From the Ministerial Search Committee

The search committee is nearly done with interviewing 5 potential ministers for our congregation. Since this part of the process is done in strict confidence, you won't have seen much of us in church lately, except for a rare weekend off. 

We want you to know that we are working hard on the search, and are looking forward to presenting you with the name of our final candidate for minister some time in early April. 

Thanks for your support!

Our Downtown Gem in the News!

As many of you know, we are inviting the Rochester community to First Universalist on March 9th, for Services, a reception in the Clara Barton Lounge afterwards, and tour of the building for anyone interested. The MOCHA team will supply and serve refreshments for the masses.  ("Mass" as in masses of people - like a flash mob dancing on YouTube.) Some of you have asked if it's a Mass (as in liturgy) - definitely not. The ROC MASS MOB moniker is a reference to using social media to spread the word about the many churches in the city, and historically significant architecture. Invite friends, and come! 

Here's the link to NBC news about us:

http://www.rochesterhomepage.net/story/d/story/mass-mobs-coming-to-rochester/27063/hCt9pDJubEuyjGu0d_nlUg

Questions? Email Joy Leccese at [email protected].

This Week at First Universalist

Thank you for keeping us updated, both when you schedule events and when you need to cancel one!  Please continue to do so. Send news of your events to [email protected]; or call 546-2826.

ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR MARCH 2, 2014:

NEXT SERVICE: Sunday, March 9: A Hope-Filled FaithFirst Universalist has for years upheld, in downtown Rochester, the notion that there is reason for hope, optimism even, for humanity. This is a service about persistent optimism.  We welcome our friends from the "Roc Mass Mob". Rev. Martha Munson.

NEXT DROP-IN DISCUSSION: Sunday, March 9: Save Capitalism - Or Save Ourselves? Scientists say we are headed for civilization-ending global warming within decades. Richard Smith, economic historian, says capitalism simply cannot take the radical steps necessary to save us.  Hank Stone will summarize and facilitate.

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION:Kids ages four and older join us every week in the sanctuary for the first portion of our worship service. Children's Worship begins after the Message for All Ages.  Nursery care for babies and younger children is provided throughout the service on the second floor.  We also have seating in our second floor foyer, where parents can hold their little ones and listen to the service via speaker.

ARE YOU NEW TO FIRST UNIVERSALIST?  Have you come a few times and want to find out more about Unitarian Universalism and our congregation?  Then stop by the Welcome Table  in the Clara Barton Lounge during coffee hour.  You'll find friendly folks there every Sunday who are eager to talk with you!

FOOD INGATHERING: The monthly Food Ingathering is next Sunday, March 9. Donations of non-perishable food items will be collected to benefit The Community Food Cupboard on Nester Street.

A SPECIAL CONGREGATIONAL MEETING will be held on March 16 immediately following the service. The purpose is to seek approval for a major roof and building repair project.  All members are encouraged to attend. Members of the House committee and Board will be available in the Clara Barton Lounge after service today to answer questions.

2014-15 BUDGET: The finance team is beginning to develop the 2014-2015 budget.  Do you have ideas or input?  Is your committee planning something special that will require a change in funding?  If there is anything you'd like to let us know, please contact Ann Rhody ([email protected]) or any member of the finance team by the end of February.

STEWARDSHIP 2014: Generously Investing for Tomorrow Did you know that the weekly plate collection accounts for only about 2.1% of the income we need to operate the church?  The $5100 we budget for plate income is important to our operating budget, but it doesn't come close to completely providing for the church's financial needs.  That's why we ask each member and friend to make a pledge:  an investment in our UU Downtown Gem!!  More to come on how to make YOUR investment!!

LADIES WHO LUNCHwill be getting together for lunch and fellowship on Thursday, March 6th, at noon at the White Swans Asia Cafe, located at 798 South Clinton Avenue.  If you would like to have a seat at the table, please let Marti Eggers know by Sunday, March 2nd.  

CHILI COOK-OFF: March 23rd in the Clara Baron Lounge. Prepare the chili at home, heat it up at the church and then satisfy the palates of the friends and members with what you consider an award winning recipe.  Then let the voting begin for the Grand Prize and the recognition that comes with cooking the best chili. Then relax in the warm glow of friendship. Please let Bill Elwell know of your intention to participate.

DISTRICT ASSEMBLY 2014: MARCH 28-29, ERIE PA: Avalon Hotel and Convention Center, Erie, PA. If you would like to serve as a delegate, please contact Tom Williams at [email protected] 

TRAIN FOR RAIHN* Monday, March 3d, 6:30 to 8:30 PM at Glory Worship Center, 4409 Lake Ave in Charlotte. For more information, contact Chris DeGolyer at 461-3616 or [email protected], or check the RAIHN website at www.raihn.org. *Rochester Area Interfaith Hospitality Network: Keeping families together, bringing families home

EARTH WEEK OUTREACH: Wednesday, April 23, 2 pm at First Universalist Church. Discussion of Will Allen's book "Good Food Revolution". Rev. Lori Staubitz will share how Lots of Food is addressing food justice issues in Rochester. RSVP to [email protected].

EASTMAN LUNCHTIME CONCERTS: Concerts are held on Thursdays in the sanctuary from 12:15 to 12:45, are free, and open to the public. 

A CARING COMMITTEE REMINDER: When a family member enters the hospital, needs emergency meals, needs transportation to church, or wants home visits; please contact Ruth Fitzgerald [email protected] 225-0555,or Eileen Fernandez, [email protected].

HEARING LOOP IN SANCTUARY: Please use the T setting on your hearing aid or see an usher for a receiver.