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March 21, 2019 | Vol. 6 No. 12
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| The Inspiring Generosity of a Young Person |
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Rev. Justin Schroeder |
Last Wednesday, as we sought to wrap up our annual giving campaign with our "All In" Gathering in Gratitude dinner at church, one of our 6th graders approached me. "I'm 'All In,'" he said.
"I made a video," he said. His mom pulled out her phone and shared the video he had made. Bundled up in his winter clothes, there he was, jumping in and through snow banks to get his annual gift into church (apparently, he was inspired by this playful
video
, in case you haven't seen it). His video was such a joyful video, his love of First Universalist so clear and evident. His mom explained, "He's made an annual gift. He's giving a big chunk of his allowance every month to the church. He's really 'All In.'"
"It's true," he said. "I love the fun things we do in Religious Education and this church." My mind flashed back to two Sundays ago, when he was our Chalice Lighter/Reader in the service.
Honestly, I can't quite describe the feeling I had last Wednesday. Joy? Absolutely. Teary? Yes. And mostly, grateful. There are days when we read the news and it's almost unbearable. And then there are days like last Wednesday, when wonder and delight roll in, and we get a sense of what's possible in human community when we all bring our gifts together, and it is a beautiful and stunning thing.
Friends, these are the kinds of children we are growing and cultivating in our Religious Education Program. These are the kinds of children reading the chalice lighting words, lighting our chalice, leading us forward. These are the children that inspire me - inspire us - as they live their faith out loud.
I'll see you in church,
Rev. Justin
P.S. We are still counting on nearly 300 more of you to make your annual gift to the church, to be "All In" as we create our 2019-2020 budget. If you haven't made your annual gift yet, you can do so online, by phone (call the church office and ask for Chelsea Bertsch at x 107), or by turning in your annual giving card to the church office. Thank you!
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| SUNDAY WORSHIP AT FIRST UNIVERSALIST CHURCH |
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Rev. Susan Frederick-Gray, President of the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) |
Sunday, March 24, 9:30 & 11:15 a.m.
"Called to Beloved Community"
Rev. Susan Frederick-Gray
Unitarian Universalists are being called in this moment to live more powerfully and boldly into a vision of Beloved Community. What does this look like and how do we answer "Yes" to this calling in our lives and in our congregations?
The
Soul Band, our 2018-2019 Artists in Residence, will play in worship this Sunday. The Soul Band
is comprised of four talented and innovative Twin Cities musicians: Dean Magraw, Miguel Hurtado, Ted Olsen, and Franco Holder.
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Sunday, March 31, 9:30 & 11:15 a.m.
Lead Minister: Rev. Justin Schroeder
(with Me'Lea Connelly)
Music: Tyler Tracy
Sunday, April 7, 9:30 & 11:15 a.m.
Lead Minister: Rev. Elaine Aron Tenbrink
Music: Give Get Sistet
Sunday, April 14, 9:30 & 11:15 a.m.
Lead Minister: Rev. Justin Schroeder
Earth Day Sunday (activities in social hall following worship services)
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March 17, 2019
"Wisdom of Trees"
Rev. Ruth MacKenzie
March 10, 2019
"American Sacrifice"
Rev. Karen Hutt
March 3, 2019
"Stretching the Circle"
Rev. Jen Crow
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| Sermon Recap: Rev. Ruth MacKenzie's "Wisdom of Trees" |
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March Worship Theme: Sacrifice |
Recap by First U staff member Liz Farmer
Have you ever walked among trees, taken a deep breath in, and felt better with each exhale? You sense something in the air, a spirit, a connection. You listen to the leaves as they rustle in the breeze, the sound of a bird singsonging nearby, and perhaps...a conversation among the still, strong beings surrounding you.
But they're just trees
, you might think to yourself.
I must be really intoxicated by the smells of the forest!
But what you're intuiting is right. You are witness to a sacred -even sacrificial- exchange. By now, in the third week of March studying the worship theme of "sacrifice," we are starting to realize that the point of sacrifice is not the resultant feeling of
holier than thou
, but
holier together -
in a holy exchange.
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World Water Day
Friday, March 22, 6-9 p.m.
Indigenous peoples, youth, and allies are uniting from across the land of water known as Mnisota to honor the sacredness of water.
Join the Mni Ki Wakan community on Friday, March 22, 6-9 p.m. for World Water Day, an event co-sponsored by the church's Environmental Justice Team.
Learn more about Mni Ki Wakan pre-summit events in New York and the third Mni Ki Wakan: World Indigenous Peoples Decade of Water Summit on August 13-15, 2019 at
mnikiwakan.org
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Wellspring Information Session
Sunday, March 24, 1 p.m., Room 203
Wellspring is a uniquely Unitarian Universalist program of spiritual deepening that offers the opportunity to learn more about ourselves and our faith through a year-long small group experience. It has five components: commitment to a daily spiritual practice, monthly spiritual direction, small group meetings, reading about the theological and historical foundations of our faith, and putting our faith into action. After a day-long opening retreat on August 24, 2019, Wellspring meets every other week through May 2020.
Attendance at an info session is required if you wish to participate in Wellspring. Questions? Email Rev. Elaine Aron Tenbrink at
elaine@firstuniv.org
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The Four Necessity Valve Turners: Addressing the Climate Crisis
Wednesday, March 27, 7-8:30 p.m.
On Feb. 4, 2019, four Catholic Workers took necessary, non-violent action to address the climate crisis by turning off the valves of Enbridge Energy oil pipelines in northern Minnesota. Known as the Four Necessity Valve Turners, they believe it is time to take personal responsibility for preventing the dangerous expansion of the oil industry, because governments and regulators have failed to do so. Come hear from two of the Valve Turners at a special discussion and Q&A event at church on Wednesday, March 27 at 7 p.m. in the Cummins Room! Learn more.
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Seniors Hike with Daytime Connections
Thursday, March 28, 10 a.m.
Meet at Como Park Butterfly Parking Lot
Now that spring is finally here, the Senior Hiking season is ready to roll out once again! T
he group's first spring hike will be a scenic tour of several points of interest in Como Park in St. Paul. Meet at 10 a.m. at the Como Park Butterfly Parking Lot at 1237 Kaufman Dr. in St. Paul (map). We'll check out several notable sculptures as we take a leisurely walk around Lake Como. Those who are up for a bit more walking can stroll over to the Conservatory. Optional lunch afterwards at Gabe's in the Park on Lexington Ave. If you plan to join us, contact Ward at
wmlyndall@gmail.com
or 612-823-2385.
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Newcomer Circle
Tuesdays, April 2, 9, 16 & 23, 6:30-8 p.m.
Are you new to First Universalist? Whether you are a recent visitor or a new member, you're invited to join a Newcomer Circle. These four-session gatherings of 6-10 newcomers offer a chance to explore core Unitarian Universalist values, reflect on our spiritual journeys, and connect with other folks who are new to church. As with all of our Circles, this group is grounded in attentive listening and open-hearted reflection. Sign up by emailing Sandy at sandy@firstuniv.org or calling 612-825-1701.
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Pathway to Membership Class
Saturday, April 13, 8:30 a.m.-noon
If First Universalist is feeling like your spiritual home, then we hope you'll take part in the
Pathway to Membership! Joining First Universalist is a symbolic, spiritual act of saying "yes" to growing your soul in this place, with these people, within our free faith tradition. This new member class is a great chance to build community, explore Unitarian Universalism, and learn how to get involved. In the final session, participants are invited to sign the membership book and officially join the congregation.
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Shabbat Service & Dinner at Shir Tikvah on April 5
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 Shir Tikvah has extended an invitation to First Universalist members to attend a Shabbat service and dinner at Shir Tikvah on Friday, April 5. The service begins at 6:30 p.m. and dinner and conversation will follow.
As we explore co-location with Shir Tikvah, this is the first of several upcoming opportunities for members of both of our congregations to meet and get to know one another.
Space is limited to 60 attendees from First Universalist, and we'll be joined by 60 members of Shir Tikvah for dinner. The dinner served will be vegetarian.
If you are interested in attending, please email Jenn at
communications@firstuniv.org. Because space is limited, we'll be signing folks up on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note that space is not guaranteed until you receive a confirmation email.
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Young Adult Coffee & Theology: This Sunday with Rev. Jen Crow
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 Young Adults (20s and 30s) are invited to Coffee and Theology with Rev. Jen Crow this
Sunday, March 24, from 1-2:30 p.m. at the nearby Dunn Brothers on 34th and Hennepin.
Rev. Jen says:
"Just about every week that I'm up in front at church, you'll hear me say a couple of things:
Universalism means that we believe each person is born whole, holy and worthy and that there is nothing anyone can do or not do to be outside the circle of unconditional love. Our faith calls us to see and know and celebrate people in all of their glorious and varied human expressions.
"Basically, everybody is born good and has that spark of good inside for all eternity, and we expect that human beings are varied and we think that is pretty awesome. But what about evil, and what about the people that hurt us - and the ways that we hurt ourselves and others? What about the times that we feel broken? Come dig into a conversation about human nature - about who we are at our center - and how it shapes how we live."
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Thank You to Those Who Are ALL IN!
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Thank you so much to everyone who has made their annual financial commitment AND to the Sustainers whose gifts automatically renew!
Nearly 500 individuals and families are now "in" with commitments totaling $867,212.
That's about $282,000 short of what is needed to fund the work of this church over the course of a year.
Your fellow church community members are counting on you to do your part to help our ministry thrive!
So, if you are one of the 200+ individuals/families that we have yet to hear from about plans for financial support next year, please be in touch. Give us a call (612-825-1701), fill out a yellow giving card next time you're at church, or set up your giving
online
.
Our grand prize winners are...
We gave away a number of fabulous prizes at Gathering in Gratitude this year! Everyone who made their financial commitment by March 13 - Sustainers included - was entered to win.
Tina & Caitlin Bernett - one year family membership to the American Swedish Institute plus a gift card to FIKA
Angie Robinson & Jim Kurkowski - one year family membership to the Walker Art Center plus a gift card to Esker Grove
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Seeking Candidates for Church Leadership Positions
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2018-19 Nominating Committee. Front: Suzann Willhite, Jim Ramnaraine;
Back: Marcia Wattson, Pat Gottschalk, Sharon Ramirez (not pictured: Greg Hoelzer)
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The Nominating Committee is now recruiting candidates for leadership positions on the
Board of Trustees, the Foundation Board, and the Nominating Committee itself for the next church year. We believe the congregation is full of untapped talent and we encourage people to step forward and share their skills.
Now is an exciting and important time to serve as we continue to build on the positive energy and growth of our congregation. Serving on one of these bodies provides unique opportunities to deepen and enrich your personal connection to the church while broadening your circle of relationships within our spiritual community. Committee members have unique opportunities to collaborate with our passionate ministers and lay leaders to advance the mission of the church.
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Youth Cultural Exchange Media Sale This Sunday
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Youth Cultural Exchange is hosting its annual media sale for one more Sunday - this coming Sunday, March 24! Used books, music, DVDs will be on sale in the social hall between and after services. This year they're also selling puzzles and board games.
This summer twelve youth from Nicaragua will travel to Minnesota and stay with First Universalist families to gain cultural understanding and forge lasting cross-cultural friendships. Your donations and purchases will help us bring the twelve Nicaraguan host siblings to Minnesota for two weeks in 2019.
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First Universalist is a Waxwing Farm CSA Pickup Location
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When the farm we've hosted a CSA drop site in previous years (Sogn Valley Farm) decided to discontinue their CSA program after last season, they recommended their friends at Waxwing Farm in Webster, MN.
We are pleased to share that First Universalist will be a pick up location for CSA shares from Waxwing Farm this year!
 CSA stands for Community Supported Agriculture. By purchasing a CSA share, you are helping to directly support the farm. Your up-front investment provides a reliable market for the farm's produce and allows them to purchase supplies and make equipment repairs early in the year. In exchange, you receive weekly boxes of the freshest, most delicious produce available. You also get to stay connected to the farm through newsletters and opportunities for farm visits. You get the satisfaction of knowing that your investment is contributing to a stronger local economy and a more sustainable food system.
The Waxwing Farm CSA season runs from early-June to mid-October. Waxwing CSA shares consist of a 3/4 bushel box containing 8 to 12 different vegetables that change with the seasons. Each box is enough for a family of four or a vegetable loving couple to go through in a week. There are two different share sizes and three delivery options, and CSA deliveries are made on Wednesdays.
If First Universalist is a convenient Wednesday pickup location for you, please consider signing up for a CSA share from Waxwing Farm! Learn more about the farm, the CSA program, and sign up for a share at waxwingfarm.com.
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ART for Action: Mosaic Mandala
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 Join First Universalist members Debbie Cash and Denise Konen for a mosaic art session to help raise money for First Universalist's Sanctuary and Resistance fund. The session will take place at Mosaic on a Stick, 1564 Lafond Avenue (on Snelling north of University) in St. Paul on Saturday, March 30 from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Create a beautiful 4.5" mandala mosaic using colored glass. Learn the basics of mandala design, how to use glass-cutting tools and grout your finished piece (after drying).
Artist Debbie Cash will teach mosaic art skills, and Denise Konen will share what immigrants in the Twin Cities are facing and why we started the Sanctuary and Resistance Immigrant Fund.
Suggested donation is $50-$75. All funds (minus the cost of materials) help immigrants with legal assistance, housing costs and other needs when they are detained.
Class size limited to 15. Contact Denise Konen,
denise@netgains.net to attend and/or to carpool from the church. Arrive early to see the amazing studio and artists at work! Art instruction begins at 2:30 p.m.
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MUUSJA Seeking Its Next Executive Director
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MUUSJA, the Minnesota Unitarian Universalist Social Justice Alliance, is currently seeking applications for a new Executive Director. Essential responsibilities include program leadership, financial management, fundraising, staff management, communications, board relations, spiritual practice and self-care. This position is half-time (20 hours/week). Applications are due Tuesday, April 16.
Find the full job description and how to apply here.
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Spring Donations for Augsburg Fairview Academy (AFA)
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Thanks to the many congregants who have generously donated food and winter clothing to AFA (Augsburg Fairview Academy) - you make a difference!
First Universalist is the primary sponsor of Food and Clothing Closets at
Augsburg Fairview Academy (AFA), a public charter high school located within two miles of church. The 100+ high school students come from diverse backgrounds including African American, Somali, and Native American. Many are homeless or marginally housed during the school year. Students have specifically requested the following:
- Microwavable single serving dinners - especially chili
- Clothing Closet: all sizes of men and women's khakis and dress pants suitable for interviewing and work; leggings and tights; hoodies;
- Winter toiletries: chapstick and lotions are still in high demand along with men and women's deodorant, toothbrushes, toothpaste, ethnic hair products, sanitary products, condoms
Bring items to the Information Desk on Sundays or drop off during the week at the shelves labeled for AFA by the 34th Street entrance.
Thank you for your generosity!
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AUW Women's Spring Retreat: Register Now!
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The Association of Universalist Women is hosting their annual Women's Spring Retreat April 12 through 15 this year, "Telling Our Stories Anew: What is Needed Now?"
at Koinonia Retreat Center in South Haven.
Deadline for registration is March 31: www.auwfirstuniv.org
There will be keynote, ceremonies, and presentations by Rev. Kelli Clement and Rev. Karen Hutt.
Workshops and activities include: nature walks; What Are You Reading?; Classical Stretch; Lobbying 101; Healing Touch; Meditation: Why and How; Poetry Out Loud; Saturday evening dance; movies; labyrinth; singing around the bonfire; sauna; Talent Show; Mining Our Childhood; Astronomy; Basketry; and MORE!
There will be a talent show again this year, hosted by the mysterious and ever-surprising Rebecca Larrabee. Talent show questions - contact Rebecca at rlarrabee212@msn.com.
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| RESOURCES & CONTACT INFORMATION |
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Space Reservations for Meetings and Events
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Are you responsible for reserving meeting space for a church committee you serve on? Are you a volunteer planning a church-sponsored event?
Spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and setup requests must be communicated to Events Coordinator Lucia Webb in advance.
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Cycle of Life and Pastoral Care
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Let Us Keep You in Our Thoughts and Prayers
If you are experiencing a crisis or transition, or celebrating a joy, please let us know. To be included in our Cycle of Life each Sunday in worship, contact Sandy DiNanni at
sandy@firstuniv.org or 612-825-1701. If you would like support, call the office at 612-825-1701 or contact any member of our
Pastoral Visitors Team.
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Join Our Mailing List
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here.
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here.
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Church Office Hours
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Sundays 9
a.m.-1 p.m.
Mondays-Thursdays 9
a.m.-8 p.m.
Closed Fridays and Saturdays
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The Weekly Liberal? Fill out our
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The Weekly Liberal
is compiled and edited by Communications Manager Jenn Stromberg. Past issues, deadlines, and policies can be found on our
website
.
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Contact Us
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First Universalist Church of Minneapolis
3400 Dupont Ave. S.
Minneapolis, MN 55408
612-825-1701
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First Universalist Church of Minneapolis
3400 Dupont Avenue S.
Minneapolis, MN 55408
612-825-1701
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