Astronauts have displayed a notable phenomenon called the Overview Effect, in which seeing the planet Earth from afar inspires transcendent awe and an increased sense of connection to other people and the Earth as a whole. This Sunday, we’ll talk about such an overview of ORUUC’s new “religious literacy” framework for worship and youth faith formation!

Join us for our Summer Worship series at 10:00 EDT this morning in person and on Zoom as our Minister, Lóre Stevens, shares her message, “The Overview Effect”. If you are attending the service by Zoom, please install the Zoom app on your device and use Meeting ID: 890 7958 2989. We will begin admitting guests at 9:45 a.m.Please email or text Prayer Requests to: joysandsorrows@oruuc.org.

The Share-the-Plate recipient for this Fifth Sunday of the month is the Minister’s Discretionary Fund. This fund is available to help church members who are in a moment of financial crisis. Through the Minister’s Discretionary Fund, we’ve been able to pay a month’s rent or mortgage to help ORUUCians to maintain their housing. We can pay for an unexpected medical, dental, or prescription bill that would otherwise max out someone’s finances. The Minister’s Discretionary Fund also helps people in the larger Oak Ridge community with utility bills, food, and gas. When folks in need call the church for emergency assistance, the Minister’s Discretionary Fund is where the money comes from to pay a bill or offer relief. The Minister’s Discretionary Fund is available only through your generous contributions. Please give here: https://onrealm.org/oruuc/-/form/give/now as you are willing and able, or text “ORUUC” to 73256.

After worship, you’re invited to enjoy coffee and conversation in the Social Hall. Youth and Adult Faith Formation Classes meet from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. The nursery is available during worship and second hour. Find out more about our regular Faith Formation opportunities for adults here: http://www.oruuc.org/faith-formation-for-adults and children and youth here: http://www.oruuc.org/religious-education. 

Masks are not required in the building; however, they are available, along with hand sanitizer, in various locations throughout the church. We encourage you to assess your personal health risks and do what makes you feel comfortable, whether that means wearing a mask or worshiping with ORUUC from home on Zoom. We appreciate your continued cooperation as we work to keep our community safe and healthy.

We welcome you to be part of this time with us, and we look forward to seeing you in person or on Zoom. 

Stone Soup is a FREE monthly community meal on the final Friday of the month. Diners can park and come inside the Social Hall to enjoy a meal with others, or walk in to pick up a takeout meal for themselves or family members, a neighbor, or friend. Meals will be available from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Friday, or until supplies run out. Bags of non-perishable groceries will also be available. This meal is open to all! We appreciate all of the volunteers who make this meal happen each month, and our partners, the Jewish Congregation of Oak Ridge and Kroger Marketplace.

Sometimes the best lessons are learned around a campfire—or in a freezing camper, a sudden rainstorm, or beside a lake at sunrise. This Sunday, we’ll explore what camping can teach us about preparation and letting go, drawing close to one another, paying attention to unexpected beauty, and remembering our place in the interconnected web of life.

Join us for our Summer Worship Series at 10:00 EDT this morning in person and on Zoom as Dr. Sheila Morton leads worship. If you are attending the service by Zoom, please install the Zoom app on your device and use Meeting ID: 890 7958 2989. We will begin admitting guests at 9:45 a.m.

Please email or text Prayer Requests to: joysandsorrows@oruuc.org.

The Share-the-Plate recipient for the month of August is TORCH. The Tennessee Outreach Center for Homeless opened its doors in 2013 as the only comprehensive homeless service provider in Anderson County. TORCH focuses on helping individuals and families secure safe, stable, and affordable housing as quickly as possible, offering a pathway to permanent housing. ORUUC partners with TORCH by opening our doors to people who need a warm place to stay during extremely cold weather. ORUUC recognizes that it is part of our mission to provide for the neediest among us. Please give here: https://onrealm.org/oruuc/-/form/give/now as you are willing and able, or text “ORUUC” to 73256. TORCH recently moved to the west side of town–1942 Oak Ridge Turnpike–if you’re dropping off donations or directing people to services. Follow their Facebook page for urgent needs and updates!

After worship, please enjoy coffee and conversation in the Social Hall. Classes for youth and adults meet from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. during our Faith Formation hour. The nursery is available during worship and second hour. Find out more about our regular Faith Formation opportunities for adults here: http://www.oruuc.org/faith-formation-for-adults and children and youth here: http://www.oruuc.org/religious-education. 

Masks are not required in the building; however, they are available, along with hand sanitizer, in various locations throughout the church. We encourage you to assess your personal health risks and do what makes you feel comfortable, whether that means wearing a mask or worshiping with ORUUC from home on Zoom. We appreciate your continued cooperation as we work to keep our community safe and healthy.

We welcome you to be part of this time with us, and we look forward to seeing you in person or on Zoom. 

We are entering a new church year! This is a wonderful time to set new goals and visions for the future. While the world is full of surprises for us, good and bad, our perspective and approach to challenges can have a big impact!

Join us for this summer worship service at 10:00 EDT this morning in person and on Zoom as our Director of Music, Dr. Leah Disney, leads worship. If you are attending the service by Zoom, please install the Zoom app on your device and use Meeting ID: 890 7958 2989. We will begin admitting guests at 9:45 a.m.

Please email or text Prayer Requests to: joysandsorrows@oruuc.org.

The Share-the-Plate recipient for the month of August is TORCH. The Tennessee Outreach Center for Homeless opened its doors in 2013 as the only comprehensive homeless service provider in Anderson County. TORCH focuses on helping individuals and families secure safe, stable, and affordable housing as quickly as possible, offering a pathway to permanent housing. ORUUC partners with TORCH by opening our doors to people who need a warm place to stay during extremely cold weather. ORUUC recognizes that it is part of our mission to provide for the neediest among us. Please give here: https://onrealm.org/oruuc/-/form/give/now as you are willing and able, or text “ORUUC” to 73256. TORCH recently moved to the west side of town–1942 Oak Ridge Turnpike–if you’re dropping off donations or directing people to services. Follow their Facebook page for urgent needs and updates!

After worship, please enjoy coffee and conversation in the Social Hall. Classes for youth and adults meet from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. during our Faith Formation hour. The nursery is available during worship and second hour. Find out more about our regular Faith Formation opportunities for adults here: http://www.oruuc.org/faith-formation-for-adults and children and youth here: http://www.oruuc.org/religious-education. 

Masks are not required in the building; however, they are available, along with hand sanitizer, in various locations throughout the church. We encourage you to assess your personal health risks and do what makes you feel comfortable, whether that means wearing a mask or worshiping with ORUUC from home on Zoom. We appreciate your continued cooperation as we work to keep our community safe and healthy.

We welcome you to be part of this time with us, and we look forward to seeing you in person or on Zoom. 

Join us for our annual Question Box service! This year, each component of worship will be a ????, to be pulled from options in the moment! Let’s welcome the mystery and find out what the spirit has in store for us this Sunday!

Join us for this summer worship service at 10:00 EDT this morning in person and on Zoom as our minister, Lóre Stevens, leads worship. If you are attending the service by Zoom, please install the Zoom app on your device and use Meeting ID: 890 7958 2989. We will begin admitting guests at 9:45 a.m.

Please email or text Prayer Requests to: joysandsorrows@oruuc.org.

The Share-the-Plate recipient for the month of August is TORCH. The Tennessee Outreach Center for Homeless opened its doors in 2013 as the only comprehensive homeless service provider in Anderson County. TORCH focuses on helping individuals and families secure safe, stable, and affordable housing as quickly as possible, offering a pathway to permanent housing. ORUUC partners with TORCH by opening our doors to people who need a warm place to stay during extremely cold weather. ORUUC recognizes that it is part of our mission to provide for the neediest among us. Please give here: https://onrealm.org/oruuc/-/form/give/now as you are willing and able, or text “ORUUC” to 73256. TORCH recently moved to the west side of town–1942 Oak Ridge Turnpike–if you’re dropping off donations or directing people to services. Follow their Facebook page for urgent needs and updates!

After worship, please enjoy coffee and conversation in the Social Hall. We’ll be livestreaming the TVUUC service from our Sanctuary for those interested, beginning at 11 a.m. The Rev. Tina Gandhi will present “One Light, Many Paths: A Unitarian–Hindu Journey”. Today, we welcome our youth to a new year of Youth Faith Formation! Classes for youth and adults meet from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. The nursery is available during worship and second hour. Find out more about our regular Faith Formation opportunities for adults here: http://www.oruuc.org/faith-formation-for-adults and children and youth here: http://www.oruuc.org/religious-education. 

Masks are not required in the building; however, they are available, along with hand sanitizer, in various locations throughout the church. We encourage you to assess your personal health risks and do what makes you feel comfortable, whether that means wearing a mask or worshiping with ORUUC from home on Zoom. We appreciate your continued cooperation as we work to keep our community safe and healthy.

We welcome you to be part of this time with us, and we look forward to seeing you in person or on Zoom. 

As we return from summer adventures or rest periods, our annual Water Communion marks an ingathering, the kick-off of the church year. Please bring a few ounces of water from home or your travels for this unique UU ritual!

Join us for this summer worship service at 10:00 EDT this morning in person and on Zoom as our minister, Lóre Stevens, leads worship. If you are attending the service by Zoom, please install the Zoom app on your device and use Meeting ID: 890 7958 2989. We will begin admitting guests at 9:45 a.m.

Please email or text Prayer Requests to: joysandsorrows@oruuc.org.

The Share-the-Plate recipient for the month of August is TORCH. The Tennessee Outreach Center for Homeless opened its doors in 2013 as the only comprehensive homeless service provider in Anderson County. TORCH focuses on helping individuals and families secure safe, stable, and affordable housing as quickly as possible, offering a pathway to permanent housing. ORUUC partners with TORCH by opening our doors to people who need a warm place to stay during extremely cold weather. ORUUC recognizes that it is part of our mission to provide for the neediest among us. Please give here: https://onrealm.org/oruuc/-/form/give/now as you are willing and able, or text “ORUUC” to 73256. TORCH recently moved to the west side of town–1942 Oak Ridge Turnpike–if you’re dropping off donations or directing people to services. Follow their Facebook page for urgent needs and updates!

After worship, please enjoy coffee and conversation in the Social Hall. Adult Faith Formation classes meet from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Parents and Caregivers of Youth: Please join Faith Formation Staff in the Sanctuary for orientation as we kick off an exciting new year of programming! Childcare will be provided. The nursery is available only during the morning worship service today. Next Sunday, August 9th, we’ll welcome our children back to Faith Formation classes each week from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Find out more about our regular Faith Formation opportunities for adults here: http://www.oruuc.org/faith-formation-for-adults and children and youth here: http://www.oruuc.org/religious-education. 

Masks are not required in the building; however, they are available, along with hand sanitizer, in various locations throughout the church. We encourage you to assess your personal health risks and do what makes you feel comfortable, whether that means wearing a mask or worshiping with ORUUC from home on Zoom. We appreciate your continued cooperation as we work to keep our community safe and healthy.

We welcome you to be part of this time with us, and we look forward to seeing you in person or on Zoom. 

Stone Soup is a FREE monthly community meal on the final Friday of the month. Diners can park and come inside the Social Hall to enjoy a meal with others, or walk in to pick up a takeout meal for themselves or family members, a neighbor, or friend. Meals will be available from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Friday, or until supplies run out. Bags of non-perishable groceries will also be available. This meal is open to all! We appreciate all of the volunteers who make this meal happen each month, and our partners, the Jewish Congregation of Oak Ridge and Kroger Marketplace.

Join us for summer worship as our Guest Speaker, Dr. Sheila Morton, shares her message. Our worship service will begin at 10:00 EDT this morning in person and on Zoom. Please install the Zoom app on your device and use Meeting ID: 890 7958 2989. We will begin admitting guests at 9:45 a.m.

Please email or text Prayer Requests to: joysandsorrows@oruuc.org.

The Share-the-Plate recipient for the month of July is the Blossom Center for Childhood Excellence. Blossom Center is a non-profit childcare facility serving approximately 80 children from Oak Ridge and surrounding areas. The Center’s program is academically oriented, intended to bridge the gap between home and school in order to improve educational outcomes, especially for underprivileged children. Blossom Center is open during extended hours when other childcare facilities are closed, and allows children to attend based on a sliding tuition scale commensurate with family income. They have also partnered with Alpha Kappa Alpha to pack backpacks of food for area children. Please give here: https://onrealm.org/oruuc/-/form/give/now as you are willing and able, or text “ORUUC” to 73256.

After worship, please enjoy coffee and conversation in the Social Hall. Adult Faith Formation classes meet from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Youth Faith Formation classes are on Summer Break until August 9. The nursery is available only during the morning worship service in summer. Find out more about our regular Faith Formation opportunities for adults here: http://www.oruuc.org/faith-formation-for-adults and children and youth here: http://www.oruuc.org/religious-education. 

Masks are not required in the building; however, they are available, along with hand sanitizer, in various locations throughout the church. We encourage you to assess your personal health risks and do what makes you feel comfortable, whether that means wearing a mask or worshiping with ORUUC from home on Zoom. We appreciate your continued cooperation as we work to keep our community safe and healthy.

We welcome you to be part of this time with us, and we look forward to seeing you in person or on Zoom.

Time feels as fundamental as air. Yet the way humans organize it and name its units says a great deal about who we are and what we value.

Join us for summer worship as our minister, Lóre Stevens, shares her message. Our worship service will begin at 10:00 EDT this morning in person and on Zoom. Please install the Zoom app on your device and use Meeting ID: 890 7958 2989. We will begin admitting guests at 9:45 a.m.

Please email or text Prayer Requests to: joysandsorrows@oruuc.org.

The Share-the-Plate recipient for the month of July is the Blossom Center for Childhood Excellence. Blossom Center is a non-profit childcare facility serving approximately 80 children from Oak Ridge and surrounding areas. The Center’s program is academically oriented, intended to bridge the gap between home and school in order to improve educational outcomes, especially for underprivileged children. Blossom Center is open during extended hours when other childcare facilities are closed, and allows children to attend based on a sliding tuition scale commensurate with family income. They have also partnered with Alpha Kappa Alpha to pack backpacks of food for area children. Please give here: https://onrealm.org/oruuc/-/form/give/now as you are willing and able, or text “ORUUC” to 73256.

After worship, please enjoy coffee and conversation in the Social Hall. Adult Faith Formation classes meet from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Youth Faith Formation classes are on Summer Break until August 9. The nursery is available only during the morning worship service in summer. Find out more about our regular Faith Formation opportunities for adults here: http://www.oruuc.org/faith-formation-for-adults and children and youth here: http://www.oruuc.org/religious-education. 

Masks are not required in the building; however, they are available, along with hand sanitizer, in various locations throughout the church. We encourage you to assess your personal health risks and do what makes you feel comfortable, whether that means wearing a mask or worshiping with ORUUC from home on Zoom. We appreciate your continued cooperation as we work to keep our community safe and healthy.

We welcome you to be part of this time with us, and we look forward to seeing you in person or on Zoom.

When a boat mechanic and his cat enter an alien gauntlet to save planet Earth, no one would have expected them to become heroes. Yet, in the words of Dungeon Crawler Carl: "You will not break me."

Join us for summer worship as our minister, Lóre Stevens, shares her message, “You Will Not Break Me.” Our worship service will begin at 10:00 EDT this morning in person and on Zoom. Please install the Zoom app on your device and use Meeting ID: 890 7958 2989. We will begin admitting guests at 9:45 a.m.

Please email or text Prayer Requests to: joysandsorrows@oruuc.org.

The Share-the-Plate recipient for the month of July is the Blossom Center for Childhood Excellence. Blossom Center is a non-profit childcare facility serving approximately 80 children from Oak Ridge and surrounding areas. The Center’s program is academically oriented, intended to bridge the gap between home and school in order to improve educational outcomes, especially for underprivileged children. Blossom Center is open during extended hours when other childcare facilities are closed, and allows children to attend based on a sliding tuition scale commensurate with family income. They have also partnered with Alpha Kappa Alpha to pack backpacks of food for area children. Please give here: https://onrealm.org/oruuc/-/form/give/now as you are willing and able, or text “ORUUC” to 73256.

After worship, please enjoy coffee and conversation in the Social Hall. Adult Faith Formation classes meet from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Youth Faith Formation classes are on Summer Break until August 9. The nursery is available only during the morning worship service in summer. Find out more about our regular Faith Formation opportunities for adults here: http://www.oruuc.org/faith-formation-for-adults and children and youth here: http://www.oruuc.org/religious-education. 

Masks are not required in the building; however, they are available, along with hand sanitizer, in various locations throughout the church. We encourage you to assess your personal health risks and do what makes you feel comfortable, whether that means wearing a mask or worshiping with ORUUC from home on Zoom. We appreciate your continued cooperation as we work to keep our community safe and healthy.

We welcome you to be part of this time with us, and we look forward to seeing you in person or on Zoom.

Yesterday, our nation celebrated its 250th birthday, the anniversary of our Declaration of Independence. But are we really independent? Let's revisit this enshrined document, the trailhead it represents, and the path that has led us to today.

Join us for summer worship as we welcome Board President Gina Grubb as our guest worship leader. Our worship service will begin at 10:00 EDT this morning in person and on Zoom. Please install the Zoom app on your device and use Meeting ID: 890 7958 2989. We will begin admitting guests at 9:45 a.m.

Please email or text Prayer Requests to: joysandsorrows@oruuc.org.

The Share-the-Plate recipient for the month of July is the Blossom Center for Childhood Excellence. Blossom Center is a non-profit childcare facility serving approximately 80 children from Oak Ridge and surrounding areas. The Center’s program is academically oriented, intended to bridge the gap between home and school in order to improve educational outcomes, especially for underprivileged children. Blossom Center is open during extended hours when other childcare facilities are closed, and allows children to attend based on a sliding tuition scale commensurate with family income. They have also partnered with Alpha Kappa Alpha to pack backpacks of food for area children. Please give here: https://onrealm.org/oruuc/-/form/give/now as you are willing and able, or text “ORUUC” to 73256.

After worship, please enjoy coffee and conversation in the Social Hall. Adult Faith Formation classes meet from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Youth Faith Formation classes are on Summer Break until August 9. The nursery is available only during the morning worship service in summer. Find out more about our regular Faith Formation opportunities for adults here: http://www.oruuc.org/faith-formation-for-adults and children and youth here: http://www.oruuc.org/religious-education. 

Masks are not required in the building; however, they are available, along with hand sanitizer, in various locations throughout the church. We encourage you to assess your personal health risks and do what makes you feel comfortable, whether that means wearing a mask or worshiping with ORUUC from home on Zoom. We appreciate your continued cooperation as we work to keep our community safe and healthy.

We welcome you to be part of this time with us, and we look forward to seeing you in person or on Zoom.

In the first century, a young woman named Thecla sat at a window, heard something true, and could not unhear it. In this service at the end of Pride month, we will use her story as a guide as we ask ourselves what it means to listen to our inner knowing and bring our truest selves into the light.

Join us for the last Sunday in our June worship series, Flourishing Together, as we welcome Guest Speaker Rachel Rogers. Our worship service will begin at 10:00 EDT this morning in person and on Zoom.

Please install the Zoom app on your device and use Meeting ID: 890 7958 2989. We will begin admitting guests at 9:45 a.m.

Please email or text Prayer Requests to: joysandsorrows@oruuc.org.

The Share-the-Plate recipient for the month of June is Second Harvest Food Bank. Since 1986, Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee has led the effort to end hunger in the region. Their mission is to feed the hungry by securing and distributing food, and engaging the community in the fight to end hunger through regional partnerships, programs, and education. Second Harvest also funds the Backpacks for Kids program, which is supplemented by our own Fresh Fruit for Kids ministry, providing younger schoolchildren with a backpack of food on weekends during the school year. Second Harvest also oversees a Senior Outreach program, providing food for over 1,000 homebound seniors across 13 counties. The organization operates a Mobile Pantry, and reduces food waste through their Food Rescue program, partnering with grocery stores and restaurants who donate food that would otherwise be thrown away. Please give here: https://onrealm.org/oruuc/-/form/give/now as you are willing and able, or text “ORUUC” to 73256.

After worship, everyone is invited to Everybody’s Birthday Party in the Social Hall! Find the table of your birth month and enjoy a cupcake while you make some new friends and visit with some familiar ones during this annual tradition! There will be a birth month trivia game and prizes, too! Please show up to church early to help set up the tables, or stay after the party to help clean up--these fun multigenerational gatherings can’t happen without your helping hands!

Youth Faith Formation classes are on Summer Break until August 9. The nursery is available only during the morning worship service in summer. Find out more about our regular Faith Formation opportunities for adults here: http://www.oruuc.org/faith-formation-for-adults and children and youth here: http://www.oruuc.org/religious-education. 

Masks are not required in the building; however, they are available, along with hand sanitizer, in various locations throughout the church. We encourage you to assess your personal health risks and do what makes you feel comfortable, whether that means wearing a mask or worshiping with ORUUC from home on Zoom. We appreciate your continued cooperation as we work to keep our community safe and healthy.

We welcome you to be part of this time with us, and we look forward to seeing you in person or on Zoom. 

Stone Soup is a FREE monthly community meal on the final Friday of the month. Diners can park and come inside the Social Hall to enjoy a meal with others, or walk in to pick up a takeout meal for themselves or family members, a neighbor, or friend. Meals will be available from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Friday, or until supplies run out. Bags of non-perishable groceries will also be available. This meal is open to all! We appreciate all of the volunteers who make this meal happen each month, and our partners, the Jewish Congregation of Oak Ridge and Kroger Marketplace.

Join us for GA Sunday Worship on June 21, 2026, at 11:00 am ET, for the largest annual gathering of Unitarian Universalists in worship, led by the The Rev. Jen Youngsun Ryu, who celebrates the 20th anniversary of her ordination with a steady conviction that our liberal faith, practiced with honesty and love, changes lives for the good.

Our worship service will begin at 11:00 EDT this morning (PLEASE NOTE THE TIME CHANGE) in person and on Zoom. Join us for our June worship series, Flourishing Together.

Please install the Zoom app on your device and use Meeting ID: 890 7958 2989. We will begin admitting guests at 9:45 a.m.

Please email or text Prayer Requests to: joysandsorrows@oruuc.org.

The Share-the-Plate recipient for the month of June is Second Harvest Food Bank. Since 1986, Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee has led the effort to end hunger in the region. Their mission is to feed the hungry by securing and distributing food, and engaging the community in the fight to end hunger through regional partnerships, programs, and education. Second Harvest also funds the Backpacks for Kids program, which is supplemented by our own Fresh Fruit for Kids ministry, providing younger schoolchildren with a backpack of food on weekends during the school year. Second Harvest also oversees a Senior Outreach program, providing food for over 1,000 homebound seniors across 13 counties. The organization operates a Mobile Pantry, and reduces food waste through their Food Rescue program, partnering with grocery stores and restaurants who donate food that would otherwise be thrown away. Please give here: https://onrealm.org/oruuc/-/form/give/now as you are willing and able, or text “ORUUC” to 73256.

After worship, please enjoy coffee and conversation in the Social Hall. Adult Faith Formation classes meet from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Youth Faith Formation classes are on Summer Break until August 9. The nursery is available only during worship in summer. Find out more about our regular Faith Formation opportunities for adults here: http://www.oruuc.org/faith-formation-for-adults and children and youth here: http://www.oruuc.org/religious-education. 

Masks are not required in the building; however, they are available, along with hand sanitizer, in various locations throughout the church. We encourage you to assess your personal health risks and do what makes you feel comfortable, whether that means wearing a mask or worshiping with ORUUC from home on Zoom. We appreciate your continued cooperation as we work to keep our community safe and healthy.

We welcome you to be part of this time with us, and we look forward to seeing you in person or on Zoom. 

Do individuals become disabled or do the barriers our society puts up disable them? Come hear from ORUUC members Louise McKown and Hillary Stier on their experience with disability and how ORUUC might become even more accessible.

Our worship service will begin at 10:00 EDT this morning in person and on Zoom. Join us for our June worship series, Flourishing Together, as we celebrate “Disability Justice”. Worship will be led by our minister, Lóre Stevens.

Please install the Zoom app on your device and use Meeting ID: 890 7958 2989. We will begin admitting guests at 9:45 a.m.

Please email or text Prayer Requests to: joysandsorrows@oruuc.org.

The Share-the-Plate recipient for the month of June is Second Harvest Food Bank. Since 1986, Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee has led the effort to end hunger in the region. Their mission is to feed the hungry by securing and distributing food, and engaging the community in the fight to end hunger through regional partnerships, programs, and education. Second Harvest also funds the Backpacks for Kids program, which is supplemented by our own Fresh Fruit for Kids ministry, providing younger schoolchildren with a backpack of food on weekends during the school year. Second Harvest also oversees a Senior Outreach program, providing food for over 1,000 homebound seniors across 13 counties. The organization operates a Mobile Pantry, and reduces food waste through their Food Rescue program, partnering with grocery stores and restaurants who donate food that would otherwise be thrown away. Please give here: https://onrealm.org/oruuc/-/form/give/now as you are willing and able, or text “ORUUC” to 73256.

After worship, please enjoy coffee and conversation in the Social Hall. Adult Faith Formation classes meet from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Youth Faith Formation classes are on Summer Break until August 9. The nursery is available only during worship in summer. Find out more about our regular Faith Formation opportunities for adults here: http://www.oruuc.org/faith-formation-for-adults and children and youth here: http://www.oruuc.org/religious-education. 

Masks are not required in the building; however, they are available, along with hand sanitizer, in various locations throughout the church. We encourage you to assess your personal health risks and do what makes you feel comfortable, whether that means wearing a mask or worshiping with ORUUC from home on Zoom. We appreciate your continued cooperation as we work to keep our community safe and healthy.

We welcome you to be part of this time with us, and we look forward to seeing you in person or on Zoom.

Join us to celebrate the spirituality of music! After worship, stay for the democratic opportunity of our semi-annual Congregational Meeting!

Our worship service will begin at 10:00 EDT this morning in person and on Zoom. Join us for our June worship series, Flourishing Together, as we celebrate Music Sunday.

Please install the Zoom app on your device and use Meeting ID: 890 7958 2989. We will begin admitting guests at 9:45 a.m.

Please email or text Prayer Requests to: joysandsorrows@oruuc.org.

The Share-the-Plate recipient for June is Second Harvest Food Bank. Please give here: https://onrealm.org/oruuc/-/form/give/now as you are willing and able, or text “ORUUC” to 73256.

After worship, please grab some coffee and snacks, and return to the Sanctuary (or the Zoom room) for the Congregational Meeting. Adult Faith Formation classes are canceled. Youth Faith Formation classes are on Summer Break until August 9. The nursery is available only during worship in summer. Find out more about our regular Faith Formation opportunities for adults here: http://www.oruuc.org/faith-formation-for-adults and children and youth here: http://www.oruuc.org/religious-education. 

Masks are not required in the building; however, they are available, along with hand sanitizer, in various locations throughout the church. We encourage you to assess your personal health risks and do what makes you feel comfortable, whether that means wearing a mask or worshiping with ORUUC from home on Zoom. We appreciate your continued cooperation as we work to keep our community safe and healthy.

We welcome you to be part of this time with us, and we look forward to seeing you in person or on Zoom.

Rites of Passage mark the joy, tenderness and sorrow of the past while simultaneously opening up the hope and possibility of the future. Our Bridging Ceremony celebrates this precious transition as we honor our graduating Seniors. Worship will be followed by a Reception for our Bridgers.

Our worship service will begin at 10:00 EDT this morning in person and on Zoom. Join us for the final Sunday in our May worship series, Awakening Curiosity, as we celebrate our Bridgers, Zeppelin White and Thaddeus Jones.

Please install the Zoom app on your device and use Meeting ID: 890 7958 2989. We will begin admitting guests at 9:45 a.m.Please email or text Prayer Requests to: joysandsorrows@oruuc.org.

The Share-the-Plate recipient for this fifth Sunday in May is the Minister’s Discretionary Fund. This fund is available to help church members who are in a moment of financial crisis. Through the Minister’s Discretionary Fund, we’ve been able to pay a month’s rent or mortgage to help ORUUCians to maintain their housing. We can pay for an unexpected medical, dental, or prescription bill that would otherwise max out someone’s finances. We’ve paid utility bills to literally keep the lights on. The Minister’s Discretionary Fund also helps people in the larger Oak Ridge community with utility bills, food, and gas. When folks in need call the church for emergency assistance, the Minister’s Discretionary Fund is where the money comes from to pay a bill or offer relief. The fund is completely confidential: If you’re in need, only the minister need know, in order to access the fund. The Minister’s Discretionary Fund is available only through your generous contributions. Thank you, in advance, for your generosity. Please give here: https://onrealm.org/oruuc/-/form/give/now as you are willing and able, or text “ORUUC” to 73256.

After worship, you’re invited to coffee and conversation–and a reception for our Bridgers–in the Social Hall. Adult Faith Formation classes meet from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Youth Faith Formation classes are on Summer Break until August 9. The nursery is available only during worship in summer. Find out more about our regular Faith Formation opportunities for adults here: http://www.oruuc.org/faith-formation-for-adults and children and youth here: http://www.oruuc.org/religious-education. 

Masks are not required in the building; however, they are available, along with hand sanitizer, in various locations throughout the church. We encourage you to assess your personal health risks and do what makes you feel comfortable, whether that means wearing a mask or worshiping with ORUUC from home on Zoom. We appreciate your continued cooperation as we work to keep our community safe and healthy.

We welcome you to be part of this time with us, and we look forward to seeing you in person or on Zoom. 

Stone Soup is a FREE monthly community meal on the final Friday of the month. Diners can park and come inside the Social Hall to enjoy a meal with others, or walk in to pick up a takeout meal for themselves or family members, a neighbor, or friend. Meals will be available from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Friday, or until supplies run out. Bags of non-perishable groceries will also be available. This meal is open to all! We appreciate all of the volunteers who make this meal happen each month, and our partners, the Jewish Congregation of Oak Ridge and Kroger Marketplace.

Join us for our May Worship Series, Awakening Curiosity.

To attend by Zoom, please install the Zoom app on your device and use Meeting ID: 890 7958 2989. We will begin admitting guests at 9:45 a.m.

Please email or text Prayer Requests to: joysandsorrows@oruuc.org.

The Share-the-Plate recipient for the month of May is Together Podemos. The group’s mission is to promote the integration of Hispanic families in the community through education, social and economic knowledge, and advocacy to enhance the quality of life and well-being by providing fair access to information, education, and resources available in the area. Together Podemos aims to create a society where Hispanic families are valued, respected, and included by enhancing their talents and celebrating and preserving their rich and diverse Hispanic heritage. For more information, visit https://www.togetherpodemostn.org/. Please give here: https://onrealm.org/oruuc/-/form/give/now as you are willing and able, or text “ORUUC” to 73256.

After worship, you’re invited to coffee and conversation in the Social Hall. Youth and Adult Faith Formation classes meet from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. This is the last Sunday of Youth Classes before Summer Break! Find out more about our regular Faith Formation opportunities for adults here: http://www.oruuc.org/faith-formation-for-adults and children and youth here: http://www.oruuc.org/religious-education. The nursery is available during worship and second hour.

Masks are not required in the building; however, they are available, along with hand sanitizer, in various locations throughout the church. We encourage you to assess your personal health risks and do what makes you feel comfortable, whether that means wearing a mask or worshiping with ORUUC from home on Zoom. We appreciate your continued cooperation as we work to keep our community safe and healthy.

We welcome you to be part of this time with us, and we look forward to seeing you soon! 

In high school before there were cell phones, bored students used to pass notes in class. Recently, Guest Minister Rev. Chris Buice discovered a box of notes from his high school years, many of which are surprisingly profound. This Sunday, Chris will focus on the notes written by Binki Hettel, of blessed memory. Her teenage ideas about religion, mythology and spirituality written in the 1980s (when she was supposed to be paying attention in class) are surprisingly relevant for people of all ages in 2026, especially those who want to bust up the patriarchy. We hope you will bring your holy curiosity to this conversation across generations.

Join us for our May Worship Series, Awakening Curiosity, as our Guest Minister Chris Buice from TVUUC shares his message, “Binki Busts Up the Patriarchy”.

To attend by Zoom, please install the Zoom app on your device and use Meeting ID: 890 7958 2989. We will begin admitting guests at 9:45 a.m.

Please email or text Prayer Requests to: joysandsorrows@oruuc.org.

The Share-the-Plate recipient for the month of May is Together Podemos. The group’s mission is to promote the integration of Hispanic families in the community through education, social and economic knowledge, and advocacy to enhance the quality of life and well-being by providing fair access to information, education, and resources available in the area. Together Podemos aims to create a society where Hispanic families are valued, respected, and included by enhancing their talents and celebrating and preserving their rich and diverse Hispanic heritage. For more information, visit https://www.togetherpodemostn.org/. Please give here: https://onrealm.org/oruuc/-/form/give/now as you are willing and able, or text “ORUUC” to 73256.

After worship, you’re invited to coffee and conversation in the Social Hall. Youth and Adult Faith Formation classes meet from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Find out more about our regular Faith Formation opportunities for adults here: http://www.oruuc.org/faith-formation-for-adults and children and youth here: http://www.oruuc.org/religious-education. The nursery is available during worship and second hour.

Masks are not required in the building; however, they are available, along with hand sanitizer, in various locations throughout the church. We encourage you to assess your personal health risks and do what makes you feel comfortable, whether that means wearing a mask or worshiping with ORUUC from home on Zoom. We appreciate your continued cooperation as we work to keep our community safe and healthy.

We welcome you to be part of this time with us, and we look forward to seeing you soon! 

Ten-year-old Jo Nagai of Japan discovered something amazing about butterfly memory. On this Mother's Day, let's explore the joy of curiosity, the mystery of memory, and the presence of our ancestry. We will also recognize our Faith Formation leaders and give the Bob Kernohan award.

Join us for our May Worship Series,Awakening Curiosity, as our Minister Lóre Stevens shares her message, “A Memory of Lavender”.

To attend by Zoom, please install the Zoom app on your device and use Meeting ID: 890 7958 2989. We will begin admitting guests at 9:45 a.m.

Please email or text Prayer Requests to: joysandsorrows@oruuc.org.

The Share-the-Plate recipient for the month of May is Together Podemos. The group’s mission is to promote the integration of Hispanic families in the community through education, social and economic knowledge, and advocacy to enhance the quality of life and well-being by providing fair access to information, education, and resources available in the area. Together Podemos aims to create a society where Hispanic families are valued, respected, and included by enhancing their talents and celebrating and preserving their rich and diverse Hispanic heritage. For more information, visit https://www.togetherpodemostn.org/. Please give here: https://onrealm.org/oruuc/-/form/give/now as you are willing and able, or text “ORUUC” to 73256.

After worship, you’re invited to coffee and conversation in the Social Hall. Youth and Adult Faith Formation classes meet from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Find out more about our regular Faith Formation opportunities for adults here: http://www.oruuc.org/faith-formation-for-adults and children and youth here: http://www.oruuc.org/religious-education. The nursery is available during worship and second hour.

Masks are not required in the building; however, they are available, along with hand sanitizer, in various locations throughout the church. We encourage you to assess your personal health risks and do what makes you feel comfortable, whether that means wearing a mask or worshiping with ORUUC from home on Zoom. We appreciate your continued cooperation as we work to keep our community safe and healthy.

We welcome you to be part of this time with us, and we look forward to seeing you soon! 

We celebrate diversity and mutual flourishing with our Unitarian Universalist Flower Communion! Bring a flower or two to add to the bouquet!

Join us for our May Worship Series, Awakening Curiosity, as our Minister Lóre Stevens shares her message, “Many Flowers, One Bouquet”.

To attend by Zoom, please install the Zoom app on your device and use Meeting ID: 890 7958 2989. We will begin admitting guests at 9:45 a.m.

Please email or text Prayer Requests to: joysandsorrows@oruuc.org.

The Share-the-Plate recipient for the month of May is Together Podemos. The group’s mission is to promote the integration of Hispanic families in the community through education, social and economic knowledge, and advocacy to enhance the quality of life and well-being by providing fair access to information, education, and resources available in the area. Together Podemos aims to create a society where Hispanic families are valued, respected, and included by enhancing their talents and celebrating and preserving their rich and diverse Hispanic heritage. For more information, visit https://www.togetherpodemostn.org/. Please give here: https://onrealm.org/oruuc/-/form/give/now as you are willing and able, or text “ORUUC” to 73256.

After worship, you’re invited to the Spring Picnic! Bring a dish to share, and a lawn chair or blanket if you’d like to enjoy the outdoors. There will be no Youth Faith Formation classes or nursery second hour. Find out more about our regular Faith Formation opportunities for adults here: http://www.oruuc.org/faith-formation-for-adults and children and youth here: http://www.oruuc.org/religious-education.

Masks are not required in the building; however, they are available, along with hand sanitizer, in various locations throughout the church. We encourage you to assess your personal health risks and do what makes you feel comfortable, whether that means wearing a mask or worshiping with ORUUC from home on Zoom. We appreciate your continued cooperation as we work to keep our community safe and healthy.

We welcome you to be part of this time with us, and we look forward to seeing you soon! 

Carole Bland Yust, 92, died peacefully on Thursday, January 8, 2026, at NHC in Oak Ridge. A celebration of Carole’s life will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at Oak Ridge Unitarian Universalist Church, located at 809 Oak Ridge Turnpike. 

Born in Gadsden, Alabama during the Great Depression, Carole’s family moved frequently around the state, finally settling in Florence, where she graduated from Coffee High School. Carole played the saxophone in her high school band, an activity that evolved into a lifelong love of music. After completing studies in Home Economics at Florence State Teacher’s College, now the University of North Alabama, she married Charles Simon Yust in 1955 and they moved to Oak Ridge.

Carole was active in the YWCA for many years, where she both taught sewing and cooking classes and later developed classes on a wide variety of topics. She was also active in the Oak Ridge Civic Music Association (ORCMA) Women’s Guild and helped plan many wine and cheese fundraising events for ORCMA, doing yeoman's work making hundreds of cocktail meatballs and other hors d’oeuvres. She was an accomplished homemaker and hostess, frequently entertaining musicians and audience members after chamber music and other concerts. She always provided a generous and delicious spread of food and drink, enough to bend the table legs, certain the musicians would be hungry after the exertions of performing. She relished attending performances in Oak Ridge and Knoxville, including the Metropolitan Opera Simulcasts at the local movie theater, concerts, plays, and movies. She especially enjoyed local handicrafts and artwork, regularly attending the Foothills Craft Guild exhibitions where she eagerly admired the work of her favorite artists and craftspeople. She was a skilled seamstress whose creations included everything from tiny, gorgeous doll clothes to tailored suits and recital dresses to curtains and furnishings for the home she and Charlie had built. Carole was a member for many years at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Oak Ridge, where she was active on various committees and served in several different roles. In recent years she was an active member of the Stone Soup and rummage sale committees. She had a wicked sense of humor and a spicy, colorful vocabulary. Nobody who knew Carole was ever in doubt about her opinions!

Carole was predeceased by her husband of 58 years, parents Clara “Gladys” (Jackson) and John M. Bland, brother William “Bill” Bland (Susan) and Bill’s twin (at birth) Robert Bland.

She is survived by her children John Yust (Linda Dicus), Laura Yust, and Carla Bouvy (Chuck); brother John “Buddy” Bland (the late Betty Chapman Bland); grandchildren Julia Mann, John Wesley Springer (Alyx Henry), Lennon Springer, Cassady Yust, Christiana Bouvy, and Dan Bouvy; great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces, nephews, and many dear friends.

The family wishes especially to thank the caregivers at Amada Senior Care for helping her to remain in her home; and the staff at UT Medical Center, UT Hospice, and NHC in Oak Ridge for caring for her in her final days.

Mott-McKamey Funeral Home and Cremations is assisting the Yust family.

This spring, Judy Kaplan Walker and Allan Kaplan are bringing their parents' ashes to ORUUC to be interred in the memorial garden of the congregation they loved. All friends are welcome to attend the brief remembrance of Caryl and Stephen Kaplan and interment of their ashes in the Memorial Garden Friday, May 1 at 10 a.m. Caryl and Stephen felt at home at ORUUC and enjoyed participating in church activities. Their talents included Caryl's recipes found in the "Let's Cook!  Fiftieth Anniversary 1951-2001" ORUUC cookbook, and Steve's plans for and skills used to help build a church playground. Caryl Fillman Kaplan was born May 9, 1932 and passed away October 18, 2021. Stephen Isaac Kaplan was born March 25, 1924 and passed on December 5, 2006.

With each child born, a morning star rises and sings to the universe who we are! Join us for our annual Child Dedication service, when we bless our children and the congregation covenants to care for those families in community.

Join us for our April Worship Series, Embracing Possibility, as our Minister Lóre Stevens and Youth Faith Formation Director Christine Rehder celebrate ORUUC’s families.

To attend by Zoom, please install the Zoom app on your device and use Meeting ID: 890 7958 2989. We will begin admitting guests at 9:45 a.m.

Please email or text Prayer Requests to: joysandsorrows@oruuc.org.

The Share-the-Plate recipient for the month of April is the Child Advocacy Center of Anderson County. This organization’s mission is "Healing and Justice for Abused Children". It serves approximately 400-500 children annually. At the Center, staff provide forensic interviews, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, and other victim services, including education and advocacy. We coordinate the Anderson County Child Protective Investigative Team and are trained in diversity, inclusion, and equity for all clients. ORUUC's support of the Child Advocacy Center has helped many children heal and recover from traumatic abuse, thus supporting the dignity and worth of each child served. These are the most vulnerable members of our community. Prior to the Child Advocacy Center, these young victims were an under-served population. ORUUC's support makes a positive difference in their lives. Please give here: https://onrealm.org/oruuc/-/form/give/now as you are willing and able, or text “ORUUC” to 73256.

After worship, you’re invited to enjoy coffee and conversation in the lobby. Youth and Adult Faith Formation classes meet from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Find out more about our regular Faith Formation opportunities for adults here: http://www.oruuc.org/faith-formation-for-adults and children and youth here: http://www.oruuc.org/religious-education. The nursery is available during worship and second hour.

Masks are not required in the building; however, they are available, along with hand sanitizer, in various locations throughout the church. We encourage you to assess your personal health risks and do what makes you feel comfortable, whether that means wearing a mask or worshiping with ORUUC from home on Zoom. We appreciate your continued cooperation as we work to keep our community safe and healthy.

We welcome you to be part of this time with us, and we look forward to seeing you soon! 

Stone Soup is a FREE monthly community meal on the final Friday of the month. Diners can park and come inside the Social Hall to enjoy a meal with others, or walk in to pick up a takeout meal for themselves or family members, a neighbor, or friend. Meals will be available from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Friday, or until supplies run out. Bags of non-perishable groceries will also be available. This meal is open to all! We appreciate all of the volunteers who make this meal happen each month, and our partners, the Jewish Congregation of Oak Ridge and Kroger Marketplace.

Join us for our April Worship Series,Embracing Possibility, as Guest Speaker Amanda Gross shares her message.

To attend by Zoom, please install the Zoom app on your device and use Meeting ID: 890 7958 2989. We will begin admitting guests at 9:45 a.m.

Please email or text Prayer Requests to: joysandsorrows@oruuc.org.

The Share-the-Plate recipient for the month of April is the Child Advocacy Center of Anderson County. This organization’s mission is "Healing and Justice for Abused Children". It serves approximately 400-500 children annually. At the Center, staff provide forensic interviews, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, and other victim services, including education and advocacy. We coordinate the Anderson County Child Protective Investigative Team and are trained in diversity, inclusion, and equity for all clients. ORUUC's support of the Child Advocacy Center has helped many children heal and recover from traumatic abuse, thus supporting the dignity and worth of each child served. These are the most vulnerable members of our community. Prior to the Child Advocacy Center, these young victims were an under-served population. ORUUC's support makes a positive difference in their lives. Please give here: https://onrealm.org/oruuc/-/form/give/now as you are willing and able, or text “ORUUC” to 73256.

After worship, you’re invited to enjoy coffee and conversation in the Lobby. Our Guest Worship Leader Amanda Gross will host a two-hour workshop in the Social Hall from 11:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. A light lunch will be provided, and copies of her book, “White Women, Get Ready” will be available for purchase. All are welcome! Adult and Youth Faith Formation classes meet from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. The Nursery is available during worship and second hour. Find out more about our regular Faith Formation opportunities for adults here: http://www.oruuc.org/faith-formation-for-adults and children and youth here: http://www.oruuc.org/religious-education. 

Masks are not required in the building; however, they are available, along with hand sanitizer, in various locations throughout the church. We encourage you to assess your personal health risks and do what makes you feel comfortable, whether that means wearing a mask or worshiping with ORUUC from home on Zoom. We appreciate your continued cooperation as we work to keep our community safe and healthy.

We welcome you to be part of this time with us, and we look forward to seeing you soon! 

On April 12th, Yuri Gagarin became the first human to orbit the Earth. That day became known as Yuri's Night or the International Day of Human Spaceflight. Join us to celebrate this scientific celebration of life, science, and exploration.

Join us for our April Worship Series, Embracing Possibility, as our Minister Lóre Stevens shares her message, "Yuri’s Night".

To attend by Zoom, please install the Zoom app on your device and use Meeting ID: 890 7958 2989. We will begin admitting guests at 9:45 a.m.

Please email or text Prayer Requests to: joysandsorrows@oruuc.org.

The Share-the-Plate recipient for the month of April is the Child Advocacy Center of Anderson County. This organization’s mission is "Healing and Justice for Abused Children". It serves approximately 400-500 children annually. At the Center, staff provide forensic interviews, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, and other victim services, including education and advocacy. We coordinate the Anderson County Child Protective Investigative Team and are trained in diversity, inclusion, and equity for all clients. ORUUC's support of the Child Advocacy Center has helped many children heal and recover from traumatic abuse, thus supporting the dignity and worth of each child served. These are the most vulnerable members of our community. Prior to the Child Advocacy Center, these young victims were an under-served population. ORUUC's support makes a positive difference in their lives. Please give here: https://onrealm.org/oruuc/-/form/give/now as you are willing and able, or text “ORUUC” to 73256.

After worship, you’re invited to enjoy coffee and conversation in the lobby. Youth and Adult Faith Formation classes meet from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Find out more about our regular Faith Formation opportunities for adults here: http://www.oruuc.org/faith-formation-for-adults and children and youth here: http://www.oruuc.org/religious-education. The nursery is available during worship and second hour.

Masks are not required in the building; however, they are available, along with hand sanitizer, in various locations throughout the church. We encourage you to assess your personal health risks and do what makes you feel comfortable, whether that means wearing a mask or worshiping with ORUUC from home on Zoom. We appreciate your continued cooperation as we work to keep our community safe and healthy.

We welcome you to be part of this time with us, and we look forward to seeing you soon! 

On this Easter Sunday, join us to empathize deeply with Jesus of Nazareth and Mary Magdalene, and what they may have felt during that scary and sacred week in Jerusalem.

Join us for our April Worship Series,Embracing Possibility, as our Minister Lóre Stevens shares her message, "Running Up That Hill".

To attend by Zoom, please install the Zoom app on your device and use Meeting ID: 890 7958 2989. We will begin admitting guests at 9:45 a.m.

Please email or text Prayer Requests to: joysandsorrows@oruuc.org.

Our Christian Fellowship group will host an Easter Sunrise Service this morning at 7 a.m. in the Memorial Garden. All are welcome as we reintroduce this Easter tradition!

The Share-the-Plate recipient for the month of April is the Child Advocacy Center of Anderson County. This organization’s mission is "Healing and Justice for Abused Children". It serves approximately 400-500 children annually. At the Center, staff provide forensic interviews, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, and other victim services, including education and advocacy. ORUUC's support of the Child Advocacy Center has helped many children heal and recover from traumatic abuse, thus supporting the dignity and worth of each child served. These are the most vulnerable members of our community. Prior to the Child Advocacy Center, these young victims were an under-served population. ORUUC's support makes a positive difference in their lives. Please give here: https://onrealm.org/oruuc/-/form/give/now as you are willing and able, or text “ORUUC” to 73256.

After worship, you’re invited to enjoy coffee and conversation in the lobby. Youth and Adult Faith Formation classes meet from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Find out more about our regular Faith Formation opportunities for adults here: http://www.oruuc.org/faith-formation-for-adults and children and youth here: http://www.oruuc.org/religious-education. The nursery is available during worship and second hour.

Today we’ll host our annual Easter Egg Hunt at 12:15 p.m. for pre-school and elementary school age children. Bring coins to donate to fill the eggs. Following the egg hunt, the children will distribute the coins to ORUUC’s Share the Plate recipients, our community partners—Second Harvest Backpack Program, ADFAC, Stone Soup, the Blossom Center for Childhood Excellence, TORCH, the Free Medical Clinic of Oak Ridge, Ecumenical Storehouse, Planned Parenthood of Tennessee and Northern Mississippi, and the Child Advocacy Center of Anderson County. Thank you for being part of this annual tradition!

Masks are not required in the building; however, they are available, along with hand sanitizer, in various locations throughout the church. We encourage you to assess your personal health risks and do what makes you feel comfortable, whether that means wearing a mask or worshiping with ORUUC from home on Zoom. We appreciate your continued cooperation as we work to keep our community safe and healthy.

We welcome you to be part of this time with us, and we look forward to seeing you soon! 

On this Transgender Day of Visibility, let us honor the choice of how to express oneself and the risk to be known.

Join us for our March worship series, Paying Attention, as our Minister Lóre Stevens shares her message, "Choosing Visibility".

To attend by Zoom, please install the Zoom app on your device and use Meeting ID: 890 7958 2989. We will begin admitting guests at 9:45 a.m.

Please email or text Prayer Requests to: joysandsorrows@oruuc.org.

The Share-the-Plate recipient for this fifth Sunday in March is the Minister’s Discretionary Fund. The fund is available to help church members who are in a moment of financial crisis. Through the Minister’s Discretionary Fund, we’ve been able to pay a month’s rent or mortgage to help ORUUCians to maintain their housing. We can pay for an unexpected medical, dental, or prescription bill that would otherwise max out someone’s finances. We’ve paid utility bills to literally keep the lights on. The Minister’s Discretionary Fund also helps people in the larger Oak Ridge community with utility bills, food, and gas. When folks in need call the church for emergency assistance, the Minister’s Discretionary Fund is where the money comes from to pay a bill or offer relief. The fund is completely confidential: If you’re in need, only the minister need know, in order to access the fund. A bill can be paid safely and securely, with complete discretion. The Minister’s Discretionary Fund is available only through your generous contributions. Any cash or check or electronic gift you make today will help keep the Fund available to friends in need. Thanks in advance for your generosity. Please give here: https://onrealm.org/oruuc/-/form/give/now as you are willing and able, or text “ORUUC” to 73256.

After worship, you’re invited to enjoy coffee and conversation in the lobby. Youth and Adult Faith Formation classes meet from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Find out more about our regular Faith Formation opportunities for adults here: http://www.oruuc.org/faith-formation-for-adults and children and youth here: http://www.oruuc.org/religious-education. The nursery is available during worship and second hour.

Masks are not required in the building; however, they are available, along with hand sanitizer, in various locations throughout the church. We encourage you to assess your personal health risks and do what makes you feel comfortable this winter, whether that means wearing a mask or worshiping with ORUUC from home on Zoom. We appreciate your continued cooperation as we work to keep our community safe and healthy.

We welcome you to be part of this time with us, and we look forward to seeing you soon!