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The Ethical Culture Society

687 Larch Avenue
201-836-5187

The Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County is a religious, progressive and humanistic community. While most religions are concerned with ethics, only Ethical Culture puts ethics and human flourishing at the center of the search for a meaningful life. Ethical Culture is also a unique religion in that it is non-theistic. We deal with all aspects of human behavior, the physical world and even spirituality without addressing a reality outside of nature. In fact some members consider it a philosophy. The philosophy is fluid and growing, but it is rooted on the simple principle that for the world to become a better place, we must all bring out the best in ourselves and each other. To that end, we put deed before creed and acknowledge the basic worth of every human being.

Recent News

Looking Forward: Society and Community

As our Society undergoes change, it will thrive to the extent we recognize the mutual enrichment provided by our Society and the wider community, says President Eric Sandhusen in this column.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen…

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What Decisions Can We Make in the Face of Atrocities?

How do we discern an ethical path in the face of horrifying violence and suffering, when the idea of standing by feels unethical? Society Leader Curt Collier provides answers in this column.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen…

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Introducing Nadège and Michel Stretz

Our newest members are looking for opportunities to meet people who think critically and have wide interests.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Help Guide the Future of the Hackensack River and Other Community Waterways

Planners at the New York-New Jersey Harbor and Estuary Program invite you to provide input as they build a blueprint for the future of our community waterways.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Give Children Many Opportunities to Practice Ethical Behavior

The environments we cultivate for our children play a crucial role in their ability to make good, ethical decisions, says Leader Curt Collier in this column.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Bob and Edy Levine Buried with Full Military Honors

The remains of two longtime members of our Society, Bob and Edith Levine, were interred at National Cemetery with full military honors, capping an extraordinary story of courage and compassion rooted in World War II.Read More Read more at Ethical…

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Many Ways to Celebrate at Spring Art Show and Festival

We welcomed spring with an art show featuring more than 50 works by members and friends, followed by a Spring Arts Festival with singing, dancing, poetry, and a handmade garden!Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A…

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Life is Too Important to be Entrusted to Nationalists, Chauvinists, Bigots, and Racists

Choosing to confront potential disapproval in order to embrace our authenticity can be a life-affirming decision for ourselves and for others, says Leader Curt Collier. Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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On Presidents Day Weekend, Visiting Monuments to Democracy

This Presidents Day weekend, our Family & Friends Circle traveled to Washington, DC, to see some of the iconic monuments to people and principles at the heart of our democracy.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County,…

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Two Students–One Muslim, One Jewish–Emphasize Importance of In-Person Dialogue on Israel, Gaza

Teens who organized conversations to 'really understand the other perspective' are interviewed by member Lisa Schwartz.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Youth Mental Health Training Attracts Many Participants

Our recent Youth Mental Health workshops drew 34 participants, including Teaneck officials, school board representatives, and others. More workshops will be planned.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Celebrate the Art of Spring!

Every year we celebrate the return of spring. It’s a time of joy and beauty, energy and creation. This year on March 16-17, our Spring Festival will be a celebration […] Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Requirements for Submitting Artwork for Spring Arts Festival

Who is eligible This show is open to all members of the Bergen Ethical Culture Society and the Society’s Sunday School students, as well as Teaneck High School students by […] Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A…

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Awash in Gratitude

Society President Eric Sandhusen, in his latest column, is grateful that 'we continue to be an assembly of people who care enough, and give enough' to move our Society forward.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen…

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Bring Your Appetite for Ideas to our Soup Symposium

In a six-week Soup Symposium, Leader Curt Collier invites you to discuss the world of ideas conveyed through art and science.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Through Art and Science, Seeking Common Ground

Both art and science search for the universal feelings rooted in human experience, says Leader Curt Collier in this column.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Celebrate Darwin Day–and Evolution–With Us!

We're celebrating Charles Darwin's revolutionary Theory of Evolution with artwork, games, readings, and a Phylum Sustainability Café. Join us!Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Thank You to a Community That Feels Like Home

Because of the commitment and vitality of our members, we can look forward in 2024 to building on our success, says Leader Curt Collier in this column.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Looking Forward: Do You Believe in Magic?

We don't have to believe in magic to experience it–especially lately at our Society, says President Eric Sandhusen in his latest column.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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You’re Invited: Humanist for the Holidays

We'd love to welcome you to our three-week Humanist for the Holidays celebration, starting with the Winter Festival–Light of Peace on Dec. 16 and ending with our Do Tell! Diner on Dec. 31.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of…

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Join our Celebration of Human Rights

On the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, join us in celebrating all the peoples and nations who aspire to greater protections. Reaffirm with us our commitment […] Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen…

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Our Research Highlights the Need to Connect Local Residents and Public Spaces

Our recently completed "Through These Gates" project highlights the need for community groups such as ours to help build connections between area residents and public places.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County,…

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We Must Continue to Work Toward the Conditions of Peace

This holiday season the Society continues to focus on understanding the conditions of peace and how to work toward them, says Leader Curt Collier in this column. Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Let’s Join Forces Against Disinformation

You're invited to join Leader Curt Collier for an important talk and three hands-on workshops as our Society establishes a new team to tackle disinformation.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Join Our Grant-Writing Pool to Learn and Collaborate

Our Society is forming a grant-writing pool to fund ethical projects and to raise the capacity of Ethical Culture organizations and like-minded partners to impact our world.Read More and Register Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen…

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As I See It: Justice and Redress are Essential to Human Dignity

As advocates for human dignity everywhere, our cause is to improve and empower the structures that might at long last hold people proportionately and personally accountable for violence in all its forms, says Society President Eric Sandhusen.Read…

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Our Lives Should be Like Modern Dance

Life, like modern dance, can be a whirl of movement, but it should be purposeful enough to generate something virtuous and transformative, says Leader Curt Collier.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Calling All Families to our Fall Festival!

What better way to celebrate the fall season than with arts, crafts, fun games, a romp in the bounce house, and so much more! We're inviting the community to our large lawn on Oct. 29 for our biggest Fall Festival yet.Read More Read more at…

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We Grow and Flourish When We Help Others Do the Same

We can build a life for ourselves in a way that allows others to do the same. In fact, our success is dependent on such reciprocity, says Leader Curt Collier in his latest column.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ:…

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Members, Friends Join March to End Fossil Fuels

Society members and friends joined a reported 75,000 marchers representing over 200 organizations at Sunday's March to End Fossil Fuels, sponsored by Food and Water Watch, in New York City.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of…

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A Sleepover Under Stars and Amid Bright Lights

A sleepover on the roof of the New York Society for Ethical Culture was a unique opportunity for 10 children and 10 adults from our Society. They played games, took in the urban landscape, and celebrated community.Read More Read more at Ethical…

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Looking Forward: Our New Season Holds Lots of Promise

As full and fun as our summer was, the upcoming year promises even more, says Society President Eric Sandhusen, as we shift to bring more music, art, and poetry into our Sunday experience, and to increase community-building and connection.Read More…

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Social Action Team Offers Opportunities to Put Deed Before Creed

Our Social Action Committee, chaired by Lisa Schwartz, has plans for our Society to make a difference in the arenas of democracy, climate change, and immigration, as well as with our neighbors here in North Jersey.Read More Read more at Ethical…

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As We Help Commemorate the 1963 March on Washington, We Continue to Work for Racial Justice

At the commemoration of the 1963 March on Washington, Society President Eric Sandhusen emphasized the Society's commitment to racial justice. Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Looking Forward: Report from the AEU Assembly

By Eric Sandhusen The delegates to the 108th Annual Assembly of the American Ethical Union (AEU) convened virtually last week to elect officers and plot a future for the organization, […] Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County,…

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Linger Over the Memories That Lift You Up

"Some memories come covered with falling snow, while other memories are tinted in orange and smell of cinnamon and fall, but it’s my summer memories I spend more time lingering over," says Leader Curt Collier in his latest…

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Looking Forward: Is Ethical Culture a Thing We Do, or a Way We Live?

In this column, Society President Eric Sandhusen says it's pointless to ask himself whether Ethical Culture is a religion. The important question is whether it is his religion.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County,…

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Instead of Accepting What Is, Let’s Consider Possibilities for Change

How do we know what can be changed, and what can't? Ethical Culture is working with others to explore the possibilities of life itself, says Leader Curt Collier in his latest column.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen…

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Society Co-Sponsors Rally for Oil Train Safety

On the 10th anniversary of the deadly Lac-Mégantic train derailment, we are joining more than a dozen other North Jersey organizations calling for safety legislation at a rally in Teaneck, July 6.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture…

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Our ‘City of Water Day’ Event Will Help Neighbors Understand Impact of Sea-Level Rise

Our City of Water Day event, July 15, will show how the Hackensack River is part of a much larger ecosystem, which is threatened by climate change. Can you help?Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Looking Forward: Our Society Inspires Me

Especially after Community Weekend, President Eric Sandhusen is excited about what lies ahead for our Society. He gives details in this debut column.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Planet & Progress Team Now Hiring Youth Age 15-22

Youth age 15 to 22 may apply to work with a team to restore a stream in a county park, receive training in stone work, learn environmental construction, and earn $600 for a 40-hour week.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen…

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Have a Seat! New Meetinghouse Chairs Will be Comfy and Attractive

We're getting new chairs with upholstered, padded seats, thanks to the work of our Building Committee's Decorating team.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Let’s Increase our Society’s Relevance by Meeting Younger Generations Where They Are

In today's American culture, young adults need our support to become engaged in the Society's work, says Leader Curt Collier in his latest column.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Leader’s Vision: Innovative Programs and New Income

At our Spring Membership Meeting last Sunday, Leader Curt Collier provided an overview of the State of our Society. He cited our robust programming in the last year, including regular […] Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County,…

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Meet New Member Gerry Migliore

Gerry Migliore, who has a long relationship with Ethical Culture, has joined our Society. He says he is interested in helping to create programs and to build our congregation.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A…

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Open Mic Variety Night Gets Even Better!

Open Mic Variety Night, which draws excellent performers and has good audience turnout, is getting even better: Now admission is free, snacks and beverages are available for purchase, and masking is optional.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture…

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We’re Participating in ‘No Mow May’ for Sake of Bees—and our Food Supply

No Mow May allows flowers to bloom on a lawn, which aids early-season pollinators, including bees, which are crucial for our food supply.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Longtime Member Arlene Spark Dies

Arlene Spark, a member of our Society for more than 40 years, died on Monday. Former Leader Joe Chuman will officiate at her funeral on Thursday.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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As I See It: Our Society is Laying the Groundwork for a Vibrant Future

As Jim Norman ends his term as president, he has confidence in our Society's leadership, its vision for the future, and in all those who are helping to make that vision a reality.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County,…

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Sharing my Zeal for Classical Music—and Culinary Delights

Accomplished pianist Azar Gordon recently shared her zest for classical music and her culinary skills with fellow members.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Let’s be Intentional about Thanking Mothers—and Others—for Making our Lives Easier

We should take the time to share real gratitude for mothers—and others—who give us comfort and support, says Leader Curt Collier in his latest column.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Advice from Planned Parenthood on Supporting Reproductive Rights

Michelle Gil, public affairs manager of Planned Parenthood of Northern, Central, and Southern New Jersey, who was our speaker at the April 16 Gathering, provided follow-up information on how individuals can get involved in work to preserve…

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At Banned Books Festival, kids talk about their favorites

Our Society’s children had a featured role in our second annual Banned Books Festival. They discussed the meaning of banning books and then got to talk about their favorite books. […] Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen…

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A Place of Healing

Leader Curt Collier learned firsthand the healing power of nature as his family grieved the loss of his sister. He understands the importance of safe green havens and invites you to join a group that will study the research on how such havens are…

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My Father’s Ashes

Bob Gordon figured that if he survived advanced cancer, he'd want to go skiing the following winter in Cervinia, Italy. His son and ski buddy, Gregg, found a measure of closure in leaving Bob's ashes on a mountain there.Read More Read…

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‘Ascension Blocked:’ A Poem of a Heart Attack

Member and poet Milind Padki shares a poem he read recently at our Open Mic Variety Night.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Community Weekend is Back!

We’re reviving Community Weekend, June 2-4, at beautiful Stony Point Conference Center. Payment isn’t due until May, but organizers Lisa Schwartz and Diana Gross need a head count by the […] Read more at Ethical Culture Society of…

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Gender Explorations Accountability Circle Update

The Gender Explorations Accountability Circle met for the second time on Saturday, Feb. 25. We selected a second book to read to bring in an alternative position to the Joyce […] Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A…

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Grant-Writing Workshop for North Jersey Nonprofits

Want to know how to successfully apply for grants that will help your organization reach its goals? Society Leader Curt Collier is offering a workshop designed for beginner grant writers.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen…

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Take a Stand: Banned Books & Banned Humans Festival

Our Banned Books Festival has expanded this year to include banned humans, those whose voices are silenced when books are forbidden. Find out how you can participate.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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As I See It: I’ll be Canceling my ChatGPT Subscription

After reading the biography that ChatGPT wrote about his life, including his death in 2014, Society President Jim Norman wants to cancel his subscription.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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We’re Offering Science to Youth Because Early Experience is Powerful

Early experiences can shape us in powerful ways. That's why our Society is focusing on youth participation in two new science and environmental projects, says Leader Curt Collier in this column.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of…

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Welcome to Our Great New Jersey Science Show

Bill Nye meets 'Saturday Night Live' at our Great New Jersey Science Show, where young adults share their scientific knowledge in a cabaret-style show. You're invited!Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County,…

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Film Screening, ‘Contradiction: A Question of Faith’

Jeremiah Camara’s documentary examines the saturation of churches in African-American communities co-existing with poverty and powerlessness. This screening is part of our church-state speaker seriesRead More Read more at Ethical Culture…

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Spring Festival, ‘A Home for Us All: Protecting the Hackensack River American Eel’

Taking action to ensure 'a home for us all' and to protect 'sacred spaces' will be the centerpiece of our Spring Festival on April 23. You're invited to be part of our success!Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society…

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Should There Be No Room for Religion in the Public Sphere?

Our speaker series continues with Benjamin Marcus and Hannah Santos of the Freedom Forum, asking: Should There Be No Room for Religion in the Public Sphere?Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Gender Explorations Accountability Circle Shares Questions

At the first meeting of the Gender Explorations Accountability Circle, participants shared their questions and concerns. Circle founder Dwight Panozzo provides an update.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A…

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Project Aims to Save Eels, a Keystone Species–Can You Help?

We are looking for volunteers for important environmental work on behalf of the American eel, a keystone species in the Hackensack River.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Society Gets Grant to Explore Concept of ‘Sacred Spaces’

Our Society received a $6,098 grant from the New Jersey Council of the Humanities to understand how places (and by extension, people) get protected and celebrated. The challenge before us is […] Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen…

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Church-State Separation: Who Stands to Lose if the Wall Fails?

Brian Silva of Americans United for Separation of Church and State kicks off our church-state speaker series with his talk: "Who Stands to Lose if the Wall Fails? Real Life Consequences of the End of the Establishment Clause."Read More …

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Two Grants Help Fund ‘Great NJ Science Show’

The Blue Foundry Foundation and the Puffin Foundation are providing financial support for our 'Great NJ Science Show,' which will provide informal science education for youth.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen…

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Meet Our Newest Members, Andy and Deborah Krikun

Our newest members, Andy and Deborah Krikun, both have taught in our Sunday School. They bring expertise from their careers in music and digital media.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Struggle over Church-State Separation has Deep Roots in America

Even our secular culture was directly shaped by Calvinist ideas and as a reaction to them, says Leader Curt Collier in this column, which also outlines our upcoming church-state speaker series.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of…

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I’m Not a Hater, So Why Do I Hate?

In this opinion essay, member Ed Gross explains the conundrum he struggles with: 'I believe right-wingers hate left-wingers like me. But if I hate them in return, wouldn’t it mean I’m no better than they are?'Read More Read…

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As I See It: Artificial Intelligence Redux

After trashing ChatGPT, Society President Jim Norman finds that he has to take AI seriously, after all, even as he still grapples with important questions about it.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Freethinkers Concert: Dan Barker Plays Original Music

As part of our church-state speaker series, Dan Barker, a former Christian songwriter and now co-president of the Freedom From Religion Foundation, will perform original songs.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A…

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Two Accountability Circles Delve into Anti-Racism and Gender

Accountability Circle founder Dwight Panozzo provides updates on our two Accountability Circles, one discussing anti-racism and the other exploring gender issues.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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As I See It: Trying to Find the ‘Art’ in Artificial Intelligence

Artists and writers have little to fear in the skills of Artificial Intelligence. For now. Society President Jim Norman explains in his latest column.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Choosing to Go Forward, No Matter What

Setting aside fears and choosing to go forward in life, again and again, is a source of resiliency and hope, says Leader Curt Collier in his latest column.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Accountability Circle Continues Racism Discussion and Will Expand to Transgender Issues

Dwight Panozzo, Accountability Circle facilitator, offers an assessment of the Circle's experience thus far and an overview of what's ahead. Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Celebrating Light, Stars, and Human Reason

We transformed our meetinghouse into the Universe for Winter Festival, where we celebrated the solstice, stars, and humanity's ability to reason and follow the light. Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A…

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Respectful Confrontation: Expert Offers Workshop and a Talk

Joe Weston, an international expert in conflict prevention, is offering a workshop on 'Respectful Confrontation' and a talk on 'Fierce Civility' at the Society on Jan. 15. Register by Dec. 31 to receive a discounted workshop…

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Members Vote on Name Change and 2023 Budget

At the Membership Meeting on Nov. 20, members debated the Board of Trustees' recommendation to change 'platform' to 'Gathering.' In voting after the meeting, the change was made. Read More Read more at Ethical Culture…

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As I See It: Take a Stand Against Lax Gun Laws

In a nation where upwards of 40,000 people annually are killed by guns, we need much more than thoughts and prayers. We need serious gun legislation, says Society President Jim Norman in this column.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of…

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Humanist for the Holidays: Three Weeks of Light, Song, Feasting, and Community

We will raise our voices and our champagne glasses for this year’s Humanist for the Holidays events, starting with Winter Festival and ending with a New Year’s feast.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A…

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The Ancient Art of Hospitality

The rituals of hosts and guests, practiced frequently during the holiday season, have their roots in values and customs stretching back millennia, says Leader Curt Collier in his latest column.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of…

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You’re Invited: Open Mic Variety Night

Have a song you've been working on? Want to showcase your musical talents or read a story or share a poem? Or maybe just listen? We'd love to see you at Open Mic Variety Night.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen…

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Speakers Series: Is Separation of Church & State Coming to an End?

This speakers series is a response to recent attacks on a fundamental, Constitutional principle at the heart of American democracy–the separation of church and state. It is part of our […] Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen…

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As I See It: We’re Generating Much Excitement and Hope

No matter how messed up our world seems to be, based on the headlines, our Society is a strong beacon of good energy, says President Jim Norman.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Choosing to Help, Despite Challenges and Self-Doubt

Ethical challenges can be complex, with many things we value at odds. We make choices based on the best wisdom we have, says Leader Curt Collier in this column.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Society Sponsoring Documentary about Transgender Comedian

“Julia Scotti, Funny That Way,” is an honest, intimate story of a stand-up comedian who transitioned from Rick to Julia in her late 40s.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Our Society’s Updated COVID Policy

By Curt Collier and Jim Norman Inevitably our Society, like all congregations and organizations nationwide, will need to wrestle with the decision of when to move to a mask-optional policy […] Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen…

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Society to Welcome New Members Ellen Singer and Allan Drossman

Artist Ellen Singer and musician-artist Allan Drossman will be inducted into the Society on Oct. 2. Ellen attended the Ethical Culture School as a child in Brooklyn. Allan's artistic work reflects his concern for the natural environment.Read…

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As I See It: Considering the Ethical Response to Saving Ukraine and Our Own Democracy

In this column, Society President Jim Norman finds that taking action is the antidote to frustration and feelings of helplessness.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Ideas from Two Books Will Guide Next Accountability Circle Discussion

Two books on the topic of racism will help inform the discussion at the next meeting of the Accountability Circle.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Ethical Brew is Back, Featuring Scott Cook

Thanks to our Ethical Brew team, Perry and Beth Stein, we have the opportunity to hear award-winning folk musician Scott Cook on Oct. 20. He brings not only his music, but his belief that songs can change your life. Read More Read more at Ethical…

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Pondering the Vast Landscape between Perfection and Reality

Our leader, Curt Collier, claims not to be on speaking terms with the muses of art, music, or math, all of which he loves. In this column, he ponders existence between the sacred and the profane, where so many of us dwell.Read More Read more at…

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Join us for the Pumpkin Festival!

Celebrate the glorious season of Fall and our community spirit at the Pumpkin Festival on Sunday, Oct. 30. We'll have hot mulled cider, fun and games, a fortune teller, Monster-in-the-Box, and more.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture…

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Accountability Circle Explores Our Responsibility to One Another

The Accountability Circle, organized by Dwight Panozzo, will explore the limits of our responsibility to one another, especially in arenas where there is room for respectful disagreement. Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen…

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Coming Together in Community is an Act of Defiance and Hope

Let us not shrink, let our fears not overwhelm us, let us not dim the lights, stop our dancing, and hush our children. It’s time to come back to the Society, where your help is needed, says Leader Curt Collier in his latest column.Read More …

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Our ‘Planet & Progress’ Team Builds Walkways, Walls, and Self-Confidence

Our Society successfully launched its Planet & Progress team this summer, teaching youth about the natural and built environment. They improved parks, the meetinghouse, and their self-esteem. Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of…

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As I See It: Finding Victory and Divinity on the Mountaintop

As Jim Norman climbed Rattlesnake Mountain and as he took in the view from the top, reminders of divinity were all around him. He explains in this column.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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You are Invited to Rise Up for Ethics!

Twenty progressive community groups, working for fairness, equality, the environment, voting rights, and justice, will gather at the meetinghouse on Sept. 11 to Rise Up for Ethics!Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ:…

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Social Action Sunday: 550 pounds of donations and 200 postcards for voting rights

By the time the Helpsy clothing bins arrived, piles of bags and boxes full of donations had already been dropped off--just the start of a successful Social Action Sunday.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A…

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A Night at the Piano with Rob

Pianist and member Rob Eigenbrod provided an exalted evening at the meetinghouse with a concert for more than 60 members and friends.More Photos Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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It is Ethically Essential to Take a Stand

Those of us who believe in the dignity and worth of individuals are responsible for speaking out against the Supreme Court's ruling that diminished the rights of millions of Americans, says Leader Curt Collier. Read More Read more at Ethical…

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Community Spirit Finds a Way

When Community Weekend had to be canceled on short notice because of Covid concerns, our members of all generations improvised, with a party for families and a BYO lunch and games on the lawn.More Photos Read more at Ethical Culture Society of…

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As I See It: A Great Awakening is Long Overdue

A great awakening--and action--is needed to counteract the assaults on our values as ethical citizens, including attempts at governance through terror and the criminalization of abortion, says Society President Jim Norman in this column.Read More …

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Society’s Covid-19 Guidelines Require Mask Indoors

For the safety of our members and guests, the Society has in place these Covid-19 guidelines: Masks must be worn for all indoor activities and events. Until further notice, eating […] Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ:…

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Name Changes and New Programming Take Stage at Membership Meeting

At the Membership Meeting today, the prospect of name changes for the Society and the Sunday Platform received wide support. Also, Leader Curt Collier outlined ideas for new programming and the membership elected officers and committee chairs.Read…

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Janet Glass, ‘A Towering Example of Humanity at its Best’

In this tribute to Janet Glass, retired Leader Joe Chuman says her life was a 'modest yet towering example of humanity at its best,' and that we can be honored she chose our Society in which to live out her values.Read More Read more at…

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Socrates Café Can Improve Thinking–And Democracy

Richard Bernstein, founder of Socrates Café of Teaneck, NJ, a program of our Society, offers compelling reasons for joining the conversation.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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As I See It: Let’s Adopt the Optimism of Janet and Curt

Even as we remain aware of forces of darkness, let us commit ourselves to the optimistic visions of Janet Glass and Curt Collier, says Jim Norman in this column.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A Humanist…

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Living on a Boat Provides Direct Feedback about How Lifestyle Affects the Environment

Leader Curt Collier will get direct feedback about how his lifestyle affects the environment as his sailboat becomes home. Soon, he'll be entering New York Harbor they way many immigrants did--on a boat. Read More Read more at Ethical Culture…

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Remembering Janet Glass, ‘A Model for Living’

Society members and friends pay tribute to Janet Glass, who died last month. She held many leadership roles in our Society, in her profession, the community, and in our hearts.Read More Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen County, NJ: A…

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Celebrating New Leader Curt Collier!

Members and friends celebrated the formal installation of Curt Collier as the first new leader of our Society in nearly 50 years. To quote opening speaker Eric Sandhusen, above: Hallelujah!More Photos Read more at Ethical Culture Society of Bergen…

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Children Make Meals in a Jar to Benefit Ugandan Orphans

Our Family & Friends Circle made meals in a jar to raise funds for the Tororo Orphan's Club in Uganda. The youth of our Society, with help from members of all generations, have helped the Ugandan orphans for over 15 years!More Photos Read…

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