The Weekly Liberal: October 16, 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! | |
We provide what we need. We are enough. | |
I have shared before that when our year of Religious Education began back in September, we had more families registered for the 9 a.m. service than our volunteer team could support. Program Specialist Hirut Hedge and I had the awful job of reaching out to the families who registered after we had reached capacity, letting them know that their kids could not attend Religious Education at 9 a.m. We heard from many of these families that being unable to attend at 9 a.m. meant their entire family was unable to come to church this year.
Hirut and I, along with our staff and the Children, Youth, and Families Advisory Team, felt that not welcoming these families at 9 a.m. went against our core values as Unitarian Universalists and as members of this congregation. We knew you would agree. So we put out an ambitious ask, to you and to the entire congregation: can you join our ministry to make room for these families?
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OCTOBER 19: COMMON GROUND SUNDAY
This Sunday is a Common Ground Sunday. Grade-based Religious Education programs resume next Sunday, Oct. 26.
At both services, all children and youth in grades K-12 begin in worship and are dismissed as a group to the Cummins Room early in the service. Kids in PreK and younger can be dropped off in room 104 as early as 15 minutes before the start of each service. On Common Ground Sundays, all kids and youth can attend either service time, regardless of when they are registered or typically attend.
Common Ground Sundays take the place of typical Religious Education programming. In the Cummins Room, kids and youth will have time to worship, explore, create, and play centered around the UU symbol of the chalice. Learn more about Common Ground Sundays here.
You may pick up your child or youth from the Cummins Room at 10:30 a.m. or 12:30 p.m., not before, even if worship has ended.
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Smorgasboard: October Message from the Board | As I noted in the prior column, one of the Board goals for this church year, based on input from the congregational survey, is to "strengthen Board governance practices to enhance trust." Which naturally begs the question, what do we mean by governance, particularly in the church context? | | | The First U Board of Trustees meets this evening, Thursday, October 16, at 6:30 p.m. View the Board Packet. | |
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.
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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. | | | | Sunday, October 19 | Practicing Sanctuary | 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. Deep listening, compassionate care, interdependence, justice and joy, lament and grief will all be part of the framing of this house. Promises, too. Promises made, promises broken and mended and made again. In this Impossible House that love is building we practice interdependence and interconnection, trusting together that we can and will build a new way.
The impossible house is a sanctuary. But it's not just a building. We can practice sanctuary in our bodies, in our friendships and families, and in our communities. This is how we transform the world even as fascism grows.
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COMMON GROUND SUNDAY
This Sunday is a Common Ground Sunday. Grade-based Religious Education programs resume next Sunday, Oct. 26.
- Takes the place of regular Religious Education
- All children and youth K-High School
- Attend the beginning of worship with their grownups
- Dismissed to the Cummins Room following A Time for All Ages
- Children and youth can be picked up at 10:30 or 12:30, not before
Learn more about Common Ground Sundays here.
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: | | |
Marion Dane Bauer's grandson, Connor, died last Sunday. At age 31, Connor had been ill for half of his life with a devastating neurological illness diagnosed as atypical Lewy Body Dementia. He was in Hospice for months.
Ed Daniels, a long time past member of First Universalist, passed away on October 11, a few weeks after his 100th birthday. Ed remained curious, humorous, and engaging until the end. A memorial service, for Ed is in the planning stages to be held in the chapel at Bloomington Presbyterian Homes.
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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Asking Important Questions as We Move Through Our 60s
Every other Wednesday starting October 22 from 10:30am-12:00pm (Oct 22, Nov 5 & 19, Dec 3 &17)
RSVP Here
The 60-70 year decade raises all sorts of questions about our lives up until now, transitions that lie ahead, and often includes a sorting through of priorities and ways we use our energy. We will work with the book The Five Invitations: Discovering what Death Can Teach Us About Living Fully. Facilitated by Rev. Laura Smidzik.
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Plant-Based Potluck
October 22nd, 5:30-6:30pm RSVP Here
All are welcome to come explore a plethora of plant based foods. Paul Hawkin’s Drawdown ranks "eating a plant rich diet" fourth in the most effective ways to limit greenhouse gases. It’s all about limiting our consumption of animal protein. Recipes and food preparation tips will be shared. Facilitated by Todd Pierson and Velma Wagner.
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First U EJ Screening: Buy Now! The Shopping Conspiracy
October 22nd, 6:30-8pm RSVP Here
This stylized documentary explores how capitalism, in the era of immediate gratification, has created a frightening world overwhelmed with planned obsolescence and waste. It will challenge you to reconsider how you make the purchases you make. Facilitated by Todd Pierson and Bob Friedman.
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Crafting Group
October 5 & 26, November 2 & 16, December 28, 1-3pm RSVP if you’d like, but please come even if you haven’t!
Are you creative/crafty/artistic (or would like to be!) and like to create in the presence of others? Let's meet up and be creative in community! Imagine: a drop-in space where you come with a project or use materials from our pop-up free table (i.e., a spot we can bring craft items we no longer want or need, to pass to someone else, or to find a new project or hobby). Joy is an act of resistance and connecting with creative folks can be inspiring! This is truly a drop-in group, so come when you can. Facilitated by Chris Chiros.
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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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Single and Solo Parents Group
Tuesdays, Sept. 30, Oct. 14, Oct. 28, Nov. 11, Nov. 25, and Dec. 9, 7-8 p.m. via Zoom RSVP Here
All single and solo parents and caregivers are invited to join this group for community, connection, and solidarity with people who really get it. This will be a space for connecting with others who have shared experience, taking time for a spiritual practice or reflection, and receiving care, tenderness, and grace from one another. Rev. Laura and Allison will co-hold this space. We encourage you to attend as many of these gatherings as you can to support trust-building and community. Reach out to Allison or Rev. Laura with questions or for more information.
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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 in the next few weeks | | |
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 October 22 from 10:30am-12:00pm (Oct 22, Nov 5 & 19, Dec 3 &17)
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Plant-Based Potluck
October 22, 5:30-6:30pm
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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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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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Best Wishes and Support for Karen and Khloe
First Universalist has been providing Sanctuary for Karen and Khloe for the past seven months. After conversations with attorneys, community advocates, and family, they have made the bittersweet decision to return to Peru. We do not know exactly when they will make the journey home, but we will provide updates as we are able to share them. As they make plans to rebuild their lives in Peru, you can support them by providing diapers or groceries while they are still here. To sign up to help Karen and Khloe, head to the Sign-Up Genius HERE.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Emma Paskewitz at elpaskewitz@gmail.com.
| | For our first Common Ground Sunday on October 19, we are in need of clean glass jars and old magazines. Smaller jars are preferred, but any size will do! Jars will be used to make candle holders, and magazines will be used for collaging. You may drop off jars and magazines in the church office anytime between now and October 16. | | |
Common Ground Sundays
Sunday, October 19 in the Cummins Room
About once a month over holiday weekends and/or school breaks, we will host a program for all grade levels (kindergarten through high school) called Common Ground Sundays. These Sundays are intended to gather and ground our children and youth in a shared project of liberation, resistance, and care for our congregation and our wider community.
Take note:
- Children and youth may attend either 9 or 11 a.m. Common Ground Sunday programs, regardless of which worship time they regularly attend for RE
- Programming is led and supervised by church staff
| | Community & Affiliated Org Events | | |
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
November 8, 2025
11:00 am – 3:15
New AUW member Gina Ditta-Donahue will share her wisdom and passion for holistic health and addressing the root causes of health issues. Gina will draw on her wealth of experience as functional nurse practitioner. There will be breakout sessions, including sound healing and Qigong. Check back for further updates.
Details at a glance:
9:30 - Gather and connect
10:00- 12:00 - Chalice lighting; program begins
12:05 - 1:00 Lunch
1:05 - 3:00 Keynote speaker Gina Ditta-Donahue and breakout sessions
Register for Mini-Retreat
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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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