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A Unitarian Universalist Church | 1800 Bell Ave. Des Moines, IA 50315
515-244-8603
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Sunday, November 16, 2025
9:30 a.m.
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It was the best of times; it was the worst of times… Join us for a service that imagines what the world might look like if everyone made gratitude an integral part of our daily practice – and what it might look like if no one did.
Join our Livestream!
| | Service Volunteers - November 16 | | |
Celebrant: Elijah Evans
Song Leader: Barbara Martin
Musicians: Bell Ave. Ringers
AV Volunteer: Oge Nnadi
Pastoral Care Associate: Ana Davis Evans
Hospitality Lead: Becky Evans
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Forum: Homelessness in Polk County
Elizabeth Talbert from Drake University will talk about her work linking stories of people experiencing homelessness to policy through the “Unsheltered Des Moines” study. She will discuss the importance of humanizing and demystifying the experiences our Des Moines neighbors have with homelessness and reflect on some of the stories we tell ourselves about why people are homeless and how they measure up to what we find in research.
| | 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. | | |
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.
| | | 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. | | |
Mold is fine in cheese – but not in buildings!
Mold remediation in our lower levels began November 3. The work is almost complete, and we will soon begin the Dare to Dream renovation of our downstairs classrooms and meeting spaces.
Sadly, most of the furnishings and supplies downstairs are casualties of the mold. A small group of volunteers worked to save some items. After a thorough cleaning, they’re now being stored in Griffin Hall.
What’s been planned to prevent future mold problems downstairs?
- The ductwork will be cleaned.
- UV spectrum lights will be added inside the ductwork to kill any remaining spores and prevent future mold growth.
- Dehumidifiers will be installed on the HVAC system.
- The building foundation is being sealed to keep out ground moisture.
The cost of the remediation is significant. Dare to Dream has budgeted for the work listed above and for new furniture in the lower level, but the overall mold clean-up – plus the replacement of books, toys and supplies – will be covered by the church’s operating budget. Watch for more information in January about how you can help refill our downstairs shelves and craft bins!
While the need for mold remediation is certainly disappointing, discovering the problem before our renovation work began was fortunate. On the heels of the recent asbestos removal, we will soon have a very healthy building to serve us for many years to come.
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Beginning Monday morning, Story Construction will start work on our new west entrance vestibule. Please note that the west entrance will be inaccessible all week, and possibly through the following weekend. We would also ask you to avoid using the South parking lot if you do not have accessibility needs. This area will need to be available for folks who are unable to use the accessible West lot during construction.
We’ll share an update in next week’s Intercom regarding any access impacts to the November 23rd service.
Thank you for your patience as we continue improving our building!
| | CHURCH ANNOUNCEMENTS & NEWS | | Holiday Poinsettia Orders | | |
Brighten the Season with a Poinsettia!
Let’s fill the auditorium with festive color this holiday season! You’re invited to order a poinsettia in honor or memory of a special person or event. Forms will be available this weekend during Sunday service, or you can order online using the button below.
Enjoy the beautiful display during our December services and then take your poinsettia home the week of December 21 to continue the celebration.
Each flower will feature vibrant red blooms wrapped in gold foil—a perfect touch of holiday cheer!
Order Details:
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Orders due: December 1st
- Prices: $6.50 for a 4.5-inch pot or $12.00 for a 6.5-inch pot
- Please make checks payable to: First Unitarian Church of Des Moines (Include “Flowers” in the memo line.)
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Or pay online using this link and choose Flowers for the fund.
Let’s celebrate the season together with beauty, remembrance, and joy!
| | REACH Grant Awards for 2025 | | |
In October the Endowment Committee granted $14,474.47 to three projects.
To support the Congregation’s online presence, the Endowment committee authorized $10.439.87 to purchase a new video camera system for the auditorium. The Canon CR-N100 system includes three cameras, wall mounts, a joystick camera controller and a “managed switch” that handles network connectivity. Each Sunday, about 20-40 church members “attend” church service via livestream. These include shut-ins, and those with limited ability to come in person. Keeping long-time members involved when they can't physically attend is important. Additionally, livestreaming is a low-pressure way for “church shoppers” to sample our services (either live or via recordings). There's also a possibility that a robust system can be used to live stream community events (candidate forums, etc.).
To support the children of our congregation, the Endowment Committee has authorized $2.834.60 to assist the childcare room after the recent mold infestation in the lower level as all soft furniture, books, toys, or childcare equipment must be thrown out. Replacing these items is not on the D2D campaign project list or in the D2D budget. The following items have been identified at this time to make the childcare room functional: 2 adult rocker chairs, one baby bouncer, one baby swing, and one changing table. Other items are likely to be added to this list once it is clear whether hard plastic toys and shelves can be safely cleaned and kept.
To improve the playing and listening experience of the piano, $1,200 has been authorized to repair the grand piano in the Auditorium. Although quite old--perhaps a century in age--the auditorium piano is still quite playable and has several years left. However, anyone playing the piano encounters a sense of things not being quite right--not so much in terms of tuning or sonority as of unevenness of delivery (mechanical shortcomings). For this reason, the following modest improvements are proposed:
- rebushing of the keys--would correct wobbly and sticky keys
- regulation of whippens (mechanism by which the strings are struck by the hammers) --would improve action and general playability
- balancing of keys--would increase uniformity of touch and response
In January the Endowment Committee will announce the total available for REACH Grants in 2026 with the date for the two funding cycles in 2026 expected to be approximately February and August.
| | New Door Access System Now in Use! | | |
We’ve upgraded to a new door access system!
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If the doors are locked while staff are present: Press the person button located in the top right corner of the keypad. A staff member will unlock the door and let you in.
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If you have a new access card: Simply hold your card near the bottom of the keypad where it says “CARD.” The system will recognize your card and grant you access.
Please note: the old access system will be removed in the next few weeks once all old cards have been collected.
Thank you for your cooperation as we transition to the new system!
| | Tips from Your Green Sanctuary Team | | |
Several local organizations are holding events related to the environment and health for Iowans.
This Saturday, November 15th, Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement (CCI), The Harkin Institute, Food and Water Watch, and Progress Iowa will hold a town hall to discuss moving from scientific findings to actionable policy and community solutions for Iowa’s water quality crisis. This event is a direct follow-up to the recent Central Iowa Source Water Research Assessment (CISWRA) presentation at Drake University, which provided a comprehensive look at the state of the Des Moines and Raccoon Rivers. You can get more information and register at this link:
In addition, the Iowa Environmental Council has information at the link below focusing on recent research and action related to cancer. Iowa has the second-highest cancer rates in the nation, and it is among only two states where cancer rates are increasing. An estimated 21,200 new invasive cancers will be diagnosed among Iowans in 2025, according to the Iowa Cancer Registry’s annual “Cancer in Iowa” report. “We know that our environment and our health are inextricably linked,” says Sarah Green, Executive Director of the Iowa Environmental Council. “With so many Iowans’ lives touched by cancer, it’s important that we explore every link and find ways we can work together to mitigate all potential sources of risk and save lives.” Click below to learn more.
| | No Youth Classes November 30 | | There will be no youth classes on Sunday, November 30 over the Thanksgiving weekend. Childcare will still be available during service. | | Office Closed November 27-28 | | The church office will be closed Thursday and Friday, November 27-28 for the Thanksgiving holiday. | | |
As the temperatures drop, it’s time to think about how we’ll handle inclement weather and its impact on church events and services. You can review our current weather policy by clicking the button below as well as in our Operating Policy and Procedures manual located in the members only section of the website.
Please remember to use your best judgment when deciding whether to attend in-person events or services—your safety is our top priority!
As temperatures drop, please make sure your child comes dressed for the weather — coats, hats, gloves, and closed-toe shoes are a must!
We’ll still be enjoying outdoor play as long as it’s safe, so let’s keep everyone warm and cozy this season.
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Every now and then, you might need help with something! Our vibrant and engaged community practices caring by being available and willing to help as needed. Caring Ministry exists to help meet needs and fill the gaps.
All you have to do is ask by clicking here and tell us what you need. The Team Lead will then speak with you about the details of your request which will be conveyed to potential volunteers through the SignUpGenius platform. Potential volunteers respond to requests they can meet. The Team Lead will keep you informed about any progress made.
Here are a few examples of what volunteers have provided in the past:
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New Baby Arrival: meals, support for new parents & baby quilt
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Rides: to church or for medical appointments
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Meals: during illness, after loss, or other difficult life circumstances
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Food delivery gift cards for those with special diets
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Household tasks: temporary help with cleaning, laundry, lawn care & limited moving help from one residence to another
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Errands/shopping: to keep safe those in our community who are vulnerable
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Relief Sitter: to have someone be with you or allow you a break from caregiving duties (up to 2 hours at a time).
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Card Ministry: run separately from Caring Ministry, this program is for those who enjoy sending/receiving cards for get well messages, sympathy notes, congratulations & anniversaries of losses.
If your need is not expressed here, reach out anyway & we’ll make an effort to be helpful.
Volunteers needed!
We are now updating the list of volunteers who are willing to provide service. This list will include past volunteers who update their interests, as well as anyone who wishes to be added. Please click here to receive the form.
Requests will be streamlined, meaning you will only get sent service requests that you said you could provide. You’re not being asked when you’re generally available because schedules change and needs can arise at any time. Each request will contain all the details you need to confidently agree to do whatever is asked.
Don’t be a stranger—if you need help, just ask, and likewise, if you’re available to help, let us know. May our web of support be a safe haven for us all.
| | Contribute to Campos Scholarships | | |
For the past several years, our congregation has been the leading contributor to the Mary Campos Scholarships. Let’s do it again.
The scholarships honor Mary, a longtime civil rights leader dedicated to building opportunities for Latinx youths in the Des Moines area. The awards go to young men and women who have displayed leadership skills, scholastic success, and community involvement.
The scholarships are a project of Al Exito, a group that has twice been our church’s annual Social Justice Partner. The awards will be announced on Nov. 14, so contribute now, as time is of the essence.
Our past fund drives have been led by Gene McCracken, Barb Royal, Ellen Taylor, Darcie Vandegrift, and Dave Witke. This year, Susan Jellinger is sponsoring the church’s “giving chain” and in addition has made special provision for educators who wish to contribute. The link where gifts can be made is below.
Please designate your gifts as from First Unitarian, as our participation helps project our UU identity into the wider community.
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To submit an announcement or event for publication, send an email to Communications@ucdsm.org.
Deadline: Wednesday by noon
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Progressive Voices Concerts Presents
Ryan David Green
Saturday, November 15 at 7:30 p.m. in Church Auditorium
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Ryan David Green's music has been called "virtuosic acoustic guitar that is remarkably accessible, with fast finger work that is always in service of unmistakable melodies”. Performing a blend of instrumental guitar pieces and delicate vocal tunes, Green takes audiences to a place both otherworldly and somehow surprisingly intimate.
A graduate of Boston's prestigious Berklee College of Music, Ryan David Green has performed on four continents, been profiled in Acoustic Guitar Magazine, endorsed by Takamine Guitars, and twice been named "Best Guitarist" in the Tucson Music Awards (where he currently resides). He received a 1st place award in the 2024 American Songwriter Song Contest, and his original compositions have received numerous film and TV placements, including shows on E!, Lifetime, and ABC Family/Freeform. You can listen to his song "Embers" here.
Advance purchase discount tickets save you $5 off the door price and are available online at Humanitix through the day before the show or in person at the church after services on the four Sundays before each concert. Regular price tickets are also available at the door starting at 6:30 p.m. the day of the show. 6-show and 4-show season ticket packages save you even more and come with additional perks, like a reserved seating section for season ticket holders.
Individual advance-purchase tickets: $24
Individual tickets at the door: $29
Season tickets: 4 shows for $86 & 6 shows for $129
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, Steve Sieck, about how to obtain them.
More information about the concert series is also available online at www.ucdsm.org/concerts. Email questions to concerts@ucdsm.org.
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AMOS Variety Show
Sunday, November 16 at 3 p.m. at the Ankeny First United Methodist Church Christian Life Center
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Support AMOS with an afternoon of joyful entertainment!
The AMOS Variety Show is November 16 at 3:00pm at Ankeny First United Methodist Church Christian Life Center. Come see talent from across AMOS organizations, including Sarah Chang from First Unitarian! There will be a silent auction at intermission with gifts for yourself, or potential holiday givings. Please support organized money for organized power, working for our communities.
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Women's Wednesday
Wednesday, November 19 from 12:30-3 p.m.
at the Urbandale Library
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Join us 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!
We'll meet at the Urbandale Library at 12:30 p.m.
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Unity Circle
Thursday, November 20 at 12 p.m.
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Join us Thursday, November 20, for lunch and a speaker. Scott Knox from Wild Birds Unlimited will talk about winter feeding and the Merlin app that identifies wild birds by song.
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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mUUvie Discussion Group
Saturday, November 22, at 7 p.m.
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In the spirit of November's theme of nurturing gratitude, please join the mUUvie Discussion Group to view and discuss "Babette's Feast," winner of the 1987 Oscar for Best International Feature Film. In Babette's Feast, a woman flees the French civil war and lands in a small seacoast village in Denmark, where she comes to work for two spinsters, devout daughters of a puritan minister. After many years, Babette unexpectedly wins a lottery and decides to create a real French dinner--which leads the sisters to fear for their souls.
Watch the trailer here.
Popcorn will be provided; bring your own drink.
RSVP to mUUvie@ucdsm.org to let us know that you are coming!
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Friday Night Out!
Friday, December 5, from 5-8 p.m.
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The Congregational Life Team knows how hard it can be to find time for yourself — whether that’s a quiet dinner, holiday shopping, or simply relaxing at home. So, we’re giving you a night off!
Drop your kiddos off at church from 5–8 PM on Friday, December 5, and enjoy a kid-free evening while they have a fun night with their church family. We’ll keep them entertained with games, crafts, and more, and we’ll also provide dinner.
Please RSVP using the button below so we can plan for enough volunteers, food, and snacks.
If you need some fun date night ideas of things happening in Des Moines on Friday, December 5, we've made you a list of some great events!
New artist exhibit at Moberg Gallery
First Friday at Mainframe Studios
East Village Promenade
Live Music Friday at Bevy's Tavern
K Pop Demon Hunters Skate night at Skateland
Ice skating at Brenton Skating Plaza
Live music at Lefty's
Dome for the Holidays- Botanical Center
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Espresso Yourself Coffeehouse
Saturday, December 6, from 6-8 p.m.
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Musicians, Poets, and Storytellers!
It’s time to start making your plans for the next coffeehouse! The "Espresso Yourself" event will be held on Saturday, December 6, from 6-8 p.m. at the First Unitarian Church of Des Moines. Please mark your calendars!
Come to listen, perform, or simply enjoy the evening—everyone is welcome! This is a BYOB event, so feel free to bring your favorite drinks, and if you'd like, bring a treat or snack to share. A few snacks will also be provided.
We’re excited to come together for another fun and inspiring evening of creativity and community!
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cUUriosity Conversations
Sunday, December 7 following the Service
| | Join us after the service for cUUriosity Conversations! This is an open and welcoming time for visitors and friends to ask questions, share thoughts, and learn from one another about Unitarian Universalism and our congregation. We look forward to seeing you there! | | First Unitarian Humanist Update | | |
** Book Group
The Humanist book group will meet on Sunday, November 16th, at 12:00 noon in the Mary Safford room (at the back of the auditorium). We are continuing to read and discuss Humanly Possible: Seven Hundred Years of Humanist Freethinking by Sarah Bakewell. Click here for information on the book group and other Humanist activities.
**Annual Meeting
Plan now to attend the annual meeting of the Humanist Society at 6:30 PM on January 10th. Our guest speaker will be Rob Sand, candidate for governor.
**Join the Humanist Society
Click here to join the Humanist Society and see other opportunities to participate in activities.
| | MEET THE NEWEST MEMBERS OF FIRST UNITARIAN CHURCH | | |
Welcome Jake Deutmeyer and Yessica Escutia Ponce de Leon!
What brought you to First U?
With our son approaching baptism age, we started questioning more if we felt like the Catholic Church could offer the values we wanted to instill in him and establish as a family. We had some limited experience with the UU church in the past and decided to look it up in Des Moines and try it out.
What would be an ideal experience at First U for you?
Our ideal experience is one where our whole family can join the community regularly and leave feeling more hopeful, whole, and connected. We can get caught up in the weekday routines and having some time to think deeply and be aware of the spiritual world around us is very important.
What are you most excited for?
We are excited for amazing choir performances, thought provoking sermons, Food Fair events, and getting to know fellow members better (especially other young families).
How would you like to plug in to First U?
Apart from Sunday services, we hope to be active in at least a few of the Church groups. Meeting times are always a challenge with our 1-year-old, so we try to join as many of the weekend church events when possible.
We're so happy you're here!
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IT'S GREAT TO MEET YOU PODCAST
with Rev. Steve Sieck
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Rev. Steve has a new podcast! Welcome to It's Great to Meet You! where he gets to know the good people of Des Moines doing the good work in our city.
It's Great to Meet You, Ep. 6- Melissa O'Neil, CEO of Central Iowa Shelter & Services
Links from the Show:
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GRIFFIN HALL ARTIST FOR NOVEMBER
Larry Bredesen
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This is Larry's second art show here at the church. His first show was in September 2017, a joint exhibit with daughter, Chelsea. For that show, Larry displayed just shy of 200 postcard-sized images created with ink, watercolor, and colored pencil — each one reduced from an original 8½" x 11" piece to a 4" x 6" format.
In June 2024, Larry decided to return to painting with acrylics — something he hadn’t done in over 40 years. Larry began by revisiting some of his earlier works to see how they would translate into paint.
This show is an example of that exploration. Please stop by and enjoy this month.
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Faith in Action Partners for
2025-2026
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Our Faith in Action (FIA) Partners for 2025-26 are RIVA and YMCA Supportive Housing. Donations made to our FIA fund will go directly to them to help their work thrive. Donations can be made electronically through the website or on Realm, or via the specially marked envelopes during Sunday services.
We will be working on ways for the congregation to connect via service to our new partners. Click their links below to learn more.
| | | | | Progressive Voices Concert | | | | | West Vestibule Construction thru Nov. 22 | | | | | Awakening Heart Sangha, Zoom | | | | | Board of Trustees Meeting | | | | | Women's Wednesday at Urbandale Library | | For a full list of upcoming meetings and events, please visit our church calendar. | | |
FOR MORE INFORMATION OR
TO CONTACT US:
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