Rev. Jill Braithwaite

Our friendships enrich our lives, and most of us cherish the witness and companioning that comes with a good friend. We'll explore the art of friendship, which Kahlil Gibran called a "field which you sow with love and reap with thanksgiving."

Kaleidoscope Band will perform uplifting arrangements.

Children and youth are invited to start in the Sanctuary and then go to their classes after Time for All Ages. The Nursery will open at 9:45 am.

Please Welcome Temporary Office and Communications Assistant Azaria Holliday!

UUCW is delighted to welcome Azaria Holliday (they/them) to the staff team for the period of September 23 and through December 31. Azaria will be helping with office and communications tasks, including website updates, creating the weekly enews, and support for worship services. Their supervisor will be Vicki Banville.

Azaria also works part-time at First Unitarian Society of Milwaukee as Admin and Tech Assistant.

They have extensive experience in digital and print communications, UUCW's software systems, and working in religious organizations. They will work 16 hours per week, with their in-office day on Wednesday.

New Contact for Submitting Enews Items

Beginning September 17, items for the weekly enews should be sent to this email address: news@uucw.org

Submissions sent to this email address will go to Vicki Banville, Church Administrator, and to Azaria Holliday, Temporary Office and Communications Assistant. If you have any questions, please reach out to Rev. Jill.

A Note on Staff Transition

As is customary, following her last day of employment (September 18), Kelly Bognar will abide by a one-year period of no contact with UUCW staff, ministers, congregants, and friends. This practice serves to ensure healthy staff transitions and to support future hires in developing trust and relationships with the UUCW community.

In memory

Saskia "Mt. Zion" Nassalang

September 29, 1972 - August 28, 2026

A Memorial Service is planned for the daughter of UUCW members Caryl and Robert Sewell on September 27 at 2 pm at UUCW. Volunteers are needed to greet, usher, and assist with the reception. Contributions of finger foods, light bites, or appetizer platters for the reception are also greatly appreciated.

Contact Dave Cicero if you need childcare.

The Board of Trustees Meeting

Thursday, September 24th at 6:30 pm

Room UL4 or on Zoom

https://zoom.us/j/97338727438

Access the Board Packet Earlier!

Staying informed just got simpler! The monthly Board Packet is now available on our website via the red Quick Links banner at the top of every page.

Updated on the Tuesday before each Board meeting, it will also continue to be shared through the e-news on the meeting day.

Come Grow Your Spirit

with Fellow UUs!



Sign up now for fall opportunities in Adult Faith Formation. Designed for explorers and seekers, both experienced and novice.

Each program has a different focus; all help participants connect while building capacity to understand and embody the shared values of Unitarian Universalism. Find details and sign-up directions for each in the link below.

Leadership Mini-Retreat and Potluck

September 26 from 10 am to 1:30 pm

Join our Leadership Mini-Retreat and Potluck to explore making congregational leadership more spiritually fulfilling.

We will reconnect with our mission, identify unsustainable patterns, practice healthy boundaries, and foster shared ministry.

Current UUCW leaders and anyone interested in congregational life are welcome. Please contact Rev. Jill to help with setup or cleanup.

You Don't Need

Medical Training to Help

In the PBS comedy series Doc Martin, the title character is a surgeon who ironically develops a fear of blood yet still finds important ways to serve patients.

While Doc’s phobia makes for good comedy, it highlights that not everyone at UUCW has the inclination or skills to administer first aid. If that describes you, there are still many ways to help in a medical emergency.

Graphic Apparel & Fall Decor Donation Rotation

Sunday, September 20 at 11:30 am

Start the new church year by clearing space and finding new treasures! Give a new home or grab printed apparel to repurpose into quilts and crafts. Pass along seasonal cheer and help neighbors deck their halls for the upcoming autumn months.

Before the service, bring your items to the Community Room. After service, browse and find treasures. Everything is free. You don’t need to bring an item to take one.

Gathering Stories That Shape

Our Tomorrow

The Endowment Committee is creating an educational video about why legacy giving matters and supports the stability and long-range needs of the church.

We are seeking stories of those who donated, could share on behalf of a family member who donated, or have made plans to donate in the future.

If you are interested in sharing your story, please talk with us at the table in the community room after service or contact Ann Heidkamp

Don't miss the fun and community!

Dinners in the Home

UUCW’s Dinners in the Home is a wonderful way to connect with fellow members outside of church.

This year’s Saturday dinner dates: October 17, November 21, January 23 and March 6.

Participants host one dinner and attend three as guests. A substitute list is also available for those unable to host. Visit Rita and Scott Piper in the Community Room on September 20 to ask questions or sign up below!

Take the SJ-ACT

Congregational Survey

The Social Justice Action Team (SJ-ACT) invites feedback from our congregation on our current initiatives and future direction.

Your input will help us focus our energies and strengthen UUCW’s social justice work. Thank you for your time and guidance.

Paper copies will be available in the Community Room and in UL4.

UU Get Out the Vote! Join us September 20th after service up in UL4 for our annual Get Out the Vote initiative. A cherished UUCW tradition started by Karen Zimmerman, this event empowers our congregation to mobilize voters and strengthen civic participation.

The UUCW Auction is Coming!

"Don't Stop 'Til You Bid Enough!"

Put Saturday, November 14th on your calendar! This year, we are throwing it back with a groovy Disco Theme, so get ready for a fantastic night of fun, music, and bidding on wonderful items.

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Donate an Item or Service

To make the night a success, we need things to auction off. Our best items come directly from the UUCW community!

Want to help with the silent auction for our "Don't Stop Till You've Bid Enough" fundraiser, but hate asking for donations?

You don't have to ask for a thing!

Just spot the businesses you already visit where you live, work, dine, or shop, from local restaurants to retail stores. Send us the business name and location (street and city), and our Auction Team will handle the research, outreach, and donation request.

It takes less than two minutes, costs nothing, and makes a huge impact. Send your ideas to auction@uucw.org

Join us for the next set

of UUCW Orientation Sessions.

Newcomers and long-time visitors are invited to join Rev. Jill Braithwaite, Dave Cicero, and Membership Team members for a —

Two-part UU Orientation Class

Saturday mornings, 9:30 – 11:30 am, October 10 and 17, 2026

For more information,

contact Larry Hawley

Start your unique UU journey!

Joys and Concerns

If you or someone you know needs Pastoral Care, contact the

Lay Pastoral Care Team

Enter your Joy or Concern using the link below and choose whether you'd like them shared in the e-news or shared privately with Rev. Jill Braithwaite.

Join the Welcome Team!

Bring joy to folks just by making and serving coffee! COFFEE SIGN-UP

You can help make our church a welcoming place. GREETER SIGN-UP

Ushers are a core element of our in-person worship. USHER SIGN-UP

Greet and answer questions for our visitors. NEWCOMER TABLE SIGN-UP

Office Volunteer

Help prepare for Sunday service with Friday afternoon office tasks. OFFICE SIGN-UP

Grief and Loss Support Group

Facilitated by the

Lay Pastoral Care Team

September 19 at 10 am

So many of us experience seasons of grief and loss in our lives. It can be helpful to come together for support.

The Lay Pastoral Care Team warmly invites you to a monthly gathering for congregants living with grief or loss, facilitated by Susan Foley and/or Rev. Jill.

Guest House

Saturday, September 19

Please help us by providing main dishes, side dishes, and desserts. We will also need a few servers. Questions? Contact Eileen Gleeson

"Talking about Trans Rights:

Messages to Move People"

Tuesday, Sept. 29, 6 pm

First Unitarian Society of Milwaukee,

1342 North Astor Street

Join Fair Wisconsin Lead Community Organizer Cait Mallery for a training workshop on countering anti-trans disinformation, using proven messaging strategies, and effectively supporting trans rights within your faith community.

You are also invited to UUCW's next Trans Solidarity Group meeting coming up on Oct. 6. Watch for details. Contact Lynn Kapitan for more information.

Braver Angels Workshop

at UUCW

Depolarizing Ourselves

Saturday, Oct. 3, 10:00–11:30 am

Learn to recognize internal biases and tame your "inner polarizer." This workshop focuses on reframing how we view political opponents to replace harmful generalizations with mutual respect, distinguishing healthy ideological debate from viewing others as enemies.

Moving Forward: Wisconsin’s Commutation Process

After a long pause, Wisconsin's commutation process is moving forward, offering vital momentum for transformational justice. On September 18, the Commutations Advisory Board meets to hear directly from individuals seeking a second chance. Beyond past mistakes lie powerful stories of accountability, growth, and personal transformation. As Sherry Reames of WISDOM notes, listening to these journeys is essential if we are serious about addressing racial justice within our state's penal system.

Vote 2026: Take Action

1. Protect access: Tell your legislators to oppose voter suppression effort.
2. Verify registration: Double-check your status at MyVote Wisconsin— registrations can be expunged without notice. You only need your name and date of birth.
3. Get involved: Volunteer with local nonpartisan groups (MICAH, SOPHIA, Voces de la Frontera, League of Women Voters) or your preferred political party.

Vote early if possible, and join UUs Get Out the Vote on Sept 20!

Environment and Spirituality Summit Watch Party

and Potluck

Let’s gather in the UUCW Community Room to watch the keynote address by world-renowned environmentalist and author Bill McKibben for the Annual Environment and Spirituality Summit.

Come connect, share a meal, and dive into an inspiring evening of reflection and action for our planet.

Tuesday, September 29th:

5:00 pm - Community Potluck

6:00 - 7:30 pm - Bill McKibben Keynote

Don’t forget to bring a friend!

Luggage with broken handles, zippers, wheels or other maladies can be repaired rather than replaced.

A nearby business, Traveling Bags, will repair or donate non-salvageable bags including sending them to other countries in flights with spare room.

Sunday Religious Education for children & youth starts Sunday



If your kids are not yet registered for RE, please do so now to be sure you receive relevant news & updates. UUCW is still committed to its mission of creating a joyful “community of communities” for meaningful connection and spiritual growth. When you visit the online Registration Event, you’ll find Nursery, RE, and Youth Group options for all ages. Contact Dave Cicero, DLRE, with further questions.

Learning through Teaching



You don’t need to have a child in the Religious Education program – or even be an “expert” – to assist. Paraphrasing education professionals: If you want to really learn something (…like how to live out the values and principles of UU-ism!), teach it. The more you teach, the more you retain.



Dave Cicero, Dir. of Lifespan RE, is holding one more group RE Teacher Orientation on Saturday, Sept. 19, 9:30-11:30 am. RSVP if interested in knowing more.

Full Moon Sound Bath

Sunday, September 27 at 12 noon

The days nearest the full moon are considered good for reflection, release, and manifestation. Take advantage of this Sunday event – at an earlier time and in the Lower Level – to seek greater peace through the healing vibrations of crystal singing bowls, drums, and chimes. Bring your own mat & pillow if you like.



$20 (General) / $15 (UU Members) when pre-registered; +$5 at the door. Doors open at 11:45. Also available online.

Peer Caregivers Support Group

Caregivers are welcome to attend our meetings for mutual sharing and support. They are regularly held on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays at 1pm in UL5, next meeting on September 22nd. Caregivers may contact Mary Ross and Susan Swearingen via caregivers@uucw.org for further information as interested.

Join Twisted Stitchers on

Saturday, September 19 at 1 pm

You are all invited to join us at church to work on crafts (knitting, crocheting, needlepoint, painting, anything) and enjoy a lively and fun conversation. The Twisted Stitchers meet on the first and third Saturday of each month. For more info, contact Jeannie Baker.

The UU Circle at Harwood Place

September 24 at 10:30 am

in the Bonsai Room in the West Building

8220 Harwood Ave, Wauwatosa

All are invited to join fellow UUs at their monthly gathering for worship, community, and discussion at the Harwood Place Retirement Community. We will review our covenant in addition to our topic, "People of Memory". Please bring any questions or concerns about it to our circle. Please RSVP to Nancy Sprancy.

DUUversity Theater Returns:

Trayf at Next Act

Mark your calendar for DUUversity’s first event of the season! Enjoy Next Act Theatre's production of Trayf (running Sept 18–Oct 4), exploring faith, culture, and friendship.

Buy tickets for any showtime on your own, then gather with UUCW friends for group dinner and conversation at Saz’s State House on Sunday, Oct 4 at 4 pm. Carpooling and childcare options are available.

A retirement celebration full of gratitude. Jill shared words honoring Kelly Bognar’s two decades of dedication, followed by Ruben leading the congregation in a memorable thank-you song.

Beyond UU Church West

Click below for community events and resources from outside our church that align with our UU values and may be of interest to members and friends.

Melissa Musante,

Rev. Jill Braithwaite

and the Earth Spirit Team

Join us to celebrate Mabon, the autumn equinox of equal day and night. Rooted in the Unitarian Universalist value of Pluralism, we gather as sacred beings, diverse in culture, experience, and theology, to celebrate the second harvest. Together, we will honor our differences and commonalities with love, curiosity, and respect.

Ruben Piirainen and Sarah Frey will honor the turning season with resonant tongue drum melodies.

Children and youth are invited to start in the Sanctuary and then go to their classes after Time for All Ages. The Nursery will open at 9:45 am.

Have you missed a past e-news and need to get caught up on UUCW announcements? Visit the UUCW website and click on the "news" tab for past news and featured stories.

E-news submission deadline is the end of day on Tuesday before publication.

Questions or comments about our e-news? Send your message to news@uucw.org