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Lead Stories
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Spiritual Survival
The book Deep Survival by Laurence Gonzales explores why some people survive trauma and crisis and others don’t. So many people live in ongoing crisis, and the role of spiritual community is to support life and wholeness. What can we learn from the science of survival, and how does it dovetail with our spiritual lives?
Final Transition Team Discussion Session this Sunday
Members’ help is needed to guide the UUCC into its next phase! The final Interim Transition Team small group discussion is scheduled for this Sunday, April 2. We would sincerely appreciate the gift of your time to share your perspective at this final session or via the feedback form linked in the article.
On Sunday, March 26, UUCC Youth in grades 6 – 8 led our service. Thank you to the youth and everyone involved in planning this powerful experience!
UUCC Sunday Schedule
Easily access information about and links to our Sunday programming for children, youth, and adults, including classes, our Sunday service, and social opportunities.
Why We Support the UUCC—a Stewardship Message from the Smiths
During this Spring Pledge Season, Roy and Julie Smith share their experience with the UUCC and why they give generously.
Will You Spare Some Change for the Easter Bunny?
On April 9, UUCC children and youth will take part in a combination egg hunt and outreach program. Can you spare some loose change to help make this event a success? Look for the CYRE coin collection bucket in Freeman Hall after the service on April 2. And thank you for your generosity!
Writing Your Spiritual Journey
If you are curious about your spiritual path and the stories of others’ experiences, then join us to explore the holiness of the ordinary in our lives. This shared experience offers space to see and make sense of your life experience through discussion, writing exercises, and reading, with the intent to produce a short spiritual autobiography. Attendance at all five sessions in April and May is required.
What Is This Interim Ministry Thing, Anyway? Sermon Redux
From the Minister's Blog: Early in my time here, I gave an introduction to the concept of interim ministry in a Sunday service called “What Is This Interim Thing, Anyway?” Since not everyone was present for that service, I thought I'd offer a blog post on the highlights of that conversation.
Click an article title to read more.
Click here to receive Currents in your email each Thursday.
Calendar
- No events scheduled for March 31, 2023.
Week of Events
Lotus Path
Lotus Path
Lotus Path is a member-led discussion group that explores Eastern religious beliefs, philosophies, and meditation techniques. If you are interested in participating, contact Edie Gelber-Beechler at erg_b2@hotmail.com.
Nursery Care for Babies through 3 Years Old
Nursery Care for Babies through 3 Years Old
We provide a nursery for children up to 3 years old during our Sunday services. Our paid caregivers follow strict policies and procedures. We ask that parents review our policies and procedures for parents before […]
SpiritPlay, 4-year-olds – 1st grade
SpiritPlay, 4-year-olds – 1st grade
The younger classes will begin outdoors as follows at 9:45 a.m.: SpiritPlay, 4-year-olds - 1st grade – on the traffic circle playground. The class will meet outdoors when weather permits, then meet indoors in the […]
2000 Years of Unitarian Universalist History
2000 Years of Unitarian Universalist History
Members Lincoln Baxter, a fifth-generation Unitarian, and Loyd Dillon, a very long-time UUCC member, will present the video series “Long Strange Trip” by Ron Cordes and lead discussions following each of the videos. The program will be held […]
Happy Wanderers
Happy Wanderers
Join Tuesday Walkers at 11:00 a.m. as they stroll different greenways each week on a rotating basis.
Handbell Choir Rehearsal
Handbell Choir Rehearsal
Handbell Choir rehearsals are held every Wednesday evening from 6 - 7 p.m. in the Sanctuary. Masks are encouraged.
Adult Choir Rehearsal
Adult Choir Rehearsal
Adult choir rehearsals are held every Wednesday evening from 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. in the sanctuary.
“The Bias Inside Us” at Discovery Place
“The Bias Inside Us” at Discovery Place
The Intersectional Justice Team and the Intersectional Justice Engagement Group would like to invite you to join us for an evening of learning in community on March 30, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. Discovery Place Science […]
UUCC Hiking Group
UUCC Hiking Group
Hikes are planned one Saturday a month and vary in location and exertion. Details about upcoming hikes can be found in our Currents newsletter.
Program Areas
Special Events
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Will You Spare Some Change for the Easter Bunny?
On April 9, UUCC children and youth will take part in a combination egg hunt and outreach program. Can you spare some loose change to help make this event a success? Look for the CYRE coin collection bucket in Freeman Hall after the service on April 2. And thank you for your generosity!
ODS Spring Fest and Silent Auction
Bring a picnic lunch and join Open Door School families at the annual ODS Spring Fest on April 22. Plus, find out how you can support ODS as they prepare for their largest scholarship fundraiser of the year - the Silent Auction.
Register for UUA General Assembly
GA is an unforgettable experience for the thousands of UUs who attend. Participate Wednesday, June 21 through Sunday, June 25, 2023 in Pittsburgh and/or online for this 5-day immersive experience where we participate in inspirational worship services and informative workshops, reconvene with friends and colleagues, and explore our bustling exhibit hall.
Community Sunday, April 16
On Sunday, Aprio 16, join us for Community Sunday. Community Sundays are a new way to bring us together through a brief, sweet Sunday service in person and online and then through a variety of shared intentional activities.
Save the Date for UUCC’s 75th Anniversary Celebration
Save the date for UUCC's 75th Anniversary Celebration! The UUCC turns 75 this congregational year, and we are looking forward to celebrating with a fun and festive weekend, April 29 & 30.
Time to Update Your Wardrobe!
New Unitarian Universalist Community of Charlotte T-shirts are now available!
Adult Programming
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UUCC Sunday Schedule
Easily access information about and links to our Sunday programming for children, youth, and adults, including classes, our Sunday service, and social opportunities.
Writing Your Spiritual Journey
If you are curious about your spiritual path and the stories of others’ experiences, then join us to explore the holiness of the ordinary in our lives. This shared experience offers space to see and make sense of your life experience through discussion, writing exercises, and reading, with the intent to produce a short spiritual autobiography. Attendance at all five sessions in April and May is required.
Credo: A Personal Spiritual Journey
Greg Schropp will present his credo on Sunday, April 23, at 11:30 a.m. in person in the Bernstein Room and via Zoom.
“The Bias Inside Us” at Discovery Place
The Intersectional Justice Team and the Intersectional Justice Engagement Group would like to invite you to join us for an evening of learning in community on March 30, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. Let us know if you were able to get tickets
Seniors Share
The SENIORS SHARE group meets via Zoom on the first Wednesday and in person on the third Wednesday. The seniors share in-person meeting on Wednesday, April 19 will be held at 234 in the Bernstein room from 2-3:30 p.m. All are welcome. Just email Jane Kusterer if you plan to attend.
The UUCC GreenFaith Circle Needs Your Help!
The UUCC GreenFaith Circle is organizing a project to help build a coalition of Charlotte area Houses of Faith working for climate and environmental justice.
Community Sunday, April 16
On Sunday, Aprio 16, join us for Community Sunday. Community Sundays are a new way to bring us together through a brief, sweet Sunday service in person and online and then through a variety of shared intentional activities.
2000 Years of Unitarian Universalist History
Members Lincoln Baxter and Loyd Dillon will present the Unitarian Universalist history video series "Long Strange Trip" by Ron Cordes and lead discussions following each of the videos. The program's final session will be Monday, April 3 in the Bernstein Room at 7 p.m.
UUCC Hiking Group: April 1, Overmountain Victory Trail in Gaffney, SC
Our next hike will be Saturday, April 1 when we will meet at 234 at 9 a.m. in the parking lot and travel to the Overmountain Victory Trail in Gaffney, SC
Mistakes and Miracles: Discussion of UUA Common Read, Session 3
On Thursday, April 13 at 7:00 pm, join Rev. Lisa and Kelly Greene in the second of four Zoom sessions focused on the book, Mistakes and Miracles: Congregations on the Road to Multiculturalism by Nancy Palmer Jones and Karin Lin. We will discuss the urgent need for multiculturalism and antiracism work in our congregations and how it relates to our experience at UUCC.
UUCC GreenFaith Circle Meetings
Greenfaith Circle is a global, multi-faith movement to resist the planet’s destruction and to create a sustainable, just future. UUCC's GreenFaith Circle meets monthly on the 1st Thursday at 7 p.m. in the Bernstein Room and via Zoom.
Jabberwocks Poetry Group
Jabberwocks welcomes poets who want feedback and who strive to improve their work. We meet on the third Friday of the month, 10 a.m. -12 p.m. on Zoom.
Open Mind Book Club
The Open Mind Book Club will be meeting on Monday, April 3 at 7 p.m. in the Conference Room when we will discuss Talking to Strangers: What We Should Know about the People We Don’t Know by Malcolm Gladwell.
Healing Threads: A Prayer Shawl Ministry
Meet to knit or crochet together as a spiritual community and to bless the shawls we complete. Shawls are given to Unitarian Universalist Community of Charlotte members with a significant hardship or loss and to KinderMourn. Meets 2nd Monday at 7 p.m., offsite. Contact Kathleen Moloney-Tarr at krmt1923@gmail.com.
Consider Joining a UUCC Affinity Group
UUCC members, browse the latest opportunities to join with others in our congregation for readers theater, celebrating the divine feminine, book discussions, walking, hiking and cycling, peer support for anxiety and depression, meditation, and more!
Lotus Path Group
We study and discuss various types of Buddhism and related Eastern spiritual paths, considering how they relate to us today. Each meeting begins and ends with meditation.
Ideas on How to Reduce Plastic Use
In a recent class sponsored by the Adult Religious Education and Spiritual Development (ARESD) team, participants watched the PBS Frontline documentary Plastic Wars. Check out these ideas on how you can get started on using less plastic.
UUCC Religious Humanism Group
The UUCC Religious Humanism Group meets in person and via Zoom on the first Sunday of each month.
Join us on Virtual Garden Tours with our Members
During our stay-at-home, we have the opportunity to visit with some of our members in their own backyards. And what better time than NOW?! Join us virtually. See
Mindfulness Chair (and standing) Yoga recorded sessions
Enjoy and replenish with Debbie George as she guides us through a mindful yoga practice--sitting and standing.
Children & Youth Programming
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UUCC Sunday Schedule
Easily access information about and links to our Sunday programming for children, youth, and adults, including classes, our Sunday service, and social opportunities.
Will You Spare Some Change for the Easter Bunny?
On April 9, UUCC children and youth will take part in a combination egg hunt and outreach program. Can you spare some loose change to help make this event a success? Look for the CYRE coin collection bucket in Freeman Hall after the service on April 2. And thank you for your generosity!
Community Sunday, April 16
On Sunday, Aprio 16, join us for Community Sunday. Community Sundays are a new way to bring us together through a brief, sweet Sunday service in person and online and then through a variety of shared intentional activities.
What’s Happening in CYRE
There is a lot coming up for participants in our Children and Youth Religious Education (CYRE) program! A field trip, Mountain Con, pancake breakfast, and more!
Middle School Youth Group
6th-8th graders are invited to be part of the Middle School Youth Group 2nd Friday evenings 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Programming for Children and Youth 2022-23
We offer weekly classes at 10 a.m. (9:45 drop-off) for children and youth aged 4 years through 12th grade and provide a warm nursery space for our youngest children (6 mos - 3 years).
Register Now for CYRE
It's time to update your children's annual registration in the Nursery and/or Children and Youth Religious Education Program (CYRE) for the 2022-23 program year. We are in the midst of planning to return in the Fall with dynamic programming and don't want anyone to miss out. UUCC membership not required.
Invitation to All Singing K – 5th Grade Children!
Kindergarteners through fifth graders join Director of Music, John Herrick for Children's Choir rehearsals in Priestley at 11:15 a.m. beginning September 11.
Connecting UUCC Families in our Facebook Group!
We invite all UUCC families to join our "UUCC Families Group" on Facebook. Our goal is to keep our families connected through photos, resources, and personal sharing.
Program-Related Community Events
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TDOV Mini Market for All Ages
Trans, Gender Diverse & Questioning Folx of ALL AGES are invited to join Transcend and Carolinas CARE Partnership, and their partners on April 1, from 12-4 for a free event.
Climate Justice Action Hour
Friday, March 31st from 11:00 - 12:00. Join UU Justice NC and Greenfath for this gathering of UUs across the state.
Trans Day of Visibility
March 31st is Transgender Day of Visibility. Join the TDOV virtual party for trans families or the trans/nonbinary monthly gatherings for children, youth and adults.
Dr. Jane Elliott and the Charlotte-Mecklenburg NAACP
On Saturday, April 15 at 2:00, join a conversation on racism in America with Dr. Jane Elliott and the Charlotte-Mecklenburg NAACP
Register for UUA General Assembly
GA is an unforgettable experience for the thousands of UUs who attend. Participate Wednesday, June 21 through Sunday, June 25, 2023 in Pittsburgh and/or online for this 5-day immersive experience where we participate in inspirational worship services and informative workshops, reconvene with friends and colleagues, and explore our bustling exhibit hall.
UUA Presidential Forums
Register for one of these livestreamed forums to learn more about Rev. Dr. Sofia Betancourt, the candidate for UUA President.
Article II Processing Session with UUA Southern Region Staff
On May 6 at 10:00 AM, join leaders from around the region to discuss the proposed changes to Article II. This event will be facilitated by Congregational Life staff in the Southern Region.
Community events that relate to our Vision and Call to Action.
Our Call to Action invites us to "Listen, Step Up, Show Up and Speak Up." In this box we list non-UUCC community events that provide opportunities to heed the Call.
News and Information
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Spiritual Survival
The book Deep Survival by Laurence Gonzales explores why some people survive trauma and crisis and others don’t. So many people live in ongoing crisis, and the role of spiritual community is to support life and wholeness. What can we learn from the science of survival, and how does it dovetail with our spiritual lives?
Final Transition Team Discussion Session this Sunday
Members’ help is needed to guide the UUCC into its next phase! The final Interim Transition Team small group discussion is scheduled for this Sunday, April 2. We would sincerely appreciate the gift of your time to share your perspective at this final session or via the feedback form linked in the article.
UUCC Sunday Schedule
Easily access information about and links to our Sunday programming for children, youth, and adults, including classes, our Sunday service, and social opportunities.
Why We Support the UUCC—a Stewardship Message from the Smiths
During this Spring Pledge Season, Roy and Julie Smith share their experience with the UUCC and why they give generously.
What Is This Interim Ministry Thing, Anyway? Sermon Redux
From the Minister's Blog: Early in my time here, I gave an introduction to the concept of interim ministry in a Sunday service called “What Is This Interim Thing, Anyway?” Since not everyone was present for that service, I thought I'd offer a blog post on the highlights of that conversation.
Mission Matters
Rev. Lisa reflects on the UUCC Mission Statement and the purpose of Congregational Missions.
What Is Happening with Article II?
Unitarian Universalists across the country are currently participating in a multi-year process to consider changes to our UUA Principles and Purposes. This article contains links and information that will help you engage.
UUCC Response to NC Justice Center Call for Action
At their meeting on Tuesday, March 21, the UUCC Board of Trustees unanimously voted to support a recent urgent call to action from the NC Justice Center.
Register for UUA General Assembly
GA is an unforgettable experience for the thousands of UUs who attend. Participate Wednesday, June 21 through Sunday, June 25, 2023 in Pittsburgh and/or online for this 5-day immersive experience where we participate in inspirational worship services and informative workshops, reconvene with friends and colleagues, and explore our bustling exhibit hall.
Want to represent UUCC at General Assembly?
If you are interested in representing UUCC at General Assembly, please review this process.
Community Sunday, April 16
On Sunday, Aprio 16, join us for Community Sunday. Community Sundays are a new way to bring us together through a brief, sweet Sunday service in person and online and then through a variety of shared intentional activities.
UUA Presidential Forums
Register for one of these livestreamed forums to learn more about Rev. Dr. Sofia Betancourt, the candidate for UUA President.
Save the Date for UUCC’s 75th Anniversary Celebration
Save the date for UUCC's 75th Anniversary Celebration! The UUCC turns 75 this congregational year, and we are looking forward to celebrating with a fun and festive weekend, April 29 & 30.
Interim Ministry Transition Update – February 2023
Your help is needed to guide the UUCC into its next phase! The Interim Transition Team is hosting a series of small group discussions to hear from the congregation about your priorities and vision as we begin to formulate a search committee to find our next settled minister. We want to hear from you and also let you hear from each other all the different thoughts and dreams we have about our future.
The MET of the UUCC Wonders: Did you know about this?
Did you know that the Memorial Endowment Trust of the Unitarian Universalist Community of Charlotte awards grant funds each year?
UUCC’s Gardening Group
Learn more about the mission of the UUCC's Gardening Group and find out how you can get involved.
Have You Had Trouble With the Website?
You may have noticed that a recent update to the back end (where we create content) of the Unitarian Universalist Community of Charlotte website is creating trouble on the front end (what you see). The fix is taking longer than we planned, but we're working on it!
Did You Know This About the UUCC MET?
Did you know this about the Memorial Endowment Trust of the Unitarian Universalist Community of Charlotte?
Announcing New UUCC Board of Trustees Members
Board of Trustees is pleased to announce the appointment of two new members, Jolena James-Szanton and Shannon Maples. We feel very fortunate that Jolena and Shannon are willing and able to serve during this crucial interim time for the UUCC.
UUCC’s Covenant of Right Relations
On September 25, the Sunday service topic centered around the idea and origins of covenant and the ways we live out those relational promises. Here is the text of the covenant that UUCC adopted June 6, 2021, and a link to the September 25 service.
A Bean in a Little Box
How did a philosophy class about miracles lead to a conversation in Freeman Hall, and what does that have to do with volunteering at the UUCC?
URGENT NEED: Sound Booth Volunteers
If you are comfortable with technology (or are willing to learn), we need you! If you have an eye for producing captivating videos or are a visually creative person, we need you! Please volunteer to join our audio/visual crew.
Did You Know? A Message from the MET
Did you know this about the Memorial Endowment Trust of the Unitarian Universalist Community of Charlotte?
Time to Update Your Wardrobe!
New Unitarian Universalist Community of Charlotte T-shirts are now available!
Want to start a new affinity group?
Do you have an idea for a new affinity group you would like to start? Check out the guidelines here. Complete and send in this application.
A Blue Vest and a Walkie-Talkie
Intriguing! What do those things have to do with volunteering at the UUCC? Read this article to find out . . .
Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes
Our Board meets monthly, usually on the third Tuesday, to conduct congregational business. Minutes of meetings conducted during the current congregational year are accessible here.
Coordinating Team Reports
Every month the CT reports to the Board of Trustees on finances, membership and generally on progress toward fulfilling our Mission and Ends. The “narratives” portions of those reports, compiled with the assistance of all the professional staff, along with “monthly participation numbers” are available here.
Solar Panels Continue to Make an Impact
The solar panels on our roof continue to make an impact on our energy consumption and the environment.
Listen to Services (and eventually more) Anywhere via Our Podcast
An issue with the live stream this past fall has turned into an opportunity to expand our virtual presence.
Help Make Sunday Mornings at UUCC Possible
Offering in person services takes a lot of volunteers. We cannot do it without you. Let us know how you can help.
Do You Have an Eye for Imagery?
Do you have what it takes to help provide a compelling and captivating Sunday service experience for people who cannot join us in the Sanctuary on Sunday mornings? Training will be provided.
Facebook: Barriers, Boundaries and Belonging
Your staff recently reviewed the Rules and Guidelines for our closed member Facebook page, a space that offers us a daily opportunity to honor one another and the values we hold most dear as a spiritual community.
Trouble with Technology? Never fear, the UUCC Tech Squad is here!
Whether you resist technology or have found it overwhelming as you try to embrace it, fellow UUCC folks are here to help you get better connected to our loving community.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteers are the heart and soul of our collective enterprise. As we prepare for the congregational year starting July 1, we invite UUCC members to review the available volunteer opportunities, including duties, time commitments and helpful attributes. Consider serving our community in one of these volunteer roles.
UUCC Inclement Weather Policy
Read on for a reminder for our members and friends of our inclement weather policy (effective when services and activities are scheduled on the grounds and in the building).
Member-Only Facebook Group
Join our members-only Facebook group, "Unitarian Universalist Community of Charlotte Members." This is a "closed" Facebook group where members can discuss issues and interests in private--like a virtual Freeman Hall, except you bring the coffee!
Love this place? Donate to the Endowment
Help insure the long-term health of the UUCC. Give to the Memorial Endowment Trust in memory of a loved one or in honor of a special person or event.
Social Opportunities
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UUCC Sunday Schedule
Easily access information about and links to our Sunday programming for children, youth, and adults, including classes, our Sunday service, and social opportunities.
Eat Your Way Around the World in Charlotte
Join Denise Weldon-Clark and others from the UUCC community on an international dining adventure without ever leaving the Charlotte area! Explore cultures and cuisines of other countries beginning with Vietnam at Pho Quynh Restaurant (4900 Central Ave.) on Sunday, April 16. Meet in the UUCC vestibule at 12:15 to "travel" together.
“The Bias Inside Us” at Discovery Place
The Intersectional Justice Team and the Intersectional Justice Engagement Group would like to invite you to join us for an evening of learning in community on March 30, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. Let us know if you were able to get tickets
Register for UUA General Assembly
GA is an unforgettable experience for the thousands of UUs who attend. Participate Wednesday, June 21 through Sunday, June 25, 2023 in Pittsburgh and/or online for this 5-day immersive experience where we participate in inspirational worship services and informative workshops, reconvene with friends and colleagues, and explore our bustling exhibit hall.
Seniors Share
The SENIORS SHARE group meets via Zoom on the first Wednesday and in person on the third Wednesday. The seniors share in-person meeting on Wednesday, April 19 will be held at 234 in the Bernstein room from 2-3:30 p.m. All are welcome. Just email Jane Kusterer if you plan to attend.
Community Sunday, April 16
On Sunday, Aprio 16, join us for Community Sunday. Community Sundays are a new way to bring us together through a brief, sweet Sunday service in person and online and then through a variety of shared intentional activities.
UUCC Hiking Group: April 1, Overmountain Victory Trail in Gaffney, SC
Our next hike will be Saturday, April 1 when we will meet at 234 at 9 a.m. in the parking lot and travel to the Overmountain Victory Trail in Gaffney, SC
Lunch Bunch
After service on the second Sunday of each month, join others from UUCC for lunch at Koishi.
Calling all Gamers!
The UUCC Gamers' Group meets monthly in the Bernstein Room at 7 p.m. to play board/strategy games and build community.
Volunteer with the UUCC Gardening Group
Join our gardening group in taking care of our lovely gardens. The group meets at 9:30 a.m. on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month.
Time to Update Your Wardrobe!
New Unitarian Universalist Community of Charlotte T-shirts are now available!
Want to start a new affinity group?
Do you have an idea for a new affinity group you would like to start? Check out the guidelines here. Complete and send in this application.
Healing Threads: A Prayer Shawl Ministry
Meet to knit or crochet together as a spiritual community and to bless the shawls we complete. Shawls are given to Unitarian Universalist Community of Charlotte members with a significant hardship or loss and to KinderMourn. Meets 2nd Monday at 7 p.m., offsite. Contact Kathleen Moloney-Tarr at krmt1923@gmail.com.
Consider Joining a UUCC Affinity Group
UUCC members, browse the latest opportunities to join with others in our congregation for readers theater, celebrating the divine feminine, book discussions, walking, hiking and cycling, peer support for anxiety and depression, meditation, and more!
Happy Wanderers
Join Tuesday Walkers at 11:00 A.M. as they stroll different greenways each week on a rotating basis.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteers are the heart and soul of our collective enterprise. As we prepare for the congregational year starting July 1, we invite UUCC members to review the available volunteer opportunities, including duties, time commitments and helpful attributes. Consider serving our community in one of these volunteer roles.
(dis)Abled Support and Advocacy Group
The disability support and advocacy group welcomes those with any type of physical or mental health challenge, as well as allies and friends.
Member-Only Facebook Group
Join our members-only Facebook group, "Unitarian Universalist Community of Charlotte Members." This is a "closed" Facebook group where members can discuss issues and interests in private--like a virtual Freeman Hall, except you bring the coffee!