It’s always an interesting time to be a chaplain, but being a chaplain at a Veterans Affairs hospital during these times is even more so. Rev. Michelle Ma finds it challenging much of the time, but always rewarding, and is especially proud of how she is able to live out her values as a Unitarian Universalist. Please join us for stories and lessons from a VA hospital chaplain!

To join online, go to zoom.us/j/89214621289

Join the UUA, UU the Vote, and Side with Love for a Post-Election Vigil & Community Gathering TONIGHT, Thursday, November 5th at 8:00 pm on Zoom, Facebook Live, or YouTube.

The RE Committee is very excited about the curriculum for our 6-8th graders this year, called Crossing Paths. We will be learning about different world religions that our youth are likely to encounter in Westborough and in the US in general. It is being specially written by the UUA for the particular difficulties of this year during the pandemic; they have created a totally online learning experience.

Each religion will be allotted 3 dates for different online encounter activities. You can sign up to teach/facilitate classes here at this link:

signupgenius.com/go/409084BAFAE2DA6FC1-uucsw2. Please, when you sign up, commit to all the dates for a religion's activities for continuity of learning. For further questions, email the RE Committee at RE@uucsw.org.

Wednesday, November 18th at 7:00 pm: Join Kim Hall and Jerry Breecher as they facilitate a discussion of the book Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents by Isabel Wilkerson. You and your friends are welcome to bring your reflections, questions, and ideas about the relationship between caste and racism as described by Wilkerson. The book is an excellent read, however if you need something shorter we recommend you read or listen to this interview from NPR's Fresh Air.

All are welcome! For more information or the Zoom link, please contact Jane Walsh at janenboro@aol.com.

We are continuing this fundraiser throughout the year. For every card purchased, the church receives 5% of the face value back. If you are interested in purchasing some cards to support the fundraiser, contact Lisa Shumway at treasurer@uucsw.org.

With the confirmation of a Supreme Court justice who uses religion as a reason to put all kinds of marginalized people at risk, my small act for this week is to offer free weddings to people (especially queer folx) who are feeling the need to get married as soon as possible.

I offer this not only because, as a minister, I am a legally credible wedding officiant, but also because, as a minister and a Unitarian Universalist, I reject the idea that religious ideals should be used as a cover for violence. I believe it matters to push back against this, to claim proudly and tangibly that my religion calls me to actively support marginalized people.

As Unitarian Universalists, we affirm that there are many paths to wisdom, many religions and teachings that speak of the holy. AND as Universalists, we reject point blank the idea that any person is less human than anyone else, less worthy of dignity and care. Our very first principle calls us to affirm the inherent worth and dignity of all people.

As people of faith, the question is how we can use our particular skills and connections to protect the people who are put in harm's way. I can officiate weddings and right now that's an asset for protecting people.

What can you do - what is your small act this week? - Rev. Laurel