Religious Education News: Sun Nov 25

There were no RE classes last Sunday so all the children and youth could join their families in our multigenerational Thanksgiving service, a celebration of the blessings, love, and friendship in our lives. It was particularly fitting to hear and participate in the “Amended” Thanksgiving Story, and better understand where we came from. That journey of Thanksgiving over the years has solidified and instilled the very fabric of the beliefs and principles of CUUC into each and every one of us. The youth as well as the adults offered up their cards of gratitude, which Rev. Meredith read. This was particularly moving as the essence of gratitude was tangible. Family and love amongst many other gifts in its repetition alone was powerful and impactful. As I sat in the service, I could not help but reflect on my own personal blessings and the enrichment I have obtained from them. I consider myself gifted to be part of this congregation. My professional and personal life has been exponentially transformed in coming to know the students, families, staff, and church members. I treasure the values of CUUC and treasure my tenure here as an unexpected, life-changing gift. These are my beatitudes for which I give thanks. Those thanks go out to all of you and so, I sincerely wish everyone a loving, peaceful Thanksgiving.

Michele Rinaldi
Religious Education Coordinator

A look at what’s coming up...

This Sun Nov 26
All ages in Fellowship Hall for Deck the Hall Crafts. Come help create the decorations for the sanctuary.

Opportunity for Young Voices to Sing with the Choir
Does your kid love to sing? Children and youth have an opportunity to join the CUUC Choir for a piece in their Winter Choral Concert on Sun Dec 16, at 12:30pm. The kids may rehearse with the choir on Sun Dec 2 and Sun Dec 9 from 9:30-10:00am. Choir director Lisa Meyer needs to finalize musical selections, so please RSVP to cuucre@gmail.com by Fri Nov 30.

Deck the Halls - Dec 2 after RE
Join us in the sanctuary after RE to create and hang decorations. Fun for all ages and something families can do together!

Holiday Giving Opportunities
Gently Used Children's Books and Toys Drive for the Ecumenical Food Pantry, through Sun Dec 9
Bring in gently used kids' books and toys for our collection to benefit clients of the Ecumenical Food Pantry. Help bring joy to parents who could not otherwise afford holiday gifts for their children. We are also collecting stuffed animals (must be new or like new) for the senior clients who enjoy one for themselves! Contact: Mary Cavallero (marycava4@gmail.com) for information or to volunteer.

Gift Cards for Coachman Family Center, Sign Up Sun Dec 2 & Sun Dec 9; Bring In Wrapped and Tagged Gift Cards Sun Dec 16
Help a family at the Coachman by signing up to purchase a $25 gift card for their school-age children. On Sun Dec 2 and Sun Dec 9, we will have lists available with the age and gender of the children, and the type of card they prefer. Please box and wrap the gift cards, tag with the child's name and room number, and bring to CUUC by Sun Dec 16. Contact: Ray Messing (raymessing@gmail.com).

Personal Items for Shelter Residents, Sun Dec 2 - Sun Dec 30
New socks, men's underwear (L & XL), women’s underwear, and toiletries will be collected throughout December for residents of local shelters. Posters from our Religious Education students help spread the word! Contact: Ray Messing (raymessing@gmail.com).

The Mitten Tree is Coming!
We will decorate the tree with your donations of mittens, gloves, hats, and scarves for all ages and sizes. Share the gift of warmth! We will be collecting throughout December. Contact: Ray Messing (raymessing@gmail.com).

Faith Development Friday, Fri Dec 7, Fireside Area & Classrooms
Our evening of learning, spiritual growth, and community. 6:15pm Pizza & Salad Community Dinner; 7:00pm Programs; 8:30pm Coffee. Programs include Adult RE and Family Journey Group. Adults may also just come for a slice and unstructured social time together. All are welcome to stay after the programs to share coffee and a chat. RSVP to CUUCevents@gmail.com.