Category Archives: misconduct

Clergy sexual misconduct is a travesty. There’s no question about that. It’s also found in all faiths, including ours. So why is it so poorly addressed by Unitarian Universalists? Why is it allowed to devastate congregations like mine? Why do … Continue reading →

Have you heard of Brazen Careerist: The New Rules for Success? I hadn’t until today. But I just ran across a book review and it mentioned some of Penelope Trunk’s advice: “They say report sexual harassment. I say don’t.” Reading … Continue reading →

The last few weeks I’ve noticed that some of the main triggers for me – things that send me back to the terrible memories associated with filing a complaint of misconduct – are, of all things, hymns. It’s not the … Continue reading →

I think I found two more tools today in my quest for letting go of anger over the injustices of clergy misconduct. The first came over lunch today, with one of the officers of our church. We’re lucky to have … Continue reading →

Lately I keep running into articles and posts about forgiveness. For the most part they have to do with minor grievances and petty annoyances – certainly nothing as serious as abuse. Nevertheless, I’ve found these writings helpful. If nothing else, … Continue reading →

The trees and flowers are starting to recover from a nasty cold snap in our part of the world, and we had a lovely Flower Communion, honoring the difficulties of the past few weeks. To my amazement, the minister in … Continue reading →

Dan Harper recently blogged about conflict and the Alban Institute. (See A Word About Conflict.) This brings up a host of difficult memories for me. Because of the Alban Institute model, back in our worst days my congregation was told … Continue reading →

“Leading a life of spiritual integrity is not easy.” Today’s was one of those sermons that cut to the bone. Perhaps it was because it was based in the Beatitudes. Or perhaps it’s because it was delivered from the heart, … Continue reading →

“We are face to face with our destiny, and we must meet it with a high and resolute courage. For us is the life of action, of strenuous performance of duty; let us live in the harness, striving mightily; let … Continue reading →

For those interested in Buddhism or sexual ethics, this essay by Thich Nhat Hanh is well worth the read. It’s different from what I usually see on the subject. While Thich Nhat Hanh has long been one of my heroes … Continue reading →