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Before yesterdayUUA.org Updates

Board of Trustees Nominates Candidates for UUA Moderator (2025-2031)

12 November 2024 at 10:28
The UUA Board of Trustees nominated candidates for UUA Moderator (2025-2031). Rev. Kimberly Quinn Johnson and Bill Young will be running as a co-moderator candidate team. Natasha Walker will be running as an individual candidate team.

Candidates for UUA Moderator (2025-2031): Co-Moderator Candidate Team: Rev. Kimberly Quinn Johnson and Bill Young; and Moderator Candidate Natasha Walker

11 November 2024 at 09:53
There are three individual photos of the candidates - Rev. Kimberly Quinn Johnson on the left, Bill Young in the middle (his picture slightly under hers), and Natasha Walker on the right.
Nominations for UUA Moderator (2026-2031) have been announced by the UUA Board of Trustees. Learn more about the candidates and find links to the candidates' websites and social media.

Post Election 2024

11 November 2024 at 10:35
Staff of the Central East Region

Central East Region of the UUA

:
What a week it’s been. I want to let you know that your team at the Central East Region is thinking of you and sending love.

Post Election 2024

11 November 2024 at 10:35
Staff of the Central East Region

Central East Region of the UUA

:
What a week it’s been. I want to let you know that your team at the Central East Region is thinking of you and sending love.

2024 Presidential Election: Unitarian Universalist Meditation After Trump-Vance Win

29 October 2024 at 06:28
Β© Nic Y-C/Unsplash+

Victoria Safford

:
As we make sense of the presidential election results, breathe. β€œDo not let go of faith and hope and love.”

Gather in Community

6 November 2024 at 14:41
Two people sit at a table in a congregational setting, huddled close, wearing masks and looking at a phone screen held by one of them. There is another person sitting further back at their table, looking downward at materials on the table. Many people are picture in the background, collectively doing organizing work for UU the Vote.
In response to the recent U.S. national election, the UUA's Side With Love staff have prepared a series of online gatherings to help Unitarian Universalists connect, care for each other, and ground in the values that drive our work for justice. The first gathering will be a vigil at 8pm ET on Nov.

β€œOur wellspring of hope and courage for the times ahead” - a message to the UU community

6 November 2024 at 13:07
The UUA's bronze chalice with two circles connected sits on a podium with a lit candle in it and a dark and colorful blurry background
To our beloved Unitarian Universalist community: This morning, we awoke to the undeniable reality that the religious and political right’s decades-long strategy to sow fear and division and pit our communities against one another prevailed on the electoral landscape. While there were victories on...

Election support for UU communities

4 November 2024 at 11:00
Forward Together: Anchoring in Community Post Election, three groups of people coming together to text, serve food, and write letters. Date information in article.

Central East Region of the UUA

:
Friends, this week is an uncertain one, and much is at stake. As we approach Election Day and beyond, how are you and your people sustaining your bodies, your spirits, your values, and your relationships to community?...

Opportunities for Connection - November 2024

30 October 2024 at 10:00
On a dark blue background large yellow letters read: "Build a resilient community TOGETHER". Below this is "UUA Community Resources Hub" and further down, white text reads: "Help your congregation or community stay connected, prepared, and supportive through uncertain times with this Checklist for a Resilient Community." In the bottom-right corner, there is a yellow arrow and below that, the URL "UUA.org/community-resilience-hub".

Central East Region of the UUA

:
Find out what's happening in the Central East Region! This month - UU Community Resilience Hub, Youth Culture Con Open Enrollment, Summer Institute & more!

Doing the Loving Thing

30 October 2024 at 03:14
A Black person's hands, cupped together, hold a polished, red heart-shaped stone.

Takiyah Nur Amin

:
β€œWhat is the most loving, life-affirming choice I can make in response to life’s circumstances?”

Summer Institute 2025 - Live a Life on Fire

White background with an orange flame in the middle with a white hand in front of it. Reads: Live a Life on Fire: Change the World with your Love. CERSI 2025

Central East Region Summer Institute

:
Summer Institute 2025 is please to announce that our theme speaker this year is Rev. Joanna Fontaine Crawford.

Growing Democracy: Our Collective Power

7 October 2024 at 12:32
In a gym-turned-polling station, multiple adults stand at individual voting booths filling out ballots. An American flag and "vote" are stenciled on the side of one partition.
A worship collection celebrating democracy as a promise and a practice

Reality and Perception

23 October 2024 at 03:01
Two hikers wearing backpacks, seen from behind, hiking on a path in the woods.

JD Stillwater

:
Only when my knowledge is combined with uncountable others does Truth emerge.

The β€˜Acceptance’ Bounce: Grief and Joy in the Midst of It All

21 October 2024 at 10:27
Grief - Denial - Anger - Depression - Bargaining - Acceptance

Megan Foley

:
And then Rev. Dr. Hall mentions the fifth grief stage of Acceptance and writes this vignette: Acceptance – Our church is changing. The religious landscape in our country is changing. I may not like all these changes. But it is the reality. We can only choose how we respond to this new reality.

In the Bleak Season

16 October 2024 at 04:59
A woman cups her forehead in her hand, as if crying. She holds a coffee mug in the other hand. In front of her, on a lap desk, is an open journal and a lit candle.

Donna Moriarty

:
After the shattering, all that remains is another ordinary day.

Organizing as a Spiritual Practice

9 October 2024 at 02:14
A cluster of Black volunteers, wearing matching blue T-shirts, talk and smile outdoors. Similarly-dressed volunteers chat in the background, implying a large group event.

Antoinette Scully

:
The work of justice can’t be carried out by one person–or even a few diverse people.

Shared Values Images

7 October 2024 at 16:02
Chalice with word Love over the flame, surrounded by three interlocking and elliptical orbits of color resembling the stylized motion of subatomic particles. As orbits intersect, colors shift from dark pink to red, aqua to dark blue, and goldenrod to bright green. Within open spaces formed by each interlocking orbit is text for six UU shared values, clockwise: transformation (aqua), equity (bright green), pluralism (red), interdependence (dark blue), justice (goldenrod), and generosity (dark pink).
The UUA commissioned two images to present Unitarian Universalist Shared Values, adopted at the 2024 General Assembly, in different ways. Both the atom and flower graphic are available for use by UU congregations and communities.

Conclusion to the Theological Reflection on UU Shared Values

30 September 2024 at 12:54
A multi-colored quilt, with blues and reds and white, is set to the left of this graphic. Also pictured are thread bobbins and sewing materials. On the right is a dark maroon color. Overlaying this on a white box is the title, "Theological Reflection on UU Shared Values by Rev. Dr. Sherri Prud'homme"
This Conclusion completes a collection entitled, "Theological Reflection on Shared Values" by Rev. Dr. Sheri Prud’homme. In 2024, Unitarian Universalists adopted six shared values, centered around love, as a guiding expression of their faith.

Equity, A Reflection on UU Shared Values

30 September 2024 at 12:48
A multi-colored quilt image, with blues and reds and white, as well as thread bobbins and other quilting tools, is the background of this graphic. On top of this background image is a maroon-colored box with the word Equity inside in all caps and white font.
This reflection on Equity is part of a collection entitled, "Theological Reflection on Shared Values" by Rev. Dr. Sheri Prud’homme. In 2024, Unitarian Universalists adopted six shared values, centered around love, as a guiding expression of their faith.

Generosity, A Reflection on UU Shared Values

30 September 2024 at 12:29
A multi-colored quilt image, with blues and reds and white, as well as thread bobbins and other quilting tools, is the background of this graphic. On top of this background image is a maroon-colored box with the word Generosity inside in all caps and white font.
This reflection on Generosity is part of a collection entitled, "Theological Reflection on Shared Values" by Rev. Dr. Sheri Prud’homme. In 2024, Unitarian Universalists adopted six shared values, centered around love, as a guiding expression of their faith.

Transformation, A Reflection on UU Shared Values

30 September 2024 at 12:20
A multi-colored quilt image, with blues and reds and white, as well as thread bobbins and other quilting tools, is the background of this graphic. On top of this background image is a maroon-colored box with the word Transformation inside in all caps and white font.
This reflection on Transformation is part of a collection entitled, "Theological Reflection on Shared Values" by Rev. Dr. Sheri Prud’homme. In 2024, Unitarian Universalists adopted six shared values, centered around love, as a guiding expression of their faith.

Justice, A Reflection on UU Shared Values

30 September 2024 at 12:09
A multi-colored quilt image, with blues and reds and white, as well as thread bobbins and other quilting tools, is the background of this graphic. On top of this background image is a maroon-colored box with the word Justice inside in all caps and white font.
This reflection on Justice is part of a collection entitled, "Theological Reflection on Shared Values" by Rev. Dr. Sheri Prud’homme. In 2024, Unitarian Universalists adopted six shared values, centered around love, as a guiding expression of their faith.

Pluralism, A Reflection on UU Shared Values

30 September 2024 at 11:29
A multi-colored quilt image, with blues and reds and white, as well as thread bobbins and other quilting tools, is the background of this graphic. On top of this background image is a maroon-colored box with the word Pluralism inside in all caps and white font.
This reflection on Pluralism is part of a collection entitled, "Theological Reflection on Shared Values" by Rev. Dr. Sheri Prud’homme. In 2024, Unitarian Universalists adopted six shared values, centered around love, as a guiding expression of their faith.

Interdependence, A Reflection on UU Shared Values

23 September 2024 at 10:45
A multi-colored quilt image, with blues and reds and white, as well as thread bobbins and other quilting tools, is the background of this graphic. On top of this background image is a maroon-colored box with the word Interdependence inside in all caps and white font.
This reflection on Interdependence is part of a collection entitled, "Theological Reflection on Shared Values" by Rev. Dr. Sheri Prud’homme. In 2024, Unitarian Universalists adopted six shared values, centered around love, as a guiding expression of their faith.

Creating Safer Congregations

Graphic of a broken heard held together by a safety pin.

Beth Casebolt

,

Sana Saeed

:
It is impossible to make a congregation 100% safe; however, there are steps that you can take to make your congregationΒ saferΒ while still creating a supportive space for learning, growth, and challenge as well as actively workingΒ for the inclusion and safety of all people.

Of Rising Rivers and Democracy

2 October 2024 at 04:44
In a muddy field under a gray sky, people in raincoats kneel in the mud, harvesting vegetables to stack in plastic crates.

Karen G. Johnston

:
I care that fascism is not just approaching, but is already here, rising, like this cresting river.

Helping Congregations in Times of Need

30 September 2024 at 11:20
Four photos illustrating climate change-caused disasters: aftermath of a hurricane showing destroyed houses in top left, trees burning in a forest fire in top right, houses and trees almost submerged by flooding in bottom right, and crops bent and destroyed by drought in bottom left.

Beth Casebolt

:
If you are like me, you watching the video, seeing the pictures and hearing the stories of the devastation of Hurricane Helene is heart breaking. Many of our fellow UU congregations are in the path and have been affected. Our Congregational Life staff are starting the process of reaching out to...

Opportunities for Connection - October 2024

28 September 2024 at 10:00
Staff of the Central East Region

Central East Region of the UUA

:
Find out what's happening in the Central East Region! This month - Primary Contacts, News from the OCSF, Mosaic Gathering, Summer Institute and more!

Disaster Relief and Resources

27 September 2024 at 09:24
Disaster Relief Image
Our Disaster Relief Fund is part of a covenantβ€”a covenant between the UUA and congregations, between congregations who give generously and those in need, and with our community partners.

Learning To Be a Gallo

25 September 2024 at 02:01
Two LatinX preteens, crouched on the ground, feeding three black chickens and a speckled rooster.

Raquel V. Reyes

:
Like the free-roaming roosters of the Caribbean, no one can tell me I don’t belong.

Living Our Shared Values Amid Ongoing Violence

23 September 2024 at 14:25
The UUA's bronze chalice with two circles connected sits on a podium with a lit candle in it and a dark and colorful blurry background
A statement from the Office of the UUA President and other senior national staff reaffirming our Unitarian Universalist commitment to shared values, even amid ongoing and escalating violence between Israel and Hamas.

Small Congregations Experiment with Summer Programs

23 September 2024 at 10:42
two female appearing humans holding hand made candles

Central East Region of the UUA

:
While all churches often struggle with summer attendance and engagement, small congregations often find this to be a particular challenge. Here is an innovative way that two small congregations outside of Toledo, OH found to engage their members over the summer.

Drawing the Spirit Circle Wide

A bird's eye view of Holly Hill Farm in Cohasset, MA shows multiple garden beds growing leafy green vegetables. Several members of Spirit Circle at United First Parish Church in Quincy, MA are present, tending the beds and tending to one another.

Emily Cherry

,

United First Parish Church, Quincy, MA

:
Three years ago, Nan Moore, Lay Community Minister and previous Religious Educator for United First Parish Church in Quincy, Massachusetts, created Spirit Circle, a religious exploration program that embodies the congregation's mission and values through hands-on multigenerational experiences.

May All Be Welcome

18 September 2024 at 03:07
A close up of a clear, bubbly beverage being poured into a clear wine glass, held by a person.
All of us are active participants in co-creating congregational and community life.

Liberation from Anger

11 September 2024 at 02:54
A light-skinned Black woman sits in an office chair, grasping her head in exasperation and gritting her teeth. Around her, blurred, are the figures of office workers rushing by.

Laura Horton-Ludwig

:
What do you do when you’re really angry with someone and you can’t seem to let it go?

Join Us at the Mosaic Conference 2024: Fostering Belonging and Liberation

9 September 2024 at 11:00
Grays out image with the words Mosaic: Fostering Belonging and Liberation. on tiop

Sana Saeed

:
Are you ready to be part of a transformative experience that fosters love, inclusion, and justice? We are excited to invite you to the Mosaic Conference 2024, a dynamic multigenerational gathering that will take place from October 17th to 20th at Cedar Lane Unitarian Universalist Congregation in...

Meeting What Arrives

4 September 2024 at 06:34
A person inside a stationary car, in the driver's seat, sits with closed eyes, holding their hand to their forehead as if trying to calm down.

Lindasusan Ulrich

:
Staying present to what’s realβ€”our world, our hope, our storiesβ€”can help us embody our values.

Opportunities for Connection - September 2024

red background with white UUA logo in the center. Reads 2024-2025 Sermon of the Month. A program of the Congregational Life Staff of the UUA.

Central East Region of the UUA

:
Find out what's happening in the Central East Region! This month - Sermon Series, Climate Justice Revival, OWL Trainings, Mosaic Gathering, Multigen Gathering and more!

Resources for Congregational Leaders

word cloud of congregational life area resources

Central East Region of the UUA

:
It's that time of the year again, new congregational leaders are starting the new church year and looking for resources to help them do their best. We can help!

Free Lemonade for All Souls

A red cart on wheels sits on a shady sidewalk in front of All Souls UU Congregation in New London, CT. Behind the cart is a red chair, and on it is a red striped sign that reads, "Free All Souls Lemonade Stand" with a cartoon image of a lemon and a cup with a straw. On the cart are paper cups, two bottles of lemonade, a recycling bin, and a compost bin.

Emily Cherry

,

All Souls UU Congregation of New London, New London, CT

:
Each week in the summer, Rev. Carolyn Patierno, minister of All Souls UU Congregation in New London, CT, hosts a lemonade stand on the sidewalk in front of the congregation. She greets passersby with a cold cup, no-strings-attached. What she has found is a source of connection and shared ministry.

Join the Climate Justice Revival this September

Image of two heads with flowers on them. Rads: Reimagine Together: From An Extractive Age to A New Era

Central East Region of the UUA

:
The Rev. SofΓ­a Bettencourt invites you to join other UU congregations at the UU Climate Justice Revival, September 28-29, 2024.

RE Kickoff: Bring Your Team!

12 August 2024 at 10:40
United States map connection RE teams across the nation

Lenore Bajare-Dukes

:
We’ve rounded the corner into the season of hot, hazy days, back to school sales, and a growing curious energy: when UUs gather to greet one another, what will we be doing? Where will we turn our attention?...

Advocating for Change as a Tax-Exempt UU Congregation

9 August 2024 at 12:54
Two people participating in neighborhood canvassing effort review information on a phone. They're outside. One of them is wearing a UU the Vote T-shirt. The other is in a fedora, a blue collared shirt, black jacket. Both wear glasses and voter engagement buttons.

Staff Writer

:
Answers to some of your questions about the political engagement rules that apply to nonprofit UU congregations and groups.

Shared Values

5 August 2024 at 09:59
See Full Description
Unitarian Universalism is a living tradition that has changed in many ways from the original Christian roots of its Universalist and Unitarian heritages, and it continues to evolve today. Most recently, this evolution has taken the form of adopting new language to describe who we are as UUs.

UU Climate Justice Revival

2 August 2024 at 08:17
A diverse group of people are gathered together indoors and smile while holding climate justice and electoral justice signs, t-shirts, and stickers.
In September, UUs will take part in a national Climate Justice Revival with inspiring collective worship, creative learning, new frameworks, and the chance to weave together the threads that have always linked our deepest commitments. We're entering a new era of climate action, where we cultivate...

Love at the Center: New UU Statement of Values Passes after Momentous General Assembly Delegate Vote

2 August 2024 at 08:17
A colorful quilt with a chalice at its center.

Elaine McArdle

:
The years-long democratic process culminated with debate and the GA vote. A two-thirds majority was required for approval.

Join UU the Vote

2 August 2024 at 08:17
Two people stand at a table that has a UU the Vote sign on it, writing
We are fighting for so much in 2024 and the work before us requires our compassion, consistency and commitment. This year UU the Vote will strengthen our local partnerships with state networks and key movement partners. Democracy calls on us all to mobilize towards our collective thriving....

Moderator Search Committee

1 August 2024 at 09:00
Information about the Moderator Search Committee's work to find the next Moderator of the UUA.

Unitarian Universalists Pass Resolution Expressing Religious Belief: β€œEmbracing Transgender, Nonbinary, Intersex and Gender Diverse People is a Fundamental Expression of UU Religious Values”

18 July 2024 at 14:16
A young person with a large transgender pride flag.
At General Assembly 2024, an overwhelming majority of Unitarian Universalists voted to approve a Business Resolution that solidifies and strengthens the UUA’s ministry to and with transgender, nonbinary, and intersex members of UU communities.

Opportunities for Connection - August 2024

group of people white water rafting

Central East Region of the UUA

:
Find out what's happening in the Central East Region! This month - Helpful Board Habits Training, Database Updates, OWL Trainings, Mosaic Gathering, new UUI Course and more!

Message of Gratitude from the UUA for the Successful Shelter Initiative

17 July 2024 at 07:49
A group of UUA staff members gather on the stairs and main lobby area of the UUA headquarters building, with folks at the front of the group holding letter signs that spell "WELCOME" and smile for the camera.
In a letter to the Fort Point Boston Neighborhood and local businesses, the UUA reviews the successful emergency housing initiative implemented in early 2024, which has now concluded.

UUA Condemns Shooting at Pennsylvania Political Rally

14 July 2024 at 05:43
The following text is in white font on a gray background: "Unitarian Universalism believes in the right of free speech and the democratic process. Attacks like those at Saturday’s political rally weaken democracy, and the Unitarian Universalist Association condemns this attack." Below this is a red color block with the UUA chalice logo and name, also in white font.
In response to a shooting at Pennsylvania political rally where former president Donald Trump was inured, the UUA issues a statement upholding free speech and condemning the violence.

CER Welcomes Rev. Elaine Strawn as Temporary Staff

headshot of Elaine Strawn.

Central East Region of the UUA

:
As you have likely heard by now, Rev. Sunshine Wolfe has been promoted to the Regional Lead position in the Pacific Western Region....

Opportunities for Connection - July 2024

CERCLLogoweb

Central East Region of the UUA

:
Find out what's happening in the Central East Region! This month - Chalice Lighters, Leader Updates, Staff Changes, OWL Trainings, Pledge Data and more!

Hard, Brave Choices

26 June 2024 at 01:46
In a dark room, several taper candles and smaller candles in red, cut-glass holders are all alit.

Martha Durkee-Neuman

:
This is a year in which hard, brave choices will be required of all of us.

Queering Me

19 June 2024 at 02:24
A small rainbow flag, on a small stick, is held by the outstretched arms of two different people of color.

Vanessa Titang

:
β€œQueer” challenges the status quo; it dares me to be authentically myself.

Time to Submit Your 2024 Updates

Central East Region UUA Logo

Central East Region of the UUA

:
It’s that time of year again! When many congregations are electing new leaders and appointing new committee chairs in preparation for the new church year.

Proud to Be Out

12 June 2024 at 02:22
Two middle-aged people, seen from the shoulders up, press their faces together intimately and smile broadly. A Pride flag is wrapped around their shoulders.

Lynette Yetter

:
May everyone feel safe and free to love as they choose.

CER Changes in 2024

10 June 2024 at 10:18
photo of Rev. Sunshine Jeremiah Wolfe in black shirt and rainbow stole, using a microphone, giving the closing at Ohio Pride

Sunshine Jeremiah Wolfe

:
Rev. Sunshine Jeremiah Wolfe is announcing that they will be leaving the Central East Region on July 1 to move to the Pacific Western Region as their Regional Lead. Hear what they have to say about this move.

Home to Myself

5 June 2024 at 06:10
A nonbinary teen--white, with freckles and shoulder-length brown hair--holds a camera up, partially obscuring their face, as they look at the photographer.

Mare Martell

:
Being nonbinary has finally brought me home to myself.

Plan Your 2024 Board Retreat and Training

3 June 2024 at 11:36
crew of rafters working together to get a yellow raft through the rapids on a river
Help your board get off to a great start! Your CER staff is ready to partner with you.

Opportunities for Connection - June 2024

Flowers in the corner. Reads Reimagine Together From An Extractive Age to a New Era Info Sessions! Join any of our sessions to connect with the Planning team, ask questions and learn more about how to host the Revival in your congregation! Wed May 29 @ 1p ET/10a PT; THurs, June 6 @5p ET/2p PT; Thurs June 13 @ 5p ET/2p PT

Central East Region of the UUA

:
Find out what's happening in the Central East Region! This month - GA 2024, Synergy AfterParty, CERSI, Board Trainings, Climate Revival Plans and more!!

Totes Queer

29 May 2024 at 04:28
A fabric rainbow tote bag dangles from someone's hand. They're standing on a sidewalk, wearing trousers, visible only from the hip down.

Paige Getty

:
My queerness is about mindset and attitude and intention.

Rev. Nancy McDonald Ladd Appointed Director of Communications and Public Ministry

23 May 2024 at 10:15
Nancy smiles softly with her head tilted, wearing glasses, a pink blouse with puffed sleeves and her brown hair tucked behind her left ear.
The UUA is pleased to announce the appointment of the Rev. Nancy McDonald Ladd as Director of Communications and Public Ministry. In this executive position, Rev. Ladd will lead the development and implementation of the UUA’s communications strategy.

An Unbroken Song

22 May 2024 at 04:24
In profile, a person prays: their eyes are closed, and their forehead rests on their clasped hands.

Julie Yeeun Kim

:
I have often felt the divine most present when I feel dissolved into a holy community.

The Seeds That Have Sprouted: What Did We Learn This Year?

dark blue sky with starts. Reads CER SKill Up. CER Leadership Skill Ups for Changing TImes. The Seeds that Have Sprouted: A Celebration of What is Growing. May 7th

Central East Region of the UUA

:
The final CER Skill Up for the year was held on Tuesday, May 7th with the topic The Seeds That Have Sprouted: A Celebration of What Has Grown. Our main presenters were Rev. Sunshine Wolfe and Lenore Bajare-Dukes. In order to capture the surprising and beautiful new ways we’re finding of doing...

A More Complete Story

15 May 2024 at 04:22
An elderly woman wearing a paing-spattered apron sits in front of an easel, smiling, as she paints a beautiful landscape.

Aaron Stockwell Wisman

:
It takes a community to remember someone in all of their many facets.

New Learning Opportunities for Leaders

13 May 2024 at 10:06
Headshot of Rev. Renee Ruchotzke

Renee Ruchotzke

:
Rev. Renee Ruchtozke and Rev. Lillian Drab-Braddick introduce some new programming available from the UU LeaderLab team on the UU Institute and LeaderLab.

Unitarian Universalist Association Joins UU Climate Justice Revival: Coalition of Unitarian Universalist Organizations and Friends Launches Effort to Reimagine Climate Justice Work with Revival Weekend September 28th and 29th

9 May 2024 at 12:19
A diverse group of people are gathered together indoors and smile while holding climate justice and electoral justice signs, t-shirts, and stickers.
The Unitarian Universalist Association joins a coalition of UU organizations and partners to launch the UU Climate Justice Revival. Through multigenerational activities, worship, and advocacy, the revival will catalyze congregations to realize climate justice and collective liberation.

Love in This Very Moment

8 May 2024 at 04:06
An infant, lying on a bed and swaddled in a blanket, has their hand held by an adult. Their hands and part of their torso are all we see.

Sarah Pirtle

:
Dear world, how does love right now move me to action?

Time for Leadership Updates!

6 May 2024 at 10:23
Central East Region UUA Logo
It’s that time of year again! When many congregations are electing new leaders and appointing new committee chairs in preparation for the new church year.

UU Academics Condemn Violent Repression of Student Movements: UUA President Rev. Dr. SofΓ­a Betancourt Joins UU Seminary Presidents in Supporting Student Protest Movements

Person wearing a Palestinian keffiyeh speaks in a group outdoors holding a microphone near their face

SofΓ­a Betancourt

,

Rosemary Bray McNatt

,

ElΓ­as Ortega

:
Unitarian Universalist academics live and serve at the intersections of the academy and our religious communities. We condemn the rapidly escalating violent repression of pro-Palestinian, anti-war student movements on college campuses across the United States.

The Sea of Moral Injury

1 May 2024 at 03:56
A person is curled up, sleeping on a slab of cardboard, with a bag and cup next to them. They're on a sidewalk near a busy street with traffic and pedestrians.

Karen G. Johnston

:
Harm of one is harm of all.

UU World Shines a Spotlight on Shared Ministry and Communal Care: Spring 2024 issue looks at ways that Unitarian Universalists are collaborating for liberation

30 April 2024 at 13:54
A colorful illustration of a freshly prepared soup, made with many ingredients through the loving coordination of multiple hands in a range of skin tones.
The Spring 2024 issue of UU World magazine shines a spotlight on shared ministry and communal care in a Unitarian Universalist (UU) context. In a wide range of stories, poetry, and reflections, this issue explores ways that UUs are collaborating for liberation.

Opportunities for Connection - May 2024

Red letters G and A, with silhouette shapes of people in front

Central East Region of the UUA

:
Find out what's happening in the Central East Region! This month - GA 2024, CER Skills Ups, Youth Cons, CERSI, Climate Revival Plans and more!!

Summer Camps for Everyone!

CERSI and UUMAC logos together

Central East Region of the UUA

:
Summer isn't far away and with that brings thoughts of time together at camps or conferences, gathering with other UUs. While summer camp may be more associated with youth and children, many of our camps, conferences and institutes also plan for adults to join in the fun.

Shifting Perspective

24 April 2024 at 01:13
By: Kat Liu
Inside a car, a young adult sits behind the driver's seat. In the passenger seat is someone implied to be a driving instructor due to the clipboard he's holding.

Kat Liu

:
When I remember to orient myself within the bigger picture, it recalibrates my perspective.

Preparing the Future: UU Fellowship of Ligonier Valley

21 April 2024 at 10:00
Image of a group of people, one holding a dog in front of a tree.

Sunshine Jeremiah Wolfe

:
In an ever-changing world, our congregations need to be innovative with grounding in the needs of today and of the future. How do we remain relevant to the needs of changing times and changing generations?...

Beauty Following Us

17 April 2024 at 04:58
Above a cityscape, in a black-and-white photo, a lone crow or corvid spreads its wings mid-flight.

Christine Slocum

:
Crows found ways to adapt to our concrete forests but we have not yet found ways to make sure we are in balance with the rest of creation.

Unexpected Joy in Our Communities, Part 2

8 April 2024 at 10:30
image of a brown and orange butterfly on a yellow flower in a garden

Beth Casebolt

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When I meet with congregational leaders, as we talk about the challenges the congregation is facing, and resources or trainings they might need, at some point I usually ask the question, Where are you finding unexpected joy in your congregation this year?

Tending Congregational Life: Guiding the Membership Journey (Training)

Community Garden with Black man teaching a group of black, brown and white children

Congregational Life

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Unitarian Universalist Association of Membership Professionals

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Learn to work together to reinforce life-affirming and creative frameworks and use practical tools for welcoming and inclusion, connection and belonging, all as foundational to a membership journey in your congregation grounded in mutuality and consent.

Supporting Sibling Congregations

1 April 2024 at 12:08
Four photos illustrating climate change-caused disasters: aftermath of a hurricane showing destroyed houses in top left, trees burning in a forest fire in top right, houses and trees almost submerged by flooding in bottom right, and crops bent and destroyed by drought in bottom left.
The UUA is gathering of congregations, held together by a covenant. That covenant calls on us to support each other in times of need and to provide assistance when requested. It also calls on us to hold each other accountable.The Disaster Relief Fund is one way that we honor that covenant by...

Opportunities for Connection - April 2024

black outline of a human figure with a camp blowing off to the right, hands on hips. Reads: CERSI 2024. Unlikely Superheroes. Skills for practicing faith and ethics in tough times.

Central East Region of the UUA

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Find out what's happening in the Central East Region! This month - CERSI, CER Skills Ups, Youth Summer Program Scholarships, Article 2 Resources and more!!

UU the Vote 2024 is Underway: The UUA's nonpartisan civic engagement initiative begins organizing effort for 2024

28 March 2024 at 09:00
UU the Vote
UU the Vote, the UUA's nonpartisan civic engagement initiative focused on strengthening democracy and organizing for justice and accountability, launched its 2024 organizing initiative in March.

Growing Membership? How?

Community Garden with Black man teaching a group of black, brown and white children

Central East Region of the UUA

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Need resources and ideas for growing your membership? This new training can help!Tending Congregational Life: Guiding the Membership Journey is our first post-lockdown β€œgrowth and vitality” resource, in collaboration with the UU Association of Membership Professionals (UUAMP). Instead of...

Intricate Beauty: Part 2 of 2

20 March 2024 at 04:35
A person with white skin holds, in their upturned palms, a strand of help. Beneath their hands we see the person's feet standing on sand.

Quinn Gormley

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This is my favorite thing about seaweed: it feels so much like my neurodiverse brain.

Why Attend General Assembly?

18 March 2024 at 09:43
Red letters G and A, with silhouette shapes of people in front

Beth Casebolt

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I attended my first General Assembly in 1998. I had only been a member of my congregation for 2 years, and had just completed my first year as the Director of Religious Education (DRE).

Tending Congregational Life: Guiding the Membership Journey (Training)

Community Garden with Black man teaching a group of black, brown and white children

Congregational Life

,

Unitarian Universalist Association of Membership Professionals

:
Learn to work together to reinforce life-affirming and creative frameworks and use practical tools for welcoming and inclusion, connection and belonging, all as foundational to a membership journey in your congregation grounded in mutuality and consent.

Intricate Beauty: Part 1 of 2

13 March 2024 at 05:28
A painting of a person's head, in profile. Their brain and the background are both awash in swirls of color, galaxy-like sparks and stars, and cosmic texture.

Quinn Gormley

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People who aren't neurodiverse tend to frame neurodiversity as symptoms of inconvenience to people around them. For me, my ADHD means beauty.

Taylor Hoffman is UUA Director of Human Resources

12 March 2024 at 10:42
Taylor Hoffman sits on a stool, with legs crossed and smiling. She wears black pants and jacket and a white shirt.
The UUA is pleased to introduce Taylor Hoffman as Director of Human Resources. In this role, Taylor oversees the Human Resources office, staff, policies, benefits and resources, and helps lead the UUA’s commitment to being a workplace where people of all backgrounds and identities can thrive.

Rev. Darrick Jackson Appointed UUA Ministerial Credentialing Director

12 March 2024 at 09:38
Darrick Jackson is smiling, wearing a red shirt and glasses
The UUA is pleased to announce the appointment of the Rev. Darrick Jackson (he/him) as the Ministerial Credentialing Director within the UUA’s Ministries and Faith Development staff group.

Meet Rev. Alia Shinbrough

11 March 2024 at 09:06
headshot of Rev. Alia Shinbrough wearing a very multicolor shirt

Alia Shinbrough

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This week we wanted to give everyone a chance to "meet" Rev. Alia Shinbrough, the newest member of our CER Team.

Assurances & Affirmations

6 March 2024 at 05:47
Four people with their backs to the camera stand shoulder-to-shoulder, their arms around each other, as they look into a beautiful sunny vista.

Jami Yandle

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Appreciation and deep witness are beautiful gateways for returning to our most authentic selves.

Opportunities for Connection - March 2024

28 February 2024 at 10:00
A small, lit candle is cradled in a hand-carved, wooden chalice. The chalice rests on a golden embroidered cloth. This image is on a black background where the words, "Amplifying the Charge," are printed in white sans-serif letters.

Central East Region of the UUA

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Find out what's happening in the Central East Region! This month - Amplifying the Charge, CER Leadership Skill Ups, Faithify Pause, Path to Membership Training and more!!

UUA Offers Space in Headquarters Building for Temporary Emergency Housing

4 March 2024 at 13:56
Outside of 24 Farnsworth building.
The UUA joins with the United Way of Massachusetts and other community-based organizations to provide temporary emergency housing and support to local families in need. Space in the UUA headquarters building will serve as a temporary, overnight emergency shelter location as part of this arrangement.

Join Our Community This Summer!

CERSI and UUMAC logos together

Central East Region Summer Institute

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Have you thought about attending CERSI (Central East Region Summer Institute)? Registration is open!

Opportunities for Connection - March 2024

28 February 2024 at 10:00
A small, lit candle is cradled in a hand-carved, wooden chalice. The chalice rests on a golden embroidered cloth. This image is on a black background where the words, "Amplifying the Charge," are printed in white sans-serif letters.

Central East Region of the UUA

:
Find out what's happening in the Central East Region! This month - Amplifying the Charge, CER Leadership Skill Ups, Faithify Pause, Path to Membership Training and more!!

We Were Always Here

28 February 2024 at 04:50
Black and white photo of only the arms of dark-skinned people, raised as if praying in a church pew

Connie Simon

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When someone lists Unitarians or Universalists, they usually name white men. Never anyone Black like me.
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