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โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Congregational Leader Resources

By: Central East Region of the UUA โ€”
Primary Contact Staff for the Central East Region

Central East Region of the UUA

If your congregation is like most, this is the time of year that you are experiencing the most leadership changes. New board members, committee chairs and even staff often begin their time with a congregation in July or August, just as the new church year is about to begin.

Continue reading "Congregational Leader Resources"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

The Alchemy of Worship

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An altar with a lit candle, crowded by jars of herbs and flowers and other ritual objects
Worship is relational and even transformational, but it's not informational.

Continue reading "The Alchemy of Worship"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

A Cloud of Ministers

By: Renee Ruchotzke โ€”
Image of clouds in the sky around the sun. Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

Renee Ruchotzke

Last summer, East Shore UU Church in Kirtland, Ohio had just been through a very difficult year. Along with the continued challenges with the pandemic, they had to say goodbye to their developmental minister after 5 years. The search for a new minister ended in disappointmentLast summer, East Shore

Continue reading "A Cloud of Ministers"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Change is Coming

By: Amy Kent โ€”
Amy Kent

Amy Kent

Change is the only constant in life was first said by Greek philosopher, Heraclitus. And boy was he on to something there!

Continue reading "Change is Coming"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Make โ€œA Warm Welcomeโ€ Part of your โ€œNew Normalโ€

By: Sharon Dittmar โ€”
Stylized graphic of a welcoming person in front of an open door with a UU Chalice on it

Sharon Dittmar

Any time someone enters online or in-person congregational space, there are several opportunities for multiple connection points from which a long-term relationship can continue and grow.

Continue reading "Make โ€œA Warm Welcomeโ€ Part of your โ€œNew Normalโ€"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

UUA Board Calls for Volunteers for Bylaws Renewal Team

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The UUA Board of Trustees will soon be appointing members to a five to seven person Bylaws Renewal Team. This team will lead the work in reimagining and rewriting the UUA Bylaws.

Continue reading "UUA Board Calls for Volunteers for Bylaws Renewal Team"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

How Do We Bring Folks Back?

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Stylized graphic of a welcoming person in front of an open door with a UU Chalice on it
We're now into our third year with COVID and while somethings are getting back to "normal" many other things are not. Services are being offered in person, but attendance is down. Hybrid offerings are still happening but we're still not seeing people show up. Why is this? And what can we do?

Continue reading "How Do We Bring Folks Back?"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

โ€œTo Everything there is a seasonโ€ฆโ€

By: Patricia Infante โ€”
Patricia Hall Infante

Patricia Infante

As the seasons of the year move inexorably to the next, so it is for me as I prepare to move into the season of retirement later this year or early in 2023. My transition is a happy one โ€“ part of a life plan that includes more time for beloved family, days spent camping and visiting

Continue reading "โ€œTo Everything there is a seasonโ€ฆโ€"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Opportunities for Connection ~ September 2022

By: Central East Region of the UUA โ€”
Faithify Crowdfunding for UU projects. Congregations, organizations, and people living Unitarian Universalist values in the world. Explore open campaigns or start your own at www.faithify.org

Central East Region of the UUA

Find out what's happening in the Central East Region! This month - Faithify, Ingathering Video, Networking Calls, BIPOC Gatherings, Staff Changes and more!

Continue reading "Opportunities for Connection ~ September 2022"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Rethinking UUA Salary Recommendations: Improving Practicality, Advancing Equity, Leading with Integrity

By: Jan Gartner๏ผŒ Sean Griffin โ€”
UUA Salary Recommendations - Rethinking for Practicality, Equity, and Integrity

Jan Gartner

,

Sean Griffin

We're undertaking the first significant revisiting of the methodology behind our Salary Recommendations since the UUA Compensation Program was introduced in 1995.

Continue reading "Rethinking UUA Salary Recommendations: Improving Practicality, Advancing Equity, Leading with Integrity"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Your Life Could Depend on It

By: Sarah Skochko โ€”
A candid black-and-white shot at night, looking through window of nearby pizza parlour. Two workers are seen from behind as they prepare food.

Sarah Skochko

There is no such thing as unskilled labor.

Continue reading "Your Life Could Depend on It"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Networking Sessions Return for 2022-23

By: Central East Region of the UUA โ€”
2022-23 CER Networking Sessions. Meet with other congregational leaders, share challenges and successes and ask questions of peers and CER Staff. 4 dates, 2 time options each date. 12:30-2 pm ET and 6-7:30 pm ET on Sept 15, Nov 10, Jan19, Apr 20. Details at the CER website.

Central East Region of the UUA

Join us for our quarterly networking session. CER staff will be on each call to answer questions, but our main focus will be what you can learn from and share with each other.

Continue reading "Networking Sessions Return for 2022-23"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Deepening Diversity in Worship

By: JeKaren Olaoya๏ผŒ Erika A. Hewitt โ€”
Inside a church, Black people stand as if listening to a preacher or choir.

JeKaren Olaoya

,

Erika A. Hewitt

If youโ€™re trying to build a worship service that's anti-racist and decenters whiteness, you start in one spot.

Continue reading "Deepening Diversity in Worship"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Choosing to Connect

By: Priscilla Shumway โ€”
Cropped shot of a group of businesspeople standing together and holding hands in a modern office

Priscilla Shumway

It's my actions and choices that determine my connection to others.

Continue reading "Choosing to Connect"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

New Year, New Challenges

By: Natalie Briscoe โ€”
In front of a church altar, about a dozen school backpacks are stacked up.

Natalie Briscoe

Your regional staff is very aware of the challenges you face in this upcoming year, and we are working together to provide resources as well as online spaces to gather, learn from one another, and get through this year with gusto.

Continue reading "New Year, New Challenges"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

The Only Constant is Change

By: Central East Region of the UUA โ€”
Cristina Sanchis

Central East Region of the UUA

Over the last month or so, readers of this blog have seen a post by Amy Kent about her promotion to Congregational Life as Executive Administrator and her transition out of the region October 1. Then you heard from Patricia Infante about her plans to retire the end of this year. We have one more...

Continue reading "The Only Constant is Change"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Retracing My Steps

By: Glen Thomas Rideout โ€”
Seen from the chest up, a side view of three generations: a Black son, father, and grandfather standing side by side.

Glen Thomas Rideout

I rise on the shoulders of ancestors whose names I can not know.

Continue reading "Retracing My Steps"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

The Dory Fish and Stressful Times

By: Sunshine Jeremiah Wolfe โ€”
Blue Tang Fish, a blue fish with dark blue and yellow markings in front of coral in an aquarioum

Sunshine Jeremiah Wolfe

Have you noticed that you forget things more now than you remember doing before? Or perhaps you have communicated events and decisions in your congregations or communities and folks insist they have never heard it before? I am sure you can think of other examples in your life, family, or the...

Continue reading "The Dory Fish and Stressful Times"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Some Kinds of Help

By: Shaya French โ€”
On a rocky outcrop in what appears to be inclement weather, one person strenuously pulls another person uphill.

Shaya French

We donโ€™t need to understand why someone sets a boundary to respect it.

Continue reading "Some Kinds of Help"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Updating our Unitarian and Universalist History Poster

By: UU Church of Akron๏ผŒ Fairlawn๏ผŒ OH โ€”
100 Unitarian & Universalists, Foundation, Faith, Future poster. Do you have htis outdated poster hanging in your church? Now is the time to update and celebrate the diveristy of our faith! 40% increase in representation of marginalized groups. Paving the way for Growth and Change. Journeying toward Beloved Community. A project of the 8th principle transformation committee of teh Unitarian Universalist Church of Akron.

UU Church of Akron, Fairlawn, OH

Do you have a poster hanging in your congregation titled 100 Unitarian and Universalists who Made a Difference? Have you every really taken a good look at it?

Continue reading "Updating our Unitarian and Universalist History Poster"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Be-coming Out

By: Heather McDuffee โ€”
A vibrant colourful sunset or sunrise sky over limestone pavement landscape and a wind-bent English Hawthorn tree at Twisleton Scar, in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, UK

Heather McDuffee

I wasnโ€™t really โ€œborn this way.โ€ I grew this way.

Continue reading "Be-coming Out"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Opportunities for Connection ~ October 2022

By: Central East Region of the UUA โ€”
Young Unitarian Universalist Project YUUP a fledgling network for UU youth & bridgers to forge connections and support each other

Central East Region of the UUA

Find out what's happening in the Central East Region! This month - YUUP, GA 2023, Pittsburgh Cluster Gathering, Lay-Led Congregations Program, Right Relationship Team Training, Neurodiversity Program, Climate Justice webinars and more!

Continue reading "Opportunities for Connection ~ October 2022"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Help Create Summer Institute 2023

By: Central East Region Summer Institute โ€”
Central East Region Summer Institute Logo

Central East Region Summer Institute

Summer Institute is looking for workshop proposals and artwork designs.

Continue reading "Help Create Summer Institute 2023"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Surviving a Plague, Again! - National Gay Men's HIV/AIDS Awareness Day #NGMHAAD

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Two adult men, walking hand in hand looking smiling and happy; with the words "September 27 National Gay Men's HIV/AIDS Awareness Day Let's Stop HIV Together."
In 2008 the National Association of People with AIDS launched this observance day to recognize the disproportionate impact of the epidemic on gay men. National Gay Men's HIV/AIDS Awareness Day reminds us that the first for LGBTQ health equity is not over. #NGMHAAD

Continue reading "Surviving a Plague, Again! - National Gay Men's HIV/AIDS Awareness Day #NGMHAAD"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

How We Die

By: Meg Barnhouse โ€”
A close-up of a hand holding the hand of a patient lying in a hospital bed.

Meg Barnhouse

Dying is scary, but we are brave, and we can talk about it together.

Continue reading "How We Die"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Letting Go in Love

By: Ndidi Achebe โ€”
A few dog paw prints in the sand

Ndidi Achebe

My vet said, โ€œShe's telling you thank you for letting her go.โ€

Continue reading "Letting Go in Love"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Embracing Possibility in Times of Change

โ€”
An abstracted image of two trapeze artists doing an aerobatic act, their arms stretched out to one another as one person is suspended in air
A worship video collection about living faithfully during in-between times

Continue reading "Embracing Possibility in Times of Change"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Who Tells Your Story

By: Renee Ruchotzke โ€”
Mel Hoover lights the chalice at General Assembly

Renee Ruchotzke

Our Unitarian Universalist history is also enriched by the sharing of perspectives that differ from the white male narrative.

Continue reading "Who Tells Your Story"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Part of the Mystery

By: Laura Shay โ€”
A branch contains a dozen monarch butterfly chrysales, in various stages of development. A monarch's wing pattern is visible in one of them.

Laura Shay

Witnessing the lifecycle of a monarch butterfly has made me a better chaplain.

Continue reading "Part of the Mystery"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Unitarian Universalists Commit to Addressing Ableism: Memorandum of Understanding Between UUA and EqUUal Access Continues Efforts to Promote Disability Justice

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People gathered smiling and laughing, some standing and some in scooters, with GA banners in background
A memorandum of understanding building on the historic partnership between EqUUal Access and the UUA ensures more resources and staff to address ableism within Unitarian Universalism and to support equity in the engagement of disabled people in society as a whole.

Continue reading "Unitarian Universalists Commit to Addressing Ableism: Memorandum of Understanding Between UUA and EqUUal Access Continues Efforts to Promote Disability Justice"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Mistakes & Miracles: UU Common Read Discussion Guide

By: Susan Dana Lawrence๏ผŒ Karin Lin๏ผŒ Nancy Palmer Jones โ€”
Cover of Mistakes and Miracles: Congregations on the Road to Multiculturalism

Susan Dana Lawrence

,

Karin Lin

,

Nancy Palmer Jones

The UU Common Read of Mistakes & Miracles is a four-session discussion series engaging congregations on the road to Beloved Community.

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

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Being in Covenant

By: Beth Casebolt โ€”
A circle of people, from above, with hands extended into the center of a circle.

Beth Casebolt

Covenants have been at the foundation of Unitarian Universalism in the United States since 1648. What many donโ€™t realize is that the covenants not only were important between the members of the individual congregations, but also among the congregations.

Continue reading "Being in Covenant"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Unfinished Business

By: Karen G. Johnston โ€”
A Black person with their back to the camera sits, holding the hand of a Black elder who's lying in a hospital bed.

Karen G. Johnston

How much notice would I want ahead of time before I die?

Continue reading "Unfinished Business"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Opportunities for Connection ~ November 2022

By: Central East Region of the UUA โ€”
Cover of Mistakes and Miracles: Congregations on the Road to Multiculturalism

Central East Region of the UUA

Find out what's happening in the Central East Region! This month - 2022-23 Common Read, GA 2023, Article 2 Draft, OWL Training, Sociocracy Webinar, Neurodiversity Program, Stewardship For Us webinars and more!

Continue reading "Opportunities for Connection ~ November 2022"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Congratulations 8th Principle Congregations!

By: Central East Region of the UUA โ€”
text of title

Central East Region of the UUA

In 2013, the First Unitarian Church of Philadelphia, PA became the first congregation to approve the 8th Principle.

Continue reading "Congratulations 8th Principle Congregations!"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Called to Heal

By: Melissa Jeter โ€”
A broad, green leaf held by a Black woman's hands. A small tattoo of a heart is on her wrist.

Melissa Jeter

Love is reaching through the generations with expectations that I live through challenging times.

Continue reading "Called to Heal"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Our Faith Demands We Protect Democracy

By: Susan Frederick-Gray โ€”
ยฉ AnnaStills /Getty Images/iStockphoto

Susan Frederick-Gray

Unitarian Universalists commit to defend voting rights as sacred.

Continue reading "Our Faith Demands We Protect Democracy"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Mistakes & Miracles: UU Common Read Discussion Guide

By: Susan Dana Lawrence๏ผŒ Karin Lin๏ผŒ Nancy Palmer Jones โ€”
Cover of Mistakes and Miracles: Congregations on the Road to Multiculturalism

Susan Dana Lawrence

,

Karin Lin

,

Nancy Palmer Jones

The UU Common Read of Mistakes & Miracles is a four-session discussion series engaging congregations on the road to Beloved Community.

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

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Our Struggle and Our Power

By: Erika A. Hewitt โ€”
On a chain-link fence, frayed rope or twine has been used to weave a heart shape.

Erika A. Hewitt

Of all the things "faith" can mean, to me it means believing in us.

Continue reading "Our Struggle and Our Power"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Unitarian Universalists Remain Committed to Democracy

โ€”
Many-colored hands reaching upward
UUA President Rev. Susan Frederick-Gray reflects on the ways that organizing around elections is grounded in Unitarian Universalist theology.

Continue reading "Unitarian Universalists Remain Committed to Democracy"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Planning for Financial Sustainability in Changing Times

By: Stewardship for Us๏ผŒ Barry Finklestein๏ผŒ Liz Coit โ€”
The General Assembly logo, featuring the red UUA chalice to the left. The GA theme โ€œMeet the moment: Reimagining radical faith communityโ€ is arranged in a circle. Pink letters GA are in the center, with a white web decoration to represent the World Wide Web connecting our multi platform event. In front of the letters GA, there is a purple silhouette of eight people holding hands. The persons depicted are of of varying shapes and sizes.

Stewardship for Us

,

Barry Finklestein

,

Liz Coit

Many congregations are at a financial crossroads, but are our annual budgeting and financial planning processes up to the challenge? Build your congregationโ€™s roadmap for a sustainable โ€“ thriving -financial future.

Continue reading "Planning for Financial Sustainability in Changing Times"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Where Are the Children and Families?

By: Evin Carvill Ziemer โ€”
image of an old wooden church, with someone on a ladder looking at the window and another adult holding the ladder and 2 children assisting nearby

Evin Carvill Ziemer

Itโ€™s a common question right now. Itโ€™s not just your congregation! What can congregational life look like for the children and families attending now?

Continue reading "Where Are the Children and Families?"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Board Statement on the Presidential Search Committee's Nomination for UUA President

โ€”
The UUA Board shares its thoughts on the Presidential Search Committee's nominated candidate for UUA President.

Continue reading "Board Statement on the Presidential Search Committee's Nomination for UUA President"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Presidential Search Committee Nominates Rev. Dr. Sofรญa Betancourt for UUA President

โ€”
A flame rises from the flaming chalice, a symbol of Unitarian Universalist faith.
The UUA Presidential Search Committee announces their nomination of the Rev. Dr. Sofรญa Betancourt, an experienced leader and theologian in Unitarian Universalism, for UUA President for the 2023-2029 term.

Continue reading "Presidential Search Committee Nominates Rev. Dr. Sofรญa Betancourt for UUA President"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Candidate for UUA President: the Rev. Dr. Sofรญa Betancourt

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headshot of the Rev. Dr. Sofรญa Betancourt, wearing dark glasses, a red necklace with a red pendant, and dark gray patterned blouse
The Rev. Dr. Sofรญa Betancourt has been nominated for UUA President by the Presidential Search Committee. Learn more about the candidate and find links to the candidate's website and social media.

Continue reading "Candidate for UUA President: the Rev. Dr. Sofรญa Betancourt"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Congregational Salary Program

By: Jan Gartner โ€”
Colorful scarf draped around thick white candle with an artistic chalice flame in the background

Jan Gartner

The UUA offers a Congregational Salary Program as a service to congregational leaders. We're introducing a fresh approach, including an emphasis on process and a new structure for our Recommended Salary Ranges.

Continue reading "Congregational Salary Program"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Small Decisions

By: JD Stillwater โ€”
Against a field of early evening stars, a path winds its way around a grassy hill and out of view.

JD Stillwater

Little changes can snowball into massive impacts.

Continue reading "Small Decisions"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Marking the 25th Anniversary of the UUAโ€™s Commitment to Anti-Racism

By: Sana Saeed โ€”
A colorful, whimsical banner hangs on a church chancel: "people united against racism"

Sana Saeed

A report developed over five years by the UUA Racial and Cultural Diversity Task Force entitled โ€œJourney Towards Wholenessโ€”The Next Step: From Racial and Cultural Diversity to Anti-Oppression and Anti-Racist Multiculturalismโ€ led to an almost unanimous vote by the 3,000 General Assembly...

Continue reading "Marking the 25th Anniversary of the UUAโ€™s Commitment to Anti-Racism"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

From the UUA President: Our LGBTQIA+ Siblings are Sacred, Whole and Divine

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In the middle of a Pride parade, a trans woman in a white cowboy hat poses with a rainbow fan.
UUA President Rev. Susan Frederick-Gray responds to the devastating news of a shooting in Colorado that was a targeted act of violence against the LGBTQIA+ community.

Continue reading "From the UUA President: Our LGBTQIA+ Siblings are Sacred, Whole and Divine"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Long May They Wave

By: cristy cardinal โ€”
A Progress Pride flag on a flagpole, with a blue sky and bright sun behind it.

cristy cardinal

Queer joy is resistance.

Continue reading "Long May They Wave"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Being Grateful

By: Central East Region of the UUA โ€”
2018gratitudecloud

Central East Region of the UUA

With Thanksgiving just past and the holiday season approaching,ย this marks the beginning of the season of thankfulness and gratitude. And so we want to take this opportunity to say Thank You.

Continue reading "Being Grateful"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Opportunities for Connection ~ December 2022

By: Central East Region of the UUA โ€”
Office of Church Staff Finances Logo (OCSF)

Central East Region of the UUA

Find out what's happening in the Central East Region! This month - New Salary Program, GA 2023, 8th Principle Conference, Winter Institute, Stewardship Webinar Series, Management Training and more!

Continue reading "Opportunities for Connection ~ December 2022"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Happy Holidays from the Central East Region Team

By: Central East Region of the UUA โ€”
CER Staff on Zoom holiday photo. Headshots of Beth Casebolt, Renee Ruchtozke, Patricia Infante, Sana Saeed, Evin Carvill-Ziemer, Megan Foley, a stuffed meerkat and Sunshine Wolfe with purple and pink backgrounds with snow on them.

Central East Region of the UUA

We hope for joy, peace, love and at least a little bit of fun for you over the next few weeks. The UUA will be closed from December 19 to January 3 so we can find some of the same. The Better Together blog will be on a break for December 26 and January 2 and return on January 9. Weโ€™ll see you in...

Continue reading "Happy Holidays from the Central East Region Team"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

2023 UUA Presidential Election

โ€”
Chalice at the Service of the Living Tradition, General Assembly 2013, Louisville, Kentucky
Information, updated regularly, on the 2023 election for UUA President. UUs, through their congregational delegates, elect the UUA President. Voting begins in June and culminates at our General Assembly.

Continue reading "2023 UUA Presidential Election"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Special Event: Singing for Liberation

โ€”
Holding a music binder and gesturing, Paul Vasile leads a group in singing
Come sing with us on Tuesday, January 10, 2023 in a live webinar.

Continue reading "Special Event: Singing for Liberation"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

The Waiting Time

By: Megan Lloyd Joiner โ€”
A straw-filled manger in a stable, with the Christmas star in the window

Megan Lloyd Joiner

Advent encourages us to be present in each moment of waiting.

Continue reading "The Waiting Time"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Leading Las Posadas

By: Tania Mรกrquez โ€”
A crowd of people in Mรฉxico in a posada procession outdoors.

Tania Mรกrquez

Every time we open ourselves to one another, we become more human.

Continue reading "Leading Las Posadas"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

UUA Hires Joy Berry as Children and Families Faith Development Specialist

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Headshot of Joy Berry
The Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) is pleased to announce they have hired Joy Berry as the Children and Families Faith Development Specialist, starting January 23. The position has been re-established as part of the Lifespan Faith Engagement (LFE) team to fully integrate the needs of...

Continue reading "UUA Hires Joy Berry as Children and Families Faith Development Specialist"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Announcing Our New CER Staff Person

By: Central East Region of the UUA โ€”
headshot of Lenore Bajare-Dukes

Central East Region of the UUA

The Central East Region is pleased to announce that Lenore Bajare-Dukes will be our new congregational life staff person to replace Patricia Infante when she retires. Lenore will begin March 6 and work part-time with Patricia for the month of March before joining the team full-time in April....

Continue reading "Announcing Our New CER Staff Person"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

O Holy Night

By: Joanna Fontaine Crawford โ€”
A lit Moravian star lamp hangs in what appears to be a church, with a few lit Christmas trees blurred in the background.

Joanna Fontaine Crawford

If love is a law, how may I follow it with more faithfulness?

Continue reading "O Holy Night"

โ˜ โ˜† โœ‡ UUA.org Updates

Opportunities for Connection ~ January 2023

By: Central East Region of the UUA โ€”
Yellow 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 2023, 8th Principle Conference, Winter Institute, Stewardship Trainings, Right Relationship Training, Pastoral Care Training, Jubilee 3 Anti Racism Training and more!

Continue reading "Opportunities for Connection ~ January 2023"

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Meeting the New Year

By: Tim Atkins โ€”
The number "2023" with vintage letterpress printing blocks on rustic wooden background

Tim Atkins

Iโ€™m proud to belong to a living religious tradition that embraces evolution, both scientifically and spiritually.

Continue reading "Meeting the New Year"

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AntiRacism Resource Spotlight: Developing Ease Across Difference

By: Renee Ruchotzke โ€”
image of a table with a formal placesetting, two plates, napkin, silverware, several stem glasses

Renee Ruchotzke

When I was growing up, my mother spent a lot of time talking to me about etiquette. My father was an immigrant, and my motherโ€™s parents were working poor. My parents were chasing the American dream, and had bought a house in an affluent neighborhood....

Continue reading "AntiRacism Resource Spotlight: Developing Ease Across Difference"

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Protectors of Agency

By: Deborah Weiner โ€”
A pink placard reading "Don't take away my birth control" taken at a Planned Parenthood Rally in New York City. In the background, the stonework of a courthouse is visible.

Deborah Weiner

As sacred beings, we hold the wisdom to know what is best for our own selves.

Continue reading "Protectors of Agency"

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inSpirit 2024 Call for Submissions

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Skinner House Books, the imprint of the Unitarian Universalist Association, invites members of UU communities to submit proposals for the Spring 2024 inSpirit title. The deadline for submissions is March 1, 2023. If your proposal is accepted, you will be notified of the decision in May.

Continue reading "inSpirit 2024 Call for Submissions"

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Resource Highlight: How Do We Keep Our Congregations Safe?

By: Sana Saeed โ€”
padlock with the word security etched on it, lsicking a door sut

Sana Saeed

Beloveds, with a rise in white supremacist violence and destructive behavior it is understandable that more congregational leadership are considering how to protect their community right now.

Continue reading "Resource Highlight: How Do We Keep Our Congregations Safe?"

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Flower Ceremony Centennial

By: Erika Hewitt โ€”
A pale background with pink flowers, the UUA logo, and the words "Flower Ceremony Centennial, 1923-2023"

Erika Hewitt

Celebrate 100 Years of the Flower Ceremony! The first Flower Ceremony was held in Prague, in June 2023, led by Rev. Norbert ฤŒapek.

Continue reading "Flower Ceremony Centennial"

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Necessary Stillness

By: Christine Slocum โ€”
The fingertips of a black person holding a small glass hourglass, whose black sand grains are trickling through.

Christine Slocum

Life doesn't have to be ever-upward in order to be well-lived.

Continue reading "Necessary Stillness"

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From the UUA President: New Proposal for UU Principles and Purpose

By: Susan Frederick-Gray โ€”
People holding hands in worship

Susan Frederick-Gray

The current changes being proposed to Article II of the UUA Bylaws, which contains the seven UU Principles and Purpose, are part of a longer history of ongoing reflection and change as we live into the fullness of our living tradition.

Continue reading "From the UUA President: New Proposal for UU Principles and Purpose"

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On the 50th Anniversary of Roe v Wade, Unitarian Universalists Remain Committed to Reproductive Justice

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Kate Frederick at SCOTUS Rally for reproductive justice in front of the U.S. Supreme Court in DC
On the 50th anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Courtโ€™s Roe v Wade decision that legalized access to abortion, Unitarian Universalists remain committed to reproductive justice, despite the changed legal landscape.

Continue reading "On the 50th Anniversary of Roe v Wade, Unitarian Universalists Remain Committed to Reproductive Justice"

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No Child Goes Hungry Continues to Support Projects

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line drawing of a child holding a bowl over their head with the words No Child Goes Hungry
No Child Goes Hungry was featured in this blog before the pandemic, and we thought it would be a good time for an update. Find out what they are up to now and how they are helping congregations (and others) help fight child hunger.

Continue reading "No Child Goes Hungry Continues to Support Projects"

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From the UUA President: We Mourn with the People of Monterey Park, CA

By: Susan Frederick-Gray โ€”
Hands_prayer

Susan Frederick-Gray

UUA President Rev. Susan Frederick-Gray respond to news of yet another tragic shooting. Unitarian Universalists are ready to work with elected and community officials to support responsible gun legislation measures.

Continue reading "From the UUA President: We Mourn with the People of Monterey Park, CA"

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Inspired by My Ancestors

By: Melissa Jeter โ€”
A small Black girl smiles, sitting at a table. Next to her, back to the camera, is a man we imagine to be her grandfather.

Melissa Jeter

Let us be grateful for the vital force that wakes us and moves us.

Continue reading "Inspired by My Ancestors"

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Opportunities for Connection ~ February 2023

By: Central East Region of the UUA โ€”
So You're Working on the 8th Principle.... Learn from other congregations doing anti-racism work. Worship - Workshops - Caucusing. Saturday February 25, 2023 on Zoom, 12-5 pm ET. Sliding Scale fee of $10-30-50. New Day Rising Central East Region.-

Central East Region of the UUA

Find out what's happening in the Central East Region! This month - 8th Principle Conference, GA 2023, Winter Institute, Right Relationship Training, Pastoral Care Training, Summer Institute and more!

Continue reading "Opportunities for Connection ~ February 2023"

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GA 2023 Volunteer Opportunities and More

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Faithfully Becoming: General Assembly in Pittsburgh, June 21 - 25, 2023
General Assembly (GA) 2023 is in Pittsburgh, PA, which is in our region! We invite you to join us in-person or virtually as best meets your needs.

Continue reading "GA 2023 Volunteer Opportunities and More"

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From the UUA President: Holding Tyre Nichols and Black Communities in Love and Prayer

By: Susan Frederick-Gray โ€”
Washington, DC, USA - June 19, 2020: A young protester and celebrant of Juneteenth holds a sign that reads "I am my ancestors' wildest dream" at Black Lives Matter Plaza / Lafayette Square

Susan Frederick-Gray

A statement from UUA President Rev. Susan Frederick-Gray in response to the devastating death of Tyre Nichols, a 29 year old Black man beaten to death by police in Memphis, TN.

Continue reading "From the UUA President: Holding Tyre Nichols and Black Communities in Love and Prayer"

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Love in the Complicated Places

By: Jo VonRue โ€”
A child sits at a desk, reading, while in the background a teacher observes her.

Jo VonRue

Love shows up in complicated conversations.

Continue reading "Love in the Complicated Places"

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UU the Vote 2022 in Review

By: Staff Writer โ€”
ยฉ 2022 Christopher Northcross/UUA

Staff Writer

UU the Vote was back in 2022 to help organize, educate, and empower voters across the country.

Continue reading "UU the Vote 2022 in Review"

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Communion and Sustenance

By: Tania Mรกrquez โ€”
A Latinx mother and daughter embracing while cooking in the kitchen at home

Tania Mรกrquez

Food carries the love, wisdom, and stories of survival of a people.

Continue reading "Communion and Sustenance"

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Looking Back on Seventeen Years

By: Patricia Infante โ€”
Patricia Hall Infante

Patricia Infante

As I prepare to retire from the Central East staff, it seems like the right time to do a little looking back at where weโ€™ve been together.

Continue reading "Looking Back on Seventeen Years"

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Information for Customers, Booksellers, Libraries, Educators, and Media

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Skinner House Books publications are distributed by Consortium Book Sales and Distribution, a division of Ingram Publisher Services. Ordering information for customers, booksellers, libraries, educators & media

Continue reading "Information for Customers, Booksellers, Libraries, Educators, and Media"

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Susan Frederick-Gray: Leadership in Unprecedented Times

By: Elaine McArdle โ€”
ยฉ Kevin Thai/Three Circles Studio

Elaine McArdle

Reflections on the transformational presidency of Susan Frederick-Gray.

Continue reading "Susan Frederick-Gray: Leadership in Unprecedented Times"

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Contribute to GA 2023!

By: Central East Region of the UUA โ€”
Faithfully Becoming: General Assembly in Pittsburgh, June 21 - 25, 2023

Central East Region of the UUA

If you are interested in being a part of this year's General Assembly in Pittsburgh, PA and virtually, there are several options available to you. What is GA? General Assembly (GA) 2023 is in Pittsburgh, PA, which is in our region!...

Continue reading "Contribute to GA 2023!"

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Opportunities for Connection ~ March 2023

By: Central East Region of the UUA โ€”
Graphic with UUA logo and list of dates and locations of 2023 UUA Presidential Forums

Central East Region of the UUA

Find out what's happening in the Central East Region! This month - UUA Presidential Forums, GA 2023, Jubilee 3, Summer Institute, Neurodiversity Skill Up Series, Leadership Development and more!

Continue reading "Opportunities for Connection ~ March 2023"

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Join Summer Institute 2023!

By: Central East Region Summer Institute โ€”
The call is coming from inside the house: Preemptive radical inclusion and practices for witness, self examination and change. Central East Region 2023 Summer Institute. Image of a rotary dial phone.

Central East Region Summer Institute

We hope YOU will join us in person or online July 9-15, 2023 for fellowship and fun as we build a truly Beloved Community at this yearโ€™s Central East Region Summer Institute, or CERSI.

Continue reading "Join Summer Institute 2023!"

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Generous of Heart

By: Lane-Mairead Campbell โ€”
A cropped shot of two people holding hands in comfort across a wood table.

Lane-Mairead Campbell

12-Step recovery has provided me with perspective, forgiveness, and freedom from shame.

Continue reading "Generous of Heart"

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UUA Presidential Forum Comes to CER

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Arlington, VA Presidential Forum March 18, 2023
The first of the a series of four presidential candidate forums, will be held in the Central East Region at the UU Church of Arlington, VA on March 18 at 1 pm ET. You may attend live or online.

Continue reading "UUA Presidential Forum Comes to CER"

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UUA Responds to Growing Legislative Attacks Against Trans and Nonbinary+ Kids and the LGBTQIA+ Community

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Five people of color are seen in a line, holding hands with arms crossed in a sign of solidarity.
The UUA responds to the most recent onslaught of oppressive laws and policies threatening the lives of trans and nonbinary+ children and the LGBTQIA+ community and continues to work for justice and the ability of all people to thrive.

Continue reading "UUA Responds to Growing Legislative Attacks Against Trans and Nonbinary+ Kids and the LGBTQIA+ Community"

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Unsticking My Mind

By: Tomo Hillbo โ€”
The torso of an Asian person wearing an apron as they scoop freshly cooked rice out of a rice cooker.

Tomo Hillbo

We must unstick our minds if we want to bring change into the world.

Continue reading "Unsticking My Mind"

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Give Your Leaders a Good Start

By: Renee Ruchotzke โ€”
seedlings in starter pots in a greenhouse

Renee Ruchotzke

I think there are some lessons from growing plants that can also be applied to growing leaders. Having a congregational culture grounded in covenant and gratitude can help leaders thrive as they grow into new leadership positions.

Continue reading "Give Your Leaders a Good Start"

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Blaze by Blaze

By: Erika Hewitt โ€”
A trail is vaguely visible on a mossy forest bed, through thick trees. A blaze of blue paint appears on one of the many trees.

Erika Hewitt

Whatโ€™s your most memorable story about getting lost? What do you remember about finding your way home?

Continue reading "Blaze by Blaze"

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Nominations for Election at General Assembly 2023

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The UUA Nominating Committee submitted the following slate of nominations for elected boards, committees, and commissions, which will be part of the larger election at General Assembly 2023.

Continue reading "Nominations for Election at General Assembly 2023"

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Antiracism Resource Spotlight: UU Book Guides

By: Beth Casebolt โ€”
Beacon Press: Igniting Hearts & Minds

Beth Casebolt

Many UUs love to read. If reading is a passion for you, there are many great books out there on the topics of antiracism, anti-oppression and multicultural issues. Two great resources for these books and discussion guides for deeper engagement are Beacon Press and the annual UU Common Read.

Continue reading "Antiracism Resource Spotlight: UU Book Guides"

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