< To Upcoming Services Watch the eBlast for the next scheduled Yule The UUSE Pagan Group will be holding a ritual for the Yule holiday on December 17 at 1 PM at UUSE. Weather permitting, we may be able to have a fire outside. If not, we'll light up the sanctuary to celebrate the return of light. For more info or to get involved, contact Sandy Johnson. The UUSE Pagan Group will be holding a ritual for the Yule holiday on December 17 at 1 PM at UUSE. Weather permitting, we may be able to have a fire outside. If not, we'll light up the sanctuary to celebrate the return of light. For more info or to get involved, contact Sandy Johnson. OOS Sermon YouTube

Our annual appeal raises over 90% of our operating budget each year. Deck The Halls There is no Deck the Halls Scheduled for 2023. Deck The Halls is where kids and families get together to decorate the sanctuary for the holiday season, making constrution paper chains, threading popcorn, hanging lights and ornaments on the tree, singing carols and enjoying good cheer. Heading 2

This is the page with our minister, our director of child and youth ministries, and our music director. Our Staff Rev. Josh Pawelek Minister Josh came to us in 2002. He often expresses his gratitude for the work and love of our community, but rest assured we know exactly how lucky we are to have his leadership. A theistic Unitarian Universalist, Josh is a spiritual leader dedicated to transformative preaching, teaching, healing and social justice ministries. He lives that dedication to the greater good. The man works tirelessly for social justice for all human beings, at national, state, and local levels - plus, he participates in every level of our services, beyond preaching. He happily plays parts in children's stories, leads hymns, and supports the creativity of our whole spiritual community. Well, after all, he was a drummer in a rock band, as you will see during some services! (860) 652-8961. minister@uuse.org Emmy Galbraith Director of Children and Youth Ministry UUSE’s Committee for Children and Youth Ministry, Policy Board, and Rev. Josh Pawelek are overjoyed to announce the hiring of Emmy Galbraith as our new Director of Children and Youth Ministry (DCYM). Emmy has worked with UUSE’s Children and Youth Ministry in the past as a staff member, a volunteer and a parent. She brings to the position a wide range of work experience, great passion and enthusiasm, and a commitment both to Unitarian Universalism and to children’s spiritual development. dcym@uuse.org Mary Bopp Music Director Mary has served UUSE since 2015, after over 30 years as a professional full-time musician in New York City! An award-winning artist, Mary brings more than hymns and classical composers' music to our services. She is also an improv-magician to many, directs our choir with her unique creativity and adaptability, and brings a variety of professional artists to perform at services and more! Mary is a beloved inspiration to us all. music@uuse.org Annie Gentile Office Manager Annie Gentile joined UUSE as office administrator in 2000. She is, among other things, the friendly voice on the other end of the phone when you call weekdays and is always happy to help you with any of your questions about our church organization. 860 646-5151 uuseoffice@uuse.org Molly Vigeant Nursery Coordinator I've gone to UUSE since I was in nursery myself. I'm a special needs paraprofessional and a mom. UUSE's youth programs met my incessant curiosity with consistent open-minded love and compassion, it is my goal as nursery coordinator to be one of the people who shares their open-minded love and compassion with future generations. uusecym@uuse.org Jane Osborn Building Manger / Tech Leader Jane manages all aspects of our building maintenance, but she is also our amazing tech guru, assuring the excellent sound and visual quality of our hybrid Sunday services. On top of this, over 10 years ago, she independently founded the ever-growing Manchesters Women's Sacred Singing Circle, housed here at UUSE. As an artisan and builder, Jane has also built canoes, musical instruments, and more— come join us as we see what's next! 860 646-5151 sexton@uuse.org

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< To Upcoming Services Watch the eBlast for the next scheduled Sitting in Silence Together Sitting in Silence Together Monday, October 20th at 3:00 P.M. in the Meeting Room Join the UUSE Buddhist Group for in-person meditation at 3:00 P.M. Monday, October 20th, in the Meeting Room. At a recent service, Rev. Josh talked about how rare it is to be quiet together with other people--and how it is beneficial for us. Here's your chance. There'll be some instruction, then we'll sit. We may do some optional walking meditation. Contact Nancy Thompson with questions: uuseoffice@uuse.org #eBlast-10-15 Sitting in Silence Together Monday, October 20th at 3:00 P.M. in the Meeting Room Join the UUSE Buddhist Group for in-person meditation at 3:00 P.M. Monday, October 20th , in the Meeting Room. At a recent service, Rev. Josh talked about how rare it is to be quiet together with other people--and how it is beneficial for us. Here's your chance. There'll be some instruction, then we'll sit. We may do some optional walking meditation. Contact Nancy Thompson with questions: uuseoffice@uuse.org #eBlast -10-15 OOS Sermon YouTube

< To Upcoming Services Sep 17, 2026 Manchester Women's Sacred Singing Circle . Every Thursday at 7 PM We sing songs and chants from a variety of traditions, including some written by women from circles around the country, including our own. All are about the earth, healing, spirit, and, of course, women. Come late, leave early, or stay the whole time. Come every week or off and on, when you choose. But come! We have so much fun each week, we want you to join us in the laughter, song and community! For more information contact Jane at sexton@uuse.org Every Thursday at 7 PM We sing songs and chants from a variety of traditions, including some written by women from circles around the country, including our own. All are about the earth, healing, spirit, and, of course, women. Come late, leave early, or stay the whole time. Come every week or off and on, when you choose. But come! We have so much fun each week, we want you to join us in the laughter, song and community! For more information contact Jane at sexton@uuse.org OOS Sermon YouTube

The monthly C&YM column holds a trove of interesting ideas for your kids. Volunteers Needed Together, We Make CYM Possible The Children & Youth Ministry is run by professionals and volunteers working together. We ask that families who enroll their children in the program offer to help—there are LOTS of options designed to fit different comfort levels and availability. Adults without children in the program often help as well! Many hands make light work—and allow all volunteers a chance to become connected to the program, while still having the ability to attend services and feel spiritually nurtured. Family Volunteers Families who enroll their children in the CYM program are asked to make a volunteer commitment by serving on one of our classroom Teaching Teams. These teams meet regularly with a member of the CYM Committee to plan age-appropriate classroom activities. Parents and caregivers play a vital role in creating a welcoming and supportive environment for our children and youth. They contribute directly to the quality and spirit of the program. Shared involvement also deepens connections between families, children, and the wider congregation. Everyone’s Gifts Make a Difference Our congregation includes many talented individuals with a wide range of skills, life experiences, and perspectives to share. These gifts enrich our CYM program in countless ways. Volunteers who do not have children in the program are welcome, encouraged, and essential to our success. They serve in classrooms, assist with special projects and events, and support the program behind the scenes. Their presence strengthens intergenerational connections and helps create a vibrant, inclusive learning environment for our children and youth. Ways to Help You can make a difference in many ways—whether in a classroom or behind the scenes. Teaching Team Member – Support a class and help plan Sunday activities. Event Helper – Assist with intergenerational events or special celebrations. Mentor – Support youth to explore their talents and beliefs and connect more deeply with the community. Guest Storyteller or Artist – Share your skills or life experiences with children and youth. Ready to Get Involved? Whether you can offer one Sunday a month or help on occasion, your participation matters. Contact the Director of CYM at dcym@uuse.org . Every contribution—big or small—helps our children and youth feel seen, supported, and inspired. Together, we’re nurturing a community where every child, youth, and adult can learn, grow, and belong.

< To Upcoming Services Dec 8, 2024 On Being Present in the Dark Season This morning, we continue exploring our December ministry theme, presence. Rev. Josh offers reflections on presence during the dark days of late autumn as the winter solstice approaches. Coordinator: Rev. Josh Pawelek. #eBlast-12-04 Sunday, December 8 : On Being Present in the Dark Season . This morning we continue exploring our December ministry theme, presence. Rev. Josh offers reflections on presence during the dark days of late autumn as the winter solstice approaches. Coordinator: Rev. Josh Pawelek #DecemberNewsletter OOS Sermon YouTube

Music + Mantra: Kirtan at UUSE A welcoming community of music, meditation, and connection Join us for Music + Mantra, a recurring series of live kirtan gatherings at the Unitarian Universalist Society: East (UUSE) in Manchester, CT. Led by Heart Centered Kirtan, these events offer a warm, inclusive space to connect through music, mantra, and shared presence. What is Kirtan? Kirtan is a form of participatory music that blends melody, rhythm, and meditation. Rooted in the devotional singing traditions of India, kirtan invites people of all backgrounds to join in simple, call-and-response chanting. You don’t need to be a singer or have any experience—just an open heart and a willingness to listen and participate. The focus is on community, not performance. Through music and repetition, we create a shared space for reflection, connection, and joy. Led by Heart Centered Kirtan Our gatherings are led by Libby Volckening (vocals/keys), Ezra Landis (guitar), Reed Sutherland (bass), and Chris Ball (drums). Together, they bring a contemporary sound to this ancient practice—grounded in authenticity, openness, and community spirit. When and Where All Music + Mantra events are held on Sundays at 3:00 PM in the UUSE sanctuary: 153 Vernon Street West, Manchester, CT Upcoming 2026 dates: March 22 Admission: By free-will donation ($20 suggested) at the door. No one is ever turned away. Chair seating is available, or bring your own floor cushion. Please note: UUSE is a scent-free space. Download the Flyer Click here to download the latest event flyer and share it with friends: Music+Mantra Flyer PDF . All Are Welcome These gatherings are open to people of all ages, backgrounds, and spiritual traditions. Whether you come for the music, the meditation, or the sense of community, you’ll find a place where everyone’s voice belongs. Stay Connected Join the local kirtan community on Facebook: Central CT Community Kirtan . About UUSE The Unitarian Universalist Society East is a welcoming congregation. Our Music + Mantra series reflects our values by creating opportunities for reflection, belonging, and shared expression through music for people of all backgrounds.

< To Upcoming Services Watch the eBlast for the next scheduled Art Show Opening Reception Art Show Opening Reception, Friday September 18th 7 to 9PM OOS Sermon YouTube

What you might traditionally call Sunday School is what we call Programs for Children under Child and Youth Ministries. 2024-25 Programs and Activities 2025-2026 Curricula Button Elementary Workshops (Gr 1-5) Button Junior Youth Group (Gr 6-8) Button Events for Families of All Ages Button Nursery (Infant to 3yrs) Button Twilight Zone (Gr 6-7) Button Affirmation (High School) Button Spirit Play (4-5 yrs) Button Our Whole Lives (Gr 7-8) Button HS Youth Group (Gr 9 & up) Button Contact Us Emmy, the Director of CYM, can be reached by email at dcym@uuse.org And the CYM Committee is available for questions or comments at uusecym@uuse.org