UUCGL Weekly Update

WEEKLY UPDATE | APRIL 1, 2026

ABOUT UUCGL

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SUNDAY SERVICE

April 5, 2026 | 10:00am

"Reclaiming Jesus from Christian Nationalism"

Rev. Art McDonald, Guest Worship Leader

Join us as we celebrate the Easter mystery and new life together — wear your brightest colors and best bonnets and hats.

Read about Rev. Art McDonald here

Worship with us on Facebook Live on Sunday.

Join our livestream of the service by clicking the button at left.

Sunday Sign Up

Each Sunday we rely on volunteers to help the service and Fellowship Hour run smoothly. Can you help? Use the button at left to sign up for any future Sunday... and THANK YOU!

A Message from Rev. Chris

Each year on Easter, I share about the life and teachings of Jesus in our faith development class, including the story of his death and resurrection. I am always curious to ask the children and youth what they believe. Without fail, some say they celebrate Easter because they believe Jesus came back to life. Others celebrate to honor the “natural resurrection”, because in spring the earth itself seems to come back to life — the flowers, the eggs, the new baby animals — which is connected to why we do an Easter Egg Hunt! Still others take a more nuanced approach and say that while they don’t personally believe that people come back to life, perhaps our spirit never dies, and that Jesus’ spirit lives on especially through his words and teachings. There has always been a range. That is one of the things that is so special to me about Unitarian Universalism... MORE

This Sunday in Faith Development

Children and youth will begin in the Sanctuary, and then recess with Rev. Chris to faith development class. After worship, children and parents will assemble in the Fellowship Room for our Easter Egg Hunt!

Social Justice

Many of us were among the eight million who turned out for last Saturday’s No Kings protests. Members of our community showed up across Swampscott, Lynn, Salem, Boston, and more, to exercise their First Amendment rights. And some found each other in the crowds!

Service Sunday

Thank you!

A fantastic crew of 15 volunteers came out for Service Sunday, and together they cranked out about 80 servings of lasagna—made with care and efficiency at just $1.98 per serving. Those meals were served at Lifebridge Sunday night, and we’re so grateful for everyone who helped make it happen. Community care at its best!

"Have I Got A Story For You!" • April 11

Join us for an evening of storytelling to benefit UUCGL! Share a story or just come to listen... but sign up now so we know you'll be there! We'll also have refreshments, a raffle for beautiful themed baskets, and all-age childcare available. This 18+ event is open to the larger community, so plan to spread the word and bring friends. Let's make it a night to remember, where every voice matters and every story shines! GET ALL THE INFO HERE!

Ferry Beach

Click here to see photos from last year's retreat

Ferry Beach Retreat Weekend • April 24–26

Join us for a magical weekend in Maine! Whether you’re into beach walks, volleyball, playground time, campfires, delicious food, or quiet reflection in the outdoor chapel, Ferry Beach has something for you. REGISTER TODAY!

We want everyone to be able to attend. Financial assistance, or "camperships," are available—just reach out to Rev. Chris.

Pledge Season 2026

I'll Pledge Now!

Ready to make your 2026-27 pledge?

Here are 3 quick ways to do it:

visit uucgl.org/pledge
email mypledge@uucgl.org
return the pledge card you'll receive in the mail

Your pledge is not just a gift — it is a declaration that you belong here and that this community belongs to you. No matter the size, your commitment makes our chorus complete.Thank you for your support!

Featured Programming & Events

To see what else is happening, click here or visit our website Calendar Page

Easter Egg Hunt

Sunday, April 5 (after the service)

When the service ends, the hunt begins! After worship, kids of all ages will gather in the Fellowship Room for quick instructions before heading out on our annual egg hunt. Eggs will be hidden, joy will be found!

Raffle Ticket Sale

Sunday, April 5 | 11:15am | Parish Hall

Don't miss out on winning a beautiful themed basket that will be raffled off on Story Night! Grab your tickets during Coffee Hour on April 5 or at the event itself. No need to be present to win. Tickets are $5 each or 5 for $20.

"Have I Got A Story For You!"

A Live Story Sharing Event To Benefit UUCGL

Saturday, April 11 | 7-9pm | Parish Hall

Join us for a fun-filled evening of storytelling! Whether you're a seasoned storyteller or just enjoy listening to the captivating narratives of others, this is the place to be. Read more HERE.

GET TICKETS HERE

Hearts & Arts for Youth:

Sunday Art Adventures to Benefit the Local Community

Sunday, April 12 | 10-11am | Skylight Room

Youth of all ages through high school are invited. Click HERE for more info and a list of upcoming sessions.

Social Justice Ministry Team Meeting

Sunday, April 12 | 11:15am | Skylight Room

All invited to attend. We’ll set future meetings by consensus. Bring your coffee, your passion, and your ideas. These are challenging times, and working together is how we make things better. Email with questions or agenda items.

Pondside Chorus: A Vernal Pool Experience

Monday, April 13 | 6:30-8pm | Parish Hall

Movie! Live Animal Exhibit! Vernal Pool Exploration! Join us for a family‑friendly adventure into the world of vernal ponds. Free for everyone—bring friends! Find out more at: https://tinyurl.com/pondpeepers

Co-sponsored by The Swampscott Conservancy.

Tai Chi & Qigong Open House

April 21 | 9am & 10am | Parish Hall

Curious about Tai Chi or Qigong? Join us for a free, no‑obligation lesson in the Parish Hall: Tai Chi at 9am where we'll cover fundamentals, and/or Qigong at 10am with walking‑meditation movements and form demonstrations. Save the date!

New Series Starting Soon!

If you've been waiting for the next series of Beginner Tai Chi and/or Qigong classes to start, now's the time to sign up! See the new schedule HERE.

Annual All-Church Weekend Retreat at Ferry Beach

April 24 (evening)-April 26 | Saco, ME

REGISTER BY APRIL 10th for our all-ages retreat! Registration closes on April 10th, but rooms to accommodate accessibility needs or additional privacy are limited. We encourage you to register as soon as possible. Questions? Please reach out to Rev. Chris or to Eileen. MORE INFO

North Shore Pride Parade & Festival

Saturday, June 27 | Salem

If you intend to join us at the event, please add your name to this registration list to help us coordinate. Don’t forget to add your t-shirt size if you don’t already have a “Side with Love” UUCGL shirt! 🏳️‍🌈

...There's More!

There's a lot happening at UUCGL and all are welcome to participate!

To see a list of recurring group meetings and programs click below or visit our website Homepage or Calendar Page.

RECURRING GROUP MEETINGS AND PROGRAMS LIST

ADULT PROGRAMS

CHILDREN/YOUTH PROGRAMS

Financial Matters

Pledges, Payments and Donations

HERE are 3 easy ways to make a donation to the church. Please indicate whether your payment is toward your pledge or for another purpose.

Ready to make your 2026-27 pledge? Here are 3 quick ways to do it:

visit uucgl.org/pledge
email mypledge@uucgl.org
bring to church or mail back the pledge card you'll receive in the mail

Thank you for your support!

UUCGL Resources

Are you following UUCGL on Facebook? Check out our Facebook page and hit the "follow" button to see what’s going on at UUCGL and around our area!

Items for the Weekly Update

Send your info to Mary at mkgualtieri@uucgl.org.

Stay Connected with UUCGL

Visit our Staff Directory HERE to contact any of us. We're here for you!

UUCGL Board of Trustees 2025-2026

Follow this link to meet the board.

Name Buttons

If you are new to the congregation and would like a name badge, or if you need yours replaced, simply email Misha and she'd be happy to make one for you.