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Sunday Worship,
September 14th, 2025
at 10:30 am
Free AND Responsible
Michael DeSantis
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Join us on September 14th at 10:30 am. As Unitarian Universalists, we commit to a “free and responsible search for truth and meaning.” And in many ways, the work of Unitarian Universalism is learning to balance those two things: our own personal freedom and our responsibility to others. This week, we’ll reflect on how to strike the right balance, especially in our current moment.
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Second Service Exploration – Sunday, Sept. 14th – after the Service
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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, September 14th 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. This meeting will be streamed via Zoom (meeting ID 823 1603 0362 and the passcode is 223782. You will be able to ask questions in the chat.
Let’s begin this vital discussion right now and of course following the service on
September 14th.
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
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(Thanks to Leslie Harvey for the post)
Mark your calendars and RSVP for these upcoming activities at First Unitarian:
- September 13th (11:00-2:00): Intergenerational Picnic at Great Lawn Park in Lowry. Please RSVP here if you can attend!
- September 14th: RE classes resume (Preschool-5th)- 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
There will be a training offered on September 7th 9:00-10:00. Fill out this form to get started!
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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!
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Parent’s Day Off – October 25th
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Hello First Unitarian Denver! To our parents in the room – Caring Committee is offering to provide a child free afternoon. On October 25th, if you would like to take some time for yourself – reserve a spot with us that day. A loving group of elders will engage with your littles, while you go do something for yourselves. Get a pedicure or go on a date! Your kiddos will be cared for, you get a break, snd our grown ups get the chance to play! It’s a win-win for us all. More info to sign up will be coming and you can email Caring Committee with questions should you wish to do so. Sincerely, your Caring Committee 💕
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First Unitarian Events Coming Soon
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Lunch Bunch – Friday, September 12 at noon
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Everyone is invited to our monthly potluck, Lunch Bunch, on the second Friday of the month. This month we meet on Friday, September 12! We gather at First Unitarian Society of Denver around 11:45 a.m. to set up, and we generally ring the lunch bell at noon. If you don’t have more than an hour, just come at noon and join us. The food is always delicious, and the company is stimulating.
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Finding Yourself at First Unitarian Denver!
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(Thanks to Rev. Mike Morran for the post)
A time for seekers, the curious, and those wishing to connect with the 1st Unitarian Denver community! This participatory class of three hours will provide an introduction to Unitarian Universalism and First Unitarian Church. An added bonus is that you will meet some wonderful people! Facilitated by Rev. Mike Morran, Saturday, September 13th, from 9:00 a.m. to noon. All are welcome, but you must pre-register here. Questions, please reach out to Rev. Mike at revmorran@gmail.com.
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Miriam’s Book Table – Open Sunday – 9/14
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(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 .
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Miriam’s Book Table – is Proud to Feature…
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(Thanks to Con Robinson for the post)
Jimmy Carter’s “Peace Not Apartheid”
Miriam’s Book Table just received some new books. One that might be of interest is Jimmy Carter’s “Peace Not Apartheid”. In this book, President Carter shares his intimate knowledge of the history of the Middle East and his personal experiences with the principal actors, and he addresses sensitive political issues many American officials avoid. Pulling no punches, Carter prescribes steps that must be taken for the two states to share the Holy Land without a system of apartheid or the constant fear of terrorism. Stop by the table during coffee hour and check it out.
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Our Awakened Mind: Light in the Darkness
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(Thanks to Kimberly Urish for the post)
Our Awakened Mind: Light in the Darkness, is a meditation event being held at First Unitarian Denver on September 16th at 6:30 pm in the community room. This is being led by Gelong Loden Nyima, Buddhist monk, who says: We’re living in times where it’s easy to lose heart, and to become overwhelmed in the melee around us. Yet in the core of our being, we’re awake, and have an ever available and renewable resource of wisdom, resilience, strength, and compassion. This is what we learn to access and draw from in the “bodhichitta,” or “awakened mind” practices of Mahayana Buddhism, which are accessible to everyone whether or not we’re Buddhists. Our evening will include a talk, guided meditation, and discussion.
For more information click here.
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Pandemic Music Video Retrospective
Join 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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Interested in Becoming a Member?
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(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.
It is highly encouraged to attend the next Finding Yourself at First Unitarian class before committing to membership, which will be offered on Saturday September 13th from 9:00AM to 12:00PM. See post about Finding Yourself at First Unitarian Denver to learn more and for registration link. If you would like to become a member on September 21st, please email Leslie Harvey at msleslie@fusden.org
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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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Denver/Boulder JVP – High Holiday – Tues 9/23 at 10am
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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
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(Thanks to Rev. Mike Morran for the post)
Thursday evenings, September 25th, through October 16th, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
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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(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
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(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.
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Connect with other First Unitarian – Members, Friends and Visitors!
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(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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(Thanks to Mary Ann Thompson for the post)
One of our long-term members is unable to drive and having a tough time getting to Sunday services. He has requested help with transportation. Do you come from near E Mississippi Ave and S Peoria St in Aurora? Might you be willing to pick up a fellow congregant and drive him to church sometime? Even if not every week, having a chance to join the community in person would be meaningful to him. Please let us know if this sounds like something you might be willing and able to do and we’ll put you in touch.” You can respond to the Caring Committee or email or phone Mary Ann Thompson.
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(Thanks to Carol Ruckel for the post)
…for two historic gavels, with Board President names engraved on them! Also looking for a small clock with a dedication plate to David Johnson for our first renovation. Any clues?????
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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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Saving our Democracy – What’s Next
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(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.
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Reproductive Justice Movie: “The 8th”
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(Thanks to Jane Ashley for the post)
This powerful documentary tells the story of Ireland’s grassroots movement to give women the right to abortion in this overwhelmingly Catholic country.
Date: Tuesday, Sept. 16
Place: Jane Ashley’s home
Time: 6:30-9:30 pm
RSVP required to Jane Ashley
Jane will send address and details after receiving RSVP
Trailer Below:
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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.
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(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 . Get involved please, No one is safe unless we are all safe!
For more information click here.
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See the Good: New Giving in Action Bulletin Board
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(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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Giving in Action – Indigo Bird (Gloria project)
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(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!
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Need Food for an Event? Use a Local Caterer!
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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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