At the Autumn Equinox, the cool, starlit nights begin to surpass the daylight, and the earth around us begins to prepare for the colder months. Drawing on the wisdom of both ancient stories and living nature, we will reflect on the idea of letting go, not just as a way of clearing space, but also as a way of nurturing the seeds of new beginnings.
Join us for our September Worship Series, Beginnings, at 10:00 EDT this morning in person and on Zoom as Embers (the Earth Mindfulness Based on Earth Religions and Spirituality group) shares their message, “Beginning Starts With Letting Go”. If you are attending the service by Zoom, please install the Zoom app on your device and use Meeting ID: 890 7958 2989. We will begin admitting guests at 9:45 a.m.
Please email or text Prayer Requests to: joysandsorrows@oruuc.org.
The Share-the-Plate recipient for the month of September is Ecumenical Storehouse. Since 1984, members of ORUUC, along with volunteers from other Oak Ridge churches, have collected and distributed household goods to thousands of area families in need during emergency situations, including those impacted by fires, flooding, and family crises. This ministry has repurposed tons of useful items, redirecting them from landfills into the hands of those who need them. Please give here: https://onrealm.org/oruuc/-/form/give/now as you are willing and able, or text “ORUUC” to 73256.
After worship, you’re invited to enjoy coffee and conversation in the Social Hall. Youth and Adult Faith Formation classes meet from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. The nursery is available during worship and second hour. Find out more about our regular Faith Formation opportunities for adults here: http://www.oruuc.org/faith-formation-for-adults and children and youth here: http://www.oruuc.org/religious-education.
Looking ahead: A reminder that this Friday, Sept. 25 is our free Stone Soup Community Meal! Stop by Friday between 5:30 and 6:30 p.m. for Martha's Veggie Beef Soup, fresh fruit, and Oatmeal Scotchies. Thanks, as always, to our community partner, the Jewish Congregation of Oak Ridge, and to the many volunteers who meal plan, shop, prep, cook, bake, serve, deliver meals, and clean up! Reach out to Jessica Saiz, Jen Stark, or April Dixon if you’d like to help.
Masks are not required in the building; however, they are available, along with hand sanitizer, in various locations throughout the church. We encourage you to assess your personal health risks and do what makes you feel comfortable, whether that means wearing a mask or worshiping with ORUUC from home on Zoom. We appreciate your continued cooperation as we work to keep our community safe and healthy.
We welcome you to be part of this time with us, and we look forward to seeing you in person or on Zoom.