the OUUC spark

September 12, 2024

The Spark! messages of inspiration from the Olympia Unitarian Universalist Congregation

An Invitation into Faithful Relationship and Action — Rev. Sara Lewis

As our spiritual theme of the month is the practice of invitation, I am glad to have guests coming to speak to us this Sunday in our after-service forum with an invitation for us all. Representatives from Underground Ministries' “One Parish, One Prisoner” will be explaining this relational program to us and how we could be a part of it. One Parish, One Prisoner matches faith communities with an incarcerated person who is headed for release, so the congregation can form a genuine relationship with them and support them in their re-entry post incarceration.

Here is a video about this work:

This invitation isn’t a small ask, and it would have its real challenges. The first challenge for us might be that some of the language in the program does not easily fit with our theological comfort zone and may be triggering for some of us. The language of resurrection and discipleship is used a great deal. I would translate that language into a journey to healing and wholeness and faithful right relationship.

Beyond the theological language, the next challenge is that this is a big commitment. A team of at 7, including a clergy person, need to make a two year commitment to this relational work. It’s a big ask, but also a powerful invitation.

So, please come either in person or on Zoom this Sunday to learn more, and if you are interested in being part of this work let me know.

Rev. Sara

Tiny Little News Show

In this week's Tiny Little News Show, enjoy photos from the annual picnic and hear about the upcoming forum with One Parish, One Prisoner:

Tonight's Community Dinner & Activities

Thursday, September 12

5:30 pm

All are welcome for food and fellowship at our weekly community dinner. This week's menu plan is Southwest Rice Bowls.

Volunteers are needed for cooking, set up, and clean up. If you can help, contact Rev. Sara or just show up early / stay late!

After-dinner options (6:30 pm) tonight include: Buddhist Sangha, Youth Group, Social Justice Book Group, and Dances of Universal Peace. More information on most of these is available in the Weekly Update.

Celebration of Life for Barry Zickuhr — This Saturday

Saturday, September 14, 2024

1 pm

The family and friends of Barry Zickuhr will be welcomed for a Celebration of Life service both onsite in the OUUC Sanctuary and on Zoom (link below). A reception will follow for those onsite.

The Order of Service is posted on this site, and a link to the YouTube video will be posted there after the service.

Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83700621392?pwd=Koixw5YGQeVKaLbMEX8JrJcWl5SZkt.1

Meeting ID: 837 0062 1392
Passcode: 735873

Upcoming Events

Download the flyer below if you would like a list of OUUC events for September. Great for posting on your refrigerator! Looking for more upcoming events? Go to the OUUC Calendar.

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September events (2).pdf

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