Happy Friday!

For someone who makes a living by finding words, I am failing to do so at the moment. Gathering in community both Tuesday and Wednesday nights helped me enormously. This is the time to turn toward one another.

I also am turning toward other sources of nurturance for me: music and poetry. At times when rational words seem insufficient, rhythm and voice and the lyricism of poetry make all the difference for me.

I want to share these words from Anna Blaedel: “we can salve and soften. we can root and resist. we can share and savor. we can mutually aid and collectively care. we can practice freedom under conditions that fear us, free,” and this song “Brand New Day” on Youtube music from Ruthie Foster. 

May you find that which soothes you. With much love and many blessings,

Rev. Terasa

Developmental Minister

TONIGHT at 6:30pm

Games for 18+ Only

(Childcare not available)

Join us in Beach Hall for an exciting evening of Bingo!

For just $25 ($5 per game), you can enjoy a full night of fun and the chance to win big.

Concessions are available at reasonable prices: Indulge in snacks and treats for $2 each!

Pathways to Membership

Sunday, November 10 9am–1pm

It’s not too late to sign up! If you have questions about what it means to be a member of First UU, and want to learn more about who we are and how you can connect and engage with this community then join us for our Pathways to Membership class this Sunday. There is no obligation to become a member. We invite everyone who has questions or is looking to find points of connection.

The food was so delicious that Anti-Racist Allies and friends will be having lunch at Can’t Believe It’s Vegan restaurant again!  (In fact, it’s one of the Top 100 Vegan Restaurants in the USA, according to Yelp)!

Gather in the lobby by the announcement kiosk at 1pm for carpooling, or join us at the restaurant at 1:30 pm to try their regular menu.

Join the ARA each month on an exquisite excursion to Columbus area BIPOC-owned area restaurants!

Congregational Conversations on Sustainable Funding

Your leaders would like to listen to your thoughts about First UU finances and what would be meaningful for us to share with you throughout the year. We will be conducting listening sessions both virtual and in person.

We look forward to working together as a congregation to create a sustainable future. Please let us know how you will be attending: 

Join us for a concert with singer-songwriter Joanie Calem on Sunday, Nov. 17 at 4:00 pm. 

From Joanie:

“Everywhere in the world people talk about the experience of living in a very divided society. We are all in need of support and healing on the road of reconnecting the disparate parts of this country. I hope you will come join me and sing along on Nov. 17 as part of the First UU 2024-25 Concert Series, as I share a pre-release concert for my upcoming album, “One Size Never Fits All” – songs of humor and heart.”

Donations for the concert will be taken at the door.

Congratulations Rev. Amanda!

We were so excited to ordain Rev Amanda last Saturday and can’t wait to support her ministry moving forward. Many thanks to the many people who helped us prepare for the celebration! If you weren’t able to make it, you can watch it here.

We are preparing a memory book of her ordination day. If you would like to include blessings and well wishes, email us your comments by Wednesday, November 13. Be sure to include the text of your message and your name!

Thank you!

Thank you so much for coming out for my ordination last Saturday, both in person and online, as well as all of the congratulations in person, virtually, and through cards and gifts! I feel so appreciated and affirmed in my ministry, and I am excited for the work we will continue to do together!

Rev. Amanda

We’ll Miss you, Joe!

Joe Voltolini just served his final week with us as Bookkeeper as he retires. For decades he has been a stalwart and helpful presence for congregants and other staff alike. His friendly presence will be greatly missed! If you would like to contribute toward a thank you gift for him you can pay online or write a check to First UU Columbus and add “Gift for Joe” in the comment line.

Ohio Feed and Read

This week we are again taking up collections for the Feed and Read program — hygiene items which are so necessary but so often unaffordable for those with few resources.

Pick up a green bag this week and bring it back next week. And if you’re not able to shop but would like to contribute – Jacques could always use help in packing, loading, and distributing! Many hands make light work!

BREAD Non-Police Crisis Response System Town Hall

Monday, November 18 at 7pm

Let your voice be heard! BREAD and the Columbus Safety Collective will be holding a town hall about a proposed Non-Police Crisis Alternative Response initiative. Please join us and members of three other Clintonville congregations to learn more and give your input!

Covenant Group Sign-ups

Register by Sunday, November 10

It’s time to register for this year’s Covenant Groups! If you are interested in joining one of our groups, please register on our website. We are also in need of a few more facilitators, so if you would like to facilitate, and have participated in Covenant Groups before, please mark that you would like to facilitate.

Our curriculum for this year are a deep dive into our new UUA value statements!

Please email Rev Kelli with any questions.

November 18, 6:30pm

Join this brand new First UU Christian Group that is meeting on the third Monday of each month! You don’t need to consider yourself a UU Christian to participate. All are welcome! Email Rev. Kelli with questions and for the zoom link to participate online.

School for Young Children (SYC) Scholarship Auction

November 16, 6:30pm Live Auction

At the SYC Scholarship Auction on November 16, enjoy good food, drinks, and time with connections new, old, and in between. Tables of treasures, experiences, services, and gift cards will go to the highest silent auction bidder. As a community planned, funded, and executed event, 100% of the proceeds go directly to the SYC Scholarship Fund.

Register to Donate items or services until TODAY, November 8, or make scholarship fund contributions on our Auctria site. Thanks so much for being a part of this important work! Don’t hesitate to email us with any questions!