Tuesday Talk

Sometimes, things just come together. And, they are much better than you could have ever done alone. This Sunday we will all benefit from our connections in the community bearing gifts that we will all appreciate.

A few weeks ago I had lunch with Pastor Eric Williams from North UCC. We had a delightful conversation and he also wanted to let me know about the Honduran family of four, including a months old baby, that they are hosting. Funds are tight and their church is hosting Concerts for a Cause and we have agreed to be a co-sponsor. The concert will feature Sally Fingerett and proceeds will benefit the family. The date is Nov. 9th at 7pm.

(Note that there is a fabulous BluesSwing concert THIS FRIDAY at our church. Proceeds benefit our social justice efforts. See info below.)

A few days later, Pastor Eric’s wife Leslie stopped by and then more connections were made. In the end, we will have a very special guest speaker THIS SUNDAY. Our theme is Democracy (how timely) and it is a favorite topic for Eric Gnezda, an award-winning songwriter and PBS host. He will join us for both services. His bio is here.

In my discussion with Eric Gnezda, he asked what angle we might be taking on democracy for the service. I told him and then we had fun going back and forth, but mostly I just listened. Off the cuff, he cited sources old and new, and had a level of understanding – and curiosity – that was impressive. As we talked, asked questions, and started in on even more topics, we realized that the whole congregation would really enjoy hearing what we were talking about. So, I am pleased to share the pulpit with a most informative and engaging person, Eric Gnezda, this Sunday. I hope you enjoy him as much as I have. I’m betting you’ll learn a few things and come away with more insight.

See you Sunday!
Rev. Marian

SHOUT OUTS!
Opportunities and Reminders

New!!!
Covenant Groups!
Interested in being part of a small group of other First UU community members who join together to share their experiences with both the joys and challenges of life? Then check out our Covenant Group program. Covenant Groups are groups for 8-10 people to listen to one another reflect on living as love-filled and meaningful lives as possible. Groups meet twice each month. For more information, reach out to Rev Eric. To register, look for the link on the church website under the Connections menu.

***Middle Hour…Middle Hour…Middle Hour***
It’s a happening place! Come early, stay late. There is something for everyone.

Middle Hour is an exciting and changing mix of Forums, Theme Talks, Learning Labs, Sampler Groups, Creative Space, Tabletop Conversations, and more! It all happens between services from 10:10–10:45.

Here is this week’s Middle Hour lineup:

LEARNING LAB (Room #402)
Steps to Sustainable Living
Presenter: Diane Smith (an environmentalist since 1965, and has worked for Ohio Dept. of Natural Resources and Ohio EPA.)

Everyday we see the effects of climate change somewhere in the world. Record-breaking temperatures, rainfall, hurricanes and other weather-related events. Most people agree it’s time to act. Let’s have a discussion on what we can do as individuals to make a difference today to ensure a healthy planet for future generations.

CREATIVE EXPRESSIONS (Room B – near kitchen)
a self-guided experience with crafts, drawing, writing…

TABLETOP CONVERSATIONS (Beach Hall near the windows)
Organized by Amber Scott and Kelli McNeal
Intentional conversations on an evolving set of topics.

Opening!
School for Young Children 
SYC currently has an open spot in our T/Th morning 4’s class for the 2019-20 school year. Children must be 4 years old by 9/30/19 to be age eligible for this class. If you or someone you know is interested, please have them call Holly in the SYC office at 614-267-0254. Thanks!

16THIS WEEK

JUSTICE UPDATES