The First Unitarian Congregation of Ottawa

FirstU recons the cost of war in our Remembrance Day service. Use the 45:40 timestamp in the video description to jump to Rev Lara's Reflection

In this week with Halloween, All Souls' Day, the Dia de los Muertos, a time when, it is said, the veil between the world of the living and the dead is thin let us remember our ancestors, those spirits who loved and laughed and fought, cried and danced and sang and dreamt of a future that is ours to live.​ Use the 46:19 timestamp in the video description to jump to Rev Lara's Reflection

We have heard it said, the only constant is change, and that there is no growth, no moving forward without letting something go and embracing change. What can we hold onto that is solid and true, what can we trust as a constant in our lives when the ground shifts and change happens? Use the 40:16 timestamp in the video description to jump to Rev Lara's Reflection

For what shall we give thanks this day? How might we express our gratitude in authentic, good and impactful ways? This is our 2025 Thanksgiving Service. Use the 43:17 timestamp in the video description to jump direction to Rev Lara's Reflection

When so much is in flux, how do we stay true to our values of love and justice? How can the challenges of this moment become an opportunity for growth and transformation? Rev Lara Cowtan is joined by guest speaker Rev Nicoline Guerrier, as we consider and explore these questions as FirstU begins a new Ministry. Use the 39:14 timestamp in the video description to jump to Rev Nicoline's Reflection

Climate change has an impact on more than our physical world, the impact on our spiritual and emotional health is also very real. Grief, anger and despair can consume our lives, and yet, there is still so much we can to do meet this moment to create a better future for our planet and all of its inhabitants. ​How can we respond to the climate crisis with faith and hope? Use the 32:57 Time Stamp to jump to Reverend Lara's Reflection

The ancient question, “Who am I?” inevitably leads to a deeper one: “Whose am I?” – because there is not identity outside of relationship. You cannot be a person by yourself. At the beginning of this new program year and new ministry, let us explore what Welcoming and Belonging mean to this community. Use the 24:12 Time Stamp to jump to Reverend Lara's Reflection

Our 2025 intergenerational Ingathering service was led by our new Lead Minister, Reverend Lara Cowtan. Join us as we celebrate together with ritual, song, story and fellowship, and a traditional UU Water Ceremony! Use the 43:08 Time Stamp to jump to Reverend Lara's Reflection