“Draw the Circle Wide”

Come and celebrate as we welcome new members into our beloved community. As we draw our circle ever wider let us take time to ask: who else is outside of the circle? How do we draw it wide enough for them? Rev. Aija Simpson preaches, and the choir sings music of Mark Miller and Namoli Brennet.

"Refugees Then and Now"

What does it mean to be a refugee? This is a challenge to our understanding and compassion, besides to our purses. Gisela Roethke is the service leader, and I play music of Béla Bartók.

Court Street Cabaret 2016

Stuart Landon and friends are back, bringing the best of Broadway and beyond. Special guests this year include Alexis Dow Campbell and Kara Miller. I accompany and sing a bit.

Court Street Cabaret 2016

Stuart Landon and friends are back, bringing the best of Broadway and beyond. Special guests this year include Alexis Dow Campbell and Kara Miller. I accompany and sing a bit.

"Wade in the Water"

Come honor Martin Luther King Jr as we struggle to figure out where we find the strength to wade into troubled water. Rev. Aija Simpson preaches, and the Choir sings music of Richard Smallwood and Donald Moore.

"Stuff, Stuff, Stuff"

Do you ever feel oppressed by your stuff? Are your closets overflowing and your dressers running over. Is our relationship with material things healthy? Rev. Aija Simpson, preaching, with worship associate Dick Poland. I play music of Robert Schumann, Claude Debussy, and Ettore Pozzoli.

"Running Wild"

It's Mardi Gras Sunday at UUCV! New Orleans Mardi Gras is unquestionably unique in many ways—but a period of "laissez le bon temps roulez" is an important part of many human cultures. Rev. Aija Simpson preaches, I play the music of Eugenie Rocherolle, and the choir shares an unexpected Cajun mash-up, all assisted by the UUCV band.

"Bring It Here"

We invite you to bring us your joys, your sorrows and the full truths of your life. Rev. Aija Simpson preaches, the choir sings music of Avalon with Marc Renault on bass and Dani Fiore on drums, and I play Broadway favorites of Claude-Michel Schönberg, Jason Robert Brown, and Stephen Schwartz.

Sunday worship with the Unitarian Universalists of the Cumberland Valley.

Sunday worship with the Unitarian Universalists of the Cumberland Valley. Gisela Roethke preaches and the choir sings.

"Hand in Hand"

From the moment we are born to the moment we die we need each other. Even the most self-sufficient among us probably lives in a home that someone else built, eats food that someone else tended, uses goods that someone else made. We cannot escape our connections from each other, what a lonely, hard world it would be if we tried. Rev. Aija Simpson preaching with worship associate Kate Barr. I provide service music, the choir sings, and we are joined by Marc Renault on bass and special guest Renée Bartholomew on drums.

Pippin

I’m musical director and keyboardist for the 2016 spring musical for the Capital Area School for the Arts. Four performances, Mar 18-20.

Pippin

I’m musical director and keyboardist for the 2016 spring musical for the Capital Area School for the Arts. Four performances, Mar 18-20.

Pippin

I’m musical director and keyboardist for the 2016 spring musical for the Capital Area School for the Arts. Four performances, Mar 18-20.

Pippin

I’m musical director and keyboardist for the 2016 spring musical for the Capital Area School for the Arts. Four performances, Mar 18-20.

"Easter Sunday People in a Good Friday World"

We know how the Easter story ends. How do we cling to the hope of resurrection when its coming is less certain? Rev. Aija Simpson preaches, and the choir sings music of Cy Coleman.

"The Waters of Life"

Water is sacred in traditions worldwide, both present and past. Why is this element so powerful? Kate Barr preaches, and I provide service music.

A Gallery Cabaret

A relaxed evening of song from area favorite vocalists in the beautiful Ned Smith Center Gallery.

Glasgow Spring Studio Showcase 2016

My students share their progress in piano, voice, and songwriting at this annual event.

"Soul Siblings"

Some people touch your soul—if you are willing to let them close enough to do so. Are you brave enough to try? Rev. Aija Simpson preaches, and the choir sings music of Mike Strickland.

Sunday worship: “Practice Matters”

What role does "practice" play for our body, our mind, and our spirit? Gisela Rœthke preaches, and the choir sings music of Osibisa.

“Our Favorite Things”: A Special Concert Event

Some of my favorite people… some of our favorite music. Liz Carlson, Sarah Jebian, Jennifer Rodgers, and Wendel Werner asked me to come sing with them. How could I say no? You'll join us, won't you?

Sunday worship: “The State of the Congregation”

Rev. Aija reports on how our congregation has managed over the last twelve months. (Spoiler alert: we're doing pretty awesome.) The choir shares the full version of my popular anthem, “Here Together.”

Sunday worship: “Gratitude”

Come celebrate the amazing work that our RE teachers and committee members have done in holding our program steady through this year of transition. I sing a little Josh Groban, and the choir sings a little Emma’s Revolution.

Sunday worship: “Where I Stand and Learn to Fly”

A personal look by service leader, Julie Ham, at UUCV and her faith journey on the 20th anniversary of her first visit. The choir sings music of Lynn Ahrens & Michael Gore.

Gala180

Open Stage's elegant biennial celebration will return this spring.
Ticket and sponsorship information will be available soon.

Sunday worship: “Beginner’s Mind”

Is there wisdom to be found in not knowing the answer?

Sondheim on Sondheim

I’m musical director and keyboardist for the final production of Open Stage Season 30. Eleven performances, June 10-26.

Sondheim on Sondheim

I’m musical director and keyboardist for the final production of Open Stage Season 30. Eleven performances, June 10-26.

Sondheim on Sondheim

I’m musical director and keyboardist for the final production of Open Stage Season 30. Eleven performances, June 10-26.

Sondheim on Sondheim

I’m musical director and keyboardist for the final production of Open Stage Season 30. Eleven performances, June 10-26.

Sondheim on Sondheim

I’m musical director and keyboardist for the final production of Open Stage Season 30. Eleven performances, June 10-26.

Sondheim on Sondheim

I’m musical director and keyboardist for the final production of Open Stage Season 30. Eleven performances, June 10-26.

Sondheim on Sondheim

I’m musical director and keyboardist for the final production of Open Stage Season 30. Eleven performances, June 10-26.

Sondheim on Sondheim

I’m musical director and keyboardist for the final production of Open Stage Season 30. Eleven performances, June 10-26.

Sondheim on Sondheim

I’m musical director and keyboardist for the final production of Open Stage Season 30. Eleven performances, June 10-26.

Sondheim on Sondheim

I’m musical director and keyboardist for the final production of Open Stage Season 30. Eleven performances, June 10-26.

Sondheim on Sondheim

I’m musical director and keyboardist for the final production of Open Stage Season 30. Eleven performances, June 10-26.

"Words That Unite/Words That Divide: Religion"

One of the joys of belonging to a liberal religious community such as ours is the diversity of faith experiences we find in our co-members. But what do we do when treasured parts of others' faith experiences rub up against raw spots from our own past? Join us for this popular summer sermon series. Dan Cozort preaches, and the choir sings music of Clif Hardin.

"Words That Unite/Words That Divide: God"

One of the joys of belonging to a liberal religious community such as ours is the diversity of faith experiences we find in our co-members. But what do we do when treasured parts of others' faith experiences rub up against raw spots from our own past? Join us for this popular summer sermon series. Rev. Aija Simpson preaches, and I sing—Andy Partridge and Nichole Nordeman are on the docket.

"Words That Unite/Words That Divide: Tithe"

One of the joys of belonging to a liberal religious community such as ours is the diversity of faith experiences we find in our co-members. But what do we do when treasured parts of others' faith experiences rub up against raw spots from our own past? Join us for this popular summer sermon series. Rev. Aija Simpson preaches, and the choir provides special music.

Musical Theatre Workshop: "From the Page to the Stage"

The culmination of our annual three-week intensive program for 12-18-year-olds; this year we focus on musicals based on books. I serve as musical director for the program and accompany the performances with piano and usually a touch of bemusement. Two identical performances, 6:30 and 8 PM.

Musical Theatre Workshop: "From the Page to the Stage"

The culmination of our annual three-week intensive program for 12-18-year-olds; this year we focus on musicals based on books. I serve as musical director for the program and accompany the performances with piano and usually a touch of bemusement. Two identical performances, 6:30 and 8 PM.

"Words That Unite/Words That Divide: Doctrine"

Nobody wants to be "indoctrinated." But the root of the word is the same as that of "doctor"; "doctrine" at its core simply means "teaching"—and we certainly do a lot of that as UUs! Rev. Aija Simpson preaches, and I share piano music of Mozart.

"Words That Unite/Words That Divide: Evangelize"

What's the "good news" of your personal spirituality? How do you share that good news with others? How might you, and what would it take? Rev. Aija Simpson preaches, and I share service music of the celebratory sort.

Small Group Ministry Sunday

The Small Group Ministry program at UUCV is a popular source of accountability, fellowship, and growth. Rich Bronakoski leads worship today, and I provide service music.

"Words That Unite/Words That Divide: Sin"

Contemporary liberals don't often give much stock to theologies of "original sin." But don't we still feel responsible for the "sins of our parents" in matters of social justice? Rev. Aija Simpson preaches, and I share service music with a New Orleans feel.

Ingathering Sunday

Though we don't close our doors for the summer as our UU forebears did, we still celebrate a "homecoming" of sorts each fall. What gifts and promises will you bring with you to our next 12 months together as a community? I provide service music from our UUCV community history, and the choir sings music of Andrew Backus and Angela Salvaggione.

“Principled”

We covenant to affirm and promote the principles of our faith. What does it mean to be a principled, rather than a faith based, people? Rev. Aija Simpson preaches, Pat Spader offers prelude, and music director David M. Glasgow sings a Dennis DeYoung piece wondering what it's all about.

“Hey, Who Made This Decision?”

The principles that we affirm and promote were not handed down by God but negotiated by men. Who decided on the deciders? Rev. Aija Simpson preaches, music director David M. Glasgow provides service music, and the choir sings mildly irreverent (but highly truthful) music of the 1980's.

“Dignity”

We affirm and promote the inherent dignity and worth of every person. That sounds great but what, exactly, does it mean. And how to we gauge dignity? Rev. Aija Simpson preaches, Music director David M. Glasgow shares music of Bob Dylan and others, and we're joined by special guest vocalist Sharia Benn who shares music from the Broadway Musical THE COLOR PURPLE.

Music Sunday 2016: “Silence (and Other Figments of Our Imagination)”

It may seem paradoxical for us to focus on silence at our annual Music Sunday service. On the other hand, where else is a musician to begin, but silence? And what do we do when we can't find any?

Once a year or so, Rev. Aija lets David take the reins (and the pulpit!) for a worship experience that is all about music—except when it isn't. This year David will be talking about silence as an essential part of music-making and of social justice work, with help from the UUCV Choir and Band, and a special guest or two. Join us for a service on "Silence" that promises to be much louder than one might expect!

Rev. Bob MacDicken preaches, and David provides service music.

"Stump the Minister"

Got a burning theological question? Wondering why we do certain things in the service? Curious about the inner workings of the church? Come ask the minister and find out! (David is taking musical requests too—kinda. See the UUCV website for details.)

Run With It 25 1/2 Anniversary Show

Enjoy Dickinson’s student improv group as they welcome alumni members (including yours truly) and celebrate the 25-½-year anniversary of Run With It!

Ned Smith Center Feather & Brush Gala

The Feather & Brush Gala is one of the Center’s premiere fundraising events. This great evening features an elegant cocktail buffet, live and silent auctions, an informative and entertaining program, musical entertainment and so much more! For more information on the gala or to register, contact the Center at 717-692-3699.

"Love Wins"

The 2016 political climate has felt unprecedented for many—even psychiatric professionals are reporting unusual levels of anxiety in their patients, focused on the possible outcomes of Tuesday's election. Music director David M. Glasgow, the UUCV Choir, and a few special guests share hope and perspective through selections made famous by Lin-Manuel Miranda, John Legend, the Wailin' Jennys, and more.

In the Same Room: A Time of Meditation and Unity

The 2016 election season has left many of us feeling raw, wounded, and even afraid. How can we honor and love the inherent worth and dignity of all souls, after a year that has focused so often on criticism and negativity? Come sit together in quiet with Rev. Aija, music director David, and others from our UUCV family tonight at 7 PM, as we meditate on our UU values, hold one another in love, and continue our visioning for a united world.

"Compassion? Equity? Justice? In this Election?"

Worship associate Dick Poland leads the service. I provide service music.

"We Offer Thanks"

We offer thanks for the gifts we have been given. To what and to whom do those gifts behold us? On this Sunday before Thanksgiving, we consider for what, and to whom, we might feel gratitude. Rev. Aija Simpson preaches, the choir sings music of Stephen Schwartz, pianist Pat Spader offers a prelude, and music director David M. Glasgow provides service music.

"St. Niklas: A Generous Spirit"

Worship associate Gisela Rœthke preaches, the choir sings music of Ziggy Marley, and I provide service music.

"Faith's Power"

Worship associate Julie Ham preaches, Pat Spader provides prelude, and I provide Chanukah music from throughout the years, including a special vocal piece written by UUCV's own Julie Ham and Dan Bechtel.

"Follow the Light"

Christmas Eve at UUCV means stories and carols, as we look at the biblical tale of a baby in a manger with the lenses of contemporary liberal religion. The Family Choir returns this year, and I'm joined by some special friends in providing other music for the evening.