OUUC Weekly Update
August 6, 2024
Worship Service August 11
“The Restorative Power of Joy” with Rev. Carol McKinley
We cannot deny the world’s suffering or the painful parts of our own lives, but affirming our sources of joy can help sustain us as we move through times, reminding us to recognize the presence of good in the world.
No more After-Service Forums through August.
The worship service starts at 10 am.
OUUC Sunday Morning Service
https://zoom.us/j/873210124?pwd=U21qdmwxcTNyaE1LQ0xlU0MwM3VMQT09
Meeting ID: 873 210 124
Password: 995142
Dial +1 253 215 8782
Last Sunday's Worship Service
From Your Sabbatical Committee
Mid-summer greetings! We are about one-third of the way through the sabbatical of our beloved settled minister, the Rev. Mary Gear, who will be returning to OUUC on Nov 1st. If you are new to our community, or simply wish to know more, information on Rev. Mary’s sabbatical can be found here. While reflecting on how things are going overall, the Sabbatical Committee wishes to extend gratitude to the Pastoral Care Team and Rev. Carol McKinley for responding to the needs of individuals in the congregation, as well as Rev. Monica Jacobson-Tennessen who is tending to worship and our excellent staff team throughout the sabbatical. We are well supported!
Please save the date for a Mid-Sabbatical Congregational Check-In on Sunday 8/25 at 11:30. We will meet in person in the sanctuary as well as online on Zoom. If you are unable to attend, a recording will be available for later viewing on YouTube. This check-in will be a time to reflect on the themes of renewal and beloved community. We look forward to conversation about how we may all lean into stronger shared ministry during our ministerial sabbatical and beyond. All are invited.
As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to us here.
This Week
Community AntiRacism Learning Opportunity
Thursday, August 8, 6:30 pm at Olympia Timberland Library
“We Are Also in Bondage Here: Black Women in the Washington Civil Rights Movement”
The Olympia Timberland Library and the League of Women Voters of Thurston County welcome Quin'Nita Cobbins-Modica to the library for this special Humanities Washington presentation. More info here.
Ministry Programs
Many Classes and Soul Matters Groups Starting in September!
All OUUC Picnic!
All OUUC Picnic! This year the picnic is at a NEW LOCATION, the Rose Garden at Squaxin Park, and a NEW TIME Sunday Sept 8th noon to 2pm.
Fun, games, music, and a Zucchini Bread Baking Competition! Carpools from OUUC after worship encouraged.
Questions, contact Rev. Sara.
UU the Vote Postcard Parties
Sundays August 25, September 29, October 13
11:30-12:30
Do you enjoy handwriting notes? Come handwrite postcards designed to increase turnout in states with voter suppression. As a part of UU the Vote’s work with Reclaim Our Vote, this is one way to faithfully protect democracy together. Hope to see you!
Election Year Guidance for Congregations
Like all congregations, OUUC is tax-exempt according to the IRS. This designation has freedoms and limitations. One limitation is especially important during this election year. OUUC cannot "participate in or intervene in (including the publishing and distributing of statements), any political campaign on behalf of (or in opposition to) any candidate for public office.” A violation of this may cause OUUC to lose its tax-exempt status.
What we can do is articulate our values and encourage voting. Unitarian Universalism calls us to support our shared values inside and outside of our walls.
For more information, check out this guidance from the UCC denomination.
Thanks for helping OUUC be values-based in the political arena.
Quick Notes
Coming Soon: New Keycard System!
The keycard entry system for the church is being replaced in the coming months. At that time, all currently issued keycards will stop functioning. Due to a limited quantity, the new keycards will first be distributed to those with church responsibilities that require regular access to the building outside of office hours.
If you lead a group, team, or committee, or otherwise need regular access to the building to fulfill church responsibilities, please fill out this form to get your new keycard assigned.
We will announce the date of the new system's installation once it has been scheduled, so stay tuned. There will be no changes to the key locks on the building.
Safety Reminder: Please lock and remove valuables from your vehicles.
Download the flyer below if you would like a list of OUUC events for the summer. Great for posting on your refrigerator!
In the Larger Community
The Rachel Corrie Foundation for Peace and Justice invites you to show your support for Palestine each Friday from 4:30-6 pm at the Fellowship of Reconciliation Vigil for Peace
Percival Landing in Downtown Olympia, 4th & Water Street.
About Us
Staff Contacts
Rev. Mary Gear, Minister (on sabbatical)
Rev. Monica Jacobson-Tennessen, Sabbatical Minister
Rev. Sara Lewis, Director of Community and Faith Development
Isaac Ezra Jennings, Business Manager
Rosie Koppelman, Office Assistant
Teresa Madsen, Communications and Tech Coordinator
Marie Arensmeyer, Facilities Manager
Anissa Bentlemsani, Religious Education Assistant
Carbon Marshall, Tech Specialist
Office Hours
Tuesday - Thursday, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
360-634-2005