April 7th (9:00am) 26 Pebbles – A Conversation with the Director: Justice Theater Project’s latest production tackles the issue of gun violence in America with their latest production, 26 Pebbles (running April 12-28 in the UPUCC worship space). We are thrilled to be joined by the production’s director, Brian Yandle, to discuss this powerful work. Here is a synopsis of the play:

December 14, 2012. 26 innocent lives were taken at Sandy Hook Elementary. Like pebbles thrown in a pond, these 26 deaths created ripples that are still reverberating today. The stories of the survivors and families of Newtown are told in their own words in what is not only an exploration of gun violence but a story of resilience, perseverance, hope, and outpourings of love.

Brian will share his insights regarding the preparation for the production, and answer any questions about the play. We hope you’ll join us for this conversation, as well as for the play itself!

April 14th (9:00am) Creation Care at UPUCC As we prepare for Earth Day 2024 (April 22nd), we’ll take the opportunity to report on the various creation care initiatives that are underway at UPUCC, as well as activities on the horizon. Please join us as we celebrate our accomplishments and plan our next steps – which include a clean-up of the areas near the church on Saturday, April 20th.

April 21st (9:00am) Thomas Berry and The Great Work Please join us as we watch and discuss a video from the Yale Forum on Religion and Ecology which focuses on the life and thought of a deeply influential figure in the field and force of religion and ecology, Thomas Berry (1914-2009). A native of Greensboro, he considered himself a “geologian” – a spiritually sensitive, religiously aware Earth scholar – rather than a theologian. His book, The Great Work, challenges readers to turn away from our destructive presence on the planet and toward mutually beneficial relations with our earth community.

April 21st (after worship) Intentional Interim Ministry Discussion for those who pre-registered.

April 28th We will not have a Forum this Sunday, but hope everyone stays after worship for our Congregational Meeting.

Saturday Meditation Group online (most) 1st Saturdays 10 am

Practiced for centuries and is well-known for its many benefits, meditation can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, reduce anxiety, increase compassion, and more! UPUCC is carrying on this ancient practice- each first Saturday of the month at 10 am, for one hour.  We enjoy this time out from busy-ness to focus and redirect our minds, and invite you to come join us.  Absolutely no experience required.  Contact Joanne Kennedy Frazer if you would like to be part of this monthly group.