We’re often told that imagination’s great gift is improvement, an inner vision that can move things forward, make them better. As we begin a new year with endless possibilities, let’s take time to explore some actions that can help awaken our imaginations so we can effectively use this inventive muscle.

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

Hi all - there aren't really words for what's happening in D.C. right now. To say it's not normal is an understatement. To say it is deeply steeped in white supremacy is an understatement - imagine if these "protesters" were Black.

To say that we affirm the inherent worth and dignity of all people is to say that no one ever ceases to be human - so no one is ever beyond being accountable for their impact, no matter their office or their skin color. And we are people of a tradition who support the democratic process.

This moment is an affront to the very foundation of what we value and how we live. And for many, the Senate wins in Georgia of both a Jewish man and a Black pastor who worked together as a team, meant today started with a profound hopefulness.

If you're feeling overwhelmed, that is valid. If you're riding a roller coaster of emotions, that is valid. If you're past the point of feeling or understanding, that is valid. I ask you to tend kindly to yourself and each other. Tonight is not a night for expecting things to feel normal.

They're not.

My hope is that this country is beginning to know itself honestly, beginning to tell the truth about the violence inherent in how we got here, and that we are committed to building a society that affirms everyone's inherent worth as well as our profound connectedness.

- Rev. Laurel

Join us Wednesday, January 13th from 4:00 - 5:30 pm via Zoom for our next monthly meeting. All welcome! The concept of implicit bias will be explored. In advance, you may want to complete the Race Implicit Association Test. You’ll be invited to share your results and reactions, as we support each other in considering how to counter implicit biases that produce harmful behavior. Contact Jane Walsh with questions or to let her know you are interested but unable to attend: janenboro@aol.com or 508-393-9206 (leave a message). Here’s the Zoom meeting link: zoom.us/j/8459916321.

Please consider participating in a congregational food drive to benefit the South Middlesex Opportunity Council (SMOC) which provides meals for people in Worcester. At this time they are especially in need of: 6-8 ounce juice boxes/pouches; fresh fruit, especially apples and pears; 16 oz. packages of bologna, pre-packaged; and boxes of chewy/soft granola bars. There will be a collection for these items on Thursday, January 28th between 4:30 and 5:45 pm at the Ruggles Street door of UUCSW. Please reach out to Libba Moore at libbamoore13@gmail.com ahead of time if there's a better time for you. Food will be delivered to SMOC on Friday, January 29th. Thank you for help with this. - Your friends on the Social Justice Committee

SMOC has identified the need for men's and women’s warm winter clothing, especially socks, coats, sweatshirts, sweatpants, long sleeve shirts, hats and gloves. New socks only please, other items should be new or gently used and clean; note the ratio of men to women served is 70:30. Hand warmers and ponchos are also welcome. Please bring your donations to UUCSW on Thursday, January 28th between 4:30 and 5:45 pm, the same day/time as the monthly food drive. If this timing does not work for you please reach out to Nancy Siegal via email at NSIEGAL185@msn.com or Pauline Sciarappa at psciarappa@gmail.com for other options. These clothing drives will happen monthly at least through February. Thank you in advance for your generosity!

It's time to save a date on your new 2021 calendar. The membership team invites you to join us at 6:00 pm on Saturday, January 30th for a Zuumapaluuza! What is a Zuumapaluuza, you might ask? It's a celebration of our members and friends with games, shared cakes, and funny hats. We can't have an in-person birthday bash this year so we are trying the next best thing for celebrating UUCSW.

Here is what you need to do:

RSVP Sunday, January 24th to receive a home-baked cupcake to add to your celebration. Please RSVP for each person in your household who will be participating. RSVP on SignUp Genius at Zuumapaluuza RSVP or by email to membership@uucsw.org.

Our Members and Friends Service on Sunday, January 31st is the moment during the year when we recognize new members. If you are interested in formally becoming a member of UUCSW, which makes you a voting member of the congregation, please reach out to Rev. Laurel at laurel.gray@uucsw.org.