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This is a calendar of internal events. It has things like committee meetings, maintenance and cleaning, and set up for other events.

Reverend Josh Pawelek's monthly column, a message of meaning and hope. Minister's Column for February Rev. Josh Pawelek Minister I am a theistic Unitarian Universalist; an aspiring antiracist, feminist, queer ally; a liberal, suburban American minister practicing a modern version of New England’s old “congregational way;” a loving husband and father; and a spiritual leader dedicated to transformative preaching, teaching, healing and social justice ministries. Serving as the parish minister of UUSE has blessed my life in many ways. Most importantly, UUSE has allowed me—and continues to allow me—to serve as a spiritual leader striving to provide excellence in ministry. I am deeply grateful. Dear Ones: My clergy study group used to meet at the former Catholic Our Lady of Peace retreat center in Narragansett, RI. The original building was an old stone mansion called Hazard Castle. On one side of the mansion sat a seven-story stone tower, which had fallen into disrepair and was closed off to visitors. All the tower’s windows were boarded up. But I was always struck by the good-sized, healthy tree growing through the boards of a second-floor window, reaching up to the top of the tower. I was impressed: a tree growing out of a building. Our Lady of Peace closed its doors in 2006 and later sold the property. The last time I checked, the tower was still there, still boarded up. Though I couldn’t be absolutely sure from the photos I could find online, the tree seemed to be gone. If the new owners wanted to restore the tower, it would make sense to remove the tree so its roots wouldn’t cause further structural damage. What impressed me then, and what sticks in my mind twenty-five years later, is that tree, somehow planted, somehow thriving on the second floor of an old stone tower. Roots where none ought to be. Roots taking hold, reaching down through layers of human construction toward the earth, finding water and nutrients, finding what is required to sustain life. Our ministry theme for February is resilience. I offer this tree with roots where none ought to be as an image, a symbol, a reminder, even a declaration of resilience. I am here. I will not only survive, I will thrive. And further, we are here. We will thrive. For the month of February, we’ll be exploring our sources of resilience. What keeps us grounded here and now? What keeps us centered? What keeps us feeling healthy and whole? What enables us not only to survive but to thrive? These are questions of resilience. Understanding and accessing our sources of resilience is spiritually important work in all the times of our lives. But at the current moment it is essential. In the current moment, as we watch – and as some of us directly experience – the unravelling of our institutions, our social safety net, our democracy – our resilience matters. Resilient people and communities are less likely to spiral into despair and hopelessness. Resilient people and communities are more likely to weather the erosion of public goods and services. Resilient people are less likely to respond with hatred and fear, and more likely to center respect, compassion and love. The 20th-century Christian mystic, Howard Thurman, is purported to have said the words, “Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive. And then go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” The surest path to resiliency is knowing and doing what makes you come alive. That really is my central question for you to ponder as February begins. What makes you come alive? Feel free to reach out to me and let me know your answers to this question at minister@uuse.org. I’d love to know what you’re thinking about your own resilience. And I’d love to know what you’re thinking about the resilience of our UUSE community. With love, care, and hope, Rev. Josh #FebruaryNewsletter

What's happening at UUSE? Lots of things. So many events here to keep your mind occupied and your hands busy. February Newsletter Website Edition Sign up here to receive the full newsletter by email Contact the office for details - email: info@uuse.org phone: 860.646.5151 Sunday Services Schedule February Ministry Theme: Practicing Resistance Join us at 9 or 11 AM. The 11 AM Zoom service login and call-in information is shared through the congregational eblasts on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Subscribe to the eblast by sending a message to uuseoffice@uuse.org or call the UUSE office at 860-646-5151. ------------------------------ Sunday, February 1st: The "Nature" of Resilience. As the light returns and the natural world begins to stir, we reflect on nature's many lessons in resilience. Coordinators: Paula Baker and Stacey Musulin. Sunday, February 8th: What Makes You Come Alive. Rev. Josh draws on insights from the 20th-century Christian mystic, Howard Thurman, to reflect on our monthly ministry theme of resilience. In challenging times, what are our sources of resilience? Coordinator: Rev. Josh Pawelek. Sunday, February 15th: Strategic Planning: A Discipline of Resilience. Hear and be heard to form our UUSE vision, mission, and planning statements. Coordinator: Kate Kimmerle. Sunday, February 22nd: The Fires of Generosity. As we approach our 2026 Annual Appeal, Rev. Josh explores the many ways we manifest generosity and why it matters that we continually cultivate generous spirits. Kate Kimmerle purchased this service at the 2025 UUSE Goods and Services Auction. Coordinator: Rev. Josh Pawelek. Sunday, March 1st: Belonging and Thriving -- Together! This morning we launch our 2026 Annual Appeal. Rev. Josh will discuss the goals for this year’s appeal. What needs are we trying to meet? What programs are we hoping to grow? What vision are we trying to fulfill? Coordinator: Rev. Josh Pawelek. ------------------------------ Community Outreach Ministry Charitable Giving for February As always, thank you for your generosity. We do not gather our gifts only for ourselves, but to share with the larger community. Continuing our practice of sharing our gifts with the community beyond our walls, fifty percent of our Sunday plate collections for the month will be shared with: Manchester’s African American and Black Affairs Council Please contact Louisa Graver at uuseoffice@uuse.org , David Lacoss, or Nancy Madar at n uuseoffice@uuse.org . Make checks out to UUSE. If the memo line: ✓ is blank or “pledge” - all will go toward your pledge. ✓ has “COM” or the name of the charity - all will go to the charity. ✓ has “1/2 pledge, 1/2 COM” - it will be divided equally. ------------------------------ 2025/2026 Ministry Themes September : Building Belonging October : Cultivating Compassion November: Nurturing Gratitude December : Choosing Hope January : Practicing Resistance February : Embodying Resilience March : Paying Attention April : Embracing Possibility May : Awakening Curiosity June : Flourishing Together ------------------------------ Minister's Column Dear Ones: My clergy study group used to meet at the former Catholic Our Lady of Peace retreat center in Narragansett, RI. The original building was an old stone mansion called Hazard Castle. On one side of the mansion sat a seven-story stone tower, which had fallen into disrepair and was closed off to visitors. All the tower’s windows were boarded up. But I was always struck by the good-sized, healthy tree growing through the boards of a second-floor window, reaching up to the top of the tower. I was impressed: a tree growing out of a building. Our Lady of Peace closed its doors in 2006 and later sold the property. The last time I checked, the tower was still there, still boarded up. Though I couldn’t be absolutely sure from the photos I could find online, the tree seemed to be gone. If the new owners wanted to restore the tower, it would make sense to remove the tree so its roots wouldn’t cause further structural damage. What impressed me then, and what sticks in my mind twenty-five years later, is that tree, somehow planted, somehow thriving on the second floor of an old stone tower. Roots where none ought to be. Roots taking hold, reaching down through layers of human construction toward the earth, finding water and nutrients, finding what is required to sustain life. Our ministry theme for February is resilience. I offer this tree with roots where none ought to be as an image, a symbol, a reminder, even a declaration of resilience. I am here. I will not only survive, I will thrive. And further, we are here. We will thrive. For the month of February, we’ll be exploring our sources of resilience. What keeps us grounded here and now? What keeps us centered? What keeps us feeling healthy and whole? What enables us not only to survive but to thrive? These are questions of resilience. Understanding and accessing our sources of resilience is spiritually important work in all the times of our lives. But at the current moment it is essential. In the current moment, as we watch – and as some of us directly experience – the unravelling of our institutions, our social safety net, our democracy – our resilience matters. Resilient people and communities are less likely to spiral into despair and hopelessness. Resilient people and communities are more likely to weather the erosion of public goods and services. Resilient people are less likely to respond with hatred and fear, and more likely to center respect, compassion and love. The 20th-century Christian mystic, Howard Thurman, is purported to have said the words, “Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive. And then go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” The surest path to resiliency is knowing and doing what makes you come alive. That really is my central question for you to ponder as February begins. What makes you come alive? Feel free to reach out to me and let me know your answers to this question at minister@uuse.org. I’d love to know what you’re thinking about your own resilience. And I’d love to know what you’re thinking about the resilience of our UUSE community. With love, care, and hope, Rev. Josh ------------------------------ Green Sanctuary News Do you ever get on the internet, wondering where to look for a site dedicated to useful ways that you, as a citizen of Earth, might find ways to help out with climate change? Maybe I’m strange (or this explains why I’m a member of the Sustainable Living Committee!), but I do, and I just recently have been introduced to a new one (for me) at One5c.com . It’s been around since 2021, and it describes itself as “A guide to living on Earth without trashing the place.” My good friend, June Bray, (a former reference librarian), sent me one of their newsletters, and I was hooked! Hopefully, I'm not the last one to the party, and you will find this helpful! I signed up, and now it comes regularly in my email. It emphasizes what individuals can do, and how each of us has a duty to work at home and at the local and state level to ward off many of the government oppressions and annihilations of national laws that were working until they were discarded by the present administration. One5c discusses ways to channel any excess energy you have into groups like “joining the local chapter of the Citizens’ Climate Lobby or signing up with Climate Changemakers, which distributes action plans even people new to this flavor of organized rabble-rousing can do from their desks in an hour or less.” 1 Their website is wonderful to read, with an assortment of Guides: Food Waste, Home Energy, Plastic Pollution, and Sustainable Fashion. Each one is packed with useful information and lots of ”I didn’t know that” proclamations. Their Product Reviews go way beyond the product itself and take into consideration how each product’s carbon footprint looks, as well as how the product is packaged and shipped. Is it made of plastic, and could something more sustainable have been used? Or how much plastic is used in its packaging? Is it a cleaner that is mostly water that has been made into a more useful tablet, weighing less, costing less to ship, and offered with a bottle meant to be used over and over again? Obviously, I’ve gone on long enough for you to get the point. Since so many of us find time to browse the internet, maybe we should find the time to clue friends into useful sites and share the information. Sure beats doom scrolling for me! Let me know what you are finding useful these days on the internet. Sharon Gresk 1 from Corinne Iozzio, Editor-in-Chief of one5c ------------------------------ Upcoming Events ------------------------------ UUSE Coffeehouse and Open Mic Sign-up starts at 6 PM-- performances will start at 6:30 PM  Join us on the first Saturday of each month , October through May, for an evening of music, poetry, stories, and community! Bring your own songs, poems, stories, or any creative offering — or simply come enjoy the warm, supportive atmosphere as part of our appreciative audience. Sign-ups begin at 6:00 PM, and performances start at 6:30 PM. We feature 12 slots, each about 10 minutes or two songs. BYOB, BYO dinner, and BYO friends — we’ll provide the coffee! Unitarian Universalist Society East, 153 Vernon Street West, Manchester, CT ------------------------------ 2026 Goods & Services Auction 5 PM, January 31, 2026 One of UUSE’s Biggest Fun(d)raisers!! Mark your calendar now for Fun, Food & Friends!! Here’s what to expect: ------------------------------ Key Dates and Deadlines January 30: Online auction closes at 10 PM. Set up crew works through afternoon. January 31, 5 PM: Live Extravaganza at the meetinghouse with exclusive auction items, the Get Saucy Cooking Competition and free dinner. Snow date is February 14. Questions??? When in doubt, email uuseoffice@uuse.org or talk to any of the Auction Committee members—Robin Byrne, Anne Carr, Dan Covino, Susan Gabriele, Jennifer Klee, Stan McMillen, Janet Napier, Rob Napier & Nancy Pappas . ------------------------------ Saucy Cook-Off 2.0 The competition is hot and heavy for the title of ‘UUSE Top Chef.’ Jump into the contest with your terrific tetrazzini or perfect pesto. Then everyone enjoys a luscious free pasta dinner prepared by UU friends who want YOUR votes! Going, going, gone!! Live Auction Snag meals in members’ homes, special activities, vacation getaways and Rev. Josh’s personalized sermon only at the meetinghouse on January 31! For the Kids No grownups allowed! Lots of low-cost items at the Kids Bid Table and ONLY children can bid! There will also be fun activities and childcare available. ------------------------------ Hope in Hard Times In these troubling times, many of us feel anxious, despondent, or alone. On Tuesday, February 3rd at 3 PM , Rev. Josh Pawelek and members of the Pastoral Friends Committee will host a gathering for anyone who is looking for camaraderie and conversation geared towards finding hope in hard times. Our ministry theme for February is resilience. Let’s cultivate resilience together. ------------------------------ GHIAA's Winter 2026 Organizing Leadership Training GHIAA (The Greater Hartford Interfaith Action Alliance) is holding its Winter Organizing Leadership Training in person on Tuesday evenings from 6:30-8:30 pm in Newington, from Feb 10 to March 10. Join us to explore the fundamentals of faith-based organizing, practice the tools of relational culture (individual meetings and house meetings), consider how we build and wield power, share our process of identifying issues and developing campaigns, and build our skills for action. For more detailed info and to register click here . Version shared directly with members and friends. ------------------------------ Music + Mantra: Heart-Centered Kirtan Sunday, February 22, 2026, at 3:00 PM Unitarian Universalist Society: East, 153 Vernon Street W., Manchester, CT The Music + Mantra series continues with a live kirtan featuring Heart-Centered Kirtan. Heart-Centered Kirtan—Libby Volckening (vocals and keys), Ezra Landis (guitar), Reed Sutherland (bass), and Chris Ball (drums)—offers a welcoming afternoon of contemporary music and call-and-response chanting rooted in the devotional music traditions of India. The event invites community participation through shared music, voice, and presence. Kirtan is a form of participatory music that blends melody, rhythm, and meditation. Originating in the devotional singing traditions of India, kirtan invites people of all backgrounds to join in simple, call-and-response chanting. No experience is needed—just a willingness to listen, repeat, and let the music open the heart. The result is a joyful, community-centered practice that brings people together through sound and shared intention. The Music + Mantra series at UUSE features inclusive, interfaith, and community-oriented musical gatherings designed to nurture connection and reflection. All events in the series begin at 3:00 PM and are open to the public. Admission is by free-will donation ($20 suggested) at the door. Upcoming Music + Mantra events will take place on: • Sunday, February 22, 2026 • Sunday, March 22, 2026 • Sunday, May 17, 2026 For more information, visit uuse.org/kirtan or connect with the community at Central CT Community Kirtan on Facebook . Or download the flyer here . All are welcome to join this growing community celebration of music, mindfulness, and connection. ------------------------------ Community Screening of My Friend Kim Tuesday, February 24, from 7:00–8:30 PM Unitarian Universalist Society East, 153 Vernon Street West, Manchester, CT 06042. A special community screening of the short documentary My Friend Kim will take place on Tuesday, February 24, from 7:00–8:30 PM at Unitarian Universalist Society East, 153 Vernon Street West, Manchester, CT 06042. Click here to sign up for the event. There is no fee. My Friend Kim is a powerful 30-minute documentary that follows Kim Hoffman, a Connecticut woman living with terminal illness, as she advocates for compassion, autonomy, and the right to the option of Medical Aid in Dying. The film highlights Kim’s strength, clarity, and determination, as well as the unwavering support of her wife, Joy Cipollo. Medical Aid in Dying (MAID) legislation has been introduced in Connecticut more than a dozen times since 1994, yet each effort has failed to pass. Supporters of MAID will likely reintroduce a new bill in the Connecticut General Assembly this year, renewing statewide conversation about end-of-life choice, patient autonomy, and compassionate care. Post-Screening Discussion Panel: Rev. Josh Pawelek, Minister, Unitarian Universalist Society East Joy Cipollo, Kim Hoffman’s wife Maribeth Abrams, Director of My Friend Kim Mark Kwapis, Executive Producer, Skyline Films Rev. Pawelek’s congregation, Unitarian Universalist Society East, plays a meaningful role both in the film and as the location for this event, highlighting the intersection of faith, ethics, and autonomy at the end of life. The screening will be followed by a facilitated discussion exploring Medical Aid in Dying, personal autonomy, and how communities can support individuals and families facing terminal illness. For more information, please contact Rev. Josh Pawelek at minister@uuse.org . Or download the flyer here . ------------------------------ Gender-Free Contra Dance March 21, 4-7 PM There are no "ladies" or "gents" in a gender-free dance. Dance with anyone you want! It's a rollercoaster you make yourselves! Contra is a community folk dance with partners in long lines. The caller teaches the dances as you go. Calling by Rich Sbardella with music by Mickey Koth and John Kalinowski on fiddle and digital accordion. March 21, 2026, 4-7 PM, beginner lesson at 3:45 . Admission $15, students $5, under 12 free. All are welcome! Sponsored by the Music Committee. For more information, contact Meghan MacRae at uuseoffice@uuse.org or Jane Osborn at uuseoffice@uuse.org . Or download and share the flyer here . Unitarian Universalist Society East, Meeting Room, 153 Vernon St. W, Manchester, CT 06042. ------------------------------ Keep up to date on all UUSE happenings here . ------------------------------ Planning for a New Year, a New Vision, and a NEW STRATEGIC PLAN! The Strategic Planning Task Force started the new year with new planning toward revised vision and mission statements for the congregation. Task Force members interviewed eight individuals to better understand community goals. Then they brainstormed future vision and mission statements and strategized ways to involve all UUSE community members in setting congregation priorities. Stay tuned for the February 15th congregation service for more information about the Strategic Planning Task Force and the work that we can all do together for drafting our new plans as a community! Going Down Memory Lane: Trivia Game The Strategic Planning Task Force invites you to go down memory lane back to the world events of 2010–2011, when our current vision, mission, and strategic plan documents were being created. Through this activity, we can remind ourselves of how much has changed and what remains the same as we work together to reimagine these statements. Play the trivia game here . ------------------------------ Children and Youth Ministry News Children & Youth Ministry caregivers, extended family, volunteers, and all stakeholders (that means *anyone* interested in keeping up with CYM news or who feels invested in its future): The email distribution program I have been using for my weekly Friday Update has locked us out of our account, which expired without proper notice. I am unable to access the email distribution list I used on that platform. So, I am going to create a new account and distribution list! Please email if you would like to receive my weekly Friday Update, which includes all the details of what each age group is doing the following Sunday, news on upcoming events, as well as reflections and spiritual care. Kindly send your request to me at dcym@uuse.org to be added to the new distribution list. Caregivers of children and youth registered for CYM do NOT need to email me. We are looking for help in the Elementary (grades 2-5) class this winter! Please reach out to Emmy at dcym@uuse.org if you can help on any of these dates: (Lesson from the "Signs of Our Faith" Curriculum"). February 1 : Imbolc/St. Brigid Activity (beeswax candle making) (need assistant)) February 15 : Worshipping Together (need lead and assistant) March 1 : Finding Beauty in Uniqueness (need lead and assistant) March 29 : Fair Group Decisions (need assistant) Thank you, Emmy ------------------------------ UUSE Choir is back! It's not too late to join! Do you love to sing? You don't have to audition. Whether you sing in your car or with the Metropolitan Opera, if you like to have fun, you can sing with the UUSE Choir! Weekly rehearsals started on Wednesday, January 21st in the Meeting Room at 7 PM, in preparation for the Holiday Music Services on April 5th. There is still time to join. For more information, contact Jenn Richard at uuseoffice@uuse.org ------------------------------ UUSE Annual Appeal 2026 Our theme for this year’s Annual Appeal is Belonging and Thriving - Together. As we are confronted with national discord and uncertainty about our future, it is vitally important that we build and strengthen our connection to each other and to communities of faith committed to justice work. This orientation is especially resonant this year in the swirl of unrest here and around the world. We are grateful for our UUSE caring community of faith, where we are free to express our thoughts and feelings without fear of reprisal. Rev. Josh will kick off the 2026 Annual Appeal with the March 1 Sunday service. Each member and friend will receive a letter with information on our accomplishments from this past year and our aspirations for the next fiscal year (July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027). This year we again ask each member and friend to complete a pledge form and electronic funds transfer (EFT) form (if desired) and return them to the church office. In addition, we will offer pledging potlucks to be together and share our hopes and dreams for UUSE. If you have not returned your letter or attended a potluck by March 16, a steward will contact you. The Annual Appeal ends on Sunday, April 6. In our forthcoming letter, we describe financial challenges we continue to face that with your creativity and generosity, we can overcome. This is what makes us a resilient and thriving community. We look forward to sharing our talents, time, and treasure with you and this beloved community. Thank you for your contribution. The Stewardship Committee: Louisa Graver, Larry Lunden, Stan McMillen, Patricia Wildes (chair), Jerry Myers, and Phil Sawyer ------------------------------ Stewarding Opportunity! We are looking for people to canvass members & friends. Being a steward is a way to get to know new people, to share your enthusiasm and commitment for UUSE and to help make our Annual Appeal a success. The commitment time is relatively short with one training session and a couple of weeks to contact 2 - 4 members or friends. The stewardship conversations are a time of fellowship and sharing our dreams and aspirations. Talking about financial commitment is a small part of a much larger conversation about generosity and community. So please consider volunteering to be a steward this year. We especially want people who have never been stewards before, especially parents! For those who did not mail in their pledge or did not attend a potluck, the steward will use a personal visit (if both feel comfortable), email, phone calls, or texts to get in touch with people to answer any questions and remind them to fill out their pledge form and return it to Annie. Personal canvassing will be from March 18 – April 6, 2026. We will provide training on Thursday evening, March 5 or Saturday morning, March 7, 2026. Specific times will follow. Please email Phil Sawyer at uuseoffice@uuse.org or call 860-646-5151 if you are willing to help or have any questions. Our Annual Appeal occurs from March 1 – April 6, 2026. ------------------------------ Looking for Hosts for 2026 Annual Appeal Pledging Potlucks! HOORAY! HOORAY! This spring, the Stewardship Committee will offer Pledging Potlucks for two weekends: March 6 – 8 and March 13 – 15. We are looking for people who will host a potluck during those weekends. This year we hope that potential potluck hosts will team up to create an astounding offering. We would especially welcome a potluck offering from our ‘younger’ members and friends. The potlucks are often dinners but could be a brunch, lunch or perhaps dessert & coffee/tea. You can steward your own potluck, or a steward will attend to facilitate the conversation about pledging if you choose. We need to gather a list of hosts (and co-hosts) with dates and times of their potlucks by February 8, 2026. These potlucks are a way to come together in community, enjoy good food and have a deeper conversation about our connection to UUSE and our hopes and dreams for our future. We hope you will consider being a host or a team! Signups for potlucks will begin after services February 15, 22 and March 1, 2026 , when the Annual Appeal officially kicks off. Please contact Stan McMillen at 860-646-5151 or uuseoffice@uuse.org to host a pledging potluck in March. THANK YOU! ------------------------------ Time to Clean Up While we greatly appreciate the goodies members and friends have made for the Holiday Fair and other events here at UUSE, we really don't have the space to store empty containers and other miscellaneous items. It's time to clean house! Empty containers and various other items have been moved to the kitchen for members and friends to easily access. If you're not sure what happened to your old Tupperware-type containers, chances are it's in the collection. Please take a look at what's there and take home what is yours. Items not claimed shortly will go to Goodwill. And while we have your attention ... A lot of groups and individuals use our kitchen, and sometimes things don't always get cleaned up as well as they should. That can make things especially difficult for our faithful hospitality helpers who arrive early to make the coffee each Sunday morning. Please help them out by cleaning up before you leave - coffee pot, dishes, spills, cleaning the sink area, and wiping down the counters or whatever it is that happened or was used on your watch. Your thoughtfulness is much appreciated! ------------------------------ General Assembly 2026 Virtual gathering June 14th - June 21st General Assembly (GA) is the annual meeting of the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA), where participants gather to worship, witness, learn, connect, and make policy decisions for the Association through a democratic process. The 2026 GA will be held virtually June 14th-21st. Are you interested in representing UUSE at this year's General Assembly? Questions? Email Desiree at uuseoffice@uuse.org ------------------------------ Ongoing Groups, Activities, and Fun ------------------------------ Save the Date Community Contra Dance March 21, 2026, 4-7 PM in the UUSE Meeting Room Live music! Gender-free! Beginner friendly! All are welcome! Contact: Meghan MacRae, uuseoffice@uuse.org . ------------------------------ Ladies at Lunch Friday, February 13 , we will have lunch at 110 Grill, 1127 Tolland Turnpike, in the Plaza at Burr Corners. We meet at noon. Everyone is welcome; do join us if you can. If you will attend, please RSVP to Sharon Huber by Thursday afternoon, February 12. uuseoffice@uuse.org or 860-646-5151. ------------------------------ Romeos for Lunch Romeos (Retired Old Men Eating Out) meet at noon on the 2nd Tuesday of each month for lunch and conversation at various local restaurants. If you are retired or simply have free time, feel welcome to participate. Contact Annie at the church office to be included on the email call list. ------------------------------ Yoga at the Meetinghouse Wednesdays at 10:00 AM All are welcome to these gentle-to-moderate yoga classes for all abilities. $5 drop-in fee. Bring a yoga mat (we have some extras). Bring a friend! Questions to: Susan at uuseoffice@uuse.org . Yoga is a UUSE adult education offering. ------------------------------ Women's Sacred Singing Circle Every Thursday at 7 PM We sing songs and chants from a variety of traditions, including some written by women from circles around the country, including our own. All are about the earth, healing, spirit, and, of course, women. Come late, leave early, or stay the whole time. Come every week or off and on, when you choose. But come! We have so much fun each week, we want you to join us in the laughter, song and community! ------------------------------  Pastoral Friends Rotating Chair January/February: Sid Soderholm. PastoralFriends@uuse.org. ------------------------------ Books, Classes, and Discussions Adult Religious Education ------------------------------ Meditation Group The Meditation Group will meet Monday, Dec. 15, at 3:30 PM in the sanctuary to meditate in community. The group will meet regularly on the third Monday of the month at 3:30. The group started because members of the Buddhist Group, which meets on Zoom, wanted to gather in person. You don’t have to be a member of the Buddhist Group or interested in Buddhism to join. Everyone is welcome; no experience required. Contact Nancy Thompson with questions, uuseoffice@uuse.org . ------------------------------ Book Lovers The Book Lovers meet in person and simultaneously on Zoom every second Tuesday from 3:30 to 5:00 PM . You are welcome even if you haven’t finished the book. The link is sent out the weekend before by Carolyn Gimbrone. February 10, 2026: Discussion on past books led by Lorry King. March 10, 2026: The Emperor of Gladness by Ocean Vuong: Pub. May 2025, 416 Pages. Discussion leader: Jeannine Gluck April 14, 2026 : Stone Yard Devotional by Charlotte Wood: Pub. Feb. 2025, 304 pages. Discussion leader: Lesley Schurmann ------------------------------ Buddhist Group The UUSE Buddhist Group will meet on the 1st Tuesday, at 7 PM on Zoom for meditation and discussion of a Buddhist perspective on the monthly ministry theme. Email Nancy Thompson at uuseoffice@uuse.org for details or the Zoom link. ------------------------------ Humanist Group Join us in on the 3rd Tuesday at 4:30 PM. This ongoing group explores Religious Humanism and its applications to life, both historically and today. All welcome. Contact Rev. Josh at minister@uuse.org for the Zoom link. ------------------------------ Science and Religion Discussion Group Where do science and religion meet? Where are they in opposition? Meet 4th Tuesdays at 4:30 in the Chapel, and on Zoom. Contact Chris Larson for the Zoom link. ------------------------------ God Talk A discussion group for UU theists 4th Tuesdays at 4:30 PM. This ongoing group explores how UUs can name and experience God in meaningful, useful ways. All are welcome. Contact Rev. Josh at minister@uuse.org for the Zoom link. ------------------------------ Help Us Spread the Word Are you on social media (Facebook, Instagram, Nextdoor, etc?) please promote UUSE and its events by "liking" or sharing our posts on social media. Facebook: UUSEast , Instagram: uu_society_east . UUSE Happenings on Facebook is a private page for sharing things among members. You also can share events or posts in other groups on Facebook. If you have any suggestions for places to publicize events, email uuseoffice@uuse.org , the Communications/Technology Committee. ------------------------------ Newsletter Submissions Submit articles using newsletter@uuse.org or use this publicity form . Deadline for the Newsletter is the 20th of each month. ------------------------------ UUSE General Information UUSE Office Schedule: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM Meetinghouse Office: 860-646-5151 Office Administrator: Annie Gentile email: uuseoffice@uuse.org Minister: Rev. Joshua Pawelek, 860-646-5151, minister@uuse.org Minister Office Hours: Tuesday 10 AM to 7 PM and Thursday 10 AM to 4 PM Director of Children & Youth Ministry: Emmy Galbraith, 860-646-5151, dcym@uuse.org President: Trisha Corey-Lisle, 805-750--3488, uuseoffice@uuse.org Newsletter Editor: Carol Marion, 860-646-5151, newsletter@uuse.org Website Coordinator: uuse.web@uuse.org UUSE Website : https://www.uuse.org ------------------------------

*OFFERED NEXT YEAR & ALTERNATE YEARS Students are advised by a mentor from our congregation as they work toward distilling their beliefs within Unitarian Universalism. The year includes a trip to the historically significant Arlington Street Church in Boston and culminates in a written credo statement presented to the congregation on Affirmation Sunday. < Back Affirmation (High School) *OFFERED NEXT YEAR & ALTERNATE YEARS Students are advised by a mentor from our congregation as they work toward distilling their beliefs within Unitarian Universalism. The year includes a trip to the historically significant Arlington Street Church in Boston and culminates in a written credo statement presented to the congregation on Affirmation Sunday. Previous Next

The monthly C&YM column holds a trove of interesting ideas for your kids. Volunteers Needed Together, We Make CYM Possible The Children & Youth Ministry is run by professionals and volunteers working together. We ask that families who enroll their children in the program offer to help—there are LOTS of options designed to fit different comfort levels and availability. Adults without children in the program often help as well! Many hands make light work—and allow all volunteers a chance to become connected to the program, while still having the ability to attend services and feel spiritually nurtured. Family Volunteers Families who enroll their children in the CYM program are asked to make a volunteer commitment by serving on one of our classroom Teaching Teams. These teams meet regularly with a member of the CYM Committee to plan age-appropriate classroom activities. Parents and caregivers play a vital role in creating a welcoming and supportive environment for our children and youth. They contribute directly to the quality and spirit of the program. Shared involvement also deepens connections between families, children, and the wider congregation. Everyone’s Gifts Make a Difference Our congregation includes many talented individuals with a wide range of skills, life experiences, and perspectives to share. These gifts enrich our CYM program in countless ways. Volunteers who do not have children in the program are welcome, encouraged, and essential to our success. They serve in classrooms, assist with special projects and events, and support the program behind the scenes. Their presence strengthens intergenerational connections and helps create a vibrant, inclusive learning environment for our children and youth. Ways to Help You can make a difference in many ways—whether in a classroom or behind the scenes. Teaching Team Member – Support a class and help plan Sunday activities. Event Helper – Assist with intergenerational events or special celebrations. Mentor – Support youth to explore their talents and beliefs and connect more deeply with the community. Guest Storyteller or Artist – Share your skills or life experiences with children and youth. Ready to Get Involved? Whether you can offer one Sunday a month or help on occasion, your participation matters. Contact the Director of CYM at dcym@uuse.org . Every contribution—big or small—helps our children and youth feel seen, supported, and inspired. Together, we’re nurturing a community where every child, youth, and adult can learn, grow, and belong.

< Back < Latest eBlast eBlast Article < Previous Article Next Article > Gender-Free Contra Dance Gender-Free Contra Dance Save the Date - March 21 at UUSE Mark your calendars for March 21, 4:00 to 7:00 PM. (with a 3:45 PM beginner lesson). There are no "ladies" or "gents" in a gender-free contra dance, and you don't need to be an expert dancer. Contra is a community folk dance with partners in long lines with the caller teaching the dances as you go. For more information, click here . #eBlast -02-11

What you might traditionally call Sunday School is what we call Programs for Children under Child and Youth Ministries. About Children & Youth Ministry Our Children and Youth Ministry (CYM) offers a thriving program for all young people from infancy through senior high and more! The CYM program is a cooperative effort; we utilize a team approach, with one adult from each family volunteering in some capacity in CYM. We urge families to become informed about UUSE philosophy, themes, and activities by attending services, participating in parent meetings, engaging in discussions with the Director of Children and Youth Ministry, Minister, CYM committee members, classroom volunteers, and other families. The CYM Committee also sponsors many multi-generational events, including winter holiday celebrations, Trunk-or-Treat, game nights, movie nights and more. UU Principles, Children’s Version: • Every person is important. • Be kind in all you do. • We’re free to learn together. • We can search for what is true. • All people need a voice. • Build a fair and peaceful world. • We care for the earth. Sources We Draw From: The living tradition we share draws from many sources, including: • Direct experience of mystery and wonder; • Words and deeds of prophetic women and men; • Wisdom from the world’s religions; • Jewish and Christian teachings; • Humanist teachings using reason and science; • Spiritual teachings of earth-centered traditions. Program Goals: • Continue to make community and connection the primary focus of our ministry, in order to build a strong support system for our children, youth, and families. • Foster UU identity formation by providing opportunities for children and adults of all ages to engage in fun and meaningful activities together. • Strengthen our commitment to dismantling systemic racism by selecting curricula, books, music, and movies with an anti-racist lens. • Build a community that cultivates pre-emptive radical inclusivity.

56d0ee80-d984-4d5d-a586-40dcf0b0f3fa < Back to Newsletter February Newsletter Article < Previous Article Next Article > Planning for a New Year, a New Vision, and a NEW STRATEGIC PLAN! The Strategic Planning Task Force started the new year with new planning toward revised vision and mission statements for the congregation. Task Force members interviewed eight individuals to better understand community goals. Then they brainstormed future vision and mission statements and strategized ways to involve all UUSE community members in setting congregation priorities. Stay tuned for the February 15th congregation service for more information about the Strategic Planning Task Force and the work that we can all do together for drafting our new plans as a community! Going Down Memory Lane: Trivia Game The Strategic Planning Task Force invites you to go down memory lane back to the world events of 2010–2011, when our current vision, mission, and strategic plan documents were being created. Through this activity, we can remind ourselves of how much has changed and what remains the same as we work together to reimagine these statements. Play the trivia game here . #FebruaryNewsletter Contact Information modified in accordance with UUSE Privacy Policies.

UUSE has Sunday School options for children and youth from 1 year olds up to high schoolers, and even programs for adults. Sunday School Click to Redirect to Children and Youth Ministry

UUSE has Sunday School options for children and youth from 1 year olds up to high schoolers, and even programs for adults. Religious Education Click to Redirect to Children and Youth Ministry

Yes, please, donate your money, but also donate your time and experiences. Giving Giving includes many aspects of congregational life: fellowship, time, and talents, as well as treasure, as you see throughout this site. Here are some ways we offer treasure to both UUSE and the greater community. Donate At UUSE, we encourage a culture of giving. Every gift makes an incredible difference to our incredible church, to the people of Manchester and the surrounding towns, and to our work in the world. Give a single gift online or in person, and you can even set up recurring donations. We are so grateful for your commitment and generosity. Donate Directly to UUSE Donate to the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee Emergency Response Fund for Ukraine and Haiti Community Outreach Ministry Charitable Giving Charitable Giving for February As always, thank you for your generosity. We do not gather our gifts only for ourselves, but to share with the larger community. Continuing our practice of sharing our gifts with the community beyond our walls, fifty percent of our Sunday plate collections for the month will be shared with: Manchester’s African American and Black Affairs Council Please contact Louisa Graver at uuseoffice@uuse.org , David Lacoss, or Nancy Madar at n uuseoffice@uuse.org . Make checks out to UUSE. If the memo line: ✓ is blank or “pledge” - all will go toward your pledge. ✓ has “COM” or the name of the charity - all will go to the charity. ✓ has “1/2 pledge, 1/2 COM” - it will be divided equally. #FebruaryNewsletter Stewardship We think it is taking care of things that matter: the earth, our families and friends, the marginalized and historically oppressed. Closer to home, it means taking care of our spiritual home, Unitarian Universalist Society East. This is where we make the connections that matter. We are mindful of the many generous gifts of time, talent and treasure that support and sustain our mission. We come together to celebrate and to do the important work that makes the world a better place. We come to rejuvenate our senses, to create a holy space, and to strengthen our resolve. Each March we conduct our Annual Appeal that raises funds for the continued operation of our Meetinghouse and its many programs. We also encourage newcomers, members and friends, to make pledges throughout the year. We hope you will join us in this spirit of generosity. Annual Appeal Link The 2024-25 Stewardship Committee – Louisa Graver, Jean Knapp, Larry Lunden, Phil Sawyer, Stan McMillen, and Patricia Wildes Legacy Giving Program The Legacy Giving Program was initiated as part of the Unitarian Universalist Society East (UUSE) 50th anniversary celebration with the goal of significantly expanding the UUSE General Endowment Fund. A larger Endowment Fund (e.g. $4 million by 2035) will enable using a portion of the income to fund special activities. Legacy Bequest A legacy bequest is a gift of personal property or financial assets made through the provisions of a will, a trust, or as a beneficiary of a retirement plan. It is generally the largest gift a member will give to their church and can be based on a fixed amount or on a percent of the remaining balance of a member’s estate. Legacy bequests are revocable, which means that if your circumstances change over time, you can change your will or your retirement plan beneficiary. If you want to make or change a legacy bequest please contact the UUSE office. Gift and Endowment Policies Link to Gift Policy Link to Endowment Policy