NEW:  Minister's Reflections

Greetings, all!

December went by in a flash! Here we are now, at the end of January! Many things remain the same: the COVID-19 pandemic, economic struggles, climate change, and racial injustice. And yet, some things have changed: we have a new national president, which, in my opinion, is crucial to our survival, and we also have a new staff member.
 
I’m thrilled that Shana Barth has stepped forward to take on the role of part-time Online RE Coordinator during our search for a new director of religious education. With the departure of Heather Cleland-Host as our DRE, this reminds me to say a few words about staff members’ boundaries and responsibilities. 
 
“Best practice” among UU congregations is to not hire congregants as staff because it confuses people’s boundaries. (The truth is, it can be difficult to find folks willing to relocate for part-time work, so we sometimes do it anyway.) It is crucial that congregant staff members (and all congregants) be mindful that their relationship must change. 
 
For example, if a staff member is invited to a social event, rather than say “yes” or “no” because it’s their personal preference, they need to consider whether it’s appropriate for a staff member to do so. Might it imply favoritism toward certain congregants? Might it, in the long run, interfere with performing their professional duties? As long as members are employed, the values, mission, and vision of the congregation need to take precedence over personal relationships. In all things UUFoM, staff members first represent the organization and report to the minister as head of staff. 
 
I have discussed this with our staff members, and they do understand and are navigating these areas carefully. Please allow staff members time to discern what’s needed in any given circumstance. If you would like to read more about this, former UUFoM minister (now Regional Lead and Congregational Life Consultant with the MidAmerica Region) Rev. David Pyle wrote this article.
 
January’s worship theme has been “imagination” and February’s is “beloved community.” I look forward to exploring these themes with you.
 
Blessings, Rev. Eric
 
P.S.: Please remember, during post-worship service breakout rooms, that our covenant applies even there. Please remember to give everyone a chance to speak.
 
 

NEW:  Fellowship Links

NEW: UUA Statement of Conscience Poll

Members - Please take the time to read the Draft Statement of Conscience (SOC) found in the link below and vote on whether the Draft SOC  should appear on the final agenda of the 2021 General Assembly.

In order for the proposed Statement of Conscience (SOC) on Undoing Intersectional White Supremacy to be placed on the Final Agenda at General Assembly (GA) 2021, at least twenty-five percent (25%) of all certified congregations must participate in the ballot vote. If that quota is met, delegates at GA will have an opportunity to amend the SOC, and will hear debate and choose to approve the Statement or refer it back to the Commission on Social Witness (CSW) for further study.

Vote here! 

Family members, please vote individually. Voting will close February 7.

View the complete text of the Draft SOC on Undoing Intersectional White Supremacy.

Sunday Service Feedback

Religious Education Updates

Worship Team Recruitment

The Worship Team is looking for new members!  You would attend meetings via Zoom on the 3rd Thursday of the month at 7:00 - 8:30 pm, help us plan lay-led services, and help recruit volunteers for worship roles. We are also looking for someone who might be interested in taking over as chair in 2022, and would join the team this year in preparation for a smooth transition. Email Sarah Nuss-Warren to join or get more information.

UUFoM Neighborhood Storybook Project

Exploring Unitarian Universalism Virtual Workshops

UUA's National New Day Rising Conference

January 31
"Reimagining" Each of us has constructed for ourselves to believe, and for others to read, a narrative about who we are. An open book we want others to read so that they might know us, and we might know ourselves. Each of us has also constructed a narrative about “others,” and about our relationships to, and with them. What if those stories are wrong? Fellowship member Denise Reiling will speak about “redemptive narratives” verses “contamination narratives” as she encourages a new way of seeing ourselves and others.

February 7
"Each Day's Incantation:  The Power of Poetry" Teacher and poet Dr. Ray Lacina will help us to see how the daily practice of an art form can also be a deep and satisfying spiritual practice. He will share some of his poetry, and discuss how his personal journey has shaped his poetry and how his poetry has helped him deepen the understanding of his own religion.  Presented by guest speaker Dr. Ray Lacina. 

February 14
"We Are Community" - We come to Unitarian Universalism by many paths. Our faith community helps us find meaning, refreshes our spirits, and encourages us to live authentically. It is held together by shared values and covenant. Let's explore what motivates us. Led by our minister, the Rev. Eric Severson.

February 21
"There's Something In Your Teeth" - When did you last accept a difficult truth? In our efforts to bring about a beloved community, we will examine our resilience even in the face of hard or uncomfortable truths. Led by our minister, the Rev. Eric Severson.

February 28
"On Beloved Community"  Led by our minister, the Rev. Eric Severson

Our Mission

Previous Newsletter Articles

UUFoM Board Announcement
Regarding Building Access During COVID-19

Fellowship Building