eNews For Thursday, May 30

5/30/2024

eNews for Thursday, May 30

Worship Matters

We will gather online via Zoom and in person this Sunday, June 2, to worship with Rev. Drew Frantz, who will present "Renewal." The Zoom call starts at 10:00am for social time, and the service starts at 10:30am.

"As school ends and summer begins, some of us seek renewal in vacation time. This month our denomination is voting on renewing its central statement of values and covenants. This season is one of renewal in the natural world and in the gardens that we tend. What is being renewed in your life? What old growth has to be pruned away to make space for that renewal?"

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
June 9 - Flower Communion
June 16 - Summer Worship TBD
June 23 - Weaving Our Lives (GA Sunday Service)

If you happen to miss being in worship, please check out Sunday Services on our website for sermon video and/or text. 2023 and prior year sermon video and/or text are located under Sermon Archives.

Minister’s Column

It is not often that I come to our worship service on one of my Sundays off. Usually that is personal time. On this past Sunday, however, the topic of “Transgender: Stories of Our Lives” compelled me to be there.

Read the column here.

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.

- Welcome to UU Orientation - Last Sundays at 12:30pm
- UUFCM Men’s Group - 1st Mondays at 7pm on Zoom
- Game Night - 3rd Mondays at 7pm
- Central Michigan Sangha - Tuesdays at 6:45pm
- UU Discussion Group - Wednesdays at 10am
- Choir Rehearsal - Will resume in the fall
- Drawing Workshop - Canceled
- First Friday Potluck - First Fridays at 6:30pm
- Movie Night - 4th Saturdays at 7pm
- Monthly Soul Matters Small Group Discussion - Tonight, Thursday, May 30, at 6:30pm

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
Coordinating Team - Sunday, June 2, at 12:00pm
Building Team - Monday, June 3, at 6:00pm

If you are interested in helping any of these teams or committees, please fill out the Volunteer Opportunity Form if you haven’t already.

Joyful Noise Choir on Vacation until Fall

The Joyful Noise Choir will be on vacation from mid-June through mid-August. The choir will sing on June 2 and 9 (for the flower communion service) and resume rehearsals on August 14.

Setting Intentions for the Summer

Given that June is Pride Month and that there are also several events occurring in Mt. Pleasant over the summer, your Social Justice Coordinating Team’s fourth “season” of intentions is set up a bit differently than the previous “seasons.” We are providing links to lists of movies and books having to do with LGBTQ+ resources and a list of events that we encourage you to attend throughout the summer. Hard copies available in the Fellowship Hall. Click here for Summer Intentions.

Happy Birthday!

In June, we celebrate the birthdays of Betty Clason, Nancy White, Daria Kingman, Dave Macleod, Audra Daniels, Claire Lester, Reid Sladek, Karen Turnbull, River Schrank, Becky Beck, Roxanne Fleer, Carol Rard, Jess Lawson, and Marhea Fay. For the year to come, we wish them much joy, good health for body and mind, and new (ad)ventures. May it be so.

Drawing Workshop Cancellation Notice

Due to low/no participation, the weekly drawing workshop has been canceled. Thank you, Nancy Roeder, for sharing your time and talents with us. UUFCM appreciates you!

Volunteers Needed for Youth RE This Summer

During the summer, the Youth RE Team needs volunteers to work with Jolie, our Youth RE Assistant, to care for the children. We have packets made with plans for every Sunday, or you could bring your own ideas. Please contact Norma Bailey ([email protected], 989-560-3952) if you are willing to volunteer for one of the following Sundays – June 16 and 30, July 7, 14, 21, and 28, and August 4 and 11.

Special Meeting and Vote: Revised Principles and Values - Sunday, June 2

The seven principles that UU's have used for decades have been revised, with a new statement of values and principles centered around Love. To make this change official, a final vote will be taken at General Assembly in June. We will have a special meeting to discuss these changes and the four proposed amendments and then vote electronically to express our support and/or concerns. All are welcome to discuss; only members may vote.

Please look for a special email with this information.

First Friday Potluck – Friday, June 7

Please join us in the UUFCM Fellowship Hall at 6:30pm (doors open at 6:15) for food, conversation, and games! Coffee, hot tea, and water will be provided. If you are able, please bring a dish to pass.

General Assembly Virtual Meetings - June 20-23

If you are interested in witnessing the workings of Unitarian Universalism, attend the virtual meetings of General Assembly General Sessions (business.) These sessions will be broadcast at UUFCM for anyone who is interested on the following dates--anyone can attend; only delegates can vote.

Thursday, June 20, 1:00pm - 2:00pm; 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Friday, June 21, 2:30pm - 6:00pm
Saturday, June 22, 2:30pm - 6:00pm
Sunday, June 23, 3:00pm - 5:00pm

If you are interested in being an attendee to the entire General Assembly programming, we have some donated leadership funds that can support attendance. Please contact a member of the Board of Trustees if you are interested in attending.

Two Opportunities to Table for UUFCM!

As UUFCM, we will be tabling at the Pop-up Pride in the Park on Saturday, June 1, from 2:00-5:00pm and at the community Juneteenth celebration at Island Park on Wednesday, June 19, from 4:00-8:00pm. We’ll have some printed materials to hand out and, as well, have an opportunity to share about our Fellowship. If you would like to help with either of these opportunities for as little or as much time as you’d like, contact Norma Bailey ([email protected]) for further information.

• • • Community News • • •

Pop Up Pride in the Park - Sunday, June 1

Saturday, June 1
2:00pm – 5:00pm
Broadway Park, 2451 Nish Na Be Anong Rd, Mt Pleasant
Join us in celebrating, uplifting, and advocating for our regional 2SLGBTQIA+ community at the 2nd Pop Up Pride in the Park at Broadway Park in Mount Pleasant. Food, games, music, and vendors. Free to attend and all are welcome.

Pop-Up Pride After-Party Drag Show - Sunday, June 1

Sunday, June 1, at 7:00pm
Broadway Theatre
$15 Advance / $20 at the door
Hosted by Great Lakes Bay Pride, Cherry Poppins & Benjamin Violet. With Vivienne Vice, Formica, Anjelah Rachèt, and Riot.
All-Ages

VHS Night: THE BIRDCAGE - Sunday, June 1

Sunday, June 1, at 10:00pm
Broadway Theatre
Presented by Great Lakes Bay Pride
Tickets $8 in advance / $10 at the door.

SYNOPSIS:
In this remake of the classic French farce "La Cage aux Folles," engaged couple Val Goldman (Dan Futterman) and Barbara Keeley (Calista Flockhart) shakily introduce their future in-laws. Val's father, Armand (Robin Williams), a gay Miami drag club owner, pretends to be straight and attempts to hide his relationship with Albert (Nathan Lane), his life partner and the club's flamboyant star attraction, so as to please Barbara's father, controversial Republican Sen. Kevin Keeley (Gene Hackman).

Midland Juneteenth Block Party - Sunday, June 16

Creative 360, Midland
Sunday, June 16, 2:00pm-5:00pm
FREE TO ATTEND!
Join in community and fun for Midland, Michigan’s third annual Juneteenth Block Party at Creative 360! Enjoy family-friendly activities, food, and entertainment, as we connect to honor the past and understand the present.

The event is sponsored by Creative 360, Members First Credit Union, Isabella Bank, Midland Youth Inclusivity Committee, Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Midland, Midland Center for the Arts & Midland County Historical Society, Dow, The Breaking Bread Village, Midland Daily News, and Wildfire Credit Union.

Visit midlandjuneteenthblockparty.com to learn more.

Pride Month Tea Dance - Sunday, June 16

Sunday, June 16, at 2:00pm
Drydock Beer Garden, Bay City
Great Lakes Bay Pride and Drydock Beer Garden are teaming up to host a "pool party without the pool" Tea Dance featuring DJ Club Kid! What's a tea dance? Check out this Wiki article: https://bit.ly/3UGHcs7

Pride Month Tea Dance is for 18+ years old (21+ will get a wristband.) A cash bar will be available. Tickets are free; please register in advance: https://bit.ly/4aTgKBg

Suggested attire - dress for summer fun! From kaftans to tank tops, dress like you’re going to the pool, the beach, or your favorite resort. Shoes suggested as Drydock has a pea stone ground covering.

Juneteenth Week - Virtual Keynote - Monday, June 17

Join us in commemorating Juneteenth with a virtual keynote address on Monday, June 17, at 6:00pm. This event, open to all at no cost, will showcase the talents and insights of two distinguished artists: Stacey Robinson and Kamau Grantham.

Robinson and Grantham will delve into the significance of their artwork, offering reflections on the themes of culture, freedom, and African American heritage.

Stacey Robinson is an Assistant Professor of Graphic Design at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

Kamau Grantham is a Clinical Counselor at the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign.
Register here.

Juneteenth Week - Documentary Luncheon and Panel - Tuesday, June 18

Join us for a day of education and community discussion. CMU will host a lunch and documentary on the history of Juneteenth, and the economic impact of slavery through present day. The documentary will be followed by a panel discussion and audience questions.

This takes place 11:00am to 1:00pm in the Health Professionals Building. Register here.

Juneteenth Week - Juneteenth at Island Park - Wednesday, June 19

Juneteenth 2024 will bring together the CMU and Mount Pleasant community at Island Park. There will be speakers, community organizations, arts and crafts, performances, food and fun! Join us on Wednesday, June 19, at 4:00pm at Island Park in Mount Pleasant for a day of community bonding and learning.

Great Lakes Bay Pride Festival

Saturday, June 22, 11:00am – 6:00pm
Wenonah Park, Bay City
Our welcoming and inclusive festival brings together the LGBTQ+ community, allies, friends, and families from across the Great Lakes Bay Region and surrounding areas. Attendees can enjoy a variety of retail vendors, community resource partners, live entertainment, a health screening area, and a children’s activity area.

The Great Lakes Bay Pride Festival is a family-friendly, outdoor event, and is free for all to attend!

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, or via the GivePlus Church App. 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 (in person and/or Zoom):
Tuesdays 10am-noon
Wednesdays 1-3pm and 8-9pm
Office Hours Zoom Link

UUFCM Board of Trustees for 2023-2024
President: Cynthia Damer (989.506.5750; [email protected])
President-Elect: Aaron Jones (989.501.0672; [email protected])
Treasurer: Terrie Robbie (989.400.2495; [email protected])
Secretary: Laurie Meadows (989.317.8299; [email protected])
Trustee: Victoria Sladek (989.506.7039; [email protected])
Trustee: Monica Jean (616.443.8782; [email protected])
Trustee: Mary Alsagar (989.330.2226; [email protected])

Team and Committee Leaders

Adult Religious Education Team - Jodi Fisher
Building, Grounds & Safety Team - Norma Bailey
Caring Committee - Laura McBride
Communications Coordinating Team
Fellowship Life Coordinating Team - Gisela Moffit
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 © 2024 Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Michigan. All rights reserved.

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You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list.

eNews For Thursday, May 23

5/23/2024

View this email in your browser

eNews for Thursday, May 23

Beauty at our UUFCM building!

Worship Matters

We will gather online via Zoom and in person this Sunday, May 26, to worship with Norma Bailey, who will present "Transgender: Stories of Our Lives." The Zoom call starts at 10:00am for social time, and the service starts at 10:30am.

"Transgender. The construct is not monolithic, that is, everyone’s story is unique. Come listen and learn as four of our members and friends share their stories of what they would like us to know about being trans. As well, we will commemorate Memorial Day on this Sunday."

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
June 2 - Renewal
June 9 - Flower Communion
June 16 - Summer Worship TBD
June 23 - Weaving Our Lives (GA Sunday Service)

If you happen to miss being in worship, please check out Sunday Services on our website for sermon video and/or text. 2023 and prior year sermon video and/or text are located under Sermon Archives.

Minister’s Column

In gardens, lawns, and parks at this time of year, flowers are blooming everywhere. The days lengthen with early dawns and late sunsets. I love the season of Beltane.

Read the column here.

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.

- Welcome to UU Orientation - May Orientation is canceled. Our next Orientation is in June.
- UUFCM Men’s Group - 1st Mondays at 7pm on Zoom
- Game Night - 3rd Mondays at 7pm
- Central Michigan Sangha - Tuesdays at 6:45pm
- UU Discussion Group - Wednesdays at 10am
- Choir Rehearsal - Wednesdays at 7pm; Last rehearsal May 29, will resume in the fall
- Drawing Workshop - 2nd and 4th Tuesdays at 10am
- First Friday Potluck - First Fridays at 6:30pm
- Movie Night - 4th Saturdays at 7pm
- Monthly Soul Matters Small Group Discussion - Thursday, May 30, at 6:30pm

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
No meetings this week!

If you are interested in helping any of these teams or committees, please fill out the Volunteer Opportunity Form if you haven’t already.

Volunteers Needed for Youth RE This Summer

Special Meeting and Vote: Revised Principles and Values - Sunday, June 2

General Assembly Virtual Meetings - June 20-23

Movie Night - Saturday, May 25

All Katharine Graham wanted to be was a housewife. With the death of her husband and father, suddenly she finds herself as the owner of the Post. Her goal is to make it a reputable newspaper reporting high-quality stories. When she is given Daniel Ellsberg's Pentagon Papers, it is an upward battle between her board, President Nixon, and the lawyers to print them. What happens next? Join us Saturday, May 25, at 7:00pm at the Fellowship Hall to watch "The Post."

Two Opportunities to Table for UUFCM!

• • • Community News • • •

Pop Up Pride in the Park - Sunday, June 1

Pop-Up Pride After-Party Drag Show - Sunday, June 1

VHS Night: THE BIRDCAGE - Sunday, June 1

Midland Juneteenth Block Party - Sunday, June 16

Pride Month Tea Dance - Sunday, June 16

Juneteenth Week - Virtual Keynote - Monday, June 17

Robinson and Grantham will delve into the significance of their artwork, offering reflections on the themes of culture, freedom, and African American heritage.

Stacey Robinson is an Assistant Professor of Graphic Design at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

Kamau Grantham is a Clinical Counselor at the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign.
Register here.

Juneteenth Week - Documentary Luncheon and Panel - Tuesday, June 18

This takes place 11:00am to 1:00pm in the Health Professionals Building. Register here.

Juneteenth Week - Juneteenth at Island Park - Wednesday, June 19

Great Lakes Bay Pride Festival

Donate Now!

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

Team and Committee Leaders

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

Copyright © 2023 Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Michigan. All rights reserved.

Want to change how you receive these emails?
You can update your preferences or unsubscribe from this list.

eNews For Thursday, May 16

5/16/2024

View this email in your browser

eNews for Thursday, May 16

Worship Matters

We will gather online via Zoom and in person this Sunday, May 19, to worship with Rev. Drew Frantz, who will present "The Jewish Wisdom of Repairing Harm." The Zoom call starts at 10:00am for social time, and the service starts at 10:30am.

"Centuries ago, Jewish scholar Maimonides articulated a best practice to repair harm, laid out in five steps and centered on the needs of the victim. Author Danya Ruttenberg explores how this ancient wisdom applies to our lives today–in instances of interpersonal harm as well as institutional harm–in her book 'On Repentance and Repair.' Insights from Maimonides and Rabbi Ruttenberg inform our lives, our congregation, and our nation."

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 19 - The Jewish Wisdom of Repairing Harm
May 26 - Transgender: Stories of Our Lives

If you happen to miss being in worship, please check out Sunday Services on our website for sermon video and/or text. 2023 and prior year sermon video and/or text are located under Sermon Archives.

Minister’s Column

In the coming weeks, this congregation will be invited to discuss (and vote upon) two foundational documents: the UUFCM covenant will be discussed on May 19, at the annual meeting; the UUA statement of principles and values will be discussed on June 2.

Read the column here.

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.

- Welcome to UU Orientation - May Orientation is canceled. Our next Orientation is in June.
- UUFCM Men’s Group - 1st Mondays at 7pm on Zoom
- Game Night - 3rd Mondays at 7pm
- Central Michigan Sangha - Tuesdays at 6:45pm
- UU Discussion Group - Wednesdays at 10am
- Choir Rehearsal - Wednesdays at 7pm
- Drawing Workshop - 2nd and 4th Tuesdays at 10am
- First Friday Potluck - First Fridays at 6:30pm
- Movie Night - 4th Saturdays at 7pm
- Monthly Soul Matters Small Group Discussion - Thursday, May 30, at 6:30pm

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
Youth RE - Sunday, May 19, at 3:30pm

If you are interested in helping any of these teams or committees, please fill out the Volunteer Opportunity Form if you haven’t already.

Annual Meeting - Report and Slate of Nominees to the Board of Trustees

Mark your calendars! UUFCM will be holding its annual meeting on Sunday, May 19. This important gathering provides an opportunity for our community to come together, reflect on the past year, and look ahead to the future.

At the annual meeting, we will be discussing key topics and decisions that will shape the direction of our fellowship in the coming year.

We are pleased to present the slate of nominees for the UUFCM Board of Trustees. Each nominee brings valuable skills, experience, and dedication to our fellowship. We encourage all members to review the information to learn more about the candidates.

Your participation in the annual meeting is vital to the continued success and growth of our fellowship. We value your input and encourage you to join us as we come together to shape the future of UUFCM.

2024 Annual Report

UPDATED! Agenda, Slate of Nominees, Proposed Budget, and Bylaw Changes

President-Elect: Norma Bailey
I am a retired CMU faculty member where I prepared teachers to teach at the middle school level. Since retiring in 2014, I have worked with ICRH, the homeless shelter in Mt. Pleasant, have helped organize efforts to get young people engaged in voting, and have participated in various aspects of UUFCM since its founding in 2000. I am particularly passionate about social justice issues, serving on the Social Justice Coordinating Team, and the religious education program for our children, serving on the Youth Religious Education Team; as well, I try to help out wherever I can. I enjoy spending time with my golden retriever Kepa, especially taking walks with her in the woods, and playing softball and pickleball.

Treasurer: Terrie Robbie
I have been a member of UUFCM for several years. My wife of 26 years is Leslie Hildebrandt and we have a small Fiber Farm in Shepherd, MI. I have served on the Board as Treasurer for the last three terms, as well as serving as a member of the Communications Team, Building Team, and Fellowship Life Team and assisted with the Web Design Team. I love working with numbers and figuring out how to use technology to make our lives easier. Professionally, I am the Athletic Director at White Pine Middle School in Saginaw, as well as the STEM Coordinator for our district. I love walking, spending time at our home in the Upper Peninsula, reading, planting flowers in the spring, and relaxing with Leslie and our five dogs, three indoor cats, and the rest of our menagerie outside.

Two-year Trustee: Annette Pratt
I started attending services in the fall of 2004. I was previously a member of the UU Fellowship in Athens, and finding a fairly new Fellowship here in Mt. Pleasant was definitely a plus. I think I became a member that year. I have been a member of the choir since we started it, a member of the Worship Team, the Fellowship Life Coordinating Team, and the Board of Trustees a time or two. I've also served as tech support for the Zoom camera since we began utilizing Zoom during COVID-19. For the last decade, I have been an agent with Bankers Life, and I'm currently a trainer for new agents. I enjoy singing, playing Dungeons and Dragons, and watching movies. I'm also a member of Triskelion, a local belly dancing troupe.

One-year Trustee: David Allan
I was introduced to UUFCM and to Unitarian Universalism by Laura McBride late in 2021. I began attending regularly and became a member almost two years ago. I serve as a worship associate, greeter, pre-service setup, and offer technical support. I am looking forward to expanding my involvement on the Board of Trustees.

Born and raised in Central Pennsylvania (I still consider myself a Pennsylvania boy), I have lived in the Midwest for the last 45 years. I studied chemistry and polymer science and have conducted research on materials, both exotic and mundane, in academic and industrial settings. After 15 years as a research chemist at Dow Chemical, I earned my teaching certificate at CMU. I taught science at the Saginaw Arts & Sciences Academy for 11 years, retiring last June. I have two adult sons, one living in Midland and the other in greater Boston. I find great joy in sharing the wonders of nature with others. I am developing skills in metalworking (machining, welding, etc.), and I have a long list of other creative pursuits to tackle. I also enjoy being outside biking, kayaking or canoeing, walking in the woods, playing pickleball—you get the idea. But right now, my biggest project is planning Laura’s and my wedding!

UUFCM Notice of Annual Meeting - THIS Sunday

This is your official notice of the Annual Meeting of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Michigan (UUFCM), which will be held on Sunday, May 19, 2024, right after the worship service. This meeting, while open to all members and friends, is the time when the members of the Fellowship will vote on the business of the Fellowship.

During the meeting, we will entertain motions regarding the slate of nominees for next year’s Board of Trustees, the proposed 2024-2025 Budget, and a proposal for revising the Bylaws. After the meeting, electronic ballots will be sent to all members and will be due a few days later. Members and friends are welcome at the business meeting, but only members will vote.

Inasmuch as no names were submitted through the alternative nominating process for board member nominations, there will no nominations from the floor.

There is one proposed change to the Bylaws, which is to add the Caring Team to the list of standing teams. Please download and review the document below before the meeting, including the agenda for the annual meeting. At the meeting, you will also have the opportunity to ask any questions you might have.

UPDATED! Agenda, Slate of Nominees, Proposed Budget, and Proposed Bylaw Changes

Please come prepared to participate in this most important democratic process of our Fellowship. Since we are a self-governing body, and each member’s vote is important, we will be voting via email, and the specific process will be explained to you at the meeting.

Special Plate Collection - This Sunday

The May special plate collection is for the Listening Ear Crisis Center which supports people through financial hardships, mental health crises, housing crises and other challenging situations. You can make your online donation to the Social Justice Fund or, if you prefer to write a check, please write it to UUFCM with Listening Ear Crisis Center on the memo line.

Two Opportunities to Table for UUFCM!

General Assembly Delegates Needed - June 20-23

If you are interested in witnessing and participating in the workings of Unitarian Universalism, our Fellowship needs two delegates to attend the virtual meetings of General Assembly. These sessions will be broadcast at UUFCM for anyone who is interested on the following dates--anyone can attend; only delegates can vote.

Thursday, June 20, 1:00pm - 2:00pm; 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Friday, June 21, 2:30pm - 6:00pm
Saturday, June 22, 2:30pm - 6:00pm
Sunday, June 23, 3:00pm - 5:00pm

If you are interested in being an attendee, but not a delegate, we have some donated leadership funds that can support attendance. Please contact a member of the Board of Trustees if you are interested in attending or being a UUFCM delegate.

Special Meeting and Vote: Revised Principles and Values - Sunday, June 2

The seven principles that UU's have used for decades have been revised, with a new statement of values and principles centered around Love. To make this change official, a final vote will be taken at General Assembly in June. We will have a special meeting to discuss these changes and the four proposed amendments (see Minister's Column TODAY) and then vote electronically to express our support and/or concerns. All are welcome to discuss; only members may vote.

Game Night! - Monday, May 20

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! Questions? Contact James Scott ([email protected]).

Movie Night - Saturday, May 25

• • • Community News • • •

Michigan Voting Rights Act (MI VRA) Virtual Town Hall

There will be a Michigan Voting Rights Act Town Hall on May 20, at 6:00pm to explain the proposed legislation, why it's important, how it's different than what exists, and how to make it a reality. While federal voting rights have been gutted, this legislation will provide protection to all of Michigan’s voters from further discrimination. Register for this town hall at virtual townhall on the MI VRA.

Pop Up Pride in the Park

Dial for Democracy

Join Voters Not Politician's "Dial for Democracy" List!

Activists across the political spectrum can all agree that picking up the phone and calling your elected officials is the most effective way to make your voice heard. In fact, many elected officials and their staff members have stated that a phone call from a constituent holds more weight than an email, tweet, or a fax.

By joining VNP's "Dial for Democracy" list, you will receive exclusive alerts when it's time to call your lawmakers on legislation or decisions that impact Michigan's democracy. These alerts will contain info and tips to help you have an easy and productive call to your local lawmaker!

If you aren't receiving exclusive Dial for Democracy alerts yet, sign up here. You'll receive alerts when critical legislation is introduced along with your state legislators' contact information and a script to use during your call.

Become an Election Worker

If you are interested in becoming an election worker in the Mt. Pleasant area, fill out the application and submit it to the appropriate location. At this time, the City of Mt. Pleasant has enough election workers, but Union Township and the surrounding townships do not. See Norma Bailey for further information ([email protected]).

Free COVID Tests

Get free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests this fall on COVIDTests.gov

Every home in the U.S. is eligible to order an additional 4 free at-⁠home tests beginning November 20. If you did not order tests this fall, you may place two orders for a total of 8 tests.

Your order of COVID tests is completely free – you won’t even pay for shipping. You can order your test kits HERE.

Donate Now!

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

Team and Committee Leaders

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

eNews for Thursday, May 9

5/9/2024

View this email in your browser

eNews for Thursday, May 9

A big thank you to Darlene Ritchie for planting flowers around our wayfair sign!

Worship Matters

We will gather online via Zoom and in person this Sunday, May 12, to worship with Rev. Drew Frantz, who will present "Mother's Day Blessings." The Zoom call starts at 10:00am for social time, and the service starts at 10:30am.

"Mother’s Day means different things to different people. We make space in this worship service for those whose connections to their mother are joyful, troubled, nonexistent, and everything in between. We also honor abstract versions of mothering including human and divine nurturing. Each of us has the power to bless and to be blessed as we explore motherhood’s many facets."

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 12 - Mother's Day Blessings
May 19 - The Jewish Wisdom of Repairing Harm

If you happen to miss being in worship, please check out Sunday Services on our website for sermon video and/or text. 2023 and prior year sermon video and/or text are located under Sermon Archives.

Minister’s Column

On Friday I went to a concert: performing at the Soaring Eagle Casino was a band called Styx that I had listened to all through my teenage years. This band was popular in the 70’s and 80’s, and almost all of the music they played in concert was from that era. Only one song was a more recent one that singer Tommy Shaw explained was composed during the pandemic.

Read the column here.

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.

- Welcome to UU Orientation - Last Sundays at 12:30pm
- UUFCM Men’s Group - 1st Mondays at 7pm on Zoom
- Game Night - 3rd Mondays at 7pm
- Central Michigan Sangha - Tuesdays at 6:45pm
- UU Discussion Group - Wednesdays at 10am
- Choir Rehearsal - Wednesdays at 7pm
- Drawing Workshop - 2nd and 4th Tuesdays at 10am
- First Friday Potluck - First Fridays at 6:30pm
- Movie Night - 4th Saturdays at 7pm
- Monthly Soul Matters Small Group Discussion - Thursday, May 30, at 6:30pm

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
Board of Trustees - Sunday, May 12, at 1:00pm
Social Justice Team - Monday, May 13, at 7:00pm
Worship Team - Tuesday, May 14, at 7:00pm

If you are interested in helping any of these teams or committees, please fill out the Volunteer Opportunity Form if you haven’t already.

General Assembly Delegates Needed - June 20-23

If you are interested in witnessing and participating in the workings of Unitarian Universalism, our Fellowship needs two delegates to attend the virtual meetings of General Assembly. These sessions will be broadcast in the UUFCM sanctuary for anyone who is interested on the following dates--anyone can attend; only delegates can vote.

Thursday, June 20, 1:00pm - 2:00pm; 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Friday, June 21, 2:30pm - 6:00pm
Saturday, June 22, 2:30pm - 6:00pm
Sunday, June 23, 3:00pm - 5:00pm

If you are interested in being an attendee, but not a delegate, we have some donated leadership funds that can support attendance. Please contact a member of the Board of Trustees if you are interested in attending or being a UUFCM delegate.

Special Meeting and Vote: Revised Principles and Values - Sunday, June 2

The seven principles that UU's have used for decades have been revised, with a new statement of values and principles centered around Love. To make this change official, a final vote will be taken at General Assembly in June. We will have a special meeting to discuss these changes and then vote electronically to express our support and/or concerns. All are welcome to discuss; only members may vote.

Stewardship Campaign Update

Although the Stewardship Campaign officially ended on April 21, please turn in your pledge by mail, online, or in the Sunday offering plate as soon as possible. The UUFCM Board will make possible adjustments to the proposed budget very soon.

UUFCM Notice of Annual Meeting

Agenda, Slate of Nominees, Proposed Budget, and Proposed Bylaw Changes

Book Discussion Group - This Sunday! May 12

The Adult RE Team and Reverend Drew are offering a book discussion group using the UUA Common Read “On Repentance and Repair.” The final session is May 12, at noon in the sanctuary.

Path to Membership Workshop - This Saturday!

Contact: Laura McBride
Saturday, May 11, at 1:00pm
This workshop is designed for those who want to understand the membership commitment to UUFCM. In this one-and-a-half to two-hour interactive hybrid session, we explore the deeper meanings and expectations of membership and shared ministry. Please contact Laura McBride to sign up and request childcare if needed for our next workshop on Saturday, May 11, at 1:00pm.

Movie Night - Saturday, May 25

• • • Community News • • •

Pop Up Pride in the Park

Dial for Democracy

Become an Election Worker

Free COVID Tests

Get free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests this fall on COVIDTests.gov

Every home in the U.S. is eligible to order an additional 4 free at-⁠home tests beginning November 20. If you did not order tests this fall, you may place two orders for a total of 8 tests.

Your order of COVID tests is completely free – you won’t even pay for shipping. You can order your test kits HERE.

Donate Now!

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

Team and Committee Leaders

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

eNews for Thursday, May 2

5/3/2024

View this email in your browser

eNews for Thursday, May 2

Saturday Clean-Up a Success!

Thank you to Norma Bailey, Jim Dealing, Jennifer Davis, Daniel Davis, Janet Olson, Darlene Ritchie, Gisela Moffit, Kurt Roeder, and Kirsten King for all their work on Saturday, April 27, cleaning up and beautifying our grounds! Beds were cleaned out, bushes trimmed, lawns raked, sidewalks edged, and the rain barrel and hoses put out, and we enjoyed lemonade, cookies, and great conversation!

Worship Matters

We will gather online via Zoom and in person this Sunday, May 5, to worship with Rev. Drew Frantz, who will present "Religious Pluralism." The Zoom call starts at 10:00am for social time, and the service starts at 10:30am.

"A defining feature of Unitarian Universalism is that we are multi-religious. Our congregations contain people from different religious traditions (Christian, Buddhist, and Jewish, for example); and people of different religious beliefs (atheist and theist, for example). We are a stronger community the more we share our traditions and beliefs with one another: learning, agreeing and disagreeing in love."

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 5 - Religious Pluralism
May 12 - Mother's Day

If you happen to miss being in worship, please check out Sunday Services on our website for sermon video and/or text. 2023 and prior year sermon video and/or text are located under Sermon Archives.

Minister’s Column

In the news this week is a series of university student protests against Israel’s ongoing military campaign in Gaza. This prompted me to look up the statement on the conflict from the Unitarian Universalist Association, and to reflect on war and protest in general.

Read the column here.

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.

- Welcome to UU Orientation - Last Sundays at 12:30pm
- UUFCM Men’s Group - 1st Mondays at 7pm on Zoom
- Game Night - 3rd Mondays at 7pm
- Central Michigan Sangha - Tuesdays at 6:45pm
- UU Discussion Group - Wednesdays at 10am
- Choir Rehearsal - Wednesdays at 7pm
- Drawing Workshop - 2nd and 4th Tuesdays at 10am
- First Friday Potluck - First Fridays at 6:30pm
- Movie Night - 4th Saturdays at 7pm
- Monthly Soul Matters Small Group Discussion - Thursday, May 30, at 6:30pm

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
Coordinating Team - Sunday, May 5, at 12:00pm
Building Team - Monday, May 6, at 6:00pm

If you are interested in helping any of these teams or committees, please fill out the Volunteer Opportunity Form if you haven’t already.

Stewardship Campaign Update

UUFCM Notice of Annual Meeting

Agenda, Slate of Nominees, Proposed Budget, and Proposed Bylaw Changes

Happy Birthday!

In May, we celebrate the birthdays of Nancy Roeder, Felix Jones, Laura Campbell, Scott Daigle, Cynthia Damer, Kate Swier, Jodi Fisher, Larry Hall, Hal Downs, Helenan Cavalieri, Phoenix Thompson, and 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.

First Friday Potluck – This Friday, May 3

Book Discussion Group - May 5 and May 12

The Adult RE Team and Reverend Drew are offering a book discussion group using the UUA Common Read “On Repentance and Repair” for two sessions - Sunday, May 5 and May 12, at noon in the sanctuary. See Drew to get your copy of the book.

Beltane Ritual - This Sunday, May 5

The Beltane Ritual will take place on Sunday, May 5, at 6:00pm. Beltane is a celebration of the earth and nature and marks the start of the traditional planting season. In ancient times farmers would build bonfires at night and walk their cattle between the flames, to ensure protection and fertility for the coming season. Beltane fires are still celebrated in Scotland, through the Beltane Fire Society. Traditionally associated with fertility and sexuality, modern Beltane Celebrations are an opportunity to take time for yourself, give thanks to the earth for its bounty and blessings. There will not be a potluck after the ritual.

Path to Membership Workshop - Saturday, May 11

Contact: Laura McBride
This workshop is designed for those who want to understand the membership commitment to UUFCM. In this one-and-a-half to two-hour interactive hybrid session, we explore the deeper meanings and expectations of membership and shared ministry. Please contact Laura McBride to sign up and request childcare if needed for our next workshop on Saturday, May 11, at 1:00pm.

• • • Community News • • •

Pop Up Pride in the Park

Dial for Democracy

Become an Election Worker

Free COVID Tests

Get free at-⁠home COVID-⁠19 tests this fall on COVIDTests.gov

Every home in the U.S. is eligible to order an additional 4 free at-⁠home tests beginning November 20. If you did not order tests this fall, you may place two orders for a total of 8 tests.

Your order of COVID tests is completely free – you won’t even pay for shipping. You can order your test kits HERE.

Donate Now!

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

Team and Committee Leaders

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