Sabbatical and Pilgrimage: Finding Transformation in Meaningful Journeying | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 031

Unitarian Universalist Sermons and Conversations from First Unitarian Church of Dallas

In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, we're discussing the sacred practice of pilgrimage and its profound spiritual significance. Join us to hear from our senior minister, Rev, Dr. Daniel Kanter, about his upcoming sabbatical—a journey intended for exploration, reflection, and renewal. Revs. Daniel, Beth, and T. J. also discuss the essential Unitarian Universalist spiritual practices we encourage at First Church—daily, weekly, monthly, yearly, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences—and how pilgrimage stands apart as a journey toward transformation. Whether it’s a heritage trip to Boston or a trek across continents, pilgrimages invite us to step away from the ordinary and return forever changed. Curious about how to choose your own pilgrimage or what makes it different from a vacation? Tune in to explore how travel to sacred spaces can deepen your faith and reshape your perspective. 🌱 Enjoy the podcast? Considering a one-time gift to support the staff & resources required to keep it going. 💲 Give through PayPal, Venmo, & Apple Pay here: https://tinyurl.com/firstchurchpaypal ✨ (Member & pledge-holders, please give in Realm.) 00:00 - Welcome to Tiny Pulpit Talks 00:45 - Overview of spiritual practices: daily, weekly, monthly, yearly, and lifetime. 01:14 - What does sabbatical mean for a minister? 02:11 - Rest and renewal: parallels between Sabbath and sabbatical. 02:40 - Daniel’s upcoming sabbatical plans and destination. 03:03 - Exploring indigenous hymns in Northeast India. 03:44 - Preaching in Auckland and learning about Maori spirituality. 04:32 - A reverse pilgrimage: cycling from Naples to London. 06:16 - Faith Forward classes: how to learn more about pilgrimage. First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, working toward a more just and compassionate world in all of what we do. We hope that when you come here your life is made more whole through experiences of love and service, spiritual growth, and an open exploration of the divine. Learn more at New sermon every week. Subscribe here: Follow us on Instagram: Follow us on Facebook: Watch the livestream on Sundays at 9:30am, 11am, & 7pm CST: Give - your support allows us to transform lives and make UU values real in our community and beyond: