From DLRE: November 26, 2021

Holiday Happenings are Here! 

The winter holiday season is about to begin, and there are many ways you and your family can engage and connect at UCE, both in-person and virtually. There is something for everyone in the coming weeks during Faith Formation Hour and beyond. Please know that it is perfectly fine if you can’t participate – this really isn’t meant to make anyone feel guilty! Just know that you are warmly welcomed to partake in whatever works for you and your family, and whatever will help brighten your spirit this holiday season. Here’s a synopsis of what is coming up: 

This Sunday, our Faith Formation Hour focuses on spiritual practices – just what you need as we head into the holidays! 

• Hanukkah – All ages are invited to room 6 to learn about the holiday, share stories and traditions, play games, hum songs, and have fun! This will also be available on Zoom for those who prefer to participate from afar. Join on Zoom.
• Meditation for Compassion: A Beginner’s Meditation Mantra from Thich Nhat Hanh’s, The Heart of the Buddha’s Teaching in room 12. Bob Mesle leads this program for people wanting to begin or renew their meditation practice. Experienced folks are invited to come and share their experience and insights.  
• Chair Yoga – Doug Erickson facilitates this spiritual practice that is perfect for those who are less mobile or new to yoga. This will also be offered on Zoom. Join on Zoom.

In December, I hope you can join at least one of these events. Helping people in need and connecting with others can be a spiritual practice on its own, and certainly good for your spirit: 

• Now through December 10 – UCE Mitten Tree – sign up here to purchase a gift for a person in need, staff a table, or to help wrap gifts. There are many ways to help! 
• December 5th during Faith Formation Hour (11:35-12:30) 
  • Ornament Sunday – come make ornaments for the UCE Christmas trees or to take home. 
  • Forum – the Green Team will be sharing ways to green your gifting.
• December 6th – Chalica, a UU Holiday, begins for 8 days. Use this guide for your family!
• December 10th from 6-7:30 pm – Charity, Carols, and Cocoa – all ages are invited to help assemble care bags for Connections in room 6, followed by a tree-lighting, carols, and cocoa outside. Come for either or both events. 
• December 12th during Faith Formation Hour (11:35-12:30) 
  • Storyteller Workshop – join our storyteller, Graig Turtullien, for all-ages fun in room 3. 
  • Caroling – spread some holiday cheer in the neighborhood! 
• December 19th 
  • Annual Christmas Pageant during worship – everyone can be a star in this no-rehearsal pageant. Come to the back of the sanctuary by 10 am to choose a costume. Folks from home can join via Zoom and be animals or twinkling stars. 
  • Forum – during Faith Formation Hour – Personal connections during the holidays and a pandemic.
• December 21 – Solstice (Yule) Ritual – this will be a family-friendly event to celebrate the turning of the wheel and the return of the sun. 
• December 24 – Christmas Eve worship at 7 pm. Join in community at UCE or virtually on our YouTube channel. 
• December 26 – Worship service on “Nurturing Our Spirits with Laughter”. This promises to be a good time for all ages! 

May your spirits be filled with love and joy! 

In Faith, 

Kathy Underwood
Director of Lifespan Religious Education