Drop-In Discussions are virtual! We meet on Tuesday nights from 6:30-7:30pm. Look on the First Universalist homepage for details and a link, or click the Zoom meeting link in this blurb title!
- This Week: What is Democracy?
The UU Fifth Principle includes a commitment to the democratic process. But what is the democratic process? Is it majority rule, or something more (or less)? Is there a conflict between the democratic process and the right of conscience, also part of the Fifth Principle? Phil Ebersole will lead a discussion.
- Next Week: Here We Are, Midwinter: Are You OK?
Are you taking advantage of all that winter has to offer? Sledding, skiing, ice skating? Concerts, plays, movies, dinners in or out with friends, do you focus on your home-based hobbies, or are you just counting the days until spring? Beth Ares will facilitate.
Weekly Midweek Meditation sessions are back up each Wednesday at 11:30am! On second Wednesdays, we hold an extended Midweek Meditation, with an extra half hour of sharing and meditation following the traditional format. A time to connect for deep breathing, meditation, singing, and silence. Look on the
First Universalist homepage for details and a link!
Update on First Universalist’s Response to
Increases COVID-19 Cases in Monroe County
The COVID Task Force together with the Executive Committee of our Board has concluded the risks are at present too great to continue with in-person Sunday services, Thursday concerts, and meetings in our building for the remainder of January. Effectively immediately, all Sunday services and meetings will revert to online only. Throughout the month our Board and Task Force will monitor the situation carefully and make decisions about next steps. The Board will give an update during the last week of January regarding plans beyond January 30.
The decision was a hard one to make, as we have been so delighted to return to our building. On the other hand, we welcome the chance to be together again as we stay safely in our homes and see one another on our screens.
In the meantime, we urge you to get your booster shot if you have not already done so, and wear KN95 masks or better for protection when in public.
- First Universalist COVID Task Force
FPGROC (formerly RAIHN): Changes in the Shelter Program
Family Promise has made the decision to continue using apartments to shelter guest families rather than returning to using churches after the pandemic. FPGROC is inviting all church volunteers to attend a town hall gathering on Zoom to learn about and discuss future plans. To attend, register for one of the following dates.
Feb 13 | Book Group Discussion
The February 13 book is Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer. The group is likely to be small but will meet at the large serving table in the Clara Barton Lounge (if the building is reopened by then, keep an eye out for updates).
Service Auction 2022: Another update!
Regretfully, in light of current circumstances, the Auction team has decided to suspend plans for an Auction fundraiser at this time.
The joy in all of this is that the church is in a financial position where a fundraiser is not absolutely necessary this year! We DO miss the fun and fellowship, and we promise that this will return in future events! Meanwhile, stay safe and take care of yourselves and others. Thanks for your understanding!
Katherine Flynn, Paula Marchese, and Ann Rhody
Sundays: January 9, 16, 23, and 30, 2022 Transcendentalism: Then and Now
Join us for a 4-part adult religious education class titled: “Transcendentalism: Then and Now”, led by Rev. John Buehrens. It is hosted virtually at First Unitarian Rochester, and sponsored by the St. Lawrence Chapter of the UU Minister's Association. Time: 7-8:30pm, Contact: Rev. AJ van Tine (revaj@rochesterunitarian.org).
The four sessions cover the following topics:
• Jan. 9: The Transcendentalists: Shared Values, Conversations, and Spiritual Friendships
• Jan. 16: Women's Rights, Education, and Economic Inequality
• Jan. 23: Abolitionists and the Civil War: The Peak of Transcendentalist Influence
• Jan 30: Nature, Evolution, and Environmentalism: The Transcendentalist Contribution
