Being Present

Dear Ones,

During the pandemic, we had to redefine what 'being present' meant. We found ways to show up for each other, to connect in spirit if not in person. Now, as we find ourselves in Black History Month, a time when we honor the legacy and contributions of Black individuals to our collective history, we understand more than ever that being present is also about acknowledging and honoring each other's experiences, histories, and identities.

Reflecting on this month's worship theme, "Being Present," I find myself asking: What joys have we missed because we didn't bear witness? What love remains unexpressed because another phone call seemed too taxing? And how can we better honor the histories and experiences of all members of our ensemble?

As we move forward, our experiences with 'being present' will continue to shape our journey. As we delve into our next worship theme, we carry with us the insights from exploring what it truly means to be present, and the lessons we learn from the unyielding truths nestled in the Black experience which admonish us to resist erasure–whether by intention or lack thereof. We’re called to honor and celebrate one another's histories and contributions with every beat of our collective heart.

So, I invite you to join me in this exploration. Let's continue to investigate what it means to be present, to show up, to contribute to the ensemble. Let's continue to breathe life into our church.

What does being present mean to you now? How has your understanding of it changed over the past year? How can we better honor and celebrate the histories and experiences of all members of our ensemble?

Join us in our upcoming worship services, where we can explore these questions together. I look forward to our shared journey of discovery, connection, and presence. 

Peace,

Glen Thomas Rideout, D.Mus.A.

Director of Worship Arts Ministries

Intro

Being Present



Sunday Worship

"Tis a Gift to Be Present"

This Sunday, Feb. 4,

9 & 11 a.m. services

Low-sensory space

Service Recordings

Cycle of Life

Programs Calendar

Winter / Spring Programs

#Joyspotting

Cultivating Joy

Circle Suppers Alternates

Art Making

Knitting

Quilting

Transcendentalists

Community Dinner

Sacred Sweeping

Writing Spiritual Journey

Saturday Sprouts

Centering Prayer

Combating Fascism

Daytime Connections

Neurodivergent Adults

Meditation Group

Fifth Grade OWL

Pastoral & Community Care

Chalice Lighting Group

Grief Group

Caregivers Group

Faithful Action

Habitat for Humanity

Multicultural Democracy

Democracy on Film

Spiritual Centering

News

Church Directory

Foundation Nominations

Community Events & Affiliated Orgs:

Transforming Conflict, Philip Vance, AUW, 12-Step Spirituality

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Tis a Gift to be Present

Join us this Sunday, February 4th, for an inspiring worship service centered on "Tis a Gift to be Present." In a world too often transactional, we'll explore the transformative power of a gift economy, where joy is the currency we trade and presence is our shared and most precious commodity. When we choose joy, our lifted spirits are just the first palpable sine of a wave that ripples outward in a wash of positive change throughout our whole community and far beyond.

Together, we'll delve into the sacredness of intentionality in worship, the heartbeats that synchronize when shared narratives bind us, and the art of presence that turns a gathering into a congregation. This service is an invitation to experience the profound joy that arises when we offer our talents, time, and love as gifts to one another—gifts that nurture our communal well-being and empower us to co-create a church that transcends the ordinary. Come, be part of this joyous communion, and let us journey towards a more empathetic and collaborative world, one heartbeat at a time.

Join us this Sunday, February 4, at 9 & 11 a.m. as we explore our February theme, "Being Present."

Worship Info

IN PERSON AND ONLINE AT 9 & 11 A.M.

In person at 9 a.m.

In person and livestreamed at 11 a.m. Watch the livestream here. 

Masks are welcome but not required in the sanctuary; please review our Covid-19 Gathering Guidelines. 

CHILDREN & YOUTH

If you have not yet registered your family for this year of Religious Education, please register your family today. All families — new and returning, with babies through high schoolers — must register each church year.

LOW-SENSORY SPACE

This space is for children in K-5 who are overstimulated or overwhelmed by the sensory input of the sanctuary, including noise, light, and movement. All children who are in the low-sensory space must be accompanied by one of their grown-ups at all times. 

The entrance to this space is through Room 104 on the lower level of the education wing close to the parking lot. There is a small room inside of the 104 classroom where we are trying out the low-sensory space.

AFTER WORSHIP

Coffee Hour in the Social Hall

Visit with old friends and meet new ones over coffee and cookies in our social hall.

A Place to Start

Sunday, February 4, immediately after each worship service, meet at the front of the sanctuary

Attend via Zoom after the second service ONLY.

Are you new or new-ish to First Universalist and wondering where to begin? Here’s “A Place to Start!” Whether you’re simply curious or are considering making this your spiritual home, in this casual, 45-minute class, you’ll learn some of the basics of Unitarian Universalism, as well as how to get connected to what you’re seeking here at church. Meet at the front of the sanctuary immediately after the service on a first or third Sunday. No RSVP necessary.

Please note the church does not provide childcare during A Place to Start due to full Sunday morning RE and volunteer schedules. Kids are welcome in A Place to Start after they’re picked up from RE. Options for kids during A Place to Start are the same as in worship: coloring sheets and pipecleaners, and moving to a more kid-friendly space within the sanctuary. You’re also welcome to ask another trusted adult to watch your child(ren) during this time if you prefer.



Facilitated by First U members.

Podcast Archive | Recording Archive | Sermon Archive

Our love and care is with Lee Engfer, Dave Yaffe, and their sons Jay and Sam Yaffee as they grieve the death of Lee's mother, Marilyn Engfer who died on Jan 29th at the age of 91. May they know the embrace of this congregation in this tender time of loss and memory.

If you are experiencing a crisis or transition, celebrating a joy­ or marking a sorrow, please let us know. To be included in our Cycle of Life on Sunday in worship, or if you would like support, contact Rev. Arif Mamdani at arif@firstuniv.org or 612-825-1701.

Deep Winter #Joyspotting

Join/participate as you’re able, February-April

Registration Recommended to receive email prompts

This is an online practice that will include weekly email prompts. Joy is not just a feeling, but a spiritual practice. Join a group of us seeking and spotting joy as a spiritual practice in the depths of winter. We'll offer weekly email and social media prompts to help you cultivate joy and we invite you to share your "joyspotting" via social media with each other and our wider community with the hashtags #deepwinterjoyspotting and #FirstUnivPractice

Cultivating Joy

Mondays, Feb. 26, March 25, April 29, 7-8:30 p.m. Room 209 at church

Registration Required

Facilitated by Bee Harrison 

"May you have joy and peace in the temple of your senses," writes John O'Donohue. Through a variety of heart-centered practices like storytelling, (gentle) movement, meditation, music, mindfulness, and more, we will explore how we might invite, reveal, and experience greater joy in our lives by connecting deeply to our inner worlds. In these monthly meetings, we'll share our own practices and support one another in cultivating joy.

Circle Suppers Alternates

Did you miss out on signing up for Circle Suppers? You can be a last-minute alternate if a seat opens up at someone's table. Join the Circle Suppers Alternates List.

Art Making

All Sundays in February and March, 1 p.m.  Room 206 at church

Registration Required

Facilitated by Kate Guin and Denise Konen

Creating art as a spiritual practice is similar to other meditative practices. The goal is not the output, but to bathe the mind and soul. We will support each other in using creativity on a regular basis to increase wellness and spiritual connection. 

Knitting

Sundays, Feb. 4 & March 3 at 1 p.m. April 7 at noon (March and April dates subject to change). In person at church

Registration Requested

Facilitated by Merinda Brayfield

Knitting can be soothing and meditative. It invites us to slow down and take things one stitch at a time. It teaches us patience as well as trust and faith in your own abilities. 

Quilting

Sundays, Feb. 4, March 3, April 7; 3-5 p.m. on zoom Sundays, Feb. 18, March 17, April 21; 3-5 p.m. In person

Registration Required

Facilitated by Chris Chiros 

Chris writes: Quilting is a spiritual practice for me in multiple ways. The creativity fills my cup and thus is an act of self-care. And, it connects me to the greater community. Many of the quilts I make are donated either to the individuals I know (or know of) who are struggling and perhaps don't have a loved one who can make a quilt for them to cocoon into like a warm hug, or to organizations that are asking for quilts. I appreciate that my spiritual practice may bring comfort to another.

You Might be a Transcendentalist if…

Sundays, Feb. 4, March 24; 1:30-3pm, April 28; 4-5:30 p.m. in person at church Registration Required

Facilitated by Dale Schwie and Rev. Arif Mamdani

This group will explore Transcendentalism through engagement with one of its best known works, Walden by Henry David Thoreau.Transcendentalism is an important thread within Unitarian Universalism and deeply influenced and continues to inform how we view religion and the practice of what we know today as Unitarian Universalism. In other words, chances are good that you’re at least ¼ Transcendentalist, whether you know it or not.

Wednesday, Feb. 7, Family Pre-Party 5-6 p.m.; Dinner 6-7:30 p.m. in the Social Hall

RSVP REQUESTED

Menu: red beans and rice



Swing by church for a delicious home-cooked meal at 6 p.m. in the Social Hall. All are welcome and there is no charge. Menu available on our website, a week in advance. We always offer vegan, vegetarian, gluten free, nut free and kid-friendly options. All church events are alcohol-free. Our February dinner will include a celebration of all who serve as church volunteers, helping with events, boards, committees, classes, congregational care, faithful action, groups, gatherings, hospitality, facilities, childcare, admin and worship. Thank you!

Sacred Sweeping: Exploring Spirituality in Cleaning Together

Thursdays, Feb. 8, 22, March 7, 21, April 4, 18; 10-11:30 a.m. on zoom

Registration Required

Facilitated by Dallas Rising

Through shared intentions and gentle practices, we come together to create an environment that fosters peace, balance, and connection. Our gathering will be a blend of mindful cleaning time, meaningful discussions, and shared exploration around cleaning as spiritual practice. Whether you love to clean or it's something you avoid at all costs, there is a place for you in this group.

Writing Your Spiritual Journey

Fridays, Feb. 9, 23, March 8, 22, April 5, 19; 1:30 to 3 p.m. Library at church

Registration Required

Facilitated by Marion Dane Bauer

Before each session, you will receive a range of quotes on topics from "Suffering and Struggle" to "Gratitude and Joy" followed by questions to consider as writing prompts. When we gather, each participant will share either a portion of your written response to the questions or whatever thoughts the topic may have brought up for you. (Registration capped at 10 participants.) 

Saturday Sprouts for Families: Now Monthly!

Saturday, Feb. 10, 10 a.m. to noon

RSVP Requested

Both adult and kid programming will be themed around love in the tradition of previous years' "Family Hearty Party." Snacks and beverages provided for all ages.

Saturday Sprouts is a new opportunity for families to be nourished in community, deepen relationships, and grow together in our First U values and faith. Saturday Sprouts includes time for family worship, parent & caregiver support, and play, formation, and creative time for our kids and youth. These gatherings are for children in grades 5 and younger, and for folks parenting kids and youth of all ages. Both parent and kid programming will connect with our monthly worship themes. Light snacks and beverages are provided for all ages.

Read more about Saturday Sprouts and other gatherings for children and families. 

Centering Prayer

Sundays, Feb. 11, March 17, April 21; 1-2:30 p.m. in person at church

Registration Required

Facilitated by Dick Young 

Centering Prayer is a meditation practice that opens you to your higher power. It has the power to heal you while also opening you to characteristics that separate you from your higher power.

Combating Fascism Within, Among & Beyond

Sundays, Feb. 11, 1-2:30p; March 10, 1-3p; April 7, 1-2:30p; April 28, 1-3p; in person at church

Registration Required

As UUs we hold inclusive democratic decision making to be a matter of sacred values--it is an outgrowth of our belief in justice, equity, pluralism, and interdependence. 

Yet, in this time of increasing authoritarian rhetoric and public threats from white nationalists, there is little doubt that our democracy is in peril. This workshop series will offer an opportunity to learn and reflect more deeply on: 

1) What we can do to recognize and combat fascist tactics and thinking, including in our communities and in ourselves.

2) What we as UUs distinctly have to offer the broader project of defending liberal democracy, including how our history and theologies give us particular moral authority to defend and promote democracy on behalf of our religious values.

3) The work we must do in order to be authentic and effective proponents of the inclusive and liberatory society to which we have committed ourselves, including naming hard truths, personal transformation and risk-taking, social witness, and political action. 

We will use a number of texts and videos as launching points for discussion and deep exploration. Handouts will be provided for most of the readings. Two very short books will be used (both retail for under $15 and are available in multiple formats from the Hennepin County Library). For a full list of materials see the workshop series site. Facilitated by members Meleah Houseknecht, seminarian, and Rev. Dr. Andrea Johnson.

Daytime Connections

Thursday, Feb 15th 10 a.m. 

9:45 a.m. coffee. 10 a.m. Presentation in the Social Hall and on Zoom.

12:00 lunch available or bring your own. 

Laugh with Lorna Landvik  



Minnesota author of thirteen novels, a Dudley Riggs alum, Lorna Landvik loves creating characters on the page or on the stage that will make you laugh, cry, think and feel. Her newest book, Last Circle of Love, is about a group of wily church members who decide to raise money for their church by creating and selling a book they jokingly refer to as the ABCs of Erotica. 

Please Please register here  by Monday Feb 12 to facilitate planning.

Singing/Chanting

Sundays, Feb. 18, March 10, April 14; 1-2:30 p.m. sanctuary at church

Registration Required

Facilitated by Shelley des Islets and Shelley Thron

This is a vocalized meditation, where simple melodies and words join your intentions in meditation. Especially good for those who find silent meditation daunting, we will practice setting an intention and chanting together for a period, discussing our experience briefly, and then doing it again. We will share readings to support framing your intention. Come with an open mind, heart, and voice; no singing skill is required.

Meditation

Sundays, Feb. 18, March 24, April 28; 1-2:30 p.m. in person at church

Registration Required

Facilitated by Nancy Nyquist Potter

The meditation practices we will explore draw on a variety of resources including Sharon Salzberg, Tara Brach, insight meditation, Thich Nhat Hahn, Christina Feldman, and ourselves. Along the way, we will explore virtues such as lovingkindness, self-compassion, joy, generosity, forgiveness, and other ideas that will move us in our spiritual paths. All levels of experience welcome.

A Year to Live: Reflection and Sharing

Mondays, Feb. 19, March 18, April 15; 2 p.m. on zoom  

Registration Required

Facilitated by Harlan Limpert

Using questions inspired by the book, A Year to Live by Stephen Levine, you’ll be invited to reflect upon particular aspects of your life and share personal stories. The focus will be on positive stories of what you’ve done or could do to overcome fear, forgive others, express appreciation, and live authentically.

Adult Neurodivergent Peer Support

Dates TBD. Register to be informed about upcoming gatherings of this currently-forming group.

Being a neurodivergent adult comes with its own unique challenges and experiences. We’re looking to create a support group to help one another navigate and spend time with other adults like us. Hosted by Merinda Brayfield.

Tuesday Meditation Group

Weekly Practice: 8:45-10:15 a.m. online and in-person

You are invited to meditate with our lay-led practice group. None of us are experts. Our practices come out of our own experiences, and we share inspiration from many sources including Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Pema Chodron, Thich Nhat Hanh, Tara Brach, Tai Chi, Loving Kindness, poetry and more. We don't follow one method or another, but we do share what we learn with each other. After meditation we practice deep listening to hear from each person, if they choose. No registration required. Email Sara McMullen for Zoom details.

Fifth Grade OWL Registration Open

5th grade OWL (Our Whole Lives) at First Universalist is an opt-in class. If you choose not to opt-in and specifically register your child, they will continue to attend their regular RE programming. There is a mandatory parent/caregiver registration for 5th grade OWL on Saturday, March 2, 2024. 5th grade OWL classes will begin Sunday, March 3, 2024, and conclude Sunday, May 12, 2024. There are no RE classes on Sunday, March 31, 2024 nor on Sunday, April 7, 2024. A calendar of classes will be shared at the parent/caregiver orientation. Registration for 5th grade OWL is NOW OPEN! Registration can be found HERE. Please email Claire Tralle (claire@firstuniv.org) with any questions. 

Daily Chalice Lighting Text Loop

Earlier this year, we cared for a few members of the church through a daily chalice lighting and blessing practice. Each morning, a small group of people would receive a chalice lighting or words of blessing, along with a photo of a lit chalice. Often, members of the group would share photos of their chalices in return. Sometimes members would share their own readings and/or reflections. Always, love and care was shared, whether through words or simply the knowledge of shared presence.

For the month of February, we’d like to open this up a bit more to an experiment or “beta test” and offer a similar daily blessing or chalice lighting via group text (aka text loop). If you sign-up, you’ll be placed in a small group of others and at the start of February, your group leader will send out a text each morning with a lit chalice photo accompanied by chalice lighting words or words of blessing. You are welcome to reply to the group in whatever way feels right to you - with words, with a reading or blessing of your own, a photo of a chalice, or nothing at all - you can also just receive.

This is an experiment. There will likely be some bumps. We are figuring it out. And it will likely be beautiful and really pretty amazing.

Sign up here

Grief Group (online)

Sundays, Feb. 4, 18, March 3, 17, April 7, 21, May 5, 19, 4-5:30 p.m. on Zoom

Registration Required

The Grief Group meets second and fourth Sundays on Zoom. It is 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. Come as you are, when you feel moved to attend. We will be here for you.

Facilitated by Mark Caswell, church member and Ministerial Aspirant

Caregivers group (online)

Sundays, Feb. 11, March 10, April 14, May and June TBD by group; 1-2:30 p.m. on Zoom

Registration Required

Caring for a family member who needs special care is a demanding and often unseen or unacknowledged role. Whether you’re caring for an aging parent or a child with a chronic health condition, join the Caregivers group for mutual support, connection, and community building. When we gather, we’ll light a chalice, have time for introductions, and share a reading, then move into deeper sharing, support, and reflection. 

Facilitated by Rev. Arif Mamdani, Associate Minister

Habitat for Humanity

We have three work days scheduled, all at

219 James Avenue N, Minneapolis

February 10, 2024

March 16, 2024

Sign up here.

Twenty, yes, 20 volunteers from First Universalist showed up to help build

Habitat Townhomes in the Harrison neighborhood. This is the work of our church.

My husband, Greg Krueger and I, Sara McMullen, brought lunch to the most appreciative people! This is a spiritual practice for us because it touches on so many of our values 

and beliefs In human kind. It was uplifting to see veteran volunteers along with first timers and everyone in between. There are families waiting for these homes. Please join us!

There are two more builds planned: February 10, 2024 and March 16, 2024.

Sara McMullen

Pictured here, left to right:

Front row - Chuck Coskran, Portia staff, Roger Kimball,  Kristi Middleton , Susan Hoffman, Andrea Meja, Nicole Heppelman

Second row - Ingrid Karaboyas, Name?, Margie Nalezny, Nancy Gossard, Karen Parson, David Harrison

Third and fourth rows - Wil Skobba (site manager), Bill Lewis, Ken Edstrom, Peter Styx,  Ingrid Young, Bill McTeer, Tom Satterstrom 

(Not pictured: Kent Myhrman)

Multicultural Democracy in MN: First U’s Team Launch

Contact Karen Wills to be on the First U Democracy Team that will mutually decide when to meet.

Direct action to strengthen an inclusive multicultural democracy brings us together to live into our UU 5th Principle of “supporting the democratic process.” Join the launch of our First U Democracy Team! Begin, if you can, at the “We Choose Us MN” retreat on Jan. 28 (dinner included), then come to monthly meetings at times to be determined by First U team members. Want to be in the loop, but can’t join the launch or attend meetings? No problem, you can still “be the change!”  Contact First U member and MUUSJA Democracy Strategist Karen Wills at kwmuusja@gmail.com or 612-270-6559.

First Fridays: Democracy on Film

Fridays, Feb. 2, March 1, April 5, May 3; 6:30-9 p.m. Online only. Register for the zoom link to join the watch party from home.

Every organizer needs relaxation, and some may enjoy some (virtual) company, community, and inspiration from classic pro-democracy films to help us get through 2024. At First Friday Films, we will light a chalice and check in using Zoom at 6:30, then watch a movie together from our own devices, starting at 7:00pm. As participants watch together online, we build a sense of shared community. We’ll start with Mr. Smith Goes to Washington on Friday, Feb. 2, then choose other films by group vote. Register on the zoom link to be in the loop about the group’s future film showings! Other films could include A Face in the Crowd, Strong Female Lead, All the President's Men, Malcolm X, The Candidate, Election, Lincoln, Primary, Shouting Down Midnight, and Milk. Online gathering hosted by First U member Karen Wills. 

Spiritual Centering for Justice Seekers

Sundays, Feb. 11, March 10, April 14, May 12; 7-8 p.m. on zoom. Drop In; Register for the zoom link and attend as you’re able.

How do we create sustainable practices in this age of burnout and compassion fatigue? This monthly online group from MUUSJA brings together UU's across Minnesota to nourish the spirit and strengthen solidarity among those committed to social justice work in 2024. It offers spiritual practices to fuel, nurture, and support your justice work, and connects you with supportive colleagues across Minnesota UU congregations, so all are stronger and more effective. Facilitated by MUUSJA's spiritual director, UU Rev. Leslie Mills. Contact First U Member Karen Wills with questions. 

Church Directory Update

Our church member directory will be temporarily unavailable due to our database vendor’s decision to end support for our database product. This has required a change in our database platform and we are moving through the transition, prioritizing the core aspects of church - tracking pastoral contacts, internal communications, and giving. As we move through this transition, we expect to have our new member directory available for members to access sometime in February. If you need contact info for a member or members in the interim, please contact Liz Farmer. We would greatly appreciate help in the transition and onboarding our congregation to the new directory. If you’re technically skilled and available to help, please contact Liz Farmer.

First U Foundation - Nominations Open

The First Universalist Foundation Board is accepting nominations through this form until Sunday, February 4, 2024 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.



Questions?

Please email foundation@firstuniv.org.

Transforming Conflict

A Workshop with Rev. Dr. Terasa Cooley

Saturday, February 3 | 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. | Parish Hall at Unity Church-Unitarian and online via Zoom

Please register by January 29

Transforming Conflict treats conflict as an opportunity to learn and grow, both individually and institutionally. Exploring new understandings of how our bodies and minds respond to conflict, Rev. Cooley offers concrete strategies for personal growth and healthy congregational functioning...

-From the back cover of Transforming Conflict: The Blessings of Congregational Turmoil

In this workshop, we'll explore some of the root causes behind conflict, learn about how to create a new culture of learning, explore tools for change, and engage with case studies to help us embody these learnings. After lunch, members of individual congregations will meet to explore how to take these learnings into their congregations.

Philip Vance Love Train Fundraising Event

Saturday, Feb. 10 at 1 p.m., at church - RSVP on Eventbrite

So much is moving forward to lift Philip’s name up and get us closer to seeing him walk out of Stillwater Prison as a free man! I am so gratified for all the ways – large or small – that people are becoming invested. Last week on Tuesday, we were at the Dakota County Commissioner’s meeting where the person who prosecuted Philip Vance, Dakota County Commissioner Kathy Keena was present and had to listen to our concerns, and on Friday we went to the Department of Corrections to bring the petition to get Philip out of solitary confinement. Reading each name, some of them your names from our First Universalist faith community, people that I personally knew that cared that Philip was suffering, really moved me and connected me to something much larger and helped me see all the intersections of love and justice. I left feeling strengthened and ready to do what it takes to get Philip released from Stillwater prison!

The opportunity to do that in 2024 is here right now! The most important thing we can do immediately is get the attorneys on board that Philip has selected. If we could raise the $30,000 we need to retain them, (total of $50,000 needed) before he gets out of solitary, that would give him some relief from the loneliness he is experiencing because the lawyers can meet with him whenever he wants. Until he is back in the general prison population, I feel some personal pressure to work hard on the fundraising, something that I do not like and do not feel I’m good at! So I made this event something that would make me happy - which is creating more love and belonging in the world. It will be a fun and relaxed time. I hope you can come! Please get this out to friends and family as soon as possible because we have a very short time line. This is not a Facebook public event but I want you to invite people you think will care about Philip’s innocence and wrongful incarceration. If folks want to understand the injustice of what happened to Philip Vance, have them read this article. 

Join the Philip Vance Love Train!!! Sat, Feb 10, 2024 at 1:00 PM | Eventbrite

Contact Denise Konen for more information: denise@netgains.net

AUW sponsors activities for people who identify as women, non-binary and/or gender fluid.

Save the Date: Monday, February 12, 2024 11 a.m. rally at the Minnesota state capital rotunda to demand passage of Minnesota’s equal rights amendment with updated, inclusive language in 2024.

Early Bird Registration is OPEN for the AUW Spring Retreat until January 15!

AUW Spring Retreat

April 26-28, 2024

Camp Courage, Annandale, MN

Igniting Change

The Light we Carry in a Barbie World

We’ve been talking a lot in these blurbs about all the things we have PLANNED for this retreat, all the offerings, what our themes are, our breakout sessions… 

Yet one of our most radical and important offerings is:

REST

If you want a break from the go faster, produce more, consume more lifestyle, this retreat is for you. If you find yourself tender and tired, this retreat is for you. Maybe you allow yourself to be cared for, your feelings held in the safe embrace of community. Maybe you sleep in. Or maybe you wake early to go birdwatching and walk the labyrinth in meditative quiet. Perhaps you want to string up a hammock and read in the woods. If you need space, this retreat is for you. Grab a private room and enjoy it, and stop by for your three hot meals a day. If you want to snuggle into a sofa in a common room, read a novel, and do a puzzle, getting to know others who pass through, this retreat is for you. Nothing we offer at this retreat is required. This time is for you and about you. We hope you recognize what you need and give yourself the grace to do just that. 

For those who want to slow down, the following might appeal: yoga, massage, acupuncture, swimming, guided nature walks, miles of trails for independent/solo walks, sound bathing, campfires, game room, puzzles, and fellowship.

Register HERE!

Save the Date: AUW Winter Event is coming up on February 17, 12 noon - 2 pm. A light lunch buffet will be served. Admission to this event is free to members and $10 for nonmembers. The AUW Board is offering attendees the opportunity to help select this year's recipient nonprofit that will receive a $1000 donation from AUW. The candidates are: : Cornerstone Advocacy, Family Tree Medical and UnRestrict Minnesota.

ACTION: Contact your legislators to request their vote on ERA Bills early in 2024 Session so ERA can be on the General Ballot for all voters in November 2024.

Hiking Group: Meets most Saturdays at a park or trail head. Hikes begin at 2 p.m. For questions or to get on the hiking group mailing list, contact: Marie Sorensen, phone / email, or Lynn Richardson phone / email. Note: Hikes begin at 2 pm.

February 3 - 2pm, Meet at Lake Nokomis at Main Beach Building, 4955 West Lake Nokomis Parkway. Minneapolis, MN. 55417. Park in pay lot or on Parkway. Lynn will lead.

February 10 - 2pm, Minnehaha Falls, 4801 South Minnehaha Drive, Mpls., MN 55417. Pay lot or park on streets. Meet at the frozen Falls. Marie will lead.

February 17 - 2pm, Cedar Lake, Meet on path across from house at 2101 Cedar Lake Parkway. There is free parking on 21st street there. (Some people do not want to pay and this gives clear address to meet at). Lynn will lead.

February 24 - 2024 2pm Lake Harriet , Meet at Bandshell, pay lot or park on Parkway for free. 4135 Lake Harriet Parkway, Mpls., MN 55410 Marie will lead.

Game Group: Meets at the church on the second Thursday of each month to play board games and socialize. You are welcome to bring snacks to share and a game you would enjoy teaching others. To receive email updates, contact Anne Frenchick. The next game night is February 8. If no one responds to Anne that they are coming, the Game Night will be canceled early that day. Please let Anne know if you plan to attend.

Women Who Read: We read books written by women. We host an in-person and a virtual meeting on the fourth Monday of each month. Request an email invitation to our next meeting and be added to our email list by sending your name and email address to Abbie Finger. The next meeting will be Monday, February 26. We will be discussing

The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray Location of the in-person meeting is available to those on the mailing list. The Zoom version of the meeting convenes online at 7:00 pm.

Give or Take a Book!

To share books we love and build more literary connections, we are going to start a new project. If interested please bring 1-2 books (no more!) to share with someone at the monthly book club. Pick a book to take home. To help make connections pls put a post-it note on the book with your name and the reason you liked the book. (Post-it notes will be available). If a book you brought is left over please take it home or it will be donated to a Free Little Library. Any questions or ideas contact Nora Whiteman.

These meetings are intended for people who are actively working any 12-step program. The program is focused on the 11th step and the practice of Centering Prayer Meditation. 

Weekly on Zoom

and

First Saturdays of each month, 9:30 a.m. to noon, in person at First Universalist

In-person 12-step spirituality meetings gather in the church on the 1st Saturday of each month, ending on May 4, 2024.

In-person and Zoom meeting details are available here.



Church Office & Building Access

The church office is open on Wednesdays between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. The door bells are not monitored outside of this time. Access to the building at times on other days can be arranged by contacting Jim Poulter, Building & Office Manager, at jim@firstuniv.org.

Based on ongoing monitoring of COVID levels in Hennepin County, masking is welcome, but not required, inside the building—including the sanctuary. Learn more about our Covid and Community safety policies on our website.