Special guest Gregory Akinbiyi, with Esther Charlestin, explored the highs, lows, and everything in between as he remains dedicated to unraveling life’s enigmatic paths. Greg is a Middlebury resident, devoted husband, and caring father deeply committed to both his community and family. With a background as a former minister, Greg’s life has been shaped by … Continue reading Exploring Mystery – Dec. 10, 2023
An inside conversation with the amazing Haitian American artist Sophia Domeville, assisted by Esther Charlestin. We explored her journey, process, practice of gratitude, and a showing of her work. Supported in part through the Vermont Humanities Council for the Arts. A sampling of Ms. Domeville’s work was shown in the Fellowship Hall after the service. … Continue reading The Art of Gratitude – Nov. 19, 2023
ON SITE & ZOOM. Led by Esther Charlestin reflecting on her ties as a Haitian American assisted by Karl Lindholm and accompanied by our ever expanding choir. We remember her wedding a year ago on Sept 24, 2022 at CVUUS featured Haitian food. We share our offering plate with Resource VT which aims to reduce … Continue reading Kiyes Ou Ye: My Love Letter to Haiti – Sept. 17, 2023
As Black History Month comes to a close, Tom Morgan and Esther Charlestin invite the congregation to consider how simple questions can lead to opportunities for generative change. They are preparing us for our Congregational vote after worship on March 5 on a proposed covenant from our CVUUS Board. It is based on language from … Continue reading Questions & Callings – Feb. 26, 2023
In our Sanctuary (no Zoom). Life transitions are inevitable. Choosing who you want to be in the midst of different transitions is what will define you. It is what has defined Esther (Thomas) Charlestin, who led this service. We heard stories and songs about the theme of life transitions and explored the grounds you are … Continue reading The Oak Tree Within
In our Sanctuary (on site only, no Zoom). Led by Esther Charlestin with Joanna Colwell, Justice Elijah (NAACP of Rutland members), and Dr. Francois S. Clemmons. See here for Juneteenth’s history and here for CVUUS’ efforts to address racism. Followed by the option of hiking at Spirit in Nature up in Ripton with Mike Greenwood. … Continue reading Juneteenth
