We Unitarian Universalists are rightly proud of our Principles. Taken as a whole, they describe communities of people who together “affirm and promote” a world of justice, integrity, and love – for all. No wonder congregations put up lovely posters of the Principles and teach our children fun songs listing them. The question is - how can we make the Principles real in our lives and communities?
To make our Meeting House as safe as possible, we ask that everyone who is 5 and older be vaccinated, and those 2 and older wear a mask while inside. Seating in the Sanctuary has been adjusted for safe distancing, and the ventilation system can accommodate at least 100 people.
All are welcome to Outdoor Coffee Hour at 11 a.m. in front of the Meeting House, and Zoom Coffee Hour at 11:15 a.m. at this link: bit.ly/3j4RxJ9.
Unitarian Universalist Spirituality:
A Conversation with Rev. Tricia
Erika Reif, Director of Lifespan Faith Development
What part does spiritual practice – or a deeply-held belief – have in our creedless faith? If UUs “can believe whatever we want” (or nothing at all), how is our tradition a religion? What’s the connection between justice-making and spiritual growth?
Come join in an informal discussion with Rev. Tricia Hart about these and other big questions. All are welcome – with a special invitation to those new to UUism or this Society.
Offered twice (yes, it’s okay to come both times!)
Sunday, May 22, 11:45 a.m. - In-person – under the canopy in the Memorial Garden
RSVP not required but appreciated, especially for the in-person session where we would like to provide light fare. Email [email protected].
Meet the Budget!
Christina Fulton, Director of Operations & Finance
For years I've been wanting to change the name of this gathering. Meet the Budget - Does it make you want to come on a Sunday afternoon? How about Dollars & Sense? Or Where Does the Money Go? Well, whatever we call it, this is your chance to look at the budget we'll be asking you to pass at the Annual Meeting. It's also your chance to meet with Christina, our Director of Operations & Finance; Kameron, our Treasurer; Zoe, our Assistant Treasurer; and other members of the Finance Team. You can ask any questions you have about money and FUUSB. So please join us on Sunday, May 22, at 2 p.m. on Zoom at this link: bit.ly/39U59ar. We promise to answer all your questions and get you back outside in no more than an hour.
An Introduction to Eastern Religions & Traditions: Buddhism
Erika Reif, Director of Lifespan Faith Development
Memorial Garden, Tuesday, May 24, 7:00-8:30 p.m.
Picking up the series he began in February, new member and longtime scholar of the world’s religions, Phillip Brentwood, will present a 90-minute session exploring Buddhism, enhanced by the backdrop of a multimedia presentation, as well as the beauty of our Memorial Garden. Specially prepared finger foods will be provided by Phil's wife, professional chef Linda Vogler, to round out the magic of the evening! For more information about the presentation and/or to register click here. For the May 31st session on Islam click here.
Final Spring Vespers on May 25
(with Soup at 6!)
Rev. David Ruffin, Director of Youth & Creative Arts Ministries
Please join us for a final Spring Vespers gathering of the year on Wednesday, May 25 at 6:30 p.m. under the Memorial Garden canopy. All are welcome!
Haven't yet made it to a service or haven't been back in a while? This is the moment to carve out a little space midweek, if you can, and give yourself and others in your community the gift of your presence.
Vespers gatherings offer an opportunity to share in music and meditative silence, poetry and presence, gratitude and grief, story and song. We take a midweek pause to re-connect and re-inspire ourselves for the journey.
Soup at Six!
We had a sweet and VERY tasty first “Soup at 6!” last Wednesday (thank you Mary and Elizabeth!) and we look forward to being able to offer this again on Wednesday, May 25. Soup and bread will be served just outside the Memorial Garden for all to enjoy at 6 p.m. Thanks to those who've previously volunteered! Please be in touch with David if you can help out with soup or bread this upcoming Wednesday at [email protected].
Yes, Soup at 6 is just what it sounds. A simple opportunity to be nourished by delicious soup and to connect in community, for a spell, at the end of your day. We hope it may also make it easier to attend Vespers or another FUUSB event (full bellied).
Annual Picnic
Erika Reif, Director of Lifespan Faith Development
Sunday, June 5, 11:15 a.m.
Come one, come all! After two years without one, we happily announce the return of the society-wide picnic! Tables and chairs will be set up in the Memorial Garden and on the lawn so that we can gather and dine together. To remain cautious, we'll all bring our own meals rather than the traditional potluck, but we'll supply some frozen treats and fun activities for children and the young at heart! (Think egg tosses and similar silliness.) We hope you can be there!
Annual Meeting - Monday, June 6
FUUSB 2022 Annual Congregational Meeting
Monday, June 6 at 7:00 p.m. on Zoom
The annual meeting will be held via Zoom at this link: https://bit.ly/3w2nfzU. If you do not have internet access, you may call in to the meeting at 929-205-6099 (Northeast US). Meeting ID: 935 7129 6690, passcode: 948823.
The annual meeting warning letter with agenda and the summary budget are being mailed to all members, and are available on the FUUSB website at uusociety.org/members/meeting-minutes.
Please join us on June 6!
8th Principle Vote Coming Up - June 6
Zoe Hart, Radical Welcoming Team
Learn what you need to know about the 8th Principle and be ready to vote at our June 6 Annual Meeting. The Radical Welcoming Team 8th Principle Group has put together an 8th Principle web page to help you, with links to a slide show and Frequently Asked Questions. Have a question that's not answered or a concern that's not addressed? Email us at [email protected] and we'll do our best to respond.
From the Immigration Justice Team:
Seeking Volunteers
Immediate need for volunteers with the two organizations below.
1. U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants, Colchester Office (USCRIC)
CASAN is a volunteer group of interfaith individuals and people of good will in Chittenden County, Vermont, who have come together to assist people seeking asylum in our community.
We will be holding a memorial service for our dear mother, Barbara B. Glade, at All Souls Interfaith Gathering, 291 Bostwick Farm Rd, Shelburne, VT, on Friday, June 10th beginning at 2:30, social gathering to follow. We invite you to join us in a celebration of her life. To help ensure the safety and peace of mind of those attending we ask that you be fully vaccinated for Covid-19. Please bring a mask as we will decide closer to the date if it will be required or optional depending on virus status at that time.