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Single services continue through the month of January!
Based on feedback from members and friends, along with conversations held among staff and board members, we will be extending our experiment of holding worship at 10:15am on Sunday mornings. We are excited to continue to gather as one community.
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If you are able-bodied and not traveling with children, please consider parking at one of our external lot options. These include:
a) Park across George Mason Dr in the Masonic Lodge parking lot (use this address in your GPS: 1 S. George Mason Dr, Arlington, VA 22204),
b) Park on the street in the neighborhood or along George Mason Dr,
c) Park at Arlington Hall West Park and follow the trail to 1st Pl S and UUCA.
Or, find a friend (or two) who lives nearby and arrange to carpool to church together. This not only will free up space in the parking lot, but also supports climate activism!
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Save the Dates!
MLK Weekend 2025 is coming up soon, read below or click this link to see our extensive offerings this year. | |
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Susan Magore-Kodzwa, daughter of member Valerie Shelton, got married to Tafara Marowa at UUCA, Saturday December 28th.
Derek Staughton Singer, a long-time member of UUCA passed away painlessly and with loved ones on December 24, 2025, at the age of 95. Long interested in international affairs, Derek Staughton Singer and his wife raised their children around the world. His early association with a fledgling Peace Corps led to being the first Country Director in Bolivia, and he and Ruth enjoyed reunions with the Volunteers for many years. Along the way, Derek learned to speak Spanish and French, and he even took up studying Russian after receiving his PhD in Political Science. A quiet man who didn't often express his emotions orally, his actions spoke volumes through supporting the world's underclass and his children's and grandchildren's pursuits. Read the full obituary here.
The Memorial Service for Kit Britton will be held on Sunday, February 2 at 2pm with Rev. Amanda officiating.
The Memorial Service for Nancy Simpson will be held on Friday, February 7 at 2pm with Rev. Amanda officiating.
If you have personal news to share, such as births, graduations, special moments, or challenges, email careteam@uucava.org for support, or communications@uucava.org with announcements.
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Can WE Help YOU?
Care Team Hotline: 703-892-2565, extension 1210 | careteam@ucava.org
One of the questions you might ask is, “How do the people at UUCA look out for one another?” At UUCA we have created a network of caring connections that will provide a supportive, compassionate presence when you may be struggling, alone, or in pain.
Our Care Team responds to concerns through careful listening, checks on you if you are ill and need help, and is there to help you through life’s transitions. They can also provide food and other support services when you need an extra helping hand.
Our UUCA Ministers offer that unique spiritual guidance you might be looking for. Both are here with one-2-one support when you need it. You can reach them directly: Rev. Amanda (apoppei@uucava.org) or Rev. CTC (revctc@uucava.org) or by calling the church office at 703-892-2565
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More events listed below.
Please note some email providers will truncate this message.
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Lifespan Faith Development- Find Inspiration | |
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Religious Education
This Week in Religious Education
All RE classes meet at the 10:15am service.
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All lower RE Classes (6th grade and younger) WILL meet.
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7th Grade Crossing Paths WILL meet to learn about Islam.
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8th Grade OWL WILL meet.
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Teen Group WILL meet.
Here at UUCA we offer several ways kids can enjoy their time at UUCA:
- Spirit Space: For kids 4 years and younger at the front of the Sanctuary.
- Fellowship Hall: Play space for toddlers and kids of all ages. Puzzles and coloring sheets for anyone!
If you are new to our community, please register your children and teens here. This will add you to our mailing list.
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Seminary for a Day
Experience a day of inspiration, learning, and connection on Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025. Gather with UU faith leaders from across the country, including Rev. Dr. Sofia Betancourt, as they lead workshops, worship, and fellowship focused on issues that matter most to our faith today. Our diverse and powerful tradition will guide us as we explore how Unitarian Universalism can meet the challenges of our time. Join us!
Visit this form to receive updates and registration information.
Seminary for a Day, UUCA 2/1/2025:
Because Your GPS Can’t Navigate THIS Journey
Faith 360 Registration Open
Registration for Faith 360—UUCA's adult faith development program is now open. We have a great lineup of workshops in store.
Click here for more information, the list of classes and to register.
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New to UU Classes on January 22 & 26, 2024
Thinking about joining this church community? Want to learn more about what membership might be? New to Unitarian Universalism?
This two-class series is a great way to discover more and connect with others.
Registration is required. Register here. Contact Nicole via email with questions or for more information.
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Beginning Connections Covenant Group
Beginning Connections groups offer people a chance to connect with others, experience the gift of listening and being listened to, and have a chance to explore values in the Unitarian Universalist tradition. These groups are especially designed for people who are relatively new to the church. Each week the facilitators will invite established members of the UUCA community so participants can make connections and meet new friends.
Use this link to register and learn more: https://uucava.shelbynextchms.com/external/form/5e82e689-df6c-490c-8378-2e1420d5d1bf
There will be two sections of Beginning Connections. Both groups will start in February and meet at UUCA in person at 7 PM. Please select only one group.
Please read the details below carefully and note dates.
Group A will meet on Wednesdays 2/26, 3/5, 3/12, 3/19, 3/26
Group B will meet on Tuesdays 2/25, 3/4, 3/18, 3/25, 4/1 (note skips 3/11)
Both groups meet at UUCA in person @7pm
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Events- Come for Community | | |
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UUCA Social Justice Needs You!
Come, stand with others that live your values!
UUCA is assembling a team to attend "The People's March on Washington". The event is on Jan. 18, 2025. It is led by a body of leading civil rights, racial justice, and reproductive health organizations, including the Women's March, Planned Parenthood, and the National Women's Law Center -- the March is an attempt to bring all people who are fearful of a second Trump Administration, including some women, LGBTQ+ people, and immigrants, under the same umbrella. Please talk to Rev. CTC on Sunday morning, email her at (revctc@uucava.org), or contact a member of the SJMT (sjmt@uucava.org) if you want to join the march on 1/18. We genuinely need a team organizer to get this started!!!!
Many details about the march have yet to be finalized, but organizers expect at least 50,000 people to attend. More information here - https://www.peoplesmarch.com/
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MoonFire Darkness and Renewal Ritual
Sunday, January 19, 1:00 p.m.
Join MoonFire on Sunday, January 19 at 1:00 PM to honor and celebrate Darkness and Renewal. Even though we have already passed the Winter Solstice, the days are still short in this dark time of the year. Just as the Earth uses this time to rest and rejuvenate for the coming year, we, too, should take time to slow down and renew ourselves. We will be celebrating darkness, as well as the returning light. A potluck and time for fellowship will follow the ritual, so bring a dish or drink to share, along with your own plates/utensils, if possible. Any questions, please contact us at moonfirecoords@gmail.com.
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First Fridays
An opportunity for everyone to gather in community, join in conversation, and just have fun with a different theme each month. We will be here every First Friday from 6:30-9:00pm in the Activity room downstairs with food ready to welcome everyone of all ages - family friendly and encouraged. Events are free but donations are welcome to cover costs.
Friday, February 7 from 6:30-9pm: Soup, Stew, Chili Potluck & Valentine's
Join us in the middle of winter for some warm comfort food. Please bring your favorite soup, stew, and chili to share. Create Valentine's Day cards to give to others and decorate some Valentine's cookies to eat! Families welcome.
Friday, March 7 from 6:30-9pm: Family Board Games Night for All Ages
Join us for a family friendly board games night, we will have plenty of games for all ages or bring your favorite to play with others. Pizza and light refreshments will be provided.
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Volunteer- Live With Purpose | |
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INFORMATION ABOUT VIRGINIA LOBBYING DAYS ON SOCIAL JUSTICE TOPICS
There is a lot of important advocacy work to be done in 2025! Check out these opportunities to lobby on behalf of important issues. Most groups help to organize travel to Richmond, use this link to be taken to the information page with links to sign up.
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Help Those Experiencing Homelessness -- New Opportunities!
In response to an outpouring of volunteer interest in the Bagged Meals program, UUCA is opening up two new opportunities for congregants of all ages to help people experiencing homelessness in our community:
1) Starting October, 4 volunteer slots will be available on the second Sunday of each month to serve hot meals to clients at the PathForward Homeless Services Center. You can sign up via the same SignUpGenius page as the Bagged Meals program (linked below).
2) In January, PathForward is once again opening their doors to UUCA volunteers of all ages to assemble bagged meals on site and tour the Homeless Services Center. Those of us who participated last year had a wonderful experience; if you haven't yet had a chance to visit PathForward and get to know their programs, please consider signing up!
You can sign up for these and other opportunities here: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C094BA8AA22A1F4CF8-uuca
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“Saving the Earth: Bite-by-Bite" Plant Based Cooking Class: sponsored by the Climate Action Team
Sunday, Jan. 12th at 11:30 am
New Year's resolution -- Eat More Vegetables!
Join us with your coffee after the single service to enjoy some fruit and veggie breads while we check out a popular Vegan youtuber’s "10 Vegan Food Hacks that will change you life”
We will explore easy ways to infuse veggies into your life.
To RSVP, please send a note to sarahebates@icloud.com. We hope to see you there
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Can you help keep the Little Pantry stocked? If you're interested in volunteering, please click this link to sign up.
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You’re invited to Wednesday Night Peace Circles
7:30 - 8:30 PM via Zoom.
Join our circle every other Wednesday at 7:30pm. Starting Jan 15 and extending through March 19. Root. Connect. Share. Grow. Change. Zoom meeting ID: 863 717 5637 / passcode: PEACE.
Upcoming Dates and Topics are:
January 15th - Living in the Present
February 5th - Art of Loving
February 19th- How Not to Bite the Hook
March 5th - Keeping a Healthy Balance
March 19th - Making Good Choices
Sign up for reminders and join our circle.
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Polymnia Handbell Choir - Ringers Needed
The Polymnia Handbell choir is in need of substitute ringers to step-in for occasional performances during services on December 8th and continuing on a monthly basis through June. Rehearsals are Tuesday evenings from 7:00 to 8:30pm in the Activity Room. If you might be interested in learning more about this opportunity please reach out to David Mann, Director of Music (dmann@uucava.org).
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Security System Update
As many of you already know we are in the process of replacing the existing security system. This includes a new door entry system. For those people who currently enter the church after hours using their phone, access card, or fob they will no longer work. To continue to access the church after hours please contact the facilities manager, Matt Connors, and he will re-establish your credentials. Matt’s email is mconnors@uucava.org.
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Need Help Accessing the Membership Directory?
If you're a member trying to access the directory, it's easy! Just click the Shelby link and enter your email address and password.
Forgot your password? No worries! Simply click "Forgot Password," and you'll receive a prompt to reset it.
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Hey! Are You Part of the Facebook Group?
You might have already joined UUCA's Facebook page, but did you know there is a GROUP, just for UUCA members and friends? Check it out HERE.
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BIPOC (Black Indigenous People of Color) Affinity Group
Are you interested in being part of the UUCA BIPOC Affinity Group? This group is for our BIPOC members and friends. It is a BIPOC Sacred Space – created by and for BIPOC people.
Please complete this 1-minute survey to respond or reach out to Nicole Haley at nhaley@uucava.org.
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Send in Photos from Your Group Gatherings
Do you meet for a Book Club, Covenant Group, Adult RE, or Committee Meeting? Please, send us a photo or two! Katie would LOVE to have some photos from your groups -- both posed and informal. Just use your cell phone camera -- they are so good now -- and email them in. Please ask permission prior to taking the photos and let people know they will be used for UUCA newsletters (and possibly on the website!) If possible, include the names of those photographed. Submit photos to nhaley@uucava.org and communications@uucava.org.
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Thank you to Goodwin House folks for leading the labyrinth in Reeb Center this past Sunday!
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African American Book Sharing Circle
Friday, January 17, 7:00 p.m., Zoom
We will discuss The survivors of the Clotilda: the lost stories of the last captives of the American slave trade, by Hannah Durkin (2024) An immersive and revelatory history of the Clotilda, the last slave ship to land on US soil, told through the stories of its survivors-the last documented survivors of any slave ship-whose lives diverged and intersected in profound ways.
Zoom Link
For additional information, contact Pat Findikoglu (pfindikoglu@gmail. com) or Ann Ulmschneider (aulmsch@msn.com.)
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Early American to 21st Century Black Women Writers
Wed., Jan. 15, 2025, 7-9pm, Zoom
Los Angeles-based Wanda Coleman, poet, essayist, storyteller, and screenwriter, was often called the city's unofficial poet laureate. A single mother who fitted ill-paid writing gigs around a series of pink-collar jobs, Coleman wed inventive, Beat-inspired forms to a fierce vision of the city's constantly broken promises, especially to people of color. No advance reading. This is a casual group dedicated to researching the lives and work of black women writers, and all are warmly welcomed! Roxanne Rhodes facilitates. Questions? Contact Gay: cimag@georgetown.edu. Zoom link: https://uucava-org.zoom.us/j/86431166987?pwd=Q2VWazBQcnRVTzgvOEFibERHYXQ2dz09
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Our Stories, Our Lives Winter Break
UUCA's stories-and-conversation group will NOT meet in December. We'll resume on Tuesday, January 28, 11:00-12:30. Watch for details.
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Monday: Meditation and Dharma Talk
7:30 pm-8:45 pm, UUCA Activity Room and simultaneously on Zoom
A meditation and dharma talk with an opportunity for sharing afterward is offered in partnership with the Insight Meditation Community of Washington (IMCW). Held in the Activity Room on the lower level and simultaneously on Zoom. Subscribe to the email list on the IMCW page for the event to receive the Zoom link, topics, class cancellation alerts, and private access to the recorded talks.
Contact: Stig Regli.
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Wednesday: Hour of Silence
7:30 pm-8:45 pm, UUCA Room 20 (Youth Room)
Join us in Room 20 on Wednesday evenings for an hour of in-person silent sitting and/or walking meditation or contemplation, followed by mindful discussion. We enjoy this opportunity to ground ourselves in the middle of our busy week. Please arrive a few minutes early so we can begin at 7:30, and bring what you need to be comfortable.
Contact: Suzan Chastain.
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Friday: First Light Meditation
7:00 am-7:45 am, on Zoom LINK HERE
A half-hour silent meditation with an opportunity for sharing afterward, on Zoom. Contact: David McTaggart at dmctagg@gmail.com or Gregg Forte at gforte@mac.com.
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Newsletter deadline: Connections deadline for submissions is EACH Tuesday at 10 a.m. with publication on Thursday. See below on how to submit an announcement.
How to submit an announcement to UUCA's Connections newsletter:
- Deadline is 10 a.m. each Tuesday.
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Submit article requests to communications@uucava.org, subject line: Connections
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Questions about Connections? Contact communications@uucava.org.
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