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Sunday ServicesSunday, Dec. 16: Services at 9:15 and 11:15 a.m.
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What Are We Waiting For?
Rev. Bill Sinkford
The season of Advent in the Christian calendar calls on us to wait and to prepare for the arrival of hope in an infant born a half a world away and two thousand years ago. What do we wait for now and what preparation should we make? What is this season asking of us?
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Bill's Blog Yea-Sayers The gift giving and the gift finding season is hard upon us. The commercial culture that surrounds us is insistent on it. Even if we manage to resist the lure of the expensive “toys,” even if we bake or make our gifts, even if we donate to good causes in someone’s name, the need to find a wonderful gift is part of the challenge of this season for most of us.
Rev. David Blanchard tells the story of an African boy who wanted to give a gift to his teacher, who was going home to England:
“The child had no money and his options were few. The day before the teacher was to leave, the child brought her a huge seashell. The teacher asked the boy where he could have found such a shell. He told her there was only one spot where such extraordinary shells could be found, and when he named the place, a certain bay many miles away the teacher was speechless ...Continued
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SNOW? ICE? FREEZING RAIN?To learn if an event, class, or rehearsal has been canceled due to inclement weather, check the church website, or call the church office after 4 p.m. During the week, closure decisions are made by 3:45 p.m. Decisions to cancel Sunday worship or to reduce the number of services are made by 7 a.m. on Sunday morning. Check our Facebook page, our website, or call the church office, 503-228-6389, and listen to the recorded announcement for details. Remember, your good judgment is your best guide!
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Reception for Holli Nicknair
Come offer your good wishes to Rentals Manager Holli Nicknair, who is leaving us at the end of December.
You'll also have a chance to meet our new Rentals Manager, Heather Sparks. An informal reception will be held in Margaret Fuller Hall after each service this Sunday, Dec. 16.
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Please Help Fill Our Mitten TreeSundays, Dec. 2–16
Each December, the Learning Community prepares a tree for everyone in our congregation to fill with mittens, gloves, hats, and scarves. UU Animal Ministry is collecting items for pets, like leashes, collars, and jackets. Items can be new, gently used, or handmade. Items are given to local organizations. The mitten tree is located in the Buchan Atrium. Thank you for your generosity!
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Imani ProjectSunday, Dec. 16
Africa Connections’ Imani Project will no longer be having sales. In an expression of their gratitude for Congregational support, there will be an “African crafts gift give away” during coffee hour in Margaret Fuller Hall after each service on Dec. 16.
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Christmas Giving TreeGifts due Dec. 16 The Mental Health Action Group (MHAG) is collecting gifts for Central City Concern. A tree with gift requests will be in the lobby outside. Gifts are due Dec. 16. Call Rosebud Kirwin-Alvord, 503-645-8227.
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Holiday Office Closure
The church office will be closed Dec. 24 and 25 and Dec. 31 and Jan. 1 for Christmas and New Year holidays.
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Poinsettias For the Sanctuary
Would you like to donate a beautiful 10" poinsettia for our Sanctuary display in memory or in honor of a loved one? You can do so by writing a $16 check to First Unitarian Church and sending it to Zaida Cooper at the church office. Please include your name, the person you are memorializing or honoring, and the message you’d like included (such as "ln loving memory of my sister, Caroline Howe"). You are welcome to take the donated poinsettia home after the Jan. 6 service.
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Sacred Song Circle
Every Wednesday, 5:45–6:30 p.m.
Join Intern Minister Mira for chants, rounds, harmonies, and sing-alongs from a variety of traditions, meeting in the Channing Room. All are welcome!
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Younger Adult Spiritual Circle and Holiday/New Year’s Potluck
Wednesday, Dec. 26 Join us for a short worship and spiritual conversation (6:30-7:30 p.m.) around the theme of New Beginnings, then a potluck and celebration from 7:30-9 p.m. (or later!).
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Sunday, Dec. 30, 1 p.m.
Everyone is invited to the annual New Year's Vegan Holiday Potluck in the Buchan Reception Hall.
Please bring a plant-based contribution to share (no meat, dairy, eggs, or honey). Hosted by UU Animal Ministry.
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Seminary for a DaySaturday, Jan. 26 8:30–4:30 pm. Registration information coming soon. Are you yearning for greater depth in your spiritual life? Seminary for a Day will be returning on Jan. 26. This year’s keynote presenter will be Rev. Sofia Betancourt, a Ph.D. Candidate at Yale University and Assistant Professor at Starr King School for the Ministry. Her work focuses on environmental ethics of liberation in a womanist and Latina feminist frame. In 2017, Rev. Sofia Betancourt served as UUA Interim Co-President alongside Rev. Bill Sinkford and Dr. Leon Spencer. Betancourt holds a B.S. from Cornell University with a concentration in ethnobotany, an M.A. and M.Phil from Yale University in religious ethics and African American studies, and an M.Div. from Starr King School for the Ministry.
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Art WallDec. 16 –Jan. 27 Jean Gale uses water media to capture moments in everyday life and travel. Come down to Margaret Fuller Hall to enjoy the rich colors and textures of life that she presents.
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First U Congregation Artists!The Art Wall is featuring you, our congregants. during March 2019. Seize the opportunity to share your work with all of us. The show is open to any members of our congregation. Entry forms are available at the Art Wall table in Margaret Fuller Hall or on the Art Wall page on the Church website under “The Arts” just below “how to get your work on the art wall”. We are accepting submission forms now, with a deadline of Sunday, Feb. 17,
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BookstoreThink books for the holidays. Your bookstore has a nice selection of holiday books and cards, and our regular great selection too! We’ve also got some great new meditation manuals. Don’t forget to get your Chinook books! Book and app combo–just $25; app alone–$15. See you at the bookstore.
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Speaking of Justice: Faith in Action
Climate Justice
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Emergency Winter Shelter
We are hosting families for the Emergency Winter Shelter from Dec. 4 through April 30. Please bring diapers (all sizes), large cans of hearty soups, peanut butter, and tuna and leave in cupboards outside of kitchen Margaret Fuller Hall.
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COHHO Needs Kids' JacketsThe children at Lents Family Shelter and the Emergency Winter Shelter are in need of warm jackets, underwear, and socks, in all kids' sizes. As of this writing, there were only three jackets available, and it's getting cold. Please leave in Margaret Fuller Hall in cupboards to the left of the kitchen. Thank you, Donna R. webbed@msn.com
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Program EventsAdult Programs, Learning Community, Music & Arts, Social Justice
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Upcoming Teacher HolidaysDec. 23 and 30 are Teacher Holidays and we will have childcare only for children 3 years and younger.
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Annual Christmas PageantOur annual Christmas Pageant will be part of the Sunday morning worship service on Dec. 23. (There is only one service, 11:15 a.m.) Please go to Eliot Info Desk for more information.
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Announcing Sunday Afternoon Childcare!Each Sunday afternoon, we'll be offering childcare, 15 minutes before an event, from 1–3 p.m. for group meetings and events happening after services. Please check in at the Eliot Center Info desk if you need care for children ages four months and older. Please note that when care is not requested by 1 p.m., staff will be released. Contact cscheffman@firstunitarianportland.org with questions.
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| Get InvolvedMake a difference in the First Unitarian Portland community
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Nominating CommitteeThe Nominating Committee seeks church members who want to help with the governance of this church. We develop a slate of candidates for the spring ballot for three-year terms on the Nominating Committee and the Board of Trustees. Candidates should represent the diversity of our congregation and bring varied talents. The Board of Trustees is the larger commitment, but we are told by people who have served that it is a rich experience in their spiritual life. For the Nominating Committee, we seek people who enjoy networking and who know other people in the church through their activities. Please let us know if you are interested or if you would like to recommend someone else. You may send an email message to nominatingcommittee@firstunitarianportland.org
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Soul Box Project News—HUGE Success So Far
The Peace Action Group is very pleased to report that our broader church community not only met our goal of creating 500 boxes per month but our total count for November after adding in Sunday’s event was a whopping
1,405!
Thanks to every one of you who has been making boxes at home. That’s why we are able to contribute to the growing number of boxes being collected from all over the State of Oregon and beyond. Leslie Lee the founder and director of the project reported that 30,184 have already been received...ahead of projection! The first big installation to raise awareness of the ongoing public health crisis of gun violence will be Feb. 15—The Oregon State Capitol exhibit. This exhibit will represent the total number of deaths in our country in just this year! There will be a smaller version of the exhibit called a “Hall of Souls” at Cerimon House in the Alberta Arts district in January. Like any growing nonprofit group, the Soul Box Project needs contributions. If you want to lend your financial support, please visit soulboxproject.org, and click on “donate.” Meanwhile, keep making those boxes at home. Remember to use 8 1/2 X 8 1/2 inch paper, stuff them, and bring them to the Peace Action table Sundays, or drop them off at the church office during regular office hours. Then join us on Dec. 23 after services for Soul Box Sunday box folding in Daisy Bingham.
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Social Hour Helpers Needed Sunday Mornings
With two services continuing throughout the year, we need a few more beverage service helpers and subs on Sundays in Margaret Fuller Hall. Choose one Sunday each month, either 8–10:50 a.m. or 10:45 a.m.–1 p.m., with time to attend the service in between. Please contact Emily at 541-408-1516 or ewh1960@gmail.com. Training provided by experienced volunteers.
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| Seeking UshersUshers needed. Looking for a way to serve in our community? Consider being an usher one Sunday a month. You’ll be part of a team that is the welcoming face of the congregation. For information, see Dev Dion after services on Sunday or contact him at 1stuushers@gmail.com.
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Time-Limited Projects Await!While there are many opportunities for long-term commitments within our congregation, there are also myriad options for people desiring time-limited projects for a contribution of effort and energy. Questions? Marti Yoder at marti.yoder@gmail.com.
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| Seeking Sunday Welcoming Volunteers
If you like to greet people and make them feel welcome, this volunteer opportunity is for you: become a Welcome Desk or Newcomer Table host before or after a Sunday service.
This is a great way to connect with congregation members and newcomers. Contact Membership Chair Ed McClaran or call 971-279-2778.
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| Sunday Drivers Needed
Can you provide an occasional ride to Sunday services for a neighbor? Do you, or someone you know, need help getting to church?
Our First Unitarian Neighborhood Connections rideshare program helps match riders with drivers in Portland and Lake Oswego and is organized by ZIP code. To learn more, contact Leslie Comnes, 503-236-2963.
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In the CommunityCommunity milestones, joys, and sorrows
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Carol Esch, the mother of member Dave Esch-Miranda, died on Nov. 27 at the age of 72 in Utica, New York. She was diagnosed with cancer in September. We hold Dave and his husband Victor in our prayers. We hold longtime member Mary Bothwell. Mary’s son-in-law Robert Fenster died on Nov. 25 here in Portland. He is survived by his wife Anne Bothwell, and sons Robert of Helsinki, Finland; Nicholas of Portland; and Edward of New York City, as well as three grandchildren, Elias and Evert of Helsinki; and Emily Jane of Portland. There will be a private memorial. Member Kristin Guest had successful colon surgery on Dec. 3 and continues her recovery at home. Members Jeanna and Ellen Summers traveled to Austin, Texas to spend Thanksgiving with their daughter Jordyn, 24, and her birth family. Their older daughter, Tori, 26, connected with her birth family earlier this year. Jeanna and Ellen are grateful for the welcoming love that both of these families have extended to their shared daughters.
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November Moderator's LetterPlease make sure to check out Kathy Ludlow’s November Moderator’s Letter. She shares information about the recent board forums, the Annual Fund Drive, and opportunities for groups and committees to hear from your board. For the latest updates on Board activities, visit the Board's webpage, which includes the latest time/location for all Board-related events.
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Naming First Unitarian Foundation in Your Will or Estate PlanHelp assure the long-term sustainability of this beloved congregation by including First Unitarian Portland in your will or estate plan.
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Thank You!With immense gratitude, we thank everyone who donated to our homeless population at the Family Winter Shelter and the Lents Family Center..The gifts tags on our little tree were quickly dispersed, and we also received many gifts besides the tags. Our coat drive has also been very successful. Once again we're amazed at the generosity of our Church! Questions? Donna Richards, webbed@msn.com
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Sunday, Dec. 9 Attendance:1st Service: 289
2nd Service: 334 Musicians: 49
Total: 672
Livestream: 119
Grand Total: 791
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Interested in Joining a Women’s Circle?Women's Circle II is welcoming new members. All women are welcome on the second and fourth Monday evenings in the Channing Room from 7–8:30 p.m. Contact Kim Streuli, 503-869-1486, and/or streulik@gmail.com.
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Attention LiveStream Viewers
Do you regularly watch First Unitarian’s Sunday services in real time on Sunday mornings? Are you adept at sending and receiving text messages?
Our Sunday morning sound and video technicians could use help from a couple of techy types out in cyberland to let them know when there is a livestream glitch while the service is being streamed. Please email the church office (office@firstunitarianportland.org) if you’re interested in volunteering for this important job. We need you!
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Bed and Breakfast
Do you have a spare bedroom you could make available to other UUs visiting Portland? Our Bed & Breakfast program is in need of hosts. You provide a bed and a simple breakfast. Proceeds go to the church. To learn more, contact Ruth Robinson: mickrob@comcast.net or 503-246-2131.
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Add to Our Media Collection
Taken any nice photos of First Unitarian Portland or its events? Send them our way to help build our media collection! Sending us your photos gives us permission to publish and/or use images for publications, website content, and social media. If you'd like to limit your permission, just let us know. Please email your photos to photos@firstunitarianportland.org or click here.
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Ongoing GroupsThe following church groups meet on a regular schedule during our program year (approximately September through May or June). Many groups meet on an irregular basis. Many groups take the summer months off, so if you are unsure about a particular group's schedule, please contact the individual listed.
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| Africa Connections
This church social justice group supports advocacy and outreach work in communities in Kenya and Zimbabwe that have been deeply impacted by HIV AIDS. We do this through support of the IMANI Project, Zimbabwe Artists Project, and Quilts for Empowerment. Questions? Email Annie Bennett.
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The Alliance
The Alliance meets September through May, usually on the first Wednesday of the month, for a luncheon, business meeting, and program. Visit the Alliance web page. Questions? Email Alliance.
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| Animal Ministry Group
Normally meets on the fourth Sunday, 12:45 p.m., A303. Visit the Animal Ministry web page for special meeting times. Questions? 503-520-9012.
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Caregiver Support GroupWe usually meet on the fourth Sunday of the month, September through May.
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| Children's Mosaic Restoration Group
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| Committee on Hunger & Homelessness (COHHO)Meets monthly September through May on the third Sunday at 12:30 p.m. in A303, the Fireside Room, or visit our table in Margaret Fuller Hall on the second and fourth Sundays. Questions? Email co-chairs John Elizalde, Ingrid Gjestvang, and Cynthia Sulaski.
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Community for Earth (CFE)
The Community for Earth (CFE) is again selling the eco-friendly and community supportive Chinook Book—each with its own app ($25)—and individual apps ($15). Use of the wide variety of coupons frequently more than covers the cost of the Chinook Book and/or app. Buy yours today in our Beacon Bookstore. Cash sales at the CFE table. Questions? Susan Weinstein at 360-440-0564.
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| Contemplative Practice Group Second and fourth Tuesdays, 6:30–8 p.m., A301. Offers a regular opportunity for building community through silent meditation, mindfulness poetry, and deep discussion on church themes. Questions? Ron Walker.
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| Economic Justice Action Group (EJAG)The Economic Justice Action Group (EJAG) educates and advocates on issues of economic justice. Watch for our speaker, book, and movie events. Stop by our table for the latest information on fair trade, health care, democracy, and inequality and its dimensions. We meet the third Sunday of every month, September to June, at 9 a.m. in the Fireside Room. Contact: Michael Wade for more information.
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| Ending the New Jim Crow—Healing the Justice System Usually, monthly on the fourth Tuesday, 6:30–8 p.m., B302. Questions? Kathryn Scotten.
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Good Times Committee
Join with fellow congregants for social gatherings—from happy hour to hikes, from dinners to plays. Learn more and sign up with Good Times during social hour on Sundays. Questions? Laura Gadley, 847-525-8700.
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Immigrant Justice Action Group (IJAG)The Immigrant Justice Action Group (IJAG) has begun meeting the second Sunday of every month from 1:30–3 p.m. in Buchan (302). Our focus is on making connections, education, and action on immigrant justice. We offer quarterly educational meetings on topics of relevance to the congregation, focused on issues/needs of immigrant and refugee communities. Through the IJAG Google group, recommended actions are disseminated. Our meetings include time for reflections, sharing, and an educational program about one of the many dimensions of the immigration challenge. We also share opportunities for engagement and collaboration with our partners in the community and develop strategies and arrangements for our participation. We hope you'll join us for the important work of immigrant justice! Contact Ann Zawaski for questions: annzawaski@gmail.com.
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LGBTQIA Pride Group
Find out the latest social events by picking up a flyer at our Pride Table in Margaret Fuller Hall for our monthly movie game night, monthly PDX roller skating, potlucks, and any projects being planned. Visit our Facebook page: First Unitarian Pride, Portland, OR for all of our events and the LGBTQIA events we are supporting in the Portland area.
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Meditation Group
Wednesday Night Meditation Group continues every Wednesday, 7–8:30 p.m., Eliot Chapel. Beginners welcomed. Questions? Mary Ann Harman.
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Monthly Grief GroupGrief is a common thread that connects many of us in our community. This drop-in group will hold compassionate organic space for listening and learning, and resources to live with the many forms of grief and caregiving. The group meets the third Sunday of each month from 1:15–2:45 p.m. in Buchan (B304). Facilitated by Rev. Rick Freeman and Sophia Douglas.
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| Parents of Teens Support Group, 1–2 p.m.Second and fourth Sundays
Connect with other parents of teens to talk and share around parenting topics and the joys and challenges of navigating this phase of life as parents, with the guidance of a lay minister. We are an open group and parents are welcome to come as you are able. Childcare provided 15 minutes before an event. Gather in Buchan (B301) at 12:30 p.m. after the second service, and meet formally from 12:45–1:45 p.m. every other week. If you’d like to be added to our contact email list, please contact Sara Robertson, sara.seely@gmail.com.
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| Peace Action Group Monthly on the second Saturday, 10 a.m.–12 p.m., Channing Room. Questions? Tess Beistel, Terri Shofner, Brianna Bragg.
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| Quilts of Love GroupThird Thursday meeting is now 10–11:30 a.m., B310. Sew-in is on the first Thursday at Modern Domestic, 1408 NE Alberta St., from 10:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. This group creates quilts for families served by Portland Homeless Family Solutions as they transition from the shelter to a permanent home. More. Questions? Contact Kathleen Vinson, 503-477-6001.
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| Sunday Morning T'ai Chi Chih
Sunday morning T'ai Chi Chih, 8:30–9 a.m.; check the sign board in the Buchan building for meeting locations. Questions? Email Adult Programs.
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UU Knitting GroupThe knitting circle meets on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month during the church year. Questions? Susan Pryor, 503-894-9945.
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| UU Men's Community
Third Saturday, 9 a.m., Channing Room. An open group where men of all ages can share life experiences, learn from each other, develop friendships, support one another, and have fun. Questions? Richard Turner at 503-734-5854; more info here.
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| UU Movie Group
Meets on the fourth Sunday of the month over a potluck meal at members’ homes. For more information, contact Nancy Panitch, 503-318-0776, or Ellie Kirkham, 971-544-7003. More info at the Good Times table in Margaret Fuller Hall.
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| UU Poetry Group
Twice monthly, on the second and fourth Thursdays, 7 p.m., Channing Room. Questions? Rodger Blackburn, 503-519-3494.
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| UUA Outreach GroupMonthly on the last Wednesday at 7 p.m., usually in B310, but check the sign board when entering.
If your interest lies in the larger picture of UU ministry, join us! Questions? Bill Pryor, 503-894-9945. We'd love to hear from you.
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Women’s CirclesI: First and third Mondays at 7 p.m. Questions? Tess Beistel, 503-257-2042.
II: Second and fourth Mondays at 7 p.m. We are currently welcoming new members. Questions? Kim, 503-869-1486. III: First and third Wednesdays from 10–11:30 a.m. Not accepting new members at this time. IV: Twice a month on Wednesday evenings. We are looking for participants of all ages for supportive sharing and discussion about such topics as parenting and spirituality. Questions? Amy, 503-241-5451.
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Update Your Records with UsHave you moved recently? Changed your phone number or e-mail address? Anything else you'd like to let First Unitarian know?
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Do You Have an Item for E-news and/or the Sunday Bulletin?If you have an item you’d like published in our weekly Front Steps (eNews) or the Sunday Bulletin, please submit it to:
Communications@firstunitarianportland.org and include in the subject line “For eNews” –or– “For Sunday Bulletin” –or– “For eNews and Sunday Bulletin.”
This will get to all the right people. Deadline for submissions is noon on Wednesday. Because space is limited in our Sunday Bulletin, we’re unable to run articles for more than a week or two in advance, depending on the number of submissions. Articles may need to be shortened if space is tight.
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| Sunday Livestream
Join us LIVE from your computer or smartphone on Sunday at 9:15 & 11:15 a.m.
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In December, half of our plate will go to our church’s Emergency Fund for Members. This fund helps members facing some kind of critical need like loss of housing, utility shutoff, or some other unexpected, necessary expense. This is one of the ways we build beloved community in our congregation.
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