AI (as large language models) is becoming increasingly woven into our daily lives. Our thoughts, longings, and our ways of making meaning are changing, with new questions arising around what it means to be human and to engage in “spiritual” matters. What trends are surfacing as our tools can seem to listen better than friends, comfort us, or provide us with both a sense of security and a sense of wonder? We’ll explore how generative AI’s unique and complex ways of reflecting back to us invite new takes on old desires for meaning, certainty, and purpose. About our Speaker: Mari Budlong is a mother of four, sister to four, a veteran, coach, and multi-faceted human who believes our humanity is worth tending as we grow alongside our quickly evolving technology. With a deep concern for the relational and ecological impacts of our choices — digital and otherwise — she brings heart, humor, and wonder to conversations where bot meets soul.

Many of us have chosen to remain guided by what had until recently been the Seven Principles and Six Sources of UUism. The first of those Sources speaks of “that transcending mystery and wonder […] which moves us to a renewal of the spirit.” In this service Rev. Shear explores what those words might mean for us in responding to troubling times such as these. Perhaps a renewal of the spirit is just what the doctor ordered!

This moving video of the 2025 Holiday Reflections of the Season features greetings, best wishes, poems and readings from NAUA leaders across the continent.

Not be missed!!