Alyssa Halliday presents
a sermon written by
Rev. Laura Horton-Ludwig
Minister, UU Fellowship of Santa Cruz County (CA)
“Neurotheology: This Is Your Brain on Religion”
Elizabeth DeCoux, Worship leader
Gary Smart, Accompanist
Adero Harrison, Vocals
In this season of glowing candles and sacred darkness, and as we explore our monthly theme of Presence, I want to offer a take on [mystical] spirituality that’s based on neuroscience… If a religious experience can be said to have a medical explanation—that is, if we can identify what physically happens in the brain during a mystical experience—does that mean the experience is “all in their head”? Is it “real” in any meaningful way?
About our Speaker
Alyssa Halliday has been attending BBUUC since 2017. After becoming a member in 2018, she has served on various committees, including her favorite Worship Committee. She enjoys leading worship and appreciates the opportunity to share a sermon written by a UU minister.
About the Sermon Author
Rev. Laura Horton-Ludwig currently serves as the minister of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Santa Cruz County in Aptos, CA, after nearly 20 years of serving congregations from Illinois to California to Virginia. As a religious leader, Rev. Laura is passionate about supporting congregations and individuals on their path toward greater wholeness, resilience, and joy. She particularly loves leading worship, teaching spiritual practices, and geeking out over UU history and theology. In addition to her ministry, Laura also has a private practice as a spiritual director, coach, and shamanic practitioner.
About our Musician
Adero Harrison is a singer whose journey began at the age of four in her grandmother’s church. With a degree in Vocal Performance, she has graced stages from local venues to Carnegie Hall, showcasing her talent across genres like opera, jazz, and folk. Offstage, Adero balances her career with the joys and responsibilities of motherhood, raising her spirited 12-year-old daughter and tending to her lively household of pets. Through her music, she aims to evoke emotions and connect with listeners on a deeper level. Adero believes in musical journeys where every note tells a story, and every performance is a heartfelt expression of life’s experiences.