November 8, 2018  |  Vol. 5 No. 45
Emotions this Week and Memories of Elections Past
Rev. Jen Crow
This week I have found myself swept up in memory differently than I have in other mid-term election weeks. I've been remembering the sense of hope I carried on the last big election day, my belief that I and our country were part of a forward, progressive movement. I've been remembering the disbelief I felt as the election results rolled in that evening, how the one adult person of color in the room kept predicting Trump's win with calm clarity. I've been remembering holding my kids the next day and their gasping sobs as they worried that they would be taken away from me and my wife because we are lesbians. I remember the service we held at church that night and the deep need to be together - to shore up our faith in each other and what we knew to be right.

All of these memories have been with me as I've moved through this week, and I wonder what memories have been present for you. What ghosts of elections past have been right at your side, bringing their worries and joys into your days? History can offer us hope, and it can carry deep hurt, too.

With the mid-term elections behind us this week, the feelings I've encountered are all over the map - both internally and externally. Here are a few of them:
  • Joyful
  • Exhausted
  • Relieved
  • Hopeful
  • Fearful
  • Alive with the work and responsibility of democracy
  • Feeling awake - hate, racism, and white-supremacy are alive in our country
  • Grateful to live in Minnesota
  • Tired
  • Reminded of the importance of local elections and deep involvement
  • Wary
  • Disheartened that the soul of our country is still sick
  • Pockets of hope
  • Thrilled about the vote being returned to people who have committed a felony in Florida
  • Worn out
I know there are other feelings out there this week, and as the news continues to roll in, my hope is that we might be gentle with ourselves and each other - making space for rest and renewal, finding ways to settle our body, mind and spirit. May the engagement so many of us felt in this election stay with us, that we might live awake and aware and engaged, building the world we dream about.

In faith,
Jen
SUNDAY WORSHIP AT FIRST UNIVERSALIST CHURCH
Sunday, Nov. 11, 9:30 & 11:15 a.m.
"And Isn't That Enough?" 
Rev. Justin Schroeder

In her poem, "A New National Anthem," the poet Ada Limon writes, "Perhaps, the truth is, every song of this country has an unsung third stanza, something brutal snaking underneath us as we blindly sing the high notes with a beer sloshing in the stands hoping our team wins." Over these past two years, the veil has been pulled back on the ugliness that is a part of our country and its founding - racism, anti-semitism, anti-immigrant sentiment, and white nationalism - all of which have been given oxygen by the words and rhetoric of the leaders of our country. It's enough. It's enough to destroy our democracy. Enough to destroy our moral compass. It's enough, and it's time to sing a new song.

The Soul Band will play in worship this Sunday; join us at 9:30 or 11:15 a.m.!


Worship Theme: Non-negotiables
What cannot be bought or sold, traded or transferred in your life? What is sacred? What convictions are sunk deep in the heart of this faith community, like footings on which a foundation can be laid and a structure built? Many of our Unitarian and Universalist ancestral mothers and fathers sacrificed much for their convictions, their non-negotiables: that hell was a fiction, joy was our birthright, and justice was our calling so that heaven might take root on earth. Rev. David Bumbaugh says it this way: "If we are to be the religious movement some of us dreamed...if we are to respond to the needs of the world from a liberal religious basis, it is critical that we be able to address and answer three central questions: What do we believe? Whom do we serve? To whom or what are we responsible?" This month we ask ourselves: what are the non-negotiables to living a whole and holy life, as individuals and as a religious tradition?
A Look Ahead
Sunday, Nov. 18, 9:30 & 11:15 a.m.
Music: First Universalist Choir
Lead Minister: Rev. Jen Crow
Worship Associate: Suzan Klein


Recent Sermon Podcasts
November 4, 2018
"A Heart that Beats Loudly"
Rev. Ruth MacKenzie

October 28, 2018
"The Boundaries of Our Hearts"
Rev. Jen Crow

October 21, 2018
"Making Room"
Rev. Elaine Aron Tenbrink

CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS
12-Step Spirituality: Centering Prayer Meditation
Saturday, Nov. 10, 9 a.m.-noon
This is one in a series of monthly sessions, offered October through May, designed for those actively working a 12 Step program, as well as those wanting to explore & deepen their spirituality through meditation. E ach session includes Centering Prayer meditation instruction, two 20-minute Centering Prayer sessions, reading from 12 Step literature, and presenters sharing personal experiences and on selected topics.  The topics for Saturday, Nov. 10 are: Step 2 and Surrender. Learn more. This is a drop-in event; no registration required.
Pathway to Membership Class
Sunday, Nov. 11, 1-3 p.m.
Is First Universalist feeling like your spiritual home? Join us for The Pathway to Membership, a class exploring Unitarian Universalism, the history and mission of this congregation, and the experience of membership.  Participants are invited to share and reflect on their own spiritual journeys and values. We ask that all those who wish to become members take this two-part class. We'd love to welcome you as a new member!  To register, contact Sandy at  Sandy@firstuniv.org  or 612-825-1701.

MNIPL Mindful Direct Action Training on Nov. 11
Mindful Direct Action Training: 
How to support and participate in spiritually grounded protest

Sunday, Nov. 11,  1-6 p.m. 
Sanctuary at First Universalist Church 

What does it look like to answer moral injustice with mindful/prayerful direct action? How can we "calm the waters" of direct action events for all involved by maintaining a centered, mindful presence?  In these turbulent times we are called to act in the rich tradition of spiritually grounded protest for a better world.

From the Line 3 tar sands pipeline to police violence and the ongoing attacks on immigrant communities, come learn ways to directly confront injustice while practicing how to be in better community with each other and our Earth.

Join our Faithful Action Partner Minnesota Interfaith Power and Light (MNIPL) for an introductory training to the skills needed to spiritually ground ourselves and defend our communities. This training will combine mindfulness techniques to reflect on your spiritual calling to act, to practice de-escalation during protests, and to organize for inclusive direct action. This event is open to the public and everyone is encouraged to attend.


Facilitated by Kaia Svien and Ethan Nuss from Common Ground Meditation Center and Alina Yaman from Minnesota Interfaith Power and Light
Daytime Connections:
Field Trip to the MN History Center
Thursday, Nov. 15, 11 a.m.
Join our Daytimers for an informal field trip to the Minnesota History Center in St. Paul. Remember 1968? It's brought back in sharp focus in the acclaimed show "1968." Interested in our Somali neighbors? Check out the "Somali + Minnesota" show.  "Weaving Wellness," an exhibit curated by First U member Martha Bird, is also on view. Afterwards, meet in the cafeteria to reminisce and discuss what we've seen and learned. Participants are responsible for purchasing their own lunch. Meet at the center at 11 a.m. or carpool. Contact Ray Dillon ( dillonrueter@usinternet.com) if you need a ride or can provide a ride. Admission is $10, free for MNHS members. For those on a limited income, fill out the form here before the trip to be eligible for $4 admission. Through Daytime Connections, older adults at First Universalist empower each other to live intentional, joyful, purposeful, and spiritually fulfilled lives. To register, contact Sandy DiNanni at sandy@firstuniv.org or 612-825-1701.
Understanding Root Causes of Migration: "Harvest of Empire" Film & Discussion
Saturday, Nov. 17, 1-4 p.m.
Understanding the role of U.S. military interventions around the world is key to understanding migration. Join our Sanctuary and Resistance team, Asamblea de Derechos Civiles members and several compañeros who have migrated from Central America and Mexico to watch the 2012 film "Harvest of Empire" based on the book by journalist Juan Gonzalez. The film takes an unflinching look at the role of U.S. corporate and political interests in triggering the waves of migration. After the film we will hear directly from those who have migrated and discuss our roles in resisting the injustices in the immigration systems.  We are interconnected in this struggle with the UUSC. The Unitarian Universalist Service Committee (UUSC.org) is partnering with multiple grassroots organizations and courageous local journalists to connect and support groups across Central America and Mexico, with a three-pronged focus on safety in Central America, safety on the migrant trail, and human rights in the U.S. immigration system.  This will be an important opportunity to become more invested in our commitments spiritually, politically and financially to migration as a human right. 

Global Gift Fair
Sunday, Nov. 25, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
On Sunday, Nov. 25, the Global Gift Fair will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Social Hall. We will have 6 participating vendors:  Books for Bassodawish features handmade items from Tanzania. Mano a Mano is a UU initiated program that sells handmade clothes in Bolivia. SAYSM or Under One Roof will again bring handmade linens and goods by women who are new citizens. Nawang represents Tibet imports including bells, bowls and winter wear. Frybread serves at-risk youth in the community and has an assortment of wearables, jewelry and decor with Native American roots. This year she is also bringing food from the Red Lake Nation. Honor the Earth is representing White Earth Reservation and will have products to sell that promote clean water and protecting Mother Earth. Come and join us!
Seniors Hike with Daytime Connections
Thursday, Nov. 29, 10 a.m.
Meet at Cedar Lake Point Beach parking lot
What could be more invigorating than a brisk fall hike through the woods with a group of congenial First U companions? That's the plan for our next Seniors Hike with Daytime Connections, Thursday, Nov. 29, 10 a.m.
Meet at the Cedar Lake Point Beach parking lot at 2100 Cedar Lake Parkway. This mostly-level hike will take a bit less than two hours, with shorter options available. Weather permitting (i.e., not too much mud) part of our hike will be on the dirt path through the woods on the east side of Cedar Lake, so please wear appropriate shoes for dirt trail walking. On the route we'll have a chance to check out nearby Brownie Lake, as well as "Hidden Beach" on Cedar Lake. After the hike, there will be an optional lunch at Milda's Cafe, a well-known Northside eatery at Glenwood Ave. and N. Logan.  Please let us know if you'll be joining us by contacting Ward Lyndall at (612) 823-2385 or  wmlyndall@gmail.com . Non-seniors are welcome too!

NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS
Give to the Max Day is Thursday, Nov. 15
On Thursday, Nov. 15, Minnesotans will have 24 hours to donate online to their favorite nonprofits via  GiveMN.org as part of Give to the Max Day. Last year, Minnesotans gave $20.6 million in just 24 hours to more than 500 organizations across the state. 

For the 10th anniversary of Give to the Max Day, there are special prizes this year! E ach donation that First Universalist receives via GiveMN.org on November 17 gives us a chance at a Golden Ticket prize. Every 10 minutes, one Golden Ticket of $500 is being awarded through a random drawing of donations made. Could your gift be the one to win a Golden Ticket prize for First Universalist?

If you plan to take part in Give to the Max Day, keep First Universalist in mind!  Visit our page at GiveMN.org to learn more and make a contribution. 
Our Whole Lives (OWL) for Young Adults Begins Nov. 17
First Universalist is pleased to offer OWL for young adults this fall/winter!

We tend to think of sex ed as information for kids and teens - but the Our Whole Lives (OWL) curriculum emphasizes that sex and related topics are relevant throughout our lifespans. This program provides a framework and tools for discussing and learning about sexuality, bodies, health, identity, relationships, and more. The curriculum is inclusive for all genders and sexual orientations.

There is a kickoff session on Saturday, Nov. 17, noon-4 p.m. The group will then meet  from 6:30-8:30 p.m. on Thursdays, Nov. 29, Dec. 6, Dec. 13, Jan. 3, 10, 17, 24, and 31.

Please register by Monday, Nov. 12. To register, contact Sandy DiNanni at  Sandy@firstuniv.org or 612-825-1701.

Facilitators: Magi Korder and  Nancy Sims have both facilitated Our Whole Lives with junior high groups several times, and have experience facilitating discussion around similar issues in other contexts.  For more information, you can reach out to Nancy at  nasims75@gmail.com
Join the Racial Justice Education Team
for the Play "Freedom Daze" on Saturday, Dec. 1
The Racial Justice Education Team invites you to attend the production of Exposed Brick Theatre's FREEDOM DAZE, on Saturday, December 1 at 7:30 p.m. Church members will be attending together, and participating in the post-show discussion with the writer & performers. This show is written by Aamera Siddiqui, directed by church member Suzy Messerole and funded, in part, by the First Universalist Foundation.
 
ABOUT THE PLAY:  The Muslim ban didn't happen overnight. Its seeds were planted long before 45 or 9/11. Freedom Daze is a journey through the media maze of (mis)information and indoctrination that has led to the creation of an enemy class of "them." Using a multi-media approach and weaving together multiple storylines, the play follows an artist's quest to discover how a childhood acquaintance, "The Girl in the Yellow Dress" came to be sentenced to a life in solitary confinement. In a world of "They hate freedom," "If you see something, say something," and "The Terror Alert is"... where can one find the truth? The show is recommended for ages 13 & up. The play includes themes of sexual violence and torture.

LOCATION:  Southern Theater, 1420 S. Washington Ave. Minneapolis, MN 55454
 
TICKETS:  $20 in advance | $24 at the door | $12 students & seniors 65+
To Order Tickets: call the Southern Theater box office at 612-326-1811 or purchase tickets online at:  https://southerntheater.org/freedom-daze/
 
Church member Eric Richards will be at the theater to greet you that evening. You may contact him ahead of time for any questions (or to let him know to look for you) at erichard_hr@yahoo.com.
 
FOLLOW UP CONVERSATION:  Eric Richards and Suzy Messerole will be hosting a follow up discussion to the play for those interesting in diving further into the questions asked by the play. Follow up conversation is optional, and will be held Wednesday, Dec. 5 from 7 - 8 p.m. at the church.
 
Can't attend on Saturday, Dec. 1, but interested in the play? The show runs Nov. 29 - Dec. 9.
Hats for the Homeless
Now in its 10th year, First Universalist knitters are asked to donate beautiful knit caps to Hats for the Homeless to sustain our tradition of bringing warmth and love to our less fortunate neighbors. Barb Melom and Pat Gottschalk have already begun distribution to shelters, schools and community resources. Donated hats and scarves can be brought to our collection basket near the elevator in the atrium, or they can be given to Sandy DiNanni at the hub on Sundays. Learn more on the Hats for the Homeless blog!
Donations Needed for Augsburg Fairview Academy (AFA)
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. We are experiencing a higher than typical need for food this year and your contributions of the following are gratefully received:
  • Microwavable single serving dinners
  • Snacks - granola bars, fruit cups, small packages of nuts or raisins, crackers
  • Clothing - hoodies, jeans, fall jackets (clothing in good repair, clean, teen appropriate)
  • Toiletries: men and women's deodorant, tooth brushes and tooth paste, lip balm, ethnic hair products, sanitary products, condoms
Bring items to the Hub on Sundays or drop off during the week at the shelves labeled for AFA by the 34th Street entrance.  Thank you for your generosity!
COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD
Living with Gun Violence - How do we Respond? 
Friday, Nov. 16, 2018 at 7 p.m. 
First Unitarian Society, 900 Mt Curve Ave, Minneapolis

Program presented by Interfaith Alliance for Gun Safety First Unitarian Society with co-sponsor Protect Minnesota. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; light refreshments at 6 p.m.  Speakers include: 

Farji Shaheer: Director, Next Step Program A hospital-based violence intervention program at HCMC. NSP helps young adult victims of gun violence turn their lives around by interrupting the cycle of community violence and empowering young people to change. 

Matt Lassegard: Patrol Deputy Ramsey County Sheriff's Department. How Law Enforcement Officers deal with the Gun Culture Law Enforcement for 19 years Currently Patrols northern Ramsey County suburban cities. Has worked in the county Jail, Court System, and 8 years on patrol. National gun safety issues, MN permit to carry laws, and general Law Enforcement perceptions of Gun Laws and the 2nd amendment. 
You're Invited to a Community Reparations Gala
Keynote speaker Resmaa Menakem
Submitted by Denise Konen

Please come to an amazing first time Community Reparations Gala, organized by the Racial Justice Network, on Nov. 17, 2018! Resmaa Menakem, author of  My Grandmother's Hands, will be the keynote speaker. Invite others, get details and purchase tickets here, and/or donate directly to the reparations fund here.

There are so many assaults on the rights of so many vulnerable people at this very moment that we could forget that the Sanctuary and Resistance movement, that grew so much bigger after the election, started with a resurgence of the movement for Black lives - and those lives are still in great danger through police profiling and brutality, the rigged justice system, and the disparities in every institution from banking to education. It's important that we remind ourselves that sanctuary and resistance is not just about immigrants - it means that we will accompany and support any marginalized people for our mutual liberation and resist the policies and practices that harm all those who are targeted and vilified.

As faithful people who are working to bring more love and belonging to the world we will never be whole until we acknowledge the harm we have done as a nation grounded in white supremacy and then do our best to make real amends. Reconciliation and healing cannot happen without these first steps. If you would like to understand more about the importance of reparations and paying our nation's moral debt, please read this Ta-Nehisi Coates article from the Atlantic: The Case for Reparations.  #SolidarityisOurSuperpower   - Dove Kent
RESOURCES & CONTACT INFORMATION
Cycle of Life and Pastoral Care
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.
Congregational Care: Caring Corner
Write a note to a congregant who could use support! There are cards available in the library, which is located off of the Social Hall. You are welcome to stop by and write a card at any time. Just leave it in the basket and the church will mail it for you. Learn more about congregational care on our website. 
Planned Giving & the Heritage Circle
Please let us know  when you designate First Universalist Church as a beneficiary in your will or estate plan so we can thank you for your generous commitment and welcome you to the Heritage Circle. The church office and the Planned Giving Committee can help you. Learn more on our website.
Join Our Mailing List
Subscribe to The Weekly Liberal here. 
Sign up to receive our weekly Children Youth & Family Ministries news here. 
Church Office Hours
Sundays 9  a.m.-1 p.m.
Mondays-Thursdays  8:30 a.m.-8 p.m.
Closed Fridays and Saturdays
Weekly Liberal Submissions
We encourage you to submit news!
Do you have an announcement that you'd like published in  The Weekly Liberal? Fill out our  online submission form. Edits for length and/or content may occur.  The Weekly Liberal  is compiled and edited by Communications Manager Jenn Stromberg. Past issues, deadlines, and policies can be found on our  website . 
Contact Us
First Universalist Church of Minneapolis
3400 Dupont Ave. S.
Minneapolis, MN 55408
612-825-1701
For staff contact information, please visit our Ministers and Staff page.
First Universalist Church of Minneapolis
3400 Dupont Avenue S.
Minneapolis, MN 55408

612-825-1701

Copyright © 2018. All Rights Reserved.