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Sunday Worship,
March 8th, 2026
at 10:30 am
With Grace and Gratitude
Rev. Eric Banner
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Join us on March 8th at 10:30 am. Church people talk a lot about grace. The song “Amazing Grace” is sometimes even called America’s national hymn. But what if you don’t believe you were born a sinner? What if you don’t believe in God? Is grace even worth talking about? I think so, and I think one of the most powerful acts of grace I ever heard about came from Dolly Parton. Join us this Sunday to answer the question, what is grace to a Unitarian Universalist?
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Giving in Action – Denver Children’s Choir
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This week’s Giving in Action is Denver Children’s Choir. Founded in 1995, the Denver Children’s Choir is dedicated to music literacy and artistic excellence, helping children discover the magic of harmony—both in music and in life. Its mission is to provide Denver-area youth with meaningful, authentic experiences through singing – helping them discover their unique voice while enriching their lives and communities. It has served nearly 9,000 youth in its 30 year history.
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New Sunday Service Times starting April 5, 2026
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Beginning Easter Sunday, April 5, First Unitarian Denver will move to a two-service schedule each Sunday.
The first service will begin at 9:15 a.m. and will be streamed live on YouTube and Zoom. Religious Exploration will also take place during the 9:15 a.m. service. Following the service, all are warmly invited to gather for coffee and conversation until the second service begins.
The second service will start at 11:00 a.m. Please note that this service will not be streamed online. Coffee time will also follow the 11:00 a.m. service.
We look forward to gathering together in this new rhythm of worship and connection.
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More detailed information is below under Announcements.
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Children’s Religious Exploration Programming
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Religious Exploration News
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(Thanks to Leslie Harvey, for the post)
March 15 will be an Intergenerational Service: children will stay with their families in the Peaceful Play space during the service instead of going to RE classes.
March 29- no RE classes will be offered
Starting Easter Sunday on April 5th, RE classes will be held during the first service, which will begin at 9:15. There will be no RE classes during the second service, which will begin at 10:30 each week.
Please see the announcement for the Great Easter (Giving) Hunt in First Announce. Donations needed!
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The Great Easter (Giving )Hunt: Donations Needed
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(Thanks to Leslie Harvey, for the post)
Instead of hunting for candy on Easter Sunday, our children will be hunting for something even sweeter — your donated goods!
Here’s how it works:
Please purchase the requested items from the list below, bring them to church by April 4th, and place them in the labeled bins near the front door. Before the Easter service, the goods will be hidden throughout the church. On Easter morning when we go to classes, the children will search for them and then work together to assemble care kits for folks who are unhoused.
This year, we’ll be filling gallon-sized Ziploc bags with practical items that beloved souls who are unhoused might find helpful. After the children put the kits together, congregants will be invited to pick up a few on April 12th to keep in their cars and share with folks they encounter who may need them.
It’s an Easter egg hunt with heart — helping all of us to live our UU Shared Values of Generosity and Love and model those values in real, tangible ways for our youngest congregants.
Please help us make our annual Easter tradition a success this year! If you are financially able, please purchase any of the following items so we can put together care kits of helpful items for those who need them:
*gallon sized ziplock bags (compostable is an environmentally friendly option)
*bottled waters or coconut waters (environmentally friendly because they are often packaged without plastic)
*granola bars
*travel sized toothpaste and a single packaged toothbrush
*socks
*personal hygiene wipes
*hand warmers
Please drop your donations off just inside the front door by April 4th. Thanks in advance for helping us make this year’s event fun and meaningful for our children. Feel free to email msleslie@fusden.org with any questions.
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First Unitarian Events Coming Soon
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Parking Info Session – Sunday after Church!
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(Thanks to the Betsy Brainerd, Ministerial Resident, for the post)
Parking Info Session! Need to know how to access the more than 110 parking spaces available to First Unitarians on Sunday morning? Stop by the Parking Info Table after church on March 8 and 15. Board members will provide maps and help you download the LAZ app needed to use the Doppio parking lot.
View a map and more instructions here.
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Submit a Question for Question Box Sunday (March 15)!
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(Thanks to the Michael DeSantis, Ministerial Resident, for the post)
On Sunday, March 15, we will revive an old First Unitarian tradition: Question Box Sunday! Instead of giving a prepared sermon, our Ministerial Resident — Michael DeSantis — will respond to queries posed by members of our community. All members and friends are invited to submit questions about UU histories, UU theologies, spiritual practices, the state of the world, or other topics that are on your heart in this moment. Questions must be submitted by midnight on Friday, March 13 using this form.
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LGBTQIA+ Gathering and Conversation
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(Thanks to Patrick Whorton for the post)
The next gathering of FUSD’s LGBTQIA+ community will be March 15 at noon in the large classroom downstairs at First Unitarian. We will discuss a name for the group, and future ideas, including a PRIDE service in June.
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By-laws Revision – forum in Sanctuary
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Thanks to the Elisa Erickson for the post)
In July 2024, the Board of Trustees (BOT) charged a Governance Task Force to “assess, research, and recommend changes/revisions to current FUSD by-laws and organizational structure, in the interest of improving shared ministry, flexibility, transparency, and effectiveness.” As part of its work, the Governance Task Force has reviewed bylaws from other UU congregations, consulted UUA resources and sought input from the BOT and other FUSD councils and committees. Based on this research, the Task Force has compiled a Draft Amended and Restated Bylaws, which are now available for members of the congregation to review.
To see our current bylaws click here. To see a “Blue Book” description of significant changes being proposed click here. To see a version of the Draft Amended and Restated Bylaws marked to show changes from the current bylaws click here. To see a clean version of the Draft Amended and Restated Bylaws click here.
Members of the Task Force will be available each Sunday in February in the Community Room to answer questions. Finally, you may use this Google form to submit questions or comments. However, please understand that the Task Force may not be able to respond directly to individual questions submitted by form.
After this process, the Task Force will make any necessary changes to the draft. The final version of the Amended and Restated Bylaws will be presented to the Board for approval and then to the congregation for a vote at the 2026 annual meeting.
Task Force members: Coral Cosway, Elisa Erickson, Chris Hahn, Amanda Parkhurst-Strout, Caleb Ray, Ed Dieringer (ex officio)
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Thanks to the Helen Berkman for the post)
Yes, the 2026 Auction is on the way! “Together Again in our Blue Boat Home!” will be Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 5:00 pm
Enter into the enticing world of Dinners and Events! to donate, simply pick a date and a location and have a party! We are anxious to see some new events for bidders to bid on at our auction. Check out last year’s catalog for ideas at fusden.org/annual-auction/ and to donate, just click Donate!
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Workshop – Effective Leadership Roles in Groups
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SUNDAY, MARCH 15, ROSE CHAPEL, NOON to 1:30 pm
Ever been in a meeting where you wish more was being accomplished, the agenda is being high-jacked, or the discussion is unfocused? This workshop discusses effective and nonfunctional roles within groups, and tips on how to increase those that work and decrease those that don’t.
Presented by the Leadership Development Committee and facilitated by Jennifer Martin, LSCW, PhD, CDE. Refreshments will be provided.
Kindly RSVP by March 8 here. All are welcome!
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Plan for Implementing Second Service – April 5, 2026
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The following collaborative recommendations were approved by the FUSD Board of Trustees and are subject to change as we activate these plans.
Attendance
●The total in-person attendance has remained at an average of 193 attendees (89% capacity for our Sanctuary) during Rev. Mike Morran’s sabbatical. The average in-person attendance is expected to grow.
Service Times
●9:15 am and 11:00 am during regular church year
●The Board will decide the time for a single service in the summer months in consultation with the Minister shortly after his return from sabbatical on April 1, 2026.
Service Format
●The 9:15 and 11:00 service content will be the same except for the Time for All Ages, which will occur during the 9:15 service.
●The Worship Team is aware of the need to reduce our average service length to ensure a smooth transition between services each Sunday. The team is discussing ways to reduce the service length and will communicate with all relevant parties.
Coffee Hours
●We will host coffee hours after both services.
Religious Education
●Based on the strong preference expressed by families, Religious Exploration will be held at the 9:15 service.
●There will be no structured programming for children and youth during the 11:00 service. Children and families may make use of the Peaceful Play Area during the second service.
Streaming/Zoom
●The 9:15 service will be available via streaming on YouTube and Zoom or for viewing any time on youtube.com.
Music
●The Music Committee and Music Director will determine how to arrange music as we transition to two services.
Service Schedule
●Two services will begin on April 5, 2026 (Easter Sunday) and continue through May 24, 2026.
●The Whole SoUUl Studios in April and May 2026 will be after the 11 am service.
●On May 31, 2026, we will have one service at 9:15 followed by the annual congregational meeting at 11:00.
●Starting June 7, 2026, the one-service summertime schedule each Sunday until two services start in September 2026.
Assessment
●The Board of Trustees will continue to work with the Church Administrator and Minister and receive congregational input to assess the effectiveness and support necessary changes of the two-services model throughout the remainder of the 2026 calendar year.
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2026 Endowment Grant Opportunity
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(Thanks to the Ingrid Porter for the post)
Applications for FUSD’s 2026 endowment grant will open on 3/1/26 and will be accepted through April 15, 2026,.
The endowment grant is for projects that enhance the permanent facilities and capabilities of FUSD. Selection criteria include projects:
That are visible to the congregation
That will impact the work of the church for more than one year
That will further the mission of our congregation
That cannot be funded through FUSD’s normal operating budget
Please email the committee at endowment@fusden.org to receive an application, or with any questions.
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(Thanks to the Ingrid Porter for the post)
Stay connected with First Unitarian Denver beyond Sunday mornings. Follow us on social media for service updates, upcoming events, and community news. Every follow helps us grow our reach and spread our message. Find us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, and LinkedIn, and join the conversation. https://linktr.ee/FUSDENSOCIAL
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80 IS THE NEW 70! AND WE REALLY OUGHTA THROW A PARTY!
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Thanks to the Colleen Bryan for the post)
We erroneously posted the invitation age for the Silver and Gold Bi-Annual Luncheon. Our notice should have read that the event honors elders over the age of 80. That said, we’re still looking for a host for an event to be scheduled in September. Could that be you? We’re looking for someone with creative and fun organizational energy who loves to throw a party! It won’t all be on you; Historically, many volunteers help to drive and escort our guests to the party, set up the room, supply food and table decorations, etc. Step up to help us pull off a memorable event in September 2026! If you’re interested, reach out to Colleen Bryan for more information!
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Ordination of Michael DeSantis
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All First Unitarian members and friends are joyfully invited to attend the ordination of our very own Ministerial Resident, Michael DeSantis! The ordination service will be at 10am on Saturday, April 18 at Jefferson Unitarian Church (14350 W 32nd Ave, Golden, CO 80401). Childcare will be provided and there will be a reception with light refreshments following the service. The service will also be live-streamed. For more info or to RSVP, visit Michael’s ordination website.https://michaeldesantisministry.com/ordination/
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(Thanks to the Connections Committee for the post)
If you would like to receive a weekly newsletter which is sent by email, please fill out this information for our records. The newsletter gives you information about the upcoming service and other events and activities at our church. Click here.
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MARCH MADNESS: Denver IPT Whistle Kit Making at FUSD
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(Thanks to Linda Nabours for the post)
Saturday March 7 from 1-3:30pm.
THIS IS OUR MARCH MADNESS: Denver IPT Whistle Brigade, in alliance with the Immigration Project and Democracy in Action, is building whistle kits with the goal of 10,000 before NO KINGS III! In January we built over 3,000 and our goal is to surpass this! All materials are provided. We just need your hands and hearts! If questions, please email Linda Nabours at l_w_nabours@msn.com
Snacks provided.
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Vigil at ICE Detention Center
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(Thanks to Middle East Justice for the post)
The Middle East Justice Project is leading the weekly vigil at the ICE Detention Center in Aurora on Wednesday, March 11. We see all struggles for liberation as interconnected, from immigration justice to Palestine. We invite you to join us in showing our support for the people being unjustly detained.
March 11, 6-7:30pm at the GEO ICE detention center
3130 N. Oakland St. Aurora, CO 80010
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(Thanks to Julie Meyers for the post)
You can either bring your guns that you’d like to get rid of and drop them off or you can volunteer at the event at 450 S. Kearney St in Denver from 10:00-12:00 on Sunday, March 15. There are many volunteer roles. It is a very gratifying way to get guns off our streets. To drop off guns, see here for more information click here. To volunteer at the event, email gunstogarensmetrodenver@gmail.com. Contact Julie Meyers at julie.meyers.md@gmail.com for more information.
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Ecowomanism: Resilience, Eco-Theology, and Justice
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(Thanks to the Elisa Erickson for the post)
Climate change isn’t just a policy issue—it’s a spiritual one.
Join Drs. Melanie Harris and Amy Erickson for a transformative event centering the voices of African Indigenous and Black women to reclaim our relationship with the planet. Together, they will explore how eco-womanist
spirituality can foster healthier food systems and stronger communities—bridging the gap between theology and concrete action for our Colorado communities.
Register here.
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Sanctuary for all Legal and Mutual Aid
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(Thanks to Arnie Carter for the post)
This is a fund started by Jeannette to help families affected by ICE detentions. People need help with legal fees and rent as they are kidnapping breadwinners and leaving mothers with children to fend for themselves
This not about charity it’s about justice
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Freedom of Speech – Community Art Project
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(Thanks to Nina Nadeau for the post)
Presented by the Democracy Action Team
Artist: Nina Nadeau
This week I started focusing on the background with darker colors to help to create depth and perspective.
Once finished, the painting will be displayed at the church and auctioned to support legal organizations defending Freedom of Speech. For more information, contact Nina Nadeau at ninanadeau01@gmail.com or visit www.galdarastudio.com.
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Support Social Justice when Ordering Foods for Events!
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Local Unitarian Universalist Churches and Community
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Bats! Jefferson Humanists
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(Thanks to Kathy Glatz for the post)
Carpe Noctem – Things that Go Bump in the Night: Bats! // March 22 at 4:30 pm // Presented at Jefferson Unitarian Church by Dr. Rick Adams. Author of “Bats of the Rocky Mountain West”, Dr Adams delivers a lively & engaging discourse on the unique anatomy, amazing physiology, interesting behavior, incredible evolution, and vastly important ecology of bats that make them one of the most enigmatic groups of animals in nature. The program is sponsored by Jefferson Humanists and preceded at 4 pm by socializing at our community table of food & drink!
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The Larger Unitarian Universalist Community
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