Take What You Need:
Life Lessons After Losing Everything
|
|
Dear ones,
Please join us in the sanctuary or via livestream this Sunday, March 27 at 1:30 p.m. to celebrate the launch of Rev. Jen Crow's new book, Take What You Need: Life Lessons After Losing Everything.
Survival guide, spiritual companion, and a light in the dark, Take What You Need offers hope, humor, and real-life spiritual tools to meet the hardest moments of our lives.
The book is a moving and vulnerable account of loss following the devastating house fire that Rev. Jen and her family experienced in 2016—and a testament to the transformative power of love. Jen invites us to explore the expected and unexpected turns our lives can take—and all the ways we can pay attention to what we truly need to survive the painful moments and live a life of meaning.
The event will feature a conversation between Rev. Jen and Minister Emerita Rev. Kate Tucker, who accompanied Jen on her book writing journey, reading drafts and bearing witness to the unfolding of her story. Jen will read aloud excerpts from her book, answer questions, and sign books.
Books will be available for purchase at the event, and proceeds benefit First Universalist.
We hope you'll be present with us this Sunday at 1:30 p.m. to honor and celebrate Jen's journey and this beautiful book. You can join us in the sanctuary or stream the event via YouTube.
|
|
Rev. Jen signs a book after speaking at this morning's Daytime Connections program. |
|
The March Daytime Connections program, featuring Rev. Jen, was very well attended! |
|
Worship
Sunday, March 27, 9 & 11am
Wednesday, March 30 Meditation, 7pm
Recent Podcasts & Recordings
March 20 Cycle of Life
|
|
News & Features
Updated COVID Policies Ribbons & Aspirations
Name Tags & Directory Survey
Electric Saturday
|
|
Happenings
Bde Maka Ska Conversation Grief Group
Humanism Class
Newcomers Circle
Pathway to Membership
AUW Spring Retreat
In the Community
Ongoing Gatherings
|
|
MULTIGENERATIONAL SUNDAY WORSHIP |
|
Sunday, March 27 — 9 & 11 a.m.
"Living Through the Lens of Love"
We talk a lot about love here. A love that will not let us go. A love that draws a circle so wide that everyone is included. A love that works to end oppression in all of its forms and build beloved community. The Universalist spirit of love and hope. But what does it mean to live a life through the lens of love? This Sunday, as author bell hooks would say in her essential text, it’s all about love.
This Sunday, we'll be reintroducing congregational singing during the service. Face masks continue to be required. We hope you'll join us in person if you can!
|
|
Worship leaders: Rev. Jen Crow, Rev. Arif Mamdani, Lauren Wyeth, Franco Holder, and Aimee K. Bryant
IN PERSON AT 9 OR 11 A.M.:
In person worship is offered twice, at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. If you are choosing to join us in person, we expect that you are feeling well and that you are vaccinated against COVID-19 if eligible/able. Masks are required. Read our recently updated COVID-19 Policies.
ONLINE AT 11 A.M.:
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION & CHILDCARE
|
|
Wednesday, March 30, 7 p.m.
Meditation leader: Rev. Karen Hutt
JOIN US ONLINE:
Wednesday Meditation is live-streamed on Zoom. Join here (Webinar ID: 117 312 320).
|
|
The Acorn Saga continued this past Sunday—and invited even more participation! Photo courtesy of Cindy Marsh.
|
|
March 20: "The Covenant of Covenant"
In this bigger togetherness, what do you need promised to you? What do you promise to those around you? What aspirations stretch you to who you want to be? Let's talk about covenant and the promises we make, the promises we want made to us, and what it is that we’re reaching for when we covenant together in this ever bigger togetherness. Listen to the podcast or watch the recording.
|
|
|
Sunday, March 20 Cycle of Life |
|
We hold Dan Moriarty and his family, Martha, Ailee, and Keenan in our hearts as they grieve the death of Dan’s father Frank Moriarty who died on Tuesday night after seven difficult months in hospice. He will be missed. The funeral mass will be held on Monday, March 28 at St. Joseph Catholic Community in New Hope at 11 a.m. Visitation at the church will take place at 10 a.m.
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, or if you would like support, contact Rev. Arif Mamdani at arif@firstuniv.org or 612-825-1701.
|
|
Updated COVID-19 Safety Measures & Policies |
|
We have recently made some adjustments to our COVID-19 policies, in response to changing COVID-19 levels in our community. We continue to be committed to closely monitoring the state of the COVID pandemic and guidance from the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
We expect to continue making adjustments, tightening and relaxing the measures and policies we have in place, as COVID-19 levels fluctuate in the future.
Most notably among recent changes, (1) we are reintroducing congregational singing beginning this Sunday, March 27, and (2) while masks continue to be required in the building in most cases, small groups now have the option to decide to make masks optional inside of the room where their group is meeting with the consent of everyone in the small group. We are also suspending sign ins on Sundays for those entering the sanctuary, and have in recent weeks reintroduced the serving of coffee and tea in the social hall after worship.
We continue to require masks inside of the building in most settings, expect that those attending church in person are vaccinated against COVID, and that you are staying home if you are sick and/or experiencing any COVID symptoms.
|
|
Church members and sustaining friends should have received a letter in the mail earlier this month, with an enclosed ribbon, along with an invitation to consider your annual gift, your life at church, and your aspirations for the year ahead.
We invite you to write your aspirations and hopes on the ribbon you received and bring it to church when you can. If you didn't receive a ribbon in the mail, you may pick one up at church. There are baskets in the social hall and in the sanctuary to collect ribbons and where you can pick up blank ribbons. These ribbons are being woven by our Visual Arts team into a fabric of possibility that demonstrates in a tangible way who we are and who we aspire to be together.
|
|
Name Tags and Directory Survey |
|
A lot has changed since we were at church together in "the before-times," meaning before March 2020. A couple of things that haven't changed are 1.) We're a large congregation! and 2.) Knowing one another and being known is an essential ingredient in creating and maintaining community. Relationally, there are many ways that we do this: through weekly worship, caring for one another, in smaller groups, and as we work for justice.
Administratively, at least two of them are due for an update: name tags and the church directory. Please let us know if/how you'd use name tags and a directory via the six questions in this survey. Your answers will help inform our next steps! Thank you!
|
|
Save the Date: Electric Saturday is April 30 |
|
The Environmental Justice Team invites you to Electric Saturday on the morning of April 30, showcasing about 15 Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Plug in Hybrid Electric Vehicles owned by members of our church community. Owners will be available throughout the morning to answer all of your questions about owning electric cars. Electric bike owners will also be displaying their e-bikes and answering questions. Check out e-mowers and snow blowers too!
Invited representatives from Xcel Energy, Minnesota Interfaith Power and Light (MNIPL), MN350 and others will be available with energy info and opportunities for advocacy. Brian Anderson from Let’s Go Zero Carbon, will make presentations throughout the morning about buying, charging, and living with electric vehicles.
If you have questions, or would like to show your e-bike or EV, contact Lane Ayres at lanebfa@gmail.com.
|
|
Programs, Classes, Events, and Meetings |
|
Mde Maka Ska Community Conversation |
|
Saturday, March 26, 9 a.m.–noon on Zoom
Since 2015, First Universalist Church has been honored and grateful to have been in community conversations with the LaPointe family. Our third Mde Maka Ska Community Conversations will be on Saturday, March 26.
Join together in this Mde Maka Ska Community Conversation and embrace the belief that relationships lead to real community. The LaPointe family will lead dialogue exploring provocative questions through processes of discovery, dream, design, delivery, and reflection. Small group conversation will be possible via zoom breakout rooms.
|
|
Grief Group with Rev. Karen Hutt |
|
Sunday, March 27, 4–5:30 p.m. on Zoom
In a season where we have experienced so much and such complicated grief and loss, gathering with a group for support and companionship is so important. Rev. Karen Hutt facilitates this monthly grief group where participants are invited to bring their whole selves and whatever grief they may be carrying. Through sharing, silence, ritual, and reflection, we will offer each other support and companionship. Join via Zoom here.
|
|
Humanism Through Multiple Lenses Class |
|
Thursdays, March 31, April 28, May 26, June 30, and July 28, 6:30–8 p.m.
In this class, facilitated by Rev. Karen Hutt, we will explore humanist geographies and intellectual histories from Asia, Europe, the Middle East and Africa. We will examine the cultural production of humanism in sports, film, literature and music. Finally, we will analyze humanism in the public arena, private life and in social issues.
This is a survey course that will take a broad view. There will be an expectation that you complete all readings and view videos prior to class to deepen our discussion. Register once and come when you’re able.
|
|
Spring Newcomers Circle: Registration Open |
|
Tuesdays, April 5, 12, 19 & 26, 6:30–8 p.m. on Zoom
Newcomer Circles are four-session gatherings of 6-8 participants who are new-ish to First Universalist and want to reflect on their own and listen to stories from the spiritual journeys of other new-ish folks. While membership is not required, the Circle is intended for those who intend to commit to and continue their UU spiritual journey at First Universalist. This Circle will be facilitated by First U member Jane Jordan. Those registered will receive the zoom and additional information via email within a week before the first session. Learn more and register here. Registration closes March 28.
|
|
Pathway to Membership Class |
|
Sunday, April 10, 1–3 p.m. in person at church
If First Universalist feels like your spiritual home, if our mission moves you, then we hope you’ll take part in Pathway to Membership. This class is for those who intend to join First Universalist Church as members.
Recently redesigned for multi-platform church, as part of this class you'll watch several short videos on the various ministry areas of the church, and then attend one class session to reflect on and discuss themes like Faith in Action and Stewardship through the lens of church membership.
Learn more and register on our website.
|
|
Association of Universalist Women Spring Retreat |
|
THEME: Resilience, Community and Creativity
WHEN: April 22–25, 2022
WHERE: Camp Courage near Annandale
WHAT: Keynote and ceremonies by Rev. Kelli Clement, and a variety of breakout sessions and activities
|
|
Mental Health Connect Events |
|
Self-Care for the Caregiver
Last Thursday of each month; next session is March 31 at 6 p.m.
A virtual monthly drop in group, Care/Support for the Caregiver. Each of these groups would provide community, support and an education topic. There will be a MHC Navigator, a therapist and our educator(Drew Brooks) at the meeting each month. Many of you are searching for help for a loved one, but you also need support too. MHC has resources, tools and a virtual time to share. This is another source of support for a growing population of caregivers. Register
Mental Health Authors' Series
Saturday, April 30 at 3 p.m.
Basilica of St. Mary
|
|
UUs in 12-Step Recovery
Sundays at 7 p.m.
Weekly confidential drop-in group for UUs in 12-step based recovery from all kinds of addiction & family dysfunction. Join via Zoom. (Meeting ID: 922 6965 4151 Passcode: 839388)
12 Step Spirituality – In Person
First Saturdays, 9:30 a.m.
The workshops meet monthly on the first Saturday of each month through June. Come in through the front door to find out which room we will be in. Workshops go from 9:30 a.m. to noon and are for all people in or interested in 12 step programs. They include meditation, meditation instruction, short talks and small groups. Meetings details available at 12stepspirituality.org
12 Step Spirituality - Zoom
Saturdays, 9:30 a.m.
Designed for those actively working a 12-Step program and who want to explore and deepen their spirituality through Centering Prayer. Meeting details: 12stepspirituality.org
Weekly Meditation Group
Tuesdays, 9–10:15 a.m. on Zoom
Chi Gung
Thursday mornings 10 to 11:30 a.m. on Zoom
Pat,Gottschalk leads gentle movements with a focus on harmonizing our personal energies. Contact Judy Broad at jab679@gmail.com for Zoom information.
Poetry Lovers Group
First Thursdays, 7–8:30 p.m.
Reacquaint yourself with poets you love and discover other poets who are new to you while connecting with fellow Poetry Lovers at church. More information.
Association of Universalist Women Happy Hour
Thursdays at 7 p.m.
Join the 7 p.m. Happy Hour here (Meeting ID: 817 4022 5684; Password: 675052).
Single and Solo Parents and Caregivers Gathering
1st & 3rd Thursdays at 8 p.m.
Parents/guardians who are single and/or co-parenting gather for mutual support and spiritual sustenance. Contact Christy at christine.hd1@gmail.com for more information.
Parents & Caregivers of Babies and Preschoolers
Thursdays, 8:30–9:30 p.m.
Parents/guardians of little ones gather for mutual support and spiritual sustenance. Email Lauren at lauren@firstuniv.org to be connected to the group.
|
|
COVID-19 Safety Measures & Policies |
|
Updated March 24, 2022
- Masks are required in the church building for everyone ages 2 and up (accommodation will be made for those unable to tolerate a face covering due to health condition, disability, or behavioral or developmental condition.)
- We ask that you do your best to maintain a distance of at least 3 feet between you and those who are not in your household.
- If you are joining us in person, we expect that everyone who is able/eligible has been vaccinated against COVID-19.
- Staff and volunteers are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
- If you are not feeling well or experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19, or if you have been notified of a recent exposure to a confirmed positive case of COVID, we ask that you please stay home—and join us for worship online (or participate in your group/class/event online if that option is available).
- Both services will be streamed to the Cummins Room or Social Hall for those who desire to be in a space with fewer people.
- We are reintroducing congregational singing during the service on Sunday, March 27.
-
In small group settings, with the consent of everyone in the group, masks can be optional inside of the room where the group is meeting, when the COVID-19 community level is low.
|
|
Care Resources
Spiritual Care - Your ministers and program staff are here for one-on-one confidential conversations of support. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to any of us to connect.
Care Companions - Care companions are members of the congregation who’ve been oriented toward the art and practice listening with a caring and confidential ear, and a loving and kind heart. They call and check-in on folks in the congregation and are here to accompany you longer term if you could use some ongoing support. To connect with a Care Companion (or to become one), contact karen@firstuniv.org
Love Kits - Are you or someone you love ill? Is your family struggling? Do you live alone or feel isolated? Do you know someone else from church who might be? If so, please let Rev. Karen (revkarenhutt@gmail.com) know so that a package full of love and support can be delivered.
Meal Trains - If you or someone you know at church would welcome a meal to help them through a difficult time, loss, illness or injury — and having someone else do the cooking for a bit would help —please let us know. Contact Rev. Arif Mamdani at arif@firstuniv.org.
Minister’s Emergency Fund - For many of us, these are difficult financial times. If you need help with a car repair bill, making rent, a doctor’s bill, groceries, gas, a mortgage payment, affording your medication, a bus card, or any other financial situation - please be in touch. We have financial resources available. Please contact a minister/staff member.
Mental Health Connect - www.mhconnect.org - Need help finding a therapist? Want to learn more about particular mental health conditions and resources? Check out Mental Health Connect, a local organization supported by congregations like ours, that provides community-based resources, support and education to improve access to mental health services and connect individuals and families with the services they need.
Counseling - The Walk In Counseling Center offers free counseling by phone or computer. Find out how to “walk in” on their website.
|
|
Weekly Liberal Submissions
We encourage you to submit news!
To do so, fill out our online submission form. Edits for length and/or content may occur. The deadline for submissions is noon on Wednesday the week of publication. The Weekly Liberal is compiled and edited by Communications Manager Jenn Stromberg. Past issues and policies can be found on our website.
|
|
Contact Us
First Universalist Church of Minneapolis
3400 Dupont Ave. S.
Minneapolis, MN 55408
612-825 1701
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
