Tai Chi
February 27, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Awakening Heart Sangha
February 27, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
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.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information.
Soul Matters
February 28, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Jo Fitz's home
Facilitated by Jo Fitz and Susan Seitz
Soul Matters is a way of engaging our monthly themes through deep listening and open-hearted sharing. Groups of 8-10 committed participants come together once a month with a trained leader to nurture spiritual growth in the community. We do this by listening in three distinct ways:
- First, we listen to each other.
- Second, we listen to our lives.
- Finally, we listen to our deepest selves.
Together, these sacred practices of listening — to each other, the world, and our deepest selves — add up to a more intentional and authentic life. It’s a journey back to connection, and ultimately a journey back home. These groups are free.
Register now!
A Word With You
February 28, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
“A Word With You” meets once a month in person and discuss topics that interest members. We would like to invite new-comers (or old ones) to our church who could join us or just visit with us. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at 10:30 am. The topics vary from environment to personalities. Currently we have five members regularly attending, and would love to share this opportunity with up to five more people. ( Zoom only until April)
Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.
Circles of Trust: Parker Palmer’s A Hidden Wholeness
February 28, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Facilitated by Todd Lackmann
These book groups will meet twice a month as they work to form circles of trust to shape an integral life, explore the meaning of community, learn to teach and search for transformation, and promote nonviolent social change. All sessions are free, the only cost is to purchase the book. Register here: https://forms.gle/v2PHQo4ZBcBjWakr7
Young Adult Group
March 1, 2023 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
We'll be meeting on the first Wednesday of the month, same time and place. Then, adding other roving social, spiritual, and/or service activities into the mix as the group is interested – come share your ideas with us in October!
Contact Courtney Dufford at youngadults@ucdsm.org with questions.
Bent Needles
March 1, 2023 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Room 105
Open to all! Spend a relaxing evening with fellow needleworkers and crafters. Enjoy crochet, cross-stitch, knitting, weaving, mending, quilting? From novice to experienced, all are welcome. We share tips, patterns, show off our work, and learn from each other. Whatever your handwork passion or interest , drop in for an evening of the joy of handwork!
Contact: membership@ucdsm.org
Tai Chi
March 2, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Third Thursday's of the month the group will meet in Mary Safford instead of Griffin when the weather cools.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Joe Jencks - Progressive Voices Concert Series
March 4, 2023 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Auditorium
Our Whole Lives (OWL) Human Sexuality Curriculum, Grades 5 & 6
March 5, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 108
Our Whole Lives for 5th & 6th Grade is an 8-session program for learning about and discussing the physical and emotional changes of puberty. Participants will read “It’s Perfectly Normal”, by Robie H. Harris, and examine topics such as values and sexuality, communication, and decision-making. Each session includes a HomeLink – a homework activity for parents and children to complete together.
YRUU (High School Youth Group) Grades 9-12
March 5, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 107
No preregistration needed.
The Young Religious Unitarian Universalist (YRUU) group allows teens to bond through exploration of personal and spiritual rituals, participation in engaging activities, and empowering social activism projects. Youth in 9th-12th grade are welcome to join YRUU at any time! Along with planning events, projects and checking in with each other, we also play games and enjoy some snacks.
Coming of Age
March 5, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Large Activity Room
Registration required. Priority given to members
When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, then the youth gradually experience powerful transformation – they Come of Age. With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and they decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story. During Coming of Age, each youth will develop a faith statement. To create their own faith statements, each week they tackle the “Big Questions”, such as: What do you believe about God? What happens after we die? How do you live a moral life? Why do bad things happen? Facilitators of the class pair each youth 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. The year concludes with a Celebration Dinner and Coming of Age Service, during which the youth plan and lead Sunday services, as well as present their faith statements.
One-Room SchUUlhouse
March 5, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 111
This program is for children in grades K-5 who are not enrolled in OWL. Facilitators will use a thematic curriculum, with a new theme each month matching the Soul Matters curriculum. Each session will have opportunities for youth to talk with each other about what the themes mean, to create art together, play together (outside if the weather permits!), engage in movement, dance, and/or music. Facilitators may draw from a variety of activities for each session in order to engage different children’s needs and different facilitators’ talents.
No preregistration needed.
Our Whole Lives (OWL) Human Sexuality Curriculum, Grades K & 1
March 5, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 113
Our Whole Lives for Kindergarten & 1st Grade is an 8-session program supporting parents in educating children about birth, babies, bodies, and families. Following a Parent Meeting and Parent/Child Orientation, sessions will engage children with stories, songs and activities and include a weekly HomeLink - a homework project for parents and children to do together. Promotes dialogue between parent and child.
OWL
March 5, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 113
Sunday session for elementary OWL classes. 5th & 6th Grade OWL meets on Sundays 01/08 through 04/02. Kindergarten & 1st Grade OWL meets on Sundays 04/09 through 05/28. OWL does not meet on 03/19 & 03/26 for Spring Break.
Humanism Book Discussion
March 5, 2023 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
Pachamama Alliance - Iowa
March 5, 2023 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Stonewall or Mary Safford
Awakening the Dreamer
TAG Planning Meeting
March 5, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
email tag@ucdsm.org for more information
Tai Chi
March 6, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Awakening Heart Sangha
March 6, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
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.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information.
Circles of Trust: Parker Palmer’s A Hidden Wholeness
March 8, 2023 10:00 am - 11:30 am
Facilitated by Linda Lemons
Stonewall Conference Room
These book groups will meet twice a month as they work to form circles of trust to shape an integral life, explore the meaning of community, learn to teach and search for transformation, and promote nonviolent social change. All sessions are free, the only cost is to purchase the book. Register here: https://forms.gle/v2PHQo4ZBcBjWakr7
Tai Chi
March 9, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Third Thursday's of the month the group will meet in Mary Safford instead of Griffin when the weather cools.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Grief Support Circle
March 9, 2023 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
Transgender Action Group
March 9, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 107
The Trans Action Group is open to anyone under the trans umbrella or ally/supportive who's interested in finding ways to help our congregation grow in understanding of and advocacy around trans-related topics. Currently meeting virtually via Zoom.
Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83929039040
Passcode: TAG
A Tarot Study Group
March 9, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
CUUP's
Stonewall Conference Room
Our Whole Lives (OWL) Human Sexuality Curriculum, Grades 5 & 6
March 12, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 108
Our Whole Lives for 5th & 6th Grade is an 8-session program for learning about and discussing the physical and emotional changes of puberty. Participants will read “It’s Perfectly Normal”, by Robie H. Harris, and examine topics such as values and sexuality, communication, and decision-making. Each session includes a HomeLink – a homework activity for parents and children to complete together.
YRUU (High School Youth Group) Grades 9-12
March 12, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 107
No preregistration needed.
The Young Religious Unitarian Universalist (YRUU) group allows teens to bond through exploration of personal and spiritual rituals, participation in engaging activities, and empowering social activism projects. Youth in 9th-12th grade are welcome to join YRUU at any time! Along with planning events, projects and checking in with each other, we also play games and enjoy some snacks.
Coming of Age
March 12, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Large Activity Room
Registration required. Priority given to members
When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, then the youth gradually experience powerful transformation – they Come of Age. With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and they decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story. During Coming of Age, each youth will develop a faith statement. To create their own faith statements, each week they tackle the “Big Questions”, such as: What do you believe about God? What happens after we die? How do you live a moral life? Why do bad things happen? Facilitators of the class pair each youth 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. The year concludes with a Celebration Dinner and Coming of Age Service, during which the youth plan and lead Sunday services, as well as present their faith statements.
One-Room SchUUlhouse
March 12, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 111
This program is for children in grades K-5 who are not enrolled in OWL. Facilitators will use a thematic curriculum, with a new theme each month matching the Soul Matters curriculum. Each session will have opportunities for youth to talk with each other about what the themes mean, to create art together, play together (outside if the weather permits!), engage in movement, dance, and/or music. Facilitators may draw from a variety of activities for each session in order to engage different children’s needs and different facilitators’ talents.
No preregistration needed.
Our Whole Lives (OWL) Human Sexuality Curriculum, Grades K & 1
March 12, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 113
Our Whole Lives for Kindergarten & 1st Grade is an 8-session program supporting parents in educating children about birth, babies, bodies, and families. Following a Parent Meeting and Parent/Child Orientation, sessions will engage children with stories, songs and activities and include a weekly HomeLink - a homework project for parents and children to do together. Promotes dialogue between parent and child.
OWL
March 12, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 113
Sunday session for elementary OWL classes. 5th & 6th Grade OWL meets on Sundays 01/08 through 04/02. Kindergarten & 1st Grade OWL meets on Sundays 04/09 through 05/28. OWL does not meet on 03/19 & 03/26 for Spring Break.
Circles of Trust: Parker Palmer’s A Hidden Wholeness
March 12, 2023 11:00 am - 12:30 pm
Facilitated by Hilary Hippen-Leek
Room114
These book groups will meet twice a month as they work to form circles of trust to shape an integral life, explore the meaning of community, learn to teach and search for transformation, and promote nonviolent social change. All sessions are free, the only cost is to purchase the book. Register here: https://forms.gle/v2PHQo4ZBcBjWakr7
mUUvie Group
March 12, 2023 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Peace Library (Downstairs Gathering Space)
Tai Chi
March 13, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Awakening Heart Sangha
March 13, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
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.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information.
UU Women's Lunch Bunch
March 14, 2023 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
Urban Cellar, 640 S 50th St., WDM
All UU (and UU-interested) women are welcome to join the monthly gathering of the UU Women’s Lunch Bunch (2nd Tuesday of each month).
RSVP required by the Saturday before the luncheon to: womenslunch@ucdsm.org
UU Women's Book Club
March 14, 2023 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Meets: Second Tuesday of the month; 2:00 p.m. CT
Peace Library
This group is for book lovers and those who like to talk about what they’re reading. Books are selected by group members from Des Moines, Urbandale and West Des Moines Public Library Book Group Sets.
Contacts: Jean Tauber or Theresa Miller, bookclub@ucdsm.org
Sacred Bridges CUUPS
March 14, 2023 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Learn to make and cast your own runes with Larry by Sacred Bridges CUUPS:
The purpose of this class is to help others discover the mysteries of the Elder Futhark Runes. This Class will take place biweekly for sixteen classes. Participants will construct their own set of runes, learn how to pronounce each rune, cast their set of runes, and read the casting for themselves and for others. Each participant will receive a set of gems of their choice, paint brush, a burlap bag, and a rune casting log book. If the participant would rather have a wooden set of runes or a predesigned set of runes this option is also available also. Cost of class is $20 per Participant. This covers the cost of materials. |
Tai Chi
March 16, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Third Thursday's of the month the group will meet in Mary Safford instead of Griffin when the weather cools.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Unity Circle
March 16, 2023 11:00 am - 2:00 pm
Meets: Third Thursdays Sept-May; 12:00 noon potluck, 1:00 p.m. CT speaker program; $10 yearly dues
This informal social and general interest group’s motto is “We eat well, talk much, sit long, and laugh lots!” while also learning from our guest speakers. Unity Circle-Alliance (often referred to as “Unity Circle”) began as a women’s service group at First Unitarian in 1879. The group has a very proud heritage of contributions over the years to our church, our city, our state, and our national culture. From the women’s suffrage movement to social issues in early Des Moines; through post-World War II support for war refugees via the national Unitarian Service Committee and into the current group’s monthly speakers, the organization has worked to improve church life and the lives of others.
Contacts: Theresa Miller or Nancee McDowell, unitycircle@ucdsm.org
UU & You
March 18, 2023 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Mary Safford
Intro to Unitarian Universalism
Easter Event
March 18, 2023 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Come have fun with Sacred Bridges CUUPs on March 18 at 2 p.m. banishing the chocolate rabbit, dying eggs the natural way, and maybe even finding some eggs!
This is an ALL-ages event, and we encourage you to bring the whole family! We will be meeting in Griffin!
Our Whole Lives (OWL) Human Sexuality Curriculum, Grades 5 & 6
March 19, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 108
Our Whole Lives for 5th & 6th Grade is an 8-session program for learning about and discussing the physical and emotional changes of puberty. Participants will read “It’s Perfectly Normal”, by Robie H. Harris, and examine topics such as values and sexuality, communication, and decision-making. Each session includes a HomeLink – a homework activity for parents and children to complete together.
YRUU (High School Youth Group) Grades 9-12
March 19, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 107
No preregistration needed.
The Young Religious Unitarian Universalist (YRUU) group allows teens to bond through exploration of personal and spiritual rituals, participation in engaging activities, and empowering social activism projects. Youth in 9th-12th grade are welcome to join YRUU at any time! Along with planning events, projects and checking in with each other, we also play games and enjoy some snacks.
One-Room SchUUlhouse
March 19, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 111
This program is for children in grades K-5 who are not enrolled in OWL. Facilitators will use a thematic curriculum, with a new theme each month matching the Soul Matters curriculum. Each session will have opportunities for youth to talk with each other about what the themes mean, to create art together, play together (outside if the weather permits!), engage in movement, dance, and/or music. Facilitators may draw from a variety of activities for each session in order to engage different children’s needs and different facilitators’ talents.
No preregistration needed.
OWL
March 19, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 113
Sunday session for elementary OWL classes. 5th & 6th Grade OWL meets on Sundays 01/08 through 04/02. Kindergarten & 1st Grade OWL meets on Sundays 04/09 through 05/28. OWL does not meet on 03/19 & 03/26 for Spring Break.
Our Whole Lives (OWL) Human Sexuality Curriculum, Grades K & 1
March 19, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 113
Our Whole Lives for Kindergarten & 1st Grade is an 8-session program supporting parents in educating children about birth, babies, bodies, and families. Following a Parent Meeting and Parent/Child Orientation, sessions will engage children with stories, songs and activities and include a weekly HomeLink - a homework project for parents and children to do together. Promotes dialogue between parent and child.
Humanism Book Discussion
March 19, 2023 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
Tai Chi
March 20, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Soul Matters
March 20, 2023 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Judy Davis's Home
Facilitated by Elaine Imlau and Judy Davis
Soul Matters is a way of engaging our monthly themes through deep listening and open-hearted sharing. Groups of 8-10 committed participants come together once a month with a trained leader to nurture spiritual growth in the community. We do this by listening in three distinct ways:
- First, we listen to each other.
- Second, we listen to our lives.
- Finally, we listen to our deepest selves.
Together, these sacred practices of listening — to each other, the world, and our deepest selves — add up to a more intentional and authentic life. It’s a journey back to connection, and ultimately a journey back home. These groups are free.
Register now!
UU Writers Group
March 20, 2023 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Led by Sally Boeckholt and Sarah Lauer
UU Writers Group explores the monthly Soul Matters themes and engages in spiritual discernment through the art of creative writing.
This packet provides a good example of what to expect each month.
Sign up today to join us on our journey of creative writing and spiritual exploration
Awakening Heart Sangha
March 20, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
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.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information.
Soul Matters
March 21, 2023 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
First Unitarian Church of Des Moines
Facilitated by Tracy Beck, Judy Davis, and Elaine Imlau
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Soul Matters is a way of engaging our monthly themes through deep listening and open-hearted sharing. Groups of 8-10 committed participants come together once a month with a trained leader to nurture spiritual growth in the community. We do this by listening in three distinct ways:
- First, we listen to each other.
- Second, we listen to our lives.
- Finally, we listen to our deepest selves.
Together, these sacred practices of listening — to each other, the world, and our deepest selves — add up to a more intentional and authentic life. It’s a journey back to connection, and ultimately a journey back home. These groups are free.
Register now!
UUA Trans Justice Webinar Viewing
March 22, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Stonewall
The Body Politic: Faithful UUs Showing up for Trans Justice
A UUA Side With Love and UPLIFT Action webinar
UUs have long been part leaders in powerful multifaith movements fighting for trans and queer rights and liberation. Join UPLIFT Action and Side With Love staff for this webinar, lifting up the faithful work UUs are engaging in right now in the context of the wave of hateful legislation and violence against trans and queer people. We'll hear stories from congregations and State Action Networks on the ground, and point toward ways you and your community can take meaningful action.
Contact tag@ucdsm.org for more information.
Tai Chi
March 23, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Third Thursday's of the month the group will meet in Mary Safford instead of Griffin when the weather cools.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
LGBTQ+ Lobby Day
March 23, 2023 9:00 am - 11:30 am
Auditorium / Mary Safford Room
Upset about proposed bills that are discriminatory and hurtful to the LGBTQ+ community? Wish you could do something about it, but aren't sure how? The most effective way to influence government is by talking in person to our lawmakers. Join other UUs and UCCs in advocating for our queer and trans siblings by voicing your concerns and telling your stories to the leaders who are supposed to represent us.
9:30 Registration/check-in
10:00 Lobbying training
11:00 Drive to Capitol
11:30 Meet with legislators
Questions? Please contact tag@ucdsm.org for more information.
Grief Support Circle
March 23, 2023 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
Board of Trustees Meeting
March 23, 2023 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Soul Matters
March 25, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
First Unitarian Church of Des Moines
Facilitated by Hillary Hippen-Leek
Room 114
Soul Matters is a way of engaging our monthly themes through deep listening and open-hearted sharing. Groups of 8-10 committed participants come together once a month with a trained leader to nurture spiritual growth in the community. We do this by listening in three distinct ways:
- First, we listen to each other.
- Second, we listen to our lives.
- Finally, we listen to our deepest selves.
Together, these sacred practices of listening — to each other, the world, and our deepest selves — add up to a more intentional and authentic life. It’s a journey back to connection, and ultimately a journey back home. These groups are free.
Register now!
Stewardship Brunch
March 26, 2023 10:45 am - 12:30 pm
Griffin Hall and Gathering Space
Our Whole Lives (OWL) Human Sexuality Curriculum, Grades 5 & 6
March 26, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 108
Our Whole Lives for 5th & 6th Grade is an 8-session program for learning about and discussing the physical and emotional changes of puberty. Participants will read “It’s Perfectly Normal”, by Robie H. Harris, and examine topics such as values and sexuality, communication, and decision-making. Each session includes a HomeLink – a homework activity for parents and children to complete together.
YRUU (High School Youth Group) Grades 9-12
March 26, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 107
No preregistration needed.
The Young Religious Unitarian Universalist (YRUU) group allows teens to bond through exploration of personal and spiritual rituals, participation in engaging activities, and empowering social activism projects. Youth in 9th-12th grade are welcome to join YRUU at any time! Along with planning events, projects and checking in with each other, we also play games and enjoy some snacks.
Coming of Age
March 26, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Large Activity Room
Registration required. Priority given to members
When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, then the youth gradually experience powerful transformation – they Come of Age. With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and they decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story. During Coming of Age, each youth will develop a faith statement. To create their own faith statements, each week they tackle the “Big Questions”, such as: What do you believe about God? What happens after we die? How do you live a moral life? Why do bad things happen? Facilitators of the class pair each youth 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. The year concludes with a Celebration Dinner and Coming of Age Service, during which the youth plan and lead Sunday services, as well as present their faith statements.
One-Room SchUUlhouse
March 26, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 111
This program is for children in grades K-5 who are not enrolled in OWL. Facilitators will use a thematic curriculum, with a new theme each month matching the Soul Matters curriculum. Each session will have opportunities for youth to talk with each other about what the themes mean, to create art together, play together (outside if the weather permits!), engage in movement, dance, and/or music. Facilitators may draw from a variety of activities for each session in order to engage different children’s needs and different facilitators’ talents.
No preregistration needed.
Crossroads: A Program for 5th-8th Grades
March 26, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 105
This is a group for 5th-8th graders using the Soul Matters curricula, which will blend stories, discussion, crafts, and activities based around a monthly theme.
There is no pre-registration required. This group will meet in Room 105 from 10:45am-12:00pm on Sunday mornings. For more information, please contact Birch Spick at bspick@ucdsm.org.
Our Whole Lives (OWL) Human Sexuality Curriculum, Grades K & 1
March 26, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 113
Our Whole Lives for Kindergarten & 1st Grade is an 8-session program supporting parents in educating children about birth, babies, bodies, and families. Following a Parent Meeting and Parent/Child Orientation, sessions will engage children with stories, songs and activities and include a weekly HomeLink - a homework project for parents and children to do together. Promotes dialogue between parent and child.
Tai Chi
March 27, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Awakening Heart Sangha
March 27, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
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.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information.
Soul Matters
March 28, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Jo Fitz's home
Facilitated by Jo Fitz and Susan Seitz
Soul Matters is a way of engaging our monthly themes through deep listening and open-hearted sharing. Groups of 8-10 committed participants come together once a month with a trained leader to nurture spiritual growth in the community. We do this by listening in three distinct ways:
- First, we listen to each other.
- Second, we listen to our lives.
- Finally, we listen to our deepest selves.
Together, these sacred practices of listening — to each other, the world, and our deepest selves — add up to a more intentional and authentic life. It’s a journey back to connection, and ultimately a journey back home. These groups are free.
Register now!
A Word With You
March 28, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
“A Word With You” meets once a month in person and discuss topics that interest members. We would like to invite new-comers (or old ones) to our church who could join us or just visit with us. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at 10:30 am. The topics vary from environment to personalities. Currently we have five members regularly attending, and would love to share this opportunity with up to five more people. ( Zoom only until April)
Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.
Sacred Bridges CUUPS
March 28, 2023 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Learn to make and cast your own runes with Larry by Sacred Bridges CUUPS:
The purpose of this class is to help others discover the mysteries of the Elder Futhark Runes. This Class will take place biweekly for sixteen classes. Participants will construct their own set of runes, learn how to pronounce each rune, cast their set of runes, and read the casting for themselves and for others. Each participant will receive a set of gems of their choice, paint brush, a burlap bag, and a rune casting log book. If the participant would rather have a wooden set of runes or a predesigned set of runes this option is also available also. Cost of class is $20 per Participant. This covers the cost of materials. |
Women's Wednesdays
March 29, 2023 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Peace Library
Chosen by Women, About Women, Discussed by Women
RSVP's sent towednesdaywomen@ucdsm.org
OWL
March 29, 2023 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Room 113
Meeting for Kindergarten & 1st Grade OWL for parents & facilitators
Tai Chi
March 30, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Third Thursday's of the month the group will meet in Mary Safford instead of Griffin when the weather cools.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Central Iowa Trans Lives Festival
April 1, 2023 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
All Church
The third annual Central Iowa Trans Lives Festival will occur on April 1 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 1800 Bell Ave. in Des Moines. It is hosted by First Unitarian Church of Des Moines, an LGBTQ+ Welcoming Congregation. In honor of the International Transgender Day of Visibility, the all-ages festival showcases the creative work of transgender, genderqueer, and non-binary adults and youth from around Iowa. Work includes visual art and crafts for sale, food trucks and booths, live music, poetry, literature, and dance, drag, and comedy performances. Local nonprofit and community organizations providing support and resources to the trans community will also be on hand. This event is open to everyone, and admission and parking are free. Security will also be provided so that everyone can experience a safe and fun event.
Our Whole Lives (OWL) Human Sexuality Curriculum, Grades 5 & 6
April 2, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 108
Our Whole Lives for 5th & 6th Grade is an 8-session program for learning about and discussing the physical and emotional changes of puberty. Participants will read “It’s Perfectly Normal”, by Robie H. Harris, and examine topics such as values and sexuality, communication, and decision-making. Each session includes a HomeLink – a homework activity for parents and children to complete together.
YRUU (High School Youth Group) Grades 9-12
April 2, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 107
No preregistration needed.
The Young Religious Unitarian Universalist (YRUU) group allows teens to bond through exploration of personal and spiritual rituals, participation in engaging activities, and empowering social activism projects. Youth in 9th-12th grade are welcome to join YRUU at any time! Along with planning events, projects and checking in with each other, we also play games and enjoy some snacks.
Coming of Age
April 2, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Large Activity Room
Registration required. Priority given to members
When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, then the youth gradually experience powerful transformation – they Come of Age. With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and they decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story. During Coming of Age, each youth will develop a faith statement. To create their own faith statements, each week they tackle the “Big Questions”, such as: What do you believe about God? What happens after we die? How do you live a moral life? Why do bad things happen? Facilitators of the class pair each youth 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. The year concludes with a Celebration Dinner and Coming of Age Service, during which the youth plan and lead Sunday services, as well as present their faith statements.
One-Room SchUUlhouse
April 2, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 111
This program is for children in grades K-5 who are not enrolled in OWL. Facilitators will use a thematic curriculum, with a new theme each month matching the Soul Matters curriculum. Each session will have opportunities for youth to talk with each other about what the themes mean, to create art together, play together (outside if the weather permits!), engage in movement, dance, and/or music. Facilitators may draw from a variety of activities for each session in order to engage different children’s needs and different facilitators’ talents.
No preregistration needed.
Crossroads: A Program for 5th-8th Grades
April 2, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 105
This is a group for 5th-8th graders using the Soul Matters curricula, which will blend stories, discussion, crafts, and activities based around a monthly theme.
There is no pre-registration required. This group will meet in Room 105 from 10:45am-12:00pm on Sunday mornings. For more information, please contact Birch Spick at bspick@ucdsm.org.
Our Whole Lives (OWL) Human Sexuality Curriculum, Grades K & 1
April 2, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 113
Our Whole Lives for Kindergarten & 1st Grade is an 8-session program supporting parents in educating children about birth, babies, bodies, and families. Following a Parent Meeting and Parent/Child Orientation, sessions will engage children with stories, songs and activities and include a weekly HomeLink - a homework project for parents and children to do together. Promotes dialogue between parent and child.
Humanism Book Discussion
April 2, 2023 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
Tai Chi
April 3, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Awakening Heart Sangha
April 3, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
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.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information.
Transforming Hearts Workshop Series
April 4, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Griffin
The UU movement has come a long way in LGBTQ+ inclusion, but there’s still a long way to go. Meanwhile, trans and non-binary people are under attack in our country in wildly escalating ways.
We need to dig deeper. This program goes beyond “trans 101”—it’s a six-session course that explores the theological grounding of radical welcome; your own gender journey;
trans identity, experiences, and spirituality; the role of culture in inclusion;
and how to engage in culture shift.
Join us!
Please email tag@ucdsm.org to sign up by 3/31
OWL
April 5, 2023 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Room 113
Meeting for Kindergarten & 1st Grade OWL for parents & children
Young Adult Group
April 5, 2023 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
We'll be meeting on the first Wednesday of the month, same time and place. Then, adding other roving social, spiritual, and/or service activities into the mix as the group is interested – come share your ideas with us in October!
Contact Courtney Dufford at youngadults@ucdsm.org with questions.
Bent Needles
April 5, 2023 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Room 105
Open to all! Spend a relaxing evening with fellow needleworkers and crafters. Enjoy crochet, cross-stitch, knitting, weaving, mending, quilting? From novice to experienced, all are welcome. We share tips, patterns, show off our work, and learn from each other. Whatever your handwork passion or interest , drop in for an evening of the joy of handwork!
Contact: membership@ucdsm.org
Tai Chi
April 6, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Third Thursday's of the month the group will meet in Mary Safford instead of Griffin when the weather cools.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Our Whole Lives (OWL) Human Sexuality Curriculum, Grades 5 & 6
April 9, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 108
Our Whole Lives for 5th & 6th Grade is an 8-session program for learning about and discussing the physical and emotional changes of puberty. Participants will read “It’s Perfectly Normal”, by Robie H. Harris, and examine topics such as values and sexuality, communication, and decision-making. Each session includes a HomeLink – a homework activity for parents and children to complete together.
YRUU (High School Youth Group) Grades 9-12
April 9, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 107
No preregistration needed.
The Young Religious Unitarian Universalist (YRUU) group allows teens to bond through exploration of personal and spiritual rituals, participation in engaging activities, and empowering social activism projects. Youth in 9th-12th grade are welcome to join YRUU at any time! Along with planning events, projects and checking in with each other, we also play games and enjoy some snacks.
Coming of Age
April 9, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Large Activity Room
Registration required. Priority given to members
When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, then the youth gradually experience powerful transformation – they Come of Age. With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and they decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story. During Coming of Age, each youth will develop a faith statement. To create their own faith statements, each week they tackle the “Big Questions”, such as: What do you believe about God? What happens after we die? How do you live a moral life? Why do bad things happen? Facilitators of the class pair each youth 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. The year concludes with a Celebration Dinner and Coming of Age Service, during which the youth plan and lead Sunday services, as well as present their faith statements.
One-Room SchUUlhouse
April 9, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 111
This program is for children in grades K-5 who are not enrolled in OWL. Facilitators will use a thematic curriculum, with a new theme each month matching the Soul Matters curriculum. Each session will have opportunities for youth to talk with each other about what the themes mean, to create art together, play together (outside if the weather permits!), engage in movement, dance, and/or music. Facilitators may draw from a variety of activities for each session in order to engage different children’s needs and different facilitators’ talents.
No preregistration needed.
Crossroads: A Program for 5th-8th Grades
April 9, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 105
This is a group for 5th-8th graders using the Soul Matters curricula, which will blend stories, discussion, crafts, and activities based around a monthly theme.
There is no pre-registration required. This group will meet in Room 105 from 10:45am-12:00pm on Sunday mornings. For more information, please contact Birch Spick at bspick@ucdsm.org.
Our Whole Lives (OWL) Human Sexuality Curriculum, Grades K & 1
April 9, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 113
Our Whole Lives for Kindergarten & 1st Grade is an 8-session program supporting parents in educating children about birth, babies, bodies, and families. Following a Parent Meeting and Parent/Child Orientation, sessions will engage children with stories, songs and activities and include a weekly HomeLink - a homework project for parents and children to do together. Promotes dialogue between parent and child.
Circles of Trust: Parker Palmer’s A Hidden Wholeness
April 9, 2023 11:00 am - 12:30 pm
Facilitated by Hilary Hippen-Leek
Room114
These book groups will meet twice a month as they work to form circles of trust to shape an integral life, explore the meaning of community, learn to teach and search for transformation, and promote nonviolent social change. All sessions are free, the only cost is to purchase the book. Register here: https://forms.gle/v2PHQo4ZBcBjWakr7
mUUvie Group
April 9, 2023 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Peace Library (Downstairs Gathering Space)
Tai Chi
April 10, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Awakening Heart Sangha
April 10, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
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.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information.
UU Women's Lunch Bunch
April 11, 2023 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
Urban Cellar, 640 S 50th St., WDM
All UU (and UU-interested) women are welcome to join the monthly gathering of the UU Women’s Lunch Bunch (2nd Tuesday of each month).
RSVP required by the Saturday before the luncheon to: womenslunch@ucdsm.org
UU Women's Book Club
April 11, 2023 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Meets: Second Tuesday of the month; 2:00 p.m. CT
Peace Library
This group is for book lovers and those who like to talk about what they’re reading. Books are selected by group members from Des Moines, Urbandale and West Des Moines Public Library Book Group Sets.
Contacts: Jean Tauber or Theresa Miller, bookclub@ucdsm.org
Transforming Hearts Workshop Series
April 11, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Griffin
The UU movement has come a long way in LGBTQ+ inclusion, but there’s still a long way to go. Meanwhile, trans and non-binary people are under attack in our country in wildly escalating ways.
We need to dig deeper. This program goes beyond “trans 101”—it’s a six-session course that explores the theological grounding of radical welcome; your own gender journey;
trans identity, experiences, and spirituality; the role of culture in inclusion;
and how to engage in culture shift.
Join us!
Please email tag@ucdsm.org to sign up by 3/31
Sacred Bridges CUUPS
April 11, 2023 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Learn to make and cast your own runes with Larry by Sacred Bridges CUUPS:
The purpose of this class is to help others discover the mysteries of the Elder Futhark Runes. This Class will take place biweekly for sixteen classes. Participants will construct their own set of runes, learn how to pronounce each rune, cast their set of runes, and read the casting for themselves and for others. Each participant will receive a set of gems of their choice, paint brush, a burlap bag, and a rune casting log book. If the participant would rather have a wooden set of runes or a predesigned set of runes this option is also available also. Cost of class is $20 per Participant. This covers the cost of materials. |
Circles of Trust: Parker Palmer’s A Hidden Wholeness
April 12, 2023 10:00 am - 11:30 am
Facilitated by Linda Lemons
Stonewall Conference Room
These book groups will meet twice a month as they work to form circles of trust to shape an integral life, explore the meaning of community, learn to teach and search for transformation, and promote nonviolent social change. All sessions are free, the only cost is to purchase the book. Register here: https://forms.gle/v2PHQo4ZBcBjWakr7
Tai Chi
April 13, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Third Thursday's of the month the group will meet in Mary Safford instead of Griffin when the weather cools.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Grief Support Circle
April 13, 2023 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
A Tarot Study Group
April 13, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
CUUP's
Stonewall Conference Room
Transgender Action Group
April 13, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83929039040
Passcode: TAG
Our Whole Lives (OWL) Human Sexuality Curriculum, Grades 5 & 6
April 16, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 108
Our Whole Lives for 5th & 6th Grade is an 8-session program for learning about and discussing the physical and emotional changes of puberty. Participants will read “It’s Perfectly Normal”, by Robie H. Harris, and examine topics such as values and sexuality, communication, and decision-making. Each session includes a HomeLink – a homework activity for parents and children to complete together.
YRUU (High School Youth Group) Grades 9-12
April 16, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 107
No preregistration needed.
The Young Religious Unitarian Universalist (YRUU) group allows teens to bond through exploration of personal and spiritual rituals, participation in engaging activities, and empowering social activism projects. Youth in 9th-12th grade are welcome to join YRUU at any time! Along with planning events, projects and checking in with each other, we also play games and enjoy some snacks.
Coming of Age
April 16, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Large Activity Room
Registration required. Priority given to members
When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, then the youth gradually experience powerful transformation – they Come of Age. With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and they decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story. During Coming of Age, each youth will develop a faith statement. To create their own faith statements, each week they tackle the “Big Questions”, such as: What do you believe about God? What happens after we die? How do you live a moral life? Why do bad things happen? Facilitators of the class pair each youth 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. The year concludes with a Celebration Dinner and Coming of Age Service, during which the youth plan and lead Sunday services, as well as present their faith statements.
One-Room SchUUlhouse
April 16, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 111
This program is for children in grades K-5 who are not enrolled in OWL. Facilitators will use a thematic curriculum, with a new theme each month matching the Soul Matters curriculum. Each session will have opportunities for youth to talk with each other about what the themes mean, to create art together, play together (outside if the weather permits!), engage in movement, dance, and/or music. Facilitators may draw from a variety of activities for each session in order to engage different children’s needs and different facilitators’ talents.
No preregistration needed.
Crossroads: A Program for 5th-8th Grades
April 16, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 105
This is a group for 5th-8th graders using the Soul Matters curricula, which will blend stories, discussion, crafts, and activities based around a monthly theme.
There is no pre-registration required. This group will meet in Room 105 from 10:45am-12:00pm on Sunday mornings. For more information, please contact Birch Spick at bspick@ucdsm.org.
Our Whole Lives (OWL) Human Sexuality Curriculum, Grades K & 1
April 16, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 113
Our Whole Lives for Kindergarten & 1st Grade is an 8-session program supporting parents in educating children about birth, babies, bodies, and families. Following a Parent Meeting and Parent/Child Orientation, sessions will engage children with stories, songs and activities and include a weekly HomeLink - a homework project for parents and children to do together. Promotes dialogue between parent and child.
Humanism Book Discussion
April 16, 2023 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
Tai Chi
April 17, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Soul Matters
April 17, 2023 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Judy Davis's Home
Facilitated by Elaine Imlau and Judy Davis
Soul Matters is a way of engaging our monthly themes through deep listening and open-hearted sharing. Groups of 8-10 committed participants come together once a month with a trained leader to nurture spiritual growth in the community. We do this by listening in three distinct ways:
- First, we listen to each other.
- Second, we listen to our lives.
- Finally, we listen to our deepest selves.
Together, these sacred practices of listening — to each other, the world, and our deepest selves — add up to a more intentional and authentic life. It’s a journey back to connection, and ultimately a journey back home. These groups are free.
Register now!
UU Writers Group
April 17, 2023 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Led by Sally Boeckholt and Sarah Lauer
UU Writers Group explores the monthly Soul Matters themes and engages in spiritual discernment through the art of creative writing.
This packet provides a good example of what to expect each month.
Sign up today to join us on our journey of creative writing and spiritual exploration
Awakening Heart Sangha
April 17, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
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.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information.
Soul Matters
April 18, 2023 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
First Unitarian Church of Des Moines
Facilitated by Tracy Beck, Judy Davis, and Elaine Imlau
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Soul Matters is a way of engaging our monthly themes through deep listening and open-hearted sharing. Groups of 8-10 committed participants come together once a month with a trained leader to nurture spiritual growth in the community. We do this by listening in three distinct ways:
- First, we listen to each other.
- Second, we listen to our lives.
- Finally, we listen to our deepest selves.
Together, these sacred practices of listening — to each other, the world, and our deepest selves — add up to a more intentional and authentic life. It’s a journey back to connection, and ultimately a journey back home. These groups are free.
Register now!
Transforming Hearts Workshop Series
April 18, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Griffin
The UU movement has come a long way in LGBTQ+ inclusion, but there’s still a long way to go. Meanwhile, trans and non-binary people are under attack in our country in wildly escalating ways.
We need to dig deeper. This program goes beyond “trans 101”—it’s a six-session course that explores the theological grounding of radical welcome; your own gender journey;
trans identity, experiences, and spirituality; the role of culture in inclusion;
and how to engage in culture shift.
Join us!
Please email tag@ucdsm.org to sign up by 3/31
Tai Chi
April 20, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Third Thursday's of the month the group will meet in Mary Safford instead of Griffin when the weather cools.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Unity Circle
April 20, 2023 11:00 am - 2:00 pm
Meets: Third Thursdays Sept-May; 12:00 noon potluck, 1:00 p.m. CT speaker program; $10 yearly dues
This informal social and general interest group’s motto is “We eat well, talk much, sit long, and laugh lots!” while also learning from our guest speakers. Unity Circle-Alliance (often referred to as “Unity Circle”) began as a women’s service group at First Unitarian in 1879. The group has a very proud heritage of contributions over the years to our church, our city, our state, and our national culture. From the women’s suffrage movement to social issues in early Des Moines; through post-World War II support for war refugees via the national Unitarian Service Committee and into the current group’s monthly speakers, the organization has worked to improve church life and the lives of others.
Contacts: Theresa Miller or Nancee McDowell, unitycircle@ucdsm.org
Board of Trustees Meeting
April 20, 2023 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Interfaith Alliance of Iowa Crossroads
April 21, 2023 11:00 am - 2:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Soul Matters
April 22, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
First Unitarian Church of Des Moines
Facilitated by Hillary Hippen-Leek
Room 114
Soul Matters is a way of engaging our monthly themes through deep listening and open-hearted sharing. Groups of 8-10 committed participants come together once a month with a trained leader to nurture spiritual growth in the community. We do this by listening in three distinct ways:
- First, we listen to each other.
- Second, we listen to our lives.
- Finally, we listen to our deepest selves.
Together, these sacred practices of listening — to each other, the world, and our deepest selves — add up to a more intentional and authentic life. It’s a journey back to connection, and ultimately a journey back home. These groups are free.
Register now!
Amilia K Spicer - Progressive Voices Concert Series
April 22, 2023 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Auditorium
Our Whole Lives (OWL) Human Sexuality Curriculum, Grades 5 & 6
April 23, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 108
Our Whole Lives for 5th & 6th Grade is an 8-session program for learning about and discussing the physical and emotional changes of puberty. Participants will read “It’s Perfectly Normal”, by Robie H. Harris, and examine topics such as values and sexuality, communication, and decision-making. Each session includes a HomeLink – a homework activity for parents and children to complete together.
YRUU (High School Youth Group) Grades 9-12
April 23, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 107
No preregistration needed.
The Young Religious Unitarian Universalist (YRUU) group allows teens to bond through exploration of personal and spiritual rituals, participation in engaging activities, and empowering social activism projects. Youth in 9th-12th grade are welcome to join YRUU at any time! Along with planning events, projects and checking in with each other, we also play games and enjoy some snacks.
Coming of Age
April 23, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Large Activity Room
Registration required. Priority given to members
When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, then the youth gradually experience powerful transformation – they Come of Age. With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and they decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story. During Coming of Age, each youth will develop a faith statement. To create their own faith statements, each week they tackle the “Big Questions”, such as: What do you believe about God? What happens after we die? How do you live a moral life? Why do bad things happen? Facilitators of the class pair each youth 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. The year concludes with a Celebration Dinner and Coming of Age Service, during which the youth plan and lead Sunday services, as well as present their faith statements.
One-Room SchUUlhouse
April 23, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 111
This program is for children in grades K-5 who are not enrolled in OWL. Facilitators will use a thematic curriculum, with a new theme each month matching the Soul Matters curriculum. Each session will have opportunities for youth to talk with each other about what the themes mean, to create art together, play together (outside if the weather permits!), engage in movement, dance, and/or music. Facilitators may draw from a variety of activities for each session in order to engage different children’s needs and different facilitators’ talents.
No preregistration needed.
Crossroads: A Program for 5th-8th Grades
April 23, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 105
This is a group for 5th-8th graders using the Soul Matters curricula, which will blend stories, discussion, crafts, and activities based around a monthly theme.
There is no pre-registration required. This group will meet in Room 105 from 10:45am-12:00pm on Sunday mornings. For more information, please contact Birch Spick at bspick@ucdsm.org.
Our Whole Lives (OWL) Human Sexuality Curriculum, Grades K & 1
April 23, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 113
Our Whole Lives for Kindergarten & 1st Grade is an 8-session program supporting parents in educating children about birth, babies, bodies, and families. Following a Parent Meeting and Parent/Child Orientation, sessions will engage children with stories, songs and activities and include a weekly HomeLink - a homework project for parents and children to do together. Promotes dialogue between parent and child.
Tai Chi
April 24, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Awakening Heart Sangha
April 24, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
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.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information.
Soul Matters
April 25, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Jo Fitz's home
Facilitated by Jo Fitz and Susan Seitz
Soul Matters is a way of engaging our monthly themes through deep listening and open-hearted sharing. Groups of 8-10 committed participants come together once a month with a trained leader to nurture spiritual growth in the community. We do this by listening in three distinct ways:
- First, we listen to each other.
- Second, we listen to our lives.
- Finally, we listen to our deepest selves.
Together, these sacred practices of listening — to each other, the world, and our deepest selves — add up to a more intentional and authentic life. It’s a journey back to connection, and ultimately a journey back home. These groups are free.
Register now!
A Word With You
April 25, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
“A Word With You” meets once a month in person and discuss topics that interest members. We would like to invite new-comers (or old ones) to our church who could join us or just visit with us. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at 10:30 am. The topics vary from environment to personalities. Currently we have five members regularly attending, and would love to share this opportunity with up to five more people. ( Zoom only until April)
Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.
Transforming Hearts Workshop Series
April 25, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Griffin
The UU movement has come a long way in LGBTQ+ inclusion, but there’s still a long way to go. Meanwhile, trans and non-binary people are under attack in our country in wildly escalating ways.
We need to dig deeper. This program goes beyond “trans 101”—it’s a six-session course that explores the theological grounding of radical welcome; your own gender journey;
trans identity, experiences, and spirituality; the role of culture in inclusion;
and how to engage in culture shift.
Join us!
Please email tag@ucdsm.org to sign up by 3/31
Sacred Bridges CUUPS
April 25, 2023 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Learn to make and cast your own runes with Larry by Sacred Bridges CUUPS:
The purpose of this class is to help others discover the mysteries of the Elder Futhark Runes. This Class will take place biweekly for sixteen classes. Participants will construct their own set of runes, learn how to pronounce each rune, cast their set of runes, and read the casting for themselves and for others. Each participant will receive a set of gems of their choice, paint brush, a burlap bag, and a rune casting log book. If the participant would rather have a wooden set of runes or a predesigned set of runes this option is also available also. Cost of class is $20 per Participant. This covers the cost of materials. |
Women's Wednesdays
April 26, 2023 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Peace Library
Chosen by Women, About Women, Discussed by Women
RSVP's sent towednesdaywomen@ucdsm.org
Tai Chi
April 27, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Third Thursday's of the month the group will meet in Mary Safford instead of Griffin when the weather cools.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Grief Support Circle
April 27, 2023 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
Our Whole Lives (OWL) Human Sexuality Curriculum, Grades 5 & 6
April 30, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 108
Our Whole Lives for 5th & 6th Grade is an 8-session program for learning about and discussing the physical and emotional changes of puberty. Participants will read “It’s Perfectly Normal”, by Robie H. Harris, and examine topics such as values and sexuality, communication, and decision-making. Each session includes a HomeLink – a homework activity for parents and children to complete together.
YRUU (High School Youth Group) Grades 9-12
April 30, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 107
No preregistration needed.
The Young Religious Unitarian Universalist (YRUU) group allows teens to bond through exploration of personal and spiritual rituals, participation in engaging activities, and empowering social activism projects. Youth in 9th-12th grade are welcome to join YRUU at any time! Along with planning events, projects and checking in with each other, we also play games and enjoy some snacks.
Coming of Age
April 30, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Large Activity Room
Registration required. Priority given to members
When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, then the youth gradually experience powerful transformation – they Come of Age. With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and they decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story. During Coming of Age, each youth will develop a faith statement. To create their own faith statements, each week they tackle the “Big Questions”, such as: What do you believe about God? What happens after we die? How do you live a moral life? Why do bad things happen? Facilitators of the class pair each youth 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. The year concludes with a Celebration Dinner and Coming of Age Service, during which the youth plan and lead Sunday services, as well as present their faith statements.
One-Room SchUUlhouse
April 30, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 111
This program is for children in grades K-5 who are not enrolled in OWL. Facilitators will use a thematic curriculum, with a new theme each month matching the Soul Matters curriculum. Each session will have opportunities for youth to talk with each other about what the themes mean, to create art together, play together (outside if the weather permits!), engage in movement, dance, and/or music. Facilitators may draw from a variety of activities for each session in order to engage different children’s needs and different facilitators’ talents.
No preregistration needed.
Crossroads: A Program for 5th-8th Grades
April 30, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 105
This is a group for 5th-8th graders using the Soul Matters curricula, which will blend stories, discussion, crafts, and activities based around a monthly theme.
There is no pre-registration required. This group will meet in Room 105 from 10:45am-12:00pm on Sunday mornings. For more information, please contact Birch Spick at bspick@ucdsm.org.
Our Whole Lives (OWL) Human Sexuality Curriculum, Grades K & 1
April 30, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 113
Our Whole Lives for Kindergarten & 1st Grade is an 8-session program supporting parents in educating children about birth, babies, bodies, and families. Following a Parent Meeting and Parent/Child Orientation, sessions will engage children with stories, songs and activities and include a weekly HomeLink - a homework project for parents and children to do together. Promotes dialogue between parent and child.
CUUPS Special Bylaw Meeting
April 30, 2023 11:00 am - 6:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Tai Chi
May 1, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Awakening Heart Sangha
May 1, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
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.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information.
Transforming Hearts Workshop Series
May 2, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Griffin
The UU movement has come a long way in LGBTQ+ inclusion, but there’s still a long way to go. Meanwhile, trans and non-binary people are under attack in our country in wildly escalating ways.
We need to dig deeper. This program goes beyond “trans 101”—it’s a six-session course that explores the theological grounding of radical welcome; your own gender journey;
trans identity, experiences, and spirituality; the role of culture in inclusion;
and how to engage in culture shift.
Join us!
Please email tag@ucdsm.org to sign up by 3/31
Young Adult Group
May 3, 2023 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
We'll be meeting on the first Wednesday of the month, same time and place. Then, adding other roving social, spiritual, and/or service activities into the mix as the group is interested – come share your ideas with us in October!
Contact Courtney Dufford at youngadults@ucdsm.org with questions.
Bent Needles
May 3, 2023 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Room 105
Open to all! Spend a relaxing evening with fellow needleworkers and crafters. Enjoy crochet, cross-stitch, knitting, weaving, mending, quilting? From novice to experienced, all are welcome. We share tips, patterns, show off our work, and learn from each other. Whatever your handwork passion or interest , drop in for an evening of the joy of handwork!
Contact: membership@ucdsm.org
Tai Chi
May 4, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Third Thursday's of the month the group will meet in Mary Safford instead of Griffin when the weather cools.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Covenant Workshop
May 6, 2023 9:00 am - 1:30 pm
Griffin
All-Church Covenant Workshop with the Right Relations Team and Rev. Lisa Presley
Kitchen Dedication and Free Brunch for All
May 7, 2023 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Gathering Space, Kitchen, and Griffin Hall
Coming of Age
May 7, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Large Activity Room
Registration required. Priority given to members
When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, then the youth gradually experience powerful transformation – they Come of Age. With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and they decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story. During Coming of Age, each youth will develop a faith statement. To create their own faith statements, each week they tackle the “Big Questions”, such as: What do you believe about God? What happens after we die? How do you live a moral life? Why do bad things happen? Facilitators of the class pair each youth 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. The year concludes with a Celebration Dinner and Coming of Age Service, during which the youth plan and lead Sunday services, as well as present their faith statements.
Our Whole Lives (OWL) Human Sexuality Curriculum, Grades K & 1
May 7, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 113
Our Whole Lives for Kindergarten & 1st Grade is an 8-session program supporting parents in educating children about birth, babies, bodies, and families. Following a Parent Meeting and Parent/Child Orientation, sessions will engage children with stories, songs and activities and include a weekly HomeLink - a homework project for parents and children to do together. Promotes dialogue between parent and child.
Humanism Book Discussion
May 7, 2023 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
Tai Chi
May 8, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Awakening Heart Sangha
May 8, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
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.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information.
UU Women's Lunch Bunch
May 9, 2023 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
Urban Cellar, 640 S 50th St., WDM
All UU (and UU-interested) women are welcome to join the monthly gathering of the UU Women’s Lunch Bunch (2nd Tuesday of each month).
RSVP required by the Saturday before the luncheon to: womenslunch@ucdsm.org
UU Women's Book Club
May 9, 2023 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Meets: Second Tuesday of the month; 2:00 p.m. CT
Peace Library
This group is for book lovers and those who like to talk about what they’re reading. Books are selected by group members from Des Moines, Urbandale and West Des Moines Public Library Book Group Sets.
Contacts: Jean Tauber or Theresa Miller, bookclub@ucdsm.org
Transforming Hearts Workshop Series
May 9, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Griffin
The UU movement has come a long way in LGBTQ+ inclusion, but there’s still a long way to go. Meanwhile, trans and non-binary people are under attack in our country in wildly escalating ways.
We need to dig deeper. This program goes beyond “trans 101”—it’s a six-session course that explores the theological grounding of radical welcome; your own gender journey;
trans identity, experiences, and spirituality; the role of culture in inclusion;
and how to engage in culture shift.
Join us!
Please email tag@ucdsm.org to sign up by 3/31
Sacred Bridges CUUPS
May 9, 2023 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Learn to make and cast your own runes with Larry by Sacred Bridges CUUPS:
The purpose of this class is to help others discover the mysteries of the Elder Futhark Runes. This Class will take place biweekly for sixteen classes. Participants will construct their own set of runes, learn how to pronounce each rune, cast their set of runes, and read the casting for themselves and for others. Each participant will receive a set of gems of their choice, paint brush, a burlap bag, and a rune casting log book. If the participant would rather have a wooden set of runes or a predesigned set of runes this option is also available also. Cost of class is $20 per Participant. This covers the cost of materials. |
Circles of Trust: Parker Palmer’s A Hidden Wholeness
May 10, 2023 10:00 am - 11:30 am
Facilitated by Linda Lemons
Stonewall Conference Room
These book groups will meet twice a month as they work to form circles of trust to shape an integral life, explore the meaning of community, learn to teach and search for transformation, and promote nonviolent social change. All sessions are free, the only cost is to purchase the book. Register here: https://forms.gle/v2PHQo4ZBcBjWakr7
Tai Chi
May 11, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Third Thursday's of the month the group will meet in Mary Safford instead of Griffin when the weather cools.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Grief Support Circle
May 11, 2023 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
A Tarot Study Group
May 11, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
CUUP's
Stonewall Conference Room
YRUU (High School Youth Group) Grades 9-12
May 14, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 107
No preregistration needed.
The Young Religious Unitarian Universalist (YRUU) group allows teens to bond through exploration of personal and spiritual rituals, participation in engaging activities, and empowering social activism projects. Youth in 9th-12th grade are welcome to join YRUU at any time! Along with planning events, projects and checking in with each other, we also play games and enjoy some snacks.
Coming of Age
May 14, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Large Activity Room
Registration required. Priority given to members
When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, then the youth gradually experience powerful transformation – they Come of Age. With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and they decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story. During Coming of Age, each youth will develop a faith statement. To create their own faith statements, each week they tackle the “Big Questions”, such as: What do you believe about God? What happens after we die? How do you live a moral life? Why do bad things happen? Facilitators of the class pair each youth 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. The year concludes with a Celebration Dinner and Coming of Age Service, during which the youth plan and lead Sunday services, as well as present their faith statements.
One-Room SchUUlhouse
May 14, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 111
This program is for children in grades K-5 who are not enrolled in OWL. Facilitators will use a thematic curriculum, with a new theme each month matching the Soul Matters curriculum. Each session will have opportunities for youth to talk with each other about what the themes mean, to create art together, play together (outside if the weather permits!), engage in movement, dance, and/or music. Facilitators may draw from a variety of activities for each session in order to engage different children’s needs and different facilitators’ talents.
No preregistration needed.
Crossroads: A Program for 5th-8th Grades
May 14, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 105
This is a group for 5th-8th graders using the Soul Matters curricula, which will blend stories, discussion, crafts, and activities based around a monthly theme.
There is no pre-registration required. This group will meet in Room 105 from 10:45am-12:00pm on Sunday mornings. For more information, please contact Birch Spick at bspick@ucdsm.org.
Our Whole Lives (OWL) Human Sexuality Curriculum, Grades K & 1
May 14, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 113
Our Whole Lives for Kindergarten & 1st Grade is an 8-session program supporting parents in educating children about birth, babies, bodies, and families. Following a Parent Meeting and Parent/Child Orientation, sessions will engage children with stories, songs and activities and include a weekly HomeLink - a homework project for parents and children to do together. Promotes dialogue between parent and child.
Circles of Trust: Parker Palmer’s A Hidden Wholeness
May 14, 2023 11:00 am - 12:30 pm
Facilitated by Hilary Hippen-Leek
Room114
These book groups will meet twice a month as they work to form circles of trust to shape an integral life, explore the meaning of community, learn to teach and search for transformation, and promote nonviolent social change. All sessions are free, the only cost is to purchase the book. Register here: https://forms.gle/v2PHQo4ZBcBjWakr7
mUUvie Group
May 14, 2023 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Peace Library (Downstairs Gathering Space)
Tai Chi
May 15, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Soul Matters
May 15, 2023 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Judy Davis's Home
Facilitated by Elaine Imlau and Judy Davis
Soul Matters is a way of engaging our monthly themes through deep listening and open-hearted sharing. Groups of 8-10 committed participants come together once a month with a trained leader to nurture spiritual growth in the community. We do this by listening in three distinct ways:
- First, we listen to each other.
- Second, we listen to our lives.
- Finally, we listen to our deepest selves.
Together, these sacred practices of listening — to each other, the world, and our deepest selves — add up to a more intentional and authentic life. It’s a journey back to connection, and ultimately a journey back home. These groups are free.
Register now!
UU Writers Group
May 15, 2023 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Led by Sally Boeckholt and Sarah Lauer
UU Writers Group explores the monthly Soul Matters themes and engages in spiritual discernment through the art of creative writing.
This packet provides a good example of what to expect each month.
Sign up today to join us on our journey of creative writing and spiritual exploration
Awakening Heart Sangha
May 15, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
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.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information.
Soul Matters
May 16, 2023 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
First Unitarian Church of Des Moines
Facilitated by Tracy Beck, Judy Davis, and Elaine Imlau
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Soul Matters is a way of engaging our monthly themes through deep listening and open-hearted sharing. Groups of 8-10 committed participants come together once a month with a trained leader to nurture spiritual growth in the community. We do this by listening in three distinct ways:
- First, we listen to each other.
- Second, we listen to our lives.
- Finally, we listen to our deepest selves.
Together, these sacred practices of listening — to each other, the world, and our deepest selves — add up to a more intentional and authentic life. It’s a journey back to connection, and ultimately a journey back home. These groups are free.
Register now!
Tai Chi
May 18, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Third Thursday's of the month the group will meet in Mary Safford instead of Griffin when the weather cools.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Unity Circle
May 18, 2023 11:00 am - 2:00 pm
Meets: Third Thursdays Sept-May; 12:00 noon potluck, 1:00 p.m. CT speaker program; $10 yearly dues
This informal social and general interest group’s motto is “We eat well, talk much, sit long, and laugh lots!” while also learning from our guest speakers. Unity Circle-Alliance (often referred to as “Unity Circle”) began as a women’s service group at First Unitarian in 1879. The group has a very proud heritage of contributions over the years to our church, our city, our state, and our national culture. From the women’s suffrage movement to social issues in early Des Moines; through post-World War II support for war refugees via the national Unitarian Service Committee and into the current group’s monthly speakers, the organization has worked to improve church life and the lives of others.
Contacts: Theresa Miller or Nancee McDowell, unitycircle@ucdsm.org
Board of Trustees Meeting
May 18, 2023 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Ellis Delaney - Progressive Voices Concert Series
May 20, 2023 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Auditorium
YRUU (High School Youth Group) Grades 9-12
May 21, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 107
No preregistration needed.
The Young Religious Unitarian Universalist (YRUU) group allows teens to bond through exploration of personal and spiritual rituals, participation in engaging activities, and empowering social activism projects. Youth in 9th-12th grade are welcome to join YRUU at any time! Along with planning events, projects and checking in with each other, we also play games and enjoy some snacks.
Coming of Age
May 21, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Large Activity Room
Registration required. Priority given to members
When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, then the youth gradually experience powerful transformation – they Come of Age. With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and they decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story. During Coming of Age, each youth will develop a faith statement. To create their own faith statements, each week they tackle the “Big Questions”, such as: What do you believe about God? What happens after we die? How do you live a moral life? Why do bad things happen? Facilitators of the class pair each youth 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. The year concludes with a Celebration Dinner and Coming of Age Service, during which the youth plan and lead Sunday services, as well as present their faith statements.
One-Room SchUUlhouse
May 21, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 111
This program is for children in grades K-5 who are not enrolled in OWL. Facilitators will use a thematic curriculum, with a new theme each month matching the Soul Matters curriculum. Each session will have opportunities for youth to talk with each other about what the themes mean, to create art together, play together (outside if the weather permits!), engage in movement, dance, and/or music. Facilitators may draw from a variety of activities for each session in order to engage different children’s needs and different facilitators’ talents.
No preregistration needed.
Crossroads: A Program for 5th-8th Grades
May 21, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 105
This is a group for 5th-8th graders using the Soul Matters curricula, which will blend stories, discussion, crafts, and activities based around a monthly theme.
There is no pre-registration required. This group will meet in Room 105 from 10:45am-12:00pm on Sunday mornings. For more information, please contact Birch Spick at bspick@ucdsm.org.
Our Whole Lives (OWL) Human Sexuality Curriculum, Grades K & 1
May 21, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 113
Our Whole Lives for Kindergarten & 1st Grade is an 8-session program supporting parents in educating children about birth, babies, bodies, and families. Following a Parent Meeting and Parent/Child Orientation, sessions will engage children with stories, songs and activities and include a weekly HomeLink - a homework project for parents and children to do together. Promotes dialogue between parent and child.
Humanism Book Discussion
May 21, 2023 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
Tai Chi
May 22, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Awakening Heart Sangha
May 22, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
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.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information.
Soul Matters
May 23, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Jo Fitz's home
Facilitated by Jo Fitz and Susan Seitz
Soul Matters is a way of engaging our monthly themes through deep listening and open-hearted sharing. Groups of 8-10 committed participants come together once a month with a trained leader to nurture spiritual growth in the community. We do this by listening in three distinct ways:
- First, we listen to each other.
- Second, we listen to our lives.
- Finally, we listen to our deepest selves.
Together, these sacred practices of listening — to each other, the world, and our deepest selves — add up to a more intentional and authentic life. It’s a journey back to connection, and ultimately a journey back home. These groups are free.
Register now!
Sacred Bridges CUUPS
May 23, 2023 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Learn to make and cast your own runes with Larry by Sacred Bridges CUUPS:
The purpose of this class is to help others discover the mysteries of the Elder Futhark Runes. This Class will take place biweekly for sixteen classes. Participants will construct their own set of runes, learn how to pronounce each rune, cast their set of runes, and read the casting for themselves and for others. Each participant will receive a set of gems of their choice, paint brush, a burlap bag, and a rune casting log book. If the participant would rather have a wooden set of runes or a predesigned set of runes this option is also available also. Cost of class is $20 per Participant. This covers the cost of materials. |
Tai Chi
May 25, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Third Thursday's of the month the group will meet in Mary Safford instead of Griffin when the weather cools.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Grief Support Circle
May 25, 2023 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
Soul Matters
May 27, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
First Unitarian Church of Des Moines
Facilitated by Hillary Hippen-Leek
Room 114
Soul Matters is a way of engaging our monthly themes through deep listening and open-hearted sharing. Groups of 8-10 committed participants come together once a month with a trained leader to nurture spiritual growth in the community. We do this by listening in three distinct ways:
- First, we listen to each other.
- Second, we listen to our lives.
- Finally, we listen to our deepest selves.
Together, these sacred practices of listening — to each other, the world, and our deepest selves — add up to a more intentional and authentic life. It’s a journey back to connection, and ultimately a journey back home. These groups are free.
Register now!
YRUU (High School Youth Group) Grades 9-12
May 28, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 107
No preregistration needed.
The Young Religious Unitarian Universalist (YRUU) group allows teens to bond through exploration of personal and spiritual rituals, participation in engaging activities, and empowering social activism projects. Youth in 9th-12th grade are welcome to join YRUU at any time! Along with planning events, projects and checking in with each other, we also play games and enjoy some snacks.
Coming of Age
May 28, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Large Activity Room
Registration required. Priority given to members
When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, then the youth gradually experience powerful transformation – they Come of Age. With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and they decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story. During Coming of Age, each youth will develop a faith statement. To create their own faith statements, each week they tackle the “Big Questions”, such as: What do you believe about God? What happens after we die? How do you live a moral life? Why do bad things happen? Facilitators of the class pair each youth 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. The year concludes with a Celebration Dinner and Coming of Age Service, during which the youth plan and lead Sunday services, as well as present their faith statements.
One-Room SchUUlhouse
May 28, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Room 111
This program is for children in grades K-5 who are not enrolled in OWL. Facilitators will use a thematic curriculum, with a new theme each month matching the Soul Matters curriculum. Each session will have opportunities for youth to talk with each other about what the themes mean, to create art together, play together (outside if the weather permits!), engage in movement, dance, and/or music. Facilitators may draw from a variety of activities for each session in order to engage different children’s needs and different facilitators’ talents.
No preregistration needed.
Tai Chi
May 29, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Awakening Heart Sangha
May 29, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
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.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information.
A Word With You
May 30, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
“A Word With You” meets once a month in person and discuss topics that interest members. We would like to invite new-comers (or old ones) to our church who could join us or just visit with us. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at 10:30 am. The topics vary from environment to personalities. Currently we have five members regularly attending, and would love to share this opportunity with up to five more people. ( Zoom only until April)
Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.
Women's Wednesdays
May 31, 2023 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Peace Library
Chosen by Women, About Women, Discussed by Women
RSVP's sent towednesdaywomen@ucdsm.org
Tai Chi
June 1, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Third Thursday's of the month the group will meet in Mary Safford instead of Griffin when the weather cools.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Coming of Age
June 4, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Large Activity Room
Registration required. Priority given to members
When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, then the youth gradually experience powerful transformation – they Come of Age. With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and they decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story. During Coming of Age, each youth will develop a faith statement. To create their own faith statements, each week they tackle the “Big Questions”, such as: What do you believe about God? What happens after we die? How do you live a moral life? Why do bad things happen? Facilitators of the class pair each youth 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. The year concludes with a Celebration Dinner and Coming of Age Service, during which the youth plan and lead Sunday services, as well as present their faith statements.
Humanism Book Discussion
June 4, 2023 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
Tai Chi
June 5, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Awakening Heart Sangha
June 5, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
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.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information.
Sacred Bridges CUUPS
June 6, 2023 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Learn to make and cast your own runes with Larry by Sacred Bridges CUUPS:
The purpose of this class is to help others discover the mysteries of the Elder Futhark Runes. This Class will take place biweekly for sixteen classes. Participants will construct their own set of runes, learn how to pronounce each rune, cast their set of runes, and read the casting for themselves and for others. Each participant will receive a set of gems of their choice, paint brush, a burlap bag, and a rune casting log book. If the participant would rather have a wooden set of runes or a predesigned set of runes this option is also available also. Cost of class is $20 per Participant. This covers the cost of materials. |
Young Adult Group
June 7, 2023 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
We'll be meeting on the first Wednesday of the month, same time and place. Then, adding other roving social, spiritual, and/or service activities into the mix as the group is interested – come share your ideas with us in October!
Contact Courtney Dufford at youngadults@ucdsm.org with questions.
Bent Needles
June 7, 2023 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Room 105
Open to all! Spend a relaxing evening with fellow needleworkers and crafters. Enjoy crochet, cross-stitch, knitting, weaving, mending, quilting? From novice to experienced, all are welcome. We share tips, patterns, show off our work, and learn from each other. Whatever your handwork passion or interest , drop in for an evening of the joy of handwork!
Contact: membership@ucdsm.org
Tai Chi
June 8, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Third Thursday's of the month the group will meet in Mary Safford instead of Griffin when the weather cools.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Grief Support Circle
June 8, 2023 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
A Tarot Study Group
June 8, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
CUUP's
Stonewall Conference Room
Coming of Age
June 11, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Large Activity Room
Registration required. Priority given to members
When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, then the youth gradually experience powerful transformation – they Come of Age. With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and they decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story. During Coming of Age, each youth will develop a faith statement. To create their own faith statements, each week they tackle the “Big Questions”, such as: What do you believe about God? What happens after we die? How do you live a moral life? Why do bad things happen? Facilitators of the class pair each youth 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. The year concludes with a Celebration Dinner and Coming of Age Service, during which the youth plan and lead Sunday services, as well as present their faith statements.
Circles of Trust: Parker Palmer’s A Hidden Wholeness
June 11, 2023 11:00 am - 12:30 pm
Facilitated by Hilary Hippen-Leek
Room114
These book groups will meet twice a month as they work to form circles of trust to shape an integral life, explore the meaning of community, learn to teach and search for transformation, and promote nonviolent social change. All sessions are free, the only cost is to purchase the book. Register here: https://forms.gle/v2PHQo4ZBcBjWakr7
mUUvie Group
June 11, 2023 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Peace Library (Downstairs Gathering Space)
Tai Chi
June 12, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Awakening Heart Sangha
June 12, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
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.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information.
UU Women's Lunch Bunch
June 13, 2023 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
Urban Cellar, 640 S 50th St., WDM
All UU (and UU-interested) women are welcome to join the monthly gathering of the UU Women’s Lunch Bunch (2nd Tuesday of each month).
RSVP required by the Saturday before the luncheon to: womenslunch@ucdsm.org
UU Women's Book Club
June 13, 2023 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Meets: Second Tuesday of the month; 2:00 p.m. CT
Peace Library
This group is for book lovers and those who like to talk about what they’re reading. Books are selected by group members from Des Moines, Urbandale and West Des Moines Public Library Book Group Sets.
Contacts: Jean Tauber or Theresa Miller, bookclub@ucdsm.org
Circles of Trust: Parker Palmer’s A Hidden Wholeness
June 14, 2023 10:00 am - 11:30 am
Facilitated by Linda Lemons
Stonewall Conference Room
These book groups will meet twice a month as they work to form circles of trust to shape an integral life, explore the meaning of community, learn to teach and search for transformation, and promote nonviolent social change. All sessions are free, the only cost is to purchase the book. Register here: https://forms.gle/v2PHQo4ZBcBjWakr7
Tai Chi
June 15, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Third Thursday's of the month the group will meet in Mary Safford instead of Griffin when the weather cools.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Unity Circle
June 15, 2023 11:00 am - 2:00 pm
Meets: Third Thursdays Sept-May; 12:00 noon potluck, 1:00 p.m. CT speaker program; $10 yearly dues
This informal social and general interest group’s motto is “We eat well, talk much, sit long, and laugh lots!” while also learning from our guest speakers. Unity Circle-Alliance (often referred to as “Unity Circle”) began as a women’s service group at First Unitarian in 1879. The group has a very proud heritage of contributions over the years to our church, our city, our state, and our national culture. From the women’s suffrage movement to social issues in early Des Moines; through post-World War II support for war refugees via the national Unitarian Service Committee and into the current group’s monthly speakers, the organization has worked to improve church life and the lives of others.
Contacts: Theresa Miller or Nancee McDowell, unitycircle@ucdsm.org
Coming of Age
June 18, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Large Activity Room
Registration required. Priority given to members
When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, then the youth gradually experience powerful transformation – they Come of Age. With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and they decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story. During Coming of Age, each youth will develop a faith statement. To create their own faith statements, each week they tackle the “Big Questions”, such as: What do you believe about God? What happens after we die? How do you live a moral life? Why do bad things happen? Facilitators of the class pair each youth 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. The year concludes with a Celebration Dinner and Coming of Age Service, during which the youth plan and lead Sunday services, as well as present their faith statements.
Humanism Book Discussion
June 18, 2023 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
Tai Chi
June 19, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Soul Matters
June 19, 2023 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Judy Davis's Home
Facilitated by Elaine Imlau and Judy Davis
Soul Matters is a way of engaging our monthly themes through deep listening and open-hearted sharing. Groups of 8-10 committed participants come together once a month with a trained leader to nurture spiritual growth in the community. We do this by listening in three distinct ways:
- First, we listen to each other.
- Second, we listen to our lives.
- Finally, we listen to our deepest selves.
Together, these sacred practices of listening — to each other, the world, and our deepest selves — add up to a more intentional and authentic life. It’s a journey back to connection, and ultimately a journey back home. These groups are free.
Register now!
UU Writers Group
June 19, 2023 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Led by Sally Boeckholt and Sarah Lauer
UU Writers Group explores the monthly Soul Matters themes and engages in spiritual discernment through the art of creative writing.
This packet provides a good example of what to expect each month.
Sign up today to join us on our journey of creative writing and spiritual exploration
Awakening Heart Sangha
June 19, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
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.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information.
Sacred Bridges CUUPS
June 20, 2023 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Learn to make and cast your own runes with Larry by Sacred Bridges CUUPS:
The purpose of this class is to help others discover the mysteries of the Elder Futhark Runes. This Class will take place biweekly for sixteen classes. Participants will construct their own set of runes, learn how to pronounce each rune, cast their set of runes, and read the casting for themselves and for others. Each participant will receive a set of gems of their choice, paint brush, a burlap bag, and a rune casting log book. If the participant would rather have a wooden set of runes or a predesigned set of runes this option is also available also. Cost of class is $20 per Participant. This covers the cost of materials. |
Soul Matters
June 20, 2023 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
First Unitarian Church of Des Moines
Facilitated by Tracy Beck, Judy Davis, and Elaine Imlau
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Soul Matters is a way of engaging our monthly themes through deep listening and open-hearted sharing. Groups of 8-10 committed participants come together once a month with a trained leader to nurture spiritual growth in the community. We do this by listening in three distinct ways:
- First, we listen to each other.
- Second, we listen to our lives.
- Finally, we listen to our deepest selves.
Together, these sacred practices of listening — to each other, the world, and our deepest selves — add up to a more intentional and authentic life. It’s a journey back to connection, and ultimately a journey back home. These groups are free.
Register now!
Tai Chi
June 22, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Third Thursday's of the month the group will meet in Mary Safford instead of Griffin when the weather cools.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Grief Support Circle
June 22, 2023 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
Board of Trustees Meeting
June 22, 2023 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Soul Matters
June 24, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
First Unitarian Church of Des Moines
Facilitated by Hillary Hippen-Leek
Room 114
Soul Matters is a way of engaging our monthly themes through deep listening and open-hearted sharing. Groups of 8-10 committed participants come together once a month with a trained leader to nurture spiritual growth in the community. We do this by listening in three distinct ways:
- First, we listen to each other.
- Second, we listen to our lives.
- Finally, we listen to our deepest selves.
Together, these sacred practices of listening — to each other, the world, and our deepest selves — add up to a more intentional and authentic life. It’s a journey back to connection, and ultimately a journey back home. These groups are free.
Register now!
Coming of Age
June 25, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Large Activity Room
Registration required. Priority given to members
When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, then the youth gradually experience powerful transformation – they Come of Age. With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and they decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story. During Coming of Age, each youth will develop a faith statement. To create their own faith statements, each week they tackle the “Big Questions”, such as: What do you believe about God? What happens after we die? How do you live a moral life? Why do bad things happen? Facilitators of the class pair each youth 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. The year concludes with a Celebration Dinner and Coming of Age Service, during which the youth plan and lead Sunday services, as well as present their faith statements.
Tai Chi
June 26, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Awakening Heart Sangha
June 26, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
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.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information.
Soul Matters
June 27, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Jo Fitz's home
Facilitated by Jo Fitz and Susan Seitz
Soul Matters is a way of engaging our monthly themes through deep listening and open-hearted sharing. Groups of 8-10 committed participants come together once a month with a trained leader to nurture spiritual growth in the community. We do this by listening in three distinct ways:
- First, we listen to each other.
- Second, we listen to our lives.
- Finally, we listen to our deepest selves.
Together, these sacred practices of listening — to each other, the world, and our deepest selves — add up to a more intentional and authentic life. It’s a journey back to connection, and ultimately a journey back home. These groups are free.
Register now!
A Word With You
June 27, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
“A Word With You” meets once a month in person and discuss topics that interest members. We would like to invite new-comers (or old ones) to our church who could join us or just visit with us. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at 10:30 am. The topics vary from environment to personalities. Currently we have five members regularly attending, and would love to share this opportunity with up to five more people. ( Zoom only until April)
Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.
Women's Wednesdays
June 28, 2023 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Peace Library
Chosen by Women, About Women, Discussed by Women
RSVP's sent towednesdaywomen@ucdsm.org
Tai Chi
June 29, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Third Thursday's of the month the group will meet in Mary Safford instead of Griffin when the weather cools.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Coming of Age
July 2, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Large Activity Room
Registration required. Priority given to members
When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, then the youth gradually experience powerful transformation – they Come of Age. With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and they decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story. During Coming of Age, each youth will develop a faith statement. To create their own faith statements, each week they tackle the “Big Questions”, such as: What do you believe about God? What happens after we die? How do you live a moral life? Why do bad things happen? Facilitators of the class pair each youth 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. The year concludes with a Celebration Dinner and Coming of Age Service, during which the youth plan and lead Sunday services, as well as present their faith statements.
Humanism Book Discussion
July 2, 2023 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
Tai Chi
July 3, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Awakening Heart Sangha
July 3, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
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.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information.
Sacred Bridges CUUPS
July 4, 2023 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Learn to make and cast your own runes with Larry by Sacred Bridges CUUPS:
The purpose of this class is to help others discover the mysteries of the Elder Futhark Runes. This Class will take place biweekly for sixteen classes. Participants will construct their own set of runes, learn how to pronounce each rune, cast their set of runes, and read the casting for themselves and for others. Each participant will receive a set of gems of their choice, paint brush, a burlap bag, and a rune casting log book. If the participant would rather have a wooden set of runes or a predesigned set of runes this option is also available also. Cost of class is $20 per Participant. This covers the cost of materials. |
Young Adult Group
July 5, 2023 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
We'll be meeting on the first Wednesday of the month, same time and place. Then, adding other roving social, spiritual, and/or service activities into the mix as the group is interested – come share your ideas with us in October!
Contact Courtney Dufford at youngadults@ucdsm.org with questions.
Bent Needles
July 5, 2023 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Room 105
Open to all! Spend a relaxing evening with fellow needleworkers and crafters. Enjoy crochet, cross-stitch, knitting, weaving, mending, quilting? From novice to experienced, all are welcome. We share tips, patterns, show off our work, and learn from each other. Whatever your handwork passion or interest , drop in for an evening of the joy of handwork!
Contact: membership@ucdsm.org
Tai Chi
July 6, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Third Thursday's of the month the group will meet in Mary Safford instead of Griffin when the weather cools.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Coming of Age
July 9, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Large Activity Room
Registration required. Priority given to members
When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, then the youth gradually experience powerful transformation – they Come of Age. With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and they decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story. During Coming of Age, each youth will develop a faith statement. To create their own faith statements, each week they tackle the “Big Questions”, such as: What do you believe about God? What happens after we die? How do you live a moral life? Why do bad things happen? Facilitators of the class pair each youth 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. The year concludes with a Celebration Dinner and Coming of Age Service, during which the youth plan and lead Sunday services, as well as present their faith statements.
Circles of Trust: Parker Palmer’s A Hidden Wholeness
July 9, 2023 11:00 am - 12:30 pm
Facilitated by Hilary Hippen-Leek
Room114
These book groups will meet twice a month as they work to form circles of trust to shape an integral life, explore the meaning of community, learn to teach and search for transformation, and promote nonviolent social change. All sessions are free, the only cost is to purchase the book. Register here: https://forms.gle/v2PHQo4ZBcBjWakr7
mUUvie Group
July 9, 2023 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Peace Library (Downstairs Gathering Space)
Tai Chi
July 10, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Awakening Heart Sangha
July 10, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
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.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information.
UU Women's Lunch Bunch
July 11, 2023 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
Urban Cellar, 640 S 50th St., WDM
All UU (and UU-interested) women are welcome to join the monthly gathering of the UU Women’s Lunch Bunch (2nd Tuesday of each month).
RSVP required by the Saturday before the luncheon to: womenslunch@ucdsm.org
UU Women's Book Club
July 11, 2023 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Meets: Second Tuesday of the month; 2:00 p.m. CT
Peace Library
This group is for book lovers and those who like to talk about what they’re reading. Books are selected by group members from Des Moines, Urbandale and West Des Moines Public Library Book Group Sets.
Contacts: Jean Tauber or Theresa Miller, bookclub@ucdsm.org
Circles of Trust: Parker Palmer’s A Hidden Wholeness
July 12, 2023 10:00 am - 11:30 am
Facilitated by Linda Lemons
Stonewall Conference Room
These book groups will meet twice a month as they work to form circles of trust to shape an integral life, explore the meaning of community, learn to teach and search for transformation, and promote nonviolent social change. All sessions are free, the only cost is to purchase the book. Register here: https://forms.gle/v2PHQo4ZBcBjWakr7
Tai Chi
July 13, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Third Thursday's of the month the group will meet in Mary Safford instead of Griffin when the weather cools.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Grief Support Circle
July 13, 2023 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
A Tarot Study Group
July 13, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
CUUP's
Stonewall Conference Room
Coming of Age
July 16, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Large Activity Room
Registration required. Priority given to members
When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, then the youth gradually experience powerful transformation – they Come of Age. With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and they decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story. During Coming of Age, each youth will develop a faith statement. To create their own faith statements, each week they tackle the “Big Questions”, such as: What do you believe about God? What happens after we die? How do you live a moral life? Why do bad things happen? Facilitators of the class pair each youth 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. The year concludes with a Celebration Dinner and Coming of Age Service, during which the youth plan and lead Sunday services, as well as present their faith statements.
Humanism Book Discussion
July 16, 2023 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
Tai Chi
July 17, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Soul Matters
July 17, 2023 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Judy Davis's Home
Facilitated by Elaine Imlau and Judy Davis
Soul Matters is a way of engaging our monthly themes through deep listening and open-hearted sharing. Groups of 8-10 committed participants come together once a month with a trained leader to nurture spiritual growth in the community. We do this by listening in three distinct ways:
- First, we listen to each other.
- Second, we listen to our lives.
- Finally, we listen to our deepest selves.
Together, these sacred practices of listening — to each other, the world, and our deepest selves — add up to a more intentional and authentic life. It’s a journey back to connection, and ultimately a journey back home. These groups are free.
Register now!
UU Writers Group
July 17, 2023 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Led by Sally Boeckholt and Sarah Lauer
UU Writers Group explores the monthly Soul Matters themes and engages in spiritual discernment through the art of creative writing.
This packet provides a good example of what to expect each month.
Sign up today to join us on our journey of creative writing and spiritual exploration
Awakening Heart Sangha
July 17, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
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.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information.
Sacred Bridges CUUPS
July 18, 2023 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Learn to make and cast your own runes with Larry by Sacred Bridges CUUPS:
The purpose of this class is to help others discover the mysteries of the Elder Futhark Runes. This Class will take place biweekly for sixteen classes. Participants will construct their own set of runes, learn how to pronounce each rune, cast their set of runes, and read the casting for themselves and for others. Each participant will receive a set of gems of their choice, paint brush, a burlap bag, and a rune casting log book. If the participant would rather have a wooden set of runes or a predesigned set of runes this option is also available also. Cost of class is $20 per Participant. This covers the cost of materials. |
Soul Matters
July 18, 2023 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
First Unitarian Church of Des Moines
Facilitated by Tracy Beck, Judy Davis, and Elaine Imlau
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Soul Matters is a way of engaging our monthly themes through deep listening and open-hearted sharing. Groups of 8-10 committed participants come together once a month with a trained leader to nurture spiritual growth in the community. We do this by listening in three distinct ways:
- First, we listen to each other.
- Second, we listen to our lives.
- Finally, we listen to our deepest selves.
Together, these sacred practices of listening — to each other, the world, and our deepest selves — add up to a more intentional and authentic life. It’s a journey back to connection, and ultimately a journey back home. These groups are free.
Register now!
Tai Chi
July 20, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Third Thursday's of the month the group will meet in Mary Safford instead of Griffin when the weather cools.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Unity Circle
July 20, 2023 11:00 am - 2:00 pm
Meets: Third Thursdays Sept-May; 12:00 noon potluck, 1:00 p.m. CT speaker program; $10 yearly dues
This informal social and general interest group’s motto is “We eat well, talk much, sit long, and laugh lots!” while also learning from our guest speakers. Unity Circle-Alliance (often referred to as “Unity Circle”) began as a women’s service group at First Unitarian in 1879. The group has a very proud heritage of contributions over the years to our church, our city, our state, and our national culture. From the women’s suffrage movement to social issues in early Des Moines; through post-World War II support for war refugees via the national Unitarian Service Committee and into the current group’s monthly speakers, the organization has worked to improve church life and the lives of others.
Contacts: Theresa Miller or Nancee McDowell, unitycircle@ucdsm.org
Board of Trustees Meeting
July 20, 2023 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Soul Matters
July 22, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
First Unitarian Church of Des Moines
Facilitated by Hillary Hippen-Leek
Room 114
Soul Matters is a way of engaging our monthly themes through deep listening and open-hearted sharing. Groups of 8-10 committed participants come together once a month with a trained leader to nurture spiritual growth in the community. We do this by listening in three distinct ways:
- First, we listen to each other.
- Second, we listen to our lives.
- Finally, we listen to our deepest selves.
Together, these sacred practices of listening — to each other, the world, and our deepest selves — add up to a more intentional and authentic life. It’s a journey back to connection, and ultimately a journey back home. These groups are free.
Register now!
Coming of Age
July 23, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Large Activity Room
Registration required. Priority given to members
When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, then the youth gradually experience powerful transformation – they Come of Age. With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and they decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story. During Coming of Age, each youth will develop a faith statement. To create their own faith statements, each week they tackle the “Big Questions”, such as: What do you believe about God? What happens after we die? How do you live a moral life? Why do bad things happen? Facilitators of the class pair each youth 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. The year concludes with a Celebration Dinner and Coming of Age Service, during which the youth plan and lead Sunday services, as well as present their faith statements.
Tai Chi
July 24, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Awakening Heart Sangha
July 24, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
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.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information.
Soul Matters
July 25, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Jo Fitz's home
Facilitated by Jo Fitz and Susan Seitz
Soul Matters is a way of engaging our monthly themes through deep listening and open-hearted sharing. Groups of 8-10 committed participants come together once a month with a trained leader to nurture spiritual growth in the community. We do this by listening in three distinct ways:
- First, we listen to each other.
- Second, we listen to our lives.
- Finally, we listen to our deepest selves.
Together, these sacred practices of listening — to each other, the world, and our deepest selves — add up to a more intentional and authentic life. It’s a journey back to connection, and ultimately a journey back home. These groups are free.
Register now!
A Word With You
July 25, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
“A Word With You” meets once a month in person and discuss topics that interest members. We would like to invite new-comers (or old ones) to our church who could join us or just visit with us. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at 10:30 am. The topics vary from environment to personalities. Currently we have five members regularly attending, and would love to share this opportunity with up to five more people. ( Zoom only until April)
Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.
Women's Wednesdays
July 26, 2023 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Peace Library
Chosen by Women, About Women, Discussed by Women
RSVP's sent towednesdaywomen@ucdsm.org
Tai Chi
July 27, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Third Thursday's of the month the group will meet in Mary Safford instead of Griffin when the weather cools.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Grief Support Circle
July 27, 2023 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
Coming of Age
July 30, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Large Activity Room
Registration required. Priority given to members
When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, then the youth gradually experience powerful transformation – they Come of Age. With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and they decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story. During Coming of Age, each youth will develop a faith statement. To create their own faith statements, each week they tackle the “Big Questions”, such as: What do you believe about God? What happens after we die? How do you live a moral life? Why do bad things happen? Facilitators of the class pair each youth 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. The year concludes with a Celebration Dinner and Coming of Age Service, during which the youth plan and lead Sunday services, as well as present their faith statements.
Tai Chi
July 31, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Awakening Heart Sangha
July 31, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
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.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information.
Sacred Bridges CUUPS
August 1, 2023 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Learn to make and cast your own runes with Larry by Sacred Bridges CUUPS:
The purpose of this class is to help others discover the mysteries of the Elder Futhark Runes. This Class will take place biweekly for sixteen classes. Participants will construct their own set of runes, learn how to pronounce each rune, cast their set of runes, and read the casting for themselves and for others. Each participant will receive a set of gems of their choice, paint brush, a burlap bag, and a rune casting log book. If the participant would rather have a wooden set of runes or a predesigned set of runes this option is also available also. Cost of class is $20 per Participant. This covers the cost of materials. |
Young Adult Group
August 2, 2023 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
We'll be meeting on the first Wednesday of the month, same time and place. Then, adding other roving social, spiritual, and/or service activities into the mix as the group is interested – come share your ideas with us in October!
Contact Courtney Dufford at youngadults@ucdsm.org with questions.
Bent Needles
August 2, 2023 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Room 105
Open to all! Spend a relaxing evening with fellow needleworkers and crafters. Enjoy crochet, cross-stitch, knitting, weaving, mending, quilting? From novice to experienced, all are welcome. We share tips, patterns, show off our work, and learn from each other. Whatever your handwork passion or interest , drop in for an evening of the joy of handwork!
Contact: membership@ucdsm.org
Tai Chi
August 3, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Third Thursday's of the month the group will meet in Mary Safford instead of Griffin when the weather cools.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Coming of Age
August 6, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Large Activity Room
Registration required. Priority given to members
When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, then the youth gradually experience powerful transformation – they Come of Age. With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and they decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story. During Coming of Age, each youth will develop a faith statement. To create their own faith statements, each week they tackle the “Big Questions”, such as: What do you believe about God? What happens after we die? How do you live a moral life? Why do bad things happen? Facilitators of the class pair each youth 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. The year concludes with a Celebration Dinner and Coming of Age Service, during which the youth plan and lead Sunday services, as well as present their faith statements.
Humanism Book Discussion
August 6, 2023 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
Small Group
August 7, 2023 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Jill Moser
Tai Chi
August 7, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Awakening Heart Sangha
August 7, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
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.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information.
UU Women's Lunch Bunch
August 8, 2023 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
Urban Cellar, 640 S 50th St., WDM
All UU (and UU-interested) women are welcome to join the monthly gathering of the UU Women’s Lunch Bunch (2nd Tuesday of each month).
RSVP required by the Saturday before the luncheon to: womenslunch@ucdsm.org
UU Women's Book Club
August 8, 2023 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Meets: Second Tuesday of the month; 2:00 p.m. CT
Peace Library
This group is for book lovers and those who like to talk about what they’re reading. Books are selected by group members from Des Moines, Urbandale and West Des Moines Public Library Book Group Sets.
Contacts: Jean Tauber or Theresa Miller, bookclub@ucdsm.org
Circles of Trust: Parker Palmer’s A Hidden Wholeness
August 9, 2023 10:00 am - 11:30 am
Facilitated by Linda Lemons
Stonewall Conference Room
These book groups will meet twice a month as they work to form circles of trust to shape an integral life, explore the meaning of community, learn to teach and search for transformation, and promote nonviolent social change. All sessions are free, the only cost is to purchase the book. Register here: https://forms.gle/v2PHQo4ZBcBjWakr7
Tai Chi
August 10, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Third Thursday's of the month the group will meet in Mary Safford instead of Griffin when the weather cools.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Grief Support Circle
August 10, 2023 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
A Tarot Study Group
August 10, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
CUUP's
Stonewall Conference Room
Coming of Age
August 13, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Large Activity Room
Registration required. Priority given to members
When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, then the youth gradually experience powerful transformation – they Come of Age. With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and they decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story. During Coming of Age, each youth will develop a faith statement. To create their own faith statements, each week they tackle the “Big Questions”, such as: What do you believe about God? What happens after we die? How do you live a moral life? Why do bad things happen? Facilitators of the class pair each youth 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. The year concludes with a Celebration Dinner and Coming of Age Service, during which the youth plan and lead Sunday services, as well as present their faith statements.
Circles of Trust: Parker Palmer’s A Hidden Wholeness
August 13, 2023 11:00 am - 12:30 pm
Facilitated by Hilary Hippen-Leek
Room114
These book groups will meet twice a month as they work to form circles of trust to shape an integral life, explore the meaning of community, learn to teach and search for transformation, and promote nonviolent social change. All sessions are free, the only cost is to purchase the book. Register here: https://forms.gle/v2PHQo4ZBcBjWakr7
mUUvie Group
August 13, 2023 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Peace Library (Downstairs Gathering Space)
Tai Chi
August 14, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Awakening Heart Sangha
August 14, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
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.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information.
Sacred Bridges CUUPS
August 15, 2023 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Learn to make and cast your own runes with Larry by Sacred Bridges CUUPS:
The purpose of this class is to help others discover the mysteries of the Elder Futhark Runes. This Class will take place biweekly for sixteen classes. Participants will construct their own set of runes, learn how to pronounce each rune, cast their set of runes, and read the casting for themselves and for others. Each participant will receive a set of gems of their choice, paint brush, a burlap bag, and a rune casting log book. If the participant would rather have a wooden set of runes or a predesigned set of runes this option is also available also. Cost of class is $20 per Participant. This covers the cost of materials. |
Soul Matters
August 15, 2023 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
First Unitarian Church of Des Moines
Facilitated by Tracy Beck, Judy Davis, and Elaine Imlau
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Soul Matters is a way of engaging our monthly themes through deep listening and open-hearted sharing. Groups of 8-10 committed participants come together once a month with a trained leader to nurture spiritual growth in the community. We do this by listening in three distinct ways:
- First, we listen to each other.
- Second, we listen to our lives.
- Finally, we listen to our deepest selves.
Together, these sacred practices of listening — to each other, the world, and our deepest selves — add up to a more intentional and authentic life. It’s a journey back to connection, and ultimately a journey back home. These groups are free.
Register now!
Tai Chi
August 17, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Third Thursday's of the month the group will meet in Mary Safford instead of Griffin when the weather cools.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Unity Circle
August 17, 2023 11:00 am - 2:00 pm
Meets: Third Thursdays Sept-May; 12:00 noon potluck, 1:00 p.m. CT speaker program; $10 yearly dues
This informal social and general interest group’s motto is “We eat well, talk much, sit long, and laugh lots!” while also learning from our guest speakers. Unity Circle-Alliance (often referred to as “Unity Circle”) began as a women’s service group at First Unitarian in 1879. The group has a very proud heritage of contributions over the years to our church, our city, our state, and our national culture. From the women’s suffrage movement to social issues in early Des Moines; through post-World War II support for war refugees via the national Unitarian Service Committee and into the current group’s monthly speakers, the organization has worked to improve church life and the lives of others.
Contacts: Theresa Miller or Nancee McDowell, unitycircle@ucdsm.org
Board of Trustees Meeting
August 17, 2023 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
The UCDSM Board of Trustees
Meets in Stonewall Conference Room
Coming of Age
August 20, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Large Activity Room
Registration required. Priority given to members
When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, then the youth gradually experience powerful transformation – they Come of Age. With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and they decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story. During Coming of Age, each youth will develop a faith statement. To create their own faith statements, each week they tackle the “Big Questions”, such as: What do you believe about God? What happens after we die? How do you live a moral life? Why do bad things happen? Facilitators of the class pair each youth 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. The year concludes with a Celebration Dinner and Coming of Age Service, during which the youth plan and lead Sunday services, as well as present their faith statements.
Humanism Book Discussion
August 20, 2023 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and via Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
Tai Chi
August 21, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Soul Matters
August 21, 2023 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Judy Davis's Home
Facilitated by Elaine Imlau and Judy Davis
Soul Matters is a way of engaging our monthly themes through deep listening and open-hearted sharing. Groups of 8-10 committed participants come together once a month with a trained leader to nurture spiritual growth in the community. We do this by listening in three distinct ways:
- First, we listen to each other.
- Second, we listen to our lives.
- Finally, we listen to our deepest selves.
Together, these sacred practices of listening — to each other, the world, and our deepest selves — add up to a more intentional and authentic life. It’s a journey back to connection, and ultimately a journey back home. These groups are free.
Register now!
UU Writers Group
August 21, 2023 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Led by Sally Boeckholt and Sarah Lauer
UU Writers Group explores the monthly Soul Matters themes and engages in spiritual discernment through the art of creative writing.
This packet provides a good example of what to expect each month.
Sign up today to join us on our journey of creative writing and spiritual exploration
Awakening Heart Sangha
August 21, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
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.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information.
Soul Matters
August 22, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Jo Fitz's home
Facilitated by Jo Fitz and Susan Seitz
Soul Matters is a way of engaging our monthly themes through deep listening and open-hearted sharing. Groups of 8-10 committed participants come together once a month with a trained leader to nurture spiritual growth in the community. We do this by listening in three distinct ways:
- First, we listen to each other.
- Second, we listen to our lives.
- Finally, we listen to our deepest selves.
Together, these sacred practices of listening — to each other, the world, and our deepest selves — add up to a more intentional and authentic life. It’s a journey back to connection, and ultimately a journey back home. These groups are free.
Register now!
Tai Chi
August 24, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Third Thursday's of the month the group will meet in Mary Safford instead of Griffin when the weather cools.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Grief Support Circle
August 24, 2023 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Meets in the Minister's Office
The Grief Support Circle will start meeting on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month from 6-7 p.m. Any who are dealing with the loss of a loved one are invited to attend as many or as few sessions that work for you. Feel free to bring your dinner, if you'd like. If this group doesn't work for you but you need help working through your grief, please reach out to the Pastoral Care Team
Soul Matters
August 26, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
First Unitarian Church of Des Moines
Facilitated by Hillary Hippen-Leek
Room 114
Soul Matters is a way of engaging our monthly themes through deep listening and open-hearted sharing. Groups of 8-10 committed participants come together once a month with a trained leader to nurture spiritual growth in the community. We do this by listening in three distinct ways:
- First, we listen to each other.
- Second, we listen to our lives.
- Finally, we listen to our deepest selves.
Together, these sacred practices of listening — to each other, the world, and our deepest selves — add up to a more intentional and authentic life. It’s a journey back to connection, and ultimately a journey back home. These groups are free.
Register now!
Coming of Age
August 27, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Large Activity Room
Registration required. Priority given to members
When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, then the youth gradually experience powerful transformation – they Come of Age. With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and they decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story. During Coming of Age, each youth will develop a faith statement. To create their own faith statements, each week they tackle the “Big Questions”, such as: What do you believe about God? What happens after we die? How do you live a moral life? Why do bad things happen? Facilitators of the class pair each youth 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. The year concludes with a Celebration Dinner and Coming of Age Service, during which the youth plan and lead Sunday services, as well as present their faith statements.
Tai Chi
August 28, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Awakening Heart Sangha
August 28, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
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.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information.
A Word With You
August 29, 2023 10:30 am - 12:00 pm
“A Word With You” meets once a month in person and discuss topics that interest members. We would like to invite new-comers (or old ones) to our church who could join us or just visit with us. We meet on the last Tuesday of the month at 10:30 am. The topics vary from environment to personalities. Currently we have five members regularly attending, and would love to share this opportunity with up to five more people. ( Zoom only until April)
Please contact Sachiko Murphy (wordwithyou@ucdsm.org) if you are interested.
Sacred Bridges CUUPS
August 29, 2023 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm
Griffin Hall
Learn to make and cast your own runes with Larry by Sacred Bridges CUUPS:
The purpose of this class is to help others discover the mysteries of the Elder Futhark Runes. This Class will take place biweekly for sixteen classes. Participants will construct their own set of runes, learn how to pronounce each rune, cast their set of runes, and read the casting for themselves and for others. Each participant will receive a set of gems of their choice, paint brush, a burlap bag, and a rune casting log book. If the participant would rather have a wooden set of runes or a predesigned set of runes this option is also available also. Cost of class is $20 per Participant. This covers the cost of materials. |
Women's Wednesdays
August 30, 2023 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Peace Library
Chosen by Women, About Women, Discussed by Women
RSVP's sent towednesdaywomen@ucdsm.org
Tai Chi
August 31, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Third Thursday's of the month the group will meet in Mary Safford instead of Griffin when the weather cools.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Coming of Age
September 3, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Large Activity Room
Registration required. Priority given to members
When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, then the youth gradually experience powerful transformation – they Come of Age. With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and they decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story. During Coming of Age, each youth will develop a faith statement. To create their own faith statements, each week they tackle the “Big Questions”, such as: What do you believe about God? What happens after we die? How do you live a moral life? Why do bad things happen? Facilitators of the class pair each youth 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. The year concludes with a Celebration Dinner and Coming of Age Service, during which the youth plan and lead Sunday services, as well as present their faith statements.
Humanism Book Discussion
September 3, 2023 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room and Zoom
Send a note to HumanistBookGroup@ucdsm.org if you would like to participate.
Contact: Brenda Trickler/Warren Stine
Zoom Meeting:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87018584456?pwd=Mzl5REczWWRrSXl0QnFDZ3kwdlBTUT09
Small Group
September 4, 2023 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Stonewall Conference Room
Jill Moser
Tai Chi
September 4, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Awakening Heart Sangha
September 4, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
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.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85777386156?pwd=ZFFYQUFacTlHOXU4bFk4a0Y4TWxpdz09
Email sangha@ucdsm.org for more information.
Young Adult Group
September 6, 2023 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Room 114
We'll be meeting on the first Wednesday of the month, same time and place. Then, adding other roving social, spiritual, and/or service activities into the mix as the group is interested – come share your ideas with us in October!
Contact Courtney Dufford at youngadults@ucdsm.org with questions.
Bent Needles
September 6, 2023 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Room 105
Open to all! Spend a relaxing evening with fellow needleworkers and crafters. Enjoy crochet, cross-stitch, knitting, weaving, mending, quilting? From novice to experienced, all are welcome. We share tips, patterns, show off our work, and learn from each other. Whatever your handwork passion or interest , drop in for an evening of the joy of handwork!
Contact: membership@ucdsm.org
Tai Chi
September 7, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Monday and Thursday at 10:00 at First Unitarian as weather cools and we move inside to Griffin Hall. Outside sessions are currently being held at the American Legion Park in West Des Moines on 4th and Vine.
Third Thursday's of the month the group will meet in Mary Safford instead of Griffin when the weather cools.
Tai chi is an ancient form of gentle exercise sometimes called ‘moving’ meditation. This class will focus on a short form (Sun style) designed specifically to improve joint movement (which may decrease pain) and improve balance and prevent falls. In addition to these benefits, research has also shown tai chi may reduce stress. Basic aspects of tai chi will be discussed and practiced, including breathing, weight shift, posture, slow circular movements, elongation and focus to enhance the flow of chi. The classes are taught by repetitively practicing small portions and gradually adding until the entire form has been covered. Regular attendance is encouraged for the full benefit. There is a small fee ($20) for participants for the day session while the evening session is free. Register here: https://forms.gle/poBmQ4hsdPfQpSir7
Coming of Age
September 10, 2023 10:45 am - 12:00 pm
Large Activity Room
Registration required. Priority given to members
When we provide the time and opportunities for authentic relationships to develop, then the youth gradually experience powerful transformation – they Come of Age. With the help of their families and their church community, they learn who they are, and they decide what they stand for. This is how each youth creates their own empowering story. During Coming of Age, each youth will develop a faith statement. To create their own faith statements, each week they tackle the “Big Questions”, such as: What do you believe about God? What happens after we die? How do you live a moral life? Why do bad things happen? Facilitators of the class pair each youth 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. The year concludes with a Celebration Dinner and Coming of Age Service, during which the youth plan and lead Sunday services, as well as present their faith statements.
Circles of Trust: Parker Palmer’s A Hidden Wholeness
<