The Exodus narrative presents many challenges to modern understanding, especially for us liberals, steeped as we are in the "historical critical method" of biblical interpretation. So, as Channing recommends, let's "taste and see" what might resonate for contemporary Unitarian Universalists facing the challenges of our time.
This Sunday, March 28, is the last Sunday in our trial of "Coffee Hour Circles." We invite you to please join us, via Sunday coffee hour on Zoom, arriving by 11 a.m. (at bit.ly/3j4RxJ9).* Coffee Hour Circles last the full hour, with a facilitator holding space for a "deeper dive" of sharing and reflection on the service. In the spirit of offering many ways to connect, we hope these Circles facilitate meaningful connection as well as personal reflection on the topic of the day for those drawn to this format. Many thanks to all who've participated and newcomers still very welcome this Sunday. Please let us know of your experiences as we discern whether and how to continue this offering!
*Folks arriving later can still join a regular coffee hour breakout room!
Stewardship Made Easy Still Needs You!
Christina Fulton, Director of Operations & Finance
Our 2021/2022 Stewardship Campaign has gotten off to a wonderful start! We've promised to make it easy and short, but easy and short means that you have to respond quickly! We are already halfway through our campaign. So please complete a pledge card as soon as possible. You can use the link that was emailed to you, you can look for the piggy bank on the website, or you can use this link: uusociety.org/donate/stewardship. The pledge card is super easy - all we need from you right now is your pledge amount. I'll be in touch with you later in the Spring with instructions for setting up automatic payments. Thank you so much for your participation!
All Children Invited - Rain, Snow or Shine!
Margo Whitcomb, Faith Development Assistant
Join us for our annual Memorial Garden Easter Egg Hunt, adapted for safety this year. We will provide the eggs, contents (which will not include any food items) and do the hiding! So just drop in anytime between 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. on Sunday, April 4. We will be there as hosts, allowing two families maximum at a time into the garden. (If your family needs or would prefer to be alone in the garden, just let Erika or Margo know upon arrival.) Please wear masks and practice safe distancing while on the grounds. Each child will collect a set number of eggs during their visit and we’ll have it stocked enough for everyone! See you there.
Vespers Is on "Spring Break"
Rev. David Ruffin, Consulting Minister
This is just a friendly reminder that Vespers is on "Spring Break." We look forward to coming back together via Zoom on Wednesday, April 7 at 6 p.m., to begin a Spring Vespers Series. Spring Vespers services will continue through the end of May. Stay tuned for more information. Happy Spring!
Baby Grand Piano
Christina Fulton, Director of Operations & Finance
A member has generously donated a baby grand piano for the Parlors. This means that we are looking for a home for the Chickering Baby Grand piano that currently lives there. The Society is willing to donate the piano. If you or someone you know is interested, please let me know (xina@uusociety.org). Spread the word!
VIA Action: Affordable Housing/Homelessness
Debbie Ingram, VIA Executive Director
Join us for a virtual action on Thursday, April 15 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Our Organizing Committee seeks to build on the rapid housing of our precariously housed neighbors during the pandemic to create longterm solutions to homelessness in our state. We'll present our research, hear personal stories, and request commitments from the VT House and Senate Appropriations Committees to make this goal a reality. Register here for the event.