In Uncertain Times, What Can You Count On? |
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Beloveds,
Here we are. The year has turned and yet again, this new year is already not what any of us expected. Today marks the one year anniversary of the attack on our Capitol by domestic terrorists and after some initial shared horror at this attempted coup, our country remains deeply divided over what many of us have considered foundational—the aspiration of democracy. One year ago, the COVID-19 vaccine was rolling out in earnest, and we hoped that a sustained return to the deeper connection and community we feel when we can physically be together would be real and reliable again soon. Many of us hoped that consistent, predictable care for those most on the margins of our society would be made permanent through legislation and that voting rights would be ensured this past year. So much is still undecided and unfolding. So many parts of the story of this time are still being written.
As we live in these uncertain times (which all times are, to varying degrees), I find myself turning to what I know for sure to help steady and orient me. I know that my faith and my values are nothing without action and that I feel clearest and strongest and most alive when I am acting in alignment with my faith. I know that I love you—even if we’ve never met—and that the community of this congregation saves and inspires lives of hope and possibility. I know that when the circle of compassion and care expands it is better for us all. I know that harm happens on individual and collective levels, and that harm is caused by people, institutions, and ideas. I know that the experiences we have in life and the oppressive systems we live within can cause us as people and as communities to feel broken, ashamed, and belittled—and I know that there is a core of wholeness within us that no person or institution or misguided belief can break. No matter what we have done or what has been done to us, we remain whole and holy and worthy, loved and lovable, and capable of healing. I know that we will be here with and for each other, and that the “we” I am talking about is ever-expanding.
What do you know for sure in these uncertain times? What can you count on, and who can you share this with? What is holding you steady?
May our circles of connection, care, and understanding be ever-expanding. May we trust that in community, we can do and be together more than we ever could alone. May we know and live into the foundational values of our faith, trusting that the heart of Universalism offers to each and all a love that will not let any one of us go.
Love,
Rev. Jen
Rev. Jen Crow
Senior Minister
First Universalist Church of Minneapolis
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Worship
Sunday, Jan. 9, 9 & 11am
Wednesday Meditation
Sunday, Jan. 2 Recording
Cycle of Life
Wednesday, Jan. 5 Recording
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News & Features
New Art Exhibit: Quilts by Carolyn Liebler
Foundation Grant Nominations
Building & Office Access
Faithful Action Newsletter
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Happenings
Sunday Meditation
Mde Maka Ska Community Conversation
Grief Group
Daytime Connections
Newcomers Circle
Mental Health Sunday Film Screening: "My Ascension"
Pathway to Membership
Habitat Work Days
AUW Spring Retreat
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Sunday, Jan. 9, 9 & 11 a.m.
In Person at 9 & 11 a.m.
Live-streamed at 11 a.m.
Remembrance Sunday
Worship leaders: Rev. Arif Mamdani, Lauren Wyeth, Rev. Jen Crow, Franco Holder, and Aimee K. Bryant
This Sunday, we return to multi-platform worship for our Remembrance Sunday service. Remembrance Sunday is a service we hold each year in which we share and hold in community the names of those we’ve lost in the last year. The service on Sunday includes a ritual of naming in which you will be invited to come forward to speak aloud the names of those you’ve lost this year and light a candle in their memory. If you choose to join us online, we will make this ritual accessible to you with support from members of the Memorial Service Team. We know that loss is a part of what it means to be human, and we know that holding loss in community eases our burden and strengthens our bond. We look forward to being together on Sunday.
JOIN US IN PERSON:
In person worship is offered twice, at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. If you are choosing to join us in person at this time, we expect that you are feeling well and that all who are eligible/able are vaccinated against COVID-19. Masks are required. Read our COVID-19 Policies.
JOIN US ONLINE:
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH:
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Wednesday, Jan. 12, 7 p.m.
Three Breaths: An Open-Door Midweek Meditation
Meditation leader: Rev. Karen Hutt
Rev. Karen Hutt will be leading a three-part Wednesday meditation series beginning Wednesday, Jan. 12 and continuing the following two Wednesdays.
JOIN US ONLINE:
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Jan. 2: Choir-led Worship: Misatango
Worship leaders: Rev. Jen Crow, Dr. Randy Buikema, and the First Universalist Choir and Orchestra
The First Universalist Choir & Orchestra, directed by Dr. Randal Buikema, led worship this past Sunday with a performance of Misa a Buenos Aires (Misatango) by Martin Palmeri. Members of the choir selected and read poetry between movements.
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Image description: a still image from the Jan. 2 worship recording. |
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Our hearts are with church member Carol Jackson, whose beloved husband Tom Jackson, died last Monday. May love surround Carol and all who knew and loved Tom in these tender times. And in the words of our minister emeritus, John Cummins, may we be comforted in our loss by knowing that "There is but one place where time and death have no dominion: that place is love.”
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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Wednesday Meditation Recording |
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If you didn't catch it live on Wednesday, Jan. 5, join Rev. Jen here for a quiet time of stories, silence, poetry and prayer. We'll remember together the people and patterns that shape us, and the cycles that provide the trustworthy container for our lives. |
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Image description: a still image from the Jan. 5 meditation recording of Rev. Jen Crow with a lit chalice. |
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New Art Exhibit: Quilts by Carolyn Liebler |
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On exhibit in the Social Hall Jan. 9–Feb. 20, 2022, is a collection of quilts by long-time First Universalist member Carolyn Liebler, in celebration of her Semi-Centennial (50th birthday). Carolyn began quilting at age 10 when she was the crafty child of a geometry-focused mathematician and a color-theorist weaver. For over 40 years, she has used quilt design and creation in her UU-life as a self-expressive meditation. She balances her quilting with her work as a sociology professor at the University of Minnesota.
Carolyn will be available to talk about her work on Sunday, Jan. 9 after both services.
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First Universalist Foundation
Accepting Grant Nominations
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The First Universalist Foundation Board is accepting nominations through this form now through Friday, Jan. 28, 2022 from First Universalist congregants (regardless of membership status) and senior high youth in the church. One (1) person must submit a nomination backed by two (2) co-signers. Nominee organizations that are selected will then be sent our grant application.
The Foundation is soliciting nominations of organizations that address racial justice, climate justice, and human rights. We are also interested in organizations whose leadership includes Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC), women, or individuals from disenfranchised communities. This year we are particularly interested in supporting organizations with smaller budgets (for whom our grant may make a significant difference) and newer organizations or initiatives which are addressing the disparities that recent events have laid bare. Organizations that have not applied for a Foundation Board grant in the past are encouraged.
Historically the Foundation Board has given out grants ranging from $5,000 - $20,000.
Our mission statement and giving criteria, below, heavily inform our decisions.
Mission Statement
First Universalist Foundation acts as a catalyst for social change by promoting and supporting the development of emerging leaders, youth, young adults, and/or disenfranchised communities through monetary grants to nonprofits working in those communities.
Giving Priorities and Criteria
1. Demonstrate the potential to address one or more causes or forms of injustice.
2. Work to engage youth, young adults, and/or disenfranchised communities in the work of social change.
3. Focus on the Twin Cities community.
4. Have a commitment to measuring the impact or success of the funded program.
5. Organizations with annual budgets of less than $1,000,000 will be given greater priority.
6. Organizations that have been funded 3 times in the last 5 years may be considered lower priority.
Questions?
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Church Building & Office Access |
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The church building continues to be open for Sunday worship and Religious Education and scheduled meetings & events only. Access to the building and office outside of those times is currently available by appointment only. Contact Building & Office Manager Jim Poulter (jim@firstuniv.org) or the minister/staff member you'd like to meet with to make arrangements.
If you have an appointment, you may use the new buzzer and air phone system that has just been installed at the parking lot, atrium, and 34th Street doors to let staff know you've arrived. Please do not bang on the office windows or doors.
Most staff who can have temporarily returned to working from home when possible for the next few weeks. We hope to be able to announce open office/building access hours later this season.
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January Faithful Action Newsletter |
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Our Unitarian Universalist faith calls us to act for justice in the world. Our Faithful Action Ministry at First Universalist Church helps connect us to ways to act for justice in our community. Every month, we publish a newsletter with concrete ways you can get involved and take action through our Faithful Action Community Partners.
Read our January Faithful Action newsletter for information about volunteer opportunities, advocacy and learning opportunities, plus news about how our recent contributions have impacted our Faithful Action partners.
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Programs, Classes, Events, and Meetings |
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Sunday Meditation Meets THIS Sunday, Jan. 9 |
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Join this monthly congregant-led group for silent meditation on Zoom or in person after the second service (12:15 p.m.). After 20 minutes of sitting together in silence we take time to discuss our practices. Whether or not you have meditated before, you will be welcomed. Join via Zoom here or meet in the Meditation Room after worship.
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Mde Maka Ska Community Conversations |
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Mde Maka Ska Community Conversations Continue
First Conversation: Saturday, Jan. 15, 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. Starting this month, Mde Maka Ska Community Conversations will be continuing. Coordinated by First U Climate and Environmental Justice team members via zoom, we will engage in conversations to support ongoing pursuits such as Mni Ki Wakan, Indigenous Water Decade, and to deepen our connection with Mother Earth and all her relatives, especially our sacred waters. We engage in conversations as allies with the LaPointe family and all their relatives.
Reflections by Kathy Hollander on the most recent Mde Maka Ska conversations, late summer 2019: “The Mde Maka Ska Community is an encouraging, safe community that fosters intercultural conversations, in order to radically transform our relationship with each other and the natural world, for the betterment of all. We foster a shared understanding of the sacredness of water as a living, breathing entity, the interconnection of all beings within the natural world, and the value of prayer and ceremony. Our history explorations include our own histories, the history of the First people, the history of the place we are in, and a discovery of how that history (and our understanding of it) impacts our hopes for the future. We seek to transform the individual human-centric culture to a holistic one, where the need for fresh, clean water, food and land for all beings is valued. We gather on a regular basis to transform ourselves and others to a new awareness while nurturing relationship and celebrating the unique contributions of each person. Prayer, smudging and water ceremony call us to our center.”
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 explorations and conversation will be possible via zoom breakout rooms.
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Tending and Mending: A Casual Community
for Those Experiencing Loss
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A gathering for those who are grappling with the web of feelings associated with loss.
A group of souls who share, listen and care
A community interested in exploring new life invitations
No need to register, just come as who are when you want
We will be here for you...
Dates: Sundays, Jan. 16, Feb. 20, March 20, April 17, & May 15, 4–5:30 p.m. on Zoom
Facilitator: Rev. Karen Hutt
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Daytime Connections: Moved by Music! |
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Thursday, Jan. 20, sign in at 9:45 a.m.; program at 10 a.m.
How can music and movement liven us up and put us in touch with our deepest feelings and most precious memories? Join us for a session of fun, rhythm, and a bit of singing with music educators Ann Kay and Karen Parson. You will even learn some neuroscience at the same time!
An optional soup and salad lunch will be served following 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).
Daytime Connections would dearly love for you to physically attend, so that you can help build the relationships that make our senior community strong. However, if you cannot attend in person, you now have the option of signing up to attend virtually.
Register here to attend the January 20 program, and indicate on the registration form if you'd like to attend the program and lunch, the program only, or attend virtually.
Through Daytime Connections, older adults at First Universalist empower each other to live intentional, joyful, purposeful, and spiritually fulfilled lives.
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Newcomers Circle Begins Wednesday, Jan. 26 |
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Wednesday, Jan. 26–Feb. 23, 7–8:30 p.m.
Newcomers Circles are four-session gatherings of 6-8 participants who and want to reflect on their own and listen to stories from the spiritual journeys of other new-ish folks. Membership is not required; the Circle is intended for those who are new-ish and are fairly certain they would like to continue their spiritual journey with those at First Universalist. This Circle will be facilitated by First U member Jill Braithwaite. We will meet four Wednesdays between Jan. 26 and Feb. 23 (skip Feb. 9) from 7–8:30 p.m. The first and fourth sessions will be in person at First Universalist; the second and third sessions will meet on zoom. Those registered will receive the zoom info and additional details via email within a week prior to the first session. Learn more and register here.
About the facilitator, Jill Braithwaite: Jill has worked in book publishing for more than 25 years. She has been a member of First Universalist Church since 2004 and has taught Religious Education and First Step classes and has served on the Board of Trustees and the Welcome Team. She has an M.A. in theology and the arts from United Theological Seminary and is currently studying there in the Master of Divinity program. Jill loves tennis, art, novels, Unitarian Universalism, the North Shore, and her little dog, Betsy.
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Mental Health Sunday Film Screening |
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Sunday, Jan. 30, 12:30 p.m., Cummins Room
As part of Mental Health Sunday on Jan. 30, First Universalist’s Mental Health Connect Ambassador team will be showing the documentary film "My Ascension" in the Cummins Room at 12:30 p.m. followed by a panel discussion with local mental health experts to discuss the impact of the film. This event is suggested for parents, grandparents, teens and anyone else who cares about another person.
My Ascension: A Documentary Film and Movement to Spread Hope and Fight Suicide
Synopsis: A suicide attempt left 16-year-old varsity cheerleader, Emma Benoit, paralyzed, but propelled her on a mission to use her painful experience to help others find hope, and shine more light on the fact that 20 young people die every day by suicide in the in the United States. My Ascension is a feature length documentary that chronicles Emma's inspiring journey and quest to walk again, as she works to bring Hope Squad, a school-based suicide prevention program, to Louisiana. The film also highlights the stories of two remarkable young people who tragically did not survive their attempts, and we learn first-hand from their families, friends, school officials and suicide prevention experts about the devastating effects of suicide and what can be done to prevent it.
Brought to you by:
***If you or someone you know needs help - call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-8255 or text the Crisis Text Line - HELLO to 741741***
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Next New Member Class is Sunday, Feb. 13 |
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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, our Pathway to Membership class involves watching several short videos on different ministry areas in the church, and then attending a class session to reflect on and discuss themes like Faith in Action and Stewardship through the lens of church membership.
Pathway to Membership classes are offered monthly, alternating between being held in person and on Zoom. The next class that you can sign up for will be held:
Sunday, Feb. 13, 2022; 1–3 p.m. at First Universalist
Learn more and register on our website.
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Habitat for Humanity 2022 Winter Work Days |
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First Universalist has three Habitat for Humanity winter work days coming up in early 2022: Thursdays, Jan.13, Feb. 10 and March 10. All of the builds are in Minneapolis.
Please consider joining in! We’re allowed a maximum of 8 volunteers on site. Volunteers must be over sixteen years of age, and sixteen- and seventeen-year-olds must be accompanied by an adult. The work day is from 8:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m., and we ask that you bring your own sack lunch.
Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity’s current COVID safety protocols require that all volunteers indicate that they have either been vaccinated or have tested negative for COVID-19 within 48 hours of volunteering on site. In addition, masks are required indoors, regardless of vaccination status.
Sign up to volunteer for one or all of the winter work days by filling out this form.
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Association of Universalist Women Spring Retreat |
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Registration is open for the Association of Universalist Women (AUW) Spring Retreat! Register by January 20 to get a discount before the registration fees increase.
THEME: Resilience, Community and Creativity
WHEN: April 22–25, 2022 (Friday - Monday). There is an option to register for Saturday only and an option to stay over Sunday night.
WHERE: Camp Courage near Annandale – a new venue for us!
WHO: Keynote and ceremonies by Rev. Kelli Clement
Breakout Sessions and Activities: Sky Watch; Stretching; Nature Walk; Meditation; Pilates; Writing; Sexuality Discussion; Sound Healing; Book Discussion; Gender Fluid/Expansive Discussion; Board Games; Movies; Talent Show; Dance Party; Labyrinth; Indoor Pool; Healing Sessions and Massage (extra fee); Crafts.
FOR MORE INFORMATION and REGISTRATION: visit the AUW website
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Mental Health Connect Offerings |
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Deep Listening Training
Begins Monday, Jan. 17, 6 p.m.
Deep listening training for people who want to be great listeners, improve their tools to help others, leaders and you. Drew Brooks, Executive Director of Faith Partners will be presenting on tools to enter into challenging conversations, like mental health. Each session will focus on a different listening practice or skill. The mental health pandemic is increasing and we can learn how to help each other. We'll build on what we know with a 6 week training for anyone that wants to be a better listener, have the tools to support others and feel confident.
This 6-week course is free and meets virtually at 6 p.m. every other Monday beginning Jan. 17 and ending on March 28. You do not need to attend each session.
Self-Care for the Caregiver
Thursday, Jan. 27, 6 p.m.
A virtual monthly drop in group that is free and open to the public. Offered the last Thursday of each month, each of these groups provides community, support and an education topic. There will be a MHC Navigator, a therapist and educator (Drew Brooks) at the meeting. Many are searching for help for a loved one, but also need support too. MHC has resources, tools and a virtual time to share.
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UUs in 12-Step Recovery
Updated schedule: Sundays at 7 p.m.
Weekly drop-in group for UUs in 12-step based recovery from all kinds of addiction and family dysfunction. Participation is confidential. Join us via Zoom here. (Meeting ID: 922 6965 4151 Passcode: 839388)
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 available at 12stepspirituality.org
Tending and Mending: Grief Group
Sunday, Jan. 16, 4–5:30 p.m. on Zoom
Tending and Mending is a monthly grief group led by Rev. Karen Hutt in which participants are invited to bring their whole selves and whatever grief and loss they're carrying. Join the Zoom room here. Also offered: Sundays, Feb. 20, March 20, April 17, and May 15.
First Sunday Meditation Group
First Sunday of the month, 12:30–1:30 p.m. (Please note: January meeting is Jan. 9)
Join this monthly congregant-led group for silent meditation on Zoom or in person. After 20 minutes of sitting together in silence we take time to discuss our practices. Whether or not you have meditated before, you will be welcomed. Join via Zoom here or meet in the Meditation Room after worship.
Weekly Meditation Group
Tuesdays, 9–10:15 a.m. on Zoom
This group plans to begin a multi-platform gathering model when the church reopens. Contact Sara McMullen at saramcminneapolis@gmail.com for Zoom and in-person meeting information.
Chi Gung
Thursday mornings 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Pat,Gottschalk has been leading Chi Gung at First U for over 20 years. Pat leads gentle movements with a focus on harmonizing our personal energies — internal development and peace of mind, not martial arts. Creaky joints, stiff muscles and anxious minds are all welcome. We meet via Zoom until we can meet in person. 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(s)
Thursdays at 5 and 7 p.m.
Join the 5 p.m. Happy Hour here (Meeting ID: 834 7301 7986; Password: 557571).
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 December 12, 2021
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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).
- We are asking everyone to sign in when entering the building on Sundays; in the event we are notified of a confirmed case of COVID-19, we will contact those we believe to have been in proximity to the person who tested positive.
- We will not be serving food or beverages indoors on Sunday mornings.
- For now, we will not be singing together in the sanctuary; worship leaders and masked choir members will sing at some services.
- Both services will be streamed to the Cummins Room or Social Hall for those seeking more space, or in case the sanctuary fills.
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We are offering optional Sunday childcare or classes for babies, toddlers and preschoolers, effective Sunday, Dec. 12 (advance registration required).
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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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