< To Upcoming Services Nov 23, 2025 Gratitude for UUSE "Gratitude for UUSE" UUSE members express their gratitude for UUSE and the many ways in which our beloved community makes our lives richer. Coordinators : Sandy Karosi and Paula Baker Services at 9:00 and 11:00 A.M. #eBlast-11-19 "Gratitude for UUSE" UUSE members express their gratitude for UUSE and the many ways in which our beloved community makes our lives richer. Coordinators : Sandy Karosi and Paula Baker Services at 9:00 and 11:00 A.M. Sunday, November 23, 2025 In Case You Missed It #eBlast -11-19 OOS Sermon YouTube

< To Upcoming Services Jul 21, 2024 Let Us All Sing. Come one, come all! Great fun for all ages and musical abilities: Join us at 10 A.M. for UUSE's first request-a-hymn service since before COVID! We've received over ten hymn requests already, and we'll have time for more. Bring the name of your favorite hymn and our fantastic Music Director Mary Bopp will play it live while we all sing together! Coordinator: Martha Larson #eBlast-07-17 OOS Sermon YouTube

Once is a while we'll post jobs here. We don't often post jobs, but when we do, they are here. Job Postings October 26, 2026 Seeking Temporary Director of Children and Youth Ministry The Unitarian Universalist Society East (UUSE) in Manchester, CT is seeking a temporary Director of Children and Youth Ministry (DCYM) while our current director takes an extended leave of absence. This temporary position begins as soon as possible, and is expected to last for approximately one year. UUSE’s program serves approximately 60 children and youth and their families. The ideal candidate will be familiar with Unitarian Universalist religious education programs for children and youth, including Our Whole Lives. The ideal candidate will have solid organizing and communication skills, experience recruiting and resourcing volunteers, and the ability to build relationships. The UUSE DCYM position is 32 hours/week. The salary is based on the UUA Office of Church Staff Finances salary process recommendation. The DCYM works closely with the congregation’s Committee for Children and Youth Ministry and is supervised by the congregation’s minister. To express interest or to ask questions, please send a cover letter and resume to Rev. Josh Pawelek at minister@uuse.org .

< To Upcoming Services Jun 22, 2025 General Assembly Sunday Worship Sunday Service: "General Assembly Sunday Worship" This morning we will join this year's UU General Assembly Sunday worship via live stream. Worship will begin at 11:00 A.M. Join us as we come together to celebrate Unitarian Universalism. Coordinator : Vivian Carlson Special time: 11:00 A.M. #eBlast-06-18 Sunday Service: "General Assembly Sunday Worship" This morning we will join this year's UU General Assembly Sunday worship via live stream. Worship will begin at 11:00 A.M. Join us as we come together to celebrate Unitarian Universalism. Coordinator : Vivian Carlson Special time: 11:00 A.M. Sunday, June 22, 2025 #eBlast -06-18 OOS Sermon YouTube

This page has driving directions for people who what to try to find our hidden gem of a church. UUSE's Low Scent Policy In order to make UUSE accessible to people with multiple chemical sensitivities and environmental illness, UUSE strives to be a low scent and chemical-free congregation and facility. UUSE asks congregants, staff, and contractual visitors to limit their use of scented products as much as possible and to refrain from using perfumes and colognes

*OFFERED NEXT YEAR & ALTERNATE YEARS Students are advised by a mentor from our congregation as they work toward distilling their beliefs within Unitarian Universalism. The year includes a trip to the historically significant Arlington Street Church in Boston and culminates in a written credo statement presented to the congregation on Affirmation Sunday. < Back Affirmation (High School) *OFFERED NEXT YEAR & ALTERNATE YEARS Students are advised by a mentor from our congregation as they work toward distilling their beliefs within Unitarian Universalism. The year includes a trip to the historically significant Arlington Street Church in Boston and culminates in a written credo statement presented to the congregation on Affirmation Sunday. Previous Next

< To Upcoming Services Dec 31, 2023 Beloved Mystery Sunday, December 31 One service only at 10:00 a.m. The service is also live-streamed. Gathering music begins at 9:50 a.m. "Beloved Mystery." December 31 is the end of the ancient winter solstice season, the sacred time between the solstice and the beginning of the new solar year. This sacred time belongs to neither the old year nor the new year. In this time of mystery, we'll come together to share our stories of grace, mercy, faith and hope as we ready ourselves to welcome the light of the new year. Coordinator: Vivian Carlson #eBlast-12-27 One Service Only at 10:00AM December 31 is the end of the ancient winter solstice season, the sacred time between the solstice and the beginning of the new solar year. This sacred time belongs to neither the old year nor the new year. In this time of mystery, we’ll come together to share our stories of grace, mercy, faith and hope as we ready ourselves to welcome the light of the new year. Coordinator(s): Vivian Carlson No CYM programming (nursery will be open for the 10 AM service as usual) OOS Sermon YouTube

< To Upcoming Services Jul 26, 2026 Summering Our spiritual lives mirror the seasons Each season, along with each transition between the seasons, is full of spiritual significance. This morning, Rev. Josh explores the essence of our spiritual summers. Are we summering yet? Special music by Andy Ricci. Coordinator: Rev. Josh Pawelek Summer Schedule #eBlast-07-22 Sunday Service: "Summering" Our spiritual lives mirror the seasons Each season, along with each transition between the seasons, is full of spiritual significance. This morning, Rev. Josh explores the essence of our spiritual summers. Are we summering yet? Special music by Andy Ricci. Coordinator: Rev. Josh Pawelek Summer Schedule Sunday, July 26th at 10:00 A.M. In Case You Missed It #eBlast -07-22 OOS Sermon YouTube

< To Upcoming Services Watch the eBlast for the next scheduled News from Manchester Indivisible Manchester Indivisible's regular meeting will be Tuesday, October 13th, in the children's chapel from 6:30 to 8:00 P.M. They will be making posters for the No Kings: Vote Early Rally which will be held Saturday, October 17th from 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. in Center Memorial Park (next to the old Mary Cheney Library) in Manchester. There will be some poster making supplies available, but you are encouraged to bring your own also. Come join the prep and fun! #eBlast-10-07 Manchester Indivisible's regular meeting will be Tuesday, October 13th , in the children's chapel from 6:30 to 8:00 P.M. They will be making posters for the No Kings: Vote Early Rally which will be held Saturday, October 17th from 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. in Center Memorial Park (next to the old Mary Cheney Library) in Manchester. There will be some poster making supplies available, but you are encouraged to bring your own also. Come join the prep and fun! #eBlast -10-07 OOS Sermon YouTube

A welcoming community for kids and families in Manchester, CT. Explore Children & Youth Ministry at UUSE and plan your first Sunday visit. Families at UUSE A place where kids can be curious, kind, and fully themselves. Families today are looking for community—a place where their kids can be themselves, make friends, explore meaning, and learn kindness and fairness. At UUSE, children explore big questions—without pressure or dogma. UUSE is a Unitarian Universalist congregation in Manchester, CT, serving families across Hartford County as an open and inclusive spiritual community. Our Children & Youth Ministry welcomes all identities, backgrounds, and beliefs. Here, parents find connection. Kids build friendships and confidence. You are welcome exactly as you are. New to UUSE? Start Here Plan Your Family Visit A Place Where You Belong We work together to make sure every child feels safe, respected, and included. You will see families who are: LGBTQIA+ and allies Multiracial and multicultural Neurodiverse Single parents and caregivers From many faith backgrounds Exploring spirituality for the first time Children are encouraged to ask questions, share ideas, and grow at their own pace. What Families Love Families come for the community. They stay because their children feel at home. Kids here can: Make real friends Feel comfortable being themselves Explore big questions about life and values Grow in confidence What happens when you visit on a Sunday? Trying a new place can feel like a big step. Here’s what you can expect. Families begin together in worship. Children join age-based groups. Younger children may attend Children’s Chapel. Parents remain in the service or help as volunteers. After the service, adults can enjoy mingling during coffee time. CYM programs meet during the 11am service from September through June. Contact us for the summer schedule. What Kids Experience Kids learn through: Stories, play, and reflection Art, music, and creative projects like woodworking Nature explorations Conversations about fairness and justice Hands-on service projects Youth also explore identity, talk about current events, and discover new ways they can make a difference. Our Values and Principles Our Children & Youth Ministry is guided by Unitarian Universalist Values and Principles. These help shape how we learn, grow, and care for one another. Children learn that: Every person has worth and dignity. Kindness and fairness matter. It’s good to ask questions. Wisdom comes from many traditions. We care for one another and the earth. We explore these ideas in open and thoughtful ways—encouraging questions, not requiring beliefs. You do not need to be Unitarian Universalist to visit. Many families are simply looking for an open, thoughtful community. Learn More About Our Values & Principles Programs by Age We offer programs from nursery through high school. Nursery—a safe, caring space Early Childhood—play and stories Elementary—hands-on learning Middle School—identity and relationships High School—community and leadership And beyond… Families stay connected as their children grow. We continue to support young adults and college students through care packages, connection, and community. Looking for details about classes, schedules, or registration? Explore our full CYM section. Community Beyond Sunday Families connect throughout the year—on Sundays and beyond. You’ll see families from Manchester, CT, and nearby towns across Hartford and Tolland Counties gathering for: Game nights Seasonal celebrations Service projects Youth events Group outings These moments help friendships grow for kids and adults alike. See Family Events Plan Your First Visit You are welcome any Sunday. If visiting with kids feels a little uncertain, we can help. When you plan your family visit ahead, we will: Greet your family Help with check-in Introduce teachers Guide your children Your children can participate at their own comfort level. No pressure. We’ll send what you need and help your first Sunday feel easy. Email the Director of CYM Plan Your Family Visit Stay Connected Join the family email list to hear about: Weekly programs Upcoming events Community gatherings Join the Family Email List Common Questions Do kids have to go to classes? No. They are always welcome to stay with you. Do we have to be Unitarian Universalist? Not at all. Many families are exploring. What should we wear? Whatever feels comfortable. What if my child is nervous? That’s okay. We will help your family ease in at your own pace. We welcome families from Manchester, CT, and surrounding communities across Hartford County, Tolland County, and the entire New England region.

< To Upcoming Services Mar 24, 2024 On Donkeys, Palms, and Money-Changers: A Meditation for Palm Sunday. Rev. Josh takes us through Jesus' entry into Jerusalem a week prior to his execution. What might this ancient story tell us about the previous balance between humility and rage? Coordinator: Rev. Josh Pawelek #eBlast-03-20 OOS Sermon YouTube

< To Upcoming Services May 31, 2026 On Pride, Labyrinths This morning we welcome Kamora Herrington, founder of Kamora's Cultural Corner and the Sterling Street Sanctuary and Nature Reserve in Hartford. A one-time staff-member with True Colors, Ms. Herrington is an insightful historian, activist, consultant, mother, music lover and community-builder. She has the green light to speak about whatever is on her heart from UUSE's free pulpit. Coordinator: Rev. Josh Pawelek Summer Schedule #eBlast-05-27 Sunday Service: "On Pride, Labyrinths This morning we welcome Kamora Herrington, founder of Kamora's Cultural Corner and the Sterling Street Sanctuary and Nature Reserve in Hartford. A one-time staff-member with True Colors, Ms. Herrington is an insightful historian, activist, consultant, mother, music lover and community-builder. She has the green light to speak about whatever is on her heart from UUSE's free pulpit. Coordinator: Rev. Josh Pawelek Summer Schedule Sunday, May 31 at 10:00 A.M. In Case You Missed It #eBlast -05-27 OOS Sermon YouTube