The common expression may be that people “fall” in love, as if intention and attention play no part in that transformative process. Reality, on the other hand, teaches us that nurturing love requires a great deal of us – not once, but over and over again.
This Sunday, February 14at 12 p.m. the Membership Team will be holding a virtual “Staying Connected” gathering. “Staying Connected” is primarily intended for “newish” folks to get acquainted and learn a bit more about First UU Society. It is very informal; we simply go around the “room” introducing ourselves, collecting and answering questions. We warmly invite you to join us via Zoom. We look forward to seeing you!
To this cold season bring, the warmth of our light
Our spirits to raise, at our online campfire.
Share a song, an instrumental, a poem, story, or rant, a little-known talent, or just watch and listen. This month's theme is Community. Perform a piece that connects with this theme, or whatever else that moves you. All are welcome. Invite friends and family members! Click here for the Zoom link!
To join our email list, or sign up for the open mic, email Todd:
The Immigration Justice Team welcomes new members to help with our projects to advocate for individuals impacted by US immigration policies as well as work towards a change to more humane immigration policies. Our next meeting is Monday, February 15 at 4 p.m. via Zoom. Contact Bernie Carver at [email protected] for the Zoom link to the meeting.
Winter Vespers Series
Rev. David Ruffin, Consulting Minister
Our Winter Vespers Series will continue next week on Wednesday, February 17 at 6 p.m.
Vespers services are an opportunity for any in the FUUSB community, and friends, who seek a sacred pause mid-week to connect with self, one another, and what inspires us on our journeys. We share music and meditative silence, poetry and presence, gratitudes and griefs, breath and blessings. And laughter, too. Though we can't meet in person, we can still be together, sharing these gifts of renewal. Come as you are. All are welcome.
Or for audio only, call 1-646-876-9923 (meeting ID: 912 4388 8402). If outside the Northeast, find your local number at zoom.us/u/aeaJZdoB8
Climate Justice Team Event: Weatherization
Weatherization is the science of making your home more weatherproof. In Vermont this is critical to keep you warm as well as save money on fuel. It may even keep your pipes from freezing. Weatherizing also helps our climate because we will be using less fuel. Please come to a one-hour Zoom session on Wednesday, February 17at 7 p.m. to learn more about it from Chip Patullo, Certified Energy Manager. Chip has been an energy consultant for 40 years, installed hundreds of tons of insulation over 35 years of owning his business, and air-sealed thousands of homes and businesses.
Sign up with Linda Cooper, [email protected] or text to 922-7554. See you there.
Hope Baker-Carr, Caring & Belonging Coordinating Team
An "alternative" Coffee Hour Experience
Recently, coffee hour attendees have expressed appreciation for the renewed intention of giving all participants a chance to share in breakout rooms. In a similar spirit, supporting the different ways we experience connection, the Caring & Belonging Coordinating Team came up with this idea. Beginning on Sunday, February 21 for a trial period of four weeks, if you join Sunday coffee hour on Zoom by 11 a.m. (at bit.ly/3j4RxJ9), you will be given the option of joining a "Coffee Hour Circle" or remaining in the usual breakout groups. Coffee Hour Circles will last the duration of coffee hour, with a facilitator holding space for a slightly more structured time of checking-in and reflecting on the service. Time will be shared between participants as they take turns speaking and listening. There is always an option for passing. We hope these Circles facilitate deeper connections between attendees as well as a deeper personal reflection on the topic of the day. For any inclined toward this model of sharing on these four Sundays, we welcome your participation and your feedback!
Offered by the Caring & Belonging Coordinating Team and Rev. David Ruffin
FUUSB Offices Closed February 15
On Monday, February 15, FUUSB offices will be closed while several staff are off that day.
In Memoriam
We are sad to share the news that longtime First UU Society member Lois Holbrook passed away on January 22. Lois became a member in 1982. An obituary is available through this link: legcy.co/3juAW2G.
JUMP's Online Auction Ends Friday
JUMP's Online Auction closes on February 12 at 10 p.m.
Check Out These Great Buys...
You can still bid on any of the special items in our auction right up to the final seconds of this exciting event. Every tick of the clock brings us closer to the finish line. This may be your last chance to win that special item or to grab a great bargain. So don't miss out...BID NOW!
Spread the Word!
Refer Your Friends so they have the chance to offer their support and get some great last-minute deals.
Don't Forget: Every bid supports the work we do at JUMP!