Elevator Deathbed Speech

Chuck Freeman's Elevator Deathbed Speech

"An Elevator Deathbed Speech." Say huh? A few weeks ago I delivered a sermon by this title, based on Rev. Bill Sinkford's critique of our Unitarian Universalist Principles and Purposes. Rev. Sinkford is the President of our association of congregations.

Sinkford states that these statements articulate a broad ethic, not a theology. He writes, "they contain no hint of the holy." President Sinkford is encouraging us to develop an "elevator speech." You are on the 6th floor headin' to the lobby. You have 45 seconds to answer a seekers inquiry, "What's a Unitarian Universalist?"

Rev. Sinkford asserts that the P&P's are not adequate for an individual credo. He goes on to raise the question, Would you want them read on your deathbed for solace and comfort? Being all male and all minister, I decided to take the double whammy challenge! Here is what I came up with. Get your stop watch set.

Chuck's Elevator speech:

"Unitarian Universalist's believe that revelation is in the very fabric of reality. We view religions, philosophies, science, and art as a record of humanity's search for purpose and meaning. A universal faith seeks in these sources, the common themes of wisdom, spirit, ethics and beauty as guides for holy living."

Chuck's Deathbed Credo in 7 Principles:

"I believe that the pure water of genius is found deep inside; that the full breath and a sunset makes all things new. I have faith in friends, good food, earthy wine, and full bodied conversation. I believe that passion is the heartbeat of the universe; that musicians and poets are true prophets; that the cackling laughter of The Fool outlasts all tyranny. And, I have faith in a love beyond space and time that never fails."