Sunday Worship at 10:15 a.m.
🎵 Singing Sunday after the service 🎵
Learning Community (RE) classes are at 10:15 a.m. Nursery and toddler care is always available during our worship service. Learn about our program and read RE news here.
Social Hour: Fuller Hall after the service.
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The Shamrock Run is this Sunday! Check out the route here to avoid traffic delays on your way into church.
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The Serious Problem of a Silly King
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The Jewish holiday of Purim, which has a Carnival-like atmosphere, begins this evening, March 13. The holiday centers around retelling the Book of Esther – a memorable story that is both serious and silly – where fate and freedom hang in the balance. Let us explore the themes of this holiday and how it might shed light for our vision of finding a way forward in these times.
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| Minister's Blog
Many Traditions, One Faith
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We hold many beliefs, but we share in one faith. Unitarian Universalism is a religious movement that draws wisdom from multiple sources, including the world religions. Here is the full list of what is often referred to as our six UU sources. In addition, at a recent General Assembly, we passed a set of shared values, which includes pluralism as a core value of our faith.
This openness to diverse beliefs and guiding philosophies sets us apart from more dogmatic traditions. While you can’t believe anything you want here as some have suggested, we support a very broad tent. Our eight principles and our six core values create the loving boundaries for what beliefs fall within our tent and what falls outside of it...MORE
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NEW! — March 12 Email from the Board
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In response to emails sent by the group protesting the church’s actions, and concerns raised by congregants, the Board of Trustees sent a letter to the group on Wednesday, March 12. You can read the full text here on the Board’s webpage.
If you have questions, please email the Board at board@firstunitarianportland.org, or see us at our table in Fuller Hall after service on Sundays. You can also attend Board meetings on the first Wednesday of each month. Details here.
Thank you.
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Welcome to Foundation Month
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Each spring we turn our attention to the future of the First Unitarian Church of Portland, and ways our current congregation can help ensure our church remains a strong and active part of the lives of future generations.
In March, we offer opportunities to learn about legacy giving by including the Foundation in your will or other estate plan, or making a cash gift to the Foundation. The Foundation’s Legacy Society honors those congregants who have made a commitment to the future of this church.
On Sundays this month, look for Foundation information in the pew boxes, stop by our table in the lobby, or email us anytime.
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As you may remember, in January this year we were $120,000 away from our pledge goal of $1.4 million when a generous member and the Board of Trustees were collectively able to create a $60,000 challenge grant. And, we did it! We matched the $60,000, which is fantastic news! Thank you to all who gave so generously, making our Match 2025 campaign a success.
On a less good front, we have yet to receive the Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) grant from the government that we expected to have received by now to fund $100,000 of this year’s budget. And … costs are going up! This means that if you haven’t pledged yet for 2025 and you missed the chance to join the match 2025, we still could use your support to fully fund the year. You can click here to make a pledge or click here to donate.
It’s important for all of us to explore ways to grow our income. The Executive Team is working in concert with our Board of Trustees and our Finance Committee to help do that. For more information on the financial state of the church please attend our next Board forum on March 23 after the service.
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NEW! — Thursday Afternoon Volunteer Wanted!
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Looking for something meaningful to do on Thursday afternoons? We’re seeking a Front Office Volunteer to staff our main reception desk from 1 - 4 p.m. each Thursday.
You’d welcome congregants, staff and other visitors to the church office, answer phones, help manage the reception area, and assist with occasional administrative tasks such as photocopying and data entry as needed. It’s a wonderful way to get to know our ministers and staff and have the inside track on all the goings-on at the Church.
Sound interesting? Contact John Rosette in our Front office or give him a call at 503-228-6389 x102.
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"No Place to Grow Old" Documentary Screening
Sunday, March 16, 12 - 2:30 p.m.
Location: Buchan Reception Hall
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Filmed in Portland, "No Place to Grow Old" is a poignant documentary that sheds light on the growing crisis of senior homelessness in America. It's a call to action and a reminder that homelessness is not just an issue for the young or the forgotten. It's a problem that affects us all in the Portland area and beyond. The film's producer and founder of Humans for Housing, Michael Larson, will be present as will representatives from COHHO, our Shower Project, and WeShine.
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Singing Sunday
Most 3rd Sundays, starting shortly after the service
Location: Fuller Hall and Daisy Bingham
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On most 3rd Sundays during the church year, come together in song and community in Fuller Hall after the service. All ages and abilities are welcome.
This Sunday, add your voice as we learn a few protest movement songs with Rich S. and Gilda L.
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NEW! SAVE THE DATE — Matins for Lent 2025
Mondays, March 24 and 31 and April 7 and 14, 8:30 - 9 a.m.
Location: Zoom
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Lent is a season for self-reflection and renewal. We invite you to Matins for Lent, a series of four quiet Zoom services to inspire you with a uniquely Unitarian perspective on the season.
Offered on Monday mornings from 8:30 to 9 a.m. on March 24 and 31, and April 7 and 14.
Through music, poetry, reflection and prayer, we will explore the metaphors of the scriptural stories as they speak to our own inner lives. Join on Zoom here.
For more information, contact Karen S.
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REGISTER NOW — 2025 Passover Seder
Sunday, April 13, 12:15 p.m.
Location: Buchan Reception
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You are cordially invited to attend our First Unitarian 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 community Passover Seder will be led by Rev. Alison Miller and her family, Bill Yasnoff, Rich Scher, and the Seder team. It is a worship service, a songfest, a banquet, and a blend of goodness, goodies, gravity, and joy. Children, Youth, Adults, Elders - All are welcome. We will provide a delicious lunch of traditional Seder foods.
Adults $25 each / Children $10 each
Come one and all to enjoy food, fellowship, candlelight, stories, music and more!
Register early as space is limited!
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Under 50? We Need Your Opinions!
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Your Board of Trustees is conducting a congregational survey as part of our annual evaluation of the church and our ministry.
To date, we have 369 responses, but only 33 from those under 50.
Please take a few minutes to complete the survey here. We want to hear from everyone in attendance, regardless of membership.
Responses will inform planning for the future, including preparation for a long range planning process.
This year’s questionnaire is modeled on past surveys that had very high response rates, so we can track changes over time.
If you prefer a paper version, stop by the Board table during Social Hour this Sunday.
Thank you!
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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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UPDATE — Auction 2025 Starts Soon!
Donations start March 23, bidding starts April 20
Location: Online
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The latest edition of Creating Connections: Auction 2025! is just around the corner! Donations start March 23rd and end on Monday, April 7. For a list of donation ideas, go here. Online bidding starts April 20 and continues through May 4. Join us! Look for more information in the weeks to come.
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REGISTER NOW — Upcoming Antiracism Learning Circles
Starting in March
Location: Zoom
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Three Learning Circles start in March, and there's still time to register:
- Subtle Acts of Exclusion by Tiffany Jana and Michael Baran — exploring how to understand, identify, and stop microaggressions (started March 3)
- The Land That Has Never Been Yet — audio podcast telling the history of our “democracy” and whether we’ve ever had one (started March 12)
- Poverty, by America by Matthew Desmond — why the richest country on earth has more poverty than any other advanced democracy (starts March 18)
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SAVE THE DATE — Share Your Testimonial in Our Special Membership Service
Sunday, April 6, 10:15 a.m. Contact Jen by March 23.
Location: Main Sanctuary
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On April 6, we will be honoring membership in the Sunday service. We are fortunate to have welcomed many new members into the church this past year. We will recognize these new members as well as celebrate membership in the church on this special day. Do you have a testimonial you would like to share about your decision to become a member? Please send to Jen Thomas by March 23.
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NEW! — First Gardening Day of Spring
Saturday, March 29, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Location: 12th Ave side of church campus
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After two months of "hibernation" during winter, we are ready to tend the gardens again!
Please join us as you are able and interested—bring water to drink, gloves, clippers and hand trowels as you have them.
We convene on the 12th Avenue side of the church campus and then get to work. Shovels, plastic bags and compost bags provided. Also clementines. 😊
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You don’t have to be an artist to join, just be interested in art. Members commit about one day a month to attending a meeting or helping install the new show, usually the last Thursday of the month. Committee members recommend artists who might be a good fit for Fuller Hall and the committee juries the artists. If you are interested, contact Connie C.
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Black Student Union Advisors of Portland (BSUAP) $1,500
Oregon Karen Association (OKA) $1,500
PDX Saints Love $1,500
Adelante Mujeres $1,000
Bienestar $1,000
Southwest Equity Coalition $1,000
The Bird Alliance of Oregon $500
Alliance thanks all who contributed to Greens Sale, Holiday Sale, and Alliance, which made these grants possible.
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NEW! — Your Beacon Bookstore Welcomes Spring Browsers!
Visit us every Sunday during Social Hour
Location: Fuller Hall
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When was the last time you visited the Bookstore connected to Fuller Hall? Refreshed and “fluffed up,” the Bookstore welcomes browsers and their coffee cups to see what’s new, find a gift for a friend, take a look at picture books with your favorite child, or sit and read for a few minutes.
Come in this Sunday and receive a coupon for 50% off any book in our Justice section or 100% off one of our Bargain books – good through March 30th.
Many new books featured on the rack just outside our doors and on the shelves to the right as you come in.
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CHECK WEEKLY — March 16 Newsletter
Rev. Leah Ongiri, Acting Director of Lifespan Faith Formation and Family Ministries
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Hey Everyone,
The Shamrock Run is this Sunday! Check out the route here to avoid traffic delays on your way into church...MORE
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Recording of the 2025 Sewell Lecture
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On Saturday, March 1, First Unitarian hosted the 2025 Marilyn Sewell Social Justice Lecture. There were over 200 people in attendance, even on a beautiful, warm and sunny afternoon in March!
Please check out the CARD table during the social hour after Sunday worship service on April 6 to learn more about how you can collect signatures for the Equal Rights for All Ballot Initiative. You may also leave completed signature sheets at the CARD table.
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Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon Earth Summit
Sunday, March 16, 1 - 4 p.m.
Location: St. Luke Lutheran Church
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The Earth Summit will take place in communities all over Oregon. Explore how climate change affects your safety and health—and what you can do about it. Connect with your community and key organizations. Learn how to protect yourself and your neighbors.
St. Luke Lutheran Church
4595 SW California Street, Portland 97219
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NEW! SAVE THE DATE — How to Talk About Climate Change with Family and Friends
Sunday, March 23, 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Location: Buchan Reception
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The climate crisis may be humanity's greatest challenge, but you wouldn't know that from how little most people (and politicians) talk about it. Why is it so hard to talk about climate change? How can we initiate climate conversations with friends and family? Join members of Community for Earth for an interactive workshop to learn practical tips about how to have those conversations, and to practice telling your climate story.
11:30 a.m. to noon: A light lunch will be provided
Noon - 1:30 p.m.: Presentation and workshop
Please register here to give us a headcount and to receive some resources in advance. If you can’t attend at that time but would like the resource list, register for that also.
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NEW! SAVE THE DATE — Gathering For Those Wanting to Engage More in the Struggle for Justice and Human Rights in Palestine/Israel
Tuesday, March 25, 6:30 p.m.
Location: Buchan Reception
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Perhaps you have been disturbed by the oppression of the human rights of Palestinians by the state of Israel, or troubled by the billions of dollars in unconditional military aid to Israel given by our own country, the United States, that makes this oppression possible. Perhaps you would like to learn more and engage more on this issue. If so, come to the gathering on March 25 that will be held at 6:30 pm in the Buchan Reception Room. We are starting a new Unitarian Universalists for Justice in the Middle East Chapter at First Unitarian Church. This will be the second meeting. Notes from the first meeting on February 25 are here.
You are welcome and please invite other members of First Unitarian who are interested in joining us.
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CHECK WEEKLY — Art for Social Justice
Curated by Ethel G., 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.
“Kindness” by Naomi Shihab Nye is part of the Poetry Films series of The On Being Project. To watch this short animation, click the video below:
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In the Community
Chancel flowers last Sunday celebrated the life of Michael Wade. A memorial service for Michael Wade was held on Sunday, March 9, in Eliot Chapel.
Ali Weller and her mom and grandmother share the wonderful news that Ali was accepted to De La Salle High School starting next year when she enters 9th grade. She is looking forward to this new adventure and her family is proud.
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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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March/April Art Wall Exhibition
Artwork by volunteers, originally created by Leslie Lee
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During the months of March and April 2025, the Art Wall will feature a series of six panels known as The Soul Box Project.
Originally created by Portland artist Leslie Lee in 2018, it is an artistic representation of the impact of gun violence in the United States.
On average, every year, 600 people in Oregon are killed by a gun. The six panels that are a part of the display are a visual account of that tragedy...MORE
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Recurring Workshops, Classes & Gatherings
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The Alliance: The Alliance provides regular opportunities for fellowship, life-long learning, and spiritual growth for its members as well as service to the church and larger fellowship. Learn more about our program and monthly presentations here.
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 T.
Connect & Reflect: Join Rev. Alison Miller and Jen Thomas every Tuesday from 5:30 - 6:15 p.m. on Zoom. Come share in conversation centered on the topic of the most recent sermon. Look for the discussion question during Sunday morning preservice slides and our weekly Order of Service.
Committee on Hunger and Homelessness (COHHO): We meet on the 3rd Sunday of the month after services. Contact Cynthia S. for details or to be added to our email list.
Community for Earth (CFE): 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.
Contemplative Practices: First Thursdays and third Thursdays from 1 - 2:30 p.m. This is a drop-in group. Any silent sitting practice is welcomed and no prior meditation experience is needed. Contact Patty C. and Ron W. or visit the event page for more information.
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 L.
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 C. or Susan P.
Mental Health Caregivers Group: Second Wednesday every month via Zoom 7 - 8:30 p.m. Email Ellen Z. 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 G. with questions.
"T” Time: A Trans, Nonbinary, and Gender-Expansive, Exclusive Gathering: A group for anyone who identifies along the transgender spectrum. There are no requirements for medical transition status or gender presentation to attend. People who are questioning their gender and parents of trans kids (and their kids, too!) are welcome. We meet on the second and fourth Sundays in Channing Room, shortly after the service until around 1:00 PM. Questions? Email Aileen.
Wednesday Night Meditation: Every week from 7 - 8:30 p.m. All mindfulness and Buddhist-based meditations. Beginners welcome. A thirty-five-minute meditation followed by a member-led discussion to increase understanding and integration of Buddhist principles into our daily lives. For the link, contact Robert S.
Women's Circle II: Meets most second and fourth Mondays of the month. Email Kim S.
Women's Circle IV: Meets first and third Wednesdays of the month. Email Anne M.
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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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| March's
Shared Plate
For the month of March, we share our plate with the Oregon farmworkers union, PCUN (Piñeros y Campesinos Unidos del Noroeste). Its mission is to empower farmworkers and working Latinx families in Oregon by building community, increasing Latinx representation in elections, and policy advocacy on both the national and state levels. PCUN values the ability of workers to take action against exploitation. PCUN strives to strengthen workers' rights by creating safer workplaces, advocating for fair wages, and pushing for enough economic security to care for families. PCUN was founded by farmworkers, and today, that legacy continues.
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| This Week's Shower Project Requests
Your donations make a big difference in the lives of those we serve. All donations are greatly appreciated. At this time, we are in special need of the following items:
- Snacks and chips
- Protein bars
- Cup o' Noodles
- Men's sneakers (sizes 10-12)
- Belts (all sizes)
- Plastic bags with handles
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. Thank you for your support!
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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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