eNews: December 4th

12/4/2025

eNews for Thursday, December 4, 2025

Worship Matters

We will gather online via Zoom and in person this Sunday, December 7, to worship with Rev. Drew on "Choosing Hope." The Zoom call starts at 10:00am for social time, and the service starts at 10:30am.

"'Choosing Hope' is our worship theme for the month of December. Let’s help one another find hope in our personal lives, through the yearly challenge of a dark winter time and the individual challenges we face. And let’s remember that hope–like gratitude–is more of a practice than a feeling. How can we choose hope, and support each other in doing so?"

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

December 7: Choosing Hope
December 13: Saturday at 4:00pm - Blue Holidays

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: "Don Julin Trio"

A couple of weeks ago we had a special performance in our sanctuary, organized by Bob Busch for the purpose of bringing joy and music into the UUFCM building. Mission accomplished!

Don Julin was the band leader: an accomplished mandolin performer, composer and arranger. He assembled a trio for this concert and a few others across Michigan and Ohio. Along with a small and enthusiastic crowd, I was engaged with every song from start to finish. The trio traded riffs and solos fluidly, adding beauty and musicianship to the jazzy bluegrass repertoire they shared with us. Don narrated the performance with stories of being a travelling musician and with insights into the songs they were playing. All three musicians (mandolin, bass, and guitar) were masters of their craft, and the rapport among them was easy and solid. 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 Mondays at 6pm - resuming in January
Game Night - 3rd Mondays at 7pm
Movie Night - 4th Saturdays at 7pm - resuming in January
Readers Theater - 2nd Tuesdays at 7pm - This Tuesday!
Soul Matters Discussion Group - next meeting to be announced
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 -

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

Social Justice Team Meeting: Monday, December 8 at 6:30pm

Fellowship News

Infant Pantry Special Collection

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. Questions? Contact Tom Moffit (989-772-1602; [email protected]).

Thank you in advance for your generosity.

Voter Education Event -TODAY!

The Mt. Pleasant Area League of Women Voters and the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Michigan (UUFCM) are co-sponsoring a voter education event on Thursday, December 4, at 6:30 pm in our UUFCM building. The program will be presented in the sanctuary, and there will be refreshments and conversation in the Fellowship Hall afterwards. Inviting you to come and bring friends!

Stay Informed for UUFCM Cancellations

When we decide to cancel or postpone a UUFCM event due to weather--as we did due to last Sunday's snowstorm--we use a cell phone app called Remind to make these announcements. In the case of Sunday morning worship, we make our decision by 8:30 am.

Downloading the Remind app to your phone and signing up just takes a few minutes. Stay informed and prepared this winter! View our full cancellation policy along with instructions for signing up on the Remind app here.

Although the Remind app is the best way to stay informed, we also try to send an email and post an announcement on the website and social media.

Thank YOU Alert for the UUFCM Harvest Feast Potluck!!!

Many friends and members chipped in food, money, set up, clean up, and advice! Big thanks go out to:

Tasty food and beverages by: Victoria, Phoenix & Co., Phil, Dave, Cynthia, Carmen & Roger, Kelly G., Gisela, Cathryn, Helenan, LouAnn, Annie, James, Joyce, and Laura.

Financial support: Lonna, Gisela, LouAnn, Norma, Dave, and Laura.

Set up & clean up: Jen, Joe, Phoenix, Luna, Carmen, Roger, Cathryn, Joyce, James, Dave, and Laura.

Advice gurus: Cynthia, Rev. Drew, Victoria, and Dave.

The event was a fun meal with lots of variations, planning, and visiting. 21 of us enjoyed the meal. It was nice to be with friends!

With much appreciation,

Laura and Dave

December 13, 2025 (Saturday at 4:00)

Special Worship Service: "Blue Holidays"

The winter holiday season is supposed to be fun–but what if you’re not feeling that way? The expectation to be joyful can be stressful in itself, while family gatherings can also bring up challenges and traumas large and small. Please join us for a special service that allows time to acknowledge the difficult feelings that are present in the holiday season. You may find serenity and acceptance here; you may find comfort in the companionship of others. All are welcome.

Choosing Where to Give: End-of-Year Donations 2025

What can each of us do in response to the injustices that the Trump administration is perpetrating? Your Social Justice Coordinating Team would like to suggest that your donations in the holiday and end-of-year giving season this year support the efforts of state and national organizations which are responding to the many challenges that we are facing.

As a result of the administration’s actions, many of the organizations working for justice will continue to need additional support to combat the efforts that have been made to undo some of the protections that have been in place for many years.

If you are interested in supporting any of these organizations, a list from your Social Justice Coordinating Team of organizations that support justice can be found here.

Drop Off Free Calendars

Do you have extra 2026 calendars? Your Social Justice Coordinating Team (SJCT) will collect them to distribute to the residents of local nursing homes for the new year! You can drop them off in the box located by the nursery.

Policy Regarding Safer Inclusion of Potential Sex Offenders

On November 9, the UUFCM Board of Trustees approved a revised Policy Regarding Sexual Misconduct that had been approved at the May 10 Board meeting. After the old policy was shared with the congregation, there were concerns raised by a number of congregants that the original policy was more concerned with the welcome to a sex offender than with the safety of the members of the congregation. The concerns were shared at a Listening Circle on September 30 and in communication with members of the Safer Congregation Committee.

Based on that feedback, the Safer Congregation Committee revised the original policy and recommended it to the Board, which subsequently approved the revised policy. The Policy Regarding Safer Inclusion of Potential Sex Offenders is linked HERE. Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact any member of the Safer Congregation Committee: Rev. Drew Frantz, Mel Bailey, Norma Bailey, Sierra Burke, Kirsten King, Guy Newland, and Katie Zapoluch.

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

Path to Membership - Coming in January

A Path to Membership opportunity will be held in January on a Saturday afternoon; more to come in a few weeks. If you are interested in learning more about how UUFCM is organized, volunteer opportunities, benefits and responsibilities of membership, and more, please contact Laura McBride or Rev. Drew Frantz.

Contacts:

Laura McBride 989.772.5512 [email protected]
Rev. Drew 440.935.0129 [email protected]

Community News

Volunteers and Items Needed for Christmas Outreach

Christmas Outreach, an effort to coordinate the community for Christmas giving, is in need of financial support and gently used items to serve the 2787 individuals, 828 households, and 1220 children registered this year, about a 43% increase in numbers this year. There are multiple ways to help:

Financial:  Mail checks to Christmas Outreach of Isabella County, PO Box 1227, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48804.

Donations:  Any gently used coats, snow pants, boots, linens, hats, gloves, scarves, children’s books in good shape, large deodorant, and full-size toothpaste.  Drop off donation at Morey Courts, December 10 and 11 between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm

Volunteer:  Need to escort and to help people take the items they have received to their cars.  Volunteers are especially needed Friday, December 12 in the afternoon and Saturday, December 13 between 12:00pm and 4:00pm.

To sign up HERE!

Indivisible 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.

Facts on Petitions

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
President: Norma Bailey (989.560.3952; [email protected])
President-Elect: Guy Newland (989.944.0534; newla1g [email protected])
Treasurer: David Allan (989.941.7349; [email protected])
Secretary: Jennifer Davis (989.280.7010; [email protected])
Trustee: Annette Pratt (989.400.0173; [email protected])
Trustee: Jennifer Prout (989.400.3130; [email protected])
Trustee: Matt Collins (616-617-2274; colli2mr@gmail.com)

Team and Committee Leaders

Adult Religious Education Team - Joyce Henricks
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: November 28, 2025

11/28/2025

View this email in your browser

eNews for Thursday, November 27, 2025

Worship Matters

We will gather online via Zoom and in person this Sunday, November 30, to worship with Laura McBride who will present "Embodying Abundance" by Rev. Dr. Sandra Fees. The Zoom call starts at 10:00am for social time, and the service starts at 10:30am.

"We need ways to reopen ourselves to beauty and gratitude—and to see not only the proverbial glass being half full but also the whole glass… This is not a Pollyannaish optimism. Seeing the beautiful glass does not ignore life’s harsh realities… This outlook insists on seeking and finding the best in our lives and the lives of those around us… It invites us to embody abundance even in those mud-puddle times. As the French-Swiss poet Jean Petit-Senn wrote, ‘it’s not what we have that constitutes our abundance, but what we appreciate.’..."

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

November 30: Embodying Abundance
December 7: Choosing Hope
December 13: Saturday - Blue Holidays

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: "Faith and Gender"

With pride for our Unitarian Universalist faith and for our national leader, Rev. Dr. Sofia Betancourt, I share an excerpt from a statement on which she was lead author. This statement was signed by many other national faith leaders (Jewish, Quaker, Disciples of Christ, Presbyterian, United Church of Christ, Episcopal, and more):

To The American Public, Its Political Leaders, and Moral Teachers,
As heads of diverse religious traditions in the United States, our faiths call on us to proclaim that transgender, intersex, and nonbinary people deserve respect, love, and equal rights. During a time when our country is placing their lives under increasingly serious threat, there is a disgraceful misconception that all people of faith do not affirm the full spectrum of gender – a great many of us do. Let it be known instead that our beloveds are created in the image of God – Holy and whole. 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 - December 5th
Sleepy Time Yoga - 3rd Mondays at 6pm
Game Night - 3rd Mondays at 7pm
Movie Night - 4th Saturdays at 7pm - resuming in January
Readers Theater - 2nd Tuesdays at 7pm
Soul Matters Discussion Group - next meeting to be announced
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 - This Sunday!

Team Meetings

Building Team Meeting: Monday, December 1 at 5:30pm

Fellowship News

Thanksgiving Dinner Feast Today!

Potluck meal is planned for 4-6 pm in the Fellowship Hall on Thanksgiving Day. We still have some available seats, if you are interested. There are a few food items and prep and clean up opportunities available to make the celebration enjoyable for all!

Laura McBride 989.772.5512 [email protected]

Welcome to UU: November 30

There will be a Welcome to UU class offered on Sunday, November 30th at noon in the sanctuary. Any interested persons may attend! This is one of two parts to considering becoming a member of UUFCM or at the very least learning more about our fellowship's history and Unitarian Universalism! Please let Laura McBride know if you plan to stay for the 70 minute class. Her contact information is:
989.772.5512 or [email protected]
All are welcome!

Path to Membership - Coming in December

A Path to Membership opportunity is being planned for Saturday, December 6th or 13th 2-4:30 pm in the Social Hall. If you are interested in learning more about how UUFCM is organized, volunteer opportunities, benefits and responsibilities of membership, and more, please contact Laura McBride or Rev. Drew Frantz. If December doesn't work for you, there will be a second chance in January.

Contacts:

Laura McBride 989.772.5512 [email protected]
Rev. Drew 440.935.0129 [email protected]

Voter Education Event

December 13, 2025 (Saturday at 4:00)

Special Worship Service: "Blue Holidays"

Matt Collins elected

Matt Collins was elected to serve as a UUFCM Board of Trustees member to complete a one-year term through June 30, 2026. Congratulations, Matt!

Drop Off Free Calendars

Policy Regarding Safer Inclusion of Potential Sex Offenders

Care Request Form for UUFCM Community

Community News

Volunteers and Items Needed for Christmas Outreach

Indivisible Protests Continue!

Facts on Petitions

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: November 20th, 2025

11/20/2025

View this email in your browser

eNews for Thursday, November 20, 2025

Worship Matters

We will gather online via Zoom and in person this Sunday, November 23, to worship with Rev. Drew who will present "Nurturing Gratitude." The Zoom call starts at 10:00am for social time, and the service starts at 10:30am.

"November is the season of gratitude, and we are reminded that gratitude is a practice, not a feeling. Gratitude is especially important during hard times, and the greatest gratitude is for people, not things. How are you practicing a sense of gratitude in these hard times? Who are the people who have enriched and blessed your life?"

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

November 23: Nurturing Gratitude
November 30: Embodying Abundance

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: "The Epstein Files"

In today’s news, congress is voting to release the so-called Epstein Files. I am taking a moment to reflect on what this means for all of us. The hope and promise of these files is that they will provide more information and proof of who was guilty and complicit in this enormous, far-reaching, long-lasting, well-funded, highly organized sexual abuse of girls and women. For anyone paying attention, there is already plenty of information showing that rich and powerful men, including American presidents and British royalty, were participants in this morally disgusting and legally criminal activity. M ore...

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 Mondays at 6pm
Game Night - 3rd Mondays at 7pm
Movie Night - 4th Saturdays at 7pm - resuming in January
Readers Theater - 2nd Tuesdays at 7pm
Soul Matters Discussion Group - next meeting to be announced
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

No Team Meetings

Fellowship News

Transgender Day of Remembrance and Resilience TODAY

Thursday, November 20, 7:15 p.m.

All are welcome for a special service that honors transgender people and their allies. For 25 years, this day has been set aside to remember the far-too-many transgender victims of violence. Along with this somber commemoration and accompanying call to action, we also celebrate trans joy and resilience--the success and thriving of transgender people courageously finding themselves and living their best lives.

Drop Off Free Calendars

Policy Regarding Safer Inclusion of Potential Sex Offenders

Care Request Form for UUFCM Community

Adult RE: Book Discussion - This Sunday Week 4

The very moving memorial for Janet Olson reminds us, once again, of the fragility and preciousness of our lives. The reality and inevitability of death remains a challenge for many people.

During the first four Sundays of November, at 12:00 after services, Jim Dealing and Nancy Roeder will offer a facilitated discussion of Love and Death: My Journey Through the Valley of the Shadow by Forrest Church, pastor at All Souls UU in New York City for thirty years. The book is a series of reflections on death as his fatal cancer returns. I found it moving and profoundly helpful.

We shouldn't wait to come to terms with this reality but, as Church offers, "to live in such a way that our lives prove worth dying for." This is a perspective that all of us need to learn. It is not only for elders but for all ages.

The book (140 pages in 20 chapters) is available new from the UUA bookstore, or used from Amazon or Thrift Books. Contact Jim Dealing to indicate interest or if you have any questions.

Thanksgiving Feast: November 27

Thanksgiving is coming up and there will be a feast held at the fellowship hall at UUFCM on Thursday, November 27, 2025 for those who would like to attend Thanksgiving with others. If you are interested in attending, please contact Laura McBride as she will be coordinating the meal. If you would like to cook/donate something for the meal, text/email/call Laura.

The potluck meal is planned for 4-6 pm in the fellowship hall on Thanksgiving Day. We still have some available seats, if you are interested. There are a few food items and prep and clean up opportunities available to make the celebration enjoyable for all!

Her contact information is: 989.772.5512 or [email protected]

Welcome to UU: November 30

Path to Membership - Coming in December

A Path to Membership opportunity is being planned for Saturday, December 6th or 13th 2-4:30 pm in the Social Hall. If you are interested in learning more about how UUFCM is organized, volunteer opportunities, benefits and responsibilities of membership, and more, please contact Laura McBride or Rev. Drew Frantz. If December doesn't work for you, there will be a second chance in January.
Contacts:
Laura McBride 989.772.5512 [email protected]
Rev. Drew 440.935.0129 [email protected]

UUFCM Environmental Protection Corner

Jim Moreno attended the Michigan Climate Action Network conference in Lansing in September and brought back a list of agencies that work to protect the environment. We share those with you to peruse to see if you would like to support one or more of them.

Michigan Climate Action Network - miclimateaction.org
Citizens Climate Lobby Michigan - citizensclimatelobby.org
Clean Water Action - www.cleanwater.org
Environmental Defense Fund - www.edf.org
Oil & Water Don’t Mix - www.oilandwaterdontmix.org
Michigan League of Conservation Voters - www.michiganlcv.org
Michigan Recycling Coalition - www.Michiganrecycles.org

As well, did you know that micro plastics have been found throughout the ocean, on the United States continental divide and even at the Balcony on Mt. Everest (around 8,440 meters or 29,000 feet), which is the highest point yet where microplastics have been found. Microplastics have also been found in fish, vegetables, human breast milk (Journal of Polymers), and arterial plaques in humans (New England Journal of Medicine). While specific health issues have not been tied to microplastics, it’s important to know they are everywhere.

Based on this information, your Social Justice Coordinating Team is encouraging you this month to start a habit (if you don’t have it already) to NEVER take a plastic bag from the store when you buy your groceries. Bring cloth or net bags, keeping them in your car or simply by the door when you head out to buy groceries.

Community News

Chop Wood, Carry Water

Another way that you can continue to make a difference is to contact our senators and representatives, and an easy way to do that is to utilize Chop Wood, Carry Water, a Substack publication which sends daily emails with actions to take, including scripts. This is the link to subscribe:
https://chopwoodcarrywaterdailyactions.substack.com/

Indivisible Protests Continue!

Native American Heritage Month

Central Michigan University invites community members to its multiple events celebrating Native American Heritage Month. Click on flyer for events, dates and times.

Facts on Petitions

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

Adult Religious Education Team - Jodi Fisher
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.

eNews November 13, 2025

11/13/2025

View this email in your browser

eNews for Thursday, November 13, 2025

Worship Matters

We will gather online via Zoom and in person this Sunday, November 16, to worship with Rev. Drew who will present "Guest at Your Table." The Zoom call starts at 10:00am for social time, and the service starts at 10:30am.

"Guest at Your Table is a program of the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee to partner with human rights organizations domestically and abroad. This year Guest at Your Table supports an LGBTQ+ asylum house in Pennsylvania; a human rights organization in Central America; a commune for Haitian refugees in the Dominican Republic; and a river defender in Honduras. In our worship service we celebrate the good work being done; and we recognize that together we create greater justice and greater joy."

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

November 16: Guest at Your Table
November 23: Nurturing Gratitude

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: "Time Change"

The time change this year did not hit me right away. I guess I was still in lovely fall weather / pretty foliage mode. Then one day last week it was getting dark at around 5:30 and I was surprised. When I saw there was a forecast of snow on Sunday, I did some leaf raking on Saturday—but still wasn’t prepared for the day of snow that followed and a settling feeling of winter weather. 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 Mondays at 6pm this Monday
Game Night - 3rd Mondays at 7pm this Monday
Movie Night - 4th Saturdays at 7pm - resuming in January
Readers Theater - 2nd Tuesdays at 7pm
Soul Matters Discussion Group - next meeting to be announced
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 Meeting: Thursday, November 13th 7:00pm
Youth RE Team Meeting: Sunday, November 16th 3:30
Communication Team Meeting: Wednesday, November 19th 4:30pm

Fellowship News

New UUFCM Board Member Recommended

The UUFCM Board of Trustees is recommending Matthew Collins to replace Marco Muñoz-Fortino who has resigned his one-year trustee position on the Board of Trustees. Online voting by members will start at noon on Sunday, November 16, and end at midnight on Wednesday, November 19. If affirmed by the members of the congregation, Matthew will begin serving on the Board immediately.

Special Plate Collection This Sunday, November 16

This Sunday, a collection will be taken to support the UUSC (Unitarian Universalist Service Committee) Guest at Your Table program. 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 Guest at Your Table in the memo.

If you wish to have a membership in UUSC, fill out the special UUSC envelope with your cash or check made out to UUSC, and put it in the collection plate.

Care Request Form for UUFCM Community

UUFCM Environmental Protection Corner

Michigan Climate Action Network - miclimateaction.org
Citizens Climate Lobby Michigan - citizensclimatelobby.org
Clean Water Action - www.cleanwater.org
Environmental Defense Fund - www.edf.org
Oil & Water Don’t Mix - www.oilandwaterdontmix.org
Michigan League of Conservation Voters - www.michiganlcv.org
Michigan Recycling Coalition - www.Michiganrecycles.org

UUA Bylaws Renewal Team - Today!

Unitarian Universalists are called to imagine and build systems that truly reflect our values, and you’re invited to join this work through the UUA Bylaws Renewal Team. Regardless of your current level of involvement in the faith, your input is needed to help the Team explore key issues of leadership, authority, and institutional structures as we move our faith forward together. Join an upcoming webinar on November 13 to get involved.

For more information and to register click here.

Session 2: Article V
Date: Thursday, November 13, 2025
Time: 8:00pm — 9:30pm ET
Register NOW for the November 13th session.

Sleepy Time Yoga - Monday, November 17

Kelly Lawson is offering an evening of Yoga Nidra on Monday, November 17th, 6:00-7:00 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).

Join Kelly for this gentle and restful practice of Yoga Nidra! The evening will begin with gentle movement before finding rest in Savasana (final resting pose) for a guided meditation.

Game Night - Monday, November 17 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, November 18 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.

Adult RE: Book Discussion - This Sunday Week 3

Thanksgiving Feast: November 27

Welcome to UU: November 30

Community News

Don Julin Trio ’25 Concert November 19

All are invited to an evening with Don Julin and His Trio on Wednesday, November 19, at 7:00 pm in the UUFCM sanctuary. Don Julin is a world-renowned mandolinist, and he and his trio will provide fun for the whole family. The suggested donation is $25, and more information can be found at https://www.facebook.com/share/1A2Hg55J8F/.

Chop Wood, Carry Water

Indivisible Protests Continue!

Native American Heritage Month

Central Michigan University invites community members to its multiple events celebrating Native American Heritage Month. Click on flyer for events, dates and times.

Facts on Petitions

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: November 6, 2025

11/6/2025

View this email in your browser

eNews PROMPT for Thursday, November 6, 2025

Worship Matters

We will gather online via Zoom and in person this Sunday, November 9, to worship with Rev. Drew who will present "God Is a River." The Zoom call starts at 10:00am for social time, and the service starts at 10:30am.

"In Unitarian Universalism we encompass many beliefs about the nature of – and the existence of – the divine. Does God exist? Where and what is God? One vision of the divine, blending Religious Naturalism and Taoism, is that God is a river. Let’s see how this idea challenges or reinforces your own notion of mystery and of ultimate reality."

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

November 16: Guest at Your Table
November 23: Nurturing Gratitude

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: "Gratitude Questions"

A group of UU ministers collaborates to come up with monthly themes that can serve as topics for worship as well as topics for small groups. The theme for November is “Nurturing Gratitude.” The template for the small groups includes reflection questions such as the ones listed below. The questions, however, are not intended to be answered in the usual way. Rather, we are invited to find a question that speaks to us and to contemplate that question repeatedly throughout the month. It’s about living with the question, rather than coming up with an answer. This different way of engaging with questions takes some getting used to. 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 Mondays at 6pm
Game Night - 3rd Mondays at 7pm
Movie Night - 4th Saturdays at 7pm - resuming in January
Readers Theater - 2nd Tuesdays at 7pm
Soul Matters Discussion Group - next meeting to be announced
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, November 9th 1:00pm
Social Justice Team Meeting: Monday, November 10th 6:30pm

Fellowship News

Welcome, Elijah Dean Emerick

The newest member of our UUFCM community, Elijah Dean Emerick was born on October 30 to parents Elaine and Matthew Emerick. At 6 lbs. 11 oz., the baby arrived three weeks ahead of full term and is being cared for at Sparrow Hospital in Lansing until he is ready to come home.

In the words of a favorite UU hymn:

A child is born among us and we feel a special glow.
We see time's endless journey as we watch the baby grow.
We thrill to hear imagination freely running wild.
We dedicate our minds and heart to the spirit of this child.

May our congregation rejoice in this birth; may we support mother, father, and big brother Charles, and may we dedicate ourselves to creating and sustaining a world of love, peace and safety for baby Elijah.

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

UUA Bylaws Renewal Team

Session 2: Article V
Date: Thursday, November 13, 2025
Time: 8:00pm — 9:30pm ET
Register NOW for the November 13th session.

Adult RE: Book Discussion - This Sunday

Stay Informed for UUFCM Cancellations – use REMIND

When we decide to cancel or postpone a UUFCM event due to weather, we use a cell phone app called Remind to make these announcements. In the case of Sunday morning worship, we make our decision by 8:30 am.

Downloading the Remind app to your phone and signing up just takes a few minutes. Stay informed and prepared this winter! View our full cancellation policy along with instructions for signing up on the Remind app here.

Community News

Update and Call to Action for Trans Rights from Equality Michigan

The Michigan State Board of Education is preparing to adopt updated health education standards that would make sex education scientifically accurate and inclusive of LGBTQ+ identities.

But right-wing extremist groups like Moms for Liberty flooded the process with misinformation and are pressuring the State Board of Education and the Michigan Department of Education to strip out references to gender identity for middle and high school students. Their campaign is making some left-leaning board members and the interim state superintendent shaky ahead of the November 13 meeting, when the final vote to adopt the standards happens.

While the standards aren't binding and schools are not mandated to follow them, many schools use them as a model, and removing LGBTQ+ inclusion at the state level would send a harmful message that discrimination is acceptable. Transgender students, like all students, deserve safe, inclusive classrooms that affirm who they are.

Tell the State Board of Education and the Interim State Superintendent to stand up for Michigan's trans students and keep the inclusive standards intact. Take action online here:

Send your message now

Equality Michigan Action Network also invites you to attend the November 13 State Board of Education Meeting in Lansing to protect trans students.

Sign up to attend

Don Julin Trio ’25 Concert November 19

Chop Wood, Carry Water

Indivisible Protests Continue!

Indivisible Central Michigan plans on continuing their weekly Saturday protests at the usual location (corner of Mission and Broadway), but will be shifting the time to 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.

Native American Heritage Month

Central Michigan University invites community members to its multiple events celebrating Native American Heritage Month. Click on flyer for events, dates and times.

Facts on Petitions

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: October 30, 2025

10/30/2025

View this email in your browser

eNews for Thursday, October 30, 2025

Youth RE Visits Papa’s Pumpkin Patch!

Two Youth RE families, our program facilitator and assistant, and Norma Bailey spent the afternoon of Sunday, October 26, at Papa’s Pumpkin Patch. We went on a hayride, got lost in the corn maze, petted the animals, the children rode the train, and we all enjoyed fresh cider and donuts. It was a really lovely way to spend the day!

Fall Building Clean-up Went Well!

Thank you to Norma Bailey, Bob Busch, Daniel Davis, Jim Dealing, Drew Frantz, Kirsten King, Joe Middleton, and Darlene Ritchie for cleaning up the outside of our building on Saturday, October 25. It looks great, so be sure to tell them so when you see them!

Worship Matters

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

"This Sunday we perform our yearly ritual of honoring the ancestors. In keeping with the various traditions of All Souls Day, Samhain, and Día de los Muertos, we take this day to remember those who have died and to welcome them as living spirits. What do we have to learn from the ancestors? How can we keep alive their memory and honor them?"

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

November 2: Day of the Dead

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: "North Manchester"

On Sunday night and Monday this week I travelled to North Manchester, Indiana to inter my father’s ashes in the Pleasant Hill Cemetery. North Manchester is the town where my dad grew up, where he and my mother met in high school and where they both attended college. When I was a kid, growing up in Massachusetts, we would come here occasionally and visit my father’s parents in a local nursing home. They are now buried in a plot close to my father’s, and adjacent to the cemetery is the church where my father’s parents first met. 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 Mondays at 6pm
Game Night - 3rd Mondays at 7pm
Movie Night - 4th Saturdays at 7pm - Due to everyone's hectic pace, we are taking a break from movie night but will resume in January. Enjoy your holidays and see you in 2026.
Readers Theater - 2nd Tuesdays at 7pm
Soul Matters Discussion Group - next meeting to be announced
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 Meeting: Tuesday, November 3rd 5:30pm
Fellowship Life Coordinating Team Meeting: Sunday, November 2nd 12:00

Fellowship News

UUA Bylaws Renewal Team

Unitarian Universalists are called to imagine and build systems that truly reflect our values, and you’re invited to join this work through the UUA Bylaws Renewal Team. Regardless of your current level of involvement in the faith, your input is needed to help the Team explore key issues of leadership, authority, and institutional structures as we move our faith forward together. Join an upcoming webinar on October 30 or November 13 to get involved.

For more information and to register click here.

Session 1: Portions of Article IV — Sections 4.12, 4.13, 4.14 (e) & (f), and 4.16 (b)
Date: Thursday, October 30, 2025
Time: 7:00pm — 8:30pm ET
Register NOW for the October 30th session.

Session 2: Article V
Date: Thursday, November 13, 2025
Time: 8:00pm — 9:30pm ET
Register NOW for the November 13th session.

Infant Pantry

Adult RE: Book Discussion

Stay Informed for UUFCM Cancellations – use REMIND

Beware of Text Scams

Check out this informative Youtube video! Click Here!

Community News

Don Julin Trio ’25 Concert November 19

Chop Wood, Carry Water

Indivisible Protests Continue!

Update and Call to Action for Trans Rights from Equality Michigan

In case you missed it, after months of gridlock, Michigan lawmakers finally passed the state budget, and every single one of the original anti-trans provisions was removed. That only happened because you spoke up. Hundreds of you called, emailed, and made it clear that trans people are our neighbors, coworkers, and family, and that hate has no place in our state budget.

We stopped extremists from holding Michigan's state budget hostage, but we've already had to turn our attention to the next fight: inclusive health education standards are under attack. Keep reading for more.

The Michigan State Board of Education is preparing to adopt updated health education standards that would make sex education scientifically accurate and inclusive of LGBTQ+ identities.

Tell the State Board of Education and the Interim State Superintendent to stand up for Michigan's trans students and keep the inclusive standards intact. Take action online here:

Send your message now

Equality Michigan Action Network also invites you to attend the November 13 State Board of Education Meeting in Lansing to protect trans students.

Sign up to attend

Monthly Online Support for Trans People and Families

The Woodlands is a monthly online gathering designed for trans children, youth, and adults—as well as the parents and caregivers of trans people. Each session will begin with a shared message and grounding ritual, followed by breakout rooms tailored to different communities within our circle, and we come back together for a release. Sessions will be about an hour and a half.

Each breakout room—co-facilitated by two chaplains—will offer space for meaningful check-ins where we can honor our grief, celebrate our joy, and support one another. The spirit of each room will reflect the people within it.

For example:

The Sequoias Room: for parents and caregivers of trans people
The Saplings Room: for trans children and youth
The Sycamores Room: for trans adults

The Woodlands will gather on the first Sunday of the month:

Sunday, November 2nd
Sunday, December 7th

TIME: 4:00pm EST / 3:00pm CST / 2:00pm MST / 1:00pm PST

Facts on Petitions

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: October 23, 2025

10/23/2025

View this email in your browser

eNews for Thursday, October 23, 2025

UUFCM members and friends living their values!

Worship Matters

We will gather online via Zoom and in person this Sunday, October 26, to worship with Rev. Drew who will present "Cultivating Compassion." The Zoom call starts at 10:00am for social time, and the service starts at 10:30am.

"This Sunday we explore several aspects of compassion, including having compassion for ourselves and for others–including difficult people. Our universalist theology teaches that the primary characteristic of God is not judgment but compassion. How can we cultivate greater compassion within ourselves?"

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

October 26: Cultivating Compassion
November 2: Day of the Dead

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: No King's Day 2

"Getting ready for the No Kings demonstration last Saturday, I was nervous. I had decided to wear my “Sunday best,” including a stole, to be recognized as clergy. And my head was full of the images from the previous week of clergy at protests in Chicago and Portland being attacked and shot with pepper balls by armed law enforcement. I summoned my courage, said goodbye to my wife, and headed down to the protest." 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 Mondays at 6pm
Game Night - 3rd Mondays at 7pm
Movie Night - 4th Saturdays at 7pm This Saturday
Readers Theater - 2nd Tuesdays at 7pm
Soul Matters Discussion Group - next meeting to be announced
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 This Sunday

Team Meetings

Adult RE Team Meeting: Monday, October 27 at 7:00pm

Fellowship News

October Cleanup - This Saturday!

Movie Night "Big" October 25 at 7:00pm

Josh is a 12 year old who like many kids is tired of being told what to do and wants to be big. At a carnival, he sees a Zoltar machine promising to make wishes come true. As soon as Josh puts his coin in, Zoltan spits out a card, "Your Wish has been granted." Who would believe a wish would be granted. Certainly not Josh who goes to bed and wakes up the next day a 30 year old. Join us at the Fellowship Hall at 7:00 on the 25th to see how the mind of a 12 year old handles the body of a 30 year old.

Welcome to UU Sunday October 26

This orientation is geared to newcomers, visitors, and those seeking to learn more about Unitarian Universalism and this UU fellowship. It is offered every month both in person in the fellowship hall and via Zoom, typically on the last Sunday at 12:00pm. Sessions run approximately an hour and a half.

For more info or to register for Welcome to UU, contact:
Rev. Drew: 440-935-0129 [email protected]

Please let Drew know if you will be attending via Zoom by the Friday prior to the orientation.

CUUPs Samhain Ritual - October 26 - 6:00pm

Samhain (pronounced SAH-win) is a holiday known by another name - Halloween. The ancients believed this was the time of year when the veil between the living and those passed was the thinnest. It is a time to remember those who have passed before us and listen to their stories that still live on inside us. It is also the Pagan “new year” with death and birth being two sides of the same coin. We will hold the ritual promptly at 6:00pm.

UUA Bylaws Renewal Team

Unitarian Universalists are called to imagine and build systems that truly reflect our values, and you’re invited to join this work through the UUA Bylaws Renewal Team. Regardless of your current level of involvement in the faith, your input is needed to help the Team explore key issues of leadership, authority, and institutional structures as we move our faith forward together. Join an upcoming webinar on October 30 or November 13 to get involved.

For more information and to register click here.

Session 2: Article V
Date: Thursday, November 13, 2025
Time: 8:00pm — 9:30pm ET
Register NOW for the November 13th session.

Adult RE: Book Discussion

The very moving memorial for Janet Olson reminds us, once again, of the fragility and preciousness of our lives. The reality and inevitability of death remains a challenge for many people.

During the four Sundays of November, at 12:00 after services, Jim Dealing and Nancy Roeder will offer a facilitated discussion of Love and Death: My Journey Through the Valley of the Shadow by Forrest Church, pastor at All Souls UU in New York City for thirty years. The book is a series of reflections on death as his fatal cancer returns. I found it moving and profoundly helpful.

We shouldn't wait to come to terms with this reality but, as Church offers, "to live in such a way that our lives prove worth dying for." This is a perspective that all of us need to learn. It is not only for elders but for all ages.

The book (140 pages in 20 chapters) is available new from the UUA bookstore, or used from Amazon or Thrift Books. Contact Jim Dealing to indicate interest or if you have any questions.

Stay Informed for UUFCM Cancellations – use REMIND

Beware of Text Scams

Check out this informative Youtube video! Click Here!

Community News

Indivisible Meeting with Guy Newland as speaker!

Indivisible Central Michigan will be meeting Thursday, October 23, at 6:30 pm in the Library Annex. All are welcome!

League of Women Voters Movie and Conversation

The League of Women Voters of the Mt. Pleasant Area invites community members to attend a showing of the video Suffragette on Wednesday, October 29, 5:30-8:00 at Veterans Memorial Library.

Facts on Petitions

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: October 16, 2025

10/16/2025

View this email in your browser

eNews for Thursday, October 16, 2025

Worship Matters

We will gather online via Zoom and in person this Sunday, October 12, to worship with Rev. Drew who will present "Prophetic Witness: Imara Jones." The Zoom call starts at 10:00am for social time, and the service starts at 10:30am.

"Imara Jones presented the Ware Lecture at General Assembly this past June – the keynote address of our national gathering which boasts past speakers including Mary Oliver and Martin Luther King. Imara Jones is a trans woman and an award-winning journalist. Her talk on how trans people are perceived in America, socially and politically, is both inspiring and sobering. This Sunday we reflect on her message and its meaning for us."

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

October 19: Prophetic Witness: Imara Jones
October 26: Cultivating Compassion
November 2: Day of the Dead

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: "HUUMA Retreat"

As I write this I am the annual retreat for the Heartland chapter of the UU Minister’s Association (HUUMA), serving Michigan, Indiana and Kentucky. A small group of us is gathered here at a retreat center in northern Indiana: ministers serving congregations in Detroit, Petoskey, Louisville, Bloomington and more; as well as retired ministers, student ministers, and UUA staff. 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 Mondays at 6pm This Monday
Game Night - 3rd Mondays at 7pm This Monday
Movie Night - 4th Saturdays at 7pm
Readers Theater - 2nd Tuesdays at 7pm
Soul Matters Discussion Group - next meeting to be announced
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

Youth RE Team Meeting: Sunday, October 19 at 6:00pm

Fellowship News

Annual Harvest Feast

Our annual Harvest Feast on Sunday, October 12, was a great success! While fewer of us were able to attend, those of us who did shared a delicious meal and great conversation! Thanks so much to Jen Prout for setting everything up for us!

Special Plate Collection - THIS Sunday, October 19

This Sunday, a collection will be taken for the CMU Student Food Pantry which works to alleviate the challenges and hardships of food insecurity that many CMU students encounter during their academic career. 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 CMU Student Food Pantry in the memo. If you prefer to donate care items, hygiene products, cleaning products, and always toilet paper, paper towels, and laundry detergent are always needed.

Adult RE: Book Discussion

The very moving memorial for Janet Olson reminds us, once again, of the fragility and preciousness of our lives. The reality and inevitability of death remains a challenge for many people.

During the four Sundays of November, at 12:00 after services, Jim Dealing and Nancy Roeder will offer a facilitated discussion of Love and Death: My Journey Through the Valley of the Shadow by Forrest Church, pastor at All Souls UU in New York City for thirty years. The book is a series of reflections on death as his fatal cancer returns. I found it moving and profoundly helpful.

We shouldn't wait to come to terms with this reality but, as Church offers, "to live in such a way that our lives prove worth dying for." This is a perspective that all of us need to learn. It is not only for elders but for all ages.

The book (140 pages in 20 chapters) is available new from the UUA bookstore, or used from Amazon or Thrift Books. Contact Jim Dealing to indicate interest or if you have any questions.

Sleepy Time Yoga - Monday, October 20

Kelly Lawson is offering an evening of Yoga Nidra on Monday, October 20th, 6:00-7:00 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).

Join Kelly for this gentle and restful practice of Yoga Nidra! The evening will begin with gentle movement before finding rest in Savasana (final resting pose) for a guided meditation.

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

The Crafty U’s - Tuesday, October 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.

October Cleanup

Saturday, October 25 – 9:30am-12:30pm
We’re planning to trim the evergreen bushes, clip off the dead lilac flowers, bring in the hose, pick up sticks, rake, weed, etc. Please come and help out as many hands make the work much lighter! Bring your yard tools if possible. Or if you want to tackle one of these tasks on a different day, contact Norma Bailey ([email protected]) and she will get you situated!

Movie Night "Big" October 25 at 7:00pm

Welcome to UU Sunday October 26

This orientation is geared to newcomers, visitors, and those seeking to learn more about Unitarian Universalism and this UU fellowship. It is offered every month both in person in the fellowship hall and via Zoom, typically on the last Sunday at 12:00pm. Sessions run approximately an hour and a half.

For more info or to register for Welcome to UU, contact:
Rev. Drew: 440-935-0129 [email protected]

Please let Drew know whether you will be attending via Zoom or in person by the Friday prior to the orientation.

CUUPs Samhain Ritual - October 26 - 6:00pm

Stay Informed for UUFCM Cancellations – use REMIND

Community News

No Kings 2 October 18

Indivisible Central Michigan will be joining the national NO KINGS 2 protests on Saturday, October 18 from 11:00 am -1:00 pm. The event will be on Mission Street, between Bluegrass and Broomfield. This is a national coalition protest, with over 140 partners, including 50501, ACLU, College Democrats of America, Common Cause, Fair Share America, Friends of the Earth, Greenpeace, Human Rights Campaign, Interfaith Alliance, Labor Today International and Women’s March! Please join to be part of a massive turnout to protest!

League of Women Voters Movie and Conversation

The League of Women Voters of the Mt. Pleasant Area invites community members to attend a showing of the video Suffragette on Wednesday, October 29, 5:30-8:00 at Veterans Memorial Library.

Facts on Petitions

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 October 9, 2025

10/9/2025

View this email in your browser

eNews for Thursday, October 9, 2025

Worship Matters

We will gather online via Zoom and in person this Sunday, October 12, to worship with Norma Bailey who will present "Siding with Love" by Fred Small. The Zoom call starts at 10:00am for social time, and the service starts at 10:30am.

"Fred Small, a minister at Arlington Street Church in Boston, shares in his homily that the essence of Unitarian Universalism is siding with love in everything we say or do. We will also acknowledge two significant days where we can share our love – October 11, National Coming Out Day, and October 13, Indigenous Peoples’ Day."

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

October 12: Siding with Love
October 19: Prophetic Witness: Imara Jones
October 26: Cultivating Compassion

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:

"Monday, October 13 is Indigenous People’s Day. To me the core of this holiday is for everyone to appreciate the cultural wisdom and beauty of Native Americans, celebrating their unique place in the tapestry of this country. And the reason we need to have such a holiday in the first place is that native people and native culture have been widely and systematically disrespected and mistreated. It comes naturally to me to approach this holiday with a mindset of superiority: my people (white people) have more power and money than Native Americans, generally speaking. We have oppressed them throughout the history of this nation. Therefore, as a woke white person (aware of historical systems of oppression), I should honor Native Americans on this day to be nice—as a gesture toward racial equity and in recognition of the harm done by my ancestors." More...

Office Hours Cancelled Next Week

Rev. Drew will be away at a minister’s retreat from Sunday October 12 - Wednesday October 15. Office hours will be cancelled on Tuesday and Wednesday. With any urgent business, you can still reach Drew by cell phone.

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 Mondays at 6pm
Game Night - 3rd Mondays at 7pm
Movie Night - 4th Saturdays at 7pm
Readers Theater - 2nd Tuesdays at 7pm This Tuesday!
Soul Matters Discussion Group - next meeting to be announced
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 Meeting: October 9 - 7:00pm
Board Meeting: October 12 - 2:00pm
Social Justice Meeting: October 13 - 6:30pm
Communications Team: October 15 - 4:30pm

Fellowship News

CMU Banned Books Week

Read-in on Friday, October 10 from 1-5:00 on the east lawn next to Park Library on CMU’s campus.

Vigil for Humanity October 10

All are invited to a Community Interfaith Vigil for Humanity - To Recognize and Rekindle the Sacred Light in One Another Amidst the Chaos and Darkness. The Vigil will be held Friday, October 10, 2025 @ 7 pm at the Town Center in downtown Mt. Pleasant, MI, the corner of Main and Broadway (rain location Library Annex). All are Welcome; come join us and bring your family.

UUFCM Annual Harvest Feast - October 12

Plan to attend the annual harvest feast right after the worship service on Sunday October 12th, in the library annex. All are welcome: feel free to bring a dish if you are able. Contact Annette Pratt (989-400-0173) or Jen Prout (989-400-3130) to coordinate.

October Cleanup

Community News

Hispanic Heritage Month

Central Michigan University invites community members to attend the various events on campus celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, September 15 – October 15. All are welcome! See the calendar for events.

Indigenous Peoples Day Event MidMichigan College, October 13

MidMichigan College, in partnership with the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe, is inviting community members to an Indigenous Peoples’ Day celebration on Monday, Oct. 13. The program runs from 10 a.m. to noon in the Community Room on Mid’s Mt. Pleasant Campus. This event is free and open to the public.

No Kings 2 October 18

League of Women Voters Movie and Conversation

The League of Women Voters of the Mt. Pleasant Area invites community members to attend a showing of the video Suffragette on Wednesday, October 29, 5:30-8:00 at Veterans Memorial Library.

Facts on Petitions

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 October 2, 2025

10/2/2025

View this email in your browser

eNews for Thursday, October 2, 2025

Thanks to all who came to write letters to Pennsylvania voters. We sent 160 letters to encourage them to participate in the election of Supreme Court justices.

Worship Matters

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

"Bishop Mariann Budde, leader of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington and the Washington National Cathedral, is well-known for a passionate sermon she delivered at Donald Trump’s inauguration this year. Her example inspires those who would speak truth to power. Bishop Budde’s other published writings are also inspiring, making her a model of faith and wisdom."

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

October 5: Prophetic Witness: Mariann Budde
October 12: Siding with Love
October 19: Prophetic Witness: Irma Jones

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: "Grand Blanc"

I was enjoying my Sunday off when I saw the news: multiple deaths in a church shooting in Michigan. For the rest of the day I worried: Are those people OK? Are my people OK? And… What can I do? We live in a country where mass shootings are so frequent that they almost don’t register as big news sometimes. School shootings, parade shootings—and yes, church shootings. The feelings of fear, helplessness, and rage are all-too familiar. My rage is not against the shooter, but against the system. How have we become a nation that engenders so much violence? 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 Mondays at 6pm
Game Night - 3rd Mondays at 7pm
Movie Night - 4th Saturdays at 7pm
Readers Theater - 2nd Tuesdays at 7pm
Soul Matters Discussion Group - next meeting to be announced
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 Meeting: Monday, October 6, 5:30pm
Worship Team Meeting: Thursday, October 9, 7:00pm

Fellowship News

Celebration of Life Janet Olson

Sunday, October 5th 12:00 luncheon / 1:00 service in the UUFCM Sanctuary

Janet Olson, beloved member of our Fellowship, died unexpectedly on September 9. You can read her obituary here. Please join us to celebrate and remember her life on Sunday, October 5th. All are welcome for a luncheon at noon, followed by a service at 1:00. In honor of Janet's fun-loving spirit, everyone is encouraged to wear tie-dye.

First Friday Potluck

Infant Pantry

Vigil for Humanity October 10

All are invited to a Community Interfaith Vigil for Humanity - To Recognize and Rekindle the Sacred Light in One Another Amidst the Chaos and Darkness. The Vigil will be held Friday, October 10, 2025 @ 7 pm at the Town Center in downtown Mt. Pleasant, MI, the corner of Main and Broadway. All are Welcome; come join us and bring your family.

UUFCM Annual Harvest Feast - October 12

Plan to attend the annual harvest feast right after the worship service on Sunday October 12th, in the library annex. Sign up sheets are in the Fellowship Hall this Sunday or you can contact Annette Pratt (989-400-0173) or Jen Prout (989-400-3130) to sign up.

October Cleanup

Saturday, October 19 – 9:30am-12:30pm
We’re planning to trim the evergreen bushes, clip off the dead lilac flowers, bring in the hose, pick up sticks, rake, weed, etc. Please come and help out as many hands make the work much lighter! Bring your yard tools if possible. Or if you want to tackle one of these tasks on a different day, contact Norma Bailey ([email protected]) and she will get you situated!

2025-2026 UUFCM Board Goals

Each year, the UUFCM Board of Trustees establishes goals for itself in addition to the regular business of the Board. This year its goals are:

Support the production of a new UUFCM Website

Explore and make a recommendation regarding a church management system to handle directory, pledges, and master data base

Identify and act on the resistance to the Trump administration's actions and policies

Refine the Policy on the Evaluation of Fellowship Ministry

Update the Finance Team responsibilities

Feel free to contact any member of the Board if you have questions or suggestions. Board members’ contact information is listed at the bottom of the eNews.

Community News

Hispanic Heritage Month

Ballot Proposal Forum

On Tuesday, October 7, from 7:00-8:30 on Zoom, MUUSJN (Michigan UU Social Justice Network) will present a ballot proposal forum to learn about the key points of the multiple petitions being circulated in Michigan for the 2026 midterm election. Please plan to attend in order to make an informed decision on whether to sign a petition. Register at bit.ly/BallotPropForum.

Indigenous Peoples Day Event MidMichigan College, October 13

No Kings 2 October 18

Indivisible Central Michigan will be joining the national NO KINGS 2 protests on Saturday, October 18 from11:00 am -1:00 pm. The event will be on Mission Street, between Bluegrass and Broomfield. This is a national coalition protest, with over 140 partners, including 50501, ACLU, College Democrats of America, Common Cause, Fair Share America, Friends of the Earth, Greenpeace, Human Rights Campaign, Interfaith Alliance, Labor Today International and Women’s March! Please join to be part of a massive turnout to protest!

League of Women Voters Movie and Conversation

The League of Women Voters of the Mt. Pleasant Area invites community members to attend a showing of the video Suffragette on Wednesday, October 29, 5:30-8:00 at Veterans Memorial Library.

Facts on Petitions

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.

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