How We Rise: Organized People—and Acorns |
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Dear ones,
“You’re broken down and tired
Of living life on a merry-go-round
And you can’t find the fighter
But I see it in you so we gonna walk it out”
Andra Day reminds us that we will rise up. Rise like the day.
Every day we rise. Sun up, sun down, sun up again. Sometimes, we get knocked down, and as the poet writes, “yet still we rise.” Rise above heartbreak, rise after falling off the edge for a while. The everyday rise of those who care for others and those who care for the world. In April, we're learning about the many ways that we rise, together.
This Sunday in worship, we'll continue exploring our April worship theme, "This is How We Rise," with poetry, prayer, story, and song—and a message from Julica Hermann de la Fuente, Director of Liberation and Transformation Ministries. Julica works closely with our teams in Faithful Action Ministries and has been exploring how we might more effectively mobilize as a congregation in our work for justice.
The Acorn Saga will also continue this Sunday as our acorns learn to organize! If you haven't been following closely, or if you missed a Sunday, you can catch up here (part 1, March 6), here (part 2, March 13) and here (part 3, March 20). And, we encourage you to check out this song that congregant Jess Yoakum was inspired to write based on the acorn story!
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Image description: Jess Yoakum strums an acoustic guitar and sings. The image has a play symbol superimposed and leads to a video of Jess singing the song she wrote inspired by the acorn saga.
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Worship
Sunday, April 10, 9 & 11am
Wednesday, April 13 Meditation, 7pm
Recent Podcasts & Recordings
Cycle of Life
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News & Features
Call for Earth Day Photos
Get Your Copy: "Take What You Need"
Ellis Delaney in Concert
Wing Young Huie Photo Talk
Child Dedication
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Happenings
Grief Group
Daytime Connections
Electric Saturday
In the Community
Ongoing Gatherings
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MULTIGENERATIONAL SUNDAY WORSHIP |
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Sunday, April 10 — 9 & 11 a.m.
"Organized People"
Folks in organizing circles say that Power requires Organized Money and Organized People. This congregation does an excellent job of organizing its money every Sunday, and sharing generously with important partners. What else is possible if we organize our people similarly? What would it take for us to take our organizing and mobilization to the next level? Join us for a dialogue with poets and movement mediators to explore what else might be possible as we get stronger and clearer together. (And don’t miss the next installment in the series As The Acorn Sprouts, in which our acorns learn to organize!)
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Worship leaders: Julica Hermann de la Fuente, Rev. Jen Crow, 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
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Wednesday, April 13, 7 p.m.
Join us next Wednesday evening for the continuation of our Spring Seminarian Series, hosted by Rev. Karen Hutt and led by a different seminary student each week. Wednesday Meditation is an online-only midweek time of meditation, reflection, and connection that usually lasts about 30 minutes.
JOIN US ONLINE:
Wednesday Meditation is live-streamed on Zoom. Join here (Webinar ID: 117 312 320).
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April 3: "Yeast, Baking Soda, and Other Ways to Rise"
Things rise and fall every day: not just baked items in the oven but energies, emotions, commitments, willingness. Though the idea of ‘onward and upward forever’ has been long proven to be a lie; most of us use our days trying to create more of what we want in ourselves, our families, our communities, and our world. What are some of the obstacles and what can help us to rise, even a tiny bit?
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Sunday, April 3 Cycle of Life |
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We celebrate this morning the wedding of Katya Sobaleva and Alex Hotzman who wed at First Universalist on Saturday, April 2. Alex grew up in this church as did his mom, Janet Mills. Grandad Dennis Mills began attending in 1965. Father Jeremy Holtzman, brother Daniel Holtzman, and family share in the joy.
We celebrate with Liz Erickson and family on the birth of one more redeemer! Micah Drea Krekeler was born on Tuesday, and all are home and doing well.
A memorial service for Herb Jaehne, who passed away in January, will be held at Temple Israel Cemetery, 413 3rd Ave S in Minneapolis, on Sunday, April 10 at 2 p.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.
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Call for Photos for Earth Day |
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Many of us have some special local place in nature that renews us. Others of us have taken a special trip, whose nature memories continue to inspire. The Environmental Justice team will be showcasing your special images by projecting them in the social hall during our Earth Day celebration on May 1.
Perhaps there's a cardinal on the snow today that moves you to take a quick snapshot and share. Or a photo of a special lake that soothes your soul. Or a photo from a distant location that you visited. We would like to share among all of us the inspiration that nature brings us.
So, think about what you might share. Your photo can be an informal snapshot with family, or a carefully composed sunset, or a lucky encounter with some living being. Choose one or two, and email them to Todd at todd.pierson@gmail.com. We need to collect all photos by April 22 (Earth Day!)
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Rev. Jen's Book "Take What You Need"
Available Sundays in the Social Hall
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If you haven't yet picked up a copy of Rev. Jen Crow's new book, "Take What You Need: Life Lessons After Losing Everything"—or, if you want to pick up additional copies (they make great gifts!)—please know that books will be available in the church social hall on Sundays after services during the month of April. Books are available for a $25 donation each, and proceeds benefit the church.
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Concert Series Continues with Ellis Delaney |
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On Sunday, April 24, at 3 p.m., we’ll continue our small benefit concert series in the sanctuary at First Universalist with our very own Ellis Delaney. You've heard her music at Sunday services over the years, now enjoy her in concert!
There’s just something about Ellis Delaney. She is at once funny and wise, thoughtful and uninhibited, and her captivating voice is matched by her uplifting lyrics. Ellis’ performances are transformational; she leaves her audiences better than she finds them, with softened edges & opened hearts.
This concert will also be live-streamed via YouTube, and all ticket purchasers will receive a link to the livestream and have the option to attend either in person or online.
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Wing Young Huie to Give Talk, Exhibit Photos |
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Photo Talk with Wing Young Huie
Sunday, April 24, 12:30–1:30 p.m.
in the Social Hall
Well-known Minneapolis photographer Wing Young Huie traveled to China to put himself into other’s shoes (and clothes). What would it be like if his Chinese parents hadn’t immigrated to Duluth? When he walked down the street in China, how did the locals immediately detect that he’s from the U.S?
What is identity? How does identity impact and intersect with life experience? In his latest book, Chinese-ness, photographer Wing Young Huie explores identity—his own and others'. In an interactive presentation on Sunday, April 24 in the social hall at church, Wing will discuss his photography and invite participants to consider how identity is shaped and changes throughout our lives.
This is a free event sponsored by the Racial Justice Education Team and Visual Arts Team. Childcare is available if requested by April 17. Space is limited. Reserve your spot here.
Photographs by Wing Young Huie will be on exhibit in the Social Hall gallery April 17 through May 29.
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Child Dedication is Sunday, May 8 |
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First Universalist Church will joyfully embrace and celebrate little ones with a Child Dedication ritual during both services on Sunday, May 8. In the ritual, the congregation pledges partner with and support parents, caregivers and families in the religious upbringing of their children.
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Programs, Classes, Events, and Meetings |
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Grief Group with Rev. Karen Hutt |
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Sunday, April 17, 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.
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Daytime Connections: Gender and Sexuality |
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Thursday, April 21, 10 a.m.
Could your understanding of gender use some fresh input? Please join us for a morning of exploration as a panel shares the intricacies of living as a person of alternate gender in 2022. Our panel will be led by member Claire Tralle, a gender and sexuality expert.
Sign in and coffee at 9:45 a.m. Program starts at 10 a.m. Optional soup & salad lunch follows the program ($5–15 sliding scale; more if you can; less if you can’t. No one will be turned away for lack of funds.)
Registration is requested a minimum of four days in advance of each program in order to plan for lunch. Choose “attend program only” below if you’re unable to stay for lunch.
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Saturday, April 30, 9 a.m.–noon
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.
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Association of Universalist Women Spring Retreat |
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THEME: Resilience, Community and Creativity
WHEN: April 22–24, 2022
WHERE: Camp Courage near Annandale
WHAT: Keynote and ceremonies by Rev. Kelli Clement, and a variety of breakout sessions and activities
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Celebrate Earth Day with MNIPL |
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Friday, April 22, 4–6 p.m.
Minnehaha Park
First Universalist faithful action partner Minnesota Interfaith Power and Light (MNIPL) invites you to celebrate Earth Day at Minnehaha Park! They’ll be at the Wabun D picnic shelter between 4-6 p .m. Enjoy games and activities, the beautiful park space, and opportunities to meet new people and old friends. At 4:30, we will share stories and songs to honor the earth and lift up our collective actions of care. Light refreshments will be available. Please RSVP to help with planning. This event is free and for all ages!
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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 (multiplatform)
Tuesdays, 9–10:15 a.m. on Zoom and in Room 209 at church
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.
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COVID-19 Safety Measures & Policies |
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Contact Us
First Universalist Church of Minneapolis
3400 Dupont Ave. S.
Minneapolis, MN 55408
612-825 1701
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