First UU Church of San Diego
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Blog

Get Creative & Connect: Free Artist Trading Card Workshop!

2/23/2026

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​Are you looking for a way to express your creativity, meet fellow local artists, and walk away with a pocket-sized gallery of original art? Whether you’re a seasoned illustrator or someone who hasn’t picked up a colored pencil since grade school, we have the perfect afternoon planned for you.

Join us for a Free Art Workshop dedicated to the global phenomenon of Artist Trading Cards (ATCs).

Event Details
  • When: March 1, 2026 | 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM (Workshop) & 2:00 PM (Live Trade)
  • Where: Bard Hall, First Unitarian Universalist Church of San Diego, Hillcrest
  • Cost: Completely Free
  • Registration required: Complete the registration or email [email protected]

What are Artist Trading Cards?
Think of them as baseball cards, but instead of athletes, they feature original art! ATCs follow a few simple traditions:
  1. Size: They must be 2.5 x 3.5 inches.
  2. Signature: The artist signs and dates the back.
  3. Exchange: They are meant to be traded, never sold.

Why You Should Attend
This isn't just a class; it's a social experience. You’ll learn the techniques to create your own cards using any medium you like—ink, watercolor, collage, or even digital prints.

Already working on something?
Artists are encouraged to bring their works-in-progress to work on in a collaborative, inspiring environment.

The Big Trade
The highlight of the day happens at 2:00 PM, when we hold a live trade session. This is your chance to swap your handmade creations with others and start your own unique collection of miniature art from the San Diego community.

How to Join
Space is limited, so make sure to reserve your spot!
  • Register: Complete the registration or email [email protected].

Pro Tip: If you have favorite pens or supplies, feel free to bring them along, though we'll have plenty of inspiration to go around!

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Deepening the Story: Introducing the Laila Ibrahim Book Club

2/19/2026

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If you’ve been a part of our Racialized Identities Awareness Book Group, you know how powerful stories can help us unpack history, empathy, and our own identities. Sometimes, a story is so compelling that one book simply isn't enough to capture the full scope of the journey.

That’s why we are thrilled to announce a brand-new sub-group: The Laila Ibrahim Book Club!

What’s the Focus?This dedicated group is moving forward with a deep dive into Laila Ibrahim’s acclaimed Yellow Crocus series. These novels offer a poignant, multi-generational look at the complexities of race, privilege, and the enduring bonds of the human spirit.

Whether you were captivated by the first installment or you're looking to start a new literary journey with a supportive community, this is the perfect space for you.

Meeting Details
We want to make sure everyone can join the conversation, regardless of where they are or how they prefer to gather.
  • Frequency: Quarterly meetings (four times a year).
  • Format: We are offering a hybrid model—join us in person for that classic book club feel, or hop online to participate from the comfort of your home.
  • The Vibe: Thoughtful, inclusive, and deeply conversational.

How to Join
We would love to have your voice in the circle! For more information on the reading schedule, meeting dates, and how to get involved, please reach out to our coordinator:
Contact: Louise
Email: [email protected]

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Racialized Identities Awareness Book Group: California, A  Slave State

2/17/2026

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Friday, March 6th
6:30-8:00 pm
Online & in Rm 321 at First UU

Professor Jean Pfaelzer's previously untold history of slavery and resistance in California, from the Spanish missions, indentured Native American ranch hands, Indian boarding schools, Black miners, kidnapped Chinese prostitutes, and convict laborers to victims of modern trafficking.

Contact Louise [email protected] for more info.

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Defending Democracy, Defeating Authoritarianism

2/17/2026

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When: March 1st at 11:30am
Where: Common Room at First UU

Join us for a community conversation about how we can strengthen democracy and resist rising authoritarianism—right here in California. This gathering will help us explore the current organizing landscape across the state, identify the key issues impacting our local community, and discover how you can plug into strategies that address your most immediate concerns.

We'll be drawing on materials and recommendations from our community partner, San Diego Organizing Project, as well as guidance and resources from the Unitarian Universalist Association to ground our time together in proven organizing strategies and faith-based action.

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Save the Date: UU Women+ Retreat 2026!

2/16/2026

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Gather your gear and open your calendars! We are thrilled to announce that the 2026 UU Women+ Retreat is officially on the books. We’re heading to the serene, cedar-scented air of Camp Stevens, located just outside the charming town of Julian. (Click here to register online.)

This retreat is a dedicated space for cis women, trans women, nonbinary, IndigiQueer, or two-spirit people who feel most comfortable in or identify with women’s spaces. It’s a weekend for us to reconnect with nature, ourselves, and one another.

The Details
Whether you’re looking for a quiet hike through the oaks or a soulful Sunday service under the trees, there’s a place for you here.
  • When: Friday, Nov. 20 (4:00 PM) – Sunday, Nov. 22, 2026 (12:00 PM)
  • Where: Camp Stevens, Julian, CA (approx. 60 miles from the church)
  • Capacity: 26 to 52 campers across two cozy lodges: Lax-Sadler and Woltersdorf.
  • Activities: Hiking, organized activities, and a communal Sunday service.

Accommodations & Logistics
We’ve kept things simple and communal to foster connection:
  • Lodging: Rooms feature multiple bunk beds with hallway bathrooms.
  • What to Bring: Please remember to bring your own bed linens and towels.
  • Food: Your registration includes five delicious, prepared meals (Friday dinner through Sunday breakfast).

Registration & Cost
To ensure we can secure our spot at the camp, we have a structured payment plan:
  • Total Registration = $250
  • Non-Refundable Deposit = $100 (due upon registration)
  • Final payment due by Nov. 1, 2026.
  • Payment methods:
    • Mail check to First UU SD, 4190 Front Street, San Diego, CA. 92103, Memo line: #310 Retreat Deposit & last name
    • Online: Donation webpage at First UU, Memo: #310 Retreat Deposit & last name
Note: Space is limited to 52 attendees, so we encourage you to register early once the portal opens!

Register online!
Or email Rose Van Oss ([email protected]) to register with a paper registration form.

Help Us Create the Magic!
A retreat is only as vibrant as the community that builds it. If you have ideas for workshops, want to lead a hike, or can help with logistics, we would love your input.

Want to help plan? Please reach out to Adrienne Kaplan at [email protected].

We can’t wait to head to the mountains with you!

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A Joyous Milestone: Welcoming Rev. Kristen Kuriga as Our Settled Associate Minister

2/9/2026

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​The energy at First UU this past Sunday, February 8th, was nothing short of electric. We gathered with a shared purpose: to decide on the future of our ministry. We are thrilled to announce that by an overwhelming majority, the congregation has voted to call Rev. Kristen Kuriga as our settled Associate Minister!

By the Numbers: A Strong Showing
The meeting was called to order by Board President Karen Lamphere, who confirmed that we hadn't just met our quorum—we blew past it. While we needed 144 eligible voting members to make the decision official, 213 members made their voices heard.

The engagement across our community was inspiring:
  • 153 members voted in-person
  • 46 members voted online
  • 14 members cast absentee ballots
When the final tally was shared, the result was definitive: 211 members (99.1%) voted "Yes" to call Rev. Kristen.

A Spirit of Connection
While the vote was the "business" of the day, the atmosphere felt more like a family reunion. Rev. Justine opened the meeting by lighting our chalice, setting a tone of warmth and reflection.
During the interludes while votes were being counted, the sanctuary was filled with music and storytelling. Rev. Justine led the congregation in song, and members took turns at the mic to share heartfelt reflections on what Rev. Kristen and this church community mean to them. It was a beautiful reminder of the deep roots we’ve already planted together.

The Path to "Yes"
Before the results were announced, the Call Discernment Team gave a brief presentation on the journey that brought us here. They detailed the intentional, six-month process they led to ensure everyone who wanted to share was heard. This successful vote is a testament to that hard work and the clarity of our collective vision.

The Celebration
The moment the vote was announced, the room erupted. Rev. Kristen graciously accepted the call to a resounding standing ovation.
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The festivities didn't end in the sanctuary, though! The congregation moved to Bard Hall to keep the momentum going. We celebrated this new chapter the best way we know how: with plenty of laughter, community spirit, and, of course, cake.

Thank you to everyone who participated, voted, and shared their heart during this process. We are so excited to see what the future holds with Rev. Kristen officially by our side.

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(619) 298-9978  
We have two campuses:
Hillcrest campus: 4190 Front Street, San Diego, CA. 92103  |  South Bay campus: Saint John’s Episcopal Church, 760 1st Ave, Chula Vista, CA 91910
  For GPS to our Hillcrest Campus, please use 298 W Arbor Dr., San Diego, CA 92103
For detailed directions, parking and more see our Contact page.
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©First Unitarian Universalist Church of San Diego. All rights reserved. Admin.
  • Home
  • Worship
    • Messages
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  • Connections
    • Welcome Newcomers! > >
      • Visiting First UU
      • Visitor Form
      • What is UUism?
      • Become a Member
    • Groups from A-Z > >
      • Archives
      • Art Guild
      • Looking Glass Theatre
      • Meditation
      • Men's Fellowship >
        • UUMF Renewal Registration
      • UU Seniors
      • Wisdom Circles
    • Relational Health
  • Music
    • Vocal Ensembles
    • Handbell Ensemble
  • Education
    • Children's RE > >
      • Children's RE Registration
    • Adult Faith Formation
    • Family Ministry > >
      • All Church Camp
    • Youth Programs
    • Young Adult & Campus Ministry
    • Our Whole Lives (OWL)
    • SD Co-op Preschool
  • Programs
    • Front Street Productions
    • Caring
    • South Bay Food Pantry
    • Larger UU Connections > >
      • Denominational Relations
      • Friends of De Benneville Pines
      • Philippines Partner Church
      • Transylvania Partner Church
      • UU Service Committee
    • Social Justice > >
      • Social Justice Executive Team
      • Climate Justice
      • Generosity Offerings
      • Organizing for Justice
      • Palestine-Israel Justice Group
      • Rainbow Action
      • Reproductive Justice
      • Sanctuary
      • Uptown Community Service Center
  • Giving
    • Donations > >
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      • Donate Your Vehicle
      • Donate Flowers
    • Dining for Dollars D4$
  • News
    • Blog
  • About
    • About First UU
    • For Members > >
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    • Forms
    • Governance > >
      • Article II
      • 8th Principle
      • Journey Toward Wholeness >
        • Black History Month
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  • Contact
    • Ministers and Staff
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