The Miracle at the Center of the Cycle of Life |
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Dear ones,
This Sunday, in person and online, we will celebrate the miracle that is at the center of the larger cycle of life. We will welcome and name and dedicate ourselves to the care of 9 children - and as we bear sacred witness to these unfolding lives, I hope we will see ourselves and each other anew. Each of us born whole and holy and worthy. Each of us important and ordinary and unique. Each of us in need of the larger community of this earth and this church to hold us in rhythm, each with the other.
As we join together this Sunday, and as many of us move out across the cities and the country and the world in person and online as the winter holiday season begins, I offer an excerpt from the poem, “When They Sleep,” translated from the original Norwegian of poet Rolf Jacobsen into English by Robert Hedin, as one way to imagine ourselves and each other.
All people are children when they sleep.
there's no war in them then.
They open their hands and breathe
in that quiet rhythm heaven has given them.
They pucker their lips like small children
and open their hands halfway...
If only we could speak to one another then
when our hearts are half-open flowers.
Words like golden bees
would drift in...
Join us on Sunday and remember the miracle at the center of the cycle of life - each of us a wonder and a miracle. May we know ourselves and each other as the children of the universe we are, and may we care for each other and ourselves with all the tenderness we would bring to a sleeping child.
Love,
Rev. Jen
Rev. Jen Crow
Senior Minister
First Universalist Church of Minneapolis
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Worship
Sunday, Nov. 21 at 9 & 11am
Wednesday, Nov. 24 at 7pm
Nov. 14 Worship Recording
Nov. 14 Cycle of Life
Nov. 17 Meditation Recording
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News & Happenings
Meet Some of Our New Members
Ushers and Greeters Needed
COVID-19 Safety Measures and Policies
Hearing Loop Installed in Sanctuary
November Faithful Action Newsletter
Warm Clothing Needed for AFA Students
November Board of Trustees Meeting
Grief Group Meets Nov. 21
New Member Classes
In the Community
Ongoing Gatherings, Resources, and Information
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MULTIGENERATIONAL SUNDAY WORSHIP |
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Sunday, Nov. 21
In Person at 9 & 11 a.m.
Live-streamed at 11 a.m. on Zoom & YouTube
Child Dedication Sunday
Worship leaders: Rev. Karen Hutt, Rev. Jen Crow, Lauren Wyeth, Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout, Franco Holder, Aimee K. Bryant, Dr. Randy Buikema and the First Universalist Choir
Join us this Sunday as we celebrate the miracle that is at the center of the larger cycle of life. We will welcome and name and dedicate ourselves to the care of nine children in this congregation.
JOIN US ONLINE:
JOIN US IN PERSON:
All are welcome to join us for worship in the sanctuary at 9 or 11 a.m. Masks are required at all times, and we ask that you try to maintain a distance of at least three feet between you and anyone not in your household. Remember to ask for consent before shaking hands or hugging. The service will also be streamed in the social hall, so if the sanctuary fills or you feel uncomfortable with the number of people in the sanctuary, there is an alternative space for you to experience worship in the building.
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH:
Religious Education classes for Kindergarten through Senior High meet this Sunday. Children and youth must be pre-registered by Saturday at noon in order to attend classes at First Universalist this year. Learn more.
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WEDNESDAY EVENING MEDITATION |
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Wednesday, Nov. 24 at 7 p.m. on Zoom
We invite you into a simple space of meditation, silence, poetry, song, and shared company.
Come, tend to your spirit each Wednesday evening by joining us for this brief (~15–30 minute) midweek time of meditation and connection. All are welcome, and no experience is needed.
Wednesday meditation is offered online only.
JOIN US ONLINE:
Connect to the live stream on Wednesday, Nov. 17 between 6:55 and 7 p.m.: Enter the Wednesday Zoom webinar here. (webinar ID: 117-312-320). To join by phone (audio only), dial 1-312-626-6799 and enter the webinar ID.
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THIS PAST SUNDAY & WEDNESDAY |
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Sunday Service Recording & Podcast |
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November 14: New Member Sunday
Worship leaders: Rev. Arif Mamdani, Julica Hermann de la Fuente, Daryn Woodson, Liz Farmer, and Franco Holder
Reflections on Sunday worship by Liz Farmer, Membership Coordinator:
This past Sunday, we renewed existing memberships and welcomed new members in two heartfelt, joyful ceremonies. Marking these milestones in the life of the church and the life of individuals within the church is part of our meaning-making process as Unitarian Universalists. Living in a white supremacy culture that tells us we need to be "perfect" to be loved and to belong, we choose to be heretical in the conviction that faith is a matter of joy- not perfection. When our “yes” to church membership, to our ourselves, and to each other comes from a place of joy, we engage in a life-transforming and life-sustaining faith. Watch the 11 a.m. service recording here. On the podcast this week, enjoy both ceremonies, an interactive story, and a message. Find the order of service here.
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Image description: a still image from the Nov. 14 worship recording of Julica Hermann de la Fuente speaking from the chancel. |
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Cycle of Life for November 14 |
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We hold Susannah Marshall and her family in our hearts as they mourn the death of Susannah’s father Ron Marshall on Monday night in Seattle after being hospitalized for severe complications with advanced heart failure. We send our love and care to Susannah and her family in this tender and difficult time.
We want to let the congregation know that Jean Staneslow’s memorial service will be held in the sanctuary at church on Sunday, Nov. 21 at 2 p.m. Jean's obituary is available here.
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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November 17: Three Breaths
Meditation leader: Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout
This week's Wednesday meditation offered a time of silence, song, poetry, and shared company with Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout. Watch the recording here.
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Image description: a still image from the Nov. 17 meditation recording of Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout, eyes closed in meditation. |
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Meet Some of Our New Members! |
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On Sunday, Nov. 14, we welcomed new members during a ceremony in worship. We asked them to share a few tidbits about themselves. Here is what three of them had to say:
Jack P. Gramlich (he/they)
What's your favorite place in the Twin Cities?
The Nicollet Diner: french fries, neighborly vibes, ice cream sundaes.
What music has been the soundtrack of your life lately?
The Spotify algorithm seems to understand that I will listen to melancholy folk music until the cows come home.
One book or author that has shaped your life/perspective?
Angela Y. Davis, Abolition Democracy: Beyond Empire, Prisons, and Torture
In what ways do you hope to give, receive, and/or grow here at First Universalist?
I hope to find grounding in the universalist spiritual tradition, to connect with this rich community, and to join in the collective work of advancing racial justice.
What's your favorite season of the year and why?
Summer: pleasant all around, a good time to be alive. It's warm outside, and the sun doesn't set until well into the evening.
Duck duck grey duck or duck duck goose?
goose.
Kenneth “Ken” Edstrom (he/him)
What's your favorite place in the Twin Cities?
Any restaurant with an outdoor patio.
What music has been the soundtrack of your life lately?
The usual mixture of joyful/sorrowful, only the balance between the two changes.
One book or author that has shaped your life/perspective?
Brené Brown, Ken Wilber, and Dr. Jim Tucker
In what ways do you hope to give, receive, and/or grow here at First Universalist?
Seek answers to the big questions, help others.
What's your favorite season of the year and why?
I love Minnesota summers. They are short and precious.
Duck duck grey duck or duck duck goose?
Grey duck
Jennifer Vaillancourt (she/her)
What's your favorite place in the Twin Cities?
Right now, my favorite place is at my dining room table, researching and writing lessons for the students I tutor. Right now, I am working on the invasion and colonization of what will become the United States.
What music has been the soundtrack of your life lately?
The sound of silence. I have really been enjoying my alone time in my apartment.
One book or author that has shaped your life/perspective?
Donalyn Miller's "The Book Whisperer.” It is a book about the importance of kids finding The Right Book to read to turn them on to reading. I read close to 200 kid books a year, mostly 3rd-6th grade books and picture books, so I can stay on top of what is out there and so I can recommend the perfect book for the perfect kid!
In what ways do you hope to give, receive, and/or grow here at First Universalist?
I am participating in Wellspring. I hope to find ways to connect with people in the realm of social/racial justice teaching for/with kids.
What's your favorite season of the year and why?
Fall, because it is cool and not humid, so I can breathe well.
Duck duck grey duck or duck duck goose?
Grey duck
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Can You Help Welcome Folks Back to Church? Greeters and Ushers Needed! |
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As we reopen the building for two worship services—one at 9 a.m. and one at 11 a.m.—we know that being able to welcome each other to our renovated space and help each other get used to our new ways of being together are especially important.
Greeters and Ushers are an essential part of this. Greeters and Ushers arrive at 8:15 a.m. or 10:15 a.m. for a brief orientation and then space themselves around the building and sanctuary to warmly welcome all who come to worship. Especially if you are already planning on being present for in-person worship, this is a relatively easy way to help make our return to the building as smooth as possible.
Would you be willing to serve as an usher or greeter on an upcoming Sunday? If so, please sign up and let us know when you'll be there on this sign up genius. Volunteering as a greeter before the service or usher during the service means that you get to embody our commitment to welcome and hospitality: drawing the circle wide, welcoming with open hearts and smiles, acknowledging and honoring the light within each human heart. It is just one of the ways we take responsibility and care for our community.
It is the church's policy that all lay leaders and volunteers be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. If you'd like to welcome and haven't already shown your proof of vaccination to a staff member, please email a photo to Liz Farmer at liz@firstuniv.org or bring it on Sunday.
Thank you for considering volunteering to be part of our ministry of hospitality and welcome!
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COVID-19 Safety Measures & Policies |
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Updated November 10, 2021
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Masks are required in the church building and on the playground 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
- 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.
- Staff and volunteers are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19
- If you are joining us in person, we strongly encourage but do not require vaccination for everyone who is able to be vaccinated
- We ask that you please stay home and join us online if you are sick 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 will not be serving food or beverages on Sunday mornings
- For now, we will not be singing together in the sanctuary; masked choir members will sing at some services
- Both services will be streamed to the social hall for those seeking more space, or in case the sanctuary fills
- We will not be offering childcare or classes for babies, toddlers and preschoolers; they are welcome in the sanctuary, or families can watch the live-streamed service from the toddler-preschool rooms as little ones play.
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Hearing Loop Installed in Sanctuary |
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A hearing loop has been installed in our newly renovated sanctuary. Its addition is one of many improvements made during renovations, and funded by our capital campaign Not for Ourselves Alone: Building an Inclusive Future, to make our spaces more accessible.
What is a Hearing Loop & How Does It Work?
Hearing loops broadcast sound from the PA system wirelessly directly into hearing aids equipped with telecoil (T-coils).
With hearing loops, it's much easier to hear the speaker, without background noise.
The T-coil on a hearing aid is usually turned on by simply pushing a button on the aid. But, the T-coil must be activated by your provider to use.
Do you use hearing aids?
Ask your audiologist if your hearing aid has this wireless telecoil. Your audiologist can activate it. Ask for a demonstration on how to use it and written instructions.
No hearing aids? No problem.
Try our headset devices, which will be available soon (likely by December).
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November Faithful Action Newsletter |
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Find ways to get involved with our Faithful Action Community Partners in our November Faithful Action Newsletter. This newsletter contains opportunities to connect through volunteering, donating, advocating, and learning. Our Faithful Action Community Partners are community organizations that share our vision of love and justice. We work through Faithful Action Community Partnerships in order to leverage our energy, commitment and expertise. You can find more information about our Faithful Action Community Partnerships on our website.
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Warm Clothing Needed for
Augsburg Fairview Academy (AFA) Students
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As winter approaches, we are seeking donations of new and gently used winter jackets for AFA students. Men’s and women’s jackets in all sizes (S, M, L, and XL) are needed; black and dark colors preferred. If used, clothing should be teen appropriate and clean and in good repair. Gloves and warm socks (new, please) are also needed; students particularly like the gloves that have touch screen capability.
Augsburg Fairview Academy(AFA) is a public charter high school located in the Phillips Neighborhood. AFA is a long standing First U Community Partner; we have supported Food and Clothing Closets at AFA for eight years.
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November 18 Board of Trustees Meeting |
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The First Universalist Board of Trustees will meet on Thursday, Nov. 18, at 6:30 p.m. in the Cummins Room at church and on Zoom. The Board meets the third Thursday of most months at 6:30 p.m. Information about the November Board meeting, including the Board packet, is posted here.
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Grief Group Meets November 21 |
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"Tangled Blessings" is a monthly grief group led by Rev. Karen Hutt in which participants are invited to bring their whole selves and whatever grief they may be carrying. The group meets one Sunday per month, from 4 to 5:30 p.m. on Zoom, and will be meeting next on Sunday, Nov. 21.
To receive the Zoom information, RSVP to Rev. Karen Hutt at revkarenhutt@gmail.com. Future dates are: Sundays, Dec. 19, Jan. 16, Feb. 20, March 20, April 17, and May 15.
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New Member Classes: Dec. 12 & Jan. 11 |
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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, Pathway to Membership 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 two classes are:
Sunday, Dec. 12, 2021; 1–3 p.m. at First Universalist
Tuesday, Jan. 11, 2022; 6:30–8:30 p.m. on Zoom
Learn more and register on our website.
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Interfaith Thanksgiving Service |
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Thursday, Nov. 25 at 10 a.m.
Temple Israel, 2323 Fremont Ave S.
Celebrate Thanksgiving with our neighbors at the Interfaith Thanksgiving service at Temple Israel. This worship service, offered by the Downtown Congregations Interfaith Senior Clergy, will feature a sermon by Pastor Elijah McDavid from Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church and participation by area interfaith clergy.
Participating congregations include Central Lutheran Church, Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church, First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), First Covenant Church, First Unitarian Society, First Universalist Church, Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church, Islamic Community Center of Minnesota/Masjid Al-Amin, Masjid An-Nur, Plymouth Congregational Church, Pilgrim Baptist Church, St. Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral, St. Olaf Roman Catholic Church, Temple Israel, and Westminster Presbyterian Church.
This year’s service is both in person and online. Masks and physical distancing will be required for those attending in person.
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Project Drawdown Presentation |
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Submitted by Todd Pierson:
Did you miss the opportunity to hear Dr. Johnathan Foley, executive director of Project Drawdown, address via zoom last week entitled, Achieving Drawdown: A Hopeful, Science-Based Approach to Stop Climate Change? Our First U Environmental Justice team thought the presentation was an excellent overview of Project Drawdown.
Project Drawdown is the world’s leading resource for climate solutions. Its mission (as well as our EJ team's mission) is to help the world reach “Drawdown”— the point in the future when levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere stop climbing and start to steadily decline, thereby stopping catastrophic climate change — as quickly, safely, and equitably as possible.
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It Takes All of Us:
UU Community Call to End Fossil Fuels
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Monday, Dec. 6, 7–8:30 p.m. on Zoom
An invitation from the Environmental Justice team along with MNIPL (Minnesota Interfaith Power and Light) community connector, Roberta Haskin:
Join a rich conversation with a group of Unitarian Universalist lay leaders, ministers, and community organizers from across Minnesota and our national body. In this community call, we will share the current priorities of the Line 3 movement and developments in how we can stop all fossil fuel projects, including through divestments. We will deepen into some of the stories of the climate movement from this past summer and fall as Unitarian Universalists put their values and shared UU Principles into action. We will reflect together on the different ways we are moved to protect the earth from climate chaos and transition to a just economy based on renewable energy.
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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 - In Person
First Saturdays, 9:30 a.m.
The workshops meet monthly on the first Saturday of each month in the Social Hall from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. The workshops are open to all people in or interested in 12 step programs. They include meditation, meditation instructions, short talks and small groups. Meeting 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 available at 12stepspirituality.org
Tangled Blessings Grief Group
Sunday, Nov. 21, 4–5:30 p.m. on Zoom
Tangled Blessings is a monthly grief group led by Rev. Karen Hutt in which participants are invited to bring their whole selves and whatever grief they may be carrying. To receive the Zoom information, RSVP to Rev. Karen Hutt at revkarenhutt@gmail.com. Future dates are: Sundays, Dec. 19, Jan. 16, Feb. 20, March 20, April 17, and May 15.
First Sunday Meditation Group
Sunday, Dec. 5, 12:15–1:30 p.m. at church
Join this monthly congregant-led group for silent meditation. After 20 minutes of sitting together in silence, we share experiences from our practices.
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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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’re living with a chronic illness or 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 to your home.
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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