“Over the Rainbow” Service in Oz Park
Finding Home and Heart in Oz Park: A Unitarian Universalist Reflection
Gathered in the enchanting Oz Park, we explored the timeless themes of The Wizard of Oz through the lens of Unitarian Universalist values, led by Rev. Jason Lydon and Brandon Nicks, Director of Administration. As we walked among the statues of Dorothy, Toto, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion, we reflected on how these beloved characters resonate with our own journeys toward wisdom, love, and belonging.
The Legacy of The Wizard of Oz
The Wizard of Oz is more than just a beloved story; it's a rich tapestry of themes that speak to our Unitarian Universalist principles. This year marks several significant anniversaries: 85 years since the film’s release, 124 years since the book was published, and 20 years of the musical Wicked. These milestones remind us of the enduring legacy of L. Frank Baum’s storytelling and its alignment with our shared commitment to justice, compassion, and community.
Dorothy & Toto: There’s No Place Like Home
Dorothy’s famous mantra, “There’s no place like home,” prompts us to think about the many places we call home. Oz may not be Dorothy’s Kansas, but it becomes a home for her through the community and purpose she finds there. In Unitarian Universalism, we, too, find home in various places—whether it’s our church, our families, our chosen families, or the communities we build. Home is not just a physical place but a spiritual state of belonging, where we can be fully present and connected.
Did you know that in May 2007, "Wonderful Wizards" (and 2U members) Jodi and Chuck Cerny generously donated funds to erect the beloved Dorothy and Toto statue in Oz Park? Their dedication to preserving childhood magic brought a touch of Emerald City charm to our cityscape, enchanting visitors young and old. Their names can be found on the plaque below the statue, honoring their contribution. See Jodi and Chuck pictured here with the Oz statues’ designer, John Kearney at the christening of the Dorothy and Toto statue.
The Scarecrow: Wisdom Beyond Appearances
The Scarecrow, often underestimated for his lack of a brain, actually demonstrates deep wisdom throughout his journey. His story challenges us to look beyond superficial judgments and recognize the inherent worth and dignity in everyone. In a world that often values knowledge over compassion, the Scarecrow reminds us that true wisdom is rooted in kindness, empathy, and collaboration. As a community, we strive to create a space where everyone’s unique gifts are valued, where inclusivity is not just an ideal but a practice.
The Tin Man: The Heart of Our Covenant
The Tin Man’s longing for a heart speaks to the central role of love in our faith. He believes he is incapable of love, yet his actions reveal a deep capacity for it. This character’s journey highlights the importance of balancing intellect and emotion, of recognizing that our humanity is shaped by both our thoughts and our feelings. Love is at the core of our Unitarian Universalist covenant, and it’s through love that we build meaningful connections with one another. We are called to express this love in our relationships, in our communities, and in the ways we work together to create a more just and compassionate world.
The Cowardly Lion: Courage Rooted in Compassion
The Cowardly Lion’s journey is a reminder that courage is not the absence of fear, but the ability to act despite it. How often do we find ourselves in situations where we feel small in the face of injustice, where the challenges before us seem overwhelming? The Lion shows us that true bravery is not about being fearless but about stepping forward with a heart full of compassion and a commitment to doing what is right, even when it’s difficult.
Reflecting on Our Own Journey
As we walked through Oz Park, we were invited to reflect on our own experiences of home, wisdom, and love. Where do we find home? How do we practice love in our daily lives? What can we learn from Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion about our own spiritual journeys? These questions guide us as we continue to explore what it means to be a Unitarian Universalist, grounded in our principles and open to the wisdom that each of us brings to our shared journey.
Join us Over the Rainbow
As we draw inspiration from the characters of The Wizard of Oz and their journeys of home, wisdom, love, and courage, we invite you to continue this exploration at our upcoming Fall Fest, "Over the Rainbow" Silent Auction and Talent Revue. Just as Dorothy and her companions discovered strength and connection along their path, Fall Fest is an opportunity for us to come together as a community, celebrate our shared values, and support the important work we do at Second Unitarian Church. Join us for an evening of joy, creativity, and connection, where we can all contribute to the magic of making our world a more just and loving place.
