Windows Weekly January 7, 2021
ALBANY UU WINDOWS WEEKLY
Greetings Friends,

Welcome to Windows Weekly, Albany UU's central source for news and updates. Please stay safe and stay connected to your Albany UU Community during this uncertain time in the many ways provided online - all described below.

For those who may have missed Rev Sam and Patti Jo's message sent out earlier today, find that here.

Please note, the Daily Reminder was not sent out this morning since there were no events to remind folks about today. Everything you need to know is right here in the Weekly. Daily Reminders will continue tomorrow morning. Thank you!

Also, you may see announcements in this publication more than once. That is with intent and to ensure that items don't get missed as folks scroll through. Thank you for your understanding.

If this email was forwarded to you, and you would like to receive it directly, please sign up here.

Learn more about what's happening with UU Kids and Families by reading the Religious Education publication, RE Roundup.

-Blessings and Be Well
MISSION STATEMENT
We welcome everyone. Our Unitarian Universalist community seeks truth and deeper meaning, pursues justice through inspired action, and cultivates compassion and love for all connected by the web of life.

VISION STATEMENT
Albany UU will be an inclusive, welcoming congregation. Our sacred work is to lift hearts, broaden minds and do justice in the world, in service of building beloved community.

CONGREGATIONAL COVENANT
As a congregation with respect for our past and commitment to the future, we draw from the depth and power of our hearts and minds, guided by our Unitarian Universalist principles, to serve our mission and vision. We celebrate the diversity of our identities and experiences, and foster a culture of appreciation, inspiration, and kindness. We honor both the strength of the collective and uniqueness of the individual, willing to support and challenge each other with love and compassion. We entrust ourselves to each other in beloved community, to embolden personal and congregational growth and transformation.
VIRTUAL SUNDAY SERVICE
10:00 am
LIVE VIA ZOOM


Jan 10, “Cultivating Imagination,” Rev. Joe Cleveland, Minister, UU Saratoga

This Sunday we are special guests of UU Saratoga for the service and will spend it exploring imagination as something that grows, that is practiced, and nurturing imagination as both a spiritual practice and a justice practice.

Important note: Albany UU will not be providing it's own virtual service this Sunday, we are guests of UU Saratoga and will join with their congregation using the link to join below. There will be meditation at 8:30 AM and RE for children and families at 11:30 AM as usual.

Use this link to join:

Meeting ID: 669 770 660
Passcode: 518624



Join us for Family Chapel for Children and Families at 11:30 AM
We'll continue with our theme of Imagination with the story Dreamers by Yuyi Morales. This book explores what a family brings with them when they leave their home country. We all can be dreamers and share whatever gifts we have. Children in grades Pre-k through 8th will meet in their groups after Family Chapel. 

Use this link to join:

To dial in by phone: 1-929-436-2866
Meeting ID 843 1034 5197
Password: 4051842
VIRTUAL SUNDAY SERVICES

Albany UU Virtual Services - Live via Zoom
Main Service at 10:00 AM, Children's Service at 11:30 AM

Begin your Sunday morning with Rev. Sam guiding an 8:30 Virtual Meditation session until 9:15 (see below under Upcoming Ways to Connect for more info). We then have Virtual Service beginning at 10:00 each Sunday and a chance to stay online for virtual "Coffee Hour" followed by RE for ALL, at 11:30.

Use this link to join Sunday service:

To dial in by phone: 1-929-436-2866:
Meeting ID: 299 018 7785
Password: 0000


Jan 17, “Racial Healing,” Rev Sam Trumbore and Jaye Holly
Annaliese A. Singh, author of The Racial Healing Handbook, describes racial healing this way: “To heal from racism is to unlearn the stereotyped racial messages you internalized about your own race and the race of others, and to recognize the wounds that these messages create in you whether you are White or a person of color. It is to see clearly the costs of racism, which are everywhere, and to work to stop your active or tacit participation in the systems of racism and white supremacy that favor some people and not others.” Rev. Trumbore and Jaye Holly hope to open this door and invite you to cross the threshold into this transformative work critical for building Beloved Community.

Music provided by Elena Karpoff


Jan 24, “Queer Theology,” Rev Sam Trumbore
The Bible, historically, has been interpreted by Christians as reinforcing patriarchy and hetero-normative views of gender and sexuality. Gender non-conforming and non-heterosexual theologians are studying the scriptures and finding an innovative understanding of Jesus, of God, and an affirmation of being non-normative. The theology they are discovering is quite friendly to Unitarian Universalism!

Music provided by Elena Karpoff, Chris Jensen and Randy Rosette


Jan 31, "Is You Got Good Religion?" David Weissbard

Several years ago, I participated in the founding meeting of the Progressive Religious Partnership. I was impressed by the sermon delivered by one of the organizers, Dr. James G. Adams. He raised the question of the negative impact religion has often had. As Liberals, we are not supposed to judge other religions, but I am sympathetic to those who believe that religion has often been [and in many cases still is] a blight on humankind. But not always. I do believe Unitarian Universalism can make a positive contribution to the lives of some [maybe not all] of us. I am building on Dr. Adams subject and title: "Is You Got Good Religion?"

Music provided by Elena Karpoff



Sunday Service Information

Sunday services will be online via Zoom at 10:00 AM EST. There will be no service, religious education or other activities in the church building until further notice. Not familiar with Zoom? Our minister, Rev. Sam Trumbore will give you a brief tutorial.

Use this link to join the Sunday service:

To dial in by phone: 1-929-436-2866:
Meeting ID: 299 018 7785
Password: 0000

Joys and Concerns for Online Services
We have three ways that you can share your joys and concerns.
  • One: Use the online form. If you use this form, you can indicate if you would like to have your joys and concerns shared at the Sunday service, and you can leave contact info if you would like a Pastoral Care Associate to follow up with you.
  • Two: Email your joy or sorrow to joysandsorrows@albanyuu.org before Sunday morning to have them read aloud during the service
  • Three: We will be giving you instructions during the Sunday service about how to share your joys and concerns then.


Adult RE for ALL, Sunday Offering and other Information

For more information about Sunday service, Zoom, Adult RE for ALL, Sunday Offering, and other important Sunday morning details, check out our Sunday at a Glance page here.
UPCOMING WAYS to CONNECT

Start your Sunday Morning with Meditation - 8:30 - 9:15 AM
Sunday morning meditation, led by Rev. Sam, begins with a ten-minute talk by Sharon Salzberg or Joseph Goldstein from their course on Insight Meditation. We will sit together for twenty minutes then have some conversation about the talk, meditation methods or experiences followed by a live loving kindness meditation. 

Use this link to join:

By phone: 1-929-436-2866
Meeting ID: 299 018 7785
Password: 0000


Adult RE 11:30 AM on Sundays
Conversational Response: This is your opportunity to reflect with the Sunday service presenter, this Sunday, Rev Sam, on what the service has elicited from you and listen to the responses of others. Learn more here.

NOTE CHANGE:
Remain on the Service Link after Virtual Coffee Hour to join:
 
To dial in by phone: 1-929-436-2866:
Meeting ID: 299 018 7785
Password: 0000



Walker Book Group
Join the Walker Book Group for a Zoom discussion on Sunday, Jan 10, 6:30 pm. We will discuss The System: Who Rigged It, How We Fix ItLearn more here

Use this link to join:
 
To dial in by phone: 1-929-436-2866:
Meeting ID: 299 018 7785
Password: 0000


Congregational Conversation on Proposed Bylaws
Monday, Jan 11, 7 – 8:30 pm. Learn more here.
 
Use this link to join:
 
By phone: 929-436-2866
Meeting ID: 299 018 7785
Password: 0000


Philosophy Group
At 10:15 AM every Tuesday, the Albany UU Philosophy Group will meet via zoom and discuss their topic of the day.
All are welcome.

Use this link to join:

By phone: 1-929-436-2866 
Meeting ID: 987 7102 4708
Password: 0000


Ps and Qs
Projects and Quilts (Ps and Qs) will zoom next on Wednesday, Jan 13 at 10:00 AM.

Use this link to join:

By phone: 929-436-2866
Meeting ID: 299 018 7785
Password: 0000

Green Sanctuary sponsored forum: Moving Beyond Plastic Pollution with Judith Enck - Thursday, Jan 14, 7PM

Judith founded Beyond Plastics in 2019 to end plastic pollution through education, advocacy, and institutional change. Learn more here and see flyer by Sandy Steubing below.

Use this link to join
 
By phone: 929-436-2866
Meeting ID: 299 018 7785
Passcode: 0000
Congregational Conversation on Proposed Bylaws
Saturday, Jan 16, 10 – 11:30 am. Learn more here.
Use this link to join:
By phone: 929-436-2866
Meeting ID: 299 018 7785
Password: 0000


Virtual Circle Dinner
Sign up for a "virtual dinner" with fellow UUs on Saturday, Jan 16 from 6 to 7:30 PM! This is an opportunity to relax and connect using Zoom. Newcomers are especially welcome; we break into small groups and introduce ourselves to get the conversation started. You choose whether this will be your dinner time or not! Contact jsherman@nycap.rr.com to sign up by Thursday January 14.


Appreciating Sapphire
As most of you know, our Administrative Assistance, Sapphire Correa will be leaving Albany UU to continue and pursue her masters work in Public Health. Join us immediately following the service on Sunday, Jan 17 for short virtual appreciation. Use the service link to join.

Use this link to join:

To dial in by phone: 1-929-436-2866:
Meeting ID: 299 018 7785
Password: 0000


Congregational Conversation on Proposed Bylaws
Sunday, Jan 17, 11:30 – 1 pm. Learn more here.
Use this link to join:
By phone: 929-436-2866
Meeting ID: 299 018 7785
Password: 0000


Albany UU Sings
Join your friends and sing your heart out in Virtual Community! We will supply the music and the lyrics.
Save these Wednesday dates at 7:00 PM for the rest of the the service year:
January 20; February 3, 17; March 3, 24; April 7, 21; May 12, 26; June 9
Hope to see you there.

Use this link to join:

By phone: 1-929-436-2866
Meeting ID: 979 5961 1765
Passcode: 0000


A Virtual Orientation for Newcomers on Zoom
Getting to Know UU
Saturday, Feb 6, is a great chance for some of us at Albany UU to get to know YOU -- but it's also a perfect opportunity for you to learn about this Unitarian Universalist congregation, explore the roots of "UUism," and begin to figure out how participating in congregational life can enhance your personal journey.

Please join us:
9:00 AM to noon
Saturday, Feb 5

Use this link to join:

To dial in by phone: 1-929-436-2866:
Meeting ID: 299 018 7785
Password: 0000

Signing up is preferred, but logins the day of are welcome, come as you are!
To sign up: Send an email to Registration@AlbanyUU.org.
LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES

Racial Healing Workshop
Led by Rev. Sam Trumbore and Jaye Holly
Eight Tuesdays at 7:30pm, meeting on Zoom, beginning January 19, 2021

Our wounds, trauma, fears, misperceptions, misunderstandings, and deficits of imagination and compassion are some of the forces that prevent us from diligently working to dismantle the legacy of racism that continues to warp American culture and feed systems of oppression. Both White-identified people and Black, Indigenous and People of Color have inner work to do that empowers and supports the outer transformative work of dismantling these systems. The goal is for everyone to get free.

The Racial Healing Handbook by Dr. Anneliese A. Singh (2019) will be our source for “Practical activities to help you challenge privilege, confront systemic racism, & engage in collective healing.” Singh has designed a curriculum that is for everyone. She believes we need to heal from racism together. The Racial Healing Handbook, will be available and displayed next week at The Book House in Stuyvesant Plaza (518.489.4761), on their book club wall. If you mention Albany UU, you’ll get a 20% club discount!

Please register through the office using the email: registration@albanyuu.org (note corrected email!) or call/text Rev. Sam at 518-366-4532. Note that you’ll need to get a copy of the book for the class. Each week there will be exercises you’ll need to complete before you attend. Please sign up ONLY if you are willing to do the self-reflective, written preparation (worksheets) ahead of each classThere will be little lecture or content presented. This class will focus on personal sharing in small groups with the goal of inner healing for everyone.


Mindfulness Meditation Workshop on Zoom
led by Rev. Sam Trumbore
January 8-9, 2021

This meditation training and practice workshop will be led by Rev. Trumbore, on Friday 6:00pm to 9:00pm, and Saturday 8:00am to 3:00pm. It gives the participants an opportunity to learn Buddhist mindfulness meditation techniques and/or refresh and deepen their meditation practice. All are welcome from first timers to experts. People will sit together as we do on Zoom on Sunday mornings and do walking meditation in their own homes. We’ll have a break for lunch on Saturday at noon. Please register with Rev. Sam by email (minister@albanyuu.org) if you would like to participate. A voluntary donation can be offered at the end to the Minister’s Discretionary Fund. This is an experiment to see if a Zoom retreat will work or not.

Rev. Trumbore has practiced Buddhist Vipassana or insight meditation for over 35 years and is Past President of the Unitarian Universalist Buddhist Fellowship. This meditation technique is one of the best for Unitarian Universalists. It helps people train their minds to strengthen concentration and intensify moment-to-moment awareness. Regular practice of this technique quiets and sharpens the mind, opens the heart and improves one's physical and mental health.
IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENTS!


Wine and Cheese Announcement!
Fasten your virtual seatbelts and practice your 'Stralian accents, as your UU Wineaux group flies you
on a ZOOM tour of Australian and New Zealand Wines.

Our 16th Annual Wine and Cheese tasting will take place Saturday, 27 February through our ZOOM program. That afternoon, you will pick up (and if you're unable to drive, we will deliver) the selected servings of wines paired with cheeses and appropriate crackers, fruits and condiments. That evening, will we all join together for guided tastings and commentary.

Mark your calendars now and keep watching the Albany UU newsletter to learn how to reserve a spot and how to pay.


Guest at Your Table
Guest at Your Table (GAYT) is Unitarian Universalist Service Committee’s annual intergenerational program to raise support for and awareness about key human rights issues. Since UUSC works in more than 20 countries, with over 60 grassroots partners, there are thousands of individuals involved in and who benefit from the work that our members make possible. The program is an opportunity to celebrate grassroots partnership, support human rights, and learn about just four of these individuals – the “guests” in Guest at Your Table. Learn how to participate here.


Plan Ahead for Virtual GA
General Assembly is the annual gathering of Unitarian Universalists. In 2021, GA will again be all-virtual, held June 23-27.  Consider participating in this inspiring, educational, challenging and joyful gathering! Mark your calendar now and check www.uua.org/ga for more information.

“Circle 'Round for Justice, Healing, Courage” is the theme for GA 2021. Interested individuals are invited to submit a Program Proposal. Proposals are due in two phases. Phase 1: Due January 15. Phase 2: Due January 29.
 
You can register for GA and also find out how to volunteer on the UUA website.
LEAH'S BLOG

Express Yourself - Create Your Chalice Drawing

As we endure these remaining months of pandemic isolation, I find both irony and inspiration in our theme for January – “Imagination”. For me, January is a tough month to get through in a good year. There are no holidays to look forward to; I’m not a skier so I’m not wildly enthusiastic about the snow; and though the days are getting longer, the additional minutes of sunlight do not manage to influence the cold temperatures. Normally, in January I would seek the company of friends and loved ones to do puzzles and play games at home, or to brave the cold to go out to movie or dinner together. 

I’ll need a lot of imagination to get through this part of winter this year. So, I appreciate a drawing and writing exercise from our Soul Matters partners because it lays out step-by-step instructions to spark the imagination. A blank canvass can be daunting! And this exercise invites us to consider different kinds of connections. I think you could make either the drawing or the writing as simple or detailed as you would like. For me, this is a good reason to get out some colored pencils or even some paints. My goal is to share my creation on our Face Page and in our RE platform, The Treehouse. I invite you to do the same. Whether or not you put pen or brush to paper though, simply reading the instructions below might help spark your imagination to create connections.
 
Whatever spiritual or social practices you’re engaging in, I wish you ease, peace, and safety this month.
 
In joyful service, 
Leah
 
Our Soul Matters partners challenge us to consider these three connections as sacred bonds:
o  The connection to one’s deepest self
o  The connection to life’s gifts and joy
o  The connection to needs greater than our own
We can imagine the chalice as representing these three sacred connections. Draw a chalice as you reflect on the following symbolisms and resolution questions/commitments:
 
The flame represents the connection to our inner light and deepest self.
       What’s one way you will deepen your connection to your inner light/deepest self in the coming months?
The two circles around the chalice symbolize our two faith traditions, with our Unitarian side lifting up the idea that people are inherently good, not sinful and our Universalist side lifting up the idea that the Spirit of Life strives to offer us grace and gifts, not judgement and punishment. Each in their own way reminds us that life is good and full of gifts.
       What’s one way you will deepen your connection to life’s gifts in the coming months? I.e. How will you more strongly lean into joy?
The chalice bowl represents our common life together. We also like the way it represents a cup with which one uses to feed or offer drink to others. And in doing so, becomes a reminder of our calling to serve needs greater than our own.
       What’s one way you will deepen your connection to needs greater than your own in the coming months? I.e. How will you more strongly lean into the work of serving others?


More from our Blogs:
INCLUSIVITY RECOMMENDS

Our Inclusivity Team is offering resources for our ongoing education and reflection to address white supremacy culture at Albany UU. Are you finding that you have some time for reading and watching videos these days? Consider settling in with these titles by authors of color to help you become familiar with a diversity of human experiences.

Karen, Miss Ann and America's History of Entitled White Women
 
Do you know the current meaning of "Karen" and her historical predecessors? Check out this article and the candid, enlightening discussion between NPR Code Switch reporters. (23 minutes - click on link in the article)  
 


Reading for adults:
The Color of Water: A Black man's tribute to his white mother. (2006). By James McBride. In this riveting family memoir, the author's experiences are juxtaposed with narrative chapters from his mother. Beginning as the Polish daughter of an Orthodox Jewish rabbi, McBride's mother tells the story of leaving her birth family and finding meaning and belonging with her beloved husband in Red Hook, Brooklyn. McBride shares his memories of growing up with 11 siblings, and then, later a search for his mother's people in the the South. Both mother and son share their struggles with identity. Where is the balance between roots and wings?  Available in hard copy, CD audiobook, downloadable e-book, and downloadable audiobook in the Upper Hudson Library System.
SOCIAL ACTION
Social Responsibilities Council Recommends

The Albany UU Social Responsibilities Council (SRC) and Inclusivity Team recommend a Black Lives Matter vigil in Troy:
When: Saturday, 1/9/20, 10:30-11:00 am
Where: Troy, the sidewalk at the former Price Chopper: 865 2nd Avenue, 12182 - NOTE CHANGE
  • physical distance, masks
  • signs only, no chanting (except for meditative religious practice)
  • all weather

The purpose is two-fold:
  1. to express that Black Lives Matter
  2. to embolden white people to act against racism

To ensure safety as much as we can, we are working under these agreements as a provisionary covenant:
  • We carry signs with the same message: "Black Lives Matter," or "Stand Against Racism."
  • We limit our positive responses to a thumbs-up or a wave.
  • We do not respond to any negative reactions, such as heckling.
  • The police officers at the farmers market (across the street) will be notified that there is a gathering.
  • One person, not holding a sign, will be designated to take photos of license plates of anyone who is inappropriate.
  • We all leave at the end of the vigil, and people leave together.
  • If friends join us, we advise them of the measures above.

If you can’t or don’t want to join standing, you are invited to drive by and wave or honk encouragement.


Raise Your Voice for End of Life Choice
CALL TO ACTION: Be a virtual volunteer to change the world from the comfort of your home.
Many UUs are strong advocates for passing New York’s Medical Aid in Dying Act. The Act would:
  • empower terminally ill New Yorkers to obtain medication that they could take to avoid needless suffering and have a peaceful death; and
  • give New Yorkers the same end-of-life options available in DC and nine states, including our neighbors, Vermont and New Jersey.
To learn more, view this website and this webinar.

Governor Cuomo has said that he would sign the bill into law once it is passed by the Assembly and Senate. Many lawmakers returning in 2021 are already supporters, as the Act was gaining momentum in 2020 before the pandemic. But, in 2021, more than 40 newly elected lawmakers will need to meet with advocates to learn about the Act and the importance of passing it this year. 

That’s where you can help. We need a groundswell of New Yorkers to reach out to lawmakers.
  • Mark your calendar for Monday, January 25, 2021 to join Compassion and Choices NY at its Virtual Rally (online) to support the Medical Aid in Dying Act. Details to follow.
  • Volunteer to be a virtual advocate to meet with lawmakers via Zoom in order to share your story and reasons for supporting medical aid in dying. You will be joined by experienced advocates so you don’t need to know all the details of the Act or have advocacy experience. Just your presence can make a difference. Offer to help by sending an email to Amanda Cavanaugh at NY@compassionandchoices.org.
  • Contact your Assembly Member and Senator to express your support for medical aid in dying. Even if you have contacted them before, do it again. Use this link for email, or call them.
  •  Learn more about the 2021 campaign and how to advance the Act by viewing this webinar.
  • Reach out to family, friends, neighbors, colleagues and others to invite them to join you in all of the actions listed above. 
RELIGIOUS EXPLORATION


-Leah Purcell, Director of Religious Education and Family Ministry (DREFM), lpurcell@albanyuu.org

-Elizabeth Baldes, Religious Education Coordinator, elizabethbaldes@yahoo.com


Family Chapel this Sunday at 11:30
We'll continue with our theme of Imagination with the story Dreamers by Yuyi Morales. This book explores what a family brings with them when they leave their home country. We all can be dreamers and share whatever gifts we have. Children in grades Pre-k through 8 will meet in their groups after Family Chapel. Email Leah Purcell for details, including the zoom link.


Coming of Age mentors and youth meet at 12:30 this Sunday
Check out sample Credos at our Padlet. Email Leah Purcell for the link at dre@albanyuu.org


Save the Date: Parent/Caretaker Support Group Wed, Jan 13 starting at 8:00 pm
Facilitated by Leah Purcell, this is a drop-in time UU Parents and Caretakers to talk about raising children and youth with UU values. We’ll focus on the theme of Imagination this session. No need to sign up ahead of time. Here’s the link: https://tinyurl.com/Support-Group-for-UU-Parents.


UU Family/Household Circle Training
Leah Purcell has a tool she can share with families, couples, or any household to strengthen connections and communication at home. It’s a way to help practice your values where it counts most – at home, with the people you spend so much time with! The whole family or household does not need to come to learn – just two members is enough to learn and bring the practice home. Fill out this form for Leah to find times later in Jan or in Feb to meet for this two-session workshop which will be held on a Friday evening and following Saturday morning. If you have questions, contact Leah at dre@albanyuu.org


The Guest at Your Table Program 2020-2021 Theme: The Meaning of Home
This year during Guest at Your Table, we can witness stories of our partners around the world as they tell you about home. Our partners in Central America are working to make sure no one is forced to flee their home due to violence or economic devastation. Our partners in Alaska, Louisiana, and the Pacific are fighting for their homes and ancestral lands against the ravages of extractive industries and climate change. And our partners in Burma, Bangladesh, and beyond are working tirelessly to support the rights of the Rohingya ethnic minority of Burma after facing government backed genocide in their homeland. Information from the staff of the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee about Guest at Your Table is here

 
The deadline to submit donations to First UU Society of Albany's Guest at Your Table program this year is January 25.


The Treehouse is our own multigenerational community for Religious Education for Children and Youth. Families can find resources to practice UU-ism at home and supplementary materials for RE groups. Everyone - parents/caretakers, children and youth can share their written thoughts, pictures, videos they make. Click here to join:  https://tinyurl.com/Albany-Treehouse


Parents/caretakers can find resources in the RE Roundup this week.
JOYS and CONCERNS
To share your Joy or Sorrow with our Albany UU community, you may submit it on a yellow card during the service or by using our online form. 

Join us in keeping our members and friends in your thoughts as they share their joys and concerns.

Need to Talk? Albany UU Pastoral Care Associates are here to listen!
Our Pastoral Care Associates have been trained in compassionate listening skills and are available to all members and friends of our congregation. To contact a Pastoral Care Associate, email: listeners@albanyuu.org, contact Rev. Sam Trumbore, the Albany UU office at 518.463.7135, or one of them personally. They are: Sharon Babala, Chuck Manning, Donna Meixner, Phil Rich, Randy Rosette, Sandy Stone, Dee VanRiper and Erik F. vonHausen.

Albany UU Caring Network
The Caring Network (CN) reflects the words of the Albany UU chalice lighting - “to sustain a vital and nurturing religious community.” The CN provides encouragement and short term support to Albany UU members who, due to hospitalization, sickness, loss, or isolation, need assistance. Services typically include transportation to medical appointments, meals and shopping during recovery, and friendly “check in’s” from Caring Network members. Please reach out to the Caring Network.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Essential Building Use Guidelines:
Find more information about our Building Use Guidelines during COVID HERE.




Learn about submitting announcements to for our virtual Sunday service and how to reserve a Zoom room for meetings and events here.


Other important resources, guidelines and information can be found on the Resource Page of our website, here.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Virtual Service Ushers - It's never too late to volunteer!
This is a great opportunity to volunteer on a Sunday morning! Ushers are needed on Sunday mornings to help provide a welcoming, safe and enjoyable virtual experience. We need folks who would be willing to volunteer to help. Tammy will provide a quick and simple training. PLEASE contact her if you'd like to learn more: admin@albanyuu.org.

YOU can make a difference!
We at Albany UU are making an effort to increase our visibility and connectivity online. YOU can help, and it's quick and easy! Simply like, follow and share pages and posts on any of our social media platforms, or leave a positive Facebook or Google review. Google Albany UU or find us here:
CONNECTIONS







Publication deadlines
This is an important reminder that the news and article deadline for Windows Weekly is 9:00 AM on Monday. Thank you for your cooperation.

Sign up for an online class

- Send an email to: registration@albanyuu.org
Regular events and meetings

Most of these events and meetings continue online, however dates and times may vary. Please contact the Team or Group Leader or email admin@albanyuu.org if you have questions.

Sundays       
11:45 AM     Inclusivity Team (2nd)
5:30 PM       Walker Book Group (2nd)
11:45 AM      Social Responsibilities Council (3rd)
11:45 AM      Green Sanctuary Committee (4th)

Mondays       
6:15 PM        Religious Education Council
                               (1st, Nov., Feb., May)

Tuesdays      
10:15 AM      Philosophy Discussion (weekly)

Wednesdays
10:00 AM     Ps and Qs (alternating)
7:00 PM     Albany UU Sings (alternating)

Thursdays    
6:30 PM       Board of Trustees (4th)
Going to miss a Sunday?

Online service is generally recorded

Sunday, Jan 3 watch it here.

Sunday, Dec 27 watch it here.

Thursday, Dec 24 watch it here.

Sunday, Dec 20 watch it here.

Sunday, Dec 13 watch it here.

Sunday, Dec 6 watch it here.

For previous services, pre-pandemic:
You can listen to the entire Albany UU Sunday service at home or on your mobile device. March 1 and 8 services are available as MP3 files on the Albany UU member resource website. Here is how to access:

username: AlbanyUU
password: EEthelredBrown405

Our sermon archive (http://members.albanyuu.org/wp/ - select Ministry/Sermon Archive on the left website menu) has pdf files of sermons texts (when available) and audio files of sermons. You can also request the office put a service on a CD.
First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany
Parking - when the building reopens: Parking is available on the street. On Sundays (and for some special events) Albany UU has permission to use the University at Albany’s Hawley Parking Lot on Robin Street at Washington Avenue.

Office hours:
The Albany UU Office is closed during this time of physical distancing. Sam, Leah, Tammy and Sapphire have their messages forwarded to their personal cell phones and are available by email.

Websites
General: www.AlbanyUU.org

Zoom use
To reserve Zoom for an Albany UU online meeting, contact Administrative Assistant Sapphire Correa (518.463.7135 or office@albanyuu.org).

Photo credit: Jeannie Thompson
First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany | 518.463.7135| 518.463.1429 | Admin@AlbanyUU.org | AlbanyUU.org