< Back < Latest eBlast eBlast Article < Previous Article Next Article > Gender-Free Contra Dance Gender-Free Contra Dance Saturday, September 19, 4:00 - 7:00 P.M. at the Meeting House Reconnect after summer break at the contra dance! Kick up your heels in joyous celebration of the season and community. Greenfield-based contra caller Liz Nelson is known for her clear, easy-to-follow teaching style and welcoming energy so folks of all ages and experience levels can find joy and success dancing. Rebecca Weiss and Friends will sweep you along with new tunes and old favorites! Newcomer workshop at 3:45 p.m. More info here . Admission $15, students $5, under 12 free. Free-will donation; no one turned away. All are welcome! Sponsored by the UUSE Committee. For more information, , contact contra@uuse.org or ask Jane Osborn and Meghan MacRae. Sponsored by the Music Committee. #eBlast -09-16

< Back < Latest eBlast eBlast Article < Previous Article Next Article > Pangea Worldbeat in Concert Pangea Worldbeat in Concert Sunday, September 27, 2026 at 3:00 P.M. at UUSE This seven-member ensemble weaves an eclectic tapestry of Caribbean, Latin and African-infused jazz, featuring keyboard, saxophone/flute, guitars, vocals, drum set, conga drums and yet more percussion. Pangea Worldbeat is a high-energy blend of Afrobeat, Space-Funk, Soul, Psyche-Rock and Global Rhythms that will lift you out of your seat! Admission is by free-will donation ($20 suggested) at the door. For more information, contact uuseoffice@uuse.org , call 860-646-5151 or visit uuse.org . #eBlast -09-16

< Back < Latest eBlast eBlast Article < Previous Article Next Article > UUSE Links and Information UUSE Links and Information • Monthly Newsletter • Website • Previous Sunday Services • Children & Youth Ministry • Facebook • New England Region of the Unitarian Universalist Association uuse.org • 860-646-5151 #eBlast -09-16

< Back < Latest eBlast eBlast Article < Previous Article Next Article > The 2027 Goods & Services Auction The 2027 Goods & Services Auction The Chili Cook-Off is Back! January 30, 2027 Enjoy a free, delicious chili dinner with our vibrant beloved community, including beer & wine, cornbread, salad and dessert, plus pizza for those who don’t eat chili. Exclusive Live Event Items Places at dinners and activities offered by our members and the fabulous live auction items like Rev. Josh’s sermon will only be available at the live event. The Auction is one of our biggest fundraisers and fun family events. It’s important to our congregation. We know, it’s far away, but things get busy in the Fall. How You Can Help This Summer and Fall Donate! What can you contribute to auction off at this extraordinary event? Could you teach, repair, entertain, bake? Share your talent in other ways? We’ll have the ever-popular dinners, group activities, lessons, services and items that need a new home. As you are out and about this summer, contact your favorite merchants to ask for donations. If you love a place, others will, too. For a merchant donation letter, email auction@uuse.org . Think About Entering the Chili Cook-Off! It’s never too early to dream of your favorite chili! Who makes the best chili? Enter your tried-and-true family recipe or an experiment you’ve been wanting to try. Vegan, vegetarian, and with meat—all are welcome! Bragging rights and a beautiful UUSE Chili Cook-Off Apron are up for grabs for the winners! Entry is limited, so contact Auction@uuse.org ASAP to reserve your spot. Questions? When in doubt, email uuseoffice@uuse.org or talk to any of the Auction Committee members—Robin Byrne, Susan Gabriele, Jennifer Klee, Colin Guerette, Stan McMillen & Nancy Pappas #eBlast -09-16

What's happening at UUSE? Lots of things. So many events here to keep your mind occupied and your hands busy. eBlast for September 16th Contact the office for details - email: info@uuse.org phone : 860.646.5151 Sign up here to receive the full eBlast by email Weekly News September 16, 2026 ------------------------------ Welcome to Unitarian Universalist Society East Email our office t o receive a visitor packet or to find out more. We schedule several newcomer events throughout the year after Sunday services. ------------------------------ Sunday Service: "Beginnings" Our ministry theme for September is, appropriately, beginnings. Rev. Josh delivers his first sermon of the congregational year--on beginnings. Let's look forward to a year full of spiritual growth, learning, exploration, justice-seeking, service, and beloved community. Coordinator: Rev. Josh Pawelek Services at 9:00 and 11:00 A.M. Sunday, September 20, 2026 Gathering music starts at 8:50 and 10:50 A.M. Join the virtual service at 11:00 A.M. via our Zoom link: Contact the Office for Zoom Link . Or join by phone. Call 1-860-646-5151 Meeting ID 357 815 420#. In Case You Missed It Click here for a Youtube link to the September 6 service, "Labor in the Pulpit." Click here for a Youtube link to the September 13 "Homecoming Service" ------------------------------ CYM Registration It's time to register your child(ren) and youth for dedicated programming at UUSE! Your early registration helps us to anticipate each child's needs, keep everyone safe on the property, and support funding requests for our Children and Youth Ministry! As always, our programming is designed for all children, birth through 12th grade, with mutual support from our families and community members. If you are looking for a place where your family can show up authentically, meet like minded people and new experiences, and see and share your gifts in a meaningful and supportive setting, come visit us at UUSE! To receive more information about our program, register here . CYM Annual Harvest Brunch! Join us for the CYM Annual Harvest Brunch on Sunday, September 27 , between services (10 a.m.-ish) on the Garden Level. Bring your appetite, your own place setting an a dish to share as you are able. Open to the entire congregation, visitors, friends, and family. ------------------------------ Calling All Knitters! ------------------------------ Would you like to make hats, mittens, scarves, or some specialty of yours for the knitting/crochet booth at the Artisan Holiday Market? We are grateful for all donations! If you need a mitten or hat pattern, we can help. If you are interested or have questions, please contact Phil at uuseoffice@uuse.org or Carol at uuseoffice@uuse.org ------------------------------ Exploring Christian Nationalism ------------------------------ T he Social Justice/Anti-Oppression Committee is one of the co-sponsors of a two-part series exploring Christian Nationalism's ascent to power in the US. It will be available in person and on zoom. Part 1: Book Discussion: "Baptizing America" moderated by Rev. Dr. David Grafton Sunday, September 27 , noon-2pm Universalist Church of West Hartford Part 2: Screening and Discussion of the documentary "Bad Faith." Sunday, Octotber 18 , noon-2 pm Temple Sinai in Newington. Register here or email uuseoffice@uuse.org . ------------------------------ Walking with Grief Support for the Journey of Loss Wednesdays 9/16 - 11/4, 1:00 P.M. to 2:30 P.M. ------------------------------ This eight-week series will be held at The Spiritual Life Center at 76 Sherman Street in the West End of Hartford with Nancy Janiszewski and Donna Dellacamera. A small community of participants will be guided through spiritual exploration as they navigate the path of loss and the grieving process. The group experience will offer deep listening, compassion, and camaraderie while encouraging self-care and patience. Through the sharing of our stories, we will deepen our understanding of grief and what it asks of us. As we grow in conscious awareness of grief's movement within us, we find that awareness itself becomes a source of support and healing. Grounded in a spiritual direction model of support, this is a space of presence, not solutions, where the path toward healing unfolds at its own pace. We welcome you wherever you are on your own journey. For more information and to register, click here . ------------------------------ Calling All Artists, Photographers and Poets UUSE will be hosting The Art Child, The Turning of the Seasons by Alicia Poland-Brown from September 18th to the 30th. Join us for the opening on Friday, September 18th, 6:30 to 8:30 P.M. The Fall UUSE art exhibit for the Sanctuary will open on Sunday, October 4th . Register your entries with Carol Marion at uuseoffice@uuse.org by September 28th and include title, medium, price (if for sale) and a photo (if you wish to have your submission included in the sanctuary slide show. Drop off entries on Thursday, October 1st from 11:00 A.M. to 12:30 P.M. Our Fall theme "Bright Colors" invites us to go beyond Fall images and colors. Let's explore color and how color influences our moods and outlook on the world. Fall themes are also welcome. Poets , please send your poems to Carol for mounting by Monday, September 28th. If you would like to include a photo or a small piece of artwork, please send it along as well. Questions? Please contact Eric Vogel or Janet Heller. For those who had pieces in the summer exhibit and have not yet picked them up, please stop by Annie's office to retrieve them. ------------------------------ Gender-Free Contra Dance Saturday, September 19, 4:00 - 7:00 P.M. at the Meeting House Reconnect after summer break at the contra dance! Kick up your heels in joyous celebration of the season and community. Greenfield-based contra caller Liz Nelson is known for her clear, easy-to-follow teaching style and welcoming energy so folks of all ages and experience levels can find joy and success dancing. Rebecca Weiss and Friends will sweep you along with new tunes and old favorites! Newcomer workshop at 3:45 p.m. More info here . Admission $15, students $5, under 12 free. Free-will donation; no one turned away. All are welcome! Sponsored by the UUSE Committee. For more information, , contact contra@uuse.org or ask Jane Osborn and Meghan MacRae. Sponsored by the Music Committee. ------------------------------ Pangea Worldbeat in Concert Sunday, September 27, 2026 at 3:00 P.M. at UUSE This seven-member ensemble weaves an eclectic tapestry of Caribbean, Latin and African-infused jazz, featuring keyboard, saxophone/flute, guitars, vocals, drum set, conga drums and yet more percussion. Pangea Worldbeat is a high-energy blend of Afrobeat, Space-Funk, Soul, Psyche-Rock and Global Rhythms that will lift you out of your seat! Admission is by free-will donation ($20 suggested) at the door. For more information, contact uuseoffice@uuse.org , call 860-646-5151 or visit uuse.org . ------------------------------ Postcarding for the Environmental Voter Project Sunday, September 27 and Sunday, October 4 - 1:00 to 3:00 P.M. UUSE's Sustainable Living Committee, in conjunction with Third Act--Connecticut's Defending Democracy team--will be gathering to write postcards for the Environmental Voter Project (EVP), in order to turn infrequently-voting people in swing states whose highest priority is the environment, into reliable voters. On September 27 we'll gather in Room 3 and on October 4 we'll be in the Children' Chapel/Room 1 Postcards, stamps, addresses, message text and pens provided. All are welcome! Contact Carole Tenny for further information. ------------------------------ Intro to Unitarian Universalism Sunday, September 27, 1:00 to 4:00 P.M. - Garden Level Chapel Please attend our next Intro to UU. Rev. Josh Pawelek and the Membership Committee invite you to an informative seminar which will include a brief history and background of our theology, UUSE's mission, programs and facilities, an opportunity to meet others interested in Unitarian Universalism and a sharing of stories about what brings us together. There is no cost or obligation. To register, please contact Annie Gentile at (860) 646-5151 or uuseoffice@uuse.org . RSVP by Thursday, September 24th and let us know if you will need childcare. We hope you will join us! Coffeehouse & Open Mic ------------------------------ Join us on the first Saturday of each month, October through May, for an evening of music, poetry, stories, and community! Bring your own songs, poems, stories or any creative offering -- or simply come enjoy the warm, supportive atmosphere as part of our appreciative audience. Sign-ups begin at 6:00 P.M., and family friendly performances start at 6:30 P.M. We feature 12 slots, each about 10 minutes or two songs. Bring your own drinks, your own dinner and your own friends -- we'll provide the coffee. Donations accepted but not required. ------------------------------ The 2027 Goods & Services Auction The Chili Cook-Off is Back! January 30, 2027 Enjoy a free, delicious chili dinner with our vibrant beloved community, including beer & wine, cornbread, salad and dessert, plus pizza for those who don’t eat chili. Exclusive Live Event Items Places at dinners and activities offered by our members and the fabulous live auction items like Rev. Josh’s sermon will only be available at the live event. The Auction is one of our biggest fundraisers and fun family events. It’s important to our congregation. We know, it’s far away, but things get busy in the Fall. How You Can Help This Summer and Fall Donate! What can you contribute to auction off at this extraordinary event? Could you teach, repair, entertain, bake? Share your talent in other ways? We’ll have the ever-popular dinners, group activities, lessons, services and items that need a new home. As you are out and about this summer, contact your favorite merchants to ask for donations. If you love a place, others will, too. For a merchant donation letter, email auction@uuse.org . Think About Entering the Chili Cook-Off! It’s never too early to dream of your favorite chili! Who makes the best chili? Enter your tried-and-true family recipe or an experiment you’ve been wanting to try. Vegan, vegetarian, and with meat—all are welcome! Bragging rights and a beautiful UUSE Chili Cook-Off Apron are up for grabs for the winners! Entry is limited, so contact Auction@uuse.org ASAP to reserve your spot. Questions? When in doubt, email uuseoffice@uuse.org or talk to any of the Auction Committee members—Robin Byrne, Susan Gabriele, Jennifer Klee, Colin Guerette, Stan McMillen & Nancy Pappas ------------------------------ Armond and Angelina's Native American Flute Playshop Monday, October 5th at 7:00 P.M. at UUSE For centuries people have been mesmerized by the hypnotic sounds from these gentle, easy to play flutes. Whether you have a musical background or have always wanted to play a musical instrument, THIS PLAYSHOP IS FOR YOU. Practice flutes are available, or you may purchase one. Armand and Angelina are a full-time Interfaith Musical Ministry. They have taught Native American Flute Playshops at over 500 Interfaith churches across the country. Recommended $20 freewill donation. Help Children Learn to Read Can you spare an hour a week to help young students become stronger readers? UUSE volunteers work with kindergarten and first grade students at Verplanck Elementary School in Manchester. Last year (2025-26) we helped to pioneer a new model: The same students got 15 minutes of one-on-one help four days a week. Educators found the "intervention group" made progress more quickly than other classmates. Equally important, the children seem to look forward to their time with our volunteers. We hope to recruit 16 volunteers to commit to an hour per week in late morning. Training will be in early October and then tutors meet their students. It is truly rewarding to visit this public school each week, see talented teachers in action and support what the faculty calls "our scholars." Please email Nancy Thompson, uuseoffice@uuse.org , by September 20 with your questions and (we hope) commitment. Thank you! ------------------------------ "In an Emergency, the Plan is Useless" September's Message For nearly a decade, UUSE has had an Emergency Management Plan as its policy. This defines immediate actions to be taken for ten different hazards risking life, limb or property before 911 responders arrive. But when an emergency strikes, there is no time to find and read that plan. One must learn ahead what to do. To be prepared, here's one action to know for one of the hazards. You can obtain a printed copy of the UUSE Emergency Management Plan at the church office. A quick way to learn all the actions for any hazard would be to ask for a discussion or tabletop exercise. At a future committee or group meeting, this will only take 10 to 15 minutes to learn and practice the details. Contact Annie in the office at (860) 646-5151 if interested in holding a tabletop exercise. ------------------------------ Pastoral Friends The Pastoral Friends Committee has a rotating chair throughout the year. Should you need pastoral care during the months of September or October contact Sue McMillen . ------------------------------ Ongoing Happenings at UUSE! There’s Always Something Good Going On Stop & Shop Gift Card sales after services on 1st Sundays Fair Trade Coffee/Tea/Chocolate sales after services on 2nd Sundays Yoga , every Wednesday at 10 A.M. All welcome! Manchester Women's Sacred Singing Circle , every Thursday at 7 P.M. Book Lovers , 2nd Tuesdays at 3:30 P.M. in person and on Zoom. Women's Circle , 3rd Tuesdays at 7:00 P.M. (Zoom only December through March) Email Nora Alpers-Leon at uuseoffice@uuse.org for the Zoom link. Romeos , a monthly lunch for retired men on second Tuesdays - contact the UUSE office to be put on the email list. Ladies at Lunch , a monthly women's lunch typically on second Thursdays - advertised in the weekly eblasts. Buddhist Group , 1st Tuesdays at 7 P.M. Meditation Group , 3rd Mondays, 3:30 P.M. in the Youth Group room on the Garden Level. God Talk , 4th Tuesdays at 4:30 P.M. Humanist Group , 3rd Tuesdays at 4:30 P.M. Science and Religion Discussion Group , 4th Thursdays at 4:30 P.M. September's topic: Science, Spirituality and Cymatics led by Jackie Muschiano. ------------------------------ Our Mission  Unitarian Universalist Society East is a welcoming, open-minded spiritual community seeking truth and meaning in its many forms. We share responsibility for building a more equitable, peaceful, and sustainable world. ------------------------------ UUSE Links and Information • Monthly Newsletter • Website • Previous Sunday Services • Children & Youth Ministry • Facebook • New England Region of the Unitarian Universalist Association uuse.org • 860-646-5151 ------------------------------

What's happening at UUSE? Lots of things. So many events here to keep your mind occupied and your hands busy. eBlast for September 16th Contact the office for details - email: info@uuse.org phone : 860.646.5151 Sign up here to receive the full eBlast by email Weekly News September 16, 2026 ------------------------------ Welcome to Unitarian Universalist Society East Email our office t o receive a visitor packet or to find out more. We schedule several newcomer events throughout the year after Sunday services. ------------------------------ Sunday Service: "Beginnings" Our ministry theme for September is, appropriately, beginnings. Rev. Josh delivers his first sermon of the congregational year--on beginnings. Let's look forward to a year full of spiritual growth, learning, exploration, justice-seeking, service, and beloved community. Coordinator: Rev. Josh Pawelek Services at 9:00 and 11:00 A.M. Sunday, September 20, 2026 Gathering music starts at 8:50 and 10:50 A.M. Join the virtual service at 11:00 A.M. via our Zoom link: Contact the Office for Zoom Link . Or join by phone. Call 1-860-646-5151 Meeting ID 357 815 420#. In Case You Missed It Click here for a Youtube link to the September 6 service, "Labor in the Pulpit." Click here for a Youtube link to the September 13 "Homecoming Service" ------------------------------ CYM Registration It's time to register your child(ren) and youth for dedicated programming at UUSE! Your early registration helps us to anticipate each child's needs, keep everyone safe on the property, and support funding requests for our Children and Youth Ministry! As always, our programming is designed for all children, birth through 12th grade, with mutual support from our families and community members. If you are looking for a place where your family can show up authentically, meet like minded people and new experiences, and see and share your gifts in a meaningful and supportive setting, come visit us at UUSE! To receive more information about our program, register here . CYM Annual Harvest Brunch! Join us for the CYM Annual Harvest Brunch on Sunday, September 27 , between services (10 a.m.-ish) on the Garden Level. Bring your appetite, your own place setting an a dish to share as you are able. Open to the entire congregation, visitors, friends, and family. ------------------------------ Calling All Knitters! ------------------------------ Would you like to make hats, mittens, scarves, or some specialty of yours for the knitting/crochet booth at the Artisan Holiday Market? We are grateful for all donations! If you need a mitten or hat pattern, we can help. If you are interested or have questions, please contact Phil at uuseoffice@uuse.org or Carol at uuseoffice@uuse.org ------------------------------ Exploring Christian Nationalism ------------------------------ T he Social Justice/Anti-Oppression Committee is one of the co-sponsors of a two-part series exploring Christian Nationalism's ascent to power in the US. It will be available in person and on zoom. Part 1: Book Discussion: "Baptizing America" moderated by Rev. Dr. David Grafton Sunday, September 27 , noon-2pm Universalist Church of West Hartford Part 2: Screening and Discussion of the documentary "Bad Faith." Sunday, Octotber 18 , noon-2 pm Temple Sinai in Newington. Register here or email uuseoffice@uuse.org . ------------------------------ Walking with Grief Support for the Journey of Loss Wednesdays 9/16 - 11/4, 1:00 P.M. to 2:30 P.M. ------------------------------ This eight-week series will be held at The Spiritual Life Center at 76 Sherman Street in the West End of Hartford with Nancy Janiszewski and Donna Dellacamera. A small community of participants will be guided through spiritual exploration as they navigate the path of loss and the grieving process. The group experience will offer deep listening, compassion, and camaraderie while encouraging self-care and patience. Through the sharing of our stories, we will deepen our understanding of grief and what it asks of us. As we grow in conscious awareness of grief's movement within us, we find that awareness itself becomes a source of support and healing. Grounded in a spiritual direction model of support, this is a space of presence, not solutions, where the path toward healing unfolds at its own pace. We welcome you wherever you are on your own journey. For more information and to register, click here . ------------------------------ Calling All Artists, Photographers and Poets UUSE will be hosting The Art Child, The Turning of the Seasons by Alicia Poland-Brown from September 18th to the 30th. Join us for the opening on Friday, September 18th, 6:30 to 8:30 P.M. The Fall UUSE art exhibit for the Sanctuary will open on Sunday, October 4th . Register your entries with Carol Marion at uuseoffice@uuse.org by September 28th and include title, medium, price (if for sale) and a photo (if you wish to have your submission included in the sanctuary slide show. Drop off entries on Thursday, October 1st from 11:00 A.M. to 12:30 P.M. Our Fall theme "Bright Colors" invites us to go beyond Fall images and colors. Let's explore color and how color influences our moods and outlook on the world. Fall themes are also welcome. Poets , please send your poems to Carol for mounting by Monday, September 28th. If you would like to include a photo or a small piece of artwork, please send it along as well. Questions? Please contact Eric Vogel or Janet Heller. For those who had pieces in the summer exhibit and have not yet picked them up, please stop by Annie's office to retrieve them. ------------------------------ Gender-Free Contra Dance Saturday, September 19, 4:00 - 7:00 P.M. at the Meeting House Reconnect after summer break at the contra dance! Kick up your heels in joyous celebration of the season and community. Greenfield-based contra caller Liz Nelson is known for her clear, easy-to-follow teaching style and welcoming energy so folks of all ages and experience levels can find joy and success dancing. Rebecca Weiss and Friends will sweep you along with new tunes and old favorites! Newcomer workshop at 3:45 p.m. More info here . Admission $15, students $5, under 12 free. Free-will donation; no one turned away. All are welcome! Sponsored by the UUSE Committee. For more information, , contact contra@uuse.org or ask Jane Osborn and Meghan MacRae. Sponsored by the Music Committee. ------------------------------ Pangea Worldbeat in Concert Sunday, September 27, 2026 at 3:00 P.M. at UUSE This seven-member ensemble weaves an eclectic tapestry of Caribbean, Latin and African-infused jazz, featuring keyboard, saxophone/flute, guitars, vocals, drum set, conga drums and yet more percussion. Pangea Worldbeat is a high-energy blend of Afrobeat, Space-Funk, Soul, Psyche-Rock and Global Rhythms that will lift you out of your seat! Admission is by free-will donation ($20 suggested) at the door. For more information, contact uuseoffice@uuse.org , call 860-646-5151 or visit uuse.org . ------------------------------ Postcarding for the Environmental Voter Project Sunday, September 27 and Sunday, October 4 - 1:00 to 3:00 P.M. UUSE's Sustainable Living Committee, in conjunction with Third Act--Connecticut's Defending Democracy team--will be gathering to write postcards for the Environmental Voter Project (EVP), in order to turn infrequently-voting people in swing states whose highest priority is the environment, into reliable voters. On September 27 we'll gather in Room 3 and on October 4 we'll be in the Children' Chapel/Room 1 Postcards, stamps, addresses, message text and pens provided. All are welcome! Contact Carole Tenny for further information. ------------------------------ Intro to Unitarian Universalism Sunday, September 27, 1:00 to 4:00 P.M. - Garden Level Chapel Please attend our next Intro to UU. Rev. Josh Pawelek and the Membership Committee invite you to an informative seminar which will include a brief history and background of our theology, UUSE's mission, programs and facilities, an opportunity to meet others interested in Unitarian Universalism and a sharing of stories about what brings us together. There is no cost or obligation. To register, please contact Annie Gentile at (860) 646-5151 or uuseoffice@uuse.org . RSVP by Thursday, September 24th and let us know if you will need childcare. We hope you will join us! Coffeehouse & Open Mic ------------------------------ Join us on the first Saturday of each month, October through May, for an evening of music, poetry, stories, and community! Bring your own songs, poems, stories or any creative offering -- or simply come enjoy the warm, supportive atmosphere as part of our appreciative audience. Sign-ups begin at 6:00 P.M., and family friendly performances start at 6:30 P.M. We feature 12 slots, each about 10 minutes or two songs. Bring your own drinks, your own dinner and your own friends -- we'll provide the coffee. Donations accepted but not required. ------------------------------ The 2027 Goods & Services Auction The Chili Cook-Off is Back! January 30, 2027 Enjoy a free, delicious chili dinner with our vibrant beloved community, including beer & wine, cornbread, salad and dessert, plus pizza for those who don’t eat chili. Exclusive Live Event Items Places at dinners and activities offered by our members and the fabulous live auction items like Rev. Josh’s sermon will only be available at the live event. The Auction is one of our biggest fundraisers and fun family events. It’s important to our congregation. We know, it’s far away, but things get busy in the Fall. How You Can Help This Summer and Fall Donate! What can you contribute to auction off at this extraordinary event? Could you teach, repair, entertain, bake? Share your talent in other ways? We’ll have the ever-popular dinners, group activities, lessons, services and items that need a new home. As you are out and about this summer, contact your favorite merchants to ask for donations. If you love a place, others will, too. For a merchant donation letter, email auction@uuse.org . Think About Entering the Chili Cook-Off! It’s never too early to dream of your favorite chili! Who makes the best chili? Enter your tried-and-true family recipe or an experiment you’ve been wanting to try. Vegan, vegetarian, and with meat—all are welcome! Bragging rights and a beautiful UUSE Chili Cook-Off Apron are up for grabs for the winners! Entry is limited, so contact Auction@uuse.org ASAP to reserve your spot. Questions? When in doubt, email uuseoffice@uuse.org or talk to any of the Auction Committee members—Robin Byrne, Susan Gabriele, Jennifer Klee, Colin Guerette, Stan McMillen & Nancy Pappas ------------------------------ Armond and Angelina's Native American Flute Playshop Monday, October 5th at 7:00 P.M. at UUSE For centuries people have been mesmerized by the hypnotic sounds from these gentle, easy to play flutes. Whether you have a musical background or have always wanted to play a musical instrument, THIS PLAYSHOP IS FOR YOU. Practice flutes are available, or you may purchase one. Armand and Angelina are a full-time Interfaith Musical Ministry. They have taught Native American Flute Playshops at over 500 Interfaith churches across the country. Recommended $20 freewill donation. Help Children Learn to Read Can you spare an hour a week to help young students become stronger readers? UUSE volunteers work with kindergarten and first grade students at Verplanck Elementary School in Manchester. Last year (2025-26) we helped to pioneer a new model: The same students got 15 minutes of one-on-one help four days a week. Educators found the "intervention group" made progress more quickly than other classmates. Equally important, the children seem to look forward to their time with our volunteers. We hope to recruit 16 volunteers to commit to an hour per week in late morning. Training will be in early October and then tutors meet their students. It is truly rewarding to visit this public school each week, see talented teachers in action and support what the faculty calls "our scholars." Please email Nancy Thompson, uuseoffice@uuse.org , by September 20 with your questions and (we hope) commitment. Thank you! ------------------------------ "In an Emergency, the Plan is Useless" September's Message For nearly a decade, UUSE has had an Emergency Management Plan as its policy. This defines immediate actions to be taken for ten different hazards risking life, limb or property before 911 responders arrive. But when an emergency strikes, there is no time to find and read that plan. One must learn ahead what to do. To be prepared, here's one action to know for one of the hazards. You can obtain a printed copy of the UUSE Emergency Management Plan at the church office. A quick way to learn all the actions for any hazard would be to ask for a discussion or tabletop exercise. At a future committee or group meeting, this will only take 10 to 15 minutes to learn and practice the details. Contact Annie in the office at (860) 646-5151 if interested in holding a tabletop exercise. ------------------------------ Pastoral Friends The Pastoral Friends Committee has a rotating chair throughout the year. Should you need pastoral care during the months of September or October contact Sue McMillen . ------------------------------ Ongoing Happenings at UUSE! There’s Always Something Good Going On Stop & Shop Gift Card sales after services on 1st Sundays Fair Trade Coffee/Tea/Chocolate sales after services on 2nd Sundays Yoga , every Wednesday at 10 A.M. All welcome! Manchester Women's Sacred Singing Circle , every Thursday at 7 P.M. Book Lovers , 2nd Tuesdays at 3:30 P.M. in person and on Zoom. Women's Circle , 3rd Tuesdays at 7:00 P.M. (Zoom only December through March) Email Nora Alpers-Leon at uuseoffice@uuse.org for the Zoom link. Romeos , a monthly lunch for retired men on second Tuesdays - contact the UUSE office to be put on the email list. Ladies at Lunch , a monthly women's lunch typically on second Thursdays - advertised in the weekly eblasts. Buddhist Group , 1st Tuesdays at 7 P.M. Meditation Group , 3rd Mondays, 3:30 P.M. in the Youth Group room on the Garden Level. God Talk , 4th Tuesdays at 4:30 P.M. Humanist Group , 3rd Tuesdays at 4:30 P.M. Science and Religion Discussion Group , 4th Thursdays at 4:30 P.M. September's topic: Science, Spirituality and Cymatics led by Jackie Muschiano. ------------------------------ Our Mission  Unitarian Universalist Society East is a welcoming, open-minded spiritual community seeking truth and meaning in its many forms. We share responsibility for building a more equitable, peaceful, and sustainable world. ------------------------------ UUSE Links and Information • Monthly Newsletter • Website • Previous Sunday Services • Children & Youth Ministry • Facebook • New England Region of the Unitarian Universalist Association uuse.org • 860-646-5151 ------------------------------

< To Upcoming Services Oct 20, 2026 Humanist Group Join us in on the 3rd Tuesday at 4:30 PM. This ongoing group explores Religious Humanism and its applications to life, both historically and today. All welcome. Contact Rev. Josh at minister@uuse.org for the Zoom link. Join us in on the 3rd Tuesday at 4:30 PM. This ongoing group explores Religious Humanism and its applications to life, both historically and today. All welcome. Contact Rev. Josh at minister@uuse.org for the Zoom link. OOS Sermon YouTube

< To Upcoming Services Oct 19, 2026 AA - Mondays at Noon . Every Monday at Noon Every Monday at Noon OOS Sermon YouTube

< To Upcoming Services Sep 13, 2026 Homecoming All-Congregational service. This morning we kick off our congregational year. We'll review our covenant, principles and values. We'll bless backpacks (briefcases, purses, bags, etc.), and we'll celebrate with our homecoming picnic following the 11:00 service. Coordinators: Emmy Galbraith, Mary Bopp, and Rev. Josh Pawelek Services at 9:00 and 11:00 A.M. #eBlast-09-09 Sunday Service: "Homecoming" All-Congregational service. This morning we kick off our congregational year. We'll review our covenant, principles and values. We'll bless backpacks (briefcases, purses, bags, etc.), and we'll celebrate with our homecoming picnic following the 11:00 service. Coordinators: Emmy Galbraith, Mary Bopp, and Rev. Josh Pawelek Services at 9:00 and 11:00 A.M. Sunday, September 13, 2026 In Case You Missed It #eBlast -09-09 OOS Sermon YouTube

< To Upcoming Services Oct 11, 2026 Fair Trade Coffee Your favorite Equal Exchange coffees, chocolate, tea and more will be available on 2nd Sundays of the month following both services. Satisfy your taste buds while supporting small sustainable growers. We accept cash, checks and credit cards. OOS Sermon YouTube

< To Upcoming Services Watch the eBlast for the next scheduled Homecoming Potluck Picnic Homecoming Potluck Picnic Sunday, September 13th after the second service in the lower parking lot #eBlast-09-09 Homecoming Potluck Picnic Sunday, September 13th after the second service in the lower parking lot #eBlast -09-09 OOS Sermon YouTube

< To Upcoming Services Watch the eBlast for the next scheduled Manchester's Hispanic Heritage Day Celebration! Manchester's Hispanic Heritage Day Celebration! Saturday, September 20, 2025 - 11:00 A.M. - 3:00 P.M. Don't miss Manchester's Hispanic Heritage Day Celebration to be held on Saturday, September 20th at the Mahoney Center, 110 Cedar Street in Manchester. The event will include live musical and cultural performances, opportunities to shop from a local food and vendor market and enjoy Rec on the Run, free activities and more. For further information, contact Dr. Maria Cruz at 860-646-5151 or email her at uuseoffice@uuse.org . #eBlast-09-17 Manchester's Hispanic Heritage Day Celebration! Saturday, September 20, 2025 - 11:00 A.M. - 3:00 P.M. Don't miss Manchester's Hispanic Heritage Day Celebration to be held on Saturday, September 20th at the Mahoney Center, 110 Cedar Street in Manchester. The event will include live musical and cultural performances, opportunities to shop from a local food and vendor market and enjoy Rec on the Run, free activities and more. For further information, contact Dr. Maria Cruz at 860-646-5151 or email her at uuseoffice@uuse.org . #eBlast -09-17 OOS Sermon YouTube