Sunday Worship at 10:15 a.m.
Children & Youth Summer Session 10:15 a.m.
Childcare is available during our worship service for children 6 months to 3 years old.
Social Hour: Fuller Hall after the service.
Sunday is Providence Bridge Pedal.
Check here for details.
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I’m sure many of us know what it feels like to stay up at night dwelling on a mistake we made during the day! But we all want to learn and grow. How can we make space to thoughtfully reflect on our lives and actions without getting stuck in a shame spiral? What spiritual tools can help us do this?
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Minister's ColumnNavigating Conflict with Compassion
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We are mid-way through this summer journey together—this time of rest, reflection, and renewal. As I reflect on the summer so far, it occurs to me that I have not said something as clearly as I could have: You all are doing a very hard thing.
Being a member of a church in conflict is incredibly hard. I’ve been there myself. It’s hard if you’re a long-time member who feels like you don’t recognize your church anymore. It’s hard if you feel like you’re at risk of losing deep friendships you’ve made at church over the years. It’s hard if you’re brand new to the congregation and feel out of the loop or weary of what you’re coming into. It’s hard if you’re experiencing your own personal grief or reason for celebration and you feel like there isn’t space for that. There are so many ways and reasons why this is very hard.
So I just want to acknowledge that and make space to feel it and hold it. If you haven’t done so, pause and acknowledge it to yourself. This is hard. It’s okay to feel that way...continue reading
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NEW! — Join a Listening Circle Led by Lay Ministry and the Board of Trustees
Sundays, August 25 or September 8, 11:45 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Location: Eliot Chapel
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| We are living in challenging times with recent changes in the leadership of our music program here at the church and with the range of emotions that have come with that change.
In the spirit of wanting to create spaces for us to come together as a community, you are invited to join a Listening Circle on August 25 or September 8 from 11:45 a.m. to 2 p.m. To join, please assemble in Eliot Chapel by 11:45 a.m on either date. Space is limited on a first-come and first-serve basis.
These will be one-time gatherings and will be facilitated by members of our Lay Ministry Team and Board of Trustees.
The Listening groups will provide a safe space for people to reflect on the changes and the impact of those changes. Confidential notes will be made of general themes of the circle and any questions you have. You will receive responses to questions within 3 weeks. Â
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SAVE THE DATE — Help Us Boost UU the Vote!
Sunday, August 25, 12 - 2 p.m.
Hybrid: Buchan Reception Hall and online
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Join us on Sunday, August 25, after the service to boost our UU the Vote efforts into high gear. We’ll be joined online by our faith siblings from the UU the Vote campaign and from the Arizona justice network (UUJAZ) to hear about what’s at stake and how we can put our values into action to turn out voters in Arizona.
We’ll give a boost to our letter-writing project (we’re well over halfway there), learn about phone banking (more fun than you think), and (drumroll please), sign up to join us in Arizona to door-knock for the Right to Abortion Ballot Initiative. This is the final, big push before the November election and we would love to have your fellowship and help!
Join us in person in Buchan Reception Hall after the worship service for "lunchy" snacks, or online by registering here or at the button below.
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Music Ministry Transition
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Many congregants have asked questions about the recent and upcoming changes in our Music Ministry transition. In response, our Board of Trustees has written a "Frequently Asked Questions" document. Hard copies of this FAQ will be available Sunday morning at the Welcome Desk and at the Board's table in Fuller Hall after the service.
If you'd like to take a look at the FAQ document before Sunday, please email FAQ@firstunitarianportland.org. New Q&As will be added in the coming weeks based on congregant questions and other feedback.
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Guidelines for Protests in Our Congregation
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There have been concerns from many in the congregation about how protests are being handled on Sundays for the past several weeks. The following guidelines are intended to help clarify things for everyone concerned.
Members of this community are welcome to attend services. Members are welcome to protest as long as they remain on the public sidewalks. But the Church does not give permission to exercise this freedom to protest while in or on Church property. The following are not allowed:
- Protest signs in our church buildings;
- Interruptions (spoken or visual) during church services;
- Blocking our entry doors, or making it difficult for ushers and greeters to welcome people and for congregants to enter or leave our buildings;
- Protesting on Church sidewalks and steps without specific permission.
The Church supports the right to protest when we affirm the freedom to distribute hand-outs, hold signs, and the like while on the public sidewalks around our block. The Church also supports our congregants’ right to a worship experience without unwelcome interference. The Sanctuary and the Church buildings are sacred spaces, and the goal of these guidelines is to protect that sense of sacred space.
We ask that you respect these guidelines. And of course, please be in touch if you have questions.
Executive Team, First Unitarian Church of Portland
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Share Your Garden!
Every Sunday after the service
Location: Fuller Hall
First Share, First Unitarian Portland
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Do you have a flourishing garden brimming with fresh vegetables, fruits, and herbs? Share your garden’s bounty with our community by bringing it on Sundays to the First Share table in Fuller Hall during Social Hour.
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Young Adult Weekly Meetups All Summer!
Next Meeting: Sunday, August 11, immediately after the service
Location:Â Buchan Building, B101
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Expect fun social events, thought-provoking discussions, and opportunities to connect.Â
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UPDATE — Love to Sing? Love to Ring? Summer Choirs are for YOU!
Vocal Choir: Arrive at 8:45 a.m. on Sunday
Bell Choir: Arrive at 9:30 a.m. on Sunday
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Our summer choirs are open to anyone who would like to participate weekly. If interested, simply show up to the sanctuary on the Sunday mornings of your choice. Music will be provided when you arrive, and we'll all learn together for the 10:15 a.m. service.
Ellie Hodder will be with us as conductor this Sunday. For more information, please contact Garrett Bond, our summer music coordinator.
No experience or ongoing commitment necessary.
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NEW! — Enthusiastic Cleaners Wanted!
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September is fast approaching and with it comes the new church year. Plans are being made for enthusiastic cleaners to welcome congregants back to fresh, clean surroundings. Groups of 10-12 will gather on Friday, August 23, and Saturday, August 24, from 9 a.m. - 11 a.m. More complete details will appear in next week's Front Steps but it's not too early to check your calendar now and let Marti Yoder or Jen Thomas know you'd like to join the efforts on either or both days to freshen our worship areas for the coming year.
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Join Our Support Network: Lotsa Helping Hands
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Do you enjoy helping others? Are you looking for concrete ways to strengthen our beloved community? Consider joining our church’s Lotsa Helping Hands support network!
Coordinated by Lay Ministry, Lotsa Helping Hands is a care calendar similar to Meal Train that enables volunteers to provide meals or visits for congregants going through challenging times.
And if you or someone you know could use the support of meals or visits—or if you have any questions—please contact one of our coordinators, Leslie or Susan.
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Become an Usher!
Usher Team, First Unitarian
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As an usher, you will play a crucial role in creating a warm and welcoming environment for all who enter our sanctuary.
What you'll gain:
- Community connection: Connect with like-minded individuals who share your values and commitment to social activism.
- Personal growth: Enhance your interpersonal skills and deepen your understanding of our shared mission by engaging with our congregation.
- Spiritual enrichment: Participate more fully in our services, enriching your own spiritual journey while supporting others.
Whether you can commit to every service or just occasionally, your involvement matters. Help foster a sense of belonging, making new folks feel at home and encouraging them to engage with our community.
Interested? Contact Reed, Usher Coordinator, or Jen Thomas, Member Engagement Coordinator.
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NEW! — Summertime Fun Poll Results
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The results are in on our summertime fun poll, “Which is your favorite candy treat?” from last Sunday.
The winner by a landslide was Bit-O-Honey!! Now we know we can catch more flies! (However, there may have been some ballot stuffing taking place). But everyone is a winner here!
The second place winner was Hershey's Kisses, because we all need a little love now and then.
Next was the Jolly Rancher, a happy participant in our journey.
And in fourth place were Smarties! I guess we don’t have so many Smarties Pants.
Drop by the Narthex this coming Sunday to enjoy one of the listed treats and take part in the next Summertime Fun Poll.
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KUDOS! — Wishing Nikki All the Best!
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Nikki Beezley is now on to her next adventure. During her 6+ years with the church, Nikki served in several positions and was most recently our Communications Coordinator. We send her every good wish. Thank you, Nikki, for all your good work. You'll be missed!
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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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Summer 2024 Activities at First Unitarian
Summer Spiritual Vibes: Rest, Reflect, Renew
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Summer’s slower pace is an opportunity for us to gather in community, have a little fun, and refresh our spirits! I invite you to lean into our summer church theme, “Rest, Reflect, Renew,” with these low-commitment, laid-back offerings. Join us at one that sparks your interest, or come to all of them.
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Drop-In Brown Bag Discussion
Bring your lunch and join summer minister Danielle Garrett from 12 - 1:30 p.m. in the Buchan Reception Hall for informal conversation and community building.
- August 21: All We Kindred Pilgrim Souls—Talk about pilgrimage experiences and spiritual travel.
Evening Community Gathering
- POSTPONED! August 9: Summer Potluck—This event has been postponed. Look for more opportunities to gather together and share food as we head into the upcoming church year.Â
Summer Vespers Schedule
Join our contemplative Vespers services on Zoom at 5 p.m. every Friday. Our final summer service is on August 9. (Vespers services will resume on September 9.)Â Join us via Zoom.
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SAVE THE DATE — All-church PicnicÂ
Saturday, September 14, 12 - 4 p.m.
Wilshire Park:Â 4116 NE 33rd Ave, Portland, OR 97212
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Bring your picnic lunch and a dessert to share, and let’s enjoy a day together in one of Portland’s beautiful parks.
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I send you each care and greetings as we launch into August. I hope you will take a moment to read this tiny issue of our e-newsletter, within which you will find information about August RE for all ages, program year registration (it's time! you can register!), and a special ritual on August 25th.
I look forward to being back in the swing of things next month, and I hope that includes getting to see many of your faces.Â
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LAST CHANCE — Seeking New High School Backpacks for Western Farm Workers School Supplies Drive
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First Unitarian’s Immigrant Justice Action Group (IJAG) is collecting high school backpacks for the Western Farm Workers’ School Supplies Collection in Hillsboro, now set for August 17, 2024. Families have requested durable, high-quality backpacks. The New York Times “Wirecutter” has excellent recommendations: Wirecutter Best School Backpacks
Collection Dates:Â This Sunday (August 11) during Fellowship Hour. Look for the box with rocket ship wrapping paper near the UU the Vote table.
Direct Shipment:
Address: Western Farm Workers, Attn: Karyna Graham, 725 SE 7th Avenue, Hillsboro, OR 97123.
Drop-Off: Laurie will deliver the collected backpacks on August 14, or you can drop them off at her home in SW Portland until August 13. Email Laurie with the subject line BACKPACKS.
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| SAVE THE DATE — CARD Summer Retreat
Saturday, August 17, starting at 10 a.m.
Location:Â Contact Marni.
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Attend all or part of the day-long retreat which will include a potluck brunch, viewing of the documentary The Janes (2022) about abortion access pre-Roe, and Get-Out-The-Vote rock painting.
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| NEW! — Thank You for Your Help!
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Thanks to everyone who signed the Equal Rights for All petition for an Oregon constitutional amendment on the 2026 ballot to protect reproductive rights, as well as gay and transgender rights! The goal for this first step was to submit 1,000 valid signatures to the Secretary of State's office to get a ballot title. Nearly 2,000 signatures were submitted from 21 counties, and our church alone gathered nearly 10% of the state total! We will keep you updated as progress continues.
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Support LiftUp This Summer
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We are supporting LiftUp throughout the summer, from June 16 to Labor Day. Please place in the COHHO bins in Fuller Hall by the kitchen any of the following most needed food items: brown rice, whole grain pasta, shelf-stable milk, canned protein (tuna, chicken, salmon), nut butter, any low sodium broths, canned veggies, and sauces.
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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. We urgently need cases of water to continue providing for our guests. We also need sports bras (sizes M & L), nail brushes and nail files, large men's shoes, belts (all sizes), and hats/caps (all sizes).
Your donations will make a big difference in the lives of those we serve. Thank you for your support!
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In the Community
Longtime member Mary Lansing died on July 23 at the age of 92. She spent her last weeks residing in her home with four generations of family. Mary was a proud member of this church for 62 years. She is survived by her daughter, Melanie; son, Grant; granddaughter, Jessica; and great-granddaughter, Juniper. If people wish to pay tribute to Mary’s life, she would ask that you keep smiling and cherish life to the fullest extent. A memorial is planned for Mary in September.
Member Bill Cunninghame's brother Brian, who had recently entered hospice care for advanced cancer, died peacefully on Friday, August 2. His wife, Sharol; his daughter, LeAnn; Bill; and Bill's partner, Steve, were able to be with him at the end. Bill had the honor of helping bathe and dress his brother's body. A graveside service is being planned for immediate family. We hold Bill and Steve, and their whole family at this time.
Members Laura Jones and David Livermore ask for your support after the death of Laura’s older brother, Bret Jones. Bret died on July 26 at the age of 64 in Laura’s hometown of Rome, Georgia. Laura has been with her family this past week as they reflect on happy memories and the challenges related to his decades-long struggle with alcoholism and addiction. We hold Laura, David, and their extended family in our thoughts.
A reminder that a memorial will be held for member Benno Philippson this Sunday, August 11, at 2 p.m. in the Eliot Chapel. Benno died on July 23 at the age of 87.Â
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Letter from the Board Moderator – August 2024
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A “cool down” in the summer heat is welcome, although it looks like we're entering another hot spell. The Board has welcomed newly elected Trustees Linda Craig, Bob Bonner, Harriet Shaklee, and David Livermore. Thank you to the outgoing members for their service: Theo Harper, Mindy Clark, Andy Wilson, and Barbara Morrison. We learned much from you and look forward to your ongoing church participation and leadership.
Many parts of our lives at First Unitarian Portland reflect the culture and feelings of the city, the state, and the United States. We have worship, social justice, religious education, poetry, labyrinth, art, and history. The Board of Trustees focuses on policy, church funds, and the general well-being of our congregation...continue reading.
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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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Summer Art Wall Exhibitions Art Wall
Tapestries by Stephen Karakashian
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This summer, enjoy the art of The Art Wall Committee Members in Fuller Hall. Also, check out the tapestries of artist Stephen Karakashian in the church Narthex.
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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.
SUMMER BREAK — Care and Action for Reproductive Dignity (CARD): We meet on the third Sunday of each month from 12:15 to 1:45 in Fireside. Contact Marni for summer activities.
First Connections: We meet monthly 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.
Vespers will be on break on August 15, 23, and 30. It will resume on September 6.Â
THIS WEEK — Good Times: Movie Group Sunday movie meetup this Summer on August 11, 4 - 6:30 p.m., at members' homes to discuss current films in theaters or streaming. Contact Christine for details and to join our group email list.
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.
EVERY SUNDAY — UU the Vote: Join Us For Community and Letter WritingÂ
The blue tablecloth will be available every Sunday until October. Letters can be dropped off and picked up at the church office.
Letter Writing Schedule:
Women's Circle II:Â Meets most second and fourth Mondays of the month. Email Kim.
EVERY SUNDAY — Young Adult Summer Meetup! Every Sunday at 12:15 p.m., the meeting room may vary. Expect fun social events, thought-provoking discussions, and opportunities to connect. Questions? Contact Caroline.
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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 noon.
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Our UU "Identify schools" play a particular role in educating UU ministers. They also play an incubating role for evolving theologies in our larger movement.
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