The Weekly Liberal: October 23, 2025 | | NOTE: Some e-mail programs will not load the full content of this publication. Please click "View Entire Message" at the bottom if you see it! | |
Choosing to Build in a Time of Tearing Down | |
Each morning (ok, most mornings), I choose to get up a little earlier than I’d really like to in order to keep a promise I’ve made to myself. I will start the day with practices that are grounding and life saving for me. These don’t have to take more than 10 minutes, though I’m better for it when they do. I make and take this time—for gratitude, for prayer and meditation, for wonder. The exact nature of what happens in this time is not actually what’s most important. The most important thing is that I begin the day by building my capacity for love and hope, for spiritual strength.
In our nation, this is a time of tearing down. Institutions that have imperfectly but with important positive impact attempted to care for the common good, the practices of democracy, and the east wing of the White House are all coming down around us. In this time, it is more important than ever that we remember our power, our agency, and our responsibility to ourselves and each other. It is more important than ever that we choose to build.
In our individual and collective lives, we can make the choice to build...
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Han, Boozhoo, Manam, Greetings Relatives!
First and foremost, thank you for taking the brave leap into including First Universalist in your spiritual medicine. Within the ways that many Indigenous people of Turtle Island face trauma due to the harm that religious organizations, including Unitarian Universalists, have caused and continue to cause, it is important to recognize that coming to church can be scary, triggering, or sadly, even harmful to people...
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Weekly News for Families Integrating into The Liberal
To streamline staff time and to more fully integrate parents/caregivers and our broader congregation, beginning next week, First U will only send one weekly newsletter, The Weekly Liberal. The Liberal will feature a prominent section with information especially pertinent to families. We invite and encourage ALL congregants to read the Weekly News for Families section each week.
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No more jars or magazines, please!
Thanks to everyone who made sure we had plenty of supplies for our inaugural Common Ground Sunday! We no longer need donations of jars and magazines.
| | Sunday, October 26 | Within, Among, and Beyond | Two services: In person at 9 & 11 a.m. Join the livestream at 11 a.m. | |
In this month of October, we explore the practices and skills needed to build the Impossible House of Beloved Community.
We move continuously from our own individual spiritual care, practice, and growth (within), to creating a beloved community here at First Universalist (among), and answering where love is calling us next outside of our church community (beyond). This is a cyclical and relational framework. Last week, Rev. Ashley talked about tending to our own spirits. This week, we will focus on "among." What is the relationship among us and how do we tend to our beloved community?
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Religious Education will be in classrooms this Sunday.
Children and youth are always welcome in worship with their families! If you are new or new-ish to First U, please join us at whichever service works best for you, and visit the Welcome Table in the atrium where someone will help orient you and answer your questions.
Most Religious Education programs are offered during both services. However, there are some exceptions. Please register below to be added to the appropriate roster and you’ll receive communication from Allison about which service to attend.
You may pick up your child or youth from Religious Education at 10:30 a.m. or 12:30 p.m., not before, even if worship has ended. Having a standard pick up time for all children and youth supports our kids and volunteers in completing the lesson for the day and ending the session thoughtfully and spaciously.
All families, with babies through high schoolers, need to register each church year, regardless of previous registration:
| | You can watch past worship services and view other First U video content: | | |
Barbara Mersy is donating flowers in honor of her son Gabe Mersy, who passed away in October 2024. Martha Moriarty is doing the arrangement.
If you are experiencing a crisis or transition, celebrating a joy or marking a sorrow, please let us know. To be included in our Cycle of Life on Sunday in worship, or if you would like support, contact Rev. Laura Smidzik at laura@firstuniv.org or (612) 405-5583 (call or text).
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We “Hold This Together” by Cooking Meals and Helping Each Other During Life’s Marker Events
Cook a Meal
We have several congregants in need of support during life events. Below are links to requests, please read the instructions carefully so that you can provide the type of meal that will bring the families the most comfort. Contact Rev. Laura if you are in need of meals to help you through a transition.
Current Mealtrain Requests:
Doug Hicks and Susan Shonfeld
Zion, Jera, and Baby Violet
Help with Rides, Chores, or Companionship During Worship
On occasion, we receive requests from congregants for distinct needs. If you are willing to help with any of these needs, email or text Rev. Laura at laura@firstuniv.org or 612-405-5583.
- General chores (lawn moving, cleaning) post surgery and when congregants are struggling.
- Rides—sometimes to church and other times to doctor appointments.
- Companionship during worship for congregants with cognitive impairment who need a buddy when in the building.
| | Ways to Connect at Church | | |
Saturday Sprouts
Saturdays once per month, 10 a.m. to noon: October 25, November 22
No RSVP necessary
Saturday Sprouts is a monthly opportunity for families to socialize, worship, play, and offer and receive peer support. We start with snacks and time to get to know each other before moving into family worship, followed by playtime for kids and a peer sharing group for parents and caregivers. We close by sharing gratitudes and singing together. Saturday Sprouts is open to all families, with programming geared towards young children (6 months - 5th grade) along with their siblings and parents/caregivers.
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Grief is Political: Expressions and Strategies
The last Sundays of the month- Oct 26, Nov 30, Dec 28, 1:00-2:00pm (feel free to bring a lunch or snack)
RSVP Here
This is a challenging time for so many of us—we are experiencing grief about so many things including climate change, rising fascism, militarization of our streets, school violence, elimination of vaccines, immigration policies and ICE.
We find ourselves, angry, rageful, hopeless, sad and invigorated. All of these feelings are welcome in this space.
We will also attempt to develop practical interventions that can help us endure, survive and even thrive. We will dive deeply into our shared values and extract the wisdom we need to build the world we need right here right now. Facilitated by Rev. Karen Hutt.
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Senior Hike
Monday, October 27, 10:00 a.m. No RSVP Necessary
Hyland Lake Park Reserve
Meet outside the entrance to the Visitor Center: 10145 Bush Lake Road, Bloomington, MN 55438
We'll take the two-mile loop around Hyland Lake. The trail: some mowed grass, some asphalt, and mostly woodchips. Primarily flat with some gentle ups and downs. Duration: about two hours. (Shorter hikes are also available.)
Lunch after the hike: Willy McCoys, 10700 France Ave S, Bloomington, MN 55437
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Beyond Donating: What does sharing look like?
Oct 28 - info session, 7-8:45 pm. If you like it, you can then commit to the next 5 sessions: November 4, 11,18, Dec 9, 16 7-8:45pm
RSVP Here
This is a group for folks who have more financial resources than they need and want to wrestle with that with other folks in a similar position. Using story, spiritual practice, embodiment practice, we will explore (with honesty and open hearts) what it means to have more than we need; what’s wrong with donation culture?; are there other models of giving? And What is my sharing compass? One session will be devoted to church stewardship. Facilitated by Drew Rosielle and Karen Heegard.
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Membership at First U
We ask that congregants who are interested in becoming members take the Membership Class. In two sessions, participants have an opportunity to get clear on what they personally are committing to as church members and what a mutual, reciprocal church community commits to them in return. In community, participants explore the practical and spiritual sides of what relevant, sustainable church membership means to them. Even if you’re a lifelong UU interested in membership, we ask that you take the membership class at First Universalist as it helps orient folks to this congregation and helps build community.
We are offering three different membership class times this fall:
Thursday, Oct 30 and Thursday, Nov 13, 6:00-8:00 pm
Tuesday, Nov 11 and Tuesday, Nov 18, 6:00-8:00 pm
Saturday, Dec 13, 9:00am-1:30 pm (potluck)
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Feed My Starving Children
Nov. 17, 7:00 p.m. RSVP Here
All are welcome to join the Young Adults at this event.
For more information or questions, please email Raelyn at raelyn.rassett@gmail.com
Join the Young Adults in an adventure to practice our values of justice and interdependence with Feed My Starving Children in Eagan. We will meet at Feed My Starving Children at 7:00 PM on Monday, November 17th. We have 50 spots reserved, let's fill them up! FMSC is welcome to children 5 years and older and is a great family fun experience.
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Young Adults ONLY
Folks in their 20s and 30s
Rocky Horror Picture Show Shadow Cast - YA Lead: CT - Parkway Theater
Saturday, Oct 25
“It’s just a jump to the left…” What is Halloween without a little Rocky Horror action? Young Adults plan to gather together to view the Rocky Horror Picture Show. Tickets are generally $10 when bought in advance plus a $5 fee to get the props for audience participation. Contact CT for updates, where to get tickets, and where Young Adults plan to meet at beforehand.
Spooky Cookie Decorating - YA Lead: Cameron Smither and Zoey Lazere
Sunday, Oct 26, after the 11 a.m. worship service, at church | Contact Cameron or Zoey to join
Following the 11AM service on the 26th, Cameron and Zoey plan to host a Spooky Cookie Decorating party for all Young Adults. Bring your spookiest self and enjoy some seasonal treats!
| | Coming up this Fall Session | | |
Single and Solo Parents Group
Tuesdays, Oct. 14, Oct. 28, Nov. 11, Nov. 25, and Dec. 9, 7-8 p.m. via Zoom
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Under Northern Skies Women's Ritual Group
Tue, Oct 21 New Moon in Libra, 7:30-8:30pm
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Asking Important Questions as We Move Through Our 60s
Every other Wednesday starting in early November, from 10:30am-12:00pm
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Saturday Sprouts
Saturdays once per month, 10 a.m. to noon: October 25, November 22
No RSVP necessary
Saturday Sprouts is open to all families, with programming geared towards young children (6 months - 5th grade) along with their siblings and parents/caregivers.
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Grief is Political: Expressions and Strategies
The last Sundays of the month- Oct 26, Nov 30, Dec 28, 1:00-2:00pm (feel free to bring a lunch or snack)
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Crafting Group
October 26, November 2 & 16, December 28, 1-3pm
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Beyond Donating: What does sharing look like?
Oct 28 - info session, 7-8:45 pm. If you like it, you can then commit to the next 5 sessions: November 4, 11,18, Dec 9, 16 7-8:45pm
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Grief Group (on zoom)
First Sundays, 4:00-5:30 pm: Nov 2, Dec 7
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Labyrinth on the Full Moon
November 5, 2025, December 4, 2025, 5-7 p.m. in the Social Hall
No RSVP Necessary | Join the Labyrinth Interest List
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Habitat for Humanity Builds
Saturday, November 8, 8:30am to 3:30pm
Location: 1461 McKnight Rd N, Maplewood, MN
Read more about Fall Habitat builds
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Daytime Connections
November 20, 10-12, in person or on Zoom
An Amazing Memoir from Our Own Kathy Cochran
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Caregivers Support Group (on zoom)
Second Sundays: 1:00-2:30 pm: Nov 9, Dec 14
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Qigong for Liberation
Tuesdays, October 14, 21, 28, Nov. 4, 11, 18, 25, Dec. 2, 9, 16, (No practice Dec. 23)Dec. 30, 4:30-5:15pm (zoom and in person)
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Improv for Elders
Wednesdays, 10:00-11:30, ongoing, in person at church
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Give the Gift of Warmth
This is our 21st year to collect "Gifts of Warmth" to distribute to our neighbors needing a bit of warmth. Over the years we have collected thousands of hats, scarves, and mittens and distributed them to schools, food shelves, ER rooms and social service agencies in our community. If you do not knit, purchased and gently used items are welcome.
Items can be dropped off in the baskets near the elevator. We collect through the end of January. For more information contact: barbmelom@gmail.om
Thank you for your kindness.
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In search of: Clothes Dresser
The church is seeking a clothes dresser. Do you have one in good condition that you could donate? Please contact Dallas Rising to make arrangements: dallasrising@gmail.com .
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Our library is here for you, in the northwest corner of the Social Hall. Come indulge your curiosity, expand your horizons, and build community in our cozy space. | | | |
You Can Help Create A More Welcoming Church | |
Do you remember when you were a newcomer to First Universalist? We often speak of the courage it takes to come into a new church building, participate in a worship service, and be among people you do not know. We are fortunate to have so many people coming in our doors and exploring FIrst Universalist to find out if our community fits what they are seeking.
A few of us began meeting over the summer to explore how we can make First Universalist more welcoming and ensure that there is a clear pathway for people who want to learn more and potentially join First Universalist.
| | | | Community & Affiliated Org Events | | |
Social Change Now
Join MUUSJA for a 3-part, multi-congregation exploration of Deepa Iyer’s book, Social Change Now, through the lens of our UU faith and shared values. This year's UU Common Read offers a path for more authentic, connected, and effective work pursuing the social justice missions we share. We will meet online from 6-8 pm for 3 consecutive Thursdays: 11/6, 11/13 & 11/20. Open to adults and older youth. Register here.
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12-Step Spirituality
Visit the website for details.
In person – at First Universalist Church
And on Zoom - get the link here.
These meetings are for people who are actively working any 12-step program.
The meetings focus on the 11th step, prayer and meditation, by using the practice of Centering Prayer Meditation.
We teach Centering Prayer Meditation, meditate for 20 minutes, visit in small groups and practice two other forms of prayer.
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Cultivating Practices for Our Wellness
AUW Fall Mini-Retreat
Women’s Wellness in Today’s Stressful World
November 8, 2025
9:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Wow, 2025 has been an intense year. Many of us are feeling frazzled, overwhelmed, angry, and so much more.
Join us for the fall mini-retreat to cultivate practices for our wellness. New AUW member Gina Ditta-Donahue will share her wisdom and passion for holistic health. She will address the root causes of health issues drawing on her wealth of experience as a functional nurse practitioner. Denise Konen will lead us in a Qigong practice and there will be breakout sessions including sound healing, and music therapy.
Agenda
9:30-9:45 Gather and connect
9:45-10:00 Welcome + announcements
10:00-11:15 Keynote speaker Gina Ditta-Donahue will guide us through defining what wellness means to us and help us create our own wellness goals.
11:15-11:30 Break
11:30-12:00 Qigong led by Denise Konen
12:00-1:00 Lunch
1:00-2:00 Breakout sessions
2:15-3:00 Closing
Crafts: Make cards with Sydney Dunitz using pre cut materials or your own designs. Keep your creation or donate it to the church.
Sound Healing: mary melia leads us in an ancient therapeutic practice that uses vibrations and frequencies to promote physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
Music Therapy: with Mary Ellen Heelan, MT-BC, NMT. What is it? How will it help me?
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**SAVE THE DATE** The AUW Spring Retreat is April 17-19, 2026
This year's theme is "Belonging" and the keynote speaker is Rev. Karen Hutt.
Watch this space for upcoming details about the programing and breakout sessions.
| AUW sponsors activities for people who identify as women, non-binary and/or gender fluid. | | Need to make a connection or ask for care?Find what you need here. | |
First Universalist Church of Minneapolis
3400 Dupont Ave. S.
Minneapolis, MN 55408
612-825-1701
firstuniversalistchurch.org
For staff contact information, please visit our Ministers and Staff page.
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Weekly Liberal Submissions
We encourage you to submit church news! To do so, email your content to Rachel Rott: rachel@firstuniv.org. Edits for length and/or content may occur. The deadline for submissions is noon on Wednesday the week of publication. Past issues can be found on our website.
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