|
ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR DECEMBER 21, 2014:
Wednesday, December 24, 7 pm Service: Christmas Eve: In this service, we gather in community to celebrate the magic and mystery of the season through story, song, and candle-lighting. Rev. Celie Katovitch.
NEXT SERVICE: Sunday, December 28: A Rose in the Wintertime On the last Sunday of 2014, as we begin the journey from the depths of winter to the season of new life and renewal, join First Universalist's worship associates for a service or poetry and music celebrating the twin themes of midwinter and spring. Worship Associates.
NEXT DROP-IN DISCUSSION: Sunday, December 28: Stages of Faith. Many of us experience changes in our belief and world view as we mature. James W. Fowler says in his book, Stages of Faith, that "faith is a person's way of leaning into and making sense of life." David Damico will share the fundamental ideas of Fowler's book and how our subjective path can benefit from its assertions.
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 on the second floor provided throughout the service. 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!
THE SOCIAL JUSTICE PLATE OFFERING is today. Money collected will benefit Alternatives for Battered Women This organization is the HOPE BEYOND THE HURT. They provide alternatives for women who are not safe in their own homes. Here women get the protection from intimidation and threatened hurt.
LAST CALL FOR HOLIDAY BARGAINS to benefit our church!! Visit our Holiday Shoppe after the service for last minute gifts, festive baked goods, or one-of-a -kind items. Since it's the last week for the Shoppe, clearance prices will be in effect!!
CHRISTMAS COOKIES: If you are able to bring a dozen cookies for the reception after the Christmas Eve service, please contact Tom Williams.
ATTENTION POETRY LOVERS: If you will be joining us for the service on Sunday, December 28, please consider bringing a favorite poem to share with the congregation. It should be not too long, and on one or both of our twin themes of midwinter/solstice and spring and renewal. (Please understand, we may not have time for every poem.) Questions? Contact worship associate Bridget Watts.
BE A SECRET SANTA FOR RAIHN with gift cards - Holidays are especially difficult for homeless families. Parents want to provide for their children - clothing, toys, a hot meal. You can help empower these parents by donating gift cards through RAIHN. Cards from Target, Tops, gas cards, RTS bus passes - all are welcome. You can send your cards to the RAIHN Day Center, 34 Meigs Street, 14607, or you can give them to Marti Eggers who will deliver them to the Day Center where staff will distribute them. Thank you!
MITTEN TREE: Please bring in mittens, gloves, hats and scarves, and place them under the tree. This year, in addition to children at School 7, we will collect items for adults, and hope to provide warmth for the difficult to serve homeless population that often seek shelter around our church. Please bring bulky items directly to the House of Mercy at 725 Hudson Avenue (546-2580). Last day to drop off items is Sunday, December 28.
SAVE THE DATE and get ready to donate and bid! Our Annual Service Auction is set for Sunday, February 1 after the service. Donation forms will be available this week, and you can donate online, too. Don't miss out on our biggest fundraiser of the year! Watch for more details in weeks to come. If you have questions, contact Ann Rhody ([email protected]) or Paula Marchese ([email protected]).
EASTMAN LUNCHTIME CONCERT SERIES: Concerts will resume Thursday, January 8. They are free and open to the public.
INTERESTED IN BECOMING A MEMBER? If you are considering making First Universalist your spiritual home, you are warmly invited to chat with Rev. Celie any time. Please drop by her office after the service or contact her to arrange a conversation.
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.
| 
Last call for bargains to benefit our church!! 
Christmas Cookies