Nurturing religious and personal growth
The Purpose of the Adult Adult Faith Formation Program is to nurture and stimulate the religious and personal growth of the adult church community, and the community at large, by offering a varied and cohesive program within the context of the larger Unitarian Universalist tradition and religious community. A variety of programs are offered. Classes are taught by volunteer members and friends of the congregation and by church staff. New classes are always being added and updates are announced here and in our weekly newsletter, The Window.
UU Theology & Identity
Friday, January 31, 2025
6:30 - 8:00 PM on Zoom
Join Director of Lifespan Faith Formation, Tony Bianca, for this interactive evening when we'll explore the historical and current theologies and philosophies that make up Unitarian Universalism. This session will offer lots of opportunities for small group discussions as we consider our own relationships to the philosophies, spiritualities and theologies of the larger fellowship.
This session was initially designed as an introduction to Unitarian Universalism for new members, but has been presented to our staff and parents' group, both of whom said, "We think everyone could benefit from hearing this!"
This event is free and open to the public, but registration is required to receive the Zoom link and, though not necessary, donations to our program are always welcome. To register, visit: https://form.jotform.com/221945094745160
Spring 2025 Common Read
“Authentic Selves: Celebrating Trans and Nonbinary People and Their Families”
This spring, First UU will be participating in the UUA Common Read. The book, “Authentic Selves: Celebrating Trans and Nonbinary People and Their Families” is a timely anthology of personal stories. The first two of 4 total group session will take place on Feb and March 20th, 6-8PM on Zoom. More details will follow soon, but we encourage all who would like to participate to purchase the book and start reading now.
Books can be purchased at the InSpirit Book Store. A limited number of copies are also available to borrow from church. To borrow a copy, email [email protected]
There will also be handouts for the group sessions. Handouts and Zoom links will be emailed out to those who register. So even if you're thinking that you might participate, you're encouraged to register at: https://www.jotform.com/build/250146308596056
“Authentic Selves: Celebrating Trans and Nonbinary People and Their Families”
This spring, First UU will be participating in the UUA Common Read. The book, “Authentic Selves: Celebrating Trans and Nonbinary People and Their Families” is a timely anthology of personal stories. The first two of 4 total group session will take place on Feb and March 20th, 6-8PM on Zoom. More details will follow soon, but we encourage all who would like to participate to purchase the book and start reading now.
Books can be purchased at the InSpirit Book Store. A limited number of copies are also available to borrow from church. To borrow a copy, email [email protected]
There will also be handouts for the group sessions. Handouts and Zoom links will be emailed out to those who register. So even if you're thinking that you might participate, you're encouraged to register at: https://www.jotform.com/build/250146308596056
Tending the Flame - A Podcast
Each month, Rev. Justine, Rev Kristen and Tony Bianca will discuss the worship theme for the month.
Episode 1: The Practice of Invitation - September 2024
Episode 2: The Practice of Deep Listening - October 2024
Episode 3: The Practice of Repair
Ongoing classes
Ongoing opportunities for faith formation and spiritual growth. Unless otherwise noted, for information about these opportunities, email [email protected].
Kirtan & Chanting for Peace
Every 2nd Saturday, 6:00-7:00pm (In-Person) Common Room (Hillcrest Campus)
Donation-based Community Event
Come and engage in the spiritual practice of Kirtan, a nondenominational practice that has been passed down since time immemorial and a constant in all paths and religions. Getting together as a group is a fun way to do this and we can sing mantras (transcendental spiritual sound vibrations) using all kinds of instruments and genres of music. Dancing and movement is highly encouraged! Group leader, Patita Pavana has been practicing the spiritual activity of Kirtan and Mantra Meditation daily for almost 17 years. These spiritual tools were passed onto her by her spiritual teacher Srimati Katyayani Devi dasi Thakurani and are part of the Bhakti Yoga lifestyle. Bhakti means love and devotion to God and Yoga means the soul’s connection to God with Love.
Every 2nd Saturday, 6:00-7:00pm (In-Person) Common Room (Hillcrest Campus)
Donation-based Community Event
Come and engage in the spiritual practice of Kirtan, a nondenominational practice that has been passed down since time immemorial and a constant in all paths and religions. Getting together as a group is a fun way to do this and we can sing mantras (transcendental spiritual sound vibrations) using all kinds of instruments and genres of music. Dancing and movement is highly encouraged! Group leader, Patita Pavana has been practicing the spiritual activity of Kirtan and Mantra Meditation daily for almost 17 years. These spiritual tools were passed onto her by her spiritual teacher Srimati Katyayani Devi dasi Thakurani and are part of the Bhakti Yoga lifestyle. Bhakti means love and devotion to God and Yoga means the soul’s connection to God with Love.
Cosmos: The Great Story
1st Sundays 1-3pm Online Only Keith Mesecher.
Celebrate the birth and evolution of the universe and humanity’s role in this magnificent, cosmic unfolding; the great powers at work in it and our damage to it. Discover our potential to be a positive, healing and transformative force, living in mutually enhancing relationships with the life and non-life forms that constitute the earth community. Drop in.
1st Sundays 1-3pm Online Only Keith Mesecher.
Celebrate the birth and evolution of the universe and humanity’s role in this magnificent, cosmic unfolding; the great powers at work in it and our damage to it. Discover our potential to be a positive, healing and transformative force, living in mutually enhancing relationships with the life and non-life forms that constitute the earth community. Drop in.
Chi Gung
Most Thursdays 9am Online Only with Lolly Brown.
Incense Chi Gung (Xiang Gong), a Buddhist exercise consisting of 15 simple movements and 1 standing posture. This set is specifically designed to activate the meridians and improve health and harmony of mind and body. Xiang Gong is easy to learn and can be practiced by people of any age or physical condition, in standing, sitting or prone positions. The exercise uses breath, movement, postures and meditation techniques. Benefits can be felt from the very first time you practice. Please wear loose clothes. Drop in.
Most Thursdays 9am Online Only with Lolly Brown.
Incense Chi Gung (Xiang Gong), a Buddhist exercise consisting of 15 simple movements and 1 standing posture. This set is specifically designed to activate the meridians and improve health and harmony of mind and body. Xiang Gong is easy to learn and can be practiced by people of any age or physical condition, in standing, sitting or prone positions. The exercise uses breath, movement, postures and meditation techniques. Benefits can be felt from the very first time you practice. Please wear loose clothes. Drop in.
Memory Matters
Every 2nd and 4th Friday Online Only with Kathy Gilbert, LCSW.
9:30-10:00am Socializing
10-11:30am Structured Program
A gathering place for individuals with early memory loss, for those who worry about memory problems and forgetfulness, and for their care partners. Safely relax, share stories, discuss, socialize and learn, play games and other activities. This gathering is not only therapeutic and educational, it enables members to make new contacts, build trusted relationships, and learn how others deal with memory loss and its consequences. Ongoing, drop in. For further information contact Gay Hybertsen at [email protected].
Every 2nd and 4th Friday Online Only with Kathy Gilbert, LCSW.
9:30-10:00am Socializing
10-11:30am Structured Program
A gathering place for individuals with early memory loss, for those who worry about memory problems and forgetfulness, and for their care partners. Safely relax, share stories, discuss, socialize and learn, play games and other activities. This gathering is not only therapeutic and educational, it enables members to make new contacts, build trusted relationships, and learn how others deal with memory loss and its consequences. Ongoing, drop in. For further information contact Gay Hybertsen at [email protected].
Sitting Group
Saturdays starting October 1st, 2019 9:30-11:30am in Room 323 (Hillcrest campus).
This sitting group/dharma study starts with a ½ hour silent meditation. Newcomers as well as experienced practitioners are welcomed. Regular attendance is not required. We study and practice traditional Buddhist topics and explore the Buddha’s Noble Eightfold Path. Please register online so you will be notified of weekly talks and suggested practices: insightsd.org/sitting-group. Questions? contact [email protected].
Saturdays starting October 1st, 2019 9:30-11:30am in Room 323 (Hillcrest campus).
This sitting group/dharma study starts with a ½ hour silent meditation. Newcomers as well as experienced practitioners are welcomed. Regular attendance is not required. We study and practice traditional Buddhist topics and explore the Buddha’s Noble Eightfold Path. Please register online so you will be notified of weekly talks and suggested practices: insightsd.org/sitting-group. Questions? contact [email protected].
Dances of Universal Peace
The Dances of Universal Peace use sacred chant, song, simple circle dances, and music to create an opportunity where hearts can open, spirits can soar, and a deeply-rooted peace can be experienced. The dances are a modern form of interfaith devotional movement based in the time-honored wisdom traditions of the world. No experience is necessary. Just bring your curiosity and your open heart and be prepared to join in the dance! No registration required.
The Dances of Universal Peace use sacred chant, song, simple circle dances, and music to create an opportunity where hearts can open, spirits can soar, and a deeply-rooted peace can be experienced. The dances are a modern form of interfaith devotional movement based in the time-honored wisdom traditions of the world. No experience is necessary. Just bring your curiosity and your open heart and be prepared to join in the dance! No registration required.
Building Sacred Ground
This four session experience is a must for anyone who wants to get to know a small group of people very well, explore and share their individual journeys and learn ways to become engaged here at First Church. By attending these sessions, you will become more deeply involved in church life and have a better understanding of Unitarian Universalism. Building Sacred Ground is strongly recommended for people considering membership and is also highly recommended for established members who want to deepen their relationship with their faith, this church and this community. Check The Window for upcoming series dates.
This four session experience is a must for anyone who wants to get to know a small group of people very well, explore and share their individual journeys and learn ways to become engaged here at First Church. By attending these sessions, you will become more deeply involved in church life and have a better understanding of Unitarian Universalism. Building Sacred Ground is strongly recommended for people considering membership and is also highly recommended for established members who want to deepen their relationship with their faith, this church and this community. Check The Window for upcoming series dates.
