🥞 Pancake Breakfast at 8:45 a.m. 🥞
Sunday Worship at 10:15 a.m.
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 here. Current news here.
Social Hour: Buchan Reception Hall after the service.
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| Daylight Savings Time ends this Sunday at 2 a.m.
Just a reminder to change your clocks! It's time to "Fall Back"!
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Navigating National Narratives
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Our spiritual theme of the 2024-2025 year is “Join the Journey” and this month we are focused on the topic of “Story” as a way into our theme. We are in the rising tension moments of our national story with the elections on Tuesday, November 5th as the final day to cast ballots. How has narrative shaped our democratic process? Let us also reflect on what will nourish us through whatever happens in the week ahead. (And, please, if you haven’t yet, cast your ballot today!)
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Minister's ColumnCounting on Community
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I remember when I first signed the membership book and made an annual pledge. It was the October break of my freshman year in college, and another time when reproductive health, rights, and justice were on the ballot. The election season put into clear focus that the values that guided both my vote and my life came from being Unitarian Universalist. Since I had graduated from our children’s religious education program, I understood that religious community is a lifelong pursuit of making meaning and making a difference. I was ready to fully commit to the church as an adult...MORE
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Welcome to Our "Season of Giving" for 2025
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Each autumn, First Unitarian asks its members and friends to make a “Pledge,” a promise of financial support, for the coming calendar year. You can give to the church anytime, but it is our Season of Giving that funds our budget and pays our staff.
Our goal during this time is to give everyone an opportunity to reflect on:
- What brings you here
- What keeps you coming back
- The commitments both personal and spiritual we are all held to here
- The spiritual practice that is giving joyfully
What we are asking this year is that you make a financial pledge for 2025 that demonstrates your steadfast commitment to First Unitarian Portland and the difference our collective voice, vision, and actions can make in the world.
All gifts matter and every dollar brings us closer to our goal.
Thank you for the generosity of this congregation and to all those who have already pledged for 2025 so that this congregation my continue to thrive!
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Election Week Spiritual Grounding Opportunities
Tuesday, November 5, 7 - 8 p.m.
Location: Zoom
Wednesday, November 6, 12 - 2 p.m.
Location: Eliot Chapel and Buchan Reception
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These are tender and anxious times for our country and our democracy. We know folks are looking for ways to stay spiritually grounded and be in community as election results come in. Here are two opportunities:
Virtual Election Night Service
Take a break from watching election returns and join Assistant Minister Danielle Garrett and members of our lay ministry team for a grounding and contemplative virtual service of prayer, poetry, and music from 7 - 8 p.m. on Tuesday, November 5. Join us on Zoom.
Drop-in Community Gathering and Prayer
Drop by Eliot Chapel or Buchan Reception during the lunch hour to process the election results (or unfolding results) together from 12 - 2 p.m. on Wednesday, November 6. We will have a short program of prayer and readings at 12:30 in Eliot Chapel and the chapel will remain open for quiet prayer or meditation. Buchan Reception will be open during this time with coffee and snacks if you’d like to spend some time in community with others. Ministers and lay ministers will be on hand to hold space for all we might be feeling. Feel free to bring your own lunch and stay for all or part of the two hours.
Please check the church’s website for any updates on these events. Responding to unpredictable political events, especially in these divided times, often requires us to be nimble.
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NEW! — A Picture Paints a Thousand Words... And a Thousand Words Can Paint a Picture!
Sundays, November 3 and 10, before and after service
Location: Welcome Table
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Help us create First Unitarian's very own "word cloud."
- What are three words that describe what keeps you coming back to First Unitarian?
- What are three words that describe the culture/community of First Unitarian?
Slips of paper with the questions will also be available at the Welcome Table Sunday morning before and after the service.
The Big Word Cloud Reveal will be on Celebration Sunday!
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Our Season of Giving has begun, a time for all of us to reflect on what the church means to us and how we can be good stewards. When you pledge a gift to “Join the Journey of Generosity” you help fund our programming, services, ministry, social justice efforts, and staff. We hope you are able to make a commitment in the coming weeks. Please pledge before Celebration Sunday on November 17!
Your Board’s Finance Committee has been busy creating task forces to address the goals we have set for this year. As your treasurer, Roger Robinson, I’ve been very fortunate to have a number of knowledgeable and committed board members and members from the congregation to assist in these efforts. We welcome any member to join in these efforts...MORE
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If you have any great images of church activities, groups, or gatherings, send them our way!
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The 100th Anniversary of Eliot Chapel: Architecture Panel
Sunday, November 3, 12:15 p.m.
Location: Eliot Chapel
Panelists: George Crandall, Cindy Cumfer, and Roger Robinson
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Jamieson Parker was the architect who designed the Eliot Chapel and building on SW 12th and Salmon. Moving to our current location in 1924 was a large step in establishing a lasting presence in Portland.
Find out more about Parker and the Georgian style building by joining our panelists in the Eliot Chapel this Sunday after the service.
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NEW! — Join the Journey on the Labyrinth
Most first Sundays, 9:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Location: 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. 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! — First Steps Orientation and Campus Tour
Sunday, November 3, 11:45 a.m.
Location: 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 November 3 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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Yay! The Alliance Virtual Greens Sale is Happening Now
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The Holidays are almost here, and it is time to order wonderful wreaths and garlands. The sale continues through 11/17. Use this link to order online from home or order at Church during coffee hours when help will be available.
Wreaths can be picked up on either December 6 or 7, or you can have them mailed to wherever you want.
Each wreath purchased through Alliance will help uplift women, children, and marginalized communities.
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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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NEW! — The Alliance Presents "All We Kindred Pilgrim Souls"
Wednesday, November 13, 10:30 a.m.
Location: Eliot Chapel
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Recently returned from a walking pilgrimage in Scotland, Assistant Minister Danielle Garrett will explore how we can all embrace our identity as "pilgrim souls," and use the lessons and metaphors of pilgrimage to build community, enhance our work for justice, and deepen our spiritual lives.
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NEW! — Community Circle Drop-In Group: Story
Sunday, November 10, 11:45 a.m.
Location: Buchan B101
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Drop in for discussion on this month's theme: Story. 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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Grief and the Holidays
Sundays, November 17 and 24, December 8 and 15, 11:45 a.m.
Location: Buchan Room B310
Facilitators: Rev. Duane Fickeisen and Dr. Bill Yasnoff
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In this class for people who are grieving the loss of a close family member, we will explore the nature of grief, offer the opportunity to share your own grief story, and make a plan to navigate the winter holidays. We will meet on four Sunday afternoons, from 11:45 to 1:15, on November 17 and 24 and December 8 and 15.
There is no cost, but pre-registration is required. Space is limited.
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NEW! — November 3 Newsletter
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Ashley and I joked nervously about what to write pre-election when stakes are high, opinions strong, and anxiety ever-present. What could possibly speak to the soul? Ashley wished for the technology to send out the soothing scent of freshly baked bread...MORE
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TOMORROW! — The Language of Palestinian Embroidery with Wafa Ghnaim
Friday, November 1, 6 p.m.
Location: Eliot Chapel
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Wafa Ghnaim is a Palestinian dress historian, researcher, author, archivist, curator, educator and embroideress who began learning embroidery from her mother, award-winning artist Feryal Abbasi-Ghnaim, when she was two years old.
Wafa is currently the Curator for the Museum of the Palestinian People in Washington, D.C. and Senior Research Fellow for The Metropolitan Museum of Art in the Department of Ancient Near Eastern Art.
This lecture was organized by Geraldine Ondrizek, Professor of Art at Reed College. It is co-sponsored by the Reed College Art Department, The Jewish-Palestinian Alliance of Oregon, and the American Council on Palestine.
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NEW! — A Personal Story for November's Plate Share
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Our spiritual theme for November is Story, and we'd like to share one from our community partner and shared plate recipient, Interfaith Movement for Immigrant Justice (IMIrJ). Read about how IMIrJ supported just one of the many families they serve:
“An indigenous family from Guatemala has been living in the Salem area for the last several years. Recently the father of the family was deported, leaving the mother & three little girls in Oregon"...MORE
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NEW! — Lift UP Nut Butter Drive Update
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Many thanks to all of you who donated jars of nut butter and other staples for Lift Up. We happily delivered 73 pounds of protein-rich food to their food pantry for distribution to those in need.
Throughout the year, COHHO will continue to sponsor food drives. But, if at any time you have some extra food to donate, please bring it to the COHHO bins in Fuller Hall next to the kitchen. Lastly, we give Lily R. a special shoutout for coordinating our food drives! 💖
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One Year Plus One Hundred Seven
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UUJME put out a statement in October of this year to bring attention to the anniversary of the October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas and the trauma of Israel’s year-long genocide against the people of Gaza and its war on the people of Lebanon. Here is our statement:
We mourn.
Exploding pagers. Targeted killing of innocent civilians, demolished hospitals, schools, refugee encampments, water supplies. Delayed and blocked relief convoys.
Genocide in Gaza, brutality in the West Bank, the bombing of Lebanon, and now the great threat of major Middle East war and conflagration...MORE
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In the Community
We hold John Rosette who works in our front office. On October 25, John had surgery to remove several lesions on his bladder. John is hopeful for a quick recovery.
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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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NEW! — November/December Art Wall Exhibitions
The Garden: Prints by Poppy Dully
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Poppy Dully’s artistic practices span painting, printmaking, and artist books. This exhibit features copper etched botanical prints. She plays with ink colors, moving from the traditional to the unusual. Nature is uninhibited in its array of colors and patterns, challenging us to consider what may be possible.
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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.
Committee on Hunger and Homelessness (COHHO): We meet on the 3rd Sunday of the month after services. Contact Cynthia 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.
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.
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.
Women's Circle II: 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. Accepting new members!
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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 November, we share our plate with Oregon's Interfaith Movement for Immigrant Justice (IMIrJ). Its mission is to support and equip communities and people of faith to advance immigrant justice through direct accompaniment of immigrants facing detention and deportation, policy advocacy at local, state, and national levels, and purposeful organizing. Through networks of relationships, IMIrJ creates a more just world for immigrants, migrants, and asylum seekers by taking immediate humanitarian action and long-term collective, intentional action. First Unitarian's Immigrant Justice Action Group has been a close partner of IMIrJ for 10 years, and we are grateful for their ongoing interfaith organizing. Our spiritual theme for November is Story, so click here to read one from IMIrJ.
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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:
- Blankets and sleeping bags
- Winter coats/jackets (all sizes)
- Snacks of all kinds
- Plastic shopping bags with handles
- Boxes of q-tips
- Air fresheners
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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