Sunday Worship at 10:30 a.m.
Time for All Ages: Families begin in worship service; then, children and youth leave to attend their classes.
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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What Does Solidarity Smell Like?
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I recently attended an organizing meeting where the facilitator opened with an unexpected icebreaker question: “What does solidarity smell like?” When discussing concepts like justice, equity, or solidarity, it’s easy to remain in the realm of the abstract. How can we stay connected with the material needs of the world and our own stories and memories as we work to build the beloved community?
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THIS SUNDAY — First Connections
Sunday, February 18, after the service
Location: Daisy Bingham
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 that are just coming into the community. Bring a brown bag lunch.
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FILM — Advancing Racial Justice Action Group Presents…Stranger At The Gate: A Story Of Grace, Transformation, and Hope
IN PERSON: THIS SUNDAY, February 18, 12:15 p.m. (Snack and Social Time) || Film & Discussion 12:30 - 2 p.m.
Location: First Unitarian Portland, Buchan Reception Hall
ONLINE: Tuesday, February 20 || Film & Discussion 7 - 8:30 p.m.
Location: Zoom (RSVP for the link)
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| A 2023 Academy Award nominee for Best Documentary Short Film, “Stranger at the Gate” is based on a true story. An Afghan refugee named Bibi Bahrami – and the members of her little Indiana mosque – come face to face with a U.S. Marine who has secret plans to bomb their community center. But Mac McKinney's plan takes an unexpected turn. This film, directed by Joshua Seftel, is a story of grace, transformation, and hope.
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ALL ARE INVITED! — Steve Phillips: Securing a Multiracial Democracy
Explore the vital mission of securing a multiracial democracy and ending white supremacy for good.
Tuesday, February 27
Doors 6 p.m. || Event 6:30 p.m. || Reception 8 p.m.
Location: First Unitarian Portland, Sanctuary (1211 SW Main St.)
From The Sewell Social Justice Lecture
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Following his talk, Steve will be joined by Oregon organizers Reyna Lopez of PCUN and Elona J. Wilson of Next Up to explore how liberation is being won in Oregon. Meet the speakers and join us for the reception after the event!
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Online tickets $15 || At the door $20
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NEW! — Matins for Lent
March 4, 11, 18 and 25, from 8:30 - 9 a.m. via Zoom
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| You are invited to embark on an inward journey this Lenten season from a unique Unitarian Universalist perspective. We will celebrate the season of Lent from a UU perspective in four quiet Zoom services: music, poetry, prayer, meditation, and reflection.
If you would like a reminder and link each week, email Karen.
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FROM THE UUA — UUA Condemns Violence Against Gaza, Urges Immediate and Total Ceasefire
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There are crystallizing moments in the course of history when, in spite of the differences that exist among us, our common reverence for life demands that we speak with moral courage and clarity on the side of love. As people of faith and conviction, Unitarian Universalists share a belief that every human life is sacred, endowed with worth and dignity from the moment of birth, with no person more deserving of freedom and flourishing than any other. Our living tradition has long maintained that the only hells that exist are those that we create for one another, here on earth...continue reading — UUA.org
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First Unitarian Portland was honored to host the Palestine Teach-In for Health Equity, sponsored by Arab Healthcare Workers and Friends. Click below to check out the video.
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Name tags can be picked up at the First Connections Table in Fuller Hall during the coffee hour after Sunday Services. Watch for announcements that name tags are ready for pickup.
Your patience and understanding are much appreciated as we roll out this new system!
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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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NEW! — Still Interested In Joining a Community Circle?
Limited spots for SE Portland Community Circle, last Thursdays of the month, at 7 p.m.
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| The overwhelming enthusiasm for community circles has meant that many of them have filled up quickly! But you might be in luck if you haven’t signed up yet. Sign-ups will be on a first-come-first-serve basis.
Community circles are opportunities to build community, share stories, and deepen our spiritual lives through six small group discussion sessions.
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NEW! — Take a Campus Tour!
Sunday, February 25 at Noon ‘til 12:45 p.m.
Location: Eliot Chapel
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Ever try to find a meeting on the church campus and you don’t know where the room is located? Ever wonder where the breezeway is? Wonder why there are seven stops on the elevator of a three-story building?
Then join our tour! You'll also learn about some of the beautiful art pieces we find along the way!
Need help getting to the Eliot Chapel? Look for guides in the narthex (lobby of the main sanctuary) and in Fuller Hall (where we serve coffee) to lead you to Eliot Chapel.
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COP28: End of the Beginning or Beginning of the End?
Sunday, February 25, Food and tabling after the service || Talk begins at 12:30 p.m.
Location: Buchan Reception Hall
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| Cutting through the media hype, what did the COP28 Global Climate Summit actually accomplish? What work remains? What can people of faith do to accelerate climate action and justice?
Community for Earth is excited to welcome Michael Jung, founding executive director of the ICF Climate Center and Portland resident. He attended COP28 and will share his observations. Nora Apter from the Oregon Environmental Council will engage him in lively conversation. Come to participate in an insightful discussion and explore challenging questions, including your own, about climate challenges and opportunities.
Light lunch – cash donations appreciated. Childcare provided.
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Comprehensive Mental Health First Aid Workshops: Building a Supportive Community
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This two-part workshop aims to equip individuals with valuable skills to assist those going through challenging times. Open to ushers, greeters, hospitality volunteers, and all congregants interested in making a positive impact.
Part One – Building Foundations (via Zoom)
Wednesday, February 21, at 7 - 9:30 p.m.
Part Two – Mental Health Matters (In-person)
Saturday, March 16, 2024, from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Attendance is required for both sessions. These workshops benefit church volunteers and impart skills that can be applied in personal lives and interactions with friends and family. Don't miss this opportunity to contribute to the well-being of our community!
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Learning Community E-News
New Moon Family Game Day
Rev. Leah Ongiri, Acting Director of Lifespan Faith Formation & Family Ministries
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Want a sneak peek at the upcoming Together Time story? Watch a read-aloud version of This Story Is Not About a Kitten, and consider bringing a stuffed animal friend (cat or otherwise) to sit in the sanctuary along with you. Hope to see you this Sunday when RE Student Brodie and I share this sweet book...continue reading.
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DONATION OPPORTUNITY — Donate Clothing for our Unhoused Guests
Drop-off: Fuller Hall (right of the kitchen door)
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The 13 Salmon Shower Project launched on Wednesday, January 24! Thank you to all who have helped us get off the ground by volunteering and donating to our efforts. We are now seeking clothing donations for our unhoused guests.
We are collecting new or gently used T-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, sweatshirts, sweatpants, jeans, coats, hats, socks, and packages of new men's large and medium boxer shorts.
Special requested item: Belts
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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.
In order to build 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
NEXT Monday, February 19 (Presidents Day Weekend) at 12:30 p.m. || Location: Elephants Delicatessen on S. Corbett. There is ample parking and easy access from most parts of the city. Pay for your lunch downstairs, and then join us in the big dining room upstairs for business and conversation.
- Social Justice Democracy Fair
Sunday, March 17 || We'll be tabling after the service. Come by and see what we're about!
- Lunch Gathering at Elephants
Monday, April 15 at 12:30 p.m. || Location: Elephants Delicatessen on S. Corbett
- Sunday Gathering at Church
Sunday, May 19, at 9:30 a.m. || Location: Channing Room
- Lunch Gathering at Elephants
Monday, June 17 at 12:30 p.m. || Location: Elephants Delicatessen S. Corbett
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In the Community
Member David Tilford died suddenly and unexpectedly on February 7 at the age of 79. Dave and his wife Nancy joined the church in 1979 and, in more recent years, were connected to the church through the UU group at Holladay Park Plaza retirement community. David had just retired a year ago from a career as a pediatric hematologist-oncologist at Kaiser Permanente and Doernbecher Children’s Hospital. A memorial is planned for David in the coming months. We hold Nancy and her family at this time.
Member Jerome Fulton died on January 26. Jerome and his wife Mary joined the church in 1981. We hold Mary and their family at this time of loss.
Linda Clingan, a friend of our church, died on January 25 at the age of 76. Much of her professional life was dedicated to the cause of legal aid in our state. Linda was part of our Alliance here at the church. We hold her family at this time.
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Check Out our Beacon Bookstore in Fuller Hall During this Sunday's Social Hour!
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We have many new books, old favorites, and classics from which to choose...not to mention a wonderful assortment of greeting cards.
Your Bookstore is a perfect place to find gifts that will last a lifetime. Our selection of books for children and youth is top-notch! Some even become family heirlooms! Your coffee or tea cup is always welcome.
About 35% of our sales (100% of our proceeds) go to the general church fund.
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Are You Going Through a Tough Time?
Would it help to talk with someone?
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| Our Lay Ministry team offers caring listening for people going through grief, illness, isolation, depression, job loss, relationship issues, or other life challenges. Meetings are confidential and can be one-time or ongoing, depending on the person's needs.
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I am Marilyn Mays (she/her), and I have the privilege to serve on your Board of Trustees. I joined the Board at the beginning of the Pandemic. When I woke up this morning, I had a song running in my mind. I could hear David Bowie singing “Ch-Ch-Ch Changes”. I have to say that when I agreed to be on the board, none of us knew what was in store in the near future. For me, the last few years have been an incredible learning opportunity, and I have my Board service and connection with the Choir and Social Justice Programs to thank for much of that. I also understand that these years during and since the pandemic have not been that for all, and so appreciate the work our congregation continues to do to help those whose lives have been devastated by the societal and personal changes...continue reading.
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Sharing Our Hearts' Treasure
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There's still time to pledge! A heartfelt "THANK YOU!" to all who have already pledged for the 2024 calendar. And if you haven’t given yet, you can help us with these efforts by making your pledge before the holidays if at all possible. EVERYONE'S support is deeply appreciated.
Make an online pledge below or pick up a paper form at the Board's table at Fuller Hall during social hour.
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This Month's Art Wall — Beyond Boundaries: The Artistry of Sandra Rowe
Gallery Location: Fuller Hall
From The Art Wall Committee
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Sandra Rowe is a visual artist, writer, consultant, curator, and educator. Born in Richmond, Indiana, Sandra Rowe received a Bachelor of Arts from CSU Fresno in 1977 and a Master of Fine Arts from UC Irvine in 1980. She has exhibited in Japan, Paris, Cuba, and Nigeria, as well as in many museums across the United States. Rowe has also produced various public art installations in Southern California.
Rowe’s art focuses on the experimentation, questioning, and overall integrity of ideas. She goes beyond the usual standards of artmaking and breaks down boundaries to develop and display her ideas, such as those of race, gender, relationships, and human nature.
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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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This poetic work, performed by the Resonance Ensemble, responded not only to the striking new challenges of the pandemic but also to those that always were: racial and gender violence, inequality, and loss.
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Recurring Workshops, Classes & Gatherings
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Alliance Presents… Every first Wednesday of the month at 10:30 a.m. in Eliot Chapel. More information.
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.
THIS SUNDAY — 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 that are just coming into the community. Bring a brown bag lunch. For questions and to RSVP, email Pat.
Sojourners: Lollygagging Our Way To The Inevitable: Meets monthly on the second Thursday from 1 - 3 p.m. Email Lucy for 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 E-News?If you have a church-related submission you would like published in our weekly Front Steps (E-News), please submit it here with subject line “For E-News.”
Submission deadline is noon on Tuesdays.
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February Shared Plate
This church year, First Unitarian shares our plate offering with organizations dedicated to uplifting the care and dignity of people experiencing homelessness.
Founded in 1999, Street Roots publishes a weekly social justice newspaper sold by people experiencing homelessness and poverty to earn an income. Each week, about 200 Street Roots vendors purchase copies of the newspaper for 25 cents each, then sell them on the streets of Portland for $1, keeping the profits. More than 800 vendors sell the newspaper during the course of a year. Some Street Roots vendors become ambassadors who are paid to do additional work, including public health outreach, surveys, and training. Based on these work experiences, Street Roots links ambassadors with community partners for new jobs.
Streets Roots advocates for systemic change by drawing on the expertise of vendors who experience homelessness and poverty and the editorial department's investigations.
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Want to know what this church has to offer? Show up for events/classes/socials and stay engaged!
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Trying to find connection with those in the congregation with similar interests?
Contact one of the many groups run by members of the church and connect.
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Moved recently? Changed your phone number or e-mail? Fill out this form.
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