Sunday, January 12, 2025
Service at 10:30 am
Rev. Dr. Doak Mansfield
“What about the UU Principles?
Change is real but it can assault timelessness

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Sunday, January 19, 2025
Service at 10:30 am
Guest Speaker – Mr. Fred Hearns
“1925 and Tampa’s Booker T. Washington School.” 
Fred Hearns, a Bronx native born on November 28, 1948, grew up in Tampa, Florida, where his journey as a leader, historian, and advocate began. A proud graduate of George S. Middleton High School’s Class of 1966, Hearns’ early years in Tampa shaped his lifelong commitment to preserving and sharing Black history. Fred earned a Bachelor of Arts in English/Journalism from the University of South Florida (USF), followed by a Master of Science in Organizational Management and Leadership from Springfield College, and a Master of Arts in Africana Studies from USF. His professional career began in journalism, with positions at the Florida Sentinel Bulletin, St. Petersburg Times, Tampa Tribune, and Ft. Lauderdale Sun Sentinel. He later brought his talents to Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, serving in the Office of Public Contacts.

In 1975, Fred began a distinguished 32-year tenure with the City of Tampa’s Department of Community Affairs, ultimately retiring as the department’s director in 2007. His leadership extended beyond government service as he pioneered and led history bus and walking tours, illuminating Tampa’s historic neighborhoods and landmarks.

Since October 2021, Fred has served as the curator of Black history at the Tampa Bay History Center, where he develops exhibits and programs that spotlight the important narratives of Tampa’s communities. His work spans the History Center, Chinsegut Hill in Brooksville, and Tampa’s Black History Museum at Encore.

Fred is the proud father of four adult children and five grandchildren. Residing in Tampa, Florida, he has remained an unwavering Tampa Bay Buccaneers fan since 1976, embodying the spirit and resilience of the community he calls home.

Sunday, January 26, 2025
Service at 10:30 am
Rev. Dr. Doak Mansfield
“Jolly Roger’s God: Pirate Theology”.
Rev Doak says of this “different” message, “Imagination is the beginning of creativity. The story of Pirates includes centuries long deception of swashbuckling, sometimes charming villains tweaking the nose, committing violence, and sealing the purse from decent law abiding folks. Is there anything good to note about them?” Rev Derail Halcomb will join him in this adventure.

On the last Sunday of the month, following this service: Conversations with The Board. Members of the Board of Trustees will be present for conversation after church today from 11:45 to 12 p.m. The purpose is to open communication and share ideas. Come with questions and ideas but always with an open mind.
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