This Week at First Universalist

Join us next Sunday

March 10, 2019

10:30am Sunday Service | Exploring UU Lent

In recent years, Unitarian Universalists have been exploring what a practice of observing Lent might look like to folks in our shared faith. Through themed photo-a-day practices, taking on extra spiritual practices, and visiting the Lenten devotionals of our heritage, people are piecing together a Lent that feels fitting for UUs. As a whole church, we will explore through writings, images, and song what Lent might look like for us.

9:15am Drop-in Discussion | What Gives Us the Will

to Live?

Based on a recent topic in the Universalist Herald. Because we are alive, we know that we will eventually die. Are you afraid of dying and is it the pain of death that causes fear or the uncertainty (or certainty) of what’s on the other side? Does difficulty in life make you love life more or does it weaken your resolve to have a quality life? David Damico facilitates. Held in our Chalice Room.

Worship Service Videos from 2/24

The Future of Universalism

with First Universalist Church

The Future of Universalism

with Rev. Lane Campbell

& Rev. Michelle Yates

Upcoming Events & Additional Announcements

Thursday, March 7 | Eastman at Washington Square Concerts

Bach Meets Modern (II)

Eastman at Washington Square Concerts take place on Thursdays at 12:15 to 12:45pm in our sanctuary. March 7 is Bach Meets Modern (II) : A second installment of fabulous pianists from the studio of Professor Marina Lomazov performing a program that pairs Bach's work with piano works of the 20th and 21st centuries, and traces Bach's enormous influence on music throughout history. Admission is free! Bring your brown bag lunch and join us.

Friday, March 8 | Cozy Night Supper

Don’t miss our next Cozy Night Supper March 8 in the Clara Barton Lounge. The 5:30pm potluck dinner will be followed by an interactive program at 6:30pm. Shirley Bond, Betty Hancock and Cheryl Avery Roc/ACTS colleagues, will present a dramatization and discussion of women’s racial challenges in Rochester. Sign up is on the hall or lounge bulletin boards or through contacting the church office.

Sunday, March 10 | Annual Chili Cook-Off

The annual Chili Cook-Off pitting the culinary greats of First Universalist against each other is scheduled for March 10, 11:30am to 12:40pm . The friendly challenge is marked by a variety of chilis from the traditional Texas-style chili to the eco-friendly vegan entries and promises to once again tickle the discriminating palates of our members. RSVP to Bill Elwell ( [email protected] ).

Sunday, March 24 | Book Group Discussion: Evicted

The book group selection for the month of March is Evicted

by Matthew Desmond. An in-depth examination of poverty and profit in the American cities. Poverty is profitable argues the author of this well researched book. He follows the lives of eight families in Milwaukee and realizes how these families are played by the system and bottom feeders who profit from people’s misfortune.

These families face situations that most of us never imagine. For those who would like a head start, March will introduce Educated by Tara Westover. Held in our Chalice Room.

First Universalist’s Music Program: Supported By You!

When church members and friends are asked what they love about First Universalist , Music is among the things most frequently mentioned. Our Music program is so enriching and full- our hymns, our historic Hope-Jones organ; our Music Director, the choir and musicians from the congregation and community; as well as our collaborative relationship with Eastman for the Thursday concerts- we are fortunate to have it all. The music, like everything at First Universalist , is supported by pledges from members and friends. Thanks for “showing up” for our Music program!

Sign-ups and training for RAIHN Week April 14-21

During RAIHN* Week we will turn our church into a home for temporarily homeless families. We'll convert our classrooms into bedrooms, cook meals, stay overnight, and provide other help. To join our volunteer team, sign up in the lounge after church on Sunday, or contact Chris DeGolyer, [email protected] with questions. If you'd like to learn more before volunteering, we have opportunities to "shadow" experienced volunteers. A new volunteer orientation will be held on Wednesday, April 10, 6:30-8:30pm at Temple B'rith Kodesh, 2131 Elmwood Ave. in Rochester. For experienced volunteers, 2nd level training will be held Thursday, March 28th, 6:30-8:30pm at Artisan Church, 1235 S. Clinton Ave. in Rochester. This training focuses on the issues RAIHN families face, such as culture, poverty, and trauma.

* Rochester Area Interfaith Hospitality Network: keeping families together. Getting families home for good.

Joys & Sorrows

Joys

Donna Anderson's joy was having her husband, Tom, and her long time friend, Karen Reyshak, here with her as she signed the membership book. "It has been a journey, and I'm glad I'm here!"
Hilary Wermers is 8 months out of cancer treatment and had clear scans while checking her oncologists this week!

Both