Weeklies – Text Only

WEEKLY ANNOUNCEMENTS – text only

Sunday Services

  • This Week:

    March 15, 2026 – Stewardship

    All of our efforts, time, and money blend together to make the UUFC community what it is and what it can be. Let us reflect on what it means to steward the gifts of the earth, to live in a capitalist economy with a household budget, and to thoughtfully discern a pledge for the coming year. 

    Rev. Alex McGee will preach

    Please plan to stay after worship for a one hour Town Hall on the pledge drive.  Learn about how you are part of our financial planning and get your questions answered.  Abundant snacks provided!  All are welcome whether you sign up or not, but if you fill out this form, you can request childcare and we can better plan for food.

Services This Month

  • March 22, 2026 – Justice and Songs

    What is your earliest memory of singing in a group? When was a time when you felt more power and peace because of singing with others? Today’s service will explore justice songs from our UU hymnal, and we will learn two songs chosen by local Corvallis churches to learn together for those attending the March 28 march.

    Led by Claudia Hall (member lay leader) and David Servias (Music Director)

    March 29, 2026 – Gifts from Our Past

    Did you know that the roads around UUFC weren’t paved yet when the buildings were brought here? Did you know that a school in Corvallis is named after a board president? Did you know that we used to have two services so that we had enough space to run RE classes for all the kids? Come learn more about our past so we can plan our future together well. Plan to stay after service for a slide show and timeline.

    Rev. Alex McGee will preach

From the Minister

  • Our fellow spiritual communities in Corvallis are inviting us to join them …

    Rev. Alex is grateful to pass along this invitation from Rev. Gordon at the First Christian Church here in Corvallis. Getting together with our neighbors in such a time as this strengthens us as neighbors for the future. Rev. Alex looks forward to seeing you there at 11 AM on Saturday, March 28 to share in Fellowship.

    No Kings: Faith Communities Gather the Day Before Palm Sunday

    On the day before Palm Sunday, Corvallis faith communities are walking together to make the network of beloved community strong — connected, rooted, and unafraid. Join us for the No Kings rally as we march as one ecumenical body to the courthouse.

    Signs & Songs Prep — Sunday, March 22, 2:00–3:00 PM
    Join us at the First Christian Church dining room to make signs and learn the songs we’ll carry together on the march. All sign-making supplies will be provided.

    The March — Saturday, March 28
    11:00 AM — Gather at First Christian Church for music practice and sign-making. Coffee and light refreshments provided.
    11:50 AM — Walk together as an ecumenical group to the Courthouse. Gathering spot: in front of the Arts Center.

    First Christian Church will be open from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM as a rest station with coffee refills and restrooms available.

    Our Songs
    “Everybody Ought To Know” — Listen & Learn
    “It’s okay to change your mind / And you can join us / Join us here anytime.” — Listen & Learn

    We walk because we belong to each other. Come add your voice.

This Week at UUFC

  • Kirtan with Kavita Kat Macmillan and Friends, 3/13

    We are thrilled to welcome Kavita Kat Macmillan back to Corvallis to share a night of Kirtan and Sacred Chant!

    This gathering offers a chance to arrive, ground, and release what no longer serves, while welcoming what is new and emerging through sound, breath, and voice. Through call-and-response and unison chanting, you’ll experience the healing vibration of mantra, the warmth of your own voice rising among others, and the steady presence of community around you.

    Kirtan is a uniquely powerful way to sing in community — it lifts the collective vibration, opens the heart, and creates a palpable field of resonance and coherence among everyone present.

    Friday, March 13 at 7 PM in the Sanctuary. Purchase tickets ahead of time at https://ticketstripe.com/corvallismarch2026.

    Childcare is available!

    Free childcare can usually be arranged for any Fellowship event by using this link 1-2 weeks prior to the event.

  • Global Partners 3/8

    The Global Partners team is meeting this Sunday, March 8 at 1 PM in Room 3.

    Our Global Partners Team meeting will de-brief the March 1, 2026 sermon, discuss the September 8, 2026 pilgrimage to Transylvania, consider other engagement with partners, and address our normal team agenda. Come join us as we build and strengthen our many relationships.

    The Global Partners team promotes international understanding, social justice, global ethics, and liberal religion through partner church relationships between UUFC and the Unitarian congregation in Körispatak, Transylvania, Romania, the Community Center in Burundi, Africa, and elsewhere.

    Contact Team lead Heather E for more information.

    Childcare is available!

    Free childcare can usually be arranged for any Fellowship event by using this link 1-2 weeks prior to the event.

  • Legato Potluck, 3/11

    The LEGATO potluck is Wednesday, March 11 at 6:30 PM. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn from one another and celebrate our differences and commonalities. Come early if you can help set up tables.

    Bring a dish to share (please identify all ingredients), a serving utensil (if needed) AND YOUR OWN PLACE SETTING & WATER BOTTLE – this is a low impact meal.

    This is a Connect Up Event with the purpose of building community within the UUFC congregation.

    Childcare is available!

    Free childcare can usually be arranged for any Fellowship event by using this link 1-2 weeks prior to the event.

  • ETC The Stories Only You Can Tell, 3/11

    Elders Thriving in Community with Ann Marchant on
    Wednesday, March 11, at 3 PM in the Sanctuary.

    Every elder carries stories no one else can tell.

    In this interactive workshop with Ann Marchant, we’ll explore the value of sharing simple, true stories across generations. Storytelling is how we pass along humor, resilience, wisdom, and the values that shape who we are.

    Ann will begin by telling a brief story of her own, then guide you step-by-step in shaping one small story from your life—something you could share with a child, a friend, or another member of your community. No writing experience needed.

    You’ll leave with a simple story outline, practical tools for meaningful connection, and renewed confidence in the gift of your lived experience.

    Because one of the most powerful things we can offer one another is story—and only you can tell yours.

    Childcare is available!

    Free childcare can usually be arranged for any Fellowship event by using this link 1-2 weeks prior to the event.

  • Opportunity Awaits, 3/8

    Whether you are new to Unitarian Universalism, new to this fellowship, or a long-time member who needs to get energized… there is a place for you here.

    Opportunity Awaits is happening to highlight the volunteers and connections made at UUFC. Some teams will be recruiting for new members and others will attend to feature a tangible way to donate time and skills to the UUFC.

    Join us after the service on March 8. Visit team tables to share and receive service. For more information, contact Joyce at this link.

    Childcare is available!

    Free childcare can usually be arranged for any Fellowship event by using this link 1-2 weeks prior to the event.

  • Eliot Summer Camp scholarships due 3/9

    The Endowment Committee is dedicating funds this year to help families and individuals attend an Eliot Institute summer camp. Eliot offers two 7-night camps – July 11-18 and August 1-8 – with a featured speaker & small group discussions for adults, and full programming for infants to young adults. There are generous incentives available from both the UUFC and Eliot Institute to help cover registration fees, and both are easy to apply for.

    The UUFC scholarship applications are due Monday, March 9, and can be downloaded by clicking the button below. You can submit your paper form to DRE Skyla King-Christison, or via email to dre@uucorvallis.org.

    For more information contact Linda Hardison, or visit the info table in the Classroom wing after the service this Sunday. Learn more about Eliot at https://eliotinstitute.org.

    Eliot scholarship appDownload

Announcements

  • UUFC Auction Donations Needed

    Our annual Services and Silent Auction is Saturday, May 16 and the theme this year is a garden party. Please join in our largest fundraiser by offering a fun service, event, or item. Do you have access to a getaway at the beach, in the mountains, or other vacation spot? These prized offerings always earn lots for our Fellowship.

    Services are a wonderful and fun way to meet other UUFC members and build community. Do you have a skill, interest, or hobby that you would like to share with others? Some possibilities: bird watching; dance lessons; singing lessons; music performances; guitar or ukulele lessons; drawing or painting opportunities; clay crafting; knitting lessons; rafting on the river; dinner for 4-12; computer help; house or window cleaning; clutter reduction; woodlands hike; homemade dinners delivered; homemade artisan breads or preserves; custom scarf or journal; gift basket; wine tasting on your patio; camping; yard work; cooking classes; gardening help; trip to the beach; anything you love. 

    Did you downsize or maybe clean out your closets this year and have some special items that you no longer want or need, such as jewelry, furniture, or artwork that you would be willing to donate?  Bonus points if your donation coordinates with this year’s theme!

    The Services and Silent Auction is a fun party. You’ll definitely want to attend. Everything you donate and everything that’s purchased goes to help support the UUFC.  Submit information about your donation(s) here, and the Fundraising Team will reach out.  Thank you!

  • Join the Makita Team

    Your UUFC lawn mowing team still needs one more person to complete our eight-person team for 2026. We have relatively quiet, state-of-the-art electric Makita lawn mowers and associated lawn trimmers and blowers. While mowing takes time (1-2 hours, once per month on your own schedule), it is a pleasant workout experience (1.5 to 2 mi of walking). The UUFC lawns are divided into front and back sections. We need a mower for the front section – less lawn but more maneuvering. If you have interest, please contact the team lead by filling out this form or talk with Russ Karow at the “Opportunity Awaits” event on Sunday. He may be at the Financial Oversight Council table with his money hat on but will answer grass questions as well. The grass will grow greener at the UUFC (or at least be tamed) with your participation on our mowing team. May the Makitas be with us all!

  • Opening to Opportunity – Stewardship Drive is Off and Running

    As announced in the March UUFC journal, our 2026 Stewardship Drive has begun. All Sundays in March will provide opportunities to learn about the many contributions of both time and money that make the UUFC the resoundingly successful organization that it is and that will be needed to carry us into the future. March 8 will be “Opportunity Awaits” – an opportunity to celebrate and learn more about the many involvements of time available at the UUFC. March 15 will be a soft-launch of the pledge drive – information shared with member and friends encouraged to consider how they will be involved in Fellowship life in the coming year. March 22 will be the formal launch with the stewardship website “live” as well as in-person assistance for those desiring such. March 29 will be a history lesson on the UUFC – learn more about our past so we can plan our future together. Click here to view the stewardship drive announcement letter that contains more detail. Click here to sign up for one of the town halls on March 15, 16 or 22. Childcare is available for those making a request at least a week in advance. Opportunities await. Open yourself to them!

  • UUA Reiterates Longstanding Condemnation of U.S. Military Action Against Iran

    Unitarian Universalist Association Banner

    Press release from the Unitarian Universalist Association, February 28, 2026:

    This morning, the United States, in coordination with the state of Israel, launched military attacks against Iran. According to news reports, the U.S. will undertake more military actions over the next several days.

    The Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) has long opposed any intervention into Iran by the U.S. military and supported the pursuit of diplomatic resolutions in the region that protect innocent life and global human rights. In 2008, Unitarian Universalists (UU) voted in favor of an Action of Immediate Witness that called upon UU congregations to urge Congress to prohibit an attack on Iran without specific congressional authorization and discourage an attack by an ally, and to urge Iran to cooperate with inspections of its nuclear program. Sadly, 18 years later, those calls remain even more relevant today.

    In June 2025, the UUA reiterated its opposition to such military action. We do so again this morning, and every day these armed attacks continue. We and our member congregations will continue to work for a world where the shared values of pluralism and interdependence are realized, and where the inherent dignity and worthiness of all people are upheld.

  • Outreach Offerings for March

    Our March Justice Outreach offering will support our Partner Congregations in Bozod Korispatak, Transylvania, which is in Romania and our Partner Congregation in Burundi, Africa.  Our partnerships are 30 and 10 years old, respectively. In that time, we primarily supported the educational pursuits of students in both locations. The UUFC has inherited a commitment to global faith partners.   As we consider the uneven local, national and worldwide terrain, it is incumbent upon us to evolve, to engage in collaborations of affection, respect, and trust with others, and to learn, support where asked, and innovate for our sake and for our children.  The Global Partners Team is the group through which the UUFC can advance our UU principles of love and justice in the world.

    Information about the Monthly Outreach Offering, as well as about UUFC Justice Teams, is posted on the bulletin board at the northeast corner of the Social Hall. Learn more about our Global Partners Team there.

    How to donate to the monthly Outreach Offering

    Each month, the Fellowship gathers donations for a certain charitable cause. These are our Outreach Offerings. You can contribute to this month’s offering in a few ways:

    1. Give to the Sunday collection basket
    2. Donate online
    3. Donate to the refreshments during the social hour

    The Kitchen team donates an assortment of sweet and savory refreshments, including gluten-free and vegan choices, for our enjoyment at the social hour following Sunday worship. These items are purchased and prepared by the team to encourage donations to the Outreach Offering. Collection baskets are always found at the ends of the refreshments table. The next time you’re eyeing something tasty on the table, consider putting a donation in the basket first to show how much you appreciate having that treat ready and waiting for you!

  • Office Volunteer Needed: Be the Welcoming Heart of Our Fellowship!

    Are you a friendly, organized, and engaged member of our community looking to make a meaningful impact? The Fellowship needs your help to ensure our office runs smoothly and all who visit feel welcomed and informed!

    This isn’t just about administrative tasks; it’s about being the welcoming presence and a key information hub for our diverse and vibrant fellowship.

    We are seeking someone who is:

    • Personable: A warm, friendly, and approachable demeanor to greet everyone who comes through our doors, making them feel instantly part of our community.
    • Timely & Dependable: Punctuality and reliability are key to keeping our operations running smoothly. We value your commitment and will respect your time.
    • Knowledgeable: You will quickly become the “go-to” person for the latest happenings, events, and general information about the fellowship. An interest in staying informed is essential!

    What You’ll Gain:

    • The chance to use your skills for a cause you care about and directly impact our fellowship’s mission
    • Opportunities to meet new people and expand your social network within the community
    • A positive and supportive environment where your contributions are genuinely appreciated and valued
    • Valuable experience in a dynamic office setting

    Key Responsibilities:

    • Greeting members and visitors with a welcoming smile, directing inquiries
    • Providing information on upcoming events, programs, and fellowship activities
    • Offering general administrative support (e.g., filing, data entry, organizing materials)

    Time Commitment is every Tuesday from 10 am – 12 pm at the Fellowship.

    Please contact Cameron McGrath at comms@uucorvallis.org and Reverend Alex at rev.alex.mcgee@uucorvallis.org if you are interested in learning more.

    Join us and be at the heart of our vibrant community!

Plan Ahead

  • Sheltering Our Unhoused, 3/18

    The Secure Housing and Food for All team invites you to attend a talk about current efforts to address homelessness in Benton County.

    Wednesday, March 18, 6:30-8:00 PM at the Corvallis-Benton County Library (645 NW Monroe Ave).

  • Help with the No Kings III protest, 3/28

    The Democracy Action Team wants to help fill Corvallis streets with the largest crowd ever at No Kings III, March 28th.

    We looked at Indivisible’s plan for March 28th, and it is compelling and it urgently requests that citizens partner with them to build what is needed from OSU to Central Park and the Courthouse. So our request is that our Democracy Team join in by each of us signing up for the tasks we can do. Some work can be done at home.

    No Kings III will be a peaceful demonstration, starting at OSU at noon with speeches and songs, then marching along Madison Ave. to Central City Park, and ending at the Courthouse. At Central Park, there will be art and activities for the kids, as well as music at the gazebo. And at the Courthouse, back by popular demand, another Dance of Defiance. Of course, 4th St. will be filled with people waving signs the entire time.

    Remember, every protest is a food drive!

    To pull this off, the organizers will need 100 safety/peacekeeping volunteers, plus dozens of people to set up tables, art, and sound equipment; staff information and first aid tables; and clean and pack up afterwards. To volunteer for the day of the event, please email indivisible.bc.or@gmail.com with the subject “No Kings volunteer” and indicate which of the above you are willing to do.

    The organizers also need help with a variety of tasks ahead of time, To be added to the “Put me to work” email list, email indivisible.bc.or@gmail.com with the subject “No Kings Worker Bee”. Once or twice a week, you’ll get a list of possible tasks you can volunteer for. Or ask to join the Signal group for more frequent requests (and the opportunity to select the best ones before others take them)!

    Read more about volunteering for No Kings III here: https://indivisiblebc.org/no-kings-iii-volunteers/.

    The Democracy Action Team plans to focus our energy to help us all get signed up. Come talk with the team on these days:

    • Sunday, March 1, at the Democracy table in the Social Hall
    • Sunday, March 8, at the Democracy table in the Social Hall
    • Sunday, March 15, at our mid-March meeting, 11:45 am in the Library
    • Sunday, March 22, at the Democracy table in the Social Hall

    There will be a sign-making event at the UUFC during the 3rd or 4th week of March. Stay tuned for more information!

    Given the DAT’s plan for March 28 is solid, their Tuesday, March 3rd meeting is cancelled.

    Childcare is available!

    Free childcare can usually be arranged for any Fellowship event by using this link 1-2 weeks prior to the event.

  • Microshelter Tours at the Corvallis Museum, 3/20

    The Secure Housing and Food for All team invites you to visit the Corvallis Museum to hear an in-depth talk and ask questions about how Unity Shelter is meeting the needs of unhoused people in Benton County.

    Join staff from Unity Shelter for a gallery talk inside the microshelter on display at the Corvallis Museum! Learn more about this local program, and how they are helping people here in our community.

    Three dates:
    Friday, February 27th, 2026
    Friday, March 6th, 2026
    Friday, March 20th, 2026

    Drop by between 2 – 3 pm for a 15 minute tour and talk by a Unity Shelter staff member.

    Gallery talks are limited to 10 people and are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. The tours will repeat through the hour.

    The Secure Housing and Food for All team would also like you to know that the South Corvallis Food Bank is still in need of food. Food that is easy to heat up and/or comes in pop-open cans is highly desired. The Corvallis Daytime Drop-in Center also needs donations of warm clothing.

  • An Introduction to Peace Studies and Literacy at OSU and in the Corvallis Area, 3/21

    Did you know OSU offers a Peace Studies Certificate and that there is a Peace Literacy Institute with coordinators in Corvallis? Friendship Force of Oregon’s Mid-Willamette Valley and the UUFC are cosponsoring an event at which we can all learn more. The meeting will be on Saturday March 21, 10 am to noon in the Sanctuary of the UUFC. OSU’s Dr. Linda Richards will tell us about the OSU Peace Studies Program and Certificate. OSU’s Dr. Shari Clough will tell us about the Peace Literacy Institute. Following these background presentations, we will explore ideas for how interested local people can engage and support these programs. All are invited to this exploratory meeting. Bring your own beverage and a snack to share if able to do so.

    Childcare is available!

    Free childcare can usually be arranged for any Fellowship event by using this link 1-2 weeks prior to the event.

  • Invitation to Ordination of Karishma Gottfried, 5/16

    Fellowship member Karishma Gottfried invites you to attend her ordination to Unitarian Universalist ministry on Saturday, May 16, 2026 at 2 PM (Eastern time) in New York City! Those willing to travel are welcome to attend in person. The service will also be streamed online. See more details and RSVP at this link: https://partiful.com/e/r8mVpRCktdr0daerWzIU?.

    Karishma Neva Gottfried grew up in the Fellowship with her sister, Malika, and her parents, Shikha and Herky Gottfried, and was active throughout high school in religious exploration classes, district youth conferences, and denominational service. Although she moved away from Corvallis to Boston in 2019 to attend Wellesley College, and then to New York to study at Union Theological Seminary, she still considers UUFC her home congregation and visits whenever she is home.

Connect Up/Affinity Groups this Week