Church Calendar

Zoom

Book Discussion contact is Dian Curran. (Send a note to Dian at HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.)

Contact: Dian Curran/Al Powers

Email: HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org

Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. 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. Chairs will be provided. If you prefer a meditation cushion, you are free to bring your own. Please plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early to help set up chairs.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.

Email sangha@ucdsm.org for link

“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 11:00 am at the patio area in our church, eat lunch, do check-ins, and discuss topics presented just by one word. The topics vary from environment to personalities. Currently we have five members regularly attending, and would love to share this opportunity with up to five more people. (If the weather is inclement, we will have our meeting on Zoom.) 

Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.

This group is for individuals who love to do needlework of all kinds. If you crochet, cross-stitch, knit or weave, you’ll want to join Bent Needles.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83493074847?pwd=RkczSTRYb2V5OFY2UWpTT2cxblpXQT09

Contact: Lyra Halsten, membership@ucdsm.org

Zoom

Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.

Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine

Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. 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. Chairs will be provided. If you prefer a meditation cushion, you are free to bring your own. Please plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early to help set up chairs.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.

Email sangha@ucdsm.org for link

Contact: Karen Kraemer choir@ucdsm.org

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 8)

Who: Grade 8 – 9

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 8 – May 18

Where: Room 103

Leader(s): Katherine Sutton, Sally Boeckholt, Mark Metz

When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, youth can gradually experience powerful transformation – they “come of age.” With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and can decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story leading to the development of a faith statement. To help with this process, the “Big Questions” are tackled each week, including:

• What do you believe about God?
• What happens after we die?
• How do you live a moral life?
• Why do bad things happen?

Each youth is paired up with a carefully chosen adult mentor from the congregation. Youth and mentors meet about twice a month and also complete a service project together. The year begins with a parent/youth meeting to share information about the Coming of Age year, and concludes with a celebration dinner and Coming of Age Sunday morning service planned and lead by the youth to include presenting their own faith statements.

Who: All

Leader: Amy Petrie Shaw

Meets: Fridays beginning September 10, 2021; 6:00 p.m. CT

Where: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84835170541?pwd=M1NqMnNJaXhOYjNxek9MUDhxTmZIZz09

This class will review a group of religious beliefs and practices possibly less familiar to Unitarian Universalists: Mormonism, Baha’i, Sikhism, Jainism, Rastafari, Santeria/Vu du, Modern Church of Satan, Christian Science, Zoroastrianism, Shinto, and the Unification Church.

Come and join Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw and have fun learning about some areas of religion you may never have explored. A book list will be provided for those who want to do more reading on any given faith.

Zoom

If you are a new member or visitor to UCDSM, you are invited to visit with Membership Coordinator Lyra Halsten, on the second Sunday of each month. She will be available in-person at the church in the Mary Safford Room at the back of the auditorium. Those who choose to attend on Zoom can stay in the service’s main room and Lyra will be with you shortly. This is an opportunity for new members and visitors to connect and find out more about Unitarian Universalism and First Unitarian Church of Des Moines.

Long-term members attending the Sunday Service Watch Party at the church and those who are Zooming in are invited to stay for the visit which will begin at 11:15 and last approximately 30-45 minutes.

YASM; Room 107

The Faith Formation Council is holding a scavenger hunt for the new/redone church playground on Sunday, September 12 from 11:30 am - 2:00 pm. There will be prizes for completion.

The scavenger hunt will be Open House style, so show up when it's convenient for you!

All ages are welcome. Make sure you thank the Hayes Family for all their hard work cleaning/fixing it up after the Derecho.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89021693859?pwd=VkZKT1JKMXNXdHVUTzlrVkxrZDhLQT09

Join us for a weekly chat with other Pagans as we talk about Sabbats, Full Moons, Tarot, Astrology, Mystic Dreams, book recommendations, articles we've read Pagan websites, and other Pagan-y stuff as we move through these weeks of Social Distancing. We want to meet you! Please join us and tell us about your Pagan path and your spiritual journey!

Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. 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. Chairs will be provided. If you prefer a meditation cushion, you are free to bring your own. Please plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early to help set up chairs.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.

Email sangha@ucdsm.org for link

Email dre@ucdsm.org for the link.

Patti C-Finnegan; Zoom https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89877050208?pwd=czBEL3hZWTZKVzFSVmM2YkFBTEhlQT09

Contact: Karen Kraemer choir@ucdsm.org

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 15)

Who: Grade 7 – 8

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 15 – May 25

Where: Outside, Room 107

Leader(s): Kim Gunnes, Chelsea Hayes, Ben Spadt, Holly Hanson

Specially trained volunteer facilitators help participants make informed and responsible decisions about their sexual health and behavior. The curriculum equips participants with accurate, age-appropriate information in six subject areas: human development, relationships, personal skills, sexual behavior, sexual health, and society and culture. Grounded in a holistic view of sexuality, Our Whole Lives not only provides facts about anatomy and human development, but also helps participants clarify their values, build interpersonal skills, and understand the spiritual, emotional, and social aspects of sexuality.

OWL for 7/8 Grade will be capped at 12 participants, with priority given to First Unitarian member families. If a substantially higher number of participants is expected, other options will be explored with the Director of Faith Formation.

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 8)

Who: Grade 8 – 9

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 8 – May 18

Where: Room 103

Leader(s): Katherine Sutton, Sally Boeckholt, Mark Metz

When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, youth can gradually experience powerful transformation – they “come of age.” With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and can decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story leading to the development of a faith statement. To help with this process, the “Big Questions” are tackled each week, including:

• What do you believe about God?
• What happens after we die?
• How do you live a moral life?
• Why do bad things happen?

Each youth is paired up with a carefully chosen adult mentor from the congregation. Youth and mentors meet about twice a month and also complete a service project together. The year begins with a parent/youth meeting to share information about the Coming of Age year, and concludes with a celebration dinner and Coming of Age Sunday morning service planned and lead by the youth to include presenting their own faith statements.

Janis Elliot; Patio or Zoom

The UCDSM Board of Trustees meets on the third Thursday of each month to discuss the needs and actions of the church and all formal church business. On other Thursdays the Board meets briefly to discuss the Covid pandemic and to do visioning and planning work. All meetings are open to anyone.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83586021182?pwd=TlBiUEpGSEhuSVJUNnFlNXN5aHgyZz09 

Contact: Rev. Amy

Who: All

Leader: Amy Petrie Shaw

Meets: Fridays beginning September 10, 2021; 6:00 p.m. CT

Where: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84835170541?pwd=M1NqMnNJaXhOYjNxek9MUDhxTmZIZz09

This class will review a group of religious beliefs and practices possibly less familiar to Unitarian Universalists: Mormonism, Baha’i, Sikhism, Jainism, Rastafari, Santeria/Vu du, Modern Church of Satan, Christian Science, Zoroastrianism, Shinto, and the Unification Church.

Come and join Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw and have fun learning about some areas of religion you may never have explored. A book list will be provided for those who want to do more reading on any given faith.

Zoom

Children’s Chapel is part of Sunday Service! No registration required.

Who: All ages

When: Sundays mornings, 10:00 a.m. CT

Beginning September 19, 2021, each service is a Service for All Ages, in which all families worship together. There will be a youth led chalice lighting, meditation and Micro-Sermon or Story for All Ages in the first 30 minutes of the service. When we are able to meet in person (once all have the ability to be vaccinated) then the children under 12 will be sung out to do service trips, field trips and enjoy outside play.

Questions, suggestions, ideas? Please email Director of Faith Formation Devon McClurken (she/her/hers) at dff@ucdsm.org.

Book Discussion contact is Dian Curran. (Send a note to Dian at HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.)

Contact: Dian Curran/Al Powers

Email: HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org

Who: Grades 9-12

When:  Sundays at 6:00 p.m CT, September – May

Where: Room 107

Leaders: DFF and Youth advisors

Our Young Religious Unitarian Universalist (YRUU) group allows teens to bond through exploration of personal and spiritual rituals, participation in engaging activities and empowering social action projects. Youth will plan events and projects, check in with each other, play games and enjoy some snacks.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89021693859?pwd=VkZKT1JKMXNXdHVUTzlrVkxrZDhLQT09

Join us for a weekly chat with other Pagans as we talk about Sabbats, Full Moons, Tarot, Astrology, Mystic Dreams, book recommendations, articles we've read Pagan websites, and other Pagan-y stuff as we move through these weeks of Social Distancing. We want to meet you! Please join us and tell us about your Pagan path and your spiritual journey!

Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. 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. Chairs will be provided. If you prefer a meditation cushion, you are free to bring your own. Please plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early to help set up chairs.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.

Email sangha@ucdsm.org for link

We’re hoping you’re all vaccinated and ready to be together again.

Meeting at:  FireCreekGrill - 800 S 50th St., WDM

RSVP Required by Saturday before the luncheon to: womenslunch@ucdsm.org  (Barb Royal)

Hilary Hippen-Leek; Room 114

We have a presentation by the American Ethical Union. We are still waiting for details and a Zoom link.

Contact: Karen Kraemer choir@ucdsm.org

We are excited to be holding in person programming again for the youth and going to be doing so in a way that is safe for all involved. You can find information on the programming being offered on our website here. We are kicking off programming on Wednesday, September 22nd and programming will start for K-6 on September 29th.

The kick-off party needs help though, so if you love to party (and plan parties,) please email Devon (Director of Faith Formation dff@ucdsm.org) and she will let you have some fun!

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 15)

Who: Grade 7 – 8

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 15 – May 25

Where: Outside, Room 107

Leader(s): Kim Gunnes, Chelsea Hayes, Ben Spadt, Holly Hanson

Specially trained volunteer facilitators help participants make informed and responsible decisions about their sexual health and behavior. The curriculum equips participants with accurate, age-appropriate information in six subject areas: human development, relationships, personal skills, sexual behavior, sexual health, and society and culture. Grounded in a holistic view of sexuality, Our Whole Lives not only provides facts about anatomy and human development, but also helps participants clarify their values, build interpersonal skills, and understand the spiritual, emotional, and social aspects of sexuality.

OWL for 7/8 Grade will be capped at 12 participants, with priority given to First Unitarian member families. If a substantially higher number of participants is expected, other options will be explored with the Director of Faith Formation.

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 8)

Who: Grade 8 – 9

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 8 – May 18

Where: Room 103

Leader(s): Katherine Sutton, Sally Boeckholt, Mark Metz

When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, youth can gradually experience powerful transformation – they “come of age.” With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and can decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story leading to the development of a faith statement. To help with this process, the “Big Questions” are tackled each week, including:

• What do you believe about God?
• What happens after we die?
• How do you live a moral life?
• Why do bad things happen?

Each youth is paired up with a carefully chosen adult mentor from the congregation. Youth and mentors meet about twice a month and also complete a service project together. The year begins with a parent/youth meeting to share information about the Coming of Age year, and concludes with a celebration dinner and Coming of Age Sunday morning service planned and lead by the youth to include presenting their own faith statements.

Who: All

Leader: Amy Petrie Shaw

Meets: Fridays beginning September 10, 2021; 6:00 p.m. CT

Where: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84835170541?pwd=M1NqMnNJaXhOYjNxek9MUDhxTmZIZz09

This class will review a group of religious beliefs and practices possibly less familiar to Unitarian Universalists: Mormonism, Baha’i, Sikhism, Jainism, Rastafari, Santeria/Vu du, Modern Church of Satan, Christian Science, Zoroastrianism, Shinto, and the Unification Church.

Come and join Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw and have fun learning about some areas of religion you may never have explored. A book list will be provided for those who want to do more reading on any given faith.

Zoom

Children’s Chapel is part of Sunday Service! No registration required.

Who: All ages

When: Sundays mornings, 10:00 a.m. CT

Beginning September 19, 2021, each service is a Service for All Ages, in which all families worship together. There will be a youth led chalice lighting, meditation and Micro-Sermon or Story for All Ages in the first 30 minutes of the service. When we are able to meet in person (once all have the ability to be vaccinated) then the children under 12 will be sung out to do service trips, field trips and enjoy outside play.

Questions, suggestions, ideas? Please email Director of Faith Formation Devon McClurken (she/her/hers) at dff@ucdsm.org.

Who: Grades 9-12

When:  Sundays at 6:00 p.m CT, September – May

Where: Room 107

Leaders: DFF and Youth advisors

Our Young Religious Unitarian Universalist (YRUU) group allows teens to bond through exploration of personal and spiritual rituals, participation in engaging activities and empowering social action projects. Youth will plan events and projects, check in with each other, play games and enjoy some snacks.

Please join us for Samantha Sokol from Americans United for Separation of Church and State. Samantha will be speaking to us about Project Blitz which is the organization working behind the scenes at both the state and federal levels to change the United States into a Christian Nationalist country. 
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89417992735?pwd=N3dtckFkZW4wV1FpOStXWCtFSVN3dz09

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89021693859?pwd=VkZKT1JKMXNXdHVUTzlrVkxrZDhLQT09

Join us for a weekly chat with other Pagans as we talk about Sabbats, Full Moons, Tarot, Astrology, Mystic Dreams, book recommendations, articles we've read Pagan websites, and other Pagan-y stuff as we move through these weeks of Social Distancing. We want to meet you! Please join us and tell us about your Pagan path and your spiritual journey!

Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. 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. Chairs will be provided. If you prefer a meditation cushion, you are free to bring your own. Please plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early to help set up chairs.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.

Email sangha@ucdsm.org for link

Jo Fitz & Susan Seiz; Off-site

Email dre@ucdsm.org for link.

“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 at the patio area in our church, eat lunch, do check-ins, and discuss topics presented just by one word. The topics vary from environment to personalities. Currently we have five members regularly attending, and would love to share this opportunity with up to five more people. (If the weather is inclement, we will have our meeting on Zoom.) 

Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.

Laura Berardi; Zoom https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85420827837?pwd=ams4bzAxVTNROEZsNXhmSmZWUE9GQT09

Contact: Karen Kraemer choir@ucdsm.org

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades 4 – 6

When: 6:00- 7:15 p.m. CT, Staring September 29

Where: Outside as weather permits, then moves to Zoom.

Leader(s): Cale Finnegan, Kim Kurchinski

Please note: We will start meeting outside and stay outside as long as weather permits.

Youth need time to be together and to process what has changed within themselves and in the world. They will explore the surroundings of the church by learning outside and learning about the outside. We will use our Toolbox of Faith to direct this time together.

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades K – 3

When: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.CT, Starting September 29

Where: Outside as weather permits, then moves to Zoom

Leader(s): Terry Meeks

Please note: We will start meeting outside and stay outside as long as weather permits.

This program helps children develop a basic understanding of church as a physical place which reflects a shared set of values and beliefs. The group will explore questions about the purpose of having a church as a place of belonging, and the functions of different church spaces. We will introduce the concept of a “faith home”—your congregation—which shares some characteristics with a family home, including both amenities and responsibilities. To understand these you must begin by understanding why the building and grounds are the way they are.

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 15)

Who: Grade 7 – 8

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 15 – May 25

Where: Outside, Room 107

Leader(s): Kim Gunnes, Chelsea Hayes, Ben Spadt, Holly Hanson

Specially trained volunteer facilitators help participants make informed and responsible decisions about their sexual health and behavior. The curriculum equips participants with accurate, age-appropriate information in six subject areas: human development, relationships, personal skills, sexual behavior, sexual health, and society and culture. Grounded in a holistic view of sexuality, Our Whole Lives not only provides facts about anatomy and human development, but also helps participants clarify their values, build interpersonal skills, and understand the spiritual, emotional, and social aspects of sexuality.

OWL for 7/8 Grade will be capped at 12 participants, with priority given to First Unitarian member families. If a substantially higher number of participants is expected, other options will be explored with the Director of Faith Formation.

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades K – 6

When: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.CT. Starting September 29

Leader(s): Nancy Bratt, Will Esty

ONLINE! Zoom link to be provided upon registration. Youth will learn important UU hymns, public speaking skills, theater skills and what it means to be part of the youth celebrant team.

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 8)

Who: Grade 8 – 9

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 8 – May 18

Where: Room 103

Leader(s): Katherine Sutton, Sally Boeckholt, Mark Metz

When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, youth can gradually experience powerful transformation – they “come of age.” With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and can decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story leading to the development of a faith statement. To help with this process, the “Big Questions” are tackled each week, including:

• What do you believe about God?
• What happens after we die?
• How do you live a moral life?
• Why do bad things happen?

Each youth is paired up with a carefully chosen adult mentor from the congregation. Youth and mentors meet about twice a month and also complete a service project together. The year begins with a parent/youth meeting to share information about the Coming of Age year, and concludes with a celebration dinner and Coming of Age Sunday morning service planned and lead by the youth to include presenting their own faith statements.

Who: All. The workshop is designed to support individuals, and their loved ones and caregivers, in preparing for a conscious end-of-life experience.

Leader: Hilary Hippen-Leek

When: September 30; 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. CT

Meets: Church or Zoom (if absolutely necessary)

What Are Your End-of-Life Wishes? This two-hour facilitated workshop will support the process of starting end-of-life discussions and preparations. Participants will learn about end-of-life options and resources, reflect on the meaning of the dying process, share stories, and consider their own end-of-life wishes. The workshop will focus on emotional, spiritual, and informational support; legal and medical topics will not be addressed. The workshop will be facilitated by First Unitarian Church member, Hilary Hippen-Leek. Hilary is a life-long student of death, end-of-life care practices, and funeral and memorial customs. Hilary spent her pandemic quarantine earning her End-of-Life Doula Professional Certificate through the University of Vermont’s Larner College of Medicine. She is currently pursuing further training as an end-of-life coach. Hilary is passionate about helping others feel empowered and well-supported during their times of need, especially at the end of life.

The softer issues at the end of life are often overlooked in traditional estate and death plans and documents. Preparing for a conscious end-of-life experience and clearly communicating wishes will bring you peace of mind and be a generous gift to your loved ones.

The Board has scheduled a special meeting for Sept. 30 to further discuss and act upon recommendations from the Lens committee and related matters of policy regarding in-person church gatherings.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83586021182?pwd=TlBiUEpGSEhuSVJUNnFlNXN5aHgyZz09 

Contact: Rev. Amy

Who: All

Leader: Amy Petrie Shaw

Meets: Fridays beginning September 10, 2021; 6:00 p.m. CT

Where: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84835170541?pwd=M1NqMnNJaXhOYjNxek9MUDhxTmZIZz09

This class will review a group of religious beliefs and practices possibly less familiar to Unitarian Universalists: Mormonism, Baha’i, Sikhism, Jainism, Rastafari, Santeria/Vu du, Modern Church of Satan, Christian Science, Zoroastrianism, Shinto, and the Unification Church.

Come and join Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw and have fun learning about some areas of religion you may never have explored. A book list will be provided for those who want to do more reading on any given faith.

Zoom

Children’s Chapel is part of Sunday Service! No registration required.

Who: All ages

When: Sundays mornings, 10:00 a.m. CT

Beginning September 19, 2021, each service is a Service for All Ages, in which all families worship together. There will be a youth led chalice lighting, meditation and Micro-Sermon or Story for All Ages in the first 30 minutes of the service. When we are able to meet in person (once all have the ability to be vaccinated) then the children under 12 will be sung out to do service trips, field trips and enjoy outside play.

Questions, suggestions, ideas? Please email Director of Faith Formation Devon McClurken (she/her/hers) at dff@ucdsm.org.

Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.

Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine

Who: Grades 9-12

When:  Sundays at 6:00 p.m CT, September – May

Where: Room 107

Leaders: DFF and Youth advisors

Our Young Religious Unitarian Universalist (YRUU) group allows teens to bond through exploration of personal and spiritual rituals, participation in engaging activities and empowering social action projects. Youth will plan events and projects, check in with each other, play games and enjoy some snacks.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89021693859?pwd=VkZKT1JKMXNXdHVUTzlrVkxrZDhLQT09

Join us for a weekly chat with other Pagans as we talk about Sabbats, Full Moons, Tarot, Astrology, Mystic Dreams, book recommendations, articles we've read Pagan websites, and other Pagan-y stuff as we move through these weeks of Social Distancing. We want to meet you! Please join us and tell us about your Pagan path and your spiritual journey!

Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. 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. Chairs will be provided. If you prefer a meditation cushion, you are free to bring your own. Please plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early to help set up chairs.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.

Email sangha@ucdsm.org for link

Who: All

Leader: Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw

Meets: 1st and 3rd Tuesdays beginning October 5, 2021; 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. CT

Where: Zoom (Link will be sent to registrants.)

To Register: Please email Rev. Shaw, revamy@ucdsm.org to sign up by September 26.

Last year we did a whole church read of “Widening the Circle of Concern.” This year, Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw will lead an 11-12 session class based on the UUA’s “Widening the Circle of Concern” Study Guide. The study guide is available for download here: Widening the Circle of Concern Study Guide pdf or online here: https://www.uua.org/widening/guide . This thought-provoking class explores welcome and inclusion and the systemic barriers to that welcome and inclusion. Come and explore the ideas presented and offer your own ideas about what our congregation is doing well, and where we have opportunities to grow! Please sign up by emailing Rev. Amy at revamy@ucdsm.org.

This is an 11-12 session class that will continue through January 2022. There will be no class in February, but class will meet either once or twice in April to wrap up the course.

We need to have eight to ten people participating for this class to be offered so please sign up by September 26. Class will be on Zoom until we are fully back in the building.

Contact: Karen Kraemer choir@ucdsm.org

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades 4 – 6

When: 6:00- 7:15 p.m. CT, Staring September 29

Where: Outside as weather permits, then moves to Zoom.

Leader(s): Cale Finnegan, Kim Kurchinski

Please note: We will start meeting outside and stay outside as long as weather permits.

Youth need time to be together and to process what has changed within themselves and in the world. They will explore the surroundings of the church by learning outside and learning about the outside. We will use our Toolbox of Faith to direct this time together.

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades K – 3

When: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.CT, Starting September 29

Where: Outside as weather permits, then moves to Zoom

Leader(s): Terry Meeks

Please note: We will start meeting outside and stay outside as long as weather permits.

This program helps children develop a basic understanding of church as a physical place which reflects a shared set of values and beliefs. The group will explore questions about the purpose of having a church as a place of belonging, and the functions of different church spaces. We will introduce the concept of a “faith home”—your congregation—which shares some characteristics with a family home, including both amenities and responsibilities. To understand these you must begin by understanding why the building and grounds are the way they are.

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 15)

Who: Grade 7 – 8

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 15 – May 25

Where: Outside, Room 107

Leader(s): Kim Gunnes, Chelsea Hayes, Ben Spadt, Holly Hanson

Specially trained volunteer facilitators help participants make informed and responsible decisions about their sexual health and behavior. The curriculum equips participants with accurate, age-appropriate information in six subject areas: human development, relationships, personal skills, sexual behavior, sexual health, and society and culture. Grounded in a holistic view of sexuality, Our Whole Lives not only provides facts about anatomy and human development, but also helps participants clarify their values, build interpersonal skills, and understand the spiritual, emotional, and social aspects of sexuality.

OWL for 7/8 Grade will be capped at 12 participants, with priority given to First Unitarian member families. If a substantially higher number of participants is expected, other options will be explored with the Director of Faith Formation.

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades K – 6

When: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.CT. Starting September 29

Leader(s): Nancy Bratt, Will Esty

ONLINE! Zoom link to be provided upon registration. Youth will learn important UU hymns, public speaking skills, theater skills and what it means to be part of the youth celebrant team.

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 8)

Who: Grade 8 – 9

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 8 – May 18

Where: Room 103

Leader(s): Katherine Sutton, Sally Boeckholt, Mark Metz

When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, youth can gradually experience powerful transformation – they “come of age.” With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and can decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story leading to the development of a faith statement. To help with this process, the “Big Questions” are tackled each week, including:

• What do you believe about God?
• What happens after we die?
• How do you live a moral life?
• Why do bad things happen?

Each youth is paired up with a carefully chosen adult mentor from the congregation. Youth and mentors meet about twice a month and also complete a service project together. The year begins with a parent/youth meeting to share information about the Coming of Age year, and concludes with a celebration dinner and Coming of Age Sunday morning service planned and lead by the youth to include presenting their own faith statements.

This group is for individuals who love to do needlework of all kinds. If you crochet, cross-stitch, knit or weave, you’ll want to join Bent Needles.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83493074847?pwd=RkczSTRYb2V5OFY2UWpTT2cxblpXQT09

Contact: Lyra Halsten, membership@ucdsm.org

Monthly meeting focusing on visioning and pandemic related issues.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85746475940?pwd=RkxQemJyQmFBb1ZEKzcxdFJqcndaQT09

Contact: Rev. Amy

Who: All

Leader: Amy Petrie Shaw

Meets: Fridays beginning September 10, 2021; 6:00 p.m. CT

Where: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84835170541?pwd=M1NqMnNJaXhOYjNxek9MUDhxTmZIZz09

This class will review a group of religious beliefs and practices possibly less familiar to Unitarian Universalists: Mormonism, Baha’i, Sikhism, Jainism, Rastafari, Santeria/Vu du, Modern Church of Satan, Christian Science, Zoroastrianism, Shinto, and the Unification Church.

Come and join Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw and have fun learning about some areas of religion you may never have explored. A book list will be provided for those who want to do more reading on any given faith.

Zoom

Children’s Chapel is part of Sunday Service! No registration required.

Who: All ages

When: Sundays mornings, 10:00 a.m. CT

Beginning September 19, 2021, each service is a Service for All Ages, in which all families worship together. There will be a youth led chalice lighting, meditation and Micro-Sermon or Story for All Ages in the first 30 minutes of the service. When we are able to meet in person (once all have the ability to be vaccinated) then the children under 12 will be sung out to do service trips, field trips and enjoy outside play.

Questions, suggestions, ideas? Please email Director of Faith Formation Devon McClurken (she/her/hers) at dff@ucdsm.org.

If you are a new member or visitor to UCDSM, you are invited to visit with Membership Coordinator Lyra Halsten, on the second Sunday of each month. She will be available in-person at the church in the Mary Safford Room at the back of the auditorium. Those who choose to attend on Zoom can stay in the service’s main room and Lyra will be with you shortly. This is an opportunity for new members and visitors to connect and find out more about Unitarian Universalism and First Unitarian Church of Des Moines.

Long-term members attending the Sunday Service Watch Party at the church and those who are Zooming in are invited to stay for the visit which will begin at 11:15 and last approximately 30-45 minutes.

YASM; Room 107

Who: Grades 9-12

When:  Sundays at 6:00 p.m CT, September – May

Where: Room 107

Leaders: DFF and Youth advisors

Our Young Religious Unitarian Universalist (YRUU) group allows teens to bond through exploration of personal and spiritual rituals, participation in engaging activities and empowering social action projects. Youth will plan events and projects, check in with each other, play games and enjoy some snacks.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89021693859?pwd=VkZKT1JKMXNXdHVUTzlrVkxrZDhLQT09

Join us for a weekly chat with other Pagans as we talk about Sabbats, Full Moons, Tarot, Astrology, Mystic Dreams, book recommendations, articles we've read Pagan websites, and other Pagan-y stuff as we move through these weeks of Social Distancing. We want to meet you! Please join us and tell us about your Pagan path and your spiritual journey!

Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. 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. Chairs will be provided. If you prefer a meditation cushion, you are free to bring your own. Please plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early to help set up chairs.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.

Email sangha@ucdsm.org for link

Email dre@ucdsm.org for the link.

Patti C-Finnegan; Zoom https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89877050208?pwd=czBEL3hZWTZKVzFSVmM2YkFBTEhlQT09

Who: All (New students may join at any time!)

Leader: Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw

Meets: 2nd and 4th Tuesdays beginning October 12, 2021; 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. CT

Where: Zoom (Link will be sent to registrants.)

To Register: Please email Rev. Shaw, revamy@ucdsm.org to sign up by September 26.

What is “praxis” and why would we want to do it? Great question! Praxis is “our practice in the world,” or “the way we really do things.” Each week, we will be talking about our own church and how we do things in 11 different areas of church life, looking for barriers to inclusion and welcome and proposing real changes if needed. “Welcome” for who? Well, anyone. Everyone. People with disabilities. Young people. Elderly people. Hispanic people. Black people. Queer people. Straight people. Whoever. Help to find and fix the places where we fall short of our values.

This is an 11-12 session group. You do not need to come to “Widening the Circle” Study Guide class to attend this! This group will continue through January 2022. There will be no group in February, but the group will meet either once or twice in April to wrap up discussion.

We need to have eight to ten people participating for this discussion group to be offered so please sign up by September 26. Class will be primarily on Zoom until we are fully back in the building but will have some multi-platform meetings.

Who: All

Leader: Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw

Meets: October 13; 12:00 p.m. CT

Where: Zoom

How to have discussions with family/close friends with whom you disagree on topics of politics, diversity, justice. The current political climate has placed many family members at odds, divided families, and created broken relationships. This seminar will give you the tools to reach across the divide.

Contact: Karen Kraemer choir@ucdsm.org

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades 4 – 6

When: 6:00- 7:15 p.m. CT, Staring September 29

Where: Outside as weather permits, then moves to Zoom.

Leader(s): Cale Finnegan, Kim Kurchinski

Please note: We will start meeting outside and stay outside as long as weather permits.

Youth need time to be together and to process what has changed within themselves and in the world. They will explore the surroundings of the church by learning outside and learning about the outside. We will use our Toolbox of Faith to direct this time together.

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades K – 3

When: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.CT, Starting September 29

Where: Outside as weather permits, then moves to Zoom

Leader(s): Terry Meeks

Please note: We will start meeting outside and stay outside as long as weather permits.

This program helps children develop a basic understanding of church as a physical place which reflects a shared set of values and beliefs. The group will explore questions about the purpose of having a church as a place of belonging, and the functions of different church spaces. We will introduce the concept of a “faith home”—your congregation—which shares some characteristics with a family home, including both amenities and responsibilities. To understand these you must begin by understanding why the building and grounds are the way they are.

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 15)

Who: Grade 7 – 8

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 15 – May 25

Where: Outside, Room 107

Leader(s): Kim Gunnes, Chelsea Hayes, Ben Spadt, Holly Hanson

Specially trained volunteer facilitators help participants make informed and responsible decisions about their sexual health and behavior. The curriculum equips participants with accurate, age-appropriate information in six subject areas: human development, relationships, personal skills, sexual behavior, sexual health, and society and culture. Grounded in a holistic view of sexuality, Our Whole Lives not only provides facts about anatomy and human development, but also helps participants clarify their values, build interpersonal skills, and understand the spiritual, emotional, and social aspects of sexuality.

OWL for 7/8 Grade will be capped at 12 participants, with priority given to First Unitarian member families. If a substantially higher number of participants is expected, other options will be explored with the Director of Faith Formation.

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades K – 6

When: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.CT. Starting September 29

Leader(s): Nancy Bratt, Will Esty

ONLINE! Zoom link to be provided upon registration. Youth will learn important UU hymns, public speaking skills, theater skills and what it means to be part of the youth celebrant team.

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 8)

Who: Grade 8 – 9

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 8 – May 18

Where: Room 103

Leader(s): Katherine Sutton, Sally Boeckholt, Mark Metz

When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, youth can gradually experience powerful transformation – they “come of age.” With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and can decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story leading to the development of a faith statement. To help with this process, the “Big Questions” are tackled each week, including:

• What do you believe about God?
• What happens after we die?
• How do you live a moral life?
• Why do bad things happen?

Each youth is paired up with a carefully chosen adult mentor from the congregation. Youth and mentors meet about twice a month and also complete a service project together. The year begins with a parent/youth meeting to share information about the Coming of Age year, and concludes with a celebration dinner and Coming of Age Sunday morning service planned and lead by the youth to include presenting their own faith statements.

Who: All

Meets: Mondays and Thursdays beginning October 14 – November 22; 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. CT

Where: Griffin Hall

Tai chi is an ancient form of exercise developed by families in China and passed through the generations. Tai chi is referred to as ‘moving meditation’. Research shows it may reduce stress, improve the immune response, balance, and overall health. Tai chi promotes the principles of meditative breathing, posture, controlled weight shift, and gentle resistance through slow circular movements.

This course will focus Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention developed by Dr. Paul Lam. The form is shortened to ease learning and utilizes smaller movements for safety of the joints and improving balance control. The form will be introduced in small sections with numerous repetitions to allow the learner time to integrate the movements and principles.

Lead by: Kathy Mercuris PT, DHS, Associate Professor Emeritus, taught in the Program of Physical Therapy at Des Moines University for over 30 years. She was also employed at Younker Memorial Rehabilitation Center for 10 years providing patient care to those with neurologic deficits. She was certified in tai chi and teaching community classes since 2013.

Who: All

Leader: Amy Petrie Shaw

Meets: Fridays beginning September 10, 2021; 6:00 p.m. CT

Where: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84835170541?pwd=M1NqMnNJaXhOYjNxek9MUDhxTmZIZz09

This class will review a group of religious beliefs and practices possibly less familiar to Unitarian Universalists: Mormonism, Baha’i, Sikhism, Jainism, Rastafari, Santeria/Vu du, Modern Church of Satan, Christian Science, Zoroastrianism, Shinto, and the Unification Church.

Come and join Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw and have fun learning about some areas of religion you may never have explored. A book list will be provided for those who want to do more reading on any given faith.

Zoom

Children’s Chapel is part of Sunday Service! No registration required.

Who: All ages

When: Sundays mornings, 10:00 a.m. CT

Beginning September 19, 2021, each service is a Service for All Ages, in which all families worship together. There will be a youth led chalice lighting, meditation and Micro-Sermon or Story for All Ages in the first 30 minutes of the service. When we are able to meet in person (once all have the ability to be vaccinated) then the children under 12 will be sung out to do service trips, field trips and enjoy outside play.

Questions, suggestions, ideas? Please email Director of Faith Formation Devon McClurken (she/her/hers) at dff@ucdsm.org.

Book Discussion contact is Dian Curran. (Send a note to Dian at HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.)

Contact: Dian Curran/Al Powers

Email: HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org

Who: Grades 9-12

When:  Sundays at 6:00 p.m CT, September – May

Where: Room 107

Leaders: DFF and Youth advisors

Our Young Religious Unitarian Universalist (YRUU) group allows teens to bond through exploration of personal and spiritual rituals, participation in engaging activities and empowering social action projects. Youth will plan events and projects, check in with each other, play games and enjoy some snacks.

Who: All

Meets: Mondays and Thursdays beginning October 14 – November 22; 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. CT

Where: Griffin Hall

Tai chi is an ancient form of exercise developed by families in China and passed through the generations. Tai chi is referred to as ‘moving meditation’. Research shows it may reduce stress, improve the immune response, balance, and overall health. Tai chi promotes the principles of meditative breathing, posture, controlled weight shift, and gentle resistance through slow circular movements.

This course will focus Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention developed by Dr. Paul Lam. The form is shortened to ease learning and utilizes smaller movements for safety of the joints and improving balance control. The form will be introduced in small sections with numerous repetitions to allow the learner time to integrate the movements and principles.

Lead by: Kathy Mercuris PT, DHS, Associate Professor Emeritus, taught in the Program of Physical Therapy at Des Moines University for over 30 years. She was also employed at Younker Memorial Rehabilitation Center for 10 years providing patient care to those with neurologic deficits. She was certified in tai chi and teaching community classes since 2013.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89021693859?pwd=VkZKT1JKMXNXdHVUTzlrVkxrZDhLQT09

Join us for a weekly chat with other Pagans as we talk about Sabbats, Full Moons, Tarot, Astrology, Mystic Dreams, book recommendations, articles we've read Pagan websites, and other Pagan-y stuff as we move through these weeks of Social Distancing. We want to meet you! Please join us and tell us about your Pagan path and your spiritual journey!

Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. 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. Chairs will be provided. If you prefer a meditation cushion, you are free to bring your own. Please plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early to help set up chairs.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.

Email sangha@ucdsm.org for link

We’re hoping you’re all vaccinated and ready to be together again.

RSVP Required by Saturday before the luncheon to: womenslunch@ucdsm.org  (Barb Royal)

Hilary Hippen-Leek; Room 114

Who: All

Leader: Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw

Meets: 1st and 3rd Tuesdays beginning October 5, 2021; 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. CT

Where: Zoom (Link will be sent to registrants.)

To Register: Please email Rev. Shaw, revamy@ucdsm.org to sign up by September 26.

Last year we did a whole church read of “Widening the Circle of Concern.” This year, Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw will lead an 11-12 session class based on the UUA’s “Widening the Circle of Concern” Study Guide. The study guide is available for download here: Widening the Circle of Concern Study Guide pdf or online here: https://www.uua.org/widening/guide . This thought-provoking class explores welcome and inclusion and the systemic barriers to that welcome and inclusion. Come and explore the ideas presented and offer your own ideas about what our congregation is doing well, and where we have opportunities to grow! Please sign up by emailing Rev. Amy at revamy@ucdsm.org.

This is an 11-12 session class that will continue through January 2022. There will be no class in February, but class will meet either once or twice in April to wrap up the course.

We need to have eight to ten people participating for this class to be offered so please sign up by September 26. Class will be on Zoom until we are fully back in the building.

Contact: Karen Kraemer choir@ucdsm.org

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades 4 – 6

When: 6:00- 7:15 p.m. CT, Staring September 29

Where: Outside as weather permits, then moves to Zoom.

Leader(s): Cale Finnegan, Kim Kurchinski

Please note: We will start meeting outside and stay outside as long as weather permits.

Youth need time to be together and to process what has changed within themselves and in the world. They will explore the surroundings of the church by learning outside and learning about the outside. We will use our Toolbox of Faith to direct this time together.

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades K – 3

When: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.CT, Starting September 29

Where: Outside as weather permits, then moves to Zoom

Leader(s): Terry Meeks

Please note: We will start meeting outside and stay outside as long as weather permits.

This program helps children develop a basic understanding of church as a physical place which reflects a shared set of values and beliefs. The group will explore questions about the purpose of having a church as a place of belonging, and the functions of different church spaces. We will introduce the concept of a “faith home”—your congregation—which shares some characteristics with a family home, including both amenities and responsibilities. To understand these you must begin by understanding why the building and grounds are the way they are.

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 15)

Who: Grade 7 – 8

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 15 – May 25

Where: Outside, Room 107

Leader(s): Kim Gunnes, Chelsea Hayes, Ben Spadt, Holly Hanson

Specially trained volunteer facilitators help participants make informed and responsible decisions about their sexual health and behavior. The curriculum equips participants with accurate, age-appropriate information in six subject areas: human development, relationships, personal skills, sexual behavior, sexual health, and society and culture. Grounded in a holistic view of sexuality, Our Whole Lives not only provides facts about anatomy and human development, but also helps participants clarify their values, build interpersonal skills, and understand the spiritual, emotional, and social aspects of sexuality.

OWL for 7/8 Grade will be capped at 12 participants, with priority given to First Unitarian member families. If a substantially higher number of participants is expected, other options will be explored with the Director of Faith Formation.

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades K – 6

When: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.CT. Starting September 29

Leader(s): Nancy Bratt, Will Esty

ONLINE! Zoom link to be provided upon registration. Youth will learn important UU hymns, public speaking skills, theater skills and what it means to be part of the youth celebrant team.

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 8)

Who: Grade 8 – 9

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 8 – May 18

Where: Room 103

Leader(s): Katherine Sutton, Sally Boeckholt, Mark Metz

When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, youth can gradually experience powerful transformation – they “come of age.” With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and can decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story leading to the development of a faith statement. To help with this process, the “Big Questions” are tackled each week, including:

• What do you believe about God?
• What happens after we die?
• How do you live a moral life?
• Why do bad things happen?

Each youth is paired up with a carefully chosen adult mentor from the congregation. Youth and mentors meet about twice a month and also complete a service project together. The year begins with a parent/youth meeting to share information about the Coming of Age year, and concludes with a celebration dinner and Coming of Age Sunday morning service planned and lead by the youth to include presenting their own faith statements.

Janis Elliot; Patio or Zoom

Who: All

Meets: Mondays and Thursdays beginning October 14 – November 22; 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. CT

Where: Griffin Hall

Tai chi is an ancient form of exercise developed by families in China and passed through the generations. Tai chi is referred to as ‘moving meditation’. Research shows it may reduce stress, improve the immune response, balance, and overall health. Tai chi promotes the principles of meditative breathing, posture, controlled weight shift, and gentle resistance through slow circular movements.

This course will focus Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention developed by Dr. Paul Lam. The form is shortened to ease learning and utilizes smaller movements for safety of the joints and improving balance control. The form will be introduced in small sections with numerous repetitions to allow the learner time to integrate the movements and principles.

Lead by: Kathy Mercuris PT, DHS, Associate Professor Emeritus, taught in the Program of Physical Therapy at Des Moines University for over 30 years. She was also employed at Younker Memorial Rehabilitation Center for 10 years providing patient care to those with neurologic deficits. She was certified in tai chi and teaching community classes since 2013.

The UCDSM Board of Trustees meets on the third Thursday of each month to discuss the needs and actions of the church and all formal church business. On other Thursdays the Board meets briefly to discuss the Covid pandemic and to do visioning and planning work. All meetings are open to anyone.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83586021182?pwd=TlBiUEpGSEhuSVJUNnFlNXN5aHgyZz09 

Contact: Rev. Amy

Who: All

Leader: Amy Petrie Shaw

Meets: Fridays beginning September 10, 2021; 6:00 p.m. CT

Where: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84835170541?pwd=M1NqMnNJaXhOYjNxek9MUDhxTmZIZz09

This class will review a group of religious beliefs and practices possibly less familiar to Unitarian Universalists: Mormonism, Baha’i, Sikhism, Jainism, Rastafari, Santeria/Vu du, Modern Church of Satan, Christian Science, Zoroastrianism, Shinto, and the Unification Church.

Come and join Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw and have fun learning about some areas of religion you may never have explored. A book list will be provided for those who want to do more reading on any given faith.

Zoom

Children’s Chapel is part of Sunday Service! No registration required.

Who: All ages

When: Sundays mornings, 10:00 a.m. CT

Beginning September 19, 2021, each service is a Service for All Ages, in which all families worship together. There will be a youth led chalice lighting, meditation and Micro-Sermon or Story for All Ages in the first 30 minutes of the service. When we are able to meet in person (once all have the ability to be vaccinated) then the children under 12 will be sung out to do service trips, field trips and enjoy outside play.

Questions, suggestions, ideas? Please email Director of Faith Formation Devon McClurken (she/her/hers) at dff@ucdsm.org.

Who: Anyone wanting to know more about us or considering becoming a member.

When: Sunday, October 24, 12:00 p.m. CT; Zoom

Leader(s): Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw and Lyra Halsten, Membership Coordinator.

Participants will learn more about Unitarian-Universalism, First Unitarian Church of Des Moines, and what it means to be a member. This is one of the two classes required for those who would like to become members.

Registration is required.

Who: Grades 9-12

When:  Sundays at 6:00 p.m CT, September – May

Where: Room 107

Leaders: DFF and Youth advisors

Our Young Religious Unitarian Universalist (YRUU) group allows teens to bond through exploration of personal and spiritual rituals, participation in engaging activities and empowering social action projects. Youth will plan events and projects, check in with each other, play games and enjoy some snacks.

Who: All

Meets: Mondays and Thursdays beginning October 14 – November 22; 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. CT

Where: Griffin Hall

Tai chi is an ancient form of exercise developed by families in China and passed through the generations. Tai chi is referred to as ‘moving meditation’. Research shows it may reduce stress, improve the immune response, balance, and overall health. Tai chi promotes the principles of meditative breathing, posture, controlled weight shift, and gentle resistance through slow circular movements.

This course will focus Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention developed by Dr. Paul Lam. The form is shortened to ease learning and utilizes smaller movements for safety of the joints and improving balance control. The form will be introduced in small sections with numerous repetitions to allow the learner time to integrate the movements and principles.

Lead by: Kathy Mercuris PT, DHS, Associate Professor Emeritus, taught in the Program of Physical Therapy at Des Moines University for over 30 years. She was also employed at Younker Memorial Rehabilitation Center for 10 years providing patient care to those with neurologic deficits. She was certified in tai chi and teaching community classes since 2013.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89021693859?pwd=VkZKT1JKMXNXdHVUTzlrVkxrZDhLQT09

Join us for a weekly chat with other Pagans as we talk about Sabbats, Full Moons, Tarot, Astrology, Mystic Dreams, book recommendations, articles we've read Pagan websites, and other Pagan-y stuff as we move through these weeks of Social Distancing. We want to meet you! Please join us and tell us about your Pagan path and your spiritual journey!

Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. 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. Chairs will be provided. If you prefer a meditation cushion, you are free to bring your own. Please plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early to help set up chairs.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.

Email sangha@ucdsm.org for link

Jo Fitz & Susan Seiz; Off-site

Email dre@ucdsm.org for link.

“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 at the patio area in our church, eat lunch, do check-ins, and discuss topics presented just by one word. The topics vary from environment to personalities. Currently we have five members regularly attending, and would love to share this opportunity with up to five more people. (If the weather is inclement, we will have our meeting on Zoom.) 

Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.

Laura Berardi; Zoom https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85420827837?pwd=ams4bzAxVTNROEZsNXhmSmZWUE9GQT09

Who: All (New students may join at any time!)

Leader: Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw

Meets: 2nd and 4th Tuesdays beginning October 12, 2021; 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. CT

Where: Zoom (Link will be sent to registrants.)

To Register: Please email Rev. Shaw, revamy@ucdsm.org to sign up by September 26.

What is “praxis” and why would we want to do it? Great question! Praxis is “our practice in the world,” or “the way we really do things.” Each week, we will be talking about our own church and how we do things in 11 different areas of church life, looking for barriers to inclusion and welcome and proposing real changes if needed. “Welcome” for who? Well, anyone. Everyone. People with disabilities. Young people. Elderly people. Hispanic people. Black people. Queer people. Straight people. Whoever. Help to find and fix the places where we fall short of our values.

This is an 11-12 session group. You do not need to come to “Widening the Circle” Study Guide class to attend this! This group will continue through January 2022. There will be no group in February, but the group will meet either once or twice in April to wrap up discussion.

We need to have eight to ten people participating for this discussion group to be offered so please sign up by September 26. Class will be primarily on Zoom until we are fully back in the building but will have some multi-platform meetings.

Contact: Karen Kraemer choir@ucdsm.org

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades 4 – 6

When: 6:00- 7:15 p.m. CT, Staring September 29

Where: Outside as weather permits, then moves to Zoom.

Leader(s): Cale Finnegan, Kim Kurchinski

Please note: We will start meeting outside and stay outside as long as weather permits.

Youth need time to be together and to process what has changed within themselves and in the world. They will explore the surroundings of the church by learning outside and learning about the outside. We will use our Toolbox of Faith to direct this time together.

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades K – 3

When: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.CT, Starting September 29

Where: Outside as weather permits, then moves to Zoom

Leader(s): Terry Meeks

Please note: We will start meeting outside and stay outside as long as weather permits.

This program helps children develop a basic understanding of church as a physical place which reflects a shared set of values and beliefs. The group will explore questions about the purpose of having a church as a place of belonging, and the functions of different church spaces. We will introduce the concept of a “faith home”—your congregation—which shares some characteristics with a family home, including both amenities and responsibilities. To understand these you must begin by understanding why the building and grounds are the way they are.

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 15)

Who: Grade 7 – 8

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 15 – May 25

Where: Outside, Room 107

Leader(s): Kim Gunnes, Chelsea Hayes, Ben Spadt, Holly Hanson

Specially trained volunteer facilitators help participants make informed and responsible decisions about their sexual health and behavior. The curriculum equips participants with accurate, age-appropriate information in six subject areas: human development, relationships, personal skills, sexual behavior, sexual health, and society and culture. Grounded in a holistic view of sexuality, Our Whole Lives not only provides facts about anatomy and human development, but also helps participants clarify their values, build interpersonal skills, and understand the spiritual, emotional, and social aspects of sexuality.

OWL for 7/8 Grade will be capped at 12 participants, with priority given to First Unitarian member families. If a substantially higher number of participants is expected, other options will be explored with the Director of Faith Formation.

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades K – 6

When: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.CT. Starting September 29

Leader(s): Nancy Bratt, Will Esty

ONLINE! Zoom link to be provided upon registration. Youth will learn important UU hymns, public speaking skills, theater skills and what it means to be part of the youth celebrant team.

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 8)

Who: Grade 8 – 9

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 8 – May 18

Where: Room 103

Leader(s): Katherine Sutton, Sally Boeckholt, Mark Metz

When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, youth can gradually experience powerful transformation – they “come of age.” With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and can decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story leading to the development of a faith statement. To help with this process, the “Big Questions” are tackled each week, including:

• What do you believe about God?
• What happens after we die?
• How do you live a moral life?
• Why do bad things happen?

Each youth is paired up with a carefully chosen adult mentor from the congregation. Youth and mentors meet about twice a month and also complete a service project together. The year begins with a parent/youth meeting to share information about the Coming of Age year, and concludes with a celebration dinner and Coming of Age Sunday morning service planned and lead by the youth to include presenting their own faith statements.

Who: All

Meets: Mondays and Thursdays beginning October 14 – November 22; 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. CT

Where: Griffin Hall

Tai chi is an ancient form of exercise developed by families in China and passed through the generations. Tai chi is referred to as ‘moving meditation’. Research shows it may reduce stress, improve the immune response, balance, and overall health. Tai chi promotes the principles of meditative breathing, posture, controlled weight shift, and gentle resistance through slow circular movements.

This course will focus Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention developed by Dr. Paul Lam. The form is shortened to ease learning and utilizes smaller movements for safety of the joints and improving balance control. The form will be introduced in small sections with numerous repetitions to allow the learner time to integrate the movements and principles.

Lead by: Kathy Mercuris PT, DHS, Associate Professor Emeritus, taught in the Program of Physical Therapy at Des Moines University for over 30 years. She was also employed at Younker Memorial Rehabilitation Center for 10 years providing patient care to those with neurologic deficits. She was certified in tai chi and teaching community classes since 2013.

Who: All

Leader: Amy Petrie Shaw

Meets: Fridays beginning September 10, 2021; 6:00 p.m. CT

Where: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84835170541?pwd=M1NqMnNJaXhOYjNxek9MUDhxTmZIZz09

This class will review a group of religious beliefs and practices possibly less familiar to Unitarian Universalists: Mormonism, Baha’i, Sikhism, Jainism, Rastafari, Santeria/Vu du, Modern Church of Satan, Christian Science, Zoroastrianism, Shinto, and the Unification Church.

Come and join Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw and have fun learning about some areas of religion you may never have explored. A book list will be provided for those who want to do more reading on any given faith.

Zoom

Children’s Chapel is part of Sunday Service! No registration required.

Who: All ages

When: Sundays mornings, 10:00 a.m. CT

Beginning September 19, 2021, each service is a Service for All Ages, in which all families worship together. There will be a youth led chalice lighting, meditation and Micro-Sermon or Story for All Ages in the first 30 minutes of the service. When we are able to meet in person (once all have the ability to be vaccinated) then the children under 12 will be sung out to do service trips, field trips and enjoy outside play.

Questions, suggestions, ideas? Please email Director of Faith Formation Devon McClurken (she/her/hers) at dff@ucdsm.org.

Who: Grades 9-12

When:  Sundays at 6:00 p.m CT, September – May

Where: Room 107

Leaders: DFF and Youth advisors

Our Young Religious Unitarian Universalist (YRUU) group allows teens to bond through exploration of personal and spiritual rituals, participation in engaging activities and empowering social action projects. Youth will plan events and projects, check in with each other, play games and enjoy some snacks.

Who: All

Meets: Mondays and Thursdays beginning October 14 – November 22; 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. CT

Where: Griffin Hall

Tai chi is an ancient form of exercise developed by families in China and passed through the generations. Tai chi is referred to as ‘moving meditation’. Research shows it may reduce stress, improve the immune response, balance, and overall health. Tai chi promotes the principles of meditative breathing, posture, controlled weight shift, and gentle resistance through slow circular movements.

This course will focus Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention developed by Dr. Paul Lam. The form is shortened to ease learning and utilizes smaller movements for safety of the joints and improving balance control. The form will be introduced in small sections with numerous repetitions to allow the learner time to integrate the movements and principles.

Lead by: Kathy Mercuris PT, DHS, Associate Professor Emeritus, taught in the Program of Physical Therapy at Des Moines University for over 30 years. She was also employed at Younker Memorial Rehabilitation Center for 10 years providing patient care to those with neurologic deficits. She was certified in tai chi and teaching community classes since 2013.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89021693859?pwd=VkZKT1JKMXNXdHVUTzlrVkxrZDhLQT09

Join us for a weekly chat with other Pagans as we talk about Sabbats, Full Moons, Tarot, Astrology, Mystic Dreams, book recommendations, articles we've read Pagan websites, and other Pagan-y stuff as we move through these weeks of Social Distancing. We want to meet you! Please join us and tell us about your Pagan path and your spiritual journey!

Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. 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. Chairs will be provided. If you prefer a meditation cushion, you are free to bring your own. Please plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early to help set up chairs.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.

Email sangha@ucdsm.org for link

Who: All

Leader: Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw

Meets: 1st and 3rd Tuesdays beginning October 5, 2021; 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. CT

Where: Zoom (Link will be sent to registrants.)

To Register: Please email Rev. Shaw, revamy@ucdsm.org to sign up by September 26.

Last year we did a whole church read of “Widening the Circle of Concern.” This year, Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw will lead an 11-12 session class based on the UUA’s “Widening the Circle of Concern” Study Guide. The study guide is available for download here: Widening the Circle of Concern Study Guide pdf or online here: https://www.uua.org/widening/guide . This thought-provoking class explores welcome and inclusion and the systemic barriers to that welcome and inclusion. Come and explore the ideas presented and offer your own ideas about what our congregation is doing well, and where we have opportunities to grow! Please sign up by emailing Rev. Amy at revamy@ucdsm.org.

This is an 11-12 session class that will continue through January 2022. There will be no class in February, but class will meet either once or twice in April to wrap up the course.

We need to have eight to ten people participating for this class to be offered so please sign up by September 26. Class will be on Zoom until we are fully back in the building.

Contact: Karen Kraemer choir@ucdsm.org

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades 4 – 6

When: 6:00- 7:15 p.m. CT, Staring September 29

Where: Outside as weather permits, then moves to Zoom.

Leader(s): Cale Finnegan, Kim Kurchinski

Please note: We will start meeting outside and stay outside as long as weather permits.

Youth need time to be together and to process what has changed within themselves and in the world. They will explore the surroundings of the church by learning outside and learning about the outside. We will use our Toolbox of Faith to direct this time together.

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades K – 3

When: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.CT, Starting September 29

Where: Outside as weather permits, then moves to Zoom

Leader(s): Terry Meeks

Please note: We will start meeting outside and stay outside as long as weather permits.

This program helps children develop a basic understanding of church as a physical place which reflects a shared set of values and beliefs. The group will explore questions about the purpose of having a church as a place of belonging, and the functions of different church spaces. We will introduce the concept of a “faith home”—your congregation—which shares some characteristics with a family home, including both amenities and responsibilities. To understand these you must begin by understanding why the building and grounds are the way they are.

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 15)

Who: Grade 7 – 8

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 15 – May 25

Where: Outside, Room 107

Leader(s): Kim Gunnes, Chelsea Hayes, Ben Spadt, Holly Hanson

Specially trained volunteer facilitators help participants make informed and responsible decisions about their sexual health and behavior. The curriculum equips participants with accurate, age-appropriate information in six subject areas: human development, relationships, personal skills, sexual behavior, sexual health, and society and culture. Grounded in a holistic view of sexuality, Our Whole Lives not only provides facts about anatomy and human development, but also helps participants clarify their values, build interpersonal skills, and understand the spiritual, emotional, and social aspects of sexuality.

OWL for 7/8 Grade will be capped at 12 participants, with priority given to First Unitarian member families. If a substantially higher number of participants is expected, other options will be explored with the Director of Faith Formation.

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades K – 6

When: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.CT. Starting September 29

Leader(s): Nancy Bratt, Will Esty

ONLINE! Zoom link to be provided upon registration. Youth will learn important UU hymns, public speaking skills, theater skills and what it means to be part of the youth celebrant team.

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 8)

Who: Grade 8 – 9

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 8 – May 18

Where: Room 103

Leader(s): Katherine Sutton, Sally Boeckholt, Mark Metz

When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, youth can gradually experience powerful transformation – they “come of age.” With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and can decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story leading to the development of a faith statement. To help with this process, the “Big Questions” are tackled each week, including:

• What do you believe about God?
• What happens after we die?
• How do you live a moral life?
• Why do bad things happen?

Each youth is paired up with a carefully chosen adult mentor from the congregation. Youth and mentors meet about twice a month and also complete a service project together. The year begins with a parent/youth meeting to share information about the Coming of Age year, and concludes with a celebration dinner and Coming of Age Sunday morning service planned and lead by the youth to include presenting their own faith statements.

This group is for individuals who love to do needlework of all kinds. If you crochet, cross-stitch, knit or weave, you’ll want to join Bent Needles.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83493074847?pwd=RkczSTRYb2V5OFY2UWpTT2cxblpXQT09

Contact: Lyra Halsten, membership@ucdsm.org

Who: All

Meets: Mondays and Thursdays beginning October 14 – November 22; 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. CT

Where: Griffin Hall

Tai chi is an ancient form of exercise developed by families in China and passed through the generations. Tai chi is referred to as ‘moving meditation’. Research shows it may reduce stress, improve the immune response, balance, and overall health. Tai chi promotes the principles of meditative breathing, posture, controlled weight shift, and gentle resistance through slow circular movements.

This course will focus Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention developed by Dr. Paul Lam. The form is shortened to ease learning and utilizes smaller movements for safety of the joints and improving balance control. The form will be introduced in small sections with numerous repetitions to allow the learner time to integrate the movements and principles.

Lead by: Kathy Mercuris PT, DHS, Associate Professor Emeritus, taught in the Program of Physical Therapy at Des Moines University for over 30 years. She was also employed at Younker Memorial Rehabilitation Center for 10 years providing patient care to those with neurologic deficits. She was certified in tai chi and teaching community classes since 2013.

Monthly meeting focusing on visioning and pandemic related issues.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85746475940?pwd=RkxQemJyQmFBb1ZEKzcxdFJqcndaQT09

Contact: Rev. Amy

Who: All

Leader: Amy Petrie Shaw

Meets: Fridays beginning September 10, 2021; 6:00 p.m. CT

Where: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84835170541?pwd=M1NqMnNJaXhOYjNxek9MUDhxTmZIZz09

This class will review a group of religious beliefs and practices possibly less familiar to Unitarian Universalists: Mormonism, Baha’i, Sikhism, Jainism, Rastafari, Santeria/Vu du, Modern Church of Satan, Christian Science, Zoroastrianism, Shinto, and the Unification Church.

Come and join Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw and have fun learning about some areas of religion you may never have explored. A book list will be provided for those who want to do more reading on any given faith.

Zoom

Children’s Chapel is part of Sunday Service! No registration required.

Who: All ages

When: Sundays mornings, 10:00 a.m. CT

Beginning September 19, 2021, each service is a Service for All Ages, in which all families worship together. There will be a youth led chalice lighting, meditation and Micro-Sermon or Story for All Ages in the first 30 minutes of the service. When we are able to meet in person (once all have the ability to be vaccinated) then the children under 12 will be sung out to do service trips, field trips and enjoy outside play.

Questions, suggestions, ideas? Please email Director of Faith Formation Devon McClurken (she/her/hers) at dff@ucdsm.org.

Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.

Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine

We will have five social justice leaders in Des Moines each record a five-minute video on how they sustain themselves in this stressful Covid-times. We will share these videos. The participants will then have small group discussions on how they sustain themselves. Plan to attend to help nurture yourself as you work on social justice issues. We intend to offer Zoom and in-person options. More information to come.

Who: Grades 9-12

When:  Sundays at 6:00 p.m CT, September – May

Where: Room 107

Leaders: DFF and Youth advisors

Our Young Religious Unitarian Universalist (YRUU) group allows teens to bond through exploration of personal and spiritual rituals, participation in engaging activities and empowering social action projects. Youth will plan events and projects, check in with each other, play games and enjoy some snacks.

Who: All

Meets: Mondays and Thursdays beginning October 14 – November 22; 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. CT

Where: Griffin Hall

Tai chi is an ancient form of exercise developed by families in China and passed through the generations. Tai chi is referred to as ‘moving meditation’. Research shows it may reduce stress, improve the immune response, balance, and overall health. Tai chi promotes the principles of meditative breathing, posture, controlled weight shift, and gentle resistance through slow circular movements.

This course will focus Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention developed by Dr. Paul Lam. The form is shortened to ease learning and utilizes smaller movements for safety of the joints and improving balance control. The form will be introduced in small sections with numerous repetitions to allow the learner time to integrate the movements and principles.

Lead by: Kathy Mercuris PT, DHS, Associate Professor Emeritus, taught in the Program of Physical Therapy at Des Moines University for over 30 years. She was also employed at Younker Memorial Rehabilitation Center for 10 years providing patient care to those with neurologic deficits. She was certified in tai chi and teaching community classes since 2013.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89021693859?pwd=VkZKT1JKMXNXdHVUTzlrVkxrZDhLQT09

Join us for a weekly chat with other Pagans as we talk about Sabbats, Full Moons, Tarot, Astrology, Mystic Dreams, book recommendations, articles we've read Pagan websites, and other Pagan-y stuff as we move through these weeks of Social Distancing. We want to meet you! Please join us and tell us about your Pagan path and your spiritual journey!

Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. 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. Chairs will be provided. If you prefer a meditation cushion, you are free to bring your own. Please plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early to help set up chairs.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.

Email sangha@ucdsm.org for link

Email dre@ucdsm.org for the link.

Patti C-Finnegan; Zoom https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89877050208?pwd=czBEL3hZWTZKVzFSVmM2YkFBTEhlQT09

Who: All (New students may join at any time!)

Leader: Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw

Meets: 2nd and 4th Tuesdays beginning October 12, 2021; 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. CT

Where: Zoom (Link will be sent to registrants.)

To Register: Please email Rev. Shaw, revamy@ucdsm.org to sign up by September 26.

What is “praxis” and why would we want to do it? Great question! Praxis is “our practice in the world,” or “the way we really do things.” Each week, we will be talking about our own church and how we do things in 11 different areas of church life, looking for barriers to inclusion and welcome and proposing real changes if needed. “Welcome” for who? Well, anyone. Everyone. People with disabilities. Young people. Elderly people. Hispanic people. Black people. Queer people. Straight people. Whoever. Help to find and fix the places where we fall short of our values.

This is an 11-12 session group. You do not need to come to “Widening the Circle” Study Guide class to attend this! This group will continue through January 2022. There will be no group in February, but the group will meet either once or twice in April to wrap up discussion.

We need to have eight to ten people participating for this discussion group to be offered so please sign up by September 26. Class will be primarily on Zoom until we are fully back in the building but will have some multi-platform meetings.

Contact: Karen Kraemer choir@ucdsm.org

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades 4 – 6

When: 6:00- 7:15 p.m. CT, Staring September 29

Where: Outside as weather permits, then moves to Zoom.

Leader(s): Cale Finnegan, Kim Kurchinski

Please note: We will start meeting outside and stay outside as long as weather permits.

Youth need time to be together and to process what has changed within themselves and in the world. They will explore the surroundings of the church by learning outside and learning about the outside. We will use our Toolbox of Faith to direct this time together.

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades K – 3

When: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.CT, Starting September 29

Where: Outside as weather permits, then moves to Zoom

Leader(s): Terry Meeks

Please note: We will start meeting outside and stay outside as long as weather permits.

This program helps children develop a basic understanding of church as a physical place which reflects a shared set of values and beliefs. The group will explore questions about the purpose of having a church as a place of belonging, and the functions of different church spaces. We will introduce the concept of a “faith home”—your congregation—which shares some characteristics with a family home, including both amenities and responsibilities. To understand these you must begin by understanding why the building and grounds are the way they are.

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 15)

Who: Grade 7 – 8

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 15 – May 25

Where: Outside, Room 107

Leader(s): Kim Gunnes, Chelsea Hayes, Ben Spadt, Holly Hanson

Specially trained volunteer facilitators help participants make informed and responsible decisions about their sexual health and behavior. The curriculum equips participants with accurate, age-appropriate information in six subject areas: human development, relationships, personal skills, sexual behavior, sexual health, and society and culture. Grounded in a holistic view of sexuality, Our Whole Lives not only provides facts about anatomy and human development, but also helps participants clarify their values, build interpersonal skills, and understand the spiritual, emotional, and social aspects of sexuality.

OWL for 7/8 Grade will be capped at 12 participants, with priority given to First Unitarian member families. If a substantially higher number of participants is expected, other options will be explored with the Director of Faith Formation.

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades K – 6

When: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.CT. Starting September 29

Leader(s): Nancy Bratt, Will Esty

ONLINE! Zoom link to be provided upon registration. Youth will learn important UU hymns, public speaking skills, theater skills and what it means to be part of the youth celebrant team.

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 8)

Who: Grade 8 – 9

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 8 – May 18

Where: Room 103

Leader(s): Katherine Sutton, Sally Boeckholt, Mark Metz

When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, youth can gradually experience powerful transformation – they “come of age.” With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and can decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story leading to the development of a faith statement. To help with this process, the “Big Questions” are tackled each week, including:

• What do you believe about God?
• What happens after we die?
• How do you live a moral life?
• Why do bad things happen?

Each youth is paired up with a carefully chosen adult mentor from the congregation. Youth and mentors meet about twice a month and also complete a service project together. The year begins with a parent/youth meeting to share information about the Coming of Age year, and concludes with a celebration dinner and Coming of Age Sunday morning service planned and lead by the youth to include presenting their own faith statements.

Who: All

Meets: Mondays and Thursdays beginning October 14 – November 22; 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. CT

Where: Griffin Hall

Tai chi is an ancient form of exercise developed by families in China and passed through the generations. Tai chi is referred to as ‘moving meditation’. Research shows it may reduce stress, improve the immune response, balance, and overall health. Tai chi promotes the principles of meditative breathing, posture, controlled weight shift, and gentle resistance through slow circular movements.

This course will focus Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention developed by Dr. Paul Lam. The form is shortened to ease learning and utilizes smaller movements for safety of the joints and improving balance control. The form will be introduced in small sections with numerous repetitions to allow the learner time to integrate the movements and principles.

Lead by: Kathy Mercuris PT, DHS, Associate Professor Emeritus, taught in the Program of Physical Therapy at Des Moines University for over 30 years. She was also employed at Younker Memorial Rehabilitation Center for 10 years providing patient care to those with neurologic deficits. She was certified in tai chi and teaching community classes since 2013.

Who: All

Leader: Amy Petrie Shaw

Meets: Fridays beginning September 10, 2021; 6:00 p.m. CT

Where: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84835170541?pwd=M1NqMnNJaXhOYjNxek9MUDhxTmZIZz09

This class will review a group of religious beliefs and practices possibly less familiar to Unitarian Universalists: Mormonism, Baha’i, Sikhism, Jainism, Rastafari, Santeria/Vu du, Modern Church of Satan, Christian Science, Zoroastrianism, Shinto, and the Unification Church.

Come and join Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw and have fun learning about some areas of religion you may never have explored. A book list will be provided for those who want to do more reading on any given faith.

Zoom

Children’s Chapel is part of Sunday Service! No registration required.

Who: All ages

When: Sundays mornings, 10:00 a.m. CT

Beginning September 19, 2021, each service is a Service for All Ages, in which all families worship together. There will be a youth led chalice lighting, meditation and Micro-Sermon or Story for All Ages in the first 30 minutes of the service. When we are able to meet in person (once all have the ability to be vaccinated) then the children under 12 will be sung out to do service trips, field trips and enjoy outside play.

Questions, suggestions, ideas? Please email Director of Faith Formation Devon McClurken (she/her/hers) at dff@ucdsm.org.

If you are a new member or visitor to UCDSM, you are invited to visit with Membership Coordinator Lyra Halsten, on the second Sunday of each month. She will be available in-person at the church in the Mary Safford Room at the back of the auditorium. Those who choose to attend on Zoom can stay in the service’s main room and Lyra will be with you shortly. This is an opportunity for new members and visitors to connect and find out more about Unitarian Universalism and First Unitarian Church of Des Moines.

Long-term members attending the Sunday Service Watch Party at the church and those who are Zooming in are invited to stay for the visit which will begin at 11:15 and last approximately 30-45 minutes.

YASM; Room 107

Who: Grades 9-12

When:  Sundays at 6:00 p.m CT, September – May

Where: Room 107

Leaders: DFF and Youth advisors

Our Young Religious Unitarian Universalist (YRUU) group allows teens to bond through exploration of personal and spiritual rituals, participation in engaging activities and empowering social action projects. Youth will plan events and projects, check in with each other, play games and enjoy some snacks.

Who: All

Meets: Mondays and Thursdays beginning October 14 – November 22; 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. CT

Where: Griffin Hall

Tai chi is an ancient form of exercise developed by families in China and passed through the generations. Tai chi is referred to as ‘moving meditation’. Research shows it may reduce stress, improve the immune response, balance, and overall health. Tai chi promotes the principles of meditative breathing, posture, controlled weight shift, and gentle resistance through slow circular movements.

This course will focus Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention developed by Dr. Paul Lam. The form is shortened to ease learning and utilizes smaller movements for safety of the joints and improving balance control. The form will be introduced in small sections with numerous repetitions to allow the learner time to integrate the movements and principles.

Lead by: Kathy Mercuris PT, DHS, Associate Professor Emeritus, taught in the Program of Physical Therapy at Des Moines University for over 30 years. She was also employed at Younker Memorial Rehabilitation Center for 10 years providing patient care to those with neurologic deficits. She was certified in tai chi and teaching community classes since 2013.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89021693859?pwd=VkZKT1JKMXNXdHVUTzlrVkxrZDhLQT09

Join us for a weekly chat with other Pagans as we talk about Sabbats, Full Moons, Tarot, Astrology, Mystic Dreams, book recommendations, articles we've read Pagan websites, and other Pagan-y stuff as we move through these weeks of Social Distancing. We want to meet you! Please join us and tell us about your Pagan path and your spiritual journey!

Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. 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. Chairs will be provided. If you prefer a meditation cushion, you are free to bring your own. Please plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early to help set up chairs.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.

Email sangha@ucdsm.org for link

We’re hoping you’re all vaccinated and ready to be together again.

RSVP Required by Saturday before the luncheon to: womenslunch@ucdsm.org  (Barb Royal)

Hilary Hippen-Leek; Room 114

Who: All

Leader: Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw

Meets: 1st and 3rd Tuesdays beginning October 5, 2021; 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. CT

Where: Zoom (Link will be sent to registrants.)

To Register: Please email Rev. Shaw, revamy@ucdsm.org to sign up by September 26.

Last year we did a whole church read of “Widening the Circle of Concern.” This year, Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw will lead an 11-12 session class based on the UUA’s “Widening the Circle of Concern” Study Guide. The study guide is available for download here: Widening the Circle of Concern Study Guide pdf or online here: https://www.uua.org/widening/guide . This thought-provoking class explores welcome and inclusion and the systemic barriers to that welcome and inclusion. Come and explore the ideas presented and offer your own ideas about what our congregation is doing well, and where we have opportunities to grow! Please sign up by emailing Rev. Amy at revamy@ucdsm.org.

This is an 11-12 session class that will continue through January 2022. There will be no class in February, but class will meet either once or twice in April to wrap up the course.

We need to have eight to ten people participating for this class to be offered so please sign up by September 26. Class will be on Zoom until we are fully back in the building.

Contact: Karen Kraemer choir@ucdsm.org

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades 4 – 6

When: 6:00- 7:15 p.m. CT, Staring September 29

Where: Outside as weather permits, then moves to Zoom.

Leader(s): Cale Finnegan, Kim Kurchinski

Please note: We will start meeting outside and stay outside as long as weather permits.

Youth need time to be together and to process what has changed within themselves and in the world. They will explore the surroundings of the church by learning outside and learning about the outside. We will use our Toolbox of Faith to direct this time together.

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades K – 3

When: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.CT, Starting September 29

Where: Outside as weather permits, then moves to Zoom

Leader(s): Terry Meeks

Please note: We will start meeting outside and stay outside as long as weather permits.

This program helps children develop a basic understanding of church as a physical place which reflects a shared set of values and beliefs. The group will explore questions about the purpose of having a church as a place of belonging, and the functions of different church spaces. We will introduce the concept of a “faith home”—your congregation—which shares some characteristics with a family home, including both amenities and responsibilities. To understand these you must begin by understanding why the building and grounds are the way they are.

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 15)

Who: Grade 7 – 8

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 15 – May 25

Where: Outside, Room 107

Leader(s): Kim Gunnes, Chelsea Hayes, Ben Spadt, Holly Hanson

Specially trained volunteer facilitators help participants make informed and responsible decisions about their sexual health and behavior. The curriculum equips participants with accurate, age-appropriate information in six subject areas: human development, relationships, personal skills, sexual behavior, sexual health, and society and culture. Grounded in a holistic view of sexuality, Our Whole Lives not only provides facts about anatomy and human development, but also helps participants clarify their values, build interpersonal skills, and understand the spiritual, emotional, and social aspects of sexuality.

OWL for 7/8 Grade will be capped at 12 participants, with priority given to First Unitarian member families. If a substantially higher number of participants is expected, other options will be explored with the Director of Faith Formation.

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades K – 6

When: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.CT. Starting September 29

Leader(s): Nancy Bratt, Will Esty

ONLINE! Zoom link to be provided upon registration. Youth will learn important UU hymns, public speaking skills, theater skills and what it means to be part of the youth celebrant team.

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 8)

Who: Grade 8 – 9

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 8 – May 18

Where: Room 103

Leader(s): Katherine Sutton, Sally Boeckholt, Mark Metz

When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, youth can gradually experience powerful transformation – they “come of age.” With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and can decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story leading to the development of a faith statement. To help with this process, the “Big Questions” are tackled each week, including:

• What do you believe about God?
• What happens after we die?
• How do you live a moral life?
• Why do bad things happen?

Each youth is paired up with a carefully chosen adult mentor from the congregation. Youth and mentors meet about twice a month and also complete a service project together. The year begins with a parent/youth meeting to share information about the Coming of Age year, and concludes with a celebration dinner and Coming of Age Sunday morning service planned and lead by the youth to include presenting their own faith statements.

Janis Elliot; Patio or Zoom

Who: All

Meets: Mondays and Thursdays beginning October 14 – November 22; 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. CT

Where: Griffin Hall

Tai chi is an ancient form of exercise developed by families in China and passed through the generations. Tai chi is referred to as ‘moving meditation’. Research shows it may reduce stress, improve the immune response, balance, and overall health. Tai chi promotes the principles of meditative breathing, posture, controlled weight shift, and gentle resistance through slow circular movements.

This course will focus Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention developed by Dr. Paul Lam. The form is shortened to ease learning and utilizes smaller movements for safety of the joints and improving balance control. The form will be introduced in small sections with numerous repetitions to allow the learner time to integrate the movements and principles.

Lead by: Kathy Mercuris PT, DHS, Associate Professor Emeritus, taught in the Program of Physical Therapy at Des Moines University for over 30 years. She was also employed at Younker Memorial Rehabilitation Center for 10 years providing patient care to those with neurologic deficits. She was certified in tai chi and teaching community classes since 2013.

The UCDSM Board of Trustees meets on the third Thursday of each month to discuss the needs and actions of the church and all formal church business. On other Thursdays the Board meets briefly to discuss the Covid pandemic and to do visioning and planning work. All meetings are open to anyone.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83586021182?pwd=TlBiUEpGSEhuSVJUNnFlNXN5aHgyZz09 

Contact: Rev. Amy

Who: All

Leader: Amy Petrie Shaw

Meets: Fridays beginning September 10, 2021; 6:00 p.m. CT

Where: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84835170541?pwd=M1NqMnNJaXhOYjNxek9MUDhxTmZIZz09

This class will review a group of religious beliefs and practices possibly less familiar to Unitarian Universalists: Mormonism, Baha’i, Sikhism, Jainism, Rastafari, Santeria/Vu du, Modern Church of Satan, Christian Science, Zoroastrianism, Shinto, and the Unification Church.

Come and join Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw and have fun learning about some areas of religion you may never have explored. A book list will be provided for those who want to do more reading on any given faith.

Zoom

Children’s Chapel is part of Sunday Service! No registration required.

Who: All ages

When: Sundays mornings, 10:00 a.m. CT

Beginning September 19, 2021, each service is a Service for All Ages, in which all families worship together. There will be a youth led chalice lighting, meditation and Micro-Sermon or Story for All Ages in the first 30 minutes of the service. When we are able to meet in person (once all have the ability to be vaccinated) then the children under 12 will be sung out to do service trips, field trips and enjoy outside play.

Questions, suggestions, ideas? Please email Director of Faith Formation Devon McClurken (she/her/hers) at dff@ucdsm.org.

Book Discussion contact is Dian Curran. (Send a note to Dian at HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.)

Contact: Dian Curran/Al Powers

Email: HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org

Who: Grades 9-12

When:  Sundays at 6:00 p.m CT, September – May

Where: Room 107

Leaders: DFF and Youth advisors

Our Young Religious Unitarian Universalist (YRUU) group allows teens to bond through exploration of personal and spiritual rituals, participation in engaging activities and empowering social action projects. Youth will plan events and projects, check in with each other, play games and enjoy some snacks.

Who: All

Meets: Mondays and Thursdays beginning October 14 – November 22; 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. CT

Where: Griffin Hall

Tai chi is an ancient form of exercise developed by families in China and passed through the generations. Tai chi is referred to as ‘moving meditation’. Research shows it may reduce stress, improve the immune response, balance, and overall health. Tai chi promotes the principles of meditative breathing, posture, controlled weight shift, and gentle resistance through slow circular movements.

This course will focus Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention developed by Dr. Paul Lam. The form is shortened to ease learning and utilizes smaller movements for safety of the joints and improving balance control. The form will be introduced in small sections with numerous repetitions to allow the learner time to integrate the movements and principles.

Lead by: Kathy Mercuris PT, DHS, Associate Professor Emeritus, taught in the Program of Physical Therapy at Des Moines University for over 30 years. She was also employed at Younker Memorial Rehabilitation Center for 10 years providing patient care to those with neurologic deficits. She was certified in tai chi and teaching community classes since 2013.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89021693859?pwd=VkZKT1JKMXNXdHVUTzlrVkxrZDhLQT09

Join us for a weekly chat with other Pagans as we talk about Sabbats, Full Moons, Tarot, Astrology, Mystic Dreams, book recommendations, articles we've read Pagan websites, and other Pagan-y stuff as we move through these weeks of Social Distancing. We want to meet you! Please join us and tell us about your Pagan path and your spiritual journey!

Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. 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. Chairs will be provided. If you prefer a meditation cushion, you are free to bring your own. Please plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early to help set up chairs.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.

Email sangha@ucdsm.org for link

Jo Fitz & Susan Seiz; Off-site

Email dre@ucdsm.org for link.

Laura Berardi; Zoom https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85420827837?pwd=ams4bzAxVTNROEZsNXhmSmZWUE9GQT09

Who: All (New students may join at any time!)

Leader: Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw

Meets: 2nd and 4th Tuesdays beginning October 12, 2021; 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. CT

Where: Zoom (Link will be sent to registrants.)

To Register: Please email Rev. Shaw, revamy@ucdsm.org to sign up by September 26.

What is “praxis” and why would we want to do it? Great question! Praxis is “our practice in the world,” or “the way we really do things.” Each week, we will be talking about our own church and how we do things in 11 different areas of church life, looking for barriers to inclusion and welcome and proposing real changes if needed. “Welcome” for who? Well, anyone. Everyone. People with disabilities. Young people. Elderly people. Hispanic people. Black people. Queer people. Straight people. Whoever. Help to find and fix the places where we fall short of our values.

This is an 11-12 session group. You do not need to come to “Widening the Circle” Study Guide class to attend this! This group will continue through January 2022. There will be no group in February, but the group will meet either once or twice in April to wrap up discussion.

We need to have eight to ten people participating for this discussion group to be offered so please sign up by September 26. Class will be primarily on Zoom until we are fully back in the building but will have some multi-platform meetings.

Contact: Karen Kraemer choir@ucdsm.org

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades 4 – 6

When: 6:00- 7:15 p.m. CT, Staring September 29

Where: Outside as weather permits, then moves to Zoom.

Leader(s): Cale Finnegan, Kim Kurchinski

Please note: We will start meeting outside and stay outside as long as weather permits.

Youth need time to be together and to process what has changed within themselves and in the world. They will explore the surroundings of the church by learning outside and learning about the outside. We will use our Toolbox of Faith to direct this time together.

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades K – 3

When: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.CT, Starting September 29

Where: Outside as weather permits, then moves to Zoom

Leader(s): Terry Meeks

Please note: We will start meeting outside and stay outside as long as weather permits.

This program helps children develop a basic understanding of church as a physical place which reflects a shared set of values and beliefs. The group will explore questions about the purpose of having a church as a place of belonging, and the functions of different church spaces. We will introduce the concept of a “faith home”—your congregation—which shares some characteristics with a family home, including both amenities and responsibilities. To understand these you must begin by understanding why the building and grounds are the way they are.

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 15)

Who: Grade 7 – 8

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 15 – May 25

Where: Outside, Room 107

Leader(s): Kim Gunnes, Chelsea Hayes, Ben Spadt, Holly Hanson

Specially trained volunteer facilitators help participants make informed and responsible decisions about their sexual health and behavior. The curriculum equips participants with accurate, age-appropriate information in six subject areas: human development, relationships, personal skills, sexual behavior, sexual health, and society and culture. Grounded in a holistic view of sexuality, Our Whole Lives not only provides facts about anatomy and human development, but also helps participants clarify their values, build interpersonal skills, and understand the spiritual, emotional, and social aspects of sexuality.

OWL for 7/8 Grade will be capped at 12 participants, with priority given to First Unitarian member families. If a substantially higher number of participants is expected, other options will be explored with the Director of Faith Formation.

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades K – 6

When: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.CT. Starting September 29

Leader(s): Nancy Bratt, Will Esty

ONLINE! Zoom link to be provided upon registration. Youth will learn important UU hymns, public speaking skills, theater skills and what it means to be part of the youth celebrant team.

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 8)

Who: Grade 8 – 9

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 8 – May 18

Where: Room 103

Leader(s): Katherine Sutton, Sally Boeckholt, Mark Metz

When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, youth can gradually experience powerful transformation – they “come of age.” With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and can decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story leading to the development of a faith statement. To help with this process, the “Big Questions” are tackled each week, including:

• What do you believe about God?
• What happens after we die?
• How do you live a moral life?
• Why do bad things happen?

Each youth is paired up with a carefully chosen adult mentor from the congregation. Youth and mentors meet about twice a month and also complete a service project together. The year begins with a parent/youth meeting to share information about the Coming of Age year, and concludes with a celebration dinner and Coming of Age Sunday morning service planned and lead by the youth to include presenting their own faith statements.

Who: All

Leader: Amy Petrie Shaw

Meets: Fridays beginning September 10, 2021; 6:00 p.m. CT

Where: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84835170541?pwd=M1NqMnNJaXhOYjNxek9MUDhxTmZIZz09

This class will review a group of religious beliefs and practices possibly less familiar to Unitarian Universalists: Mormonism, Baha’i, Sikhism, Jainism, Rastafari, Santeria/Vu du, Modern Church of Satan, Christian Science, Zoroastrianism, Shinto, and the Unification Church.

Come and join Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw and have fun learning about some areas of religion you may never have explored. A book list will be provided for those who want to do more reading on any given faith.

Zoom

Children’s Chapel is part of Sunday Service! No registration required.

Who: All ages

When: Sundays mornings, 10:00 a.m. CT

Beginning September 19, 2021, each service is a Service for All Ages, in which all families worship together. There will be a youth led chalice lighting, meditation and Micro-Sermon or Story for All Ages in the first 30 minutes of the service. When we are able to meet in person (once all have the ability to be vaccinated) then the children under 12 will be sung out to do service trips, field trips and enjoy outside play.

Questions, suggestions, ideas? Please email Director of Faith Formation Devon McClurken (she/her/hers) at dff@ucdsm.org.

Who: Grades 9-12

When:  Sundays at 6:00 p.m CT, September – May

Where: Room 107

Leaders: DFF and Youth advisors

Our Young Religious Unitarian Universalist (YRUU) group allows teens to bond through exploration of personal and spiritual rituals, participation in engaging activities and empowering social action projects. Youth will plan events and projects, check in with each other, play games and enjoy some snacks.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89021693859?pwd=VkZKT1JKMXNXdHVUTzlrVkxrZDhLQT09

Join us for a weekly chat with other Pagans as we talk about Sabbats, Full Moons, Tarot, Astrology, Mystic Dreams, book recommendations, articles we've read Pagan websites, and other Pagan-y stuff as we move through these weeks of Social Distancing. We want to meet you! Please join us and tell us about your Pagan path and your spiritual journey!

Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. 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. Chairs will be provided. If you prefer a meditation cushion, you are free to bring your own. Please plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early to help set up chairs.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.

Email sangha@ucdsm.org for link

“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 at the patio area in our church, eat lunch, do check-ins, and discuss topics presented just by one word. The topics vary from environment to personalities. Currently we have five members regularly attending, and would love to share this opportunity with up to five more people. (If the weather is inclement, we will have our meeting on Zoom.) 

Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.

Contact: Karen Kraemer choir@ucdsm.org

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades 4 – 6

When: 6:00- 7:15 p.m. CT, Staring September 29

Where: Outside as weather permits, then moves to Zoom.

Leader(s): Cale Finnegan, Kim Kurchinski

Please note: We will start meeting outside and stay outside as long as weather permits.

Youth need time to be together and to process what has changed within themselves and in the world. They will explore the surroundings of the church by learning outside and learning about the outside. We will use our Toolbox of Faith to direct this time together.

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades K – 3

When: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.CT, Starting September 29

Where: Outside as weather permits, then moves to Zoom

Leader(s): Terry Meeks

Please note: We will start meeting outside and stay outside as long as weather permits.

This program helps children develop a basic understanding of church as a physical place which reflects a shared set of values and beliefs. The group will explore questions about the purpose of having a church as a place of belonging, and the functions of different church spaces. We will introduce the concept of a “faith home”—your congregation—which shares some characteristics with a family home, including both amenities and responsibilities. To understand these you must begin by understanding why the building and grounds are the way they are.

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 15)

Who: Grade 7 – 8

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 15 – May 25

Where: Outside, Room 107

Leader(s): Kim Gunnes, Chelsea Hayes, Ben Spadt, Holly Hanson

Specially trained volunteer facilitators help participants make informed and responsible decisions about their sexual health and behavior. The curriculum equips participants with accurate, age-appropriate information in six subject areas: human development, relationships, personal skills, sexual behavior, sexual health, and society and culture. Grounded in a holistic view of sexuality, Our Whole Lives not only provides facts about anatomy and human development, but also helps participants clarify their values, build interpersonal skills, and understand the spiritual, emotional, and social aspects of sexuality.

OWL for 7/8 Grade will be capped at 12 participants, with priority given to First Unitarian member families. If a substantially higher number of participants is expected, other options will be explored with the Director of Faith Formation.

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades K – 6

When: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.CT. Starting September 29

Leader(s): Nancy Bratt, Will Esty

ONLINE! Zoom link to be provided upon registration. Youth will learn important UU hymns, public speaking skills, theater skills and what it means to be part of the youth celebrant team.

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 8)

Who: Grade 8 – 9

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 8 – May 18

Where: Room 103

Leader(s): Katherine Sutton, Sally Boeckholt, Mark Metz

When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, youth can gradually experience powerful transformation – they “come of age.” With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and can decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story leading to the development of a faith statement. To help with this process, the “Big Questions” are tackled each week, including:

• What do you believe about God?
• What happens after we die?
• How do you live a moral life?
• Why do bad things happen?

Each youth is paired up with a carefully chosen adult mentor from the congregation. Youth and mentors meet about twice a month and also complete a service project together. The year begins with a parent/youth meeting to share information about the Coming of Age year, and concludes with a celebration dinner and Coming of Age Sunday morning service planned and lead by the youth to include presenting their own faith statements.

This group is for individuals who love to do needlework of all kinds. If you crochet, cross-stitch, knit or weave, you’ll want to join Bent Needles.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83493074847?pwd=RkczSTRYb2V5OFY2UWpTT2cxblpXQT09

Contact: Lyra Halsten, membership@ucdsm.org

Monthly meeting focusing on visioning and pandemic related issues.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85746475940?pwd=RkxQemJyQmFBb1ZEKzcxdFJqcndaQT09

Contact: Rev. Amy

Who: All

Leader: Amy Petrie Shaw

Meets: Fridays beginning September 10, 2021; 6:00 p.m. CT

Where: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84835170541?pwd=M1NqMnNJaXhOYjNxek9MUDhxTmZIZz09

This class will review a group of religious beliefs and practices possibly less familiar to Unitarian Universalists: Mormonism, Baha’i, Sikhism, Jainism, Rastafari, Santeria/Vu du, Modern Church of Satan, Christian Science, Zoroastrianism, Shinto, and the Unification Church.

Come and join Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw and have fun learning about some areas of religion you may never have explored. A book list will be provided for those who want to do more reading on any given faith.

Zoom

Children’s Chapel is part of Sunday Service! No registration required.

Who: All ages

When: Sundays mornings, 10:00 a.m. CT

Beginning September 19, 2021, each service is a Service for All Ages, in which all families worship together. There will be a youth led chalice lighting, meditation and Micro-Sermon or Story for All Ages in the first 30 minutes of the service. When we are able to meet in person (once all have the ability to be vaccinated) then the children under 12 will be sung out to do service trips, field trips and enjoy outside play.

Questions, suggestions, ideas? Please email Director of Faith Formation Devon McClurken (she/her/hers) at dff@ucdsm.org.

Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.

Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine

Who: Grades 9-12

When:  Sundays at 6:00 p.m CT, September – May

Where: Room 107

Leaders: DFF and Youth advisors

Our Young Religious Unitarian Universalist (YRUU) group allows teens to bond through exploration of personal and spiritual rituals, participation in engaging activities and empowering social action projects. Youth will plan events and projects, check in with each other, play games and enjoy some snacks.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89021693859?pwd=VkZKT1JKMXNXdHVUTzlrVkxrZDhLQT09

Join us for a weekly chat with other Pagans as we talk about Sabbats, Full Moons, Tarot, Astrology, Mystic Dreams, book recommendations, articles we've read Pagan websites, and other Pagan-y stuff as we move through these weeks of Social Distancing. We want to meet you! Please join us and tell us about your Pagan path and your spiritual journey!

Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. 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. Chairs will be provided. If you prefer a meditation cushion, you are free to bring your own. Please plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early to help set up chairs.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.

Email sangha@ucdsm.org for link

Who: All

Leader: Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw

Meets: 1st and 3rd Tuesdays beginning October 5, 2021; 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. CT

Where: Zoom (Link will be sent to registrants.)

To Register: Please email Rev. Shaw, revamy@ucdsm.org to sign up by September 26.

Last year we did a whole church read of “Widening the Circle of Concern.” This year, Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw will lead an 11-12 session class based on the UUA’s “Widening the Circle of Concern” Study Guide. The study guide is available for download here: Widening the Circle of Concern Study Guide pdf or online here: https://www.uua.org/widening/guide . This thought-provoking class explores welcome and inclusion and the systemic barriers to that welcome and inclusion. Come and explore the ideas presented and offer your own ideas about what our congregation is doing well, and where we have opportunities to grow! Please sign up by emailing Rev. Amy at revamy@ucdsm.org.

This is an 11-12 session class that will continue through January 2022. There will be no class in February, but class will meet either once or twice in April to wrap up the course.

We need to have eight to ten people participating for this class to be offered so please sign up by September 26. Class will be on Zoom until we are fully back in the building.

Contact: Karen Kraemer choir@ucdsm.org

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades 4 – 6

When: 6:00- 7:15 p.m. CT, Staring September 29

Where: Outside as weather permits, then moves to Zoom.

Leader(s): Cale Finnegan, Kim Kurchinski

Please note: We will start meeting outside and stay outside as long as weather permits.

Youth need time to be together and to process what has changed within themselves and in the world. They will explore the surroundings of the church by learning outside and learning about the outside. We will use our Toolbox of Faith to direct this time together.

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades K – 3

When: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.CT, Starting September 29

Where: Outside as weather permits, then moves to Zoom

Leader(s): Terry Meeks

Please note: We will start meeting outside and stay outside as long as weather permits.

This program helps children develop a basic understanding of church as a physical place which reflects a shared set of values and beliefs. The group will explore questions about the purpose of having a church as a place of belonging, and the functions of different church spaces. We will introduce the concept of a “faith home”—your congregation—which shares some characteristics with a family home, including both amenities and responsibilities. To understand these you must begin by understanding why the building and grounds are the way they are.

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 15)

Who: Grade 7 – 8

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 15 – May 25

Where: Outside, Room 107

Leader(s): Kim Gunnes, Chelsea Hayes, Ben Spadt, Holly Hanson

Specially trained volunteer facilitators help participants make informed and responsible decisions about their sexual health and behavior. The curriculum equips participants with accurate, age-appropriate information in six subject areas: human development, relationships, personal skills, sexual behavior, sexual health, and society and culture. Grounded in a holistic view of sexuality, Our Whole Lives not only provides facts about anatomy and human development, but also helps participants clarify their values, build interpersonal skills, and understand the spiritual, emotional, and social aspects of sexuality.

OWL for 7/8 Grade will be capped at 12 participants, with priority given to First Unitarian member families. If a substantially higher number of participants is expected, other options will be explored with the Director of Faith Formation.

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades K – 6

When: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.CT. Starting September 29

Leader(s): Nancy Bratt, Will Esty

ONLINE! Zoom link to be provided upon registration. Youth will learn important UU hymns, public speaking skills, theater skills and what it means to be part of the youth celebrant team.

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 8)

Who: Grade 8 – 9

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 8 – May 18

Where: Room 103

Leader(s): Katherine Sutton, Sally Boeckholt, Mark Metz

When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, youth can gradually experience powerful transformation – they “come of age.” With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and can decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story leading to the development of a faith statement. To help with this process, the “Big Questions” are tackled each week, including:

• What do you believe about God?
• What happens after we die?
• How do you live a moral life?
• Why do bad things happen?

Each youth is paired up with a carefully chosen adult mentor from the congregation. Youth and mentors meet about twice a month and also complete a service project together. The year begins with a parent/youth meeting to share information about the Coming of Age year, and concludes with a celebration dinner and Coming of Age Sunday morning service planned and lead by the youth to include presenting their own faith statements.

Who: All

Leader: Amy Petrie Shaw

Meets: Fridays beginning September 10, 2021; 6:00 p.m. CT

Where: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84835170541?pwd=M1NqMnNJaXhOYjNxek9MUDhxTmZIZz09

This class will review a group of religious beliefs and practices possibly less familiar to Unitarian Universalists: Mormonism, Baha’i, Sikhism, Jainism, Rastafari, Santeria/Vu du, Modern Church of Satan, Christian Science, Zoroastrianism, Shinto, and the Unification Church.

Come and join Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw and have fun learning about some areas of religion you may never have explored. A book list will be provided for those who want to do more reading on any given faith.

Zoom

Children’s Chapel is part of Sunday Service! No registration required.

Who: All ages

When: Sundays mornings, 10:00 a.m. CT

Beginning September 19, 2021, each service is a Service for All Ages, in which all families worship together. There will be a youth led chalice lighting, meditation and Micro-Sermon or Story for All Ages in the first 30 minutes of the service. When we are able to meet in person (once all have the ability to be vaccinated) then the children under 12 will be sung out to do service trips, field trips and enjoy outside play.

Questions, suggestions, ideas? Please email Director of Faith Formation Devon McClurken (she/her/hers) at dff@ucdsm.org.

If you are a new member or visitor to UCDSM, you are invited to visit with Membership Coordinator Lyra Halsten, on the second Sunday of each month. She will be available in-person at the church in the Mary Safford Room at the back of the auditorium. Those who choose to attend on Zoom can stay in the service’s main room and Lyra will be with you shortly. This is an opportunity for new members and visitors to connect and find out more about Unitarian Universalism and First Unitarian Church of Des Moines.

Long-term members attending the Sunday Service Watch Party at the church and those who are Zooming in are invited to stay for the visit which will begin at 11:15 and last approximately 30-45 minutes.

YASM; Room 107

Who: Grades 9-12

When:  Sundays at 6:00 p.m CT, September – May

Where: Room 107

Leaders: DFF and Youth advisors

Our Young Religious Unitarian Universalist (YRUU) group allows teens to bond through exploration of personal and spiritual rituals, participation in engaging activities and empowering social action projects. Youth will plan events and projects, check in with each other, play games and enjoy some snacks.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89021693859?pwd=VkZKT1JKMXNXdHVUTzlrVkxrZDhLQT09

Join us for a weekly chat with other Pagans as we talk about Sabbats, Full Moons, Tarot, Astrology, Mystic Dreams, book recommendations, articles we've read Pagan websites, and other Pagan-y stuff as we move through these weeks of Social Distancing. We want to meet you! Please join us and tell us about your Pagan path and your spiritual journey!

Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. 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. Chairs will be provided. If you prefer a meditation cushion, you are free to bring your own. Please plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early to help set up chairs.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.

Email sangha@ucdsm.org for link

Email dre@ucdsm.org for the link.

Patti C-Finnegan; Zoom https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89877050208?pwd=czBEL3hZWTZKVzFSVmM2YkFBTEhlQT09

Who: All (New students may join at any time!)

Leader: Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw

Meets: 2nd and 4th Tuesdays beginning October 12, 2021; 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. CT

Where: Zoom (Link will be sent to registrants.)

To Register: Please email Rev. Shaw, revamy@ucdsm.org to sign up by September 26.

What is “praxis” and why would we want to do it? Great question! Praxis is “our practice in the world,” or “the way we really do things.” Each week, we will be talking about our own church and how we do things in 11 different areas of church life, looking for barriers to inclusion and welcome and proposing real changes if needed. “Welcome” for who? Well, anyone. Everyone. People with disabilities. Young people. Elderly people. Hispanic people. Black people. Queer people. Straight people. Whoever. Help to find and fix the places where we fall short of our values.

This is an 11-12 session group. You do not need to come to “Widening the Circle” Study Guide class to attend this! This group will continue through January 2022. There will be no group in February, but the group will meet either once or twice in April to wrap up discussion.

We need to have eight to ten people participating for this discussion group to be offered so please sign up by September 26. Class will be primarily on Zoom until we are fully back in the building but will have some multi-platform meetings.

Contact: Karen Kraemer choir@ucdsm.org

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades 4 – 6

When: 6:00- 7:15 p.m. CT, Staring September 29

Where: Outside as weather permits, then moves to Zoom.

Leader(s): Cale Finnegan, Kim Kurchinski

Please note: We will start meeting outside and stay outside as long as weather permits.

Youth need time to be together and to process what has changed within themselves and in the world. They will explore the surroundings of the church by learning outside and learning about the outside. We will use our Toolbox of Faith to direct this time together.

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades K – 3

When: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.CT, Starting September 29

Where: Outside as weather permits, then moves to Zoom

Leader(s): Terry Meeks

Please note: We will start meeting outside and stay outside as long as weather permits.

This program helps children develop a basic understanding of church as a physical place which reflects a shared set of values and beliefs. The group will explore questions about the purpose of having a church as a place of belonging, and the functions of different church spaces. We will introduce the concept of a “faith home”—your congregation—which shares some characteristics with a family home, including both amenities and responsibilities. To understand these you must begin by understanding why the building and grounds are the way they are.

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 15)

Who: Grade 7 – 8

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 15 – May 25

Where: Outside, Room 107

Leader(s): Kim Gunnes, Chelsea Hayes, Ben Spadt, Holly Hanson

Specially trained volunteer facilitators help participants make informed and responsible decisions about their sexual health and behavior. The curriculum equips participants with accurate, age-appropriate information in six subject areas: human development, relationships, personal skills, sexual behavior, sexual health, and society and culture. Grounded in a holistic view of sexuality, Our Whole Lives not only provides facts about anatomy and human development, but also helps participants clarify their values, build interpersonal skills, and understand the spiritual, emotional, and social aspects of sexuality.

OWL for 7/8 Grade will be capped at 12 participants, with priority given to First Unitarian member families. If a substantially higher number of participants is expected, other options will be explored with the Director of Faith Formation.

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades K – 6

When: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.CT. Starting September 29

Leader(s): Nancy Bratt, Will Esty

ONLINE! Zoom link to be provided upon registration. Youth will learn important UU hymns, public speaking skills, theater skills and what it means to be part of the youth celebrant team.

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 8)

Who: Grade 8 – 9

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 8 – May 18

Where: Room 103

Leader(s): Katherine Sutton, Sally Boeckholt, Mark Metz

When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, youth can gradually experience powerful transformation – they “come of age.” With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and can decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story leading to the development of a faith statement. To help with this process, the “Big Questions” are tackled each week, including:

• What do you believe about God?
• What happens after we die?
• How do you live a moral life?
• Why do bad things happen?

Each youth is paired up with a carefully chosen adult mentor from the congregation. Youth and mentors meet about twice a month and also complete a service project together. The year begins with a parent/youth meeting to share information about the Coming of Age year, and concludes with a celebration dinner and Coming of Age Sunday morning service planned and lead by the youth to include presenting their own faith statements.

Janis Elliot; Patio or Zoom

The UCDSM Board of Trustees meets on the third Thursday of each month to discuss the needs and actions of the church and all formal church business. On other Thursdays the Board meets briefly to discuss the Covid pandemic and to do visioning and planning work. All meetings are open to anyone.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83586021182?pwd=TlBiUEpGSEhuSVJUNnFlNXN5aHgyZz09 

Contact: Rev. Amy

Who: All

Leader: Amy Petrie Shaw

Meets: Fridays beginning September 10, 2021; 6:00 p.m. CT

Where: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84835170541?pwd=M1NqMnNJaXhOYjNxek9MUDhxTmZIZz09

This class will review a group of religious beliefs and practices possibly less familiar to Unitarian Universalists: Mormonism, Baha’i, Sikhism, Jainism, Rastafari, Santeria/Vu du, Modern Church of Satan, Christian Science, Zoroastrianism, Shinto, and the Unification Church.

Come and join Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw and have fun learning about some areas of religion you may never have explored. A book list will be provided for those who want to do more reading on any given faith.

Zoom

Children’s Chapel is part of Sunday Service! No registration required.

Who: All ages

When: Sundays mornings, 10:00 a.m. CT

Beginning September 19, 2021, each service is a Service for All Ages, in which all families worship together. There will be a youth led chalice lighting, meditation and Micro-Sermon or Story for All Ages in the first 30 minutes of the service. When we are able to meet in person (once all have the ability to be vaccinated) then the children under 12 will be sung out to do service trips, field trips and enjoy outside play.

Questions, suggestions, ideas? Please email Director of Faith Formation Devon McClurken (she/her/hers) at dff@ucdsm.org.

Book Discussion contact is Dian Curran. (Send a note to Dian at HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.)

Contact: Dian Curran/Al Powers

Email: HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org

Who: Grades 9-12

When:  Sundays at 6:00 p.m CT, September – May

Where: Room 107

Leaders: DFF and Youth advisors

Our Young Religious Unitarian Universalist (YRUU) group allows teens to bond through exploration of personal and spiritual rituals, participation in engaging activities and empowering social action projects. Youth will plan events and projects, check in with each other, play games and enjoy some snacks.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89021693859?pwd=VkZKT1JKMXNXdHVUTzlrVkxrZDhLQT09

Join us for a weekly chat with other Pagans as we talk about Sabbats, Full Moons, Tarot, Astrology, Mystic Dreams, book recommendations, articles we've read Pagan websites, and other Pagan-y stuff as we move through these weeks of Social Distancing. We want to meet you! Please join us and tell us about your Pagan path and your spiritual journey!

Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. 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. Chairs will be provided. If you prefer a meditation cushion, you are free to bring your own. Please plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early to help set up chairs.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.

Email sangha@ucdsm.org for link

We’re hoping you’re all vaccinated and ready to be together again.

RSVP Required by Saturday before the luncheon to: womenslunch@ucdsm.org  (Barb Royal)

Hilary Hippen-Leek; Room 114

Who: All

Leader: Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw

Meets: 1st and 3rd Tuesdays beginning October 5, 2021; 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. CT

Where: Zoom (Link will be sent to registrants.)

To Register: Please email Rev. Shaw, revamy@ucdsm.org to sign up by September 26.

Last year we did a whole church read of “Widening the Circle of Concern.” This year, Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw will lead an 11-12 session class based on the UUA’s “Widening the Circle of Concern” Study Guide. The study guide is available for download here: Widening the Circle of Concern Study Guide pdf or online here: https://www.uua.org/widening/guide . This thought-provoking class explores welcome and inclusion and the systemic barriers to that welcome and inclusion. Come and explore the ideas presented and offer your own ideas about what our congregation is doing well, and where we have opportunities to grow! Please sign up by emailing Rev. Amy at revamy@ucdsm.org.

This is an 11-12 session class that will continue through January 2022. There will be no class in February, but class will meet either once or twice in April to wrap up the course.

We need to have eight to ten people participating for this class to be offered so please sign up by September 26. Class will be on Zoom until we are fully back in the building.

Contact: Karen Kraemer choir@ucdsm.org

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades 4 – 6

When: 6:00- 7:15 p.m. CT, Staring September 29

Where: Outside as weather permits, then moves to Zoom.

Leader(s): Cale Finnegan, Kim Kurchinski

Please note: We will start meeting outside and stay outside as long as weather permits.

Youth need time to be together and to process what has changed within themselves and in the world. They will explore the surroundings of the church by learning outside and learning about the outside. We will use our Toolbox of Faith to direct this time together.

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades K – 3

When: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.CT, Starting September 29

Where: Outside as weather permits, then moves to Zoom

Leader(s): Terry Meeks

Please note: We will start meeting outside and stay outside as long as weather permits.

This program helps children develop a basic understanding of church as a physical place which reflects a shared set of values and beliefs. The group will explore questions about the purpose of having a church as a place of belonging, and the functions of different church spaces. We will introduce the concept of a “faith home”—your congregation—which shares some characteristics with a family home, including both amenities and responsibilities. To understand these you must begin by understanding why the building and grounds are the way they are.

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 15)

Who: Grade 7 – 8

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 15 – May 25

Where: Outside, Room 107

Leader(s): Kim Gunnes, Chelsea Hayes, Ben Spadt, Holly Hanson

Specially trained volunteer facilitators help participants make informed and responsible decisions about their sexual health and behavior. The curriculum equips participants with accurate, age-appropriate information in six subject areas: human development, relationships, personal skills, sexual behavior, sexual health, and society and culture. Grounded in a holistic view of sexuality, Our Whole Lives not only provides facts about anatomy and human development, but also helps participants clarify their values, build interpersonal skills, and understand the spiritual, emotional, and social aspects of sexuality.

OWL for 7/8 Grade will be capped at 12 participants, with priority given to First Unitarian member families. If a substantially higher number of participants is expected, other options will be explored with the Director of Faith Formation.

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades K – 6

When: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.CT. Starting September 29

Leader(s): Nancy Bratt, Will Esty

ONLINE! Zoom link to be provided upon registration. Youth will learn important UU hymns, public speaking skills, theater skills and what it means to be part of the youth celebrant team.

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 8)

Who: Grade 8 – 9

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 8 – May 18

Where: Room 103

Leader(s): Katherine Sutton, Sally Boeckholt, Mark Metz

When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, youth can gradually experience powerful transformation – they “come of age.” With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and can decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story leading to the development of a faith statement. To help with this process, the “Big Questions” are tackled each week, including:

• What do you believe about God?
• What happens after we die?
• How do you live a moral life?
• Why do bad things happen?

Each youth is paired up with a carefully chosen adult mentor from the congregation. Youth and mentors meet about twice a month and also complete a service project together. The year begins with a parent/youth meeting to share information about the Coming of Age year, and concludes with a celebration dinner and Coming of Age Sunday morning service planned and lead by the youth to include presenting their own faith statements.

Who: All

Leader: Amy Petrie Shaw

Meets: Fridays beginning September 10, 2021; 6:00 p.m. CT

Where: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84835170541?pwd=M1NqMnNJaXhOYjNxek9MUDhxTmZIZz09

This class will review a group of religious beliefs and practices possibly less familiar to Unitarian Universalists: Mormonism, Baha’i, Sikhism, Jainism, Rastafari, Santeria/Vu du, Modern Church of Satan, Christian Science, Zoroastrianism, Shinto, and the Unification Church.

Come and join Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw and have fun learning about some areas of religion you may never have explored. A book list will be provided for those who want to do more reading on any given faith.

Zoom

Children’s Chapel is part of Sunday Service! No registration required.

Who: All ages

When: Sundays mornings, 10:00 a.m. CT

Beginning September 19, 2021, each service is a Service for All Ages, in which all families worship together. There will be a youth led chalice lighting, meditation and Micro-Sermon or Story for All Ages in the first 30 minutes of the service. When we are able to meet in person (once all have the ability to be vaccinated) then the children under 12 will be sung out to do service trips, field trips and enjoy outside play.

Questions, suggestions, ideas? Please email Director of Faith Formation Devon McClurken (she/her/hers) at dff@ucdsm.org.

Who: Grades 9-12

When:  Sundays at 6:00 p.m CT, September – May

Where: Room 107

Leaders: DFF and Youth advisors

Our Young Religious Unitarian Universalist (YRUU) group allows teens to bond through exploration of personal and spiritual rituals, participation in engaging activities and empowering social action projects. Youth will plan events and projects, check in with each other, play games and enjoy some snacks.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89021693859?pwd=VkZKT1JKMXNXdHVUTzlrVkxrZDhLQT09

Join us for a weekly chat with other Pagans as we talk about Sabbats, Full Moons, Tarot, Astrology, Mystic Dreams, book recommendations, articles we've read Pagan websites, and other Pagan-y stuff as we move through these weeks of Social Distancing. We want to meet you! Please join us and tell us about your Pagan path and your spiritual journey!

Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. 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. Chairs will be provided. If you prefer a meditation cushion, you are free to bring your own. Please plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early to help set up chairs.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.

Email sangha@ucdsm.org for link

Jo Fitz & Susan Seiz; Off-site

Email dre@ucdsm.org for link.

“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 at the patio area in our church, eat lunch, do check-ins, and discuss topics presented just by one word. The topics vary from environment to personalities. Currently we have five members regularly attending, and would love to share this opportunity with up to five more people. (If the weather is inclement, we will have our meeting on Zoom.) 

Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.

Laura Berardi; Zoom https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85420827837?pwd=ams4bzAxVTNROEZsNXhmSmZWUE9GQT09

Who: All (New students may join at any time!)

Leader: Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw

Meets: 2nd and 4th Tuesdays beginning October 12, 2021; 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. CT

Where: Zoom (Link will be sent to registrants.)

To Register: Please email Rev. Shaw, revamy@ucdsm.org to sign up by September 26.

What is “praxis” and why would we want to do it? Great question! Praxis is “our practice in the world,” or “the way we really do things.” Each week, we will be talking about our own church and how we do things in 11 different areas of church life, looking for barriers to inclusion and welcome and proposing real changes if needed. “Welcome” for who? Well, anyone. Everyone. People with disabilities. Young people. Elderly people. Hispanic people. Black people. Queer people. Straight people. Whoever. Help to find and fix the places where we fall short of our values.

This is an 11-12 session group. You do not need to come to “Widening the Circle” Study Guide class to attend this! This group will continue through January 2022. There will be no group in February, but the group will meet either once or twice in April to wrap up discussion.

We need to have eight to ten people participating for this discussion group to be offered so please sign up by September 26. Class will be primarily on Zoom until we are fully back in the building but will have some multi-platform meetings.

Contact: Karen Kraemer choir@ucdsm.org

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades 4 – 6

When: 6:00- 7:15 p.m. CT, Staring September 29

Where: Outside as weather permits, then moves to Zoom.

Leader(s): Cale Finnegan, Kim Kurchinski

Please note: We will start meeting outside and stay outside as long as weather permits.

Youth need time to be together and to process what has changed within themselves and in the world. They will explore the surroundings of the church by learning outside and learning about the outside. We will use our Toolbox of Faith to direct this time together.

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades K – 3

When: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.CT, Starting September 29

Where: Outside as weather permits, then moves to Zoom

Leader(s): Terry Meeks

Please note: We will start meeting outside and stay outside as long as weather permits.

This program helps children develop a basic understanding of church as a physical place which reflects a shared set of values and beliefs. The group will explore questions about the purpose of having a church as a place of belonging, and the functions of different church spaces. We will introduce the concept of a “faith home”—your congregation—which shares some characteristics with a family home, including both amenities and responsibilities. To understand these you must begin by understanding why the building and grounds are the way they are.

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 15)

Who: Grade 7 – 8

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 15 – May 25

Where: Outside, Room 107

Leader(s): Kim Gunnes, Chelsea Hayes, Ben Spadt, Holly Hanson

Specially trained volunteer facilitators help participants make informed and responsible decisions about their sexual health and behavior. The curriculum equips participants with accurate, age-appropriate information in six subject areas: human development, relationships, personal skills, sexual behavior, sexual health, and society and culture. Grounded in a holistic view of sexuality, Our Whole Lives not only provides facts about anatomy and human development, but also helps participants clarify their values, build interpersonal skills, and understand the spiritual, emotional, and social aspects of sexuality.

OWL for 7/8 Grade will be capped at 12 participants, with priority given to First Unitarian member families. If a substantially higher number of participants is expected, other options will be explored with the Director of Faith Formation.

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades K – 6

When: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.CT. Starting September 29

Leader(s): Nancy Bratt, Will Esty

ONLINE! Zoom link to be provided upon registration. Youth will learn important UU hymns, public speaking skills, theater skills and what it means to be part of the youth celebrant team.

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 8)

Who: Grade 8 – 9

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 8 – May 18

Where: Room 103

Leader(s): Katherine Sutton, Sally Boeckholt, Mark Metz

When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, youth can gradually experience powerful transformation – they “come of age.” With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and can decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story leading to the development of a faith statement. To help with this process, the “Big Questions” are tackled each week, including:

• What do you believe about God?
• What happens after we die?
• How do you live a moral life?
• Why do bad things happen?

Each youth is paired up with a carefully chosen adult mentor from the congregation. Youth and mentors meet about twice a month and also complete a service project together. The year begins with a parent/youth meeting to share information about the Coming of Age year, and concludes with a celebration dinner and Coming of Age Sunday morning service planned and lead by the youth to include presenting their own faith statements.

Who: All

Leader: Amy Petrie Shaw

Meets: Fridays beginning September 10, 2021; 6:00 p.m. CT

Where: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84835170541?pwd=M1NqMnNJaXhOYjNxek9MUDhxTmZIZz09

This class will review a group of religious beliefs and practices possibly less familiar to Unitarian Universalists: Mormonism, Baha’i, Sikhism, Jainism, Rastafari, Santeria/Vu du, Modern Church of Satan, Christian Science, Zoroastrianism, Shinto, and the Unification Church.

Come and join Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw and have fun learning about some areas of religion you may never have explored. A book list will be provided for those who want to do more reading on any given faith.

Zoom

Children’s Chapel is part of Sunday Service! No registration required.

Who: All ages

When: Sundays mornings, 10:00 a.m. CT

Beginning September 19, 2021, each service is a Service for All Ages, in which all families worship together. There will be a youth led chalice lighting, meditation and Micro-Sermon or Story for All Ages in the first 30 minutes of the service. When we are able to meet in person (once all have the ability to be vaccinated) then the children under 12 will be sung out to do service trips, field trips and enjoy outside play.

Questions, suggestions, ideas? Please email Director of Faith Formation Devon McClurken (she/her/hers) at dff@ucdsm.org.

Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.

Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine

Who: Grades 9-12

When:  Sundays at 6:00 p.m CT, September – May

Where: Room 107

Leaders: DFF and Youth advisors

Our Young Religious Unitarian Universalist (YRUU) group allows teens to bond through exploration of personal and spiritual rituals, participation in engaging activities and empowering social action projects. Youth will plan events and projects, check in with each other, play games and enjoy some snacks.

Awakening Heart Sangha is a mindfulness practice group in the Plum Village Tradition of Vietnamese Zen teacher Thích Nhất Hạnh, or ‘Thay’. 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. Chairs will be provided. If you prefer a meditation cushion, you are free to bring your own. Please plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early to help set up chairs.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.

Email sangha@ucdsm.org for link

Who: All

Leader: Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw

Meets: 1st and 3rd Tuesdays beginning October 5, 2021; 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. CT

Where: Zoom (Link will be sent to registrants.)

To Register: Please email Rev. Shaw, revamy@ucdsm.org to sign up by September 26.

Last year we did a whole church read of “Widening the Circle of Concern.” This year, Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw will lead an 11-12 session class based on the UUA’s “Widening the Circle of Concern” Study Guide. The study guide is available for download here: Widening the Circle of Concern Study Guide pdf or online here: https://www.uua.org/widening/guide . This thought-provoking class explores welcome and inclusion and the systemic barriers to that welcome and inclusion. Come and explore the ideas presented and offer your own ideas about what our congregation is doing well, and where we have opportunities to grow! Please sign up by emailing Rev. Amy at revamy@ucdsm.org.

This is an 11-12 session class that will continue through January 2022. There will be no class in February, but class will meet either once or twice in April to wrap up the course.

We need to have eight to ten people participating for this class to be offered so please sign up by September 26. Class will be on Zoom until we are fully back in the building.

Contact: Karen Kraemer choir@ucdsm.org

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades 4 – 6

When: 6:00- 7:15 p.m. CT, Staring September 29

Where: Outside as weather permits, then moves to Zoom.

Leader(s): Cale Finnegan, Kim Kurchinski

Please note: We will start meeting outside and stay outside as long as weather permits.

Youth need time to be together and to process what has changed within themselves and in the world. They will explore the surroundings of the church by learning outside and learning about the outside. We will use our Toolbox of Faith to direct this time together.

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades K – 3

When: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.CT, Starting September 29

Where: Outside as weather permits, then moves to Zoom

Leader(s): Terry Meeks

Please note: We will start meeting outside and stay outside as long as weather permits.

This program helps children develop a basic understanding of church as a physical place which reflects a shared set of values and beliefs. The group will explore questions about the purpose of having a church as a place of belonging, and the functions of different church spaces. We will introduce the concept of a “faith home”—your congregation—which shares some characteristics with a family home, including both amenities and responsibilities. To understand these you must begin by understanding why the building and grounds are the way they are.

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 15)

Who: Grade 7 – 8

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 15 – May 25

Where: Outside, Room 107

Leader(s): Kim Gunnes, Chelsea Hayes, Ben Spadt, Holly Hanson

Specially trained volunteer facilitators help participants make informed and responsible decisions about their sexual health and behavior. The curriculum equips participants with accurate, age-appropriate information in six subject areas: human development, relationships, personal skills, sexual behavior, sexual health, and society and culture. Grounded in a holistic view of sexuality, Our Whole Lives not only provides facts about anatomy and human development, but also helps participants clarify their values, build interpersonal skills, and understand the spiritual, emotional, and social aspects of sexuality.

OWL for 7/8 Grade will be capped at 12 participants, with priority given to First Unitarian member families. If a substantially higher number of participants is expected, other options will be explored with the Director of Faith Formation.

Registration opens September 1; new children may join at any time.

Who: Grades K – 6

When: 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.CT. Starting September 29

Leader(s): Nancy Bratt, Will Esty

ONLINE! Zoom link to be provided upon registration. Youth will learn important UU hymns, public speaking skills, theater skills and what it means to be part of the youth celebrant team.

Registration OPEN (Closes on September 8)

Who: Grade 8 – 9

When: 6:00-7:30 p.m. CT, September 8 – May 18

Where: Room 103

Leader(s): Katherine Sutton, Sally Boeckholt, Mark Metz

When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, youth can gradually experience powerful transformation – they “come of age.” With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and can decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story leading to the development of a faith statement. To help with this process, the “Big Questions” are tackled each week, including:

• What do you believe about God?
• What happens after we die?
• How do you live a moral life?
• Why do bad things happen?

Each youth is paired up with a carefully chosen adult mentor from the congregation. Youth and mentors meet about twice a month and also complete a service project together. The year begins with a parent/youth meeting to share information about the Coming of Age year, and concludes with a celebration dinner and Coming of Age Sunday morning service planned and lead by the youth to include presenting their own faith statements.

This group is for individuals who love to do needlework of all kinds. If you crochet, cross-stitch, knit or weave, you’ll want to join Bent Needles.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83493074847?pwd=RkczSTRYb2V5OFY2UWpTT2cxblpXQT09

Contact: Lyra Halsten, membership@ucdsm.org

Monthly meeting focusing on visioning and pandemic related issues.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85746475940?pwd=RkxQemJyQmFBb1ZEKzcxdFJqcndaQT09

Contact: Rev. Amy

Who: All

Leader: Amy Petrie Shaw

Meets: Fridays beginning September 10, 2021; 6:00 p.m. CT

Where: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84835170541?pwd=M1NqMnNJaXhOYjNxek9MUDhxTmZIZz09

This class will review a group of religious beliefs and practices possibly less familiar to Unitarian Universalists: Mormonism, Baha’i, Sikhism, Jainism, Rastafari, Santeria/Vu du, Modern Church of Satan, Christian Science, Zoroastrianism, Shinto, and the Unification Church.

Come and join Rev. Amy Petrie Shaw and have fun learning about some areas of religion you may never have explored. A book list will be provided for those who want to do more reading on any given faith.