A Unitarian Universalist Congregation
The UCE building will be closed until further notice.
We will continue to offer ways to connect virtually.
The Sunday virtual service will be at 11:15 am
"Nap, Pray, Love" - by Monica Kling-Garcia
In our society, productivity is often the measure of success. Yet, during the COVID-19 pandemic, our ability to be “productive” was prevented by our collective grief and sudden changes in our society. If we listen to ourselves, we may find that we are tired in many ways – physically and spiritually. This Sunday, we will explore the different ways to let ourselves rest and why it is important. Log in to church in your comfy clothes and with your favorite warm beverage in hand as we care for our mind, body, and spirit together!

Monica Kling-Garcia is the Schug Ministerial Intern at the First Unitarian Church of Chicago and a third year seminarian at Meadville Lombard Theological School. At Meadville Lombard, she currently serves as the co-president of the Student Advisory Council, and was also the recipient of the 2019 Carleton Doan Prize in the Philosophy of Religion. In her ministry at First Unitarian, Monica has worked to foster a spirit of connection and community through her preaching, small groups, and the successful Celebrate@First community event series. A Wisconsinite at heart, Monica now lives in Chicago with her husband, Logan, and their cat, Yennefur.

We encourage you to submit your joys and sorrows ahead of time to this online form . We will read aloud in the service, those that are submitted by 11 a.m. on Sunday. If you are unable to access the google form for some reason, you may send an email to Rev. Eileen Wiviott at ewiviott@ucevanston.org , however, it is easier for us to keep track through the google form. We continue to celebrate and mourn together through this important ritual and appreciate your understanding as we explore the various ways to hold what is on your hearts.

This Sunday's shared offering recipient is the Deborah's Place ( Click here to learn more ). Your offering can be given through Text-to-Give, online , or mailed to the office with "Shared Offering" in the memo line.
Other Virtual Gatherings this Sunday
Chris Isely Cancer Support Group at 9:30 am via Zoom
Email Renee Hoff at  rdhoff99@yahoo.com  for details.
Virtual Coffee Hour
To join the virtual coffee hour by phone dial +13126266799,,770904305#  
Important News and Upcoming Events
All Church Zoom gatherings continue on Wednesday at 5:30 pm.
Look for the link in our Wednesday e-mails. If you need online Zoom support before the All Church gathering begins, join us at 5:20 pm.
What does Phase 4 mean for UCE?
Thank you to those who’ve had a chance to fill out the survey about your comfort in relation to UCE opening our building, and to provide information regarding your experience of our virtual gatherings. If you haven’t done so yet, it’s not too late. Please see the link below.

Of the 35 who responded, about 64% have health considerations or age-related factors, which contribute to your overall discomfort with reopening. While this is a small sample, we feel this confirms the caution most of us are feeling. I want to reiterate that we are not considering large, indoor gatherings (including Sunday worship or Wednesday evening All Church gatherings) until Illinois enters Phase 5 of the Restore Illinois Plan...
UCE Parking Lot Under Construction

The UCE parking lot will be closed starting Monday, July 6 through July 18. The sidewalk work has begun and electrical work in the lot will begin shortly. Paving will start on Monday July 13. 

Shannon Lang Introduces BLUU Havens and Harbors
To my black and brown siblings at UCE:  

Last week, I was able to attend my first General Assembly. It warmed my heart to be able to connect with the larger UU community of color across the country. I was especially excited to connect with BLUU (Black Lives of Unitarian Universalism) & DRUUMM (Diverse Revolutionary Unitarian Universalist Multicultural Ministries). Learn about BLUU and Connect through Facebook. You can also join their closed Facebook Group. Learn more about DRUUMM here and Connect through Facebook.

The highlight of General Assembly for me was the Launch of BLUU’s Havens and Harbors Initiative!  Check it out here!  Here’s how it was explained:  

“Everybody wants a place to call home. What many Black UUs have clearly articulated a need for is a Black Unitarian Universalism that offers an unequivocal and unwavering sense of home to Black people who feel held by, or want to be more connected to, Black ancestry, Black love, Black thought, Black artistry, and Black faith. What we want is a Unitarian Universalism that, at EVERY turn, honors, uplifts, and equips our Black Lives. So the development of BLUU Havens and BLUU Harbors came alive!... 
Evanston Interfaith Juneteenth Letter
Rev. Eileen wrote this letter with the help of Rabbi Andrea London of Beth Emet, at the request of Pastor Michael Nabors of Second Baptist Church as a call to congregants, especially those who have white skin privilege, to engage in the struggle to dismantle white supremacy as it collectively exists.
"Dear Faith Communities in Evanston and Beyond,

Evanston Interfaith Clergy and Leaders write to you in celebration of Juneteenth, 155 years after the last enslaved people were told of their emancipation from the evils of slavery. We add our voices to the calls to make this day a national holiday in recognition of the power of Black Indigenous People of Color to survive and thrive despite the overwhelming systems of racism which exist in all facets of society and our economy - in education, healthcare, housing, and in policing and criminalization...."
Your financial support is so appreciated!
Please help us ensure your contribution is credited appropriately by indicating on the memo line of your check if it is for 19/20 Pledge, 20/21 Pledge, Shared Offering or a Donation. 
If you are texting to give, please s end a text message to  312-584-9160  with the amount you would like to contribute and  the one word code  for where you would like it to go (e.g., 50 OFFERING ). Valid codes are OFFERING (Shared Offering),   PLEDGE  (Pledge Payment),  CAP  (Capital Campaign), or MUSIC (music fund). If you do not include a code after your donation amount, the system will automatically select PLEDGE. To learn more,  click here . If you experience any issues, contact Adam at  agough@ucevanston.org .

During these times when UCE staff are working from home we are trying to make trips to the church and our accounting tasks manageable for our Staff Accountant, Vickie Doebele. We respectfully request when you make a shared offering donation please do not ask for 100% to go to the organization. This truly would be helpful. We appreciate your understanding. 
Hats Off to Johna VanDyke!
Hats Off to Johna VanDyke for juggling the many lobby and wing refresh projects at UCE. Johna has been busy choosing shades and flooring with the team, selecting lobby lighting upgrades, coordinating workers coming and going, and making sure that work is being done to satisfaction. Johna we are so grateful for your talents, your creativity, your skills and all that you are doing to help us upgrade our lobby and wing while the congregation is away. Johna is also a member of the Lobby Art Team who selects beautiful and interesting works of art from local artists to display on the art wall in our lobby. Johna, has donated countless beautiful watercolor paintings to Serendipity Auction over the years. 

And, last, but not least, Johna and Will organized our annual Night of the Arts and Johna orchestrated our wonderful Christmas Pageant for many years. Both are meaningful intergenerational events that adds so much to the fabric of our community. Johna VanDyke, thank you. 
Ann Peterson's Virtual Memorial Service
Ann Peterson's virtual memorial service will take place on Saturday, July 25 at 11 am. More details will be provided soon.
It's Time to Choose Shared Plate Recipients
As you know, half the money collected weekly in our now virtual "collection plate" goes to support an organization that helps UCE meet its social justice mission. These funds often are enough to make a significant difference for the organization. The Social Justice Council (SJC) will again be choosing recipients for that collection. We will choose one recipient per month, plus one for the "fifth Sundays." As in the past, we will select from nominations made by congregants and staff. Nominations must be received by July 31 . 

This year, in light of the reality of our present crises, in order to be eligible for Shared Plate an organization must “address systemic racism and/or the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on people of color and the poor.” As in the past two years, nominations must include evidence that the organization meets at least some of the criteria that the SJC will consider in deciding among nominated organizations.  Click here for a description of the criteria and the process. Nomination forms are now available. Please let us know where this money should go!  
You're Invited to Susan Frances' Ordination
US Census Bureau is Still Hiring
The U.S. Census Bureau is still hiring temporary positions for the 2020 Census.  We are still looking for a lot of people in the Evanston area. Census counts have a huge impact on our community. The population count influences representation in congress and funding for hundreds of programs.

If you’re interested, please visit the link below for more information and to apply online. You’ll also be able to see descriptions and frequently asked questions. Although our Skokie office is temporarily closed, phone interviews will resume once the quarantine is lifted.
Social Justice & Volunteer Opportunities
What is Graduated/Fair Tax in Illinois?
July 14, 2020 at 7 pm via Zoom

Presentation on IL Fair Tax referendum with  Ralph Martire ;  Executive Director of the Center for Tax and Budget Accountability  ("CTBA") A bipartisan 501(c)(3) think tank. Bring your hard questions! This event is co-sponsored by UUANI & LaGrange Area League of Women Voters
Click here for a short video that shows how the Fair Tax amendment will fix Illinois’ broken tax system, ensuring that 97% of Illinoisans—those who make $250,000 a year or less—get a tax cut or pay no more than they do now. Working people need relief now more than ever, and that’s exactly what Fair Tax reform will provide.
REAL Team Food and Supplies Drive - OUR HELP IS NEEDED NOW!
The REAL Team has been asked to coordinate some much-needed supplies for some of our community partners who have been most impacted by the pandemic followed by civil unrest.  Here is an Amazon list which includes the items that were asked for and are especially needed. Please check the list and donate as much as you feel comfortable. We need multiples of many items. Since the church parking lot will not be accessible as of June 15, there are several ways you can get your donations to us. 

  1. Using the link above, you can order from Amazon and have your supplies delivered directly to Becky Crawford (when you check out, the delivery address should say, “Becky Crawford’s Gift Registry”) (sorry it’s weird; could not rename that). We have volunteers lined up to drive donations to the needed locations. 
  2. You can purchase from Amazon or elsewhere, and deliver to the Crawford-Cloonan household directly in South Evanston (private message Becky on Facebook or text 224-304-4735 for address).
  3. If you'd like to donate financially, you can send a check directly to UCE with "south side" in the memo line. Cash donations can be dropped off in an envelope to Becky Crawford's house.

Thank you for your support! 
We plan to continue this drive throughout the summer, so check back often!
Take action today!
There are so many ways you can participate in social action, from showing up, signing on, donating, or committing yourself to learn more.

  • Support black-owned businesses! Here’s how: Check out these apps: SBO (Support Black Owned), Black Nation, EatOkra (a black owned restaurant directory), WeBuyBlack (the largest black owned marketplace), The Official Black Wall Street, and I Am Black Business.
  • The City of Evanston wants to hear what your priorities are for Evanston’s energy future to help us improve the air we breathe, lower utility bills, support healthier cleaner jobs and achieve 100% renewable energy to fight the climate crisis. Fill out Evanston's Energy Survey and make your voice heard.
  • The United States Postal Service employs over 500,000 people and is the #1 employer of veterans. Donald Trump has rejected a bill that would save it from running out of money in September. Show those who wish to dismantle and privatize the USPS that we are against letting one of our prize institutions fail. Click here to sign on. 
  • Interfaith Action has distributed nearly 1,500 bars of soap to households of more than 2,000 people. We'd like to collect toothpaste and toothbrushes for the July 14 Produce mobile. Here is an Amazon Wish List. If it is easier Toni Rey offers to collect them at her home as well.
  • Help Black Lives Matter defend against disinformation. Check out how here.
  • Demand Facebook's advertisers stop supporting online hate and extremism.

Social action continues! Check out the UCE Homepage for more ways you can support our communities. If you have any questions, please reach out to Rev. Karen Mooney at  kmooney@ucevanston.org . Thank you all for continuing to live UCE's mission!
What's Happening in Lifespan Religious Education
This Summer in Religious Education
Summertime is traditionally more laid-back in congregational life, as well as in other aspects of life. Enjoying the outdoors and nature becomes a necessity with the warmer weather. With this in mind, individuals and families are invited to our  Summer Bucket List Challenge!  Check it out here.

The family who completes the most items will win a chalice for the family and their picture in the newsletter! The contest ends on August 16, which gives you 10 weeks to do as many item s on the bucket list as you can. We will honor all participants at a virtual Church Dinner later this summer. You’re encouraged to share your journey on social media using the hashtag  #UCEBucketList  too!
High School Youth
Looking for something fun to do? At-home, Hands-on, Free Robotics camp starts July 6! UCE’s David Finkel is the president of Youth Technology Corps. They have received the funding to be able to offer this free Robotics Camp to ETHS incoming and current students. Click here for more info.  

Thrive Online Camp - Know a young person of color (who's completed 9th-12th grade) who needs community and space to deepen their faith? There's still time to sign up for Thrive. Click here to sign the participant form! From there, you'll get access to the zoom links and our Mighty Network. (don't forget Thrive is free this year) "What's the schedule for Thrive?" you ask... check it out here .

Transcend the Binary Camp - Learn more and sign up here.
Summer Opportunities for Young People and Families
Be a UCE Pen Pal ! We have about 20 older members who would love to correspond with younger folks this summer, and only 6 young people to do so at this moment. Email Kathy if interested at kunderwood@ucevanston.org . 

Soulful Home: Compassion - Tons of Activities, stories, music, and more to explore on our theme this summer! Click here for ways to connect as a family to our faith!
For Adults
The Science of Well-Being - continues at 7 pm Tuesday evenings for those enrolled. 
Life Planning Series in Wednesdays in July
Life Planning Series: "Mental Health" Presented by Judy LeFevour - July 8 at 7 pm This seminar will discuss the human costs of the Pandemic. These costs can be far-reaching and there are coping skills and resources to share that can help build resilience and manage these struggles. Let’s help each other through this!

July 15—Ethical Wills/Spiritual Memories—Part I
Presenters: Rev. Eileen Wiviott and Rev. Karen Gustafson
July 22—Real Life Organizing
Presenter: Liz Kennedy-Eason
July 29—Ethical Wills/Spiritual Memories—Part II

See more details at the button below. Email kunderwood@ucevanston.org to be added to the roster and get info on joining the Zoom session. 
Parent and Family Resources



Feel free to add new resources that you find!
Welcome to Our Community
Interested in knowing more about UCE? Scroll down for info on ongoing programs and useful information. Can't find your answers here? Click the button below to learn more on our website.
How to get in touch with UCE's Ministers
UCE ministers are available throughout the week by appointment. If you are in need of pastoral care or someone to talk to, please reach out to them by email.
We are here for you.
Rev. Eileen Wiviott - ewiviott@ucevanston.org
Rev. Karen Gustafson - kgustafson@ucevanston.org
Rev. Karen Mooney - kmooney@ucevanston.org
Pathways to Membership
Our next set of membership classes will be coming soon for August or September. If you would like to take part in an upcoming class, p lease email Adam Gough at   agough@ucevanston.org. We're excited to welcome our new members that have recently joined! Click here for more information about membership classes .
Offer to Provide Technical Support
Physical separation is leading many of us to find new ways of forming and maintaining virtual connections through the internet. The UCE staff and Board of Trustees wants to make sure that no one is isolated because they lack access to technology or technical skills.

If you would like assistance please reach out to: 

We will be happy to work with you to make sure that you get the most out of your membership experience using the latest tools.
Opportunities For Virtual Connection
Learn Spanish Group
Mondays at 7 pm
For more information, click here.

UCE Men's Group
1st & 3rd Mondays at 7 pm via conference call.
For more information, click here.

Caregiver Support Group
Tuesdays at 7 pm via Zoom.
E-mail Renee Hoff at  rdhoff99@yahoo.com  or Joyce Lofstrom at  joycelofstrom@gmail.com  for details.

Udumbara Zen Sangha
Tuesday Evenings and Saturday Mornings
For more information email udumbara@udumbarazen.org .

Wednesdays at 9:30 am   (Virtual 8x8 Meeting)
For more information, click here.

Buddhist Meditation 
E-mail Andrea DeMers at ademers99@gmail.com for the link.

UCE Addictions and Recovery
Form more information about the group, click here.

Virtual Art and Spirituality
Every other Saturday at 2:30 pm (next meeting is June 27 & July 11 - Please note we will not meet on July 4 due to other events)
For more information, click here.

Chris Isely Cancer Support Group
Sundays at 9:30 am via Zoom
E-mail Renee Hoff at  rdhoff99@yahoo.com  for details.

Staff are available to help with setting up virtual meetings and getting the word out to the congregation. For more information on how to set up a digital meeting, click the button below. Email Jessica Meis at admin@ucevanston.org to add your event to UCE's calendar and to submit an article about your virtual meeting to the newsletter.
Beware scam e-mails and texts from those
posing as UCE ministers and Staff
Please do not respond to the e-mail or text scam that is going out with Rev. Eileen's or Sandra's names. UCE ministers and Staff will never ask you for money in an e-mail or for you to send gift cards to anyone. Check the e-mail address and phone number it is coming from. If it is not Eileen's or another minister's, it is a scam. Most of you have gotten wise to these scams. They will keep coming nonetheless. Thank you to those who let us know they received this scam.

This is someone who is using Eileen's or Sandra's name with a generated email address and phone number. They haven't hacked their personal accounts. The e-mail addresses Eileen will send messages from will be either  ewiviott@hotmail.com  or  ewiviott@ucevanston.org . The address Sandra will send messages from is srobinson@ucevanston.org. If you are unsure about the number texting you, please call the office.
Board of Trustees
The Board of Trustees meets the third Thursday of every month.
The next virtual meeting is on July 16 at 7:00 pm.

Questions for the board? Email BOT@ucevanston.org.
UCE Facebook Groups
Did you know that, in addition to the  UCE Facebook Page , there are three UCE groups that members can join - the  UCE Member to Member Group , the  UCE Children and Youth Religious Education Group , and the  UCE Social Action Group ?  

These are closed groups that allow members to post directly to each other. If you have an event you want members to know about, or have a cause you hope to bring attention to, in addition to the newsletter and order of service, you can post to the Facebook Group. Click the links below or search for the groups by name when you are on Facebook and ask to join.
Quick Links