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Miami Valley Unitarian Universalist Fellowship | | |
THE FORUM
October 2026 | Issue 7
| Photo of the full moon, during August's Lunar Eclipse. Taken by Kristin T., thanks to her husband, Michael, who found the moon through their telescope. Are you a shutterbug? Let us feature your photos in a future Forum! Send your photos to Meredith at life@mvuuf.org | |
In this month's Forum:
Read a message from Meredith (Director of Congregational Life), reflect on the events of Unshackle Springfield, celebrate unsung hero Becca H., welcome new member Will B., take a peek into MVUUF's past, learn about our Production Team, find out about upcoming events and opportunities, and discover how you can be part of it all!
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| A Message from... Meredith P. | |
I'm a bit of a word nerd, so you can imagine my delight when, last week, I discovered the "English Vocab List" report by Jasmine Nackash, on The Pudding - a data visualization website. Using two lists of the "most commonly used words in the English language," Nackash analyzed how our lexicon has changed over the decades, from 1953 to 2023, and the results are telling. The implications, fascinating.
Over the past 70 years, the English language has dropped over 600 words from common use, and added more than 1,100 other words. Many of the words that were dropped were tangible objects, such as "soap, umbrella, and leaf" while many of the words that were added were abstract concepts such as "corporation, appropriate, [and] analysis." Nackash also reported that while our use of 'feeling words' (e.g. "pity, despair, and sorrow") fell by nearly 2%, our use of 'thinking words' (e.g. "judgement, investigate, and logic") grew just as much. Along these lines, Nackash declares that "Our Words Moved Outward." She adds, "The words shifted from describing something you inhabit to describing something you manage." The same could be said about the words we use to describe our communities, as we went from naming things on the local level, such as "butter" and "harvest," to describing the world in terms of global systems, such as "climate" and "pollution." Nackash suggests this shift has had an overall impact on our relationships, "The social world shifted from something you navigate through relationships to something with which you identify through categories. It offers fewer words for the people directly around you, but more for belonging at a distance."
The story implied by Nackash's analysis is a sad one. It's a story of disconnection. We, English speakers, are a people disconnected from our feelings, our relationships, and our immediate communities. It makes me wonder about the power of Unitarian Universalism in today's cultural landscape. After all, the word 'Religion' is derived from the Latin 'Ligare,' which means "to bind." And, what binds Unitarian Universalism? What makes us a religion? Covenant, of course! That is, how we engage in relationship with ourselves, each other, and the wider world!
We, Unitarian Universalists, are a people of relationship, of connection, and of community. How, then, do we bridge the divide from the disconnection of popular culture, to the connection of covenantal community? We show up - for church activities, for each other, for social action. We engage - with volunteer opportunities, with our concept of self, with conflict. And, we believe - in justice and equity, in grace and transformation, and in a world that can manifest heaven on Earth.
In short, no matter how hard or heartbreaking, we are committed to begin again, and again, and again, in love.
In faith and love,
Meredith
Director of Congregational Life
| | | Memorable Moments From This Month | | |
Unshackle Springfield
By Jen L.
From August 26th through August 30th, about 25-35 UUs, along with other progressive faith-led and secular organizations, answered the call to come to Springfield in order to show our solidarity with Haitians who have lost Temporary Protected Status (TPS). From making signs, to offering pastoral care, to being a loving presence outside of churches that have been targeted by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), allies showed local Haitians that they are loved and valued. On the final day, local organizers hosted a potluck and a Jericho walk with singing and chanting. Some from MVUUF attended when they could during the week, along with other UU’s, both locally and nationally. I had the privilege of hosting a UU minister overnight who came from Cleveland.
I joined a large group of supporters in front of a church on Sunday (several groups were sent to other churches). We showed our love and support, knowing that some churches have recently cancelled services out of fear of people being taken. Many Haitian congregants smiled and waved at our presence as they drove into the parking lot.
Please know that the fight is ongoing, and there are many ways to show solidarity and support. For information on contacting Jon Husted to request extending TPS status, please visit the website for "Unitarian Universalists for Social Justice" (UUSJ). Financial contributions to support Haitians in Springfield can be sent to the Haitian Support Center.
| | Additional Pictures From This Month | | Supporters from MVUUF and beyond line the street to shower our Haitian neighbors with love and support. | |  | Rev. Terri Burnor, Rev. Kellie, and Rev. Bill Lyons meet up at Unshackle Springfield. | | | Rev. Kellie, and MVUUF congregants, attend an Unshackle Springfield event in their black "Side with Love" T-shirts. | | | MVUUF members, young and old, attend a "Postcard Writing Party" to encourage swing state voters to vote in the upcoming midterms. | | | Unitarian Universalist congregations are seeded, cultivated, and harvested by all who give. We are honored to celebrate those who give of their time, talent, and energy to this community and its mission. | | | |
Please Celebrate Becca H.
Eleanor Roosevelt once said, "The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." If that's true, then the future must belong to Becca H., as it was a dream that brought Becca to us. She elaborates, "I woke up in the middle of the night remembering something my older sister mentioned about how she attended a UU service in the past, and how healing it was. In the middle of the night I searched to see if there was a UU community nearby, and I found MVUUF! I watched consistently online for a month or so, and I didn’t know a single soul who attended. I am also somewhat new to Dayton, but I decided to be brave and give it a chance and attend in person and see what happens."
That was in September of 2024, right after MVUUF moved to St. John's, and here is what happened - Becca found community! "Every Sunday feels like a nice breath of fresh air and a chance to connect with wonderful people, and step away from everyday life for a bit." She says, "I’ve really enjoyed getting to know so many people."
She's also enjoyed the music program - being on the music committee, and being the accompanist in particular. Readers might recall seeing Becca at the piano week after week, month after month, the past few years. "Music has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember." She reflects, "Making music with people is something I genuinely love, and I’m glad I get to share that with the congregation." This editor is glad too, especially considering all the other demands and delights that occupy Becca's time! She shares, "In this season of my life, you can find me crying over organic chemistry, taking photos of some bacteria I cultured, and working on finishing my Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science! On the rare occasion I do have spare time, I also really enjoy cooking and culinary science, and occasionally you can find me outside harvesting “weeds” and learning to use them medicinally, because I also study herbalism. I’m also a mom to a high school senior who keeps me busy with a hectic marching band schedule and college preparations, and a 7 year old who keeps me busy with everything else!"
Thinking about the future of MVUUF, Becca appears to reflect on what originally brought her to us, and the state of the fellowship during that transitional time. "A hope I have for MVUUF’s future is peace. I hope the organization is able to find stability and peace, and I hope that everyone who attends can also find peace and respite from our busy lives." May it be so, may we make it so.
| | | As we welcome new members at MVUUF, we ask them to answer a few questions so we may get to know them better. These questions are meant to be fun and playful, subverting assumptions and bias. | |
What animal would you be?
A cat. I grew up with a cat. I currently have a cat. I like how smart cats actually are. Also, some good musicians are known as "cats."
Where would you most like to go?
To an excellent music performance or going to be in a music performance. Or an artistic endeavor.
What is your favorite quote?
"Let your heart be the anchor and the beat of your song." - Neil Peart
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MVUUF Moments
that Made Us
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Fertile Ground
By Tina M.
In 1910, Dayton was a fast-growing city linked by education, industry, technical innovation, and reform. That connected civic life was fertile ground for the planting of a liberal church. The wider circle included Marie Jaque Kumler, who helped organize both First Unitarian and the Young Women’s League, where they met in the early days. Katharine Wright, sister of Orville and Wilbur, helped lead the League and was active in the women’s suffrage movement of the time. Early church members included NCR founder John H. Patterson and engineer Arthur Morgan, later president of Antioch College. These connections do not prove why organizers chose Dayton, and we still do not know who made the first contact, but they do show the environment into which the invitation arrived.
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On March 2, the Dayton Daily News announced four public meetings at Association Hall in the Downtown YMCA, then located at 110 W Third St (as pictured here). That building now houses City Hall. Rev. Charles W. Casson came representing the American Unitarian Association, while Rev. Ernest C. Smith was secretary of the Western Unitarian Conference. One notice explained the purpose: to present the principles of liberal faith and, if Dayton showed enough interest, organize a church. Casson’s sermon asked and answered, “Why am I a Unitarian?” Smith followed with “Does Free Thought Destroy Religious Faith?” People were invited to listen, question, and decide.
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The invitation found an audience. On March 7, the newspaper reported (as seen here) large attendance numbers at two Sunday services, and more than one hundred people at Casson’s evening address. After an extensive conversation, including questions from the audience, a five-person committee was appointed. In the following weeks, local supporters met at Professor Russell Elliott’s home, canvassed prospective members, gathered at the Algonquin Hotel, and continued public services at Association Hall. The wider movement supplied connections and organizing experience; Dayton people did the work of forming a congregation.
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On May 21, nine local people signed the Articles of Incorporation (as pictured here) for First Unitarian Church of Dayton; the papers were filed two days later. Four signers were women: Elizabeth Elliott, Grace Heathman, Sarah Howard Peirce, and Alice Kile Neibel. Their signatures established the legal body, although many more people belonged to the community taking shape around it.
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That autumn, the congregation called Troward Harvey Marshall (as pictured here) as its first settled minister. He began his Dayton ministry in October, and on November 28 the Dayton Daily News reported his formal installation. The young church still met in borrowed spaces, including the Young Women’s League.
| What strikes me is not only that a church was planted, but how: through public invitation, grassroots local organizing, and shared responsibility. Before Dayton Unitarians had a building, people showed up and took responsibility for a community they hoped to grow. That willingness to begin became one of the congregational lineages we inherit—and one of the moments that made us. | |
Worship & CYRE Schedule
(CYRE = Children and Youth Religious Education)
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Sunday, October 4, 2026
Rev. Kellie Kelly
Courage in an Age of Fear
Children's Programming
and Youth Group
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Sunday, October 11, 2026
Rev. Kellie Kelly & Somaya Bernard
Worship for All Ages - Animal Blessing
Children and Youth in Worship Today
Visitors from the Glen Helen Raptor Center will be joining us! Please send your animal pictures, along with their names, and your name, to Kris S. no later than Friday, Oct. 9th. Thank you!
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Sunday, October 18,2026 |
Blue Heron Shelter
at Taylorsville MetroPark
Rev. Kellie Kelly
Wild Church: Autumn
Children's Programming
and Youth Group
Meeting off-site today. More information in future eBlasts.
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Sunday, October 25,2026
Rev. Kellie Kelly and
MVUUF's Social Justice Committee
Unshackle Springfield
Children's Programming
and Youth Group
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Missed a service?
You can view past services, at your convenience, on our website. New worships uploaded by Wednesday of each week. Just click the button to the right.
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| Gem City Market is a community and worker owned co-op full-service grocery, open to all. It often provides extra produce to SNAP/EBT customers, and hosts many community events. It was built, with wide community support, to address high rates of diet-related illness and low access to groceries in the 45406 zip code and surroundings. It survived the pandemic, months of Salem Ave. construction, and significant food price inflation. Its financial viability has increased, but it is still working to reach a sustainable level of sales. | | | | |
Expanding Our Understanding of Faith Formation
As the world changes, so too does our understanding of faith formation. That is why, this past September, the Board voted to change "Religious Education" to "Religious Enrichment" across all age groups (children, youth, and adults). Somaya explains, "'Religious Education' suggests a fixed curriculum: lessons to deliver and content to cover. More recently, the denomination has shifted its understanding of faith formation. We don't see it as just classes to take and curricula to teach, but as something lived out in relationship. The congregation is the curriculum: how we are in community and how we grow together. We are teaching children and youth about Unitarian Universalism in everything we do." Furthermore, as new data on human development arises, it has become abundantly clear that parents really are the biggest influence on a child's spiritual formation, and that they also need enrichment in that role! Therefore, the Board has also voted to change the role of "Director of Children and Youth Religious Education" to "Director of Family Enrichment." You may now reach Somaya through her new email "family (at) MVUUF (dot) org."
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You're Invited to the Trans Summit!
Saturday, October 17th
MVUUF member Jordan O. invites you to join him at the Dayton Metro Library for "A Summit on Trans Lives - Past, Present, & Future." Registration is required but the event is free and includes: lunch, a Sundance-winning documentary screening, clothing giveaway, expert-led workshops on clothing alteration, voice training, and LGBTQ and BIPOC history. Allies are warmly welcome, and the day includes breakouts on being a supportive ally and tracking anti-trans legislation. Our keynote is THE George M. Johnson, author of All Boys Aren't Blue. Register by clicking on the button below.
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MVUUF is a busy community - from weekly and monthly offerings, to one-off events and seasonal workshops, there is something for everyone. Below, you will find an overview of this month's calendar to-date. However, we are adding new events and opportunities all the time! Please keep an eye on upcoming eBlasts, and our website calendar, for a full list of our offerings. | | | |
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Women's Group
Sundays @ 10:00 AM on Zoom
The Women's Group is starting a new program year in September. The overall topic is "Building Beloved Community" and the topic for October is "Democracy." All women are welcome and anyone who would like to have the reading material should contact Diane C.
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Scripture Study
Sundays @ 3:00 PM on Zoom
Explore sacred texts from the world’s religions. Current text of study: the 1838 “Divinity School Address” by Ralph Waldo Emerson in which this famous Transcendentalist UU asks us to trust our own intuition of the Divine as a religious idea in our faith. For info contact John B.
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NEW! From Seeds to Harvest: Everything You Need to Grow Your Garden of Generosity
Wednesdays @ 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM on Zoom
The Stewardship for Us team is offering a six-session course on Stewardship, and since stewardship is vital to MVUUF's future, the Board has paid for every member of MVUUF to attend! The course is designed to provide a comprehensive overview that will appeal to all levels of experience. It will meet live via Zoom, weekly, for six consecutive weeks. Email Board President, CQ, or MVUUF's Treasurer, Lynn B., to get access to the zoom, or click on the title above to learn more.
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Week 1 (October 4 - October 10) | |
Donation Drive - Wesley Community Baby Shower
Sunday, October 4th
Today is your last day to donate to the Wesley Community Baby Shower! This vital program helps lower infant mortality rate in Dayton, by offering goods and resources to new moms! There are three ways you can give: Drop off baby items (e.g. socks, size 1 diapers, wipes, bibs, blankets, stuffies) at church this Sunday; purchase an item from the Target Baby Registry (items will be sent to Steve S.); or donate funds through MVUUF's online giving portal (select “Wesley Baby Shower” from the drop down menu). Thanks to everyone for your continuing support! Please contact Steve S. if you have any questions.
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Production Team Meeting
Wednesday, October 7th @ 7:30 PM on Zoom
Our production team does the important work of making our services accessible, both on site and off, by creating the service power point, running the service zoom, managing our service sound, and broadcasting our service. Interested in making sure our services remain accessible? Join their meeting tonight! Click the title above for more information and zoom link.
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Smart Choices Lunch
Thursday, October 8th @ 11:30 AM at MCL Cafeteria
This wonderful group of ladies gathers once a month to share about life and to celebrate birthdays. Click the title above to learn more.
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Social Justice Committee Meeting
Thursday, October 8th@ 6:00 PM on Zoom
Interested in "being the change you want to see in the world?" Join our Social Justice Committee today to get involved. Click the title above for more information and zoom link.
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Board Meeting
Saturday, October 10th @ 10:00 AM on Zoom
The Board of MVUUF does the work of governance, so we all may do the work of church. All are welcome to attend and observe their meetings. Click the title above for more information and zoom link.
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NEW! Drum Circle
Saturday, October 10th @ 10:00 AM in the Chapel
Drumming is a form of meditation. Tap into the Rhythm of life by joining our monthly Drum Circle, co-facilitated by veteran drummers and facilitators Will B. and Mike F. Newbies are welcome! Bring your own drum or sticks if you have them. A limited number of extra drums will be available. After drumming, participants are welcome to join Will and Mike at 2nd St. Market for lunch! Click the title above for more information.
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Welcome Dinner
Saturday, October 10th @ 5:30 PM in the Chapel
We know that it can be difficult to make connections in a new community. And, truth be told, we are as eager to know you, as you are to know us! So, please, join us for our Welcome Dinner. We’ll provide dinner so you don’t have to worry about bringing anything but yourself! RSVP by emailing our Director of Congregational Life, Meredith, and let them know of any food allergies or preferences in your party.
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Week 2 (October 11 - October 17) | |
Food & Fellowship - Ingathering
Sunday, October 11th @ 2:00 PM in the Sanctuary
Food & Fellowship is now every second Sunday of the month (except in December)! We hope this new, consistent date will make it easier for you and yours to participate. This October, we are embracing the season! Please bring a fall favorite to share.
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ALL AGES - New Mom Baby Baskets
Sunday, October 11th @ 2:30 PM in the Conference Room
Nurture New Beginnings! Join us for our second “All Ages Social Action Offering" for children, youth and adults! Senior Program Coordinator for the Dakota Community Center, Quiana Bickham, will talk to us about what new moms need, and then we'll assemble baby baskets for the Annual Community Baby Shower (aimed at reducing infant mortality in Dayton).
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CUUPS Discussion Group
Sunday, October 11th @ 2:30 PM in the Chapel
Join our pagan group—Chalice of the Willow—today, after the service, in the chapel, for their monthly discussion. Click on the title for more information.
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Music Committee Meeting
Tuesday, October 13th @ 7:00 PM on Zoom
Join our Music Committee for their meeting today! No music experience is required– just a love of music. Click the title above for more information and zoom link.
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Third Thursday Talk
Thursday, October 15th @ 7:00 PM on Zoom
Join us for this informal and informational lecture series! With 20 minutes of 'talk,' and 20 minutes of Q&A, this new Adult Enrichment offering is designed to fit right into your work week. New presenter every month! Check your eblast for future updates, and click on the title above for more information (including the zoom link).
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NEW! Group Outing - Decision Height Play
Friday, October 16th @ 8:00 PM at Herbst Theater
Let’s go see a show! Decision Height by Meredith Dayna Levy is a play about “the lives, camaraderie, and sacrifices of the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs) during World War II. The play, featuring an all-female cast, follows six women training at Avenger Field, Texas, to fly military aircraft and support the war effort.” Tickets for the show range from $15 to $25, but complimentary tickets are available through MVUUF. Click on the link above to learn how to get your ticket, or how to donate toward the purchase of another's.
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Week 3 (October 18 - October 24) | |
NEW! Chronic Illness Book Club
Tuesday, October 20th @ 7:00 PM on Zoom
Living with chronic illness takes its toll, both physically and spiritually. Join retired therapist, and seasoned facilitator, Barb W., in a read through of Tend to Your Spirit: Mindful Living with Chronic Illness by Julianne Lepp and Florence Caplow. This group will meet every third Tuesday, through February. Free copies of the book are available. Click on the link above to discover how this book club will be organized, and learn how you can claim your book today!
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Adult Game Night
Saturday, October 24th @ 7:00 PM in the Chapel
What better way to relax and build community than to play some games together! All are welcome. Click on the title above for more information.
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Week 4 (October 25 - October 31) | |
Membership Meeting
Sunday, October 25th @ 10:00 AM in the Minister's Office
The membership committee supports building the beloved community by nurturing connection, joy, and engagement within MVUUF. All are welcome to join our meetings in support of our mission, or to simply give a comment. Click on the title above to learn more.
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Halloween Party
Sunday, October 25th @ 2:00 PM in the Chapel
This family friendly party is for everyone who loves spooky season, and all it entails. Dress up, or don’t, with fun, food, and fanciful frocks, it’s gouhling to be a spooktacular time no matter what! Click on the link above to learn more.
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Fiber Arts Group
Sunday, October 25th@ 2:30 PM in the Chapel
Do you weave, sew, crochet, knit, felt, do needlework or macrame? Are you just starting to learn? If so, this group is for you! Please bring your own project to work on. Click on the title above for more information.
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CUUPS Full Moon Ritual
Sunday, October 25th @ 6:30 PM in the Chapel
Join our pagan group, Chalice of the Willow (CUUPS), as they gather to celebrate the full moon! Ritual to be followed by a potluck meal. Click on the title for more information.
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Sharing Stories Book Group
Wednesday, October 28th @ 10:30 AM on Zoom
Join the discussion! Our Sharing Stories Book Group meets over zoom the fourth Wednesday of every month to discuss a different book. This month's book: The Correspondent by Virginia Evans. Click on the title above for more information and zoom link.
| | | | Faith in Action: Social Justice | | | |
Dear MVUUF Friends,
Below is a list of upcoming local events and advocacy actions to take, as we continue in the spirit of the UUA’s Side with Love to “lament the cruelty on display…rejoice in the rising…to action, resistance and the power of community” and that “even in the storm, we carry something precious: a fire we refuse to let go out.” Learn more by clicking on the links attached to each offering.
Photographer’s Exhibit “and I quote"
Through October
Dayton Metro Library, 215 E. Third St., Dayton, 45402
This exhibit explores the recent immigrant experience - structured around ten quotations. Amazing exhibit! Learn more on Facebook.
No Kings Rally
Saturday, October 17 @ 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
RiverScape MetroPark, 237 E. Monument Ave, Dayton 45402
In addition to saying “No Kings!,” this rally focuses on early voting – making a plan and knowing options. Organized by DIFA (District 10 Indivisible for All) and Dayton Women’s Rights Alliance. Great opportunity to wear a Side (or Stand) with Love shirt! Contact Lynn B. if you would like to carpool. More info on Facebook.
Thank you for also reading the weekly eblast for social justice events and advocacies!
| | | A UU family moves into a new neighborhood. Their child finds a new playmate. As the two children happily get to know each other, the playmate says "We're Episcopalians, what are you?" The UU child thinks for a minute and says, "I'm not sure, but I think we're League of Women Voters." | | | | |
