Universalist National Memorial Church

A liberal Christian church in the heart of the city

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Pastor David Gatton’s Thought for the Week

February 16, 2023 by UNMC Office

Last week we explored loneliness, not only within ourselves but in our nation.  We talked about our Surgeon General, Viteck Murthy, who calls loneliness a national health epidemic, sighting that so many of us have been isolated from covid, but also feel the loss of belonging within a community.  It turns out our individualism may keep us from joining a church or a club or community organization.  Loneliness cannot only eat at our souls, but also our bodies.  The Surgeon General says loneliness can be the equivalent of smoking 15 cigarettes a day.  It turns out the soul and the body are connected!

But within our own community of faith, where all are equal and all unconditionally loved, we can own our loneliness, call it for what it is, and admit that in some form or other “we all experience loneliness.”  It’s not only OK but encouraged that we ask for that hug, or prayer, or being within the thoughts of another.  Equally important, it is important that we be in the “presence” of our community.  We are creatures of flesh and blood and being “with” people strengthens us in ways that we often don’t even recognize.  

In civil society, we can make one mistake—one illegal mistake—and the repercussions can be unforgiving.  But within our sanctuary, we are called as a community to forgive not only seven times, but seven times seventy.  Our UNMC sanctuary is a place for radical grace, and this is its uniqueness.  This is why it is special, rare, and therefore holy.

Whatever you do, be part of a community. 

This Sunday we will explore “The Freedom of Putting Others First”—another radical idea that by the world’s standards makes no sense, until it does.

Have a great week.  

Pastor Dave 

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Our Greetings to You

Welcome to the web site of the Universalist National Memorial Church, “a liberal Christian church in the heart of the city.” We hope to answer your questions, spark your curiosity, and encourage you to visit with us in person.

Location & Worship Services

Universalist National Memorial Church
1810 16th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20009

Phone: (202) 387-3411

E-mail: office@universalist.org

Location: Our church building is at 16th and “S” Streets, NW, where the Washington, DC neigborhoods of Dupont Circle and Logan Circle meet. Sunday worship starts at 11 a.m.

Transportation: S2 and S4 Bus Stop right in front of the church, 0.5 mi from Dupont Circle Metro Station (Red Line) and 0.6 mi from U St Metro Station (Green and Yellow Lines)

Worship With Us!
Sundays at 11:00 a.m.

All Are Welcome At UNMC!

Wedding & Event Rentals

We offer a beautiful place to celebrate your wedding in a sacred atmosphere. Click here to learn more.

CHILDREN’S EDUCATION

At UNMC. we offer Children’s Religious Education with this great curriculum from ProgressiveChristianity.org. The class for kids 6-10 is meeting once a month. Perhaps you know a family who would like to introduce the idea of spiritual life to their children in an inclusive, non-dogmatic way that honors the teachings and path of Jesus? For more information please fill out the form below. … Read More

Our Pastor

Pastor David Gatton has a long affiliation with the Universalist National Memorial Church before assuming his current position in ministry. He was married in the Church, served two five-year stints as Moderator, worked on various committees, and periodically graced the pulpit.

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Mission Statements

To create a loving community
for worship and service
in the spirit of Jesus Christ.

To welcome all
and respect individual beliefs
as we grow together.

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