The Weekly Liberal: January 9, 2025 | |
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As we talked about this past Sunday, in Potowatomi indigenous culture the Windigo is a human who becomes a monster from the illness of taking too much and sharing too little. As Robin Wall Kimmerer says, “Understood as a cannibal—whose hunger is never sated, eating through the world. Windigo thinking jeopardizes the survival of the community by incentivizing individual accumulation far beyond the satisfaction of ‘enoughness.”
Winona LaDuke takes this a step further, coining the phrase Wendigo economics—a system of economics where the goal is to gobble up more than you need, more than your share. In doing so, you become a cannibal eating its way through the world and its people. In this way of being we become spiritually sick, never knowing the feeling of enough, devastating ourselves and the relationships we are inextricably interconnected in along the way.
I know this is not the world we want to live in or the people we want to be. We long to step out of this grinding system, to know the world around us and inside us as a gift—as grace. How do we do it? How do we extract ourselves from the Wendigo economy? We knit ourselves into intentional communities that address our physical and spiritual needs—creating a sense of belonging, purpose, mutuality, and the experience of having and being enough together. In what can be an overwhelming world, we find our place and our part.
This is what we are doing at church. Each of us doing our part: knitting ourselves and each other into this community, and making something beautiful together. I invite you to knit yourself into this community of mutuality, care, and purpose. You can do this by joining our congregational assessment and learning as we work to increase our intercultural competence: learning how to see, name, value, accept, and adapt across the many cultures we inhabit, and interact with with intentionality and mutual respect so that our relationships with each other can deepen. You can do it by joining in our Habitat for Humanity build days on Saturdays in January and March. You can do it by joining us for worship on Sunday mornings and at any of the many offerings in January (watch your email tomorrow for a special January events blast). You can do it by making your annual gift to the church for 2025-26 now, so that we can focus on the vital ministries that are so needed in the world instead of funding our own infrastructure. You can support the work of the church by your presence, with your time and talent, and by taking the risk and feeling the reward of being a part of something larger than yourself in this community.
It's been our practice at First Universalist to join with community partners who bring experience and expertise to our faithful action efforts. Recently, we've partnered with Pink Haven Coalition as we support trans and gender-expansive folks who are making the move to safer states. We've learned that the two greatest challenges experienced by trans and gender-expansive folks who are needing to move to safer states at this time are poverty and trauma—and we are providing support for these specific priorities that have been identified by the people at risk.
We've recently been connected with someone needing to make the move from Florida to Minnesota, and we'll be welcoming them to Minneapolis in mid-January. Along with members of Shir Tikvah we will be a Welcoming Village, offering support with housing, systems navigation (name change, health care, job search, etc.), and community connections. I am energized and full of gratitude for this opportunity to provide direct support and care to someone who has known so much pain and loss and discrimination in their young life. In one of my recent text exchanges with this person, it was my great joy to say simply, you deserve to be safe and happy, and to know that this is the embodiment of the Universalist spirit of love and hope we are living into.
We create Beloved Community together. Knit yourself in. Take a deep breath, grab the hand of your neighbor, and walk through the portal to a new way again and again.
See you in church,
Rev. Jen
PS. This past Sunday, we explored the wisdom of Robin Wall Kimmerer, Indigenous scientist and author in her recent book, The Serviceberry: Abundance and Reciprocity in the Natural World. The wisdom of Winona LaDuke, an Anishinaabe author, speaker, and activist focusing on Indigenous rights, environmental justice, and sustainable tribal economics and Leah Penniman, co-director of Soul Fire Farm and author of Farming While Black, also led the way as we explored our place as a part of the natural world, and what we can learn from it. I highly recommend reading or listening to this interview and spending time with the small but powerful book, The Serviceberry, if you are looking for sources of learning, hope, and encouragement.
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Make Your Commitment/Pledge by January 20 | |
Can you make your financial commitment/pledge to First Universalist Church for the 2025-2026 Church Year by January 20 - Inauguration Day? Help us secure our budget so that we can focus on what really matters in the months and years to come. | |
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The IDI measures intercultural competency.
The assessment takes about 20 minutes to complete. Your results will be part of an aggregate group report to the congregation. Your individual results are confidential and shared only with the qualified administrator who you will be meeting with to debrief (optional).
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Sunday, Jan.12
Honoring Earth's Rhythms
In a world that glorifies constant motion, what happens when we choose to pause? To rest is to defy the demands of productivity, to step into the sacred stillness where transformation quietly begins. Inspired by the cycles of nature and the wisdom of ancestors, we’ll explore wintering as an act of courage and renewal—a way to prepare for the life yet to come. What might you discover if you dared to embrace the quiet, uncomfortable gift of rest?
Join us at 9 or 11 a.m. in person or via livestream at 11 a.m.
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After Worship
Coffee Hour in the Social Hall
Visit with old friends and meet new ones over coffee and cookies in our social hall.
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Last Sunday, Jan. 5: Living on Earth - Change the Channels | |
Sing along with Dr. Glen Thomas Rideout and the congregation--"Blue Boat Home," a beloved UU hymn, written by Peter Mayer. Then grab tickets to see Peter Mayer and JD Stillwater live in concert right here at church! | |
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Our hearts are with Bryana French and her mother Sybil Williams and their family on the death of Bryana's stepfather, Tommy Williams, this past week. A memorial service for Tommy will be held at church in the afternoon on Friday, January 17th. May all who loved Tommy take comfort in the words of our minister emeritus, the Rev. John Cummins, "There is but one place where time and death have no dominion: that place is love."
The Salonek Schladt family asks for your prayers and good thoughts as Nicole’s mom's transplant team meets on Monday to decide whether she qualifies for another transplant. Either way, the road ahead won’t be easy for her or the family. Nicole has stayed behind in Kentucky for the foreseeable future to care for her parents as they navigate this challenge. Nicole's kids and wife traveled back to Minnesota today, and they could use extra love and support while she is not there to care for them.
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 pastoralcare@firstuniv.org or (612) 405-5583 (call or text).
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Ways to Connect at Church | |
Submit a Program Proposal for Winter/Spring by Sunday, Jan. 12 | |
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Do you have an idea for an event, workshop, circle, or other gathering for adults in the winter/spring of 2025? Our upcoming program cycle will run from February 2-May 18, 2025. Program submissions will be open through January 12. You can learn more about what those programs might look like on our website. Reach out to Rachel Rott (rachel@firstuniv.org) or Liz Farmer (liz@firsuniv.org) with questions about adult programs at church.
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Artwork created by Senior High Youth Group member, Rasana. | |
All Ages Church Prom!
Saturday, Jan. 18 from 5-8 p.m.
Select "Through the Ages Prom" for tickets
We suggest ticket donations on this sliding scale:
- $20-$50 for an individual
- $35-$70 for a couple
- $50 – $150 for a family
This fabulous event is planned by our Youth Leadership Team with support from our Stewardship Team and our Senior High Youth Group.
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Cosmology & Concert:
Peter Mayer & JD Stillwater
Saturday, Jan. 25, 7 p.m. at First U
Buy Tickets
This event offers a rare mix of music and science, bringing people closer to the cosmos and to one another. Families and individuals of all ages are invited to experience this uplifting and meaningful event. Join us in fostering connection and creativity! Ticket pricing is on a sliding scale to invite meaningful generosity and make a space for all who wish to attend.
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Improv for Elders
Wednesdays, Jan. 15, 22, 29 (no gathering on Dec. 25, or Jan. 1) 10:30 a.m. to noon
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Young Adults Lunch at Gigi's
January 12, 12:10 p.m.
E-mail Liz to connect with the Young Adults group: liz@firstuniv.org
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Daytime Connections: Choices to Combat Global Warming
Thursday, January 16
9:45 a.m. coffee, 10-noon program, Noon lunch, in person in the Social Hall and on Zoom
Registration Requested by the Monday prior. (Suggested donation for catered lunch is $0-20 as you are able. Attendees are also welcome to bring their own lunch.)
Organized and hosted by the Daytime Connections Planning Team
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Winter/Spring Grief Group
5:30-6:30 p.m. on Zoom; Jan 19, Feb 2, 16. Mar 2, 16. Apr 6, 20 (April 20th is Easter) May 4, 18.
Facilitated by Mark Caswell, church member and ministerial aspirant
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Environmental Justice Gathering
January 19; 12:30 p.m. in the Cummins Room
Connect with the EJ Team
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Twin Cities Habitat for Humanity
Three builds scheduled: Saturday, January 25; March 01; or March 29.
8:30am to 3:30pm
Contact David Harrison with questions: rdavid.harrisonjr@gmail.com
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Saturday Sprouts
January 25; 10 a.m.-noon
No RSVP Necessary
Saturday Sprouts for Families is a lovely chance to get to know other families and to receive support from kindred parents/caregivers and the congregation.
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Meditation Tuesday Mornings
On Zoom only
Every Tuesday, all year/every week; 9:00-10:15 a.m.; gather at 8:45;
Email Martha Easter-Wells to RSVP: ewellsm@gmail.com
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Winter/Spring Membership Class
2 sessions, both required: Sundays, March 16 & 23; Lunch 12:45 p.m., Class 1-3 p.m. in person at church
New Member ritual in worship April 6
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For the most complete and up-to-date listing of Programs, Gatherings, & Events at Church, visit our church calendar, or view the Program Guide: | |
First U Foundation Nominations Are Open | |
Community & Affiliated Org Events | |
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12-Step Spirituality
Visit the website for details.
First Saturday of each month through May 3, 2025, 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM.
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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Join our friends at the Spark and Stitch institute for their event "Raising Love & Grief" with Sharon Bridgforth.
Details: January 11, 2024 from 10 am – 12 p.m. at The Playwright Center in Minneapolis. Free childcare provided.
More information: Raising Love & Grief is intended for people who are currently parents who are also navigating the complex task of caretaking their own parents or grieving their loss.
The event will feature nationally celebrated queer, Black playwright and healer Sharon Bridgforth who will read from her soon-to-be-released book Before You Go: An Offering (Tripwire Harlot Press).
Please register here.
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MUUSJA: Welcome MN Legislators to the 2025 Session
Tuesday, Jan. 14 - Minnesota State Capitol, St. Paul
Join MUUSJA and other organizations at the Minnesota Capitol for the start of the legislative session. Let’s show our elected officials that we’re paying attention to their work and are a voice for justice and equity! Meet Rev. Terri starting at 10 am outside the rotunda to get supplies. You’re encouraged to join the ERA Rally and the Rise & Repair gathering. We’ll then move upstairs to greet legislators as they enter Chambers at 11:30 am. Questions? Email revterri@muusja.org.
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MUUSJA - the People's March MN
Join MUUSJA next Saturday, January 18, for The People's March
UUs will meet at Cathedral Hill Park at 11-11:15 a.m.
Contact Holly Kelchner with questions: hollyakelchner@gmail.com
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AUW Winter Event: Unleashing Creativity
Saturday, February 8, 2025 10 am - 1:30 pm at First U
RSVP / Tickets Here
Our speaker will be Mary Helmin. Creative opportunities will include making a greeting card and planting a paper hyacinth bulb to take home. A chili lunch will be served. This event will be free to AUW members and $10 for non-members.
AUW Spring Retreat at Camp Courage
May 2-4, 2025
REGISTER BY JAN. 31 FOR EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT!
“Let it Go & Imagine!
Celebrating 25 Years & Beyond!”
For more information, click here.
Hiking Group: For questions or to get on the hiking group mailing list, contact: Marie Sorensen, 612-419-3620, mariefsor@aol.com.
Marie will have limited availability to lead hikes in January and February. AUW members and friends who wish to convene hikes are encouraged to do so through the AUW Facebook group.
Game Group
January 9, 7-9 p.m. at church
Contact: Anne Frenchick
Women Who Read
Mon., Monday, January 27, 2025, 7 p.m.
Topic: An Invisible Thread: the True Story of An 11-year-old Panhandler, a Busy Sales Executive, and An Unlikely Meeting With Destiny by Laura Schroff.
RSVP for location: Abbie Finger
The Sandwich Project Potluck and Service Project
Saturday, January 25, 6 - 8 pm First U Social Hall
Questions: Contact event sponsors, Beth and Sandy at bumble9lol@gmail.com.
| Twin Cities Congregational Spiritual Care Training | |
How do you care?
Two Saturdays: January 25 and February 15 | 9:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m. | Unity Church and Zoom
Details and Registration Here
Rev. Karen Hutt will lead this series of two workshops for people to deepen their practice of giving and receiving compassionate care for one another in times of joy, sorrow and transition. We are called, in these times, to level up the ways extend radical, inclusive welcome, to offer a true experience of sanctuary, care and belonging to our members, newcomers, friends and community.
Attendance at both is required for participation. Lunch is included for those attending in-person.
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