Sunday Worship, September 21rst, 2025at 10:30 amThe Moral ImaginationRev. Mike Morran
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Join us on September 21rst at 10:30 am. It has been argued that a moral imagination, the ability to imagine different outcomes, is the first step in all human progress towards justice and peace. This morning we'll consider the necessity of a moral imagination for our sanity, and for our times.
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Giving in Action - Indigo Bird (Gloria project) |
(Thanks to Noelle Botti for the post) Gloria supports women traveling across state lines for abortion care by connecting them with donated lodging— whether it’s a vacant Airbnb night, a guesthouse, or a garage apartment. Millions of rentals sit empty even as patients travel hundreds of miles with nowhere to stay. Gloria taps this hidden abundance and transforms it into safe, free lodging when it’s needed most. As one patient shared, “I do not have family or a support system. Gloria’s support and resources saved my life. I am overfilled with gratitude, because of the generous donor support, lodging host, and Gloria's staff. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart!” Gloria is the flagship project of Indigo Bird, a 501c3 building privacy-first tools for people in crisis. Join us, and be a sidekick in someone’s abortion journey. Toshiko Langford, Indigo Bird's Founder and Executive Director, will be here on Sunday, September 21 to answer any questions you have. Thank you for your support! |
Second Service Exploration - Sunday, October 12 - after the Service |
Dear friends and faithful, Earlier this year a video was released to our congregation intending to gauge the response for adding a Second Service at First Unitarian. At least 90 people responded, mostly with widespread support for continuing to be a welcoming, open and safe space for all to enjoy. We greatly appreciate the careful and thoughtful responses, especially those that asked the question if this is the right time to continue our earlier tradition of two services each Sunday.
We hear you. Earlier this month a second video was released (click here to view) noting the support and concerns regarding reinstituting a second service. If you have not had a chance to watch this, we encourage you to do so now. On Sunday, October 12th we are holding a congregational discussion forum following the service to allow all voices to be heard. We hope to have a lively hour of open, honest discussion. This is a community decision requiring all voices and votes to be heard and counted and we plan to hold a congregational meeting for this purpose later this fall. If we as a community decide to move forward with a second service timing is crucial. Let’s begin this vital discussion right now and of course following the service on Sunday, October 12th. In Covenant, Mike Cranmer
Click here to view a detail summary of the Two Services Survey Feedback.
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Children's Religious Exploration Programming |
(Thanks to Leslie Harvey for the post) - Our Preschool-5th grade classes are up and running! if you have not already done so, please enroll your children using this link.
- October 5th: Youth classes resume (Middle & High School) Youth will be offered the first two Sundays of every month. Please enroll your teens using this link.
Interested in serving on the RE Team? We are looking for more volunteers to get involved in the following ways: - greeter at the Family Sign-in table before the service
- teacher’s helper in Preschool, Primary, or Intermediate classrooms
Fill out this form to get started and make a difference in the lives of our next generation of UUs!
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(Thanks to Leslie Harvey for the post) Starting this Sunday, the door to the stairs (located next to the main entrance) will be locked before service and during RE classes. If you need access to the basement before the service you can go through the Community Room, around the back way to the stairwell. After the service, the door will be opened for parents and guardians to go downstairs to sign out their children. There is a sign now posted on this door, listing Leslie’s phone number for immediate assistance on Sunday mornings. Please contact Leslie with any questions or concerns about this new safety protocol at msleslie@fusden.org. Thank you for helping us keep our children safe! |
Parent's Day Off - October 25th |
Hello First Unitarian Denver! To all the parents in the room—Caring Committee is delighted to offer you a child-free afternoon on October 25th. If you could use a little time to recharge, we invite you to reserve a spot with us. While a loving group of elders engages with your little ones, you’re free to do something just for you—get a pedicure, go on a date, take a nap. It’s a gift of time, from our hearts to yours. Details and sign-up info are available today at the Caring Committee table during the activity fair. Feel free to reach out by email with any questions. Warmly, Your Caring Committee
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First Unitarian Events Coming Soon
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Interested in Becoming a Member? |
(Thanks to Leslie Harvey for the post) Did you know you can become a member at any time? You can reach out to Reverend Mike to set a time to meet with him, discuss commitments of membership, and sign the book. Or you can become a member during our next New Member Sunday on September 21st where you will be recognized with others who are becoming members during the service. |
Pandemic Music Video RetrospectiveJoin us September 20, 2025 in our sanctuary for Pandemic Music Video Retrospective - we'll enjoy some of FUSD’s best pandemic-era music videos, projected onto our big screen. Lia Davis, FUSD’s Minister of Music, produced over 100 music videos between March 2020 and September 2021. She will explain the process of recording, mixing, and editing the videos, and several members of our music community will share brief reflections about making these videos. Snacks, treats and beverages will be served. Saturday, September 20, 2025 at 6:30 pm. Suggested donation of $15 (cash or check) goes directly to support First Unitarian - all are welcome (no donation required)! RSVPs encouraged to Helen Berkman.
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(Thanks to Tess Duerubger for the post) Join Us for the Autumn Activity Fair – SEPTEMBER 21 Discover, Connect, Volunteer!
Whether you’re new to FUSD or have been with us for years, this is a great opportunity to: • Explore the diverse opportunities for engagement and social action that speak to your heart and mind. • Learn about our programs and activities for all ages. • Meet new people and get involved!
When: Sunday, September 21, immediately following service Where: Community Room We look forward to seeing you there! For more information or questions, please contact Tess Dieringer.
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Caring Committee Offerings |
(Thanks to Colleen Bryan for the post)
The Caring Committee receives periodic requests from members who need rides to church. Do you have ideas about how we can best meet these requests as demand grows? Please stop by the Caring Committee table at the Activity Fair and tell us your ideas. Or express your willingness to help. Or sign up for the October Parents Afternoon Out. Or sign up for November's seminar on End-of-Life Options. Come by and talk to us!
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Participatory Art - Free Speech |
(Thanks to Paul Riederer for the post)
Participatory Art at First Unitarian Denver, Sunday September 21 - before and after the service. The First Amendment of our US Constitution states we have a right to Free Speech. The Democracy Action Team invites you to speak your truth, write your feelings about the anti-democratic actions of the current administration. Many feel our UU values are being desecrated every day and our civil rights are being trampled. What do you think and feel? Look for the easel and canvas outside the front door at FUSD from 9:30 am until Noon and write in your opinion.
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Denver/Boulder JVP - High Holiday - Tues 9/23 at 10am |
Rosh Hashanah Morning Service Tuesday, September 23 at 10 AM A potluck lunch will follow around 12:30 PM
Yom Kippur Evening Service Wednesday, October 1 at 7:00 PM Preceded by a potluck dinner at 5:30 PM This event welcomes everyone regardless of faith, identity, background, or familiarity with the High Holidays and Judaism. Whether you have attended a Jewish service before or this will be your first time, we invite you to join us! All are welcome! You don't have to be Jewish to attend. Please RSVP with this link so we can plan accordingly for numbers. If you have any questions please feel free to reach out to denverboulder@jewishvoiceforpeace.org or to Rabbi Michael Kengmana at kengmanam@gmail.com
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Community is A Spiritual Practice - A Deep Dive into Belonging |
(Thanks to Rev. Mike Morran for the post) Thursday evenings, September 25th, through October 23rd, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. There will be no class on October 2nd. This class of four sessions will explore the need, the joy, the frustrations, and the skills of human community. Facilitated by Rev. Mike Morran, we will learn, laugh, and grow together, engaging the spiritual, emotional, and experiential truths of sustaining relationships with diverse people. All are welcome, but you must pre-register here, by Wednesday, September 24th.
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Miriam's Book Table - Open Sunday - 9/28 |
(Thanks to Con Robinson for the post) Miriam's Book Table is back after a summer break. We will be open during coffee hour each 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month. Please stop by and say "HI" and check out our new books . |
Resonance: Contemplative Evening Service & Potluck Dinner |
(Thanks to Rev. Lia Davis for the post) Our first Resonance service this fall will be Wednesday October 1st at 6 pm. Resonance offers quiet music, guided meditation, readings / poems, and time for shared silent reflection. Please bring a dish to share for a potluck supper following the service at 6:30 in the community room. All are welcome - even if you are unable to bring a dish, please join us! Would you like to volunteer to help at one of our potlucks? Sign up to sponsor a Resonance potluck this year. |
(Thanks to Susan Riederer for the post) Soulful Potlucks(brunch, lunch or dinner) are being offered in some of our members homes on Saturday, Oct 11th. If you would like to participate please fill out this form. This will be on a first come first serve basis so don't delay in signing up. Deadline for signup is October 1st.
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Protect Your Loved Ones: Wills Workshop for Everyone |
(Thanks to Shannon Golden-Schubert for the post) Wills aren’t just for the elderly or wealthy – every adult should have one to ensure your wishes are honored and your loved ones are cared for. Without a will, your family could face stressful legal complications and uncertainty , but it’s easy to prevent that with a bit of planning. Join us on Sunday, October 12 from 12-2 pm for a friendly, jargon-free Wills Workshop where we’ll guide you through the basics of making your own will using simple tools (no legal professionals required). Whether you’re young or old, you’ll gain peace of mind and practical steps to protect your family and future. We’ll also explore how you can leave a meaningful gift in your will to carry forward the values and community you love – ensuring that the First Unitarian Society of Denver continues to thrive for future generations. |
New Options in End-of-Life Care Workshop |
(Thanks to Elisa Erickson for the post) In November, the Caring Committee will host a special free presentation about "New Options in End-of-Life Care." Everyone is invited to attend. The multi-platform event will take place on Sunday, November 9 from 12-1 in the Sanctuary at First Unitarian and online. A simple lunch will be offered in the Community Room after the presentation. We will try to offer rides as needed. Vanessa Johnston, an experienced End-of-Life Doula, presents an overview of the Death Positive Movement and the many new options available to those who wish to approach life's final milestone with more love and meaning and less fear and anxiety. She will talk about things like death doulas, Medical Aid in Dying (MAID), Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy, as well as more ecological options for final disposition like natural organic reduction. Whether for yourself, a family member, or friend, our community welcomes you to join us at the informative session. Please RSVP here so we have enough handouts and food. Email or call Elisa Erickson 720.341.2298 with questions. Hope to see you there!. |
Spoken Sunday Announcement Policy |
(Thanks to the Board of Trustees for the post) In the interest of a cohesive worship service that meets the needs of both visitors and regular attendees, we will limit spoken announcements on Sunday morning to two. These will be allowed on a first-come, first-serve basis to the individuals and groups who would like to speak their announcements, or have them spoken. When a committee or council is doing the Greeting and Welcome, while also introducing themselves, that will not count as a spoken announcement. FUSD Staff will create and publicize a Signup-Genius link for all groups, events, Committees, Councils, and Social Justice initiatives that wish to make spoken announcements, and all will be encouraged to utilize this method of arranging in advance for a spoken announcement. As always, all groups, events, etc., are encouraged to submit their information for inclusion in 1stAnnounce, and the printed Sunday bulletin via form here. These need to be submitted by Wednesday each week, to be included in the Thursday 1stAnnounce, or the Sunday bulletin
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Connect with other First Unitarian - Members, Friends and Visitors! |
(Thanks to the Connections Ministry for the post) Help us create a welcoming space for visitors every Sunday by volunteering at the greeters or visitor information table (located in the church foyer and at the entrance/exit to the Community Room). These tables offer a place for newcomers, as well as FUSD members and friends, to ask questions and make connections within our community.
Volunteers are needed during the half hour before and after the service. We’ll provide everything you need—including pairing you with an experienced volunteer to get started. Just bring a warm smile, desire to help others, and heart for connection.
To learn more or sign up, contact Coral Cosway at coswaycoral@gmail.com.
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Sign Declaration in Support of Immigrants(Thanks to Julie Meyers for the post) The Interfaith Immigration Network of CO has written a powerful Declaration in Support of Immigrants. We are asking individuals to sign on, share widely, and contact your legislators telling them you've signed. To read the Declaration and sign on-line please click here. Folks from FUSD's Immigration Project will also be at coffee hour each Sunday through the end of September so you can sign there as well.
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Middle East Justice - Panel Discussion |
(Thanks to the Middle East Justice FUSD for the post) Black America + Palestine: Different Histories, Same Fight! African-Americans, Jews, and Palestinians in the Shadow of the Gaza Genocide Saturday, September 27 4-6 pm panel discussion with potluck dinner to follow First Unitarian Society of Denver 1400 Lafayette St
Panel discussion with Hermon George Jr, Julia Halaby and Rob Prince, click here for bios) Sponsored by the Center for Freedom and Justice-CO (CFJ-CO), Middle East Justice Project/FUSD, and Jewish Voice for Peace Denver/Boulder.
We hope you can join us and bring friends! For those who can't attend in person the panel discussion will be available to watch online; we'll send the link as soon as it's available.
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Saving our Democracy - What's Next |
(Thanks to the Paul Riederer for the post) The Sunday, September 28th Service at First Unitarian will focus on "Saving Our Democracy - What's Next?" FUSD's Democracy Action Team invites all to join in this "open mic" brainstorming session on what we can do next to Save our Democracy. We want to hear from you. How are you feeling about the fascist regime taking over our country, pushing values of hate and fear, and destroying our Constitutional Civil Rights. What do you think we can we do to take back our country, and promote our cherished UU values of love, compassion and the inherent dignity of all in our society. Is this a Constitutional Crisis? Is this a National Emergency? What's actions can we take personally and as a UU Congregation? Attend this event and share your views. , |
Peace Singalong(Thanks to Kathy Glatz for the post)  Sunday, September 21 |  2:00–3:30 PM |  First Unitarian Sanctuary
John us for an afternoon of peace songs and shared reflections. All are welcome - bring your family and friends as we come together in community and hope. Brought to you by the Middle East Justice Project. |
Fund Raiser for Family Impacted by Immigration Kidnapping |
(Thanks to Arnie Carter for the post) On Friday October 3rd at 6pm, Please join Court watch, our immigration project and the Immigrant protection team as raise funds for a beautiful family as they try and rebuild their lives after the breadwinner was abducted and put in detention. This will be a community night with music and dance, As well as a potluck taco bar. |
(Thanks to Arnie Carter for the post) Report Ice activity become a responder or a dispatcher. Ice has been active in or community, protect our neighbors. Call and report any suspected ice activity to 844-864-8341. Get involved please, No one is safe unless we are all safe! For more information click here. |
See the Good: New Giving in Action Bulletin Board |
(Thanks to Beth Fischer for the post) Did you know that First Unitarian has donated over $24,000 to worthy organizations in the first six months of 2025? Check out the new Giving in Action Bulletin board in the community room for more updates. There you can find upcoming events and volunteer opportunities from the organizations we’ve sponsored as well as information on how you can recommend an organization to participate in our twice monthly collection. Help us keep our generosity flowing and let us know what you think of the new bulletin board! Your GIA committee – Beth Fischer, Noelle Botti, Betty Kuehner, Lila Laux, Randle Loeb, Peter Swanson
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Need Food for an Event? Use a Local Caterer! |
Local Unitarian Universalist Community
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Susan Marie Frontczak as Marie Curie(Thanks to Kathy Glatz for the post) Sunday, September 28, 4 pm. Time travel to 1915 to witness struggles and triumphs of the scientist who discovered a new element whose compounds really do glow in the dark. Marie Curie is best known for the discovery of radium and radioactivity, and of the first cancer treatments, but few understand the obstacles she faced just to get into the laboratory. From the political oppression of her childhood to scientific emergence and fame, Marie's story reveals a compelling journey. The program includes a monologue in character, Q&A. program sponsored by Jefferson Humanists. Join us at Jefferson Unitarian Church for socializing and enjoying our community table of food and drink.
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The Larger Unitarian Universalist Community
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