A Unitarian Universalist Church | 1800 Bell Ave. Des Moines, IA 50315
515-244-8603
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Sunday, January 12, 2025
9:30 a.m.
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Even if determinism is true, one of the determinants at work on us is a concept of freedom. But what is it?
Join the live service on Zoom!
Zoom Passcode: Safford
(Please mute your mic before the service begins!)
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Service Volunteers - January 12 | |
Celebrant: Diane Ford
Song Leader: Andy Curl
Musicians: UU Singers
AV Volunteer: Rob Malcomson
Pastoral Care Associate: John Morrow
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Forum
Facing Death with Life
Please join Hilary Hippen and Linda Lemons as they engage in a conversation sharing their experiences in living with suicidal thoughts and behaviors, whether within oneself or with a family member, neighbor, or treatment provider. Our goal is to create a safe brave space that surrounds a painful challenging experience with care and love. This topic was suggested by previous participants of Facing Death with Life that Hilary has taught in the past and is facilitating again starting January 19th.
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Our Congregation: Spotlights | |
As a reminder, the Sunday spotlights on Our Congregation are reserved for information from a church-recognized group (e.g., committee, Faith in Action partner) about church wide events and activities, or topics of urgency to the congregation. Spotlights should be written out and no longer than 2 minutes (approximately 250 words). To submit a Spotlight request please complete the Spotlight Request Form. Questions? Reach out to celebrants@ucdsm.org. | |
Room 114 is available as a Quiet Room during service. | |
Visit the Caring Community Webpage for the following options:
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Caring Ministry – for temporary assistance, such as meals or rides, or to volunteer (515) 423-0847 or email caring@ucdsm.org.
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Pastoral care - for support through a difficult time email pastoralcareteam@ucdsm.org.
Check the news feed in Realm if you missed last Sunday's Joys & Sorrows.
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Singing Our UU Gratitude! | |
Please take a moment to share a thank you or kudos. Submissions will be shared on the board in Griffin Hall and in upcoming worship services. Please click the button below to fill out the form. | |
Survey says ...
At the end of 2024, the Capital Campaign steering committee sent out a survey asking for feedback about our building, parking lots and grounds. Here's what one church member had to say about the Auditorium:
"Stage needs to be accessible and lighting improved. Seating should be updated and should be more accessible to people with mobility issues. The stage could use some updates to make it more visually appealing. I think the stage could be set up to be a more flexible space that could be used well for services, concerts and meetings. Heating during the winter isn't always the best."
Wondering what other feedback we received? You can find a summary of the survey results here.
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CHURCH ANNOUNCEMENTS & NEWS | |
Office Closed Monday, January 20 | |
The church office will be closed in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday, January 20.
"If you can't fly then run, if you can't run then walk, if you can't walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.”
-Martin Luther King Jr. (April 1960 address at Spelman College)
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We are seeking friendly individuals to assist with hospitality, including greeting individuals on Sunday mornings and helping out in the kitchen. If you enjoy making others feel welcome and ensuring a smooth experience, we would love to have you join us!
To get involved or learn more, please contact: hospitality@ucdsm.org. Thank you for your support—we look forward to working with you!
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Temporary Childcare Staff Needed | |
We are seeking a caring and dependable individual to join our childcare team! This is a temporary position with the following schedule:
Schedule Details:
Initial Commitment: Sundays from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM for the duration of an employee’s leave.
Following the Leave Period: Transition to an as-needed basis until Fall 2025.
Starting in Fall 2025: Regular Sunday morning schedule (9:00 AM to 11:00 AM) with additional opportunities for events outside regular hours.
Compensation:
$15 per hour.
Guaranteed pay for a minimum of 2 hours per shift.
Key Qualifications:
Passion for working with children.
Reliable and punctual.
Previous childcare experience is preferred.
Must be able to pass a background check.
If you’re looking for a rewarding opportunity to support families in our community, we’d love to hear from you!
How to Apply:
Please submit your application to jobs@ucdsm.org. We look forward to welcoming you to our team!
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The Afghan family we assisted last year now has a licensed driver! The remainder of our Afghan family fund will be used to help purchase a car. Thanks for all the support in time and money you have generously given.
Our Immigration Support Team leaders (Dave Witke, Gene McCracken and Elaine Imlau) have joined a group of church representatives called Allied Congregations for Immigration Support (ACIS.) Our first project is assisting a Sudanese refugee family of 9 we connected to through Catholic Charities. Thursday we moved them into a house after living in an extended stay hotel for 3 months.
The family is in need of:
- chests of drawers for clothes storage
- desks and desk chairs for study space
If you’re able to provide any of these items, please email immigration@ucdsm.org. Thank you!
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Click the button below to submit an announcement or event for publication
Deadline: Wednesday at Noon
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All Leader Gathering
Saturday, January 11 from 9-11 a.m.
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Kick-start your group in 2025!
All leaders, members of groups, and those interested in leadership are welcome for the next All Leader Gathering. Join us January 11 from 9 - 11:00 am in Griffin Hall to gather with fellow members to share ideas for more effective ways to lead and be a member of a group. January's agenda will include deep discussion of self-differentiation, self-awareness and the impact on group dynamics.
Breakfast will be served. Please RSVP to leadership@ucdsm.org.
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Talent Limited/A Monthly Reading Group
Sunday, January 12 from 5-7 p.m.
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Our small group of would-be thespians has been meeting since June 2023 on the 2nd Sunday of each month. We invite you to join us on Sunday, January 12, for a play chosen, directed, and read by our members. We gather at 5:00 p.m. for a potluck, so bring your beverage of choice and something to share. The reading begins at 6:00 and we are usually finished by 7:00 p.m. The event is held in the party room at The Towers Club, 3663 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50312. All are welcome!
** Next month's meeting will be moved from February 9 to February 16 due to the Super Bowl.**
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Grief Circle
Monday, January 13 from 5:30-6:30 p.m.
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The Grief Support Circle meets monthly on the 2nd Monday of the month at 5:30 p.m. in the Minister's Office. Our society is not great at confronting grief. As a result, there is abundant unhelpful advice, platitudes, and reactions out there. Perhaps even more unsettling, though, are the things we can’t talk about. What if you feel relief after someone dies? What if losing them also means losing a way of life for you? Let’s lay it all out on the table in a safe, judgment-free zone. Beyond losing a person, what else are you dealing with? What do you wish people would ask you? What do you wish they’d stop saying? We’ll extend ourselves – and others – a hefty dose of grace as we talk through this sticky topic. | |
Learn More about Des Moines' Climate Action Plan
Monday, January 13 at 7 p.m.
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The past 10 years have been the warmest 10 years since record-keeping began! Des Moines is already experiencing the effects of climate change, and these impacts challenge our quality of life, economy, and future. To better coordinate the response to climate change, reduce harmful emissions, and chart a more resilient future, the City of Des Moines developed a community-wide climate action, ADAPT DSM. Unanimously adopted by city council in December 2023, ADAPT DSM is a shining example of what a city can do to take action.
Green Sanctuary of First Unitarian invites you to Central Iowa Sierra Club's program at the Northwest Community Center, 5110 Franklin Avenue Des Moines on January 13th at 7 p.m. Jeremy Caron and Madeline Schmitt, from the City of Des Moines’ Sustainability Office, will give us an overview of ADAPT DSM and the progress that has been made since the plan’s adoption. This plan will guide decision-making, policy, and program development for pollution and greenhouse gas emissions mitigation and climate adaptation actions that address climate change. Come learn how YOU can be part of the solutions and ADAPT!
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Women Around the Table
Tuesday, January 14, from 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
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Women Around the Table will meet at the church in Griffin Hall from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. All women are invited for conversation and connection. This week the topic will be mourning the recent passing of President Jimmy Carter. What celebrity or leader did you admire when you were younger & why? Who are your heroes today & why do you admire them?
The coffee pot will be ON so bring your favorite mug! If you're not a coffee drinker, there will be hot water for tea or bring a beverage of your choice. Light snacks will be provided and feel free to bring something to share.
This group is open to women of all ages at First Unitarian.
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Women's Wednesday
Wednesday, January 15 from 12:30 p.m.-3 p.m.
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Join us in the Stonewall Conference Room for a discussion chosen by women, about women, and discussed by women. Any person interested in or curious about a female perspective is welcome to join us! | |
Unity Circle
Thursday, January 16, at 12:00 p.m.
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We will be meeting at noon on Thursday, January 16, for lunch and a program. Our guest speaker will be Community Minister, LoraKim Joyner sharing about her fascinating work with Parrot Sanctuary. Our sharing will be any monetary donation you would like to contribute to the vital organization she is a part of.
Reminder: We are doing a jigsaw puzzle exchange. Bring one or more you are done with in exchange for a new to you one. Puzzles are fun, especially in winter, and board member, Sandy Johnson, shares that they are great for our brains!
Please bring a dish to share, and your own table service and a cup for your beverage. Looking forward to seeing you.
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Pride Night with Iowa Wild Hockey
Friday, January 17, from 7-9:30 p.m.
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Join in an exhilarating evening of hockey and pride at the Iowa Wild Pride Night on January 17th! Celebrate diversity and community with the Queer and Trans Action Group (QTAG) of First Unitarian Church of Des Moines, along with many other local LGBTQ+ organizations, while enjoying an action-packed game. A portion of the proceeds from these tickets will benefit QTAG, supporting their ongoing efforts. For this special offer, tickets should be purchased through this link. Contact tag@ucdsm.org for more information. | |
UU 101 Class
Saturday, January 18, from 1-3 p.m.
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Come learn about First Unitarian history within our church and the denomination as a whole. UU101 is structured to help new prospective members and visitors learn more about Unitarian Universalism. Here is a great video to watch prior to the class to get a history overview. If you would like to attend the class, please RSVP by clicking here. If you have questions or concerns, please contact Faithyna Leonard. | |
Facing Death with Life
1st and 3rd Sundays, January 19-April 28
11:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
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Facing Death with Life will be led by Hilary Hippen.
This is a facilitated process of personal reflection, learning, and spiritual growth focused on the topic of death and dying, helping participants move from viewing death as an abstract concept to developing a personal recognition of its meaning in their lives. Click here to read more about the class.
This class begins January 19 and meets in-person bi-weekly at First Unitarian after the church service at 11:15am-12:30pm. The last class is April 28.
Workshop topics include:
Talking about Death
Finding Our Personal Views of Death
Beliefs and Practices – What Happens When We Die?
Bereavement
Children and Death
Suicide and the Right to Die
Preparation for Death
Sharing New Insights
Please register here.
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Common Read Follow-up Discussion
Tuesday, January 21 at 6:30 p.m.
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On Repentance and Repair: On Making Amends in an Unapologetic World by Danya Ruttenberg was last year's UUA Common Read. Last fall, Reverend Garmon had two services and a forum regarding the material in this book.
Join us in Griffin Hall on January 21 at 6:30 p.m. The purpose of this follow-up session is to explore ways that we might use this book's framework in our lives and community.
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Roots of Injustice Seeds of Change Toward Right Relationships with Native Peoples
Friday, January 25 from 3-5 p.m.
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The Peace, Justice, and Democracy Team is encouraging all First Unitarian attendees to attend Roots of Injustice Seeds of Change Toward Right Relationship with Native Peoples to be held at Des Moines Valley Friends Meeting House 4211 Grand Ave on Saturday January 25th from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. This workshop was last hosted in 2019 in our own Griffin Hall.
Together we will be addressing the roots of colonization, experiencing the impact of the story as told by Euro-American colonists and historians, and connect with others who are wanting to offer reparations and healing as we all move forward.
For more information, email pjdteam@ucdsm.org. The event can only host 40 people and they need firm commitments from people who plan to attend. A free will donation of $10.00 to $30.00 is appreciated so that we may give a donation to Meskwaki Nation. If you identify as a native person, we consider you our guest.
Click here to read more about the event and for information on how to register for the event.
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New Member Ceremony
Sunday, January 26
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Fueling Our Flame: A Social Justice Revival
Saturday, February 1 from 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
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Drawing on ideas from the UUA’s “Inspired Faith & Effective Action” program, all church members, both long-time and recent, are invited to gather with the Social Justice Support Team to consider what we need to engage, renew, and/or grow our commitment and action in the realms of social justice that call to us.
This will be an opportunity to come together in a shared space of passion and care for social justice, framed by our UU values, to better discern what we need to support and inspire our work toward building a more beloved community for all in the coming year.
Please join us in Griffen Hall on February 1, whether you are a veteran of social justice work or just starting to consider how you would like to get more involved. Snacks and beverages will also be provided to help fuel us on our journey. Childcare may also be available, upon request. Email sjmlt@ucdsm.org for questions, requests, or more information.
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First Unitarian Humanist Update |
**Annual Meeting:
Don't miss hearing Iowa State Senator Sarah Trone Garriott discuss the upcoming legislative session. She will be speaking at the Humanist Society annual meeting on Saturday, January 18th. The business meeting will start at 6:30 PM in Griffin Hall, with Ms. Garriott's talk at 7:00.
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Progressive Voices Concerts Presents
Jeremy Facknitz
Saturday, February 1 at 7:30 p.m.
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Jeremy Facknitz has been entertaining audiences with his lovingly crafted music and high-energy performances for over a quarter century. Since the 2002 break-up of his Detroit-based band “The Ottomans” (they earned a 2001 Detroit Music Award for Best New Alternative Band, beating out “The White Stripes”), Jeremy has performed primarily as a solo act, marrying folk-rock and jazz stylings to showcase his intimate stories of life, love, and self-discovery.
Tickets are available for advance purchase online at Humanitix or in person at the church on the four Sundays before each concert.
- Individual advance-purchase tickets: $22
- Individual tickets at the door: $27
- 4-show season tickets still available for $78
A limited number of complimentary tickets for this concert are available for those otherwise unable to afford to attend. Please speak confidentially with our minister, Meredith Garmon, about how to obtain them.
More information is also available online at www.ucdsm.org/concerts. Email questions to concerts@ucdsm.org.
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COMMUNITY MINISTER UPDATE
Rev. LoraKim Joyner
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Bird Walks in 2025
with Rev. LoraKim Joyner
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During these walks, we will have time for conversation, reflections, and quiet, as well as seeking to identify as many birds as possible. There will be plenty of opportunity to learn about birds and practice the spiritual aspects of watching birds. This is without a doubt a wonderful mindfulness practice. If the weather is particularly wintry, please make reservations so we can keep in touch with you. On such days, the walks will be shorter and/or we can meet to enjoy a warm coffee and conversation so we can build community and share our connection to nature.
These walks will be led by our renowned avian conservationist, Rev. Dr. LoraKim Joyner, who is First Unitarian’s community minister and Co-Director of One Earth Conservation. Donations (suggestions of $5) are much appreciated. All donations will go towards bird conservation in the Americas. Click here to donate.
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Sandhill Cranes in Kearny, Nebraska
March 14-16
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Join Rev. LoraKim Joyner and Rev. Merdith Garmon in Kearny, Nebraska on Friday, March 14 at 7 p.m. through Sunday, March 16, midday (depending on weather).
Focus and expected viewings: A Spiritual Retreat and Bird Walks with Sandhill Cranes in Kearny Nebraska. You can attend any or all of the planned events: meals, board walk views, short walks.
Location: Please register so we can send you the final schedule. We begin with a shared meal on Friday in Kearny, Nebraska. The next morning, we will meet very early (7 a.m.) at the Plautz Crane Viewing Area at the corner of Lowell Road and Elm Island Road to see the cranes and other water birds begin their day.
If you plan on attending, it’s best to reserve hotel rooms early. Click here for more information.
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GRIFFIN HALL ARTIST FOR JANUARY
Josh Hall
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Josh Hall is originally from Arvada, Colorado by way of Rome, Italy. With a BA in Psychology and MA in Psychology of Conflict and Mediation, he worked in mental health and behavioral health for twenty years. Since 2019, Josh has pursued art and painting.
His upbringing in Rome is reflected in his work, channeling both the classical maestros and the street pop culture that is visible in inner city life. As a vehicle to discover the mysteries of humanity, Josh's art reflects on what makes us human and connects us to the Almighty.
Stop in Griffin Hall this month to view Josh's work.
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2024-2025
Faith in Action Partners
Young Women's Resource Center | Al Exito
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The Young Women's Resource Center and Al Exito are First Unitarian Church's Faith in Action Partners for the 2024/2025 fiscal year.
The Young Women's Resource Center is a non-profit organization that supports, educates, and advocates for girls and young women ages 10-24. Through small groups and individual support, the YWRC provides programming for all young women, no matter what they may be going through. Girls and young women are defined as people who have been socialized and/or identify as female. Trans and nonbinary friends are welcome.
Al Exito is an organization that supports Latinx youth. It inspires, prepares, supports, and positions Latinx leaders from middle school through college for postsecondary attainment, career readiness, and civic engagement.
The Faith in Action team will offer you opportunities to support these two organizations in the coming months. Please follow Intercom to find out what these will be.
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Meditation with Meredith, Zoom
Board Game Night
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6:00 a.m.
9:00 a.m.
10:00 a.m.
2:00 p.m.
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Meditation with Meredith, Zoom
Leadership Gathering
Connection Circle
Humanist- Braver Angels at Ames City Hall
Humanist Watch Party at Stine Barn
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Sunday Service
Faith Formation Classes
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11:00 a.m.
11:15 a.m.
12:00 p.m.
5:00 p.m.
7:00 p.m.
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Sunday Forum
Coming of Age
Coming of Age Parent Group
Sacred Earth
Humanist Book Discussion
Talent Limited at The Towers Club
Divorce Support Group
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8:30 a.m.
9:30 a.m.
10:00 a.m.
5:30 p.m.
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DMARC Book Group
Tai Chi
Small Group
Grief Support Circle
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Ministerial Search Committee | |
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Awakening Heart Sangha, Zoom
Connection Circle
DSM Climate Action at Northwest Community Center
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6:00 a.m.
10:30 a.m.
2:00 p.m.
5:30 p.m.
7:00 p.m.
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Meditation with Meredith, Zoom
Women Around the Table
UU Women's Book Club
Financial Oversight Committee
Leadership Group Training
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6:00 p.m.
12:30 p.m.
5:45 p.m.
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Meditation with Meredith, Zoom
Women's Wednesdays
Bell Choir Rehearsal
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6:00 a.m.
9:30 a.m.
12:00 p.m.
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Meditation with Meredith, Zoom
Tai Chi
Unity Circle
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Meditation with Meredith, Zoom | |
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Board Game Night
Pride Night at Iowa Wild Hockey
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6:00 a.m.
9:00 a.m.
1:00 p.m.
6:30 p.m.
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Meditation with Meredith, Zoom
Celebrant Team Meeting
UU 101
Humanist Annual Meeting
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11:00 a.m.
11:15 a.m.
12:00 p.m.
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Sunday Forum
Coming of Age
Coming of Age Parent Group
Facing Death with Life
Humanist Book Group
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For a full list of upcoming meetings and events, please visit our church calendar. | |
Missed a Sermon? Want to Re-visit? | |
Videos of past sermons can be found here.
The text of past sermons can be found here.
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Staff Contact Information | |
Rev. Meredith Garmon
Interim Minister
mgarmon@ucdsm.org
515-244-8603 ext. 102
cell: 352-682-8492
Faithyna Leonard
Faith Formation &
Congregational Life Coordinator
fleonard@ucdsm.org
515-244-8603 ext. 101
Off Mondays
Tuesday - Friday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Jamie Seitz
Communications Coordinator
jseitz@ucdsm.org
communications@ucdsm.org
515-244-8603 ext. 105
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Tracy Aukes
Church Administrator
admin@ucdsm.org
515-244-8603 ext. 103
Monday - Friday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Zoom meetings available upon request
Hannah Notch
Office Manager & Childcare Coordinator
hnotch@ucdsm.org
515-244-8603 ext. 107
Tuesday - Friday: 1:00 - 5:00 pm
Sally Boeckholt
Bookkeeper
bookkeeper@ucdsm.org
515-244-8603 ext. 104
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