- Synoptic Gospels Bible Study – Sundays @ 9:15am; Join Zoom Meeting here, access reading schedule here
- Sunday Morning Worship – Sundays @ 10:30am; Join Zoom Webinar here
- Morning Café and Discussion – Tuesdays @ 10:15am; Join Zoom Meeting here
- Scripture Reader sign up – Click here
- Usher sign up – Click here (needed 03/22, 03/29, & 04/05)
- Flowers sign up – Click here
- Coffee Hour Host sign up – Click here (needed 03/22)
- Communion Server sign up –Click here
- Milk Money Volunteers sign up – Click here
- Charity vs. Justice video – Click here
- Donate to First United Online – Click here
- First United YouTube Channel (sermons & more) – Click here
- First United Vimeo Channel (full worship services) – Click here
- 2026 Online Pledge Card – Click here
DON’T FORGET
The Board of Faith Formation (Megan Merrick, Chair) will meet via Zoom on Monday, March 23rd, at 6pm. The Board of Community & Outreach (Julia Bebeau, Chair) will meet via Zoom on Monday, April 6th, at 5:30pm. All meetings of Boards and Council are open to the wider congregation. Please be in touch with appropriate chairs if you are interested in attending.
BMA Meeting – “Exploring The Prophetic Voice in Our Time”
The Bloomington Multi-Faith Alliance will hold its March meeting on Thursday, March 26th, at 11:30am at Christ Community Church (503 South High Street). All are invited to gather together to explore the meaning in our faith traditions of a “prophetic voice.” Join multifaith neighbors to delve into how we might want to use our prophetic voice in these times. You are also invited to bring a brown bag lunch.
Time to Order Easter Lilies!
This Easter we continue the tradition of decorating the sanctuary with Easter lilies. If you would like to participate by purchasing one or more potted lilies, contact Lisa in the office. The lilies are yours to take home and enjoy after the Easter service on April 5th. The cost is $12.99 per plant. We will need your order and payment by Friday, March 27th. Be sure to make your check payable to First United Church and in the memo area put “Easter Lilies.” Thank you!
Spring Workday
The Board of Building and Grounds is having a spring workday on Saturday, March 28th, 8am-11am. Come join us as we prepare our beautiful church grounds for spring! Help with weeding, trimming, removing brush, and more. Hope to see you then!
NEW/UPDATED THIS WEEK
Special Offerings: One Great Hour of Sharing & The Love Fund
One Great Hour of Sharing is a special mission offering of both the American Baptist Churches (USA) and the United Church of Christ. This offering supports disaster, refugee, and development ministries both domestically and abroad. We will collect this special offering during worship on Palm Sunday, March 29th. Click here to learn more about the impact your donations to this special offering make. If you are unable to join us for worship on March 29th, you may contribute by sending a check to the church office or by giving online here (through the UCC) or here (through the ABC-USA). Because of your generosity offered through the February special offering, we raised $850 to support the Love Fund! Thank you for supporting this impactful work in our wider community!
Holy Week Worship
On Maundy Thursday, April 2nd, at 6pm,we will gather around the communion table in the Sanctuary for a simple meal of soup and bread followed by worship, using Holden Evening Prayer and including the celebration of communion. An additional table will be available for those who would rather not climb the chancel steps. Cooks and bakers are invited to share your talents with an offering of soup or bread (contact Vickey Allen at 860-214-9159) for the Maundy Thursday meal.
Then, on Friday, April 3rd, 12:10pm-1pm, we will join together in our lovely Chapel for a contemplative Good Friday service as we mark this mournful day together with song, prayer, silence, and reflection.
Of course, you are also encouraged to join us for worship on Palm Sunday (March 29th) and Easter Sunday (April 5th) with pre-service potluck and Easter Egg hunt.
Easter Morning Food and Fun
EVERYONE is invited to join in First United’s Easter Morning celebrations on Sunday, April 5th.
- A Pre-Worship Breakfast Buffet will be available from 9:15am (in place of our March Fifth Sunday Potluck). The Children’s choir will rehearse briefly at 9:30am.
- An Easter Morning Egg Hunt is scheduled for 9:45am.
- PARENTS/GUARDIANS, please respond to the email from Molly Koontz asking if your children will be present for the fun, as age-appropriate goodies and hunts will be available for each child. TO ALL: if you will have guests for the holiday, let us know the names and ages/grade levels of visiting kids so we can include them. PLEASE ALERT US TO ALLERGIES in your communication.
JOIN US!! You are also invited to bring breads, fruit, a breakfast bake, or any favorite item, sign up here or surprise us. Contributions are welcome at 9:15am or when you can bring them! Questions and notification to Mary Peckham 812-361-5047.
First Sunday Donation Drive
The Board of Community & Outreach invites you to offer needed donations on the first Sunday of each month on a table in the Narthex. On Sunday, April 5th, we encourage you to bring donations of non-perishable food items for our community members in need. As always, all of the collected food and cleaning/hygiene items will go to Pathways (formally Monroe County United Ministries, MCUM), and pet food will go to Area 10 Agency on Aging. Updated items needed for Pathways include cleaning/hygiene products: bodywash, hand soap, paper towels, laundry detergent (sheets or liquid), kids 3-in-1 shampoo & bodywash, toilet paper, adult toothbrushes, pull ups (all sizes), women’s deodorant, bleach, adult/baby lotion, glass cleaner, facial tissues, trash bags, mouthwash, and cleaning spray. Pathways currently has an adequate supply of food items. Thanks to your generosity, a total of 47 pounds was delivered by Keith Gerber from donations given toward our March 1st food drive!
Pizza & Play
Members and friends of First United of all ages and family configurations (and your friends and family) are encouraged to gather for Pizza & Play on Friday, April 3rd, 5:30-7:30pm. We’ll enjoy a time of informal, unprogrammed fun and fellowship in Fellowship Hall. As the name implies, pizza, drinks, and dessert will be provided. If you’re planning to attend, please let Pastor Jessica know by Wednesday, April 1st so she can be sure to have enough food for all and account for any dietary needs.
Feminist Women’s Book Club
Our feminist women’s book club meets after worship on the second Sunday of the month in Roger Williams Hall and via Zoom at 12noon. We read recent fiction “by women, for women or about women.” Feminist women of all ages are invited to join us. Our pick for April 12th is “Migrations” by Charlotte McCogaghy. Franny Stone has always been the kind of woman who is unable to stay. Leaving behind everything but her research gear, she arrives in Greenland with a singular purpose: to follow the last Arctic terns in the world on what might be their final migration to Antarctica in a time of climate change. Franny talks her way onto a fishing boat, and she and the crew set sail, traveling ever further from shore and safety. But as Franny’s history begins to unwind― lost loves, an absent family, a devastating crime―it becomes clear that she is chasing more than just the birds. When Franny’s secrets catch up with her, how much is she willing to risk for one more chance at redemption? An intimate tale of a disappearing world and a page-turner about the possibility of hope against all odds. This novel is as much a mystery as it is an odyssey.
Check out our book club’s Pinterest listing here. For Zoom information or more information about the book club contact facilitator Cindy Stone, stonec@iu.edu.
UPCOMING WORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Join us for worship each Sunday morning at 10:30am. This Sunday’s service will feature Guest Preacher Vickey Allen in the pulpit as we continue our study of the Gospel of Mark; she will also offer a special message for the young and young at heart. Kim Yaussy Albright will highlight some of the many ways we are invited to engage in the life of the church and our wider community. Lisa Kwong will present the day’s scripture and serve as our congregational lead. Ryan Block and Hyeyeon Ahn will lead us in song, and the First United Vocal Choir will offer special music. Daniel Salvat and Du Huynh will offer a warm welcome to those who gather in the sanctuary; sign up here to help. And, Kyle Hetrick, Dave Meyers and Jim True will welcome all who join via Zoom as they ensure the audio/visual pieces run as smoothly as possible. Finally, be sure to join us for coffee hour.
Join the Zoom Webinar by clicking here
Dial-in number: (312) 626-6799; Webinar ID: 828 3681 0281
The service will be posted on Monday afternoon on First United’s Vimeo channel (where you can access all of our previous worship services).
Donate online by clicking here
Sabbatical Pastor Called
During the March 11th Council meeting, our Associate Minister Shelli Yoder was approved to serve as our Sabbatical Pastor while Pastor Jessica is away (May 11-August 10). Shelli will be ordained and installed at First United on May 3rd, 3pm, and is
excited to step more fully into pastoral leadership right at the moment the church will need steady coverage during Pastor Jessica’s sabbatical. Her goal is to provide dependable leadership that helps the congregation feel held, keeps our systems running smoothly, and preserves the spirit of worship and community that makes First United feel like home. We look forward to engaging in this expanded ministry with you, Shelli!
Music Ministry
All those interested in music and making a joyful noise are invited to join our Bell and Vocal Choirs. The Bell Choir rehearses weekly on Thursdays in Room 4 from 6:45-7:25pm, and the Vocal Choir rehearses weekly on Thursdays from 7:30-9pm in the Choir Room. If you are interested in joining either or both of the choirs, please reach out to Ryan Block (blockryfuc@gmail.com). No prior experience is required to join either group! If you love music and want a way to express that love through fellowship, the First United Church Music Ministry is the place for you!
COMMUNITY CARE
Keeping Up with Our Congregation
One of the gifts of being part of a community of faith is that we don’t face the ups and downs and middles of life alone. We invite you to share what is going on in your lives by contacting Lisa Stanger and/or Pastor Jessica so we can appropriately share information (with your permission) with our wider community of care that we might offer our support whatever you may be facing.
You are encouraged to offer your prayers and actions of support for:
- Sara Cole (following the death of her cousin Dawn Long-Verduzcos)
- Norm Overly (following Jeanne’s death)
- Don Bebeau
- Barb Clark
- Phyllis Perkins
- Frank Ivey (father of Sara Ivey Lucas)
- Jean Peters
- Elizabeth Hanson
- Jen Lane
- Lisa Young and family (friends of Sara Ivey Lucas)
- Sam Troxal
Milk Money for Pathways
First United has launched Milk Money, a new six‑month commitment (March-August) to support families at Pathways through their Nourish Together program. Our church has pledged to provide all of the milk Pathways needs during this time. Rather than donating milk directly, the Board of Community & Outreach invites members to give designated donations (cash or checks marked “Milk Money”); thanks to your generosity, we have already collected $275! Church volunteers will purchase and deliver the milk to ensure safe handling and consistent supply. Volunteers are also needed to help purchase and/or deliver milk; sign up here. If you have any questions or problems signing up, please contact Kristin Martindale (kmdale@iu.edu).
Matching Grant for Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard—Almost There!
As you are likely aware, First United Church is gathering contributions to support Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard (The Hub). There are only 20 days left in our effort to match the $10,000 pledged from the church endowment both in terms of the calendar—contributions will be matched through April 1st. Funds donated by our congregation and the wider community are currently at $8599.40!
We are so close to reaching our goal of contributing $20,000 total to the impactful work of the Hub! Here’s how you can help us get there:
- Write a check to Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard with “First UC match campaign” in the memo section, then drop it in the offering plate at church or mail it to The Hub: 1100 W Allen St, Bloomington, IN 47403.
- Write a check to First United Church with “The Hub” or “First UC match campaign” in the memo section, then drop it in the plate during worship or deliver it to the church office.
- Share cash in the collection plate or deliver it in person to Mother Hubbard’s Cupboard, 12-6pm Tues-Thurs; include a note that flags the contribution as part of the First UC match campaign.
- Donate online on The Hub’s website, selecting “First UC match campaign” from the “My donation is for…” dropdown menu.
- Share the word! Let your friends, family, and community members know about this opportunity, and invite them to contribute.
Did you know? Soon after we voted to move forward with the $1-to-$1 matching grant for the Hub, a donation was made to the endowment fund in the amount of $10,000. Generosity begets generosity!
Sensitive Spaces Protection
The American Baptist Churches-USA (ABCUSA) was a part of recent litigation in response to the removal of long-standing protections from ICE raids for sensitive places such as houses of worship, hospitals, and schools, stating a conflict with the Religious Freedom Restoration Act of 1993. The Court recently granted a preliminary injunction restraining ICE actions in ABCUSA churches and other religious facilities (along with Alliance of Baptist churches and other selected denominational groups). Specifically, ICE agents are prevented from conducting enforcement actions within churches and are also restricted from detaining individuals within 100 feet of church property, including parking lots, or targeting those who are going to attend worship.
Thanks to the required actions of our Regional Executive Minister Rev. Dr. Sandra Hasenauer (ensured all churches in the Rochester/Genessee Region are listed as protected) and Pastor Jessica (provided required information about our physical space to the national office), First United Church is now covered under the court injunction to affirm our church space as a Sensitive Space with protection.
UCC Response to US-Israel Attacks on Iran
Following the new unprovoked assault on Iran on Saturday, February 28th, the United Church of Christ and Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) shared a Joint Statement on the US-Israel attacks against Iran; read the statement and call to action here. Additionally, immediately after the strikes, UCC General Minister and President Rev. Dr. Karen Georgia Thompson issued a statement on behalf of the UCC condemning the bombing of Iran by the United States and Israel and urging people of faith to continue to call on elected officials to reject war; read the statement here. You are invited to join the UCC Office of Public Policy and Advocacy in urging Congress to say “No” to war with Iran; take action here.
Local Creation Care
Would you like to learn how you can reduce your energy bills and emissions and about the financial incentives available to do so? Earth Care, the network of local creation care lay leaders, is collaborating with Electrify Indiana and the City’s Bloomington Energy Works program to spread the word. Sign up here to attend a presentation where you can also see how new energy-efficient heat pumps work – we’ll send you a reminder and save you a seat. Or just come! Highlighted presentation option: Tuesday, March 31st, 6:30-7:30pm, at Unitarian Universalist Church of Bloomington (2120 N. Fee Ln.) with complimentary catered vegan dinner in advance for those who register.
Task of the Month for Earth Care
All within our congregation are encouraged to participate in Earth Care Indiana’s task of the month, a tangible and manageable way you can get involved in caring for creation. Rebecca Keith will make periodic announcements and encourage participation at coffee hour. Check out this Task of the Month website to learn about the tasks that are scheduled. Even small things can make a difference!
People’s Market
First United houses the People’s Cooperative Market (PCM) in Fellowship Hall on Saturdays, 9:30am-1:30pm, offering fresh, locally grown produce through CSAs to be picked up or delivered. They are currently only packing CSAs on Saturdays; the full market will be available again in March.The PCM also operates the high tunnel greenhouse to the south of the church playground, which includes a community garden and produces food that is given out at no cost to members of our wider community seeking local, nutritious fresh food. You may reach out via email (peoplesmarketmanager@gmail.com) to learn more or to volunteer with the market.
The Joy of Hosting
Our Member Relations Committee continues to offer support to weekly coffee hour hosts and encourage everyone to sign up to host—it’s easy, fun, and a great way to serve your church family with a one-time commitment. Sign up as buddies or families, invite someone you’ve been wanting to get to know, use the occasion to showcase a family recipe or try out a new one. Sign up to host by clicking here.
EDUCATIONAL OFFERINGS
Finding Focus: Exploring Justice
As part of our “Finding Focus” project, our Thriving Congregations Grant Team encourages you to explore the differences between charity and justice, how they complement each other, and consider how we are invited to engage in both as a congregation via a short video presentation (less than 10 minutes) featuring our own Rebecca Keith and Kim Yaussy Albright. Access the recording here.
Read the Synoptics in a Year
As we seek to live out our mission more fully, you are invited to explore the words and deeds of Jesus through studying the synoptic gospels (Mark, Matthew, and Luke) over the course of 2026. This exploration will include daily readings (access suggested reading schedule here), a weekly Sunday morning discussion group (9:15-10am in Roger Williams Hall and via Zoom, click here), and weekly sermons during worship. Let us join together in following Jesus more faithfully and fruitfully in this new year!
Tuesday Morning Café and Discussion
Join us in Roger Williams Hall or via Zoom (click here) Tuesdays at 10:15am-11:30am as we gather for a time of informal conversation followed by thought-provoking theological study and discussion. We are currently engaging with a 24-session study on “Thinking about Religion and Violence” presented by Dr. Jason C. Bivins (who earned his PhD in Religious Studies from Indiana University!). In a world where violence in the name of religion can impact so many other people’s lives, it’s critical to understand the intersection between religion and violence. Join us as we embark on a global, multidisciplinary investigation of religious violence as we examine the roots of this phenomenon and are guided toward more informed ways of thinking about it. Learn more here. Previous participation and perfect attendance are not required.
Children’s Learning Time
Each Sunday morning, children in kindergarten and up will begin in the Sanctuary with their families and proceed to Room 2 with their adult leads for Children’s Learning Time (CLT) following Children’s Time. Many thanks to Emily Mathes and Brishna Arman for leading CLT this Sunday.
You are invited to consider whether you might be able to join our teaching rotation to enrich the program for the kids and gain so much from the experience yourself! Lesson materials and supplies are provided, and we have seasoned leaders to help get newer volunteers acclimated. If you are interested or have questions, please reach out to Megan Merrick, Pastor Jessica, or any member of the Board of Faith Formation.
Nursery Care
Our youngest children are welcome to spend time from 10-11:45am playing in the nursery or on the playground, weather permitting. Brishna Arman and Emily Mathes will ensure our little ones are safe and engaged in fun activities during worship this Sunday. We are always looking for additional volunteer assistants to help in the nursery occasionally. Contact Jessica McIntosh if you are interested and with any questions.
CONGREGATIONAL COMMUNICATIONS
2026 Offering Envelopes and Direct Deposit
We will use leftover offering envelope boxes for 2026. For 2026, your number box will not be the same; please contact Lisa Stanger if you would like envelopes! Alternatively, if you would like to give to the church through direct deposit, please contact Lisa in the office to make sure she knows you would like to give in this convenient way and has your updated information.
Announcements Deadline
If you have information to include in our weekly announcements email, please send your item to Lisa Stanger by noon on the Monday before.
Contact Information
Rev. Jessica Petersen-Mutai, Senior Minister – revpetersenmutai@firstuc.org; 812-727-4414 (Cell) (Friday & Saturday off; emergency calls only)
Shelli Yoder, Associate Minister – revshelli@firstuc.org; 812-287-9351 (Cell) (Shelli’s position is very part-time; please keep this in mind as you consider reaching out)
Lisa Stanger, Office Manager – info@firstuc.org; 812-332-4439 (Office)
Ryan Block, Music Director – blockryfuc@gmail.com; 330-280-2513 (Cell)
Hyeyeon Ahn, Organist – ahn13@iu.edu; 930-904-4988 (Cell)
Kim Yaussy Albright, Church President – president@firstuc.org; 509-846-4276 (Cell)
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