MEETINGHOUSE ONLINE

The Springfield UU Meetinghouse is continuing to function at full tilt on-line! We have had many meetings, groups and services on-line using Zoom these past weeks. It’s wonderful to stay connected. At the on-line “Tea Time” I hosted, the ten of us who were on the call enjoyed seeing each other and sharing stories and experiences. We were finding a lot of silver linings in the current changes. One person said she missed being with people and it was heart-warming to be able to see and talk with her friends electronically. The technology has been such a great blessing that has enabled us to keep going. – Rev. Mellen Kennedy

We’ll be posting Zoom links to our services and events below in the designated sections.

Information for joining our Zoom services:

Online: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/6130779853

By Telephone +1 646 558 8656 US (New York)

Meeting ID: 613 077 9853

“Nurturing the Spirit, Healing the World”

The Unitarian Universalist Church in Springfield has been a voice for liberal religion for over 200 years.

We are a welcoming and supportive community for people of all ages. We value the open mind and encourage each person to question and develop their own faith. We love a warm heart and generous spirit. Together, we seek the creation of a more loving and just world, and aspire to live sustainably on the Earth.

Weekly Sunday morning services at 10 am on Zoom.

“On the Cooperation of Trees, the Resilience of the Atlantic Spotted Dolphin and the Retirement of my Plumber”

Service with the Rev. Dr. Nancy Jay Crumbine

November 29, 10 am

In Memory and in Honor of Beau DuBray,
Dartmouth freshman from the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe

of South Dakota

This sermon is on grief, resilience, gratitude, and the radical interdependence which we keep forgetting, without which we do not survive. Readings will be from Robin Wall Kimmerer’s exquisite book, Braiding Sweetgrass.

Join us on Zoom:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/6130779853
Or by phone, dial +1 646 558 8656 US
Meeting ID: 613 077 9853

“Our Grandmother’s Hands” Book Discussion

Sundays, Nov. 22 & Dec. 6, 12-1:15 pm

My Grandmother’s Hands: Racialized Trauma and the Pathway to Mending Hearts and Bodies” by Resmaa Menakem is a game changer in terms of our understanding of race issues in our country and how to heal them. So hopeful! In October and November, we’ll spend 4 sessions reading, discussing and doing together the breathing and other embodied practices that the author presents. Rev. Mellen Kennedy will facilitate. Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/6130779853

If interested in joining, or if you have questions, please email

uuspringfieldvt@gmail.com

Friends on the Path Discussion Groups

In these interesting times, we need not feel isolated or despairing. Finding ways to connect with others through on-line groups can be not just a life-line, but an inspiration! At the Springfield UU Meetinghouse, we have launched four groups, which have been meeting on Zoom twice a month since April. The groups offer an opportunity for friendship, support and spiritual growth, in an open, non-coercive environment that allows us to explore the challenges and the gifts of these times. The groups are facilitated by a trained leader and have a set of relational ground rules to create a safe, respectful environment. The groups are interfaith, open to everyone, and have become an important touch stone for their members. In the words of participants:

“I really value the time together in our little group, we really love, respect and genuinely care for one another, we feel safe to share what’s on our minds and in our hearts. I feel the compassion, good humor and support of each one and always learn something new.” – Toni Streeter

“The virtual meetings provided a surprising amount of intimacy, even on Zoom, and we participants were able to discuss almost as freely as if we were just sitting around a table, as in days of old.” – Melissa MacKenzie

There are still a few openings in the group held every other Wednesday afternoon from 3-4:15 pm on Zoom. If interested please contact uuspringfieldvt@gmail.com.

LIMITED IN PERSON OUTDOOR SOCIAL GATHERINGS OUTDOORS AT THE MEETINGHOUSE

We were so pleased to be able to offer some in person social gatherings for members and friends outdoors at the Meetinghouse this summer and fall. Thanks to our “COVID Team” of Ellen Allman, Pat Callahan and Diane Kemble who have reviewed the Governor’s requirements and advice as well as other health recommendations to make these events as safe as possible.
The events drequire social distancing, no shared food, and, following protocols. We hope we’ll be able to resume such events in the spring as the situation permits.

We understand there may be people who do not feel comfortable or safe joining in, and we support each person’s decision to do what is right for them. Further details will be in future newsletters and on our facebook page.

The Work Continues Even When the Building is Closed

Unitarian Universalist Church in Springfield