A lot of blogging Unitarian Universalists get excited when UU's start talking about theology. Theology is fine, and all, but what would get me excited is to hear UUs talking about more practical things - life, family, work, friends, and the moral and practical issues that go with them.

I don't know about other UU congregations, but I've gone to my church for over a year now, and haven't heard the first thing about what I should do. We hear about the desirability of "community", and even hear a couple of platitudes about how compassion and care are the glue that holds the community together. But, I've never heard our minister talk about how the family fits into the idea of community, or give advice on how to build a stronger one (your pick: family or community - the one reinforces the other, right?) I've never heard sermons directed toward young people on pursuing a career that will not only provide for physical needs, but also give something to the community, and help individuals in their personal growth. I've never heard any words of wisdom to the adult going through a "midlife crisis", about resolving that crisis without it becoming a threat to family, life, or career.

I'm not suggesting that Unitarian ministers should be pushing a particular "version" of morality, or hading out ready-made answers to every moral question. Part of the beauty of the UU church is that the individual conscience gets the final word on every teaching. I don't think we should give that up. But, a shared moral vision is part of what gives us social cohesion, and helps us build a more worth-while community. And, I don't see where that is given the appropriate acknowledgement from our pulpits.

Not being a minister myself, I'm sure I should realize that this is all more easily said than done, especially balancing where it concerns balancing the individual search for truth and meaning. But honestly, there's a need for it. Church can't be just about well-meant platitudes and intellectual discussions. The element of shared values and shared vision should enter in somewhere.