This is the time we gather together again, after our travels and adventures of the summer. Forces in the larger world pull us apart, focusing on our differences, but Unitarian Universalism brings us together, looking for the common good. One towering figure in the world of music believed so strongly in what draws us together that he studied cultures in Europe that were scorned by the philosophies and practices of Nazis.
Bela Bartok, born in Hungary at the end of the 19th century, established the field of ethnomusicology, linking folk music with forces that draw diverse people together rather than apart. In the United States, musicians such as Pete Seeger spent their entire lives trying to make people familiar with folk music that could strengthen their efforts to bring justice to people without power or influence.
Bela Bartok believed so strongly in this principle that he became a Unitarian in 1926, and his son, Bela Bartok Jr., became the head of the Unitarian Church of Hungary. Norbert Capek, who developed the flower communion service, shared these beliefs as well. One of our own services at this time of year invites people to bring water from wherever they have gone during the summer, and blend all these waters together in a rivulet that celebrates our common life.
“Music of the people” is particularly appropriate at this time of year. We can celebrate the lives of Unitarians such as Bela Bartok, Pete Seeger, Ronnie Gilbert, Ysaye Maria Barnwell, and others who use folk music to bring us together. From Singing the Journey, we might sing the Szekely blessing:
Where there is Faith,
There is Love.
Where there is Love,
There is Peace.
Where there is Peace,
There is Blessing
Where there is blessing,
There is God,
Where there is God,
There is no need.