📢 Federal workers are being forced to bear the burden of political decisions beyond their control. Many are facing uncertainty, financial hardship, and stress as they struggle to provide for their families while continuing to serve the public.

The Unitarian Universalist Association joins in solidarity with federal workers and their families during this difficult time. Your dedication keeps our communities running, and you deserve stability, respect, and fair treatment. We call on leaders to prioritize the well-being of workers and their families.

If you are impacted, you are not alone. We see you. We support you. 💛

#Solidarity #UU #UnitarianUniversalist #Community #Justice #UUSharedValues #Faith #Family #Friends



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Mní Wičóni. Water is life.  This sacred truth, which echoed around the world as the Standing Rock Sioux Nation led the movement to resist the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline across the Missouri River, reveres the interdependence that defines all of our existence. In both the orig

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🏳️‍⚧️💙 What does it mean to be truly seen? 💙🏳️‍⚧️

Last week, Side with Love shared the children’s book “Calvin” as part of 30 Days of Love.

In “Calvin,” a beautifully told story by J.R. Ford and Vanessa Ford and illustrated by Kayla Herren, a young transgender boy steps into the fullness of who he is, supported by the love of family, friends, and community. He has always known himself, but sharing that truth brings both uncertainty and possibility.

💛✨This book reminds us of the power of affirmation and belonging, and as UU’s, it’s crucial that we ask ourselves: How often do we create spaces where someone can share who they are and be met with warmth, trust, and joy? Where the "what-ifs" of fear melt away in the presence of love? 💛✨

Watch Calvin come into his own in this read-aloud:
https://youtu.be/1Xq_995qFUw?si=S9iwLFJ454HpkeRp

#TransJoy #BelovedCommunity #BeingSeen #UU #UnitarianUniversalist #UUSharedValues #LoveAtTheCenter #Faith #Family #Friends #Church #GenderAffirming


Happy Pride! Today's Story DetailsTitle: CalvinAuthor: J.R. Ford Vanessa FordIllustrator: Kayla HerrenPlease support the author and illustrator and purchase ...

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Caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.” -Audre Lorde

✨ New Blog Alert! ✨

Self-care isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a feminist practice. 💜🌿 Our latest blog explores Feminist Self-Care Praxis and why caring for ourselves is a radical act of resistance.

Read now: uuwf.org/blog-2/

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🌿✨ Imbolc Blessing to All Who Celebrate ✨🌿

As the light begins to grow and the earth stirs with new life, we honor the turning of the seasons and the promise of renewal. May this time of hope and inspiration brighten your days.

#Imbolc #UnitarianUniversalism #SeasonOfLight #UU #Faith #Family #Friends #Blessing



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Aija Duelm

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Central East Region of the UUA

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Trans people are divine. This profound truth, first gifted with the world by J. Mase III and Lady Dane Figueroa Edidi in their Black Trans Prayer Book , is not just a statement but a powerful declaration of sacredness and resilience. It reminds us that trans and nonbinary existence is ancient,

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Megan Foley

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Liz Weber

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Oscar Sinclair

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Oscar Sinclair

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Natalie Briscoe, Lead for the UUA Southern Region, offers a thoughtful reflection on connecting with the "still small voice" within each of us. She reminds us that this voice guides us toward love, justice, and interdependence. Yet, accessing it requires practice, intentionality, and community.

In Unitarian Universalism, this voice is central to aligning ourselves with values like equity, generosity, and pluralism. Natalie underscores that our congregations serve as spaces where we can cultivate this connection, aligning our inner truths with collective action to create Beloved Community.

Read Natalie’s full reflection in the January 2025 Southern Region newsletter: https://bit.ly/4hsadQM .

🎵 Reflect on this theme through the hymn "Voice Still and Small," as performed Brian Kenny, Alena Hemingway, and Mike Menefee: https://bit.ly/40wwA0S .

#UUSharedValues #BelovedCommunity #Faith #UU #UnitarianUniversalism #Reflection #Mindfulness #Church #Family #friends #hymns #music



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Central East Region of the UUA

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In the spirit of courage and compassion, we lift up Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde for her powerful witness to justice and love, expressed through her Episcopal tradition. Her unwavering advocacy for immigrants, LGBTQ+ individuals, and marginalized communities resonates deeply with Unitarian Universalist shared values of equity, pluralism, and transformation.

In a time when harmful policies and actions threaten the dignity and rights of so many, Bishop Budde reminds us that faith calls us to mercy. As Unitarian Universalists, mercy calls us to action—to amplify voices of the oppressed and to act in solidarity for a more just and loving world.

Hear her powerful message here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xwwaEuDeqM8.

#UUSharedValues #ImmigrantJustice #FaithInAction #LoveAtTheCenter #UU #UnitarianUniversalist


Explore Washington National Cathedral: https://cathedral.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wncathedral/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WNCathedralT...

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Central East Region of the UUA

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Ethan Loewi

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🌟 Justice: A Reflection on Our Shared Values 🌟

Rev. Dr. Sheri Prud’homme reminds us that Unitarian Universalism calls us to dismantle systems of oppression and build communities where all can thrive. Our theological heritage teaches that salvation lies not in escaping a vengeful God, but in co-creating a world rooted in love, justice, and flourishing.

From abolition to today’s movements for equity, our tradition has sought to uphold these values. Yet, as Rev. Dr. Prud’homme reflects, our history also holds lessons in humility—times when we failed to live up to these ideals or stood complicit in harm.

Today, we honor this legacy by working toward just, compassionate communities. The journey is ongoing, but together, we strive to embody the shared value of Justice.

🔗 How do you engage with the call to dismantle oppression in your daily life? Share in the comments.

Read Rev. Dr. Prud’homme's full theological reflection on Justice at https://bit.ly/4h6RV7Z.

#UnitarianUniversalism #Justice #SharedValues #BelovedCommunity #SheriPrudhomme #faith #faithinaction



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We join the National Congress of American Indians in celebrating the news of Leonard Peltier’s clemency after nearly fifty years of unjust imprisonment. This historic moment reflects the power of grassroots advocacy and collective action. As Unitarian Universalists, we are committed to partnering with Indigenous communities and supporting movements that center dignity, equity, and justice for BIPOC individuals. Together, we continue the work to build a more just and compassionate world.


After nearly fifty years of unjust imprisonment, Leonard Peltier has been granted clemency. This moment marks a historic victory for Indian Country and all who have come together in solidarity for justice. It is a testament to the power of grassroots advocacy, collective action, and unwavering resilience. Read NCAI's full statement on this monumental step towards justice below.

🔗 https://www.ncai.org/news/leonard-peltier-is-going-home-a-step-toward-healing-and-justice

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We share this message from UUA President Rev. Sofía Betancourt, PhD.


Beloveds, in these fearful and difficult days I send my love and solidarity – to each of you and to your families, communities, and organizing networks. As the executive orders rolled out of the office of the US President on Monday, we witnessed the attempted unravelling of decades of work for a more fair and free nation.

As Unitarian Universalists, we are personally, theologically, and covanentally bound together by the expansive Love that has always been the animating center of our faith. Far more powerful than any faction, leader, nation, or creed, it is this fierce Love that compels our deepest loyalty and our most courageous action.

I join you in meeting the days and years to come with faith and renewed purpose. Please find a link in the comments below to a pastoral message from me that includes ways to take faithful action in support of our ourselves, our congregations, and our communities.

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🌟 Discover the 2024/2025 UU Common Read: “Authentic Selves”🌟

📖 “Authentic Selves: Celebrating Trans and Nonbinary People and Their Families” invites us to honor and uplift the lives of trans and nonbinary people through the transformative power of storytelling.

🎥 In this video, Sara Lewis, a religious educator and parent of a trans child, shares why Authentic Selves is such a vital resource:
“This is how faith formation happens. Not through statistics or facts, but through stories and relationships that bring us into greater love, greater justice, and greater authenticity.” Watch it here: https://youtu.be/feuB3ID9reY?feature=shared.

✨ Whether you're exploring it in a congregation or on your own, this Common Read is an invitation to grow, to listen, and to celebrate the authenticity and resilience of trans and nonbinary people and their families.

👉 Learn more about the Common Read and get your copy here: https://www.uua.org/lifespan/curricula/read

#UUCommonRead #AuthenticSelves #TransRights #FaithFormation #UU #UnitarianUniversalism #SharedValues #BelovedCommunity #Faith


The 2024-2025 UU Common Read is "Authentic Selves: Celebrating Trans and Nonbinary People and Their Families". Join us to read and discuss this beautiful and...

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Week One of 30 Days of Love invites us to dream and act around the theme "We Are Home," inspired by immigrant-led coalitions fighting for justice and humanity.

”As the governing and power structures of our world rely more and more on domination, exploitation, and disposability to consolidate power, we must hold onto and grow ours." – Nicole Pressley, UUA Organizing and Strategy Director.

Together, we are the antidote to fear.

Explore resources, reflect, and take action with Side With Love: https://sidewithlove.org/ourstories/2025/1/21/week-one-of-30-days-of-love-we-are-home

#30DaysOfLove #WeAreHome #UU #UnitarianUniversalism #BelovedCommunity #faith #faithinaction #SharedValues


In January 2021, immigrant communities, organizers, and their allies met the change in the US Presidential Administration with determination and courage, focused on ending the cruel, xenophobic policies from the Trump administration. Envisioning a pathway toward healing, over 20 immigrant-led co

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Sofía Betancourt

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Sofía Betancourt

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Susan Maginn

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Susan Maginn

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Julián Jamaica Soto

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🚨 Final Call: Help the Pink Haven Coalition Today! 🚨

The Faithify fundraiser for the Pink Haven Coalition closes on January 24th, but there’s still time to make a difference!

Our trans, Two-Spirit, and gender-expansive (2STGE+) kin are in crisis, and the time to act is now.

Founded and led by 2STGE+ organizers, the Pink Haven Coalition has built an international mutual-aid network that provides life-saving aid to those living under hostile governments in the U.S.

💡 How you can help:

Donate now: faithify.org/campaign/402/pink-haven-coalition

Share this campaign with your networks to expand its reach.

Every contribution matters. Your support ensures Pink Haven can continue meeting this unprecedented crisis with fierce love, compassion, and action.

#TransRights #PinkHaven #Faithify #UU #UnitarianUniversalists #SharedValues #LoveInAction



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Rev. Julián Jamaica Soto’s “The Butterfly Effect” reminds us that even the smallest actions ripple outward, shaping the world in ways we may never fully comprehend. This truth resonates deeply on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a time to reflect on Dr. King's enduring legacy and the individuals who have propelled movements for #justice, #equality, and #love. 🦋❤️🌍

Dr. King dreamed boldly, organizing change that seemed insurmountable, yet his faith in collective action and moral truth created a powerful wave of transformation. 🗣️📢 Let us scream the truth, amplifying the call for justice, until every stone and leaf bears witness to the dream of a world where dignity and freedom flourish for all. 🗣️📢

💡 How will you honor Dr. King’s dream today? What small action can you take to create ripples of justice and love? 💡

Read Rev. Soto's full poem at: https://www.uuworld.org/articles/poem-the-butterfly-effect-rev-juli%C3%A1n-jamaica-soto-unitarian-universalism

#MLK #UU #UnitarianUniversalism #UnitarianUniversalists #LoveAtTheCenter #SharedValues #friends #family #church #faith #BelovedCommunity #Poetry



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🌟 Join Us for ‘For Such a Time As This': A Prophetic Response to America’s Defining Moment 🌟

On January 20, as we honor the life and prophetic vision of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., we gather at a pivotal moment in our nation’s history. In partnership with the United Church of Christ and a coalition of faith communities, the UUA invites you to be part of a transformative Interfaith Service and Moral Mass Meeting, where voices unite for justice, equality, and collective action.

While UUA President Rev. Dr. Sofía Betancourt originally planned to participate, she will no longer be joining due to illness in her household. While the situation is not serious, Dr. Betancourt has made the decision to prioritize communal wellness and cancel her appearance. She encourages everyone to join this important gathering, whether in person or online, to honor Dr. King’s legacy and continue the shared work of justice and collective action.

📍 When & Where
🗓️ January 20, 2025
⏰ 6 p.m. CT / 7 p.m. ET
🏛️ Healing Cathedral Christian Church, Memphis, TN
🎥 Livestream available

Together, let us rise to the call of justice and carry forward Dr. King’s powerful legacy.

👉 Register now to join in person or online: https://bit.ly/4ag6S52

#MLK #FaithInAction #JusticeForAll #UUValues #InterfaithSolidarity #BelovedCommunity #UU #UnitarianUniversalist #SocialJustice



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Maryann Batlle

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Maryann Batlle

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Jo VonRue's "Prayer for Moving Forward" speaks directly to the heart of Unitarian Universalist values—resilience, hope, and the relentless pursuit of justice. It acknowledges the weariness many of us feel in the face of systems that devalue human lives while simultaneously calling us to draw strength from the collective action of our communities and the deep well of courage within ourselves.

This prayer reminds us that even when the path feels muddy and rough, the burning coal of hope within us sustains us. It urges us to hold fast to the vision of equity and peace, to join our neighbors in solidarity and shared purpose, and to trust in the power of our shared humanity to bring about change.

How can we inspire and support one another to keep moving forward toward justice? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Read the full prayer on WorshipWeb: https://www.uua.org/worship/words/prayer/prayer-moving-forward

#UU #UnitarianUniversalism #UnitarianUniversalists #LoveAtTheCenter #SharedValues #friends #family #church #faith #welcome Courage #Resilience #Reflection



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✳️ Navigating Social Change Without Burning Out ✳️

In a world of ongoing crises—global conflicts, political upheavals, and threats to equity—it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. How can we stay engaged without losing ourselves in the process? Activist and author Deepa Iyer offers a thoughtful framework to help you align with your values, embrace your unique role in social change, and build meaningful connections to sustain both your efforts and well-being.

💡 Swipe through the images for actionable tips inspired by her work!

Read Iyer’s article in UU World to learn more about finding balance and purpose: https://bit.ly/UUWorldTips

For a deeper dive, explore her book, “Social Change Now: A Guide for Reflection and Connection”: https://bit.ly/SocialChangeNowBook

#SocialChange #CommunityCare #BurnoutPrevention #DeepaIyer #UU #UnitarianUniversalism #UnitarianUniversalists #LoveAtTheCenter #SharedValues #Resilience #SocialJustice #SocialAction #FaithInAction #organize









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Julie Yeeun Kim

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Julie Yeeun Kim

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🌟 Generosity: A UU Shared Value 🌟

This week, as we reflect on Generosity—one of our UU Shared Values—we honor the life and legacy of Jimmy Carter, a powerful example of giving with gratitude and hope.

From his work with Habitat for Humanity to his global efforts for peace and justice, President Carter embodied generosity in action, showing how transformative giving can be.

In her reflection on generosity, UU Rev. Dr. Sheri Prud’homme reminds us that generosity is rooted in seeing the world as sacred and interconnected. As Unitarian Universalists, we are called to carry this value forward, practicing generosity in all its forms—financial, personal, and communal—to nurture hope and compassion in our communities.

How does generosity show up in your life? 💛

Read Rev. Prud’homme’s full theological reflection at https://bit.ly/42wBain.

#JimmyCarter #Generosity #UU #UnitarianUniversalism #SharedValues #LoveAtTheCenter #Justice #Hope





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Renee Ruchotzke

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Central East Region of the UUA

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We share this message from UUA President Rev. Sofía Betancourt, PhD.


The fires rage once again in California, coming so close in the aftermath of North Carolina’s rising water. We are surrounded by evidence of how precarious our tilting planet and precious lives are in the age of climate catastrophe. We hold all those impacted in our hearts today even as we process personal and collective tragedies that are not brought about by forces of nature, but by forces of coercion and human failure.

We know that the impact of this fire on all in the Los Angeles region will be tremendous. We also understand that already vulnerable populations often have fewer resources to draw on and therefore will need greater assistance in response.

This afternoon, we know that many Unitarian Universalists have been evacuated from the greater Los Angeles area. Still others have lost their homes entirely. As of this writing, our congregational spaces in the LA area remain largely undamaged, though access to them is increasingly difficult with many power lines and trees blocking roadways. We are aware that other faith communities have already lost their buildings to the fire. We offer our condolences to and prayers for them.

As I have had too many occasions to say in the last year, we are a sanctuary people. Unitarian Universalists are literally taking one another in, offering support to those in their surrounding communities, and creating pockets of relative safety amid so many challenges. Let us continue that work in many ways, now and in the days and months to come.

Today we are once again mobilizing our UUA Disaster Relief Fund to provide grant relief to impacted communities. Thanks to overwhelming recent generosity from individuals and congregations, grant funds are available. The need, however, is great and growing. If you have not yet made a gift to the Disaster Relief Fund, please consider lifting up your Sunday offering or making a personal gift now. We need one another, now more than ever.

Donations can be directed to the UUA Disaster Relief Fund at this link: https://www.uua.org/giving/disaster-relief

Resources for congregational special collections may be found here: https://www.uua.org/giving/areas-support/funds/disaster-response/disaster-relief-fund-collections

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Nancy McDonald Ladd

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Ethan Loewi

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🌈 We’re thrilled to share “Living for Change as a Queer Military Chaplain with a Queer Faith” by UU Chaplain Capt. Sarah Caine, published in ‘Modern Military Magazine.’ Sarah reflects on their journey as a UU Army chaplain, navigating authenticity, love, and liberation in a system steeped in tradition. 🌈

Sarah explores what it means to queer faith, challenge the status quo, and hold space for those often left out of traditional narratives. Their story invites us to imagine a world where liberation and love guide every step of our shared journey.

📖 Read the full article at https://modernmilitarypublications.publi.dev/faith-issue/queer-military-chaplain-sarah-caine.

#UU #UnitarianUniversalism #UnitarianUniversalists #LoveAtTheCenter #SharedValues #friends #family #church #faith #welcome #Courage #Resilience #faithinaction



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DanaLee Simon

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DanaLee Simon

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🌟 Today is Epiphany 🌟

Today, many observe Epiphany—a time to reflect on moments of revelation and illumination. For some, it marks the end of the Christmas season; for others, it’s a reminder to seek truth, clarity, and connection in the year ahead.

This year, Epiphany arrives amidst heavy hearts, as we grieve the tragic attack in New Orleans on January 1st that claimed the lives of 15 people and injured 30 others along Bourbon Street. A city known for its vibrant spirit and celebration of life is now mourning profound loss.

For Unitarian Universalists, Epiphany can inspire us to shine a light on injustice, to hold space for grief, and to recommit to building safer, more loving communities. With Mardi Gras approaching—a time when New Orleans typically comes alive with joy and celebration—we are reminded of the strength and resilience of this community and others like it.

May this Epiphany call us to action:
✨ To honor those we’ve lost with acts of justice and compassion.
✨ To seek clarity and courage as we confront violence and injustice.
✨ To celebrate resilience and work for a future where all can live and thrive.

How will you honor this day of light and insight in the face of the world’s challenges?

#Epiphany #UnitarianUniversalist #NewOrleans #Justice #Healing #SharedValues #UU #UnitarianUniversalism #LoveAtTheCenter #SharedValues #friends #family #church #faith #welcome #BelovedCommunity



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📅 On January 20, 2025, UUA President Rev. Dr. Sofía Betancourt joins interfaith leaders, including those from the Poor People's Campaign: A National Call for Moral Revival and the United Church of Christ, for "Justice Rising: A Moral Call to Action in America’s Defining Moment."

✨ This day marks both the national Inauguration Day and the commemoration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s enduring legacy. 🕊️ Inspired by Dr. King’s prophetic vision, we are grateful that Unitarian Universalism will be represented in this event uniting leaders, advocates, and all committed to justice, equity, and love. Together, faith leaders will respond to regressive forces with hope, moral courage, and an unyielding commitment to a more just world.

🔗 More information, including the livestream link, is available at: https://bit.ly/3ZKwnqw

#JusticeRising #FaithInAction #MLKLegacy #UU #UnitarianUniversalist #Interfaith #SocialJustice #PropheticVoices #BelovedCommunity



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🌟 Happy New Year, 2025! 🌟

Let’s start the year by inspiring ourselves and others. Reflect on your values and dreams with this challenge:

🎉 Create a six-word story about your aspirations for 2025. 🎉 Here’s an example: "Kindness grows; justice blooms for all."

Share yours and spark inspiration! ✨ Cheers to hope and community! ✨

#NewYear2025 #UU #SharedValues #Faith #Justice #UnitarianUniversalist #UnitarianUniversalism #Goals



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🏆 UU World Staff's Favorite Stories of 2024

As 2024 comes to a close, the UU World team reflects on their most memorable and meaningful stories of the year. Here are some of their top highlights:

🌱 “Tiny Forests Sow Possibility and Cultivate Resilient Communities”
Managing Editor Sonja L. Cohen shares her experience exploring the Miyawaki Forest movement, complete with fresh air, sunshine, and a fascinating look at restoring ecosystems. Read at: https://bit.ly/49JPQfz

💖 “After Her Viral GA Moment, Rev. JeKaren Olaoya Has More to Say About Love”
Senior Editor Elaine McArdle reflects on Rev. Olaoya’s powerful declaration of love at GA 2024 and what it means for our faith and community. Read at: https://bit.ly/3DrDXi8

🏳️‍⚧️ “Pink Haven Coalition Helps Transgender People Relocate and Access Gender-Affirming Care”
Executive Editor Kristen Cox Roby highlights the lifesaving work of the Pink Haven Coalition, a vital network providing support to trans individuals. Read at: https://bit.ly/3DqjlqB

🎲 “Game Changer: UU Elizabeth Hargrave is Reimagining How We Play”
Advertising Assistant Josh Degregorio celebrates the creativity and values UU game designer Elizabeth Hargrave brings to the world of board games. Read at: https://bit.ly/4iIYJtR

✨ What was your favorite UU World story of 2024? Let us know in the comments!

#UUWorld #UU #UnitarianUniversalism #UnitarianUniversalists #LoveAtTheCenter #SharedValues #friends #family #church #faith #welcome



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Wishing a joyful and meaningful Kwanzaa to all who celebrate! May this time bring connection, reflection, and celebration of community, culture, and tradition. Happy Kwanzaa!

#Celebrate #Community #Connection #Kwanzaa #UU



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Happy Hanukkah! ✨🕎

Hanukkah reminds us that even in the darkest times, small acts of faith and persistence can ignite a lasting flame. 🕯️💙 We honor the resilience and courage of those who kept the flame alive against all odds, a reminder of the power of hope and unity.

May the sacred light of this season inspire love, renewal, and a brighter future for you and your loved ones.

Chag Sameach to all who celebrate! 🎉🌟

#HappyHanukkah #FestivalOfLights #ChagSameach #UU #UnitarianUniversalist #Faith #Family #Friends #Pluralism



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🎄 Merry Christmas! 🎄

Did you know that the Christmas tree tradition in America has Unitarian roots tied to the fight for justice and freedom?

In 1832, the Rev. Charles Follen—a Unitarian minister, abolitionist, and advocate for liberty—introduced one of the first decorated Christmas trees in New England. Inspired by his German heritage and a desire to create joy for his young son, Follen adorned the tree with candles, gilded ornaments, and treats. This magical display left guests in awe and became one of the earliest documented Christmas trees in the United States.

But Follen’s legacy extends beyond festive traditions. A passionate abolitionist, he risked his career speaking out against slavery and designed his Lexington congregation's octagonal church to symbolize equality—where no one stood above another.

This season, as many of us gather around twinkling trees, let’s remember the light Follen brought into the world—not just through his Christmas tree, but through his commitment to freedom and justice.

✨ Wishing you a holiday filled with joy, reflection, and the enduring spirit of community. ✨

Read more about Rev. Charles Follen in UU World here: http://bit.ly/follen-tree.

#MerryChristmas #UnitarianUniversalist #AbolitionistHistory #CharlesFollen #ChristmasTraditions #UUHistory





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As we enter into the fourth and final week of Advent, we turn to 🕯️hope — a hope grounded not in naïve optimism but in the resilient practice of liberation.

Dayna Edwards’ prayer, “Our Lifelong Work of Liberation,” reminds us that hope is a call to action, connecting us to generations of freedom fighters who envisioned a more equitable world. Their hope was revolutionary, sustaining them through struggle and transformation.

Even now, in times of division and injustice, hope calls us to build communities rooted in care and liberation. 💕 By carrying hope forward with courage and resolve, we honor the legacy of those who came before us and move closer to the vision of a more loving world. 🌍

✨Where do you see hope at work in the world around you? ✨

Read the full prayer here: https://www.uua.org/worship/words/prayer/our-lifelong-work-liberation.



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As we mark the Winter Solstice, Stephanie Noble’s poem, "In Celebration of the Winter Solstice," invites us to embrace the gifts of darkness. It reminds us that darkness is not to be feared but celebrated—a source of mystery, renewal, and promise. In the quiet of these longest nights, we find rest, reflection, and the fertile ground where the seeds of our inner light take root.

Let us honor this time of stillness and renewal, allowing the darkness to hold us as we prepare for the return of the light.

Read the full poem here: uua.org/worship/words/reading/celebration-winter-solstice.

May this Solstice bring you peace and joy in the richness of the present moment. 🌙✨

#WinterSolstice #EmbraceTheDarkness #SolsticeReflection
#UUSharedValues #SacredSeasons #WinterMagic #Rest #Renewal
#CelebratingSolstice #UnitarianUniversalist #UU



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“I seem to be witnessing it everywhere these days – UUs rising to meet the moment…We are learning to live with the daily risk of just being who we are... It is not easy, but it is the wellspring of honesty and courage that will feed our ministry in the years ahead.” - UUA Executive Vice President Carey McDonald.

As Unitarian Universalists succeed in advancing our values in these challenging times, our UUA Executive Vice President Carey McDonald shares some reflections on the threads of hope and care that run through safety considerations:

“While there is tremendous opportunity for UU’s to meet the needs of this moment, the truth is that risks and costs of our ministry are likely to be concentrated in our most impacted communities. As our exposure grows, we must not only be ready to protect those who are most likely to be targeted, and the fear is real. We need to prepare our institutions as a whole, institutions increasingly led by those of us who are BIPOC, trans and queer, or disabled, so that we can continue to be safe havens.”

🌟✺What are some ways your UU congregation or community is creating stronger, safer foundations for community care? What supports would help you lean in more deeply to these practices?✺🌟

#CommunityCare #UU #HopeAndResilience #FaithInAction #SharedValues #UnitarianUniversalism #UnitarianUniversalist #Friends #Family #Church







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Jeff Milchen

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"We celebrate that we are all sacred beings, diverse in culture, experience, and theology." - Rev. Dr. Sheri Prud’homme

Pluralism is the recognition and celebration of diversity in beliefs, cultures, and experiences, affirming that no single perspective holds all the truth.

In her theological reflection on UU Shared Values, Rev. Dr. Sheri Prud’homme writes that Unitarian Universalism embraces pluralism by affirming that there are many paths to the sacred. We hold fast to the idea that no single religion holds all the truth—not even our own.

Through free, open, and respectful dialogue, we honor the diversity of beliefs and experiences that shape our communities. This ongoing exchange allows our theological perspectives to evolve and grow, deepening our understanding and connection to one another.

How do you create space for dialogue and learning across differences in your life?

Read more from Rev. Dr. Prud’homme about Pluralism and its place in our shared values: https://www.uua.org/beliefs/shared-values/theological-reflection

#UU #Pluralism #UnitarianUniversalism #Diversity #SharedValues #LoveAtTheCenter #Faith #Church



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Geoff Duke

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Geoff Duke

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As we move through the third week of Advent we invite you to reflect on joy—a joy that sustains us even in the hardest, darkest places. As Unitarian Universalists, we understand joy as a vital force that keeps us grounded in our values while giving us the strength to continue the work of compassion and justice. As founder and CEO of International Justice Mission Gary Haugen says, “Joy is the oxygen for doing the work of justice.”

Kate Bowler’s words from her Everything Happens podcast episode with Haugen offer a powerful reminder of this truth:

“Sometimes it can feel like you carry the weight of the world on your shoulders. You might wake up tired and go to bed tired. You feel as though you can't possibly fix every problem that comes your way because it's simply too much. We all need the reminder that joy is the way forward—that there's still room for laughter, beauty, and joy even in the hardest, darkest places. It is the only way to continue to do this hard, important work.

So, what is the moment when you feel the most levity? When it feels like you're taking a big, deep breath of fresh air? When joy comes naturally? Double down on that. Get in the snuggle zone with your kid. Pet your dog or your cat, if they're into that sort of thing. Take a long walk or a long bubble bath. Watch that hilarious show on Netflix everyone is talking about.

Yes, compassion is the job, but joy is the oxygen."

✨What moments bring you joy? How do you double down on those moments in your own life? Share your reflections in the comments below and join us in embracing joy as we move through this sacred season.✨

#Advent #UU #UnitarianUniversalism #UnitarianUniversalist #Joy #SharedValues #Faith #Hope #Justice #church #family #friends #holiday





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Central East Region of the UUA

:

On December 9th, Nikki Giovanni, one of the most celebrated poets of our time, passed away. A revolutionary voice in the Black Arts Movement and a champion of social justice, Giovanni used her words to challenge oppression, celebrate love, and reflect on the human condition.

In her poem “Allowables,” she confronts how fear can drive us to harm, even when no real threat exists. It’s a powerful call to pause, question our instincts, and resist letting fear control our actions.

As we honor Nikki Giovanni’s life and legacy, may her words inspire us to confront how fear shapes our lives and consider the choices we make in its grip.

ALLOWABLES
By Nikki Giovanni

I killed a spider
Not a murderous brown recluse
Nor even a black widow
And if the truth were told this
Was only a small
Sort of papery spider
Who should have run
When I picked up the book
But she didn’t
And she scared me
And I smashed her

I don’t think
I’m allowed

To kill something

Because I am

Frightened.



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What does it mean to truly live as part of an interconnected web of existence?

✨Interdependence✨, one of our Unitarian Universalist Shared Values, calls us to recognize the sacred connections that bind us to one another and the Earth, inspiring us to live with reverence, humility, and care for the world we share.

Rev. Dr. Sheri Prud’homme reminds us that our UU heritage has long embraced the integration of science and reverence for the natural world. From the Transcendentalists' awe of nature to today’s urgent call to action against climate change, our theology affirms that we are not separate from, but deeply connected to, the Earth and all its life systems.

This interdependence humbles us and inspires us to cherish both our own lives and the life of the planet and all its inhabitants. Yet, as we embrace this truth, we must also confront the harm of past arrogance and colonialism, striving toward accountability and repair.

How does recognizing your interdependence with others and the Earth shape the way you move through the world?

Read Rev. Dr. Prud’homme’s full reflection at https://bit.ly/49Ajh3G.

#SharedValues #Interdependence #UnitarianUniversalism #Theology #UU #UnitarianUniversalists #LoveAtTheCenter #friends #family #church #faith #welcome







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Ethan Loewi

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Rumni Saha

:

Rumni Saha

:

Beth Casebolt

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Advent invites us to reflect on love—not just as a feeling, but as a transformative force that calls us to action. Rev. Natalie Fenimore, in “Love at the Center: Unitarian Universalist Theologies,” reminds us of the prophetic voices among us who embody a love ethic. Among them was bell hooks, who taught that love is active engagement—dismantling systems of oppression like racism and sexism while building communities rooted in care, respect, and cooperation.

As Unitarian Universalists, we are called to be prophets of love, living out this ethic in our words and actions. Love challenges us to act for justice, create belonging, and extend the circle of care to all. This season, let us reflect: Who are the prophets of love in your life? How can you learn from their example? And how might you become a beacon of love in the world?

“Love at the Center: Unitarian Universalist Theologies” is available at https://www.uuabookstore.org/Love-at-the-Center-P20036.aspx

#Advent #ProphetsOfLove #UU #UnitarianUniversalism #UnitarianUniversalist #faith #family #church #SharedValues



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🌟 We’re Moving to Bluesky! 🌟
Follow us at https://bsky.app/profile/uua.org and invite others to follow us as we expand our community.

The Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) has left X/Twitter and we are establishing our progressive religious presence on the growing social media platform, Bluesky.

Recent changes to X/Twitter’s platform, including a rise in disinformation, hate speech, and policies that undermine marginalized communities, conflict with our vision of a world rooted in dignity and respect for all. As a faith community dedicated to fostering inclusive, transformative spaces, we are choosing a platform that better supports meaningful connection and aligns with our shared values of Justice, Equity, Transformation, Pluralism, Interdependence, and Generosity.

Please join us on Bluesky at https://bsky.app/profile/uua.org , where we’ll continue to share UU news, tell the stories of our faith, and provide updates on how we’re living our values in the world.

Together, we can build meaningful connections and foster digital communities that reflect the inclusive and transformative world we are striving to create.💙✨


We are Unitarian Universalists. We are brave, curious, and compassionate thinkers and doers. https://linktr.ee/theuua

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The holiday season provides a meaningful time to think about how our varied celebrations, rituals, and practices reflect our values. From the way we gather to the traditions we honor, it’s all an opportunity to live what matters most. Each choice we make, from the songs we sing to the stories we share, becomes part of a larger tapestry, threading UU values throughout our holidays.

🌟✨ What are some ways you incorporate UU values into your holiday traditions? 🎁🕯️ Share in the comments and invite other UUs to answer!

#UUValues #HolidayTraditions #UnitarianUniversalism #UnitarianUniversalist #Family #Friends #Faith #church #BelovedCommunity



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In the wake of climate disasters, many of us feel the weight of grief—grief for what has been lost, for disrupted rhythms of life, and for an uncertain future. Rev. Joan Javier-Duval, reflecting on the 2023 flooding in Vermont, reminds us that this grief, as immense as it is, holds the potential to become fertile ground for imagining something new. Amid the heartache, we can find the seeds of creativity, resilience, and transformation.

What if we allowed ourselves to feel this grief fully, not as an end but as a beginning? Together, we can reimagine and rebuild with love for the Earth and one another.

🌍💔💡 How are you processing the changes in our world, and what possibilities do you see within the grief? Share your own reflections in the comments.

Read Rev. Javier-Duval’s full reflection in UU World at https://bit.ly/uuworld-grief.

#ClimateChange #Grief #Reimagine #UU #UnitarianUniversalism #UnitarianUniversalists #LoveAtTheCenter #SharedValues #friends #family #church #faith #welcome #BelovedCommunity



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Kim Mason

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Kim Mason

:

🔸Join us for this one-time introductory workshop
Recognizing Anti-Palestinian Racism and Creating an Environment of Understanding🔸

🗓️ Thursday, Dec. 5
⏰ 4 PM Pacific / 7 PM Eastern
📍 ZOOM Virtual Event – Registration required to receive Zoom link
📌 RSVP here: https://bit.ly/4imrQ67

Presented by the Institute for the Understanding of Anti-Palestinian Racism (IUAPR) and hosted by Unitarian Universalists for Justice in the Middle East (UUJME), this 90-minute interactive workshop will:
🔸 Educate and celebrate Palestinian culture and history
🔸 Describe and identify anti-Palestinian racism (APR)
🔸 Address APR's impacts on health and wellness
🔸 Begin to examine ways to confront and reduce APR

💡 Why This Matters:
IUAPR conducted a national survey of 1200 respondents that reveals:I
- 88% of respondents witnessed or experienced APR
- 75% felt isolated
- APR affects mental and physical health in 70%+

Let’s learn, reflect, and act together. ✨

#UUJME #IUAPR #AntiRacism #CommunityCare #UU #unitarianuniversalist #unitarianuniversalism #faith #sharedvalues #learn #SocialAction #FaithinAction



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🌟 Giving Tuesday is today! And if you sign up now as a monthly donor to the UUA, your gift will double in value—for a year! Thanks to a generous UU couple matching one year’s worth of new monthly gifts made today, up to $25,000. 💕

As a Faithful Sustainer, you’ll help the UUA build vibrant congregations, support bold leaders, and promote inclusive values throughout the year. Plus, you'll enjoy a discount on Beacon Press books 📚. Monthly giving is an easy, safe, and environmentally-friendly way to support Unitarian Universalism year-round.

💞 Together we give. Together we thrive. 💞

Make your gift today: 👉 bit.ly/Sustainers25

#GivingTuesday #give #donate #UUA #UU #UnitarianUniversalist #UnitarianUniversalism #faith #family #friends #church #SharedValues #BelovedCommunity



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🌟 What does theology mean in the context of Unitarian Universalism? 🌟

Our Shared Values - Interdependence, Pluralism, Equity, Justice, Generosity, and Transformation, grounded in Love at the Center - are a living expression of UU theology.

But what is theology in Unitarian Universalism? For some, the word “theology” can feel off-putting—too tied to traditional religious belief systems. Yet, as Rev. Dr. Sheri Prud’homme reminds us, UUs do have a theology. It’s not confined to the study of God but asks deeper questions: What does it mean to be human in the cosmos? How are we connected to all that is, and to what do we hold sacred?

Rev. Prud’homme likens UU theology to a patchwork quilt, woven together from many sources—texts, lived experiences, music, architecture, and so much more. Each piece tells a story, coming together to create a dynamic and evolving whole.

Over the next weeks, we’ll be exploring these shared values, and we invite you to reflect on how your own stories contribute to this collective quilt. 🧵✨

Learn more at uua.org/beliefs/shared-values.



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Maryann Batlle

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Maryann Batlle

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Lenore Bajare-Dukes

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Central East Region of the UUA

:

The spirit of Advent, a season of waiting and preparing, transcends faith traditions and speaks to the universal longing for renewal and hope. Today, the first Sunday of Advent, draws us into this sacred time, mirroring the earth’s quiet stillness in winter. As Rebecca Ann Parker reflects in her poem “A Winter Blessing,” the “earth speaks softly of her longing,” calling us to kneel close and listen deeply to the prayers hidden in the ground. This is not just a season of anticipation but an invitation to respond—to "distill peace from the snow," weave wonder from grief, and transform winter’s starkness into acts of mercy, justice, and love.

In UU congregations and homes around the world, many of us light the first candle of Advent today. As we do, let us reflect on how we can prepare our hearts for the world’s needs. May we, as Parker writes, trace the arc of the year bending toward justice and make our lives an answer to the earth’s longing: to bow in reverence, to rise in hope, and to bring the peace of this sacred season into a world yearning for healing and joy.

Read the full poem on the UUA WorshipWeb at https://www.uua.org/worship/words/poetry/winter-blessing.



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Sharing this message from our UUA President, the Rev. Sofía Betancourt, PhD, with gratitude for the care and wisdom she brings to this tangled time.

May we all find ways in this holiday season share our commitments with one another, to give voice to our hopes, and to recommit to the long-haul work of building Beloved Community.

#Thanksgiving


Beloveds, this season of gratitude is rightly a cherished time of coming together with family of origin or of choice, and of experiencing the real love and care that is present when we share a meal together. And we cannot ignore that these rituals will all unfold amid a backdrop of fear and uncertainty, of devastation and violence.

This holiday season comes in a year where we must all recommit ourselves to the work of truth-telling and accountability. We must bear witness to the truth that the historical foundations of the United States are steeped in oppression and genocide, and that violence continues today. May our time spent in the care and connection of our communities deepen our courage to face the real evils of this world.

As we ground ourselves and honor the harvest today, may we deepen our commitment to climate justice. With family and friends near, let us share our commitments with one another and support each other in carrying them through all the days ahead. As we tend to our own spirits, may we renew our commitments to tend to our communities and to this precious Earth.

In this time of painful truths, grieving, and community gatherings, may there be food and faithfulness, and a recommitment to the Shared Values we hold dear as Unitarian Universalists around our shared tables this year.

#Thanksgiving

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Thanksgiving is often seen as a celebration of gratitude and unity, but the traditional story erases the painful realities experienced by Indigenous peoples. The myth obscures histories of violence, cultural destruction, and displacement that continue to impact Native communities today.

Swipe through these slides to uncover the truth about Thanksgiving. Confronting this history may be uncomfortable, but truth-telling is essential for accountability and transformation. It challenges us to live into shared values like justice, equity, and interdependence—not as abstract ideals, but as commitments to action.

Here are just a few ways you can make a difference:

1️⃣ Share the real story of Thanksgiving with friends and family this holiday season. Make space to be with the discomfort and contradiction this may bring.
2️⃣ Support Indigenous-owned businesses and Indigenous-led movements/organizations.
3️⃣ On November 28th, join the National Day of Mourning (uaine.org) or Indigenous Peoples Thanksgiving Sunrise Gathering (iitc.org) to honor Indigenous people and Native resilience.

Find more ways to support Indigenous communities at visionmakermedia.org/ally-for-native-voices/

#TruthAboutThanksgiving #IndigenousJustice #SharedValues #NationalDayofMourning #Unthanksgiving #Thanksgrieving #Courage #Resilience #UU #UnitarianUniversalism #UnitarianUniversalists #LoveAtTheCenter













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Maryann Batlle

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Rayla D. Mattson

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Rayla D. Mattson

:

On Thanksgiving Day, many in the United States will celebrate a holiday rooted in myth, exploitation, and dominance. Indigenous communities and their allies come together on this day for events like the National Day of Mourning in Plymouth, MA, and the Indigenous Peoples Thanksgiving Sunrise Gathering on Alcatraz Island near San Francisco, CA. These gatherings are an opportunity to reveal the true history of Thanksgiving, honor ancestors, and amplify Indigenous resilience and resistance.

Participating in these events is both an act of remembrance and a commitment to solidarity, offering opportunities to honor Indigenous voices and their stories, and to challenge ongoing systems of oppression.

NATIONAL DAY OF MOURNING
📅 Date & Time: Thursday, November 28, 2024, at 12:00 PM EST
📍 Location: Cole's Hill, Plymouth, Massachusetts. Also online via UU Mass Action's event at https://bit.ly/492JNlH.
🗣️ Details: Organized by the United American Indians of New England - UAINE, this event exposes the genocide, land theft, and cultural erasure experienced by Native peoples and calls us to reflect on the ongoing impact of these injustices. More info at uaine.org.

INDIGENOUS PEOPLES THANKSGIVING SUNRISE GATHERING (UNTHANKSGIVING)
📅 Date & Time: Thursday, November 28, 2024, from 5:00 AM to 8:00 AM PST
📍Location: Alcatraz Island, San Francisco, California & Livestreamed on the International Indian Treaty Council (IITC) Facebook page.
🗣️ Details: Hosted by IITC, this gathering offers a space to connect, honor ancestors, and recommit to justice. More info at iitc.org.

#NationalDayOfMourning #IndigenousJustice #SunriseGathering #SharedValues #UU #UnitarianUniversalism #TruthAndJustice #Unthanksgiving #UnitarianUniversalists #LoveAtTheCenter #SharedValues #socialaction





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🌟 Looking for inspiration to create change? 🌟

In September 2024, SELF Magazine named "Social Change Now: A Guide for Reflection and Connection" by Deepa Iyer as one of the best self-help books for anyone seeking a little inspiration.

Here’s what SELF had to say:
"This interactive guide is a handy resource for anyone trying to make a difference in today’s divided, unfair world. It offers practical steps to turn passion into action while helping you focus on self-care and avoid burnout. What sets it apart are the reflection prompts, which help you personalize the journey to your own values and priorities."

Drawing on her experience as a civil rights attorney and advocate, Deepa Iyer’s guide supports you in taking action for the causes you care about—whether that’s speaking out against racism, advocating for reproductive rights, or tackling climate change.

📚 Published by the UUA’s Skinner House Books, "Social Change Now" is available at https://www.uuabookstore.org/Social-Change-Now-P20076.aspx .

#SocialChangeNow #DeepaIyer #skinnerhousebooks #UUABookstore #SelfHelpBooks #SocialJustice #Inspiration #MakeADifference #UU #UnitarianUniversalism #UnitarianUniversalists #LoveAtTheCenter #SharedValues



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Nico Van Ostrand

,

Ember Kelley

,

Mylo Way

:

A Prayer for My Queer and Trans Siblings

Here you are.
Here, in this holy space,
on this ground that is holy
because you are here.

Here you are, in flesh and bone,
filling up this body that belongs to you alone.
Your pumping heart is a wonder
because it keeps you alive.
Your loving heart is a blessing
because it keeps all of us alive.

The Spirit of Love has a home in you.
May we all see that love in you
and let our hearts become mirrors
for the compassion at your core.

The Spirit of Justice has a home in you.
May we light our wicks
from one another until we are all aflame,
until we burn out every prejudice
we carry in these bones.

Here you are.
Holy as you are.

Blessed be.

Jess Reynolds
Love Like Thunder

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Today, on Transgender Day of Remembrance, we honor the lives, contributions, and humanity of transgender people lost to violence.

Anti-trans violence is an attack on human dignity and equity. Today, we hold space for the resilience, strength, and beauty of transgender communities, recognizing their right to live freely and authentically.

Trans lives matter. Trans voices matter. Trans futures matter.

We remember. We grieve. We refuse to accept violence as inevitable.

📺 Watch this message from Reverend Jami Yandle, the Unitarian Universalist Association’s Transgender Support Specialist: https://youtu.be/szPLQxdPTFM.

Transgender and nonbinary people can also visit UPLIFT at http://www.uua.org/lgbtq/transnb for support, affirmation, and connection.

💜 #TransDayOfRemembrance #UUSharedValues #TransRights #UU #UnitarianUniversalism #UnitarianUniversalists #LoveAtTheCenter #faith #welcome #Belonging #Courage #Resilience



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Jami A. Yandle

:

Jo VonRue

:

Jo VonRue

:

✨ You are beloved OF COURSE. You just are.✨
- Victoria Safford in ‘Beloved,’ an excerpt from the book “Love at the Center”

This simple yet profound truth anchors us in the heart of what it means to be human. Safford reminds us that to move through our days as if we are beloved—of God, of life, of the earth itself—is a radical act of love and belonging. It’s a call to remember that we, every single one of us, and every living thing, belong.

This isn’t about deserving or earning. It’s about inherent worthiness, a sacred place in the family of things. When we embrace this truth, we’re reminded of our shared calling: to live and love as if we, and everyone around us, are beloved.

May we carry this message in our hearts and actions, letting it guide us toward a world where love shapes how we see each other, and how we live together. 💜

Read the full excerpt in UU World at https://www.uuworld.org/articles/love-center-book-excerpt-beloved-victoria-safford-unitarian-universalism

#YouAreBeloved #Belonging #LoveAtTheCenter #UU #UnitarianUniversalism #UnitarianUniversalists #LoveAtTheCenter #SharedValues #friends #family #church #faith #welcome



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