This Week at First Universalist
December 14, 2015
This Week's Service
One Light, Many Windows.  Christmas, Hanukkah, Solstice, Kwanzaa, Bodhi Day… This month and its many holidays put theological diversity on full display. We will consider this topic with the help of wisdom both ancient and modern.  Rev. Celie Katovitch, 10:30 a.m.

Drop-in Discussion:  Santa Claus. Were you taught to believe in Santa Claus as a child? If you have children, what do you tell your children about Santa Claus? Does Santa Claus symbolize anything except getting presents? Phil Ebersole will lead a discussion.  9:15 a.m.
Upcoming Events
"A Christmas Together"
Join us this Sunday, December 20th at 3:00 pm for a special holiday concert presented by Ann Mitchell, Kerri Lynn Slominski, and Howard Spindler in our Sanctuary. Free Admission ($5 suggested donation).
 Start the New Year right with RAIHN
First Universalist's next RAIHN* Week is January 3-10, when we will welcome temporarily homeless families to stay in our church for the week. During the darkest, coldest days of the year it is especially important that we provide our RAIHN guests with good food and a warm, safe place to stay.  Untrained volunteers are welcome to help with activities such as set up, clean up, and laundry. If you're unsure what a specific task involves, ask us about shadowing a seasoned volunteer. We'll happily find a volunteer who will show you what to do. To volunteer or if you have questions, contact Chris DeGolyer ( [email protected]  or 461-3616) or talk to Marti Eggers after church on Sunday. 
* Rochester Interfaith Hospitality Network: Keeping Families Together, Bringing Families Home
Additional Announcements

DECEMBER SOCIAL JUSTICE PLATE:  The December Social Justice Plate, to be taken during the December 20th service, will be donated to the Minister's Discretionary Fund. This fund allows Rev. Celie to give money where she sees the need, either within the congregation or in the larger community. Please give generously.

NEW AT THE HOLIDAY SHOPPE!  “Ministry Mittens” by our own Lisa Gwinner!  Hand-knit mittens for our mitten tree at only $5.  We also have baked goods and gift items.  This is the last week of our Holiday Shoppe - be sure to stop by the table in the Clara Barton Lounge after the service on Sunday!

MITTEN TREE:   We are still accepting donations of store bought or handmade or barely used mittens, gloves, scarves and hats to place either under the tree or just on the chancel floor to the right. All adult and children's sizes are needed. Stuffed animals cannot be used. Thanks in advance!

CHRISTMAS COOKIES:   If you are planning on attending the Christmas Eve service, please consider sharing a dozen of your favorite Christmas Cookies, homemade or store bought.  Please let Tom Williams know at [email protected] or 663-4362.  Thank You.

RING IN THE NEW YEAR WITH US!  Membership Committee will host the New Year’s Eve family-friendly event in the Clara Barton Lounge. The evening begins with appetizers and socializing at 7:00 PM, followed by a potluck dinner at 7:20 PM.  John “The Amazing” Adams will astonish us with a magic show.  Music will follow before we head out to the fire works.  If you’d like to share your talent, contact Nancy Gaede.  Please sign up at the Membership Table in the Clara Barton Lounge - but if you decide at the last minute to join us, please do!  There is always room for more.   

2016 AUCTION:   The clock is ticking - and Auction time is coming!   The big event is February 7th after the church service, but NOW is the time to plan!  Think about what you might like to donate to the auction - perhaps a dinner, gathering, or unique item. Donation forms and information will be available by the end of December, so it’s not too soon to get excited!  Watch for more information in weeks to come, and contact Ann Rhody ([email protected]) or Paula Marchese ( [email protected] ) with questions.

THE BOOK CLUB has chosen the book "Being Mortal" by Atui Gawande for the January 31st, 2016 discussion.  Any questions feel free to contact Shirley Bond or Sarah Singal.  Happy New Year!

MEMBERSHIP AT FIRST UNIVERSALIST is always possible.  If you feel that you have found a spiritual home here with us, contact Reverend Celie ( [email protected] ) or Nancy Gaede ( [email protected] ) and we will make arrangements for you to sign the membership book.  On Saturday, April 9, we will hold a Path to Membership class that we hope all new members and those considering membership will attend.  On Sunday, April 10, we will welcome all new members during the church service.

WEATHER-RELATED CLOSINGS:  During this winter season, please note that cancellations of church activities can be viewed at 13wham.com.  
This Week's Calendar of Events
Monday, December 14
  • Private Event (rental), Clara Barton Lounge, 6:30 pm
Wednesday, December 16
  • Library Committee, Clara Barton Lounge, 2 pm
  • Committee on Ministry (Rev. Celie), Volunteer Office, 7 pm
Thursday,  December 17
  • Announcement Deadline
  • Eastman Lunchtime Concert Series, Sanctuary, 12:15 pm
Friday, December 18
  • Caring Committee decoration of sanctuary
Saturday,  December 19
  • SNYP AA, Clara Barton Lounge and Adult Lounge (rental), 8 pm 
Sunday,  December 20
  • Choir Rehearsal, Choir Room, 9 am
  • Drop-In Discussion, Adult Lounge, 9:15 am
  • Sunday Service, Sanctuary, 10:30 am
  • Coffee Hour, Clara Barton Lounge, 11:45 am
  • The Holiday Shoppe, Clara Barton Lounge, 11:45 am
  • Introduction to First Universalist Class, Adult Lounge, 11:45 am
  • "A Christmas Together" Holiday Concert, Sanctuary, 3 pm
Thank you for keeping us updated, both when you schedule events and when you need to cancel one!  Please continue to do so.  Send news of your events to [email protected]; or call 546-2826.
STAFF:
Minister:   Rev. Celie Katovitch 
   
Director of Music:   Carol Xiong [email protected] 

Director of Life Span Faith Development:   Michelle Yates 
[email protected] 
  
Office Administrator:  Melissa Davies [email protected]
Contact Us
150 S. Clinton Avenue
Rochester, NY 14604
(585) 546-2826

Office Hours:   Monday-Friday,  9:30-2:30