April 7, 2016  |  Vol. 3 No. 14
Revelation is Not Sealed
Rev. Justin Schroeder
In our faith tradition, we often say that "revelation is not sealed." For Unitarian Universalists, this means that there is not one sacred text or religious figure that holds all of the truth and wisdom about life, living, and the mystery at the heart of things. In fact, we believe that religious wisdom, truth, and insight can be found in a variety of sources, including sacred scripture, nature, our own experiences, music, poetry, and more. Wisdom and insight continue to reveal themselves to us if we keep our hearts and minds open. This idea is central to who we are as a religious people.

What if we applied this notion that "revelation is not sealed" to everything we're hearing from Hennepin County Attorney Mike Freeman about Jamar Clark's death, 61 seconds after officers showed up? I'm not pretending to know everything that happened that night, but if you're white and armed, it seems that you won't get shot in 61 seconds, no matter what you're doing. And although DNA is critical in forensic analysis, it is no truth serum according to Patrick Sullivan, senior attorney in charge of forensic science litigation for the Hennepin County public defender's office. 

I'm not a lawyer or a forensic expert and it's true that we may never know exactly what happened last November, but as a faith community grounded in reason and critical thinking, shouldn't we at least question the racial narratives that are at play in the "evidence" and narrative that Freeman presented?

Perhaps at the end of the day, this is our real spiritual work: to identify the racial narratives at play, in us and around us, in our faith community, our institutions, and our city itself. Perhaps the real work is to identify these false racial narratives, uproot them, and replace them with a narrative that is life-giving for us all.

I'll see you church,
Justin
SUNDAY WORSHIP AT FIRST UNIVERSALIST CHURCH
The First Universalist Choir leads worship this Sunday with a performance of Fauré's "Requiem"

Worship this Sunday
Sunday, April 10, 9:30 & 11:15 a.m.
Choir-led Worship
First Universalist Choir & Orchestra Perform Fauré's "Requiem" 
Hidden in the folds of life are secrets about death. Hidden in the throes of death and loss are secrets about life. In this choir-led service of music and poetic meditations, we explore moments of grace, deep connection, and transformation, as we pay attention and live into the great invitation: to be "a bride married to amazement and a bridegroom who takes the world into his arms (Mary Oliver)."

The First Universalist Choir and Orchestra will perform Gabriel Fauré's "Requiem" during this Sunday's special choir-led services. "Requiem" is structured in seven movements, between which there will be hymns, readings and meditations. Come experience why this work has become among the most beloved in the Choral repertoire!  Read More  
April worship theme: Sacrament

A Look Ahead
Sunday, April 17, 9:30 & 11:15 a.m.
Rev. Jen Crow
"Sacred Moments"



Miss a Recent Sunday?
April 3, 2016
"Behold" 
Rev. Elaine Aron Tenbrink
March 27, 2016
"The Unbreakable Place"
Rev. Justin Schroeder
March 20, 2016
"The Other You" 
Rev. Justin Schroeder
March 13, 2016
"The Shape of Things" 
Rev. Jen Crow
UPCOMING EVENTS & PROGRAMS
Bde/Mde Maka Ska:
Inspired Action and Innovation 
Saturday, April 9, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Join our next exciting community conversation regarding personal and collective commitments and paths forward. Celebrate with us what we have learned and transformed in our conversation process so far, as well as our initiation of cross-level projects and innovation teams. RSVP here
The Pathway to Membership
Saturdays, April 9 & 16, 9 a.m.-noon
Feeling like First Universalist could be your spiritual home? Join us for The Pathway to Membership, an exploration of Unitarian Universalism, the history and mission of this congregation, and the experience of membership. Meet with ministers and lay leaders, and reflect on your own spiritual journey and values. Contact Sandy at Sandy@firstuniv.org or 612-825-1701 to sign up. This is the last Pathway class offered before New Member Sunday in May.
Twin Cities Habitat Housing Heroes
Sunday, April 10, Social Hall after services
Join Twin Cities Habitat after both services this Sunday to take a fun Housing Hero picture, learn about safe, stable, and affordable housing, and sign postcards to your legislators. Habitat staff will make sure your support for affordable housing is delivered to your legislator in St. Paul. The pictures, especially with kids and families, are used to inspire others to action.  
Sulfide Mining Presentation by Paula Maccabee from WaterLegacy
Sunday, April 10, 1 p.m.
Paula Maccabee, WaterLegacy's Advocacy Director and Counsel, will speak about Minnesota's first proposed copper-nickel mine, the PolyMet sulfide mine project, and its threats to environmental justice, human health, and our climate. WaterLegacy is an award-winning Minnesota non-profit organization formed to protect Minnesota's fresh water resources and the communities that rely on them. Paula will describe WaterLegacy's work to prevent sulfide mining pollution in the Lake Superior Basin and to protect natural stands of wild rice from sulfate pollution. 
Spring Hiking with First U Seniors
Tuesday, April 12, 10 a.m.
Join other First U seniors for a spring hike in a beautiful park! Meet at 10 a.m. at Theodore Wirth Park Main Chalet, 301 Theodore Wirth Parkway in Minneapolis. The group will hike for approximately two hours along Bassett Creek Trail and around Wirth Lake. RSVP to Peter Styx at styxfamily@msn.com or 952-210-8049.
Daytime Connections Genealogy Workshop
Wednesday, April 13, 1 p.m.
Presenter Michael Day will share his personal family research using ancestry.com to illustrate how you could get started in uncovering valuable and interesting information about the last few generations of your family.
Registration: Contact Sandy DiNanni at sandy@firstuniv.org or 612-825-1701.

Racial Justice and Our UU Faith Workshop
Saturdays, April 16 & 23, 10 a.m.-noon
We hope that all First Universalist members and friends will join us for this interactive workshop exploring a framework and tools for understanding race, racism, and whiteness and the spiritual imperative that drives our racial justice work. This is a distilled experience of the 24-hour training offered by Dr. Heather Hackman. The April workshop is offered in two parts (both required), on Saturdays, April 16 and 23 from 10 a.m. to noon each day. Led by Susan Johnson, Jeff Sylvestre, and Channing McKinley. To register, contact Sandy DiNanni at Sandy@firstuniv.org or 612-825-1701.
Film: "Mirrors of Privilege" (Part 1)
Monday, April 18, 6:30 p.m.
Sunday, April 24, 1 p.m.
Join us for a viewing and discussion of the first half of the film "Mirrors of Privilege: Making Whiteness Visible." This groundbreaking film features stories from white men and women on overcoming unconscious racism and entitlement. The discussion will be led by Susan Schultz, Jared Cruz, and Pam Berry. These are drop-in programs that last 90 minutes. The second half of this film will be shown on Monday, May 9 at 7 p.m.
NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS
Contemplative Evening Service is Sunday, April 17
Grow: A Meditation in Sound and Silence
Sunday, April 17, 5:30 p.m.
"Become the being that you are." Within each of us is a seed, a kernel, a pattern. In the soul's soil, it seethes and churns, waiting for spring to come so that it can slowly reach into the light. What waits within us? And how will it take shape? 

Please join us for a meditation on the spring outside our windows and the spring inside our hearts, and how we grow into experience and maturity. We will be accompanied on this journey by the music of Beethoven, Killmayer, and Arvo Pärt, played by Dr. Jerrod Wendland and incomparable cellist Greg Byers, with spoken pieces by Rev. Ruth MacKenzie.
Racial Justice Leadership Team Update
Bde/Mde Maka Ska / Lake Calhoun Movement Building
Our commitment to building a new community around the lake (and water around the world) continues to grow! A group of us attended the Mpls. Park Board's CAC (Comm. Action Council) meeting a couple of weeks ago. We showed support for their recommendation to support restoration of the lake's original name, and the recommendation passed. This Friday, some of us will attend a meeting, along with our new native friends, with the Hennepin Cty. Commissioner on the same matter.

Join us at church this Saturday, April 9 at 10 a.m. for a Community Conversation about Bde/Mde Maka Ska: Inspired Action and Innovation. Learn more.

Bdote Tour Scheduled for Saturday, June 11
Bdote is a Dakota word that generally means "where two waters come together." A deep and abiding relationship to place is one of the defining characteristics of Dakota experience. Engagement with Dakota culture requires reflection on our own connection to place, in a growing awareness of what these places mean to Dakota people. 

To deepen our understanding of the native community, we will be offering a field trip on Saturday, June 11. On this trip we will learn from indigenous people about their relationship to the area surrounding the confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota rivers. Watch for more details to come.
Apply to Be a Worship Associate Next Year!
Do you love worship? Do you have a flair for writing stories or prose? Please consider applying to be a Worship Associate this year. Here's what Worship Associates say about being a part of this group....
 
"More than anything else I've done at First Universalist, being part of the Worship Associates team made me feel a part of this church."
- Marion Dane Bauer

"The worship associate circle expanded my soul in ways that I could not have imagined. Gathering with such a wonderful group has made me feel more connected to the church." - Benjamin Miles
 
Worship Associates speak two or three times during the church year in our worship services, September through May. Associates and Rev. Ruth MacKenzie gather for two half-day retreats to discuss themes for upcoming months, talk about writing for oration, review how to lay out a manuscript and practice public speaking.

If this interests you, please write a 500 word piece about forgiveness and submit your manuscript to Rev. Ruth MacKenzie at: ruth@firstuniv.org. The deadline for submissions is May 15, 2016. The Worship Team will be choosing applicants representative of the multi-generational, multi-cultural congregation we are becoming.
Artist's Reception This Sunday in the Social Hall
A new exhibit of work by artist Robin Colerin is now on view in the social hall through May 22. An artist's reception will be held after services this Sunday, April 10. Stop by and meet the artist!

Growing up in Minnesota provided many opportunities for Robin Colerin to appreciate the natural world. Her current work has kept her close to home, focusing on the flora and fauna of her local environment, particularly the creatures that organic home gardening invites. It is in printmaking that Robin finds her primary calling - a discipline that requires a way of thinking different from that of drawing and painting - and she carries a screen printer's signature into her paintings, with flattened space and blocks of color.
Join Our Office Reception Team!
We're currently looking for two friendly and reliable volunteers to join our reception team! One volunteer is needed on Mondays from 9 a.m. to noon, and one on Wednesdays from noon to 4 p.m. 

Represent First Universalist by greeting visitors, answering phones, monitoring doors and helping with projects, all while spending time in a vibrant and welcoming office environment. If you are interested in volunteering or learning more, please contact Chelsea Bertsch, Administrative Assistant, at 612-825-1701 or chelsea@firstuniv.org.
Chancel Group to Share Pulpit Design April 17
Builder Richard Helgeson with the Chancel Group: Fawzia Khan, Kristen Mengelkoch, Meredith Sims, Steve Oakley and Rev. Ruth MacKenzie. 
Two weeks ago, we shared the exciting news that the design for the new pulpit has been approved. If you missed it, you can read the announcement here. 

Members of the Chancel Group, who have been meeting with builder Richard Helgeson over the past few months, will be in the Social Hall after both services on Sunday, April 17. You'll be able to ask questions, see small replicas of the pieces, and learn more. Please join us! 
Child Dedication Ceremony Forms Due May 1
Unitarian Universalists believe that every child brings new life and hope into the world. During the Child Dedication ritual, the congregation pledges itself to partner with and support parents and families in the religious upbringing of the child. Child Dedications take place during Sunday services twice a year - the next one will take place on Sunday, May 8. Infants and children of members and those on the path to membership at First Universalist may be dedicated. If your family would like to participate in a Child Dedication ceremony, please fill out the online form. Forms are due May 1.
Get Your Tickets for the April 23 Great Gathering
Join us for dinner, drinks and a chance to sign up for Great Gathering experiences and bid on live auction items at The Great Gathering on Saturday, April 23!

All proceeds from ticket sales, the live auction, and purchase of Great Gathering spots will support youth and family ministries and social justice work at First Universalist Church, as well as raise money towards the new pulpit. Purchase tickets online or in the Social Hall between services. 

An Indian Dinner Extravaganza, Wine Tasting, Rock Climbing Day, and a Minneapolis History Tour are just a few of the Great Gathering experiences that will be available.

Interested in hosting a Great Gathering? Great Gathering submissions are due Tuesday, April 12. Complete the form (available here) and email it to 3400events@gmail.com.

Donate cash or an item for the live auction  If you can support our fundraising efforts with a donation, please let us know by emailing us at 3400events@gmail.com.
Good News About Community Solar Gardens
First Universalist has been notified that a garden has become available for us and that Subscriber Agreements assigning spots are to be sent out soon to those who have signed Reservation Agreements. For those considering subscribing, there's still an opportunity to sign up for a 2016 garden subscription. More information is available on our website and at the Community Solar table on Sundays in the Social Hall or by emailing  firstunivcsg@gmail.com.
Environmental Justice Team to Showcase Recent Projects at April 24 Earth Day Celebration
First Universalist's Environmental Justice Team (EJT) has identified a set of goals for the coming year. Broadly categorized, these goals relate to reducing the greenhouse gas emissions that are driving climate change as well as the protection of the water resources that we have enjoyed over the years in Minnesota (see the events calendar for two upcoming water events this Saturday and Sunday.) At the April 24 celebration of Earth Day, the EJT will display exhibits in the Social Hall depicting the needs and benefits of projects they have undertaken on behalf of our environment. Stop by and learn about what we are undertaking on behalf of the environment and let us know where your interests intersect. We extend an open invitation for you to join us in our efforts. 
First U Could Be Your CSA Pick-Up Site this Summer! 
Sogn Valley Farm offers weekly deliveries of fresh, organic vegetables through its CSA (community supported agriculture) program. Starting this year, CSA shares can be picked up at First Universalist on Wednesdays from 4-8 p.m.! Other Twin Cities drop sites are in Richfield, S. Minneapolis (52nd & Nokomis), Minnetonka, and Plymouth.  

The Summer Share (early June through early October) costs $525 for a full share or $300 for a half share. The 7-week Fall Share costs $225. Along with each box, you'll receive a newsletter with updates from the farm, descriptions of box contents, and a recipe that uses some of the items in the box. You'll also be invited down to the farm for a gathering or two during the season. 

Visit Sogn Valley's website at www.sognvalleyfarm.com to learn more and feel free to contact Dana with any questions: dana@sognvalleyfarm.com. Register online or pick up a sign up form in the church office. 
Daytime Connections: 
Our Journey Into Eldering: Savoring and Serving
How do we, as conscious elders, balance care for ourselves and serving others? Join us on Thursday, April 21 at 11 a.m. and hear how four of our church members, Mark Bohnhorst, Tom Saterstrom, Joan Naymark, and Clareyse Nelson, are using their experiences, skills, and wisdom in service of something larger than themselves and discovering purpose and meaning for their lives. This program will:
  • Highlight the richness and extent of church seniors' volunteer activities.
  • Explore the value of social connections and sense of meaning derived from these efforts.
  • Highlight available First Universalist "Faithful Action" volunteer opportunities.
Program includes a presentation, discussion and small meal (a $5 donation is requested for the meal). To RSVP, contact Sandy DiNanni at sandy@firstuniv.org or 612-825-1701.
Birds and Climate Change in MN and Nicaragua
First Universalist's Environmental Justice group and Project Minnesota/León (PML) are co-hosting a dialogue between bird experts from Minnesota and Nicaragua at church on Saturday, April 30 at 6:30 p.m. 

Francisco Munoz, a Nicaraguan farmer, bird expert and author, and Carrol Henderson, a Minnesota DNR employee and internationally-known bird expert, will discuss birds in both countries and their migratory path, the impact of climate change on birds, and our joint responsibility for taking care of the environment. 

Dessert and coffee will be served. The event is free, but PML will ask for donations to support their non-profit and community development work in Nicaragua.
NEWS IN BRIEF
Cycle of Life and Pastoral Care

A memorial service for Arlene Jacobson will be held on Friday, April 8, at 3 p.m.

Let Us Keep You in Our Thoughts and Prayers
If you are experiencing a crisis or transition, or celebrating a joy, please let us know. To be included in our Cycle of Life each Sunday in worship, contact Sandy DiNanni at sandy@firstuniv.org or 612-825-1701. If you would like support, contact Rev. Jen Crow at jen@firstuniv.org or 612-825-1701 or any member of our Pastoral Care Team.
Guest At Your Table: Pick Up a Box Sunday
Each year, we celebrate Guest At Your Table, a nationwide UU fundraiser for the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee. UUSC focuses on grassroots-driven initiatives to advance the cause of human rights, in the U.S. and around the world. Whether helping refugees from the Middle East, supporting the human right to water in Flint, or advocating for the rights of workers in the informal economy in Africa, UUSC is grounded in our UU values. Guest At Your Table boxes are available for you to take home. Pick one up any Sunday in April, add your donations and good wishes, and bring them back to church by May 1. Thank you!
Book, DVD, CD & Video Game Donations for Youth Cultural Exchange (YCE) Sale
Donations are needed for YCE's CD, DVD, Video Game & Book Sale on April 17 and 24. Drop off your gently-used CDs, DVDs, Video Games and Books on the stage in the social hall on April 10. Last summer 12 First U 8th and 9th graders traveled to León, Nicaragua, where they lived with 12 local families, gaining cultural understanding and forging cross-cultural friendships. Your donations will help us bring the Nicaraguan host siblings to Minnesota for 2 weeks in July.
Congregational Care: Meal Support 
New baby? Illness? Accident? Let us know if you or somebody in our community would like us to create a meal train for you. Meal trains typically run two to six weeks depending on need and give congregants a way to help. Contact Kathy Urberg, kathyurberg@gmail.com.

Planned Giving
If First Universalist means much to you and you want to help the church stay strong, please consider naming it in your will or estate plan. Interested? See a minister or the church's financial administrator. And thanks!
- Peg Meier of the Planned Giving Committee
COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD
Twin Cities House Concerts with Dick Hensold and Dean Magraw
Saturday, April 23, 7:30 p.m. in Shoreview, Saturday, May 7, 7:30 p.m. in Minneapolis
First U Folk Band director Dick Hensold (Northumbrian smallpipes, Scottish Highland reel pipes and whistles) and Dean Magraw (guitar) will be doing a program of mostly Cape Breton (Scottish) music at two house concerts in the Twin Cities on April 23 in Shoreview and on May 7 in Minneapolis. The Minneapolis concert is being hosted by First U member Joanna Lees. Reservations are required, and we recommend that you get your spot ahead of time since both concerts may fill up. Suggested donation: $20. Contact information to make reservations and for addresses can be found on Dick Hensold's website. 
Help the Earth - Compost Your Food Waste
Minneapolis Organics Recycling
Minneapolis organics recycling includes collecting fruits, vegetables, bones, meat, breads, eggshells, non-recyclable and food-soiled paper, and more for composting. The new organics recycling program is an easy way for residents to reduce waste.
 
To take part, residents must sign up by filling out this online form, or by contacting Solid Waste and Recycling at 612-673-2917 or SWRcustomer@minneapolismn.gov. Residents who sign up will receive a cart by the end of July 2016.
RESOURCES & CONTACT INFORMATION
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Sundays 8 a.m.-1 p.m.
Monday-Thursday 8:30 a.m.-8 p.m.
Closed Fridays and Saturdays
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The Weekly Liberal is compiled and edited by Communications Manager Jenn Stromberg. Past issues, publication deadlines, and policies can be found on our website. 
Contact Us
First Universalist Church of Minneapolis
3400 Dupont Ave. S.
Minneapolis, MN 55408
612-825-1701
For staff contact information, please visit our Ministers and Staff page.
First Universalist Church of Minneapolis
3400 Dupont Avenue S.
Minneapolis, MN 55408

612-825-1701

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