First Unitarian Portland’s summer schedule runs from June 15 through the end of August! Sunday worship services continue at 10:15 a.m. followed by social hour, a few new offerings will appear, and some groups and activities will pause until the new church program year begins in September.
Read below to learn about the changes to our scheduling and the special opportunities for gathering and connection this summer.
For information about which groups are meeting over the summer, please visit our Community Groups & Activities page and contact the specific group in which you are interested.
To view all of our upcoming programming and events in detail, visit our Events Calendar here!
Programs
Children & Youth
Sundays, June 15 through August 24, during services
This summer we have classes for children up to about six years of age during worship. They explore Unitarian Universalist values and themes like friendship, justice, ritual, world religions, self-expression, art, history, science, adventure, and more. Plus we have a lot of fun!
Nursery & toddlers: Play & explore with Milena and Rhionne.
3 to 6-ish years old: Games & crafts with Emma, Ayanna, and Ellen in room A106.
Children of all ages are always welcome in the service!
No RE classes on July 6. Nursery and toddler care will still be available.
Full programming through high school will resume in September. Register and learn more now!
Summer Community Choir
Sundays, June 29 through August 31, starting at 8:45 a.m.
Our summer choir is “come one, come all!”
If you’d like to sing, show up in the Main Sanctuary at 8:45 a.m. before the service on the Sunday/s of your choice to learn that day’s music.
No commitment required! Sing once, or every week, or anything in between — whatever fits for you.
Pre-Service Yoga
Sundays, July 6 & 20, August 3 & 17, from 9 – 10 a.m.
Registration for each date required! Join us for yoga with Ginny K. We will meet in room A108.
Please bring your own yoga mat and water bottle. Wear clothing appropriate for yoga, and then join the congregation for Sunday service at 10:15 a.m.
LIMIT of 15 participants. First come, first served. We will release the sign-up form for the next date after each class through our Front Steps e-news. There will be a total of four classes over the summer.
First Share Table
Sundays through August 31, during social hour
Help staff the table one Sunday this summer, or every Sunday, or anything in between — whatever fits for you. No commitment required! Email Christine to volunteer or get more information. You can also call the church (503-228-6389) to get in touch with Christine.
A few encouraging words from Christine:
When planting your garden this summer
Too much zucchini’s a bummer
Don’t be a produce porch dumper
Be a veggies-sharing pumper!
And please be advised
Our table needs to strive
To serve all who arrive
Each Sunday at 11:45!
Democracy in Action Corner
Sundays, June 1 through August 31, during social hour
Are you concerned about the nation’s slide toward autocracy? Are you looking for things that you can do to protect democracy at any level of energy and time commitment? Whether you’re interested in protesting, contacting your legislators, learning more about a particular issue, or finding fellowship with like-minded congregants, we have you covered!
Please come visit the Democracy in Action Corner after the service to learn more.
Events
Last Wishes: How Do We Want to Be Remembered?
Sunday, August 10, from 11:45 a.m. – 2 p.m.
What are the life stories you want others to know and remember about you? What do you want your legacy to be? How do you start sometimes difficult conversations regarding your last wishes with friends and family? Join Rev. Duane Fickeisen and FUSE members in Buchan Reception Hall for an afternoon of conversation with one another about the journey of life, who we have become along the paths we’ve taken, and what we hope others will remember. We’ll talk about how to plan for a memorial service and how to approach writing your obituary. We will also ask for your ideas on topics for future forums. All ages welcome!
Bring your own lunch. Drinks will be provided. Please RSVP here so we can plan accordingly.
All-Church Picnic
Sunday, August 17, from 12:30 – 2:30 p.m.
Join us at Peninsula Park! Fun for all ages—games and activities for kids and adults.
Bring your own lunch and a dessert to share.
Sponsored by First Unitarian’s Good Times Committee.
UUA Common Book Read 2025
Sunday, September 7, from noon to 1:30 p.m.
Join your fellow UUs across the globe this summer in reading Authentic Selves: Celebrating Trans and Nonbinary People and their Families (Skinner House, 2023).
You can purchase this book now from the Beacon Bookstore in Fuller Hall during social hour. On September 7, Dr. Amy O. and Aileen M. of our congregation will lead a discussion about the book and its topics in Eliot Chapel.
The UUA states, “Through interviews and photo portraits, the subjects of this book invite readers into their real lives—their revelations, challenges, joys, and networks of support. This Common Read invites UU groups to explore the nature of living authentically and the ways connections among us help us thrive.”
Good Times Committee Table
Sundays during social hour
The First Unitarian Portland Good Times Committee helps make the church a warm and welcoming community by facilitating fun, inclusive events.
Please come to the Good Times table during social hour to sign up for activities or to get added to the email lists.
Questions about any of the above? Email our front office here.