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Join Interfaith Power & Light, the Environmental and Energy Study Institute, the United Church of Christ, United Women in Faith, and the Unitarian Universalist Association for a webinar on how your congregation can access federal grant funds for clean energy improvements!

This virtual event will be on December 8 at 4 pm ET/1 pm PT. Learn how to prepare to apply for Energy Efficiency Materials Pilot Program grants for your congregation’s energy efficiency work.

The IRA opens the way for non-profits and houses of worship to access clean energy funds and tax credits. UU Congregations can now leverage federal funds for energy and resiliency improvements. This is a critical time for people of faith to reduce the impact of our congregational facilities through federal funding opportunities.

Sign up today to join this interfaith virtual event! https://bit.ly/3VzoYHi


The Inflation Reduction Act included the greatest investment in climate care provisions in history. Join us for a briefing to learn about the benefits included that can help houses of worship do energy work on their facilities.

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We encourage you to get a copy of the 2022-23 UU Common Read, Mistakes and Miracles: Congregations on the Road to Multiculturalism. It explores five UU congregations' journeys toward Beloved Community and shares the joy, disappointment, and growth that these congregations found along the way.

Find out more about this year’s Common Read and how you and your UU community can participate:
https://bit.ly/3OU0mX0



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The UUA Presidential Search Committee recently announced its nomination of Rev. Dr. Sofía Betancourt for UUA president for the 2023–2029 term. Learn more about the candidate and the elections process in this story from UU World: https://bit.ly/3UiC8Hb


New president to be elected at General Assembly 2023.

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December 1st is World AIDS Day, a day to be reminded that HIV/AIDS is still with us. Today we will remember the more than 80 million who are living with HIV and AIDS and the more than 36 million who have died from the virus.



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Lay leadership has a long and proud history in Unitarian Universalism. Recent shifts in professional staffing, however, has resulted in more congregations finding themselves in need of strong lay leadership.

UUA Congregational Life staff will hold a virtual convening on Saturday, December 10 from 12pm - 4pm EST to help lay-led congregations connect with each other and connect with new streams of resources from the UUA. Join the convergence!

https://bit.ly/3s6Lh9R


Is your congregation operating without a professionally-trained minister?...

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Humanity faces many great challenges and injustices stemming from climate change, environmental racism, and rapid biodiversity decline. As UUs, we know this truth but we do not accept it as a fateful demise — believing instead that a vibrant and sustainable future for all can be achieved through unrelenting collective action grounded in love, equity, and building communities founded in genuine love and care.
https://bit.ly/3iqnBMi


The story of the damage done to the world’s biodiversity is a tale of decline spanning thousands of years. Can the world seize its chance to change the narrative?

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With so much change and transition, it can be easy to feel uncertain or anxious, and we can lean on one another for support. Recognizing all the ways we are in transition, our President Rev. Susan Frederick-Gray created a sermon exploring how we embrace possibility in times of change.

The sermon is part of a set of WorshipWeb videos for congregations experiencing ministerial transition and grappling with change. Incorporate these videos into your congregation's existing worship culture by sharing individual videos or the whole set.

https://bit.ly/3VkKD5P


A worship video collection about living faithfully during in-between times

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Today is Giving Tuesday. Put your faith in action today, support the UUA as the flagship of our faith and help promote our UU principles on a larger scale.

Support Giving Tuesday today: https://bit.ly/3xKoVgz



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A significant change in Unitarian Universalism comes through the dedicated work of the UUA’s Article II Study Commission (A2SC). Article II is the section in our UUA bylaws that contains the Purposes, 7 UU Principles, and our Sources.

Charged to review Article II, the Commission held discussions online, at General Assemblies, and with groups of leaders across our Association. This fall, the A2SC incorporated the extensive input they received and developed an initial draft of a new Article II.

You are invited to review the new draft text: https://bit.ly/3u7glaQ

And share your feedback with the Commission online: https://bit.ly/A2FeedbackNov

Please share this important conversation in your congregations and communities!



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During this season of gratitude, remember that we are part of a great community of faith.

May this inspire us to fill our lives with the Unitarian Universalist values of love, justice and truth.

pc: zeaink



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Since 1970, Indigenous people and their allies have gathered at noon EST on Cole's Hill in Plymouth MA to commemorate a National Day of Mourning on the US Thanksgiving holiday. It is a day to mourn, but also a time to feel strength in action.

Thanksgiving Day is a reminder of the genocide of millions of Native people, the theft of Native lands, and the erasure of Native cultures. Participants in National Day of Mourning honor Indigenous ancestors and Native resilience. It is a day of remembrance and spiritual connection, as well as a protest against the racism and oppression that Indigenous people continue to experience worldwide.

United American Indians of New England offers a livestream of the 53rd annual National Day of Mourning. Join in solidarity from wherever you are!

https://bit.ly/3gEcYVr


2022 National Day of Mourning 11.24.22 12 noon Cole's Hill, Plymouth, MA (hill above Plymouth Rock)E-mail: info@uaine.orgWebsite: http://www.uaine.orgDonate:...

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The season of gratitude is an invitation for reflection. Take a look at your past and use these moments as an opportunity to be attentive to the present moment. Gratitude changes everything.



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As we come up on Thanksgiving Day, we share with you this message from Amber Ruffin and Native Land.

The UUA is deeply committed to honoring Indigenous peoples and protecting and promoting the heritage and culture of the 573+ tribes of the U.S. And that starts with recognizing that this land was not "discovered".



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We are so grateful for the pastoral presence of UUA President Rev. Susan Frederick-Gray. She offers this message in response to the tragic shooting inside Club Q in Colorado Springs, Colorado, a nightclub that serves the LGBTQIA+ community.

"Acts of violence against trans people and LGBTQIA+ people are not unrelated to the policy and rhetorical violence that leaders use to target LGBTQIA+ people every day across this country. Policy violence like the anti-trans laws in Alabama, Texas and Ohio incites interpersonal and public acts of violence. This must end.

Our LGBTQIA+ siblings are sacred, whole, and divine. The full expression of the diversity of gender and sexuality is a gift. We share a collective responsibility to build a world that affirms the inherent worth and dignity of all. We can do better. We must do better.

I send my love and care to everyone in our communities impacted by this incident, by violence towards the LGBTQIA+ community, and by attempts to intimidate trans and non-binary individuals."

Read our president's full statement here: https://bit.ly/3VarT8u


So many woke up yesterday, with our hearts already marking Transgender Day of Remembrance, only to learn the news of the mass shooting at Club Q.

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On this Transgender Day of Remembrance, we remember those who have lost their lives for being who they are and those who face violence on a daily basis.

We remain committed to working to build a world where the expression of all gender identities is celebrated and where the talents, experiences and full humanity of transgender people welcomed and honored.



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Looking for community between the ages of 14-18 years old? YUUP is for #UU Youth!

Do you know someone who would be interested? Together, we shape the future of Unitarian Universalism.

Find out more about this new program: https://bit.ly/3EOEvgy


When the world shut down, YUUP started up.

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“There are the well-known Trans women of color we admire, and there are those we mourn for.”

Let's continue to be mindful of the struggle for balance and acceptance. We hold our trans, non-binary, genderqueer, and gender non-conforming community in care.

By- Denny @them

GIF: QueerPrideGifs
https://bit.ly/3qTDAVc



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This past Tuesday, the Presidential Search Committee nominated the Rev. Dr. Sofía Betancourt to be the next president of the UUA. Other candidates can seek nomination by petition - the UUA Secretary will accept nominations by petition on or after December 1, 2022, through February 1, 2023.

Do you want to know more about the process of nomination by petition? Find out here: https://bit.ly/3AdED6g


information on UUA elections

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2022 has been another deadly year for transgender and non-binary people. The barrage of anti-trans legislation that has been levied against the trans/non-binary community along with a culture of hate that is harming our children is directly responsible for these senseless killings and the dangers the transgender community faces on a daily basis.

Our transgender siblings are sacred and divine. Let us honor the inherit worth and dignity of trans people by remembering those we’ve lost and honoring those living among us. Please join Side with Love this Friday, November 18 for a special worship service where we may grieve together, worship together, and recommit to a moving together in solidarity.

Register for the UUA Transgender Day of Remembrance Service: https://bit.ly/3VmXlkf



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The Myth of Thanksgiving presents a special discussion sharing Native American perspectives on the arrival of European settlers in New England 400 years ago.

Listen to the experiences of Native populations at the time of the settlers’ arrival, what is actually known about the first Thanksgiving, and how native tribes see themselves in today’s construction of the United States.

https://bit.ly/3EEvYfC


Inspired by the 2015 film The Pilgrims, American Experience presents a special discussion sharing Native American perspectives on the arrival of European set...

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Last week, U.S. Representative Judy Chu, who serves in California’s 27th district, was reelected to Congress, where she brings our Unitarian Universalist faith and values to her public service. She recently talked with UU World about the ways her faith intersects with her work and what we can all do to make an impact on the most pressing issues of our time.

“When I first encountered the Unitarian philosophy, I was just utterly amazed at how Unitarians not only talk about this in the church services, but also put this into action,” said Chu, who became a UU in the mid-1980s.

Get the whole story in the Fall/Winter edition of UU World: https://bit.ly/3UIKfNY


Congresswoman Judy Chu on climate change, being a UU, and more

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For many Unitarian Universalists, religious education helps them make better choices and explore essential life questions that include: How can we help the Earth to heal? What does it mean to be sexually healthy? How can we help to create a more just world? For some, religious education has also been a critical, transformative, life-saving experience.

Do you or someone you know have a story to share about how UU religious education saved your life? UU World magazine is collecting these stories and would love to learn about yours.

Email world@uua.org with the subject line: life-saving ministry



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We amplify President Rev. Susan Frederick-Gray's message. We are in this work together for justice and equity, to build Beloved Community, no matter how long it takes—sending love and light to you all. 🤍



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Today we offer you a source of hope and strength from our President Rev. Susan Frederick-Gray . After elections this week, let us all remain hopeful and grow our capacity for supporting democracy and community care.



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Stewardship for Us

,

Barry Finklestein

,

Liz Coit

Continue reading "Planning for Financial Sustainability in Changing Times"

Lay leadership has a long and proud history in Unitarian Universalism. Recent shifts in professional staffing, however, has resulted in more congregations finding themselves in need of strong lay leadership.

UUA Congregational Life staff will hold a virtual convening on December 10 to help lay-led congregations connect with each other and connect with new streams of resources from the UUA. Join the convergence!

https://bit.ly/3s6Lh9R


Is your congregation operating without a professionally-trained minister?...

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Kudos to UU the Vote campaign staff for being ready to take action to support voter access in Philadelphia on #ElectionDay! This great story from the Philadelphia Inquirer shows the impact we can have when we live out our Unitarian Universalist values. https://bit.ly/3hvFx7y



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"Hope is a precious commodity these days, when so many things deserve holy outrage. Knowing that the planet’s overall lifespan is far beyond that of our species reminds me that the earth is not beholden to me. It is a gift, but not one without an expectation of return.

Hope can be found in celebrating these things, in the moments of awe and appreciation the earth shares continuously with us. With the generative power of gratitude and finding our hope in these things, we can change the way we think and act. Because we must act. We cannot give in to despair."

A more spiritual worldview may help us heal the planet.

-Erica Shadowsong FALL/WINTER 2022 UU World



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On Election Day from 7pm - 11pm ET, UU the Vote Fun Squad will be hosting a virtual, drop-in watch-and-wait event on Zoom. Come relax, dance, share stories, join surprise guests and performers, get breaking election news, and honor the amazing work we've done together with UU the Vote 2022!

Join UU the Vote Tonight https://bit.ly/ElectionNightDropIn



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Election days are, by their nature, historic moments. And for the individuals, families and communities who are currently struggling in this country—struggling for access to quality healthcare, affordable housing, and safe working conditions, and struggling to have their voice heard and to cast their ballot without coercion—today is a crucial day.

It is also a crucial day in the fight for full inclusion, equity, and dignity for all—for all those seeking freedom from systems of identity-based violence and oppression, from anti-Semitism, sexism and patriarchy, from homophobia, transphobia and ableism. We continue to be in a generational struggle for a more just and peaceful world where all people and our planet can thrive.
Some of our ancestors fought and died for the very same rights and humane conditions we struggle for today. Let us name and honor them, for we would not be here without their courageous action. We can because they did. We carry their strength with us today.

We pray this day that everyone who is eligible to vote, will vote and can vote safely and freely. We pray that all votes are counted fairly. And by pray, I mean putting our faith into action. With prayerful hearts, we will take whatever action we can today to help ensure everyone is able to vote and we will continue to organize our communities all year round for the values that center dignity, collective care, and justice.

This is long-haul work, and it will take courage, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to show up for one another’s wholeness and dignity. May we find strength in each other and in what we hold most dear, on this day and every day of the journey ahead.



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Susan Dana Lawrence

,

Karin Lin

,

Nancy Palmer Jones

Continue reading "Mistakes & Miracles: UU Common Read Discussion Guide"

Susan Dana Lawrence

,

Karin Lin

,

Nancy Palmer Jones

Continue reading "Mistakes & Miracles: UU Common Read Discussion Guide"

On this #ElectionDay, UUA President Rev. Susan Frederick-Gray reminds us why our morals and religious values cannot be separated from our prophetic political action:

"Voting itself is sacred, because the right to vote is the recognition that one’s voice matters and is needed to shape the decisions affecting us all."

Read more in UU World. https://bit.ly/3NPjtRJ


Unitarian Universalists commit to defend voting rights as sacred.

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If you’re conscious of climate crises news, you know there isn’t much to feel hopeful about. None of this is easy. When we’re living within these existentially foreboding times facing this climate crisis, one good response to the harm and violence around you is to build kinship with one another. Practice staying present in building communities of genuine love and care.

Learn how to find hope in the uncomfortable truth in this UU World article.

https://bit.ly/3Ut2436


In the face of ongoing existential threats, how will you respond?

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Join UU the Vote, Poor People's Campaign: A National Call for Moral Revival, and UU Justice NC on Friday, Nov. 4 from 5-6pm ET to text voters in North Carolina!

Help turn out voters in this critical election and build a base of folks taking action in the fight for dignity and democracy.

Register at https://bit.ly/3E32lEO



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There are so many ways to support and protect our democratic institutions during the days leading up to the November 8 midterm elections. UU the Vote will hold in-person events in key states, virtual phone banking and text banking events for folks to join from wherever you are, poll chaplain training events, and more in the coming weeks. Join them!

https://bit.ly/36rjqKm


There is a role for everyone in this work. The work of volunteers will be critical to building and sustaining this massive coordinated campaign. Fill out the form below if you're curious about or want…

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Let us remember and pray for all dear to us on All Souls Day. We offer you these words by Kathleen McTigue.

"They are with us still. The lives they lived hold us steady. Their words remind us and call us back to ourselves. Their courage and love evoke our own. We, the living, carry them with us: we are their voices, their hands and their hearts."



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UUA Pres Rev. Susan Frederick-Gray reminds us that in a time of emboldened racism, anti-Semitism, and white supremacy, voting is another important way to organize against these movements. #VoteLove #DefendDemocracy #DefeatHate.


This is a defining time. Across the country we are witnessing an emboldened racist, anti-Semitic, white supremacist movement trying take control of our government and move us in the direction of authoritarianism and fascism.

Voting is just one way to organize against these movements – but an absolutely critical one. That is why I am voting early and working with UU the Vote to #VoteLove #DefendDemocracy #DefeatHate.

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There's a scramble to preserve the James Howe house, also known as the Freed Slave House in Montclair, New Jersey as it gets listed for sale. This home was owned by a formerly enslaved man and it holds historical value.

Members of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Montclair have been involved in the effort, forming the “Friends of the Howe House” group to preserve this piece of history for this community.

To learn more, including how you can help: https://bit.ly/3DoXWdz

https://cbsn.ws/3NpeeaV


The Friends of the Howe House commit to advocacy and action that will ensure the preservation of the Howe House (also known as the Freed Slave House) as a landmark of African American history and heritage.

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Today starts the observance of Samhain. For many, Samhain is a time to honor the dead and reflect on the changing of seasons. The new year begins tomorrow November 1st in the Celtic tradition and the veil between us and our ancestors is lifted.

Join together this Samhain as we reach across the veil to ask our ancestors for their wisdom, guidance, and encouragement as we move again into the gentle darkness of the coming season.

https://bit.ly/3EwAtGb


Now the autumn shudders In the rose's root, Far and wide the ladders Lean among the fruit. Now the autumn clambers Up the trellised frame And the rose...

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For many Unitarian Universalists, religious education helps them make better choices and explore essential life questions that include: How can we help the Earth to heal? What does it mean to be sexually healthy? How can we help to create a more just world? For some, religious education has also been a critical, transformative, life-saving experience.

Do you or someone you know have a story to share about how UU religious education saved your life? UU World magazine is collecting these stories and would love to learn about yours.

Email world@uua.org with the subject line: life-saving ministry



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#IntersexAwarenessDay marks the anniversary of a public demonstration by intersex people and their allies at the annual conference of the American Academy of Pediatrics on October 26, 1996.

We uplift the courage of these activists, and we side with continued efforts to raise awareness and agency for all intersex people. May all of our intersex siblings feel supported, empowered and cherished.



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We're proud to share news about this important milestone in our Association-wide work toward greater inclusion and we are so grateful for the long and diligent partnership of EqUUal Access in this process. https://bit.ly/3z7sIqg


We are grateful to EqUUal Access for their long term partnership.

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