The First Unitarian Society of Ithaca

Located at the corner of Buffalo and Aurora Streets in Ithaca

Our Mission The First Unitarian Society of Ithaca is a member congregation of the Unitarian Universalist Association and is guided by its Principles. Our mission is to encourage free expression of philosophical, spiritual and religious beliefs, work for social justice, provide religious education, deepen our acceptance of ourselves and others, and unite as a caring community. Our Vision As the Unitarian Universalist presence in Ithaca, we envision ourselves as a vibrant, dynamic community. We cherish fellow seekers, nurture open dialogue and spiritual growth, and inspire action on matters of conscience, serving as a beacon of reason and hope in our interconnected world.

Message from the Minister

Whenever I see a newly-born child, I can’t help but think, “I, too, was once that young.” It’s a thought that recurs again and again for me and each time I am reminded of just what an incredible journey human life is. From the cradle to the grave. How one grows. How one learns. How one is loved and cared for and taught. How challenging life can be. How great a blessing life can be. And how incredibly rich is the experience of it all.

What a privilege to be alive, to be part of the network of so many human communities: to be able to give and receive; to learn and grow; to listen and be listened to, to work and to benefit from the work of others. Human community, where would we be without it?

For friends, for family, for members our congregation and members of all the communities of which we are a part, may we ever be profoundly grateful. And may we be the most loving and caring and helpful people that we can be… together in these communities, for our own good and for the good of all. Amen.

David Grimm

Sunday, February 7, 2010 at 10:30 AM

"In the Beginning, Creativity" -Rev. David E. Grimm

What if the concept of God were reconceived as ‘creativity’ instead of ‘Creator’? A look at Christianity through the theological imagination of retired Harvard theologian Gordon Kaufman.

Special Music by Jayne Demakos

Sunday, February 14, 2010 at 10:30 AM

"Equity, Justice and Compassion" -Rev. David E. Grimm

Another of the seven foundational principles of Unitarian Universalism is to affirm and promote “justice, equity and compassion in human relationships.” What might our lives and our relationships look like if we lived this principle more and more each day?

Special music by Tim Pyper