From Kathy Underwood 11-14-2024

DLFF Newsletter – November 2024 

Despite the many feelings we may be having since the election, there is still much joy to be had. We have this beloved community where we can bring our whole selves to be nourished intellectually and spiritually. We have friends to share our experiences, hopes, and dreams with. We have ways to make the world a better place through social action and justice and by simply being present. 

One of my joys is how we are expanding our connections with other faith communities this year through our program, Meeting Our Interfaith Neighbors. Last week, we welcomed Rabbi Andrea London to UCE to share some history, theology, and practices of Judaism. Then last Friday, a group of us attended the shabbat service at Beth Emet to experience it on a personal level. Next, we will gather at UCE on the 19th to reflect on and share our thoughts on our visit.  

We will be exploring Buddhism beginning January 7, and invite you to join us. If you weren’t able to attend the orientation sessions last month, you can watch the first session here using Passcode: .w6N$k$U, session 2 here with Passcode: W7.v4yRH, and for session 3 here with Passcode: &nQscB22. 

You can register here to be included on future emails including the link to session 3.  

Another joy is that our Young Adult group continues to engage members and newcomers with Kiley Korey and Kevin Barrow taking the lead. They are meeting on the third Friday evenings of the month, and they are also meeting this Saturday at 2p at the National Museum of Mexican Art to see the Día de los Muertos exhibit. 

And then there’s OWL – Our Whole Lives Sexuality Program – We have 19 young people in grades 4-6, 14 from UCE, participating on Sunday afternoons in this important program. It has been a joy to work with Kendall Matias and Christine Peters as well as the parents and young people. We are aware of so many societal challenges when it comes to healthy sexuality education and we UUs are leaders in this endeavor. 

And the joy will continue on into December! Cocoa, Carols, and Community on December 6, 6-8p – Our Family Friday event this month will be to help wrap gifts for the mitten tree and then enjoy some hot cocoa and sing carols. Those who wish can bring a snack to share at 6p and we will start gift-wrapping at 6:30. 

 

Ornament Sunday on December 8 during Kinship Time – a fun gathering where you can make an assortment of ornaments to hang on the UCE Christmas tree or at home. Do you have a simple craft to share, or are you willing to help little ones at a table. Or maybe you’d like to help but need a raft idea? If so, we can suggest some! Either way, you can sign up here.   (Insert link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/805044BABAB2EA4F85-53052241-ornament ) 

 

Christmas Pageant – December 22 during worship – all ages are invited to help re-create the story of Jesus’ birth. If you would like to claim a specific role and costume, sign up here. Or you can pick one up before worship. (insert link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/805044BABAB2EA4F85-45793877-christmas ) 

We will also have our traditional Christmas Eve worship with candles and carols, a definite joy! 

I hope you can come to some of these gatherings and events. My wish for you all is to find a little joy in the coming month. 

In Faith, 

Kathy