Dear UCM Members & Friends, 

Congregational Life takes on a festive atmosphere this time of year – as we move from the Holiday Fair, to the No Rehearsal Christmas Pageant, we look forward to Winter Solstice and Christmas Eve Services. Circle Suppers and Coffee Hour conversations connect us to this place, and to each other.

Creating connections and building a more Beloved Community is joyful ‘work,’ that we all assist with in our own ways. Maybe you’re greeting people you haven’t yet met during Coffee Hour, or pointing them toward the restroom as they arrive on a Sunday. Perhaps you’ve scootched into the middle of a pew, to make room and invite more people in, or pointed a new family with young ones toward the nursery. I see you do it all – Thank you! 

Hospitality and welcoming are also happening throughout the year, in small groups and events in the broader community. I hope you’re looking forward as I am to events like Cider & Cookies at 5:30 PM in the Vestry, Christmas Eve, Wednesday, December 24, 2025. Between the Family Service (4:30 PM) and the Candlelight Service of Lessons and Carols (6:30 PM), you’re invited to bring a plate of cookies and/or hot or cold cider to share, or just stay after or come early to socialize! All are welcome.

Also, before our Spring Newsletter comes out, we will again be offering “New UU” programs for those who are interested in joining UCM as official members in April! On Sunday, March 1st beginning at 11:30 AM in the Fireplace Room, we’ll have an informal Intro to the Pathways to Membership, followed by a Building Tour at Noon. Then on Wednesday, March 25th Rev. Joan Javier-Duval will host “UU History and Theology,” in the Children’s Chapel from 6:30 – 8:30 PM. If you have any questions about these events, please let me know, and watch this space for updates. Whether you’re a longtime friend, or joining us more recently, welcome! We’re so glad you’re here. ~Elaine Ball, Congregational Life Coordinator