Annual Multigenerational Service at 10:30 a.m.
Easter Egg Hunt at 11:45 a.m. in Buchan Atrium
Childcare is available during our worship service for children six months to 3 years old (in the nursery.)
Social Hour: Fuller Hall after the service
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Happy Easter! Join us for our Annual Multigenerational Service and Easter Egg Hunt!
We will share the story of Holy Week, focusing on lesser-told portions and exploring a Jesus who invites us to participate in the politics of gratitude.
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Good Friday, Tenebrae Service
Friday, March 29, from 7 - 8 p.m.
Location: Eliot Chapel or via Livestream
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Join us for this special Good Friday, Tenebrae Service as we remember and witness the journey of Jesus through this Holy Week. Through reflection, readings, music, and prayer, we will mark Jesus’ path together in the community.
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Minister's Column
Sources of Inspiration
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We are one faith with many beliefs. In our sanctuary, you will find theists of all stripes, agnostics, and atheists sitting side by side. One way we attempt to capture this is through the six sources that nourish our faith:
- Personal experiences of mystery and wonder
- Wise people whose lives remind us to act for justice, compassion, and love
- Ethical and spiritual wisdom from the world’s religion
- Jewish & Christian teachings on God’s love & loving our neighbors
- Humanist teachings on the use of reason and the discoveries of science
- Earth-centered teachings on living in harmony with nature
In addition to the current six sources, throughout this month, we have been reflecting on the value of pluralism as expressed in the new proposed covenantal language for the wider Unitarian Universalist Association...continue reading.
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Spring Labyrinth Walk
Sunday, March 31, 9:30 'til Noon
Location: Buchan Reception Hall
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Traditionally, the spring equinox is a time of gratitude for renewed growth. Walking a labyrinth is an inspiring way to affirm the positives and possibilities for yourself and your communities.
Walk the labyrinth, use one of our finger labyrinths, journal, or sit in contemplation as we welcome spring and celebrate a season of renewal.
Interested in volunteering to help with future labyrinth events? Email Danielle.
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UU the Vote: Join Us For Community and Letter Writing Starting this Sunday!
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Stop worrying and start writing! Make a positive difference in this year's elections by transforming your anxiety into action in this issues-oriented, non-partisan campaign.
We have letters you can take home, or you can sit at the table and write in good company. We encourage everyone to write letters even if they cannot bring their own #10 envelopes and first-class stamps.
Monetary donations towards stamps will also be appreciated.
Look for the blue tablecloth EVERY SUNDAY.
Letter Writing Schedule
- Every Sunday, until June 30 / Social Hour
- Every Tuesday, Until June 25 / 10 - 11:30 a.m. / B101
- Plus, an upcoming summer schedule!
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Trans Day of Visibility Art Gallery
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| Calling all trans, non-binary, and gender-expansive artists! Trans Day of Visibility is coming up on March 31, and we're sharing your stories and expressions of trans creativity with the First Unitarian Portland Community. We have welcomed art of all varieties and all levels.
We hope you'll check out the art in Fuller Hall after Sunday's service!
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Consider Including First Unitarian in Your Estate Plan
Be a part of growing our endowment.
Be part of the Church’s financial future.
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| March is Foundation Month at First Unitarian Portland. There will be opportunities to learn how you can join our current Foundation Legacy Society members to ensure our church remains a strong and active part of the lives of future generations through a planned gift.
If you have questions or want more information, stop by our table in the lobby this Sunday or email us at stewardship@firstunitarianportland.org.
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Featured News
Enjoyed coming to gatherings at First Unitarian Portland? Consider contributing to sustaining our community. Your support goes a long way in fostering meaningful connections. Thank you!
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Considering Membership
Sunday, April 7, 2024 - 12:15 - 1:30 p.m.
Location: Channing Room A101
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| Have you been thinking about taking the next step of commitment to First Unitarian Portland and becoming a member? Come and learn what it means to take that step.
Membership paperwork can be completed at the class.
IMPORTANT NOTE! This will be the last day to submit membership paperwork allowing you to be a voting member for our annual ballot coming in May.
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NEW — "Gaza Grand Rounds" and Ramadan Iftar (Dinner)
Panel Presentation about the Health Crisis in Gaza
Monday, April 8 at 6:30 p.m. / Doors 6 p.m.
Location: Eliot Chapel, 1011 SW 12th Avenue
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Join us to learn about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza as Israel continues to target its health system.
We'll hear from two health practitioners who have recently returned from Gaza as well as the UN Special Rapporteur for Food Security. The founder of the Center for Study and Preservation of Palestine will moderate the panel. Oregon's Poet Laureate, Anis Mojgani will open with special words for the evening.
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New Member Recognition Sunday is Coming!
Sunday, April 21
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| It has been four years since the pandemic hit and four years since we recognized, in person, those who have committed to join in membership of First Unitarian Portland!
We will celebrate all new members in a special recognition service with delicious treats following the service in Fuller Hall.
Let us know if you can be there on April 21 during the service!
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REGISTER — Passover Seder Dinner
Sunday, April 21 at 12:15 p.m.
Location: Buchan Reception Hall
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You are cordially invited to attend a Seder in celebration of Passover, the Jewish holiday that symbolizes the universal human quest for liberty. This special ceremonial UU interfaith event, beautifully structured for all ages, is a remembrance of the Jews’ flight from slavery in Egypt long ago. Our Seder is a worship service, a songfest, a banquet, and a blend of goodness, goodies, gravity, and joy. All are welcome.
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SUBMIT AN AUCTION ITEM! – Zap The Gap Too Auction
Events and services are accepted until Monday, April 8.
Online bidding starts Sunday, April 21, and ends Sunday, May 5.
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| The 2024 auction is ready to go! Thanks to all who made last year’s auction so successful. If you want to donate an event or service and need ideas, go here for ideas and start planning. Donations will be accepted until Monday, April 8.
Need help submitting your donation? Come to Fuller Hall after service on March 31 or April 7 for help. Look for the Creating Connections table.
This year’s auction will again be online. If you registered for last year’s auction, there’s no need to register again.
Let’s have another amazing auction to build our community and help support our church!
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Upcoming Classes, Events & Gatherings
Enjoyed coming to gatherings at First Unitarian Portland? Consider contributing to sustaining our community. Your support goes a long way in fostering meaningful connections. Thank you!
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Do You Love To Garden? Join Our Church Grounds Transformation Team!
Saturday, March 30, (day before Easter) from 10 a.m. ‘til noon
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Join our dedicated team of gardeners as we maintain our church grounds and nurture native plant life.
Please support us in upholding our Backyard Habitat Certification. We balance native species with resilient non-natives to combat neighborhood challenges. We meet twice a month, adjust for optimal gardening conditions, and are preparing for Easter.
For those separating native sword ferns, your donations are greatly appreciated! Please coordinate with Laurie Lester for drop-off arrangements at the church.
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Shower Project New Volunteer Training
Wednesday, April 3, 9:30 - 10:30 am
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The 13 Salmon Shower Project is ready for more volunteers! Each Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., First Unitarian welcomes unhoused neighbors to its 13 Salmon Shower Project. Guests can shower and get hygiene supplies, fresh clothes, coffee, and a light meal. If you have the time to volunteer on some Wednesdays (either 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. or 1:15 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.) and would enjoy working on a team of five to welcome our neighbors, we'd love to have you join us.
We'll hold a one-hour training session on Wednesday, April 3, in the Shower Project community room before the first shift. If you have already signed up to volunteer and have not yet received training, or if you are interested in volunteering and can join us on April 3, please fill out this 4/3 Volunteer Training RSVP.
If you've not completed a Volunteer Interest Form, please do so.
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ALLIANCE PRESENTS...WeShine: Providing an Alternative Model for Transitional Shelters
Wednesday, April 3, from 10:30 a.m. to Noon
Location: Eliot Chapel and via Livestream
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| Join us in welcoming Jan McManus, LMSW, MSM, Executive Director, and Chris Tanner, RN, PhD, Board Chair Emerita of WeShine.
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FEW SPOTS — Good Grief: Navigating Personal Loss
Sunday, April 7, 14, 28, and May 5 // from 1 - 2:30 p.m.
Please register by March 31.
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| This four-session group offers support for those grieving the loss of a partner or close family member. We provide a safe space for sharing emotions and stories and discussing how grief reflects our love for the departed. Resources and a remembrance ritual will be offered. Our approach acknowledges that grief isn't something to 'get over' but rather something to 'get used to,' integrating it as a part of our ongoing love.
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RETREAT — Day of Mindfulness: Practicing Peace, Keeping Our Hearts Open
Friday. April 12, from 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Location: Buchan Reception Hall (Enter through Salmon St. door)
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Join us for a contemplative day, preparing to feel connected, practice kindness, and relax deeply. We can find inner peace through simple practices that create calm at the center and open our hearts as we go through life’s challenges.
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Learning Community E-NewsJoin the Easter Egg Hunt This Sunday! 🐣🌷
Rev. Leah Ongiri, Acting Director of Lifespan Faith Formation & Family Ministries
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SOUP DRIVE! – Lift UP Soup-er Hero Food Drive
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| COHHO invites you to participate in Lift Up's newest food drive. A simple can of soup goes beyond a meal; it radiates warmth and care to those in need. Join the League of Souper-Heroes and be a part of this impactful mission.
You can be a Souper-Hero by donating the following items to our Hero's pantry bin in Fuller Hall:
- Canned Soups: Packed with nutrition and variety.
- Boxed Soups: Ideal for sharing and easy storage
- Low-Sodium Soups: Healthier options for those in need.
- Ramen Cups: Quick and comforting fixes.
Let's unite as Souper-Heroes and bring warmth to our community!
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Help Refugee Families Start Their New Home!
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IJAG is partnering with RCC and looking for donations of new flatware sets for 6-8 people and drawer organizers, or monetary donations. You can drop off your donations at the IJAG table after services or contact Margot.
Physical and monetary (IJAG members will shop for you!) donations will be collected at the IJAG table during coffee hour through April 14, except on Easter Sunday.
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YOU'RE INVITED! — IJAG Community Building Schedule: Alternating Meetings and Lunch Gatherings
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In keeping with our eight principles and as social justice allies, our mission is to support and enhance the rights of refugees, migrants, and immigrants in our community. We provide information and promote understanding and engagement of our fellow UU congregants to these ends.
To build a community for the work we endeavor to do together, IJAG maintains an alternating schedule of meetings.
The schedule for the rest of the program year:
- Lunch Gathering at Elephants
Monday, April 22 at 12:30 p.m. || Location: Elephants Delicatessen on S. Corbett (NEW DATE)
- Sunday Gathering at Church
Sunday, May 19, at 9:30 a.m. || Location: Channing Room
- Lunch Gathering at Elephants
Monday, June 24 at 12:30 p.m. || Location: Elephants Delicatessen S. Corbett (NEW DATE)
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In the Community
Church member Julie Grice’s mother, Priscilla “Pert” Grice, died on Thursday, March 21, after suffering a bad fall. We hold Julie and her whole family at this time of loss.
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| Pick up your Nametag at the First Connections table in Fuller Hall during coffee hour.
If you'd like a name tag, visit the Welcome Desk before services or the First Connections table during coffee hour. Name tags are usually available the following Sunday after request. Thanks for picking them up promptly!
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We’ve often talked about the “emerging church,” discovering ourselves as we emerge from the isolation of the pandemic. But have we emerged? To me (Julia Lee Griffiths, member of your Board or Trustees), it seems like we’re getting close.
So, who are we now? What’s our trajectory?
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Added Group! – Invitation to Sojourners 2: Navigating the Aging Journey (A Monthly Group)
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| We're pleased to announce the formation of a second Sojourners discussion group to meet the growing demand from our waiting list. Sojourners originated from member needs approximately eight years ago, providing a forum for facilitated conversations about the experiences and concerns encountered on the aging journey.
Our monthly meetings, held in person at First Unitarian, aim to foster connection, friendship, and collaboration among participants while nurturing common human bonds. Due to our discussion format, we can accommodate only a limited number of members, leading to an active waiting list.
We invite those on the waiting list and others who may be interested to join our newly formed second Sojourners group.
For more information or to get involved with Sojourners 2 meetings, contact Lucy.
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 | Mt. Hood: Oil on paper, 16” x 24” by Carole Romm
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What We Have to Lose: Carole Romm — Like many, I am anxious about climate change and its existential threat. As an antidote to the hopelessness that can feel overwhelming, I have made it my practice to cherish the beauty of nature as it is right now, at this very moment.
I take refuge in my studio, where I express both the despair of climate chaos and the fragile beauty of our Northwest landscape.
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Kay Myers — My love affair with clouds began early as I flopped beside my best friend on the grass and watched the clouds float by. I spent three days camping alone in the Alford Desert many years ago.
The canvas of the sky began with brilliant blue skies followed by fluffy clouds and morphed into dark rain clouds. I watched with awe as the canvas of the sky connected me to the earth and the vast emptiness.
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Do you have a birth in the family, a graduation, an anniversary, a memorial, or other milestones to share?
You can acknowledge it to the entire congregation by sponsoring a floral bouquet. As we connect with friends, say it with flowers on the Chancel.
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The Speaking of Justice Editorial Team offers weekly art to deepen our connection to the work for social justice and to build the Beloved Community.
Curated by Ethel, Speaking of Justice Editorial Team
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Recurring Workshops, Classes & Gatherings
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Beloved Community of Color: Every second Thursday evening and fourth Saturday morning of the month. Email for more info.
Caregivers Support Group: Open to Newcomers. Fourth Sunday of each month at 9 a.m. via Zoom.
Care and Action for Reproductive Dignity (CARD): We meet on the third Sunday of each month. From 12:15 – 1:45 in Fireside.
First Connections: We meet once a month on the third Sunday for all new and returning folks! And it is a terrific way to meet new folks just coming into the community. Bring a brown bag lunch. Questions? Email Pat.
First Steps: Every first Sunday of the month at Noon // Location: Channing Room. Discover additional insights into life at First Unitarian Portland, avenues for connection, and delve deeper into Unitarian Universalism. Questions? Email Jen Thomas.
THIS SUNDAY — Labyrinth: Most second Sundays of the month in Buchan Reception Hall. Check the Church Calendar. (Next: Easter Sunday)
Sojourners: Lollygagging Our Way To The Inevitable: This group meets monthly on the second Thursday from 1 to 3 p.m. Email Lucy with questions.
"T” Time: A Trans, Nonbinary, and Gender-Expansive, Exclusive Gathering: Meet on the second and fourth Sundays in Channing Room at noon.
Women's Circle II: Meets most second and fourth Mondays of the month. Email Kim.
Women's Circle IV: Meets first and third Wednesdays from 7 - 8:30 p.m. Questions? Contact Anne. (We are currently on pause from accepting new members.)
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Have a Submission for Front Steps?If you have a church-related submission you would like published in our weekly Front Steps, please submit it here with the subject line “Front Steps” or "Announcement."
Submission deadline is noon on Tuesdays.
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