Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 16, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women's Wednesdays
April 16, 2025 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Chosen by Women, About Women, Discussed by Women
RSVP's sent to wednesdaywomen@ucdsm.org
Bell Choir Rehearsal
April 16, 2025 5:45 pm - 6:45 pm
Auditorium
Contact: Karen Kraemer choir@ucdsm.org
Membership 1:1 Team Meeting
April 16, 2025 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 17, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi
April 17, 2025 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 18, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 19, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Social Justice Revival II: Designing Our Teams to Win
April 19, 2025 9:00 am - 11:00 am
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Join us for a conversation on how we can design our social justice work to be impactful by being accountable, finding issues that fit with our UU values, grounding ourselves spiritually & ethically, and looking for opportunities to make a difference. In other words, designing our team to win.
We are working with a great UU resource: Inspired Faith, Effective Action. Here's a link if you'd like to download it and learn more. https://www.uua.org/files/documents/washingtonoffice/ifea.pdf
Celebrant Team Meeting
April 19, 2025 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Peace Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81038991478?pwd=UOR0NrS5iKdxeI9BVDtJ3UFpoEHwVP.1
Meeting ID: 810 3899 1478
Passcode: Celebrant
SJ Event Set-Up/Clean-Up
April 19, 2025 8:00 am - 11:30 am
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
UU 201
April 19, 2025 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Mary Safford
These classes with the minister and lay-leaders take a closer look at life and membership in our congregation. Expect to hear from leaders on our Board of Trustees, Stewardship Committee, Pastoral Care Team, and more.
FFF '25
April 19, 2025 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Kitchen, Gathering Area, Griffin Hall
Potluck and Sale 5-7
One Room SchUUlhouse (K-7th)
April 20, 2025 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Room 111
One Room SchUUlhouse is a place for children in Kindergarten through 7th Grade to explore our Unitarian Universalist values through stories, games, and crafts. Weekly lessons explore a different facet of the congregation’s monthly theme. Visitors are always welcome! Meets in Room 111 during service, after the “Story for All Ages”.
Childcare
April 20, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
Easter Egg Hunt
April 20, 2025 10:45 am - 11:15 am
Memorial Garden
Join us for a fun-filled Easter Egg Hunt following the service on Sunday, April 20th, right outside the East doors by the Memorial Garden! 🐣🥚 It’s a wonderful opportunity for families to gather and celebrate together.
Coming of Age (8th-9th)
April 20, 2025 11:00 am - 12:30 pm
Large Activity Room
Coming of Age is a program for 8th and 9th grade youth. We’ll learn about belonging to our families, friends, and community. We’ll apply our values and our idea about what matters. We’ll have fun!
Humanism Book Discussion
April 20, 2025 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
April 21, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
April 21, 2025 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Liz Bredeson & Nancee McDowell
MSC
April 21, 2025 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82377303826?pwd=hXZAPdeTUSLPSxvXayNh0bMDu6h3Wx.1
Meeting ID: 823 7730 3826
Passcode: MSC
Awakening Heart Sangha
April 21, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 22, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 23, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Bell Choir Rehearsal
April 23, 2025 5:45 pm - 6:45 pm
Auditorium
Contact: Karen Kraemer choir@ucdsm.org
Connection Circle
April 23, 2025 6:45 pm - 7:45 pm
Griffin Hall
Led by Sarah Guenther
Connection Circle
April 23, 2025 6:45 pm - 8:15 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Meredith and LoraKim's Group
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 24, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 25, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle (via Zoom)
April 25, 2025 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Led by Frank Bowers
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275552388?pwd=CYwGBfGU2n5sYfDlBuXNmjXz8UHdy2.1
Meeting ID: 892 7555 2388
Passcode: UCDSM
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 26, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Caesar Smith's Memorial Service
April 26, 2025 11:00 am - 3:00 pm
Auditorium, Griffin Hall, Gathering Area, Kitchen
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84854717095?pwd=VNJpTo1hpv89vPHLkFOpzMZOSnS5al.1
Meeting ID: 848 5471 7095
Passcode: SMITH
Dinner and Service Prep (Closed)
April 26, 2025 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Auditorium, Griffin, Kitchen
One Room SchUUlhouse (K-7th)
April 27, 2025 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Room 111
One Room SchUUlhouse is a place for children in Kindergarten through 7th Grade to explore our Unitarian Universalist values through stories, games, and crafts. Weekly lessons explore a different facet of the congregation’s monthly theme. Visitors are always welcome! Meets in Room 111 during service, after the “Story for All Ages”.
Childcare
April 27, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
Sunday Forum (Auditorium)
April 27, 2025 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Auditorium
Zoom for the Forum:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88259161808?pwd=eUUydUZLWnpzdWpGTWV0d3pDYVR3dz09
Passcode:
Griffin
Coming of Age (8th-9th)
April 27, 2025 11:00 am - 12:30 pm
Large Activity Room
Coming of Age is a program for 8th and 9th grade youth. We’ll learn about belonging to our families, friends, and community. We’ll apply our values and our idea about what matters. We’ll have fun!
Facing Death with Life
April 27, 2025 11:15 am - 12:30 pm
Room 114
Starts Jan 19. Meets in-person bi-weekly at First Unitarian after the church service at 11:15am-12:30pm and ends April 28
Workshop topics:
- Talking about Death
- Finding Our Personal Views of Death
- Beliefs and Practices – What Happens When We Die?
- Bereavement
- Children and Death
- Suicide and the Right to Die
- Preparation for Death
- Sharing New Insights
A Little Light Reading- Humanist
April 27, 2025 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Peace Conference Room
Meet & Greet with Hospitality Team Leads & Adult Programming Team (Closed)
April 27, 2025 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
DMARC Book Group
April 28, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Meeting with Conflict Reconciliation Team
April 28, 2025 11:45 am - 12:45 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Building and Grounds Walk and Talk (Closed)
April 28, 2025 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
WHOLE CHURCH
Connection Circle
April 28, 2025 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Martha Stephenson and Barb Martin
Awakening Heart Sangha
April 28, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 29, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
A Word With You (Mary Safford 04/29)
April 29, 2025 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall April-November, Zoom December-March
“A Word With You” meets once a month in person and discuss topics that interest members. We would like to invite new-comers (or old ones) to our church who could join us or just visit with us. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at 10:30 am. The topics vary from environment to personalities.
Zoom:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81183859141?pwd=OXlvVHMwK09Eam90WVU5MXhJVjJQdz09
Meeting ID: 811 8385 9141
Passcode: 434401
Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.
Small Group Roundtable (Open but RSVP)
April 29, 2025 11:00 am - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
BYO Lunch
Meeting with Finance Committee/Team (Closed)
April 29, 2025 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Board Committee Dinner (Closed)
April 29, 2025 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 30, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Bell Choir Rehearsal
April 30, 2025 5:45 pm - 6:45 pm
Auditorium
Contact: Karen Kraemer choir@ucdsm.org
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 1, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
VIRTUAL Small Group Roundtable (Open but RVSP)
May 1, 2025 9:00 am - 10:00 am
Zoom
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85683131965?pwd=QQJrqLBIcD26MNFeG2FSNaQaqRbxqo.1
Meeting ID: 856 8313 1965
Passcode: SMALL
Small Group Roundtable (Open but RSVP)
May 1, 2025 11:00 am - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
(BYO Lunch)
Unity Circle/Coffee and Desserts (Open)
May 1, 2025 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Griffin and Kitchen
Pluralism Soup Potluck (Open)
May 1, 2025 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Griffin Hall
Meet Steve Sieck, our candidate for settled ministry, during the Pluralism Soup Potluck with Sacred Bridges CUUPs, Awakening Heart Sangha, and Humanists groups in Griffin Hall!
Join us for a soup supper while Steve Sieck makes a few short comments before opening the room up for questions. Please sign up to bring something if you are able.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 2, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Lunch and Check-in with MSC (Closed)
May 2, 2025 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Membership and Caring Community Meeting (Closed)
May 2, 2025 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 3, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Coffeehouse Chat (Open and Offsite)
May 3, 2025 8:00 am - 10:00 am
Smokey Row Coffee, 1910 Cottage Grove Ave, Des Moines
Small Group Roundtable (Open, Offsite, RSVP)
May 3, 2025 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Scottish Rite Park (retirement complex), 2909 Woodland Ave, Des Moines
Hazel Zimmerman Memorial and Reception
May 3, 2025 2:00 pm - 5:30 pm
Auditorium and Griffin
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81535367288?pwd=wbnssEDQgkR5CLT9ELF2r9Xt21IzAW.1
Meeting ID: 815 3536 7288
Passcode: HAZEL
Meeting with Faith Formation Council (Closed)
May 3, 2025 5:00 pm - 5:30 pm
Stonewall
Family Pizza Night (Open)
May 3, 2025 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Griffin Hall
RSVP helpful for food!
One Room SchUUlhouse (K-7th)
May 4, 2025 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Room 111
One Room SchUUlhouse is a place for children in Kindergarten through 7th Grade to explore our Unitarian Universalist values through stories, games, and crafts. Weekly lessons explore a different facet of the congregation’s monthly theme. Visitors are always welcome! Meets in Room 111 during service, after the “Story for All Ages”.
Childcare
May 4, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
Special Meeting: Congregational Vote
May 4, 2025 11:00 am - 1:00 pm
Auditorium
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87925100261?pwd=Dau2zDD6UtlbDiItPjRatQJPapvt21.1
Meeting ID: 879 2510 0261
Passcode: Vote
Coming of Age (8th-9th)
May 4, 2025 11:00 am - 12:30 pm
Large Activity Room
Coming of Age is a program for 8th and 9th grade youth. We’ll learn about belonging to our families, friends, and community. We’ll apply our values and our idea about what matters. We’ll have fun!
Humanism Book Discussion
May 4, 2025 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
Fundraising Subcommittee of the Capital Campaign
May 4, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
ZOOM
DMARC Book Group
May 5, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Steering Committee
May 5, 2025 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Peace Conference Room
Topic: Steering Committee (Peace Conference Room)
Time: This is a recurring meeting Meet anytime
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87661107051?pwd=0FbNxOzRScn3THkNPCRemmulvRiVvH.1
Meeting ID: 876 6110 7051
Passcode: STEER
Awakening Heart Sangha
May 5, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 6, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 7, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Bell Choir Rehearsal
May 7, 2025 5:45 pm - 6:45 pm
Auditorium
Contact: Karen Kraemer choir@ucdsm.org
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 8, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board of Trustees Meeting
May 8, 2025 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 9, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
CC Meeting
May 9, 2025 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Center
Communications Team
Board Game Night
May 9, 2025 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Contact: Gianfranco Berardi, gamenight@ucdsm.org
Meets: Second Fridays; 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. CT; Griffin Hall
Welcome: All
Please join fellow UU friends for a fun night of board games in Griffin Hall. Bring your favorite game as well as any beverages or snacks you might want to share.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 10, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
May 10, 2025 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Led by Ellen Taylor & Martha Sherick-Shen
Leadership Support Team Set-Up/Clean-Up
May 10, 2025 8:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
One Room SchUUlhouse (K-7th)
May 11, 2025 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Room 111
One Room SchUUlhouse is a place for children in Kindergarten through 7th Grade to explore our Unitarian Universalist values through stories, games, and crafts. Weekly lessons explore a different facet of the congregation’s monthly theme. Visitors are always welcome! Meets in Room 111 during service, after the “Story for All Ages”.
Childcare
May 11, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
cUUriosity Conversations
May 11, 2025 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Mary Safford
Interested in learning more about Unitarian Universalism? Do you have questions about life in this community? Whether you are new to First Unitarian or well-established, please join us for coffee and conversation about Unitarian Universalism.
Coming of Age (8th-9th)
May 11, 2025 11:00 am - 12:30 pm
Large Activity Room
Coming of Age is a program for 8th and 9th grade youth. We’ll learn about belonging to our families, friends, and community. We’ll apply our values and our idea about what matters. We’ll have fun!
DMARC Book Group
May 12, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Grief Support Circle
May 12, 2025 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Minister's Office
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
Awakening Heart Sangha
May 12, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Capital Campaign Infrastructure Committee
May 12, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conf. Room
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 13, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women Around the Table (former UU Women's Lunch Bunch)
May 13, 2025 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Women’s Monthly Lunch
All UU (and UU-interested) women are welcome to join the monthly gathering of the UU Women’s Lunch Bunch (2nd Tuesday of every month at 11:30).
There’s always good food and lively conversation.
Please be sure to RSVP before the luncheon if you plan to attend: womenslunch@ucdsm.org
UU Women's Book Club
May 13, 2025 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Meets: Second Tuesday of the month; 2:00 p.m. CT
This group is for book lovers and those who like to talk about what they’re reading. Books are selected by group members from Des Moines, Urbandale and West Des Moines Public Library Book Group Sets.
Contacts: Jean Tauber or Theresa Miller, bookclub@ucdsm.org
Caring Community Team Meeting
May 13, 2025 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Financial Oversight Committee
May 13, 2025 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Online Only
First Unitarian is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83292744498?pwd=Y0Q1Q29TclZ3SzNWUm9tSXpZWmVQQT09
Meeting ID: 832 9274 4498
Passcode: 465972
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 14, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Queer/Trans Action Group
May 14, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83045131767
Passcode: TAG
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 15, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 16, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 17, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Celebrant Team Meeting
May 17, 2025 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Peace Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81038991478?pwd=UOR0NrS5iKdxeI9BVDtJ3UFpoEHwVP.1
Meeting ID: 810 3899 1478
Passcode: Celebrant
UU 101
May 17, 2025 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Mary Safford
These classes with the minister and lay-leaders take a closer look at life and membership in our congregation. Expect to hear from leaders on our Board of Trustees, Stewardship Committee, Pastoral Care Team, and more.
Progressive Voices Concert Set-Up/Clean Up
May 17, 2025 4:30 pm - 10:00 pm
Auditorium, Gathering Area, Griffin Hall, kitchen, and Room 107
One Room SchUUlhouse (K-7th)
May 18, 2025 9:30 am - 10:30 am
Room 111
One Room SchUUlhouse is a place for children in Kindergarten through 7th Grade to explore our Unitarian Universalist values through stories, games, and crafts. Weekly lessons explore a different facet of the congregation’s monthly theme. Visitors are always welcome! Meets in Room 111 during service, after the “Story for All Ages”.
Childcare
May 18, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
Coming of Age (8th-9th)
May 18, 2025 11:00 am - 12:30 pm
Large Activity Room
Coming of Age is a program for 8th and 9th grade youth. We’ll learn about belonging to our families, friends, and community. We’ll apply our values and our idea about what matters. We’ll have fun!
Humanism Book Discussion
May 18, 2025 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
May 19, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
May 19, 2025 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Liz Bredeson & Nancee McDowell
Awakening Heart Sangha
May 19, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 20, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
May 20, 2025 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Faithyna Leonard
Board of Trustees Meeting
May 20, 2025 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Soul Matters Writer's Group
May 20, 2025 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Peace Conference Room
Peace Conference Room
UU Writers explores the monthly Soul Matters themes and engages in spiritual discernment through the art of creative writing
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 21, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women's Wednesdays
May 21, 2025 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Chosen by Women, About Women, Discussed by Women
RSVP's sent to wednesdaywomen@ucdsm.org
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 22, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 23, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle (via Zoom)
May 23, 2025 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Led by Frank Bowers
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275552388?pwd=CYwGBfGU2n5sYfDlBuXNmjXz8UHdy2.1
Meeting ID: 892 7555 2388
Passcode: UCDSM
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 24, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
May 25, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
May 26, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
May 26, 2025 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Martha Stephenson and Barb Martin
Awakening Heart Sangha
May 26, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 27, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
A Word With You
May 27, 2025 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall April-November, Zoom December-March
“A Word With You” meets once a month in person and discuss topics that interest members. We would like to invite new-comers (or old ones) to our church who could join us or just visit with us. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at 10:30 am. The topics vary from environment to personalities.
Zoom:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81183859141?pwd=OXlvVHMwK09Eam90WVU5MXhJVjJQdz09
Meeting ID: 811 8385 9141
Passcode: 434401
Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 28, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
May 28, 2025 6:45 pm - 7:45 pm
Griffin Hall
Led by Sarah Guenther
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 29, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 30, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 31, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
June 1, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
cUUriosity Conversations
June 1, 2025 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Mary Safford
Interested in learning more about Unitarian Universalism? Do you have questions about life in this community? Whether you are new to First Unitarian or well-established, please join us for coffee and conversation about Unitarian Universalism.
Humanism Book Discussion
June 1, 2025 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
June 2, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Awakening Heart Sangha
June 2, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 3, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Caring Community Team Meeting
June 3, 2025 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 4, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 5, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 6, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 7, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
June 8, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
June 9, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Grief Support Circle
June 9, 2025 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Minister's Office
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
Awakening Heart Sangha
June 9, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 10, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women Around the Table (former UU Women's Lunch Bunch)
June 10, 2025 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Women’s Monthly Lunch
All UU (and UU-interested) women are welcome to join the monthly gathering of the UU Women’s Lunch Bunch (2nd Tuesday of every month at 11:30).
There’s always good food and lively conversation.
Please be sure to RSVP before the luncheon if you plan to attend: womenslunch@ucdsm.org
UU Women's Book Club
June 10, 2025 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Meets: Second Tuesday of the month; 2:00 p.m. CT
This group is for book lovers and those who like to talk about what they’re reading. Books are selected by group members from Des Moines, Urbandale and West Des Moines Public Library Book Group Sets.
Contacts: Jean Tauber or Theresa Miller, bookclub@ucdsm.org
Financial Oversight Committee
June 10, 2025 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Online Only
First Unitarian is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83292744498?pwd=Y0Q1Q29TclZ3SzNWUm9tSXpZWmVQQT09
Meeting ID: 832 9274 4498
Passcode: 465972
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 11, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Queer/Trans Action Group
June 11, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83045131767
Passcode: TAG
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 12, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board of Trustees Meeting
June 12, 2025 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Building Team Meeting
June 12, 2025 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87674930680?pwd=WfEkMrXFeTeZqBS33GsUiCFTOo2ed2.1
Meeting ID: 876 7493 0680
Password: building
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 13, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board Game Night
June 13, 2025 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Contact: Gianfranco Berardi, gamenight@ucdsm.org
Meets: Second Fridays; 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. CT; Griffin Hall
Welcome: All
Please join fellow UU friends for a fun night of board games in Griffin Hall. Bring your favorite game as well as any beverages or snacks you might want to share.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 14, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
June 14, 2025 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Led by Ellen Taylor & Martha Sherick-Shen
Wedding
June 14, 2025 2:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Griffin, Auditorium, Mary Safford, Kitchen, Gathering Area, Large Activity Room, 108
Hailey May
Childcare
June 15, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
Humanism Book Discussion
June 15, 2025 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
June 16, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
June 16, 2025 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Liz Bredeson & Nancee McDowell
Awakening Heart Sangha
June 16, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 17, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
June 17, 2025 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Faithyna Leonard
Board of Trustees Meeting
June 17, 2025 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Soul Matters Writer's Group
June 17, 2025 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Peace Conference Room
Peace Conference Room
UU Writers explores the monthly Soul Matters themes and engages in spiritual discernment through the art of creative writing
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 18, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women's Wednesdays
June 18, 2025 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Chosen by Women, About Women, Discussed by Women
RSVP's sent to wednesdaywomen@ucdsm.org
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 19, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 20, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 21, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Celebrant Team Meeting
June 21, 2025 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Peace Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81038991478?pwd=UOR0NrS5iKdxeI9BVDtJ3UFpoEHwVP.1
Meeting ID: 810 3899 1478
Passcode: Celebrant
UU 201
June 21, 2025 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Mary Safford
These classes with the minister and lay-leaders take a closer look at life and membership in our congregation. Expect to hear from leaders on our Board of Trustees, Stewardship Committee, Pastoral Care Team, and more.
Childcare
June 22, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
June 23, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
June 23, 2025 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Martha Stephenson and Barb Martin
Awakening Heart Sangha
June 23, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 24, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
A Word With You
June 24, 2025 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall April-November, Zoom December-March
“A Word With You” meets once a month in person and discuss topics that interest members. We would like to invite new-comers (or old ones) to our church who could join us or just visit with us. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at 10:30 am. The topics vary from environment to personalities.
Zoom:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81183859141?pwd=OXlvVHMwK09Eam90WVU5MXhJVjJQdz09
Meeting ID: 811 8385 9141
Passcode: 434401
Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 25, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
June 25, 2025 6:45 pm - 7:45 pm
Griffin Hall
Led by Sarah Guenther
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 26, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 27, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle (via Zoom)
June 27, 2025 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Led by Frank Bowers
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275552388?pwd=CYwGBfGU2n5sYfDlBuXNmjXz8UHdy2.1
Meeting ID: 892 7555 2388
Passcode: UCDSM
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 28, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
June 29, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
June 30, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Awakening Heart Sangha
June 30, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 1, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Caring Community Team Meeting
July 1, 2025 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 2, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 3, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 4, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 5, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
July 6, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
cUUriosity Conversations
July 6, 2025 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Mary Safford
Interested in learning more about Unitarian Universalism? Do you have questions about life in this community? Whether you are new to First Unitarian or well-established, please join us for coffee and conversation about Unitarian Universalism.
Humanism Book Discussion
July 6, 2025 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
July 7, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Awakening Heart Sangha
July 7, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 8, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women Around the Table (former UU Women's Lunch Bunch)
July 8, 2025 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Women’s Monthly Lunch
All UU (and UU-interested) women are welcome to join the monthly gathering of the UU Women’s Lunch Bunch (2nd Tuesday of every month at 11:30).
There’s always good food and lively conversation.
Please be sure to RSVP before the luncheon if you plan to attend: womenslunch@ucdsm.org
UU Women's Book Club
July 8, 2025 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Meets: Second Tuesday of the month; 2:00 p.m. CT
This group is for book lovers and those who like to talk about what they’re reading. Books are selected by group members from Des Moines, Urbandale and West Des Moines Public Library Book Group Sets.
Contacts: Jean Tauber or Theresa Miller, bookclub@ucdsm.org
Financial Oversight Committee
July 8, 2025 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Online Only
First Unitarian is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83292744498?pwd=Y0Q1Q29TclZ3SzNWUm9tSXpZWmVQQT09
Meeting ID: 832 9274 4498
Passcode: 465972
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 9, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Queer/Trans Action Group
July 9, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83045131767
Passcode: TAG
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 10, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board of Trustees Meeting
July 10, 2025 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Building Team Meeting
July 10, 2025 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87674930680?pwd=WfEkMrXFeTeZqBS33GsUiCFTOo2ed2.1
Meeting ID: 876 7493 0680
Password: building
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 11, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board Game Night
July 11, 2025 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Contact: Gianfranco Berardi, gamenight@ucdsm.org
Meets: Second Fridays; 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. CT; Griffin Hall
Welcome: All
Please join fellow UU friends for a fun night of board games in Griffin Hall. Bring your favorite game as well as any beverages or snacks you might want to share.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 12, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
July 12, 2025 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Led by Ellen Taylor & Martha Sherick-Shen
Leadership Support Team Set-Up/Clean-Up
July 12, 2025 8:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
UU Coffeehouse Set-Up/Clean Up
July 12, 2025 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Childcare
July 13, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
July 14, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Grief Support Circle
July 14, 2025 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Minister's Office
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
Awakening Heart Sangha
July 14, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 15, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
July 15, 2025 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Faithyna Leonard
Board of Trustees Meeting
July 15, 2025 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Soul Matters Writer's Group
July 15, 2025 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Peace Conference Room
Peace Conference Room
UU Writers explores the monthly Soul Matters themes and engages in spiritual discernment through the art of creative writing
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 16, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women's Wednesdays
July 16, 2025 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Chosen by Women, About Women, Discussed by Women
RSVP's sent to wednesdaywomen@ucdsm.org
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 17, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 18, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 19, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Celebrant Team Meeting
July 19, 2025 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Peace Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81038991478?pwd=UOR0NrS5iKdxeI9BVDtJ3UFpoEHwVP.1
Meeting ID: 810 3899 1478
Passcode: Celebrant
UU 101
July 19, 2025 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Mary Safford
These classes with the minister and lay-leaders take a closer look at life and membership in our congregation. Expect to hear from leaders on our Board of Trustees, Stewardship Committee, Pastoral Care Team, and more.
Childcare
July 20, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
Humanism Book Discussion
July 20, 2025 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
July 21, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
July 21, 2025 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Liz Bredeson & Nancee McDowell
Awakening Heart Sangha
July 21, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 22, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 23, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
July 23, 2025 6:45 pm - 7:45 pm
Griffin Hall
Led by Sarah Guenther
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 24, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 25, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle (via Zoom)
July 25, 2025 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Led by Frank Bowers
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275552388?pwd=CYwGBfGU2n5sYfDlBuXNmjXz8UHdy2.1
Meeting ID: 892 7555 2388
Passcode: UCDSM
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 26, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
July 27, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
July 28, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
July 28, 2025 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Martha Stephenson and Barb Martin
Awakening Heart Sangha
July 28, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 29, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
A Word With You
July 29, 2025 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall April-November, Zoom December-March
“A Word With You” meets once a month in person and discuss topics that interest members. We would like to invite new-comers (or old ones) to our church who could join us or just visit with us. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at 10:30 am. The topics vary from environment to personalities.
Zoom:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81183859141?pwd=OXlvVHMwK09Eam90WVU5MXhJVjJQdz09
Meeting ID: 811 8385 9141
Passcode: 434401
Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 30, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 31, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 1, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 2, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
August 3, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
cUUriosity Conversations
August 3, 2025 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Mary Safford
Interested in learning more about Unitarian Universalism? Do you have questions about life in this community? Whether you are new to First Unitarian or well-established, please join us for coffee and conversation about Unitarian Universalism.
Humanism Book Discussion
August 3, 2025 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
August 4, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Awakening Heart Sangha
August 4, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 5, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Caring Community Team Meeting
August 5, 2025 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 6, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Bell Choir Rehearsal
August 6, 2025 5:45 pm - 6:45 pm
Auditorium
Contact: Karen Kraemer choir@ucdsm.org
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 7, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 8, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board Game Night
August 8, 2025 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Contact: Gianfranco Berardi, gamenight@ucdsm.org
Meets: Second Fridays; 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. CT; Griffin Hall
Welcome: All
Please join fellow UU friends for a fun night of board games in Griffin Hall. Bring your favorite game as well as any beverages or snacks you might want to share.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 9, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
August 9, 2025 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Led by Ellen Taylor & Martha Sherick-Shen
Childcare
August 10, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
August 11, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Small Group
August 11, 2025 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Jill Moser
Grief Support Circle
August 11, 2025 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Minister's Office
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
Connection Circle
August 11, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Jeremy Guenther
Awakening Heart Sangha
August 11, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 12, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women Around the Table (former UU Women's Lunch Bunch)
August 12, 2025 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Women’s Monthly Lunch
All UU (and UU-interested) women are welcome to join the monthly gathering of the UU Women’s Lunch Bunch (2nd Tuesday of every month at 11:30).
There’s always good food and lively conversation.
Please be sure to RSVP before the luncheon if you plan to attend: womenslunch@ucdsm.org
UU Women's Book Club
August 12, 2025 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Meets: Second Tuesday of the month; 2:00 p.m. CT
This group is for book lovers and those who like to talk about what they’re reading. Books are selected by group members from Des Moines, Urbandale and West Des Moines Public Library Book Group Sets.
Contacts: Jean Tauber or Theresa Miller, bookclub@ucdsm.org
Financial Oversight Committee
August 12, 2025 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Online Only
First Unitarian is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83292744498?pwd=Y0Q1Q29TclZ3SzNWUm9tSXpZWmVQQT09
Meeting ID: 832 9274 4498
Passcode: 465972
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 13, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Queer/Trans Action Group
August 13, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83045131767
Passcode: TAG
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 14, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board of Trustees Meeting
August 14, 2025 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Building Team Meeting
August 14, 2025 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87674930680?pwd=WfEkMrXFeTeZqBS33GsUiCFTOo2ed2.1
Meeting ID: 876 7493 0680
Password: building
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 15, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 16, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Celebrant Team Meeting
August 16, 2025 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Peace Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81038991478?pwd=UOR0NrS5iKdxeI9BVDtJ3UFpoEHwVP.1
Meeting ID: 810 3899 1478
Passcode: Celebrant
UU 201
August 16, 2025 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Mary Safford
These classes with the minister and lay-leaders take a closer look at life and membership in our congregation. Expect to hear from leaders on our Board of Trustees, Stewardship Committee, Pastoral Care Team, and more.
Food Fair Event
August 16, 2025 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Griffin Hall, Gathering Area, Kitchen
CryL
Childcare
August 17, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
Humanism Book Discussion
August 17, 2025 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
August 18, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
August 18, 2025 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Liz Bredeson & Nancee McDowell
Awakening Heart Sangha
August 18, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 19, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
August 19, 2025 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Faithyna Leonard
Board of Trustees Meeting
August 19, 2025 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Soul Matters Writer's Group
August 19, 2025 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Peace Conference Room
Peace Conference Room
UU Writers explores the monthly Soul Matters themes and engages in spiritual discernment through the art of creative writing
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 20, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women's Wednesdays
August 20, 2025 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Chosen by Women, About Women, Discussed by Women
RSVP's sent to wednesdaywomen@ucdsm.org
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 21, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 22, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle (via Zoom)
August 22, 2025 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Led by Frank Bowers
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275552388?pwd=CYwGBfGU2n5sYfDlBuXNmjXz8UHdy2.1
Meeting ID: 892 7555 2388
Passcode: UCDSM
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 23, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
August 24, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
August 25, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
August 25, 2025 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Martha Stephenson and Barb Martin
Awakening Heart Sangha
August 25, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 26, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
A Word With You
August 26, 2025 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall April-November, Zoom December-March
“A Word With You” meets once a month in person and discuss topics that interest members. We would like to invite new-comers (or old ones) to our church who could join us or just visit with us. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at 10:30 am. The topics vary from environment to personalities.
Zoom:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81183859141?pwd=OXlvVHMwK09Eam90WVU5MXhJVjJQdz09
Meeting ID: 811 8385 9141
Passcode: 434401
Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.
Green Sanctuary and Sierra Club Speaker
August 26, 2025 4:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Auditorium, Griffin, Gathering Area, Kitchen
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 27, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
August 27, 2025 6:45 pm - 7:45 pm
Griffin Hall
Led by Sarah Guenther
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 28, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 29, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 30, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
August 31, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
September 1, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Awakening Heart Sangha
September 1, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 2, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Caring Community Team Meeting
September 2, 2025 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
COA Facilitator Meeting
September 2, 2025 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 3, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 4, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
September 4, 2025 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 5, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 6, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
FFFFF Event
September 6, 2025 5:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Griffin Hall, the Kitchen, and Gathering Area
FFFFF Event (set up/take down)
September 6, 2025 4:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Griffin Hall, the Kitchen, and Gathering Area
Childcare
September 7, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
cUUriosity Conversations
September 7, 2025 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Mary Safford
Interested in learning more about Unitarian Universalism? Do you have questions about life in this community? Whether you are new to First Unitarian or well-established, please join us for coffee and conversation about Unitarian Universalism.
Humanism Book Discussion
September 7, 2025 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
September 8, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Small Group
September 8, 2025 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Jill Moser
Grief Support Circle
September 8, 2025 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Minister's Office
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
Connection Circle
September 8, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Jeremy Guenther
Awakening Heart Sangha
September 8, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 9, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women Around the Table (former UU Women's Lunch Bunch)
September 9, 2025 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Women’s Monthly Lunch
All UU (and UU-interested) women are welcome to join the monthly gathering of the UU Women’s Lunch Bunch (2nd Tuesday of every month at 11:30).
There’s always good food and lively conversation.
Please be sure to RSVP before the luncheon if you plan to attend: womenslunch@ucdsm.org
UU Women's Book Club
September 9, 2025 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Meets: Second Tuesday of the month; 2:00 p.m. CT
This group is for book lovers and those who like to talk about what they’re reading. Books are selected by group members from Des Moines, Urbandale and West Des Moines Public Library Book Group Sets.
Contacts: Jean Tauber or Theresa Miller, bookclub@ucdsm.org
Financial Oversight Committee
September 9, 2025 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Online Only
First Unitarian is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83292744498?pwd=Y0Q1Q29TclZ3SzNWUm9tSXpZWmVQQT09
Meeting ID: 832 9274 4498
Passcode: 465972
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 10, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
September 10, 2025 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by John Morrow
Queer/Trans Action Group
September 10, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83045131767
Passcode: TAG
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 11, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
September 11, 2025 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Board of Trustees Meeting
September 11, 2025 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Building Team Meeting
September 11, 2025 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87674930680?pwd=WfEkMrXFeTeZqBS33GsUiCFTOo2ed2.1
Meeting ID: 876 7493 0680
Password: building
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 12, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board Game Night
September 12, 2025 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Contact: Gianfranco Berardi, gamenight@ucdsm.org
Meets: Second Fridays; 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. CT; Griffin Hall
Welcome: All
Please join fellow UU friends for a fun night of board games in Griffin Hall. Bring your favorite game as well as any beverages or snacks you might want to share.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 13, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Leadership Support Team
September 13, 2025 9:00 am - 11:00 am
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Connection Circle
September 13, 2025 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Led by Ellen Taylor & Martha Sherick-Shen
Leadership Support Team Set-Up/Clean-Up
September 13, 2025 8:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Childcare
September 14, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
September 15, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
September 15, 2025 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Liz Bredeson & Nancee McDowell
Awakening Heart Sangha
September 15, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 16, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
September 16, 2025 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Faithyna Leonard
Board of Trustees Meeting
September 16, 2025 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Soul Matters Writer's Group
September 16, 2025 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Peace Conference Room
Peace Conference Room
UU Writers explores the monthly Soul Matters themes and engages in spiritual discernment through the art of creative writing
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 17, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women's Wednesdays
September 17, 2025 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Chosen by Women, About Women, Discussed by Women
RSVP's sent to wednesdaywomen@ucdsm.org
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 18, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
September 18, 2025 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 19, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 20, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Celebrant Team Meeting
September 20, 2025 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Peace Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81038991478?pwd=UOR0NrS5iKdxeI9BVDtJ3UFpoEHwVP.1
Meeting ID: 810 3899 1478
Passcode: Celebrant
UU 201
September 20, 2025 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Mary Safford
These classes with the minister and lay-leaders take a closer look at life and membership in our congregation. Expect to hear from leaders on our Board of Trustees, Stewardship Committee, Pastoral Care Team, and more.
Childcare
September 21, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
Humanism Book Discussion
September 21, 2025 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
September 22, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
September 22, 2025 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Martha Stephenson and Barb Martin
Awakening Heart Sangha
September 22, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 23, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 24, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
September 24, 2025 6:45 pm - 7:45 pm
Griffin Hall
Led by Sarah Guenther
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 25, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
September 25, 2025 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 26, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle (via Zoom)
September 26, 2025 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Led by Frank Bowers
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275552388?pwd=CYwGBfGU2n5sYfDlBuXNmjXz8UHdy2.1
Meeting ID: 892 7555 2388
Passcode: UCDSM
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 27, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
September 28, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
September 29, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Awakening Heart Sangha
September 29, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 30, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
A Word With You
September 30, 2025 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall April-November, Zoom December-March
“A Word With You” meets once a month in person and discuss topics that interest members. We would like to invite new-comers (or old ones) to our church who could join us or just visit with us. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at 10:30 am. The topics vary from environment to personalities.
Zoom:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81183859141?pwd=OXlvVHMwK09Eam90WVU5MXhJVjJQdz09
Meeting ID: 811 8385 9141
Passcode: 434401
Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 1, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 2, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 3, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 4, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
October 5, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
cUUriosity Conversations
October 5, 2025 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Mary Safford
Interested in learning more about Unitarian Universalism? Do you have questions about life in this community? Whether you are new to First Unitarian or well-established, please join us for coffee and conversation about Unitarian Universalism.
Humanism Book Discussion
October 5, 2025 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
October 6, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Awakening Heart Sangha
October 6, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 7, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Caring Community Team Meeting
October 7, 2025 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
COA Facilitator Meeting
October 7, 2025 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 8, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Queer/Trans Action Group
October 8, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83045131767
Passcode: TAG
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 9, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board of Trustees Meeting
October 9, 2025 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Building Team Meeting
October 9, 2025 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87674930680?pwd=WfEkMrXFeTeZqBS33GsUiCFTOo2ed2.1
Meeting ID: 876 7493 0680
Password: building
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 10, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board Game Night
October 10, 2025 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Contact: Gianfranco Berardi, gamenight@ucdsm.org
Meets: Second Fridays; 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. CT; Griffin Hall
Welcome: All
Please join fellow UU friends for a fun night of board games in Griffin Hall. Bring your favorite game as well as any beverages or snacks you might want to share.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 11, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
October 11, 2025 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Led by Ellen Taylor & Martha Sherick-Shen
Childcare
October 12, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
October 13, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Small Group
October 13, 2025 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Jill Moser
Grief Support Circle
October 13, 2025 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Minister's Office
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
Connection Circle
October 13, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Jeremy Guenther
Awakening Heart Sangha
October 13, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 14, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women Around the Table (former UU Women's Lunch Bunch)
October 14, 2025 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Women’s Monthly Lunch
All UU (and UU-interested) women are welcome to join the monthly gathering of the UU Women’s Lunch Bunch (2nd Tuesday of every month at 11:30).
There’s always good food and lively conversation.
Please be sure to RSVP before the luncheon if you plan to attend: womenslunch@ucdsm.org
UU Women's Book Club
October 14, 2025 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Meets: Second Tuesday of the month; 2:00 p.m. CT
This group is for book lovers and those who like to talk about what they’re reading. Books are selected by group members from Des Moines, Urbandale and West Des Moines Public Library Book Group Sets.
Contacts: Jean Tauber or Theresa Miller, bookclub@ucdsm.org
Financial Oversight Committee
October 14, 2025 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Online Only
First Unitarian is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83292744498?pwd=Y0Q1Q29TclZ3SzNWUm9tSXpZWmVQQT09
Meeting ID: 832 9274 4498
Passcode: 465972
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 15, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women's Wednesdays
October 15, 2025 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Chosen by Women, About Women, Discussed by Women
RSVP's sent to wednesdaywomen@ucdsm.org
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 16, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
October 16, 2025 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 17, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 18, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Celebrant Team Meeting
October 18, 2025 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Peace Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81038991478?pwd=UOR0NrS5iKdxeI9BVDtJ3UFpoEHwVP.1
Meeting ID: 810 3899 1478
Passcode: Celebrant
UU 201
October 18, 2025 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Mary Safford
These classes with the minister and lay-leaders take a closer look at life and membership in our congregation. Expect to hear from leaders on our Board of Trustees, Stewardship Committee, Pastoral Care Team, and more.
Progressive Voices Concert: TBA
October 18, 2025 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Auditorium, Gathering Area, Griffin Hall, Kitchen, and Room 105
Progressive Voices Concert Set-Up/Clean-Up
October 18, 2025 4:30 pm - 10:00 pm
Auditorium, Gathering Area, Griffin Hall, kitchen, and Room 107
Childcare
October 19, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
Humanism Book Discussion
October 19, 2025 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
October 20, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
October 20, 2025 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Liz Bredeson & Nancee McDowell
Awakening Heart Sangha
October 20, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 21, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
October 21, 2025 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Faithyna Leonard
Board of Trustees Meeting
October 21, 2025 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Soul Matters Writer's Group
October 21, 2025 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Peace Conference Room
Peace Conference Room
UU Writers explores the monthly Soul Matters themes and engages in spiritual discernment through the art of creative writing
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 22, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
October 22, 2025 6:45 pm - 7:45 pm
Griffin Hall
Led by Sarah Guenther
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 23, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
October 23, 2025 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 24, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle (via Zoom)
October 24, 2025 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Led by Frank Bowers
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275552388?pwd=CYwGBfGU2n5sYfDlBuXNmjXz8UHdy2.1
Meeting ID: 892 7555 2388
Passcode: UCDSM
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 25, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
October 26, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
FFFF Event
October 26, 2025 4:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Mary Safford, Griffin, Gathering Area
DMARC Book Group
October 27, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
October 27, 2025 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Martha Stephenson and Barb Martin
Awakening Heart Sangha
October 27, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 28, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
A Word With You
October 28, 2025 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall April-November, Zoom December-March
“A Word With You” meets once a month in person and discuss topics that interest members. We would like to invite new-comers (or old ones) to our church who could join us or just visit with us. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at 10:30 am. The topics vary from environment to personalities.
Zoom:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81183859141?pwd=OXlvVHMwK09Eam90WVU5MXhJVjJQdz09
Meeting ID: 811 8385 9141
Passcode: 434401
Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 29, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 30, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
October 30, 2025 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 31, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 1, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
November 2, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
cUUriosity Conversations
November 2, 2025 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Mary Safford
Interested in learning more about Unitarian Universalism? Do you have questions about life in this community? Whether you are new to First Unitarian or well-established, please join us for coffee and conversation about Unitarian Universalism.
Humanism Book Discussion
November 2, 2025 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
November 3, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Awakening Heart Sangha
November 3, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 4, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Caring Community Team Meeting
November 4, 2025 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
COA Facilitator Meeting
November 4, 2025 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 5, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 6, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
November 6, 2025 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 7, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 8, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Leadership Support Team
November 8, 2025 9:00 am - 11:00 am
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Connection Circle
November 8, 2025 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Led by Ellen Taylor & Martha Sherick-Shen
Leadership Support Team Set-Up/Clean-Up
November 8, 2025 8:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Childcare
November 9, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
November 10, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Small Group
November 10, 2025 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Jill Moser
Grief Support Circle
November 10, 2025 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Minister's Office
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
Connection Circle
November 10, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Jeremy Guenther
Awakening Heart Sangha
November 10, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 11, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women Around the Table (former UU Women's Lunch Bunch)
November 11, 2025 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Women’s Monthly Lunch
All UU (and UU-interested) women are welcome to join the monthly gathering of the UU Women’s Lunch Bunch (2nd Tuesday of every month at 11:30).
There’s always good food and lively conversation.
Please be sure to RSVP before the luncheon if you plan to attend: womenslunch@ucdsm.org
UU Women's Book Club
November 11, 2025 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Meets: Second Tuesday of the month; 2:00 p.m. CT
This group is for book lovers and those who like to talk about what they’re reading. Books are selected by group members from Des Moines, Urbandale and West Des Moines Public Library Book Group Sets.
Contacts: Jean Tauber or Theresa Miller, bookclub@ucdsm.org
Financial Oversight Committee
November 11, 2025 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Online Only
First Unitarian is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83292744498?pwd=Y0Q1Q29TclZ3SzNWUm9tSXpZWmVQQT09
Meeting ID: 832 9274 4498
Passcode: 465972
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 12, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
November 12, 2025 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by John Morrow
Queer/Trans Action Group
November 12, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83045131767
Passcode: TAG
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 13, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
November 13, 2025 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Board of Trustees Meeting
November 13, 2025 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Building Team Meeting
November 13, 2025 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87674930680?pwd=WfEkMrXFeTeZqBS33GsUiCFTOo2ed2.1
Meeting ID: 876 7493 0680
Password: building
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 14, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board Game Night
November 14, 2025 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Contact: Gianfranco Berardi, gamenight@ucdsm.org
Meets: Second Fridays; 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. CT; Griffin Hall
Welcome: All
Please join fellow UU friends for a fun night of board games in Griffin Hall. Bring your favorite game as well as any beverages or snacks you might want to share.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 15, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Celebrant Team Meeting
November 15, 2025 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Peace Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81038991478?pwd=UOR0NrS5iKdxeI9BVDtJ3UFpoEHwVP.1
Meeting ID: 810 3899 1478
Passcode: Celebrant
UU 201
November 15, 2025 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Mary Safford
These classes with the minister and lay-leaders take a closer look at life and membership in our congregation. Expect to hear from leaders on our Board of Trustees, Stewardship Committee, Pastoral Care Team, and more.
Progressive Voices Concert- TBA
November 15, 2025 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Auditorium, Griffin Hall, Gathering Area, Kitchen, and Room 105
Event time: 7:30 p.m., total time from setup to cleanup: 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Progressive Voices Concert- TBA
November 15, 2025 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Auditorium, Griffin Hall, Gathering Area, Kitchen, and Room 105
Event time: 7:30 p.m., total time from setup to cleanup: 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Childcare
November 16, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
Humanism Book Discussion
November 16, 2025 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
November 17, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
November 17, 2025 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Liz Bredeson & Nancee McDowell
Awakening Heart Sangha
November 17, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 18, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
November 18, 2025 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Faithyna Leonard
Board of Trustees Meeting
November 18, 2025 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Soul Matters Writer's Group
November 18, 2025 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Peace Conference Room
Peace Conference Room
UU Writers explores the monthly Soul Matters themes and engages in spiritual discernment through the art of creative writing
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 19, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women's Wednesdays
November 19, 2025 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Chosen by Women, About Women, Discussed by Women
RSVP's sent to wednesdaywomen@ucdsm.org
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 20, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
November 20, 2025 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 21, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 22, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
November 23, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
November 24, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
November 24, 2025 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Martha Stephenson and Barb Martin
Awakening Heart Sangha
November 24, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 25, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
A Word With You
November 25, 2025 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall April-November, Zoom December-March
“A Word With You” meets once a month in person and discuss topics that interest members. We would like to invite new-comers (or old ones) to our church who could join us or just visit with us. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at 10:30 am. The topics vary from environment to personalities.
Zoom:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81183859141?pwd=OXlvVHMwK09Eam90WVU5MXhJVjJQdz09
Meeting ID: 811 8385 9141
Passcode: 434401
Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 26, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
November 26, 2025 6:45 pm - 7:45 pm
Griffin Hall
Led by Sarah Guenther
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 27, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
November 27, 2025 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 28, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle (via Zoom)
November 28, 2025 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Led by Frank Bowers
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275552388?pwd=CYwGBfGU2n5sYfDlBuXNmjXz8UHdy2.1
Meeting ID: 892 7555 2388
Passcode: UCDSM
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 29, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
November 30, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
December 1, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Awakening Heart Sangha
December 1, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 2, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Caring Community Team Meeting
December 2, 2025 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
COA Facilitator Meeting
December 2, 2025 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 3, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 4, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
December 4, 2025 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 5, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 6, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
December 7, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
cUUriosity Conversations
December 7, 2025 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Mary Safford
Interested in learning more about Unitarian Universalism? Do you have questions about life in this community? Whether you are new to First Unitarian or well-established, please join us for coffee and conversation about Unitarian Universalism.
Humanism Book Discussion
December 7, 2025 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
December 8, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Small Group
December 8, 2025 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Jill Moser
Grief Support Circle
December 8, 2025 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Minister's Office
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
Connection Circle
December 8, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Jeremy Guenther
Awakening Heart Sangha
December 8, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 9, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women Around the Table (former UU Women's Lunch Bunch)
December 9, 2025 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Women’s Monthly Lunch
All UU (and UU-interested) women are welcome to join the monthly gathering of the UU Women’s Lunch Bunch (2nd Tuesday of every month at 11:30).
There’s always good food and lively conversation.
Please be sure to RSVP before the luncheon if you plan to attend: womenslunch@ucdsm.org
UU Women's Book Club
December 9, 2025 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Meets: Second Tuesday of the month; 2:00 p.m. CT
This group is for book lovers and those who like to talk about what they’re reading. Books are selected by group members from Des Moines, Urbandale and West Des Moines Public Library Book Group Sets.
Contacts: Jean Tauber or Theresa Miller, bookclub@ucdsm.org
Financial Oversight Committee
December 9, 2025 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Online Only
First Unitarian is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83292744498?pwd=Y0Q1Q29TclZ3SzNWUm9tSXpZWmVQQT09
Meeting ID: 832 9274 4498
Passcode: 465972
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 10, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
December 10, 2025 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by John Morrow
Queer/Trans Action Group
December 10, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83045131767
Passcode: TAG
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 11, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
December 11, 2025 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Board of Trustees Meeting
December 11, 2025 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Building Team Meeting
December 11, 2025 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87674930680?pwd=WfEkMrXFeTeZqBS33GsUiCFTOo2ed2.1
Meeting ID: 876 7493 0680
Password: building
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 12, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board Game Night
December 12, 2025 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Contact: Gianfranco Berardi, gamenight@ucdsm.org
Meets: Second Fridays; 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. CT; Griffin Hall
Welcome: All
Please join fellow UU friends for a fun night of board games in Griffin Hall. Bring your favorite game as well as any beverages or snacks you might want to share.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 13, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
December 13, 2025 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Led by Ellen Taylor & Martha Sherick-Shen
Childcare
December 14, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
December 15, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
December 15, 2025 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Liz Bredeson & Nancee McDowell
Awakening Heart Sangha
December 15, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 16, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
December 16, 2025 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Faithyna Leonard
Board of Trustees Meeting
December 16, 2025 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Soul Matters Writer's Group
December 16, 2025 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Peace Conference Room
Peace Conference Room
UU Writers explores the monthly Soul Matters themes and engages in spiritual discernment through the art of creative writing
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 17, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women's Wednesdays
December 17, 2025 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Chosen by Women, About Women, Discussed by Women
RSVP's sent to wednesdaywomen@ucdsm.org
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 18, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
December 18, 2025 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 19, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 20, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Celebrant Team Meeting
December 20, 2025 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Peace Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81038991478?pwd=UOR0NrS5iKdxeI9BVDtJ3UFpoEHwVP.1
Meeting ID: 810 3899 1478
Passcode: Celebrant
UU 201
December 20, 2025 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Mary Safford
These classes with the minister and lay-leaders take a closer look at life and membership in our congregation. Expect to hear from leaders on our Board of Trustees, Stewardship Committee, Pastoral Care Team, and more.
Childcare
December 21, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
Humanism Book Discussion
December 21, 2025 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
December 22, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
December 22, 2025 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Martha Stephenson and Barb Martin
Awakening Heart Sangha
December 22, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 23, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 24, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
December 24, 2025 6:45 pm - 7:45 pm
Griffin Hall
Led by Sarah Guenther
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 25, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
December 25, 2025 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 26, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle (via Zoom)
December 26, 2025 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Led by Frank Bowers
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275552388?pwd=CYwGBfGU2n5sYfDlBuXNmjXz8UHdy2.1
Meeting ID: 892 7555 2388
Passcode: UCDSM
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 27, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
December 28, 2025 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
December 29, 2025 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Awakening Heart Sangha
December 29, 2025 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 30, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
A Word With You
December 30, 2025 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall April-November, Zoom December-March
“A Word With You” meets once a month in person and discuss topics that interest members. We would like to invite new-comers (or old ones) to our church who could join us or just visit with us. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at 10:30 am. The topics vary from environment to personalities.
Zoom:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81183859141?pwd=OXlvVHMwK09Eam90WVU5MXhJVjJQdz09
Meeting ID: 811 8385 9141
Passcode: 434401
Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 31, 2025 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 1, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 2, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 3, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
January 4, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
cUUriosity Conversations
January 4, 2026 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Mary Safford
Interested in learning more about Unitarian Universalism? Do you have questions about life in this community? Whether you are new to First Unitarian or well-established, please join us for coffee and conversation about Unitarian Universalism.
Humanism Book Discussion
January 4, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
January 5, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Awakening Heart Sangha
January 5, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 6, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Caring Community Team Meeting
January 6, 2026 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
COA Facilitator Meeting
January 6, 2026 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 7, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 8, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board of Trustees Meeting
January 8, 2026 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Building Team Meeting
January 8, 2026 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87674930680?pwd=WfEkMrXFeTeZqBS33GsUiCFTOo2ed2.1
Meeting ID: 876 7493 0680
Password: building
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 9, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board Game Night
January 9, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Contact: Gianfranco Berardi, gamenight@ucdsm.org
Meets: Second Fridays; 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. CT; Griffin Hall
Welcome: All
Please join fellow UU friends for a fun night of board games in Griffin Hall. Bring your favorite game as well as any beverages or snacks you might want to share.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 10, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Leadership Support Team
January 10, 2026 9:00 am - 11:00 am
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Connection Circle
January 10, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Led by Ellen Taylor & Martha Sherick-Shen
Leadership Support Team Set-Up/Clean-Up
January 10, 2026 8:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Childcare
January 11, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
January 12, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Small Group
January 12, 2026 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Jill Moser
Grief Support Circle
January 12, 2026 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Minister's Office
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
Connection Circle
January 12, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Jeremy Guenther
Awakening Heart Sangha
January 12, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 13, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women Around the Table (former UU Women's Lunch Bunch)
January 13, 2026 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Women’s Monthly Lunch
All UU (and UU-interested) women are welcome to join the monthly gathering of the UU Women’s Lunch Bunch (2nd Tuesday of every month at 11:30).
There’s always good food and lively conversation.
Please be sure to RSVP before the luncheon if you plan to attend: womenslunch@ucdsm.org
UU Women's Book Club
January 13, 2026 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Meets: Second Tuesday of the month; 2:00 p.m. CT
This group is for book lovers and those who like to talk about what they’re reading. Books are selected by group members from Des Moines, Urbandale and West Des Moines Public Library Book Group Sets.
Contacts: Jean Tauber or Theresa Miller, bookclub@ucdsm.org
Financial Oversight Committee
January 13, 2026 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Online Only
First Unitarian is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83292744498?pwd=Y0Q1Q29TclZ3SzNWUm9tSXpZWmVQQT09
Meeting ID: 832 9274 4498
Passcode: 465972
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 14, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Queer/Trans Action Group
January 14, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83045131767
Passcode: TAG
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 15, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
January 15, 2026 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 16, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 17, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Celebrant Team Meeting
January 17, 2026 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Peace Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81038991478?pwd=UOR0NrS5iKdxeI9BVDtJ3UFpoEHwVP.1
Meeting ID: 810 3899 1478
Passcode: Celebrant
Childcare
January 18, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
Humanism Book Discussion
January 18, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
January 19, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
January 19, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Liz Bredeson & Nancee McDowell
Awakening Heart Sangha
January 19, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 20, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
January 20, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Faithyna Leonard
Board of Trustees Meeting
January 20, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Soul Matters Writer's Group
January 20, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Peace Conference Room
Peace Conference Room
UU Writers explores the monthly Soul Matters themes and engages in spiritual discernment through the art of creative writing
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 21, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women's Wednesdays
January 21, 2026 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Chosen by Women, About Women, Discussed by Women
RSVP's sent to wednesdaywomen@ucdsm.org
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 22, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
January 22, 2026 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 23, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle (via Zoom)
January 23, 2026 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Led by Frank Bowers
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275552388?pwd=CYwGBfGU2n5sYfDlBuXNmjXz8UHdy2.1
Meeting ID: 892 7555 2388
Passcode: UCDSM
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 24, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
January 25, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
January 26, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
January 26, 2026 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Martha Stephenson and Barb Martin
Awakening Heart Sangha
January 26, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 27, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
A Word With You
January 27, 2026 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall April-November, Zoom December-March
“A Word With You” meets once a month in person and discuss topics that interest members. We would like to invite new-comers (or old ones) to our church who could join us or just visit with us. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at 10:30 am. The topics vary from environment to personalities.
Zoom:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81183859141?pwd=OXlvVHMwK09Eam90WVU5MXhJVjJQdz09
Meeting ID: 811 8385 9141
Passcode: 434401
Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 28, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
January 28, 2026 6:45 pm - 7:45 pm
Griffin Hall
Led by Sarah Guenther
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 29, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
January 29, 2026 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 30, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 31, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
February 1, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
cUUriosity Conversations
February 1, 2026 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Mary Safford
Interested in learning more about Unitarian Universalism? Do you have questions about life in this community? Whether you are new to First Unitarian or well-established, please join us for coffee and conversation about Unitarian Universalism.
Humanism Book Discussion
February 1, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
February 2, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Awakening Heart Sangha
February 2, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 3, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Caring Community Team Meeting
February 3, 2026 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
COA Facilitator Meeting
February 3, 2026 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 4, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 5, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
February 5, 2026 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 6, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 7, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
February 8, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
February 9, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Small Group
February 9, 2026 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Jill Moser
Grief Support Circle
February 9, 2026 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Minister's Office
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
Connection Circle
February 9, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Jeremy Guenther
Awakening Heart Sangha
February 9, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 10, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women Around the Table (former UU Women's Lunch Bunch)
February 10, 2026 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Women’s Monthly Lunch
All UU (and UU-interested) women are welcome to join the monthly gathering of the UU Women’s Lunch Bunch (2nd Tuesday of every month at 11:30).
There’s always good food and lively conversation.
Please be sure to RSVP before the luncheon if you plan to attend: womenslunch@ucdsm.org
UU Women's Book Club
February 10, 2026 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Meets: Second Tuesday of the month; 2:00 p.m. CT
This group is for book lovers and those who like to talk about what they’re reading. Books are selected by group members from Des Moines, Urbandale and West Des Moines Public Library Book Group Sets.
Contacts: Jean Tauber or Theresa Miller, bookclub@ucdsm.org
Financial Oversight Committee
February 10, 2026 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Online Only
First Unitarian is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83292744498?pwd=Y0Q1Q29TclZ3SzNWUm9tSXpZWmVQQT09
Meeting ID: 832 9274 4498
Passcode: 465972
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 11, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
February 11, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by John Morrow
Queer/Trans Action Group
February 11, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83045131767
Passcode: TAG
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 12, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
February 12, 2026 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Board of Trustees Meeting
February 12, 2026 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Building Team Meeting
February 12, 2026 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87674930680?pwd=WfEkMrXFeTeZqBS33GsUiCFTOo2ed2.1
Meeting ID: 876 7493 0680
Password: building
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 13, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board Game Night
February 13, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Contact: Gianfranco Berardi, gamenight@ucdsm.org
Meets: Second Fridays; 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. CT; Griffin Hall
Welcome: All
Please join fellow UU friends for a fun night of board games in Griffin Hall. Bring your favorite game as well as any beverages or snacks you might want to share.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 14, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
February 14, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Led by Ellen Taylor & Martha Sherick-Shen
Childcare
February 15, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
Humanism Book Discussion
February 15, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
February 16, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
February 16, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Liz Bredeson & Nancee McDowell
Awakening Heart Sangha
February 16, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 17, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
February 17, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Faithyna Leonard
Board of Trustees Meeting
February 17, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Soul Matters Writer's Group
February 17, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Peace Conference Room
Peace Conference Room
UU Writers explores the monthly Soul Matters themes and engages in spiritual discernment through the art of creative writing
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 18, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women's Wednesdays
February 18, 2026 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Chosen by Women, About Women, Discussed by Women
RSVP's sent to wednesdaywomen@ucdsm.org
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 19, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
February 19, 2026 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 20, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 21, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Celebrant Team Meeting
February 21, 2026 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Peace Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81038991478?pwd=UOR0NrS5iKdxeI9BVDtJ3UFpoEHwVP.1
Meeting ID: 810 3899 1478
Passcode: Celebrant
Childcare
February 22, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
February 23, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
February 23, 2026 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Martha Stephenson and Barb Martin
Awakening Heart Sangha
February 23, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 24, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
A Word With You
February 24, 2026 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall April-November, Zoom December-March
“A Word With You” meets once a month in person and discuss topics that interest members. We would like to invite new-comers (or old ones) to our church who could join us or just visit with us. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at 10:30 am. The topics vary from environment to personalities.
Zoom:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81183859141?pwd=OXlvVHMwK09Eam90WVU5MXhJVjJQdz09
Meeting ID: 811 8385 9141
Passcode: 434401
Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 25, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
February 25, 2026 6:45 pm - 7:45 pm
Griffin Hall
Led by Sarah Guenther
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 26, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
February 26, 2026 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 27, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle (via Zoom)
February 27, 2026 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Led by Frank Bowers
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275552388?pwd=CYwGBfGU2n5sYfDlBuXNmjXz8UHdy2.1
Meeting ID: 892 7555 2388
Passcode: UCDSM
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 28, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
March 1, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
cUUriosity Conversations
March 1, 2026 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Mary Safford
Interested in learning more about Unitarian Universalism? Do you have questions about life in this community? Whether you are new to First Unitarian or well-established, please join us for coffee and conversation about Unitarian Universalism.
Humanism Book Discussion
March 1, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
March 2, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Awakening Heart Sangha
March 2, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
March 3, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Caring Community Team Meeting
March 3, 2026 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
March 4, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
March 5, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
March 6, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
March 7, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Progressive Voices Concert- TBA
March 7, 2026 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Auditorium, Griffin Hall, Gathering Area, Kitchen, and Room 105
Progressive Voices Concert- TBA Set-Up/Clean-Up
March 7, 2026 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Auditorium, Griffin Hall, Gathering Area, Kitchen, and Room 105
Childcare
March 8, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
March 9, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Grief Support Circle
March 9, 2026 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Minister's Office
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
Awakening Heart Sangha
March 9, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
March 10, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women Around the Table (former UU Women's Lunch Bunch)
March 10, 2026 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Women’s Monthly Lunch
All UU (and UU-interested) women are welcome to join the monthly gathering of the UU Women’s Lunch Bunch (2nd Tuesday of every month at 11:30).
There’s always good food and lively conversation.
Please be sure to RSVP before the luncheon if you plan to attend: womenslunch@ucdsm.org
UU Women's Book Club
March 10, 2026 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Meets: Second Tuesday of the month; 2:00 p.m. CT
This group is for book lovers and those who like to talk about what they’re reading. Books are selected by group members from Des Moines, Urbandale and West Des Moines Public Library Book Group Sets.
Contacts: Jean Tauber or Theresa Miller, bookclub@ucdsm.org
Financial Oversight Committee
March 10, 2026 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Online Only
First Unitarian is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83292744498?pwd=Y0Q1Q29TclZ3SzNWUm9tSXpZWmVQQT09
Meeting ID: 832 9274 4498
Passcode: 465972
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
March 11, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Queer/Trans Action Group
March 11, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83045131767
Passcode: TAG
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
March 12, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board of Trustees Meeting
March 12, 2026 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Building Team Meeting
March 12, 2026 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87674930680?pwd=WfEkMrXFeTeZqBS33GsUiCFTOo2ed2.1
Meeting ID: 876 7493 0680
Password: building
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
March 13, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board Game Night
March 13, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Contact: Gianfranco Berardi, gamenight@ucdsm.org
Meets: Second Fridays; 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. CT; Griffin Hall
Welcome: All
Please join fellow UU friends for a fun night of board games in Griffin Hall. Bring your favorite game as well as any beverages or snacks you might want to share.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
March 14, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
March 14, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Led by Ellen Taylor & Martha Sherick-Shen
Leadership Support Team Set-Up/Clean-Up
March 14, 2026 8:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Childcare
March 15, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
Humanism Book Discussion
March 15, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
March 16, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
March 16, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Liz Bredeson & Nancee McDowell
Awakening Heart Sangha
March 16, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
March 17, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
March 17, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Faithyna Leonard
Board of Trustees Meeting
March 17, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Soul Matters Writer's Group
March 17, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Peace Conference Room
Peace Conference Room
UU Writers explores the monthly Soul Matters themes and engages in spiritual discernment through the art of creative writing
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
March 18, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women's Wednesdays
March 18, 2026 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Chosen by Women, About Women, Discussed by Women
RSVP's sent to wednesdaywomen@ucdsm.org
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
March 19, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
March 20, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
March 21, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Celebrant Team Meeting
March 21, 2026 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Peace Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81038991478?pwd=UOR0NrS5iKdxeI9BVDtJ3UFpoEHwVP.1
Meeting ID: 810 3899 1478
Passcode: Celebrant
Childcare
March 22, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
March 23, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
March 23, 2026 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Martha Stephenson and Barb Martin
Awakening Heart Sangha
March 23, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
March 24, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
March 25, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
March 25, 2026 6:45 pm - 7:45 pm
Griffin Hall
Led by Sarah Guenther
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
March 26, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
March 27, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle (via Zoom)
March 27, 2026 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Led by Frank Bowers
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275552388?pwd=CYwGBfGU2n5sYfDlBuXNmjXz8UHdy2.1
Meeting ID: 892 7555 2388
Passcode: UCDSM
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
March 28, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
March 29, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
March 30, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Awakening Heart Sangha
March 30, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
March 31, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
A Word With You
March 31, 2026 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall April-November, Zoom December-March
“A Word With You” meets once a month in person and discuss topics that interest members. We would like to invite new-comers (or old ones) to our church who could join us or just visit with us. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at 10:30 am. The topics vary from environment to personalities.
Zoom:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81183859141?pwd=OXlvVHMwK09Eam90WVU5MXhJVjJQdz09
Meeting ID: 811 8385 9141
Passcode: 434401
Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 1, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 2, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 3, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 4, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
April 5, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
cUUriosity Conversations
April 5, 2026 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Mary Safford
Interested in learning more about Unitarian Universalism? Do you have questions about life in this community? Whether you are new to First Unitarian or well-established, please join us for coffee and conversation about Unitarian Universalism.
Humanism Book Discussion
April 5, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
April 6, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Awakening Heart Sangha
April 6, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 7, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Caring Community Team Meeting
April 7, 2026 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 8, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Queer/Trans Action Group
April 8, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83045131767
Passcode: TAG
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 9, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board of Trustees Meeting
April 9, 2026 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Building Team Meeting
April 9, 2026 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87674930680?pwd=WfEkMrXFeTeZqBS33GsUiCFTOo2ed2.1
Meeting ID: 876 7493 0680
Password: building
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 10, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board Game Night
April 10, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Contact: Gianfranco Berardi, gamenight@ucdsm.org
Meets: Second Fridays; 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. CT; Griffin Hall
Welcome: All
Please join fellow UU friends for a fun night of board games in Griffin Hall. Bring your favorite game as well as any beverages or snacks you might want to share.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 11, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
April 11, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Led by Ellen Taylor & Martha Sherick-Shen
Childcare
April 12, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
April 13, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Small Group
April 13, 2026 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Jill Moser
Grief Support Circle
April 13, 2026 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Minister's Office
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
Awakening Heart Sangha
April 13, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 14, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women Around the Table (former UU Women's Lunch Bunch)
April 14, 2026 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Women’s Monthly Lunch
All UU (and UU-interested) women are welcome to join the monthly gathering of the UU Women’s Lunch Bunch (2nd Tuesday of every month at 11:30).
There’s always good food and lively conversation.
Please be sure to RSVP before the luncheon if you plan to attend: womenslunch@ucdsm.org
UU Women's Book Club
April 14, 2026 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Meets: Second Tuesday of the month; 2:00 p.m. CT
This group is for book lovers and those who like to talk about what they’re reading. Books are selected by group members from Des Moines, Urbandale and West Des Moines Public Library Book Group Sets.
Contacts: Jean Tauber or Theresa Miller, bookclub@ucdsm.org
Financial Oversight Committee
April 14, 2026 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Online Only
First Unitarian is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83292744498?pwd=Y0Q1Q29TclZ3SzNWUm9tSXpZWmVQQT09
Meeting ID: 832 9274 4498
Passcode: 465972
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 15, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women's Wednesdays
April 15, 2026 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Chosen by Women, About Women, Discussed by Women
RSVP's sent to wednesdaywomen@ucdsm.org
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 16, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 17, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 18, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Celebrant Team Meeting
April 18, 2026 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Peace Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81038991478?pwd=UOR0NrS5iKdxeI9BVDtJ3UFpoEHwVP.1
Meeting ID: 810 3899 1478
Passcode: Celebrant
Progressive Voices Concerts - TBA
April 18, 2026 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Auditorium, Kitchen, Gathering Area, Griffin Hall, and Room 105
Progressive Voices Concerts Set-Up/Clean-Up
April 18, 2026 4:30 pm - 10:00 pm
Auditorium, Kitchen, Gathering Area, Griffin Hall, and Room 105
Childcare
April 19, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
Humanism Book Discussion
April 19, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
April 20, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
April 20, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Liz Bredeson & Nancee McDowell
Awakening Heart Sangha
April 20, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 21, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
April 21, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Faithyna Leonard
Board of Trustees Meeting
April 21, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Soul Matters Writer's Group
April 21, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Peace Conference Room
Peace Conference Room
UU Writers explores the monthly Soul Matters themes and engages in spiritual discernment through the art of creative writing
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 22, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
April 22, 2026 6:45 pm - 7:45 pm
Griffin Hall
Led by Sarah Guenther
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 23, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 24, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle (via Zoom)
April 24, 2026 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Led by Frank Bowers
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275552388?pwd=CYwGBfGU2n5sYfDlBuXNmjXz8UHdy2.1
Meeting ID: 892 7555 2388
Passcode: UCDSM
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 25, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
April 26, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
FF26 Reservation
April 26, 2026 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Griffin, Gathering Area, Kitchen
DMARC Book Group
April 27, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
April 27, 2026 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Martha Stephenson and Barb Martin
Awakening Heart Sangha
April 27, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 28, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
A Word With You
April 28, 2026 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall April-November, Zoom December-March
“A Word With You” meets once a month in person and discuss topics that interest members. We would like to invite new-comers (or old ones) to our church who could join us or just visit with us. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at 10:30 am. The topics vary from environment to personalities.
Zoom:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81183859141?pwd=OXlvVHMwK09Eam90WVU5MXhJVjJQdz09
Meeting ID: 811 8385 9141
Passcode: 434401
Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 29, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
April 30, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 1, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 2, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
FFFFF Event
May 2, 2026 5:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Griffin Hall, the Kitchen, and Gathering Area
FFFFF Event (set up/take down)
May 2, 2026 4:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Griffin Hall, the Kitchen, and Gathering Area
Childcare
May 3, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
cUUriosity Conversations
May 3, 2026 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Mary Safford
Interested in learning more about Unitarian Universalism? Do you have questions about life in this community? Whether you are new to First Unitarian or well-established, please join us for coffee and conversation about Unitarian Universalism.
Humanism Book Discussion
May 3, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
May 4, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Awakening Heart Sangha
May 4, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 5, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Caring Community Team Meeting
May 5, 2026 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 6, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 7, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 8, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board Game Night
May 8, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Contact: Gianfranco Berardi, gamenight@ucdsm.org
Meets: Second Fridays; 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. CT; Griffin Hall
Welcome: All
Please join fellow UU friends for a fun night of board games in Griffin Hall. Bring your favorite game as well as any beverages or snacks you might want to share.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 9, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
May 9, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Led by Ellen Taylor & Martha Sherick-Shen
Leadership Support Team Set-Up/Clean-Up
May 9, 2026 8:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Childcare
May 10, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
May 11, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Grief Support Circle
May 11, 2026 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Minister's Office
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
Awakening Heart Sangha
May 11, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 12, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women Around the Table (former UU Women's Lunch Bunch)
May 12, 2026 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Women’s Monthly Lunch
All UU (and UU-interested) women are welcome to join the monthly gathering of the UU Women’s Lunch Bunch (2nd Tuesday of every month at 11:30).
There’s always good food and lively conversation.
Please be sure to RSVP before the luncheon if you plan to attend: womenslunch@ucdsm.org
UU Women's Book Club
May 12, 2026 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Meets: Second Tuesday of the month; 2:00 p.m. CT
This group is for book lovers and those who like to talk about what they’re reading. Books are selected by group members from Des Moines, Urbandale and West Des Moines Public Library Book Group Sets.
Contacts: Jean Tauber or Theresa Miller, bookclub@ucdsm.org
Financial Oversight Committee
May 12, 2026 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Online Only
First Unitarian is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83292744498?pwd=Y0Q1Q29TclZ3SzNWUm9tSXpZWmVQQT09
Meeting ID: 832 9274 4498
Passcode: 465972
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 13, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Queer/Trans Action Group
May 13, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83045131767
Passcode: TAG
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 14, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board of Trustees Meeting
May 14, 2026 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Building Team Meeting
May 14, 2026 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87674930680?pwd=WfEkMrXFeTeZqBS33GsUiCFTOo2ed2.1
Meeting ID: 876 7493 0680
Password: building
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 15, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 16, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Celebrant Team Meeting
May 16, 2026 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Peace Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81038991478?pwd=UOR0NrS5iKdxeI9BVDtJ3UFpoEHwVP.1
Meeting ID: 810 3899 1478
Passcode: Celebrant
Progressive Voices Concert
May 16, 2026 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Auditorium, Gathering Area, Griffin Hall, Kitchen, and Room 105
Progressive Voices Concert Set-Up/Clean-Up
May 16, 2026 4:30 pm - 10:00 pm
Auditorium, Gathering Area, Griffin Hall, Kitchen, and Room 105
Childcare
May 17, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
Humanism Book Discussion
May 17, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
May 18, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
May 18, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Liz Bredeson & Nancee McDowell
Awakening Heart Sangha
May 18, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 19, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
May 19, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Faithyna Leonard
Board of Trustees Meeting
May 19, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Soul Matters Writer's Group
May 19, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Peace Conference Room
Peace Conference Room
UU Writers explores the monthly Soul Matters themes and engages in spiritual discernment through the art of creative writing
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 20, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women's Wednesdays
May 20, 2026 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Chosen by Women, About Women, Discussed by Women
RSVP's sent to wednesdaywomen@ucdsm.org
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 21, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 22, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle (via Zoom)
May 22, 2026 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Led by Frank Bowers
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275552388?pwd=CYwGBfGU2n5sYfDlBuXNmjXz8UHdy2.1
Meeting ID: 892 7555 2388
Passcode: UCDSM
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 23, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
May 24, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
May 25, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
May 25, 2026 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Martha Stephenson and Barb Martin
Awakening Heart Sangha
May 25, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 26, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
A Word With You
May 26, 2026 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall April-November, Zoom December-March
“A Word With You” meets once a month in person and discuss topics that interest members. We would like to invite new-comers (or old ones) to our church who could join us or just visit with us. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at 10:30 am. The topics vary from environment to personalities.
Zoom:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81183859141?pwd=OXlvVHMwK09Eam90WVU5MXhJVjJQdz09
Meeting ID: 811 8385 9141
Passcode: 434401
Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 27, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
May 27, 2026 6:45 pm - 7:45 pm
Griffin Hall
Led by Sarah Guenther
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 28, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 29, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
May 30, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
May 31, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
June 1, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Awakening Heart Sangha
June 1, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 2, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Caring Community Team Meeting
June 2, 2026 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 3, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 4, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 5, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 6, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
June 7, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
cUUriosity Conversations
June 7, 2026 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Mary Safford
Interested in learning more about Unitarian Universalism? Do you have questions about life in this community? Whether you are new to First Unitarian or well-established, please join us for coffee and conversation about Unitarian Universalism.
Humanism Book Discussion
June 7, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
June 8, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Grief Support Circle
June 8, 2026 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Minister's Office
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
Awakening Heart Sangha
June 8, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 9, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women Around the Table (former UU Women's Lunch Bunch)
June 9, 2026 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Women’s Monthly Lunch
All UU (and UU-interested) women are welcome to join the monthly gathering of the UU Women’s Lunch Bunch (2nd Tuesday of every month at 11:30).
There’s always good food and lively conversation.
Please be sure to RSVP before the luncheon if you plan to attend: womenslunch@ucdsm.org
UU Women's Book Club
June 9, 2026 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Meets: Second Tuesday of the month; 2:00 p.m. CT
This group is for book lovers and those who like to talk about what they’re reading. Books are selected by group members from Des Moines, Urbandale and West Des Moines Public Library Book Group Sets.
Contacts: Jean Tauber or Theresa Miller, bookclub@ucdsm.org
Financial Oversight Committee
June 9, 2026 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Online Only
First Unitarian is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83292744498?pwd=Y0Q1Q29TclZ3SzNWUm9tSXpZWmVQQT09
Meeting ID: 832 9274 4498
Passcode: 465972
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 10, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Queer/Trans Action Group
June 10, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83045131767
Passcode: TAG
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 11, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board of Trustees Meeting
June 11, 2026 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Building Team Meeting
June 11, 2026 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87674930680?pwd=WfEkMrXFeTeZqBS33GsUiCFTOo2ed2.1
Meeting ID: 876 7493 0680
Password: building
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 12, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board Game Night
June 12, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Contact: Gianfranco Berardi, gamenight@ucdsm.org
Meets: Second Fridays; 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. CT; Griffin Hall
Welcome: All
Please join fellow UU friends for a fun night of board games in Griffin Hall. Bring your favorite game as well as any beverages or snacks you might want to share.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 13, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
June 13, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Led by Ellen Taylor & Martha Sherick-Shen
Childcare
June 14, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
June 15, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
June 15, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Liz Bredeson & Nancee McDowell
Awakening Heart Sangha
June 15, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 16, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
June 16, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Faithyna Leonard
Board of Trustees Meeting
June 16, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Soul Matters Writer's Group
June 16, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Peace Conference Room
Peace Conference Room
UU Writers explores the monthly Soul Matters themes and engages in spiritual discernment through the art of creative writing
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 17, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women's Wednesdays
June 17, 2026 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Chosen by Women, About Women, Discussed by Women
RSVP's sent to wednesdaywomen@ucdsm.org
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 18, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 19, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 20, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Celebrant Team Meeting
June 20, 2026 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Peace Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81038991478?pwd=UOR0NrS5iKdxeI9BVDtJ3UFpoEHwVP.1
Meeting ID: 810 3899 1478
Passcode: Celebrant
Childcare
June 21, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
Humanism Book Discussion
June 21, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
June 22, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
June 22, 2026 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Martha Stephenson and Barb Martin
Awakening Heart Sangha
June 22, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 23, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 24, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
June 24, 2026 6:45 pm - 7:45 pm
Griffin Hall
Led by Sarah Guenther
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 25, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 26, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle (via Zoom)
June 26, 2026 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Led by Frank Bowers
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275552388?pwd=CYwGBfGU2n5sYfDlBuXNmjXz8UHdy2.1
Meeting ID: 892 7555 2388
Passcode: UCDSM
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 27, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
June 28, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
June 29, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Awakening Heart Sangha
June 29, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
June 30, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
A Word With You
June 30, 2026 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall April-November, Zoom December-March
“A Word With You” meets once a month in person and discuss topics that interest members. We would like to invite new-comers (or old ones) to our church who could join us or just visit with us. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at 10:30 am. The topics vary from environment to personalities.
Zoom:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81183859141?pwd=OXlvVHMwK09Eam90WVU5MXhJVjJQdz09
Meeting ID: 811 8385 9141
Passcode: 434401
Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 1, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 2, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 3, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 4, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
July 5, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
cUUriosity Conversations
July 5, 2026 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Mary Safford
Interested in learning more about Unitarian Universalism? Do you have questions about life in this community? Whether you are new to First Unitarian or well-established, please join us for coffee and conversation about Unitarian Universalism.
Humanism Book Discussion
July 5, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
July 6, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Awakening Heart Sangha
July 6, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 7, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Caring Community Team Meeting
July 7, 2026 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 8, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Queer/Trans Action Group
July 8, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83045131767
Passcode: TAG
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 9, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board of Trustees Meeting
July 9, 2026 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Building Team Meeting
July 9, 2026 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87674930680?pwd=WfEkMrXFeTeZqBS33GsUiCFTOo2ed2.1
Meeting ID: 876 7493 0680
Password: building
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 10, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board Game Night
July 10, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Contact: Gianfranco Berardi, gamenight@ucdsm.org
Meets: Second Fridays; 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. CT; Griffin Hall
Welcome: All
Please join fellow UU friends for a fun night of board games in Griffin Hall. Bring your favorite game as well as any beverages or snacks you might want to share.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 11, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
July 11, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Led by Ellen Taylor & Martha Sherick-Shen
Leadership Support Team Set-Up/Clean-Up
July 11, 2026 8:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Childcare
July 12, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
July 13, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Grief Support Circle
July 13, 2026 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Minister's Office
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
Awakening Heart Sangha
July 13, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 14, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women Around the Table (former UU Women's Lunch Bunch)
July 14, 2026 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Women’s Monthly Lunch
All UU (and UU-interested) women are welcome to join the monthly gathering of the UU Women’s Lunch Bunch (2nd Tuesday of every month at 11:30).
There’s always good food and lively conversation.
Please be sure to RSVP before the luncheon if you plan to attend: womenslunch@ucdsm.org
UU Women's Book Club
July 14, 2026 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Meets: Second Tuesday of the month; 2:00 p.m. CT
This group is for book lovers and those who like to talk about what they’re reading. Books are selected by group members from Des Moines, Urbandale and West Des Moines Public Library Book Group Sets.
Contacts: Jean Tauber or Theresa Miller, bookclub@ucdsm.org
Financial Oversight Committee
July 14, 2026 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Online Only
First Unitarian is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83292744498?pwd=Y0Q1Q29TclZ3SzNWUm9tSXpZWmVQQT09
Meeting ID: 832 9274 4498
Passcode: 465972
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 15, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women's Wednesdays
July 15, 2026 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Chosen by Women, About Women, Discussed by Women
RSVP's sent to wednesdaywomen@ucdsm.org
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 16, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 17, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 18, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Celebrant Team Meeting
July 18, 2026 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Peace Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81038991478?pwd=UOR0NrS5iKdxeI9BVDtJ3UFpoEHwVP.1
Meeting ID: 810 3899 1478
Passcode: Celebrant
Childcare
July 19, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
Humanism Book Discussion
July 19, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
July 20, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
July 20, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Liz Bredeson & Nancee McDowell
Awakening Heart Sangha
July 20, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 21, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
July 21, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Faithyna Leonard
Board of Trustees Meeting
July 21, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Soul Matters Writer's Group
July 21, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Peace Conference Room
Peace Conference Room
UU Writers explores the monthly Soul Matters themes and engages in spiritual discernment through the art of creative writing
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 22, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
July 22, 2026 6:45 pm - 7:45 pm
Griffin Hall
Led by Sarah Guenther
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 23, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 24, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle (via Zoom)
July 24, 2026 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Led by Frank Bowers
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275552388?pwd=CYwGBfGU2n5sYfDlBuXNmjXz8UHdy2.1
Meeting ID: 892 7555 2388
Passcode: UCDSM
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 25, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
July 26, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
July 27, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
July 27, 2026 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Martha Stephenson and Barb Martin
Awakening Heart Sangha
July 27, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 28, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
A Word With You
July 28, 2026 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall April-November, Zoom December-March
“A Word With You” meets once a month in person and discuss topics that interest members. We would like to invite new-comers (or old ones) to our church who could join us or just visit with us. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at 10:30 am. The topics vary from environment to personalities.
Zoom:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81183859141?pwd=OXlvVHMwK09Eam90WVU5MXhJVjJQdz09
Meeting ID: 811 8385 9141
Passcode: 434401
Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 29, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 30, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
July 31, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 1, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
August 2, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
cUUriosity Conversations
August 2, 2026 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Mary Safford
Interested in learning more about Unitarian Universalism? Do you have questions about life in this community? Whether you are new to First Unitarian or well-established, please join us for coffee and conversation about Unitarian Universalism.
Humanism Book Discussion
August 2, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
August 3, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Awakening Heart Sangha
August 3, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 4, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Caring Community Team Meeting
August 4, 2026 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 5, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 6, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 7, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 8, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
August 8, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Led by Ellen Taylor & Martha Sherick-Shen
Childcare
August 9, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
August 10, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Small Group
August 10, 2026 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Jill Moser
Grief Support Circle
August 10, 2026 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Minister's Office
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
Connection Circle
August 10, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Jeremy Guenther
Awakening Heart Sangha
August 10, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 11, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women Around the Table (former UU Women's Lunch Bunch)
August 11, 2026 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Women’s Monthly Lunch
All UU (and UU-interested) women are welcome to join the monthly gathering of the UU Women’s Lunch Bunch (2nd Tuesday of every month at 11:30).
There’s always good food and lively conversation.
Please be sure to RSVP before the luncheon if you plan to attend: womenslunch@ucdsm.org
UU Women's Book Club
August 11, 2026 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Meets: Second Tuesday of the month; 2:00 p.m. CT
This group is for book lovers and those who like to talk about what they’re reading. Books are selected by group members from Des Moines, Urbandale and West Des Moines Public Library Book Group Sets.
Contacts: Jean Tauber or Theresa Miller, bookclub@ucdsm.org
Financial Oversight Committee
August 11, 2026 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Online Only
First Unitarian is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83292744498?pwd=Y0Q1Q29TclZ3SzNWUm9tSXpZWmVQQT09
Meeting ID: 832 9274 4498
Passcode: 465972
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 12, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Queer/Trans Action Group
August 12, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83045131767
Passcode: TAG
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 13, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board of Trustees Meeting
August 13, 2026 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Building Team Meeting
August 13, 2026 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87674930680?pwd=WfEkMrXFeTeZqBS33GsUiCFTOo2ed2.1
Meeting ID: 876 7493 0680
Password: building
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 14, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board Game Night
August 14, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Contact: Gianfranco Berardi, gamenight@ucdsm.org
Meets: Second Fridays; 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. CT; Griffin Hall
Welcome: All
Please join fellow UU friends for a fun night of board games in Griffin Hall. Bring your favorite game as well as any beverages or snacks you might want to share.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 15, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Celebrant Team Meeting
August 15, 2026 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Peace Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81038991478?pwd=UOR0NrS5iKdxeI9BVDtJ3UFpoEHwVP.1
Meeting ID: 810 3899 1478
Passcode: Celebrant
Childcare
August 16, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
Humanism Book Discussion
August 16, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
August 17, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
August 17, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Liz Bredeson & Nancee McDowell
Awakening Heart Sangha
August 17, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 18, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
August 18, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Faithyna Leonard
Board of Trustees Meeting
August 18, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Soul Matters Writer's Group
August 18, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Peace Conference Room
Peace Conference Room
UU Writers explores the monthly Soul Matters themes and engages in spiritual discernment through the art of creative writing
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 19, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women's Wednesdays
August 19, 2026 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Chosen by Women, About Women, Discussed by Women
RSVP's sent to wednesdaywomen@ucdsm.org
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 20, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 21, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 22, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
August 23, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
August 24, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
August 24, 2026 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Martha Stephenson and Barb Martin
Awakening Heart Sangha
August 24, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 25, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
A Word With You
August 25, 2026 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall April-November, Zoom December-March
“A Word With You” meets once a month in person and discuss topics that interest members. We would like to invite new-comers (or old ones) to our church who could join us or just visit with us. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at 10:30 am. The topics vary from environment to personalities.
Zoom:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81183859141?pwd=OXlvVHMwK09Eam90WVU5MXhJVjJQdz09
Meeting ID: 811 8385 9141
Passcode: 434401
Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 26, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
August 26, 2026 6:45 pm - 7:45 pm
Griffin Hall
Led by Sarah Guenther
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 27, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 28, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle (via Zoom)
August 28, 2026 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Led by Frank Bowers
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275552388?pwd=CYwGBfGU2n5sYfDlBuXNmjXz8UHdy2.1
Meeting ID: 892 7555 2388
Passcode: UCDSM
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
August 29, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
August 30, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
August 31, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Awakening Heart Sangha
August 31, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 1, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Caring Community Team Meeting
September 1, 2026 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
COA Facilitator Meeting
September 1, 2026 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 2, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 3, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
September 3, 2026 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 4, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 5, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
September 6, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
cUUriosity Conversations
September 6, 2026 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Mary Safford
Interested in learning more about Unitarian Universalism? Do you have questions about life in this community? Whether you are new to First Unitarian or well-established, please join us for coffee and conversation about Unitarian Universalism.
Humanism Book Discussion
September 6, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
September 7, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Awakening Heart Sangha
September 7, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 8, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women Around the Table (former UU Women's Lunch Bunch)
September 8, 2026 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Women’s Monthly Lunch
All UU (and UU-interested) women are welcome to join the monthly gathering of the UU Women’s Lunch Bunch (2nd Tuesday of every month at 11:30).
There’s always good food and lively conversation.
Please be sure to RSVP before the luncheon if you plan to attend: womenslunch@ucdsm.org
UU Women's Book Club
September 8, 2026 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Meets: Second Tuesday of the month; 2:00 p.m. CT
This group is for book lovers and those who like to talk about what they’re reading. Books are selected by group members from Des Moines, Urbandale and West Des Moines Public Library Book Group Sets.
Contacts: Jean Tauber or Theresa Miller, bookclub@ucdsm.org
Financial Oversight Committee
September 8, 2026 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Online Only
First Unitarian is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83292744498?pwd=Y0Q1Q29TclZ3SzNWUm9tSXpZWmVQQT09
Meeting ID: 832 9274 4498
Passcode: 465972
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 9, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
September 9, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by John Morrow
Queer/Trans Action Group
September 9, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83045131767
Passcode: TAG
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 10, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
September 10, 2026 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Board of Trustees Meeting
September 10, 2026 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Building Team Meeting
September 10, 2026 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87674930680?pwd=WfEkMrXFeTeZqBS33GsUiCFTOo2ed2.1
Meeting ID: 876 7493 0680
Password: building
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 11, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board Game Night
September 11, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Contact: Gianfranco Berardi, gamenight@ucdsm.org
Meets: Second Fridays; 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. CT; Griffin Hall
Welcome: All
Please join fellow UU friends for a fun night of board games in Griffin Hall. Bring your favorite game as well as any beverages or snacks you might want to share.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 12, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Leadership Support Team
September 12, 2026 9:00 am - 11:00 am
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Connection Circle
September 12, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Led by Ellen Taylor & Martha Sherick-Shen
Leadership Support Team Set-Up/Clean-Up
September 12, 2026 8:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Childcare
September 13, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
September 14, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Small Group
September 14, 2026 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Jill Moser
Grief Support Circle
September 14, 2026 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Minister's Office
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
Connection Circle
September 14, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Jeremy Guenther
Awakening Heart Sangha
September 14, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 15, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
September 15, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Faithyna Leonard
Board of Trustees Meeting
September 15, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Soul Matters Writer's Group
September 15, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Peace Conference Room
Peace Conference Room
UU Writers explores the monthly Soul Matters themes and engages in spiritual discernment through the art of creative writing
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 16, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women's Wednesdays
September 16, 2026 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Chosen by Women, About Women, Discussed by Women
RSVP's sent to wednesdaywomen@ucdsm.org
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 17, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
September 17, 2026 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 18, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 19, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Celebrant Team Meeting
September 19, 2026 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Peace Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81038991478?pwd=UOR0NrS5iKdxeI9BVDtJ3UFpoEHwVP.1
Meeting ID: 810 3899 1478
Passcode: Celebrant
Childcare
September 20, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
Humanism Book Discussion
September 20, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
September 21, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
September 21, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Liz Bredeson & Nancee McDowell
Awakening Heart Sangha
September 21, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 22, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 23, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
September 23, 2026 6:45 pm - 7:45 pm
Griffin Hall
Led by Sarah Guenther
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 24, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
September 24, 2026 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 25, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle (via Zoom)
September 25, 2026 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Led by Frank Bowers
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275552388?pwd=CYwGBfGU2n5sYfDlBuXNmjXz8UHdy2.1
Meeting ID: 892 7555 2388
Passcode: UCDSM
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 26, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
September 27, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
September 28, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
September 28, 2026 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Martha Stephenson and Barb Martin
Awakening Heart Sangha
September 28, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 29, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
A Word With You
September 29, 2026 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall April-November, Zoom December-March
“A Word With You” meets once a month in person and discuss topics that interest members. We would like to invite new-comers (or old ones) to our church who could join us or just visit with us. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at 10:30 am. The topics vary from environment to personalities.
Zoom:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81183859141?pwd=OXlvVHMwK09Eam90WVU5MXhJVjJQdz09
Meeting ID: 811 8385 9141
Passcode: 434401
Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
September 30, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 1, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 2, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 3, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
October 4, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
cUUriosity Conversations
October 4, 2026 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Mary Safford
Interested in learning more about Unitarian Universalism? Do you have questions about life in this community? Whether you are new to First Unitarian or well-established, please join us for coffee and conversation about Unitarian Universalism.
Humanism Book Discussion
October 4, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
October 5, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Awakening Heart Sangha
October 5, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 6, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Caring Community Team Meeting
October 6, 2026 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
COA Facilitator Meeting
October 6, 2026 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 7, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 8, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board of Trustees Meeting
October 8, 2026 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Building Team Meeting
October 8, 2026 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87674930680?pwd=WfEkMrXFeTeZqBS33GsUiCFTOo2ed2.1
Meeting ID: 876 7493 0680
Password: building
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 9, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board Game Night
October 9, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Contact: Gianfranco Berardi, gamenight@ucdsm.org
Meets: Second Fridays; 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. CT; Griffin Hall
Welcome: All
Please join fellow UU friends for a fun night of board games in Griffin Hall. Bring your favorite game as well as any beverages or snacks you might want to share.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 10, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
October 10, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Led by Ellen Taylor & Martha Sherick-Shen
Childcare
October 11, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
October 12, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Small Group
October 12, 2026 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Jill Moser
Grief Support Circle
October 12, 2026 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Minister's Office
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
Connection Circle
October 12, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Jeremy Guenther
Awakening Heart Sangha
October 12, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 13, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women Around the Table (former UU Women's Lunch Bunch)
October 13, 2026 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Women’s Monthly Lunch
All UU (and UU-interested) women are welcome to join the monthly gathering of the UU Women’s Lunch Bunch (2nd Tuesday of every month at 11:30).
There’s always good food and lively conversation.
Please be sure to RSVP before the luncheon if you plan to attend: womenslunch@ucdsm.org
UU Women's Book Club
October 13, 2026 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Meets: Second Tuesday of the month; 2:00 p.m. CT
This group is for book lovers and those who like to talk about what they’re reading. Books are selected by group members from Des Moines, Urbandale and West Des Moines Public Library Book Group Sets.
Contacts: Jean Tauber or Theresa Miller, bookclub@ucdsm.org
Financial Oversight Committee
October 13, 2026 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Online Only
First Unitarian is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83292744498?pwd=Y0Q1Q29TclZ3SzNWUm9tSXpZWmVQQT09
Meeting ID: 832 9274 4498
Passcode: 465972
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 14, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Queer/Trans Action Group
October 14, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83045131767
Passcode: TAG
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 15, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
October 15, 2026 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 16, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 17, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Celebrant Team Meeting
October 17, 2026 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Peace Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81038991478?pwd=UOR0NrS5iKdxeI9BVDtJ3UFpoEHwVP.1
Meeting ID: 810 3899 1478
Passcode: Celebrant
Childcare
October 18, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
Humanism Book Discussion
October 18, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
October 19, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
October 19, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Liz Bredeson & Nancee McDowell
Awakening Heart Sangha
October 19, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 20, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
October 20, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Faithyna Leonard
Board of Trustees Meeting
October 20, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Soul Matters Writer's Group
October 20, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Peace Conference Room
Peace Conference Room
UU Writers explores the monthly Soul Matters themes and engages in spiritual discernment through the art of creative writing
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 21, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women's Wednesdays
October 21, 2026 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Chosen by Women, About Women, Discussed by Women
RSVP's sent to wednesdaywomen@ucdsm.org
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 22, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
October 22, 2026 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 23, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle (via Zoom)
October 23, 2026 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Led by Frank Bowers
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275552388?pwd=CYwGBfGU2n5sYfDlBuXNmjXz8UHdy2.1
Meeting ID: 892 7555 2388
Passcode: UCDSM
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 24, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
October 25, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
October 26, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
October 26, 2026 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Martha Stephenson and Barb Martin
Awakening Heart Sangha
October 26, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 27, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
A Word With You
October 27, 2026 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall April-November, Zoom December-March
“A Word With You” meets once a month in person and discuss topics that interest members. We would like to invite new-comers (or old ones) to our church who could join us or just visit with us. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at 10:30 am. The topics vary from environment to personalities.
Zoom:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81183859141?pwd=OXlvVHMwK09Eam90WVU5MXhJVjJQdz09
Meeting ID: 811 8385 9141
Passcode: 434401
Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 28, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
October 28, 2026 6:45 pm - 7:45 pm
Griffin Hall
Led by Sarah Guenther
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 29, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
October 29, 2026 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 30, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
October 31, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
November 1, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
cUUriosity Conversations
November 1, 2026 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Mary Safford
Interested in learning more about Unitarian Universalism? Do you have questions about life in this community? Whether you are new to First Unitarian or well-established, please join us for coffee and conversation about Unitarian Universalism.
Humanism Book Discussion
November 1, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
November 2, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Awakening Heart Sangha
November 2, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 3, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Caring Community Team Meeting
November 3, 2026 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
COA Facilitator Meeting
November 3, 2026 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 4, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 5, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
November 5, 2026 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 6, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 7, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
November 8, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
November 9, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Small Group
November 9, 2026 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Jill Moser
Grief Support Circle
November 9, 2026 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Minister's Office
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
Connection Circle
November 9, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Jeremy Guenther
Awakening Heart Sangha
November 9, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 10, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women Around the Table (former UU Women's Lunch Bunch)
November 10, 2026 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Women’s Monthly Lunch
All UU (and UU-interested) women are welcome to join the monthly gathering of the UU Women’s Lunch Bunch (2nd Tuesday of every month at 11:30).
There’s always good food and lively conversation.
Please be sure to RSVP before the luncheon if you plan to attend: womenslunch@ucdsm.org
UU Women's Book Club
November 10, 2026 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Meets: Second Tuesday of the month; 2:00 p.m. CT
This group is for book lovers and those who like to talk about what they’re reading. Books are selected by group members from Des Moines, Urbandale and West Des Moines Public Library Book Group Sets.
Contacts: Jean Tauber or Theresa Miller, bookclub@ucdsm.org
Financial Oversight Committee
November 10, 2026 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Online Only
First Unitarian is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83292744498?pwd=Y0Q1Q29TclZ3SzNWUm9tSXpZWmVQQT09
Meeting ID: 832 9274 4498
Passcode: 465972
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 11, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
November 11, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by John Morrow
Queer/Trans Action Group
November 11, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83045131767
Passcode: TAG
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 12, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
November 12, 2026 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Board of Trustees Meeting
November 12, 2026 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Building Team Meeting
November 12, 2026 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87674930680?pwd=WfEkMrXFeTeZqBS33GsUiCFTOo2ed2.1
Meeting ID: 876 7493 0680
Password: building
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 13, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board Game Night
November 13, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Contact: Gianfranco Berardi, gamenight@ucdsm.org
Meets: Second Fridays; 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. CT; Griffin Hall
Welcome: All
Please join fellow UU friends for a fun night of board games in Griffin Hall. Bring your favorite game as well as any beverages or snacks you might want to share.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 14, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Leadership Support Team
November 14, 2026 9:00 am - 11:00 am
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Connection Circle
November 14, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Led by Ellen Taylor & Martha Sherick-Shen
Leadership Support Team Set-Up/Clean-Up
November 14, 2026 8:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Childcare
November 15, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
Humanism Book Discussion
November 15, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
November 16, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
November 16, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Liz Bredeson & Nancee McDowell
Awakening Heart Sangha
November 16, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 17, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
November 17, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Faithyna Leonard
Board of Trustees Meeting
November 17, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Soul Matters Writer's Group
November 17, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Peace Conference Room
Peace Conference Room
UU Writers explores the monthly Soul Matters themes and engages in spiritual discernment through the art of creative writing
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 18, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women's Wednesdays
November 18, 2026 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Chosen by Women, About Women, Discussed by Women
RSVP's sent to wednesdaywomen@ucdsm.org
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 19, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
November 19, 2026 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 20, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 21, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Celebrant Team Meeting
November 21, 2026 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Peace Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81038991478?pwd=UOR0NrS5iKdxeI9BVDtJ3UFpoEHwVP.1
Meeting ID: 810 3899 1478
Passcode: Celebrant
Childcare
November 22, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
November 23, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
November 23, 2026 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Martha Stephenson and Barb Martin
Awakening Heart Sangha
November 23, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 24, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
A Word With You
November 24, 2026 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall April-November, Zoom December-March
“A Word With You” meets once a month in person and discuss topics that interest members. We would like to invite new-comers (or old ones) to our church who could join us or just visit with us. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at 10:30 am. The topics vary from environment to personalities.
Zoom:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81183859141?pwd=OXlvVHMwK09Eam90WVU5MXhJVjJQdz09
Meeting ID: 811 8385 9141
Passcode: 434401
Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 25, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
November 25, 2026 6:45 pm - 7:45 pm
Griffin Hall
Led by Sarah Guenther
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 26, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
November 26, 2026 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 27, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle (via Zoom)
November 27, 2026 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Led by Frank Bowers
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275552388?pwd=CYwGBfGU2n5sYfDlBuXNmjXz8UHdy2.1
Meeting ID: 892 7555 2388
Passcode: UCDSM
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
November 28, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
November 29, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
November 30, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Awakening Heart Sangha
November 30, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 1, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Caring Community Team Meeting
December 1, 2026 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
COA Facilitator Meeting
December 1, 2026 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 2, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 3, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
December 3, 2026 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 4, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 5, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
December 6, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
cUUriosity Conversations
December 6, 2026 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Mary Safford
Interested in learning more about Unitarian Universalism? Do you have questions about life in this community? Whether you are new to First Unitarian or well-established, please join us for coffee and conversation about Unitarian Universalism.
Humanism Book Discussion
December 6, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
December 7, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Awakening Heart Sangha
December 7, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 8, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women Around the Table (former UU Women's Lunch Bunch)
December 8, 2026 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Women’s Monthly Lunch
All UU (and UU-interested) women are welcome to join the monthly gathering of the UU Women’s Lunch Bunch (2nd Tuesday of every month at 11:30).
There’s always good food and lively conversation.
Please be sure to RSVP before the luncheon if you plan to attend: womenslunch@ucdsm.org
UU Women's Book Club
December 8, 2026 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Meets: Second Tuesday of the month; 2:00 p.m. CT
This group is for book lovers and those who like to talk about what they’re reading. Books are selected by group members from Des Moines, Urbandale and West Des Moines Public Library Book Group Sets.
Contacts: Jean Tauber or Theresa Miller, bookclub@ucdsm.org
Financial Oversight Committee
December 8, 2026 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Online Only
First Unitarian is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83292744498?pwd=Y0Q1Q29TclZ3SzNWUm9tSXpZWmVQQT09
Meeting ID: 832 9274 4498
Passcode: 465972
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 9, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Queer/Trans Action Group
December 9, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83045131767
Passcode: TAG
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 10, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
December 10, 2026 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Board of Trustees Meeting
December 10, 2026 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Building Team Meeting
December 10, 2026 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87674930680?pwd=WfEkMrXFeTeZqBS33GsUiCFTOo2ed2.1
Meeting ID: 876 7493 0680
Password: building
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 11, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board Game Night
December 11, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Contact: Gianfranco Berardi, gamenight@ucdsm.org
Meets: Second Fridays; 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. CT; Griffin Hall
Welcome: All
Please join fellow UU friends for a fun night of board games in Griffin Hall. Bring your favorite game as well as any beverages or snacks you might want to share.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 12, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
December 12, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Led by Ellen Taylor & Martha Sherick-Shen
Childcare
December 13, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
December 14, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Small Group
December 14, 2026 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Jill Moser
Grief Support Circle
December 14, 2026 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Minister's Office
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
Connection Circle
December 14, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Jeremy Guenther
Awakening Heart Sangha
December 14, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 15, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
December 15, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Faithyna Leonard
Board of Trustees Meeting
December 15, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Soul Matters Writer's Group
December 15, 2026 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Peace Conference Room
Peace Conference Room
UU Writers explores the monthly Soul Matters themes and engages in spiritual discernment through the art of creative writing
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 16, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women's Wednesdays
December 16, 2026 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Chosen by Women, About Women, Discussed by Women
RSVP's sent to wednesdaywomen@ucdsm.org
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 17, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
December 17, 2026 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 18, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 19, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Celebrant Team Meeting
December 19, 2026 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Peace Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81038991478?pwd=UOR0NrS5iKdxeI9BVDtJ3UFpoEHwVP.1
Meeting ID: 810 3899 1478
Passcode: Celebrant
Childcare
December 20, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
Humanism Book Discussion
December 20, 2026 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
December 21, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
December 21, 2026 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Liz Bredeson & Nancee McDowell
Awakening Heart Sangha
December 21, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 22, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 23, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
December 23, 2026 6:45 pm - 7:45 pm
Griffin Hall
Led by Sarah Guenther
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 24, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
December 24, 2026 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 25, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle (via Zoom)
December 25, 2026 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Led by Frank Bowers
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275552388?pwd=CYwGBfGU2n5sYfDlBuXNmjXz8UHdy2.1
Meeting ID: 892 7555 2388
Passcode: UCDSM
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 26, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
December 27, 2026 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
December 28, 2026 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
December 28, 2026 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Martha Stephenson and Barb Martin
Awakening Heart Sangha
December 28, 2026 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 29, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
A Word With You
December 29, 2026 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall April-November, Zoom December-March
“A Word With You” meets once a month in person and discuss topics that interest members. We would like to invite new-comers (or old ones) to our church who could join us or just visit with us. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at 10:30 am. The topics vary from environment to personalities.
Zoom:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81183859141?pwd=OXlvVHMwK09Eam90WVU5MXhJVjJQdz09
Meeting ID: 811 8385 9141
Passcode: 434401
Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 30, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
December 31, 2026 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
December 31, 2026 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 1, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 2, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
January 3, 2027 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
cUUriosity Conversations
January 3, 2027 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Mary Safford
Interested in learning more about Unitarian Universalism? Do you have questions about life in this community? Whether you are new to First Unitarian or well-established, please join us for coffee and conversation about Unitarian Universalism.
Humanism Book Discussion
January 3, 2027 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
January 4, 2027 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Awakening Heart Sangha
January 4, 2027 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 5, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Caring Community Team Meeting
January 5, 2027 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
COA Facilitator Meeting
January 5, 2027 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 6, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 7, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 8, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board Game Night
January 8, 2027 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Contact: Gianfranco Berardi, gamenight@ucdsm.org
Meets: Second Fridays; 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. CT; Griffin Hall
Welcome: All
Please join fellow UU friends for a fun night of board games in Griffin Hall. Bring your favorite game as well as any beverages or snacks you might want to share.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 9, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Leadership Support Team
January 9, 2027 9:00 am - 11:00 am
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Connection Circle
January 9, 2027 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Led by Ellen Taylor & Martha Sherick-Shen
Leadership Support Team Set-Up/Clean-Up
January 9, 2027 8:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Childcare
January 10, 2027 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
January 11, 2027 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Small Group
January 11, 2027 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Jill Moser
Grief Support Circle
January 11, 2027 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Minister's Office
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
Connection Circle
January 11, 2027 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Jeremy Guenther
Awakening Heart Sangha
January 11, 2027 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 12, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women Around the Table (former UU Women's Lunch Bunch)
January 12, 2027 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Women’s Monthly Lunch
All UU (and UU-interested) women are welcome to join the monthly gathering of the UU Women’s Lunch Bunch (2nd Tuesday of every month at 11:30).
There’s always good food and lively conversation.
Please be sure to RSVP before the luncheon if you plan to attend: womenslunch@ucdsm.org
UU Women's Book Club
January 12, 2027 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Meets: Second Tuesday of the month; 2:00 p.m. CT
This group is for book lovers and those who like to talk about what they’re reading. Books are selected by group members from Des Moines, Urbandale and West Des Moines Public Library Book Group Sets.
Contacts: Jean Tauber or Theresa Miller, bookclub@ucdsm.org
Financial Oversight Committee
January 12, 2027 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Online Only
First Unitarian is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83292744498?pwd=Y0Q1Q29TclZ3SzNWUm9tSXpZWmVQQT09
Meeting ID: 832 9274 4498
Passcode: 465972
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 13, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Queer/Trans Action Group
January 13, 2027 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83045131767
Passcode: TAG
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 14, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
January 14, 2027 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Board of Trustees Meeting
January 14, 2027 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Building Team Meeting
January 14, 2027 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87674930680?pwd=WfEkMrXFeTeZqBS33GsUiCFTOo2ed2.1
Meeting ID: 876 7493 0680
Password: building
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 15, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 16, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Celebrant Team Meeting
January 16, 2027 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Peace Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81038991478?pwd=UOR0NrS5iKdxeI9BVDtJ3UFpoEHwVP.1
Meeting ID: 810 3899 1478
Passcode: Celebrant
Childcare
January 17, 2027 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
Humanism Book Discussion
January 17, 2027 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
January 18, 2027 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
January 18, 2027 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Liz Bredeson & Nancee McDowell
Awakening Heart Sangha
January 18, 2027 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 19, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
January 19, 2027 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Faithyna Leonard
Board of Trustees Meeting
January 19, 2027 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Soul Matters Writer's Group
January 19, 2027 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Peace Conference Room
Peace Conference Room
UU Writers explores the monthly Soul Matters themes and engages in spiritual discernment through the art of creative writing
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 20, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women's Wednesdays
January 20, 2027 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Chosen by Women, About Women, Discussed by Women
RSVP's sent to wednesdaywomen@ucdsm.org
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 21, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
January 21, 2027 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 22, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle (via Zoom)
January 22, 2027 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Led by Frank Bowers
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275552388?pwd=CYwGBfGU2n5sYfDlBuXNmjXz8UHdy2.1
Meeting ID: 892 7555 2388
Passcode: UCDSM
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 23, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
January 24, 2027 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
January 25, 2027 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
January 25, 2027 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Martha Stephenson and Barb Martin
Awakening Heart Sangha
January 25, 2027 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 26, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
A Word With You
January 26, 2027 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall April-November, Zoom December-March
“A Word With You” meets once a month in person and discuss topics that interest members. We would like to invite new-comers (or old ones) to our church who could join us or just visit with us. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at 10:30 am. The topics vary from environment to personalities.
Zoom:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81183859141?pwd=OXlvVHMwK09Eam90WVU5MXhJVjJQdz09
Meeting ID: 811 8385 9141
Passcode: 434401
Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 27, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
January 27, 2027 6:45 pm - 7:45 pm
Griffin Hall
Led by Sarah Guenther
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 28, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
January 28, 2027 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 29, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
January 30, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
January 31, 2027 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
February 1, 2027 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Awakening Heart Sangha
February 1, 2027 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 2, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Caring Community Team Meeting
February 2, 2027 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
COA Facilitator Meeting
February 2, 2027 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 3, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 4, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
February 4, 2027 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 5, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 6, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
February 7, 2027 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
cUUriosity Conversations
February 7, 2027 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Mary Safford
Interested in learning more about Unitarian Universalism? Do you have questions about life in this community? Whether you are new to First Unitarian or well-established, please join us for coffee and conversation about Unitarian Universalism.
Humanism Book Discussion
February 7, 2027 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
February 8, 2027 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Small Group
February 8, 2027 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Jill Moser
Grief Support Circle
February 8, 2027 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Minister's Office
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
Connection Circle
February 8, 2027 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Jeremy Guenther
Awakening Heart Sangha
February 8, 2027 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 9, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women Around the Table (former UU Women's Lunch Bunch)
February 9, 2027 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Women’s Monthly Lunch
All UU (and UU-interested) women are welcome to join the monthly gathering of the UU Women’s Lunch Bunch (2nd Tuesday of every month at 11:30).
There’s always good food and lively conversation.
Please be sure to RSVP before the luncheon if you plan to attend: womenslunch@ucdsm.org
UU Women's Book Club
February 9, 2027 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Meets: Second Tuesday of the month; 2:00 p.m. CT
This group is for book lovers and those who like to talk about what they’re reading. Books are selected by group members from Des Moines, Urbandale and West Des Moines Public Library Book Group Sets.
Contacts: Jean Tauber or Theresa Miller, bookclub@ucdsm.org
Financial Oversight Committee
February 9, 2027 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Online Only
First Unitarian is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83292744498?pwd=Y0Q1Q29TclZ3SzNWUm9tSXpZWmVQQT09
Meeting ID: 832 9274 4498
Passcode: 465972
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 10, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
February 10, 2027 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by John Morrow
Queer/Trans Action Group
February 10, 2027 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83045131767
Passcode: TAG
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 11, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
February 11, 2027 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Board of Trustees Meeting
February 11, 2027 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Building Team Meeting
February 11, 2027 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87674930680?pwd=WfEkMrXFeTeZqBS33GsUiCFTOo2ed2.1
Meeting ID: 876 7493 0680
Password: building
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 12, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Board Game Night
February 12, 2027 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Contact: Gianfranco Berardi, gamenight@ucdsm.org
Meets: Second Fridays; 6:00 – 10:00 p.m. CT; Griffin Hall
Welcome: All
Please join fellow UU friends for a fun night of board games in Griffin Hall. Bring your favorite game as well as any beverages or snacks you might want to share.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 13, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
February 13, 2027 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Led by Ellen Taylor & Martha Sherick-Shen
Childcare
February 14, 2027 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
February 15, 2027 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
February 15, 2027 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Liz Bredeson & Nancee McDowell
Awakening Heart Sangha
February 15, 2027 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 16, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
February 16, 2027 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Room 114
Led by Faithyna Leonard
Board of Trustees Meeting
February 16, 2027 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Soul Matters Writer's Group
February 16, 2027 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Peace Conference Room
Peace Conference Room
UU Writers explores the monthly Soul Matters themes and engages in spiritual discernment through the art of creative writing
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 17, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women's Wednesdays
February 17, 2027 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Chosen by Women, About Women, Discussed by Women
RSVP's sent to wednesdaywomen@ucdsm.org
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 18, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
February 18, 2027 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 19, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 20, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Celebrant Team Meeting
February 20, 2027 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Peace Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81038991478?pwd=UOR0NrS5iKdxeI9BVDtJ3UFpoEHwVP.1
Meeting ID: 810 3899 1478
Passcode: Celebrant
Childcare
February 21, 2027 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
Humanism Book Discussion
February 21, 2027 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
February 22, 2027 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Connection Circle
February 22, 2027 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Room 114
Led by Martha Stephenson and Barb Martin
Awakening Heart Sangha
February 22, 2027 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 23, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
A Word With You
February 23, 2027 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall April-November, Zoom December-March
“A Word With You” meets once a month in person and discuss topics that interest members. We would like to invite new-comers (or old ones) to our church who could join us or just visit with us. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at 10:30 am. The topics vary from environment to personalities.
Zoom:
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81183859141?pwd=OXlvVHMwK09Eam90WVU5MXhJVjJQdz09
Meeting ID: 811 8385 9141
Passcode: 434401
Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 24, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle
February 24, 2027 6:45 pm - 7:45 pm
Griffin Hall
Led by Sarah Guenther
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 25, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Tai Chi Social Hour
February 25, 2027 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Griffin and Gathering Area
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 26, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Connection Circle (via Zoom)
February 26, 2027 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Led by Frank Bowers
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89275552388?pwd=CYwGBfGU2n5sYfDlBuXNmjXz8UHdy2.1
Meeting ID: 892 7555 2388
Passcode: UCDSM
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
February 27, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
February 28, 2027 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
DMARC Book Group
March 1, 2027 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Awakening Heart Sangha
March 1, 2027 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
March 2, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Caring Community Team Meeting
March 2, 2027 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
March 3, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
March 4, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
March 5, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
March 6, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Childcare
March 7, 2027 9:15 am - 11:00 am
Room 112
Childcare is always available during Sunday services for children aged 0-4 years-old in room 112.
cUUriosity Conversations
March 7, 2027 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Mary Safford
Interested in learning more about Unitarian Universalism? Do you have questions about life in this community? Whether you are new to First Unitarian or well-established, please join us for coffee and conversation about Unitarian Universalism.
Humanism Book Discussion
March 7, 2027 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
DMARC Book Group
March 8, 2027 8:30 am - 10:00 am
Stonewall Conference Room
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89454166012?pwd=UVJGR2RlQzZqWExjd1o5VFFseXpBZz09
Meeting ID: 894 5416 6012
Passcode: 231074
Grief Support Circle
March 8, 2027 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Minister's Office
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
Awakening Heart Sangha
March 8, 2027 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Zoom Only
Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. We meet by Zoom on Monday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 pm Central Time. All are welcome on a drop-in basis to this ongoing group.
All levels of practice are welcome, regardless of whether you are a newcomer to meditation or have had a meditation practice for a while. Brief meditation instruction will be offered at each meeting as needed for any newcomers. At each meeting, we will check-in, practice 20 minutes of sitting meditation and 10 minutes of walking meditation followed by a short reading and discussion.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information or to be added to the weekly Sangha meeting announcement email list.
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
March 9, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Women Around the Table (former UU Women's Lunch Bunch)
March 9, 2027 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Griffin Hall and Kitchen
Women’s Monthly Lunch
All UU (and UU-interested) women are welcome to join the monthly gathering of the UU Women’s Lunch Bunch (2nd Tuesday of every month at 11:30).
There’s always good food and lively conversation.
Please be sure to RSVP before the luncheon if you plan to attend: womenslunch@ucdsm.org
UU Women's Book Club
March 9, 2027 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Meets: Second Tuesday of the month; 2:00 p.m. CT
This group is for book lovers and those who like to talk about what they’re reading. Books are selected by group members from Des Moines, Urbandale and West Des Moines Public Library Book Group Sets.
Contacts: Jean Tauber or Theresa Miller, bookclub@ucdsm.org
Financial Oversight Committee
March 9, 2027 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Online Only
First Unitarian is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83292744498?pwd=Y0Q1Q29TclZ3SzNWUm9tSXpZWmVQQT09
Meeting ID: 832 9274 4498
Passcode: 465972
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
March 10, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant
Queer/Trans Action Group
March 10, 2027 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83045131767
Passcode: TAG
Morning Zen with Meredith (Zoom)
March 11, 2027 6:00 am - 7:00 am
Zoom Only
Morning Zen with Rev. Meredith Garmon is now offered on Zoom every Tuesday through Saturday morning at 6:00 am.
Detailed information can be found on One Earth Zen. For the chants and sutras, it will be helpful to have the booklet: "One Earth Zen: Sutras, Chants, and Songs." You may also pick up a copy in the church office.
Format:
Opening Chants
25 minutes zazen (silent seated meditation)
6 mins kinhin (walking meditation)
9 min Sutra service (recitations)
10 min dharma discussion
Closing chant