The Weekly Liberal: "All In" on Election Day

November 1, 2018 | Vol. 5 No. 44

Let's Be "All In" As Voters on Election Day!


	Rev. Justin Schroeder

As reported in last week's Liberal, between 60% and 70% of First Universalist congregants voted in the last midterm election (2014). While this is better than the 50% turnout for Minnesota as a whole, the First Universalist Voter Team has set 85% as the "ALL IN" goal we'd like to meet and/or beat this year! When data is available a few months after the vote, a team member will contact the Secretary of State's office to obtain the % results and report back to us our congregational turnout in this election.

Together, we can do this: ALL IN for democracy and our UU 5th Principle! (The Right of Conscience and the Use of the Democratic Process Within Our Congregations and in Society at Large.)

Need a Ride to the Polls?

We do realize not every member may be eligible to vote, or may choose not to for individual reasons. But for those congregants who would like to vote and can't because they don't have a convenient way to get to the polls, or would just like someone to accompany them, volunteers from our congregation can help!

For those who wish to vote early (before Nov. 6), Ginny Halloran and Ralph Wyman have offered rides and fellowship for people to early vote now through Nov. 5. You can reach Ralph, who lives near downtown Minneapolis (but will travel throughout the metro!) at ralphwyman1@gmail.com or (612) 707-1085. You can reach Ginny, who lives in Southwest Minneapolis, at gkhalloran@gmail.com or (612) 210-7177.

If you need a ride on Election Day (Tuesday, Nov. 6), please contact Rev. Ruth at ruth@firstuniv.org by Nov. 4, as she is coordinating with other congregants who need a ride or are available to transport/accompany people to the polls on Nov. 6.

Let's again put our faith values into action at the polls this November!

In faith,

Rev. Justin and the First Universalist Voter Team

Just Announced: Special Post-Election Service

Post-Election Multigenerational Service

Wednesday, Nov. 7, 6-6:45 p.m.

We don't know what the election will bring. We will vote for the sake of our country, our communities, and our aching hearts. Whatever the outcome, please join us on Wednesday, Nov. 7 at 6 p.m. in song, story, and poetry in a multi-generational service in the sanctuary. Together we will remember ourselves, affirming and protecting the light in each human heart. We will listen to where love is calling us next and gather strength for the work of justice that lies ahead. Dean Magraw will be our featured musician. All are welcome!

SUNDAY WORSHIP AT FIRST UNIVERSALIST CHURCH

Sunday, Nov. 4, 9:30 & 11:15 a.m.

"A Heart That Beats Loudly"

Rev. Ruth MacKenzie

What do you say when asked what Unitarian Universalism consists of, what defines us as religious people? Does Unitarian Universalism matter in the face of rising authoritarianism and nationalism? In this month we tackle the non-negotiables, those things that are the bedrock of our faith, the soil in which we grow our souls and the foundation on which we aspire to create a just and whole world for all.

Children in Pre-K through 5th Grade join their families for the first part of the worship service on this Sharing Sunday.

Our biannual Child Dedication Ritual will also take place during services this Sunday, and the First Universalist Choir and Chalice Choir (our new children's choir) will sing.

Join us for worship at 9:30 or 11:15 a.m.!

Order of Service | More information about worship this Sunday

Daylight Saving Time Ends this Sunday

Don't forget to "Fall Back" this weekend! Daylight Saving Time ends on Sunday, Nov. 4 at 2 a.m. Set your clocks back before bed on Saturday to get that extra hour of sleep and make sure you're not an hour early to church. See you Sunday!

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. 11, 9:30 & 11:15 a.m.

New Member Sunday

Music: Soul Band

Lead Minister: Rev. Justin Schroeder

Worship Associate: Daryn Woodson

Fall Worship Calendar

Recent Sermon Podcasts

October 28, 2018

"The Boundaries of Our Hearts"

Rev. Jen Crow

Listen to the podcast

October 21, 2018

"Making Room"

Rev. Elaine Aron Tenbrink

Listen to the podcast

October 14, 2018

"Longing for Belonging"

Rev. Jen Crow

Listen to the podcast

CALENDAR HIGHLIGHTS

Young Adult Lunch

Sunday, Nov. 4, 12:45 p.m.

Are you in your 20s or 30s? Join the First Universalist Young Adults group on the 1st and 3rd Sunday of every month for lunch and conversation after the 11:15 a.m. service. This month, lunches are on Sundays, Nov. 4 and 18. Meet at 12:45 p.m. at the info desk in the Social Hall before heading out. Email Molly Work at mollywork88@gmail.com with questions.

Open Labyrinth Walk

Thursday, Nov. 8, 6:30-8 p.m.

September through May, we offer an Open Labyrinth Walk in the Social Hall on the second Thursday of the month. A member of the Labyrinth Circle will be available to answer questions and offer guidance. Arrive any time between 6:30 and 8 p.m. Walk at your own pace, and stay as long or short as you like. Allow at least 15 minutes minimum for a full fast walk. For more information, contact: Ann Hobbs, 763-546-3337 or g.annhobbs@gmail.com .

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.

Just Announced: 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 us 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.

RSVP here

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. Afterwards, meet in the cafeteria to reminisce and discuss what we've seen and learned. Lunch is on your own. 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.

SEE MORE UPCOMING EVENTS

NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

Our Whole Lives (OWL) for Young Adults Begins Nov. 17

First Universalist is pleased to offer OWL for young adults for the first time 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, Jan. 10, Jan. 17, Jan. 24, and Jan. 31.

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

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!

Responding to the Encampment/The Wall of Forgotten Natives

You are invited to attend a special meeting along with other local congregations, to discuss how our congregations might collectively respond to the Franklin / Hiawatha Encampment ("The Wall of Forgotten Natives"). A number of First Universalist members will be attending. Please register using the link below.

If you need a ride and/or are willing to carpool, please call or text Peg Mitchell at 612-280-6119 no later than November 6.

When/Where: Thursday, Nov. 8 at 7 p.m. at Edina Community Lutheran Church

4113 W 54th St, Minneapolis, 55424.

Who: Clergy and congregants interested in housing justice from collaborating congregations

Host: Beacon Interfaith Housing Collaborative, one of our church's Faithful Action partners.

Why: As the Franklin / Hiawatha Encampment ("The Wall of Forgotten Natives") has grown (200+ people), so has community awareness of the pressing concerns of those experiencing homelessness. The collaborating congregations of Beacon are being asked to discern how we can respond to this urgent need and whether our expertise in creating supportive housing and organizing for policy change should be part of the broader community response.

Register to attend: www.beaconinterfaith.org/special-congregation-meeting

Three helpful links to learn more about the encampment:

www.franklinhiawathacamp.org

"Giving Housing to the Homeless is Three Times Cheaper than Leaving them on the Street"

MPR: "Red Lake Nation Completes First Survey of Franklin / Hiawatha Encampment"

An Update on Our Capital Campaign

A note from Rev. Jen Crow

Thanks to the generosity of your gifts to our capital campaign, Not for Ourselves Alone: Building an Inclusive Future, I'm excited to report that we are making two big moves this fall. First, we are "sealing the envelope" of our sanctuary building, doing much needed masonry repair and tuckpointing work, as well as roofing repair to ensure that no more water leaks into the building, causing ongoing damage. Second, we are paying off the mortgage!

Currently, we are in discussion with Shir Tikvah about the possibility of sharing our space at 3400 Dupont. As we take the time to thoughtfully and thoroughly engage in these conversations, it's important for us to continue doing all that we can to shore up the financial future of our congregation and take good care of the financial gifts you are giving to the church. To that end, your Board of Trustees has authorized the pay off of our mortgage and line of credit, totaling roughly $660,000. This will save us nearly $70,000 in interest and principal payments each year and will have a positive impact on our annual operating budget. We know that once our construction plans are finalized, we may decide to take out a new mortgage in the same or different amount as the one we are paying off. In the meantime, it is wonderful to not being paying the interest and principal on those loans. Thank you again for your financial generosity and for all of the ways that your gifts of time, talent, and treasure shore up this place to be a center of refuge and resistance now and for the generations to come.

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

Global Gift Fair is Sunday, Nov. 25

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: Saysm (Under One Roof), where Judy Goebel volunteers, will be selling handmade goods, Mano a Mano with Barb Benner and Polly Hudson, Books for Bassodawish is back with African made goods by Welcome Jerde, Tibetan Gifts with Nawang, Frybread Love with Gayle Wiegel (who will have food items from Red Lake Reservation) and Honor The Earth from White Earth Reservation. All of these organizations have ties to our congregation. Shop for a cause this holiday season!

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
Fall teen clothing - hoodies, jeans, fall jackets (clothing in good repair, clean, and 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!

Volunteer for Twin Cities Habitat with a First U Crew

First Universalist has two more Habitat for Humanity work days this fall/winter, and we still need a few more willing workers! The dates are Thursdays, Nov. 8 and Dec. 13, 8:15 a.m. - 4 p.m. The November build will be at the same house we worked on this summer in North Minneapolis. It is extremely likely that we will be working indoors.

Volunteers must be over sixteen years of age, and sixteen- and seventeen-year-olds must be accompanied by an adult. The work day is from 8:15 a.m. until 4 p.m., and lunch will be provided. Worried that you don't know much about how to use tools? No worries! Your fellow volunteers and the site supervisor are there to help.

COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD

Grief and Hope in Life's Intersections: Multiple Responses to Dying and Grieving People

Friday, Nov. 16, 7:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Eagan Community Center (1501 Central Parkway, Eagan, MN 55121)

Minnesota Network of Hospice & Palliative Care invites you to the 2018 Fall Forum, "Grief and Hope in Life's Intersections: Multiple Responses to Dying and Grieving People" featuring Ted Bowman, MDiv. Dying and grieving, and caring for those experiencing death and loss, happen in the context of whole lives -- of patients and families, and of caregivers. This experiential workshop will be a day to explore the multiple responses to grief and loss and the many ways to support individuals and families. Whether you are involved in hospice, long term care, counseling, spiritual guidance, or caregiving of any type, we hope you will join us for this special day.

Cost: MNHPC Members: $120 for the first attendee; $110 for each additional attendee from an organization. Non-Members: $170 for the first attendee; $160 for each additional attendee from an organization.

Learn more and register here.

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.

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Mondays-Thursdays 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m.

Closed Fridays and Saturdays

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