Beyond Winners and Losers: Lamentations |
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Greetings!
Yesterday in Wednesday worship, we had a service of lamentation.
Though lamentation is not something that comes naturally to Unitarian Universalists (or our United States culture, really), we created a sacred space to feel and hold the grief that is so present among so many of us. We let the grief of this election, and the past 4 years, and all that has been unveiled, some of it very familiar to people of color and those at the margins and some of it new to many of us - we let that grief in.
We lamented that 2016 wasn’t a fluke or mistake and that millions and millions of people once again cast their vote for white supremacy, and the way it so blatantly, nakedly, publicly, explicitly, and viscerally occupies the White House.
As adrienne marie brown has said, “Things aren’t getting worse, they are just getting unveiled.” And they got even more unveiled this election.
And we lamented.
We lamented the norms that have been shattered and the damage done to our institutions.
We lamented the way the office of the President of the United States has been abused and perverted.
We lamented the treatment of scientists and public servants.
We lamented the public harassment, verbal violence and abuse that women, and particularly women of color, have endured from the president.
We lamented the White House’s dismissive response to the global pandemic.
We lamented that so many other adults in the room - the ones who could have held the president accountable - fail to meet the moment, again and again. We lamented that instead of a resounding rebuke of such conduct and behavior by the leaders of our country, only by the slimmest of margins does it appear the country chose another path.
We have not given up hope. But it is a much more sober and realistic hope.
It is hard to declare a winner in this election, when so much damage has been done and the divisions are so deep. And at the same time, we must believe that there is a promise yet to be fulfilled at the heart of this country. But before we resume the work to help build the United States that are yet to be, we lament.
I’ll see you in church,
Rev. Justin
Rev. Justin Schroeder
Co-Senior Minister
First Universalist Church
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MULTIGENERATIONAL WORSHIP
Sunday, Nov. 8, 10 a.m.
"What Next?"
Rev. Justin Schroeder
The election is over. The votes counted and still being counted. What now? What next? What guides, holds, and shapes us in these coming months? How might we live with, wrestle, and be challenged by these words of the great American poet, Langston Hughes, who wrote,
“Out of the rack and ruin of our gangster death,
The rape and rot of graft, and stealth, and lies,
We, the people, must redeem
The land, the mines, the plants, the rivers.
The mountains and the endless plain—
All, all the stretch of these great green states—
And make America again!”
Join us for worship this Sunday, Nov. 8 at 10 a.m. Worship will include a story for all ages, sharing our joys and concerns, special music, and a message.
Connect to our live streamed worship between 9:55 and 10 a.m.:
ORDER OF SERVICE FOR SUNDAY, NOV. 1
Welcome: Rev. Justin Schroeder
Chalice Lighting: Mabel & Lamont
Story for All Ages: Aimee K. Bryant
Music
Prayer: Rev. Arif Mamdani
Music: "Spirit of Life" Aimee K. Bryant & Franco Holder
Sermon: Rev. Justin Schroeder
Offering: Sanctuary & Resistance Emergency Fund (give here)
Offertory: "Go the Distance" First Universalist Choir directed by Dr. Randy Buikema
Closing Words: Rev. Justin Schroeder
"Go Now in Peace" Aimee K. Bryant and Franco Holder
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POST-SUNDAY WORSHIP MEETINGS (NOV. 1)
~11 a.m. Post-Worship Fellowship for All Identities
Connect with worship leaders and fellow congregants in the virtual Fellowship Hall - a lightly structured environment where we'll discuss and reflect on what we heard in the worship service. Join here. (Meeting ID: 212 168 092 Passcode: 383174) or dial: 1-312-626-6799 and enter the meeting ID and passcode.
~11 a.m. BIPOC Post-Worship Fellowship Space
A social space for those who identify as black, indigenous, people of color, and multiracial to connect. Join here.
~11 a.m. Pastoral Visitors Space
We know that worship can take us into deep and surprising places. If you find yourself needing to talk with someone about what is stirring for you on a Sunday morning, please speak with one of our pastoral visitors in a confidential breakout room after the service. You can join here.
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WEDNESDAY EVENING WORSHIP
Wednesday, Nov. 11, 7 p.m.
Julica Hermann de la Fuente
This midweek worship experience for adults and older youth is a brief time (20-30 minutes) of connection, centering, and reflection, to help us find and keep our balance during this time of pandemic and physical distancing.
Connect to our live streamed worship between 6:55 and 7 p.m.:
Enter the Zoom worship space here (please note: this worship service will be hosted meeting-style, with the option to turn on your video and see other attendees who choose to turn their video on). To join by phone (audio only), dial 1-312-626-6799 and enter the Meeting ID: 929 9685 7444 and Passcode: 389086
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Cycle of Life from Sunday, Nov. 1 |
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Our thoughts and care are with Valerie Garber, who had gallbladder surgery last week. Val appreciates your well wishes and positive thoughts.
We celebrate with Cheryl and Scott Smith, who welcomed a new grandson, Arthur Smith Pitt, on October 16.
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Sunday Service Recording & Podcast |
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Sunday, Nov. 1: "On God and Country"
Sermon by Rev. Ashley Horan
Reflections & summary by Liz Farmer:
In this election year, Election Day and El Dia de los Muertos are only two days apart. One acknowledges and honors the lives of ancestors past and the other is an opportunity to have a say in our country’s future. If you were to have a conversation with your ancestors - perhaps your spiritual ancestors, as Julica points us toward - about what guided and grounded them in times of anxiety about the future, what might it sound like? If you asked them where they placed their trust, what would they say? In God? In country? In community? As we breathe deep and hold one another close this election week, listen to the podcast or watch the entire service to help you find and name that in which you place your deepest trust.
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Board of Trustees Seeking Additional Trustee |
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The Board of Trustees is seeking another Trustee for its important work. In September, the Board of Trustees had an unexpected vacancy. We have been working with the Nominating Committee and would like interested members to contact them at nomination@firstuniv.org with any interest in serving. This will be for a term on the Board of Trustees beginning this winter and ending in June of 2023. Criteria for serving are to be a member of the church and should have a commitment to all of our Visionary Goals, in particular our third Visionary Goal of being a multi-racial, multi-cultural, and intergenerational faith community of mutual caring and support where people bring all of who they are and welcome each other with joy. Board members meet monthly on the third Thursday of the month (currently via Zoom) and engage in work between meetings. Whoever is appointed will need to be approved by the congregation at the annual meeting in June 2021.
Thank you in advance for your willingness to be a part of church lay-leadership!
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Child Dedication: Please Sign Up by Nov. 9! |
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On Sunday, Nov. 22, we'll be celebrating Child Dedications in our online worship service. Together, we'll create a meaningful and memorable celebration in this time when - perhaps more than ever - we are all aware of our interdependence and the importance of a web of mutual care and support that encompasses and holds each child and every family. If you're interested in participating, you can learn more and sign up here by November 9.
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Submitted by Barb Melom
It was 14 years ago that knitters from our congregation began knitting hats for women and men experiencing homelessness. Simpson Shelter was the first place to receive hat donations from us. Over the years the project has continued to expand and we now make donations to schools, shelters, and community agencies serving those in need. Last year, close to 2,000 hats were knit and delivered to folks in our community... children, youth, and adults.
In the past, knitting groups have gathered in churches, yarn shops, coffee shops and friends' homes. With social distancing none of this will happen this year.... but we still need hats. I am asking knitters to pick up their needles and begin knitting a hat for the project! Use your favorite pattern or check out our blog: scroll through the blog and you will find some of our favorite patterns and tips for knitting a warm hat.
Hats can be dropped off on my enclosed front porch and distribution will begin in October and continue throughout the winter.
Help spread the word by telling your friends. Thanks for "Giving the Gift of Warmth."
Barbara Melom
Drop off: 5314 Penn Ave. So. Mpls.
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Take One Small Step
with First Universalist and Masjid An-Nur - Mosque of Light
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We Are Helping to Build Bridges in Our Community
In a world rife with noise from news to social media feeds—that diminishes our collective morale—StoryCorps understands the power of a one-on-one conversation. StoryCorps’ One Small Step provides a framework for people who hold different viewpoints to explore what they have in common and calls to Americans to take, “One Small step” towards fostering a culture of listening.
First Universalist Church (Peace Action Circle) in partnership with Masjid Annur Mosque, are collaborating with StoryCorps. We invite you to participate in a virtual, recorded and facilitated conversation with another person in our community who you might not otherwise have the opportunity to talk with. We challenge you to engage in these crucial connections and to learn what we have in common that outweighs our differences. The partnership with Masjid Annur provides a unique opportunity to engage in an interfaith discussion about the stories that have impacted our lives.
In December, StoryCorps will begin thoughtfully matching community members for conversations that will take place in January. To sign up to participate, complete the online screening questionnaire by December 11, 2020.
Take, “One Small Step” towards fostering a culture of listening. We challenge you to engage in these crucial connections and to learn what we have in common that outweighs our differences.
Please indicate your congregation when filling out the survey and email TCPeaceLiteracyEduc@yahoo.com when you have completed the it so that we, in partnership with StoryCorps, can keep you informed. We will be sending out individual invitations and encourage referrals to friends and associates outside our First Universalist community. Our goal is to recruit a diverse group.
- Cathy Manning
On behalf of First Universalist Peace Action Circle
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Mental Health Connect:
Resource Spotlight & Upcoming Events
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Submitted by Janet Houck
Resources
November 11, 2020 is Veteran’s Day. If you know a service member that would like mental health information, for themselves or someone else, here are some resources you can share:
- Military One Source: available for service members and their family 24/7 at 1-800-342-9647
- Real Warriors: The Real Warriors Campaign encourages help-seeking behavior among service members, veterans, and military families coping with invisible wounds.
- Vet Centers: A wide range of services for veterans. Over 800 resources that every veteran and family needs to know.
Mental Health Connect Events
Where Do We Go From Here? Grief and COVID-19
Tuesday, Nov. 17, 6:30-7:30 PM
Speaker: Jenny Schroedel
Eight months into this pandemic, our lives have changed in countless ways. Chaplain Jenny Schroedel, bereavement specialist from Optage Hospice, Presbyterian Homes & Services will reflect with us on the ground we’ve traveled and offer concrete suggestions for finding hope, purpose and a path forward in uncertain times.
Monday Night Mental Health Speaker Series
Monday, Nov. 9 6:30-8 p.m.
Loneliness and Mental Health: Paths Toward Well-Being
Featuring Ted Bowman, Mdiv Author and Educator
Learn to distinguish between grief and loneliness; between being alone and loneliness; and name 3 or more resources when feeling lonely.
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Virtual Meetings & Gatherings |
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"Harvesting Hope" with Julie Neraas
Saturday, Nov. 7, 3–4:30 p.m.
All are invited!*
In this daunting and tumultuous time, hope may be our greatest need, its viability our greatest question. But what is hope? It’s much more than a positive attitude. It is a life stance, it’s the sense of a way forward, the commitment to creating a better world even when we don’t feel particularly hopeful. Hope is related to help, and it is often birthed in community.
In her 45 minute presentation via Zoom, Julie Neraas will touch briefly on the nature of hope, sources of hope, and if time allows, habits or practices that encourage hope. The remaining time will be for conversation back and forth.
Julie Neraas is an educator, writer, spiritual director, public speaker, and retreat leader. She is also skilled in group facilitation. Visit her web page here.
No registration is necessary.
*AUW (Association of Universalist Women) is sponsoring this event and everyone is invited. Although our fall retreat is historically just for women, given the timely topic of Hope, the AUW Board and the presenter thought it was important that this virtual event be available to all church members, friends, or visitors who are interested. Please spread the word to your spouses, family, friends, and relatives.
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Honoring Earth and the Food We Love
Tuesday, Nov. 10, 7–8 p.m.
Why are growing numbers in our church and beyond making shifts in the food we eat and the waste we create? Join us in reflecting on the changes and their potential to dramatically impact the climate. Hear lively video clips from recent interviews with 14 congregants! Watch a preview here. This program will be held via Zoom.
Register here by November 7 and receive exceptional resources in advance and a Zom meeting invitation. Led by Betsy Allis, Stan Sattinger, and Velma Wagner. Moderated by Todd Pierson. Sponsored by the Environmental Justice Food Solutions Team of First Universalist Church of Minneapolis.
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Dwelling in Hope: Faith Communities Rally for Home
Sunday, Nov. 15, 2 p.m.
State Capitol and Virtually via Facebook Live
The Beacon First U Leadership Team, including Autumn Huiras, Peg Mitchell, Sara McMullen, Claire Wilson, and Cathy Manning, invite your participation!
In Minnesota, we value taking care of each other and our neighbors. At Beacon, that means acting together so all of us can have a place to call home. And while we're voting our values this fall, we need to make sure they remain front-and-center for elected officials in 2021 and beyond. Make your voice - and your values - heard at a rally organized by First U Faithful Action Partner Beacon Interfaith Housing Collaborative on Sunday, Nov. 15 starting at 2 p.m. They're calling it "Dwelling in Hope," because we find hope when we take action together. RSVP here
No matter who wins in November, it will take a sustained effort from each of us to grow our movement and build power toward our vision that all people have a home. On Nov. 15, Beacon is aiming for 200 people to show up at the State Capitol to demonstrate to our legislators that we're serious about the need to make bold investments that meet the growing scale of our housing crisis. We'll be maintaining social distancing, requiring and providing face masks, and observing state health guidelines.
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Ongoing Meetings for Adults |
Every other Sunday, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. (Nov. 15 & 29)
Every other Tuesday, 7–8 p.m. (Nov. 10 & 24)
Do you identify as someone in 12-Step recovery? Would you like to build community at church and add a layer of support for yourself and others as we head into the winter? Join us for this weekly drop-in group for UUs in 12-step based recovery from all kinds of addiction and family dysfunction. We'll join in a time of silent meditation, explore a topic, and share our experience, strength and hope with each other. Participation in the meeting is confidential, and no sign up is required. Join us via Zoom here. (Meeting ID: 922 6965 4151 Passcode: 839388) For more information reach out to Dick Young (dickyoung1@comcast.net)
Weekly Meditation Group
Tuesdays, 9–10:15 a.m.
The Weekly Meditation Group is meeting by Zoom Tuesdays from 9-10:15 with an extended learning session once a month. Our time together contains seated meditation, walking meditation and sharing. Reach out to Martha Easter-Wells at mm3second@aol.com to sign up and for Zoom information.
Third Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m.
The Young Adults group (for those in their 20s and 30s) is now gathering on a monthly basis. Connect with fellow young adults after Wednesday worship on the third Wednesday of the month for conversation and fun. (Meeting ID: 137 172 572)
Thursdays, 10–11:30 a.m. (check in begins at 9:30 a.m.)
Led by congregant Pat Gottschalk, Chi-Gung meets via Zoom on Thursdays through 12/19 (except Thanksgiving). Meeting ID: 872 9181 2732
Thursdays, 5-6:30 p.m. (weekly)
AUW members are staying connected via a weekly Zoom "Happy Hour."
Meeting ID: 834 7301 7986. Password: 557571
Saturdays, 9:30 a.m., weekly through the end of December
All people in or interested in 12 steps are welcome, this includes Al-Anon, Adult Children of Alcoholics, CODA, etc. The workshop includes meditation, Centering Prayer meditation instructions, a short talk and small groups. Meeting details available at 12stepspirituality.org
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Ongoing Meetings for Children, Youth & Families |
Email Lauren Wyeth, Director of Children, Youth & Family Ministries, at lauren@firstuniv.org to be connected to any the following groups:
Rainbow Kids and Families
Tuesdays, 7–8 p.m., Oct. 13 to Nov. 17
LGBTQ+/Rainbow kids, parents and families gather for a chalice lighting and story, followed by a chance to get to know one another in three smaller breakout groups:
- Parents, caregivers and young children up to 5th grade
- Middle schoolers in 6th-8th grade, facilitated by trained LGBTQ+ youth and young adult staff
- Parents and caregivers of middle- and high-school youth
Not sure this group is for you and your family? If you have a reason to join us, you are most welcome!
BIPOC/Multiracial Kids and Families
Wednesdays, 6–7 p.m., Oct. 14 to Nov. 18
Black, Indigenous, People of Color, and Multiracial kids, parents and families gather for a chalice lighting and story, followed by a chance to get to know one another in three smaller breakout groups:
- Parents, caregivers and young children up to 5th grade
- Middle schoolers in 6th-8th grade, facilitated by trained BIPOC/Multiracial youth and young adult staff
- Parents and caregivers of middle- and high-school youth
This group welcomes all members of your BIPOC/Multiracial family!
Neurodiverse and Diverse Learners and their Families
Thursdays, time TBD, Oct. 15 to Nov.19
Neurodiverse and Diverse Learners gather for a chalice lighting and story, followed by a chance to get to know one another in three smaller breakout groups:
- Parents, caregivers and young children up to 5th grade
- Middle schoolers in 6th-8th grade, facilitated by trained neurodiverse youth and young adult staff
- Parents and caregivers of middle- and high-school youth
Diagnosed or not, if someone in your family identifies as neurodiverse, has an atypical way of learning or a learning disorder, you all are welcome.
Single Parents Gathering
Tuesdays at 8 p.m.
Single Parents Gathering with Rev. Sara Smalley - Parents/guardians who are single and/or co-parenting gather for mutual support and spiritual sustenance. Email Sara to be connected to the group at smalley.sara@gmail.com.
Parents of Babies and Preschoolers (ages 0-4 years)
Parents/guardians of little ones gather with Lauren for mutual support and spiritual sustenance. Email Lauren at lauren@firstuniv.org to be connected to the group.
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Caring for Ourselves and Each Other |
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You know that we are here for each other in times of crisis, but did you know we are here for each other all the time, too? Whether you are in an intense time of need or you could just use a little extra support, when one more layer might make the difference between shivering and struggling through on our own and feeling cozy and cared for, we are here for each other. Here are some of the ways you can layer up this winter:
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.
Counseling - The Walk In Counseling Center offers free counseling by phone or computer. Find out how to “walk in” here.
Cycle of Life - Every Sunday we name the challenges and joys that we are experiencing. If you have experienced a loss, are living with a new or ongoing health concern, are celebrating a transition, or would like us to name your joy or sorrow in worship on Sunday, please let Rev. Arif know (arif@firstuniv.org)
Grief Kits - Have you or someone else you know in our congregation lost a loved one? Please let Rev. Karen (revkarenhutt@gmail.com) know so that a package full of love and support can be delivered to your home.
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 answer yes to any of these questions? If so, please let Rev. Karen (revkarenhutt@gmail.com) know so that a package full of love and support can be delivered to your home.
Meal Trains - Sometimes receiving a meal one time or over the course of a couple of weeks can be just the thing to lighten the load and remind us that we are loved. If you or someone you know at church would welcome a meal to help them through a difficult time, or if you or your family have experienced a loss or are living with an illness or injury and having someone else do the cooking for a bit would help, please let us know. You can contact Rev. Jen or Rev. Karen, or contact our Congregational Care Coordinators, Nick (nicholasnier@gmail.com) and Julia (jskow@fastmail.com) directly.
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 with any staff member. We have financial resources available, and we can get a confidential check to you quickly. Please contact any of the ministers on staff.
Winter Buddies - Would it help to get a regular phone call from someone who cares? What about a check-in over zoom or phone once a month, or once a week? Our Pastoral Visitors are a group of congregants who provide confidential companionship and support to fellow members and friends of the church. They offer compassionate presence through a one-time call or an on-going relationship. Please contact Rev. Karen (revkarenhutt@gmail.com) if you’d like to be connected with a companion.
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.
Mental Health Navigators - If you are trying to access therapy or counseling services, navigate the insurance system, speak to a financial counselor, connect with housing services, or support loved ones with mental illness, a Mental Health Navigator can help. They journey alongside you to help remove barriers and complexity so that you can gain access to the right providers and resources for your unique situation. Navigation and follow-up services are free, confidential, and tailored to your individual situation. Learn more here: What Is a Mental Health Navigator? And get started here.
UUs in 12-Step Recovery - Want to build community and share support with other Unitarian Universalists in 12-Step recovery? Connect with Dick Young (dickyoung1@comcast.net) to learn more and join in.
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