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Sunday Worship,
March 16th, 2025
at 10:30 am
The Heart of a Liberal Faith
Rev. Eric Banner
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Join us on March 16th at 10:30 am. Unitarianism and Universalism have both appeared independently over the last two thousand years. Rather than being something that came from one single source, our UU congregations are just the most recent manifestation of a deeper idea that ties us together in spite of time and death and the space between the stars. What is it that lies at the heart of liberal religion in all its manifestations? Come this Sunday and find out one minister’s answer.
Rev. Eric Banner is the senior minister at the First Universalist Church of Denver, where he’s served since 2022. Learn more about Rev. Eric Banner here.
Rev. Eric and Rev. Mike are doing a pulpit exchange on Sunday, Rev. Mike will be at First Universalist.
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Giving in Action
The Giving in Action recipient on Sunday, March 16th will be Harm Reduction Action Center.
The Harm Reduction Action Center (HRAC) was founded in 2002 as a program arm of Salt Lake City’s Harm Reduction Project. HRAC, then known as the Drop-in Center, was an initiative to broaden Denver’s network of homeless service providers to include the population of people who inject drugs (PWID). In 2008, Salt Lake City’s Harm Reduction Project closed and HRAC emerged in an organizational capacity to emphasize a client-centered approach to meet the evolving needs of the PWID community. HRAC serves a population that has long been stigmatized, marginalized, and under-resourced. Nobody in this state loves people who use drugs (PWUD) more than the HRAC.
On February 8, 2012, the HRAC was finally able to legally exchange syringes. HRAC Assistant Director, Ruth Kanatser, has been with HRAC for 21 of the 22 years. According to her, two former PWUD opened the doors of a little red house to the “most outside of the outsiders,” Denver’s PWID, and said “please, come in.” This truly community-based model has evolved into Colorado’s largest provider of public health services for PWUD. More recently over the past few years, we have expanded our services to serving people who smoke crack, meth, and fentanyl.
“Yeah, this place is open, no matter what. Rain or Shine. On Christmas day. Knowing that you can come in, check your shame at the door, and ask and hopefully receive exactly what you needed that day. Then the continuity of coming in, and having one point-person for something, And another for another. And, of course, the staff is very well versed. They smile and know my name. That is huge.” – Ben, age 37
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2025-2026 Stewardship Campaign: Better Together, Now More Than Ever
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Thank you to our staff, stewardship council and speakers who helped put on an amazing Stewardship Sunday on February 23rd! If you didn’t get your pledge packet that day, you should have received one in the mail. The Stewardship Campaign theme for this year is Better Together: Now More Than Ever. Our campaign goal is ambitious because we have exciting plans and needs for the congregation. We ask you to return your pledge form via mail, online here or via email to stewardship@fusden.org. By making a commitment to this organization, we will be in a better position to plan our budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, and do more to be a stronger congregation. You also will be hearing from (or have already heard from) your Ambassador via email or phone. We encourage you to return the call/email and connect with these awesome members of our community. This is the most important part – connecting and sharing our lives together.
We are so excited to report that 119 members and friends have pledged for a total of $400,000 so far! This year’s ambitious goal will require everyone’s participation. If you have yet to pledge, please submit your pledge today!
If you have any questions or want to provide feedback, please don’t hesitate to contact stewardship@fusden.org. Thank you!!
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Children’s Religious Exploration Programming
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Religious Exploration News
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(Thanks to the Leslie Harvey for the post)
Next Youth Program dates: April 6th and April 13th! Make sure to get your middle schooler here the first two Sundays in April as we relaunch our program and start making memories together.
CORE Circle for families with teens: April 3rd in the community center 6:00-7:30. RSVP to msleslie@fusden.org.
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Miriams Book Table is Proud to Feature…
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Thanks to the Nan Wigington for the post)
A Master Class on Being Human by Brad R. Braxton and Anthony B. Pinn.
Beacon Press tells why we should read this book. It is a “constructive dialog” on how to pursue the common good. The authors consider “the stubborn dilemma of moral evil”, as well as the problem of hope. Check it out during coffee hour. Look for us in our new west wall location.
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First Unitarian Events Coming Soon
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Lunch Bunch Potluck – Friday, March 14!
Everyone is invited to our monthly potluck, Lunch Bunch, on the second Friday of the month. This month we meet on Friday, March 14! We gather at First Unitarian Society of Denver around 11:45 a.m. to set up, and we generally ring the lunch bell at 12. 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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How to Conduct an Effective Meeting
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(Thanks to Tess Dieringer for the post)
The Leadership Development Committee invites you to our final training this year on March 16 in the Rose Chapel at (NEW TIME) 11:45 am. Paul Riederer will be sharing his extensive expertise in this practical, nuts-and-bolts workshop on Facilitating an Effective Meeting. Certified as a Master Facilitator, Paul has led management retreats with scores of teams to assess communication problems, set goals, and create work plans to address problems and achieve goals.
Kindly RSVP to tsdieringer@gmail.com so we can plan accordingly. Light refreshments will be served. All are welcome!
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Middle East Justice March Events
(Thanks to Ann Sabbah for the post)
TUESDAY, MARCH 18
We’ll gather for a community potluck and facilitated discussion of the new Ta-Nehisi Coates book, The Message.
Potluck and discussion of The Message
Tuesday, March 18
6:30-8:30pm
First Unitarian Society of Denver, 1400 Lafayette St
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Reproductive Justice Film Series
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(Thanks to Jane Ashley for the post)
The movie “Small Things Like These” will be shown in the Reproductive Justice series on Thursday, March 20. This film won the best picture, best actor (Cillian Murphy), and best script awards in the 2025 Irish Film and TV Awards. It’s based on the novel by Claire Keegan, a story about the Magdalene laundries where Catholic nuns kept unmarried pregnant girls captive and gave up their babies for adoption. These practices continued in Ireland until they were finally shut down in the 1990’s. Please join us for this beautiful and heart-wrenching but ultimately uplifting movie.
When: Thursday, March 20
Where: Jane Ashley’s living room
RSVP required: jane.ashley52@gmail.com
Time: 6-9 pm
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Faith in Action Book Talk! – DATE CHANGE
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(Thanks to Peggy Ulrich-Nims for the post)
The Faith in Action Council is sponsoring a Book Talk on Yale Professor Timothy Snyder’s 2017 book On Tyranny which describes 20 steps from democracy to tyranny. Please join Trudy Glidden and Peggy Ulrich-Nims on either Sunday March 23 or Sunday March 30 ( or both if you choose) at noon in the lower level TV room. PLEASE NOTE THE DATE CHANGE. Books will be available for free in the Community Room after church on Sunday March 2 and March 9. Contact Peggy with questions.
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(Thanks to Susan Robertson for the post)
Please join us for a celebration of life for Beverly Bridges, a long-time member of First Unitarian. We will gather at Evans Chapel on the DU Campus on Saturday, March 15 at 11:30 a.m.; an open house/reception will follow at Bev’s home in University Park.
For further details, please contact Susan Robertson (Bev’s youngest daughter) at 303.815.7571 or Bridges.robertson@gmail.com
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Memorial for Jason Marsden
(Thanks to Rev. Mike for the post)
It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Jason Marsden, our staff Stewardship Coordinator. Those of us who knew Jason well are heartbroken and in shock. He was a kind, gentle, and thoughtful soul with a wonderful sense of humor, and he will be deeply missed by so many in the First Unitarian community.
A memorial service to honor Jason’s life will be held on Saturday, March 15, at 1:00 PM at Salida United Methodist Church, 228 E 4th St., Salida, CO 81201.
Our hearts go out to all who knew and loved him.
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The Ordination of Lia Davis
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(Thanks to Lia Davis for the post)
Please join us on Saturday April 19th at 3 pm for the ordination of Lia Davis as Minister of Music at First Unitarian Denver. You may join us in person or online. Your RSVP by April 12th is greatly appreciated, to help us plan for seating and the reception.
RSVP here.
Sign up to contribute food or volunteer here.
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2025 AUCTION is Coming! Donations Needed!!
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(Thanks to the Helen Berkman for the post)
Ahoy Shipmates! Our blue boat needs more donations – we want to see our catalog packed with unique items, experiences, services, and social events. Support FUSD with your time, and it translates directly into revenue for our operating account. Some ideas: BASKETS: a few of your favorite wines? Some best-selling novels taking up space in your bookshelf? SERVICES: offer your gardening skills, home repair expertise, pet sitting, airport shuttle service, or math lessons for teens! HOMEMADE FOODS: pies and sourdough bread are popular. Check out the catalog at https://auctria.events/FUSD2025AUCTION to see what’s already been donated. And find the on-line donation form there, or pick up a copy at our auction table. Don’t delay!
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Do You Have a Getaway to Give (Away) to the Auction?
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(Thanks to Tess Dieringer for the post)
Do you, a family member, or a generous friend, neighbor, or business colleague who owes you a big favor have a hideaway, haven, escape, retreat, sanctuary, house on a lake, cabin in the woods, or other sweet spot to donate to Auction 2025?? Getaways are popular, big-ticket items that help us reach our goals every year. You determine the dates, terms, and number of occupants. Please be creative and dig deep! I’d love to explore any ideas with you at tsdieringer@gmail.com.
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Endowment Grant Application Now Open!
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(Thanks to Ingrid Porter for the post)
Applications for FUSD’s 2025 endowment grant are being accepted through April 15.
The endowment grant is for projects that enhance the permanent facilities and capabilities of FUSD. Selection criteria includes 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 endowment@fusden.org to receive an application, or with any questions.
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Family Promise – Volunteers Needed!
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(Thanks to Kate Jones for the post)
Next Rotation is March 16 – 23. We need your help supporting families experiencing homelessness as we host them at our church. Many volunteer opportunities: moving beds, room setup & takedown, hosting, cooking, and transportation. Sign up today to live our values and strengthen community as we volunteer together. Sign up right away here.
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Shop BIPOC
(Thanks to Karren Derrick-Davis from Faith in Action (FIAC) for the post)
There’s no better time than now, to align your spending with your social, racial, and economic justice values. It is easy to do with ShopBIPOC.com.
This online directory of Colorado-based businesses owned by People of Color now boasts almost 700 small businesses in hundreds of industries, from accountants to elder care providers, pet supplies, restaurants, therapists, landscapers, painters, IT providers, artists, general contractors, farmers, car detailers … and so many more goods and services. Each week additional businesses list their business on the ShopBIPOC.com platform.
Leave Amazon and big box stores behind. Let your spending reflect the change you want to see in the world.
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Calling First Unitarian Men!
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(Thanks to Mike Morran for the post)
. We do this through sharing, friendship, accountability, and mutual commitment. We recognize that every man comes with different intentions, gifts, strengths, wounds, and life experience. We recognize that men are often shaped into the weapons of culture, just as often become the wounded, and are usually both. We recognize that enculturation for men has both light and shadow sides, nobility and toxicity, heroism and deep denial. Together we will seek to unpack some of this toxicity, and this nobility. Please reach out to Rev. Mike at revmorran@gmail.com if you are interested, or would like more information.
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Young Adult (20s-40s) Potluck Sunday!
(Thanks to Kristie Wirth for the post)
We welcome anyone in their 20s-40s. Bring your favorite dish or beverage! We will meet in the Chapel after coffee hour on Sunday, April 6th at noon in the Chapel. Signing up with what you’re bringing helps us plan, but it’s not necessary for you to come.
Signup sheet here.
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AUUMM Annual Conference in Atlanta
(Thanks to Lia Davis for the post)
Musicians far and wide, join us for a conference of harmony and rhythm, song swaps & choral repertoire, joyful worship & rockin’ bands, rowdy hymns, skill-sharing, long conversations, deep connections, and so much more. The Association for UU Music Ministries (AUUMM) is hosting our annual conference this year in Atlanta, GA July 23 – 27, 2025 and you’re invited!
If you love to sing, whether in the congregations, the choir, or anywhere at all, join us in Atlanta. Our Songleaders Convergence track is full of programs for community singing. If you play bass, drums, keyboard, or any other instrument in a worship band, join us in Atlanta. Our Worship Bands track is full of workshops and ensembles for rocking out together while learning new skills and tunes. More info & registration here.
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Spring 2025 Call for Social Justice Projects
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(Thanks to Peggy Ulrich-Nims for the post)
The FUSD Faith in Action Council is calling upon active, interested, motivated members and friends to consider developing plans for a social justice project (funded) or action circle ( unfunded) for the coming 2025-26 church year. The Project application can be found on the First Unitarian website. You should download the application and return to Peggy at ulrichnims@gmail.com or in person. This should be returned by mid-March. Members of the Social Justice Council are happy to discuss your ideas and the process. Please contact Peggy Ulrich-Nims as soon as possible.
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Activism Resources for Immigration Justice
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Rev. Mike Vlog – Stained Glass Window
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A message from Rev. Mike Morran
Ever wonder about the beautiful stained glass window of the Good Samaritan in our church foyer? Rev. Mike Morran shares its incredible journey from our second building at 19th and Broadway to its place of honor here at 14th and Lafayette. This piece of First Unitarian Denver history has been preserved through moves, a fire, and renovations—now greeting us every time we enter.
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Local Unitarian Universalists News
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Palestinian Children’s Relief Fund Gala – March 15
(Thanks to the Arnie Carter for the post)
We all know the dire need and the horrific conditions in Palestine. The need is huge beyond words. So on March 15th at 6 pm at The Inverness, 200 Inverness Dr W, Englewood, CO 80112, the Denver chapter of PCRF is having a Gala to raise funds for the Children of Gaza, the West Bank and for children refugees though the Middle East.
Register here.
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Jefferson Humanists – Monthly Program
(Thanks to the Kathy Glatz for the post)
Our Culture is Our Resistance, Repression, Refuge and Healing in Guatemala is the next program sponsored by Jefferson Humanists. Photographer and activist Johnathan Moller shares his Human Rights work in Guatemala via slideshow and talk.
View the flyer here.
This program in Sunday, March 23, 2025 at 4pm. Jefferson Unitarian Church, 14350 W 32nd Ave., Golden
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The Larger Unitarian Universalist Community
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