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September 20, 2018 | Vol. 5 No. 38
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Finding Connections in a 1,000-Member Congregation: Sign Up for a Circle Today!
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Rev. Justin Schroeder |
It's no secret; we're a large congregation and on any given Sunday, we have between 800 and 1,000 people in worship and in our classrooms. By intentional design, we've set up dozens and dozens of opportunities (Circles) to be in smaller communities of 8 to 10 people within this larger community.
And the truth is, every time I participate in or lead a Circle, I am delighted and surprised by the connections and relationships that emerge from this community of 8 to 10 people. It is profound and powerful.
Circles are groups of 8-10 committed participants who come together with a trained leader to nurture spiritual growth in community. At the heart of every Circle is the practice of deep connection: connection with self, connection with others, and connection with something greater than ourselves.
If you'd love to go deeper into our monthly themes such as "Non-Negotiables" and "Sanctuary,"
we offer
Soul Matters Circles
, including circles for parents, people living with grief, people in their 20s and 30s, LGBTQ and Gender Non-Conforming people, people of color and indigenous people, and circles that are open to all.
We're offering a variety of
Spiritual Deepening Circles
, which focus on mindfulness, embodiment, and interpersonal connection.
New this year, we are also offering
Beloved Conversations
, a curriculum for exploring the role of race/ethnicity in individual and congregational lives.
Circle registration runs through Tuesday, Sept. 25, and you can register and learn more here. You can also sign up in the Social Hall this Sunday after both services. I invite you to sign up today!
I'll see you in church,
Justin
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| SUNDAY WORSHIP AT FIRST UNIVERSALIST CHURCH |
Sunday, Sept. 23, 9:30 & 11:15 a.m.
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"Loving and Loathing a Miracle"
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The Soul Band will play in worship this Sunday! |
Rev. Justin Schroeder
This being human is not easy. Habits (good and bad) form. Thought patterns shape us. We neglect parts of ourselves and they drift away. Or, we wish certain parts of ourselves would drift away. We slip into autopilot. Later, pieces of ourselves drift back, tectonic plates of the spirit shift within, and we're delighted to discover a new continent has emerged internally. Being human means we shift between loathing and loving the miracle that is our life, and the miracle that is this planet. How do we hold the beautiful mess of it all and say, "Here is where we are. Now is what we have. This is how we start"?
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Soul Band in Worship this Sunday!
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The Soul Band rehearsing today. L to R: Miguel Hurtado, Ted Olsen, Franco Holder, Dean Magraw. |
The Soul Band is the next iteration of our Artist in Residence program. It is comprised of four talented and innovative Twin Cities musicians: Dean Magraw, Miguel Hurtado, Ted Olsen, and Franco Holder.
The Soul Band is led by Dean Magraw, a guitarist, composer, arranger, and producer unique in his ability to rise to the highest level of musical expression. He has performed all over the world with such notables as Japanese shamisen Nitta Masahiro, classical violinist Nigel Kennedy, South Indian vocalist and veena virtuoso Nirmala Rajasheker, as well as in his own ensembles.
Drummer Miguel Hurtado
played throughout the Twin Cities as a teenager in several youth bands. After graduating from the Manhattan School of Music in spring 2010, he returned to the Twin Cities where he quickly became a busy member of the local jazz scene.
Ted Olsen studied bass with Travis Schilling and Adam Linz, graduating from St. Paul's Como Park High School in 2010. He went on to study composition at Luther College and University of Northern Colorado, and has taught and performed as leader and sideman with various bands throughout the Twin Cities.
Franco Holder serves as the pianist for First Universalist Church while also pursuing a wide and varied career as collaborator on performances for the Schubert Club, Kenwood Symphony Orchestra, New Age Art Salon, Nimbus Theater and is a past winner of the Artistic Ambassadors Competition. He is the Head Accompanist for the St. Paul Ballet.
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September Worship Theme:
Here...Now...Start
In the Buddhist tradition there is a concept called "maitri." Buddhist nun and writer Pema Chödrön calls it the basis of compassion and the seed of joy. Maitri is a sanskrit word meaning an unconditional friendship with oneself. We spend so much of our time wishing we were someplace other than where we are, wishing we were something other than what we are. What if we made a steadfast commitment to be in friendship with where, what, and how we are, right now? When we are not so preoccupied with getting rid of our "bad" traits, or denigrating our ways of being, perhaps we would be able to see our defense mechanisms more clearly, or the ways in which our negative beliefs about ourselves manifest in our lives. Perhaps, we would also see our wisdom, our bravery and our kindness. What if we said: "Here is where we are. Now is what we have. This is how we start."
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Sunday, Sept. 30, 9:30 & 11:15 a.m.
Lead Minister: Rev. Karen Hutt
Worship Associate: Richard Lopez
Music: First Universalist Choir
Recent Sermon Podcasts
September 16, 2018
"Start in the Middle"
Rev. Jen Crow
September 9, 2018
"Here. Now. Start."
Water Communion Sunday
Rev. Justin Schroeder
September 2, 2018
"Seen and Heard"
Rolf Lowenberg-DeBoer
August 26, 2018
"Finding Sanctuary"
Backpack Blessing Sunday
Rev. Jen Crow
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Sign Up Sunday
Sunday, Sept. 23, after both services
From the choir, to visual arts, to congregant-led social activities, to volunteering as an usher or with congregational care, there are so many great ways to find your "community within the community" at First Universalist! Join us in the social hall after both services this coming Sunday to learn more about various ways to get connected and to sign up.
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Pathway to Membership
Tuesdays, Sept. 25 & Oct. 2, 6:30-8:30 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 class. We'd love to welcome you as a new member! To register, contact Sandy DiNanni at Sandy@firstuniv.org or 612-825-1701.
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Seniors Hike with Daytime Connections
Thursday, Sept. 27, 10 a.m.
Go for a hike with fellow seniors from First Universalist!
The group will meet at the Wood Lake Nature Center Visitor Center (
6710 Lake Shore Drive, Richfield MN 55423
) by 10 a.m. and
hike for about 1.5 hours, covering about 4 miles. The terrain is very flat and offers several cutoffs that will allow for shorter distance options, if preferred. The wetlands offer ample opportunities for viewing wildlife and diverse bird species.
The group will gather at Pizza Luce
in Richfield following the hike for conversation, hydration & sustenance. P
lease RSVP to Tom Saterstrom (
saterstromtom@yahoo.com
or cell: 952-239-3629)
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Waging Peace: Building Blocks in the Foundation for Peace with Paul K. Chappell
Thursday, Sept. 27, 7-9 p.m.
Paul K. Chappell will introduce the concept of Peace Literacy over the course of this two-hour forum, which is free and open to the public. Peace Literacy is a new paradigm for gaining a deep and practical understanding of extremism, trauma, and the nature of human happiness. To solve our national and global problems of the 21st century and beyond, we need a realistic and pragmatic model of the human condition that helps us understand our human needs and the tangles of trauma.
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Workshop with Paul K. Chappell:
"A New Peace Paradigm: Our Human Needs and the Tangles of Trauma"
Saturday, Sept. 29, 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
In this workshop, international peace educator Paul K. Chappell will delve further into Peace Literacy by examining our human needs, trauma, aggression, and technology as they all relate to his vision of a new paradigm for peace.
The cost for the workshop is $40 and includes a continental breakfast, lunch, and a copy of one of Paul's books. A limited number of student scholarship tickets are available for $20.
Registration is required.
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Peace Literacy: A New Foundation for Racial Justice with Paul K. Chappell
Sunday, Sept. 30, 7-9 p.m.
Growing up a racial outcast in Alabama, the son of a half black and half white father and a Korean mother, Paul has worked through the trauma of racism & mistrust to hold a new vision for Racial Justice, which he'll share at this forum. He will also discuss technology's past, present, and future relationship with racism and racial justice, with an emphasis on emerging technologies.
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| Farewell to Staff Member Andrea Love |
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Andrea Love |
This week we say goodbye to a member of our First Universalist Church staff. Today, Thursday, Sept. 20, is Andrea Love's last day with us. For three years, Andrea has been a valuable member of our staff, assisting the congregation with their donations in her role as Finance Specialist. She also served as the 8th Grade OWL Program Assistant for two years. Her infectious personality, smile and positive attitude has made working with her an absolute joy each and every day. We are saddened to see her go, but wish her nothing but success in her next endeavor, knowing that wherever she goes, she will make a lasting imprint as she's done here.
While we look to find Andrea's successor, all inquires regarding your gifts, commitments or giving related questions can be sent to Brad Schmidt at
brad@firstuniv.org.
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| Register by Tuesday, Sept. 25 for Fall Circles! |
Soul Matters is a small group curriculum that encourages participants to reflect more deeply on our monthly worship theme. Some of our Soul Matters Circles are open to all, and some are open to people who share a particular identity or experience (such as people in their 20s and 30s, and those living with grief, loss, and endings).
Spiritual Deepening Circles are groups that explore a topic or spiritual practice together. As our commitment to racial justice guides us into deeper hospitality and relationship, all of our Spiritual Deepening Circles this fall offer opportunities for mindfulness, embodiment, and interpersonal connection. One offering is "Brave Connections: Interrupting Bias and Systemic Racism" which is similar to the popular workshop we offered back in June called Brave Conversations.
Newcomer Circles offer a chance to get to know Unitarian Universalism, reflect on our spiritual journeys, and connect with other folks who are new to church.
Descriptions, schedules, and registration are available online at firstucircles.weebly.com and registration for Circles will be open through Tuesday, Sept. 25.
Additional programming for adults this fall includes a number of racial justice learning opportunities, Daytime Connections programs for older adults, membership classes, a couple of opportunities for young adults (those in their 20s and 30s), and congregational care sponsored programming including 12-Step Spirituality: Centering Prayer Meditation.
Download the
Fall 2018 Adult Programs Catalog
for complete information about our offerings.
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| Volunteer for TC Habitat with a First U Crew this Fall |
First Universalist has three Habitat for Humanity work days this fall/winter, and we'd love to have you join us on the crew! The dates are Thursdays, Oct. 11, Nov. 8, and Dec. 13. All are tentatively scheduled at Minneapolis sites.
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.
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Join the First Universalist Choir!
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The First Universalist Choir welcomes new members as we start the church year! The choir is open to anyone who has a love for singing and wishes to participate in this ensemble during worship services.
The choir rehearses Wednesday evenings from 7-9 p.m. and sings in worship two times a month. Rehearsals have just begun. Email
randy@firstuniv.org
for more information.
Here's what choir members have to say about why they sing in the choir:
"I participate in the choir because of the pure joy I feel when singing. When I first joined, 13 years ago, I hadn't been in a choir for over 30 years. There was a place for me as an enthusiastic but inexperienced singer, and others helped me out. I have learned so
much about singing and being in community, and hope to welcome and support new singers!" -
Anne McBean
"I offer what time and talents I have to First Universalist to be used, however they're deemed helpful, for the benefit of our church community. Singing in the choir is not only fun for me, it's one way I can contribute to First Universalist.
PS: Randy is an excellent choir conductor!"
- Ron Parker
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Are you looking for a way to get to know other members in our church? Circle Suppers are a great way to do so!
These intimate gatherings are a recipe for good conversation and good food while enjoying the camaraderie of other First U members.
We meet in each other's homes for dinner on the first Saturday of each month from December to March. Participants are asked to host one time during those four months. These are adults only gatherings for couples and singles. Dinners are potluck, hosts provide the main entree. They determine the number of guests they can accommodate, usually 6 people, sometimes more. There is an Alternate List for those who cannot host.
You must sign up in advance to participate. You can do this at church on Sign Up Sunday on Sept. 23 (after both services) or by emailing Colleen Cavell at
cavell.colleen@gmail.com.
There is a Kick-Off Potluck in the Social Hall at church on Saturday, Nov. 10, and the Circle Suppers themselves are on
Saturdays, Dec. 1
, Jan. 5
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Feb. 2,
and March 2.
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Women's Ritual Circle Open to Newcomers this Fall
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| Women (cis, trans, or otherwise) interested in earth-based and pagan spirituality are invited to the upcoming open rituals of the Under Northern Skies Women's Ritual Circle. This circle is open to newcomers on Monday, Sept. 24 (Classroom 200); Monday, Oct. 8 (Classroom 200); and Wednesday, Oct. 24 (Classroom 200). For women who choose to join, there will be a commitment ritual on Wednesday, Nov. 7 in Classroom 200, after which the circle will close to new members until next fall. Ritual begins promptly at 7:30 p.m. Contact Beth at belovedporcupine@gmail.com for more information. Additional details are available on our website. |
| Donations Welcome for Augsburg Fairview Academy |
First Universalist is beginning our 7th year of community partnership with Augsburg Fairview Academy (AFA). Young adults from diverse communities who face educational barriers to achievement are welcomed into AFA, a charter school that prepares them for college, career and life. AFA provides an intense program of rigorous study in a teen- and family-friendly atmosphere. Dedicated, talented staff use positive, strength-based approaches to help them succeed.
The 125+ students come from diverse backgrounds including African American, Somali, and Native American. Many are homeless or marginally housed during the school year. You can help by donating any of the following items:
- Toiletries: men and women's deodorant, toothbrushes and toothpaste, ethnic hair products, sanitary products.
- Microwavable single serving dinners
- Backpacks (black or dark colors preferred)
- Fall teen clothing - hoodies, jeans, fall jackets (in good repair, clean, teen appropriate)
- School Supplies: 3 ring notebooks, pocket folders, pens and pencils
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!
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Hennepin County Candidate Forum
Sunday, Sept. 23 at 2 p.m.
From ISAIAH, one of our Faithful Action partners:
People of faith are coming out in droves to make informed decisions about their future
local representatives and to cast a bold vision for what their communities can be. Come out to
your Hennepin County Candidate forum to learn about the power of your vote when it comes
to: creating a just, caring and safe community in Hennepin County for everyone - regardless of
race and class and supporting & welcoming immigrants in Hennepin County.
Two major focuses will be putting justice and community into the criminal justice system
and getting ICE out of Hennepin County with the priority of keeping all of our families safe and
together.
Invited candidates:
Hennepin County Sheriff: Dave Hutch and Rich Stanek
Hennepin County Attorney: Mike Freeman and Mark Haase
County Commissioner District 2: Irene Fernando and Blong Yang
County Commissioner District 3: Marion Greene and LaDonna Redmond
County Commissioner District 4: Angela Conley and Peter McLaughlin
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Weaving Wellness: Art, Community, and Mental Health Resilience
Exhibit Dates Sept. 25 - Dec. 15, 2018
Minnesota History Center,
345 W. Kellogg Blvd.,
St . Paul, MN 55102
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| RESOURCES & CONTACT INFORMATION |
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Cycle of Life and Pastoral Care
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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.
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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.
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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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Join Our Mailing List
Subscribe to
The Weekly Liberal
here.
Sign up to receive our weekly Children Youth & Family Ministries news
here.
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Church Office Hours
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Sundays 9
a.m.-1 p.m.
Mondays-Thursdays
8:30 a.m.-8 p.m.
Closed Fridays and Saturdays
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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
.
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Contact Us
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First Universalist Church of Minneapolis
3400 Dupont Ave. S.
Minneapolis, MN 55408
612-825-1701
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First Universalist Church of Minneapolis
3400 Dupont Avenue S.
Minneapolis, MN 55408
612-825-1701
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