June 28, 2026
Kris Kines presents a sermon written by Rev. Tess Baumberger,
First Universalist Church of Essex (MA)
“The Possibility of Paradise”
Elizabeth DeCoux, Worship Leader
Gary Smart, Pianist
Garret Kaplan, Piano, Guest Musician

A message on the faith that human beings can be trusted to flourish in the face of adversity and disaster.

About Our Speaker

Kris Kines has been a member of BBUUC for over 20 years. She’s served on the Board and the Council multiple times and is currently a member of the Nominating Committee, but her passion has always been with the Worship Committee. Usually seen at the pulpit as the Worship Leader, she is expanding her role to deliver Sermons written by UU ministers.

About the Sermon Author

Since her ordination in 2003, Rev. Tess Baumberger has served congregations in New Hampshire and Massachusetts and worked as a chaplain in hospital and hospice settings. She is both “a professional listener” who accompanies people through difficult times and a poet who enjoys creating worship. She likes helping people discover and develop their gifts for leadership to serve the health of the congregation and the cause of justice in the wider community.

About our Guest Musician

Garret Kaplan is an accomplished pianist, composer, and record producer. He is a University of North Florida student studying music technology and has a Conducting Certificate. Garret is a student of Dr. Gary Smart and Dr. Erin Bennett. He is the winner of numerous awards. Most notably, the 2023 UNF Piano Playoff. In his spare time, he enjoys painting, photography, and cooking.