eNews 4-30-26

4/30/2026

eNews for Thursday,

April 30, 2026

Successful Spring Clean-Up!

Thanks to Norma Bailey, Bob Busch, Daniel Davis, Jennifer Davis, Drew Frantz, Al Heise, Kim Joki, Kirsten King, Darlene Ritchie, and Kurt Roeder for sprucing up our grounds on Saturday! Especially take a look at the youth banners now hung on our picket fence!

Worship Matters

We will gather online via Zoom and in person this Sunday, May 3, to worship with a message from Rev. Drew on "Speaking the Name of God." The Zoom call starts at 10:00am for social time, and the service starts at 10:30am.

"In our multi-religious denomination we have many different ideas about the divine, images of the divine, and names for the divine. Richard Rohr tells us that in the Jewish tradition, the name for God cannot be spoken–but it can be breathed. Seeking ultimate truth and trying to give a name to it is as old as humanity itself. Unitarian Universalism calls on us to engage in that quest on our own terms."

Zoom Invitation for Sunday Service:
Join Zoom Meeting
Meeting ID: 402489218

One tap mobile
+16468769923,,402489218#
Phone - audio only
+1 646 876 9923

Upcoming Services

May 3: Speaking the Name of God
May 10: It's All Right to Cry
May 17: The State of Our Union

In Case You Missed It...

Many past sermons are available on our website under Sermon Videos and Archives.

In order to access any services 2024 on, go to the website and click on Worship, then Sunday Services.

Minister’s Column: "Awakening Curiosity"

PRAYER:
Spirit of Life and Wonder,
We come carrying questions we barely know how to ask.
In a world that rewards quick answers and sharp certainty,
something in us is still hungry for questions that leave us hanging and unknowing.
Stir in us a living curiosity.
When we meet what is unfamiliar, turn our fear into wondering.
When we feel the pull to shut down, grant us one more honest question.
May we notice anew what we have walked past a hundred times.
May we listen for stories we have never heard before.
May we meet this day not as a problem to solve
but as a mystery to explore.
And my this help us better know the mystery that is us.
Amen and blessed be.

The prayer above is from my colleague Rev. Michelle Collins, offered in connection with the Soul Matters theme for the month of May: “Awakening Curiosity.”

This theme is very UU. We are a people who do not feel satisfied with established answers or familiar ways of thinking; we are questioners. For me, a favorite thing to say when welcoming newcomers on a Sunday morning is, “please talk to us at coffee hour where we would love to answer any questions you may have—and to question any answers you may have.” Another way that I say it is: that we are all seeking truth and meaning, and none of us has found all the answers. Curiosity, you might say, is a core trait of Unitarian Universalists.

More...

Upcoming Events

Most meetings and events are hybrid (in-person/Zoom). Please contact the event or meeting leader if you are not sure. Event and meeting details and links can be found on the UUFCM Calendar.

A Joyful Noise Choir Rehearsal - Wednesdays at 7:00pm
Central Michigan Sangha - Tuesdays at 6:45pm
Crafty U - 3rd Tuesdays at 10:30am
First Friday Potluck - First Fridays at 6:30pm This Friday!
Sleepy Time Yoga - 3rd Sundays at 6:30pm
Game Night - 3rd Mondays at 7pm
Movie Night - 4th Saturdays at 7pm
Readers Theater - 2nd Tuesdays at 7pm
UU Discussion Group - Wednesdays at 10am
UUFCM Men’s Group - 1st Mondays at 7pm on Zoom
Welcome to UU Orientation - last Sunday of the month at 12:00pm unless otherwise indicated. (There will not be a Welcome to UUFCM class next weekend nor at the end of May. If anyone has questions they are encouraged to contact Laura McBride at 989.772.5512 or [email protected].)

All members and friends are welcome to attend our UUFCM Board meeting as well as the various team meetings that occur monthly. If you are interested in attending any specific team meeting, please contact the team leader for information.

Team Meetings

Fellowship Life Coordinating Team Meeting: Sunday, May 3 at 12pm
New Website Planning Meeting: Sunday, May 3 at 12pm
Building Team Meeting: Monday, May 4 at 5:30pm

Fellowship News

Infant Pantry - Sunday May 3

Donations for the Infant Pantry are collected on the first Sunday of each month. You can donate online to the Monthly Donations for Infant Pantry on our website, or checks can be sent to our treasurer made out to UUFCM with Infant Pantry in the memo.

Thank you in advance for your generosity.

CUUPs Beltane Ritual - Sunday, May 3

Beltane is a time to celebrate fertility and the greening of the earth, to honor the arrival of spring and new life.

We invite those of you who are interested in participating. We will hold the ritual promptly at 6pm.

May Birthdays

Nancy Roeder
Felix Jones
Scott Daigle
Cynthia Damer
Kate Swier
Jodi Fisher, Rob Peters
Larry Hall
Hal Downs,
Helenan Cavalieri
Phoenix Thompson
Mary Alsager

For the year to come, we wish them much joy, good health for body and mind, and new (ad)ventures. May it be so.

We Are Hiring!
Tech Assistant starting June 1

UUFCM is looking for a Technology Assistant for Sunday mornings because Claire Lester has decided to leave this position at the end of May. The starting pay will be $16.25-$18.05 based on experience.

Please see full job posting here.

Please contact Rev. Drew to apply or to ask any questions.

2026 LGBTQ+ Capitol Day on May 13

The 2026 Michigan LGBTQ+ Capitol Day, hosted by Equality Michigan, takes place on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Michigan State Capitol in Lansing. This annual advocacy day connects LGBTQ+ residents with state legislators to discuss critical issues such as health care access, safety, and equality. Please contact Norma Bailey ([email protected] or at 989-560-3952) if you are interested in attending.

Save the Date for the Annual Meeting May 17th - Directly Following Worship Service

You're Invited to a Baby Shower!

You are invited to a baby shower!!! Please see the invitation and additional details:

We are collecting money to purchase gifts to benefit Rain and the family. If you wish to bring a gift of your own, please do! Otherwise, any contributions are welcome. Laura McBride is collecting money for a community gift and has suggestions from Annie for possible items, if you are interested. The last day to give money is Sunday, May 24th so Laura has time to shop and wrap.

We will have a special treat in addition to our usual tasty offerings. Please stay, meet Rain and welcome her into our community.

Mt. Pleasant Pride Festival June 20

The 5^th annual Mt. Pleasant Pride Festival will be held on Friday, June 20, from 2-5 pm at Broadway Park (2451 Nish Na Anong Drive), and the Social Justice Coordinating Team (SJCT) is co-sponsoring a table with Indivisible Central Michigan and the UU Fellowship of Midland. If you would like to help with the table, please contact any member of the SJCT. As well, we encourage you to attend the event – an event full of life and love!

Care Request Form for UUFCM Community

The UUFCM Caring Team supports members and friends of the congregation in practical ways such as offering rides to medical appointments, meals for those temporarily unable to cook for themselves, and help with moving. Our ability to help, of course, is limited to the capacity of our volunteers. To facilitate delivery of these helping services, you are invited to fill out this online form on behalf of yourself or others if you want to request such assistance. Cynthia Damer coordinates this effort; others members of the Caring Team are Phoenix Thompson, Lou Ann Ashley, Laura McBride, Victoria Sladek, and Rev. Drew Frantz. Click HERE.

Scam Alert

Several congregants have received emails and texts purportedly from UUFCM leadership. If you receive a message that seems suspicious, please remember that we would never solicit money or ask for help in this way, and do not respond to the message.
Read more here.

Attend General Assembly Virtually

General Assembly (GA) is the annual gathering of Unitarian Universalists, where we conduct business, explore our faith’s theological foundations, and fully embrace our mission and principles. This year, GA will be held virtually.

Would you like to participate? We have a Leadership Fund that can cover the costs for you. If you're interested in attending, see www.uua.org/ga for information. If you need more details, contact Norma Bailey ([email protected] or 989-560-3952).

Community News

March for Justice Sunday, May 3

The Mt. Pleasant Community is invited to participate in the March for Justice, Awareness, and Remembrance of MMIP (Missing and Murdered Indigenous People) sponsored by the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe of Michigan on Sunday, May 3 at 3:00 pm at Island Park. Please wear red to spread awareness of the MMIP Movement. Red Dress exhibits will be found in multiple locations in the Mt. Pleasant area through the middle of May to bring recognition to this powerful movement.

Gender Affirming Care Drive

The Mt. Pleasant Pride Center, supported by a grant from the American Humanist Association that Gracee Day received, is asking for donations for a gender affirming care drive. The Center is collecting clothing (particularly business and formal wear as well as ties and makeup bags); unused/unopened makeup/makeup brushes; hair-styling supplies (curling irons, hair dryers, flat irons, rollers, etc.); new to lightly used men’s shoes in smaller sizes; new to lightly used women’s shoes in wide sizes; tote bags; and binders and bras. Donations can be placed in the labeled box in the Fellowship Hall.

Indivisible Meetings & Protests Continue!

Indivisible Central Michigan plans on continuing their weekly Saturday protests at the usual location (corner of Mission and Broadway). The time is 11:00-1:00. In case of extreme weather, a cancellation email will be sent out by 10:00. Email [email protected] to get on the email list.

Donate Now!

The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Michigan is funded solely by its members and friends.

For your convenience, you can make a donation electronically with the button below. Please consider the option of offsetting the cost to the Fellowship for providing the convenience of making an online donation.

If you prefer not to donate electronically, you may also write a check payable to UUFCM and send it to: UUFCM, P.O. Box 41, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48804-0041

Got News?

The deadline for submissions to
the Order of Service Insert and the UUFCM weekly eNews
is Tuesday at 5:00 p.m.
Please send all submissions to [email protected].

Drew’s Contact Information

Please contact Drew via email, phone, or text.
[email protected]
Phone/text: 440-935-0129
Office Hours
Tuesdays 10am-noon
Wednesdays 1-3pm and 8-9pm

UUFCM Board of Trustees for 2025-2026
*Phone numbers available in our UUFCM Directory
President: Norma Bailey ([email protected])
President-Elect: Guy Newland (newla1g [email protected])
Treasurer: David Allan ([email protected])
Secretary: Jennifer Davis ([email protected])
Trustee: Annette Pratt ([email protected])
Trustee: Jennifer Prout ([email protected])
Trustee: Matt Collins (colli2mr@gmail.com)

Team and Committee Leaders

Adult Religious Education Team - Aaron Jones
Building, Grounds & Safety Team - Norma Bailey
Caring Team - Laura McBride
Communications Coordinating Team Annie Peters
Fellowship Life Coordinating Team - Laura McBride
Membership - Laura McBride
Welcome & Hospitality - Gisela Moffit
Social Fun - Jen Prout
Social Justice Coordinating Team - Norma Bailey
Worship Team - Drew Frantz
Youth Religious Education (RE) Team - Norma Bailey

We are a religious community guided by love, transforming our lives and our world.

Copyright © 2025 Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Michigan. All rights reserved.

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eNews 4-23-26

4/23/2026

View this email in your browser

eNews for Thursday, April 23, 2026

Worship Matters

We will gather online via Zoom and in person this Sunday, April 26, to worship with a message from Rev. Drew on "Follow Love." The Zoom call starts at 10:00am for social time, and the service starts at 10:30am.

"'When love beckons to you follow him, though his ways are hard and steep,' begins the poem On Love by Kahlil Gibran. When we are striving to live our best lives, fulfilling and true to our values, we are following love. It may be romantic love, love of humanity, or some other variation of love–but it calls us to risk everything and go on a journey of faith. Hearing the inner voice calling us toward love is an important spiritual practice."

Zoom Invitation for Sunday Service:
Join Zoom Meeting
Meeting ID: 402489218

One tap mobile
+16468769923,,402489218#
Phone - audio only
+1 646 876 9923

Upcoming Services

April 26: Follow Love

In Case You Missed It...

Many past sermons are available on our website under Sermon Videos and Archives.

In order to access any services 2024 on, go to the website and click on Worship, then Sunday Services.

Minister’s Column: "Hare and Tortoise"

Billy Collins is one of my favorite poets. Here is his poem entitled “My Hero:”

Just as the hare is zipping across the finish line,
the tortoise has stopped once again
by the roadside,
this time to stick out his neck
and nibble a bit of sweet grass,
unlike the previous time
when he was distracted
by a bee humming in the heart of a wildflower.

It dawned on me after reading this poem that the poet is reversing the outcome of the famous race. It is supposed to be the hare who is slowed down and therefore loses. He is so confident in winning that he takes a nap. So in that original version, the hare represents overconfidence and wasted talent; while the tortoise represents cleverness and determination. In the Billy Collins poem, however, the hare is fast and efficient; the tortoise is slow, distracted, and enjoying life. And the title of the poem, “My Hero,” suggests that the poet values this way of living life more highly: it is more fun and satisfying, and lends to a richer life, to be the tortoise.

More...

Upcoming Events

Most meetings and events are hybrid (in-person/Zoom). Please contact the event or meeting leader if you are not sure. Event and meeting details and links can be found on the UUFCM Calendar.

A Joyful Noise Choir Rehearsal - Wednesdays at 7:00pm
Central Michigan Sangha - Tuesdays at 6:45pm
Crafty U - 3rd Tuesdays at 10:30am
First Friday Potluck - First Fridays at 6:30pm
Sleepy Time Yoga - 3rd Sundays at 6:30pm
Game Night - 3rd Mondays at 7pm
Movie Night - 4th Saturdays at 7pm This Saturday!
Readers Theater - 2nd Tuesdays at 7pm
UU Discussion Group - Wednesdays at 10am
UUFCM Men’s Group - 1st Mondays at 7pm on Zoom
Welcome to UU Orientation - last Sunday of the month at 12:00pm unless otherwise indicated. (There will not be a Welcome to UUFCM class next weekend nor at the end of May. If anyone has questions they are encouraged to contact Laura McBride at 989.772.5512 or [email protected].)

Team Meetings

Website Taskforce Meeting: Sunday 12:00

Fellowship News

Movie Night Saturday, April 25

Good Will Hunting

Matt Damon portrays a troubled teen, who is a math savant, yet failing the lessons of life. Robin Williams is a psychologist trying to reach him before he is sent to jail. This Oscar contender for best picture, came out in 1997.

Join us at the Fellowship Hall April 25 at 7:00.

Fellowship Clean-Up This Saturday!

Saturday, April 25 10:00am-noon
Rain date: May 2, 10:00am-noon
Now that spring is definitely here, we are planning a clean-up of the outside of our building! We’ll pick up sticks, rake, weed, and clean, so please bring rakes, gloves, weeding tools, and clippers; we’ll provide the other materials and snacks! Please text, call, or email any one of the Building Team members – Norma Bailey, Bob Busch, Daniel Davis, Kirsten King and Kurt Roeder, and let us know you’re coming to help beautify our church grounds!

2026 LGBTQ+ Capitol Day on May 13

We Are Hiring!
Tech Assistant starting June 1

You're Invited to a Baby Shower!

Mt. Pleasant Pride Festival June 20

The 5^th annual Mt. Pleasant Pride Festival will be held on Friday, June 20, from 2-5 pm at Broadway Park (2451 Nish Na Anong Drive), and the Social Justice Coordinating Team (SJCT) is co-sponsoring a table with Indivisible Central Michigan. If you would like to help with the table, please contact any member of the SJCT. As well, we encourage you to attend the event – an event full of life and love!

Attend General Assembly Virtually

Community News

Gender Affirming Care Drive

Indivisible Meetings & Protests Continue!

Donate Now!

The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Michigan is funded solely by its members and friends.

If you prefer not to donate electronically, you may also write a check payable to UUFCM and send it to: UUFCM, P.O. Box 41, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48804-0041

Got News?

The deadline for submissions to
the Order of Service Insert and the UUFCM weekly eNews
is Tuesday at 5:00 p.m.
Please send all submissions to [email protected].

Drew’s Contact Information

Please contact Drew via email, phone, or text.
[email protected]
Phone/text: 440-935-0129
Office Hours
Tuesdays 10am-noon
Wednesdays 1-3pm and 8-9pm

Team and Committee Leaders

We are a religious community guided by love, transforming our lives and our world.

eNews 4-16-26

4/16/2026

View this email in your browser

eNews for Thursday, April 16, 2026

Worship Matters

We will gather online via Zoom and in person this Sunday, April 19, to worship with a message from Rev. Drew on "Earth Day." The Zoom call starts at 10:00am for social time, and the service starts at 10:30am.

"Partnership with the natural world and respect for the interdependent web of life are core Unitarian Universalist values. To honor Earth Day, we reflect on these values and how we are called to act for environmental justice. Our worship will be informed by the perspectives of the Artemis II astronauts, who have been moved toward greater reverence for the Earth and her people."

Zoom Invitation for Sunday Service:
Join Zoom Meeting
Meeting ID: 402489218

One tap mobile
+16468769923,,402489218#
Phone - audio only
+1 646 876 9923

Upcoming Services

April 19: Earth Day
April 26: Follow Love

In Case You Missed It...

Many past sermons are available on our website under Sermon Videos and Archives.

In order to access any services 2024 on, go to the website and click on Worship, then Sunday Services.

Minister’s Column: “Pope Leo”

“War is always a defeat for humanity.”

-Pope John Paul II

This week, our U.S. president is criticizing the current Pope, and then posting an image of himself as Jesus Christ. No person of faith—or of moral character--should be silent about this. The context is that Pope Leo XIV has expressed the Catholic values of peace and compassion, speaking out against the war in Iran and the ICE deportations. This caused President Trump to post a lengthy attack against the Pope….and then, inexplicably, an image of himself as Jesus healing the sick.

Ironically, the Iranian president—our “enemy” in this war—responded with this post:

To His Holiness Pope Leo XIV: I condemn the insult to Your Excellency on behalf of the great nation of Iran, and declare that the desecration of Jesus, the prophet of peace and brotherhood, is not acceptable to any free person. I wish you glory by Allah.
More...

Upcoming Events

Most meetings and events are hybrid (in-person/Zoom). Please contact the event or meeting leader if you are not sure. Event and meeting details and links can be found on the UUFCM Calendar.

A Joyful Noise Choir Rehearsal - Wednesdays at 7:00pm
Central Michigan Sangha - Tuesdays at 6:45pm
Crafty U - 3rd Tuesdays at 10:30am - This Tuesday
First Friday Potluck - First Fridays at 6:30pm
Sleepy Time Yoga - 3rd Sundays at 6:30pm - This Sunday
Game Night - 3rd Mondays at 7pm - This Monday
Movie Night - 4th Saturdays at 7pm
Readers Theater - 2nd Tuesdays at 7pm
UU Discussion Group - Wednesdays at 10am
UUFCM Men’s Group - 1st Mondays at 7pm on Zoom
Welcome to UU Orientation - last Sunday of the month at 12:00pm unless otherwise indicated

Team Meetings

Worship Team: Thursday April 16 at 4:30pm

Fellowship News

Social Justice Special Plate Collection - Sunday, April 19

This Sunday, a collection will be taken to support the Isabella County Soup Kitchen which provides free meals in a warm and safe environment, needed by so many of our community neighbors. You can put a donation into the passed plate on Sunday, donate online to the Social Justice Special Plate Collections Fund at our website, or checks can be sent to our treasurer made out to UUFCM with Soup Kitchen in the memo.

Are You Digitally Secure? - This Sunday!

The Adult RE team is pleased to announce its final presentation of the 2025-2026 church calendar year! Aaron Jones will present a 1-hour entry-level overview of basic digital security, including best practices for passwords, online communication, and identifying and protecting against phishing attempts. Please join us in the Fellowship Hall on Sunday, April 19th, after coffee hour.

Sleepy Time Yoga - Sunday, April 19 at 6:30pm

Join Kelly Lawson for an evening of Yoga Nidra 6:30-7:30 pm in the UU sanctuary. Bring a yoga mat, blankets, pillows, or anything to get cozy. The evening is donation-based, and all donations will go to the homeless shelter (ICRH).

The evening will begin with gentle movement before finding rest in Savasana (final resting pose) for a guided meditation.

Game Night - Monday, April 20 at 7:00pm

We meet on 3rd Mondays from 7-9pm in the UUFCM social hall and have fun with a variety of games decided by consensus. It is a great opportunity to learn new games and meet people with similar interests!

The Crafty U’s - Tuesday, April 21 at 10:30am

Group meets in our fellowship hall on the third Tuesday of the month at 10:30am. It is an informal, drop-in group for anyone working on craft projects, especially fabric arts.

Don't Forget to Turn In Your Pledge Forms!

If you are reading this and haven’t turned in your pledge materials, please do! The stewardship campaign officially ends on April 17. You can return your pledge form to the church by mail or in-person or you can complete the online pledge form linked HERE.

After April 17, members of the stewardship team will begin reaching out to people we haven’t heard from. Nobody likes this part of the work, so please return your pledge materials or let us know you don’t intend to pledge so we don’t have to bother you.

Fellowship Clean-Up

We Are Hiring!
Tech Assistant starting June 1

Attend General Assembly Virtually

Community News

Documentary Film: “Did You Guys Eat? at Commission on Aging

Gender Affirming Care Drive

Indivisible Meetings & Protests Continue!

Donate Now!

The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Michigan is funded solely by its members and friends.

If you prefer not to donate electronically, you may also write a check payable to UUFCM and send it to: UUFCM, P.O. Box 41, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48804-0041

Got News?

The deadline for submissions to
the Order of Service Insert and the UUFCM weekly eNews
is Tuesday at 5:00 p.m.
Please send all submissions to [email protected].

Drew’s Contact Information

Please contact Drew via email, phone, or text.
[email protected]
Phone/text: 440-935-0129
Office Hours
Tuesdays 10am-noon
Wednesdays 1-3pm and 8-9pm

Team and Committee Leaders

We are a religious community guided by love, transforming our lives and our world.

eNews 4-9-26

4/9/2026

View this email in your browser

eNews for Thursday, April 9, 2026

Worship Matters

We will gather online via Zoom and in person this Sunday, April 12, to worship with a message from Rev. Drew on "Embracing Possibility." The Zoom call starts at 10:00am for social time, and the service starts at 10:30am.

"As the poet David Whyte asks, “What shape waits in the seed of you/ to grow and spread its branches/ against a future sky?” Like a growing tree, each person is full of possibility – at whatever age and stage of life we may be in. The idea of embracing possibility also offers us hope in the context of national and international turmoil. Outcomes are not pre-determined, but shaped by our will and our values. Realizing this is empowering and liberating."

Zoom Invitation for Sunday Service:
Join Zoom Meeting
Meeting ID: 402489218

One tap mobile
+16468769923,,402489218#
Phone - audio only
+1 646 876 9923

Upcoming Services

April 12: Embracing Possibility
April 19: Earth Day
April 26: Follow Love

In Case You Missed It...

Many past sermons are available on our website under Sermon Videos and Archives.

In order to access any services 2024 on, go to the website and click on Worship, then Sunday Services.

Minister’s Column: “Peace Prayer”

Life in America today has the strange feeling that we are going about our regular daily lives --work, school, buying groceries--while we are at war in Iran. Today (Tuesday April 7) has been especially surreal because the news was all about President Trump’s blasphemous Easter morning post threatening to destroy the civilian infrastructure of Iran, only to back down at the 11th hour and agree, seemingly, to a ceasefire.

The sickening anti-religious element of Trump’s post bothers me especially as a person of faith. He threatened a Muslim nation with military annihilation, ending the message with a sarcastic Muslim prayer. This is disgusting and immoral, and people of faith everywhere should be appalled.

In contrast to the war-mongering behavior of my government, I am buoyed with hope over two things I saw this past week. First, while driving through Chicago, I saw a highway billboard that read:

RAMADAN MUBARAK
Blessings of Peace
from your Muslim neighbors More...

Upcoming Events

Most meetings and events are hybrid (in-person/Zoom). Please contact the event or meeting leader if you are not sure. Event and meeting details and links can be found on the UUFCM Calendar.

A Joyful Noise Choir Rehearsal - Wednesdays at 7:00pm
Central Michigan Sangha - Tuesdays at 6:45pm
Crafty U - 3rd Tuesdays at 10:30am
First Friday Potluck - First Fridays at 6:30pm
Sleepy Time Yoga - 3rd Sundays at 6:30pm
Game Night - 3rd Mondays at 7pm - Resumes in April at 6:00 pm
Movie Night - 4th Saturdays at 7pm
Readers Theater - 2nd Tuesdays at 7pm Returning April 14
UU Discussion Group - Wednesdays at 10am
UUFCM Men’s Group - 1st Mondays at 7pm on Zoom
Welcome to UU Orientation - last Sunday of the month at 12:00pm unless otherwise indicated

Team Meetings

Board Meeting: Sunday April 12 at 1:00pm
Social Justice Team: Monday April 13 at 6:30pm
Worship Team: Thursday April 16 at 4:30pm

Fellowship News

Readers Theater Meets April 14th

The Readers Theater group is meeting on Tuesday, April 14, at 6:30 pm in the Fellowship Hall. Roles have already been cast for this play. If you haven’t gotten your script yet, you can find it in the Fellowship Hall with your name on it. For information about the group, contact Roxanne Fleer ([email protected]).

Don't Forget to Turn In Your Pledge Forms!

2026-2027 UUFCM Board of Trustees Candidates & Proposed Bylaws Change

Our fellowship’s Bylaws outline the process for selecting the slate of candidates for next year’s Board. If you’re unfamiliar with the nominating procedures, please refer to Articles 9.2, 9.2.1, and 9.2.2 in the current UUFCM Bylaws.

This year’s Nominating Committee consists of Guy Newland (chair), Jennifer Davis, and Joyce Henricks. The committee is pleased to present the following slate of candidates for the open Board positions:

• President-Elect: Laura McBride

• Treasurer: David Allan

• Trustee At Large (Two-Year Term): Katie Zapoluch

• Trustee At Large (One-Year Term): Kurt Roeder

We sincerely thank these individuals for their willingness to serve and encourage all members to consider future opportunities to join the Board.

Alternative Nominating Procedure
If you or another member would like to add a nominee for any of these positions, you may do so through the Alternative Nominating Procedure (see Bylaws section 9.2.1). To submit a nomination, send a petition signed (electronically or handwritten) by three members supporting the nominee to Guy Newland ([email protected]) and cc President Norma Bailey ([email protected]) no later than Sunday, April 12. Please ensure the nominee has given their consent before submission.

Please note: All elected candidates will begin their terms on July 1 and serve through June 30 of the appropriate term length, as outlined in the Bylaws. Additionally, nominations from the floor will not be accepted at the annual meeting. If you wish to nominate someone not listed above, please follow the Alternative Nominating Procedure.

Bylaws Amendment
In addition to Board elections, we will discuss a proposed Bylaws change at the annual meeting. Please review the proposed change before the meeting.

This year’s annual meeting will be held after service on Sunday, May 17. Elections for Board officers and the Bylaws amendment will take place electronically in the days following the annual meeting.

Thank you for your engagement in this very important process!

Norma Bailey
UUFCM Board President
[email protected]

Book Discussion Hosted by UUFCM Member
"The Sacred Awakening" by Sami Awad

“What if Jesus didn’t start a religion, but sparked a revolution of consciousness? The Sacred Awakening invites us to embody Christ’s radical path - not worship him. Through history, scripture, and lived experience, Sami Awad reveals a hidden power of love and presence that can heal, transform and awaken our true humanity.”

This invitation is from Cathryn Young. Please contact her directly if you're interested:

I have begun reading “The Sacred Awakening: Reclaiming Christ Consciousness by Sami Awad. Sami is a Palestinian activist who I came to know in Bethlehem. Sami is “committed to nonviolence, healing and transformation….and living life through radical love.” He comes from a prominent Christian family, and created quite a stir when he stepped away from Christianity, and found Jesus outside of organized religion. He says, "When I stepped away from Christianity, it was not to abandon Jesus but to seek him beyond the institutional filters placed over his life and message. I found a figure far more disruptive, radical, and liberating than anything the Church had ever presented."

In “The Sacred Awakening” Sami explores the Beatitudes, the Sermon on the Mount, as a framework for transformation, not of belief or dogma, but a way of embodying radical love, transforming not only ourselves, but the world. I am super excited about this book, and would love to find several others who would like to explore it together. Identifying as a “Christian” is not necessary to exploring the themes and ideas in the book. Meetings would need to be at my home due to my caregiving responsibilities. Days and times could be determined together if there is interest. The book is available on Amazon and Reverend Drew has ordered several copies.

Save the Date! - Saturday, April 25

We’ll have our annual spring clean-up on Saturday, April 25, 10:00 am - noon. Lots of outside work will need many hands! Please put the date on your calendar!

Attend General Assembly Virtually

General Assembly (GA) is the annual gathering of Unitarian Universalists, where we conduct business, explore our faith’s theological foundations, and fully embrace our mission and principles. This year, GA will be held virtually.

Would you like to participate or serve as a UUFCM delegate? We have a Leadership Fund that can cover the costs for you. If you're interested in attending, see www.uua.org/ga for information. If you need more details, contact Norma Bailey ([email protected] or 989-560-3952).

Community News

Gender Affirming Care Drive

ICRH Fundraiser – Party for a Purpose

ICRH Requests for Household Donations for Party for a Purpose

ICRH is holding its annual fundraiser on May 2 and is looking for items for prizes for their paddle auction. If you have any new or unused item to donate (see list in Fellowship Hall or click here), please see Norma Bailey for delivery.

Indivisible Meetings & Protests Continue!

Donate Now!

The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Michigan is funded solely by its members and friends.

If you prefer not to donate electronically, you may also write a check payable to UUFCM and send it to: UUFCM, P.O. Box 41, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48804-0041

Got News?

The deadline for submissions to
the Order of Service Insert and the UUFCM weekly eNews
is Tuesday at 5:00 p.m.
Please send all submissions to [email protected].

Drew’s Contact Information

Please contact Drew via email, phone, or text.
[email protected]
Phone/text: 440-935-0129
Office Hours
Tuesdays 10am-noon
Wednesdays 1-3pm and 8-9pm

Team and Committee Leaders

We are a religious community guided by love, transforming our lives and our world.

eNews 4-2-26

4/2/2026

View this email in your browser

eNews for Thursday, April 2, 2026

Many UUFCM members participated in the No Kings Rally!

Worship Matters

We will gather online via Zoom and in person this Sunday, April 5, to worship with a message from Joyce Henricks and Norma Bailey as worship leader on “The Meaning of Life: What’s It All About?" The Zoom call starts at 10:00am for social time, and the service starts at 10:30am.

"What makes life worth living? Is it family? Friends? A job or career? Is it a sense of accomplishment or fulfillment—a sense that it means something, has value?? Or is it simply feeling happy? We’ll be discussing these questions on Sunday, but, as Kurt Vonnegut says, “Plato claims that the unexamined life is not worth living. But what if the examined life turns out to be a clunker as well?” So, don’t expect profound answers. Sunday’s discussion is just a start!"

Zoom Invitation for Sunday Service:
Join Zoom Meeting
Meeting ID: 402489218

One tap mobile
+16468769923,,402489218#
Phone - audio only
+1 646 876 9923

Upcoming Services

April 5: The Meaning of Life: What’s It All About?

In Case You Missed It...

Many past sermons are available on our website under Sermon Videos and Archives.

In order to access any services 2024 on, go to the website and click on Worship, then Sunday Services.

Minister’s Column: Minister on Spring Break

Upcoming Events

Most meetings and events are hybrid (in-person/Zoom). Please contact the event or meeting leader if you are not sure. Event and meeting details and links can be found on the UUFCM Calendar.

A Joyful Noise Choir Rehearsal - Wednesdays at 7:00pm
Central Michigan Sangha - Tuesdays at 6:45pm
Crafty U - 3rd Tuesdays at 10:30am
First Friday Potluck - First Fridays at 6:30pm
Sleepy Time Yoga - 3rd Sundays at 6:30pm
Game Night - 3rd Mondays at 7pm - Resumes in April at 6:00 pm
Movie Night - 4th Saturdays at 7pm
Readers Theater - 2nd Tuesdays at 7pm Returning April 14
UU Discussion Group - Wednesdays at 10am
UUFCM Men’s Group - 1st Mondays at 7pm on Zoom
Welcome to UU Orientation - last Sunday of the month at 12:00pm unless otherwise indicated

Team Meetings

Building Team: Monday at 5:30

Fellowship News

Rev. Drew on Spring Break

Our minister Drew will be out of town for the next two Sundays, March 29 and April 5. There will be no minister's column during that week. Although not available for regular Fellowship business, Rev. Drew can be contacted by cell phone with anything urgent. He will be back in the office April 7 and back leading worship on April 12.

Infant Pantry Sunday, April 5

Care Request Form for UUFCM Community

Stewardship Campaign 2026

Our stewardship campaign began with our Spring into Joy…Together! karaoke party on Saturday, March 21! Twenty-four pledges have already been turned in, so we have gotten off to a great start!

We mailed the other stewardship packets on Monday, March 23, so you should have received yours by now with explanations and directions about how to make your pledge as well as explain our interesting incentives - incentives to turn in your pledge form early, increase your pledge and/or pledge for the first time! There is also a new volunteer form to let us know ways in which you would like to share your time and talents.

Please be sure to read the materials right away and take action. If you have questions, contact anyone on the Stewardship Committee - Mary Alsager, Norma Bailey, Drew Frantz, Kelly Lawson, Darlene Ritchie, Don Socha and Victoria Sladek.

2026-2027 UUFCM Board of Trustees Candidates & Proposed Bylaws Change

• President-Elect: Laura McBride

• Treasurer: David Allan

• Trustee At Large (Two-Year Term): Katie Zapoluch

• Trustee At Large (One-Year Term): Kurt Roeder

We sincerely thank these individuals for their willingness to serve and encourage all members to consider future opportunities to join the Board.

Bylaws Amendment
In addition to Board elections, we will discuss a proposed Bylaws change at the annual meeting. Please review the proposed change before the meeting.

Thank you for your engagement in this very important process!

Norma Bailey
UUFCM Board President
[email protected]

Book Discussion Hosted by UUFCM Member
"The Sacred Awakening" by Sami Awad

This invitation is from Cathryn Young. Please contact her directly if you're interested:

Save the Date! - Saturday, April 25

We’ll have our annual spring clean-up on Saturday, April 25, 10:00 am - noon. Lots of outside work will need many hands! Please put the date on your calendar!

Attend General Assembly Virtually

General Assembly (GA) is the annual gathering of Unitarian Universalists, where we conduct business, explore our faith’s theological foundations, and fully embrace our mission and principles. This year, GA will be held virtually.

Would you like to participate or serve as a UUFCM delegate? We have a Leadership Fund that can cover the costs for you. If you're interested in attending, see www.uua.org/ga for information. If you need more details, contact Norma Bailey ([email protected] or 989-560-3952).

Scam Alert

Community News

ICRH Fundraiser – Party for a Purpose

ICRH Requests for Household Donations for Party for a Purpose

Indivisible Meetings & Protests Continue!

Donate Now!

The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Michigan is funded solely by its members and friends.

If you prefer not to donate electronically, you may also write a check payable to UUFCM and send it to: UUFCM, P.O. Box 41, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48804-0041

Got News?

The deadline for submissions to
the Order of Service Insert and the UUFCM weekly eNews
is Tuesday at 5:00 p.m.
Please send all submissions to [email protected].

Drew’s Contact Information

Please contact Drew via email, phone, or text.
[email protected]
Phone/text: 440-935-0129
Office Hours
Tuesdays 10am-noon
Wednesdays 1-3pm and 8-9pm

Team and Committee Leaders

We are a religious community guided by love, transforming our lives and our world.

eNews 4-30-26

eNews for Thursday,

April 30, 2026

Successful Spring Clean-Up!

Worship Matters

Upcoming Services May 3: Speaking the Name of God May 10: It's All Right to Cry May 17: The State of Our Union

In Case You Missed It...

Minister’s Column: "Awakening Curiosity"

Upcoming Events

Most meetings and events are hybrid (in-person/Zoom). Please contact the event or meeting leader if you are not sure. Event and meeting details and links can be found on the UUFCM Calendar.

Team Meetings

Fellowship News

Infant Pantry - Sunday May 3

CUUPs Beltane Ritual - Sunday, May 3

May Birthdays

We Are Hiring! Tech Assistant starting June 1

2026 LGBTQ+ Capitol Day on May 13

Save the Date for the Annual Meeting May 17th - Directly Following Worship Service

You're Invited to a Baby Shower!

Mt. Pleasant Pride Festival June 20

Care Request Form for UUFCM Community

Scam Alert

Attend General Assembly Virtually

Community News

March for Justice Sunday, May 3

Gender Affirming Care Drive

Indivisible Meetings & Protests Continue!

Donate Now!

The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Michigan is funded solely by its members and friends.

Got News?

Drew’s Contact Information

Team and Committee Leaders

eNews 4-23-26

eNews for Thursday, April 23, 2026

Worship Matters

Upcoming Services April 26: Follow Love

In Case You Missed It...

Minister’s Column: "Hare and Tortoise"

Upcoming Events

Most meetings and events are hybrid (in-person/Zoom). Please contact the event or meeting leader if you are not sure. Event and meeting details and links can be found on the UUFCM Calendar.

Team Meetings

Fellowship News

Movie Night Saturday, April 25

Fellowship Clean-Up This Saturday!

2026 LGBTQ+ Capitol Day on May 13

We Are Hiring! Tech Assistant starting June 1

You're Invited to a Baby Shower!

Mt. Pleasant Pride Festival June 20

Attend General Assembly Virtually

Community News

Gender Affirming Care Drive

Indivisible Meetings & Protests Continue!

Donate Now!

The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Michigan is funded solely by its members and friends.

Got News?

Drew’s Contact Information

Team and Committee Leaders

eNews 4-16-26

eNews for Thursday, April 16, 2026

Worship Matters

Upcoming Services April 19: Earth Day April 26: Follow Love

In Case You Missed It...

Minister’s Column: “Pope Leo”

Upcoming Events

Most meetings and events are hybrid (in-person/Zoom). Please contact the event or meeting leader if you are not sure. Event and meeting details and links can be found on the UUFCM Calendar.

Team Meetings

Fellowship News

Social Justice Special Plate Collection - Sunday, April 19

Are You Digitally Secure? - This Sunday!

Sleepy Time Yoga - Sunday, April 19 at 6:30pm

Game Night - Monday, April 20 at 7:00pm

The Crafty U’s - Tuesday, April 21 at 10:30am

Don't Forget to Turn In Your Pledge Forms!

Fellowship Clean-Up

We Are Hiring! Tech Assistant starting June 1

Attend General Assembly Virtually

Community News

Documentary Film: “Did You Guys Eat? at Commission on Aging

Gender Affirming Care Drive

Indivisible Meetings & Protests Continue!

Upcoming Services

May 3: Speaking the Name of God
May 10: It's All Right to Cry
May 17: The State of Our Union

We Are Hiring!
Tech Assistant starting June 1

Upcoming Services

April 26: Follow Love

We Are Hiring!
Tech Assistant starting June 1

Upcoming Services

April 19: Earth Day
April 26: Follow Love

We Are Hiring!
Tech Assistant starting June 1

Book Discussion Hosted by UUFCM Member
"The Sacred Awakening" by Sami Awad

Book Discussion Hosted by UUFCM Member
"The Sacred Awakening" by Sami Awad