A Unitarian Universalist Church | 1800 Bell Ave. Des Moines, IA 50315

P: 515-244-8603

Receptivity

with Rev. Garmon

The spirit listeth where it will. We can't control our transformation, we can only be open and receptive to the stirrings within aroused by the world without.

Join the live service on Zoom!

Zoom Passcode: Safford

(Please mute your mic before the service begins!)



Zoom may not be available.

Joys & Sorrows for Sunday should be submitted by noon on Wednesday.

Visit the Caring Community Webpage for the following options:

• Caring Ministry – for temporary assistance, such as meals or rides, or to volunteer (515-244-8603 ext. 108)
• Pastoral care - for support through a difficult time

Amanda Kruse is the Pastoral Care Associate available for this service time. Please email pastoralcareteam@ucdsm.org for assistance during the week.

Children & Youth Programming

Every Sunday!

Children and Youth programs happen on Sundays!

• Elementary-aged (Kindergarten-4th Grade) children of visitors, friends, and members are welcome to go to the One Room SchUUlhouse during services after the Story for All Ages.
• High-school aged youth of visitors, friends, and members are welcome to join our youth group after service on Sunday mornings 10:45AM-12:00PM.
• Have a middle-schooler (5th-8th Grade)? Our Faith Formation Coordinator wants to talk with you about we can nurture their spiritual and ethical growth.

NEWS THIS WEEK

Queer Cocoa, Crafts, and Carols!

Saturday, December 9th from 2:00-4:00 p.m.

Queer Cocoa, Crafts, and Carols!

Saturday, December 9, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Griffin Hall

Join the Queer and Transgender Action Group to cozy up for an afternoon of hot cocoa (or tea), crafts, and a few holiday carols! Enjoy an array of toppings, from classic to decadent, vegan, and gluten-free. All ages, genders, orientations, and allies welcome! Questions or craft suggestions? Please email the Queer/Trans Action Group at tag@ucdsm.org.

First Unitarian Humanist Update

** Humanist Society Annual Meeting with Rob Sand speaking on Rank Choice Voting**

Our annual meeting will be held on Saturday, Dec. 16 in Griffin Hall. There will be a short business meeting starting at 6:45, followed by snacks and a presentation by our state auditor, Rob Sand, on rank choice voting.  Everyone is invited for an interesting and informative evening.

** Book Group**

The Humanist book group meets on the first and third Sunday of each month at 12:00 noon right after the forum. You can join in person at the church or via Zoom at https://humanistsocietyofiowa.org/bookclubzoom/. We will be discussing chapters 26 and 27 of The Big Picture: On the Origins of Life, Meaning, and the Universe Itself by Sean Carroll on Sunday, Dec. 17th.

** Watch Party**

Our watch party series will continue on Saturday, Dec. 23rd; starting at 2:00 PM at the Stine Barn in West Des Moines. We will watch and discuss two more episodes of the latest James Burke’s Connections series – a look at how various discoveries, scientific achievements, and world events are tied together. Send a note to info@humanistsocietyofiowa.org for more information.

** Braver Angels**

The Humanist group will be attending a meeting of the Braver Angels discussion group on Saturday, Dec. 9 in Ames, where the topic will be Book Banning. Contact Steven Lipshutz at treasurer@humanistsocietyofiowa.org if you are interested in joining us, or go to https://braverangels.org/our-mission/ for more information on the Braver Angels organization.

Young Adult Potluck

Monday, December 11th from 6:30-8:00 p.m.

Changing up our regular monthly gathering to have a potluck on Monday, Dec. 11 6:30-8:00pm in Griffin Hall! We'll share food together, play social games, and talk a wee bit about vision for this group in 2024.

Optional potluck theme: bring something that helps us get to know you (a favorite food, your grandpa's casserole, nothing because Mondays are a struggle, etc). Bring your own plate/silverware if you can.

Questions? Contact Courtney Dufford.

Women's Wednesdays

Wednesday, December 13th from 12:30-3:00 p.m.

Topics chosen by women, about women, discussed by women. Join us on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month from 12:30 – 3:00 p.m. in the Peace Library.

• 12:30 – 1:00 p.m. General meet and greet, catch-up.
• 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Discussion

Our next meeting will be December 13th.

Submissions to the Intercom Weekly are due on Wednesday at 12 noon.

Two ways to get your message across: 

1. Submit your Intercom Weekly article to communications@ucdsm.org.
2. Want more of a "boost?" Select from an entire menu of communications using Our Events form! Staff LOVES to receive these forms!

Caring Ministry Needs Volunteers

Help foster our caring community at Caring Ministry! Janice Hawkins coordinates these requests and is refreshing its list of volunteers to provide help to Congregants on an occasional basis. Examples of services include: giving rides to & from medical appointments & church, providing meals or household tasks and helping with a move. Please sign up (or sign up again) at ucdsm.org/caring-community/ or stop by the table in the Gathering Area on one of the next 3 Sundays ~ Nov. 12, 19 or 26. Share your caring!

If you have any questions, please contact Janice Hawkins by phone or email. Thank you!

Zoom Help Needed

We are looking for 3-4 people to co-host Sunday services via Zoom. It would be best to have computer skills and a laptop with HDMI.

Please contact Bill Paxson if you have an interest in getting trained.

AVTeam@ucdsm.org

Church Cleaning

Do you appreciate having a clean church?

If so, your help is needed in keeping the building clean. Every Saturday a crew of volunteers cleans the church. We will continue to clean the church until funds are available to hire cleaning staff.

Please sign up to help!

Progressive Voices Concerts

NEW SEASON

Starting October 14, 2023

The Progressive Voices Concert Series is returning for its 13th season at First Unitarian Church!

This season's lineup of nationally and internationally-touring singer-songwriters includes both some past favorites and new faces to our stage:

Jack Williams -- October 14, 2023,  http://www.jackwilliamsmusic.com/

Mean Mary -- November 11, 2023,  http://www.meanmary.com/

Rupert Wates -- December 16, 2023,  http://rupertwatesmusic.com/

Triflemore -- February 17, 2024, http://www.triflemore.com/

The Honey Dewdrops -- April 13, 2024, http://www.thehoneydewdrops.com/

Annie Mack -- May 18, 2024, https://anniemackmusic.com/home

Where/When: All shows start at 7:30 p.m. in the First Unitarian Church auditorium. 

Tickets:

• Single Tickets: $22 Advance /$27 Door
• Season Tickets:4 Shows: $78, 6 Shows $117

Tickets available soon online at www.eventbrite.com. Tickets are also available in person at church after services the four Sundays before each concert.

More information is also available online at www.ucdsm.org/concerts.

Email questions to concerts@ucdsm.org.

Rupert Wates At Progressive Voices Concert Series

Saturday, December 16th at 7:30 p.m.

RUPERT WATES AT PROGRESSIVE VOICES CONCERT SERIES

Saturday, December 16, 2023, at 7:30 p.m.

Location: First Unitarian Church Auditorium

Questions: concerts@ucdsm.org

Music Video: A Song of Your Own

Single Tickets: $22 Advance /$27 Door

Season Tickets:4 Shows: $78, 6 Shows $117

Available online at Eventbrite. Tickets are also available in person at church after services the four Sundays before each concert.

London-born and now Colorado and New York-based Rupert Wates will bring over two decades of thoughtful songwriting, soulful singing, and incredibly intricate guitar work to our stage. Hear why his eclectic mix of acoustic, melodic art folk, with flavors of jazz, vaudeville and cabaret, have resulted in over 50 songwriting and performing awards. It should be an entertaining evening of memorable and moving music. More information about Rupert Wates at rupertwatesmusic.com.

A limited number of complimentary tickets for this concert are available for those otherwise unable to afford to attend. Please speak confidentially with our minister, Meredith Garmon, to obtain them.

Unity Circle

Thursday, December 21st at 12:00 p.m.

We will be meeting at noon on Thursday, December 21st for lunch and program.

Our Faith Formation & Congregational Life Coordinator, Birch Spick will give us some "Lessons learned in seminary."

Please bring a dish to share, and your own table service and a cup for your beverage.

Looking forward to seeing you there!

Longest Night Service

Thursday, December 21st at 6:00 p.m.

First Unitarian Church of Des Moines will again host a "Longest Night" service this year. A Longest Night service recognizes that, for some, the holidays are a challenging time. Whether you have experienced the death of a loved one or another loss, or are struggling with a season that's supposed to be joyful, you are welcome to attend a short service of reflection and acknowledgement of all that this time of year can hold. The service will be at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 21 in the Auditorium, followed by a simple soup supper. Questions? Contact pastoralcareteam@ucdsm.org.

Sacred Bridges CUUPS: Yule

Saturday, December 30th from 4:00-9:00 p.m.

Embrace the enchantment of the season with Sacred Bridges CUUPS! We invite you to join us for a festive Yule potluck and ritual on December 30th at 4:00pm in Griffin Hall, First Unitarian Church of Des Moines.

As the winter solstice approaches, let's come together to share warmth, joy, and community. Bring a dish to share at our potluck, and join us in a meaningful Yule ritual that honors the turning of the wheel.

Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or simply curious about Pagan traditions, all are welcome as this is a family friendly event! Griffin Hall at the First Unitarian Church of Des Moines will be adorned with the spirit of the season, creating a sacred space for our gathering.

Save the date, December 30th, and let's weave memories and connections in celebration of the winter season. Your presence will add to the magic of this special evening. See you there!

DMARC

Sunday, January 14th after Service

Mark your calendar!

The Des Moines Area Religious Council, DMARC, is one of 1st Unitarian's long-term community partners. The organization celebrated its 70th anniversary in 2022.

When we hear "DMARC", we think of fighting hunger and food pantries. Learn more about the organization January 14th at the forum following our church service. Rev. Sarah Garriot Trone, DMARC's Coordinator of Interfaith Engagement will be with us.

Visit their website at https://www.dmarcunited.org/

New Member Mixer!

Friday, January 19th from 5:00-8:00 p.m.

Members and visitors, old and new, come join us and get to know one another! New members and visitors especially - this is an evening for you to meet and get to know members. If you are an established member joining us, please bring an appetizer or a drink to share to welcome our newer folks.

 For a full list of upcoming meetings and events, please visit our church calendar.

No Intercom December 29th

There will be no Intercom going out on December 29th, the last week of December. December 22nd will be the last Intercom for the year. Please get announcements in early for things you need announced in early January.

Thank you!

Eat, Meet, & Be Merry - With Circle Suppers

The Circle Suppers program is looking for 4-5 households to be first-time hosts. Circles are made of 4-5 households who come together once a month for as many months as there are members to host a potluck dinner. The purpose is for church members to get to know one another better in an informal setting with the bigger goal of building a caring church community. First-time hosts will begin the groups with the first dinner and some conversation starters. Email the Faith Formation Coordinator, Birch Spick, at ffoffice@ucdsm.org.

Food Pantry Donations

Red Food Barrel

Please help fill the Red Food Barrel for the upcoming holidays. This is the time of year when most people do think about giving to those in need. The truth is that food pantries are in need all year long. All area food pantries continue to have increased needs. Many of the clients that use food pantries to supplement their food needs have full time jobs but still struggle to put food on the table because of increased costs for rent and other necessities. Many other clients are seniors and are trying to survive on social security.

Please bring food items and personal care products and put them in the Red Food Barrel that is located near the coat closet at the front entry.

Read More

Diane Kunzler's Painting Students from the Des Moines Art Center

Art Gallery Exhibit

This collection of works is from the very talented artists who are participating in the Des Moines Art Center’s drawing and painting class that is held on Monday mornings. The class is structured to encourage participants to develop their own style and interests and to work with the media of their choice.

One of the most amazing things about this group, besides their obvious talent, is their willingness and ability to support each other. Critiques are always lively, informative and one of the best aspects of working with other dedicated individuals.

We appreciate you letting us share our work with you.

Giving Tree

Giving Tree We will again support families in need through our Giving Tree. Pick up names and wishlists in the gathering area at church from Sunday, 12/3-Sunday, 12/10. $40 limit per individual. Wrap all gifts for one person in one bag or box labeled clearly with name and family number. Return to church by Sunday, December 17. Questions contact Sue Huber.

Our Faith In Action partners are Iowa Trans Mutual Aid Fund and The Freestore. If you would like to donate to Faith in Action partners, please donate directly to them through the links provided.

If you would like to donate to the Freestore, click here.

If you would like to donate to the Iowa Trans Mutual Aid Fund, click here. 

In addition to providing monetary donations for our Faith in Action partners, one of the goals of this committee is to improve relationships through volunteer events that support the organizations. We will announce events that church members can be involved with in the coming months.

Freestore

Our Champion is Mike Smith

Iowa Trans Mutual Aid Fund

Our Champion is Doug Aupperle

Rev. Meredith Garmon, Interim Minister

mgarmon@ucdsm.org

515-244-8603 ext. 102

cell: 352-682-8492

Alice J. Stewart, Director of Finance & Administration

director@ucdsm.org

515-244-8603 ext. 101

Mondays: by appointment

Tuesdays – Thursdays: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Fridays: by appointment

Zoom meetings available upon request

Birch Spick, Faith Formation Coordinator

& Congregational Life Coordinator

FFOffice@ucdsm.org

CLOffice@ucdsm.org

515-244-8603 ext. 103

Off Mondays

Tuesday - Friday: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Hannah Notch, Office Manager & Childcare Coordinator

hnotch@ucdsm.org

515-244-8603 ext. 107

Tuesday - Friday: 1:00 - 5:00 pm

To have an event or meeting added to the church calendar, email Hannah at calendar@ucdsm.org

Faithyna Leonard, Communications & Rental Coordinator

fleonard@ucdsm.org

515-244-8603 ext. 106

Available by appointment only

Dylan Delagardelle, Audio-Visual Technician

dyland@ucdsm.org

Intercom Weekly Submissions

Deadline: Wednesday @ 12 noon

• In the body of an email, please include a title, relevant dates and times, contact information, and a brief description of your event or announcement.

• Please proofread your article before submitting (or ask a trusted friend to proofread if you need help!) We try to check every article, but we still miss things.

• An image can help make your article stand out! Please feel free to attach an image to your email. (JPG or PNG files are preferred.) Note: images that violate copyright laws will be rejected.

• The Intercom Weekly is sent out to our mailing list on Friday at 12:00 p.m.

• We run announcements for no more than three consecutive weeks, so please plan accordingly.

• Per church policy, we do not share private email addresses or phone numbers in our communications. We will set up an @ucdsm.org email address for you as the contact person for your group which will automatically forward to your private email, so you won't have to do anything special to view it. (Please allow a few extra days for us to set up the email when you submit your announcement.)

Please email communications@ucdsm.org to submit your information.