Growing Unitarian Universalism
Posted by: The following is from a recent press release put out by Reverence John Crestwell, Lead Minister of AWAKE Ministries. He can be reached at jcrestwell@uuannapolis.org.
New Ecumenical/Interfaith Service
“AWAKE” to Launch
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
MIDWEEK WORSHIP IN ANNAPOLIS TO REACH EXCLUDED COMMUNITIES AND THE “NONES”
The Unitarian Universalist Church of Annapolis has created a new, weekly worship service to build a more connected society that transforms lives and begins Tuesday, March 12, 2013 6:30-8:00 p.m. The AWAKE service has been developed primarily for younger families, couples or singles of color and the almost 20% of Americans who currently categorize their religious affiliation as “NONE.” Although these people may not worship or feel engaged at the church where they were raised, they still have a need for community connection and to be affirmed, inspired and grounded so they can reach their full potential.
“This is our faith’s conscious, deliberate and determined effort to attract and support the fast-growing religiously-unaffiliated and people of color communities,” stated John Crestwell, Lead minister of AWAKE Ministries.
AWAKE believes that all humans have a purpose; that we all must manifest our greatness in life. This weekly event will motivate people and help them gain the skills, mindset and support system they need for success in the 21st Century as mothers, fathers, singles, professionals, and as involved members of society. The services will be spirited with music provided by a live band featuring Juan Brown, Sr. The AWAKE Singers, featuring local artist Johnelka Stafford, will sing selections from many music traditions. Healing touch will be available for those in need. Life Coaches will be available to help attendees grow their emotional/social literacy/life skills. The preaching will be simple, practical and emotive. Attendees are encouraged to dress casually in jeans and sneakers.
AWAKE will be led by the Reverend John Crestwell who has been a minister for eight years after receiving his Masters from Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, DC. Rev. John also has an undergraduate degree in Mass Media from Hampton University. He is committed to working to advance the place of underrepresented and marginalized communities.
About the Awake Worhsip Service
The new, AWAKE service is a weekly worship service held on Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Annapolis. It was created to connect people from many religious paths to a modern, spiritual community. Thoughtful and inspirational themes are presented by ministers, life coaches and friends using practical real-life situations and knowledge that affirms, elevates and empowers a person on their spiritual path.
About Awake Ministries
AWAKE is a Unitarian Universalist ministry created to share our faith’s spirit and values with those who have historically been untouched by its powerful and transforming messages of generosity and hope. AWAKE is a ministry of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Annapolis and focuses on reaching out to and partnering with people of color, youth, young adults, and other under-represented, and often marginalized, members of our communities.
The ministry has many components, including:
• Mentoring programs
• Prison ministry
• Spirited weekly worship
• Life coaching
• Digital/social media
About the Unitarian Universalist Church of Annapolis
The Unitarian Universalist Church of Annapolis exists to create the Beloved Community by empowering and inspiring all souls to live bold and compassionate lives. The UUCA celebrates diversity of belief and is guided by seven principles. The congregation is a place to nurture spirits and put faith into action through social justice work in local communities and the wider world. AWAKE Ministries is possible because of the generous support of members, the UU Funding Panel and other individual donors.
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