EVERYBODY IN!

Sign Up Sunday

Sunday, Jan. 29, 10–11 a.m. & 12–1 p.m. in the Social Hall
Brief online option (~12:05–12:25 p.m.) available at noon on Zoom JOIN HERE

Learn about the variety of ways to get involved and get connected at church through volunteering, justice teams, and other opportunities for fellowship and spiritual growth. Members from our Faithful Action Council, our Community Partners in justice work, small group leaders, fellowship opportunities and church volunteer teams will be excited to chat with you about what they’ve got going on and how you can join them. 

Community Dinners

Wednesdays, Feb. 15, March 15, April 19, and May 24, 6–8 p.m. in the Social Hall
RSVP REQUESTED

Swing by church for a delicious home-cooked meal at 6 p.m. 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. Following dinner, join a breakout group to learn more about one of the many opportunities for deeper engagement at church. 

February 15 Dinner Details & Breakout Group Info

March 15 Dinner Details & Breakout Group Info

April 19 Dinner Details & Breakout Group Info

May 24 Dinner Details & Breakout Group Info

An Intro to Our Visionary Goals Process

Thursday, Feb. 2, 6:30–7:30 p.m. on Zoom
Join the Zoom meeting here

You’ve been hearing about the process of developing new visionary goals for the church. These goals are what the board uses to discern and guide the church’s overall direction, and from that, staff use the board’s direction to develop their annual workplan. If that process sounds pretty technical, it isn’t. We are church. We exist to transform people and transform the world, and so the process of developing our visionary goals is a covenantal process of relationship in which we listen together, in small groups, to what we long for for ourselves, our relationships with each other, and the impact we have in the larger world. In other words, we do theology together, listening for where love is calling us in our diversity and similarities, listening for where love is flowing and lifting that up so that our board can help to steward us toward the future that is seeking to emerge from among us. The visual and artistic amongst us might best imagine this as a vision board that we make together that guides our lives together over the next five years.

Join Laura Park, Managing Director of Unity Consulting, as well as members of the board of directors for this session where you will learn about the process, how it works, what it produces, and be among the first to sign up for one of the workshops in mid-February and March.

SMALL GROUPS, BOOK GROUPS, & CLASSES FOR ADULTS

UU Wellspring: Deep Questions

Every other Tuesday, starting Jan. 31 and through September, 6:30–8:30 p.m. at church 
REGISTRATION REQUIRED

This is a special opportunity just for Wellspring alum – that is, anyone who has already participated in a year-long Wellspring group – to take a deeper dive with a new circle of spiritual companions. The Deep Questions program alternates between sessions on the seven UU principles (and the proposed Eighth Principle) and sessions on the deep questions of our lives, offering a total of nineteen sessions. The homework for each session includes pre-work – usually at least one reading, plus a chapter from one of the books, Welcoming the Unwelcome, by Pema Chödrön, or The Seven Principles in Word and Worship, edited by Ellen Brandenburg, available at bookshops and libraries, or from church.
Facilitated by Lynn Wilbur and Amy Zimmer, First U members

Adult OWL (Ages 25–40)

Saturdays, Feb. 4, 11, 25, March 4, 11, 18 & 25, 9–11 a.m. at church
REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Our Whole Lives (OWL) is our comprehensive, values-based UU sexuality education program, with curriculum available for many age groups. Whether you grew up with very restrictive and minimal sexuality education or grew up UU and experienced more expansive sexuality education, Adult OWL is for you. Please join us in the spiritual work that is sexuality education! We invite people in the age range of 25-40 years on a journey of exploring gender, relationships, sexual pleasure, and more. We will explore a different topic each week, while being in covenant with one another, and holding one another’s experiences. We encourage participants to come to every possible class to get the most out of the experience. This small group is a closed small group so that vulnerability and trust can be built. Future Adult OWL classes will be offered for additional age ranges. 
Facilitated by CT Neal-Herman and Claire Tralle, First U members and certified OWL instructors

UU Wellspring Reads: Sacred Earth

Thursdays, Feb. 9, 16, 23, March 2, 9 & 16, 6–8 p.m. at church
REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Sacred Earth combines the wisdom of indigenous understandings of reciprocity with the sacred earth, and with spiritual practices that connect our spirit to nature. As we move through the reflections and practices, you may find spiritual healing by creating a more intimate relationship with the natural world. The sessions, two books, readings and spiritual practices are the core of the Sacred Earth experience. The work of this UU Wellspring program, Sacred Earth, and in particular the work of Robin Wall Kimmerer, whose text we’ll explore together, is focused on spiritual engagement to develop our relationship with the earth. Church can provide books upon request, or pick up Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer and The Sustainable Soul by Rebecca James Hecking at your favorite bookshop or library.
Facilitated by Dallas Rising and Gary Hoover, First U members

Poetry Lovers Reading Circle

Thursdays, Feb. 2, March 2, April 6 & May 4, 7–8:30 p.m. (Feb.–April on Zoom; May in person)
REGISTRATION REQUIRED

At each meeting, we read aloud and discuss the work of a poet selected by the group ahead of time. Poets from a variety of styles, eras, and cultures are included. We meet monthly on the first Thursday from 7–8:30 p.m.; first and last meetings of the church year (October and May) are in person at church; all other meetings (November through May, no January meeting) are on Zoom. Register to receive updates, materials, and the Zoom link.
Facilitated by Carol Flint, Valerie Garber and Patty Park, First U members

LGBTQ+ Circle 

Thursdays, Feb. 2, 16, March 2, 16, April 6, 20, May 4 & 18; 7–8:30 p.m. on Zoom
REGISTRATION REQUIRED 

This small group of LGBTQ+ folks offers a way into intentional community, with the same people committed to meeting together for eight sessions. This small group uses the Sunday service message as the basis for personal reflection, and invites us to practice deep listening and sharing from our hearts as we support one another’s spiritual growth.
Facilitated by Cathy Strub, First U member

LGBT Spirituality

Sundays, Feb. 12, March 12, April 9, & May 14, 3–4:30 p.m. on Zoom
REGISTRATION REQUIRED

This group meets on the second Sunday of each month to support us on our journeys through and with LGBT-specific theology. Any and all LGBT folks interested in LGBT theology are welcome. New members are always welcome.
Facilitated by Kaden Colton, First U member

Kate Tucker Sermons Circle

Wednesdays, March 15, 29, April 12, 26, & May 10, 10–11:45 a.m. on Zoom
REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Join us for five sessions to dive deeply into five sermons by minister emerita, Rev. Kate Tucker. The audio file and discussion questions for the assigned sermon will be provided before each virtual gathering, so participants come prepared to relate the sermon to their own lives. Please do not sign up out of backwards-looking nostalgia, but out of a commitment to personal and communal spiritual growth. Enrollment limited to 10. 
Facilitated by Susan Hoffman and Ray Dillon, First U members

FAITHFUL ACTION: OPPORTUNITIES FOR ENGAGEMENT

Habitat for Humanity Build Days

Thursday, Feb. 2 & Saturday, March 4, 8:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Join a team of folks from church in working with Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity to build a house. The workday runs from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and lunch is provided. No experience is necessary and this is a fantastic way to meet others in the church while putting your energy and time on the side of love. Find more information and the sign up link online. 
Sponsored by First U’s Housing Justice Team

Relationships Evolving Possibilities: A Partnership in Process

Thursday, Feb. 16, 6–8 p.m. in the Cummins Room
REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Come lean in with us as we develop deeper connections with folks from Relationships Evolving Possibilities (REP), an organization guided by the values of Black love and liberation, ancestral knowledge, and radical consent. Bring a spirit of engagement and curiosity as we embody community and work together to create care and safety for all — especially those of us at the margins. 
Hosted by Rebecca Donley, Karen Heegaard and Denise Konen, First U members

Sunday Afternoons with the Environmental Justice Team

Sundays, Feb. 19, March 19, April 16 & May 21, 3 p.m. at church

Join the EJ team, and like-minded congregants, on the third Sunday of the month for environmental justice movies to open a window into the world of the climate crisis and possible solutions and actions you can take now. Movies and/or presentations will be announced in the Liberal and First U Connect church newsletters closer to each gathering.

Intro to the Intercultural Development Inventory

Sunday, March 5, 7–8 p.m. on Zoom (or join the breakout group after the church dinner on March 16)
REGISTRATION REQUIRED FOR MARCH 5

Join us to learn more about the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI) as a way for our congregation to engage in deep self-reflection as individuals and within our groups, and understand our capacity to experience and bridge cultural patterns with increasing complexity. 
Facilitated by Martha Moriarty, First U member and IDI Qualified Administrator.

ReMembering: Singing Water – One Voice Mixed Choir film presentation

Wednesday, March 22, 7–8:45 p.m. at church
RSVP REQUESTED

First Universalist Church is a Water Protector Congregation. We will celebrate World Water Day 2023 with this special presentation. ReMembering: Singing Water is an original choral film that explores Minnesota as a place of both home and exile for Indigenous people, LGBTQ people, and immigrants. Interconnected stories are brought to life through choral music, spoken word, animation, and life-size puppets.
Presented by First U’s Environmental Justice Team

Climate Resilience and Faith 

Tuesdays, April 11, 18, 25, May 2, 9 & 16, 6:30–8 p.m. at church
REGISTRATION REQUIRED

As Earth has ceased to tolerate the pretense of human mastery over it, how can humanity across national boundaries confront climate change as a collective crisis? What political theology is emerging to affirm the diversity of peoples and move collective action within the current political climate? What approaches are faith leaders taking to move collective attention to the intersections of climate catastrophe? What is the prophetic imperative for ministers, congregations, and interfaith coalitions to respond to help bring about collective commitments for social and ecological justice?
Facilitated by Rev. Jen Crow, Senior Minister

Drawdown Ecochallenge

April 2023

Are you wondering what you and your household can do to make a difference in the global warming climate crisis? Keep tuned in the coming months as we unfurl our EJ Climate Action Team’s fun and engaging twenty-one day April Ecochallenge. We will celebrate our accomplishments during  our 2023 Earth Day celebration on Environmental Justice Sunday, April 23. Our goal is to promote and document the important impact our large congregation can have on global warming. The EJ team is planning multiple pathways for you to  take action. Look for our table  in the social hall each Sunday in April where you will be able to  pick up easy, how-to steps to reduce your carbon footprint. You will be able to join your First U friends in a 21 day Eco-Challenge to take actions most relevant to you on the one hundred most substantive solutions to global warming. Throughout the month, special eco-presentations and movies are being planned to help you understand the importance and impact of the individual and communal steps you are taking. 

Abolition 101: Imagining Freedom for All

Sign up; group will be scheduled according to participants’ availability
REGISTRATION REQUIRED

What can we learn from the experience and expertise of Black feminists and others who understand the impact of policing and mass incarceration? How are they creating and imagining a world of care and transformative justice that brings safety and freedom for everyone? Join us in this five-week circle, developed for white folks, to reflect on the wisdom of long-time abolitionists and those exploring ways to create communities and institutions that support the safety, welfare, and well-being of every person. This listening and reflection circle is not a seminar, debate, or discussion – it’s an opportunity to learn about abolition, regardless of whether you believe it’s the best way forward. Each person’s feelings and experiences will be honored and respected.
Led by Denise Konen and Jeff Sylvestre, First U members

BLACK, INDIGENOUS, & PEOPLE OF COLOR

Dinner Church for BIPOC Folks: Being Nourished in Body and Spirit

Wednesdays, Jan. 25, Feb. 22, March 29, April 26 and May 31, 6–8 p.m. in the Cummins Room
RSVP REQUESTED

What’s Dinner Church? Pretty much what it sounds like-—we’ll have a meal together while creating a worshipful experience with music, words, and opportunities to share what’s on our hearts and minds. You’ll be fed in body and spirit while helping to create and sustain the community we all need. We gather on the last Wednesday of each month. BIPOC members and friends of the church are invited. Kids are welcome and encouraged to attend, and childcare staff will be available to support parents and caregivers.
Hosted by Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout, Director of Worship Arts Ministries, Lóre Stevens, Cummins Ministerial Intern, and Rev. Arif Mamdani, Associate Minister 

BIPOC Book Group: Being Black: Zen and the Art of Living with Fearlessness and Grace

Sundays, Feb. 5, March 5, April 2, & May 7, 1–2:30 p.m. at church
RSVP REQUESTED

In this elegant, practical book, Rev. angel Kyodo Williams combines the universal wisdom of Buddhism with an inspirational call for self-acceptance and community empowerment. Written by a woman who grew up facing the challenges that confront African-Americans every day, Being Black teaches us how a “warrior spirit” of truth and responsibility can be developed into the foundation for real happiness and personal transformation. BIPOC church members and friends are invited to join us to talk about the ideas and concepts within, how they do or don’t speak to us, and what they mean for our lives and practices as Unitarian Universalists individually, in the community, and here at church too. The group that met about this book in November decided to keep working with the book, AND to invite more folks to join the conversation. So even if you haven’t opened the book at all, even if you don’t have a copy yet (just request it from Dr. Glen Thomas or Rev. Arif), sign up, and join us on the first Sunday of each month.
Facilitated by Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout, Director of Worship Arts Ministries, and Rev. Arif Mamdani, Associate Minister

SENIORS

Legacy Circle

Tuesdays, Feb. 7, 21, March 7, 21, April 4 & 25, 10–11:30 a.m. on Zoom
REGISTRATION REQUIRED

A legacy circle is a group of eight to twelve seniors who have already written their legacy stories, or who intend to finish their story before the end of the circle. They meet by Zoom once every other week, using a simple format. Before each Zoom session, the facilitator sends the stories of two volunteers from the circle to all the other participants. Participants come to the session ready to ask the two volunteers some open-ended questions about their life stories. Each volunteer is in the spotlight for about half an hour. The resulting discussions have been frank, deep, and humorous in turn. 
Led by Dick Rueter and Ray Dillon, First U members

Daytime Connections

Thursdays, Feb. 16, March 16, April 20, & May 18, 10 a.m.–12 p.m. in the Social Hall or on Zoom
REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Daytime Connections programs begin at 10 a.m. on the third Thursday of each month, from October through May. They include fabulous presenters about fascinating topics, a delicious lunch, and an opportunity to meet new people and rekindle old friendships. Information about the upcoming month’s program is updated on the signup form at least two weeks in advance of the gathering. Look forward to exploring these topics in the months ahead: Housing for Seniors (Feb. 16), Ambiguous Loss with Dr. Pauline Boss (March 16), Charitable Giving (April 20), and Cyber for Seniors (May 18). Sign in and coffee at 9:45 a.m. Soup & salad lunch follows program at 12 p.m.: $5-15 sliding scale (More if you can; less if you can’t. No one will be turned away for lack of funds.) Registration is requested a minimum of four days in advance. Organized and hosted by the Daytime Connections Planning Team

YOUNG ADULTS

Monthly Post-Community Dinner Young Adult Breakout Groups

Check out the monthly Wednesday dinners at church, gathering at 6 p.m. for a meal followed by breakout group gatherings from 6:45-8 p.m. Details and RSVP info at the top of this Program Guide.

Feb. 15: Spiritual Practice in sync with the seasons, with Eliot Joy

March 15: Conversation with Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout and Lóre Stevens, ministerial intern

April 19: Topic TBD based on what emerges from currently-forming group

May 24: Conversation with Rev. Ashley Harness and Lóre Stevens, ministerial intern

Afternoon of Board Games

Sunday, Jan. 29, 1–3 p.m.
RSVP REQUESTED

Let’s get together for an afternoon of friendly competition and a snacks potluck at church. We’ll have some games to get us started. Bring a favorite game to teach if you’d like, and a snack to share if you’ve got it!
Hosted by Maria Heath, First U community member

Lunch and Loop near Bde Maka Ska

Sunday, Feb. 26, 12:30–2:30 p.m.
RSVP REQUESTED

Meet for one or both: Meet Kelly and David in the social hall after the second service and then head to Gigi’s Cafe together (824 W. 36th St.). After lunch, we’ll go for an outdoor loop (weather dependent) in the neighborhood around church and near Bde Maka Ska. 
Hosted by Kelly Prosen and David Feldmann, First U members

Lunch and “Crafternoon”

Sunday, April 2, 12:45–3 p.m.
RSVP REQUESTED

Meet for one or both: a post-worship lunch at Sister’s Sludge (3746 23rd Ave. S.) and an afternoon of crafting and casual conversation. Bring your materials for whatever creative project you’re working on! We’ll have some cross-stitch starter kits available, too! 
Hosted by Nick Nier, First U member

Springtime Nature Experience

Sunday, May 7, 8–9 a.m.
RSVP REQUESTED

Birds and critters are most active in the mornings! Join for a springtime nature experience at Robert’s Bird Sanctuary. Meet at the Peace Garden (4124 Roseway Blvd) just south of church, then head to worship together. 
Hosted by Michelle Manson, First U community member

CHILDREN, YOUTH & FAMILIES

Parents and Caregivers of Babies and Preschoolers

Thursdays, Feb. 2–March 30, 7:45–8:45 p.m. on Zoom
REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Join us for an hour of spiritual sustenance, companionship, validation and laughter as we navigate life with littles with as much grace and humor as we can muster. Attend as often as you wish or are able. Sign up to receive the Zoom link and a weekly email reminder before each gathering.
Facilitated by Chris Tanita and Liz Erickson, First U members

Family Hearty Parties

Saturday, Feb. 11 in the Social Hall
RSVP REQUESTED

•   9–11 a.m. Families with babies – 1st graders are invited for simpler crafts and a light brunch; older siblings are welcome.

•   11 a.m.–1 p.m. Families with 2nd–5th graders are invited for games, pizza lunch, and heart-shaped cookie decorating. Siblings are welcome.

Come celebrate Valentine’s Day, love, and friendship with the younger members of our church community. This is a wonderful way to connect with other families while your kids make some awesome memories and deepen their ties to their church community.
Hosted by Hirut Hedge, Spiritual Growth Programs Assistant, & Lauren Wyeth, Director of Spiritual Growth for All Ages

Families with Babies and Preschoolers Meet Up

Sunday, Feb. 26, 12:30–2 p.m. in Rooms 102–104
RSVP REQUESTED

Join us for a casual meet up and playdate after church. There will be snacks, a craft, and plenty of opportunities to chat with other parents/caregivers while little ones play. Families with babies through preschoolers are invited; older siblings are welcome.
Hosted by Hirut Hedge, Spiritual Growth Programs Assistant

2nd–5th Grade Church Overnight

Saturday, March 25 at 4 p.m. to Sunday, March 26 at 9 a.m. at church
RSVP REQUIRED

The 2nd–5th grade Family Overnight is just around the corner! A scavenger hunt, potluck dinner, talent show, ice cream sundaes, playing sardines and other games make the evening fly by. Your child will never forget the thrill of exploring the church by flashlight at night and waking up in a classroom in the morning. Don’t miss this memory-making event, back for the first time in four years! More details on the signup form.

Young Families Spring Celebration

Saturday, April 8, 9 a.m.–11 a.m. in the Social Hall
RSVP REQUESTED

Families with babies through 1st graders gather to celebrate new life and all things spring with the youngest members of our church community. Join us for egg dying, an egg hunt, games, seasonal crafts, and a chance to connect with other young families at First Universalist Church. We’ll enjoy bagels, muffins, fruit and boiled eggs for a light brunch. Older siblings are welcome.
Hosted by Hirut Hedge, Spiritual Growth Programs Assistant, & Lauren Wyeth, Director of Spiritual Growth for All Ages

ARTS & SPIRITUAL PRACTICE GATHERINGS

Meditation Group

Tuesdays, 9–10:15 a.m. in Room 209, or join us on Zoom
RSVP REQUIRED

The Tuesday Meditation Group is always open to new members and all are welcome. Facilitation is shared by those in the group. On the second Tuesday of the month, we have a Learning Session and end at 11 a.m. Sign up to receive more information and an email that includes the Zoom link for those who wish to join virtually. Contact Sara McMullen, First U member, with questions at 612-805-5059 or saramcminneapolis@gmail.com. 

Chi-Gung

Thursdays, 10–11:30 a.m. on Zoom

Pat leads gentle movements with a focus on harmonizing our personal energies. No meetings on the third Thursday of the month. Contact Judy Broad at jab679@gmail.com for more info and Zoom access.
Led by Pat Gottschalk, First U member 

PASTORAL & COMMUNITY CARE

Divorce Small Group

Sunday, Feb. 5, 1–4 p.m. Opening Retreat, in person at church
Sundays, Feb. 19, March 5, 19, April 2, 16, 30, & May 14, 4–5:30 p.m. on Zoom
Sunday, May 21, 1–4 p.m. Closing Retreat, in person at church
REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Are you recently divorced or currently going through a separation or divorce? Would it be helpful for you to meet with others and work through some questions to help you process and harvest the meaning out of this challenging experience? If so, this group might be just what you are looking for. 
Facilitated by Rev. Ashley Harness-Jimenez, Assistant Minister

Grief Group

Sundays, Feb. 12, 26, March 12, 26, April 9, 23, May 14 & 28, 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 Rev. Karen Hutt, Community Minister

Caregivers Group

Sundays, Jan. 29, Feb. 26, March 26, April 23 & May 21, 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

Estate Planning

Wednesday, April 19, 6:45–8 p.m. (this offering is a Breakout Group after the April Community Dinner)

Are you curious about estate planning? Know that you “should” do it, but don’t quite know what it really means or where to start? Come to this Estate Planning 101 session for an overview of the process, important considerations, and how to get started. 
Led by Claire Tralle, First U member

VISITORS AND NEWCOMERS/NEW-ISH FOLKS

A Place to Start

1st and 3rd Sundays, immediately after each worship service

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 1st or 3rd Sunday. No RSVP necessary.  Facilitated by First U members

Newcomers Circle

Thursdays, Feb. 9, 16, 23, & March 2, 6:30–8 p.m. at church
REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Newcomers Circles create a rich, supportive environment in which to share and grapple with our emerging UU values, theology, identity, and sense of belonging. This 4-session gathering is a caring and structured group to dig deeper into Unitarian Universalism and further connection at church and before “taking the leap” to membership. Newcomers Circle is intended for those who are discerning if they will continue their spiritual journey at First Universalist.
Facilitated by Jane Jordan, First U member, & Liz Farmer, Coordinator of Membership and Congregational Connections

Membership Class

Two-session class in person: Sundays, March 19 & 26, 1–3 p.m. (lunch provided at 1 p.m.; class begins at 1:15 p.m.)
One-session classes on Zoom: Thursday, March 30 OR Tuesday, April 11, 6:30–9 p.m. 
REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Joining First Universalist is a symbolic, spiritual act of saying “yes” to growing your soul in this place, with these people, within our free faith tradition. Our membership class offers a chance to inform yourself about the ministry areas of the church, be in community with other new members, and officially join the church. Learn about First Universalist at your own pace through online videos before meeting, then choose a class meeting experience below that meets your needs.
Facilitated by Liz Farmer, Coordinator of Membership and Congregational Connections, & Ginny McAninch, First U member