Author Archives: Lora Brandis

About Lora Brandis

I am a Unitarian Universalist minister, on-call hospital chaplain and INELDA trained death doula. I am also nana/nanny to twins Rose and James - best job I've ever had.

Why I got arrested for standing on the side of love

Posted on August 5, 2014 by Lora Brandis

This past week I was one of 112 faith leaders and immigrant activists arrested at the White House protesting the President’s deportation policies. Many have asked me why I allowed myself to be arrested and why I stand on the … Continue reading →

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Christmas Again (Christmas Eve 2012)

Posted on December 24, 2013 by Lora Brandis

Although the sun has just come out, this dreary day is not completely gone. I unclasp my hands from around my hardened heart, squeezed tight by the news of the day. A suitcase left unpacked, presents hastily purchased; decorations leftover … Continue reading →

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What You See is What You Get

Posted on August 15, 2013 by Lora Brandis

I preached the following sermon this past Sunday (August 11, 2013) at Conejo Valley UU Fellowship, the congregation I serve. American Buddhist Joseph Goldstein tells the story of a friend’s son who was asked by his first grade teacher “What … Continue reading →

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Wisdom and joy can emerge from tragedy

Posted on May 27, 2013 by Lora Brandis

This appeared in the religion section of the Ventura County Star, May 25, 2013. I write a column twice a year as a member of the Conejo Valley Interfaith Association. I went to a movie Monday afternoon and stepped off … Continue reading →

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Trust in that daring that shapes the world

Posted on March 5, 2013 by Lora Brandis

The first time I preached an Easter service I was joined on the chancel by a young man who had recently experienced a life-changing accident. He sat behind me at the aging church’s pipe organ, hidden by the height of … Continue reading →

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Letting Go and Letting Be

Posted on January 16, 2013 by Lora Brandis

During the holidays I visited with a friend who is dying. She has had cancer for the entire time I have known her, almost ten years now. She isn’t in hospice, so you could say that she is not actively … Continue reading →

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