surfing, Rev. Kristin reminds us that much of life is spent waiting and being rather than doing, and that standing at nil with patience allows spirit to reveal our next steps in perfect timing.In this first of a two-part series, Rev. Kristin explores the spiritual art of navigating life's inevitable changes through four phases - embracing, emoting, emptying, and envisioning. Rev. Kristin invites us to befriend the "nothingness" that lives between one door closing and another opening, reframing that uncomfortable hallway as one of life's richest spiritual spaces. Using the metaphor of surfing, Rev. Kristin reminds us that much of life is spent waiting and being rather than doing, and that standing at nil with patience allows spirit to reveal our next steps in perfect timing.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-04-23-april-23-2023-earth-dreaming-and-waking/d12a59cf-9c56-4059-8ffa-06f45fb46c76Sun, 23 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin delivers a heartfelt Earth Day message exploring our sacred connection with the natural world, reminding us that just as gravity pulls us physically close to the earth, there is a spiritual pull inviting us to pay attention and reconnect with all life. Through stories of a boy's reverence for his ant farm and a Native American prayer practice of embodying rain rather than asking for it, Rev. Kristin illustrates how presence, compassion, and sensory awareness bridge the mystical and the physical. She invites us to uncover sacrilege wherever life has been dishonored and restore it to the sacred through embodied prayer, compassionate action, and conscious oneness with all living beings.Rev. Kristin delivers a heartfelt Earth Day message exploring our sacred connection with the natural world, reminding us that just as gravity pulls us physically close to the earth, there is a spiritual pull inviting us to pay attention and reconnect with all life. Through stories of a boy's reverence for his ant farm and a Native American prayer practice of embodying rain rather than asking for it, Rev. Kristin illustrates how presence, compassion, and sensory awareness bridge the mystical and the physical. She invites us to uncover sacrilege wherever life has been dishonored and restore it to the sacred through embodied prayer, compassionate action, and conscious oneness with all living beings.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-04-16-april-16-2023-ascend-to-heavenly-consciousness/29a38dd8-9b5d-4f4c-a407-ab2fc2c490d3Sun, 16 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin explores the beloved story of Jacob's Ladder from Genesis, revealing that the pathway to heaven is not about climbing or efforting but about recognizing that we are already home. She illuminates how Jacob's dream reveals three points of spiritual contact - rest, realize, and recommit - inviting us to discover that our bodies are the house of God and our hearts the gateway to heaven. Drawing on wisdom from St. Teresa of Avila and her own experience among ancient bristlecone pines, Rev. Kristin reminds us that divine abundance flows simultaneously and effortlessly when we simply open to love.Rev. Kristin explores the beloved story of Jacob's Ladder from Genesis, revealing that the pathway to heaven is not about climbing or efforting but about recognizing that we are already home. She illuminates how Jacob's dream reveals three points of spiritual contact - rest, realize, and recommit - inviting us to discover that our bodies are the house of God and our hearts the gateway to heaven. Drawing on wisdom from St. Teresa of Avila and her own experience among ancient bristlecone pines, Rev. Kristin reminds us that divine abundance flows simultaneously and effortlessly when we simply open to love.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-04-09-april-9-2023-come-alive-in-truth/203a3ef9-5b4b-4781-b804-21febd5ec9c2Sun, 09 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0000In this inspiring Easter message, Rev. Kristin Powell explores the profound question Pontius Pilate posed to Jesus - "What is truth?" - and traces how truth moves through stages of ridicule, opposition, and finally self-evidence in our lives and world. Rev. Kristin Powell draws powerful parallels between the Easter story and our personal journeys of transformation, highlighting Mary Magdalene's shift from follower to teacher as a model for our own resurrection. She invites us to release old identities we cling to, embrace the Christ consciousness within, and become living testimonies to the absolute, unchangeable spiritual truth that sets us free.In this inspiring Easter message, Rev. Kristin Powell explores the profound question Pontius Pilate posed to Jesus - "What is truth?" - and traces how truth moves through stages of ridicule, opposition, and finally self-evidence in our lives and world. Rev. Kristin Powell draws powerful parallels between the Easter story and our personal journeys of transformation, highlighting Mary Magdalene's shift from follower to teacher as a model for our own resurrection. She invites us to release old identities we cling to, embrace the Christ consciousness within, and become living testimonies to the absolute, unchangeable spiritual truth that sets us free.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-04-02-april-2-2023-blessing-prepares-the-way/fa5cb0d7-404b-4e04-ad38-b239f47829c6Sun, 02 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin delivers a powerful Palm Sunday message exploring how the cry of "Hosanna" represents not a plea to be saved, but a practice of heaping blessings upon the divine Christ within each of us. She illuminates how blessing is a gift available to everyone - not reserved for the ordained - and how it serves as both preparation for spiritual growth and a transformative practice that ripples outward into the world. Drawing on stories from Suzuki Roshi to a husband's morning blessing ritual, Rev. Kristin invites us to become the blessing in every moment, recognizing that as we bless others, good multiplies in our lives and across the planet.Rev. Kristin delivers a powerful Palm Sunday message exploring how the cry of "Hosanna" represents not a plea to be saved, but a practice of heaping blessings upon the divine Christ within each of us. She illuminates how blessing is a gift available to everyone - not reserved for the ordained - and how it serves as both preparation for spiritual growth and a transformative practice that ripples outward into the world. Drawing on stories from Suzuki Roshi to a husband's morning blessing ritual, Rev. Kristin invites us to become the blessing in every moment, recognizing that as we bless others, good multiplies in our lives and across the planet.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-03-26-march-26-2023-blessings-flow-from-emptiness/2b49fdfd-0d16-4455-b4fd-a43084bc9fc8Sun, 26 Mar 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin explores the transformative power of spiritual emptiness through the parable of a desert monk whose sustained vision of the divine kept him on his path long after others fell away. Drawing on the wisdom of Unity co-founder Charles Fillmore's "Keep a True Lent," she invites us to release the unrealities - habits of negativity, distraction, and separation consciousness - that block our experience of the divine. Rev. Kristin shares her own profound wilderness fasting experience and reminds us that our work is simply to slow down and empty ourselves, trusting that Spirit fills us with overflowing light, love, and renewed life.Rev. Kristin explores the transformative power of spiritual emptiness through the parable of a desert monk whose sustained vision of the divine kept him on his path long after others fell away. Drawing on the wisdom of Unity co-founder Charles Fillmore's "Keep a True Lent," she invites us to release the unrealities - habits of negativity, distraction, and separation consciousness - that block our experience of the divine. Rev. Kristin shares her own profound wilderness fasting experience and reminds us that our work is simply to slow down and empty ourselves, trusting that Spirit fills us with overflowing light, love, and renewed life.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-03-19-march-19-2023-blessing-brings-joy/4e0a68fc-b9c2-43f2-b239-f869ddc32b4cSun, 19 Mar 2023 00:00:00 +0000Guest Johanna Van Gelder offers a heartfelt exploration of blessing as a transformative spiritual practice, using the parable of the prodigal son to illustrate how we all journey away from and back toward our divine nature. Drawing from her own life experiences - from rejecting God as a teenager to exhausting herself with affirmations alone - she shares how surrendering and reconnecting with the divine presence brought her home to herself. Guest Johanna Van Gelder demonstrates how blessing ourselves, others, and even our surroundings dissolves separation, releases self-judgment, and restores the joy that flows naturally when we recognize the divine in all things.Guest Johanna Van Gelder offers a heartfelt exploration of blessing as a transformative spiritual practice, using the parable of the prodigal son to illustrate how we all journey away from and back toward our divine nature. Drawing from her own life experiences - from rejecting God as a teenager to exhausting herself with affirmations alone - she shares how surrendering and reconnecting with the divine presence brought her home to herself. Guest Johanna Van Gelder demonstrates how blessing ourselves, others, and even our surroundings dissolves separation, releases self-judgment, and restores the joy that flows naturally when we recognize the divine in all things.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-03-12-march-12-2023-soulful-service/3a786743-d893-4a36-990f-5b7f1f1e3f8bSun, 12 Mar 2023 00:00:00 +0000In this inspiring fourth installment of the Core Values Series, Rev. Kristin explores soulful service as the action piece that brings love, connection, and wisdom to life. Rev. Kristin shares powerful stories of divine guidance unfolding through everyday moments - including her own journey into ministry - illustrating how following intuitive nudges leads to sacred purpose. She invites listeners to ask three guiding questions - What are my gifts? Who are my people? Where is home? - as a pathway to discovering what makes them come alive. Rev. Kristin reminds us that the world needs each person's unique contribution, and that when we say yes to spirit's call, we are fully supported.In this inspiring fourth installment of the Core Values Series, Rev. Kristin explores soulful service as the action piece that brings love, connection, and wisdom to life. Rev. Kristin shares powerful stories of divine guidance unfolding through everyday moments - including her own journey into ministry - illustrating how following intuitive nudges leads to sacred purpose. She invites listeners to ask three guiding questions - What are my gifts? Who are my people? Where is home? - as a pathway to discovering what makes them come alive. Rev. Kristin reminds us that the world needs each person's unique contribution, and that when we say yes to spirit's call, we are fully supported.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-03-05-march-5-2023-accessible-wisdom/6ccdb82b-6f7e-403b-a2ab-33acf0472c2cSun, 05 Mar 2023 00:00:00 +0000In this third installment of the Core Values Series, Rev. Kristin explores the difference between knowledge and wisdom - reminding us that while knowledge comes from the outside in, wisdom is an innate inner knowing we all carry within us. Drawing from Proverbs, Unity teachings, Sufi stories, and personal experience, Rev. Kristin offers a simple yet powerful mantra for accessing divine guidance - listen, trust, and follow. Rev. Kristin encourages us to approach life with childlike openness and humility, trusting the wisdom of our solar plexus - our "second brain" - and allowing divine discernment to guide our choices toward the highest good.In this third installment of the Core Values Series, Rev. Kristin explores the difference between knowledge and wisdom - reminding us that while knowledge comes from the outside in, wisdom is an innate inner knowing we all carry within us. Drawing from Proverbs, Unity teachings, Sufi stories, and personal experience, Rev. Kristin offers a simple yet powerful mantra for accessing divine guidance - listen, trust, and follow. Rev. Kristin encourages us to approach life with childlike openness and humility, trusting the wisdom of our solar plexus - our "second brain" - and allowing divine discernment to guide our choices toward the highest good.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-02-26-february-26-2023-divine-connection/2677d253-c988-45ef-ae07-ca89bca0925aSun, 26 Feb 2023 00:00:00 +0000In this heartfelt message on divine connection, Rev. Kristin explores how we bridge the distance between knowing and feeling God's love - drawing inspiration from Dr. Maya Angelou's powerful journey from reading "God loves me" to truly embodying that truth. Rev. Kristin invites us to ground our spiritual connection through physical practices like walking the labyrinth, movement, and everyday rituals that help us carry the divine presence in our bodies, minds, and spirits. Highlighting the unity of all beings, Rev. Kristin reminds us that when our cup is filled through connection with the divine within, we naturally connect with others in ways that smooth our rough edges and awaken remembrance of our shared oneness.In this heartfelt message on divine connection, Rev. Kristin explores how we bridge the distance between knowing and feeling God's love - drawing inspiration from Dr. Maya Angelou's powerful journey from reading "God loves me" to truly embodying that truth. Rev. Kristin invites us to ground our spiritual connection through physical practices like walking the labyrinth, movement, and everyday rituals that help us carry the divine presence in our bodies, minds, and spirits. Highlighting the unity of all beings, Rev. Kristin reminds us that when our cup is filled through connection with the divine within, we naturally connect with others in ways that smooth our rough edges and awaken remembrance of our shared oneness.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-02-19-february-19-2023-neighborly-love/62f13dfd-2709-44d5-b116-76fadad656ecSun, 19 Feb 2023 00:00:00 +0000In this opening message of the Core Values Series, Rev. Kristin explores neighborly love as the foundational core value of Unity of Walnut Creek, drawing from the golden rule shared across the world's religions to illuminate our essential oneness. Rev. Kristin invites us to examine where we draw the boundaries of our hearts - who we might be leaving out of our circle of love - and challenges us to expand those edges with compassion, generosity, and celebration of diversity. Through stories of Mother Teresa and Harriet Jacobs, Rev. Kristin reminds us that love is not merely an intellectual concept but a lived practice of seeing every living being as our neighbor and treating them with the kindness that flows naturally from our shared divine source.In this opening message of the Core Values Series, Rev. Kristin explores neighborly love as the foundational core value of Unity of Walnut Creek, drawing from the golden rule shared across the world's religions to illuminate our essential oneness. Rev. Kristin invites us to examine where we draw the boundaries of our hearts - who we might be leaving out of our circle of love - and challenges us to expand those edges with compassion, generosity, and celebration of diversity. Through stories of Mother Teresa and Harriet Jacobs, Rev. Kristin reminds us that love is not merely an intellectual concept but a lived practice of seeing every living being as our neighbor and treating them with the kindness that flows naturally from our shared divine source.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-02-12-february-12-2023-creating-a-harmonious-life/80075ad9-b36f-4349-8228-66eadb08aa41Sun, 12 Feb 2023 00:00:00 +0000Dmitri Doronkin shares his personal journey with tithing, describing it as an ancient spiritual ritual that harmonizes your life through energy exchange. Drawing from eight years of experience at Unity of Walnut Creek, Dmitri Doronkin offers candid stories - including experiments with giving more, less, and nothing at all - to illustrate how dedicating 10% of income to your place of spiritual nourishment creates a two-lane road between you and the divine. He emphasizes that tithing is not about supporting a community but about becoming the primary beneficiary of a powerful spiritual practice that brings harmony and flow into your life.Dmitri Doronkin shares his personal journey with tithing, describing it as an ancient spiritual ritual that harmonizes your life through energy exchange. Drawing from eight years of experience at Unity of Walnut Creek, Dmitri Doronkin offers candid stories - including experiments with giving more, less, and nothing at all - to illustrate how dedicating 10% of income to your place of spiritual nourishment creates a two-lane road between you and the divine. He emphasizes that tithing is not about supporting a community but about becoming the primary beneficiary of a powerful spiritual practice that brings harmony and flow into your life.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-02-05-february-5-2023-the-cosmological-power-of-synergy/2a8fce99-7228-45db-8972-6646232c718eSun, 05 Feb 2023 00:00:00 +0000Brian Swimme explores the cosmological power of synergy - the beneficial effects that emerge only through relationship - revealing how this force has driven the universe's creative unfolding from elementary particles to complex life. Using vivid examples from neutrons that last a billion years only in partnership, to single cells that eventually gave rise to whales, Brian Swimme illustrates how deeper relationships bring forth capacities we cannot predict or imagine. He connects this cosmic principle to our present moment, encouraging optimism and hope as the human expressions of synergy entering conscious self-awareness, reminding us that civilizations have always been built by those who trust in what is yet to emerge.Brian Swimme explores the cosmological power of synergy - the beneficial effects that emerge only through relationship - revealing how this force has driven the universe's creative unfolding from elementary particles to complex life. Using vivid examples from neutrons that last a billion years only in partnership, to single cells that eventually gave rise to whales, Brian Swimme illustrates how deeper relationships bring forth capacities we cannot predict or imagine. He connects this cosmic principle to our present moment, encouraging optimism and hope as the human expressions of synergy entering conscious self-awareness, reminding us that civilizations have always been built by those who trust in what is yet to emerge.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-01-29-january-29-2023-centered-affirmed-principles-4-and-5/bfc9fbc1-8356-4e09-bb34-e61a6f340a38Sun, 29 Jan 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin closes out the Unity Big Five series with a heartfelt exploration of prayer and meditation, reminding us there is no wrong way to pray - whether conversational, surrendered, or structured through Unity's affirmative prayer method of acknowledging, claiming, and expecting. She explains how regular meditation practice helps us become the compassionate witness of our thoughts, giving us greater access to wisdom, peace, and confidence in daily life. Rev. Kristin encourages us to simply do it - pray and meditate - so we can live spiritually centered, joy-filled lives as instruments of divine peace.Rev. Kristin closes out the Unity Big Five series with a heartfelt exploration of prayer and meditation, reminding us there is no wrong way to pray - whether conversational, surrendered, or structured through Unity's affirmative prayer method of acknowledging, claiming, and expecting. She explains how regular meditation practice helps us become the compassionate witness of our thoughts, giving us greater access to wisdom, peace, and confidence in daily life. Rev. Kristin encourages us to simply do it - pray and meditate - so we can live spiritually centered, joy-filled lives as instruments of divine peace.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-01-22-january-22-2022-co-creating-with-source-energy-principles-3-and-5/0486552f-1d76-403f-8bb3-6ac4e25380f4Sun, 22 Jan 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin explores the transformative power of co-creation in this inspiring message from the Five Basics Series, illuminating how our thoughts and feelings serve as fuel for manifesting the lives we truly desire. Drawing from stories ranging from Yoda's wisdom to the biblical account of the hemorrhaging woman, Rev. Kristin reminds us that desire is only the starting point - it is faith-filled believing and openness to receiving that complete the co-creative process. She encourages us to move beyond states of longing and wanting into the felt experience of our already-realized dreams, inviting us to perceive the divine presence, believe in our power to co-create, and joyfully receive the good that flows to us.Rev. Kristin explores the transformative power of co-creation in this inspiring message from the Five Basics Series, illuminating how our thoughts and feelings serve as fuel for manifesting the lives we truly desire. Drawing from stories ranging from Yoda's wisdom to the biblical account of the hemorrhaging woman, Rev. Kristin reminds us that desire is only the starting point - it is faith-filled believing and openness to receiving that complete the co-creative process. She encourages us to move beyond states of longing and wanting into the felt experience of our already-realized dreams, inviting us to perceive the divine presence, believe in our power to co-create, and joyfully receive the good that flows to us.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-01-15-january-15-2023-i-am-divine-principles-2-and-5/d719d38b-226d-4471-94a4-58709b40e596Sun, 15 Jan 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin explores Unity's second principle - "I am divine" - inviting listeners to discover the inherent goodness and divinity within themselves and all people. Drawing from a Hindu legend about hidden divinity, the Gnostic Gospels, and the teachings of Jesus, Rev. Kristin illuminates how we can awaken to our true nature by beholding the divine in all life, loving unconditionally, and serving others with open hearts. Weaving in the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., she reminds us that greatness is found not in fame but in simple, everyday acts of connection, kindness, and service that flow naturally from knowing our divine nature.Rev. Kristin explores Unity's second principle - "I am divine" - inviting listeners to discover the inherent goodness and divinity within themselves and all people. Drawing from a Hindu legend about hidden divinity, the Gnostic Gospels, and the teachings of Jesus, Rev. Kristin illuminates how we can awaken to our true nature by beholding the divine in all life, loving unconditionally, and serving others with open hearts. Weaving in the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., she reminds us that greatness is found not in fame but in simple, everyday acts of connection, kindness, and service that flow naturally from knowing our divine nature.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2023-01-08-january-8-2023-divine-omnipresence-principles-1-and-5/121b6600-d955-4392-a409-4a6f4d2346d9Sun, 08 Jan 2023 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin opens the new year by inviting the community to revisit Unity's first principle - God Is - encouraging everyone to freshly examine their understanding of the divine as an all-pervading, self-existent presence from which all things spring forth. She explores how this infinite source is available to us in every moment, offering whatever we need - love, guidance, companionship, peace - when we actively engage with it through spiritual practice. Rev. Kristin offers practical ways to live this principle, including tithing and sacred service, as concrete actions that align us with divine energy and open the floodgates of blessing in our lives.Rev. Kristin opens the new year by inviting the community to revisit Unity's first principle - God Is - encouraging everyone to freshly examine their understanding of the divine as an all-pervading, self-existent presence from which all things spring forth. She explores how this infinite source is available to us in every moment, offering whatever we need - love, guidance, companionship, peace - when we actively engage with it through spiritual practice. Rev. Kristin offers practical ways to live this principle, including tithing and sacred service, as concrete actions that align us with divine energy and open the floodgates of blessing in our lives.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-12-25-december-25-2022-merry-christmas-interview-with-father-christmas/9d9acde2-a79e-4f58-9eb2-b6b2b1bbe08aSun, 25 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin brings the spirit of Christmas to life in this delightful and heartwarming interview with Santa Claus himself, who visits Unity of Walnut Creek to share the story of his origins as a boy named Nicholas in the forests of Finland. Through this creative and touching conversation, Rev. Kristin draws out profound spiritual truths - that one gift given with love is more than enough, that kindness extended even to those who are unkind transforms hearts, and that magic becomes real when we truly believe. Santa reminds us that his bag of presents is really a bag of hope, magic, and love, and that the spirit of Christmas lives in our willingness to be generous givers and ambassadors of kindness every single day.Rev. Kristin brings the spirit of Christmas to life in this delightful and heartwarming interview with Santa Claus himself, who visits Unity of Walnut Creek to share the story of his origins as a boy named Nicholas in the forests of Finland. Through this creative and touching conversation, Rev. Kristin draws out profound spiritual truths - that one gift given with love is more than enough, that kindness extended even to those who are unkind transforms hearts, and that magic becomes real when we truly believe. Santa reminds us that his bag of presents is really a bag of hope, magic, and love, and that the spirit of Christmas lives in our willingness to be generous givers and ambassadors of kindness every single day.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-12-18-december-18-2022-joy-like-a-fountain/bd4764b9-42b5-4861-bec5-0b63ded6b00fSun, 18 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Bella Blackstock delivers a radiant message on joy as our natural state of being during the fourth week of Advent, drawing on the angels' announcement of "great joy" at Jesus' birth. She distinguishes between relative happiness - found in external things like a perfect sweater or relationship - and the eternal, divine joy that resides within each of us, inviting the congregation to reclaim their inner Christ through presence, authenticity, and childlike playfulness. Rev. Bella Blackstock encourages spiritual "toys" over "tools," leads the community in laugh therapy, and reminds us that no person or circumstance can ever steal the joy that is our birthright.Rev. Bella Blackstock delivers a radiant message on joy as our natural state of being during the fourth week of Advent, drawing on the angels' announcement of "great joy" at Jesus' birth. She distinguishes between relative happiness - found in external things like a perfect sweater or relationship - and the eternal, divine joy that resides within each of us, inviting the congregation to reclaim their inner Christ through presence, authenticity, and childlike playfulness. Rev. Bella Blackstock encourages spiritual "toys" over "tools," leads the community in laugh therapy, and reminds us that no person or circumstance can ever steal the joy that is our birthright.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-12-11-december-11-2022-love-like-an-ocean/17c3c963-ad5a-405f-9fae-288010619483Sun, 11 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin invites us to experience divine love as vast, deep, and rhythmic as the ocean itself - a love that washes over us, surrenders us, and flows through us without limit. Drawing on the story of Mary's radical surrender throughout Jesus' life, Rev. Kristin reminds us that love requires openness, vulnerability, and a willingness to let our hearts break open so the divine can be birthed through us. She encourages us to ask where we might be withholding love and to practice giving it freely, trusting that grief is simply the price we pay for a love worth choosing a million times over.Rev. Kristin invites us to experience divine love as vast, deep, and rhythmic as the ocean itself - a love that washes over us, surrenders us, and flows through us without limit. Drawing on the story of Mary's radical surrender throughout Jesus' life, Rev. Kristin reminds us that love requires openness, vulnerability, and a willingness to let our hearts break open so the divine can be birthed through us. She encourages us to ask where we might be withholding love and to practice giving it freely, trusting that grief is simply the price we pay for a love worth choosing a million times over.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-12-04-december-4-2022-peace-like-a-river/f0d8cddc-9cef-4459-8091-ea42e948c71eSun, 04 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin invites us into the sacred metaphor of the river during this second week of Advent, exploring how peace comes when we dare to let go of limiting beliefs, old patterns, and the need to control outcomes. Drawing from the story of a small creature who releases its grip on the river bottom in Richard Bach's "Illusions," as well as the courageous example of Mary saying yes to her divine appointment, Rev. Kristin reminds us that we are not meant to cling to stagnant ways of being but to flow with the current of Spirit. She encourages us to trust that when we release our grip, we will be lifted, guided, and carried by the surprise of our own divine unfolding.Rev. Kristin invites us into the sacred metaphor of the river during this second week of Advent, exploring how peace comes when we dare to let go of limiting beliefs, old patterns, and the need to control outcomes. Drawing from the story of a small creature who releases its grip on the river bottom in Richard Bach's "Illusions," as well as the courageous example of Mary saying yes to her divine appointment, Rev. Kristin reminds us that we are not meant to cling to stagnant ways of being but to flow with the current of Spirit. She encourages us to trust that when we release our grip, we will be lifted, guided, and carried by the surprise of our own divine unfolding.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-11-27-november-27-2022-faith-like-a-mountain/ac2e0b48-8a16-40dd-a719-a6e26f5322fbSun, 27 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin opens the first week of Advent by exploring faith as both a mountain to behold and a force powerful enough to move mountains, drawing on Jesus' teaching about mustard-seed faith and her own experience leading a group to summit a 14,000-foot peak in Colorado. She shares inspiring stories of people who overcame addiction, fear, and seemingly insurmountable challenges by activating their faith through spiritual practice, community support, and releasing limiting beliefs. Rev. Kristin encourages listeners to dream big this Advent season, reminding us that as we practice faith and weed out thoughts of limitation, we make space for grace to transform our lives.Rev. Kristin opens the first week of Advent by exploring faith as both a mountain to behold and a force powerful enough to move mountains, drawing on Jesus' teaching about mustard-seed faith and her own experience leading a group to summit a 14,000-foot peak in Colorado. She shares inspiring stories of people who overcame addiction, fear, and seemingly insurmountable challenges by activating their faith through spiritual practice, community support, and releasing limiting beliefs. Rev. Kristin encourages listeners to dream big this Advent season, reminding us that as we practice faith and weed out thoughts of limitation, we make space for grace to transform our lives.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-11-20-november-20-2022-how-to-make-peace/c6c6df5d-4fa7-4d16-9383-2ad116175dbeSun, 20 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin shares a powerful reflection on peacemaking inspired by her transformative experience at Esalen Institute in Big Sur, where she witnessed a sacred land acknowledgment ceremony and reconciliation process between the Institute and the Esalen tribal people. Drawing from Jesus's teachings in the Sermon on the Mount, she explores how we can settle conflicts quickly, look for the good in others, and practice daily reconciliation - highlighting Gary Simmons' 21-day practice of reviewing each day and reaching out to mend relationships. Rev. Kristin invites her community to consider what collective steps toward peace and unity they might take together, reminding us that when we stand centered in spirit, we have everything we need to become peacemakers in our world.Rev. Kristin shares a powerful reflection on peacemaking inspired by her transformative experience at Esalen Institute in Big Sur, where she witnessed a sacred land acknowledgment ceremony and reconciliation process between the Institute and the Esalen tribal people. Drawing from Jesus's teachings in the Sermon on the Mount, she explores how we can settle conflicts quickly, look for the good in others, and practice daily reconciliation - highlighting Gary Simmons' 21-day practice of reviewing each day and reaching out to mend relationships. Rev. Kristin invites her community to consider what collective steps toward peace and unity they might take together, reminding us that when we stand centered in spirit, we have everything we need to become peacemakers in our world.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-11-06-november-6-2022-healing-competition/d9390233-83d8-4801-8975-3b0532b871edSun, 06 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin explores how competition in relationships stems from lack consciousness and creates disconnection, offering divine purpose as the healing path forward. Drawing from the story of a young horsewoman who prayed not to win but for her horse to do its best, and the Unity men's bocce team who won by embodying joy rather than rivalry, Rev. Kristin illustrates how shifting from competition to shared purpose transforms outcomes. She reminds us that our primary purpose is to express the divine - to be the way of God rather than in the way of God - and when we ground ourselves in this truth, collaboration replaces rivalry and everyone wins.Rev. Kristin explores how competition in relationships stems from lack consciousness and creates disconnection, offering divine purpose as the healing path forward. Drawing from the story of a young horsewoman who prayed not to win but for her horse to do its best, and the Unity men's bocce team who won by embodying joy rather than rivalry, Rev. Kristin illustrates how shifting from competition to shared purpose transforms outcomes. She reminds us that our primary purpose is to express the divine - to be the way of God rather than in the way of God - and when we ground ourselves in this truth, collaboration replaces rivalry and everyone wins.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-10-30-october-30-2022-healing-misperception/167f1cd2-1c8a-4906-900d-b23768311d03Sun, 30 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin uses the beloved fairy tale of Little Red Riding Hood - brought to life through a playful skit on Halloween Sunday - to explore how misperceptions fuel conflict and how we can cultivate clearer spiritual seeing. Drawing from a lesser-known version of the story where Red Riding Hood trusts her intuition and creates space to respond wisely, Rev. Kristin guides the community through practical steps for expanding perception - including suspending our current viewpoint, getting curious about what we are making situations mean, and activating the innate power of imagination through the third eye center. This fourth installment of the Eye of the Storm series invites us to embrace childlike wonder and openness as tools for healing misunderstanding and responding to life's challenges from a higher, broader place of spiritual knowing.Rev. Kristin uses the beloved fairy tale of Little Red Riding Hood - brought to life through a playful skit on Halloween Sunday - to explore how misperceptions fuel conflict and how we can cultivate clearer spiritual seeing. Drawing from a lesser-known version of the story where Red Riding Hood trusts her intuition and creates space to respond wisely, Rev. Kristin guides the community through practical steps for expanding perception - including suspending our current viewpoint, getting curious about what we are making situations mean, and activating the innate power of imagination through the third eye center. This fourth installment of the Eye of the Storm series invites us to embrace childlike wonder and openness as tools for healing misunderstanding and responding to life's challenges from a higher, broader place of spiritual knowing.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-10-23-october-23-2022-healing-separation/09bcc5e5-8db7-4474-a904-98f3f31a3739Sun, 23 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin delivers a powerful exploration of separation consciousness - the deeply ingrained illusion that we are disconnected from Spirit, from each other, and from ourselves - and offers a path back to wholeness through communion with the divine. Drawing from Myrtle Fillmore's teachings and Gary Simmons' "The Eye of the Storm," Rev. Kristin reminds us that we are beings made of stardust who have simply forgotten our true nature, and that by returning to center through prayer, meditation, and presence, we can heal this fabricated reality of separation. She invites us to recognize our role as co-creators who can change the trajectory of humanity by remembering our oneness and mirroring divinity to one another and to future generations.Rev. Kristin delivers a powerful exploration of separation consciousness - the deeply ingrained illusion that we are disconnected from Spirit, from each other, and from ourselves - and offers a path back to wholeness through communion with the divine. Drawing from Myrtle Fillmore's teachings and Gary Simmons' "The Eye of the Storm," Rev. Kristin reminds us that we are beings made of stardust who have simply forgotten our true nature, and that by returning to center through prayer, meditation, and presence, we can heal this fabricated reality of separation. She invites us to recognize our role as co-creators who can change the trajectory of humanity by remembering our oneness and mirroring divinity to one another and to future generations.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-10-16-october-16-2022-making-friends-with-conflict/b19762be-2d03-4201-ac32-159b4d262cd5Sun, 16 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin explores the transformative practice of embracing conflict rather than avoiding it, drawing on martial arts wisdom, Chinese proverbs, and the teachings of Jesus to reveal that we have more options than simply fight or flight. She introduces the concept of "tend and befriend" as an alternative response and encourages listeners to love, bless, do good, and pray when facing their foes - whether external challenges or the inner critic. Rev. Kristin reminds us that true peace comes not from avoiding life's inevitable storms but from returning to our centered, connected selves where divine wisdom reveals creative solutions and deeper wholeness.Rev. Kristin explores the transformative practice of embracing conflict rather than avoiding it, drawing on martial arts wisdom, Chinese proverbs, and the teachings of Jesus to reveal that we have more options than simply fight or flight. She introduces the concept of "tend and befriend" as an alternative response and encourages listeners to love, bless, do good, and pray when facing their foes - whether external challenges or the inner critic. Rev. Kristin reminds us that true peace comes not from avoiding life's inevitable storms but from returning to our centered, connected selves where divine wisdom reveals creative solutions and deeper wholeness.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-10-09-october-9-2022-no-one-is-against-you/7acb4378-841f-4993-8fb3-1f1beade36d1Sun, 09 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin opens this fall series by drawing inspiration from the ancient bristlecone pine trees - beings that have thrived for nearly 5,000 years by embodying the truth that nothing is against them. Drawing from Rev. Dr. Gary Simmons' book "The Eye of the Storm," Rev. Kristin explores how our fear-based language and assumptions keep us feeling like victims, and invites us to shift from a mindset of fear into one of faith. Through personal stories from her early ministry journey and a guided visualization, she offers the acronym REST - Root in spiritual principles, Express gratitude, Surrender in prayer, and Trust divine timing - as a pathway to remembering that life's challenges are not working against us but are portals for spiritual awakening.Rev. Kristin opens this fall series by drawing inspiration from the ancient bristlecone pine trees - beings that have thrived for nearly 5,000 years by embodying the truth that nothing is against them. Drawing from Rev. Dr. Gary Simmons' book "The Eye of the Storm," Rev. Kristin explores how our fear-based language and assumptions keep us feeling like victims, and invites us to shift from a mindset of fear into one of faith. Through personal stories from her early ministry journey and a guided visualization, she offers the acronym REST - Root in spiritual principles, Express gratitude, Surrender in prayer, and Trust divine timing - as a pathway to remembering that life's challenges are not working against us but are portals for spiritual awakening.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-10-02-october-2-2022-in-praise-of-sacred-service/c1ae1408-a474-487b-a314-57e407d00babSun, 02 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0000https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-09-25-september-25-2022-coming-home-a-spiritual-journey-to-self/4558dcc9-9f43-443c-8854-42d590f0116dSun, 25 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Bella Blackstock shares her powerful personal testimony of spiritual awakening and transformation, tracing her journey from a prison of isolation, illness, and fear to a life of freedom, purpose, and joy. She describes how a spontaneous awakening in 2012 launched a decade-long walkabout that included healing estranged relationships, battling thyroid cancer, and learning to say yes to divine guidance - even when it felt uncomfortable or impossible. Rev. Bella Blackstock reminds us that coming home to ourselves requires releasing old stories, doing the inner work of forgiveness, and trusting that when we say yes to life, life says yes to us.Rev. Bella Blackstock shares her powerful personal testimony of spiritual awakening and transformation, tracing her journey from a prison of isolation, illness, and fear to a life of freedom, purpose, and joy. She describes how a spontaneous awakening in 2012 launched a decade-long walkabout that included healing estranged relationships, battling thyroid cancer, and learning to say yes to divine guidance - even when it felt uncomfortable or impossible. Rev. Bella Blackstock reminds us that coming home to ourselves requires releasing old stories, doing the inner work of forgiveness, and trusting that when we say yes to life, life says yes to us.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-09-18-september-18-2022-stories-of-triumph-realized-dreams-part-2-of-2/70f3fc4e-5f29-49eb-ad50-ea2f5150aebeSun, 18 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin presents the second week of "Stories of Triumph," featuring two powerful immigrant stories from Unity of Walnut Creek community members. Edna Castillo shares her journey from Guatemala - overcoming her father's chauvinism, bullying, and an unhappy marriage to become a certified life coach and author who now helps others heal. Dimitri Doronkin recounts his path from Uzbekistan, navigating the struggles of starting over and losing everything, only to discover that God was not distant but intimately present within him. Rev. Kristin celebrates how these stories reveal the spiritual ideals of inclusivity and equality, reminding us that diversity strengthens community.Rev. Kristin presents the second week of "Stories of Triumph," featuring two powerful immigrant stories from Unity of Walnut Creek community members. Edna Castillo shares her journey from Guatemala - overcoming her father's chauvinism, bullying, and an unhappy marriage to become a certified life coach and author who now helps others heal. Dimitri Doronkin recounts his path from Uzbekistan, navigating the struggles of starting over and losing everything, only to discover that God was not distant but intimately present within him. Rev. Kristin celebrates how these stories reveal the spiritual ideals of inclusivity and equality, reminding us that diversity strengthens community.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-09-11-september-11-2022-stories-of-triumph-realized-dreams-part-1-of-2/b895568b-4eb4-4b3d-8c08-846a87ea42a7Sun, 11 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin opens this powerful service by inviting two community members to share their personal stories of transformation and resilience. Scott Babcock recounts his recent heart attack and the profound spiritual deepening it sparked - renewing his trust in inner knowing and inspiring him to finally pursue his lifelong dream of walking the John Muir Trail. Delilah Brookstone vulnerably shares her journey through generational trauma, addiction, and multiple attempts to end her life, ultimately finding sobriety, purpose, and healing through following the quiet voice of spirit within. Rev. Kristin frames these testimonies as expressions of human oneness, reminding us that our stories of struggle and triumph are deeply interconnected.Rev. Kristin opens this powerful service by inviting two community members to share their personal stories of transformation and resilience. Scott Babcock recounts his recent heart attack and the profound spiritual deepening it sparked - renewing his trust in inner knowing and inspiring him to finally pursue his lifelong dream of walking the John Muir Trail. Delilah Brookstone vulnerably shares her journey through generational trauma, addiction, and multiple attempts to end her life, ultimately finding sobriety, purpose, and healing through following the quiet voice of spirit within. Rev. Kristin frames these testimonies as expressions of human oneness, reminding us that our stories of struggle and triumph are deeply interconnected.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-09-04-september-4-2022-affirming-life/7abbf24f-0ac9-469c-9512-9f0a29044d93Sun, 04 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin invites us to embrace the sacred practice of affirming life - seeing, appreciating, and calling forth the goodness that is already present all around us. Drawing on the Gospel of Thomas, Unity's 12 Powers teaching, and the story of a maiden who rejected every pearl in search of something better, she reminds us that the kingdom of God is spread upon the earth and our work is simply to notice it with soft focus, open hearts, and grateful words. Rev. Kristin encourages us to move through the world like Persephone returning in spring - wherever we walk, speaking truth and appreciation, life blossoms.Rev. Kristin invites us to embrace the sacred practice of affirming life - seeing, appreciating, and calling forth the goodness that is already present all around us. Drawing on the Gospel of Thomas, Unity's 12 Powers teaching, and the story of a maiden who rejected every pearl in search of something better, she reminds us that the kingdom of God is spread upon the earth and our work is simply to notice it with soft focus, open hearts, and grateful words. Rev. Kristin encourages us to move through the world like Persephone returning in spring - wherever we walk, speaking truth and appreciation, life blossoms.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-08-28-august-28-2022-me-and-my-shadow/06c9c1bc-26b8-414f-bcc2-85f3d5001142Sun, 28 Aug 2022 00:00:00 +0000In this powerful message, Rev. Kristin explores the concept of shadow work - the spiritual practice of acknowledging and integrating the hidden parts of ourselves that we have repressed, denied, or cast aside. Drawing from Carl Jung's psychology, the teachings of Jesus on projection, and her own personal stories of buried anger and reclaimed confidence, Rev. Kristin reminds us that the shadow is actually the source of our highest good. She invites us to courageously shine light into our inner darkness, recognizing that wholeness, authenticity, and deeper joy await when we welcome home every part of who we are with love and acceptance.In this powerful message, Rev. Kristin explores the concept of shadow work - the spiritual practice of acknowledging and integrating the hidden parts of ourselves that we have repressed, denied, or cast aside. Drawing from Carl Jung's psychology, the teachings of Jesus on projection, and her own personal stories of buried anger and reclaimed confidence, Rev. Kristin reminds us that the shadow is actually the source of our highest good. She invites us to courageously shine light into our inner darkness, recognizing that wholeness, authenticity, and deeper joy await when we welcome home every part of who we are with love and acceptance.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-08-21-august-21-2022-overcoming-the-trolls-under-the-bridge/260fc75a-fcbc-4538-843d-b5d4e3c80402Sun, 21 Aug 2022 00:00:00 +0000Larry Schneider draws on decades of fascination with the human mind to explore what keeps us from experiencing our innate divinity, using the metaphor of "trolls under the bridge" - those ingrained thought patterns and attachments that block our spiritual growth. Weaving together insights from Genesis, the teachings of Jesus, Unity principles, and modern neuroscience, Larry shows how our brains are physically designed to reach higher states of compassion and connection, yet our lower-level thinking often holds us back. He offers practical tools like identifying a "dream team" of inspiring mentors and centering on core values to overcome the trolls and return to the garden within.Larry Schneider draws on decades of fascination with the human mind to explore what keeps us from experiencing our innate divinity, using the metaphor of "trolls under the bridge" - those ingrained thought patterns and attachments that block our spiritual growth. Weaving together insights from Genesis, the teachings of Jesus, Unity principles, and modern neuroscience, Larry shows how our brains are physically designed to reach higher states of compassion and connection, yet our lower-level thinking often holds us back. He offers practical tools like identifying a "dream team" of inspiring mentors and centering on core values to overcome the trolls and return to the garden within.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-08-14-august-14-2022-providing-sanctuary/c07a07ae-fe4c-4b46-b3fb-9f802c407d21Sun, 14 Aug 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin explores the profound meaning of sanctuary - not merely as a physical space, but as something we embody and provide for one another. Drawing from the powerful story of two families connected across generations through acts of refuge during the Holocaust and the recent Ukraine crisis, Rev. Kristin invites the community to embrace their natural calling as a place of healing, love, and inclusivity. She encourages Unity of Walnut Creek to be a wide-open space where weary hearts find rest and full cups find purpose, reminding us that we are each called to become the sanctuary we have found.Rev. Kristin explores the profound meaning of sanctuary - not merely as a physical space, but as something we embody and provide for one another. Drawing from the powerful story of two families connected across generations through acts of refuge during the Holocaust and the recent Ukraine crisis, Rev. Kristin invites the community to embrace their natural calling as a place of healing, love, and inclusivity. She encourages Unity of Walnut Creek to be a wide-open space where weary hearts find rest and full cups find purpose, reminding us that we are each called to become the sanctuary we have found.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-08-07-august-7-2022-receiving-sabbath/1318f424-9a6f-4ebd-ac3f-8ea9a09147dfSun, 07 Aug 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin offers a beautiful exploration of Sabbath - the sacred practice of rest - reminding us that if the infinite source of the universe rested on the seventh day, we too are invited into that rhythm. Drawing from her transformative sabbatical in Africa, the wisdom of Jewish Shabbat rituals, Mary Oliver's poetry, and the simple elements of earth, water, fire, and air, Rev. Kristin illuminates how pausing - whether for one conscious breath or an entire afternoon in a hammock - reconnects us to the drumbeat of life and resurrects our sense of aliveness. She invites us to transform everyday acts like eating and washing into sacred communion, discovering that rest is not absence but the very portal through which we remember who we truly are.Rev. Kristin offers a beautiful exploration of Sabbath - the sacred practice of rest - reminding us that if the infinite source of the universe rested on the seventh day, we too are invited into that rhythm. Drawing from her transformative sabbatical in Africa, the wisdom of Jewish Shabbat rituals, Mary Oliver's poetry, and the simple elements of earth, water, fire, and air, Rev. Kristin illuminates how pausing - whether for one conscious breath or an entire afternoon in a hammock - reconnects us to the drumbeat of life and resurrects our sense of aliveness. She invites us to transform everyday acts like eating and washing into sacred communion, discovering that rest is not absence but the very portal through which we remember who we truly are.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-07-31-july-31-2022-always-do-your-best/c610195b-8c58-46d1-8318-69f8f54492f8Sun, 31 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin wraps up the Four Agreements series by exploring what it truly means to "always do your best" - not through overachieving or sacrifice, but by reconnecting with our authentic spiritual nature and letting it guide our lives. Using a childhood story of rebellion, the character of Forrest Gump, and a Buddhist teaching tale, Rev. Kristin illustrates that doing our best means saying no to old limiting agreements while saying yes to the freedom of spirit within us. She invites the community to consider how living these agreements - being impeccable with our word, not taking things personally, not making assumptions, and doing our best - can transform not only our individual lives but our relationships and shared spiritual journey together.Rev. Kristin wraps up the Four Agreements series by exploring what it truly means to "always do your best" - not through overachieving or sacrifice, but by reconnecting with our authentic spiritual nature and letting it guide our lives. Using a childhood story of rebellion, the character of Forrest Gump, and a Buddhist teaching tale, Rev. Kristin illustrates that doing our best means saying no to old limiting agreements while saying yes to the freedom of spirit within us. She invites the community to consider how living these agreements - being impeccable with our word, not taking things personally, not making assumptions, and doing our best - can transform not only our individual lives but our relationships and shared spiritual journey together.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-07-24-july-24-2022-dont-make-assumptions/ef76ea9e-6119-4591-a647-2fe8a4405035Sun, 24 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin delivers a lively and practical exploration of the third agreement from Don Miguel Ruiz's Toltec wisdom - don't make assumptions - showing how easily we fill in gaps of knowledge with made-up stories that we then treat as truth. Through humorous anecdotes and relatable examples, Rev. Kristin identifies three common habits that don't serve us - making stuff up, needing to be right, and expecting others to read our minds - and offers powerful antidotes including curiosity, generous interpretation, and Byron Katie's inquiry process. She reminds us that the ultimate key to breaking old assumptions lies in trusting our innate spiritual wisdom and seeking to understand rather than be understood.Rev. Kristin delivers a lively and practical exploration of the third agreement from Don Miguel Ruiz's Toltec wisdom - don't make assumptions - showing how easily we fill in gaps of knowledge with made-up stories that we then treat as truth. Through humorous anecdotes and relatable examples, Rev. Kristin identifies three common habits that don't serve us - making stuff up, needing to be right, and expecting others to read our minds - and offers powerful antidotes including curiosity, generous interpretation, and Byron Katie's inquiry process. She reminds us that the ultimate key to breaking old assumptions lies in trusting our innate spiritual wisdom and seeking to understand rather than be understood.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-07-17-july-17-2022-dont-take-anything-personally/aa8a1886-df4c-4b3d-9d2a-666b13104f89Sun, 17 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin draws a beautiful connection between the awe-inspiring images from the James Webb Space Telescope and our daily spiritual practice, reminding us that as beings literally made of stardust, we can choose to live from a vaster perspective rather than getting caught up in life's small irritations. Exploring the second of Don Miguel Ruiz's Four Agreements - don't take anything personally - Rev. Kristin illustrates through relatable everyday scenarios how old limiting beliefs keep us trapped in cycles of seeking validation or swallowing emotional poison. She invites us to ground ourselves in our intrinsic divine worth, remembering that others are starring in their own movies, and encourages us to lighten up and shine our cosmic light into the world.Rev. Kristin draws a beautiful connection between the awe-inspiring images from the James Webb Space Telescope and our daily spiritual practice, reminding us that as beings literally made of stardust, we can choose to live from a vaster perspective rather than getting caught up in life's small irritations. Exploring the second of Don Miguel Ruiz's Four Agreements - don't take anything personally - Rev. Kristin illustrates through relatable everyday scenarios how old limiting beliefs keep us trapped in cycles of seeking validation or swallowing emotional poison. She invites us to ground ourselves in our intrinsic divine worth, remembering that others are starring in their own movies, and encourages us to lighten up and shine our cosmic light into the world.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-07-10-july-10-2022-be-impeccable-with-your-word/0a4b02be-56b9-4146-841d-8eabe4c1a21dSun, 10 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin explores the first of Don Miguel Ruiz's Four Agreements - being impeccable with your word - through personal stories of shedding old agreements that kept her small and stepping into her authentic calling. She illuminates how every word we speak carries the creative power of God, reminding us that "in the beginning was the word" and inviting us to consider how we use the sacred "I am" in our daily lives. Rev. Kristin offers practical wisdom on releasing gossip, speaking truth, and aligning our words with love, encouraging us to see this practice not as perfection but as a liberating journey toward our divine potential.Rev. Kristin explores the first of Don Miguel Ruiz's Four Agreements - being impeccable with your word - through personal stories of shedding old agreements that kept her small and stepping into her authentic calling. She illuminates how every word we speak carries the creative power of God, reminding us that "in the beginning was the word" and inviting us to consider how we use the sacred "I am" in our daily lives. Rev. Kristin offers practical wisdom on releasing gossip, speaking truth, and aligning our words with love, encouraging us to see this practice not as perfection but as a liberating journey toward our divine potential.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-07-03-july-3-2022-freedom-together/828c7444-c7f6-4a9e-ae04-ad3190f50b6fSun, 03 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin delivers a powerful Independence Day message exploring the deeper meaning of freedom - not merely as carefree pleasure, but as a spiritual capacity we cultivate within and share outward. Drawing on Khalil Gibran, the symbolism of the Statue of Liberty and the bald eagle, and a touching parable about two brothers choosing a bridge over a fence, Rev. Kristin invites us to recognize that true liberty begins in the "land of the I Am" and flows into collaborative, compassionate action. She reminds us that we are all needed as bridge-builders - choosing freedom over fear in every thought, word, and encounter we have each day.Rev. Kristin delivers a powerful Independence Day message exploring the deeper meaning of freedom - not merely as carefree pleasure, but as a spiritual capacity we cultivate within and share outward. Drawing on Khalil Gibran, the symbolism of the Statue of Liberty and the bald eagle, and a touching parable about two brothers choosing a bridge over a fence, Rev. Kristin invites us to recognize that true liberty begins in the "land of the I Am" and flows into collaborative, compassionate action. She reminds us that we are all needed as bridge-builders - choosing freedom over fear in every thought, word, and encounter we have each day.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-06-26-june-26-2022-spiritual-questions-and-responses/4c0fe10a-36bb-4165-a00a-4dc194b5ab7aSun, 26 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin offers a dynamic and heartfelt message responding to spiritual questions submitted by members of the congregation, covering topics ranging from prayer and the divine masculine-feminine balance to trusting life's transitions, tithing, shadow work, and her vision for Unity's future. With warmth and authenticity, Rev. Kristin explores how prayer changes us rather than changing God, why restoring divine feminine energy is essential for healing our world, and how everyday challenges like gophers and clogged toilets become invitations for spiritual growth. She reminds everyone that the answers they seek already reside within them, encouraging deeper practice, presence, and trust in their own innate wisdom.Rev. Kristin offers a dynamic and heartfelt message responding to spiritual questions submitted by members of the congregation, covering topics ranging from prayer and the divine masculine-feminine balance to trusting life's transitions, tithing, shadow work, and her vision for Unity's future. With warmth and authenticity, Rev. Kristin explores how prayer changes us rather than changing God, why restoring divine feminine energy is essential for healing our world, and how everyday challenges like gophers and clogged toilets become invitations for spiritual growth. She reminds everyone that the answers they seek already reside within them, encouraging deeper practice, presence, and trust in their own innate wisdom.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-06-19-june-19-2022-manifested-in-his-eyes/82f748ed-76ce-4556-9d1e-869f086eb2cbSun, 19 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin delivers a heartfelt Father's Day message weaving together the stories of two remarkable fathers - Ray Kimbrell, a Marine who discovered his greatest mission in devoted fatherhood, and Bobby Flay's father, whose gentle nudging unlocked his son's hidden potential. Through these stories, Rev. Kristin reminds us that we all carry a divine inner father energy - a loving presence that sees our fullest potential already realized and loves us unconditionally beyond measure. She encourages us to trust that guiding wisdom within and offers this simple yet profound advice: show up, pay attention, and respond in love.Rev. Kristin delivers a heartfelt Father's Day message weaving together the stories of two remarkable fathers - Ray Kimbrell, a Marine who discovered his greatest mission in devoted fatherhood, and Bobby Flay's father, whose gentle nudging unlocked his son's hidden potential. Through these stories, Rev. Kristin reminds us that we all carry a divine inner father energy - a loving presence that sees our fullest potential already realized and loves us unconditionally beyond measure. She encourages us to trust that guiding wisdom within and offers this simple yet profound advice: show up, pay attention, and respond in love.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-06-12-june-12-2022-forgiveness-the-fourth-pillar/911c655e-5ccb-430f-a21b-69c9e653cfeaSun, 12 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin concludes a five-week prosperity series by exploring forgiveness as the fourth and final pillar - alongside generosity, gratitude, and vision - that allows divine abundance to flow freely through our lives. She illuminates how unforgiveness imprisons us, sharing the powerful story of Stephanie Cassatley who forgave her mother's killer after 20 years and experienced profound release and healing. Rev. Kristin offers practical tools for forgiveness work, including end-of-day reflection and a writing exercise that separates facts from interpretation, reminding us that choosing happiness over being right opens the door to true prosperity and freedom.Rev. Kristin concludes a five-week prosperity series by exploring forgiveness as the fourth and final pillar - alongside generosity, gratitude, and vision - that allows divine abundance to flow freely through our lives. She illuminates how unforgiveness imprisons us, sharing the powerful story of Stephanie Cassatley who forgave her mother's killer after 20 years and experienced profound release and healing. Rev. Kristin offers practical tools for forgiveness work, including end-of-day reflection and a writing exercise that separates facts from interpretation, reminding us that choosing happiness over being right opens the door to true prosperity and freedom.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-06-05-june-5-2022-generosity-the-third-pillar/129e80ed-bbda-421f-967c-5fc069b138f2Sun, 05 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin explores generosity as the third pillar of prosperity, using the vivid metaphor of fleas in a lidded pot to illustrate how self-imposed limitations block our natural flow of giving and receiving. She invites us to examine the subconscious beliefs about money and wealth formed in childhood - such as the notion that poverty is noble - and to release these "lids" so we can participate fully in the spiritual law of circulation. Through heartwarming stories of everyday kindness and unconditional giving, Rev. Kristin reminds us that generosity flows in countless forms and always returns multiplied, encouraging us to affirm together: "I am wealthy and generous."Rev. Kristin explores generosity as the third pillar of prosperity, using the vivid metaphor of fleas in a lidded pot to illustrate how self-imposed limitations block our natural flow of giving and receiving. She invites us to examine the subconscious beliefs about money and wealth formed in childhood - such as the notion that poverty is noble - and to release these "lids" so we can participate fully in the spiritual law of circulation. Through heartwarming stories of everyday kindness and unconditional giving, Rev. Kristin reminds us that generosity flows in countless forms and always returns multiplied, encouraging us to affirm together: "I am wealthy and generous."https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-05-29-may-29-2022-gratitude-the-second-pillar/f243e54c-8407-4b76-8c73-94975dfc28f1Sun, 29 May 2022 00:00:00 +0000Karen Drucker explores the transformative power of radical gratitude - not as a spiritual bypass that dismisses pain, but as a practice that holds space for both devastation and joy simultaneously. Through personal stories, humor, and song, Karen Drucker invites us to find even the smallest spark of gratitude during life's darkest moments, sharing how shifting "I've got to" to "I get to" can change everything. She reminds us that gratitude is a daily practice that brings us back to presence, opens our hearts to community, and helps us truly see one another in a world that desperately needs connection.Karen Drucker explores the transformative power of radical gratitude - not as a spiritual bypass that dismisses pain, but as a practice that holds space for both devastation and joy simultaneously. Through personal stories, humor, and song, Karen Drucker invites us to find even the smallest spark of gratitude during life's darkest moments, sharing how shifting "I've got to" to "I get to" can change everything. She reminds us that gratitude is a daily practice that brings us back to presence, opens our hearts to community, and helps us truly see one another in a world that desperately needs connection.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-05-22-prosperity-series-part-2-vision/2ab9242d-2daf-43b5-9ca3-432e55fa9c32Sun, 22 May 2022 00:00:00 +0000In this heartfelt message, Rev. Kristin explores vision as the second pillar in the Prosperity Series, inviting us to recognize how our dreams, creations, and choices ripple outward to prosper the world in ways we may never fully see. Through the story of Leo Stefano - whose simple desire to keep his son safe led to the creation of the Dove Bar - she illustrates how even small acts of creative response can generate abundance across generations. Rev. Kristin encourages us to allow pain to push us forward until we are pulled by a greater vision, casting a collective replacement vision rooted in joy, equality, and conscious oneness.In this heartfelt message, Rev. Kristin explores vision as the second pillar in the Prosperity Series, inviting us to recognize how our dreams, creations, and choices ripple outward to prosper the world in ways we may never fully see. Through the story of Leo Stefano - whose simple desire to keep his son safe led to the creation of the Dove Bar - she illustrates how even small acts of creative response can generate abundance across generations. Rev. Kristin encourages us to allow pain to push us forward until we are pulled by a greater vision, casting a collective replacement vision rooted in joy, equality, and conscious oneness.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-05-15-may-15-2022-build-on-a-foundation-of-faith/76b3d0e0-763f-45bf-a659-8fd5bb006c11Sun, 15 May 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell launches a new prosperity series by sharing her inspiring personal story of following divine guidance to move from the Midwest to California - a journey marked by synchronicities, trust, and spiritual flow. She explores how faith serves as the essential foundation upon which all prosperity is built, defining faith as a deep knowing in the heart that transcends proof or explanation. Drawing on the biblical teachings of "ask and it is given" and the mustard seed parable, Rev. Kristin Powell invites listeners to identify what they truly know, strengthen their connection with spirit, and release the mountains of doubt that block their good.Rev. Kristin Powell launches a new prosperity series by sharing her inspiring personal story of following divine guidance to move from the Midwest to California - a journey marked by synchronicities, trust, and spiritual flow. She explores how faith serves as the essential foundation upon which all prosperity is built, defining faith as a deep knowing in the heart that transcends proof or explanation. Drawing on the biblical teachings of "ask and it is given" and the mustard seed parable, Rev. Kristin Powell invites listeners to identify what they truly know, strengthen their connection with spirit, and release the mountains of doubt that block their good.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-05-08-may-8-2022-mother-divine-and-earthly/437fd5e4-593c-4636-b38a-5ed069bdcc58Sun, 08 May 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin delivers a heartfelt Mother's Day message exploring the Divine Mother as both the allness of God - that permeating, nurturing presence available to us at all times - and the eachness of divine feminine qualities within every person regardless of gender. Drawing on the mystical vision of St. Andrew, the story of Mary weaving scarlet and purple threads, and the wisdom of Julian of Norwich, Rev. Kristin invites us to weave together our humanity and divinity into a seamless whole. She encourages us to find our own sacred power spots where we can be spiritually nurtured and refilled, so we may then carry the mother's gifts of compassion, tenderness, and unconditional love back into a world that deeply needs them.Rev. Kristin delivers a heartfelt Mother's Day message exploring the Divine Mother as both the allness of God - that permeating, nurturing presence available to us at all times - and the eachness of divine feminine qualities within every person regardless of gender. Drawing on the mystical vision of St. Andrew, the story of Mary weaving scarlet and purple threads, and the wisdom of Julian of Norwich, Rev. Kristin invites us to weave together our humanity and divinity into a seamless whole. She encourages us to find our own sacred power spots where we can be spiritually nurtured and refilled, so we may then carry the mother's gifts of compassion, tenderness, and unconditional love back into a world that deeply needs them.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-05-01-may-1-2022-fear-friend-foe-or/ffa3148b-e29d-41a8-ba8b-5692db307909Sun, 01 May 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Verona Garland delivers a vibrant and deeply personal exploration of fear, inviting us to see it not as an enemy but as a growth opportunity woven into the oneness of spirit. Drawing from the Science of Mind textbook, personal stories, and her own vulnerability about facing cataract surgery, she offers three powerful tools for dancing with fear - faith, thinking God thoughts, and remembrance of who we truly are. With warmth, humor, and infectious enthusiasm, Rev. Verona Garland reminds us that fear is simply faith misplaced, and encourages us to face everything and rise.Rev. Verona Garland delivers a vibrant and deeply personal exploration of fear, inviting us to see it not as an enemy but as a growth opportunity woven into the oneness of spirit. Drawing from the Science of Mind textbook, personal stories, and her own vulnerability about facing cataract surgery, she offers three powerful tools for dancing with fear - faith, thinking God thoughts, and remembrance of who we truly are. With warmth, humor, and infectious enthusiasm, Rev. Verona Garland reminds us that fear is simply faith misplaced, and encourages us to face everything and rise.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-04-24-april-24-2022-sacred-heart-sacred-home/6d702d0c-1782-4040-a973-355bf9db6a91Sun, 24 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell draws a powerful parallel between the regeneration of Krakatoa after its catastrophic eruption and humanity's capacity for spiritual renewal, reminding us that what may appear to be breakdown is actually breakthrough. She invites us to uncover rather than recover - peeling back the layers of expectation and false narrative to reveal the sacred truth beneath, much like pulling back heavy ground cover to find fertile soil ready for new life. Through the Hawaiian practice of Ho'oponopono and the Celtic wisdom of expecting to find light in one another, Rev. Kristin Powell encourages us to breathe, heal, and plant new life as we participate in the emergence of a new earth born from awakened consciousness.Rev. Kristin Powell draws a powerful parallel between the regeneration of Krakatoa after its catastrophic eruption and humanity's capacity for spiritual renewal, reminding us that what may appear to be breakdown is actually breakthrough. She invites us to uncover rather than recover - peeling back the layers of expectation and false narrative to reveal the sacred truth beneath, much like pulling back heavy ground cover to find fertile soil ready for new life. Through the Hawaiian practice of Ho'oponopono and the Celtic wisdom of expecting to find light in one another, Rev. Kristin Powell encourages us to breathe, heal, and plant new life as we participate in the emergence of a new earth born from awakened consciousness.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-04-17-april-17-2022-rise-up/d6241063-5988-4be4-8cb0-d57b8fc63188Sun, 17 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a powerful Easter message exploring how resurrection is not just a historical event but a daily spiritual practice available to each of us. Drawing from her own transformative experience on a vision fast in Death Valley and the inspiring story of a young woman who overcame crippling anxiety through changing her thoughts, Rev. Kristin Powell offers a practical acronym - RIGHT - standing for Resurrection, Inquiring and Investing in joy, Gratitude, Heart care, and True thoughts. She reminds us that the depth of Easter comes not from skipping over life's challenges but from rising through them, carrying our wisdom forward as we awaken each morning to the truth of who we are.Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a powerful Easter message exploring how resurrection is not just a historical event but a daily spiritual practice available to each of us. Drawing from her own transformative experience on a vision fast in Death Valley and the inspiring story of a young woman who overcame crippling anxiety through changing her thoughts, Rev. Kristin Powell offers a practical acronym - RIGHT - standing for Resurrection, Inquiring and Investing in joy, Gratitude, Heart care, and True thoughts. She reminds us that the depth of Easter comes not from skipping over life's challenges but from rising through them, carrying our wisdom forward as we awaken each morning to the truth of who we are.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-04-10-april-10-2022-the-garden-path/c0a5da93-86fd-457d-bca6-e401e324192bSun, 10 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell weaves together the parable of a bird nesting peacefully beside a cascading waterfall with the story of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane to explore what true peace means - not the absence of chaos, but an unshakable inner calm found through surrender and non-resistance. Drawing on the examples of Gandhi and Peace Pilgrim, she invites us to lay down our weapons of judgment, fear, and defensiveness, and instead lean into life's difficulties with faith and openness. Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that a few souls in harmony with the divine will are more powerful than multitudes out of harmony, encouraging us all to be like that little bird - sitting in peace, singing our song of truth, and walking in the light.Rev. Kristin Powell weaves together the parable of a bird nesting peacefully beside a cascading waterfall with the story of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane to explore what true peace means - not the absence of chaos, but an unshakable inner calm found through surrender and non-resistance. Drawing on the examples of Gandhi and Peace Pilgrim, she invites us to lay down our weapons of judgment, fear, and defensiveness, and instead lean into life's difficulties with faith and openness. Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that a few souls in harmony with the divine will are more powerful than multitudes out of harmony, encouraging us all to be like that little bird - sitting in peace, singing our song of truth, and walking in the light.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-04-03-april-3-2022-atonement/1c6070f4-5ca2-4603-a406-250507388f00Sun, 03 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin explores the profound spiritual practice of atonement - understood as "at-one-ment" - through the remarkable story of the Amish community's immediate forgiveness following the 2006 Nickel Mines schoolhouse tragedy and the Dagari tribe's practice of uplifting those who have lost their way. She invites us to consider forgiveness not merely as a mental exercise but as an active movement toward reparation and reconciliation rooted in our fundamental oneness with all life and with the divine. Rev. Kristin offers practical steps for daily forgiveness practice and encourages us to take the first courageous action toward healing in our own lives and in the world.Rev. Kristin explores the profound spiritual practice of atonement - understood as "at-one-ment" - through the remarkable story of the Amish community's immediate forgiveness following the 2006 Nickel Mines schoolhouse tragedy and the Dagari tribe's practice of uplifting those who have lost their way. She invites us to consider forgiveness not merely as a mental exercise but as an active movement toward reparation and reconciliation rooted in our fundamental oneness with all life and with the divine. Rev. Kristin offers practical steps for daily forgiveness practice and encourages us to take the first courageous action toward healing in our own lives and in the world.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-03-27-march-27-2022-illumined-soul/83b6fc91-1da7-4beb-a822-17f5d1815f4cSun, 27 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin draws from a breathtaking experience of paddling an outrigger canoe during a moon eclipse - where bioluminescence lit up the dark waters - to illuminate the path of the illumined soul. She explores how beauty and light emerge from darkness, reminding us that just as the yin-yang symbol teaches, there is always light within the dark and our inner lamp can never be extinguished. Rev. Kristin offers practical ways to walk this path - finding light in difficult times, unmasking our truest selves, experimenting with illuminating practices, and letting the ego bow in service to divine guidance. Using the metaphor of outrigger canoeing, she invites us to shine our individual lights while paddling together in the boat of humanity.Rev. Kristin draws from a breathtaking experience of paddling an outrigger canoe during a moon eclipse - where bioluminescence lit up the dark waters - to illuminate the path of the illumined soul. She explores how beauty and light emerge from darkness, reminding us that just as the yin-yang symbol teaches, there is always light within the dark and our inner lamp can never be extinguished. Rev. Kristin offers practical ways to walk this path - finding light in difficult times, unmasking our truest selves, experimenting with illuminating practices, and letting the ego bow in service to divine guidance. Using the metaphor of outrigger canoeing, she invites us to shine our individual lights while paddling together in the boat of humanity.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-03-20-march-20-2022-harnessing-the-storm-within-our-own-hearts/f144f65f-3b0c-4dd2-9381-4354c5c84e99Sun, 20 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Sheila Ford explores how true world peace begins with harnessing the storms within our own hearts, drawing from Unity co-founders Charles and Myrtle Fillmore and the Costa Rican poem Resur to illuminate the path inward. She offers four practical tools for cultivating inner peace - meditation, prayer, awareness of our feelings, and HeartMath coherence techniques - reminding us that before we can direct the lightning in the sky, we must first tend to the fire within. Rev. Sheila Ford invites us to become candles of comfort, burning with peace that ripples from one horizon to the next.Rev. Sheila Ford explores how true world peace begins with harnessing the storms within our own hearts, drawing from Unity co-founders Charles and Myrtle Fillmore and the Costa Rican poem Resur to illuminate the path inward. She offers four practical tools for cultivating inner peace - meditation, prayer, awareness of our feelings, and HeartMath coherence techniques - reminding us that before we can direct the lightning in the sky, we must first tend to the fire within. Rev. Sheila Ford invites us to become candles of comfort, burning with peace that ripples from one horizon to the next.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-03-13-march-13-2022-holding-space/522cbbaf-8603-4079-933f-a9dd607db52bSun, 13 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin explores the sacred practice of holding space as a powerful healing tool rooted in Unity's founding legacy. Drawing on the example of co-founder Myrtle Fillmore's healing ministry, she presents a "Triple A" framework - Attend, Allow, and Attune - for becoming skilled spiritual space holders in a world that desperately needs compassionate witnesses. Rev. Kristin invites us to show up with open hearts, resist the urge to fix or bypass pain, and trust that the divine presence working through us can bring comfort and transformation to those who are hurting - whether a neighbor, a loved one, or an entire nation in crisis.Rev. Kristin explores the sacred practice of holding space as a powerful healing tool rooted in Unity's founding legacy. Drawing on the example of co-founder Myrtle Fillmore's healing ministry, she presents a "Triple A" framework - Attend, Allow, and Attune - for becoming skilled spiritual space holders in a world that desperately needs compassionate witnesses. Rev. Kristin invites us to show up with open hearts, resist the urge to fix or bypass pain, and trust that the divine presence working through us can bring comfort and transformation to those who are hurting - whether a neighbor, a loved one, or an entire nation in crisis.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-03-06-march-6-2022-peacin-it-together/ba9b5523-0aec-4aa2-84e1-ea0ee133dc6bSun, 06 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin weaves together the Season for Nonviolence and the Lenten season, inviting us to fast from aggression, judgment, and negativity while feasting on prayer, vision, and silence. She reminds us that no person or nation can stand in the way of God's goodness for humanity, encouraging us to pray even for those who have lost their way rather than giving our power away to fear or rage. Drawing on wisdom from Pema Chodron, Valerie Kaur, and young Nicosi Johnson, Rev. Kristin calls us to do all we can with what we have, right where we are - holding visions of peace, shielding the world in love, and trusting that our inner work truly changes the tide.Rev. Kristin weaves together the Season for Nonviolence and the Lenten season, inviting us to fast from aggression, judgment, and negativity while feasting on prayer, vision, and silence. She reminds us that no person or nation can stand in the way of God's goodness for humanity, encouraging us to pray even for those who have lost their way rather than giving our power away to fear or rage. Drawing on wisdom from Pema Chodron, Valerie Kaur, and young Nicosi Johnson, Rev. Kristin calls us to do all we can with what we have, right where we are - holding visions of peace, shielding the world in love, and trusting that our inner work truly changes the tide.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-02-27-february-27-2022-perfect-peace-in-imperfect-conditions/e13521d9-ae8c-4cde-9859-85f3c1284903Sun, 27 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin delivers a powerful message on cultivating inner peace during turbulent times, drawing inspiration from Gandhi's lifelong practice of using a mantra to transform fear into fearlessness. She shares how Gandhi's childhood nanny taught him to steady his mind by repeating "Rama Rama" - comparing the restless mind to an elephant's trunk that calms when given something to hold - and invites the congregation to discover their own personal mantra through spirit. Rev. Kristin reminds us that we each have a responsibility to ground ourselves in peace through prayer, meditation, and mantra practice, so that we can be a steady hand for others rather than getting pulled into the quicksand of fear and drama surrounding us.Rev. Kristin delivers a powerful message on cultivating inner peace during turbulent times, drawing inspiration from Gandhi's lifelong practice of using a mantra to transform fear into fearlessness. She shares how Gandhi's childhood nanny taught him to steady his mind by repeating "Rama Rama" - comparing the restless mind to an elephant's trunk that calms when given something to hold - and invites the congregation to discover their own personal mantra through spirit. Rev. Kristin reminds us that we each have a responsibility to ground ourselves in peace through prayer, meditation, and mantra practice, so that we can be a steady hand for others rather than getting pulled into the quicksand of fear and drama surrounding us.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-02-20-february-20-2022-the-timely-metaphysics-of-noahs-ark/695c6bd7-ee06-42ca-891e-cdefd93384a1Sun, 20 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +0000https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-02-13-february-13-2022-im-choosing-love-today/217854b3-8654-46d5-a86c-b1834f46c0d5Sun, 13 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin shares a powerful story of a Sikh woman named Avnit who, when confronted by a stranger's hateful outburst in a grocery store, stood her ground and simply repeated "I love you" until the aggressor broke down in tears - demonstrating what it looks like to respond from divine love rather than fear. Drawing on Unity's teaching of the 12 powers, the concept of oneness, and the wisdom of compassion, Rev. Kristin invites us to build a spiritual constitution strong enough to meet any adversity with love by breaking up with our inner judge and victim, recommitting to our true selves, and choosing love today.Rev. Kristin shares a powerful story of a Sikh woman named Avnit who, when confronted by a stranger's hateful outburst in a grocery store, stood her ground and simply repeated "I love you" until the aggressor broke down in tears - demonstrating what it looks like to respond from divine love rather than fear. Drawing on Unity's teaching of the 12 powers, the concept of oneness, and the wisdom of compassion, Rev. Kristin invites us to build a spiritual constitution strong enough to meet any adversity with love by breaking up with our inner judge and victim, recommitting to our true selves, and choosing love today.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-02-06-february-6-2022-synchronicity-flow-starting-from-wholeness-in-the-new-year/be2d1571-f730-4568-878f-c8f3534fab9aSun, 06 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +0000Sky Nelson explores the concept of starting from wholeness rather than emptiness, inviting listeners to shift from asking "how do we get something from nothing?" to "how do we create something from everything?" Drawing on his background as a physicist, he uses the metaphor of rainbows and frequency filters to illustrate how solutions already exist within our lives - we simply need to remove what blocks us from seeing them. Through a personal story about joining his brother's band and rediscovering his voice, Sky Nelson demonstrates the power of saying "not no" to unexpected opportunities, showing how synchronicities can guide us toward fulfilling intentions we may not even consciously recognize.Sky Nelson explores the concept of starting from wholeness rather than emptiness, inviting listeners to shift from asking "how do we get something from nothing?" to "how do we create something from everything?" Drawing on his background as a physicist, he uses the metaphor of rainbows and frequency filters to illustrate how solutions already exist within our lives - we simply need to remove what blocks us from seeing them. Through a personal story about joining his brother's band and rediscovering his voice, Sky Nelson demonstrates the power of saying "not no" to unexpected opportunities, showing how synchronicities can guide us toward fulfilling intentions we may not even consciously recognize.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-01-30-january-30-2022-prepared-by-faith/44c46644-1c61-468e-bb46-9b7965de5604Sun, 30 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin traces the inspiring history of Unity's founders, Charles and Myrtle Fillmore, to illuminate how faith - not funds - has always been the foundation of true prosperity. Drawing from the Fillmores' remarkable journey of building a spiritual movement one faithful step at a time, Rev. Kristin reminds us that prosperity is an inside job rooted in divine essence rather than material possessions. She invites us to activate our innate power of faith, center in our source, and consider writing our own covenant with spirit - knowing that when we turn on this inner power, doors of unimagined possibility continue to open.Rev. Kristin traces the inspiring history of Unity's founders, Charles and Myrtle Fillmore, to illuminate how faith - not funds - has always been the foundation of true prosperity. Drawing from the Fillmores' remarkable journey of building a spiritual movement one faithful step at a time, Rev. Kristin reminds us that prosperity is an inside job rooted in divine essence rather than material possessions. She invites us to activate our innate power of faith, center in our source, and consider writing our own covenant with spirit - knowing that when we turn on this inner power, doors of unimagined possibility continue to open.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-01-23-january-23-2022-healed-by-love/a32ae190-7d00-478a-88da-203bf242cf02Sun, 23 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin takes us back to the roots of the Unity movement, sharing the powerful healing story of co-founder Myrtle Fillmore, who transformed her lifelong illness through the revolutionary understanding that as a child of God, she could not inherit disease. Drawing from Myrtle Fillmore's healing letters, Rev. Kristin guides the congregation through a spiritual health treatment and reminds us that our bodies are temples of divine love deserving reverence and care. She honors the recent passing of Thich Nhat Hanh, weaving his teaching on the illusion of separateness into a call for holistic healing - of body, mind, relationships, and world - through the ever-flowing tonic of divine love.Rev. Kristin takes us back to the roots of the Unity movement, sharing the powerful healing story of co-founder Myrtle Fillmore, who transformed her lifelong illness through the revolutionary understanding that as a child of God, she could not inherit disease. Drawing from Myrtle Fillmore's healing letters, Rev. Kristin guides the congregation through a spiritual health treatment and reminds us that our bodies are temples of divine love deserving reverence and care. She honors the recent passing of Thich Nhat Hanh, weaving his teaching on the illusion of separateness into a call for holistic healing - of body, mind, relationships, and world - through the ever-flowing tonic of divine love.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-01-16-january-16-2022-can-mlks-dream-and-yours-both-come-true/7eb29587-d1ca-41c4-af7c-263c4fc82846Sun, 16 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000Brenda Wade delivers a powerful and heartfelt message connecting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s dream with the energy of the Chinese zodiac's Tiger Year, challenging listeners to move beyond spiritual comfort and into meaningful action. Drawing from her personal journey through depression, anxiety, and her awakening through Unity, Brenda Wade calls on spiritual communities to bridge divides - digital, racial, educational, and social - by using their unique gifts and talents in service to others. She emphasizes that intention must be paired with courageous action, urging everyone to activate their "tiger energy" and contribute to making King's dream of equality and love a lived reality for all people.Brenda Wade delivers a powerful and heartfelt message connecting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s dream with the energy of the Chinese zodiac's Tiger Year, challenging listeners to move beyond spiritual comfort and into meaningful action. Drawing from her personal journey through depression, anxiety, and her awakening through Unity, Brenda Wade calls on spiritual communities to bridge divides - digital, racial, educational, and social - by using their unique gifts and talents in service to others. She emphasizes that intention must be paired with courageous action, urging everyone to activate their "tiger energy" and contribute to making King's dream of equality and love a lived reality for all people.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-01-09-january-9-2022-aim-me-an-arrow-for-the-divine/aac5131c-1113-4aaf-ae3d-9411f44838f4Sun, 09 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin invites us into the new year with the rich metaphor of spiritual archery, exploring how we can align our thoughts, feelings, words, actions, and body language as arrows aimed toward our highest divine potential. Drawing from Khalil Gibran's "The Prophet," Lakota wisdom, and the Japanese practice of kudo, Rev. Kristin encourages us to open ourselves like a bow - strong yet receptive - and surrender to spirit's guidance. She reminds us that "missing the mark" is simply an invitation to try again, and that by clarifying our spiritual goals and practicing with reverence, we become living arrows aimed toward our fullest awakening in 2022.Rev. Kristin invites us into the new year with the rich metaphor of spiritual archery, exploring how we can align our thoughts, feelings, words, actions, and body language as arrows aimed toward our highest divine potential. Drawing from Khalil Gibran's "The Prophet," Lakota wisdom, and the Japanese practice of kudo, Rev. Kristin encourages us to open ourselves like a bow - strong yet receptive - and surrender to spirit's guidance. She reminds us that "missing the mark" is simply an invitation to try again, and that by clarifying our spiritual goals and practicing with reverence, we become living arrows aimed toward our fullest awakening in 2022.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2022-01-02-january-2-2022-a-brilliant-new-2022-white-stone-ceremony/82e85df2-9f5d-4dcb-be53-17f2b2e02181Sun, 02 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin opens 2022 with the powerful revelation that "abracadabra" is rooted in the Aramaic phrase meaning "I will create as I speak," inviting the community to recognize the sacred creative power of their words. She explores how our vocabulary shapes our reality - how limiting words compress possibility while expansive words like yes, love, and imagine open us to new creation. Rev. Kristin then guides the congregation through the beloved White Stone Ceremony, where each person receives a word from Spirit to serve as their guiding light for the year ahead - a hidden manna written on a stone symbolizing freedom and new beginnings.Rev. Kristin opens 2022 with the powerful revelation that "abracadabra" is rooted in the Aramaic phrase meaning "I will create as I speak," inviting the community to recognize the sacred creative power of their words. She explores how our vocabulary shapes our reality - how limiting words compress possibility while expansive words like yes, love, and imagine open us to new creation. Rev. Kristin then guides the congregation through the beloved White Stone Ceremony, where each person receives a word from Spirit to serve as their guiding light for the year ahead - a hidden manna written on a stone symbolizing freedom and new beginnings.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-12-26-december-26-2021-christmastide-giving/73198730-2bb0-4550-807f-e36b980ca85fSun, 26 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the sacred season of Christmastide as a time of generous giving, weaving together the story of 13-year-old Abraham Olagbegi - who chose feeding the homeless as his Make-A-Wish gift - with the biblical gifts of the Magi to illuminate both social and spiritual dimensions of generosity. She invites us to release judgment, embrace curiosity, and see the divine wholeness in every person, recognizing that temporary circumstances never define someone's identity. Rev. Kristin Powell shares her own journey with tithing as a spiritual practice, encouraging us to step into the flow of giving and receiving that opens doors to epiphany, abundance, and deeper connection with the breath of life itself.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the sacred season of Christmastide as a time of generous giving, weaving together the story of 13-year-old Abraham Olagbegi - who chose feeding the homeless as his Make-A-Wish gift - with the biblical gifts of the Magi to illuminate both social and spiritual dimensions of generosity. She invites us to release judgment, embrace curiosity, and see the divine wholeness in every person, recognizing that temporary circumstances never define someone's identity. Rev. Kristin Powell shares her own journey with tithing as a spiritual practice, encouraging us to step into the flow of giving and receiving that opens doors to epiphany, abundance, and deeper connection with the breath of life itself.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-12-19-december-19-2021-abiding-joy/697893e4-025a-40a0-be63-8d5a140114d1Sun, 19 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a radiant message on the nature of abiding joy as an inherent, unshakeable quality of our divine nature during this Advent season. She reminds us that joy is not something external that can be taken from us, but rather a fixed and stable state of being that resides within - accessible whenever we release the ties that bind the mind and relax into the truth of who we are. Through stories of tap dancing in the park, the Dalai Lama's infectious laughter, and a neighborhood hokey pokey celebration, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how joy multiplies when shared and how opening ourselves to divine ideas naturally leads us into joyful expression. She invites us to embrace our Christ nature with zero tolerance for self-deception, unbinding our minds like unwrapping a gift to reveal the light and abiding joy within.Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a radiant message on the nature of abiding joy as an inherent, unshakeable quality of our divine nature during this Advent season. She reminds us that joy is not something external that can be taken from us, but rather a fixed and stable state of being that resides within - accessible whenever we release the ties that bind the mind and relax into the truth of who we are. Through stories of tap dancing in the park, the Dalai Lama's infectious laughter, and a neighborhood hokey pokey celebration, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how joy multiplies when shared and how opening ourselves to divine ideas naturally leads us into joyful expression. She invites us to embrace our Christ nature with zero tolerance for self-deception, unbinding our minds like unwrapping a gift to reveal the light and abiding joy within.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-12-12-december-12-2021-infinite-love/e2affb08-e8be-4562-b90f-d3d59f883f6bSun, 12 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a heartfelt message on the infinite, boundless nature of divine love and its power to transform even the darkest circumstances - from wartime enemies sparing the Ponte Vecchio bridge to Mother Teresa's lifelong devotion to loving Christ in "all his distressing disguises." She reminds us that fear is simply false evidence appearing real, and that love is always chasing us, waiting for us to surrender to its embrace. Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to ask one guiding question throughout our days - "Am I helping or hindering love right now?" - as a practical path toward mastering love and becoming courageous, vulnerable channels for its infinite flow.Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a heartfelt message on the infinite, boundless nature of divine love and its power to transform even the darkest circumstances - from wartime enemies sparing the Ponte Vecchio bridge to Mother Teresa's lifelong devotion to loving Christ in "all his distressing disguises." She reminds us that fear is simply false evidence appearing real, and that love is always chasing us, waiting for us to surrender to its embrace. Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to ask one guiding question throughout our days - "Am I helping or hindering love right now?" - as a practical path toward mastering love and becoming courageous, vulnerable channels for its infinite flow.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-12-05-december-5-2021-deep-peace/a2f58865-9d92-40bf-b845-a9666a2b0b7eSun, 05 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the journey toward deep inner peace, sharing her personal experience of navigating uncertainty during a family health crisis as a doorway to spiritual surrender. Drawing from the Christmas story of Joseph, the legacy of Peace Pilgrim, and her own practice, Rev. Kristin Powell offers three transformative steps for cultivating peace - accepting circumstances as they are, aligning with the divine through prayer and trust, and then acting from that place of clarity. This heartfelt message reminds us that conflict is not the enemy but an invitation to remember our true nature as peacemakers in a world that deeply needs our light.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the journey toward deep inner peace, sharing her personal experience of navigating uncertainty during a family health crisis as a doorway to spiritual surrender. Drawing from the Christmas story of Joseph, the legacy of Peace Pilgrim, and her own practice, Rev. Kristin Powell offers three transformative steps for cultivating peace - accepting circumstances as they are, aligning with the divine through prayer and trust, and then acting from that place of clarity. This heartfelt message reminds us that conflict is not the enemy but an invitation to remember our true nature as peacemakers in a world that deeply needs our light.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-11-28-november-28-2021-living-faith/d6bb34b0-f603-4e2f-b481-9a663089d9c6Sun, 28 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell invites us into the sacred season of Advent by exploring the theme of living faith - a force she distinguishes from hope as one that helps us not merely survive but truly thrive. Through the beautiful Hanukkah folktale of Hayim, a man whose unwavering faith brought abundance to his entire village, and through the story of Mary's courageous yes to divine calling, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how faith requires trust, risk, and a willingness to listen for the familiar voice of spirit. She encourages us to bring sacred consciousness into everyday acts - from lighting candles to decorating our homes - recognizing that each of us lights up the world with our faith.Rev. Kristin Powell invites us into the sacred season of Advent by exploring the theme of living faith - a force she distinguishes from hope as one that helps us not merely survive but truly thrive. Through the beautiful Hanukkah folktale of Hayim, a man whose unwavering faith brought abundance to his entire village, and through the story of Mary's courageous yes to divine calling, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how faith requires trust, risk, and a willingness to listen for the familiar voice of spirit. She encourages us to bring sacred consciousness into everyday acts - from lighting candles to decorating our homes - recognizing that each of us lights up the world with our faith.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-11-21-november-21-2021-the-future-of-gratitude/4143ed96-6e05-4654-b1b7-4e55a380ed3eSun, 21 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the transformative power of gratitude not only as a present-moment practice but as a key to manifesting our future dreams and goals. Drawing on the research of David Desteno, she reveals that gratitude doubles our self-control, reduces stress, and connects us to what we truly value - making it far more effective than willpower alone. Rev. Kristin Powell shares the beloved Sufi story of Nazruddin and the strawberry to illustrate how presence and appreciation can arise even in life's most challenging moments. She invites us into a simple, expandable practice of giving thanks throughout each day, reminding us that this one act can uplift our relationships, inspire justice, and help co-create the thriving world we envision together.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the transformative power of gratitude not only as a present-moment practice but as a key to manifesting our future dreams and goals. Drawing on the research of David Desteno, she reveals that gratitude doubles our self-control, reduces stress, and connects us to what we truly value - making it far more effective than willpower alone. Rev. Kristin Powell shares the beloved Sufi story of Nazruddin and the strawberry to illustrate how presence and appreciation can arise even in life's most challenging moments. She invites us into a simple, expandable practice of giving thanks throughout each day, reminding us that this one act can uplift our relationships, inspire justice, and help co-create the thriving world we envision together.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-11-14-november-14-2021-living-ones-own-brave-truth/5faaf417-6266-4d10-8382-ee6b1d47641aSun, 14 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Dr. Lauren Artress weaves together the Grail legend, the archetype of the Holy Fool, and the transformative power of imagination in this rich and inspiring message. Drawing on the story of Parsifal's journey from self-absorption to consciousness, she illuminates how each of us can find our own "grail" - a vessel that meets us where we are and gives us what we need. She calls us to resist the hijacking of our imaginations by images of wasteland and destruction, instead embracing the vision of Earthrise and living our own brave truth with courage, openness, and beginner's mind.Rev. Dr. Lauren Artress weaves together the Grail legend, the archetype of the Holy Fool, and the transformative power of imagination in this rich and inspiring message. Drawing on the story of Parsifal's journey from self-absorption to consciousness, she illuminates how each of us can find our own "grail" - a vessel that meets us where we are and gives us what we need. She calls us to resist the hijacking of our imaginations by images of wasteland and destruction, instead embracing the vision of Earthrise and living our own brave truth with courage, openness, and beginner's mind.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-11-07-november-7-2021-what-is-the-holy-grail/db9f9c5c-b9b8-4693-9be5-aab40b30ed28Sun, 07 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the rich symbolism of the Holy Grail, inviting us to consider what makes something sacred in our own lives - whether a symbol, spiritual practice, or activity that deepens our connection to the divine. Drawing on the legend of Parsifal and the archetype of the Holy Fool, she illuminates how our spiritual journeys are shifting from individual hero quests toward collaborative, compassionate service. Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that the essential question - "Whom does the grail serve?" - calls us beyond personal transcendence into sacred service for all life, recognizing that we ourselves become holy grails when we live receptively and give life to others.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the rich symbolism of the Holy Grail, inviting us to consider what makes something sacred in our own lives - whether a symbol, spiritual practice, or activity that deepens our connection to the divine. Drawing on the legend of Parsifal and the archetype of the Holy Fool, she illuminates how our spiritual journeys are shifting from individual hero quests toward collaborative, compassionate service. Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that the essential question - "Whom does the grail serve?" - calls us beyond personal transcendence into sacred service for all life, recognizing that we ourselves become holy grails when we live receptively and give life to others.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-10-31-october-31-2021-the-wounded-healer-unmasked/996d0567-d01a-459a-9a73-1cfd73635570Sun, 31 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a powerful and vulnerable message exploring the intersection of the Holy Fool archetype and the wounded healer, using the thinning of the veil at Halloween as a gateway to deeper spiritual truth. Through a creative dialogue with Death personified, Rev. Kristin Powell courageously shares her own story of unmasking - coming out to her father and the healing that followed his transition - illustrating how facing our wounds frees us to live authentically. Drawing on wisdom from Khalil Gibran, Anaïs Nin, and a young blogger's reflection on Jesus as wounded healer, she invites us to embrace our full soul expression and extend compassion born from our own experiences of pain and healing.Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a powerful and vulnerable message exploring the intersection of the Holy Fool archetype and the wounded healer, using the thinning of the veil at Halloween as a gateway to deeper spiritual truth. Through a creative dialogue with Death personified, Rev. Kristin Powell courageously shares her own story of unmasking - coming out to her father and the healing that followed his transition - illustrating how facing our wounds frees us to live authentically. Drawing on wisdom from Khalil Gibran, Anaïs Nin, and a young blogger's reflection on Jesus as wounded healer, she invites us to embrace our full soul expression and extend compassion born from our own experiences of pain and healing.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-10-24-october-24-2021-earthrise-reclaiming-the-web/443ce175-d2bb-4a53-9f6f-0ee452096defSun, 24 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the vision of Earthrise - seeing our planet as one interconnected whole - and invites us to reclaim our role as weavers of the web of life. Drawing on the ancient wisdom of spider as creator, protector, and manifester, she reminds us that the web of interconnection is our natural state, and our spiritual work is to mend where it has been broken by separation and fear. Featuring a moving story from guest Cat Hill about the transformative power of "what if," Rev. Kristin Powell calls each of us to use our imagination, patience, and courage to weave a new Earth together.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the vision of Earthrise - seeing our planet as one interconnected whole - and invites us to reclaim our role as weavers of the web of life. Drawing on the ancient wisdom of spider as creator, protector, and manifester, she reminds us that the web of interconnection is our natural state, and our spiritual work is to mend where it has been broken by separation and fear. Featuring a moving story from guest Cat Hill about the transformative power of "what if," Rev. Kristin Powell calls each of us to use our imagination, patience, and courage to weave a new Earth together.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-10-17-october-17-2021-transforming-the-wasteland/3575e1be-3e88-4403-903f-43a723cff8a8Sun, 17 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0000Bob Hardy explores the concept of "Transforming the Wasteland" from The Path of the Holy Fool, inviting us to recognize how social media, constant news, and digital distractions have narrowed our perspectives and pulled us into isolation and overwhelm. Drawing on the hero's journey of Perseval, the Unity principles, and his own creative paint work, Bob Hardy reminds us that our God-given power of imagination is the key to finding our way forward out of confusion and stagnation. He encourages us to disconnect from the noise, reconnect with prayer and meditation, and remember that we are co-creators with God - capable of transforming any wasteland through commitment, vision, and action.Bob Hardy explores the concept of "Transforming the Wasteland" from The Path of the Holy Fool, inviting us to recognize how social media, constant news, and digital distractions have narrowed our perspectives and pulled us into isolation and overwhelm. Drawing on the hero's journey of Perseval, the Unity principles, and his own creative paint work, Bob Hardy reminds us that our God-given power of imagination is the key to finding our way forward out of confusion and stagnation. He encourages us to disconnect from the noise, reconnect with prayer and meditation, and remember that we are co-creators with God - capable of transforming any wasteland through commitment, vision, and action.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-10-10-october-10-2021-dreams-in-the-great-turning/2f6a2a19-e627-47fa-9c7b-34577a65c94aSun, 10 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the power of dreams and imagination as gateways to spiritual guidance in this second week of "The Path of the Holy Fool" series. Drawing on the grail legend of Parsifal, the Fillmores' founding dream, and deep ecologist Joanna Macy's concept of "the great turning," Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to honor the liminal space we collectively inhabit during these transformative times. She encourages us to step into our imaginal realm with faith and curiosity - asking not what our dreams mean, but what they are asking of us - trusting that like Parsifal's horse, the ground will rise to meet each courageous step we take.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the power of dreams and imagination as gateways to spiritual guidance in this second week of "The Path of the Holy Fool" series. Drawing on the grail legend of Parsifal, the Fillmores' founding dream, and deep ecologist Joanna Macy's concept of "the great turning," Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to honor the liminal space we collectively inhabit during these transformative times. She encourages us to step into our imaginal realm with faith and curiosity - asking not what our dreams mean, but what they are asking of us - trusting that like Parsifal's horse, the ground will rise to meet each courageous step we take.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-10-03-october-3-2021-i-am-a-holy-fool-for-the-divine/31327c7b-4d21-4dea-b28a-0e1146ec5ec5Sun, 03 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to embrace the archetype of the holy fool - that playful, wise, and authentic part of ourselves that holds the golden key of imagination. Drawing from Sufi poetry, personal past life experiences, and the metaphor of the labyrinth, Rev. Kristin Powell explores how freeing our "beautiful, rowdy prisoners" within allows us to unlock hidden splendor and step into visionary lives of creative service. She reminds us that the keys we need - compassion, intuition, imagination - are already in our possession, waiting to open doors we may have assumed were locked, so we might joyfully co-create solutions to the pressing challenges of our world.Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to embrace the archetype of the holy fool - that playful, wise, and authentic part of ourselves that holds the golden key of imagination. Drawing from Sufi poetry, personal past life experiences, and the metaphor of the labyrinth, Rev. Kristin Powell explores how freeing our "beautiful, rowdy prisoners" within allows us to unlock hidden splendor and step into visionary lives of creative service. She reminds us that the keys we need - compassion, intuition, imagination - are already in our possession, waiting to open doors we may have assumed were locked, so we might joyfully co-create solutions to the pressing challenges of our world.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-09-26-september-26-2021-life/e916cf8e-3217-4ecf-ab1c-d7e33c10e6b3Sun, 26 Sep 2021 00:00:00 +0000https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-09-19-september-19-2021-release/98912cff-5476-4460-89ad-8a8a363e0465Sun, 19 Sep 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the spiritual power of release - the eleventh of twelve powers - inviting us to let go of old labels, limiting beliefs, and attachments that no longer serve our highest good. Using the story of Lot's wife turning into a pillar of salt as a vivid metaphor for being preserved in attachment to the past, Rev. Kristin Powell encourages us to notice what holds us back, release it, accept what is, and bless the good that remains. She reminds us that saying no with inner knowing creates space for our truest yes, opening the way to infinite abundant good.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the spiritual power of release - the eleventh of twelve powers - inviting us to let go of old labels, limiting beliefs, and attachments that no longer serve our highest good. Using the story of Lot's wife turning into a pillar of salt as a vivid metaphor for being preserved in attachment to the past, Rev. Kristin Powell encourages us to notice what holds us back, release it, accept what is, and bless the good that remains. She reminds us that saying no with inner knowing creates space for our truest yes, opening the way to infinite abundant good.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-09-12-september-12-2021-zeal/8c4aaec2-777f-4bd5-ac22-05d4b063a349Sun, 12 Sep 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the spiritual power of zeal - the inward fire of the soul that urges us onward - drawing from the biblical story of Ruth's devoted love for Naomi and Charles Fillmore's famous declaration of sizzling enthusiasm. She reminds us that zeal expresses uniquely through each person, whether quietly or exuberantly, and can be reignited through divine discontent, heart's desire, or simply plugging back into our connection with Spirit. Using examples ranging from Van Gogh's unstoppable creative drive to the patient persistence of leafcutter ants, Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to discover what makes us come alive and go forth with all our heart.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the spiritual power of zeal - the inward fire of the soul that urges us onward - drawing from the biblical story of Ruth's devoted love for Naomi and Charles Fillmore's famous declaration of sizzling enthusiasm. She reminds us that zeal expresses uniquely through each person, whether quietly or exuberantly, and can be reignited through divine discontent, heart's desire, or simply plugging back into our connection with Spirit. Using examples ranging from Van Gogh's unstoppable creative drive to the patient persistence of leafcutter ants, Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to discover what makes us come alive and go forth with all our heart.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-09-05-september-5-2021-order/7a8b510a-99d4-4ef9-95a7-8f288fda05a9Sun, 05 Sep 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the spiritual power of divine order - one of the 12 powers of humankind - offering reassurance that beneath life's apparent chaos lies an unbreakable universal pattern moving us toward wholeness. Drawing from chaos theory's "strange attractor" concept, she illustrates how even turbulent times are guided by a greater design, and that our smallest spiritual actions - like the flutter of a butterfly's wings - can shift outcomes toward peace and love. Rev. Kristin Powell encourages us to establish daily spiritual routines, connect with our source, and trust that something bigger is unfolding in our world right now.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the spiritual power of divine order - one of the 12 powers of humankind - offering reassurance that beneath life's apparent chaos lies an unbreakable universal pattern moving us toward wholeness. Drawing from chaos theory's "strange attractor" concept, she illustrates how even turbulent times are guided by a greater design, and that our smallest spiritual actions - like the flutter of a butterfly's wings - can shift outcomes toward peace and love. Rev. Kristin Powell encourages us to establish daily spiritual routines, connect with our source, and trust that something bigger is unfolding in our world right now.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-08-29-august-29-2021-will/29a9b090-8137-4750-8997-228e9b59afeaSun, 29 Aug 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the spiritual power of Will as one of the 12 divine powers within us, drawing a meaningful distinction between willfulness and willingness. She illuminates how our deepest desires are naturally aligned with divine will when we look beneath surface actions to uncover what we truly seek - whether that is peace, stillness, or connection. Rev. Kristin Powell offers practical tools including self-compassion steps and a meditation activating both understanding and will, encouraging us to be coached by spirit rather than driven by stubbornness or immediate gratification. She reminds us that free will is our priceless gift, inviting us to choose divine right action in service of personal and collective awakening.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the spiritual power of Will as one of the 12 divine powers within us, drawing a meaningful distinction between willfulness and willingness. She illuminates how our deepest desires are naturally aligned with divine will when we look beneath surface actions to uncover what we truly seek - whether that is peace, stillness, or connection. Rev. Kristin Powell offers practical tools including self-compassion steps and a meditation activating both understanding and will, encouraging us to be coached by spirit rather than driven by stubbornness or immediate gratification. She reminds us that free will is our priceless gift, inviting us to choose divine right action in service of personal and collective awakening.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-08-22-august-22-2021-understanding/b1066971-4609-494c-9d6b-92eb94a9b895Sun, 22 Aug 2021 00:00:00 +0000Veronica Wolfe delivers a powerful and deeply personal message on the spiritual power of understanding, sharing how a violent attack on New Year's Eve 1994 became a catalyst for extraordinary growth and awakening. Drawing on brain science and spiritual wisdom, she illuminates the difference between intellectual knowing and spiritual intelligence - the deeper "why" that connects us to meaning, purpose, and the river of soul flowing within us all. Veronica invites us to trust that everything is unfolding for our highest good, offering practical steps for moving from ego to soul awareness through noticing, feeling, and simply being in connected presence.Veronica Wolfe delivers a powerful and deeply personal message on the spiritual power of understanding, sharing how a violent attack on New Year's Eve 1994 became a catalyst for extraordinary growth and awakening. Drawing on brain science and spiritual wisdom, she illuminates the difference between intellectual knowing and spiritual intelligence - the deeper "why" that connects us to meaning, purpose, and the river of soul flowing within us all. Veronica invites us to trust that everything is unfolding for our highest good, offering practical steps for moving from ego to soul awareness through noticing, feeling, and simply being in connected presence.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-08-15-august-15-2021-imagination/ce7a8356-7b73-41ad-a08c-f56a07955169Sun, 15 Aug 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the sixth of Unity's 12 powers - imagination - drawing inspiration from Olympic divers who visualized their gold medal victory each night before bed. She invites us to activate our spiritual "single eye," referencing Jesus's teaching that when our eye is single, our whole body fills with light, and connects this to the symbol of the eye of providence on the dollar bill. Rev. Kristin Powell encourages us to rise above limited perspectives at the base of the pyramid to the pinnacle of divine vision, where we can truly co-create the world we envision - one where all life thrives in conscious oneness.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the sixth of Unity's 12 powers - imagination - drawing inspiration from Olympic divers who visualized their gold medal victory each night before bed. She invites us to activate our spiritual "single eye," referencing Jesus's teaching that when our eye is single, our whole body fills with light, and connects this to the symbol of the eye of providence on the dollar bill. Rev. Kristin Powell encourages us to rise above limited perspectives at the base of the pyramid to the pinnacle of divine vision, where we can truly co-create the world we envision - one where all life thrives in conscious oneness.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-08-08-august-8-2021-power/7a15edf3-9bc9-4e6d-9e70-b9cc519a4862Sun, 08 Aug 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Sonya Milton explores the spiritual faculty of power - one of Charles Fillmore's Twelve Powers - through the lens of the Gospel of John's feeding of the 5,000, revealing that true power is not about dominance or control but about humble surrender to divine will. She shares how Jesus, at the height of his miraculous display, chose solitude over kingship, demonstrating that authentic power lies within and expresses through our words, thoughts, and creative choices. Drawing from a transformative encounter with blues musician John Lee Hooker, Rev. Sonya Milton illustrates that real power lives in the sacred space between sound and silence, offering four practical takeaways: clarity of word, gratitude, withdrawing to the mountain in meditation, and humility.Rev. Sonya Milton explores the spiritual faculty of power - one of Charles Fillmore's Twelve Powers - through the lens of the Gospel of John's feeding of the 5,000, revealing that true power is not about dominance or control but about humble surrender to divine will. She shares how Jesus, at the height of his miraculous display, chose solitude over kingship, demonstrating that authentic power lies within and expresses through our words, thoughts, and creative choices. Drawing from a transformative encounter with blues musician John Lee Hooker, Rev. Sonya Milton illustrates that real power lives in the sacred space between sound and silence, offering four practical takeaways: clarity of word, gratitude, withdrawing to the mountain in meditation, and humility.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-08-01-august-1-2021-wisdom/c251f3b7-a57b-4392-b8fe-7e3d8a65bde9Sun, 01 Aug 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the spiritual power of wisdom - that deep, gut-level knowing that differs from intellectual knowledge - as part of Unity's series on the 12 Powers. Beginning with a charming childhood story about a shoplifted pen and the visceral lesson it taught, Rev. Kristin Powell distinguishes wisdom from knowledge, showing how wisdom is honed through life experience, humility, and inner listening. She draws on Proverbs, Brene Brown's research on authentic connection, and the Sufi wise fool Nasruddin to illustrate how good judgment grows from experience - and how true community is built through patience, trust, and discernment rather than shortcuts.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the spiritual power of wisdom - that deep, gut-level knowing that differs from intellectual knowledge - as part of Unity's series on the 12 Powers. Beginning with a charming childhood story about a shoplifted pen and the visceral lesson it taught, Rev. Kristin Powell distinguishes wisdom from knowledge, showing how wisdom is honed through life experience, humility, and inner listening. She draws on Proverbs, Brene Brown's research on authentic connection, and the Sufi wise fool Nasruddin to illustrate how good judgment grows from experience - and how true community is built through patience, trust, and discernment rather than shortcuts.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-07-25-july-25-2021-love/7e01be03-27e7-49d9-83f5-689711079e1dSun, 25 Jul 2021 00:00:00 +0000Ron Salazar, L.U.T. delivers a heartfelt and energetic message on the spiritual power of love as part of Unity's 12 Powers series, reminding us that we don't simply have love - we are love, as an expression of the Divine within us. Drawing from Charles Fillmore's teaching that "God does not love anybody or anything - God is the love in everybody and everything," he explores how self-love is the foundation that unlocks all our other spiritual abilities. Through personal stories - including a touching moment with his late best friend's grandson - Ron illustrates how love flows naturally when we release ego and allow our authentic selves to shine. He encourages us to embrace our wholeness, let go of guilt and shame, and recognize that our mission is simply to be who we came here to be.Ron Salazar, L.U.T. delivers a heartfelt and energetic message on the spiritual power of love as part of Unity's 12 Powers series, reminding us that we don't simply have love - we are love, as an expression of the Divine within us. Drawing from Charles Fillmore's teaching that "God does not love anybody or anything - God is the love in everybody and everything," he explores how self-love is the foundation that unlocks all our other spiritual abilities. Through personal stories - including a touching moment with his late best friend's grandson - Ron illustrates how love flows naturally when we release ego and allow our authentic selves to shine. He encourages us to embrace our wholeness, let go of guilt and shame, and recognize that our mission is simply to be who we came here to be.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-07-18-july-18-2021-strength/122b0ebd-8254-452a-bbc9-c8f6bc14adf3Sun, 18 Jul 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the spiritual power of strength as part of Unity's 12 Powers series, revealing how true strength goes far beyond the physical to encompass resilience, resourcefulness, and the courage to stay open-hearted. Through stories ranging from a mother lifting a car off her child through prayer to her own rescue dog Samson's remarkable transformation, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how strength and faith work together as spiritual brothers. She invites us to cultivate a "strong back, soft front" - building a flexible spiritual backbone through meditation, honest conversations, and community support while remaining vulnerably open to life's possibilities.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the spiritual power of strength as part of Unity's 12 Powers series, revealing how true strength goes far beyond the physical to encompass resilience, resourcefulness, and the courage to stay open-hearted. Through stories ranging from a mother lifting a car off her child through prayer to her own rescue dog Samson's remarkable transformation, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how strength and faith work together as spiritual brothers. She invites us to cultivate a "strong back, soft front" - building a flexible spiritual backbone through meditation, honest conversations, and community support while remaining vulnerably open to life's possibilities.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-07-11-july-11-2021-faith/0331259d-0603-4cc2-b6b8-f4c2113d9f8dSun, 11 Jul 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell introduces the first in a series on Unity's 12 spiritual powers, beginning with faith - our innate capacity to trust in what we cannot yet see. Drawing on the story of Peter walking on water, her niece's volcano hike, and her own experience walking across hot coals, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how faith breaks the chain of routine and invites us to expand into new possibilities. She encourages us to embrace this unique time of transition - where the familiar and the new coexist - by activating our inner power of faith, stepping forward even when the ground feels shaky beneath our feet.Rev. Kristin Powell introduces the first in a series on Unity's 12 spiritual powers, beginning with faith - our innate capacity to trust in what we cannot yet see. Drawing on the story of Peter walking on water, her niece's volcano hike, and her own experience walking across hot coals, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how faith breaks the chain of routine and invites us to expand into new possibilities. She encourages us to embrace this unique time of transition - where the familiar and the new coexist - by activating our inner power of faith, stepping forward even when the ground feels shaky beneath our feet.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-07-04-july-4-2021-american-spiritual-journey-voices-of-our-community/7eeff2d7-5c03-41f9-8b5b-c581e1997094Sun, 04 Jul 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell celebrates spiritual freedom on this Fourth of July by highlighting the deep connection between America's founding ideals and Unity's core beliefs - equality, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for all. Rather than delivering a traditional message, Rev. Kristin Powell invites two beloved community members, Alexandra Diavalon and Dimitri Daronkin, to share their powerful spiritual journeys as immigrants who found home and purpose at Unity of Walnut Creek. Their stories weave together themes of divine guidance, service, tithing, and the transformative power of spiritual community through life's greatest challenges and celebrations.Rev. Kristin Powell celebrates spiritual freedom on this Fourth of July by highlighting the deep connection between America's founding ideals and Unity's core beliefs - equality, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for all. Rather than delivering a traditional message, Rev. Kristin Powell invites two beloved community members, Alexandra Diavalon and Dimitri Daronkin, to share their powerful spiritual journeys as immigrants who found home and purpose at Unity of Walnut Creek. Their stories weave together themes of divine guidance, service, tithing, and the transformative power of spiritual community through life's greatest challenges and celebrations.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-06-27-june-27-2021-all-our-needs-are-met/4df77ed6-b8cd-42a0-9af2-24c2817aeba7Sun, 27 Jun 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the powerful truth that all our needs are met - not always in the ways we expect, but through divine timing and a plan greater than our own. Drawing on the parable of the rich fool, personal stories, and the charming tale of a message in a bottle found 95 years later, Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to release our need to control outcomes and instead trust in spirit's unfolding. She encourages us to unclog the channels of heart, mind, and body so we can receive the abundant good already available, reminding us that true prosperity is not about possessions but about turning toward the divine in every moment.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the powerful truth that all our needs are met - not always in the ways we expect, but through divine timing and a plan greater than our own. Drawing on the parable of the rich fool, personal stories, and the charming tale of a message in a bottle found 95 years later, Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to release our need to control outcomes and instead trust in spirit's unfolding. She encourages us to unclog the channels of heart, mind, and body so we can receive the abundant good already available, reminding us that true prosperity is not about possessions but about turning toward the divine in every moment.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-06-20-june-20-2021-reuniting-in-divine-light/bdf38608-cd71-4c44-b488-c3e15bfcd5d2Sun, 20 Jun 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a heartfelt and joyful message as Unity of Walnut Creek reunites in person for the first time after fifteen months apart. Using the powerful metaphor of metamorphosis, she invites the community to reflect on how they have transformed during their collective cocooning - what dissolved away and what new wings are forming as they emerge into fullness. Rev. Kristin Powell beautifully weaves together the imagery of butterflies clustering near their source of nectar with the human need for spiritual community, encouraging everyone to unmask their authentic divine selves and deepen their commitment to one another on this sacred journey of becoming.Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a heartfelt and joyful message as Unity of Walnut Creek reunites in person for the first time after fifteen months apart. Using the powerful metaphor of metamorphosis, she invites the community to reflect on how they have transformed during their collective cocooning - what dissolved away and what new wings are forming as they emerge into fullness. Rev. Kristin Powell beautifully weaves together the imagery of butterflies clustering near their source of nectar with the human need for spiritual community, encouraging everyone to unmask their authentic divine selves and deepen their commitment to one another on this sacred journey of becoming.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-06-13-june-13-2021-with-spiritual-liberty-and-divine-justice-for-all/79dd0ecc-969b-4f4c-8062-231a972ecc91Sun, 13 Jun 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a powerful message honoring both Pride Month and Juneteenth, weaving together themes of spiritual liberty, divine justice, and authentic self-expression. Drawing on the story of the Tulsa Race Massacre survivors, the teachings of Jesus, and the interconnected nature of liberation, Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to consider where our own growing edges lie in acceptance and understanding. She offers practical ways to be allies - from sharing pronouns to focusing on impact over intent - reminding us that our liberation is bound up together. This warm and timely message calls us to pattern the divine and help manifest a world where truth, justice, and freedom belong to all.Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a powerful message honoring both Pride Month and Juneteenth, weaving together themes of spiritual liberty, divine justice, and authentic self-expression. Drawing on the story of the Tulsa Race Massacre survivors, the teachings of Jesus, and the interconnected nature of liberation, Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to consider where our own growing edges lie in acceptance and understanding. She offers practical ways to be allies - from sharing pronouns to focusing on impact over intent - reminding us that our liberation is bound up together. This warm and timely message calls us to pattern the divine and help manifest a world where truth, justice, and freedom belong to all.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-06-06-june-6-2021-resilience/556853b2-1bb1-4a59-882b-adbb2f6801b7Sun, 06 Jun 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the theme of resilience through the beloved story of Frog and Toad, drawing parallels between Toad's impatient garden-tending and our collective experience navigating the uncertainty of emerging from the pandemic. She shares Angela Duckworth's research on grit - the combination of passion and perseverance - alongside inspiring stories of Aretha Franklin and Vietnamese refugees to illustrate the power of a resilient heart. Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to build resilience through spiritual practice, particularly by learning to sit with uncomfortable feelings rather than pushing them away, discovering that emotions naturally rise and fall like clouds in the sky. This message encourages us to master the art of uncertainty with passionate resilience, trusting that like seeds in the dark, new growth is always possible.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the theme of resilience through the beloved story of Frog and Toad, drawing parallels between Toad's impatient garden-tending and our collective experience navigating the uncertainty of emerging from the pandemic. She shares Angela Duckworth's research on grit - the combination of passion and perseverance - alongside inspiring stories of Aretha Franklin and Vietnamese refugees to illustrate the power of a resilient heart. Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to build resilience through spiritual practice, particularly by learning to sit with uncomfortable feelings rather than pushing them away, discovering that emotions naturally rise and fall like clouds in the sky. This message encourages us to master the art of uncertainty with passionate resilience, trusting that like seeds in the dark, new growth is always possible.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-05-30-may-30-2021-presence/7edfbeb8-b933-48f0-b214-ed91a695acdbSun, 30 May 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the transformative power of living in the present moment through the parable of a young woman encountering a lion on her path - a metaphor for the unexpected events that shake us awake from our sleepwalking through life. Drawing on wisdom from Eckhart Tolle, Thich Nhat Hanh, Rumi, and Pema Chodron, Rev. Kristin Powell offers practical tools like conscious breathing, observing nature, and simple affirmations to help us access the divine presence that is always available right now. She reminds us that when we drop into the now, anxiety melts away, problems dissolve, and we rediscover the childlike wonder found in life's simplest gifts - to touch, to taste, to laugh, and to love.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the transformative power of living in the present moment through the parable of a young woman encountering a lion on her path - a metaphor for the unexpected events that shake us awake from our sleepwalking through life. Drawing on wisdom from Eckhart Tolle, Thich Nhat Hanh, Rumi, and Pema Chodron, Rev. Kristin Powell offers practical tools like conscious breathing, observing nature, and simple affirmations to help us access the divine presence that is always available right now. She reminds us that when we drop into the now, anxiety melts away, problems dissolve, and we rediscover the childlike wonder found in life's simplest gifts - to touch, to taste, to laugh, and to love.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-05-23-may-23-2021-what-is-essential/55a4313c-92dd-4761-b75e-820787362f49Sun, 23 May 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores how times of uncertainty - from the pandemic to social upheaval - offer profound spiritual opportunities to awaken and discover what truly matters. Drawing on the metaphor of decluttering, the wisdom of Marie Kondo, and the teachings of Jesus about the lilies of the field, Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to ask "What is essential?" as a tool for discernment, stripping away the excess in our minds, hearts, and lives so we can reconnect with our deepest values. She encourages us to embrace the "I don't know" as a doorway to spiritual growth, opening ourselves to new possibilities for joy, love, and connection.Rev. Kristin Powell explores how times of uncertainty - from the pandemic to social upheaval - offer profound spiritual opportunities to awaken and discover what truly matters. Drawing on the metaphor of decluttering, the wisdom of Marie Kondo, and the teachings of Jesus about the lilies of the field, Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to ask "What is essential?" as a tool for discernment, stripping away the excess in our minds, hearts, and lives so we can reconnect with our deepest values. She encourages us to embrace the "I don't know" as a doorway to spiritual growth, opening ourselves to new possibilities for joy, love, and connection.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-05-16-may-16-2021-faith/64e78840-a7f3-4011-b609-60f32c94ad9eSun, 16 May 2021 00:00:00 +0000In this opening message of her series "Mastering the Art of Uncertainty," Rev. Kristin Powell explores how the past 400 days of pandemic living have offered profound spiritual lessons about releasing our grip on certainty and embracing faith as a flotation device in the ever-changing sea of life. Rev. Kristin Powell draws on wisdom from Pema Chodron, Jesus, and the Tibetan story of the well frog to illustrate how fixed identities and false certainties keep us small, while openness and curiosity expand our dance floor. She invites us to find that underlying feeling of "all is well" - not by anchoring to rigid beliefs, but by relaxing into the spaciousness of spirit where true freedom and joy await.In this opening message of her series "Mastering the Art of Uncertainty," Rev. Kristin Powell explores how the past 400 days of pandemic living have offered profound spiritual lessons about releasing our grip on certainty and embracing faith as a flotation device in the ever-changing sea of life. Rev. Kristin Powell draws on wisdom from Pema Chodron, Jesus, and the Tibetan story of the well frog to illustrate how fixed identities and false certainties keep us small, while openness and curiosity expand our dance floor. She invites us to find that underlying feeling of "all is well" - not by anchoring to rigid beliefs, but by relaxing into the spaciousness of spirit where true freedom and joy await.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-05-09-may-9-2021-coming-home-to-mother/33f8f688-d79c-44b7-92a5-980257c3e1feSun, 09 May 2021 00:00:00 +0000In this heartfelt Mother's Day message, Rev. Kristin Powell explores the divine feminine as a homecoming - an invitation to return to the nurturing, unconditional love that resides within us all. Rev. Kristin Powell weaves together personal stories, the wisdom of children, and the sacred symbolism of Unity's labyrinth to illuminate how mother love transcends gender and form, offering rest, restoration, and joyous reunion. She invites us to consider how we can both receive and extend this embrace of ease and acceptance to ourselves and others, celebrating the divine Mother energy that welcomes us home exactly as we are.In this heartfelt Mother's Day message, Rev. Kristin Powell explores the divine feminine as a homecoming - an invitation to return to the nurturing, unconditional love that resides within us all. Rev. Kristin Powell weaves together personal stories, the wisdom of children, and the sacred symbolism of Unity's labyrinth to illuminate how mother love transcends gender and form, offering rest, restoration, and joyous reunion. She invites us to consider how we can both receive and extend this embrace of ease and acceptance to ourselves and others, celebrating the divine Mother energy that welcomes us home exactly as we are.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-05-02-may-2-2021-open-up-to-god/42375d35-82f8-44ad-a6b7-ae3b8313d433Sun, 02 May 2021 00:00:00 +0000https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-04-25-april-25-2021-sustainable-abundance-part-2-of-2/6fa86006-79d0-471d-99df-00deaaf8c192Sun, 25 Apr 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the concept of sustainable abundance through the lens of indigenous wisdom, drawing from Robin Wall Kimmerer's retelling of the Sky Woman creation story and the interconnected root systems of trees and plants. Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to expand our understanding of prosperity beyond personal gain toward a collective, reciprocal relationship with all life and Mother Earth. She highlights how reciprocity - giving back as we receive - is the key to lasting abundance, offering practical examples from regenerative farming to community reuse to joyful gardening as ways we can root ourselves in gratitude and care for our shared home.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the concept of sustainable abundance through the lens of indigenous wisdom, drawing from Robin Wall Kimmerer's retelling of the Sky Woman creation story and the interconnected root systems of trees and plants. Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to expand our understanding of prosperity beyond personal gain toward a collective, reciprocal relationship with all life and Mother Earth. She highlights how reciprocity - giving back as we receive - is the key to lasting abundance, offering practical examples from regenerative farming to community reuse to joyful gardening as ways we can root ourselves in gratitude and care for our shared home.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-04-18-april-18-2021-our-original-instructions-part-1-of-2/88c1d0fc-1666-4541-8c7a-9946ae2e9682Sun, 18 Apr 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell shares a heartfelt exploration of what Native Americans call our "original instructions" - the innate responsibility to care for and protect the Earth. Through personal stories of her evolving relationship with litter - from righteous anger to sacred service - Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how spiritual awareness transforms our actions and deepens our connection to all living beings. She invites us to become indigenous to place by developing intimate, heart-based relationships with the natural world around us, and features teachings from Chief Shukenwankasapa reminding us that as the youngest species on Earth, we have the most to learn from our elders in nature.Rev. Kristin Powell shares a heartfelt exploration of what Native Americans call our "original instructions" - the innate responsibility to care for and protect the Earth. Through personal stories of her evolving relationship with litter - from righteous anger to sacred service - Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how spiritual awareness transforms our actions and deepens our connection to all living beings. She invites us to become indigenous to place by developing intimate, heart-based relationships with the natural world around us, and features teachings from Chief Shukenwankasapa reminding us that as the youngest species on Earth, we have the most to learn from our elders in nature.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-04-11-april-11-2021-why-ramadan-matters/0f877574-ca38-4faf-960a-2dc0de2a3e7cSun, 11 Apr 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell welcomes Muslim imam and interfaith leader Fatih Atish for a rich dialogue exploring the significance of Ramadan as it begins during this holy season. Together they discuss the foundational beliefs and five pillars of Islam, the spiritual purposes of fasting - including cultivating empathy, self-discipline, and compassion - and how reading the Quran cover to cover each year offers fresh spiritual renewal. Rev. Kristin Powell creates a warm space for interfaith understanding, highlighting the shared Abrahamic roots that connect diverse faith traditions and inviting the Unity of Walnut Creek community to deepen relationships through an upcoming Ramadan interfaith gathering.Rev. Kristin Powell welcomes Muslim imam and interfaith leader Fatih Atish for a rich dialogue exploring the significance of Ramadan as it begins during this holy season. Together they discuss the foundational beliefs and five pillars of Islam, the spiritual purposes of fasting - including cultivating empathy, self-discipline, and compassion - and how reading the Quran cover to cover each year offers fresh spiritual renewal. Rev. Kristin Powell creates a warm space for interfaith understanding, highlighting the shared Abrahamic roots that connect diverse faith traditions and inviting the Unity of Walnut Creek community to deepen relationships through an upcoming Ramadan interfaith gathering.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-04-04-april-4-2021-crossing-the-threshold-into-resurrected-life/f2f886fc-e43b-4f64-a7cc-5a535ee5fd44Sun, 04 Apr 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a powerful Easter message exploring the resurrection as a profound spiritual invitation to cross the threshold from limitation into our fullest divine potential. Drawing from the story of Mary at the tomb, she illuminates how we often fail to recognize the brilliance calling us forward - not because it isn't there, but because we lack the context to perceive it. Through a vivid personal story of skydiving after graduate school, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates the exhilaration and surrender required when we say yes with our whole being to spiritual breakthrough. She reminds us that our liberation is bound together, and when one person steps into the light, everyone benefits from that courageous crossing.Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a powerful Easter message exploring the resurrection as a profound spiritual invitation to cross the threshold from limitation into our fullest divine potential. Drawing from the story of Mary at the tomb, she illuminates how we often fail to recognize the brilliance calling us forward - not because it isn't there, but because we lack the context to perceive it. Through a vivid personal story of skydiving after graduate school, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates the exhilaration and surrender required when we say yes with our whole being to spiritual breakthrough. She reminds us that our liberation is bound together, and when one person steps into the light, everyone benefits from that courageous crossing.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-03-28-march-28-2021-what-trusting-the-universe-really-means/7725c49e-edda-410a-b1b0-7140eabdac47Sun, 28 Mar 2021 00:00:00 +0000In this thought-provoking message, GreggnLevoy explores what it truly means to "trust the universe" - a spiritual adage that carries deep complexity beneath its simple surface. Drawing from his own experience of career upheaval that ultimately led to the creation of his book Callings, GreggnLevoy examines whether trusting the universe means trusting its benevolence, its mysterious ways, its support of growth, or simply our own resilience. He suggests that trusting the universe requires tolerating paradox - holding both its reliability and unpredictability - while staying in active conversation with life through practices like journaling, dream work, and concrete acts of trust.In this thought-provoking message, GreggnLevoy explores what it truly means to "trust the universe" - a spiritual adage that carries deep complexity beneath its simple surface. Drawing from his own experience of career upheaval that ultimately led to the creation of his book Callings, GreggnLevoy examines whether trusting the universe means trusting its benevolence, its mysterious ways, its support of growth, or simply our own resilience. He suggests that trusting the universe requires tolerating paradox - holding both its reliability and unpredictability - while staying in active conversation with life through practices like journaling, dream work, and concrete acts of trust.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-03-21-march-21-2021-reimagine/7b4bf69b-a2f7-44ae-b307-d5abd4651177Sun, 21 Mar 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to reimagine humanity through the lens of spring - celebrating our beautiful diversity the way we celebrate nature's wildflowers swaying together in one field. Drawing from Valerie Kaur's "See No Stranger" and the powerful story of the Oak Creek Sikh community's response to tragedy with forgiveness and love, Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that revolutionary love - wondering, grieving, listening, standing up, and reimagining - is our compass back to oneness. She encourages us to hold our spiritual vision while taking action, knowing that a thousand small acts of love can transform our collective consciousness into full bloom.Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to reimagine humanity through the lens of spring - celebrating our beautiful diversity the way we celebrate nature's wildflowers swaying together in one field. Drawing from Valerie Kaur's "See No Stranger" and the powerful story of the Oak Creek Sikh community's response to tragedy with forgiveness and love, Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that revolutionary love - wondering, grieving, listening, standing up, and reimagining - is our compass back to oneness. She encourages us to hold our spiritual vision while taking action, knowing that a thousand small acts of love can transform our collective consciousness into full bloom.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-03-14-march-14-2021-stand-up/fd6f1e07-ae0b-4374-ae22-ab3af5201fe4Sun, 14 Mar 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the spiritual call to "stand up" as part of Unity of Walnut Creek's Season for Nonviolence series, drawing from Valerie Carr's revolutionary love framework and the courageous legacy of Harriet Tubman. She reminds us that true reconciliation requires truth-telling, and that faith without action remains incomplete - just as Jesus demonstrated by speaking spiritual truth to worldly power and standing up for the marginalized. Rev. Kristin Powell encourages us to integrate contemplation with activism, pausing before causing harm and finding the courage to speak up on behalf of others, knowing that our liberation is bound up together.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the spiritual call to "stand up" as part of Unity of Walnut Creek's Season for Nonviolence series, drawing from Valerie Carr's revolutionary love framework and the courageous legacy of Harriet Tubman. She reminds us that true reconciliation requires truth-telling, and that faith without action remains incomplete - just as Jesus demonstrated by speaking spiritual truth to worldly power and standing up for the marginalized. Rev. Kristin Powell encourages us to integrate contemplation with activism, pausing before causing harm and finding the courage to speak up on behalf of others, knowing that our liberation is bound up together.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-03-07-march-7-2021-listen/4583bb0f-6917-4661-9cba-6773ab640c7eSun, 07 Mar 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the transformative spiritual practice of deep listening - particularly listening to those whose views oppose our own - drawing from Valerie Kaur's revolutionary love compass and the ancient vision of unity found in Isaiah. She reminds us that listening to our opponents is not about persuading them to our viewpoint but about tending wounds, deepening understanding, and healing the collective false belief that we are separate from one another. Rev. Kristin Powell encourages us to pause, pray, and proceed with curiosity and compassion, using story rather than debate to open hearts and bridge divides. This essential spiritual work, she affirms, requires both action and community as we move toward wholeness together.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the transformative spiritual practice of deep listening - particularly listening to those whose views oppose our own - drawing from Valerie Kaur's revolutionary love compass and the ancient vision of unity found in Isaiah. She reminds us that listening to our opponents is not about persuading them to our viewpoint but about tending wounds, deepening understanding, and healing the collective false belief that we are separate from one another. Rev. Kristin Powell encourages us to pause, pray, and proceed with curiosity and compassion, using story rather than debate to open hearts and bridge divides. This essential spiritual work, she affirms, requires both action and community as we move toward wholeness together.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-02-28-february-28-2021-grief/cea54c4a-8b4d-4a39-be1b-7aecf1ec3356Sun, 28 Feb 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores grief as a sacred pathway to joy and healing, drawing on Valerie Kaur's revolutionary love compass to illuminate how grieving with others is a profound act of love and solidarity. Through powerful stories - including the aftermath of 9-11 hate crimes and the healing that came when 3,000 people gathered at a Sikh man's memorial - Rev. Kristin Powell demonstrates that unresolved grief in a nation can be catastrophic, while shared grief can transform communities. She invites us to embrace the RAIN framework for compassion, release our pain in healthy ways, and remember that our liberation is bound together, making collective grieving an essential step toward wholeness and joy.Rev. Kristin Powell explores grief as a sacred pathway to joy and healing, drawing on Valerie Kaur's revolutionary love compass to illuminate how grieving with others is a profound act of love and solidarity. Through powerful stories - including the aftermath of 9-11 hate crimes and the healing that came when 3,000 people gathered at a Sikh man's memorial - Rev. Kristin Powell demonstrates that unresolved grief in a nation can be catastrophic, while shared grief can transform communities. She invites us to embrace the RAIN framework for compassion, release our pain in healthy ways, and remember that our liberation is bound together, making collective grieving an essential step toward wholeness and joy.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-02-21-february-21-2021-wonder/44ca3ef9-9214-42ad-ab2b-abc6eb3e80adSun, 21 Feb 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores wonder as the foundation of revolutionary love, drawing from Valerie Kaur's "See No Stranger" compass and her own dialogue with the divine feminine within. She invites us to consider how wonder - the simple act of being curious about others - can dissolve fear, rebuild broken relationships, and dismantle the institutional barriers that separate us. Through powerful stories, brain science, and the truth that we are all made of stardust, Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that when we see no stranger, we return not only to one another but to our truest, most divine selves.Rev. Kristin Powell explores wonder as the foundation of revolutionary love, drawing from Valerie Kaur's "See No Stranger" compass and her own dialogue with the divine feminine within. She invites us to consider how wonder - the simple act of being curious about others - can dissolve fear, rebuild broken relationships, and dismantle the institutional barriers that separate us. Through powerful stories, brain science, and the truth that we are all made of stardust, Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that when we see no stranger, we return not only to one another but to our truest, most divine selves.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-02-14-february-14-2021-the-magnificent-power-of-love/4345cb73-8146-4dea-8691-215950a275c2Sun, 14 Feb 2021 00:00:00 +0000Guest explores the magnificent power of love as more than just an emotion - as one of the 12 powers of the heart that, when combined with wisdom and truth, becomes a transformative force in our lives. Drawing from personal experience of finding Unity during a time of deep depression, Guest shares how practicing love shifted everything in their life within weeks. Guest challenges the community to harness heart power during the pandemic, offering that COVID-19 may be an elder teaching us how to care for one another, and invites listeners to commit daily to unleashing love - especially where they feel most challenged to do so.Guest explores the magnificent power of love as more than just an emotion - as one of the 12 powers of the heart that, when combined with wisdom and truth, becomes a transformative force in our lives. Drawing from personal experience of finding Unity during a time of deep depression, Guest shares how practicing love shifted everything in their life within weeks. Guest challenges the community to harness heart power during the pandemic, offering that COVID-19 may be an elder teaching us how to care for one another, and invites listeners to commit daily to unleashing love - especially where they feel most challenged to do so.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-02-07-february-7-2021-its-all-in-the-follow-through/f5225204-85d2-4eae-a261-90bceee25389Sun, 07 Feb 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell uses a Super Bowl Sunday sports metaphor to explore Unity's fifth principle - that knowing spiritual truths is not enough, we must live them through consistent follow-through. She walks through all five principles, showing how faith over fear, recognizing our innate divinity, co-creating through focused thoughts and feelings, and practicing prayer and meditation all come alive only when embodied in daily life. Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that living these principles includes both doing and being - from acts of service to silently blessing others - and offers guiding questions to help us stay on track.Rev. Kristin Powell uses a Super Bowl Sunday sports metaphor to explore Unity's fifth principle - that knowing spiritual truths is not enough, we must live them through consistent follow-through. She walks through all five principles, showing how faith over fear, recognizing our innate divinity, co-creating through focused thoughts and feelings, and practicing prayer and meditation all come alive only when embodied in daily life. Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that living these principles includes both doing and being - from acts of service to silently blessing others - and offers guiding questions to help us stay on track.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-01-31-january-31-2021-accessing-deeper-realms/91a4a224-2c16-41cb-8e21-f903a74aac8dSun, 31 Jan 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell invites us into a deeper exploration of Unity's fourth principle - the transformative power of prayer and meditation. Drawing on the rich legacy of co-founders Charles and Myrtle Fillmore, she illuminates how these practices connect us to divine wisdom and guidance, while honestly addressing the common blocks of disbelief, perceived lack, and fear that keep us from consistent practice. Rev. Kristin Powell explores the four intuitive pathways - inner seeing, hearing, feeling, and knowing - that become accessible when we commit to regular spiritual practice, encouraging us to simply begin and allow our lives to become a flowing dance with the divine.Rev. Kristin Powell invites us into a deeper exploration of Unity's fourth principle - the transformative power of prayer and meditation. Drawing on the rich legacy of co-founders Charles and Myrtle Fillmore, she illuminates how these practices connect us to divine wisdom and guidance, while honestly addressing the common blocks of disbelief, perceived lack, and fear that keep us from consistent practice. Rev. Kristin Powell explores the four intuitive pathways - inner seeing, hearing, feeling, and knowing - that become accessible when we commit to regular spiritual practice, encouraging us to simply begin and allow our lives to become a flowing dance with the divine.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-01-24-january-24-2021-hearts-desire-and-pure-imagination/763277e6-e027-4701-b2c2-c28600f603b8Sun, 24 Jan 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the transformative power of co-creation through Unity's third principle, showing how our thoughts and feelings work together to manifest our heart's desires into reality. Drawing on the wisdom of Unity co-founders Charles and Myrtle Fillmore, she illuminates how desire is not separate from God's will but rather the divine bubbling up from within us. Rev. Kristin Powell offers a memorable framework spelled LIFE - Longing, Imagination, Focus, and Engaging feelings - as a guide for conscious co-creation. Using the beloved story of The Little Engine That Could, she reminds us that our thoughts fuel our ability to climb any mountain and deliver good into the world.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the transformative power of co-creation through Unity's third principle, showing how our thoughts and feelings work together to manifest our heart's desires into reality. Drawing on the wisdom of Unity co-founders Charles and Myrtle Fillmore, she illuminates how desire is not separate from God's will but rather the divine bubbling up from within us. Rev. Kristin Powell offers a memorable framework spelled LIFE - Longing, Imagination, Focus, and Engaging feelings - as a guide for conscious co-creation. Using the beloved story of The Little Engine That Could, she reminds us that our thoughts fuel our ability to climb any mountain and deliver good into the world.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-01-17-january-17-2021-will-the-real-self-stand/bd18b562-9ce2-426b-84df-97a9bfdd2c91Sun, 17 Jan 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell draws inspiration from the classic game show "To Tell the Truth" to explore the spiritual journey of discovering our authentic divine nature. Using a Hindu legend about Brahma hiding divinity within humans and teachings from the Gospel of Thomas, she reminds us that our true essence - our inherent goodness and wholeness - has been within us all along, waiting to be uncovered. Rev. Kristin Powell guides listeners through self-inquiry to identify the "imposter selves" we create through societal expectations and self-protection, inviting us to let those masks fall away so our real divine self can finally stand.Rev. Kristin Powell draws inspiration from the classic game show "To Tell the Truth" to explore the spiritual journey of discovering our authentic divine nature. Using a Hindu legend about Brahma hiding divinity within humans and teachings from the Gospel of Thomas, she reminds us that our true essence - our inherent goodness and wholeness - has been within us all along, waiting to be uncovered. Rev. Kristin Powell guides listeners through self-inquiry to identify the "imposter selves" we create through societal expectations and self-protection, inviting us to let those masks fall away so our real divine self can finally stand.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-01-10-january-10-2021-the-maturation-of-god/3bdd28e5-d93e-4605-aebd-92ef07ea40d2Sun, 10 Jan 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the evolution of our understanding of God, inviting listeners to examine whether their concept of the divine has matured alongside their spiritual growth. Drawing from the biblical narrative - from an absent, punishing God to the Ark of the Covenant carried alongside the Israelites to the indwelling presence of Christ - she traces humanity's deepening realization of oneness with the divine. Rev. Kristin Powell affirms that while God lives within us, we also live within a presence far greater than ourselves, offering comfort and grounding especially during turbulent times. She encourages each person to continually revisit and expand their understanding of God as presence, wisdom, and love.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the evolution of our understanding of God, inviting listeners to examine whether their concept of the divine has matured alongside their spiritual growth. Drawing from the biblical narrative - from an absent, punishing God to the Ark of the Covenant carried alongside the Israelites to the indwelling presence of Christ - she traces humanity's deepening realization of oneness with the divine. Rev. Kristin Powell affirms that while God lives within us, we also live within a presence far greater than ourselves, offering comfort and grounding especially during turbulent times. She encourages each person to continually revisit and expand their understanding of God as presence, wisdom, and love.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2021-01-03-january-3-2021-a-bright-new-normal-with-white-stone-ceremony/c858bf73-1c77-4346-975f-e7334efb7cd1Sun, 03 Jan 2021 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell leads Unity of Walnut Creek's annual White Stone Ceremony, inviting the community to reflect on the unprecedented events of 2020 and carry forward its deepest lessons - greater compassion, enhanced connection, trust in the divine, and the embrace of uncertainty as a doorway to faith. She guides listeners through a contemplative ritual rooted in ancient tradition, where each person receives a white stone and listens in silence for a sacred word or quality to serve as their spiritual north star throughout 2021. Rev. Kristin Powell encourages everyone to share their unprecedented life in service of building a bright new normal grounded in love, wisdom, and wholeness.Rev. Kristin Powell leads Unity of Walnut Creek's annual White Stone Ceremony, inviting the community to reflect on the unprecedented events of 2020 and carry forward its deepest lessons - greater compassion, enhanced connection, trust in the divine, and the embrace of uncertainty as a doorway to faith. She guides listeners through a contemplative ritual rooted in ancient tradition, where each person receives a white stone and listens in silence for a sacred word or quality to serve as their spiritual north star throughout 2021. Rev. Kristin Powell encourages everyone to share their unprecedented life in service of building a bright new normal grounded in love, wisdom, and wholeness.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-12-27-guest-bob-hardy-letting-go/2b5ceb59-af64-457b-8625-f6155ee3138bSun, 27 Dec 2020 00:00:00 +0000In this heartfelt message, Bob Hardy reflects on the frustrations and emotional challenges of 2020 while inviting listeners to practice the sacred art of letting go. Drawing on personal experiences of disrupted holiday traditions, media overwhelm, and the pain of separation, Bob encourages the community to release judgment, fear, and thoughts that no longer serve - and to return to the frequency of love through meditation, prayer, and affirmation. He reminds us that despite the chaos, we are living in a time of remarkable possibility, and that only through our own individual heart work can the world truly change for us all.In this heartfelt message, Bob Hardy reflects on the frustrations and emotional challenges of 2020 while inviting listeners to practice the sacred art of letting go. Drawing on personal experiences of disrupted holiday traditions, media overwhelm, and the pain of separation, Bob encourages the community to release judgment, fear, and thoughts that no longer serve - and to return to the frequency of love through meditation, prayer, and affirmation. He reminds us that despite the chaos, we are living in a time of remarkable possibility, and that only through our own individual heart work can the world truly change for us all.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-12-20-advent-week-4-joy/d9e4849a-4236-4257-b827-674f04727ca5Sun, 20 Dec 2020 00:00:00 +0000In this fourth week of Advent message on joy, the speaker weaves together the ancient celebration of winter solstice with the Christmas story, exploring how the 2020 Great Conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn mirrors the cosmic dance of expansive spiritual energy meeting grounded, focused presence. Drawing parallels between our evolving relationship with Santa Claus and our spiritual journey with the Divine, the message invites us to embrace uncertainty with childlike wonder while remaining fully present on holy ground. Like Mary, we are called to be receptive to the mighty gift of emergent joy - both cosmically expansive and firmly rooted on earth - as the light returns after the darkest days.In this fourth week of Advent message on joy, the speaker weaves together the ancient celebration of winter solstice with the Christmas story, exploring how the 2020 Great Conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn mirrors the cosmic dance of expansive spiritual energy meeting grounded, focused presence. Drawing parallels between our evolving relationship with Santa Claus and our spiritual journey with the Divine, the message invites us to embrace uncertainty with childlike wonder while remaining fully present on holy ground. Like Mary, we are called to be receptive to the mighty gift of emergent joy - both cosmically expansive and firmly rooted on earth - as the light returns after the darkest days.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-12-13-advent-week-3-love/954a82d7-42a5-4920-ad02-a65d5b61857eSun, 13 Dec 2020 00:00:00 +0000https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-12-06-advent-week-2-peace/beb8e2f7-968c-4b96-bee7-040e24d13287Sun, 06 Dec 2020 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell invites us into the second week of Advent by exploring the theme of peace through the parable of the Chinese farmer, whose steady response of "maybe so, maybe not" teaches us to release judgment and trust the divine unfolding we cannot yet see. She draws a beautiful parallel between Mary's receptive surrender and the season of yin - the feminine, inward energy of winter - encouraging us to embrace stillness, silence, and going within rather than resisting what is. Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that by dropping drama and resistance, we become "no drama teachers" who radiate peace into a world that deeply needs it.Rev. Kristin Powell invites us into the second week of Advent by exploring the theme of peace through the parable of the Chinese farmer, whose steady response of "maybe so, maybe not" teaches us to release judgment and trust the divine unfolding we cannot yet see. She draws a beautiful parallel between Mary's receptive surrender and the season of yin - the feminine, inward energy of winter - encouraging us to embrace stillness, silence, and going within rather than resisting what is. Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that by dropping drama and resistance, we become "no drama teachers" who radiate peace into a world that deeply needs it.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-11-29-advent-week-1-faith/445d83aa-f157-4c21-b7fb-5c7ae26bb662Sun, 29 Nov 2020 00:00:00 +0000In this heartfelt Advent message on faith, Cathy Norman shares her personal journey from 36 years of church ministry to becoming a business owner - all by trusting in the synchronicity of life. Speaking from her kitchen with freshly baked cookies, Cathy Norman illustrates how letting go of control and being "in love with life" opened doors she never could have imagined, including a keto baking company guided by remarkable signs and divine timing. Cathy Norman offers a powerful formula for elevating faith - be in love with all that is, acknowledge even the smallest manifestations with gratitude, and allow God's ingenious ways to work beyond your wildest dreams.In this heartfelt Advent message on faith, Cathy Norman shares her personal journey from 36 years of church ministry to becoming a business owner - all by trusting in the synchronicity of life. Speaking from her kitchen with freshly baked cookies, Cathy Norman illustrates how letting go of control and being "in love with life" opened doors she never could have imagined, including a keto baking company guided by remarkable signs and divine timing. Cathy Norman offers a powerful formula for elevating faith - be in love with all that is, acknowledge even the smallest manifestations with gratitude, and allow God's ingenious ways to work beyond your wildest dreams.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-11-22-fall-series-part-8-gratitude/8a8ccad6-026f-49e9-b0c7-2064c133099aSun, 22 Nov 2020 00:00:00 +0000In this heartfelt conclusion to the Fall Series, Brenlee shares her deeply personal journey from 36 years of suffering to awakening joy through the spiritual practice of gratitude. Drawing from her work as a psychotherapist at Kaiser Addiction Medicine Clinic, Brenlee weaves together ancient wisdom from the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Tutu with modern neuroscience showing how gratitude boosts dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin. Brenlee invites us to see every moment - whether pleasant, unpleasant, or neutral - as a gift containing an opportunity for growth, encouraging us to find the gift within the gift of each experience.In this heartfelt conclusion to the Fall Series, Brenlee shares her deeply personal journey from 36 years of suffering to awakening joy through the spiritual practice of gratitude. Drawing from her work as a psychotherapist at Kaiser Addiction Medicine Clinic, Brenlee weaves together ancient wisdom from the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Tutu with modern neuroscience showing how gratitude boosts dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin. Brenlee invites us to see every moment - whether pleasant, unpleasant, or neutral - as a gift containing an opportunity for growth, encouraging us to find the gift within the gift of each experience.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-11-15-fall-series-part-7-generosity/4c218603-02c1-4df9-803a-5f7a1e0daa81Sun, 15 Nov 2020 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores generosity as a pillar of enduring joy, drawing a powerful parallel between the life-giving Sea of Galilee - which both receives and gives back - and the stagnant Dead Sea, which has no outlet. She addresses how polarization and division close our hearts, offering Pema Chodron's "Just Like Me" practice as a way to bridge divides and reconnect with our shared humanity. Through touching stories of a child saving a spider, strangers helping a determined college student, and a comfort spaniel offering love, Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that generosity can be beautifully simple - just an open heart following the divine flow of giving and receiving.Rev. Kristin Powell explores generosity as a pillar of enduring joy, drawing a powerful parallel between the life-giving Sea of Galilee - which both receives and gives back - and the stagnant Dead Sea, which has no outlet. She addresses how polarization and division close our hearts, offering Pema Chodron's "Just Like Me" practice as a way to bridge divides and reconnect with our shared humanity. Through touching stories of a child saving a spider, strangers helping a determined college student, and a comfort spaniel offering love, Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that generosity can be beautifully simple - just an open heart following the divine flow of giving and receiving.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-11-08-fall-series-part-6-compassion/43902920-b243-4408-8e5a-75b1d75a442fSun, 08 Nov 2020 00:00:00 +0000In this sixth installment of the Eight Pillars of Enduring Joy series, Rev. Kristin Powell explores compassion as both a practice and a way of being, drawing from the wisdom of Archbishop Desmond Tutu and the Dalai Lama's Book of Joy. Rev. Kristin Powell highlights two transformative truths - that self-centered thinking is the source of suffering, while compassionate concern for others is the source of happiness - and shares the powerful story of Anthony Hinton, who found joy on death row through serving others. She invites us to reach across divides with grace, reminding us that compassion is contagious and ripples outward to heal our communities.In this sixth installment of the Eight Pillars of Enduring Joy series, Rev. Kristin Powell explores compassion as both a practice and a way of being, drawing from the wisdom of Archbishop Desmond Tutu and the Dalai Lama's Book of Joy. Rev. Kristin Powell highlights two transformative truths - that self-centered thinking is the source of suffering, while compassionate concern for others is the source of happiness - and shares the powerful story of Anthony Hinton, who found joy on death row through serving others. She invites us to reach across divides with grace, reminding us that compassion is contagious and ripples outward to heal our communities.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-11-01-fall-series-part-5-forgiveness/86e5dacc-05e8-4c1f-8924-c434ac38deefSun, 01 Nov 2020 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a heartfelt exploration of forgiveness as the fifth pillar of enduring joy, drawing from the wisdom of the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. She shares the inspiring example of Nelson Mandela and South Africa's Truth and Reconciliation Commission to illustrate how forgiveness can transform not only individual hearts but entire societies. Rev. Kristin Powell offers practical tools for the forgiveness journey, including Colin Tipping's Radical Forgiveness Steps, while reminding us that forgiveness is not weakness but a courageous act that frees our bodies, minds, and hearts to love more fully.Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a heartfelt exploration of forgiveness as the fifth pillar of enduring joy, drawing from the wisdom of the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. She shares the inspiring example of Nelson Mandela and South Africa's Truth and Reconciliation Commission to illustrate how forgiveness can transform not only individual hearts but entire societies. Rev. Kristin Powell offers practical tools for the forgiveness journey, including Colin Tipping's Radical Forgiveness Steps, while reminding us that forgiveness is not weakness but a courageous act that frees our bodies, minds, and hearts to love more fully.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-10-25-fall-series-part-4-acceptance/18d2b837-535a-4fdc-8c76-4dc22838b85cSun, 25 Oct 2020 00:00:00 +0000In this timely fourth installment of the Fall Series on the eight pillars of joy, Rev. Kristin Powell explores acceptance as a powerful spiritual practice - not as passive resignation, but as the essential starting point from which real change can begin. Drawing on the wisdom of the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how acceptance allows us to redirect energy from resistance toward co-creation with Spirit, making room for grace in our lives and relationships. She invites the community to cultivate acceptance through meditation, curious engagement with others, and collective action - including a pledge to hold no malice toward fellow citizens regardless of election outcomes - as we work together toward the beloved community.In this timely fourth installment of the Fall Series on the eight pillars of joy, Rev. Kristin Powell explores acceptance as a powerful spiritual practice - not as passive resignation, but as the essential starting point from which real change can begin. Drawing on the wisdom of the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how acceptance allows us to redirect energy from resistance toward co-creation with Spirit, making room for grace in our lives and relationships. She invites the community to cultivate acceptance through meditation, curious engagement with others, and collective action - including a pledge to hold no malice toward fellow citizens regardless of election outcomes - as we work together toward the beloved community.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-10-18-fall-series-part-3-humor/9d271657-e403-4867-9a19-940fac269357Sun, 18 Oct 2020 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores humor as one of the Eight Pillars of Joy, drawing from the wisdom of the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu to show how laughter connects us through our shared humanity. She reveals that humor, humility, and human all share the same Latin root - humus, meaning earth - reminding us that lightening up literally brings us back down to earth and closer to one another. Through personal stories, jokes, and heartfelt examples, Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to embrace feeling ridiculous, find levity in our mistakes, and recognize humor as a spiritual quality that heals and connects. Her joyful message encourages us all to lighten up and spread laughter as a gift to the world.Rev. Kristin Powell explores humor as one of the Eight Pillars of Joy, drawing from the wisdom of the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu to show how laughter connects us through our shared humanity. She reveals that humor, humility, and human all share the same Latin root - humus, meaning earth - reminding us that lightening up literally brings us back down to earth and closer to one another. Through personal stories, jokes, and heartfelt examples, Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to embrace feeling ridiculous, find levity in our mistakes, and recognize humor as a spiritual quality that heals and connects. Her joyful message encourages us all to lighten up and spread laughter as a gift to the world.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-10-11-fall-series-part-2-humility/cd87982e-3de7-4290-995f-bddec79f8b89Sun, 11 Oct 2020 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores humility as the second pillar of enduring joy, drawing from the wisdom of the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu as shared in The Book of Joy. She illuminates how true humility is not timidity or false modesty, but a grounded recognition that we are all essential threads in one beautiful tapestry - interdependent, gifted, and called to serve. Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that comparison is the thief of joy, and that when we release the ego's games of puffing up or diminishing ourselves, we return to our truest nature as divine beings walking one another home.Rev. Kristin Powell explores humility as the second pillar of enduring joy, drawing from the wisdom of the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu as shared in The Book of Joy. She illuminates how true humility is not timidity or false modesty, but a grounded recognition that we are all essential threads in one beautiful tapestry - interdependent, gifted, and called to serve. Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that comparison is the thief of joy, and that when we release the ego's games of puffing up or diminishing ourselves, we return to our truest nature as divine beings walking one another home.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-10-04-fall-series-enduring-joy-part-1-perspective/1acf5f4e-2f32-4f20-aec2-bba08c9f9978Sun, 04 Oct 2020 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell launches an inspiring eight-week fall series on the pillars of joy, drawing from the wisdom of Archbishop Desmond Tutu and His Holiness the Dalai Lama as captured in their Book of Joy. She explores the first pillar - Perspective - inviting us to cultivate both an expansive view that goes wide and long, and a deeper view that finds wonder in life's details. Rev. Kristin Powell shares how shifting our perspective serves as a "skull key" that unlocks happiness, reminding us that whether we look through the poet's eye or the visionary's gaze, widening and deepening our view opens the window to greater joy.Rev. Kristin Powell launches an inspiring eight-week fall series on the pillars of joy, drawing from the wisdom of Archbishop Desmond Tutu and His Holiness the Dalai Lama as captured in their Book of Joy. She explores the first pillar - Perspective - inviting us to cultivate both an expansive view that goes wide and long, and a deeper view that finds wonder in life's details. Rev. Kristin Powell shares how shifting our perspective serves as a "skull key" that unlocks happiness, reminding us that whether we look through the poet's eye or the visionary's gaze, widening and deepening our view opens the window to greater joy.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-09-27-prayer-series-part-4-the-grace-prayer/de77dacd-da96-495c-82ae-83242e725c8fSun, 27 Sep 2020 00:00:00 +0000https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-09-20-prayer-series-part-3-the-metta-prayer/2066c385-c93c-4b1f-be26-e45b7860697cSun, 20 Sep 2020 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell introduces the ancient practice of metta - loving kindness meditation - as part of her Prayers of Perseverance series, tracing its origins from the Buddha's teaching to 500 monks who needed a "weapon of protection" against the disturbing forest devas. She guides listeners through the traditional stages of metta practice - blessing oneself, a loved one, a neutral person, a difficult person, and all beings - while encouraging flexibility in adapting the order to meet individual needs. Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that we were born to live in these transformative times and that our spiritual practice of offering kindness is both a gift to ourselves and a profound service to the world.Rev. Kristin Powell introduces the ancient practice of metta - loving kindness meditation - as part of her Prayers of Perseverance series, tracing its origins from the Buddha's teaching to 500 monks who needed a "weapon of protection" against the disturbing forest devas. She guides listeners through the traditional stages of metta practice - blessing oneself, a loved one, a neutral person, a difficult person, and all beings - while encouraging flexibility in adapting the order to meet individual needs. Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that we were born to live in these transformative times and that our spiritual practice of offering kindness is both a gift to ourselves and a profound service to the world.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-09-13-prayer-series-part-2-23rd-psalm/22560f6b-7b7e-4953-8216-b5415367f9aaSun, 13 Sep 2020 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell offers a timely and deeply comforting exploration of Psalm 23 as part of the Prayers of Perseverance series, reframing this beloved scripture as a guide for navigating our collective dark valley of pandemic, racial injustice, and environmental crisis. She reminds us that the valley is not a permanent dwelling place but a passage we walk through with divine guidance and protection, and she invites us to sit at the table with those who hold opposing views - sharing the powerful story of C.P. Ellis and Ann Atwater as proof that transformation happens when enemies meet face to face. Rev. Kristin Powell closes with a beautiful invitation to accept our anointing, trust the journey, and commit to building a world overflowing with goodness and mercy.Rev. Kristin Powell offers a timely and deeply comforting exploration of Psalm 23 as part of the Prayers of Perseverance series, reframing this beloved scripture as a guide for navigating our collective dark valley of pandemic, racial injustice, and environmental crisis. She reminds us that the valley is not a permanent dwelling place but a passage we walk through with divine guidance and protection, and she invites us to sit at the table with those who hold opposing views - sharing the powerful story of C.P. Ellis and Ann Atwater as proof that transformation happens when enemies meet face to face. Rev. Kristin Powell closes with a beautiful invitation to accept our anointing, trust the journey, and commit to building a world overflowing with goodness and mercy.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-09-06-prayer-series-part-1-serenity-prayer/121eac92-4c45-48df-ba57-675a99046327Sun, 06 Sep 2020 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell opens a new sermon series called Prayers of Perseverance by exploring the timeless Serenity Prayer, unpacking its three essential elements - acceptance, courage, and wisdom - as gifts that support us through challenging times. Drawing from a recent backpacking trip in Yosemite, Rev. Kristin Powell shares stories of divine intervention and synchronicity that emerged when she set clear intentions and trusted the flow of life. She invites the community to practice the Serenity Prayer together daily at noon, building collective spiritual energy and deepening our relationship with the inner guidance system that leads us toward peace, right action, and divine timing.Rev. Kristin Powell opens a new sermon series called Prayers of Perseverance by exploring the timeless Serenity Prayer, unpacking its three essential elements - acceptance, courage, and wisdom - as gifts that support us through challenging times. Drawing from a recent backpacking trip in Yosemite, Rev. Kristin Powell shares stories of divine intervention and synchronicity that emerged when she set clear intentions and trusted the flow of life. She invites the community to practice the Serenity Prayer together daily at noon, building collective spiritual energy and deepening our relationship with the inner guidance system that leads us toward peace, right action, and divine timing.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-08-30-august-30-2020-whats-new/bcab7499-2ad8-4ba5-bd38-84275c808085Sun, 30 Aug 2020 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Sandra Campbell delivers an inspiring message on the power of imagination as one of Charles Fillmore's Twelve Powers, drawing from the story of the widow and the jar of oil in 2 Kings to illustrate how faith and vision can transform seemingly impossible situations. She shares her personal journey of imagining herself graduating with honors - and then doing so three times - before ultimately fulfilling her lifelong dream of becoming a Unity minister. Rev. Sandra Campbell encourages us to use our God-given faculty of imagination intentionally, reminding us that thoughts held in mind produce after their kind, and inviting us to see new possibilities even amid the challenges of pandemic life.Rev. Sandra Campbell delivers an inspiring message on the power of imagination as one of Charles Fillmore's Twelve Powers, drawing from the story of the widow and the jar of oil in 2 Kings to illustrate how faith and vision can transform seemingly impossible situations. She shares her personal journey of imagining herself graduating with honors - and then doing so three times - before ultimately fulfilling her lifelong dream of becoming a Unity minister. Rev. Sandra Campbell encourages us to use our God-given faculty of imagination intentionally, reminding us that thoughts held in mind produce after their kind, and inviting us to see new possibilities even amid the challenges of pandemic life.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-08-23-august-23-2020-how-will-i-realize-my-divine-potential/0adfd0d1-06d3-4257-8578-fa4d3f7a263aSun, 23 Aug 2020 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell concludes a powerful sermon series by exploring the question "How will I realize my divine potential?" - inviting listeners to recognize the unlimited brilliance already within them. Drawing on the metaphor of an acorn holding the majesty of a mighty oak tree, Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that our greatest fear is not inadequacy but rather the fullness of our own light and power. She encourages us to shift from asking "what's wrong with me?" to "what's right with me?" - affirming that as we let our divine light shine, we give others permission to do the same.Rev. Kristin Powell concludes a powerful sermon series by exploring the question "How will I realize my divine potential?" - inviting listeners to recognize the unlimited brilliance already within them. Drawing on the metaphor of an acorn holding the majesty of a mighty oak tree, Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that our greatest fear is not inadequacy but rather the fullness of our own light and power. She encourages us to shift from asking "what's wrong with me?" to "what's right with me?" - affirming that as we let our divine light shine, we give others permission to do the same.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-08-16-august-16-2020-what-serves-the-best-and-highest-good/c2767cd7-21cd-47e6-9313-825e0f10f5f7Sun, 16 Aug 2020 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the powerful question "What serves the highest and best good?" as part of her Four Questions series, offering two essential answers - our commitment to spiritual awakening and our commitment to kindness. She illuminates how surrender is the key to awakening, inviting us to build a trusting relationship with the divine through quiet listening, sacred spaces, and frequent communication. Drawing on the wisdom of St. Teresa of Avila and a touching story from Jack Kornfield about a difficult student named Shea, Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that authentic kindness - deeper than mere niceness - is how our awakened selves serve the world.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the powerful question "What serves the highest and best good?" as part of her Four Questions series, offering two essential answers - our commitment to spiritual awakening and our commitment to kindness. She illuminates how surrender is the key to awakening, inviting us to build a trusting relationship with the divine through quiet listening, sacred spaces, and frequent communication. Drawing on the wisdom of St. Teresa of Avila and a touching story from Jack Kornfield about a difficult student named Shea, Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that authentic kindness - deeper than mere niceness - is how our awakened selves serve the world.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-08-09-august-9-2020-from-which-fountain-shall-i-drink/219ba03e-5036-4f0b-aa79-5a9a558da4b4Sun, 09 Aug 2020 00:00:00 +0000https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-08-02-august-2-2020-what-if-there-were-nothing-to-defend/ff8d87fd-02f5-4946-965c-e9a265d03f94Sun, 02 Aug 2020 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to imagine a world where there is nothing to defend - and explores how dropping our personal defenses can create profound freedom, deeper relationships, and meaningful social change. Drawing on the spiritual roots of nonviolence through Gandhi's satyagraha and John Lewis's faith-grounded civil rights work, Rev. Kristin Powell shares a powerful story of 16 months of prayerful resolve that dismantled barriers in India. She encourages us to breathe, listen from the heart, and practice defenselessness in our own lives - replacing shields with faith and weapons with tools of compassion and connection.Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to imagine a world where there is nothing to defend - and explores how dropping our personal defenses can create profound freedom, deeper relationships, and meaningful social change. Drawing on the spiritual roots of nonviolence through Gandhi's satyagraha and John Lewis's faith-grounded civil rights work, Rev. Kristin Powell shares a powerful story of 16 months of prayerful resolve that dismantled barriers in India. She encourages us to breathe, listen from the heart, and practice defenselessness in our own lives - replacing shields with faith and weapons with tools of compassion and connection.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-07-26-july-26-2020-the-changing-of-the-guard/d734a6b0-db5d-49d6-8299-9c708866d4e0Sun, 26 Jul 2020 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Bob Hardy shares a powerful message about releasing the inner guard of old habits, fears, and self-talk that keep us small and comfortable rather than fully alive. Drawing from his own journey - from a fear-based Catholic upbringing through profound loss to discovering Unity's transformative teaching that we are in direct partnership with God - Rev. Bob Hardy invites us to chip away at what no longer serves us, much like Michelangelo releasing David from marble. He encourages us to change our inner guard through meditation, creative expression, and daily time with "God Radio" in our hearts, asking what wants to be revealed and released so we can embrace a fearless new vision for our lives.Rev. Bob Hardy shares a powerful message about releasing the inner guard of old habits, fears, and self-talk that keep us small and comfortable rather than fully alive. Drawing from his own journey - from a fear-based Catholic upbringing through profound loss to discovering Unity's transformative teaching that we are in direct partnership with God - Rev. Bob Hardy invites us to chip away at what no longer serves us, much like Michelangelo releasing David from marble. He encourages us to change our inner guard through meditation, creative expression, and daily time with "God Radio" in our hearts, asking what wants to be revealed and released so we can embrace a fearless new vision for our lives.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-07-19-july-19-2020-imperative-community/e85c0d2b-62a7-4ba1-966f-62c6036025b5Sun, 19 Jul 2020 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the imperative nature of spiritual community, drawing on the Zulu concept of Ubuntu - "I am because you are" - to illuminate how we are woven together in ways both visible and invisible. She shares how studies reveal that hearts and brainwaves literally harmonize when people come together, and offers inspiring examples of communities bridging divides through communication and collaboration. Rev. Kristin Powell encourages us to ask, seek, and knock - engaging fully in community both as recipients of support and as contributors - reminding us that especially during challenging times, we need each other to co-create the world we envision.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the imperative nature of spiritual community, drawing on the Zulu concept of Ubuntu - "I am because you are" - to illuminate how we are woven together in ways both visible and invisible. She shares how studies reveal that hearts and brainwaves literally harmonize when people come together, and offers inspiring examples of communities bridging divides through communication and collaboration. Rev. Kristin Powell encourages us to ask, seek, and knock - engaging fully in community both as recipients of support and as contributors - reminding us that especially during challenging times, we need each other to co-create the world we envision.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-07-12-july-12-2020-in-the-flow-of-contemplative-action/cffe2c33-de14-41a9-9560-0b70d7951923Sun, 12 Jul 2020 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the tension between spiritual resistance and divine calling, using the biblical story of Jonah alongside a powerful personal testimony from a community member who showed up for racial justice work even when exhausted and reluctant. Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to embrace both the mystic and the prophet within - first turning inward through contemplation, then allowing inspired action to flow outward into the world. Drawing on the fierce energy of Kali and the playful obstacle-removing spirit of Ganesh, she encourages us to say yes to spirit's guidance even when part of us resists, trusting that we walk this transformative path together.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the tension between spiritual resistance and divine calling, using the biblical story of Jonah alongside a powerful personal testimony from a community member who showed up for racial justice work even when exhausted and reluctant. Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to embrace both the mystic and the prophet within - first turning inward through contemplation, then allowing inspired action to flow outward into the world. Drawing on the fierce energy of Kali and the playful obstacle-removing spirit of Ganesh, she encourages us to say yes to spirit's guidance even when part of us resists, trusting that we walk this transformative path together.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-07-05-july-5-2020-who-you-gonna-call/0b3cd0ac-0c42-4e24-bdbb-ec4e6ea8651cSun, 05 Jul 2020 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell and her wife Melissa share a heartfelt exploration of the "I-Thou" relationship with Spirit - that intimate, personal connection with the Divine that goes beyond intellectual understanding. Through powerful personal stories, including Melissa's journey from childhood religious trauma to discovering an unconditionally loving God, and Rev. Kristin's memorable download about surrendering ministry plans through a parable about cats, they invite us to consciously cultivate a deeper, more intimate walk with Spirit. Their message reminds us that when we surrender to Divine timing rather than pushing our own agenda, life unfolds more beautifully than we could ever imagine.Rev. Kristin Powell and her wife Melissa share a heartfelt exploration of the "I-Thou" relationship with Spirit - that intimate, personal connection with the Divine that goes beyond intellectual understanding. Through powerful personal stories, including Melissa's journey from childhood religious trauma to discovering an unconditionally loving God, and Rev. Kristin's memorable download about surrendering ministry plans through a parable about cats, they invite us to consciously cultivate a deeper, more intimate walk with Spirit. Their message reminds us that when we surrender to Divine timing rather than pushing our own agenda, life unfolds more beautifully than we could ever imagine.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-06-28-naivete-no-more/1c421946-f20d-403f-9373-2192a5b08bfdSun, 28 Jun 2020 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to remove the tinted glasses of naivety and see our world with clearer, more honest eyes - especially as we approach celebrations of freedom that have not yet fully included everyone. Drawing on the biblical stories of Eve reaching for knowledge and Paul's scales falling from his eyes, Rev. Kristin Powell explores how spiritual maturation requires us to hold both the absolute vision of oneness and the courage to confront painful realities of systemic injustice. She encourages this community of seekers to keep learning, keep opening their eyes, and walk together toward a world where liberty and justice truly belong to all.Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to remove the tinted glasses of naivety and see our world with clearer, more honest eyes - especially as we approach celebrations of freedom that have not yet fully included everyone. Drawing on the biblical stories of Eve reaching for knowledge and Paul's scales falling from his eyes, Rev. Kristin Powell explores how spiritual maturation requires us to hold both the absolute vision of oneness and the courage to confront painful realities of systemic injustice. She encourages this community of seekers to keep learning, keep opening their eyes, and walk together toward a world where liberty and justice truly belong to all.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-06-21-father-s-day-holding-space-for-real-evolution-final/91e82ff4-4214-46a0-b8d3-7e46ba1f0710Sun, 21 Jun 2020 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell weaves together the convergence of Juneteenth, summer solstice, Father's Day, and a new moon to explore what it means to hold sacred space for real evolution - both personally and collectively. Drawing on the story of Saint Remald, the writings of Paul, and a powerful viral video of a young father patiently holding space for his toddler's 45-minute tantrum, Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to embrace a deeper expression of sacred masculinity rooted in vulnerability, compassion, and inner strength rather than domination and control. She calls us to become loving witnesses for one another - listening deeply, withholding judgment, and allowing authentic expression to emerge - so that true transformation and freedom can unfold in our lives and world.Rev. Kristin Powell weaves together the convergence of Juneteenth, summer solstice, Father's Day, and a new moon to explore what it means to hold sacred space for real evolution - both personally and collectively. Drawing on the story of Saint Remald, the writings of Paul, and a powerful viral video of a young father patiently holding space for his toddler's 45-minute tantrum, Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to embrace a deeper expression of sacred masculinity rooted in vulnerability, compassion, and inner strength rather than domination and control. She calls us to become loving witnesses for one another - listening deeply, withholding judgment, and allowing authentic expression to emerge - so that true transformation and freedom can unfold in our lives and world.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-06-14-activating-the-power-of-understanding-final/44265d63-c9ed-4e03-bf47-c1f37419f59eSun, 14 Jun 2020 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores understanding as both a spiritual power and a call to action, inviting listeners to cultivate what King Solomon prayed for - an understanding heart. Through powerful stories, including a moving account of two strangers digging soil together at a lynching site to honor a lost life, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how true understanding requires willingness to listen, learn, grieve, and heal alongside one another. She encourages approaching this deep spiritual work with curiosity, courage, and a beginner's mind, reminding us that understanding lives not only in our intellect but beneath our feet - in how we stand together for truth, justice, and lasting change.Rev. Kristin Powell explores understanding as both a spiritual power and a call to action, inviting listeners to cultivate what King Solomon prayed for - an understanding heart. Through powerful stories, including a moving account of two strangers digging soil together at a lynching site to honor a lost life, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how true understanding requires willingness to listen, learn, grieve, and heal alongside one another. She encourages approaching this deep spiritual work with curiosity, courage, and a beginner's mind, reminding us that understanding lives not only in our intellect but beneath our feet - in how we stand together for truth, justice, and lasting change.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-06-07-let-s-ground-together-in-love-final/a0377828-acca-47bb-a569-629d8516b1c4Sun, 07 Jun 2020 00:00:00 +0000https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-05-31-series-part-3-fear-to-love-final/4c5bf3ed-bfe4-4029-aa1b-49450a96bc55Sun, 31 May 2020 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a powerful and heartfelt message on transforming prejudice into freedom as part of her series on turning vices into virtues. Through the parable of a king who ignores a drop of honey - leading to the destruction of an entire village - she illustrates how silence and inaction make us complicit in systems of harm, challenging listeners to embrace the spiritual truth of oneness not as a platitude but as a lived practice. Rev. Kristin Powell invites her community to do the courageous inner work of examining implicit biases, acknowledging privilege, and breaking complicit silence, reminding us that divine love moves toward pain rather than away from it. She encourages seekers to walk through the narrow gate of genuine spiritual transformation so that all people may inherit a freer, more equitable world.Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a powerful and heartfelt message on transforming prejudice into freedom as part of her series on turning vices into virtues. Through the parable of a king who ignores a drop of honey - leading to the destruction of an entire village - she illustrates how silence and inaction make us complicit in systems of harm, challenging listeners to embrace the spiritual truth of oneness not as a platitude but as a lived practice. Rev. Kristin Powell invites her community to do the courageous inner work of examining implicit biases, acknowledging privilege, and breaking complicit silence, reminding us that divine love moves toward pain rather than away from it. She encourages seekers to walk through the narrow gate of genuine spiritual transformation so that all people may inherit a freer, more equitable world.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-05-24-series-part-2-anger-to-peace-final/aed3d594-247d-41a9-9fa2-b92358db2525Sun, 24 May 2020 00:00:00 +0000In this powerful message on transforming anger into peace, Rev. Kristin Powell explores how anger - often labeled as "bad" - actually serves as a sacred call toward greater self-clarity. Drawing from the Buddhist story of The Angry Buddha, brain research by Rick Hansen, and the biblical account of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego walking unharmed through flames, Rev. Kristin Powell offers practical wisdom for working skillfully with anger rather than suppressing or exploding with it. She invites us to become "fire walkers" - centered in spirit, using anger's illuminating flame to reveal our deepest needs and values while discovering the transformative peace that awaits within.In this powerful message on transforming anger into peace, Rev. Kristin Powell explores how anger - often labeled as "bad" - actually serves as a sacred call toward greater self-clarity. Drawing from the Buddhist story of The Angry Buddha, brain research by Rick Hansen, and the biblical account of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego walking unharmed through flames, Rev. Kristin Powell offers practical wisdom for working skillfully with anger rather than suppressing or exploding with it. She invites us to become "fire walkers" - centered in spirit, using anger's illuminating flame to reveal our deepest needs and values while discovering the transformative peace that awaits within.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-05-17-series-transforming-the-7-vices-to-virtues-part-1-greed-to-generosity/0cbe6f45-ca6b-4802-8c30-f49e0fa65042Sun, 17 May 2020 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell launches a transformative series on turning the seven vices into virtues, beginning with the powerful shift from greed to generosity. Drawing on the Ojibwa concept of the Wendigo - a being whose selfishness can never be satisfied - she illuminates how our culture often celebrates endless accumulation while inviting us to examine where we cling, hoard, or grasp from a false belief in scarcity. Through inspiring stories including the Pachamama Alliance's work to protect the Amazon rainforest and a child's extraordinary willingness to give, Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that generosity is our true nature and that through conscious choices in how we think, shop, and act, we can dream a new world into being.Rev. Kristin Powell launches a transformative series on turning the seven vices into virtues, beginning with the powerful shift from greed to generosity. Drawing on the Ojibwa concept of the Wendigo - a being whose selfishness can never be satisfied - she illuminates how our culture often celebrates endless accumulation while inviting us to examine where we cling, hoard, or grasp from a false belief in scarcity. Through inspiring stories including the Pachamama Alliance's work to protect the Amazon rainforest and a child's extraordinary willingness to give, Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that generosity is our true nature and that through conscious choices in how we think, shop, and act, we can dream a new world into being.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-05-10-mother-s-day-the-great-mother-s-embrace-final/e206a58a-b88e-4d2e-b71e-169b50471489Sun, 10 May 2020 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell offers a tender and timely Mother's Day message inviting us to surrender into the nurturing embrace of the Divine Mother - that ever-present, unconditional love that holds us exactly as we are. Drawing on imagery from the Egyptian goddess ISIS, Michelangelo's Pieta, and the Hebrew name El Shaddai, Rev. Kristin Powell illuminates the feminine face of God that cradles, comforts, and accepts us without condition. She encourages us to release our need to control, to make peace with not knowing, and to simply receive - allowing ourselves to rest in the lap of the Great Mother and know that we are enough.Rev. Kristin Powell offers a tender and timely Mother's Day message inviting us to surrender into the nurturing embrace of the Divine Mother - that ever-present, unconditional love that holds us exactly as we are. Drawing on imagery from the Egyptian goddess ISIS, Michelangelo's Pieta, and the Hebrew name El Shaddai, Rev. Kristin Powell illuminates the feminine face of God that cradles, comforts, and accepts us without condition. She encourages us to release our need to control, to make peace with not knowing, and to simply receive - allowing ourselves to rest in the lap of the Great Mother and know that we are enough.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-05-03-questions-on-the-path/d48634bd-468c-4525-be37-977f14911f89Sun, 03 May 2020 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell offers a thoughtful and practical exploration of the spiritual questions arising during uncertain times, responding directly to questions submitted by her community. She shares the FACE framework - Focus, Acknowledge, Connect, and Engage - as a grounding tool for processing anxiety, and offers creative approaches to overcoming negative self-talk, walking through grief, and discerning what is truly essential in our lives. With warmth and wisdom, Rev. Kristin Powell invites us into compassionate abiding - gently living in life's unanswered questions while staying present, connected to spirit, and tender with ourselves and one another.Rev. Kristin Powell offers a thoughtful and practical exploration of the spiritual questions arising during uncertain times, responding directly to questions submitted by her community. She shares the FACE framework - Focus, Acknowledge, Connect, and Engage - as a grounding tool for processing anxiety, and offers creative approaches to overcoming negative self-talk, walking through grief, and discerning what is truly essential in our lives. With warmth and wisdom, Rev. Kristin Powell invites us into compassionate abiding - gently living in life's unanswered questions while staying present, connected to spirit, and tender with ourselves and one another.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-04-26-praise-for-those-who-serve-final/ae960396-3116-406c-a5e5-6dca3492fe44Sun, 26 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell offers an uplifting message celebrating the spirit of service during the pandemic, sharing inspiring stories of everyday people making a difference - from a 13-year-old boy 3D-printing ear guards for healthcare workers to restaurant owners lifting up their new competitors and strangers building trust in grocery store parking lots. She reframes service not as sacrifice but as honor, encouraging us to keep our own buckets full so that giving flows from an overflowing heart. Drawing on the image of the phoenix rising with powerful wings yet a light footprint, Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that when we serve genuinely, we grow our capacity to love and build trust across the human family.Rev. Kristin Powell offers an uplifting message celebrating the spirit of service during the pandemic, sharing inspiring stories of everyday people making a difference - from a 13-year-old boy 3D-printing ear guards for healthcare workers to restaurant owners lifting up their new competitors and strangers building trust in grocery store parking lots. She reframes service not as sacrifice but as honor, encouraging us to keep our own buckets full so that giving flows from an overflowing heart. Drawing on the image of the phoenix rising with powerful wings yet a light footprint, Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that when we serve genuinely, we grow our capacity to love and build trust across the human family.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-04-19-earth-day-final/6f160efa-217f-456c-be75-34b5304b4c3fSun, 19 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell offers a powerful Earth Day message honoring the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, weaving together indigenous wisdom shared by guest speaker Chief Phillip (Black Horse) with Unity teachings to invite a deeper remembering of our original instructions as stewards of the Earth. Rev. Kristin Powell explores how this time of collective pause presents a profound opportunity for spiritual awakening - to reconnect with nature, reconsider what is truly essential, and resist the forces that would lull us back to sleep. Drawing on the words of Unity co-founders Charles and Myrtle Fillmore alongside indigenous prophecy, Rev. Kristin Powell encourages us to plant seeds of conscious living, stay grounded in our values, and carry forward the clarity gained during this transformative season.Rev. Kristin Powell offers a powerful Earth Day message honoring the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, weaving together indigenous wisdom shared by guest speaker Chief Phillip (Black Horse) with Unity teachings to invite a deeper remembering of our original instructions as stewards of the Earth. Rev. Kristin Powell explores how this time of collective pause presents a profound opportunity for spiritual awakening - to reconnect with nature, reconsider what is truly essential, and resist the forces that would lull us back to sleep. Drawing on the words of Unity co-founders Charles and Myrtle Fillmore alongside indigenous prophecy, Rev. Kristin Powell encourages us to plant seeds of conscious living, stay grounded in our values, and carry forward the clarity gained during this transformative season.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-04-12-easter-streaming-only/69a98f57-7903-4e0a-8ced-41d46a0119f6Sun, 12 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a deeply resonant Easter message during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, drawing a powerful parallel between the risen Jesus telling Mary Magdalene "don't touch me" and our own collective experience of physical distancing and spiritual transformation. She explores Michael Beckwith's four stages of consciousness - from victim to manifester to vessel to oneness - suggesting that this unprecedented time is calling humanity to shift from forcing life to happen by us toward allowing life to happen through us. Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to embrace patience and presence as the tools of resurrection, trusting that when a critical mass awakens, the whole world can transform into something kinder, more compassionate, and more connected.Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a deeply resonant Easter message during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, drawing a powerful parallel between the risen Jesus telling Mary Magdalene "don't touch me" and our own collective experience of physical distancing and spiritual transformation. She explores Michael Beckwith's four stages of consciousness - from victim to manifester to vessel to oneness - suggesting that this unprecedented time is calling humanity to shift from forcing life to happen by us toward allowing life to happen through us. Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to embrace patience and presence as the tools of resurrection, trusting that when a critical mass awakens, the whole world can transform into something kinder, more compassionate, and more connected.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-04-05-palm-sunday-streaming-only/28d27f1c-7b88-471e-9e13-2471936eaa19Sun, 05 Apr 2020 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a powerful Palm Sunday message exploring our relationship with death - both physical and ego death - during what she calls "the Lentiest Lent ever." Drawing from the symbolism of Jesus riding humbly into Jerusalem, her own transformative experiences facing death in Peru and Death Valley, and the graceful passing of her friend Royda, Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to stop resisting death and instead let it teach us to savor life more fully. She encourages us to embrace the ancient cry of "Hosanna" - save now - as a call back to presence, reminding us that when the ego takes its rightful place as servant to the divine, we cross the threshold into true aliveness.Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a powerful Palm Sunday message exploring our relationship with death - both physical and ego death - during what she calls "the Lentiest Lent ever." Drawing from the symbolism of Jesus riding humbly into Jerusalem, her own transformative experiences facing death in Peru and Death Valley, and the graceful passing of her friend Royda, Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to stop resisting death and instead let it teach us to savor life more fully. She encourages us to embrace the ancient cry of "Hosanna" - save now - as a call back to presence, reminding us that when the ego takes its rightful place as servant to the divine, we cross the threshold into true aliveness.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-03-29-lent-empty-your-cup-streaming-only/2b26d572-1305-4550-a1c7-1220f045fae9Sun, 29 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell offers a beautiful Lenten reflection on the spiritual gift of emptiness, drawing from the Hawaiian children's story of the "bowl of light" to illustrate how releasing false beliefs and limited thinking allows our true radiance to shine through. She invites us to embrace this season of stripping away - much like the desert that produces stunning flowers from barren ground - trusting that the resurrection and joy of Easter will come in its own time. Through the prayer "empty my cup," Rev. Kristin Powell encourages us to find openness, receptivity, and freedom as we release what is non-essential and return to what truly matters.Rev. Kristin Powell offers a beautiful Lenten reflection on the spiritual gift of emptiness, drawing from the Hawaiian children's story of the "bowl of light" to illustrate how releasing false beliefs and limited thinking allows our true radiance to shine through. She invites us to embrace this season of stripping away - much like the desert that produces stunning flowers from barren ground - trusting that the resurrection and joy of Easter will come in its own time. Through the prayer "empty my cup," Rev. Kristin Powell encourages us to find openness, receptivity, and freedom as we release what is non-essential and return to what truly matters.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-03-22-series-part-10-let-go-let-god-flow-streaming-only/ead968ad-c4ff-4f9d-92fa-58c37eb71c86Sun, 22 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the ancient wisdom of Taoism and its profound relevance during times of global pause, drawing on the concept of Wu Wei - the art of effortless action that springs from being rather than forcing. Using the charming metaphor of Winnie the Pooh as the perfect embodiment of the Tao, along with the imagery of water as both flexible and powerful, Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to consider what life might look like if we stopped pushing against the current and instead allowed ourselves to flow. She encourages us to embrace this sacred opportunity to let go and let God flow, trusting that when we release control and listen deeply, transformation naturally unfolds.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the ancient wisdom of Taoism and its profound relevance during times of global pause, drawing on the concept of Wu Wei - the art of effortless action that springs from being rather than forcing. Using the charming metaphor of Winnie the Pooh as the perfect embodiment of the Tao, along with the imagery of water as both flexible and powerful, Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to consider what life might look like if we stopped pushing against the current and instead allowed ourselves to flow. She encourages us to embrace this sacred opportunity to let go and let God flow, trusting that when we release control and listen deeply, transformation naturally unfolds.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-03-15-series-part-9-prophets-of-justice-and-mercy-final/3307d514-d786-4f95-87c5-93a218859c5cSun, 15 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell hosts an illuminating interfaith dialogue with Jewish musician and leader Joel as part of the Many Paths to the One series. Together they explore the rich physical and spiritual practices of Judaism - from the prayer shawl and tefillin to the joyous harvest festival of Sukkot and the restorative weekly practice of Shabbat. Joel shares how Judaism weaves holiness and justice together through embodied ritual, mindful eating, communal prayer, and a deep commitment to joy even amid historical sorrow. Rev. Kristin draws out the universal wisdom in these practices, inviting all to consider how intentional rest and sacred rhythm might nourish their own spiritual lives.Rev. Kristin Powell hosts an illuminating interfaith dialogue with Jewish musician and leader Joel as part of the Many Paths to the One series. Together they explore the rich physical and spiritual practices of Judaism - from the prayer shawl and tefillin to the joyous harvest festival of Sukkot and the restorative weekly practice of Shabbat. Joel shares how Judaism weaves holiness and justice together through embodied ritual, mindful eating, communal prayer, and a deep commitment to joy even amid historical sorrow. Rev. Kristin draws out the universal wisdom in these practices, inviting all to consider how intentional rest and sacred rhythm might nourish their own spiritual lives.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-03-08-series-part-8-five-pillars-of-islam-final/cf098904-dd23-4e9e-a6e1-1e7d835f8e70Sun, 08 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000In this warm and illuminating interfaith dialogue, Rev. Kristin welcomes Imam Fatih Ateş of the Pacifica Institute to explore the Five Pillars of Islam and the deeper meaning behind this ancient faith tradition. Together they discuss how Islam - rooted in the word for peace and surrender to God - calls its followers toward spiritual perfection through faith, good deeds, and good character. Imam Fatih addresses common misconceptions about jihad and Islamophobia while emphasizing that personal connection and friendship across traditions is the most powerful antidote to fear and misunderstanding. This beautiful conversation models the interfaith bridge-building both leaders champion as essential for our shared humanity.In this warm and illuminating interfaith dialogue, Rev. Kristin welcomes Imam Fatih Ateş of the Pacifica Institute to explore the Five Pillars of Islam and the deeper meaning behind this ancient faith tradition. Together they discuss how Islam - rooted in the word for peace and surrender to God - calls its followers toward spiritual perfection through faith, good deeds, and good character. Imam Fatih addresses common misconceptions about jihad and Islamophobia while emphasizing that personal connection and friendship across traditions is the most powerful antidote to fear and misunderstanding. This beautiful conversation models the interfaith bridge-building both leaders champion as essential for our shared humanity.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-03-01-series-part-7-bodhisattvas-among-us-final/b6e163ae-8d8f-454e-9693-1312a51698b8Sun, 01 Mar 2020 00:00:00 +0000In this concluding talk of the series, the speaker explores the heart of Buddhism - compassion - revealing how the practice of meditation opens us to a tender, connected way of being with ourselves and others. Through the stories of the Buddha's awakening, Quan Yin's bodhisattva vow, and the touching tale of Kissa Gotami, the message illuminates how recognizing our shared human experience of pain dissolves the ego's grip and opens the door to genuine compassion. The speaker reminds us that self-compassion is essential to sustaining our capacity to give, and invites each of us to become a refuge of compassion for all sentient beings.In this concluding talk of the series, the speaker explores the heart of Buddhism - compassion - revealing how the practice of meditation opens us to a tender, connected way of being with ourselves and others. Through the stories of the Buddha's awakening, Quan Yin's bodhisattva vow, and the touching tale of Kissa Gotami, the message illuminates how recognizing our shared human experience of pain dissolves the ego's grip and opens the door to genuine compassion. The speaker reminds us that self-compassion is essential to sustaining our capacity to give, and invites each of us to become a refuge of compassion for all sentient beings.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-02-23-series-part-6-enduring-love-of-the-christ-final/9fb9e82c-4513-46c9-85c5-926726e1ef3dSun, 23 Feb 2020 00:00:00 +0000In this heartfelt conclusion to the Many Paths to the One series, Rev. Kristin explores Christianity through the lens of healing and reclamation, sharing her personal journey from the exclusions she experienced in her Missouri Synod Lutheran upbringing to finding wholeness in Unity's inclusive community. She invites listeners to separate the institutional church from the radical love and inclusivity that Jesus actually taught, encouraging those with religious wounds to move toward healing rather than avoidance. Drawing on contemplative Christian practices like centering prayer and Lectio Divina, she reminds us that beneath all the complexity, our true religion is simply love - patient, kind, and enduring.In this heartfelt conclusion to the Many Paths to the One series, Rev. Kristin explores Christianity through the lens of healing and reclamation, sharing her personal journey from the exclusions she experienced in her Missouri Synod Lutheran upbringing to finding wholeness in Unity's inclusive community. She invites listeners to separate the institutional church from the radical love and inclusivity that Jesus actually taught, encouraging those with religious wounds to move toward healing rather than avoidance. Drawing on contemplative Christian practices like centering prayer and Lectio Divina, she reminds us that beneath all the complexity, our true religion is simply love - patient, kind, and enduring.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-02-16-series-part-5-the-four-yogi-paths-final/9b1cf50d-44f8-4839-837a-9b9c46b955d0Sun, 16 Feb 2020 00:00:00 +0000In this rich exploration of Hinduism as part of the "Many Paths to the One" series, community members Steve and Mirabai (Krishnadas) share their journey through Hindu practice and how it led them to Unity of Walnut Creek, while Kausi illuminates the path of jnana yoga and self-inquiry. The message highlights the four yogic paths - bhakti (devotion), karma (action), raja (meditation), and jnana (knowledge) - revealing how each offers a unique doorway to self-realization and oneness with God. Through personal stories, breathing practices, and heartfelt dialogue, the congregation discovers the beautiful parallels between Hindu teachings and Unity principles, especially the shared belief in innate divinity.In this rich exploration of Hinduism as part of the "Many Paths to the One" series, community members Steve and Mirabai (Krishnadas) share their journey through Hindu practice and how it led them to Unity of Walnut Creek, while Kausi illuminates the path of jnana yoga and self-inquiry. The message highlights the four yogic paths - bhakti (devotion), karma (action), raja (meditation), and jnana (knowledge) - revealing how each offers a unique doorway to self-realization and oneness with God. Through personal stories, breathing practices, and heartfelt dialogue, the congregation discovers the beautiful parallels between Hindu teachings and Unity principles, especially the shared belief in innate divinity.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-02-09-series-part-4-our-better-angels-final/d83904b9-8330-4107-983d-31e969a8e1a4Sun, 09 Feb 2020 00:00:00 +0000In this powerful fourth and final installment of the "Our Better Angels" series, musicians JD and Lynne Martin share their music and wisdom with the Unity of Walnut Creek community. Drawing from Einstein's question about whether this is a friendly universe and Lincoln's call to the "better angels of our nature," they invite listeners into a higher vision of love and connection. Through original songs honoring Native American ancestors, celebrating our shared humanity, and standing with immigrants and refugees, they weave together themes of compassion, courage, and sacred belonging - reminding us that we are the ones we've been waiting for.In this powerful fourth and final installment of the "Our Better Angels" series, musicians JD and Lynne Martin share their music and wisdom with the Unity of Walnut Creek community. Drawing from Einstein's question about whether this is a friendly universe and Lincoln's call to the "better angels of our nature," they invite listeners into a higher vision of love and connection. Through original songs honoring Native American ancestors, celebrating our shared humanity, and standing with immigrants and refugees, they weave together themes of compassion, courage, and sacred belonging - reminding us that we are the ones we've been waiting for.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-02-02-series-part-3-overcoming-through-soulforce-final/0eea4692-2300-4bd8-87a9-68203dfa03b8Sun, 02 Feb 2020 00:00:00 +0000https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-01-26-series-part-2-holy-ground-of-earth-final/1b8bffc2-660c-423b-a224-d6cc66474b00Sun, 26 Jan 2020 00:00:00 +0000In this heartfelt message from the "Many Paths to the One" series, Rev. Kristin explores earth-based spiritual traditions and their profound relevance to our times, highlighting how primal faiths share oral storytelling, cyclical time, and sacred sense of place. She invites the community to expand their understanding of paganism and nature-based spirituality, debunking myths and revealing shared values of reverence, healing, and environmental stewardship. Guest speaker Michelle Ciccala shares her journey as both a proud witch in the Reclaiming tradition and Unity Youth Director, offering practical ways to infuse daily life with sacred intention and demonstrating how earth-honoring spirituality and inclusive community beautifully complement one another.In this heartfelt message from the "Many Paths to the One" series, Rev. Kristin explores earth-based spiritual traditions and their profound relevance to our times, highlighting how primal faiths share oral storytelling, cyclical time, and sacred sense of place. She invites the community to expand their understanding of paganism and nature-based spirituality, debunking myths and revealing shared values of reverence, healing, and environmental stewardship. Guest speaker Michelle Ciccala shares her journey as both a proud witch in the Reclaiming tradition and Unity Youth Director, offering practical ways to infuse daily life with sacred intention and demonstrating how earth-honoring spirituality and inclusive community beautifully complement one another.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-01-19-many-paths-to-the-one-part-1-final/82464cab-c990-43eb-83bc-5bfc90c8d756Sun, 19 Jan 2020 00:00:00 +0000In this inspiring message launching the "Many Paths to the One" series, Rev. Kristin explores the transformative power of interfaith understanding as a pathway to peace during the Season for Non-Violence. She traces the legacy of Gandhi's ahimsa through Martin Luther King Jr.'s interfaith friendships - with Rabbi Heschel, Thich Nhat Hanh, and others - showing how direct experience of diverse spiritual practices builds bridges and heals division. Drawing from her own pilgrimage to the source of the Ganges River and encounters with various faith traditions, Rev. Kristin invites us to ask one another "What is the heart of your faith?" - a question that roots us in the shared values of love, compassion, and peace that unite every spiritual path.In this inspiring message launching the "Many Paths to the One" series, Rev. Kristin explores the transformative power of interfaith understanding as a pathway to peace during the Season for Non-Violence. She traces the legacy of Gandhi's ahimsa through Martin Luther King Jr.'s interfaith friendships - with Rabbi Heschel, Thich Nhat Hanh, and others - showing how direct experience of diverse spiritual practices builds bridges and heals division. Drawing from her own pilgrimage to the source of the Ganges River and encounters with various faith traditions, Rev. Kristin invites us to ask one another "What is the heart of your faith?" - a question that roots us in the shared values of love, compassion, and peace that unite every spiritual path.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-01-12-mission-possible-final/cf562db2-a018-44ae-87ed-6739d0c92155Sun, 12 Jan 2020 00:00:00 +0000In this inspiring message, Rev. Kristin invites the community to craft personal mission statements that align with their spiritual purpose, building on the White Stone Ceremony from the previous week. She guides the congregation through Unity of Walnut Creek's mission statement - "We are a loving, inclusive community expanding and living our divinity in sacred service for all" - exploring what it means to genuinely love, practice radical inclusivity, deepen into divine truth, and serve all life. Drawing on examples from the Care Network to migrating monarch butterflies to compassionate rats, Rev. Kristin illustrates how sacred service is wired into our very nature, encouraging everyone to let their mission become as instinctive as a butterfly following its ancestral path.In this inspiring message, Rev. Kristin invites the community to craft personal mission statements that align with their spiritual purpose, building on the White Stone Ceremony from the previous week. She guides the congregation through Unity of Walnut Creek's mission statement - "We are a loving, inclusive community expanding and living our divinity in sacred service for all" - exploring what it means to genuinely love, practice radical inclusivity, deepen into divine truth, and serve all life. Drawing on examples from the Care Network to migrating monarch butterflies to compassionate rats, Rev. Kristin illustrates how sacred service is wired into our very nature, encouraging everyone to let their mission become as instinctive as a butterfly following its ancestral path.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2020-01-05-white-stone-ceremony-final/859711f1-5ebc-43f2-9d47-8c1a86c8707fSun, 05 Jan 2020 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell leads Unity of Walnut Creek's annual White Stone Ceremony, weaving together the powerful story of Thailand's golden Buddha - hidden beneath layers of clay for centuries - with our own tendency to cover up our divine splendor with shame, self-judgment, and fear. She invites us to shift our perspective from New Year's resolutions focused on fixing ourselves to setting loving intentions that reveal more of our true nature. Through the four S's - shift, see, subtract, and shine - Rev. Kristin Powell guides the community in claiming their birthright of worthiness and receiving a sacred word for the year ahead.Rev. Kristin Powell leads Unity of Walnut Creek's annual White Stone Ceremony, weaving together the powerful story of Thailand's golden Buddha - hidden beneath layers of clay for centuries - with our own tendency to cover up our divine splendor with shame, self-judgment, and fear. She invites us to shift our perspective from New Year's resolutions focused on fixing ourselves to setting loving intentions that reveal more of our true nature. Through the four S's - shift, see, subtract, and shine - Rev. Kristin Powell guides the community in claiming their birthright of worthiness and receiving a sacred word for the year ahead.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-12-29-december-29-2019-endings-gateways-and-beginnings/b2399056-c615-4a9e-912e-c68b64896b73Sun, 29 Dec 2019 00:00:00 +0000Susan Agenelos draws on the ancient Roman god Janus - guardian of doorways, gateways, and beginnings - to offer a thoughtful framework for the turning of the year. She encourages looking back with wisdom and compassion, not to wallow but to bring hidden fears into the light and forgive ourselves and others. Susan celebrates the comfort of familiar routines as a source of strength, honors the roads we have chosen, and invites us to face the future with joy by practicing gratitude, nurturing community, finding purpose, and serving others in ways both large and small.Susan Agenelos draws on the ancient Roman god Janus - guardian of doorways, gateways, and beginnings - to offer a thoughtful framework for the turning of the year. She encourages looking back with wisdom and compassion, not to wallow but to bring hidden fears into the light and forgive ourselves and others. Susan celebrates the comfort of familiar routines as a source of strength, honors the roads we have chosen, and invites us to face the future with joy by practicing gratitude, nurturing community, finding purpose, and serving others in ways both large and small.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-12-22-december-22-2019-innocent-joy/29b5cb44-07a7-4250-abe0-f845af0770f6Sun, 22 Dec 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a heartfelt Christmas Eve message exploring how joy - the final theme of the Advent season - lives within each of us and is awakened through wonder, laughter, and surrender. Drawing from a stunning nativity scene at Grace Cathedral, a Sufi saying, and a powerful story about a man who discovers that light resides within him rather than outside, Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that joy comes not from forcing or seeking externally but from becoming receptive and open. She invites the congregation to embrace childlike wonder, make space for fun, and spread joy generously - because sharing it multiplies it within and all around us.Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a heartfelt Christmas Eve message exploring how joy - the final theme of the Advent season - lives within each of us and is awakened through wonder, laughter, and surrender. Drawing from a stunning nativity scene at Grace Cathedral, a Sufi saying, and a powerful story about a man who discovers that light resides within him rather than outside, Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that joy comes not from forcing or seeking externally but from becoming receptive and open. She invites the congregation to embrace childlike wonder, make space for fun, and spread joy generously - because sharing it multiplies it within and all around us.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-12-15-december-15-2019-agape-love/26fe2bdd-48a2-41cd-a728-dc55fe32919bSun, 15 Dec 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the concept of agape love - the unconditional, infinite love of the Divine that is always available to us without condition or limit. Drawing on Greek definitions of love, the mystical experiences of St. Teresa of Avila, C.S. Lewis's writings, and the touching story of a woman named Marla who adopted children with profound needs, Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to receive divine love deeply and allow it to cast out fear. She reminds us that healing happens when we touch with love that which was previously touched with fear, transforming our lives from the inside out.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the concept of agape love - the unconditional, infinite love of the Divine that is always available to us without condition or limit. Drawing on Greek definitions of love, the mystical experiences of St. Teresa of Avila, C.S. Lewis's writings, and the touching story of a woman named Marla who adopted children with profound needs, Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to receive divine love deeply and allow it to cast out fear. She reminds us that healing happens when we touch with love that which was previously touched with fear, transforming our lives from the inside out.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-12-08-december-8-2019-peace-rest-here/69d80b86-aed6-4314-97fc-ff1d5d4ec709Sun, 08 Dec 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell invites us into the second week of Advent by exploring peace as a practice of resting in the present moment. Drawing from Mary's inward turning during her pregnancy and Joseph's dream-given clarity, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how stillness opens us to spirit's guidance and life's enchantment. She shares the story of Joshua Bell playing unnoticed in a subway station to reveal how much beauty we miss when rushing through life, and encourages us to find still points in our breath, release multitasking and "no pain, no gain" thinking, and move toward the empty spaces where spirit flows freely.Rev. Kristin Powell invites us into the second week of Advent by exploring peace as a practice of resting in the present moment. Drawing from Mary's inward turning during her pregnancy and Joseph's dream-given clarity, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how stillness opens us to spirit's guidance and life's enchantment. She shares the story of Joshua Bell playing unnoticed in a subway station to reveal how much beauty we miss when rushing through life, and encourages us to find still points in our breath, release multitasking and "no pain, no gain" thinking, and move toward the empty spaces where spirit flows freely.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-12-01-december-1-2019-faith-unblinded/7e0d1b67-8985-425f-b958-0a8687179346Sun, 01 Dec 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the transformative power of humble doubt as a gateway to a deeper, wiser faith - one that moves beyond blind belief into genuine spiritual knowing. Drawing on the story of Casey Gerald's childhood disillusionment, the biblical account of Doubting Thomas, and her own experience in Death Valley, Rev. Kristin Powell illuminates how doubt and belief are twin aspects of faith that work together to awaken us. She invites us to shed our spiritual blinders, trust our inner wisdom, and step into the fullness of a faith that is not merely received but actively lived and shared with the world.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the transformative power of humble doubt as a gateway to a deeper, wiser faith - one that moves beyond blind belief into genuine spiritual knowing. Drawing on the story of Casey Gerald's childhood disillusionment, the biblical account of Doubting Thomas, and her own experience in Death Valley, Rev. Kristin Powell illuminates how doubt and belief are twin aspects of faith that work together to awaken us. She invites us to shed our spiritual blinders, trust our inner wisdom, and step into the fullness of a faith that is not merely received but actively lived and shared with the world.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-11-24-november-24-2019-thanksgiving-gratitude/193f4d13-9760-4ccf-ac7a-5fd4023e4c1bSun, 24 Nov 2019 00:00:00 +0000In this heartfelt Thanksgiving message, Rev. Kristin Powell explores gratitude as the simplest and most powerful fast track to happiness, sharing how shifting our inner stories and looking for the good can raise our energy and transform our experience of life. Rev. Kristin Powell discusses common blocks to expressing gratitude - including vulnerability, the fear of owing others, and resistance to interdependence - while offering practical ways to deepen our practice, from journaling to anonymous giving to expressing appreciation with strangers. With warmth and humor, including a tender story about a foster dog who embodies pure receiving, Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to give thanks as a joyful gift to ourselves and the world.In this heartfelt Thanksgiving message, Rev. Kristin Powell explores gratitude as the simplest and most powerful fast track to happiness, sharing how shifting our inner stories and looking for the good can raise our energy and transform our experience of life. Rev. Kristin Powell discusses common blocks to expressing gratitude - including vulnerability, the fear of owing others, and resistance to interdependence - while offering practical ways to deepen our practice, from journaling to anonymous giving to expressing appreciation with strangers. With warmth and humor, including a tender story about a foster dog who embodies pure receiving, Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to give thanks as a joyful gift to ourselves and the world.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-11-17-november-17-2019-creating-in-depth-spiritual-connection/ce38793b-d825-4cf1-91c4-36c0f154dc3dSun, 17 Nov 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. David McArthur explores the transformative practice of creating conscious spiritual connection by shifting from the brain's default responses of frustration and anxiety into the heart's deeper wisdom. Drawing on real-life stories - including his son Peter's experience supporting his wife through a difficult career decision, and a young mother navigating a challenging co-parenting moment - Rev. David McArthur illustrates how activating the feeling of love through intentional heart-centered breathing connects us to the infinite wisdom of our soul. He invites us all to simply breathe love in every moment, especially the challenging ones, to access the clarity, peace, and oneness that is our true nature.Rev. David McArthur explores the transformative practice of creating conscious spiritual connection by shifting from the brain's default responses of frustration and anxiety into the heart's deeper wisdom. Drawing on real-life stories - including his son Peter's experience supporting his wife through a difficult career decision, and a young mother navigating a challenging co-parenting moment - Rev. David McArthur illustrates how activating the feeling of love through intentional heart-centered breathing connects us to the infinite wisdom of our soul. He invites us all to simply breathe love in every moment, especially the challenging ones, to access the clarity, peace, and oneness that is our true nature.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-11-03-november-3-2019-how-we-meet-adversity/c3c6abd5-daab-4001-b567-68fe574d5a54Sun, 03 Nov 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores how we meet adversity by drawing on the Hawaiian story of a grandmother who discovers her grandson simply needed to be lifted up to see the beauty she was pointing to - a powerful metaphor for shifting our vantage point. She examines common responses to challenge - compliance, striking back, and fleeing - and how each can lead to disconnection and even dehumanization when left unchecked. Using the inspiring example of Harriet Tubman, Rev. Kristin Powell offers three essential steps for navigating adversity: pray first, speak truth freely, and act with courage. She reminds us that adversity is always temporary and that we can choose to be the light that overcomes darkness.Rev. Kristin Powell explores how we meet adversity by drawing on the Hawaiian story of a grandmother who discovers her grandson simply needed to be lifted up to see the beauty she was pointing to - a powerful metaphor for shifting our vantage point. She examines common responses to challenge - compliance, striking back, and fleeing - and how each can lead to disconnection and even dehumanization when left unchecked. Using the inspiring example of Harriet Tubman, Rev. Kristin Powell offers three essential steps for navigating adversity: pray first, speak truth freely, and act with courage. She reminds us that adversity is always temporary and that we can choose to be the light that overcomes darkness.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-10-27-october-27-2019-with-spiritual-community/c972d2a0-f7da-4833-a7b0-5c0ff9665c82Sun, 27 Oct 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the ancient story of the Tower of Babel as a metaphor for what happens when we try to reach the divine through outer means rather than inner connection. Drawing from Charles Fillmore's teachings and Mark Nepo's book "More Together Than Alone," she illuminates how true community is built through bonding before building - connecting heart to heart and spirit to spirit before embarking on shared projects. Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that like birds singing their unique soul songs at dawn, we each have something beautiful to contribute, and our diversity becomes strength when grounded in spiritual connection and conscious oneness.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the ancient story of the Tower of Babel as a metaphor for what happens when we try to reach the divine through outer means rather than inner connection. Drawing from Charles Fillmore's teachings and Mark Nepo's book "More Together Than Alone," she illuminates how true community is built through bonding before building - connecting heart to heart and spirit to spirit before embarking on shared projects. Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that like birds singing their unique soul songs at dawn, we each have something beautiful to contribute, and our diversity becomes strength when grounded in spiritual connection and conscious oneness.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-10-20-october-20-2019-centers-of-light/2fb95df7-4b79-4bb1-aae1-0d96d01e4c1fSun, 20 Oct 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the vital importance of finding and nurturing our "centers of light" - those sacred gathering places where we recharge, connect, and remember who we truly are. Drawing from the wisdom of Mark Nepo's "More Together Than Alone," she reminds us that we are wired for community, much like ancient peoples who gathered around fire for song, ritual, and connection. Rev. Kristin Powell also embraces the wholeness of light and dark, sharing the Haida creation story of Raven helping humans emerge from darkness, teaching us that moving toward - not away from - the dark allows us to bring forth even greater light into the world.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the vital importance of finding and nurturing our "centers of light" - those sacred gathering places where we recharge, connect, and remember who we truly are. Drawing from the wisdom of Mark Nepo's "More Together Than Alone," she reminds us that we are wired for community, much like ancient peoples who gathered around fire for song, ritual, and connection. Rev. Kristin Powell also embraces the wholeness of light and dark, sharing the Haida creation story of Raven helping humans emerge from darkness, teaching us that moving toward - not away from - the dark allows us to bring forth even greater light into the world.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-10-13-october-13-2019-two-tribes-in-islands-of-time/83eb9016-9420-43f0-bc56-fa4a3e0477b1Sun, 13 Oct 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the theme of community through Mark Nepo's book "More Together Than Alone," inviting us to choose the mindset of "you're different - come teach me" rather than separation and fear. Drawing on Unity of Walnut Creek's core values of love, wisdom, connection, and service, she shares stories of hospitality from her travels in India and reflects on how genuine human connection naturally emerges when we trust ourselves and one another. Rev. Kristin Powell encourages us to redefine wealth not by what we accumulate but by what we generously give away, becoming spiritual citizens for the world.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the theme of community through Mark Nepo's book "More Together Than Alone," inviting us to choose the mindset of "you're different - come teach me" rather than separation and fear. Drawing on Unity of Walnut Creek's core values of love, wisdom, connection, and service, she shares stories of hospitality from her travels in India and reflects on how genuine human connection naturally emerges when we trust ourselves and one another. Rev. Kristin Powell encourages us to redefine wealth not by what we accumulate but by what we generously give away, becoming spiritual citizens for the world.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-10-06-october-6-2019-we-are-they/5f1df376-3a5f-44ad-8a4e-a7dcdb80c114Sun, 06 Oct 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the transformative power of recognizing that "we are they" - that the separation we create between ourselves and others is an illusion obscuring our fundamental oneness. Drawing inspiration from Oriah Mountain Dreamer's post-9/11 retreat exercise and the remarkable Pando aspen grove in Utah - 47,000 trees sharing one root system - Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how community thrives when we care for all parts of the whole rather than otherizing those we perceive as different. She invites us to release the myth of the lone wolf, remember each other's divine nature even in difficult moments, and commit to building authentic community rooted in our shared source.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the transformative power of recognizing that "we are they" - that the separation we create between ourselves and others is an illusion obscuring our fundamental oneness. Drawing inspiration from Oriah Mountain Dreamer's post-9/11 retreat exercise and the remarkable Pando aspen grove in Utah - 47,000 trees sharing one root system - Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how community thrives when we care for all parts of the whole rather than otherizing those we perceive as different. She invites us to release the myth of the lone wolf, remember each other's divine nature even in difficult moments, and commit to building authentic community rooted in our shared source.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-09-29-september-29-2019-self-care-for-turbulent-times/e8b7b611-68c2-4f60-809d-fcf9fc9121ffSun, 29 Sep 2019 00:00:00 +0000Karen Drucker delivers a joyful and heartfelt message on self-care for turbulent times, weaving music and storytelling together to remind us that we always have a choice in how we start our day and respond to life's challenges. She encourages the community to practice presence, kindness, and vulnerability - sharing touching stories of simple human connection that reveal how honoring those gentle "God taps" can create profound moments of healing. Karen Drucker affirms that the greatest gift we can offer the world is recognizing our own worthiness and choosing to see and connect with one another, one heart at a time.Karen Drucker delivers a joyful and heartfelt message on self-care for turbulent times, weaving music and storytelling together to remind us that we always have a choice in how we start our day and respond to life's challenges. She encourages the community to practice presence, kindness, and vulnerability - sharing touching stories of simple human connection that reveal how honoring those gentle "God taps" can create profound moments of healing. Karen Drucker affirms that the greatest gift we can offer the world is recognizing our own worthiness and choosing to see and connect with one another, one heart at a time.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-09-22-september-22-2019-a-watering-hole-for-the-spirit/b235b337-2732-4a1c-99cd-77ab7cc8fb05Sun, 22 Sep 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell shares the fascinating story of how she brought the labyrinth to Grace Cathedral in San Francisco and explores why this ancient walking meditation serves as a profound watering hole for the spirit. Drawing from her personal journey through the AIDS crisis, burnout, and a transformative encounter with a taped-floor labyrinth, Rev. Kristin Powell reveals how this 4,000-year-old tool orders chaos, quiets the monkey mind, and mirrors the soul's deepest longings. She invites us to consider that as we move into a new era of divine oneness and connection, the labyrinth intensifies the quantum field where our open hearts become magnets for our next step.Rev. Kristin Powell shares the fascinating story of how she brought the labyrinth to Grace Cathedral in San Francisco and explores why this ancient walking meditation serves as a profound watering hole for the spirit. Drawing from her personal journey through the AIDS crisis, burnout, and a transformative encounter with a taped-floor labyrinth, Rev. Kristin Powell reveals how this 4,000-year-old tool orders chaos, quiets the monkey mind, and mirrors the soul's deepest longings. She invites us to consider that as we move into a new era of divine oneness and connection, the labyrinth intensifies the quantum field where our open hearts become magnets for our next step.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-09-15-september-15-2019-living-abundant-truth/db0ec791-e68f-479f-867d-11b4b270d5e8Sun, 15 Sep 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the fifth Unity principle - living our spiritual truth through action - using the beautiful metaphor of a river flowing with surprise at its own unfolding. Drawing on the poetry of John O'Donohue and the flow research of Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how we move from knowing spiritual principles to embodying them in every thought, word, and deed. She reminds us that true prosperity is not something we have but something we are, expressed through sacred service, spontaneous joy, and creative engagement with life. This inspiring message invites us to live as the river flows - always receiving from Source and giving back in an endless current of abundance.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the fifth Unity principle - living our spiritual truth through action - using the beautiful metaphor of a river flowing with surprise at its own unfolding. Drawing on the poetry of John O'Donohue and the flow research of Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how we move from knowing spiritual principles to embodying them in every thought, word, and deed. She reminds us that true prosperity is not something we have but something we are, expressed through sacred service, spontaneous joy, and creative engagement with life. This inspiring message invites us to live as the river flows - always receiving from Source and giving back in an endless current of abundance.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-09-08-september-8-2019-drawing-from-the-well-of-abundant-good/0c504689-bd13-4c1b-b629-b1c2d8edd4abSun, 08 Sep 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores Unity's fourth principle - prayer and meditation - through the lens of prosperity, using the biblical story of the Samaritan woman at the well to illustrate how we can quench our deepest spiritual thirst. She draws a beautiful parallel between our physical need for water and our soul's longing for connection with the divine, reminding us that everything can become a prayer when approached with mindfulness and intention. Rev. Kristin Powell also shares the inspiring story of tennis champion Bianca Andreescu, whose daily meditation and visualization practice helped manifest her U.S. Open victory, demonstrating that when we consistently visit the well of prayer, abundant good flows forth into every area of our lives.Rev. Kristin Powell explores Unity's fourth principle - prayer and meditation - through the lens of prosperity, using the biblical story of the Samaritan woman at the well to illustrate how we can quench our deepest spiritual thirst. She draws a beautiful parallel between our physical need for water and our soul's longing for connection with the divine, reminding us that everything can become a prayer when approached with mindfulness and intention. Rev. Kristin Powell also shares the inspiring story of tennis champion Bianca Andreescu, whose daily meditation and visualization practice helped manifest her U.S. Open victory, demonstrating that when we consistently visit the well of prayer, abundant good flows forth into every area of our lives.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-09-01-september-1-2019-co-create-positive-flow/b9ac7198-98df-405a-8a79-64e40321d0b2Sun, 01 Sep 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to embrace our identity as co-creators, drawing on Unity's third principle to challenge the scarcity myths that limit our lives - especially the dangerous belief that "that's just the way it is." Through inspiring examples like young climate activist Greta Thunberg and tennis champion Naomi Osaka's gracious sportsmanship, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how we can co-create with intention, inspiration, and kindness. She reminds us that our thoughts are seeds and our feelings water them, encouraging us to dream boldly and step into our divine power to shape a more beautiful world together.Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to embrace our identity as co-creators, drawing on Unity's third principle to challenge the scarcity myths that limit our lives - especially the dangerous belief that "that's just the way it is." Through inspiring examples like young climate activist Greta Thunberg and tennis champion Naomi Osaka's gracious sportsmanship, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how we can co-create with intention, inspiration, and kindness. She reminds us that our thoughts are seeds and our feelings water them, encouraging us to dream boldly and step into our divine power to shape a more beautiful world together.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-08-25-august-25-2019-the-power-of-the-divine/3fd01a68-3283-4bb6-891c-f73a13549979Sun, 25 Aug 2019 00:00:00 +0000Ron Salazar, L.U.T. delivers an inspiring message on the second principle of Unity - our inherent divinity - as part of a five-part series on prosperity through the five principles. Drawing from his personal experiences, including standing before Europe's most powerful waterfall in Iceland, Ron reminds us that the same divine power flowing through nature flows through each of us. He explores Charles Fillmore's powers of power and understanding, emphasizing that true prosperity is not something we chase externally but a natural byproduct of awakening to our divine nature and letting it express freely through us.Ron Salazar, L.U.T. delivers an inspiring message on the second principle of Unity - our inherent divinity - as part of a five-part series on prosperity through the five principles. Drawing from his personal experiences, including standing before Europe's most powerful waterfall in Iceland, Ron reminds us that the same divine power flowing through nature flows through each of us. He explores Charles Fillmore's powers of power and understanding, emphasizing that true prosperity is not something we chase externally but a natural byproduct of awakening to our divine nature and letting it express freely through us.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-08-18-august-18-2019-god-is-my-source/0d2de819-6619-4ba3-9159-cc2d6a46b81bSun, 18 Aug 2019 00:00:00 +0000https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-08-11-august-11-2019-i-love-you/defc2f29-4888-49ef-864e-72276e5266bbSun, 11 Aug 2019 00:00:00 +0000https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-08-04-august-4-2019-thank-you/6d430a26-f783-433d-b002-99826d634d8aSun, 04 Aug 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell continues her series on Self-Identity Ho'oponopono, exploring how the simple phrases - I'm sorry, please forgive me, I love you, thank you - bring us home to the divine within. Carol Kuhn and Brenlee Reida share personal testimonies of how this Native Hawaiian practice has brought them greater calm, better sleep, and a grounded sense of peace in everyday moments. Rev. Kristin Powell emphasizes that by clearing old programs and memories through this practice, we not only heal ourselves but contribute to healing our world, inviting the community to join together in practicing Ho'oponopono as a collective act of love and restoration.Rev. Kristin Powell continues her series on Self-Identity Ho'oponopono, exploring how the simple phrases - I'm sorry, please forgive me, I love you, thank you - bring us home to the divine within. Carol Kuhn and Brenlee Reida share personal testimonies of how this Native Hawaiian practice has brought them greater calm, better sleep, and a grounded sense of peace in everyday moments. Rev. Kristin Powell emphasizes that by clearing old programs and memories through this practice, we not only heal ourselves but contribute to healing our world, inviting the community to join together in practicing Ho'oponopono as a collective act of love and restoration.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-07-28-july-28-2019-i-apologize-please-forgive-me/b08b9d38-8cf9-4c67-b065-ec63e8099d31Sun, 28 Jul 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the transformative Hawaiian practice of Ho'oponopono - using the four simple phrases "I apologize, please forgive me, thank you, I love you" - as a pathway to releasing judgment, healing old wounds, and reconnecting with our divine nature. Through humorous personal stories about swimming laps and crumbs on countertops, she illustrates how we project our subconscious memories onto others and how this practice frees us from self-made prisons. Rev. Kristin Powell also welcomes guest Julie Kohn, who shares her powerful testimony of healing from cancer through Ho'oponopono forgiveness work, reminding us that taking 100% responsibility for what enters our awareness opens the door to profound personal and collective transformation.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the transformative Hawaiian practice of Ho'oponopono - using the four simple phrases "I apologize, please forgive me, thank you, I love you" - as a pathway to releasing judgment, healing old wounds, and reconnecting with our divine nature. Through humorous personal stories about swimming laps and crumbs on countertops, she illustrates how we project our subconscious memories onto others and how this practice frees us from self-made prisons. Rev. Kristin Powell also welcomes guest Julie Kohn, who shares her powerful testimony of healing from cancer through Ho'oponopono forgiveness work, reminding us that taking 100% responsibility for what enters our awareness opens the door to profound personal and collective transformation.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-07-21-july-21-2019-aloha-and-hooponopono/46d97bd0-ab79-462f-bc42-2f0c6fed05fcSun, 21 Jul 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell shares the deep spiritual wisdom of aloha and ho'oponopono following her trip to Hawaii, exploring how aloha means far more than a greeting - it is the breath of life, unconditional love, and a recognition of God within us all. Joined by Elise and Kaleo Ching, who offer a beautiful Hawaiian chant and meditation, Rev. Kristin Powell introduces the modernized self-identity ho'oponopono practice of four simple phrases - I apologize, please forgive me, I love you, thank you - as a powerful tool for cleaning the subconscious mind and taking 100% responsibility for healing ourselves and the world around us.Rev. Kristin Powell shares the deep spiritual wisdom of aloha and ho'oponopono following her trip to Hawaii, exploring how aloha means far more than a greeting - it is the breath of life, unconditional love, and a recognition of God within us all. Joined by Elise and Kaleo Ching, who offer a beautiful Hawaiian chant and meditation, Rev. Kristin Powell introduces the modernized self-identity ho'oponopono practice of four simple phrases - I apologize, please forgive me, I love you, thank you - as a powerful tool for cleaning the subconscious mind and taking 100% responsibility for healing ourselves and the world around us.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-07-14-july-14-2019-the-sacred-and-the-silly/08e6ad17-a28a-49c8-8a16-a4857a27c0b4Sun, 14 Jul 2019 00:00:00 +0000Greg Tamblyn weaves together humor and sacred wisdom in this engaging message about finding joy in the present moment. Drawing from his own experience of deep personal crisis, Greg shares how silliness and laughter became powerful tools for reframing life's challenges and returning to the now. Through original songs, playful audience exercises, and insights from figures like Patch Adams and the mystics, he demonstrates that humor is not the opposite of the sacred but a genuine pathway to it. Greg Tamblyn reminds us that worry pulls us from the present, while childlike playfulness opens the door to the kingdom within - and he closes by guiding the community into a meditative chant experience that bridges the silly and the sacred.Greg Tamblyn weaves together humor and sacred wisdom in this engaging message about finding joy in the present moment. Drawing from his own experience of deep personal crisis, Greg shares how silliness and laughter became powerful tools for reframing life's challenges and returning to the now. Through original songs, playful audience exercises, and insights from figures like Patch Adams and the mystics, he demonstrates that humor is not the opposite of the sacred but a genuine pathway to it. Greg Tamblyn reminds us that worry pulls us from the present, while childlike playfulness opens the door to the kingdom within - and he closes by guiding the community into a meditative chant experience that bridges the silly and the sacred.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-07-07-july-7-2019-the-wow-factor/1b0ec227-082b-4559-ae55-d2e83af03ba5Sun, 07 Jul 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell invites us into the simple yet profound prayer of "wow" - that spontaneous expression of awe and gratitude that connects us to the divine presence in everyday moments. Drawing from Anne Lamott's three essential prayers of "help, thanks, and wow," Rev. Kristin Powell explores how wonder and gratitude naturally intertwine, whether we're marveling at breaching whales, the miracle of our own bodies, or the innocent wisdom of a child pointing us toward a beautiful bug. She reminds us that staying open, paying attention, and expressing our amazement are keys to living in joyful connection with the sacred unfolding of life all around us.Rev. Kristin Powell invites us into the simple yet profound prayer of "wow" - that spontaneous expression of awe and gratitude that connects us to the divine presence in everyday moments. Drawing from Anne Lamott's three essential prayers of "help, thanks, and wow," Rev. Kristin Powell explores how wonder and gratitude naturally intertwine, whether we're marveling at breaching whales, the miracle of our own bodies, or the innocent wisdom of a child pointing us toward a beautiful bug. She reminds us that staying open, paying attention, and expressing our amazement are keys to living in joyful connection with the sacred unfolding of life all around us.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-06-30-june-30-2019-claiming-truth/7b4df968-d582-4ef0-a2b9-f75ca55b5580Sun, 30 Jun 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the transformative power of affirmative prayer - the foundational spiritual practice upon which Unity was built. Drawing from scripture, personal stories, and practical wisdom, she reminds us that affirmative prayer is not about pleading or bargaining with God, but about aligning ourselves with the divine truth already within us. Rev. Kristin Powell shares how she and her partner moved to California on nothing but a prayer and watched their blessings multiply beyond imagination, illustrating how claiming our good in the present tense activates spiritual principle. She invites us to remember our wholeness, speak our word with faith, and watch as life unfolds in ways greater than we could have asked.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the transformative power of affirmative prayer - the foundational spiritual practice upon which Unity was built. Drawing from scripture, personal stories, and practical wisdom, she reminds us that affirmative prayer is not about pleading or bargaining with God, but about aligning ourselves with the divine truth already within us. Rev. Kristin Powell shares how she and her partner moved to California on nothing but a prayer and watched their blessings multiply beyond imagination, illustrating how claiming our good in the present tense activates spiritual principle. She invites us to remember our wholeness, speak our word with faith, and watch as life unfolds in ways greater than we could have asked.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-06-23-june-23-2019-reaching-out-and-giving-over/99e47dda-815e-43a0-99b8-c0ec2265307fSun, 23 Jun 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the transformative power of the simplest prayer - "help" - drawing inspiration from Anne Lamott's three essential prayers: help, thanks, and wow. Through vivid stories from the Unity Convention, including the remarkable journey of Maggie Cook Garcia from orphan to millionaire, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how asking for help opens us to divine connection and strengthens our relationships with one another. She reminds us that answered prayers often arrive in mundane, everyday ways rather than dramatic revelations, and that surrendering - giving over rather than giving up - allows miracles to unfold in our interconnected lives.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the transformative power of the simplest prayer - "help" - drawing inspiration from Anne Lamott's three essential prayers: help, thanks, and wow. Through vivid stories from the Unity Convention, including the remarkable journey of Maggie Cook Garcia from orphan to millionaire, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how asking for help opens us to divine connection and strengthens our relationships with one another. She reminds us that answered prayers often arrive in mundane, everyday ways rather than dramatic revelations, and that surrendering - giving over rather than giving up - allows miracles to unfold in our interconnected lives.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-06-16-june-16-2019-holders-of-sacred-space/d39bdaa2-607c-463d-b7df-005b32f4627aSun, 16 Jun 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a powerful Father's Day message exploring how false definitions of masculinity have harmed men, women, and the planet itself. Drawing from the book Becoming Nicole, the example of Jesus as a whole and balanced being, and her own tender memories of her father's struggle to express emotion, Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to reclaim the sacred masculine - one that is emotionally strong, spiritually surrendered, and unafraid to embrace the divine feminine within. She calls on this community to free themselves from limiting beliefs and become mentors, advocates, and living examples of wholeness for the next generation.Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a powerful Father's Day message exploring how false definitions of masculinity have harmed men, women, and the planet itself. Drawing from the book Becoming Nicole, the example of Jesus as a whole and balanced being, and her own tender memories of her father's struggle to express emotion, Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to reclaim the sacred masculine - one that is emotionally strong, spiritually surrendered, and unafraid to embrace the divine feminine within. She calls on this community to free themselves from limiting beliefs and become mentors, advocates, and living examples of wholeness for the next generation.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-06-09-june-9-2019-solidifying-trust/a48a75a3-c8c5-45f4-b5be-1ee8de0f1cc1Sun, 09 Jun 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the essential elements of solidifying trust through Brene Brown's BRAVING inventory - boundaries, reliability, accountability, vault, integrity, non-judgment, and generosity - weaving each element into our spiritual journey. Using the beautiful story of a calm little girl on a turbulent plane who trusts because the pilot is her father taking her home, Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that when we know who is guiding our lives, we can release fear and anxiety. She invites us to become trustworthy spiritual leaders by aligning our actions with our values, following our inner guidance, and extending generous interpretations to others - all grounded in the knowing that we are always being piloted safely home.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the essential elements of solidifying trust through Brene Brown's BRAVING inventory - boundaries, reliability, accountability, vault, integrity, non-judgment, and generosity - weaving each element into our spiritual journey. Using the beautiful story of a calm little girl on a turbulent plane who trusts because the pilot is her father taking her home, Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that when we know who is guiding our lives, we can release fear and anxiety. She invites us to become trustworthy spiritual leaders by aligning our actions with our values, following our inner guidance, and extending generous interpretations to others - all grounded in the knowing that we are always being piloted safely home.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-06-02-june-2-2019-rumbling-with-vulnerability/7ffd4369-54de-4a59-bb81-467c2f15e87dSun, 02 Jun 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell shares a powerful and personal exploration of vulnerability as a pathway to spiritual growth, drawing from Brene Brown's "Dare to Lead" to debunk six common myths that keep us armored and disconnected. Through stories from her own journey - from a terrifying early career presentation to breaking through a board in her kitchen - Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how embracing vulnerability rather than resisting it opens the door to divine magnificence already within us. She reminds us that courage and vulnerability are inseparable companions, and offers practical tools including prayer, meditation, and creating a "square squad" of trusted supporters to help us lead with open hearts in every area of life.Rev. Kristin Powell shares a powerful and personal exploration of vulnerability as a pathway to spiritual growth, drawing from Brene Brown's "Dare to Lead" to debunk six common myths that keep us armored and disconnected. Through stories from her own journey - from a terrifying early career presentation to breaking through a board in her kitchen - Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how embracing vulnerability rather than resisting it opens the door to divine magnificence already within us. She reminds us that courage and vulnerability are inseparable companions, and offers practical tools including prayer, meditation, and creating a "square squad" of trusted supporters to help us lead with open hearts in every area of life.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-05-26-may-26-2019-youth-of-unity-graduation/886a1e9b-1d7e-4e4e-a2c2-07593053c49aSun, 26 May 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a heartfelt commencement-style address to the Youth of Unity graduates and the entire community, centering her message on three essential truths - love, contribution, and connection. She encourages everyone to stop comparing themselves to others, to tell themselves true stories of courage and beauty, and to follow what makes their hearts sing as a path to purposeful contribution. Drawing on wisdom from Brene Brown and her own spiritual experiences, Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that we don't need to have it all figured out - not quite knowing what we're doing is just about right on the spiritual journey. She closes by celebrating community as a forever touchstone of love and home.Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a heartfelt commencement-style address to the Youth of Unity graduates and the entire community, centering her message on three essential truths - love, contribution, and connection. She encourages everyone to stop comparing themselves to others, to tell themselves true stories of courage and beauty, and to follow what makes their hearts sing as a path to purposeful contribution. Drawing on wisdom from Brene Brown and her own spiritual experiences, Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that we don't need to have it all figured out - not quite knowing what we're doing is just about right on the spiritual journey. She closes by celebrating community as a forever touchstone of love and home.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-05-19-may-19-2019-leaders-turning-generational-pain-into-generational-peace/2681e1ac-0e28-4f4a-a323-a932d3ef78adSun, 19 May 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rita Marie Johnson explores the transformative power of wholehearted leadership, drawing on Brene Brown's research and personal stories to illustrate how courageous leaders see and call forth potential in others rather than leading from armor and hurt. She contrasts armored leadership - marked by shame, blame, and one-way communication - with courageous cultures where tough conversations are welcomed, truth is spoken with kindness, and vulnerability becomes a strength. Rita Marie Johnson reminds us that true leadership is not about titles but about recognizing the divine potential in people and ideas, inviting each of us to lead from heart rather than hurt and to shine our light boldly into the world.Rita Marie Johnson explores the transformative power of wholehearted leadership, drawing on Brene Brown's research and personal stories to illustrate how courageous leaders see and call forth potential in others rather than leading from armor and hurt. She contrasts armored leadership - marked by shame, blame, and one-way communication - with courageous cultures where tough conversations are welcomed, truth is spoken with kindness, and vulnerability becomes a strength. Rita Marie Johnson reminds us that true leadership is not about titles but about recognizing the divine potential in people and ideas, inviting each of us to lead from heart rather than hurt and to shine our light boldly into the world.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-05-12-may-12-2019-mother-of-the-guard-rails/a3cd0a27-8c74-452a-beee-96869b42522cSun, 12 May 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a heartfelt Mother's Day message exploring how divine mother energy can guide our leadership in every area of life. Drawing from Sarah Kay's poem about being "Point B" - a constant place of return and restoration - Rev. Kristin Powell weaves together stories of Mother Mary, Kuan Yin, Amma the hugging saint, and her own mother's patient listening to illustrate the nurturing qualities leaders can embody. She encourages us to provide TLC - teaching by living example, loving unconditionally, and calling forth the best in others - reminding us that true leadership means knowing people by name and helping them discover the potential already within them.Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a heartfelt Mother's Day message exploring how divine mother energy can guide our leadership in every area of life. Drawing from Sarah Kay's poem about being "Point B" - a constant place of return and restoration - Rev. Kristin Powell weaves together stories of Mother Mary, Kuan Yin, Amma the hugging saint, and her own mother's patient listening to illustrate the nurturing qualities leaders can embody. She encourages us to provide TLC - teaching by living example, loving unconditionally, and calling forth the best in others - reminding us that true leadership means knowing people by name and helping them discover the potential already within them.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-04-28-april-28-2019-i-am-the-body-of-earth/1d3e582b-297d-482a-b0a4-bed7b30e10f4Sun, 28 Apr 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell invites us into a profound exploration of the sacred unity between our bodies and the earth, weaving together personal stories from her transformative journey in Africa with reflections on embodied spirituality. Drawing on the Resurrecting the Cosmic Christ series, she illuminates how every act of eating, every encounter with nature, and every moment of presence becomes a communion when we recognize the divine intelligence flowing through all living things. Through stories of interspecies connection and childlike wonder, Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that honoring the body of earth and the body of self is one sacred practice - awakening us to the glory already present in every breath.Rev. Kristin Powell invites us into a profound exploration of the sacred unity between our bodies and the earth, weaving together personal stories from her transformative journey in Africa with reflections on embodied spirituality. Drawing on the Resurrecting the Cosmic Christ series, she illuminates how every act of eating, every encounter with nature, and every moment of presence becomes a communion when we recognize the divine intelligence flowing through all living things. Through stories of interspecies connection and childlike wonder, Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that honoring the body of earth and the body of self is one sacred practice - awakening us to the glory already present in every breath.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-04-21-april-21-2019-i-am-the-open-gateway/4c816c71-0fbe-473b-8a16-e455c9ec6b9bSun, 21 Apr 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a powerful Easter message exploring the unique mystical teaching of resurrection - not as transcendence away from the body, but as full spiritual awakening within our embodied lives. She guides the community through the journey from crucifixion to tomb to resurrection, reminding us that this cycle happens continually in our lives as we are invited through what Jesus called "the narrow gate." Using the story of Temple Grandin and the metaphor of unpacking a camel to pass through the eye of the needle, Rev. Kristin Powell encourages us to release attachments to identity and step boldly into the light, trusting that everything is waiting for us on the other side.Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a powerful Easter message exploring the unique mystical teaching of resurrection - not as transcendence away from the body, but as full spiritual awakening within our embodied lives. She guides the community through the journey from crucifixion to tomb to resurrection, reminding us that this cycle happens continually in our lives as we are invited through what Jesus called "the narrow gate." Using the story of Temple Grandin and the metaphor of unpacking a camel to pass through the eye of the needle, Rev. Kristin Powell encourages us to release attachments to identity and step boldly into the light, trusting that everything is waiting for us on the other side.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-04-14-april-14-2019-i-am-transfigured-and-ready/fcab198b-24ff-407c-b675-eb6707c0fbcbSun, 14 Apr 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the spiritual concept of transfiguration - the process of allowing divine radiance to shine through us - drawing from the story of Jesus on the mountaintop and weaving in personal mystical experiences and wisdom from nature. She reminds us that we are far more than our solid, physical appearances, inviting us to release the ego's need for control and allow a shift from being a "person" to being a "presence." Through the metaphors of the snake shedding its skin and the caterpillar becoming a butterfly, Rev. Kristin Powell encourages us to surrender into the luminous light of the cosmic Christ that lives within each of us, transforming ourselves and our world one radiant face at a time.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the spiritual concept of transfiguration - the process of allowing divine radiance to shine through us - drawing from the story of Jesus on the mountaintop and weaving in personal mystical experiences and wisdom from nature. She reminds us that we are far more than our solid, physical appearances, inviting us to release the ego's need for control and allow a shift from being a "person" to being a "presence." Through the metaphors of the snake shedding its skin and the caterpillar becoming a butterfly, Rev. Kristin Powell encourages us to surrender into the luminous light of the cosmic Christ that lives within each of us, transforming ourselves and our world one radiant face at a time.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-04-07-april-7-2019-here-i-am/9cfd212f-998f-4dc2-9497-f526d2082a0cSun, 07 Apr 2019 00:00:00 +0000https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-03-31-march-31-2019-big-bang-i-am/477b2635-3958-4324-bbed-2b4d0543d425Sun, 31 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell invites us on a breathtaking journey into the cosmos - and into ourselves - as she launches the series "Resurrecting the Cosmic Christ." Drawing on scientific discoveries that 97% of the atoms in our bodies match those found in the stars of our galaxy, she beautifully weaves together indigenous origin stories, scripture, and the teachings of Charles Fillmore to remind us that we are literally made of stardust and divine love. Rev. Kristin Powell encourages us to cultivate spacious practices - leaving behind time pieces and words - to enter the expansive awareness where we remember our true nature as expressions of the cosmic Christ, bound together in wonder and love.Rev. Kristin Powell invites us on a breathtaking journey into the cosmos - and into ourselves - as she launches the series "Resurrecting the Cosmic Christ." Drawing on scientific discoveries that 97% of the atoms in our bodies match those found in the stars of our galaxy, she beautifully weaves together indigenous origin stories, scripture, and the teachings of Charles Fillmore to remind us that we are literally made of stardust and divine love. Rev. Kristin Powell encourages us to cultivate spacious practices - leaving behind time pieces and words - to enter the expansive awareness where we remember our true nature as expressions of the cosmic Christ, bound together in wonder and love.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-03-24-march-24-2019-the-wisdom-of-elders-youth-and-the-future-of-our-planet/1d952183-c291-4599-9e8f-aced7e2cdf3bSun, 24 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0000Matthew Fox delivers a passionate call to action for the healing and protection of Mother Earth, drawing on the wisdom of Thomas Aquinas to illuminate humanity's unique capacity for both creativity and destruction. He shares the story of how a vivid dream led him to co-found the Order of the Sacred Earth - a spiritual, intergenerational community united by a single vow to be the best lover and defender of our planet. Matthew Fox emphasizes that this order transcends religious boundaries, welcoming people of all faiths and none, organized not from the top down but as self-organizing pods rooted in local bioregions. He invites listeners to consider joining this movement as a meaningful way to channel love into action for future generations and all living beings.Matthew Fox delivers a passionate call to action for the healing and protection of Mother Earth, drawing on the wisdom of Thomas Aquinas to illuminate humanity's unique capacity for both creativity and destruction. He shares the story of how a vivid dream led him to co-found the Order of the Sacred Earth - a spiritual, intergenerational community united by a single vow to be the best lover and defender of our planet. Matthew Fox emphasizes that this order transcends religious boundaries, welcoming people of all faiths and none, organized not from the top down but as self-organizing pods rooted in local bioregions. He invites listeners to consider joining this movement as a meaningful way to channel love into action for future generations and all living beings.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-03-17-march-17-2019-from-breaker-to-mender-consciousness/ae6a6b15-b309-4dea-b31d-69b2a9dea311Sun, 17 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell concludes her illumined shadow series by exploring three types of consciousness from Sharif Abdullah's work - keeper, breaker, and mender - inviting us to recognize where we stand at the precipice of transformation. She weaves together the story of Casa de Maria, the biblical tale of Jacob and Esau, and the Israelites' journey to the promised land to illustrate how breaker consciousness must break down so mender consciousness can be born. Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that we are here by divine appointment, called to move beyond division and into compassion, creating a world that works for all.Rev. Kristin Powell concludes her illumined shadow series by exploring three types of consciousness from Sharif Abdullah's work - keeper, breaker, and mender - inviting us to recognize where we stand at the precipice of transformation. She weaves together the story of Casa de Maria, the biblical tale of Jacob and Esau, and the Israelites' journey to the promised land to illustrate how breaker consciousness must break down so mender consciousness can be born. Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that we are here by divine appointment, called to move beyond division and into compassion, creating a world that works for all.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-03-10-march-10-2019-from-other-to-one/c3f187d0-ffe9-406c-9399-23ddfa85f7c2Sun, 10 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a heartfelt message on dissolving the shadow of "other" and returning to the spiritual truth of oneness. Drawing from her experiences in the interfaith movement, her own journey navigating difference in intimate relationships, and the wisdom of inclusivity teacher Dr. Sharif Abdullah, Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to remember what it feels like to be othered - and to let that remembrance fuel compassion rather than division. She offers three transformative practices: befriend what and who we don't know, recognize our privilege, and remember what it feels like to be the other. With vulnerability and humor, Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that we are not just our neighbors' keepers - we are our neighbors.Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a heartfelt message on dissolving the shadow of "other" and returning to the spiritual truth of oneness. Drawing from her experiences in the interfaith movement, her own journey navigating difference in intimate relationships, and the wisdom of inclusivity teacher Dr. Sharif Abdullah, Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to remember what it feels like to be othered - and to let that remembrance fuel compassion rather than division. She offers three transformative practices: befriend what and who we don't know, recognize our privilege, and remember what it feels like to be the other. With vulnerability and humor, Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that we are not just our neighbors' keepers - we are our neighbors.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-03-03-march-3-2019-lack-to-abundance/a4a94b09-abbf-4837-91be-be2cc83bff17Sun, 03 Mar 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to examine the hidden beliefs of lack and limitation that keep us playing small, using the memorable image of fleas trained to stop jumping even after the lid is removed from their jar. Drawing on Lynn Twist's "toxic scarcity myths" - that there's not enough, more is better, and that's just the way it is - Rev. Kristin Powell illuminates how these shadows prevent us from embracing our true magnificence and sufficiency. She offers two practical spiritual tools for shifting from lack to abundance - meditation and tithing - reminding us that when we prioritize our spiritual connection, everything else flows naturally from that grounded place.Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to examine the hidden beliefs of lack and limitation that keep us playing small, using the memorable image of fleas trained to stop jumping even after the lid is removed from their jar. Drawing on Lynn Twist's "toxic scarcity myths" - that there's not enough, more is better, and that's just the way it is - Rev. Kristin Powell illuminates how these shadows prevent us from embracing our true magnificence and sufficiency. She offers two practical spiritual tools for shifting from lack to abundance - meditation and tithing - reminding us that when we prioritize our spiritual connection, everything else flows naturally from that grounded place.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-02-24-february-24-2019-anxiety-to-peace/c937b149-e13f-43b2-a4c7-66a6c77dcc84Sun, 24 Feb 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell opens a new series on shadow work by exploring the shadow of anxiety - a feeling she was surprised to discover in herself during an emotional intelligence practice, and one she recognizes many are experiencing in today's uncertain world. Through the charming story of young Travis conquering his fear to climb a lighthouse and Sharif Abdullah's tale of venturing into unfamiliar Pennsylvania Dutch country, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how naming our anxiety brings it into the light where healing can begin. She shares practical steps for moving from anxiety to peace - breathing, speaking words of truth, trusting our faith, and taking persistent action - reminding us that we are built for triumph and that divine order is always at work.Rev. Kristin Powell opens a new series on shadow work by exploring the shadow of anxiety - a feeling she was surprised to discover in herself during an emotional intelligence practice, and one she recognizes many are experiencing in today's uncertain world. Through the charming story of young Travis conquering his fear to climb a lighthouse and Sharif Abdullah's tale of venturing into unfamiliar Pennsylvania Dutch country, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how naming our anxiety brings it into the light where healing can begin. She shares practical steps for moving from anxiety to peace - breathing, speaking words of truth, trusting our faith, and taking persistent action - reminding us that we are built for triumph and that divine order is always at work.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-02-17-february-17-2019-thriving-through-uncertainty/8105963d-beae-48e4-b711-c822a14bee27Sun, 17 Feb 2019 00:00:00 +0000Tama Kieves shares her powerful journey from Harvard-trained lawyer to bestselling author, illustrating how following an inner voice - even without a clear plan - can lead to extraordinary outcomes we could never orchestrate on our own. Drawing from her personal story of self-publishing a book that eventually landed with a major publisher through an unexpected "fairy godmother," Tama Kieves reminds us that we cannot plan an inspired life but we can receive it moment by moment. She encourages listeners to stop looking at missed opportunities and instead face the stream of abundance that life continually offers, choosing love over fear at every new level of growth.Tama Kieves shares her powerful journey from Harvard-trained lawyer to bestselling author, illustrating how following an inner voice - even without a clear plan - can lead to extraordinary outcomes we could never orchestrate on our own. Drawing from her personal story of self-publishing a book that eventually landed with a major publisher through an unexpected "fairy godmother," Tama Kieves reminds us that we cannot plan an inspired life but we can receive it moment by moment. She encourages listeners to stop looking at missed opportunities and instead face the stream of abundance that life continually offers, choosing love over fear at every new level of growth.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-02-10-february-10-2019-in-the-unstoppable-flow-of-love/57531806-3dfe-4ee7-b663-0767a9d84d82Sun, 10 Feb 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a powerful and heartfelt message about the unstoppable nature of divine love, reminding us that our sole purpose on this earth is to be courageous embodiments of love in every interaction - whether at Safeway, on the road, or with those closest to us. Drawing from the Bhagavad Gita, the story of Dante and Beatrice at Ponte Vecchio, and Martin Luther King Jr.'s wisdom, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how love transcends war, grief, fear, and all the barriers we construct against it. She invites us to stop our "silly antics" of self-protection and instead open the doors of our hearts, trusting that love - like the ocean endlessly kissing the shore - will always replenish itself and heal whatever needs healing.Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a powerful and heartfelt message about the unstoppable nature of divine love, reminding us that our sole purpose on this earth is to be courageous embodiments of love in every interaction - whether at Safeway, on the road, or with those closest to us. Drawing from the Bhagavad Gita, the story of Dante and Beatrice at Ponte Vecchio, and Martin Luther King Jr.'s wisdom, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how love transcends war, grief, fear, and all the barriers we construct against it. She invites us to stop our "silly antics" of self-protection and instead open the doors of our hearts, trusting that love - like the ocean endlessly kissing the shore - will always replenish itself and heal whatever needs healing.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-02-03-february-3-2019-always-do-your-best/990e6d57-f96a-4265-a7a5-ac4055bfa80fSun, 03 Feb 2019 00:00:00 +0000https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-01-27-january-27-2019-dont-make-assumptions/c0408f04-3348-4ddf-87c4-3444a429b053Sun, 27 Jan 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell delivers an engaging and practical exploration of the third agreement from Don Miguel Ruiz's The Four Agreements - don't make assumptions. Drawing on humorous stories and relatable examples, Rev. Kristin Powell illuminates how we create suffering by making things up, believing our fabrications, and operating from untested stories about others and ourselves. She invites the community to seek understanding over being understood, to practice direct communication, and to use tools like Byron Katie's four questions to shine the light of truth on our assumptions. Rev. Kristin Powell encourages listeners to find spiritual partners who can help call each other forward into greater authenticity and connection.Rev. Kristin Powell delivers an engaging and practical exploration of the third agreement from Don Miguel Ruiz's The Four Agreements - don't make assumptions. Drawing on humorous stories and relatable examples, Rev. Kristin Powell illuminates how we create suffering by making things up, believing our fabrications, and operating from untested stories about others and ourselves. She invites the community to seek understanding over being understood, to practice direct communication, and to use tools like Byron Katie's four questions to shine the light of truth on our assumptions. Rev. Kristin Powell encourages listeners to find spiritual partners who can help call each other forward into greater authenticity and connection.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-01-20-january-20-2019-dont-take-anything-personally/a2e287fe-dcbf-409d-9ae4-1b725c3fef4bSun, 20 Jan 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the second of Don Miguel Ruiz's Four Agreements - don't take anything personally - offering practical wisdom for releasing the emotional poison that comes from defining ourselves by others' opinions or our own limiting beliefs. Drawing on the story of Joseph from Hebrew scripture and the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to alchemize difficult experiences by taking them universally rather than personally, trusting that God means it for good. She encourages us to remember that neither blame nor praise defines us, and that our worth is intrinsic to our nature as spiritual beings.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the second of Don Miguel Ruiz's Four Agreements - don't take anything personally - offering practical wisdom for releasing the emotional poison that comes from defining ourselves by others' opinions or our own limiting beliefs. Drawing on the story of Joseph from Hebrew scripture and the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to alchemize difficult experiences by taking them universally rather than personally, trusting that God means it for good. She encourages us to remember that neither blame nor praise defines us, and that our worth is intrinsic to our nature as spiritual beings.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-01-13-january-13-2019-be-impeccable-with-your-word/acaf269c-76c9-4c26-ab5d-4a12584964f6Sun, 13 Jan 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell draws from the ancient Toltec wisdom tradition and Don Miguel Ruiz's beloved book "The Four Agreements" to explore the first agreement - be impeccable with your word. She illuminates how our words carry divine creative power, connecting the concept to the Gospel of John's declaration that "the word was God," and invites us to consider how every word we speak ushers either truth or limitation into the world. Through personal stories and the parable of the sower, Rev. Kristin Powell encourages us to pause, speak from the heart, and break free from old agreements that keep us small.Rev. Kristin Powell draws from the ancient Toltec wisdom tradition and Don Miguel Ruiz's beloved book "The Four Agreements" to explore the first agreement - be impeccable with your word. She illuminates how our words carry divine creative power, connecting the concept to the Gospel of John's declaration that "the word was God," and invites us to consider how every word we speak ushers either truth or limitation into the world. Through personal stories and the parable of the sower, Rev. Kristin Powell encourages us to pause, speak from the heart, and break free from old agreements that keep us small.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2019-01-06-january-6-2019-clear-current-and-confident/fc16c722-c8ce-4815-8231-a23338d06996Sun, 06 Jan 2019 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell guides the congregation through Unity's beloved White Stone Ceremony, a New Year tradition rooted in Revelation 2:17, where each person receives a white stone and a spirit-guided word to serve as their intention for the year ahead. Drawing on the metaphor of an immersive art exhibit activated by personal energy, Rev. Kristin Powell explores how we can point our intention toward what we wish to manifest - whether joy, love, purpose, or freedom - and allow spirit to reveal what is ready to emerge. She encourages listeners to get clear, get current, and step confidently into the fullness of who they came here to be.Rev. Kristin Powell guides the congregation through Unity's beloved White Stone Ceremony, a New Year tradition rooted in Revelation 2:17, where each person receives a white stone and a spirit-guided word to serve as their intention for the year ahead. Drawing on the metaphor of an immersive art exhibit activated by personal energy, Rev. Kristin Powell explores how we can point our intention toward what we wish to manifest - whether joy, love, purpose, or freedom - and allow spirit to reveal what is ready to emerge. She encourages listeners to get clear, get current, and step confidently into the fullness of who they came here to be.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2018-12-30-december-30-2018-the-long-bag-we-drag-letting-go-of-the-unnecessary/56aef3ff-50ce-4a51-8366-f93f4b67f2b1Sun, 30 Dec 2018 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Sheila Gautraux delivers a powerful end-of-year message about releasing the burdens we carry - the "long bag" of old beliefs, unforgiveness, and limiting consciousness that we drag into each new year. Drawing on the biblical metaphor of new wine in old wineskins, Rev. Sheila Gautraux invites us to expand our consciousness so it can hold our greater dreams and possibilities. She offers a practical step-by-step process for reviewing the year, releasing what no longer serves us, practicing deep forgiveness, and creating a bold vision for the future - reminding us that we are made in the image and likeness of God and capable of extraordinary transformation.Rev. Sheila Gautraux delivers a powerful end-of-year message about releasing the burdens we carry - the "long bag" of old beliefs, unforgiveness, and limiting consciousness that we drag into each new year. Drawing on the biblical metaphor of new wine in old wineskins, Rev. Sheila Gautraux invites us to expand our consciousness so it can hold our greater dreams and possibilities. She offers a practical step-by-step process for reviewing the year, releasing what no longer serves us, practicing deep forgiveness, and creating a bold vision for the future - reminding us that we are made in the image and likeness of God and capable of extraordinary transformation.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2018-12-23-december-23-2018-joy-to-the-world/ddb6ca0c-260e-48b5-a0ba-0a472e67bdf7Sun, 23 Dec 2018 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a heartwarming message exploring joy as our natural state of being - not something dependent on circumstances, but a constant taproot of divine essence always available to us. Through delightful stories of children's innocence and presence, she reminds us that we can access joy by lightening up, laughing often, and being fully present to the good that surrounds us. Drawing on the Advent journey through faith, peace, love, and now joy, Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to unbind the limitations of the mind and remember our true Christed nature, allowing the untrimmable light of the world to guide us home to who we really are.Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a heartwarming message exploring joy as our natural state of being - not something dependent on circumstances, but a constant taproot of divine essence always available to us. Through delightful stories of children's innocence and presence, she reminds us that we can access joy by lightening up, laughing often, and being fully present to the good that surrounds us. Drawing on the Advent journey through faith, peace, love, and now joy, Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to unbind the limitations of the mind and remember our true Christed nature, allowing the untrimmable light of the world to guide us home to who we really are.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2018-12-16-december-16-2018-love-is-my-decision/4aba5a7d-da7b-479c-8ffb-3359ce0ef6d6Sun, 16 Dec 2018 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a heartfelt message exploring how love emerges most powerfully during life's most difficult moments, weaving together the story of Bob May - who created Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer out of grief and desperation - with the pivotal decisions made by characters in the Christmas story. She invites us to see ourselves in each character, from Herod's fear-based withholding to Mary's courageous willingness to make space for the divine, reminding us that we always have the choice to open our hearts. Rev. Kristin Powell encourages us to ask "what would love do now?" and to trust that when we say yes to love, healing, creativity, abundance, and liberation naturally follow.Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a heartfelt message exploring how love emerges most powerfully during life's most difficult moments, weaving together the story of Bob May - who created Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer out of grief and desperation - with the pivotal decisions made by characters in the Christmas story. She invites us to see ourselves in each character, from Herod's fear-based withholding to Mary's courageous willingness to make space for the divine, reminding us that we always have the choice to open our hearts. Rev. Kristin Powell encourages us to ask "what would love do now?" and to trust that when we say yes to love, healing, creativity, abundance, and liberation naturally follow.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2018-12-09-december-9-2018-being-the-presence-of-peace/4fd9c488-5143-4c42-9ce3-c60c2e87e1a0Sun, 09 Dec 2018 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell shares the transformative gifts of silence and stillness drawn from her retreat at the New Camaldoli Hermitage in Big Sur, where time spent with monks, hawks, and the vast ocean renewed her spirit. She explores how befriending silence allows us to release tension, return to our true selves, and access the ever-present foundation of peace within. Through the beautiful story of a Japanese tea master who disarmed a mercenary warrior simply by embodying peaceful presence, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates that when we do what we naturally love with ease and skill, we become the living presence of peace in the world.Rev. Kristin Powell shares the transformative gifts of silence and stillness drawn from her retreat at the New Camaldoli Hermitage in Big Sur, where time spent with monks, hawks, and the vast ocean renewed her spirit. She explores how befriending silence allows us to release tension, return to our true selves, and access the ever-present foundation of peace within. Through the beautiful story of a Japanese tea master who disarmed a mercenary warrior simply by embodying peaceful presence, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates that when we do what we naturally love with ease and skill, we become the living presence of peace in the world.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2018-12-02-december-2-2018-faith-opens-a-way/a1d47d65-fdb1-4188-8ea6-df45f1ac388fSun, 02 Dec 2018 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the transformative power of faith in this first Sunday of Advent message, inviting us to pull the thread of divine mystery into our everyday lives. Drawing on the healing journey of Unity co-founder Charles Fillmore and the story of a mother and daughter marveling at the space within solid matter, Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that we are made of spirit and that anything is possible when we align with that truth. She offers practical wisdom for conditioning our minds toward abundance - releasing thoughts of lack and opening the door to the divine presence that is always knocking from within our hearts.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the transformative power of faith in this first Sunday of Advent message, inviting us to pull the thread of divine mystery into our everyday lives. Drawing on the healing journey of Unity co-founder Charles Fillmore and the story of a mother and daughter marveling at the space within solid matter, Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that we are made of spirit and that anything is possible when we align with that truth. She offers practical wisdom for conditioning our minds toward abundance - releasing thoughts of lack and opening the door to the divine presence that is always knocking from within our hearts.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2018-11-25-november-25-2018-a-native-american-thanksgiving/237bfe82-6aeb-4aae-be36-c3dbb98d61d8Sun, 25 Nov 2018 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell welcomes Mark Turtelette, a Menominee, Ojibwe, and Ho-Chunk drummer and singer, back to Unity of Walnut Creek for a special Native American Heritage Month conversation exploring indigenous spirituality, prayer, and storytelling. Mark shares how Native prayer begins with gratitude rather than asking, how the Creator is understood as the great mystery, and how every person is born with all the gifts they need to succeed. Through the legend of Spirit Rock, sacred drumming, and reflections on forgiveness and warrior culture, this heartfelt dialogue reveals beautiful parallels between Native teachings and Unity principles while honoring the richness of indigenous traditions.Rev. Kristin Powell welcomes Mark Turtelette, a Menominee, Ojibwe, and Ho-Chunk drummer and singer, back to Unity of Walnut Creek for a special Native American Heritage Month conversation exploring indigenous spirituality, prayer, and storytelling. Mark shares how Native prayer begins with gratitude rather than asking, how the Creator is understood as the great mystery, and how every person is born with all the gifts they need to succeed. Through the legend of Spirit Rock, sacred drumming, and reflections on forgiveness and warrior culture, this heartfelt dialogue reveals beautiful parallels between Native teachings and Unity principles while honoring the richness of indigenous traditions.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2018-11-18-november-18-2018-grateful-to-be-home/735df5b0-f02c-4eea-9bd4-2d561d9ce651Sun, 18 Nov 2018 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell weaves together the beloved story of The Wizard of Oz with profound spiritual truths in this message about coming home to our authentic selves. She explores how our spiritual journey mirrors Dorothy's path - requiring brave companions, a willingness to walk into the unknown, and the courage to unmask what no longer serves us. Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that the power we seek has been within us all along, and that dropping our pretenses allows our divine capacities to shine forth. She invites us to ask ourselves "Who are you?" with honesty and to gratefully return home to the truth of our being.Rev. Kristin Powell weaves together the beloved story of The Wizard of Oz with profound spiritual truths in this message about coming home to our authentic selves. She explores how our spiritual journey mirrors Dorothy's path - requiring brave companions, a willingness to walk into the unknown, and the courage to unmask what no longer serves us. Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that the power we seek has been within us all along, and that dropping our pretenses allows our divine capacities to shine forth. She invites us to ask ourselves "Who are you?" with honesty and to gratefully return home to the truth of our being.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2018-11-11-november-11-2018-a-renaissance-of-spirit/f60a988f-7b9b-4fff-9c79-a8c8321681b6Sun, 11 Nov 2018 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Sonya Milton draws on Jean Houston's "The Wizard of Us" to explore how Dorothy's hero journey mirrors our own spiritual transformation - from seeing oneness to learning to see from oneness. Weaving together the challenges of our times with Cynthia Bourgeault's concept of "unitive seeing," Rev. Sonya Milton invites us to move beyond fleeting mystical experiences into a permanent shift in perception that becomes our ordinary state of being. She reminds us that meditation and spiritual practice are the treasure and pearl of our time - the yellow brick road leading to a renaissance of spirit where we each become the hero in our own story.Rev. Sonya Milton draws on Jean Houston's "The Wizard of Us" to explore how Dorothy's hero journey mirrors our own spiritual transformation - from seeing oneness to learning to see from oneness. Weaving together the challenges of our times with Cynthia Bourgeault's concept of "unitive seeing," Rev. Sonya Milton invites us to move beyond fleeting mystical experiences into a permanent shift in perception that becomes our ordinary state of being. She reminds us that meditation and spiritual practice are the treasure and pearl of our time - the yellow brick road leading to a renaissance of spirit where we each become the hero in our own story.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2018-10-28-october-28-2018-falling-asleep-and-waking-up/4012974f-9820-4bff-a1c9-b020f581ec94Sun, 28 Oct 2018 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell draws on the beloved story of The Wizard of Oz to illuminate how we fall asleep on our spiritual journeys - lured by seductive "poppies" like consumerism, technology, and numbing habits - especially when we are closest to realizing our dreams. She reminds us that the divine within never sleeps, and that grace, like Glinda's snow, is always available to reawaken us. Through humor, personal story, and the wisdom of Jean Houston's "The Wizard of Us," Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to stay alert, cultivate spiritual companionship, and cross the threshold into the vibrant, inclusive "Emerald City" of our highest consciousness.Rev. Kristin Powell draws on the beloved story of The Wizard of Oz to illuminate how we fall asleep on our spiritual journeys - lured by seductive "poppies" like consumerism, technology, and numbing habits - especially when we are closest to realizing our dreams. She reminds us that the divine within never sleeps, and that grace, like Glinda's snow, is always available to reawaken us. Through humor, personal story, and the wisdom of Jean Houston's "The Wizard of Us," Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to stay alert, cultivate spiritual companionship, and cross the threshold into the vibrant, inclusive "Emerald City" of our highest consciousness.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2018-10-21-october-21-2018-a-lions-courage-to-be-me/c226cf3c-0199-4a1a-8f21-b70171fd002bSun, 21 Oct 2018 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell delivers an inspiring message on spiritual courage through the lens of The Wizard of Oz, exploring how true bravery is not the absence of fear but the willingness to move through it. Drawing from the Latin root of courage - "core," meaning heart - she invites us to recognize that the most courageous acts of our time are not feats of bravado but vulnerable expressions like saying "I love you," asking for help, and showing up authentically. Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that we each signed a soul contract to be here now, and that simply being our fully original selves is the bravest thing we can do.Rev. Kristin Powell delivers an inspiring message on spiritual courage through the lens of The Wizard of Oz, exploring how true bravery is not the absence of fear but the willingness to move through it. Drawing from the Latin root of courage - "core," meaning heart - she invites us to recognize that the most courageous acts of our time are not feats of bravado but vulnerable expressions like saying "I love you," asking for help, and showing up authentically. Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that we each signed a soul contract to be here now, and that simply being our fully original selves is the bravest thing we can do.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2018-10-14-october-14-2018-tapping-my-hearts-capacity/fdf63e45-25e0-415f-9986-3dd8b6c2322fSun, 14 Oct 2018 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell draws on the beloved story of the Tin Man from The Wizard of Oz to explore how we already possess the love we seek - we have simply forgotten or become "rusted" in old patterns that block its flow. She shares personal stories of childhood innocence and intimate connection to illustrate how we can feed our hearts through what she calls "CGE" - childlike innocence, gratitude, and empathy. Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to rediscover the open-hearted wonder of our inner child, speak to ourselves with kindness, and allow divine love to flow freely through us into a world hungry for healing.Rev. Kristin Powell draws on the beloved story of the Tin Man from The Wizard of Oz to explore how we already possess the love we seek - we have simply forgotten or become "rusted" in old patterns that block its flow. She shares personal stories of childhood innocence and intimate connection to illustrate how we can feed our hearts through what she calls "CGE" - childlike innocence, gratitude, and empathy. Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to rediscover the open-hearted wonder of our inner child, speak to ourselves with kindness, and allow divine love to flow freely through us into a world hungry for healing.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2018-10-07-october-7-2018-my-magnificent-mind/4b5741fe-05e6-4a8e-81d9-aa3bcdc427d1Sun, 07 Oct 2018 00:00:00 +0000https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2018-09-30-september-30-2018-answering-the-call/15d43f93-529d-43dc-9137-4c78e56bc66fSun, 30 Sep 2018 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell launches a seven-week fall series based on Jean Houston's "The Wizard of Us," using the beloved Wizard of Oz myth as a map for spiritual self-realization. Through a personal story of walking a labyrinth and suddenly seeing the world shift into breathtaking beauty, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how the realm of spirit is always just a breath away - waiting for us to say yes. She explores why we refuse the soul's call - fear, false ideas about selfishness, comfort with familiar pain - and passionately urges listeners to embrace the technicolor life that emerges when we courageously follow our inner guidance toward transformation.Rev. Kristin Powell launches a seven-week fall series based on Jean Houston's "The Wizard of Us," using the beloved Wizard of Oz myth as a map for spiritual self-realization. Through a personal story of walking a labyrinth and suddenly seeing the world shift into breathtaking beauty, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how the realm of spirit is always just a breath away - waiting for us to say yes. She explores why we refuse the soul's call - fear, false ideas about selfishness, comfort with familiar pain - and passionately urges listeners to embrace the technicolor life that emerges when we courageously follow our inner guidance toward transformation.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2018-09-23-september-23-2018-prayer/0669e69f-5b8a-4b7b-acc5-f9a0bedc87b6Sun, 23 Sep 2018 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the ancient prayer of Jabez - a hidden gem tucked within the genealogies of Chronicles - revealing how this simple yet powerful prayer can transform our understanding of blessing, divine guidance, and our true purpose. She invites us to flip the traditional direction of prayer, imagining Spirit praying through us, calling us to enlarge the territory of the divine on earth by releasing scarcity myths and the ways we keep ourselves small. Through inspiring stories of everyday people choosing integrity and kindness, Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that we are not bringers of pain but bringers of joy - born of original blessing and meant to let Spirit flow freely through our lives.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the ancient prayer of Jabez - a hidden gem tucked within the genealogies of Chronicles - revealing how this simple yet powerful prayer can transform our understanding of blessing, divine guidance, and our true purpose. She invites us to flip the traditional direction of prayer, imagining Spirit praying through us, calling us to enlarge the territory of the divine on earth by releasing scarcity myths and the ways we keep ourselves small. Through inspiring stories of everyday people choosing integrity and kindness, Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that we are not bringers of pain but bringers of joy - born of original blessing and meant to let Spirit flow freely through our lives.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2018-09-16-september-16-2018-ohana-aloha-the-power-of-family-love/5d87d459-81cb-4cbd-b75e-1a68a900b41bSun, 16 Sep 2018 00:00:00 +0000Faith Rivera shares her deeply personal message on "Ohana Aloha" - the power of family love - drawing from her Filipino-Hawaiian upbringing to explore how our closest relationships serve as our greatest spiritual practice. She reveals how a childhood loss created a false belief that success meant losing loved ones, leading to years of stage fright and fear of connection, until an epic breakthrough helped her invite her "power posse" of ancestors and loved ones into every moment. Faith Rivera reminds us that ohana extends beyond blood to include community, nature, and ancestors, challenging us to ask who we are including in our circle of love and to live aloha in our daily lives.Faith Rivera shares her deeply personal message on "Ohana Aloha" - the power of family love - drawing from her Filipino-Hawaiian upbringing to explore how our closest relationships serve as our greatest spiritual practice. She reveals how a childhood loss created a false belief that success meant losing loved ones, leading to years of stage fright and fear of connection, until an epic breakthrough helped her invite her "power posse" of ancestors and loved ones into every moment. Faith Rivera reminds us that ohana extends beyond blood to include community, nature, and ancestors, challenging us to ask who we are including in our circle of love and to live aloha in our daily lives.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2018-09-09-september-9-2018-roots-and-wings-connecting-our-history-future/52aa2a0d-7703-4dfe-be00-e7c7b1a911c9Sun, 09 Sep 2018 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a joyful celebration honoring Unity of Walnut Creek's 70th anniversary and 50 years on their sacred property, weaving together the theme of "roots and wings." Drawing from a powerful spiritual experience among the redwoods and the symbolism of the goat farm that once occupied their land, Rev. Kristin Powell traces the community's rich lineage from founder Marie Giles through beloved ministers who shaped its growth. She reminds the congregation that each person is a spiritual leader, encouraging them to honor their deep roots of connection and healing while spreading their wings into an exciting new era of expansion and awakening.Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a joyful celebration honoring Unity of Walnut Creek's 70th anniversary and 50 years on their sacred property, weaving together the theme of "roots and wings." Drawing from a powerful spiritual experience among the redwoods and the symbolism of the goat farm that once occupied their land, Rev. Kristin Powell traces the community's rich lineage from founder Marie Giles through beloved ministers who shaped its growth. She reminds the congregation that each person is a spiritual leader, encouraging them to honor their deep roots of connection and healing while spreading their wings into an exciting new era of expansion and awakening.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2018-09-02-september-2-2018-going-into-labor-with-joy/a0687d87-d36e-4fa9-b01c-e41e85bf1b42Sun, 02 Sep 2018 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a heartfelt Labor Day message exploring how our deepest callings and creative gifts are sacred channels through which Spirit becomes visible in the world. Drawing on the story of her Aunt Leola baking pies at age 101, the beautiful metaphor of pregnancy and birth, and her own journey of discovering ministry, Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to open ourselves to divine ideas and trust the process of bringing them into form. She reminds us that work is not merely a task but a sacred privilege - a place where our higher self meets the world - and encourages us to create with ease and serve with joy.Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a heartfelt Labor Day message exploring how our deepest callings and creative gifts are sacred channels through which Spirit becomes visible in the world. Drawing on the story of her Aunt Leola baking pies at age 101, the beautiful metaphor of pregnancy and birth, and her own journey of discovering ministry, Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to open ourselves to divine ideas and trust the process of bringing them into form. She reminds us that work is not merely a task but a sacred privilege - a place where our higher self meets the world - and encourages us to create with ease and serve with joy.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2018-08-26-august-26-2018-activating-the-power-of-life/c1691bb3-3a62-4535-8ed0-aaad46c50a29Sun, 26 Aug 2018 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Paul Hasselbeck delivers a dynamic and intellectually rich exploration of Unity's 12 powers, focusing specifically on the power of life. Drawing from his personal journey - from initially disliking the 12 powers to discovering their central importance through archival research of Charles and Myrtle Fillmore's original writings - Rev. Paul Hasselbeck illuminates how these powers are not abstract beliefs but provable principles we use every moment. He invites listeners to move beyond vague spirituality into conscious, practical application of divine principles, emphasizing that we are not passive recipients of God's will but active users of principle itself, capable of making and remaking ourselves through wise and intentional use of the power of life.Rev. Paul Hasselbeck delivers a dynamic and intellectually rich exploration of Unity's 12 powers, focusing specifically on the power of life. Drawing from his personal journey - from initially disliking the 12 powers to discovering their central importance through archival research of Charles and Myrtle Fillmore's original writings - Rev. Paul Hasselbeck illuminates how these powers are not abstract beliefs but provable principles we use every moment. He invites listeners to move beyond vague spirituality into conscious, practical application of divine principles, emphasizing that we are not passive recipients of God's will but active users of principle itself, capable of making and remaking ourselves through wise and intentional use of the power of life.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2018-08-19-august-19-2018-activating-the-power-of-release/9a7033cf-4375-4ea5-9c50-e252b8a79ac6Sun, 19 Aug 2018 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a powerful message on the spiritual power of release, using the biblical story of Lot's wife as a vivid reminder of what happens when we remain preserved in attachment to the past. Through the inspiring story of a woman named Sarah who transformed her life by peeling off old labels of unworthiness, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how renouncing limiting beliefs and saying a strong "no" to what no longer serves us creates space for abundant good to flow. She offers practical tools for letting go - from core beliefs and habits to others' opinions - reminding us that like pulling a stubborn weed, releasing what blocks our light can be deeply satisfying and transformative.Rev. Kristin Powell delivers a powerful message on the spiritual power of release, using the biblical story of Lot's wife as a vivid reminder of what happens when we remain preserved in attachment to the past. Through the inspiring story of a woman named Sarah who transformed her life by peeling off old labels of unworthiness, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates how renouncing limiting beliefs and saying a strong "no" to what no longer serves us creates space for abundant good to flow. She offers practical tools for letting go - from core beliefs and habits to others' opinions - reminding us that like pulling a stubborn weed, releasing what blocks our light can be deeply satisfying and transformative.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2018-08-12-august-12-2018-activating-the-power-of-zeal/f50ca171-9190-47d8-b192-16e8d08bc86cSun, 12 Aug 2018 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the spiritual power of zeal - that deep, sustaining passion and vitality that propels us forward in life. Drawing from Unity's 12 Powers tradition and co-founder Charles Fillmore's declaration that he "sizzled with zeal" at age 94, Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that zeal is not a fleeting burst of excitement but a slow-burning fire fueled by our connection to Spirit. She invites us to discover what makes us come alive, honoring even our divine discontent as a pathway back to passion, and encourages us to take one step toward activating the dreams and desires that light our fire.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the spiritual power of zeal - that deep, sustaining passion and vitality that propels us forward in life. Drawing from Unity's 12 Powers tradition and co-founder Charles Fillmore's declaration that he "sizzled with zeal" at age 94, Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that zeal is not a fleeting burst of excitement but a slow-burning fire fueled by our connection to Spirit. She invites us to discover what makes us come alive, honoring even our divine discontent as a pathway back to passion, and encourages us to take one step toward activating the dreams and desires that light our fire.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2018-08-05-august-5-2018-activating-the-power-of-order/b648059f-6655-47bc-bd8d-edde3c5375cfSun, 05 Aug 2018 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the spiritual power of order as part of the 12 powers series, inviting us to recognize the divine patterning that underlies all of life - from the rhythms of nature to the routines that ground our daily existence. She beautifully illustrates how activating this power requires both surrender and intentional practice, much like learning a dance where we allow the divine to lead while we follow with wisdom and grace. Through vivid stories - from whirling dervishes to neural pathways to her mother dancing with her uncle - Rev. Kristin Powell shows how we can reset old patterns, declutter what no longer serves us, and create new grooves aligned with spirit. This message reminds us that when we rest in the knowing that all is well and partner with the divine, our lives flow with a natural, graceful order.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the spiritual power of order as part of the 12 powers series, inviting us to recognize the divine patterning that underlies all of life - from the rhythms of nature to the routines that ground our daily existence. She beautifully illustrates how activating this power requires both surrender and intentional practice, much like learning a dance where we allow the divine to lead while we follow with wisdom and grace. Through vivid stories - from whirling dervishes to neural pathways to her mother dancing with her uncle - Rev. Kristin Powell shows how we can reset old patterns, declutter what no longer serves us, and create new grooves aligned with spirit. This message reminds us that when we rest in the knowing that all is well and partner with the divine, our lives flow with a natural, graceful order.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2018-07-29-july-29-2018-activating-the-power-of-will/38fbbc59-e99a-4a5b-bd9a-7f9721496994Sun, 29 Jul 2018 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the spiritual power of will as both a deep willingness to surrender to the divine and the willpower to put feet to our prayers. Drawing from Kelly McGonigal's research on willpower, the story of Joseph Goldstein's vulnerable encounter with his Zen master, and her own personal journey of releasing unhealthy habits through meditation, Rev. Kristin Powell illuminates how God's will and our deepest heart's desire are one and the same. She invites us to move beyond self-judgment when we falter, instead dropping into stillness to ask "what serves?" - discovering that when the will is truly ready, the feet are light and action becomes a joy.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the spiritual power of will as both a deep willingness to surrender to the divine and the willpower to put feet to our prayers. Drawing from Kelly McGonigal's research on willpower, the story of Joseph Goldstein's vulnerable encounter with his Zen master, and her own personal journey of releasing unhealthy habits through meditation, Rev. Kristin Powell illuminates how God's will and our deepest heart's desire are one and the same. She invites us to move beyond self-judgment when we falter, instead dropping into stillness to ask "what serves?" - discovering that when the will is truly ready, the feet are light and action becomes a joy.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2018-07-22-july-22-2018-activating-the-power-of-understanding/c51eac35-14ba-42ae-8953-e9035a0f80aeSun, 22 Jul 2018 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the spiritual power of understanding as more than intellectual comprehension - it is a golden gift that dawns through desire, curiosity, and living our deepest questions. Drawing on the stories of Mary of Bethany and Doubting Thomas, she reveals how understanding activates not only in the mind but in the heart and body, inviting us to embody our realizations fully. Rev. Kristin Powell shares her own journey of following a spiritual call and encourages us to hold our questions with open hands, trust the seeking that meets us from within, and allow insight to transform how we walk through the world.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the spiritual power of understanding as more than intellectual comprehension - it is a golden gift that dawns through desire, curiosity, and living our deepest questions. Drawing on the stories of Mary of Bethany and Doubting Thomas, she reveals how understanding activates not only in the mind but in the heart and body, inviting us to embody our realizations fully. Rev. Kristin Powell shares her own journey of following a spiritual call and encourages us to hold our questions with open hands, trust the seeking that meets us from within, and allow insight to transform how we walk through the world.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2018-07-15-july-15-2018-imagine-signed-by-spiritual-hands/83b57dd3-5971-4a56-8f21-d04603248674Sun, 15 Jul 2018 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to activate the power of imagination - the sixth of the twelve spiritual powers - drawing from her transformative backpacking experience in the Trinity Alps to illustrate how we can see beyond physical reality with our spiritual eye. She explores how Jesus taught about the "single eye" that fills the body with light, and how the apostle Paul's dramatic transformation from persecutor to messenger of love demonstrates imagination's power to create instant change. Rev. Kristin Powell guides listeners through a vivid vision of a spiritually awakened world - one without borders, greed, or separation - encouraging us to conceive divine ideas, feel into them fully, and embody them as co-creators with Spirit.Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to activate the power of imagination - the sixth of the twelve spiritual powers - drawing from her transformative backpacking experience in the Trinity Alps to illustrate how we can see beyond physical reality with our spiritual eye. She explores how Jesus taught about the "single eye" that fills the body with light, and how the apostle Paul's dramatic transformation from persecutor to messenger of love demonstrates imagination's power to create instant change. Rev. Kristin Powell guides listeners through a vivid vision of a spiritually awakened world - one without borders, greed, or separation - encouraging us to conceive divine ideas, feel into them fully, and embody them as co-creators with Spirit.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2018-07-08-july-8-2018-activating-the-power-of-power/42861a44-1400-45ee-abab-c1fe54d51a37Sun, 08 Jul 2018 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the fifth power in the 12 Powers series - the power of Power - inviting us to reclaim our spiritual authority and stand in the truth of who we really are. Through the vivid biblical story of the hemorrhaging woman who reached out to touch Jesus, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates that true healing and vitality come not from reaching outward but from igniting the divine Christ within. She reminds us that spiritual power is not about status or control but about aligning our thoughts, feelings, words, and actions in integrity - speaking truth with love and stepping fully into the unique expression we came here to be.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the fifth power in the 12 Powers series - the power of Power - inviting us to reclaim our spiritual authority and stand in the truth of who we really are. Through the vivid biblical story of the hemorrhaging woman who reached out to touch Jesus, Rev. Kristin Powell illustrates that true healing and vitality come not from reaching outward but from igniting the divine Christ within. She reminds us that spiritual power is not about status or control but about aligning our thoughts, feelings, words, and actions in integrity - speaking truth with love and stepping fully into the unique expression we came here to be.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2018-07-01-july-1-2018-activating-the-power-of-love/ccf44486-e6e9-4fbe-b5e4-b286a9b34a6fSun, 01 Jul 2018 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores love as one of the twelve spiritual powers, revealing how it serves as both the binding force that connects all life and the liberating wisdom that sets us free. Drawing on the Eastern teaching that love is a bird with two wings - compassion and wisdom - she illustrates how these qualities work together to create divine love that is both grounded and expansive. Through heartfelt stories, including Maya Angelou's powerful account of her mother seeing her divine potential, Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to liberate love by acknowledging one another, appreciating our differences, and choosing to see the good in all people.Rev. Kristin Powell explores love as one of the twelve spiritual powers, revealing how it serves as both the binding force that connects all life and the liberating wisdom that sets us free. Drawing on the Eastern teaching that love is a bird with two wings - compassion and wisdom - she illustrates how these qualities work together to create divine love that is both grounded and expansive. Through heartfelt stories, including Maya Angelou's powerful account of her mother seeing her divine potential, Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to liberate love by acknowledging one another, appreciating our differences, and choosing to see the good in all people.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2018-06-24-june-24-2018-activating-the-power-of-wisdom/ea767dc7-9b89-4431-969b-00e3e7d7aa73Sun, 24 Jun 2018 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the power of wisdom as one of the twelve spiritual powers, located in the solar plexus, inviting us to trust our innate divine knowing rather than relying solely on mental processes. She shares stories and practical exercises to help us recognize what "yes" and "no" feel like in our bodies, encouraging us to slow down, listen deeply, and follow the guidance of spirit in every decision - from the smallest daily choices to the larger questions of our lives. Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that wisdom is already within us, waiting to be activated through practice, presence, and trust.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the power of wisdom as one of the twelve spiritual powers, located in the solar plexus, inviting us to trust our innate divine knowing rather than relying solely on mental processes. She shares stories and practical exercises to help us recognize what "yes" and "no" feel like in our bodies, encouraging us to slow down, listen deeply, and follow the guidance of spirit in every decision - from the smallest daily choices to the larger questions of our lives. Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that wisdom is already within us, waiting to be activated through practice, presence, and trust.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2018-06-17-june-17-2018-activating-the-power-of-strength/18df9a48-4496-42b7-9f1e-a2a8d8393f3dSun, 17 Jun 2018 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell explores the spiritual power of strength as the second in Unity's twelve powers series, drawing from the story of David and Goliath to illustrate how true strength combines perseverance with flexibility. She teaches that spiritual strength is not rigidity but rather a rooted yet supple quality - like a redwood tree that stands tall while swaying with the wind. Rev. Kristin Powell weaves together examples from Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr., and Pope Francis to show how non-resistant strength creates lasting transformation. She invites listeners to activate this power in their own lives, affirming that we are each strong beyond measure when grounded in faith and open to spirit's movement.Rev. Kristin Powell explores the spiritual power of strength as the second in Unity's twelve powers series, drawing from the story of David and Goliath to illustrate how true strength combines perseverance with flexibility. She teaches that spiritual strength is not rigidity but rather a rooted yet supple quality - like a redwood tree that stands tall while swaying with the wind. Rev. Kristin Powell weaves together examples from Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr., and Pope Francis to show how non-resistant strength creates lasting transformation. She invites listeners to activate this power in their own lives, affirming that we are each strong beyond measure when grounded in faith and open to spirit's movement.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2018-06-10-june-10-2018-activating-the-power-of-faith/c27d0b83-8817-4adf-9e79-0a94510cfec6Sun, 10 Jun 2018 00:00:00 +0000Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to activate the power of faith - not as something we must develop from scratch, but as an innate spiritual capacity waiting to be unveiled. Drawing on Unity's teaching of the 12 powers, she explores how faith, represented by the disciple Peter and the color royal blue, serves as the foundational power that undergirds all others. Through the story of Peter walking on water and Nelson Mandela's extraordinary journey, Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that faith is a deep knowing in the heart - an unshakable conviction that anything is possible when we refuse to look down into doubt and instead keep our eyes lifted toward our divine potential.Rev. Kristin Powell invites us to activate the power of faith - not as something we must develop from scratch, but as an innate spiritual capacity waiting to be unveiled. Drawing on Unity's teaching of the 12 powers, she explores how faith, represented by the disciple Peter and the color royal blue, serves as the foundational power that undergirds all others. Through the story of Peter walking on water and Nelson Mandela's extraordinary journey, Rev. Kristin Powell reminds us that faith is a deep knowing in the heart - an unshakable conviction that anything is possible when we refuse to look down into doubt and instead keep our eyes lifted toward our divine potential.https://messages.unityofwalnutcreek.org/messages/2018-06-03-june-3-2018-finding-the-gift-must-be-present-to-win/5db27fbf-229d-4b59-8749-1c73b045cfcdSun, 03 Jun 2018 00:00:00 +0000Charley Thweatt shares a heartfelt message about discovering the hidden blessings woven throughout our lives - even in circumstances that seem far from gift-like. Drawing from personal stories spanning decades - from a fifth-grade Valentine's card to a canceled concert that led him back to his now-wife, to finding connection with his mother through music during her Alzheimer's journey - Charley Thweatt reminds us that we must be present to recognize life's gifts. He invites us to shift from asking "what's in it for me" to "what's in it from me," returning always to our spiritual core where peace resides beneath every challenge.Charley Thweatt shares a heartfelt message about discovering the hidden blessings woven throughout our lives - even in circumstances that seem far from gift-like. Drawing from personal stories spanning decades - from a fifth-grade Valentine's card to a canceled concert that led him back to his now-wife, to finding connection with his mother through music during her Alzheimer's journey - Charley Thweatt reminds us that we must be present to recognize life's gifts. He invites us to shift from asking "what's in it for me" to "what's in it from me," returning always to our spiritual core where peace resides beneath every challenge.