May 17, at 10:00 am, 3845 North Swan Street – "Joy When the World is on Fire"
Rev. Ali K. C. Bell, of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Las Cruces will explore why choosing joy is a radical act.
In a time when grief and outrage seem ever-present—when the world feels as though it is burning—how do we make space for joy? This service explores joy not as denial, but as resistance; not as luxury, but as spiritual discipline. Drawing on the wisdom of poets, prophets, and everyday people who have chosen to sing even in the ashes, Rev. Bell will speak of the necessity of joy.
"Joy is not the absence of struggle. It is the fire that keeps us alive within it," Rev. Bell said.
Rev. Ali K. C. Bell, is a Black, Neurodivergent, Transgender man (he/Rev. Ali). In August 2025 he became the minister of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Las Cruces.
Before moving to Las Cruces he served as the Minister of Congregational Life and Engagement at Cedar Lane Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Bethesda, MD, and as Chaplain for the Unitarian Universalists at Riderwood Covenanting Community in Silver Spring MD.
He holds a Master of Divinity from Meadville Lombard Theological School and a Master of Social Work from the University of Central Florida, and is an ordained Unitarian Universalist minister. Rev. Bell brings over 35 years of experience advocating for under-resourced communities across the Mid-Atlantic and the Regional Southeast.
All ages are welcome to attend the Sunday program.
There are speakers on the patio for anyone who would like to sit outside.
UUFSC Safety Protocol as pursuant to our most recent UUA Guidelines:
Masks are now optional, but their use is encouraged. We will continue to serve refreshments on the patio and in the building. Visitors are always welcome.
The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Silver City is a diverse group of religious independents seeking knowledge, spiritual sustenance, fellowship and opportunities for service to others. Our programs encompass Humanism, liberal Christianity, earth-based spirituality, Buddhism and many other traditions. If you'd like to find out more, email
