New? Start Here! Calendar Sunday Morning Upcoming Events eUU Weekly Newsletter Our Church isn't just for Sunday Services; it's a gathering place where we co-create our community of like minds and shared values, every day. Welcome to the First Unitarian Congregation, a liberal, spiritual congregation located on the shores of the Ottawa River. We're a diverse, multigenerational community built on a variety of philosophical and faith traditions, and we're committed to turning compassion into action. We're inclusive and caring, offer small group ministry, several choirs , social and personal growth events , Religious Exploration for children and youth , and much more. Our social justice action groups are committed to climate action, mental health, affordable housing , food security , Indigenous reconciliation , and supporting our 2SLGBTQ+ community. 30 Cleary Avenue, Ottawa ON K2A 4A1 613-725-1066 uuoffice@firstunitarianottawa.ca "We kindle the light within and inspire courage to nurture the web of life and to create a just and compassionate world." Reverend Lara Cowtan, Minister CLICK TO WATCH TONIGHT'S HOLTOM LECTURE See Bob Rae deliver his talk at 7:30pm "What is the Direction for Canada post DAVOS" Fall Fair is Coming! Saturday, November 14, 2026 We are very pleased and excited to announce that on October 18, the members of the First Unitarian Congregation of Ottawa voted overwhelmingly to call Reverend Lara Cowtan as our settled minister,and she has joyously accepted! We are all thrilled to be moving forward in shared ministry together. Sunday Mornings sunday-info SUNDAY SERVICE Join us for Sunday Service at 10:30am, in person and online. This Sunday's Service Details Past Sermons RELIGIOUS EXPLORATION Find out what our UU Kids will be doing this week. Kids' Religious Exploration HOSPITALITY HOUR Attending in Person? Join us in Fellowship Hall immediately after our Sunday service for coffee and conversation. Accessing FirstU's Campus During Construction (Updated September 2026) Click here for information on how to find us, and how to access our campus during construction of two affordable housing apartment buildings on our campus. Events Upcoming Events at FirstU

Subscribe to Get the eUU in Your Inbox Friday, October 30, 2026 We acknowledge that our campus is located on traditional, unceded and unsurrendered Algonquin Anishinaabeg Territory, and that the work of reconciliation is a responsibility of our congregation, and all Canadians. Sunday, November 1, 2026 In-Person and Online Starts at 10:30am A Thin Veil with Lauren Foster-MacLeod At this time of year, when the veil between worlds is thinnest,we will remember and honour those who have passed. We will have an altar table set up and welcome in-person attendees to bring a photo of someone who has passed away in the past year, to place there. There will be paper leaves available for people to write names of their beloved dead. Those attending online are encouraged to place a photo or written name of their beloved dead on their own altar; perhaps placed beside their own flaming chalice, or in another place of their choosing. Each month, we share our undesignated offertory 50/50 with a community partner. Click here to learn more about this month's partner. Service Description Click Here for Service and Event Information Don't Forget: Daylight Savings Time ENDS this weekend! Children's Religious Exploration This Sunday, after Time for All Ages, our UU Kids will go downstairs to continue our "Woven Faith" curriculum: In the Rainbow Room (ages 2-5, with Rita) we will be exploring a new item shown to us by Ellery Churchmouse. In the Chalice Room (ages 6-8, with Esther), we will be reading “The Girl Who Planted Trees” and decorating candle holders. In the Wonder Room (ages 9+, with Jodi), we will be creating our own covenant. Click Here for Additional Children's Programming Information 2027 Pledge Campagne Our annual Pledge Campaign continues, and is about a third of the way to its goals. Have you pledged yet? Check out our Annual Giving page to learn more and to submit a pledge online, or send an email to pledge@firstunitarianottawa.ca . Featured Volunteer Opportunity Featured Vol Fall Fair Needs YOU! Join the fun and help with this important fundraiser. There are still a number of volunteer opportunities available. We're particularly looking for: For the day of the sale (November 14), people who know how to use, or are willing to learn, Square for electronic payments. Bakers! Cookies, squares or small loaves for Baking and Jams, and muffins for the Lunch Room - all welcome and appreciated. Check out the Fall Fair page for details and more opportunities. Or contact Eva at ffvols@firstunitarianottawa.ca . Click Here for FirstU's Volunteer Listings Contact Lisa Sharp, Volunteer Coordinator, at: volunteers@firstunitarianottawa.ca Caring Contacts FirstU's Caring Team We are all interconnected, interdependent and minister to each other in many ways. Caring Contacts are monthly volunteers who receive phone calls and emails when you wish to alert us to a need, a grief or a concern, or have a joy to celebrate. They prepare cards to be signed on Sundays, and try to ensure no one is forgotten, connecting people with appropriate help when requested. Caring Contacts for October Maryan O’Hagan - Email - 613-729-7752 Marianne Wood - Email - 613-725-3452 Caring Contacts for November Barb Ryan - Email - 613-710-3131 Stan Pope - Email - 613-614-3750 Caring Cards for October: Rhodena M, Werner D, Marg L, Karin W, John S, and Carol C. Caring Visitors are specially trained and certified FirstU Members, available to provide spiritual care and deep listening for those who seek support during a transition or challenging time. Visits can be by phone/zoom, a walk, in a coffee shop, in home, hospital, hospice, or wherever is comfortable. Caring Visitors: caringvisitors@firstunitarianottawa.ca Click here to learn more about FirstU's Caring Team Canadian UU National Survey and Conversation The Canadian Unitarian Council (CUC) is inviting Unitarian Universalists across Canada to share their experiences, hopes, and perspectives. The invitation says: “We are here to listen and learn. When we understand who we are — and who we are becoming — we can show up with greater care for the congregations and members we serve.” FirstU has signed up to have an interactive, online conversation with CUC staff and board members this Thursday, November 5 from 7:00 - 9:00pm. To join the conversation, click HERE. We encourage all interested congregants to join FirstU leadership for this conversation and, in advance of November 5, to complete the survey for individuals. The survey is available HERE. Please allow 30 minutes to complete it. Having a strong national organization is in the best interests of FirstU, so we’d like to have broad participation in the survey and conversation. FirstU people participating in the November 5 conversation will be entered in a draw for some CUC gear, such as shirts and tote bags. Announcements Read All About It Congregational Meetings Thank you to all our members who participated in the Special Congregational Meeting on October 18 and the Fall Congregational Meeting on October 25. We had an excellent turnout for both meetings, especially given that there were two meetings so closely scheduled together! For those who were unable to participate, we thought you might like to see the minutes of both meetings so that you will be up to date: Please click HERE for the October 18 Special Congregational meeting minutes Please click HERE for the October 25 Fall Congregational meeting minutes Please click HERE for the recording of the October 25 Fall Congregational Meeting and use the 54:56 jump link in the description to hear an important update about our Odayanhaway Campus Development project. Please Note: The minutes and recordings of both meetings are accessible from the Members' page. Settled Minister Discernment Process We are very pleased and excited to announce that on October 18, the members of the First Unitarian Congregation of Ottawa voted overwhelmingly to call Reverend Lara Cowtan as our settled minister, and she has joyously accepted! We are all thrilled to be moving forward in shared ministry together. You can view a recording of the whole meeting HERE. Reverend Lara begins speaking at 40:26. December Spire - Submissions OPEN! The Spire is a magazine meant for editorial comment, personal pieces (opinion articles, poetry), etc. It's read by the broader community, including other Canadian Unitarians. The deadline for the December issue has been extended to November 24. With Fall Fair in between, please consider submitting your articles ahead of time, if possible. Articles should be 450 words or fewer. We will also publish one 'Feature Article (900 words or fewer)' accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Please, send your submissions to spire@firstunitarianottawa.ca Unitarian GoGos Fundraiser The Unitarian GoGos have a fundraising event coming up in support of the Stephen Lewis Foundation's work for AIDS-affected Grandmothers in Africa. GoGos Cheese Sale - This year, the GoGos are partnering with Abbaye de Saint-Benoit-du-Lac to bring you seven cheeses for $45. Full details here. Cheese makes a great host gift for any party you have coming up. The deadline for orders is Monday, November 9, 2026. Order by emailing Linda at gogos@firstunitarianottawa.ca Little Free Libraries FirstU has two Little Free Libraries - one for adults and one for children. Located outside the west (elevator) door, they operate on a leave-a-book / take-a-book basis. There is currently a need, in particular, for more children's books. If you have some (fiction or non-fiction) books available to donate, please place them in either of the Little Free Libraries, or in the donation tubs beneath them. If you have a larger number of books to donate, please contact Andrew to arrange a pickup. Fall Fair Fall Fair is fast upon us! Donations Please bring donations between November 9 and 12 from 10:00am to 7:00pm If you can’t get here during that period you may drop off donations anytime to be stored in the CUBE. Ask at the front office to get the cube opened. Volunteers Volunteers are still needed! Check the Fall Fair page for volunteer opportunities, or speak to Eva or Jim after the service on Sunday: They'll be in Fellowship Hall wearing bright yellow aprons. Click here to find posters you can download to print at home to help promote Fall Fair OR pick some up outside Worship Hall from the envelopes on the bulletin board. Call to Action: Preventing Gender-Based Violence Provided by the Men's Breakfast Group Compassion-to-Action Initiative A key challenge in all efforts to prevent male gender-based violence is getting results. Implementation is often superficial. Hundreds of recommendations lack action including from national inquiries, such as MMWIG in 2019, Mass Casualty 2023, and Renfrew 2022. The Ontario report in 2025 added many more, including detailed legislative changes. Can we use AI to identify three priorities from the hundreds? How can we focus on results? Upcoming Events UU Pride Virtual Night Sunday, November 1 6:00pm Online Members of FirstU's 2SLGBTQIA+ community are invited to join UU Pride for a virtual games night, this Sunday! Bring a queer pal and have some fun with us online. Contact diversity@firstunitarianottawa.ca for further details and to get the link! 2026 Holtom Lecture Featuring the Honourable Bob Rae: "What is the Direction for Canada Post-DAVOS?" Tuesday, November 3 7:30pm Worship Hall Free to Attend (Donations Encouraged) Join us for this year's Holtom Lecture, where the Honourable Bob Rae will provide his insights and perspective on Canada's direction and a peaceful, prosperous future. Further details on the Holtom Lecture page. Please register to attend HERE. CUC Online Conversation Thursday, November 5 7:00pm Online The Canadian Unitarian Council (CUC) is inviting Unitarian Universalists across Canada to share their experiences, hopes, and perspectives. FirstU has signed up to have an interactive, online conversation with CUC staff and board members this Thursday, November 5 from 7:00-9:00pm. We encourage all interested congregants to take part. Click here to join the conversation. Fall Fair Donations Intake November 9-12 10:00am to 7:00pm Daily You've been setting aside your Fall Fair donations for months, and now it's time to bring them in. Click here for Fall Fair's donations wish list, and don't forget to help promote Fall Fair by sharing our Facebook event and hanging up a print-at-home poster in your lobby, office building, or favourite coffee shop! 2026 Fall Fair Saturday, November 14 9:30am to 2:00pm Our annual Fall Fair is here! Bring a friend and find a great selection of gift items, clothing, books, silent-auction items, toys and games, electronics, linens, knitted goods, home baking and lunch items, and much more! Cash, debit and credit cards accepted. Please bring your own shopping bags. Weekly Cal Weekly Calendar Please contact your regular group leader for meeting details. Contact info can be found on the congregation's calendar. The link for Sunday Service can be found on our This Sunday page or on our YouTube Channel. For inquiries or to join a group, email the office for information. Click Here for Our Weekly, Biweekly, and Monthly Group Events. Friday, October 30 1:30am Afternoon Discussion Group 6:00pm "The Mess We Are In" Discussion Group Saturday, October 31 Happy Hallowe'en! Sunday, November 1 10:30am Sunday Service - Online and In-Person Children's Religious Exploration 11:30am Hospitality Hour FirstU Food Cupboard is Open 11:45am FirstU Building Tour After-Service Conversations 6:00pm UU Pride Games Night Click Here for More Events Happening This Week Recurring Recurring Events - Topics and Schedule Changes November 1 - After Service Conversations - Our weekly After-Service Conversations resume in the Lounge. November 3 – Journey Group – 2:00pm - Room 6 - Our Journey Group meets twice a month to discuss a monthly theme. November’s theme is “Healing”. Contact Amalilly for more information. November 6 - Men's Breakfast Group - 8:30am - Fellowship Hall - Gentlemen are invited to join the Men's Breakfast Group for coffee, socializing, and breakfast, followed by an informative and engaging talk by Irvin Waller on the topic "Call to Action: Preventing Gender-Based Violence". Register no later than Monday, November 2, by clicking HERE and submitting this form. November 12 - Virtual Discussion Circle - Every other Thursday at 1:30pm on zoom. Discussion circles are held biweekly, with a different topic each time. No pre-registration is required, just drop in by clicking the link on the Make Friends Page. We look forward to seeing you! Contact Andrew with any questions. Our topic will be: "If you could have a fictional character for a friend, who would it be?" November 16 - Virtual Trivia Night - 7:00pm - Details and zoom link HERE. November 26 - Thursday Evening Reading for Growth – 7:00pm on the fourth Thursday of the month. Contact Ken for the zoom link and our next book title. November 27 - Friday Afternoon Reading for Growth – 1:30pm on the last Friday of the month. Contact Clea for the zoom link and our next title. Need to check if a weekly, biweekly, or monthly event has been rescheduled? Click here, or check our month-at-a-glance calendar. Looking for a new social group to join, or need to confirm a zoom link or locate a registration form? Click here for a full list of our recurring events, plus zoom links for those that occur online. nUUs Unitarian Universalist nUUs Canadian Unitarian Council Information about upcoming CUC events can be found on their Events Page. Check them out and consider ways you can engage with fellow UUs beyond the congregation. Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Ottawa (UUFO) Information about events and activities at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Ottawa can be found by reading the latest UUFO Friday Notes. News from Our Friends The Canadian Film Institute Presents: Silver Screamers This Sunday, November 1 Doors: 12:30pm Show: 1:00pm ByTowne Cinema (325 Rideau St) FREE Join the Canadian Film Institute for a free screening of Silver Screamers, a 2025 Canadian documentary that follows a group of seniors taking on an unexpected creative project: making a horror film. It explores the friendships, confidence and discoveries that emerge as the group works through the challenges of low-budget filmmaking. The screening will be followed by a Q&A with director Sean Cisterna. Please register for your free ticket HERE. Hearts & Crafts 613 Seeks Craft Supply Donations Hearts & Crafts 613 is an arts program created by former patients, to bring meaningful activity and connection to mental health in-patients at the Royal Ottawa Hospital over the holidays. Donate your used craft supplies to make this initiative happen! Find a list of most-needed items HERE. To arrange a pick-up, email heartsandcrafts.team@proton.me. All Saints Anglican - Village Fair Saturday, November 14 9:00am - 2:00pm 347 Richmond Road After you've visited our Fall Fair at FirstU, why not pop by All Saints Anglican, in Westboro, to explore their "Village Fair" church bazaar too? Full details here or check out their poster. Submissions Submissions and Zoom Bookings Sunday Announcement Submissions If you would like an announcement made during the livestreamed Sunday Service, please send an email, by Wednesday at noon, to: boardannouncements@firstunitarianottawa.ca . Do allow for time in case there are questions with regard to the announcement. Also note that announcements longer than 50 words will be edited for length and that time-sensitive announcements may be prioritized. Booking Online Meetings Email zoominfo@firstunitarianottawa.ca to book a Zoom meeting and to find help with questions about how Zoom works. Standard requests will receive a reply within 24 hours. Please label urgent requests with 'Urgent' in the Subject line and someone will respond as soon as possible. eUU Submissions Submit your eUU messages for consideration to publications@firstunitarianottawa.ca no later than Wednesday at noon of the week you want your announcement or event to appear. Submissions may be edited for length. 60 words or fewer, please. Allison, our Communications Coordinator, works Thursdays and Fridays. WordOut Click Here to Download a PDF of This Week's eUU Visit the eUU Archives Page Visit Us on Social Media: Our contact information: 30 Cleary Ave, Ottawa, ON K2A 4A1 613-725-1066 uuoffice@firstunitarianottawa.ca

Holtom Lecture Registration Registration is now full. CLICK TO WATCH TONIGHT'S LIVESTREAM OF THE HOLTOM LECTURE

Edith Holtom Peace Lecture Series The Edith Holtom Memorial Lecture Series presents lectures promoting conflict resolution and peace. Click Here to open a PDF providing further background on "The Holtom Lectures". 2026 Holtom Lecture Featuring the Honourable Bob Rae "What is the Direction for Canada post DAVOS?" CLICK TO WATCH TONIGHT'S LIVESTREAM OF OUR HOLTOM LECTURE Tuesday, November 3 7:30pm, Worship Hall Free to Attend (Donations Encouraged) Join us for this year's Holtom Lecture, where the Honourable Bob Rae will provide his insights and perspective on Canada's direction and a peaceful, prosperous future. Read the Honourable Bob Rae's bio HERE. Holtom Lectures are free to attend, but we ask that you register here to let us know you're coming and how you heard about the event. Registration ends on Friday, October 30. Reception and book signing to follow. Donations gratefully accepted. DONATE VIA E-TRANSFER: Please note "HOLTOM" in the description field fm@firstunitarianottawa.ca Past Lectures Holtom Lecture - May 8, 20214 - On Conflict Resolution Dr Donna Hicks 00:00 / 1:14:20 Dr Donna Hicks presenting at Harvard about Conflict Resolution. She presented this lecture on May 8, 2014, as a Holtom Lecture. Building Peace in the 21st Centure: Reflections Over Four Decades Peggy Mason 00:00 / 54:18 Peggy Mason presented "“Building Peace in the 21st Century: Reflections Over Four Decades” as a Holtom Lecture on January 30, 2013. Peggy Mason served as Canada’s UN Ambassador for Disarmament from 1989 to 1994. She is currently a Senior Fellow at the Norman Patterson school of International Affairs. Stories and What They Do Noah Richler 00:00 / 1:04:41 Noah Richler presented "Stories and What They Do" as a Holtom Lecture on April 29, 2013. This lecture features Noah Richler, internationally acclaimed journalist, addressing the transformation of Canada's focus from a peace oriented country to a warrior nation. How permanent is this change in Canada's character? Holtom Lecture - November 25, 2015 Desmond Morton 00:00 / 1:03:55 Desmond Morton presented this Holtom Lecture on November 25, 2015.

How do you participate in congregational life? Participation in congregational life is two-sided. We'd like to know what events you attend, and we'd like to know how you show up to make things happen for yourself and others. All of these fields are optional - please feel free to share only what you are comfortable with. Note that if you share your email address or phone number, we would only use this information to follow up with you about opportunities if you have provided your consent to do so. First name Last name Email Phone What is your age? Under 18 18-25 25-39 40-65 66-79 80+ What year did you start attending FirstU? In what non-volunteering ways do you participate in congregational life at FirstU? Attending Sunday services Social Events (Church BBQ, Hospitality Hour, yUUth group, men's breakfast group, etc) Games (Trivia night, Euchre, Bridge) Religious Exploration and Lifespan Learning (journey groups, after-service discussions, OWL, Coming of Age, Online Meditation, Women's Inclusive Pagan Circle, etc) Personal Growth (Reading for Growth groups, Spirituality and Philosophy group, virtual discussion circle) Arts and Crafts (knitting group, attending choir concerts, Drumming and Singing Spires) Donating to, or attending, fundraisers (Fall Fair, GoGos Plant/Bake sales, Mitten Tree winter gear sale, fair trade goods table) FirstU External Events (Marching in Pride, the Climate March, attending protests and solidarity walks) Other In what ways, if any, do you currently volunteer at FirstU? Planning, presenting, or assisting at Sunday Services Assisting with after-service hospitality during Hospitality Hour Performing as part of a FirstU choir or the House Band Serving on the Board, or on a team, committee, or task force Volunteering at Events (taking a shift at Fall Fair, being a server during concert intermissions) Running or assisting with social or spiritual events (EG: book clubs, meditation group, games nights, writing group, Adult RE events, etc) Maintaining the campus (EG: Friends of the Meditation Garden, Annual play area clean-up) Helping with the Ajashki Project Other Why do you volunteer? Do you have any barriers to volunteering or participating in congregational life, more than you currently do? Lack of childcare Lack of transportation Paid work is too demanding of my time Paid work doesn't provide a consistent schedule School work is too demanding of my time Chronic illness, mobility issues, or other health stuff doesn't allow me to volunteer, or participate in events, on a consistent basis Family commitments (childcare, elder care) take most of my spare time My volunteer hours are split between FirstU and other volunteer commitments Activities and events I'd like to take part in are scheduled during my work/school hours I just found out about an activity/group I'd like to be part of, and don't know how to get involved Other If the right job can be found, I am willing to contribute: A few hours on short notice for a specific task A few more hours per week A few more hours per month A few more hours seasonally (3-4 months) A few more hours per year I am now at capacity for volunteer work What special skills, if any, are you willing to contribute at this time? Office Computer Skills (familiarity with google suite, MS office suite, etc) Phone Fearlessness Zoom Hosting Good with fine details Have recently passed a police record check for working with vulnerable populations Can comfortably lift and carry 20 lbs from one room to another Extrovert - Great at chatting up strangers and friends alike Lateral Thinking - I come up with unexpected solutions and draw connections that others might miss Meal Planning and Large Batch Cooking Event planning, including running said event(s) Self-starter - I can, and prefer to, volunteer from my home Social - I can, and prefer to, help on site, at the Church Other Is there anything else you'd like to share? Submit

Submit Your Volunteer Request Form Here Need volunteers to enhance the work of your team or committee? Submit the form below to have your task added to our Volunteer With Us page. First name Last name Email Phone Please note: The above contact information will not be shared publicly. The renewal task force will use your contact information to put potential volunteers in touch with you. Provide a short, descriptive title (e.g.: "Set up volunteers needed for December Concert" or "Join the Campus Planning Committee") Provide a short description of the nature of the work What is the time-commitment? A specific date or dates (annual or one-off event) A few hours, weekly A few hours, monthly A few hours, seasonally (every 3-4 months) Other The hours are... Flexible within the specified commitment A specific day/date and time within the specified commitment If specific, please state the required days/dates and times (E.G.: "Saturday, May 13, 10am-2pm" or "Third Monday of the month, 7pm at the church") Submit

Meet the Religious Exploration Team Jodi McIntosh (she/her) Director of Religious Exploration After being a congregant for many years I am so incredibly pleased to find myself in the role of Director of Religious Exploration (DRE). After being home with my kids as a homeschooling momma for many years I started working at First U as a custodian. I enjoyed working out of the house so much that when the position for DRE came up I jumped at it. Having a degree in education and several years’ experience as a supply teacher I felt that it would be the perfect position for me. I hope to bring some of my passion for music, storytelling, and drama into the programming. When not at First U, I can be found scooting around the city on my electric moped, walking the trails in the greenbelt with my kids or snuggling with my dog on the couch with a cup of tea and an audiobook. esther paul (they/them) Religious Exploration Assistant Hello! My name is Esther Paul, and I am thrilled to be part of the RE team as a Childcare Assistant in the Rainbow Room. I graduated from Woodroffe High School in 2025, and I am currently a full-time student at the University of Ottawa studying Biomedical Science. When I am not at First U, I can be found studying, obsessing over my aquariums, playing with my cats, enjoying a good TV show, and dabbling in some arts and crafts. Rita Ross (she/her) Childcare Coordinator Hello my name is Rita Ross I am the childcare coordinator at the First Unitarian church in Ottawa. I am a single mother of two wonderful adults, I have been working in the childcare field as an RECE for over thirty years. I am educated in infant mental health, basic sign language, collaborative problem solving, resource teaching for children with exceptionalities, language acquisition and am fully versed in the current child care philosophy 'How Does Learning Happen.' I am also a trained health and safety inspector. I am currently employed at the Youville Centre where I work with infants, toddlers and young mothers. I have enjoyed working at First U since 2016 and am excited to continue to deliver a fun age appropriate program to the children in the Rainbow Room. [Name Here] Childcare Assistant

eUU Archives 2026 January 2026-01-02 2026-01-09 2026-01-16 2026-01-23 2026-01-30 February 2026-02-06 2026-02-13 2026-02-20 2026-02-27 March 2026-03-06 2026-03-13 2026-03-20 2026-03-27 April 2026-04-03 2026-04-10 2026-04-17 2026-04-24 May 2026-05-01 2026-05-08 2026-05-15 2026-05-22 2026-05-29 June 2026-06-05 2026-06-12 2026-06-19 2026-06-26 July 2026-07-03 2026-07-10 2026-07-17 2026-07-24 2026-07-31 August 2026-08-07 2026-08-14 2026-08-21 2026-08-28 September 2026-09-04 2026-09-11 2026-09-18 2026-09-25 October 2026-10-02 2026-10-09 2026-10-16 2026-10-23 2026-10-30 November 2026-11-06 2026-11-13 2026-11-20 2026-11-27 December 2026-12-04 2026-12-11 2026-12-18 2026-12-25 eUU Archives 2025 January 2025-01-03 2025-01-10 2025-01-17 2025-01-24 2025-01-31 February 2025-02-07 2025-02-14 2025-02-21 2025-02-28 March 2025-03-07 2025-03-14 2025-03-21 2025-03-28 April 2025-04-04 2025-04-11 2025-04-18 2025-04-25 May 2025-05-02 2025-05-09 2025-05-16 2025-05-23 2025-05-30 June 2025-06-06 2026-06-13 2026-06-20 2025-06-27 AND 2025-07-04 July 2025-07-11 2025-07-18 2025-07-25 August 2025-08-01 2025-08-08 2025-08-15 2025-08-22 2025-08-29 September 2025-09-05 2025-09-12 2025-09-19 2025-09-26 October 2025-10-03 2025-10-10 2025-10-17 2025-10-24 2025-10-31 November 2025-11-14 2025-11-21 2025-11-28 December 2025-12-05 2025-12-12 2025-12-19 AND 2025-12-26

Odayanhaway Groundbreaking Ceremony On Wednesday, August 19, 2026, about 100 people gathered to celebrate a ceremonial ground-breaking of the Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services (OAHS) building that will provide 66 affordable and deeply affordable units on the FirstU campus. In addition to the ceremony, which was conducted by elder Grandmother Irene Compton, there were speakers drawn from project partners, local dignitaries and cultural performances. A large number of community partners attended as well. Rev. Lara and Cathy Connor, the project lead from OAHS, were interviewed for All in A Day, with additional print and video coverage provided by CBC News. Photos from the Ceremony can be viewed here. Weren't able to attend the Ceremony? You can watch the full livestream here. Welcoming Our New Friends to Canada On Monday, January 13th, 2025, a welcome team of seven met Burundian refugees Elvis and Landry at the Ottawa airport, with welcome placards and warm clothes. From FirstU, we had Andrew, Brent, Chuck and Eva, as well as Reverend Mwibutsa of Flaming Chalice International, and our friend Christian and Prime (not shown in the photo). Un gros merci to everyone who signed the placards, and especially to those who generously donated clothes and winter gear to help them get settled and handle Ottawa's January temperatures! Il va faire très froid ces prochains jours, alors un grand merci pour ça! Odayanhaway Gets the Green Light Odayanhaway (Little Village), a new sustainable, transit-oriented infill development at 30 Cleary Avenue, has received the green light from Ottawa City Council to proceed. This ambitious project, a unique partnership between Theia Partners, the First Unitarian Congregation of Ottawa (FirstU) and Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services (OAHS), will transform an underutilized parking lot adjacent to transit and the Ottawa River into a thriving inclusive community for 200 individuals and families. The project aims to address Ottawa's pressing need for affordable housing while setting a new standard in sustainability and community collaboration. Odayanhaway will feature two distinct buildings: A 16-storey market affordable high rise: This building, jointly owned by FirstU and Theia Partners, will deliver 148 units, with at least 80% meeting Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) affordability criteria, as well as a commitment to include deeply affordable units; A 6-storey affordable non-profit building: This building will offer 66 affordable units, facilitated through a land donation from FirstU, as part of its commitment to Reconciliation. The building, Indigenous-owned and operated by OAHS, will be designed to provide culturally appropriate housing for Indigenous individuals and families. "Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services is proud to be part of this innovative partnership that brings together the charitable, private, and non-profit sectors to create long-lasting housing solutions," said Justin Marchand, CEO of OAHS. "This affordable housing project at 30 Cleary Avenue will provide much-needed homes for Indigenous families and individuals in Ottawa, helping to address the pressing shortage of affordable housing. By incorporating culture-based approaches into the design and development, we are not only building homes but also fostering a sense of community and friendship among residents and between community organizations. These partnerships enable us to work collectively towards our shared vision of a more inclusive and supportive community for all." A model for Sustainable Affordable Housing In addition to being located next to a light rail transit (LRT) station, both buildings will adhere to strict environmental sustainability standards, demonstrating that affordable housing can also be sustainable housing. The project will feature innovative green technologies such as geothermal heating and cooling, and sustainable design practices, reducing the buildings' carbon footprint and contributing to Canada's environmental goals. "As Unitarians, our principles call us to work for social justice including addressing poverty through our commitment to building affordable and deeply affordable housing," declared FirstU Board President, Chuck Shields, "Our principles also remind us to respect the interdependence of the natural world around us, so we are also excited that we can provide ecologically sustainable housing within walking distance to public transit, with minimal impact on our much-loved gardens. As a faith community that takes Indigenous reconciliation very seriously, we are eager to donate land to OAHS so they can provide affordable homes and welcome Indigenous people to our campus." Diverse Partnerships as a Solution to the Housing Shortage This project is a model of how diverse partnerships, combining resources and expertise from private developers, non-profit organizations, and community groups like FirstU, can pave the way for innovative housing solutions that go beyond simply providing affordable units; they can build community and foster inclusivity, while being sustainable. "This project reflects an innovative collaboration between private, non-profit, and charitable sectors," related Rodney Wilts of Theia Partners. "The partnership with FirstU, in particular, showcases how underused spaces in a prime transit-oriented location can be repurposed for a meaningful, community-focused project that addresses both housing shortages and sustainability goals." With Council approval now secured, the joint venture, managed by Theia Partners, is preparing to break ground on this transformative project as early as Summer 2025. Construction is expected to be completed by 2028. Ajashki in the News On September 30, 2024, Ajashki's head gardener, Kayoki Whiteduck, was interviewed by CBC Ottawa's environment and climate change reporter Stu Mills. Click HERE to listen! $35,400 Ontario Trillium Foundation Grant for Ajashki Program Provides New Options for Indigenous Youth On Tuesday, September 17, local MPP Joel Harden met with the team at the First Unitarian Congregation of Ottawa (FirstU) to hear more about the $35,400 Resilient Communities Fund grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) that was used to establish a new Maker Space and an Indigenous Advisory Circle for the Ajashki Program at FirstU. With this funding, the project aims to provide sustainability options and future strategies for participants in the program’s Food Security and Climate Change Learning Centre. “The First Unitarian Congregation of Ottawa is an incredible community partner that does critical and necessary work to make our world a better place. I’m excited to see that, with the generous support of OTF, the Congregation will be able to expand and grow their work in exciting new ways,” said Joel Harden, MPP for Ottawa Centre. The OTF grant funded the hiring of a part-time Makerspace Program Developer, Maijor Mark, to revamp the room with help of the Future Food Warriors. As a part of their work, the developer also designed a mural with the input from the youths, to reflect all the Indigenous cultures celebrated at Ajashki and will be organizing Indigenous led workshops for the Future Food Warriors to learn new skills, traditions and history. Thanks to their efforts, the Makerspace will be a place for youth to learn, create and grow. The Ajashki Program was first established at FirstU in 2020 as an Indigenous-led project to provide part-time employment to marginalized Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth struggling with mental and physical wellness. Kayoki Whiteduck was first hired as Food and Climate Educator to teach youth – called Future Food Warriors or FFWs – about gardening to develop skills for future employment and build resilience against food insecurity and climate change. In 2024, there are 16 FFWs participating in the Ajashki Program through part-time employment. The employment model is largely funded by donations and grants, which is difficult to sustain. Recent program reviews have revealed that while FFWs are gaining knowledge and confidence, they also wanted to explore activities that have potential for personal income generation. This led to the idea of creating a Makerspace at FirstU, an idea that required physical space, supplies and creative talent. The grant also enabled the creation of an Advisory Circle of four Indigenous advisors who will meet with Ajashki and FirstU leadership bi-monthly. This council will promote Indigenous perspectives and provide input and overall direction for the Ajashki program, ensuring that Ajashki youth continue to design and lead similar to an arts collective. “The Ajashki Program is an important part of FirstU’s social justice actions on several fronts, including combatting poverty, building resilience to climate-change, and forging new paths toward Indigenous reconciliation,” stated Reverend Eric Meter, Lead Pastor of FirstU. “FirstU is proud to support the Ajashki Program with financial and in-kind resources, and congratulates them on the funding for a new Indigenous Makerspace and Indigenous Advisory Council.”

Reverend Lara Cowtan, Minister Jump to Pastoral Care Resources Reverend Lara Cowtan is a lifelong Unitarian Universalist whose faith is deeply woven into her life and calling. A Canadian originally from Winnipeg, she traces her roots back several generations to that city’s Icelandic Unitarian community and is the daughter of a UU minister. This tradition, she says, is not just something she believes in, but something she lives and breathes. Before entering ministry, Lara worked as a Registered Nurse in Canada and the United States. Her nursing background continues to shape her ministry—grounding her in deep listening, compassion, and an honest engagement with both healing and loss. It taught her how to be present with people in times of vulnerability and transition, and how to help build systems of care that support both individuals and communities. Rev. Lara is especially drawn to ministry that nurtures connection, resilience, and shared leadership. She believes deeply in the power of beloved community, in walking with one another through times of change, and in creating spaces where people can bring their whole selves — gifts and wounds, questions and convictions. Whether you are new to Unitarian Universalism, exploring your faith journey, or have been part of this tradition for many years, Rev. Lara armly welcomes you and looks forward to journeying together with the First Unitarian Congregation of Ottawa. Lara lived in Switzerland for many years, where she became deeply involved in international Unitarian and Unitarian Universalist communities. During that time, she helped found the Unitarian Universalist fellowship in Basel, served in leadership roles across Europe, and discerned her call to ministry in a richly diverse and pluralistic context. She earned her Master of Divinity from Meadville Lombard Theological School, completed her internship with the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Westport, Connecticut, and was ordained there in 2017. After returning to Canada in 2019, Rev. Lara served in a variety of ministerial capacities, including consulting and leading worship with congregations across Canada, the United States, and Europe. She served as Interim Minister at Vancouver Unitarians and as consulting minister with the Lakehead Unitarian Fellowship in Thunder Bay. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she also served as a hospital chaplain at St. Boniface Hospital in Winnipeg, offering spiritual care during a time of profound uncertainty and loss. Most recently, she served as Minister of Congregational Care at Unity Church–Unitarian in St. Paul, Minnesota, one of the largest congregations in the denomination. Email Rev Lara Meet with Rev Lara Visit Reverend Lara's Personal Website Affiliated Community Minister Reverend Mwibutsawineza Ndagijimanayiburundi Reverend Mwibutsawineza (formerly Fulgence) Ndagijimanayiburundi - Reverend Mwibutsa for short - is a unitarian minister ordained in Burundi in 2011 and welcomed into the Unitarian Universalist Ministerial Fellowship (UUMFC) of the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) in 2018. Rev. Has lived in Canada for 11 years and 6 years in Ottawa. Rev. Mwibutsa’s ministry is mostly with refugees, community development and nurturing Unitarian communities in Burundi and in Africa through a Canadian registered charity, Flaming Chalice International. Rev. Mwibutsa is involved with the Pan African Unitarians as chair of the leadership team and the “Unitarian Francophone project”. For Rev. Mwibutsa, being connected to ministerial colleagues and being part of the unitarian family in Ottawa is important. Worship Associates The Worship Associates program offers congregation members an opportunity to participate in shaping and delivering a worship experience. Each Associate works with the minister to develop and participate in three to four services during the church year. Our Worship Associates' participation during Sunday worship is a testimony to our community’s commitment to direct congregational involvement in the worship and the liturgy of the church through preaching, readings, storytelling, drama, dance, and music. FirstU's Lay Chaplains Lay Chaplains Lay Chaplains perform many types of rites of passage, but most often, weddings, memorials, and child naming/parent dedication services. They officiate these services primarily for people who are not associated with our congregation, but can serve our members as well. Lay Chaplains take intensive training to be appointed and additional advanced training courses during their time as a Lay Chaplain. They are responsible to the minister who, with the Lay Chaplaincy Committee, ensures ongoing performance observation and coaching. The Unitarian Lay Chaplaincy Program is a uniquely Canadian program established by the national Canadian Unitarian Council. A national Lay Chaplaincy Committee sets standards for the program and develops and conducts ongoing professional development through courses and workshops. For more information about the CUC Lay Chaplaincy program, visit the Canadian Unitarian Council website. Lisa Boulay Lisa has been a member of the First Unitarian Congregation of Ottawa since 2018 and has quickly become involved in many aspects of the Congregation. She is a retired Family Counselor who for twenty years provided both individual and group counseling. In addition, she has developed and delivered several workshops and training programs on substance use, mental health, trauma and recovery. Before becoming a counselor, Lisa worked in the corporate environment and brings a background in training/course design, and communications to her work. Currently, Lisa is a facilitator for the Ottawa Pastoral Care Training Program. Lisa is also a Reiki practitioner and certified Yoga teacher. As a Lay Chaplain Lisa is happy to offer her talents and abilities to support you in creating a meaningful and sacred ceremony to celebrate with reverence, compassion and gratitude the rites of passage and milestones of your life. Guy Belleperche Guy is an engineer by education, a pragmatic idealist by temperament, a husband, father, retired public servant, resident of Ottawa since 1989, and a part of the FirstU community since 2004, where has volunteered as a sexuality educator, youth advisor, worship associate, and member of the board of directors. As a Lay Chaplain, Guy will work with you to create a rite of passage (wedding, memorial service, celebration of life, naming and dedication service) that matches your needs and expectations. Lee Rose Lee Rose initially came to First Unitarian Ottawa in 2020 for the architecture and stayed for the community. Over the past few years he has been engaged in various ways in the congregation including offering reflections during Sunday Services (One of his favourites is Sunday is a Verb ), serving on the ministerial search committee, and being an active member of the worship team - helping to design and deliver Sunday services. Lee is a father of three who has built a career in community and corporate philanthropy. He's also a professional facilitator and a fierce mental health advocate whose practice and work is rooted in social justice and informed by his own experiences as a 2SLGBTQ+ person navigating grief and loss, parenting and queerness as he makes his way through life and the world, sometimes tripping up between the English and French pronunciations of words in his head. Reach out if you or a loved one is looking for someone to help create a ceremony or milestone ritual that embraces and expresses your personal beliefs and values. You don’t have to be a member of the congregation — services are open to anyone of any heritage or faith, of any culture or race, of any gender or orientation, in any body, all that you are. PastoralCare Pastoral and Spiritual Care at FirstU Pastoral and Spiritual Care is provided by many individuals in our congregation in addition to the minister. Caring Network ‘We listen, we phone, we bake, we drive’ is the motto of our Caring Network. The Caring Network has two different contacts for each month that serve as coordinators. They also provide cards to be signed on Sunday mornings to be sent to members who are ill, or who are experiencing a life transition, be it joyous or sad. If you would like to contact this month's Caring Contact, please check the eUU for their contact information. Caring Visitors We are happy to announce that FirstU has a small team of trained Caring Visitors to support congregants who are experiencing challenges, transitions and times of questioning in their lives. Our Caring Visitors do visits in-person, by phone, and on Zoom. In these visits, they listen attentively and with empathy and, if requested, assist you in clarifying your feelings and thoughts. They can also make referrals to the Caring Network or our Minister. Caring Visitors do not provide counselling, driving, or appointment accompaniment. To request a Caring Visit, contact caringvisitors@firstunitarianottawa.ca or call the FirstU office at 613-725-1066. Click Here for UU Liturgical Resources

Volunteer Leader Resources Hello Volunteer! Thank you for stepping into this leadership role. Below, you'll find documents that will help you lead your team or committee. Click the titles to open the documents. 1) Who We Are and How We Build Community Together "Who We Are and How We Build Community Together" includes our Vision and Principles, what it means to be a Welcoming Congregation, what it means to be a Lifespan Learning Congregation, and our Covenants. 2) Who Does What? "Who Does What?" defines "program staff", "teams", "working/action groups", and "committees" and offers an overview of what these different designations apply to. 3) Governance Manual (2020) Check page 6-7 of the Governance Manual for FirstU's Org Chart and responsibilities. 4) Tips for Engaging Potential Volunteers Wondering how to match people's passions and interests with roles and tasks in your team, committee, or group? This document can help. Click HERE for suggestions on how to celebrate volunteers. 9) Important Policies and Guidelines Privacy Policy Accessibility Policy Public Policy Development and Dialogue Activities Guidelines for Rentals Policy on Teams 10) Communications The Communications document includes social media accounts, FirstU publications, and examples of FirstU branding and letterhead. You'll also find information on Bulletin Board promotion in the church building and on how to have things added to the FirstU Calendar. 11) Using the Church Building This document includes processes for opening and closing up the building, using Fellowship Hall and the kitchen, booking space, operating the elevator, and accessing the wifi, as well as fire and safety procedures, and the location of first aid kits, fire exits, fire alarms, and fire extinguishers. You can download "(12) Maps of the Building" by clicking here. Still In Development 5) Facilitating Meetings 6) How to Start a New Group or Activity 7) How to Put On an Event 8) Financial Information 13) Answers to Common Questions 14) Other Resources 15) Sample Forms 16) Appendices

Governing Documents and Policies Welcome! Use the buttons below to download PDFs of FirstU's manuals, bylaws, and other governing documents. Letters of Patent (Updated 2023) General By-Laws May 2022 Governance Manual October 2021 ORG CHARTS 2026 Governance Townhall Board of Directors' Handbook Employee Manual (2019) FirstU Finance Policies Click the buttons below to access the google folder containing FirstU's finance policies. FP-01 - Congregation Financial Policies FP-02 - Financial Authorities FP-03 Annual Financial Plan and Congregational Reporting FP-04 - Deferred Contritubtion Funds FP-06 - Campus Projects Fund FP-09 - Charitable Receipts FP-10 - Travel Expenses FP-14 - Assignment of Investment Income and Changes in Capital Value FP-15 - Legacy Fund FP-16 Honoraria and Related Expenses FP-17 - Benevolent Fund Our Charitable Purposes The charitable purpose of the Corporation (First Unitarian Congregation of Ottawa) is to advance religion in accordance with the tenets, principles, practices and traditions of the Unitarian Universalist faith by carrying out activities in support of the following purposes: Preaching, teaching and manifesting the tenets, principles, practices and traditions of the Unitarian Universalist faith Establishing, maintaining and operating a place of worship; Nurturing, supporting and enhancing its religious community and other groups to work together on mutual concerns for the benefit of the community, including promoting and advancing social and environmental justice; Providing basic necessities of life, including food, clothing, school supplies and affordable housing to low-income individuals and families; Maintaining a Benevolent Fund to assist in providing support in cases of urgent need; Sponsoring eligible refugees including providing financial and other support necessary to ensure a successful transition to life in Canada, consistent with Government of Canada requirements for refugee sponsorship; Gifting to qualified donees as defined in subsection 149.1(1) of the Income Tax Act (Canada); and Undertaking activities ancillary and incidental to the attainment of the above charitable purposes.