Jacquie Hochstin presents a sermon by
Rev. Emily Bruce, Minister of First Parish Church UU,
Kingston (MA)
“To Love a Country”
Kris Kines, Worship Leader
Eileen Morrison, Accompanist
Garret Kaplan, Piano, Guest Musician
This Sunday we seek to define the differences between patriotism and nationalism, while some actors in our public square work hard to blur those lines beyond distinction. What does it mean to love this country and what exactly do you love about it? Come explore these questions with us. We will also honor our Veterans for the upcoming Veterans Day holiday.
About our Speaker
Jacquie Hochstin is originally from Massachusetts and moved to Jacksonville 3 years ago to complete a residency in chaplaincy at Baptist Medical Center and is currently a board-certified chaplain. Her other professional careers include nursing and child life. She graduated from Chicago Theological Seminary in 2022 with a master’s in divinity and is currently pursuing study at the Chaplaincy Institute where she will receive her interfaith ordination and certificate in spiritual direction next Fall. She has recently become a member of BBUUC currently serves on the Pastoral Care Team as well as the Worship Team.
About the Sermon Author
A native of New Orleans, Rev. Emily Bruce spent her first career working in the theatre industry in New York. After a move to Rhode Island, she was able to hear the still small voice that was calling her to ministry, specifically in the UU faith tradition. She received her Master of Divinity from Yale Divinity School in 2019, and has been serving the good folks of First Parish in Kingston MA since 2021 as their minister. Emily is passionate about Unitarian Universalism, and believes it has the power to change the world.
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.