Fall Fair 2026 FirstU's 2026 Fall Fair will be held on Saturday, November 14, 2026! Hours: 9:30am - 2:00pm 30 Cleary Ave Come enjoy some pre-Christmas shopping. You’ll find a great selection of gift items, men's and women's clothing, books, toys and games, electronics, linens, new knitted goods, home baking, preserves, a silent art auction, and much more! Lunch may be purchased on site. Please bring your own shopping bags. Debit and credit cards accepted. Note to Local Artisans and Craftspeople: We do not rent tables out at Fall Fair. We hear there may be individuals who are pretending to represent First Unitarian Congregation of Ottawa, who want to take money for "renting tables", so please don't be fooled. What's New Volunteer with Fall Fair Help Promote Fall Fair Donate Items to Fall Fair Contact Fall Fair Contact the Fall Fair Director Where is the Fall Fair? Find us at: 30 Cleary Avenue, off Richmond Road: 1km west of Westboro Village, 1 km east of Woodroffe Ave. Please Note: Whether by car, bus, bike, or on foot, please enter the campus by turning north at the traffic lights at Richmond and Cleary/Redwood Ave (see photo, right). Driving? Parking is available in our large parking lot. Busing? The area is served by the Number 11 Bus with stops along Richmond Road. Check the schedule HERE. FF Volunteer Volunteer with Fall Fair Enjoy the fun, meet others and contribute to our amazing Fall Fair! Volunteer positions currently available: Greeters: Be a friendly face welcoming customers and handing out Fall Fair maps. Shifts available on the day of the sale. Intake: Welcome people who come to drop off donations and ensure items being donated are on our ‘accept’ list. ‘Schleppers’ needed to carry items to the appropriate booth. Different shifts available Monday to Thursday before the sale Bookroom: Do you know how to use Square, the electronic payment system, or are you prepared to learn? (You’ll need to have a relatively new phone.) If so, the Bookroom is looking for you! Music and Movies: If Music and Movies are your thing, we're looking for someone to volunteer this year with the intent of taking over as convenor next year. Postering and Signage: Help spread the word about Fall Fair! Communications is looking for two people, one to coordinate the distribution of posters and another to handle external signage. Lunchroom: The Lunchroom needs a new cashier (must be able to use Square) as well as food servers. And if you enjoy baking, they’re also looking for muffin makers. If you’d like to volunteer for one of these positions, contact ffvol@firstunitarianottawa.ca Other positions (lots of them!) will come available, so check back here frequently. Or send an email to ffvol@firstunitarianottawa.ca to let us know that you’re interested in volunteering – we’ll find a spot for you! FFnews What's New Silent Auction is Changing! Please bring your auction items as usual to the Worship Hall during Fall Fair week, November 9–12. Donations will be directed into three categories: 1. Off-Site Professional Auction Houses We are accepting high-value donations that may be submitted to professional online auction houses after the Fall Fair. We are seeking: Valuable jewellery (gems, gold, silver), china, crystal, and silverware Sculptures, antiques, and vintage items Rare or vintage books and documents High-end sports equipment and photography gear Musical instruments and nostalgia/collectibles 2. On-Site Silent Art Auction We will feature a Silent Art Auction at Fall Fair. If you wish to donate a special piece—such as Inuit art, First Nations art, or work by recognized artists—please bring it to the Sanctuary between November 9–12 and ask for Helen or John. 3. On-Site Emporium During the Fall Fair, Worship Hall will feature a fixed-price emporium. Tables and pews will hold curated items not selected for off-site auctions, including bargain art, quality housewares, hobby/sports gear, and small furniture pieces. FF Donate Donate to Fall Fair! Our Fall Fair’s success depends on your donations of items to sell Decluttering? Please set aside your gently used goods for our next sale, scheduled for Saturday, November 14, 2026. We'll be accepting donations at the church, from 10:00am to 7:00pm, November 9-12 (Monday to Thursday only - November 13 is reserved for set-up). Click here to email us with donation questions FirstU Fall Fair 2026 Donations Guidelines Click here to access our Donation Guidelines as a PDF you can print at home Donations Accepted: Monday November 9 to Thursday November 12 10:00am - 7:00pm Pack items in labeled boxes small enough to carry Group 'like' things together Please Bring In containers that one person can carry alone: ✔ Items over $50 value for auction house sales ✔ Items over $30 for the new "Treasures" and "Gift Shop" areas ✔ High-Quality Art for the Silent Art Auction: Inuit or First Nations art, or work by recognized artists (Charitable tax receipts will be given on request for the above items with a market value of $100 plus) ✔ Books: Fiction and non-fiction, in good condition (medical or travel published since 2022) ✔ Gear (hobbies, sports, outdoors, including bicycles and skis with modern bindings) ✔ Yarn ✔ Select Men's Clothing including: Warm and light jackets and sweaters in good condition Jeans and T-shirts in good condition Footwear: casual and dress shoes and winter boots in good condition ✔ High Quality Women's Clothing in good condition, including: Fall and winter coats and accessories High-quality dressy clothes, vacation wear and sportswear Dresses and long skirts Sweaters High-end Purses, belts and hats Winter or leather boots ✔ Linens in excellent condition ✔ Vinyl records and DVDs ✔ Computers & accessories: quality stereos/speakers, radios, cell phones, flat screen TVs, software, 3D equipment, cables, cameras, laser printers, scanners ✔ Jewellery (including broken pieces – drop off IN ADVANCE all year at the Office) and Scarves including winter ✔ China, crystal, glassware, silver, decor, tableware, gift items, cookware, collectibles ✔ Puzzles ✔ Children’s toys, games ✔ Small portable appliances and tools ✔ Pet Equipment and toys ✔ Baking and Preserves ✔ Flea Market items in good condition Please DO NOT Bring ✘ Damaged, mouldy, frayed, or broken items ✘ Items larger than one person can carry ✘ Punch bowls or sets ✘ Fabric ✘ CDs or VHS ✘ Travel guides from before 2022, textbooks, encyclopedias, or magazines; ✘ Books that are water-damaged, mouldy/musty, torn or marked up ✘ Magazines, or self-help, philosophy, psychology, sociology, reference, textbook or encyclopedias ✘ Children’s equipment (playpens, car-seats, cribs, etc.) ✘ Women’s shoes, shorts, basic skirts or suits, casual or summer clothing, jeans or pants (unless designer label or fancy), T-shirts with logos or advertising ✘ Stuffed toys, cushions, or mattresses ✘ Large curtains or drapes ✘ Office supplies, binders, photo albums ✘ Items with advertising or logos ✘ Picture frames or branded cookie tins ✘ Ink-jet printers, old inkjet cartridges, portable cell phone chargers ✘ Helmets of any kind FF Promo There are lots of ways for you to help promote Fall Fair to your friends and neighbours! Word of mouth goes a long way! Share our Fall Fair Event on Facebook Use the buttons below to download posters and flyers to hang in your lobby or local community board, and to distribute to friends and family. 8.5 x 11 Poster (colour) Flyers - Four Per Page (colour)

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 Fall Fair is Coming! Saturday, November 14, 2026 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

Dance Groove Fitness Mondays, starting October 19 7:30pm Fellowship Hall $70 for Eight Weeks Reignite your sense of play! Join other cis women, trans women, and non-binary folks aged 16+ for eight weeks of Groove Dance Fitness. Easy low-impact steps that you do your way to great tunes, playing with boas, scarves, ribbon sticks, and light up rings. Easy-to-follow instructions - where you can't get it wrong! $70 for the eight-week series; or $10 for drop-in. Net proceeds support the FirstU Food Cupboard. Dropping in for a class or two? Bring cash to the session of your choice. Registering for all eight weeks? Submit the form below to register! We'll email you with payment options once we receive your form. First name Last name Email I will pay my fees by: eTransfer Cheque Cash at the door Submit

Connect with Friends Getting Involved is Easy at FirstU Weekly Groups Biweekly Groups Monthly Groups Getting more involved in congregational life is a great way to deepen your social and spiritual connections to your church community. You can keep up with your community's events and announcements by subscribing to our FirstU publications. Joining a social or activist group, a committee, or a council at FirstU makes it easy to make new friends, and get to know your favourite acquaintances better. Visit our Adult Learning and Growth page to find out about our spiritual enrichment and personal growth workshops and events. Click on Make Change to get involved with one of our many activist groups, or check out our Volunteer With Us page for ways to share your skills and learn some new ones. Check out the Getting Connected Guide page to find out about social, spiritual, activist, discussion, and creative groups you can join. Love our Meditation Gardens and want to get involved? Join our Gardens' Facebook group. Read on for a list of recurring group events, and consult the calendar or check the eUU to confirm scheduling. Contact the church office (613-725-1066) for more information. Caring for Each Other As part of a community, we are all responsible for supporting and helping members who are in need. The First Unitarian Congregation of Ottawa has groups - including the Caring Network, the Mental Health Support and Action Group, and our Caring Visitors - who work to help us care for each other. Click here to learn more. If you need to talk to someone from one these groups, contact the church office at 613-725-1066 OR: Click here to Request Support Recurring Group Events Weekly Groups Weekly Group Events Taoist Tai Chi Tuesdays - 1:00pm to 3:00pm - Fellowship Hall Thursdays - 10:00am to Noon - Fellowship Hall Tai Chi is a series of gentle movements that improves circulation, strengthens the bones, and develops good balance. Our Tai Chi series will continue through July and August. Each two-hour session is led by experienced instructors from "Friends of Tai Chi" and includes a tea break. There is no fixed fee for these classes, a donation basket will be available. Questions? Use the green button to contact us about Tai Chi. Knitters Group Wednesdays - 1:00pm - Room 3 This group welcomes knitters and crocheters of any level, from beginner to expert, who enjoy creating hand-made items in a friendly, supportive setting. We use donated yarn to make a variety of goods to sell at Fall Fair, Mitten Tree, and other events in support of the church, and to donate to special community projects. Online Group Meditation Wednesdays - 7:00pm - On Zoom Join us on Wednesday evenings for online meditation plus readings from teachers like Thich Nhat Hanh. The online "room" open shortly before 7:00pm. All are welcome. Contact adultlearning@firstunitarianottawa.ca in advance to see if our meeting agenda items interests you and to receive the zoom link. Singing Spires Fridays - 12:15pm - Worship Hall On Hiatus - Resuming in January 2027 Join us in this informal weekly get together to sing and strum folk tunes and favourites from the 60’s through 90’s. Bring your guitar, ukulele or other instrument, or just come to sing. Song sheets / overhead provided. This is a fun, social and relaxed group; musical skill and singing is for all levels. Email Friday Spires for information, and to confirm you're attending. After-Service Conversation Sundays - 11:45am The Lounge Join us in the Lounge for a conversation about themes and insights from this morning's service. Grab some food from Mia's Indian Cuisine (cash preferred) in Fellowship Hall, if you wish, then join us in the Lounge for coffee and the conversation. Check the eUU for changes to this schedule. Email Adult Learning and Growth about Tai Chi Email Friday Spires to RSVP Bi-Weekly Group Events Biweekly Groups FirstU Virtual Discussion Circle Every Other Thursday - 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 on the link. We look forward to seeing you! Contact Andrew for the next date and discussion topic! ZOOM LINK Meeting ID: 865 5594 9758 Passcode: 917486 Men's Breakfast Group Second and Fourth Friday of the Month - 8:00am - Fellowship Hall - $10 Gentlemen are invited to join the Men’s Breakfast Group for coffee, socializing, and breakfast, followed by a talk by an informed and engaging guest speaker. Check the eUU "Recurring Events" section for our latest speaker and topic. Register by the Monday immediately before the Breakfast you want to attend, by submitting this form. Email Andrew about the Virtual Discussion Circle Monthly Group Events Monthly Groups Drop-In Games Night First and Third Wednesday of Every Month - 6:30pm - Room 3 Drop-in Games Nights are held at FirstU on the first and third Wednesday evening of each month. We gather in Room 3 to play Euchre, Backgammon, and Chess. Everyone from novices to experts is welcome. There is even a "teaching table" for newer players. Please feel free to bring a snack to share if you like, but mostly feel free to bring a friend! And, of course, bring along a deck of cards, a board, or other game pieces, if you have them. Mah Jongg Second Monday of Every Month - 10:00am - Room 3 Do you know how to play Mah Jongg? Come and join other seasoned players in Room 3 on the second Monday of every month. We play American Mah Jongg, with 3-4 people per table, using the 2025 game card. Please bring your card. If you can bring a game, please let Barb know when you RSVP using the green button. A follow-up email will be sent to players who RSVP to confirm their spot. Drumming Spires Third Friday of Every Month - 11:00am - Fellowship Hall Come find your rhythm connection in this recreational community drum circle. Please bring a small drum, coffee canister, or percussion instrument. No experience needed! Please accompany children who attend. Use the green "Friday Spires" button to email us for information and to confirm you're attending. Mental Health Support and Action Group Third Sunday of Every Month - 12:00pm - Room 6 and Online The Mental Health Support and Action Group meets on the third Sunday of every month for an hour of supportive listening and sharing. An additional thirty minutes are available after 1:00pm for those who wish to collaborate on group administration and on planning the future foci of our group. ZOOM LINK Meeting ID: 873 3523 6995 Passcode: 417892 UU Pride Social and Support Group Third Sunday of Every Month - 7:00pm - Online UU Pride runs monthly events for 2SLGBTQIA+ folks and our families and friends. Some of our events are in person, and some are online. Email us to find out about our next event! FirstU Trivia Night Third Monday of Every Month - 7:00pm - On Zoom Join us for our monthly Trivia Quiz! Questions are diverse, fun, and taken from several sources, and there is no need to feel embarrassed about getting an incorrect answer: players score themselves! All you need is a pen or pencil, paper and your "thinking cap". Play alone or team up with friends! ZOOM LINK Meeting ID: 826 4527 6924 Passcode: 976057 yUUth Group Third Friday of Every Month - 6:30pm Youth ages 11-17 are invited to join our yUUth Group meetup on the third Friday of every month. We usually meet at the church (but sometimes go bowling or do something else off-site), share a meal, and play games together. Email our Director of Religious Exploration for details on this month's activity! Thursday Evening Reading for Growth Fourth Thursday of Every Month - 7:00pm - On Zoom Join us, on the fourth Thursday of every month, for a lively discussion of our latest non-fiction book! Use the green button to contact Ken for the zoom link and our next title! Friday Afternoon Reading for Growth LAST Friday of Every Month - 1:30pm - On Zoom Join us on the last (usual fourth, sometimes fifth) Friday of every month for a thoughtful discussion of our latest book. We choose older books that are reliably available through the Ottawa Public Library. Use the green button to contact Clea for the zoom details and our latest book selection. RSVP to Mah Jongg Email Friday Spires to RSVP Email UU Pride Contact our DRE for More Information Contact Ken for More Information and the Link Contact Clea for More Information and the Link Event Updates Recurring Events: Topics and Changes October's ourney Group theme is “Courage". Starting in October, the group will meet on the first and third Tuesday of the month. Contact Amalilly for more information. October 20 – Journey Group – 2:00pm - Room 6 - Our Journey Group meets twice a month to discuss a monthly theme. October’s theme is “Courage”. Additional groups will form based on demand for time, type, and frequency. Starting in October, the group will meet on the first and third Tuesday of the month. Contact Amalilly for more information. October 22 - Thursday Evening Reading for Growth – 7:00pm on the fourth Thursday of the month. Our next book is No Beast So Fierce, by Dane Huckelbridge, about a tiger stalking and attacking humans between 1900 and 1907, and the hunter sent to kill her. Contact Ken for the zoom link. October 23 - Men's Breakfast Group - 8:30am - Fellowship Hall - Gentlemen are invited to join the Men's Breakfast Group on Friday, October 23, for coffee, socializing, and breakfast, followed by an informative and engaging talk by Christiana Epp Duschinsky on the topic "A Historian Goes West". Register no later than Tuesday, October 20, by clicking HERE and submitting this form. October 23 - yUUth Group - Please note the date change. Our yUUth Group will be meeting on Friday, October 23, at 6:30pm in Room 2. October 29 - 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 on the link. We look forward to seeing you! Contact Andrew with any questions. Our topic will be: "What bugs you most?" October 30 - Friday Afternoon Reading for Growth – 1:30pm on the last Friday of the month. Our next book is The Moment of Lift by Melinda Gates. Contact Clea for the zoom link and our next title. November 1 - After Service Conversations - Please note that, because of the scheduled congregational meetings, there will be no After Service Conversations on October 18 or 25. The conversations will resume on November 1 (the day that Daylight Savings ends!). We look forward to having you join us then! FirstUpubs Get All the FirstU News eUU Weekly Newsletter Our weekly email bulletin arrives in your inbox on Fridays, through a free subscription. The eUU provides Sunday service and RE information, upcoming FirstU events, congregational news, Unitarian Universalist information, and news from our friends. Click HERE to read the eUU online. Subscribe to get the eUU in Your Inbox Submit an Item to the eUU Submission Guidelines - Items in the eUU: Are published weekly for a maximum of three weeks. Are restricted to congregational news and events Can be no more than 80 words in length. Must be submitted by Wednesday at noon. Email Your Submission to the eUU The Parkway Spire Magazine A quarterly, printed magazine about congregational news and events. Additional description of Spire general content. Click HERE to read the latest edition. FirstU Members can Contribute to the Parkway Spire! Are you a member? Have an editorial, essay, poem, or photograph you'd like to share? Submit it for consideration to the Parkway Spire. Maximum 450 words. Check the calendar for submission deadlines. Email an unformatted copy (.docx is fine), before the next submission deadline, to: spire@firstunitarianottawa.ca Subscribe to be notified that the latest edition is available Read Past Spire Editions Here

Men's Breakfast Group - Breakfast Registration Form Gentlemen are invited to join the Men's Breakfast Group on Friday, October 9, for coffee, socializing, and breakfast, followed by an informative and engaging talk and ensuing discussion by Christiana Epp Duschinsky on the topic "A Historian Goes West". Register no later than Monday, October 5, by submitting the form below. Date of Breakfast you want to attend:* First name* Last name* Email* Phone Sign me up for the Men's Breakfast Group email list! Submit

What Our UU Kids are Doing This Sunday This Sunday, after Time for All Ages, our UU Kids will go downstairs to begin our new thematic RE program, “Woven Faith”! In the Rainbow Room (2-6 with Rita) we will be exploring a new item shown to us by Ellery Churchmouse. If possible, please bring toilet paper or paper towel cardboard tubes for our craft. In the Chalice Room and the Wonder Room our 7-8 and 9+ UU Kids will be one class (with Esther), where we will be reading What’s New, Daniel?, and going outside to build a nature mandala. yUUth Group: Please note, our next yUUth Group gathering has been rescheduled! We will meet on Friday, October 23, at 6:30pm in Room 2. Next Week: On Sunday, October 25, our UU Kids will be upstairs in Worship Hall with the rest of the congregation for a multigenerational service with Jodi! Meet Our Religious Exploration Team Youth Programming (ages 11-17) Our Whole Lives - Sexuality Education Program Our Vision: We at First Unitarian Congregation of Ottawa strive to be a welcoming and diverse multi-generational Unitarian Universalist community that fosters the spiritual development of all ages. Our Mission: Guided by the Unitarian Universalist Principles and Sources, the RE program provides a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment to learn, grow, and explore individual spirituality. What to Expect on a Sunday Morning Each Sunday we gather together to share some time learning, reflecting, asking questions, playing and getting to know each other in our religious community. We seek to provide a nurturing atmosphere safe and caring spaces where the spirit of each child and youth will blossom and grow. Sunday mornings we normally offer two classrooms the Rainbow Room for children ages 2-6 and the Chalice Room for ages 7-12. (Some programs are run with different age groupings.) Babies under 2 are welcome to stay in the service or come downstairs to the Rainbow room with a parent. Youth older than 12 are welcome to stay in the service. Let's Talk About ValUUes - With Jodi! Play Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Service begins at 10:30. Most Sundays, everyone gathers together in Worship Hall - check the eUU to find out whether this Sunday is an exception. After welcoming and some opening words, the children are asked to gather at the front for the time for all ages. Afterwards they are sung out by the congregation and proceed downstairs to their room. Parents remain in the service, or are welcome to accompany their children downstairs. When service has ended, parents collect their children by 11:45. For More Information If you would like more info on Religious Exploration or be added to our RE Newsletter list let us know by emailing dre@firstunitarianottawa.ca . Introducing J.E.T.P.I.G! Jetpig is a portly porcine passionate about Unitarian Values. By the power of his jetpack, fueled by love, Jetpig travels the galaxy spreading the values of Justice, Equity, Transformation, Pluralism, Interdependence and Generosity. Jetpig came to us and planted the seed of Unitarian values in the gardens of our hearts through a series of Time for All ages in the spring of 2024. The older children in the Chalice room then explored these values more deeply in their RE classes each Sunday. Goals of Religious Exploration In our ministry with children and youth, we strive to: BUILD COMMUNITY : create an atmosphere where children and youth feel safe, welcome, connected, able to talk about important things in their lives; be a place where they like to come and where they can serve, KINDLE THE FLAME: encourage children and youth to learn more about themselves and to be continuous seekers with a sense of wonder, SHARE KNOWLEDGE: teach children and youth about their congregation and their religion, Unitarian Universalism, CULTIVATE OPEN MINDS: develop an appreciation for the diversity of people and religious beliefs in the world, and RAISE AWARENESS: help children and youth become aware of the needs of others, our connection to the Earth, and of their power to create change.

Share Your Time - Volunteer at FirstU It takes everyone to keep a church going! If you're a parent with an hour or two to spare while your kids are at after-school activities, a recent retiree excited to have time to share, a new friend with a driver's license, a high school student with volunteer hours to fill, or someone who's handy with a hammer, a spreadsheet, a trowel, or a talking point, we want your input! If you want to get more involved in the day-to-day running of your church, but you're not sure if you have the necessary skills, don't worry, as long as you've got curiosity and commitment, you can learn everything you need on the job. Below, you'll find events, campaigns, and committees who need YOUR time, skills and solutions! Click Here to Submit a Request for Volunteers Click Here to Fill Out Our FirstU Participation Survey Volunteer Opportunities Check out our volunteer listings, below. If something catches your eye, use the available contact information OR email volunteers@firstunitarianottawa.ca if you're interested in taking part, or have questions about a specific posting! Remember to include the full title of the listing, along with your contact information, in your email. If you’re not able to make direct contact, the Volunteer Coordinator will facilitate contact. Please allow us a few days. NOTE: In the email addresses below, in order to keep personal emails from being compromised, they are not shown as working address. Instead, we've used the word "[at] where the "@" sign should be. When emailing a given contact person, just use "@" instead of "[at]" when adding the email to your "to" field. Sunday Mornings Religious Exploration Volunteers Wanted Our Religious Exploration for Children and Youth (RE) programs are growing, and we want you to grow with us! We're looking for volunteers to support our staff in our Chalice and Wonder rooms. The time commitment would be one Sunday morning every 4 to 6 weeks. Please contact dre@firstunitarianottawa.ca if you'd like to learn more about how you can support our UU Kids, and our RE Staff, by volunteering with us. Sunday Morning AV Volunteers Do you have AV skills (or would like to learn)? We're currently looking for volunteers to assist Julia with AV on Sunday mornings. Paid opportunities may also be available. If you're interested, please contact Julia at av@firstunitarianottawa.ca or talk to her after Sunday service. Lift Operators Needed We are seeking two new volunteers to act as Designated Lift Operators for Sunday services to assist our fellow congregants with mobility issues in using the elevator for Sunday Services, as well as on and on special occasions such as concerts, Fall Fair, Christmas services, and so on. Sunday Service schedules are arranged a monthly basis, so no commitment to an on-going specific Sunday is required. Duties include: Arriving at the Service for 10 AM and staying until 11:45 Assisting members requiring the elevator with entering, operating, and assisting with exiting the elevator. There are, on average, five users of the lift service on Sunday mornings. Training for operating of the elevator is provided. Committing on a month by month basis to being on the schedule. Currently the four team members are scheduling one Sunday service per month. For further info, please contact Stan at stanleypope74[at]yahoo.ca. Ushers and Greeters Wanted Do you like running into old friends, and making new ones? We're looking for a few more people to act as Sunday morning greeters and ushers. You would need to be available one Sunday every several weeks, depending on numbers. The only skill needed is a welcoming smile. Childcare is available before the service if you need it. Email Barb at andrewdrake235[at]gmail.com if you'd like to be involved. Help with Hospitality Hour If you are looking for a way to meet and work in a friendly, small group environment, please consider joining our team. We are a dedicated group of volunteers who prepare hot/cold beverages and snacks before the service and do the clean-up, after the gathering in Fellowship Hall. People traditionally sign-up on a rotation basis to assist, either before or after the service, every 4-5 weeks. Childcare is available before the service if you need it while assisting with set-up. Email Tarrel at tarrelarmstrong[at]gmail.com if you'd like to be involved. Social Justice Interested in Working with Refugees? The Refugee Support Action Group needs you! We'll be submitting an application to sponsor a refugee family soon and they may arrive very quickly - within 6 to 10 weeks or even sooner. We're assembling a team of people to help with settlement activities so we'll be ready when they arrive. Tasks include everything from helping find housing, driving to appointments, helping learn English to the coordination of medical appointments. Please contact refugees@firstunitarianottawa.ca or talk to Brent or Eva. Affordable Housing Interested becoming involved in our Aspire affordable housing project? Join our group to develop plans for this exciting project. Contact Lisa S at lisasharp[at]rogers.com if you are interested. Global Justice Volunteers Wanted Are you passionate about human rights? We need some people to help organize (scheduling and promotion) of special events such as film nights and guest speakers. Training and coaching is available. Contact sjan@firstunitarianottawa.ca with any questions. Ajashki Volunteers Are you looking to take action in support of advancing Reconciliation? The recently re-centred Ajashki program is looking for volunteers. Please email ajashki@firstunitarianottawa.ca or see Ray (Rachelle) after service to express your interest. Groceries Shopper Needed Join our team and purchase groceries once a month for the food cupboard and deliver them to the congregation. Submit your receipts for reimbursement. For more info contact Lisa S at lisasharp[at]rogers.com. Assistance with the Environmental Action Group articles in the Spire The Environmental Action Group generally contributes two 450-word articles on environmental issues to each edition of the quarterly Spire (March, June, September, December). Our communications person is looking for a volunteer who would be responsible for finding two appropriate contributors for each edition. The volunteer could be one of the contributors if they wished. Some editing skills may be required. The hours are flexible but articles must be turned in for review by the EAG Organizing Committee by the 13th of the month preceding publication (ie the 13th of Feb, May, August, November). Contact Donna at E AWG@firstunitarianottawa.ca if you'd like to get involved. Committees and Teams Join the Nominating Committee The Nominating Committee works to recruit new board members every spring - and we need your help in this vital role. If you would like more information, please contact Chuck at: chuckshields[at]rogers.com Help Us Build a Rich and Dynamic Adult Learning and Growth Team Be a part of our renewed Adult Learning and Growth Team. We act as a catalyst to initiate events/ programs and also to coordinate our various activities, including preparing a seasonal calendar of events and programs. Bring your interest, your enthusiasm and your skills and helps us build a rich adult learning program. Roles range from bringing ideas, reviewing learning proposals, facilitating courses or workshops to preparing the seasonal calendar and requires a few hours, monthly. Please contact Eva at evaberringer[at]hotmail.com. Join the FirstU Communications Team Are you interested in helping to promote FirstU to the wider community? We need people to help market one-time events within FirstU and to the wider Ottawa community. We are also looking to increase our core Team size, which meets about once monthly, to help develop guidelines and policies on communicating events and coordinating with staff to successfully promote our community. Currently, we meet on an as-needed basis, but typically from 7:00pm - 8:30PM. Contact communications@firstunitarianottawa.ca if you'd like to join us! Administration and Coordination Office Assistant Position Our office team needs help on weekdays from 10:00am - 3:00pm. Tasks include greeting visitors, answering calls, and providing admin support using computers and printers. If you would like more information, please contact Jen Brennan, our Office Administrator, at: omr@firstunitarianottawa.ca . Event Opportunities Memorial Receptions Need Volunteers Memorial Receptions for First Unitarian members are held when requested. Most are on Saturday, Sunday or Friday. Our volunteers can choose to help with the set-up in Fellowship Hall before the service, or serve tea/coffee, or help with clean-up afterwards. Others may prefer to donate foods specifically requested such as squares, fruit or sandwiches. Family and friends appreciate the reception and the volunteers meet new people while working as a team with the goals of caring and giving. Join us! Commitment is 1 to 2.5 hours. Lead time is 10 days to 2-3 weeks in advance. Days & times vary with chosen date & time of a memorial service. Contact evelyn.algar[at]rogers.com to get involved. Ongoing Opportunities Gardening Assistance The Friends of the Meditation Garden always needs gardeners. We work cooperatively to maintain the north and south gardens; a weekly list of tasks is shared along with suggested work dates for group work. Independent work occurs at any time. Time for breaks (group chat) is allocated some weeks; we are a friendly helpful group. Most tools, gloves etc., are provided. You can work independently or with group. We work about two hours per week in the summer when available . The time is flexible but the team usually meets on Wednesday and/or Friday mornings weather permitting. Contact MargaretELinton[at]gmail.com for more info. Van Drivers for Occasional Unitarian House Outings For about the last two years a team growing out of the FirstU Men’s Breakfast Group has been providing support to Unitarian House by driving their van to take residents on outings. These are either on Tuesday or Thursday mornings from 0900 to 1130 or afternoons from 1300 to 1430. Special event trips are also occasionally scheduled. Those helping say they have found these to be pleasant and easy outings with interesting people. It would be helpful to add a few more people to assist with the driving schedule so that each volunteer would have only one or two assignments per month. Some training will be provided, but a special license is not necessary. If you are interested, please contact Larry Jones, Cell: 613-299-2770 or email: joneslf[at]magma.ca. Join the FirstU House Band We are looking for enthusiastic singers, musicians of all kinds and of all ages to join our FirstU House Band, whose performance focus is contemporary music. There will be opportunities to perform at Sunday services, Open Mic events, and other special events. Interested? Contact houseband@firstunitarianottawa.ca

FirstU's Annual Pledge Campaign Our annual Pledge Campaign is the most important source of revenue for our FirstU congregation, representing more than half of our annual income. There are various ways to participate in the Annual Pledge Campaign, as outlined in our Pledge Campaign Brochure and on the webpage below. Make a One-Time Offering via Our Donations Page Download the Printable Pledge Form as a PDF Make Your Pledge Online Your pledge is vital because the congregation is entirely self-funding. There is no higher authority that sends us money. The money we raise during our annual Pledge Campaign is used to fund our mission and our events and activities, operate our church, pay our staff, and maintain our building. Actual payment of your contribution will be made in 2027, on a schedule that suits your finances. The title of this year’s campaign, Strengthening Our Ties, is meant to capture the current spirit of the congregation, as we look forward to learning and growing with Rev. Lara Cowtan, and with each other. Your pledge for 2027 ensures we can continue offering vibrant worship – both in person and online – with engaging Religious Exploration and uplifting music. Your pledge enables inspiring Adult Education such as our Journey Groups, and meaningful Social Justice actions, such as our Ajashki program, Food Cupboard, refugee sponsorship and environmental awareness initiatives. Together, we’re building a more compassionate, inclusive world. We are seeking a 5% increase in pledge totals this year, to reflect our growing congregation and to accommodate our rising costs. For this we need your help, if you can afford it. Proper funding allows our congregation to achieve our many goals: liberal religious exploration, social justice action, refugee support, and community building. There are many ways to support your church - monthly donations, legacy giving, one-time donations, and more. Have Questions? Call our Finance Manager Michelle Jackson at 613-725-1066 X 222 OR: Send Michelle an Email Why We Pledge Words from Our Members on Supporting Our Church You may be wondering why people give financially and how they determine an amount that is right for them. Listen to some of our members share their feelings and experiences about the Congregation and their annual giving experience. "I give so there is a place for truth and hope to grow." ~ C.T. (FirstU member since 2001) Making Your Commitment to Give in 2027 There are various ways to participate in the Annual Pledge Campaign, as outlined in the Pledge Campaign Brochure and our Guidelines for Giving. Make Your Pledge Online Download the Printable Pledge Form as a PDF Other Ways to Support Our Mission One-Time Donations Perhaps you'd like to make a donation in memory of a loved one, or to support a particular cause we are championing. Thank you. Visit our Donations page, call the office at 613-725-1066 X 222, or email our Finance Manager, for details. Tax receipts are issued for amounts over $25. Funding Programs Annual giving is supplemented by other ways of supporting the church, including Planned Giving, also known as Legacy Giving, and the Endowment Fund. If you would like to know more about Legacy Giving and bequests read about Legacy Giving here, or call the church office: 613-725-1066 What Your Generosity Supports Your pledge for 2027 ensures we can continue offering vibrant worship – both in person and online – with engaging Religious Exploration and an uplifting music program. It allows us to pay our staff and maintain our building. Your support also helps fund programs like Odayanhaway, our affordable housing and reconciliation project, and the Ajashki Project as well as our ongoing Refugee Support. We are rebuilding our Religious Exploration and Adult Learning and Growth programs. We will continue to meet the spiritual needs of existing members and newcomers by offering opportunities for spiritual development to our thriving, growing community. Make Your Pledge Online Download the Printable Pledge Form as a PDF Who Should Give? We enthusiastically invite everyone who is part of the FirstU community – whether or not you are a member – to pledge your financial support. Contributions from Pledgers enable the financial sustainability of FirstU and our mission. If you are part of the FirstU community, but not yet a member, you can contact the Welcome & Membership Team to find out more about the benefits of the stronger connection that membership brings. When and How Do I Give? Giving Regularly For your own budgeting, you may prefer regular monthly donations. We encourage this, as it helps with FirstU’s budget too! There are several ways to donate, including Pre-Authorized Chequing (PAC), Credit Card, Etransfers and postdated cheques. You can also donate regularly by Sunday Service plate offerings, either in person or electronically. See the Pledge Form for details and contact Michelle Jackson at fm@firstunitarianottawa.ca to set up a payment plan that suits your needs. Giving a One-Time Gift You may prefer giving by an annual one-time cheque. We require donations for the 2027 Pledge Campaign to be post-dated for 2027. Note that all donations are receipted in the year in which they are received though, of course, we encourage donations at any time. You can also donate publicly-traded shares. Michelle Jackson has special forms to accomplish this in a tax-efficient manner. Click Here to Email Michelle How Much Should I Give? How much to give depends on your personal situation. It is often much easier for someone who makes $100,000 a year to give a certain percentage of their income than for someone who makes $20,000 a year to donate the same percentage. We encourage you to donate what you can without harming yourself or your family. If you would like some guidance, please see the Suggested Monthly Pledge Chart, below. We encourage everyone to make a pledge that fits with their personal circumstances and commitment to the congregation. Consider your UU values and place yourself along this continuum: Supporter: The congregation is a helpful part of my spiritual and intellectual life, It supports my spiritual growth. Sustainer: The congregation is my central community; I am committed to sustaining the programs and ministries of my congregation. Visionary: My commitment is a clear demonstration of the unique importance to me of this congregation and of my spiritual principles. I am committed to its present and future growth Suggested Monthly Pledge, by Annual Income Consider Increasing Your Monthly Gift If you are already donating monthly by PAC or credit card, we thank you for your commitment. This is an ideal time to consider increasing your monthly donation in 2027 to reflect the increase in cost of living. Make Your Pledge Online Download the Printable Pledge Form as a PDF

Bridge and Branch Homeschool Co-Op Run by First Unitarian Ottawa in partnership with the parents, Bridge and Branch offers opportunities for homeschool families of different backgrounds, beliefs, and abilities to connect, and grow. Join us for a Season of Creativity, Curiosity, and Connection! Tuesdays from 10:30am to 2:30pm March 3 to April 21 30 Cleary Ave (Just off Richmond Rd, east of Woodroffe Ave) We are committed to creating a welcoming space for all families, and provide prayer space and Halal food options. We celebrate diverse traditions and cultures. Each week, we offer three learning blocks: Nature, STEM, and World Celebrations. Children explore through hands‑on activities such as experiments, group projects, crafts, nature journaling, outdoor exploration, and cooking. All activities are age‑appropriate and adaptable to support each child. Cost and Registration $150 per single child family $10 for each additional sibling (free for siblings three years old and under) Late registration available until November 12 at a rate of $125 for single child family, $10 for each additional sibling. To Register Contact - Jodi McIntosh at DRE@firstunitarianottawa.ca

September Congregational BBQ Registration Join us after service on Sept 13! Looking forward to everyone's return from summer excursions. Please submit your completed registration form no later than Noon, on Tuesday, September 8. Please bring a salad or dessert to share. A free-will offering basket will be available for hamburgers and hot dogs. First name* Last name* Email* Number of people I am ordering for:* Number of burgers (1 per person)* Number of VEGGIE burgers (1 per person)* Number of hamburger buns (wheat) Number of gluten-free hamburger buns* Number of hot dogs (2 per person)* Number of VEGGIE dogs (2 per person)* Number of hotdog buns (wheat)* Number of gluten-free hotdog bugs* I will bring: Salad Dessert I am available to help with: Set-Up Clean-Up Submit

Music at FirstU Our Music Director Jennifer ("Jenn") Berntson became FirstU's Music Director on August 16, 2021. She is also the Artistic Director of Aella Choir, and conducted the Ottawa Children’s Choir for seven years. She believes in the transformative power of singing to build community, inspire personal and spiritual growth, and create social change. Here is an example of Jenn's work (full length is 16 minutes). Meet FirstU's Music Director Play Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied She holds a BMus in Voice from Mount Allison University and an MA in Music and Culture from Carleton University, where she researched collective music-making as an expression of protest. Choirs at FirstU Join a FirstU Choir - Come Sing With Us! Join a FirstU Choir - Come Sing With Us! Our choirs are always looking for new voices and there is a place for everyone to sing at FirstU! Fusion Choir rehearses on Monday afternoons, 1:00pm - 2:30pm Three Rivers Singers meets on Wednesday afternoons, 1:00pm - 2:30pm Chalice Choir meets on Thursday nights, 7:00pm - 8:30pm Each choir sings music that explores and uplifts our UU values, and performs at church services 1-2 times a month from September to May. The choirs also perform a full-length concert twice a year. Read on for information on each of the three choirs, and if you are interested in learning more about music here at FirstU, email Jenn at music@firstunitarianottawa.ca. Chalice Choir is a mixed-voice choir open to anyone interested in choral music and able to commit to attending weekly rehearsals! We value social connection, dedication to musical development, laughter and learning. Our repertoire is as wide-ranging and diverse as our UU sources, including sacred music from different faith backgrounds, traditional/folk music from around the world, and arrangements of popular music. Choir members come from a variety of backgrounds and levels of singing experience, but share a love of making music and being in community with each other. Chalice Choir is a great place to begin your singing journey. Anyone is welcome to join a rehearsal at 7:00 on Thursdays nights - enter through the basement parking lot door and come up to Worship Hall to say hello! Three Rivers Singers is a small, upper voice ensemble of sopranos and altos who believe music can inspire us to action, and move us towards a more just, sustainable, and compassionate world. Our repertoire reflects the rich diversity of human experiences and perspectives, with an emphasis on music written by women and texts that center women’s voices and stories. We primarily perform a capella music, without the support of a piano or other instruments. We are an auditioned group open to women and gender diverse people; some musical experience and the ability to learn music (by ear or by reading notes) is necessary, as well as a commitment to attend weekly rehearsals. Fusion is a mixed-voice chamber choir for experienced choral singers; we like to sing music that challenges and excites us from any genre, but with a special interest in jazz! We spend time in rehearsal working on the finer details of choral blend, diction, tuning, and other nuances. We are an auditioned group; prospective members should have significant choral experience, be able to learn music quickly, and be confident holding their own part in music with a lot of vocal divisi. The FirstU House Band welcomes instrumentalists and vocalists to participate in Sunday services and other FirstU events, with a focus on contemporary folk, rock, country music. All levels of ability and experience are welcome. Please contact houseband@firstunitarianottawa.ca for more information.

Register for Journey Groups 2026-27 First name Last name Email Phone Preferred Days Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Meeting Frequency* Weekly Monthly Twice a Month Meeting Type* In Person Online Would you like to be part of a Journey Group that meets over dinner?* Yes No Do You Have Any Questions? Submit