Inspired by Justic GA in Arizona, UUJA annual sermon award theme was based on:

Food for the Journey

Unitarian Universalism and Judaism both have deep traditions of justice seeking as spiritual practice. As congregations throughout our association engage in advocacy and witness around immigration reform and other pressing issues of the day, what contributions might the Jewish voice in our living tradition make to our shared efforts? What resources and lessons can the Jewish experience bring to our quest for beloved community?

The award is named in honor of the late Jerry Davidoff, an early member of this group, who was instrumental in helping lift up the the often overlooked Jewish presence in our religious movement. UUJA offers resources to those interested in Jewish issues, celebrations and heritage, either personally or on behalf of congregations.

Past Jerry Davidoff Sermon Award Winners

Unitarian Universalists for Jewish Awareness is delighted to announce the following winners of its fifth annual Jerry Davidoff Sermon Award, for the best sermon delivered in 2011 which best illustrates or exemplifies the contributions of Jewish theology, thought or culture to our liberal faith tradition:

First Place:  “Sound the Shofar”, by The Rev. Aaron McEmrys, delivered to the Unitarian Society of Santa Barbara, September 19, 2011.

Honorable Mention: “The Unexpected Visitor”, by Kate Landis, ministerial intern at First Parrish in Sherborn, MA on April 17, 2011.

Judges for for the sermon award competition were The Rev. Patricia Guthman Haresch, winner of the 2007 Davidoff award; The Rev. Michelle Buhite, winner of the 2010 Davidoff award; and UUJA board member Myrtle McMahon