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< To Upcoming Services Watch the eBlast for the next scheduled NEW ENGLAND PRIDE 247-365 CONCERT New England PRIDE 247-365 Concert New England PRIDE 247-365 will perform an eclectic mix of material spanning the decades, celebrating queer composers, lyricists, poets, icons and women. An intergenerational collective of queer performers and allies and based in Hartford, they will be performing at UUSE on Sunday, May 4th at 3:00 P.M. There is a $15 voluntary donation. #eBlast-04-30 New England PRIDE 247-365 Concert New England PRIDE 247-365 will perform an eclectic mix of material spanning the decades, celebrating queer composers, lyricists, poets, icons and women. An intergenerational collective of queer performers and allies and based in Hartford, they will be performing at UUSE on Sunday, May 4th at 3:00 P.M. There is a $15 voluntary donation. #eBlast -04-30 OOS Sermon YouTube

< To Upcoming Services Oct 27, 2024 Ancestor Day 2024 All Congregational worship! In keeping with the season, everyone is encouraged to come in costume. Bring a memento of a deceased loved one or ancestor to place on our 'altar of remembrance.' What lesson do you take from their life? Together we will share the ongoing power of our ancestors' lives in our collective life. Coordinators: Mary Bopp, Emmy Galbraith and Rev. Josh Pawelek. Services at 9:00 and 11:00 AM Sunday, October 27, 2024 Gathering music starts at 8:55 and 10:55 A.M. Join the virtual service at 11:00 A.M. via our Zoom link: Contact the Office for Zoom Link Or, join by phone. Call 1-860-646-5151 Meeting ID 357 815 420#. In case you missed it: View last week's service, "Ageism," October 20, 2024 here. #eBlast-10-23 Sunday, October 27th: Ancestor Day All congregation worship! In keeping with the season, everyone is encouraged to come in costume. Bring a memento of a deceased loved-one or ancestor to place on our ‘altar of remembrance.’ What lesson do you take from their life? Together we will share the ongoing power of our ancestors’ lives in our collective life. Coordinators: Mary Bopp, Emmy Galbraith, Rev. Josh Pawelek. OOS Sermon YouTube

< To Upcoming Services Watch the eBlast for the next scheduled Special Congregational Meeting Notice Special Congregational Meeting Dear UUSE Voting Members: UUSE's Policy Board is calling a special congregational meeting to take place on Sunday, March 30th, following the second service. The purpose of the meeting is to vote on recommendations from our Constitutional Change and UUA Discernment Task Forces. There will be an option to join and vote on Zoom using the Sunday Service link. Our Constitution requires a quorum of voting members to be present at the meeting to vote on business items. Please plan to attend either in person or on Zoom to help us accomplish this important Society business! And please feel free to bring lunch and eat during the meeting. The agenda for the special congregational meeting will include: 1) A vote to approve the Constitutional Change Task Force's recommendations. Any changes approved will enter the UUSE Constitution. The final version of these recommendations after congregational feedback is here. You can also pick up a copy on the UUSE Welcome Table in the Meeting House lobby, or contact the UUSE office to have one mailed to you. 2) A vote to approve the Discernment Task Force's recommendation to change Article XV of the UUSE Constitution, known as the Dissolution clause. This change, if approved, will also enter the UUSE Constitution. The proposed new language is the following: In the event this Society ceases to function and the membership votes to dissolve the corporation at a duly called Congregational Meeting, the net assets of the society shall be distributed to charitable 501(c)(3) organizations that the congregation determines have similar values to those of the Society and may include the Unitarian Universalist Association, and also with the objective of caring for the needs of the Memorial Garden. The vote to dissolve the corporation shall be by a two-thirds vote of the quorum present at such meeting. There are four ways you may vote at the March 30th meeting: A) in person at UUSE; B) by mail/email absentee voting form; C) by proxy; and D) by Zoom vote during the meeting. Mail/Email Voting Form: If you are unable to be present for the meeting but wish to vote absentee, click here for the form or pick one up on the Welcome Table. You can also contact Annie in the UUSE office to send you a copy. Print and return a hard copy to the UUSE office at 153 Vernon Street West, Manchester, CT 06042, or email a photo of the completed form to uuseoffice@uuse.org by Friday, March 28th at noon. Proxy Form: If you would like to vote by proxy, click here for the proxy form or pick one up from the UUSE Welcome Table. You can also request a copy from Annie in the UUSE office. Be sure to advise your proxy of your wishes in advance of the meeting. Your proxy can bring your completed form with them to the congregational meeting, or you can send the completed proxy form to the UUSE office by Friday, March 28th at noon. To request childcare, please contact the UUSE office by Monday, March 24th. We look forward to seeing you on March 30th and keeping our connection to UUSE strong! Sincerely, Peggy J. Webbe, President Anne Carr, Vice President Rev. Josh Pawelek, Minister Special Congregational Meeting Dear UUSE Voting Members: UUSE's Policy Board is calling a special congregational meeting to take place on Sunday, March 30th , following the second service. The purpose of the meeting is to vote on recommendations from our Constitutional Change and UUA Discernment Task Forces. There will be an option to join and vote on Zoom using the Sunday Service link. Our Constitution requires a quorum of voting members to be present at the meeting to vote on business items. Please plan to attend either in person or on Zoom to help us accomplish this important Society business! And please feel free to bring lunch and eat during the meeting. The agenda for the special congregational meeting will include: 1) A vote to approve the Constitutional Change Task Force's recommendations. Any changes approved will enter the UUSE Constitution. The final version of these recommendations after congregational feedback is here . You can also pick up a copy on the UUSE Welcome Table in the Meeting House lobby, or contact the UUSE office to have one mailed to you. 2) A vote to approve the Discernment Task Force's recommendation to change Article XV of the UUSE Constitution, known as the Dissolution clause. This change, if approved, will also enter the UUSE Constitution. The proposed new language is the following: In the event this Society ceases to function and the membership votes to dissolve the corporation at a duly called Congregational Meeting, the net assets of the society shall be distributed to charitable 501(c)(3) organizations that the congregation determines have similar values to those of the Society and may include the Unitarian Universalist Association, and also with the objective of caring for the needs of the Memorial Garden. The vote to dissolve the corporation shall be by a two-thirds vote of the quorum present at such meeting. There are four ways you may vote at the March 30th meeting: A) in person at UUSE; B) by mail/email absentee voting form; C) by proxy; and D) by Zoom vote during the meeting. Mail/Email Voting Form : If you are unable to be present for the meeting but wish to vote absentee, click here for the form or pick one up on the Welcome Table. You can also contact Annie in the UUSE office to send you a copy. Print and return a hard copy to the UUSE office at 153 Vernon Street West, Manchester, CT 06042, or email a photo of the completed form to uuseoffice@uuse.org by Friday, March 28th at noon. Proxy Form : If you would like to vote by proxy, click here for the proxy form or pick one up from the UUSE Welcome Table. You can also request a copy from Annie in the UUSE office. Be sure to advise your proxy of your wishes in advance of the meeting. Your proxy can bring your completed form with them to the congregational meeting, or you can send the completed proxy form to the UUSE office by Friday, March 28th at noon. To request childcare, please contact the UUSE office by Monday, March 24th . We look forward to seeing you on March 30th and keeping our connection to UUSE strong! Sincerely, Peggy J. Webbe, President Anne Carr, Vice President Rev. Josh Pawelek, Minister OOS Sermon YouTube

What do you want to know about UUSE? This page is a good place to start. What is Unitarian Universalism? Unitarian Universalism affirms and promotes seven Principles, grounded in the humanistic teachings of the world's religions. Our spirituality is unbounded, drawing from scripture and science, nature and philosophy, personal experience and ancient tradition as described in our six sources. The Seven Principles The inherent worth and dignity of every person. Justice, equity and compassion in human relations. Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth relations. A free and responsible search for truth and meaning. The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process congregations and in society at large. The goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all. Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part. . The seven Principles and six Sources of the Unitarian Universalist Association grew out of the grassroots of our communities, were affirmed democratically, and are part of who we are. Read them as they are written in our UUA Bylaws. What We Believe We are people of all ages, people of many backgrounds and beliefs. We are gay and straight together. We believe in social justice and role of liberal religion as a force for good. We are brave, curious and compassionate thinkers and doers. We create spirituality and community beyond boundaries, working for more justice and more love in our own lives and in the world. Our Vision Statement Unitarian Universalist Society East will be home to a spiritually alive, richly diverse and growing congregation. We will send forth energy, spirit and strength into our beloved communities. We will love, be present to suffering, comfort, heal, bear witness to oppression, and boldly work toward social and environmental justice. Adopted by the congregation May 20, 2018 A Unique Shared Ministry Unitarian Universalist SocietyEast (UUSE) has a more or less 50/50 split between Reverend Josh and lay led services. Members of the congregation volunteer their time and effort to provide a different point of view, in line with the monthly theme.

< To Upcoming Services Watch the eBlast for the next scheduled Declare Your Love and Gratitude for UUSE! Declare Your Love and Gratitude for UUSE! Paula Baker and Sandy Karosi are organizing a service for November 23 entitled "Gratitude for UUSE," and we want to include messages from our congregation! We're looking for an answer to the question: "What is it about UUSE that fills you with gratitude?" Maybe it's the community, the building and grounds, a committee, our staff, an experience you've had, relationships formed, or an event your family loves! While it might be hard to pick just one thing, we need to keep responses to a single, brief sentence. Looking for messages from all ages! Send your message by November 9 to either Paula (uuseoffice@uuse.org ) or Sandy (uuseoffice@uuse.org ). #eBlast-11-05 Declare Your Love and Gratitude for UUSE! Paula Baker and Sandy Karosi are organizing a service for November 23 entitled "Gratitude for UUSE," and we want to include messages from our congregation! We're looking for an answer to the question: "What is it about UUSE that fills you with gratitude?" Maybe it's the community, the building and grounds, a committee, our staff, an experience you've had, relationships formed, or an event your family loves! While it might be hard to pick just one thing, we need to keep responses to a single, brief sentence . Looking for messages from all ages! Send your message by November 9 to either Paula ( uuseoffice@uuse.org ) or Sandy ( uuseoffice@uuse.org ). #eBlast -11-05 OOS Sermon YouTube

< To Upcoming Services Watch the eBlast for the next scheduled Childcare and Gift Wrap fundraiser Childcare and Gift Wrapping Fundraiser Wondering how you're going to get it all done this holiday season? We can help! The Youth Group is offering a Childcare and Gift-Wrapping Fundraiser on SUNDAY, December 3 from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Drop off your children on the Garden Level anytime between those hours and shop for the holiday child-free. Youth will provide games, activities and a snack with adult supervision. Drop off your gifts at our wrapping station (with or without your favorite wrapping paper). We will wrap them for you in gift bags or wrapping paper while you're out. $13 per hour for the first child; $7 per hour for each additional child. $3 per gift wrapped. For more info or to reserve a spot, please contact Michelle Spadaccini at uuseoffice@uuse.org or 860-646-5151. All proceeds go to fund Youth Group activities. #eBlast-11-29 Wondering how you're going to get it all done this holiday season? We can help! The Youth Group is offering a Childcare and Gift-Wrapping Fundraiser on SUNDAY, December 3 from 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Drop off your children on the Garden Level anytime between those hours and shop for the holiday child-free. Youth will provide games, activities and a snack with adult supervision. Drop off your gifts at our wrapping station (with or without your favorite wrapping paper). We will wrap them for you in gift bags or wrapping paper while you're out. $13 per hour for the first child; $7 per hour for each additional child. $3 per gift wrapped. For more info or to reserve a spot, please contact Michelle Spadaccini at uuseoffice@uuse.org or 860-646-5151. All proceeds go to fund Youth Group activities. #eBlast -11-29 OOS Sermon YouTube

88c23fb5-6289-4482-bd59-8a384084c99d < Back Policy Board THE POLICY BOARD directs UUSE’s business, financial, and administrative affairs, including formulating policy and overseeing church staff; it has charge of the Society’s property. President - Acts as Society’s secular leader and spokesperson; presides at meetings of Society and Policy Board. Vice President - Chairs the Program Council and acts for President in his/her absence. Clerk - Takes minutes at Policy Board and Society meetings; assures proper notice of business meetings and votes. Updated October 9, 2025 at 2:27:12 PM

< To Upcoming Services Watch the eBlast for the next scheduled Yuletide Festival Yuletide Festival Saturday, December 6th at USH As we approach the Winter Solstice and the season of holidays and celebrations, the Unitarian Society of Hartford is planning a holiday event--the Yuletide Festival. USH would love to invite and include UU friends and families from nearby congregations to celebrate with them on what is sure to be a fun and festive day. The event will host craft workshops, a vendor area and an ongoing lineup of musicians throughout the day. Members of UUSE are invited to reach out if they would like to perform, participate, volunteer or set up a vendor stall. They are looking forward to sharing talent, sharing time, making new friends, and making magic this coming Yuletide. For more information, call (860) 233-9897 or email uuseoffice@uuse.org . #eBlast-12-03 Yuletide Festival Saturday, December 6th at USH As we approach the Winter Solstice and the season of holidays and celebrations, the Unitarian Society of Hartford is planning a holiday event--the Yuletide Festival. USH would love to invite and include UU friends and families from nearby congregations to celebrate with them on what is sure to be a fun and festive day. The event will host craft workshops, a vendor area and an ongoing lineup of musicians throughout the day. Members of UUSE are invited to reach out if they would like to perform, participate, volunteer or set up a vendor stall. They are looking forward to sharing talent, sharing time, making new friends, and making magic this coming Yuletide. For more information, call (860) 233-9897 or email uuseoffice@uuse.org . #eBlast -12-03 OOS Sermon YouTube

< To Upcoming Services Watch the eBlast for the next scheduled Choir Rehearsal Do you love to sing? Do you love to have fun? If you answered “yes” to these questions you can sing with the UUSE Choir! You don't have to audition. Check the weekly eBlast and monthly Newsletters for rehearsals dates. All ages welcome. For more information, contact Mary Bopp at music@uuse.org . OOS Sermon YouTube

< To Upcoming Services Watch the eBlast for the next scheduled Sunday Service: Sunday Service: "Reflections and Hopes." Join us at 10 AM for shared reflections on the year gone by and our hopes for the upcoming year. Coordinators: Gianna DiMaiolo and Kate Kimmerle.  One Service at 10:00 AM Sunday, December 28, 2025 Gathering music starts at 9:50 A.M. Join the virtual service at 11:00 A.M. via our Zoom link: Contact the Office for Zoom Link. Or join by phone. Call 1-860-646-5151 Meeting ID 357 815 420#. In Case You Missed It Click here for the December 21, 2025 service, "Where the Light Begins (Again)." #eBlast-12-24 Sunday Service: "Reflections and Hopes." Join us at 10 AM for shared reflections on the year gone by and our hopes for the upcoming year. Coordinators : Gianna DiMaiolo and Kate Kimmerle.  One Service at 10:00 AM Sunday, December 28, 2025 Gathering music starts at 9:50 A.M. Join the virtual service at 11:00 A.M. via our Zoom link: Contact the Office for Zoom Link . Or join by phone. Call 1-860-646-5151 Meeting ID 357 815 420#. In Case You Missed It Click here for the December 21, 2025 service, "Where the Light Begins (Again)." #eBlast -12-24 OOS Sermon YouTube

< To Upcoming Services Oct 29, 2023 Connected to Ancestors. Join us for our all-congregational celebration of Samhain or Ancestor Day. Peggy Gagne leads us in our Pagan ritual of Calling the Quarters and Emmy Galbraith shares a story for all about the power of connection. Following the service, children will trick or treat for UNICEF. Coordinators: Beth Hankins and Vivian Carlson #eBlast-10-25 OOS Sermon YouTube

< To Upcoming Services Watch the eBlast for the next scheduled Friendsgiving! Friendsgiving! Emmy is organizing a Friendsgiving on the American Thanksgiving Holiday (Thursday, November 27) at UUSE. All congregants! Please be on the lookout for collection jars in both kitchen windows for monetary donations to help fund the meal. An email will be going out soon to organize contributions of appetizers, side dishes, desserts and drinks. Please reach out to Emmy Galbraith at dcym@uuse.org to express interest or ask any questions. #eBlast-11-19 Friendsgiving! Emmy is organizing a Friendsgiving on the American Thanksgiving Holiday ( Thursday, November 27 ) at UUSE. All congregants! Please be on the lookout for collection jars in both kitchen windows for monetary donations to help fund the meal. An email will be going out soon to organize contributions of appetizers, side dishes, desserts and drinks. Please reach out to Emmy Galbraith at dcym@uuse.org to express interest or ask any questions. #eBlast -11-19 OOS Sermon YouTube