Weekly Announcements – TEXT ONLY

Sunday Services

  • This Week:

    “To Live With Integrity” 4/21/2024

    In this year of building new ways, our Earth Day Sunday will focus on needed and possible changes in habits and assumptions about our relationships with ourselves, others and the Earth. Members of our Climate Action Team will share insights and facilitate conversations among us beginning with this perspective: that our actions affect our own health, the health of those we love, and the health of Earth.

    Following the service, all are encouraged to attend the preparation Town Hall for our May 19 Annual Meeting.

    Author

  • Services This Month

    April 7 “What Difference Does It Make?” Stewardship Kick-Off Rev. Jill McAllister

    April 14 “Our Values: Equity” Rev. Jill McAllister

    April 21 “Earth Day” Climate Action Team, and Rev. Jill McA

    April 28 “Wheel of the Year Intergenerational Service: Beltane”

    Author

From the Minister

  • Between Us, 4/21/2024

    Some decades ago, a well-known and seasoned UU minister wrote a sermon about joining a UU congregation. His summary was this: There is only one reason to join a UU congregation; you join in order to support it! That perspective has fostered lots of conversation over many years, and the longer I consider it, the more I agree with it. Since our approach to religion is both liberal and free, since there is no prescribed creed or test of belief, our highest goals are about creating true community. Learning to not only live together and be together, but to be good with and for each other and for all living things (for all the Earth!).

    This is a very high aim, and often we lose sight of it. Support includes many things. For example our presence, our participation, our time and money. Our care and concern for specific people and programs and for the congregation as a whole (which is what shared ministry means). Our willingness to seek more than personal satisfaction, more than mere comfort, more than confirmation of our biases. All of these are why we engage in religious learning and growth, spiritual practices, shared ceremonies and rituals – we do these things to help us support the constant creation and care of a community. (And not just “community” as an abstract idea; this very real and very specific community, with all its unique and particular characters and characteristics.)

    The annual stewardship pledge drive is one specific way we support the Fellowship – by making a pledge of annual financial support. This week the stewardship team is still waiting to hear from most members of the Fellowship – are you one of them? Our annual meeting is another important way we support the Fellowship, by taking part in the annual discussion of Fellowship business, by being an active part of this specific democratic process which belongs wholly to us.

    The Fellowship has been a vibrant, welcoming and consequential religious congregation for nearly 70 years because of the support of so many people who have shared a commitment to its wellbeing. All of us who are here now a recipients of that long and beautiful tradition. Though our support, may we do our best to keep it healthy, moving and growing, for ourselves, for each other and for all those who will come after us.

    Author

This Week at UUFC

  • Queerly Beloved, 4/21/24

    Queerly Beloved meets Sunday April 21st, from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Join LGBTQ+ folx and allies for social gatherings centered on queer issues and themes. We understand the importance of queer community, and our goal is to provide a safe space where people can find that sense of belonging right here in Corvallis.

    Author

  • Town Halls for Annual Meeting Prep April 21, May 5

    Town Halls for Annual Meeting Prep April 21, May 5 At the annual meeting on May 19, we’ll elect new board members and committee chairs, affirm an annual budget, discuss changes to the UUFC bylaws, and more. At the Fellowship, we think it makes sense to have discussions of all of these things BEFORE the meeting, as a form of participatory democracy where we speak and listen and improve our understanding of all the business. All are invited to stay for at least one of these meetings, after the Sunday services on April 21 and May 5, 11:45 AM in the Sanctuary. This also gives us more time for discussion about the proposed changes to the UUA Bylaws – Article II – which our delegates to the General Assembly will vote on in June. Please join us!

    Author

  • I/DD and You–Open Forum (Zoom) 4/22

    Do you have, or do you care for someone, with intellectual or developmental challenges (I/DD)? Join us to learn more about advocacy for I/DD individuals, especially within the criminal justice system. A meaningful follow-up for those who attended the Sprout film Festival on March 29th. Missed the Festival? You’re welcome to join the conversation. Questions? Contact Elona Meyer: elonameyer@icloud.com for the Zoom link and additional information.

    Author

  • Mindful Awareness on a break

    Mindful Awareness Practice will not meet April 17 or April 24 because Patti White will be traveling. Mindful Awareness Practice will resume with the regular meeting on May 1 at 7 p.m.

    Mindful Awareness – More Info

    Author

  • Climate Action Lunch, 4/20

    Saturday, 4/20 at 1:00 PM in the Social Hall

    Plant-based foods may be good for the planet, but they are also tasty and easy to prepare. Join members of the UUFC’s Climate Action Team to enjoy a delicious meal prepared by Ernest Cardona — and celebrate upcoming Earth Day.

    THE MENU

    Appetizers

    • Miso soup w/tofu
    • Bruschetta with and without seaweed

    Entrees

    • Black bean, corn, and tomato casserole with cheese and vegan options
    • Gandules (pigeon peas) and rice
    • Mushroom sauce on pasta

    Dessert

    • Roasted plantains with coconut ice cream or sorbet

    Childcare is available but must be requested by April 7.

    Register by April 15 with Nick Houtman, nickhoutman8@aol.com or text to 541-829-3442 to reserve your place. We will cap registrations at 30.

    Author

  • Sip & Snack Wine Tasting, Apr-Nov

    A way to get to know each other in a smaller group.

    Twice per month – April through November – join UUFC friends for an afternoon of sharing food, building relationships, and tasting wines*.

    A calendar of outings will be emailed to those who are interested. Leave UUFC Parking lot at 11:45 on Sundays; leave from your home on Fridays.** Visits are ~ 12 to about 2 p.m. depending on drive time.

    Please contact Heather E for more information.

    *Note – Many people purchased the Heart of Willamette Valley Wine Passport. For $45 you get either a free wine flight, a “buy 1 get 1” (BOGO) flight, or some % off wines. Not all Sip & Snack destinations are passport eligible.

    **Carpooling is arranged by individuals, not by UUFC nor this organizer.

    Author

  • Aging Successfully in Community, 5/1/24

    Wednesday, May 1, 3-5 pm in the UUFC Sanctuary

    “Moving along in life and aiming to thrive!”

    At our May meeting, we are pursuing two interests: the ups and downs of deciding whether to stay put in our current home or to move on to a smaller place… or one that may offer services to help us adapt as we age or, at least, simplifies life. Four UUers who have been through this quandary will share their decision processes in a moderated panel to begin the program.

    One major consideration for being able to age in place is making adaptations to our current homes. The panel discussion will be followed by a presentation by Brian Egan on “Aging in Place Safely”. During his years as a general contractor, Brian trained as a Certified Aging in Place Specialist. Thanks to his expertise, we will learn how to make our homes safer and what products can be used for that purpose.

    Feeling social? We’ll provide the forms that make it easy to be a host for a group social activity! Coffee? Games? Walking? Puzzles? You name it! And sign up!
    Come join us to create positive experiences for this time of life!

    Authors

  • Mental Health Worship Service, 5/19

    On May 19th at 4pm PDT, the Unitarian Universalist Mental Health Network will be offering an online worship service
    centered on how Unitarian Universalism can inspire advocacy and acceptance in the area of mental health.

    I’ve been working with the UUMHN for the past several months in an effort to expand our bank of mental health resources at the ready as our local community faces increasing need in this area, particularly among our children and youth, and I’m excited to share this worship opportunity with you!

    In the second annual worship service produced by the UU Mental Health Network Speaker’s Bureau, author Sheri Thomas will share how Unitarian Universalism has inspired her to become a leading disability advocate fighting to remove the stigmas surrounding physical disabilities and mental health. Additional speakers include Rev. Barbara Meyer, whose seminary story was told by Rev. Rosemary Bray McNatt during her recent UUFC reception; Phoenix Bell-Shelton Biggs, a queer, BIPOC, non-binary seminarian; Erin White, member and past board president of The Fourth Universalist Society in the City of New York, and I’ll be offering the time for all ages!

    If you’re interested in exploring topics at the intersection of faith and mental health, I hope you’ll join us!

    Author

  • Donate an Activity or Item to the Services Auction, 6/8

    The annual UUFC Services Auction is a wonderful way to build community while giving back to UUFC! Donate an Item or a Service! Most popular items have been things like yard work, childcare, social dinners, learning lessons and things that bring people together.

    More Info about the Services Auction 2024

    Author

  • Child Dedication Invitation, 5/12

    In Unitarian Universalist congregations, the dedication and blessing of a child signifies the congregation’s willingness to nurture & love the child, & to support parents & caregivers in providing for their children’s spiritual development. It also celebrates the family’s desire to raise their children in a nurturing religious community.

    Children are beloved members of the UUFC. Their growth and unfolding personalities are a source of joy to us all, and we are committed, as a congregation, to their spiritual welfare.  Our child dedication service is an opportunity to recognize that commitment & to welcome the new children in our midst.

    It is our custom to dedicate children on Christmas Eve and Mother’s Day, as well as any time a family makes the request. Participating families will be invited to come forward & introduce their children. Each child will be blessed with a touch of water, the gift of a flower, & words of commitment by the gathered community.

    If you would like your child to be dedicated on Mother’s Day, please contact Skyla by Sunday, May 5th.

    Author

  • May Worship Workshop, 5/3 and 5/4

    Building New Ways in Worship – May 3 and 4, 2024

    The world changes. Unitarian Universalism changes. The Fellowship changes. If you are interested in being part of a review of worship at the Fellowship – what it is for us, what we need from it, how we accomplish it, plan now to join in a series of conversations beginning with a two-session workshop on Friday evening May 3 and Saturday morning May 4. Not merely a survey or collecting of opinions, this project will include conversations, practice, and training in the arts of worship. Let Rev. Jill McAllister know if you are interested.

    Author

  • Film: Where Can We Live in Peace?, 5/18

    Saturday, May 18, 3:00 – 4:30 pm

    in the UUFC Social Hall

    Award-winning Canadian film maker Judy Jackson brings the moving story of the ABBA House migrant shelter in Celaya, Mexico. Founded by Pastor Ignacio it helps tens of thousands of migrants, many of whom are women and children. They are fleeing violence, crime, climate change and corruption in Latin America, and are desperately searching for a place where they can bring up their children in safety. Watch preview.

    Hosted by the Immigrant and Refugee Support Team, a part of our Justice Council.

    Author

Announcements

  • UUFC Library Has a New Coordinator

    Christine Robins is our new Coordinator for the UUFC Library. Please contact her with any questions, suggestions, requests, or complaints about the Library. 

    Contact Christine Robbins

    Checking out children’s’ books can be done electronically, using a scanned QR code, or physically, using the yellow check-out book in the southeast corner. Adult books can only be checked out via the physical check-out book.

    We welcome donations. We’re focusing on books which may not be in the public library, and which support the congregation’s missions.

    Author

  • Celebrating Inquires Series Milestones!

    It’s been beautiful to witness the unfolding of the Inquirers Series this year, as we’ve envisioned new ways to invite folks to explore “how we do church” together here in Corvallis, as well as what it means to be a Unitarian Universalist in a broader context. The feedback from visitors as well as long-time members has been great!

    Thanks to our dedicated Inquirers Series team, over 70 people have engaged with this program in just 9 months! Thank you to Rev. Jill McAllister, John Bailey, Bobbi Bailey, Karen Josephson, Dawn Dirks, and Sandy Piper for their tireless commitment to welcoming and tending our growing community.

    In the service on Sunday, you had a chance to meet some of the folks who have completed the entire series! A few of them were happy to share a little something about what they enjoyed about the series in hopes of inspiring more of us to gather and learn together. Have a read, catch the vision, and then come join us in Room 8 at 11:45 any Sunday that works for you! We’d love to see you there!

    Callum Barnum

    I think my favorite part of the inquirers series was how much more I was able to understand about the background and purpose of the UU, and what it means to be a Unitarian Universalist.

    Kristi Komar

    I really enjoyed the Inquirers Series.  I learned a lot about UU history in general and the UUFC’s.  I especially liked the walk around the grounds.

    Christina Marquardt

    I liked the idea of a basic intro to the fellowship.  When we were here 12 years ago, there was nothing like it. Small groups typically work better for me, and the Inquirer’s Series allowed me to get to know other members more quickly than I would have in the much larger group. We need more small groups to unite our much larger fellowship. 

    Brandi Tucker

    I really enjoyed the grounds tour with John, where he crystallized the UUFC vision for all of us. In fact, you couldn’t ask for better ambassadors of a welcoming congregation than he and his wife Bobbi. Please enjoy these photos of us on tour. I am proud to say Rev. Jill referred to us as a good flock 😉

    Author

  • Justice Outreach for April

    Our Sunday Outreach Offerings for the month of April will support several organizations our Climate Action Team partners with:  the Corvallis Sustainability Coalition, Seeds for the Sol, UU Ministries for Earth, and UU Side with Love.  We hope to contribute $250 to each with remaining funds going to UUFC’s own Carbon Reduction and Responsibility Fund. Your support is needed and welcome!

    Author

  • How to Request a Weekly Announcement

    If your group, team, or council would like to add something to the Weekly Announcements, there is a new form!

    The Weekly Announcements are updated on Friday each week. The Weekly Announcements are meant keep everyone informed about what is happening at the Fellowship. If you would like to include something, please fill out the form by Wednesday of the week before the announcement should be published. Announcements may be edited for length and clarity.

    Author

Plan Ahead

  • Sip & Snack Wine Tasting, Apr-Nov

    A way to get to know each other in a smaller group.

    Twice per month – April through November – join UUFC friends for an afternoon of sharing food, building relationships, and tasting wines*.

    A calendar of outings will be emailed to those who are interested. Leave UUFC Parking lot at 11:45 on Sundays; leave from your home on Fridays.** Visits are ~ 12 to about 2 p.m. depending on drive time.

    Please contact Heather E for more information.

    *Note – Many people purchased the Heart of Willamette Valley Wine Passport. For $45 you get either a free wine flight, a “buy 1 get 1” (BOGO) flight, or some % off wines. Not all Sip & Snack destinations are passport eligible.

    **Carpooling is arranged by individuals, not by UUFC nor this organizer.

    Author

  • Aging Successfully in Community, 5/1/24

    Wednesday, May 1, 3-5 pm in the UUFC Sanctuary

    “Moving along in life and aiming to thrive!”

    At our May meeting, we are pursuing two interests: the ups and downs of deciding whether to stay put in our current home or to move on to a smaller place… or one that may offer services to help us adapt as we age or, at least, simplifies life. Four UUers who have been through this quandary will share their decision processes in a moderated panel to begin the program.

    One major consideration for being able to age in place is making adaptations to our current homes. The panel discussion will be followed by a presentation by Brian Egan on “Aging in Place Safely”. During his years as a general contractor, Brian trained as a Certified Aging in Place Specialist. Thanks to his expertise, we will learn how to make our homes safer and what products can be used for that purpose.

    Feeling social? We’ll provide the forms that make it easy to be a host for a group social activity! Coffee? Games? Walking? Puzzles? You name it! And sign up!
    Come join us to create positive experiences for this time of life!

    Authors

  • Mental Health Worship Service, 5/19

    On May 19th at 4pm PDT, the Unitarian Universalist Mental Health Network will be offering an online worship service
    centered on how Unitarian Universalism can inspire advocacy and acceptance in the area of mental health.

    I’ve been working with the UUMHN for the past several months in an effort to expand our bank of mental health resources at the ready as our local community faces increasing need in this area, particularly among our children and youth, and I’m excited to share this worship opportunity with you!

    In the second annual worship service produced by the UU Mental Health Network Speaker’s Bureau, author Sheri Thomas will share how Unitarian Universalism has inspired her to become a leading disability advocate fighting to remove the stigmas surrounding physical disabilities and mental health. Additional speakers include Rev. Barbara Meyer, whose seminary story was told by Rev. Rosemary Bray McNatt during her recent UUFC reception; Phoenix Bell-Shelton Biggs, a queer, BIPOC, non-binary seminarian; Erin White, member and past board president of The Fourth Universalist Society in the City of New York, and I’ll be offering the time for all ages!

    If you’re interested in exploring topics at the intersection of faith and mental health, I hope you’ll join us!

    Author

  • Donate an Activity or Item to the Services Auction, 6/8

    The annual UUFC Services Auction is a wonderful way to build community while giving back to UUFC! Donate an Item or a Service! Most popular items have been things like yard work, childcare, social dinners, learning lessons and things that bring people together.

    More Info about the Services Auction 2024

    Author

  • Child Dedication Invitation, 5/12

    In Unitarian Universalist congregations, the dedication and blessing of a child signifies the congregation’s willingness to nurture & love the child, & to support parents & caregivers in providing for their children’s spiritual development. It also celebrates the family’s desire to raise their children in a nurturing religious community.

    Children are beloved members of the UUFC. Their growth and unfolding personalities are a source of joy to us all, and we are committed, as a congregation, to their spiritual welfare.  Our child dedication service is an opportunity to recognize that commitment & to welcome the new children in our midst.

    It is our custom to dedicate children on Christmas Eve and Mother’s Day, as well as any time a family makes the request. Participating families will be invited to come forward & introduce their children. Each child will be blessed with a touch of water, the gift of a flower, & words of commitment by the gathered community.

    If you would like your child to be dedicated on Mother’s Day, please contact Skyla by Sunday, May 5th.

    Author

  • May Worship Workshop, 5/3 and 5/4

    Building New Ways in Worship – May 3 and 4, 2024

    The world changes. Unitarian Universalism changes. The Fellowship changes. If you are interested in being part of a review of worship at the Fellowship – what it is for us, what we need from it, how we accomplish it, plan now to join in a series of conversations beginning with a two-session workshop on Friday evening May 3 and Saturday morning May 4. Not merely a survey or collecting of opinions, this project will include conversations, practice, and training in the arts of worship. Let Rev. Jill McAllister know if you are interested.

    Author

  • Film: Where Can We Live in Peace?, 5/18

    Saturday, May 18, 3:00 – 4:30 pm

    in the UUFC Social Hall

    Award-winning Canadian film maker Judy Jackson brings the moving story of the ABBA House migrant shelter in Celaya, Mexico. Founded by Pastor Ignacio it helps tens of thousands of migrants, many of whom are women and children. They are fleeing violence, crime, climate change and corruption in Latin America, and are desperately searching for a place where they can bring up their children in safety. Watch preview.

    Hosted by the Immigrant and Refugee Support Team, a part of our Justice Council.

    Author

Connect Up Activities this Week

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