UUFA Newsletter November 2026 – Woven Faith theme of the month – Covenant

Former beloved UUFA member Lois Gladchild one fall day in Athens.

 

 

 

God of the Autumn, help us to live
with the grace of falling leaves
the enthusiasm of the flaming Aspens
with the serenity of the old trees, whose roots reach deep into the earth.

God of the Autumn, help us to know
that living and dying are one
that life is precious, and beautiful, and limited.
that nothing good is ever lost.

God of the Autumn, help us to see
in the ways of nature a way for ourselves.

AMEN

 

 

Unitarian Universalist Association Statement Regarding 2026 Midterm Elections

November 4, 2026

Boston, Mass. (November 4, 2026) – The Unitarian Universalist commitment to democracy is sacred. It is written into our history and our values, and it is part of our practices as a faith tradition.

The results of the 2026 midterm elections are historic. Americans chose democracy over oppression, pluralism over white supremacy and Christian nationalism, and love and hope over hate and fear. They also voted for religious freedom, diversity among those who govern, bodily autonomy, and so much more. We believe that means that together, we are moving towards love.

We want to acknowledge that millions of Americans did what they were supposed to do over the past several weeks – they came out to vote to determine the future of their communities, their states, and the country. Furthermore, they supported ballot initiatives to ensure that their values are reflected in laws at the state level and that will strengthen their communities. We want to applaud those who exercised their democratic rights and the people who have worked tirelessly to engage voters.

We also know that not every result was positive – for instance, we are still fighting to ensure that the trans, nonbinary, and intersex community can claim their fundamental right to live with dignity and equality. It remains necessary for people of faith and good will to continuously work for a multiracial democracy in which all people, including the most vulnerable, are safe and free.

The Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) did our part for civic engagement through the nonpartisan UU the Vote initiative, now in its fourth election cycle. At its core, UU the Vote is grounded in the belief that democracy is more than elections. It is created through the ways people show up for one another, build trust across differences, and embody their values in public life. The campaign seeks to nurture that culture of participation while equipping congregations and community leaders with the tools needed to organize effectively in their local contexts. In 2026, the campaign focused on reaching more than 1.5 million voters, organizing at least 25 voter contact actions, and engaging over 1,000 volunteers nationwide.

We are proud of our efforts, just as we are proud of the work by millions of Americans who participated in this election by running for office, supporting a campaign or ballot initiative, or voting. It is through this kind of pluralistic, interdependent organizing that we can help to create a society that is committed to justice, equity, generosity, and transformation, moving together toward love.

 

Signs of Autumn: Subtle Clues that Fall is Near or Here   November Sunday Services 

All services begin at 11:00 AM and occur at 184 Longview Hts., Athens, OH 45701

Sunday , November 1- We Remember Them – annual ancestor memorial led by Roberta Roberson

Join us as we gather to remember, share stories, and honor our loved ones (pets count too!) who have passed on. Feel free to bring a photograph or other memento for our memory table.

By Christine Robinson…
“At this darkening time of the year, our thoughts turn to things past, to life retreating, to those who are no longer with us. Images come to our minds; of dear companions, who once graced our lives, loved ones whom we miss, persons whose lives made an impact on our lives; of all those who were here, contributing, caring, and are now gone.
Our memories bring both joy and sadness; let us not push these feelings away. For our recollections attest to the enduring importance of these friends, this love, our memories.
May these brave and lovely spirits live again in our tender thoughts, and prove that death and distance are powerless to sever the bonds that connect truly loving hearts.”
Service leader Roberta Roberson

Sunday , November 8 –  If we’re going to read the Bible, let’s do it like this. 

On November 8, the service will center on the Bible’s influence on society and how Unitarian Universalists can critically and constructively engage it. While our faith affirms that religious authority does not reside in any single text, developing a proactive framework for engaging Biblical texts allows us to reclaim narratives that align with our deepest values.

We will examine how all texts are inevitably read through cultural lenses, and how centering Black, womanist, and queer liberationist hermeneutics can amplify the UU voice for systemic justice and social transformation.

POTLUCK Sunday – November 8th following service.  Please label your dish with ingredients so that those with dietary needs can eat confidently .

 

Sunday, November 15 – Title: Once You Were a Stranger Too

Theme: Radical Welcome, Shared Humanity, and Belonging
Description:
In a world that frequently draws lines between “us” and “them,” this service calls us back to a core truth found across human traditions: we share a common story of seeking sanctuary, connection, and belonging. “Once You Were a Stranger Too” explores the journey of radical hospitality, empathy, and community.
Through music, shared reflections, and contemplative readings, we examine what it means to open our doors and our hearts to the unfamiliar—and how embracing the “stranger” transforms us from isolated individuals into a deeply interconnected community. Whether you are seeking a spiritual home, a space for reflection, or simply a place to be authentically yourself, you are welcome here. Join us as we honor our shared journeys and cultivate a space where no one remains a stranger. Service leader, Anna Mather, Message Eli Corp

Sundayt November 22 – Transgender Day of Remembrance –  Griff and Nellie -Please join us for this service as we remember those killed due to their trans gender identity. More details to come. Service leader Nellie James , Message, Griff

 

Sunday November 29 –Friendsgiving  at UUFA 

Please join us for a true, holiday potluck style meal! In many lives the holidays may be spent differently this year and away from loved ones. Whatever your circumstance, YOU are welcome at this potluck style community meal.
Please join us and bring your favorite potluck dish. We ask that you label your dish with ingredients so that we can keep everyone healthy!   If you are unable to bring a dish you are welcome !  UUs Side With Love ❤️

 

UUFA Member Events: 

Election Night Watch Party – UUFA 8:00 pm Tuesday, November 3, BYOB and Snacks – thanks to all who attended 🙂

Holiday Party & Decorating – Friday, December 4 – 7pm – BYOB & Snacks- Family Friendly

The membership committee generated some itdeas for future events such as game nights in the winter, attending sporting events together in town or other public events and rallies.  If you have ideas for membership sponsored events see Jenn Watson or Anna Mather.

Woven Faith – Covenant is our theme for the month

In Unitarian Universalist communities, a covenant is not a statement of what we must believe. It is a set of promises about how we will live together. Living together encompasses how we will welcome one another, listen across differences, respond when harm happens, and work toward the community we hope to become.

Important Dates in November
● American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month
● Sunday, November 1: All Saints’ Day; clocks BACK one hour
● Monday, November 2: All Souls’ Day
● Sunday, November 8: Diwali
● Wednesday, November 11: Veterans Day, Remembrance Day (Canada)
● Friday, November 20: Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR)
● Thursday, November 26: Thanksgiving (US) / National Day of Mourning
● Sunday, November 29: First Sunday of Advent

 

Want to Get More Involved at UUFA?  Here’s How.

Volunteer needs include; 

writing an ariticle for the Greensheet/monthly newsletter – see Barb Harrison

creating social media posts  – see Barb Harrison

Sunday morning set-up

Sunday morning greeting and assisting folks as they arrive

Water plants

remove trash and sweep floor

 

Leadership monthly meetings

(open to all members, let leaders know if you’re interested or would like more information of the role of the group)

Executive Committee – 2nd Ssaturday of each month – 10:00 am – Noon –  Richard Thieret, UUFA President, building use coordinator, facilities rep. to the board, Pete Mather, President-Elect, Susan Westenbarger, Treasurer, Roberta Roberson, Co-Recorder, Barb Harrison, Co-Recorder, Sexton, Fred Snell, Andy Ray, At-Large member, Jessie Roberson, At-large member, Jeff Wunderly, At-Large Member, Nellie James, At-Large Member

Worship/Sunday Program Team  – 1st Tuesday evening of the month – 7:00 pm – Barb Harrison, Chairperson, Members, Pete Mather, Roberta Roberson, Jessie Roberson, Nellie James, Jeff Wunderly

Tech Committee – 1st Monday of each month at 7:00 pm –  Andy Ray, Barb Harrison, Roberta Roberson, Pat Gordon, Leanne

Membership Committee –  3rd  Thursday evening of each month – 5:30 pm – Jackie O/s Tap room –  Jenn Watson or Anna Mather.  Members:  Jeff Wunderly, Roberta Roberson, Jessie Roberson, Barb Harrison

 

 

If you’d like, submit thoughts on how this election has or will impact you and your loved ones. We will include in the December Greensheet. Send to: barbunday@gmail.com