Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Cleveland

FaCT Distinguished Speaker Series August 16, 2025 - 3 PM
2025-08-16 15:00 (America/New_York)

UU Justice Ohio Convo: "Lobbying for Justice"
2025-08-17 15:30 - 16:30
UUJO (UU Justice Ohio) Community Conversations (CONVOs) on Zoom. Sunday, August 17th, 3:30 pm– 4:30, “Lobbying for Justice”

Details coming

Youth Academy of UUCC takes the lake
2025-08-23 10:00 - 15:00
Hey Youth Academy, have you ever wanted to try kayaking? Now is your chance!!! Youth Academy Partner, Doan Brook Watershed Partnership is hosting Take To The Lake. They have reserved 12 learn to kayak lessons for the Youth Academy. If you are between the ages of 9-18 years in age join us in learning to kayak, hiking, exploring environmental topics, and of course eating.

What: Take to the Lake, Kayaking, hiking, exploring environmental topics, picnicWhen: August 23, 2025 10:00-3:00Where: lower Shaker LakeWho: Youth ages 9-18 years of ageHow: email Youth Academy Coordinator, Valerie.Hura@uucleveland.org to register.

Registration will be taken in the order received through email. Once the 12 spots have been filled we will create a wait list in case there are any cancellations. Valerie will respond to emails within a couple of days to let you know details.

Porch Talk for a Beloved community
2025-08-23 17:00 - 18:30
East View United Church of Christ, 17300 Van Aken Blvd. Shaker Heights

This event celebrates the 60 Anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s visit. The Rev. Dr. Velda R. Love will speak on porch where the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. spoke in 1965, and continue the call for justice and equity. Dr. Love serves the National Ministries of the United Church of Christ as the Minister for Racial Justice and Lead for its Join the Movement Toward Racial Justice initiative. Porch Talk will be held outdoors (weather permitting). Bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit on. In the event of rain, we will move into the church’s sanctuary. Music provided by The Greater Cleveland Choral Chapter (Youth/Young Adult Choir) along with the Combined Choir from all 3 sponsor congregations. A light reception will follow the program. Free and open to the public.

The Next Engage GCC Meeting is Thursday, August 28!
2025-08-28 19:00 - 20:30
Were you inspired to get involved and act after the August 3 worship service, “Organizing as a Spiritual Practice? Then join your fellow UUCC members for the next EngageGCC meeting! Greater Cleveland Congregations (GCC) is a non-partisan coalition of faith communities and partner organizations in Cuyahoga County with its stated mission to be “a powerful force for change, creating justice and opportunity in Greater Cleveland by uniting our faith communities and civic partners across lines of race, class, and religion.” The August EngageGCC will shape the next chapter of the movement. You’ll learn more about GCC’s upcoming strategies and frontline organizing, including Pretrial Justice and preparations for Fall meetings with judicial candidates; GCC’s Battle for Democracy, its ward map training and potential fall action planning; the Healthy Blocks Initiative and future plans for Lee-Harvard; Institutional Development and Leadership trainings; Medicaid organizing, grant strategy, and long-term vision; and strengthening systems, outreach, and reporting.

August 28 at 7:00 PM at Forest Hill Church Presbyterian | 3031 Monticello Blvd, Cleveland Heights, OH

Bring your voice. Let’s move forward—together. RSVP here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSewtp7bV-q_ebjz9elOXMWD1ni4qQAESsp5_dcC0vgn-aTJoA/viewform

OR please contact Laurie Albright for further details or if you’re interested in carpooling from UUCC: ljalbright@hotmail.com.

Lunch Bunch
2025-09-03 11:30
Join a new Small Group, Lunch Bunch, launching September 3rd.This is a group for anyone who enjoys eating out at local restaurants for lunch during the week. We welcome all adults, any age, gender, single, partnered, etc. Each person must register separately. This group will gather on the 1st Wednesday of each month at 11:30, beginning September 3rd. Feel free to suggest locations when you sign up! The group will come up with a list of restaurants to enjoy together at the first outing. For information, contact Sharon Marrell by text or phone call at 216-410-4885.

To sign up: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0C44AFA62CA5FAC43-57575416-lunch

The Power of the Press
2025-09-05 11:30 - 13:00
As part of our ‘Democracy Dialogues’ Series, please come join us for a luncheon at Munson Township Hall on September 5. 2025 for an enlightening discussion on the crucial role that local news plays in upholding our democracy.

Join our panel of local media professionals from Ideastream Public Media, Signal Cleveland, Chagrin Valley Times and our moderator from the Kent State University School of Journalism for a discussion about the role of local news in building and sustaining an informed citizenry, and the impact the loss of local news outlets has on candidates, policy and voters.

Panelists – Abbey Marshall, Ideastream; Mark Naymik, Signal CLE; Ken Douthit, C V Times. Moderator Prof. Gretchen Hoak of Kent St Schl of Journalism.

Munson Township Hall, 12210 Auburn Rd., Chardon, Oh.

Obtain tickets, $25.00, at LWV Geauga web site Here

Protecting Democracy
2025-09-06 09:30 - 13:30
Protecting Democracy, Sept. 6 from 9:30-1:30 at Pilgrim Congregational Church, will be an opportunity to join the larger community in seeking to rally all progressive individuals and organizations to collaborate in developing a comprehensive strategy to combat America’s growing authoritarianism. Regardless of your specific social justice passion—whether it’s criminal justice reform, voting rights, fair housing, policing, poverty alleviation, racism, immigration issues, reproductive rights, education, LGBTQ+ rights, or other social justice concerns—this forum will provide us the opportunity to devise a united approach to counter creeping fascism and promote democracy. Racial Equity Buddies of Cleveland is the organizer and UUCC is one of many sponsoring organizations. Registration and more info at http://bit.ly/Sept6Forum

Living your authentic self - UUCC Pretrial Support Team training!
2025-09-07 11:30
Last Sunday, Randy talked about authenticity. After the service, I walked up to front of the church and looked at our Seven Principles. Each principle was reflected in what our congregation is trying to do with our UUCC Pretrial Support Team. We are living our authentic selves, one person at a time.

If you are interested in what we are doing, please come to our meeting this Sunday, September 7th at 11:30 am to1 pm to learn more. Lunch will be provided. No obligation, just the joy of being with friends.

September 2025 2nd Sunday Meal: Potluck
2025-09-14 11:30 - 13:00
Join us after service for our 2nd Sunday Meal! Each month we gather in community to share food and fellowship.

This month’s meal is a true potluck—everyone is invited to bring a favorite dish to share.

We’ll keep it purely social this Sunday: time to connect, laugh, and enjoy one another’s company.

Whether you bring a dish or just yourself, you are always welcome at the table. And if you’re able, please lend a hand afterward with putting away tables and chairs in Fellowship Hall—it makes a big difference!

Movie with a Sparkle in a Bottle
2025-09-19 18:30
Presented by the Youth Academy of UUCC

Join us for an evening of creativity, connection, and celebration! We’re bringing together LGBTQ+ youth and allies (ages 12–18) for a night that shines—literally and figuratively.

First, tap into your inner calm by crafting your own mindfulness glitter bottle—a sparkling tool for reflection and relaxation. Then, settle in for a screening of The Prom, a heartwarming comedy where Broadway stars rally to help a teen take her girlfriend to prom. It’s joyful, affirming, and full of sparkle.

This event is designed to be a safe, supportive space where youth can be themselves, meet new friends, and enjoy a night of laughter and light.

Date: Friday, September 19, 2025

Time: 6:30–10:00 PMLocation: 21600 Shaker Blvd.Register: Contact Valerie Hura, Youth Academy CoordinatorEmail: valerie.hura@uucleveland.org

UUCC Focus Group Meeting
2025-09-21 11:30 - 12:30, 2025-10-02 19:00 - 20:00, 2025-10-07 19:00 - 20:00
Join us for a short presentation, Q&A, and discussion as we shape a vision for our congregation’s future. Please attend one session to share your voice.

Fellowship Hall in the Shaker Building

Details: uucleveland.org/uucc-focus-groups

UUCC Focus Group Meeting (with childcare)
2025-09-23 19:00 - 20:00
Join us for a short presentation, Q&A, and discussion as we shape a vision for our congregation’s future. Please attend one session to share your voice.

Room 201 (Conference Room) in the Shaker Building

Details: uucleveland.org/uucc-focus-groups

Childcare is available at this session.

UUCC Hosts September Engage GCC!
2025-09-25 19:00
UUCC Hosts September Engage GCC! Be part of the movement for justice and change.

This month, GCC is mobilizing around critical issues that affect our communities—and we need YOU with us. We are pleased to announce the next EngageGCC meeting will be hosted by UUCC on Thursday, September 25 at 7pm and we look forward to gathering with our members for thoughtful dialogue, community connection, and collective action. At this monthly meeting, we will discuss and organize around upcoming critical issues, including:

October 8 – Youth Bindover Defiance, Ohio Supreme Court TripOctober 9 – Pretrial Cleveland Municipal Court Candidate Forum

To register, simply click the link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScVTWCphsvk7rkfa9yjsvY73ueQBJjoRvH2Lslvw0F3Ru4Pug/viewform

Thanks, and see you there!

UUCC Focus Group Meeting
2025-09-25 19:00 - 20:00
Join us for a short presentation, Q&A, and discussion as we shape a vision for our congregation’s future. Please attend one session to share your voice.

Fellowship Hall in the Shaker Building

Details: uucleveland.org/uucc-focus-groups

Childcare is available at this session.

FaCT Annual Meeting
2025-09-27 15:00
Faith Communities Together for a Sustainable Future, FaCT, is having an in person meeting for the first time since before the pandemic. Your invited, September 27, 2025 3pm at West Shore UU Church, 20401 Hillard Blvd., Rocky River, Ohio. It will also be live streamed. The keynote speaker will be Father Neil Pezzulo, former FaCT Board President. To register see the QR code on the flyer or visit: factsustain.org/register

UUCC Focus Group Meeting (with childcare)
2025-09-28 11:30 - 12:30, 2025-10-05 11:30 - 12:30
Join us for a short presentation, Q&A, and discussion as we shape a vision for our congregation’s future. Please attend one session to share your voice.

Worship Center (Rooms 206/208) in the Shaker Building

Details: uucleveland.org/uucc-focus-groups

Childcare is available at this session.

Fall Fun Fest at UUCC
2025-09-28 13:30 - 15:30
UUs Together invites you and your family to a Fall Fun Fest at UUCC on Sunday September 28 from 1:30-3:30pm. Activities will include: Fun Table with crafts (make your own beaded bracelet and more), tour/scavenger hunt (check out the orchard, permaculture gardens, cisterns, and more), a “speed” social mixer, and multigenerational field day games. Purchase your afternoon treat at the East Coast Custard Truck on site ($5 for cone, $6 for sundae; vanilla, chocolate, butter pecan, and vegan peach berry). We also will have something special for our gluten free friends. Meet old friends and new from 4 congregations: UU Congregation of Cleveland, SouthWest UU, West Shore UU, and East Shore UU. We are also inviting our neighbors. Help us create the community we want and need by your presence!

Bill Newby - Featured Reader
2025-09-30 18:30
Bill has been invited to be a featured reader for Poetry in the Valley, Tuesday, September 30, starting at 6:30 p.m. This is a free, open-to-the-public event, with an open mic following the featured readers. Poetry in the Valley meets in the G.A.R. Hall, 1785 Main St. (OH 303) in Peninsula, OH. Everyone is welcome.

UUCC Focus Group Meeting (with childcare)
2025-09-30 19:00 - 20:00, 2025-10-09 11:30 - 12:30

Cleveland Community Chorus Festival
2025-10-03 18:30 - 21:00 | Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Cleveland, 21600 Shaker Boulevard, Shaker Heights, 44120, United States
Join us on Friday, October 3rd for this fun and FREE event for singers of all ages! Participants will learn new vocal techniques, meet some amazing people, and sing great music together! Come at 6:30 pm to participate fully or at 8:15 pm to enjoy a mini-concert in the UUCC Sanctuary. Featured guests will be:Good Company: A Vocal Ensemble (Mike Carney, director)The Singers’ Club of Cleveland (Christopher Clark, director)Windsong: Cleveland’s Feminist Chorus (Jessica Gallagher-Steuver, director)

Power by Pen: 160+ Executive Orders
2025-10-05 09:00 - 10:00
Speaker: Avidan Cover JD, Law Professor, CWRU; Director, Institute for Global Security Law and Policy

Since its founding, the country has been divided on the question of Presidential power. Although the Constitution creates three co-equal branches of government, some people also advocate the concept of a powerful Unitary Executive.

The more than 160 Executive Orders President Trump has signed reshape US programs that are under Federal control. They target diversity, gender issues, international agreements, climate, immigration, COVID mandates, education and more. Many face legal challenges. If courts cannot — and Congress will not — hold the President accountable, has the separation of powers been destroyed?

In person in Fellowship Hallor via Zoom https://bit.ly/UUCCForumsFall2025.

Lunch Bunch
2025-10-07 12:00 - 14:00
This is a group for anyone who enjoys eating out at local restaurants for lunch during the week. We welcome all adults, any age, gender, single, partnered, etc. Each person must register separately.

This group will gather on the 1st Tuesday of each month at Noon. Feel free to suggest locations when you sign up! The group will come up with a list of restaurants to enjoy together. For information, please contact Sharon Marrell at sharonmarrell@sbcglobal.net.Sign up: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0C44AFA62CA5FAC43-57575416-lunch

GCC Action Alert: Pretrial Municipal Court Candidate Forum
2025-10-09 19:00 - 20:30
Greater Cleveland Congregation is just weeks away from its October 9th Pretrial Justice Action at Antioch Baptist Church. Join GCC’s Pretrial Justice Team for a critical community forum on Cleveland’s broken pretrial system. Too many lives are damaged when people are sentenced before being charged, sitting in jail for days before trial. It’s time for a change. All 8 judicial Cleveland Municipal Court (General Division) candidates are invited to attend, participate, and respond on how they plan to do better. Candidates will share their vision, answer key questions, and commit to ensuring justice in our courts. And candidates are eager to show up — we already have 6 confirmed. Now it’s our turn to do the same. To hold them accountable, we must ensure strong turnout from UUCC!

Please register here and thank you:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfG9fD2QyDEWb3P81vL25NU-utmPNKFb_rwJtF7l9HlmiIviw/viewform

Community Conversation: Democracy at risk, what can we do?
2025-10-12 11:30 - 13:00
In addition to Harry’s Kitchen’s wonderful food and community Pot luck treasures UUCC’s newly formed Democracy in Action team will be leading our Community Conversation. While our UUCC community is focusing on our buildings and grounds capital campaign, many of us find the challenges to democracy in our country are also weighing heavily on our hearts and minds. Our conversation today will focus on the Challenges our country is facing and talk about what we may be called to do in the face of these challenges.

October 2025 2nd Sunday Meal Kitchen Crew +Potluck
2025-10-12 11:30 - 13:00
“For your Fall & Halloween Delight, Harry’s Kitchen Crew is glad to provide the following Main Entrees to tickle your taste buds:Roasted Lemon Chicken and Butternut Squash Soup.

The congregation member(s) with last name that begins with letter A thru K can share a SALAD/SIDE dish for 8 people.ANDThe congregation member(s) with last name that begins with letter L thru Z can share a DESSERT dish for 8 people.

You can drop off your shared dish at the Kitchen Window and the Crew will tag & place on the tables in the Fellowship Hall.

As an added surprise, Harry’s Kitchen Crew was asked to prepare, provide and serve at this year’s UUCC Church Auction event on Saturday Night, November 1st. So, we are going to provide a preview of a few tasting morsels.

We all look forward to seeing you on Sunday, October 12th.

These frightful delights are brought to you by scaring Harry’s Kitchen Crew.”

Whether you bring a dish or just yourself, you are always welcome at the table. And if you’re able, please lend a hand afterward with putting away tables and chairs in Fellowship Hall—it makes a big difference!
