It’s a new program year at UUCG and we are excited about the possibilities that await us this fall. Here are just SOME of the things you can look forward to in September and beyond.
1. Our First Sunday Forum’s are returning on September 3. Our congregation had a long history of having Forum’s on different topics with different speakers or facilitators once a month at one time that diminished at some point before the pandemic when some of our lay leaders took on other responsibilities. One thing that’s so GREAT about having new members is that they bring a new desire to rejuvenate our offerings! Ruth Trudeau has offered to get this ball rolling with facilitation of the First Forum of this new program year on September 3 at 9 o’clock with a discussion on the Stoics and how they can inform us about life. Come join the discussion and offer to lead one of these First Sunday Forum’s in the future.
2. Although not NEW – we are pleased that Seminarian Clint Tawes has been RENEWED again this year to share with us on 2nd Sundays. Similarly, our own Beth Sutton has renewed her commitment to continue to bring wonderful fourth Sunday programming to us.
3. Beginning this Sunday, September 3, at 10:30, I will be sharing a series of sermons entitled “Lessons from Banned Books.” This Sunday will kick-off that series with a “Brief History of Book Bannings and Burnings.” This is an OLD story – but one that needs our time and attention at this point in history when many state legislatures have passed laws that have led to increases in bans in books and curriculum.
4. Our new stewardship team is planning a wonderful campaign focusing on Generosity. The kickoff will be on Sunday, September 17 and will feature a sermon by our NEW ministerial intern, Randy Blasch. I will also be sharing a testimony and leading this service. We want our stewardship to focus on everyone participating at a level that is right for them. And we will have fun in the process. Look for more information coming from the stewardship team this month.
5. Our membership team has been working hard with new greeters and more to improve many aspects of making sure that we are welcoming to all. And though we have a team to provide leadership, we need you ALL to participate. Show up at all our services if you are in town – or try to zoom if you are not. Help us to make newcomers feel welcome and appreciated.
6. Our Choir has a new meeting time – 5:30 p.m. on Thursdays – hoping that more folks can join what is already a vibrant team of folks bringing you great music under the leadership of John Cowlishaw.
7. Our hospitality team has already provided some good coffee and refreshments in August – but needs more help as we go forward. Perhaps this can be a NEW activity for YOU this year.
8. And finally on this list – we have a NEW modem that should provide better internet possibilities with fewer zoom problems. Thank you, Kim Merck, for your leadership in getting this done and so much more!
Please take the time to read through this entire newsletter for more information about all these new and ongoing activities at UUCG.
Peace, Love, and Joy!
Jane
|