Sunday Worship at 10:15 a.m.
Nursery and toddler care is available during our worship service for children 6 months to 3 years old.
Social Hour: Fuller Hall after the service.
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The Journey Towards a Thriving Planet
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We are joining with Unitarian Universalists around the country this week and throughout the year in a climate revival movement. Let us engage with what it means to be in a time of climate crisis and reflect on the journey towards resilience and hope.
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NEW! — A Message from Your Board of Trustees
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We’ve heard from many congregants their distress at the continuing protests in and around church property. We’ve also heard distress and concern about the church’s governance structure. And we’ve heard distress and concern about continued attacks and accusations focused on our Ministers and staff, particularly our Senior Minister.
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| NEW! — Listening Circles Update
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Thank you to everyone who has participated in the Listening Circles recently. We learned a great deal about what people are thinking and feeling, and have many suggestions as to how we might go forward in strengthening our Church together. You'll find the Executive Summary of these sessions here.
- We will be holding the final two in-person circles and one more online circle on Sunday, October 13. The sign-up for these circles will be available in next week's Front Steps.
- Additionally, there will be other circles developed as a next step to provide opportunities for input which has been requested by all parts of our congregation. A timeline for those has not yet been identified.
- And, we would also like to offer the opportunity for you to request a "Listening Duo." By that, we mean, you can request some time with a Lay Minister to talk about the three questions that were posed at the Circles and share your thoughts, feelings, and ideas for the future.
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Special Evening Services — Honor and Experience the Themes of the Jewish High Holy Days
Wednesday, October 2, 7 - 9 p.m.
Friday, October 11, 7 - 8 p.m.
Location:Â Eliot Chapel
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Rosh Hashanah (The Jewish New Year): Join us for a 7 p.m. evening service on Wednesday, October 2, in Eliot Chapel. Then usher in a sweet year with a social hour featuring apples, honey, challah, and warm community. Homily by Rev. Alison Miller.
Yom Kippur (The Day of Atonement): Join us for a 7 p.m. evening service on Friday, October 11, in Eliot Chapel to reflect on the work of repair and choosing life. Homily by Rev. Leah Ongiri.
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THIS SUNDAY! — The 100th Anniversary of Eliot Chapel: Decades of Remembrance Panel
Sunday, September 29, 12:15 - 1:30 p.m.
Location:Â Eliot Chapel
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Did you know that the Eliot Chapel was built 100 years ago? In 1924—100 years ago—on November 16, what we now call Eliot Chapel was finished and dedicated with much ceremony and celebration. Until 1993, this was the sanctuary where our congregation worshipped every Sunday. By the 1990s, three services were offered every Sunday, two in the Eliot Chapel and one in the Sanctuary.
This fall we will have a series of events to mark this important anniversary, including a rededication ceremony in November.
Our anniversary will kick off on September 29 with a program featuring stories from this chapter in the congregation’s life with voices from members of our community. Join us as we learn and celebrate this history together.
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NEW! — Letter from the Board: September 2024
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September brings the beginning of a new church year, a time to rededicate ourselves to each other and our community. As the Board looks to the year ahead, we are grateful for the Listening Circle sessions that have been so well attended and lovingly facilitated by our Lay Ministers and Board members. An additional session is in the works.
The conversation at the two sessions I’ve attended were heart-felt and reflected a range of viewpoints, reflections on our history, and hopes for our future. It’s also striking how similar they are to Board discussions...MORE
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| Music Ministry Transition
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We have narrowed down the candidates for the Acting/Interim Music Director position and held Zoom interviews, and now we are looking forward to in-person interviews with our finalists.
Looking for the Board's "Frequently Asked Questions" document about the music transition? Just email "Please send FAQ doc" to FAQ@firstunitarianportland.org.
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Learning Community Registration is Still Open!
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Registration is still open for the Learning Community's 2024-25 church year! To register your child or youth, fill out this form.
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First Steps Orientation and Campus Tour
Sunday, October 6, 11:45 a.m.
Location:Â Channing, A101
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First Steps Orientation and Campus Tour is a welcoming monthly event held on first Sundays, designed for new and returning members of First Unitarian Portland (First U PDX). This session offers an overview of the church's history, core values, and vibrant community, encouraging participants to explore their connection and discover ways to engage.
Please join us on October 6 at 11:45 a.m. in the Channing Room A101. For assistance in finding your way, just check in with the Welcome Desk in the main sanctuary narthex/lobby.
Attendees will meet church leaders, learn about various activities and programs, ask questions about Unitarian Universalism, and tour the campus. This informal setting fosters connections among newcomers and long-time members, enhancing the sense of belonging.
For those interested in deepening their commitment, the orientation covers membership requirements, including signing the Membership Record Book and making an annual financial pledge. Participants can also submit their membership application during the session, taking a significant step in their spiritual journey with First U PDX.
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Stop by First Connections for a "Cup of Hospitality"
Every Sunday after the service
Location: Fuller Hall
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The First Connections table is open during Social Hour to welcome folks and to share information about First U PDX. You’ll know the table by the turquoise tablecloths and the friendly faces. If you are new to the church or you are interested in meeting new folks, please stop by!
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NEW! LAST CHANCE! — UU The Vote: Final Week to Bring in Your Letters!
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We've officially surpassed our original goal of collecting 10,000 letters to potential voters. We have about 4,500 letters we've distributed yet to be returned to us. Please bring us your completed letters this Sunday, September 29.
If you still have packets of letters you can't get to church this Sunday, or you have unwritten letters you can't finish by Sunday, not to worry.
Please email us at UUtheVote@firstunitarianportland.org and let us know how many letters you have and we'll write back with instructions for when to send them. Thank you for your ongoing work to put your UU values into action.
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LAST CHANCE — Share Your Garden!
This Sunday after the service
Location: Fuller Hall
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This Sunday will be the final opportunity to share your garden's bounty with our community until the summer. Bring your fresh vegetables, fruits, and herbs to the First Share table in Fuller Hall during Social Hour.
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Around the Church
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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NEXT WEEK — The Alliance Presents "Getting Ready for Portland's New Government and Voting System"
Wednesday, October 2, 10:30 a.m.
Location:Â Eliot Chapel
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Wynne Furth and Melanie Billings-Yun from the Portland League of Women Voters will introduce the big changes lying ahead for Portland's government. They will also discuss how to vote under the new ranked choice voting system to ensure that your vote counts to the greatest extent possible. This will be a strictly non-partisan, interactive workshop, including live voting in a mock ranked choice election.
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NEW! — Parent Community Circles
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Join the community of parents at First Unitarian and share stories, wisdom, and explore spiritual reflection. These circles are great for long time families and new-comers alike to build community with those who share a parenting journey.
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NEW! — The 100th Anniversary of Eliot Chapel: A Journey Through Time with the Organs of First Unitarian Church
Sunday, October 13, 12:30 - 1:30 p.m.
Location:Â Eliot Chapel
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A recital and discussion on the two organs that have graced our Eliot Chapel, with digressions on the original and current sanctuary instruments.
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Community Circle Drop-In Groups Beginning in October!
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Mark your calendars and drop in for discussion on our monthly themes:
- October 13 – Trust. Room B101 at 11:45 a.m.
- November 10 – Story. Room B101 at 11:45 a.m.
- December 8 – Mystery. Room B304 at 11:45 a.m.
All are welcome to join for discussion and engagement! You are welcome to bring a snack and beverage. Class time is about 90 minutes. Please note that room assignments are subject to change. Check our kiosk screens on the specific meeting day to confirm which room will be used.
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Community Covenant Groups
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We had a successful year of bringing Community Circles to congregants. Several have decided to continue as covenant groups and several disbanded feeling that their mission had been met.
Two groups are seeking new members. They are offered in homes. One is located in SE Portland and the other in NE Portland.
What would it mean to join? Groups meet monthly with a capped number of 10 folks so deeper relationships can form. Groups will determine topics of conversation and many will follow our monthly themes.
If you have an interest, please contact Jen Thomas with which geographic location works for you.
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Join the Journey on the Labyrinth
Most first Sundays starting October 6, 9:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Location:Â Fuller Hall
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This year, as we explore the church theme “Join the Journey,” we will have monthly opportunities to deepen our spiritual practices and focus on our inner journeys through the Labyrinth. Starting October 6, the Labyrinth will be set up in Fuller Hall on the first Sunday of most months from 9:30 a.m. to noon.
We’re always looking for more volunteers to help us set up our sacred space and plan other labyrinth related activities throughout the year. If you’d like to volunteer, reach out to Teri.
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NEW! — Notes from the Sextons' Workbench
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Here at the workbench, a lot of the things we do are on a timeline. Some things are done once a year, others twice a year, and others every quarter. Many things happen when we are having emergencies and other changes.
Fall is when I start working on windows and doors. We have over 300 doors here at First Unitarian. There are many kinds of doors: front doors, back doors, trap doors, sliding doors, double doors, stage doors, glass doors, and numerous more...MORE
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NEW! — September 29 Newsletter
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There have been recent RE disruptions, and I want to honor requests from families to address the situation. I send compassion to all who care about the church and invite us to especially center the experiences of young people (and families) who were distressed and of newcomers who are intimidated.
Please know that church leadership is actively working to address safety and other concerns. Our absolute priority is the wellbeing of our children and youth...MORE
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Antiracism Learning Circles 2024 Registration
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You are invited to join an Antiracism Learning Circle this fall. It’s on Zoom, so you can join from anywhere! Registration is still open HERE.
Visit the group page for full descriptions of the group mission, media we will dive into, schedules, and registration information. For questions, contact Jody.
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NEW! — Still Here: A UU Vigil for Gaza
Sunday, October 6, 5 p.m.
Location:Â Zoom
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"Through a litany of loss, of outrage and resistance, we are still here. We honor the ongoing struggle for justice following the Solidarity with Palestinians Action of Immediate Witness, advocating for a ceasefire, release of hostages, humanitarian aid, and an end to military funding of genocide in Palestine and the world. Our UU Vigils for Gaza, open to all, are part of a series that invites us to grieve, learn, and hold space for one another."
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SAVE THE DATE — Call Voters This Fall!
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UU the Vote is hosting weekly phonebanks leading up to the election - join us!
We offer training at the start of every session (and of course, experienced phonebankers can just jump right in!)
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NEW! — Note on the 9/23 Attacks in Lebanon
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The blowing up of pagers and walkie talkies in Lebanon that killed 41 people and injured 30,000 has introduced a new method of terrorism into the world and all of us who use communication devices have become more fearful.
An attack on a potential enemy’s communication system is an act of war and we all wonder what the response of Hezbollah will be. Will this be the red line that is crossed on the path to a wide conflagration? As American citizens we are complicit in the war on Gaza and the war that may come and must do what we can to stop both the war in Gaza and a war that may come...MORE
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NEW! — A 2024 Election Information Session: Love at the Center of Immigration
Tuesday, October 15, 6 - 7 p.m.
Location:Â Zoom
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Immigration policy is an important topic for this Presidential election. We invite you to join this online forum to hear from several immigration experts about the policies of the Obama, Trump, and Biden Administrations and how the 2024 presidential candidates would change immigration in the US. Our speakers will also address what is needed for a safe, just, and humane immigration system.
Panelists will present their on-the-ground knowledge of immigration issues in Oregon, and answer questions from the Zoom participants.
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CHECK WEEKLY — Donate Supplies to the Shower Project!
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The Shower Project is going well, and our guests appreciate the service. To continue to care for our unhoused neighbors, we request donations of the following items:
- 1 gallon of Ginger Lilly Farms body wash
- Sleeping bags
- Mens long pants/jeans
- Sweatshirts and sweatpants (all sizes)
- Mens sneakers (all sizes)
Our page includes a list of our most frequently-needed items.
Please bring your items to donate to the cabinet in Fuller Hall, next to the kitchen. Your donations make a big difference in the lives of those we serve. Thank you for your support!
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New Time for the New Church Year
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CARD is now meeting on the 4th Sunday of each month from 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. in the Fireside Room. Jump into the home stretch of our efforts to DO SOMETHING prior to the November election in support of freedom for reproductive healthcare choices for all of us. Hear of plans for the coming year and join our work!
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POSTPONED — Be a Climate Voter!Â
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This event will be held online at a future date in the new year. Originally scheduled for October 6.
If you are concerned about our climate and want to encourage people to vote for sensible solutions, watch for the new date and come to this interactive workshop and practice your climate communication skills. We’ll explore emotions, storytelling and communication around the climate crisis, while centering faith-based values. This is a chance to deepen your own capacity to engage in climate justice work while building community with like-minded people in the church.
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Spread the Love: Support Lift UP's 2nd Annual Nut Butter Drive
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September is Hunger Action Month. AÂ simple jar of nut butter can provide a nourishing meal for someone who may be facing food insecurity.
Drop off one or more jars of peanut (or other nut) butter to the COHHO cabinet in Fuller Hall (by the kitchen) and we will deliver them to Lift UP for distribution. Every action—big or small—is one step closer to a Portland where no one is hungry. You can also donate directly to them at lifturbanportland.org. Thank you!
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CHECK WEEKLY — Art for Social Justice
Curated by Ethel, Speaking of Justice Editorial Team
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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.
"Why Not the Right Thing the First Time," a TEDx Talk by poet, writer, commentator, activist, and educator, Nikki Giovanni. To listen, watch the video below:
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In the Community
Member Marilyn McFarlane died on September 18 at the age of 86. Marilyn was a prolific writer of books on travel and cooking, among other subjects. Her book “Sacred Stories” shared wisdom from the world’s religions and was popular in our own bookstore. We hold Marilyn’s husband John Parkhurst and their daughters Kathy, Allison, Cindy and Loralee. The family plans to have a memorial service at a future date.
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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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September/October Art Wall Exhibitions Art Wall
Photographs by Sam Muller
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Sam's images capture the essence of the raw Elements of Japanese Garden design, such as rock, water, plant, sand, bamboo, cedar, and the seasons. Enjoy Sam's photographs in Fuller Hall in the months of September and October.
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Recurring Workshops, Classes & Gatherings
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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 fourth Sunday of each month from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in Fireside and via Zoom. Contact Marni.
Community for Earth (CFE):Â We meet on the 2nd Sunday of the month before worship services (hybrid) and on the 4th week of the month at rotating times. Contact our group or visit our calendar for details.
Immigrant Justice Action Group (IJAG): Check the IJAG page on the church website for ways to get involved and groups that need our energy and gifts. For meeting info, contact Laurie.
Lotsa Helping Hands: A care calendar that enables volunteers to provide meals or visits for congregants going through challenging times. To join, send a request here. For questions or to receive support, contact Leslie or Susan.
Mental Health Caregivers Group: Second Wednesday every month via Zoom 7 - 8:30 p.m. Email Ellen for more information.
Sojourners: Lollygagging Our Way To The Inevitable: Sojourners and Sojourners 2 are two groups that meet for two hours at First Unitarian. Members support each other through aging with facilitated discussions, activities, personal stories, and social events, fostering growth and friendship. All are welcome, but both groups are limited in size; no drop-ins, please. 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 12 - 1 p.m.
Women's Circle II:Â Meets most second and fourth Mondays of the month. Email Kim.
Women's Circle IV: Meets first and third Wednesdays of the month. Email Anne.
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Got something for Front Steps? Send in your church-related submission for our weekly publication. Use "Front Steps" as the subject line and submit here.
Deadline: Tuesdays at 5 p.m.
If your submission is urgent and couldn’t be sent before the deadline, please include “URGENT” in the subject line.
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For the month of September, we share our Sunday offering with our church's 13 Salmon Shower Project, whose doors opened this past January. We aim to provide access to basic hygiene and respite needs, including a shower, restroom, clean clothes and a lunch in a safe and non-judgmental environment while building relationships with our unhoused neighbors. We are committed to ensuring that everyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, housing status, or ability, feels welcome and secure.
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