C ELEBRATING 150 Y EARS OF L IBERAL R ELIGION IN D ELAWARE

F IRST U NITARIAN C HURCH O F W ILMINGTON D ELAWARE

A NNUAL REPORT 2016

A beloved community that nourishes minds and spirits, Benediction

For all who see God, May God go with you For all who embrace life, May life return your affection. For all who seek a right path May a way be found And the courage to take it, Step by step.

— Reverend Dr. Robert Mabry Doss

2 D EDICATION

“Bob Doss was a legend among Unitarian Universalists in the wider denomination and for 31 years was our spiritual leader. Bob ministered to us – inspiring, challenging, educating, loving us – leaving a legacy for all those who follow to enjoy and to continue to be inspired.”

—Helen Foss, First Unitarian Church member

R EVEREND D R. ROBERT M ABRY D OSS S EPTEMBER 12, 1927—F EBRUARY 12, 2016

“Our church – our congregation – is right at the growing edge of potential greatness. . . We could try to stay just as we are. If we do, we shall fail. Churches, like people, do not stay as they are. They deteriorate or they move to new levels of responsibility and achievement … From here we note our present strength and may move on to new and more significant service and fulfillment. The choice belongs to all of us!”

—Reverend Dr. Robert Mabry Doss on the occasion of our 100th Anniversary

3 O UR V ALUES, M ISSION AND V ISION

UR ISSION O M “A Beloved Community is creative. It First Unitarian Church of does not live in the past, it lives into Wilmington is a beloved community the future. A Beloved Community is redemptive. It does not hold onto that nourishes minds and spirits, grudges, it engages in active and fights injustice, and transforms the ongoing reconciliation both internally world through loving action. and externally. Read through the lens of an understanding of the true meaning of Beloved Community, the O UR V ALUES four phrases of your mission statement At First Unitarian Church of make perfect sense. Beloved Community. Nurturing mind and spirit. Wilmington we work to embody: Fighting injustice. Transforming the world through love.”  Love and Compassion, —Rev. Roberta Finkelstein, First  Growth and Discovery, Unitarian Church Developmental Minister  Freedom and Justice,

 Wonder and Joy.

O UR V ISION AS E NDS At First Unitarian Church of Wilmington, people of all ages:

 Feel safe, accepted, and loved – and empowered to be our authentic selves.

 Gain new perspectives and grow as informed, spiritual human beings.

 Act on our shared values and Unitarian Universalist identity to fight for a more just world.

 Experience wonder, inspiration, fulfillment, and joy.

4 A MESSAGE FROM OUR BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Dear Friends,

First Unitarian Church of Wilmington is a beloved community that nourishes minds and spirits, fights injustice, and transforms the world through loving action. These words are on every First UU order of service on Sunday Donna Ostin Warren, mornings, our First UU web page and on the wall of room 25 where, Gonzalez President on the third Monday of each month, your Board of Trustees convenes our monthly meetings. Our Mission is always front and center as we focus on our charge to serve the congregation via policy based governance, as Dan Hotchkiss says” to achieve both the outward results and inward quality of life to which it is called.” These past twelve months have continued the journey of change which we’ve begun with Rev. Roberta Finkelstein’s first year of Anna ministry. As trustees, we dedicated ourselves to spiritual practices of Hamilton Marilyn Hyte, gratitude with our fellow parishioners, utilizing the simple practice Vice-President of intentionally saying “Thank You”. More formally, we’ve held numerous town hall meetings and provided detailed communications to ensure the congregation is aware of the multitude of the Trustees’ activities from the five year strategic planning process to our rededication on social justice initiatives with the United Nations project and Black Lives Matters as just two Jacqueline examples. Kairis Each trustee has personally selected projects or groups to engage as a volunteer to have a first-hand understanding of our church’s work Doyle and the aspirations of the congregation. They’ve ranged from Dobbins, Recording stewardship, membership, leadership training, EDR, ILYA, CYRE, Jim Secretary Crow workshops, singing with the choir, working on the Andy Cope building team, building and grounds, climate change, potlucks, office volunteers, ushering , greeting ,and denominational work with the Becky JPD to name just a few. Laster The collaboration with Rev. Roberta and her team is an important key for all we’ve accomplished this year and for all that will come as we continue our journey to be the “beloved community.” In Love and Peace, Leslie Dickerson Your 2015-2016 Board of Trustees Linda Sanders 5 C ELEBRATING 1 5 0 Y EARS

OF L IBERAL R ELIGION IN

D ELAWARE

which harassed Delaware for Chicago fire of 1871. It was a 200 years – and many victories Unitarian minister, Rev. against forces which have tried William H. Thorne, who alone to stifle the rights of man. Our rallied Wilmington to a town church has never ignored a meeting that resulted in $7,500 First Unitarian Church, 8th & West benevolent cause. Often we cash relief for disaster victims The following words were have taken the initiative. Events and barrels of apparel and included in the brochure, “We like these date back to the supplies sent to the fire-front Will Do It—Because It Must Be by our Unitarian Women's Done”, describing the need for a Alliance. The church was new new church home in 1957 as “In 1956, I was invited to go to then and theologies have over-capacity crowds and a service at the 8th and West changed. But Unitarian spirit parking headaches plagued our Unitarian Church by the was no different than it is congregation at 8th and West. woman for whom our now….Our founders committed Memorial Garden is named. ‘this much of life’* to the cause "Many of Delaware's forward Rev. John MacKinnon was the in which they believed. It is steps in the last 92 years had marvelous minister, and I was now our privilege to do the either their origin or leadership so inspired that I felt that this same." in this church. Our courageous was where I belonged. Over ministers have fought for These words still ring true the next year or so I learned human freedoms, with the today. Our members continued more about our religion, backing of their congregation. to be present in issues of the joined the congregation, and Not all the battles were won. time—from civil rights, the have been a dedicated The whipping post remains. Vietnam War, abortion rights, member ever since. It's been You can thank Unitarian to today’s Black Lives Matter, 58 years that our Church has leadership for gains that were environmental justice, support been a beacon of light not ‘radical’ once, yet are taken for for young adults aging out of only in my life, but also in the granted today. foster care, the Delaware whole community of Coalition to Dismantle the New These include the Family Court Wilmington. I say thanks Jim Crow, the Movement for a of New Castle County, every day, with gratitude.” Culture of Peace, among others. Delaware's present prison parole system, establishment of —Sally Christian, the Prisoners Aid Society, First U member, 1958 repeal of Sunday Blue Laws 6 *theme of Rev. MacKinnon’s sermon on the 85th Anniversary. “I arrived in Wilmington late in 1945 and immediately began to attend the old church at 8th and West. The church was very dark, but the sermons were enlightening. Pat O’Brien was finishing his tenure, followed by John MacKinnon.

As a recent college graduate with a degree in Child Development, I volunteered in the nursery. Very quickly, I was put in charge of the Threes and Fours. I thought the Beacon Press curriculum (the Martin and Judy stories) were incredibly dull in spite of their noble content. I agreed to teach if I could use my own materials. Bill Davis, Kathie Thomas’s father, chaired the R. E. Committee and took my request to the Board. I was granted permission. That was my first church lesson in bringing about change rather than complaining.

… As a church family we have had our ups and downs, made our mistakes and had many shining moments. I have great affection and appreciation for this place, this history and the wonderful people who share, more or less, many of my values and concerns. I am grateful for the richness of the past and the vitality of this love filled place in which I can continue to learn, to grow, and to live my religion.”

—Marge Meyermann, First U member, 1947—excerpt from memories she shared on the occasion of her 50th anniversary in 1997

This year, we celebrate the 150th anniversary of the First Unitarian Society of Wilmington Delaware. An updated history has been completed, a historical building tour developed, special worship services honoring our legacy have been held and many celebratory events have taken place. This 150th Anniversary Annual Report, dedicated to Reverend Dr. Robert Mabry Doss, First Unitarian Minister Emeritus who passed away in February, includes a selection of memories from our members and ministers. The complete set of memories is available for all to peruse in our church office.

7 D EVELOPMENTAL M INISTRY—Y EAR O NE

Four goals are articulated in the been on stabilizing the core summer and on the minister’s contract between our ministry functions: worship, Sunday off. Developmental Minister, Rev. religious growth and The Board and Rev. Finkelstein Roberta Finkelstein, and the development, pastoral care, staff have worked to clarify the Congregation: support and volunteer support. distinction between governance We have made much progress 1. Working together with lay and ministry, streamlining together. leadership, transition from reporting. There is additional policy governance to policy- Rev. Finkelstein used “meet the lay leadership on the Executive based governance to minister” meetings in late Team, a new Adult Religious implement a shared ministry . summer to explain shared Exploration team and new ministry, as well as preaching on volunteers in areas as varied as 2. Lead the congregation in shared ministry in the early fall. Stewardship, Safety and Security creating the means to function She recruited and trained and celebrating our 150th successfully as a single several small teams—story- birthday. minister church. tellers to share the Tales for All Rev. Finkelstein has helped the 3. As articulated in the strategic Ages, writers to create session leadership and members to plan, lead First U in attracting plans for Connection Circles, and understand what can be new members and increasing the first class of Worship covered by a single minister and member retention/ Associates to co-lead worship learn to focus on those activities engagement. with the minister and guests, as that are directly related to the well as offer quarterly Vespers 4. Lead First U in creating a core mission, letting go of those services, bring services to UU’s things we don’t have capacity to culture of voluntarism and in nearby retirement member engagement. take on right now. communities, and create and The focus of this first year of lead Sunday worship during the We are well on our way to Developmental Ministry has meeting our goals!

O UR E XECUTIVE T EAM

Reverend Roberta Marina VanRenssen Bill Hardham, Dale Megill, Finkelstein, Business Manager Lay Member at Large Lay Member at Large Developmental Minister

8 O UR BELOVED COMMUNITY

“Practicing hospitality ... is an individual work of intentional action, action that creates the quality of relationships in our churches that will nourish newcomers and longtime members alike,” says David Rynick in the June 2007 issue of UU World, The Spiritual Practice of Hospitality. While we have many teams who focus on hospitality, we have seen a growing commitment on the part of our members to practice intentional welcoming on light the chalice each week, as their own spiritual growth. Sundays, a good sign that many well as both families and Additionally, once again we have embraced hospitality as individuals to offer the have enjoyed hearing the voices the role of all. Stewardship Moment. Our of our children singing, doing worship services have included skits, as well as hearing their A Tale for All Ages, delivered by instrumental music. Our vision—People of all a newly trained team of Pastoral Care—For those who ages feel safe, accepted, storytellers, providing a are struggling, facing unusual and loved—and message to complement the stresses or changes in their sermon that all can enjoy. With empowered to be our lives, experiencing illness or a the High School Youth moving authentic selves. hospitalization, struggling with their gatherings to Sunday a recent loss, or just need evenings, we have seen several someone who can listen, there At First Unitarian we have of them participating as is support for them at First continued to transform volunteers in the Children’s Unitarian. Our ministers, along ourselves to be welcoming to Religious Exploration program, with a wonderful team of lay all across the generations. Our in the worship service, as well people trained in pastoral care team of greeters and ushers as attending the services for provide confidential loving warmly welcomed all at the support to church members door on Sunday, helping people through visits, cards, meals, to find a seat as we begin our rides, and phone calls. Calls to worship service. elderly members who are shut- There has been a family- in helped to identify special needs. In addition, each week, friendly feeling to our Sunday services this year, offering time is set aside in the worship more multigenerational service to speak the names of services and inviting families to those who need the warmth

9 “On our 2nd or 3rd visit to First U, we entered a raffle for a homemade pie. Naively, we only put our last name on the ticket. Unbeknownst to us, this last name was shared by others in the congregation. We heard our last name called as the winner only to sadly discover the pie had been awarded to others with the same last name.

Now comes the happy ending. We have since and care of our congregation. problems in isolation. Having a There are several groups that group that listens and deeply learned that the sharers function within the umbrella of understands is an incredible of our last name disclosed Pastoral Care. gift. At meetings, members they were NOT the winners since they had The Knitting Ministry Team discuss how the recent month members have delivered 20 has gone. The group abides not even put their name caring cloaks, knitted by 6 with a report of bad times and into the raffle. The church members, that show cheers the member for better following Sunday, the times. Sometimes there are special loving care and concern baker presented us with a hugs and they are good too. for those going through difficult freshly baked pie. We times. The final version of the The Caregivers’ Group knew at that moment that knitted Comfort Cloak pattern provides support to church we had found our new is available on the church members who are caring for website. their loved ones over an church home.”

Living Well with Chronic extended period of time, —Keith and Pam Weiss, Illness (LWCI) and Caregivers’ sometimes doing so from a Groups provide small group distance. First U Members, 2012 settings for pastoral care. The Circumstances vary but members of LWCI have much in all members value the common dealing with health sensitivity, encouragement and clean and safe for all who join issues and with people who kindness of this support us. Whether painting, changing don’t understand the ups and group. light bulbs, shoveling snow, downs as well as the severity of For those who like to get planting trees or pulling weeds, having chronic illness. Before physical, our Buildings and there is always someone to get coming to the group, members Grounds team serves to help to know better who shares your had been dealing with health our staff keep our facilities passion for our spiritual home. 10 Committee (UUSC) as we kicked G ROWING off the annual Guest at Your Table program. Christmas T HE B ELOVED caroling in December brought joy to our Sharpley neighbors; at C OMMUNITY least one family told us we were the first group to come caroling in the many years they have The Membership and Leadership lived there. Also in December, Development teams were merged our children made cards for this year into one strategic effort home-bound members to let focused on Member them know we are thinking of Engagement and Development. them. In February, adults and Engaging and supporting children joined together to bake members from the first time they over 200 cookies which were walk through our doors, as they served at Emmanuel Dining develop themselves, their Room the next day. In April, we spiritual/religious lives and their Multigenerational potluck made apartment bags for relationships with each other, dinners were brought back this graduates from our ILYA with First Unitarian and the year, attended by 70 – 80 program – outreach to young Unitarian Universalist faith helps members and friends each adults aging out of foster care. us create a culture of month. Various teams volunteerism and community throughout the church participation. volunteered as hosts while a We began several new practices core team prepared fun, on Sunday mornings to make the multigenerational activities that Sunday morning experience more increased fellowship and accessible for visitors and friendship. These dinners have inquirers. In addition to the proven to be an entry way to Welcome Table where all visitors First Unitarian for some new are invited to stop by to talk with visitors. In addition to the fun friendly First Unitarian members, had by all, the Potluck team Circle Suppers were revived we have added volunteers to give designed activities that were this year, as well, after a long building tours. Board members impactful within our church and time in hibernation. Circle and program staff are also the broader community. In the Suppers are open to all available for visitors who would fall, our program included members, and especially visitors like to meet with them awareness-raising of the and new members, as a means to personally. Unitarian Universalist Service get to know each other and become an integral part of our church community. Members and friends may sign up at any time to join us for the next months’ pot luck suppers in members’ homes. Over 50 people have participated, attending monthly dinners of 6 –

11 and publicizing volunteer opportunities and gathering information about individuals' volunteer involvement in all aspects of church life. We also continue to invite members and friends to complete a Gifts and Talents Survey. The data gathered is helping us connect individuals with the opportunities of greatest interest and need. “Small Group Ministry is intentional lay-led small groups that deepen and expand the ministry of a congregation. Small Group Ministry helps build community and provides

10 in each others’ homes. premises in the first half of the “I found something I’ve Participants have been year. These leaders devoted enthusiastic about meeting four full Saturdays of their been missing all my life” new people who they now feel time to the training which was —Jon Claney, comfortable with on Sunday led by Rev. Richard Speck. By First U Member, 2015 mornings and getting to know fostering leadership others much better than they development through this very could during a Sunday special training, we have opportunities for deeper morning chat. strengthened our relationships – intimacy -- and congregation’s capacity to opportunity for deeper spiritual lead, manage and accept exploration and search for organizational change in a meaning –ultimacy.” (from the healthy way. Two additional UU Small Group Ministry half day leadership workshops Network http:// are being planned for the fall. www.smallgroupministry.net/ Another component of the new whoweare.html). At First Member Engagement and Unitarian, one of the ways we Development Team is to create have implemented small group greater awareness of the many ministry is through our In the area of Leadership volunteer opportunities Connection Circles. This is an Development, we sponsored available to our members and excellent way to connect with the participation of 16 lay friends and to help each others, to form and deepen leaders in Healthy individual find her/his place to friendships, to explore Congregations training contribute, grow, and flourish meaningful topics that touch provided by the Joseph here. Over the past year we the mind and heart, and to Priestley District on our began the process of compiling grow as a person. This year, we

12 have eight lay-led Connection Being in one of these Circles helps strong local Delmarva Cluster Circles, including three new to create strong emotional bonds over the past several years has Circles: Open Women’s Circle, the among the members, helped to build strong lateral Torah Study Group and the Circle strengthening their engagement relationships of mutual support at Cokesbury Village. The latter is in the congregation. and learning. our second Circle at local senior As an example, our First living communities, joining our Connection Circles are open to new members and meet, once or Unitarian fall retreat was Maris Grove Circle, in helping transformed this year and those who cannot get to church to twice a month, usually from October through May. Organized sponsored by the Cluster. It was continue to connect with others planned and led by members in meaningful ways. Other registration periods are in September and January, but they from our congregation with ongoing Circles include one experience making the retreat the focused on short stories, one on are open for new members any time during the church year. success it has been in the past rituals, and three on our UU collaborating with fellow UUs Principles and the congregation’s G ROWING from Easton and Chester River, monthly themes, including one MD, Newark, DE, and District offered on-line through web- Executive Rev. David Pyle. Eight based technology. We recruited O UR UU Unitarian Universalist and trained a small team of congregations of the Delmarva writers who worked C ONNECTIONS Peninsula were included with collaboratively to create Session ninety Unitarian Universalists Plans for monthly ministry from all over the peninsula being themes. First Unitarian Church has valued hosted at Camp Tockwogh. Personal listening, sharing and growth in Unitarian Universalism, working to help establish new Our plan was to keep the fun, ministering to one another are inspiring and relaxing activities integral to these small groups. churches in the Joseph Priestley District over more than 60 years. that have become our tradition - campfire sing-alongs and games, As the denomination looks to reorganize from districts to hikes along beaches and through the woods, group activities and of “Being a part of a small regions, First Unitarian’s leadership in establishing a course worship - and add group was one of our first experiences at First Unitarian. That group met for over 20 years – a venue for self-discovery, for clarifying what was important for us on each of our individual spiritual journeys, and for building life-long friendships.“ —Helen Foss, First U member, 1969

13 Unitarian recently shared our Unitarian Chalice Lighters Sunday practice of having the Board included a slide show illustrating approve public statements on the success of previous grants issues such as gun violence, and testimonials that invited racism, and sustainability. The more church members to become Cluster is also interested in the Chalice lighters. work currently being done on safety and security here at First Unitarian Church. “I loved the All Church First Unitarian support of and Retreat! To be among participation in Delmarva children of all ages, (from Cluster activities draws in large 6 - 65+) with laughter, part from the First Unitarian singing, dancing and Church Denominational Growth games of all kinds made Committee (DGC). The DGC the dreary weather exists to grow and strengthen Unitarian Universalism as we outside disappear. It was increase our presence on the great to meet UUs from programming in the form of a Delmarva Peninsula and other Delmarva workshop on witnessing our faith Southern New Jersey. This year, churches. We were a fun and activities to help bring First Unitarian provided financial and loving community together members from different support through our Grants for congregations. We did not plan with more chocolate Growth program, awarding milk, cookies and coffee for Mother Nature to take a swing grants to congregations of Easton than we could possibly at us in the form of torrential and Central Delaware. Grants for consume. There was even rains and flooding so severe on growth are specific grants that that first Friday in October that promote growth of the a cozy fire during the the other two Unitarian congregation. Since its inception workshop led by David Universalist Cluster events that in 1997, First Unitarian has given Pyle. The Planning happened to be scheduled that $111.335 in grants for growing Committee did a great same weekend were canceled. churches in Delaware, Maryland job! “ Tockwogh remained open, so we and New Jersey. plunged in and the storm became part of our experience. We were The Denominational Growth —Suzanne Perry, awed by the way Tockwogh's Committee also champions the First U member, 1982 natural setting quickly Chalice Lighter grant program in incorporated the water and our congregation. This amazed that we were still able to Joseph Priestley have our campfires outside District program is Saturday night! Apparently the instrumental in plan worked. The retreat supporting Unitarian received high praise from the Universalist many congregations that joined congregations to us. Another retreat is being achieve a variety of planned for October 7-9, 2016. goals which contribute to their In other Cluster activities, First growth. Our First

14 G ROWING M INDS AND S PIRITS

Participating in worship, whether listening to the sermon or taking part in a ritual or engaging in silent reflection, is the primary way that most adult members grow spiritually. This year we have begun to make changes to the Sunday programs so that children and youth experience multigenerational worship as a place where perspectives are changed and challenged and all ages have the opportunity to grow their souls. This year, Rev. Finkelstein focused on important aspects of In January a training program Regular participants were our mission – Beloved was held for a group of Worship treated to lively discussions Community, Nourishing Mind Associates who have begun to with experts on a wide range of and Spirit, Fighting Injustice work regularly with the topics from both church and and Transforming the World minister and program staff to community members. A through Loving Action – as well plan the worship calendar and typical Sunday drew 10 – 12 as five important themes – We, share the work of creating and participants, but once in a while Journey/Stewardship, presenting worship services. we exceeded 20 who came out Beginning Again/Rebirth, The Sunday morning Faithful early on their Sunday morning Legacy, and Celebration – for Dialogs and Adult Forums are to learn, support and our worship services and in designed to provide new participate. some of our small group perspectives on issues like Members served as guest hosts Connection Circles. Our ethics, theology, world frequently, donating their time children were welcomed in the religions, and Unitarian and expertise on subjects such Sunday services to hear stories Universalism. Other offerings as poetry, dreams, science and on these themes, followed by focus on spiritual practices, medicine, philosophers such as rich programming in their fellowship and mutual support. Thomas Merton, butterflies, religious exploration classes. Faithful Dialogues was sacred dancing and Wiccan holidays. We also heard several conducted for the last time this year as plans to reinvigorate On Being podcasts hosted by Our vision—People of all the Adult Religious Exploration Krista Tippett, to supplement ages gain new (ARE) program have begun. the variety of our own perspectives and grow as From 2011 through 2015 community over the years. informed, spiritual Faithful Dialogues was an In fall 2015, Faithful Dialogues beings exciting place to be on Sunday expanded to include monthly mornings in Brunner Chapel. Social Justice topics, in which

15 both Jeff Lott and Elizabeth Siftar composition of the group has kindly donated their time to bring “Doyle and I first came to changed over time. During this in activists from social past church year, the group has First Unitarian Church in organizations throughout our five writers who meet monthly. area. These experts brought to an 1972 to attend its political The group votes on the monthly interested First Unitarian forums and stayed themes they want to write about audience more in-depth because of Bob Doss’ and have very lively conversations, cherishing the fact knowledge as well as important inclusive, rather than ways to become more involved in that one theme always gets five sexist, language. This was these social issues. very different interpretations. the 1970s, when male The Write Group is an open In addition, Cindy Cohen shared group and welcomes newcomers. her love of metaphysical and New pronouns ruled! I also Age topics by enlightening a appreciated the informed, By fostering a weekly meditation group of regular attendees to her thoughtful, provocative, group and holding regular day- Spiritual Cinema series, creative sermons and the long retreats The Open Heart presenting fascinating episodes Sangha is directly involved in great music — from the from the archives of Gaiam TV. transforming lives by helping choir and organ, to the people to cultivate unconditional As Faithful Dialogues phases out, hearty singing of the love and support that goes from a new ARE Steering Committee is one's life experience out into emerging and hopes to have a congregation. Impressive, everyday life. modest new ARE program soon. as well, was how First U The program will be built on a provided a place for our For six years The Open Heart model proposed by Rev. Marjorie Sangha has been invested deeply religious quest, a place for Montgomery to include: in all of the church Ends. The rigorous religious sangha is a place of peace and  Threshold Courses —an discussion where you non-judgment where members introduction to Unitarian are free to literally just be Universalism, the church didn’t park your brain at together. In terms of growth as community, and the building the door. Key, as well, spiritual beings, the sangha goes of a personal belief system, was discovering UUSC, the beyond words and cultivates a  Deepening Courses— UU organization working practice that is proven to foster Unitarian UU history and for human rights and deeper empathy. heritage, UU identity in social justice.” Our John G. MacKinnon community, and relational Memorial Library is a skills, —Beverley Baxter, welcoming space, open every  Epiphany Courses—spiritual Sunday for quiet reflection, with and personal growth and First U member, 1973 learning, and knowledge of other religious paths, and The Write Group originated  Living One’s Beliefs Courses— with the Rev. Barbara Hoag (now help us toward the integration Gadon). Throughout the years, of a life of integrity and beliefs people who love to write have with deeds. gathered monthly, to share their observations on life and /or the writings of their memoirs. The

16 collections on religion and Education, Catherine “In 2001, I attended my first service at spirituality, life transitions and Williamson, the CYRE challenges, ethical concerns in Team works directly First Unitarian in Wilmington. It was our communities and world, with the children and prompted over a conversation with and church organization. A youth in tailoring the Dr. Rita Meek on Easter Sunday while special section on the history of curriculum to fit we both reviewed slides in the our Library can be found later contemporary needs, in this report. as well as in guiding microscope and shared the challenges of celebrating traditional holidays Our Sunday morning Book them through finding Corner offers selections for service projects which while holding non-traditional beliefs. children through adults to address First The following week she brought me a Unitarian’s Ends. This enhance their growth, as well. copy of the Religious Education year, our focus was on Additionally we partner with programming booklet from First others through our website, the Unitarian Unitarian and I was intrigued. I had Facebook, Twitter and YouTube Universalist Principles. sites to bring current events As stated in the CYRE two young daughters that I wanted to and perspectives to our on-line vision statement, “Our expose to a religious community, but readers. children and youth affirm their identity as not the ones my husband, Steve, and I members of the were raised in. I was searching. Then O UR Unitarian Universalist September 11, 2001 came to pass and faith community, I was committed to finding purpose embrace their evolving C HILDREN and peace in the confusion and spirituality and practice Unitarian emerging hatred that followed. Our Children and Youth Universalist values in I have vivid memories of my first Religious Exploration (CYRE) all facets of their lives.” service (and the Order of Service). It Team’s work focuses on This work would not was October 7, 2001. We sang Spirit of advancing all of First be possible without the Unitarian’s Ends with children nearly 50 individuals Life, did an “elevator” meditation and youth. After all, they are volunteering with together, enjoyed the Chamber Choir the future of the church. CYRE, making this the performing “Cantate Domino” and With the Director of Religious largest volunteer base listened to the sermon “Being Peace - Finding Strength - Being Whole”… Every minute of the service felt right. I had spent almost 20 years resisting church. But this felt completely comfortable. I felt like I had been a native French speaker attending Italian services my entire life. But here, they spoke my language! It was emotional and life changing.”

—Liz Marek, First U member, 2001

17 to begin to name their own religious/spiritual experiences, “I visited the church on a providing them with stories random Sunday in March and language that creates a and it happened to be the framework on which to build day that the Youth Group their own belief system, and was leading the Service. It nurtures their ethical growth. was impressive and Our Seekers, 7 – 9 year olds, meaningful, and I was learned how to live our surprised by how Unitarian Universalist faith through games, songs, crafts substantial the content and justice projects. They was. It was a great explored stories of historic and reflection on the religion, contemporary Unitarian and I was left thinking Universalists putting their faith how wonderful it would into action and learned that our be for my children to be Principles are not a dogma, but within the church. Moreover, part of a community a credo that individuals can where the older kids were the twenty nine volunteers who affirm with many kinds of developed into such have been working in the child action. and youth classrooms on strong thinkers, and Sunday mornings this year have Our Questers, 9 – 11 year olds, where they were so spent Sunday mornings on a not only been invaluable in our inclusive of each other. children’s lives, but have also Unitarian Universalist journey The next time I attended experienced personally, of discovery, taking part in the church I met with wonder, inspiration, fulfillment, Mystery Quest, UU Quest, Inner and joy. Quest and Action Quest. This Catherine Williamson journey helps our fourth and who gave me a tour of the Our infants and toddlers fifth graders explore and CYRE classrooms, and enjoyed Sunday mornings discover answers to life’s big playing in the Nursery. Our discussed with me the questions about human faith curriculum, and the kinds skilled staff and volunteers and the web of all existence. created a warm and caring of social action projects environment, providing age Our Explorers, 11 – 13 year the children and youth appropriate toys, crafts and olds, focused on asking Big are involved with. It was stories. In this way, our Questions: Is there a God? What what I wanted my own happens after I die? Why do youngest children gain a sense children to experience bad things happen? How of belonging to their religious and be exposed to.” community as they begin to should I live my life? This build friendships. curriculum helps young people understand that our individual —Holly Feldheim-Pust, Our Rainbow Walkers, 4 – 7 search for meaning in the First U member, 2010 year olds, used games, crafts, universe is supported and songs and stories to explore strengthened when we come themes which illustrate together as people of faith. focused on providing Unitarian Universalist opportunities for youth to Principles and values. Our Coming of Age, for our 13 – 15 explore beliefs and values, as program helped these children year olds, is a yearlong program well as individual gifts,

18 strengths and weaknesses. A mentally and physically challenging program, it aids “On behalf of the entire youth in their personal growth community and pupils of and understanding of self, Abuenu D/A Primary and culminating with an Junior High School we Affirmation Worship Service. wish to express our We also offered Our Whole heartfelt thanks and Lives comprehensive sexuality appreciation to you for education to two age groups setting up and stocking this year, in addition to the and manifesting so many of our our library with typical Sunday curriculum, UU principles. They were able to directly experience and act wonderful and interesting which addresses First Unitarians vision of feeling safe, on our second two Ends: Act on reading materials. We our shared values and must admit that the entire accepted, and loved – and empowered to be our authentic Unitarian Universalist identity community and pupils selves, as well as to gain new to fight for a more just world, have never seen a library perspectives and grow as and Experience wonder, set up before let alone informed, spiritual human inspiration, fulfillment, and joy. l i b r a r y b o o k s . beings. In addition to this, the Interestingly, the pupils In August 2015 we completed Explorers hosted a snack bar at have shown great interest two African Library Projects, the Coffee House in March. and pride to read these sending off over 2000 books to Proceeds were donated to Kay's books over this short communities in Ghana and Kamp in honor of Leon Huhn. period these books have Sierra Leone. Our children and The Questers are collecting food for the Claymont arrived....the only families participated in this year-long social action project, Community Closet which is in difference between dull need of being stocked for the and brilliant pupils is exposing them to communities less advantaged than our own, summer months. The Seekers unavailability of reading are collecting items for Faithful materials. No child in this world is dull except he or she is denied access to materials African Library Project is making available to our communities.”

—As stated in a letter of appreciation from the contact at the Abuenu Primary and Junior High School in Ghana

19 Friends. This direct service work the Youth Group successful. space to be themselves, member here at home, in combination They meet monthly at minimum and parent, Laura Hanby, and with the African Library project, and create agendas and action Director of Religious provides our youth with an items so that there is routine, Exploration, Catherine understanding of the breadth and ritual and progress in the youth Williamson. complexity of fighting for a more group meetings themselves, Catherine brings the Planning just world. which are youth led, and Committee together and helps supported by adult advisors. with logistical details as well as O UR Y OUTH This year, the Youth have chosen suggestions for agendas and to meet on Sunday evenings—a supportive materials, while departure from the traditional listening and respecting the Sunday morning meeting time. ideas of the youth. The Youth Group for 9th—12th This opens up Sunday mornings for those Youth who want to In February, the Youth retreated graders provides a welcoming to the Poconos to plan Youth and engaging environment that participate in the life of the Sunday, a favorite of many of our supports teens in social, church in other ways, such as attending worship services or members. With Youth Sunday emotional, and spiritual growth. planned for later in May, the Youth programming focuses on helping out as teachers in the younger grades. topic is top secret, but is not to group-building, worship, social be missed. Youth Sunday is action, leadership development, This year’s Youth Group has always a highlight of the church and building positive been led with impressive year. relationships with the adults of commitment by youth leader, our congregation and the Dillon Dickerson. They have The Youth participated in a Unitarian Universalist been supported by adult number of First Unitarian community. advisors, Jackson Salasky and outreach programs this year, such as cooking and serving at The Youth Group Planning Paul Jacobs who give the youth Committee helps to create structure and support to make

“Working with our high- school-age youth in our High-adventure Explorer Scout Post during the mid 1980s and 1990s was a highlight for me. What a joy it was to watch them grow and bond together as they planned and stretched their endurance and abilities!”

—Robert Foss, First U member, 1969

20 “Since joining First U many years ago, my mind has been opened to many new religious beliefs and ideas. I enjoy passing this information onto my own children, as well as the many youth that are part of our religious education programs. In addition, I feel it is important to bring a wealth of musical experiences to others in the congregation and I have enjoyed involving the youth in a variety of musical experiences that have helped to enhance the Sunday services. The Youth Group services and re- introducing the hand bells to a new generation of UU's has been a highpoint of my experience at First Unitarian.” voices heard by Congress. The —Ned Gladfelter, Youth prepared and delivered the opening words before dinner First U member, 2006 on Sunday evening and mingled with the walkers to learn more Emmanuel Dining room. Along about their effort. with the Coming of Agers, they prepared for and spent time at a work camp at Old First Reformed UCC Church in "The Poconos trip really Philadelphia this spring to serve cemented our bonds as a homeless individuals and youth group even though families. In April, the Youth participated in First Unitarian’s we've known each other hosting for the Democracy for a long time." Spring marchers who were walking from Philadelphia to —Charlotte Hanby, Washington, DC where First U Youth Group organizers hoped to have their

21 A HISTORY OF THE J OHN G. M ACK INNON M EMORIAL L IBRARY OF F IRST U NITARIAN C HURCH

that the Women’s Alliance paid became the John G. MacKinnon expenses of the Sunday School, Memorial Library in 1985, “including those of the honoring Rev. MacKinnon Library” (First Unitarian Book (1903-1983), minister of First of Gifts). Since the 1950s, the Unitarian from 1946-1959. An Library evolved from extensive advisory committee was RE Department resources and formed to revitalize the other holdings into its current Library, and Glen Barbaras’s form. sculpture, “Y,” was Emily Thorn (Director of commissioned, donated by Religious Education, 1955- Glen and installed for the 1975) “created an atmosphere Library’s rededication on May for learning” at First Unitarian 5, 1991. The sculpture was and maintained a library for moved to the main entrance Rev. John G. MacKinnon religious foyer in 2008. education The Library has been part of materials in “This sculpture was not our church since the her office in designed, it just emerged congregation moved to our the classroom new Sharpley building in 1960, wing here. Her like renewed life, from serving as a welcoming space office shifted this partially decayed and useful resource in our lives into the main cedar post. The shape and in our understanding and office section seems appropriate for a practice of Unitarian about 1984, Unitarian library. It is Universalism. Collections, both after o p e n , r e a c h i n g , non-fiction and fiction, are completion of searching, asking why, in available for the use of adults, an office contrast to my young people and families, addition, while impression of the members and newcomers, the Library wooden Christian symbol staff, teams and groups. remained in its focused on death and There may also have been a current space suggesting a closed belief library at First Unitarian since in the with every T crossed.” its early years in downtown classroom —Glen Barbaras, Wilmington. A 25th anniversary wing. First U member, 1958 report (March 1893) noted The collection

22 By 1993 the Board had determined to “maintain a centralized library to benefit the congregation, staff and teachers,” operated by an independent committee managing library operations with volunteers. At that time, the entire adult non-fiction collection was re-cataloged into the standard Dewey Decimal system, a significant advance over the previous curriculum-based coding. After 2000, children and youth books were also re- cataloged, a complete card catalog of library holdings was made available, and 1997 classroom wing series). There are some software upgraded to expansion.. periodicals, and some titles facilitate cataloging. Library holdings focus on by First Unitarian member Bracket-and-board shelving Unitarian Universalism, authors. was replaced in 2004 using comparative religion and Leaders of the MacKinnon wooden bookshelves spirituality; life transitions Library, with assistance from salvaged from the old and challenges; ethical and many others, have included Concord Pike Library social justice concerns in our Jeanette Weber, Mary Lou building prior to its communities and world; and Ford, Virginia Simon, Phyllis demolition by First Unitarian. church organization. Special Wynn, Teresa Green, and Tall units provide more collections include Marsha Judy Windle, who currently space and protection for Sagar Memorial (children serves as committee chair adult collections, and and youth books); Green and librarian. Everyone is distinctive lower shelves Sanctuary (environment); encouraged to use the hold children and youth and Delaware Dialogues on library, and new volunteers books, along what had been a Science, Ethics and Religion are always welcome. wall of windows before the (from a 2005-2008 lecture

“Knowledge of our own history and heritage is essential for the continuity of our free religious movement.”

—Robert West, Crisis and Change: My Years as President of the Unitarian Universalist Association, 1969-1977, p. 109

23 A CTING ON O UR S HARED V ALUES

Independent Living for Young Our vision—People of all Adults (ILYA), Emmanuel ages act on our shared Dining Room (EDR), Black Lives values and Unitarian Matter, Climate Justice, and Interfaith Power and Light. Universalist identity to Members and visitors can easily fight for a more just find it from our website or go world. directly to the site listed below. Our Ministry of Caring Emmanuel Dining Room We believe that our vision of a (EDR) efforts continue with a run the program; we are just world is achieved, not by team of about 30 cooking/ exploring a "Sponsor a Month" talking about our shared values, serving volunteers who rotate program to help defray these but by taking those values— between months. On the 19th of costs.  Love and compassion, the month we cook our Chicken In addition to EDR, our children  Growth and discovery, Shepherd's Pie casseroles that supported the Ministry of  Freedom and justice, will feed about 225 men, Caring this year by collecting  Wonder and joy women and children at EDR, Halloween costumes, ties, and transport them to EDR shirts, shoes and dress-up and our Unitarian Universalist along with applesauce. On the clothes to help fulfill a child’s Principles out into the world in 20th of the month we serve the wish list by creating a Dress Up acts of mercy and acts of justice. food, along with desserts Box. This would go a long way This means that we feed the donated to EDR from area toward bringing smiles to hungry and minister to the bakeries. One month we also children and allow them to marginalized. We also made cookies at our Potluck explore the world through intentionally confront deeper dinner! creativity and imagination. systems of oppression that create an unjust world. We do It costs First Unitarian about so with both passion and $200/month, or $2,400/year to compassion. One of the ways our members learn about opportunities for “EDR is a great First U service and advocacy is through program that's been the First Unitarian Social Justice helping serve our Connector, which now has underserved in the city of Independent Living for Young about 60 subscribers. The Wilmington for over 30 Adults (ILYA) is entering its Connector is a blog written by years now/” second decade providing Jeff Lott, which aims to provide support for young adults when news and commentary on all of they age out of foster care at 18 the First Unitarian’s social —Cindy Cohen, First U member, 1991 years of age, working with justice work, including social service agencies to fill

24 Social Justice Connector: https://firstusocialaction.wordpress.com project this year “Through the program  Celebrations for the ILYA, First Unitarian accomplishment of high school church has helped me get and college graduations and groceries when I didn't encouragement for continued have any, sent me college education through graduation care packages that backpack gifts and a party included books, school  Plans for the upcoming supplies, dishware, and tutoring program always offered their  Holiday gifts from Climate Change 2015. The reach support to let me know I congregation members to is broad, from congregational to many young people, and their wasn't alone when I local, state, national and children, who would otherwise thought I was... That has global. The emphasis in all receive nothing at holiday made all the difference in actions is on justice. Within this time . where I am today and how context, we are tasked to reach far I’ve come.” By learning more about the beyond our congregational —Empress Devone, needs of the population we walls. Environmental justice serve, the ILYA team has ILYA participant acknowledges that marginalized expanded our understanding of communities are often hit first lives experienced very and hardest by environmental differently than our own and our crisis. Beyond this, it bases existing gaps in service, as well as children’s lives. It is truly a action on an assumption that advocating at the state level of spiritual journey to travel with oppression of the environment is legislature. By acknowledging these very deserving young intricately linked to oppression the inherent worth and dignity of people and support their efforts of different groups of people. these young people and to build successful adult lives. supporting some of their most Doing environmental work basic needs, the team expresses Our Green Sanctuary team is guided by these elements shifts our UU values clearly by working to bring environmental us beyond providing assistance, facilitating the processes by justice to the actions listed in the to thinking and working with which First Unitarian members Action of Immediate Witness on negatively impacted can contribute. The following communities. projects have been supported by “The fact that we can Our works include: ILYA this year: perhaps improve their Legislative Environmental Justice:  Regular college care packages situation so that they to students actually thrive in that  witnessing for funding to clean up Delaware's polluted waters  Supportive grants for challenging situation, in support of Clean Water apartment and utility security gives us all a joy that deposits, college fees and Delaware cannot be surpassed.” books and emergency funds  Defending implementation of the Clean Power Plan in  Donations of furniture and —Lois Morris, Delaware with emphasis on household items to help set up First U Member, 2007 new apartments environmental justice in low- and ILYA co-lead income neighborhoods  "New apartment kits", a new

25  HB 202 – Reduction of Plastic Green Empowerment Bags and Pollution – multiple steering committee activities supporting the  Promotion and participation moral responsibility to in Energy Conference on eliminate single-use plastic March 9, 2016 bags; the Wilmington City Council unanimously passed Climate Month the resolution From World Water Day, March Public Witness: 22, and continuing through Earth Day, April 24, 2016,  Interfaith vigil in Wilmington various environmental justice in support of climate change events, advocacy, and as a moral issue community participation –  Commit2Respond: Global  Annual Clean Up with advocacy with UUA Young Sustainability Partnership for Delaware Adults during COP21-Paris Estuary Congregational Education and  Direct support of local Urban  Single-use plastic bag Advocacy Farm/post-foster care agricultural job training for collection for recycling and  Energy efficiency and young adults advocacy to state legislature climate change book group for HB 202  Climate Friendly Foods  Promotion of energy Potluck  Speakers efficiency for First UU  Vegan Dinner.  Vegan coffee hour on April members through Energize 17, Delaware Community  Opportunities for writing  Support of solar array  Participation on Delaware Letters to the Editor in installation at First UU Interfaith Power and Light support of HB 202

“In 2009 I saw Chad Tolman's photo in the News Journal along with an article about climate change. I remembered Chad as a student in my class at Osher Lifelong Learning. I called Chad and asked him what I could do about the severe problems that were developing due to climate change. He invited me to his group, which met at First Unitarian and was focused on this issue. I became its secretary and a few years later we became founding members of Delaware Interfaith Power and Light, which is part of a national organization working to slow down the disastrous effects of climate change. These actions express the 7th principle of our Unitarian Universalism, ‘Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part.’" —Donna Gonzalez, First U member, 2009

26 in downtown Wilmington to bringing the total donated over support the Pope's call for the years to $22,500. climate action and social justice,

 testified at a hearing on “YWCA Delaware has been Delaware's response to the the beneficiary over the CPP and provided written years from the sale of comments to DNREC, and Chad Tolman and Mike popular House Pins. The Rominger of St. Paul's United  led a book reading/ imaginative and colorful discussion/action group. We Methodist Church co-chair the pieces of jewelry have finished Cooler Smarter: New Castle County represent the work of the Congregations of Delaware Practical Steps for Low- YW to find safe and secure Interfaith Power and Light Carbon Living by the Union of (DeIPL), providing a faith Concerned Scientists, and are homes for the women and response to climate change. starting The Sixth Extinction: children who enter our An Unnatural History by Home Life Management First Unitarian is part of a 40- Elizabeth Kolbert.” program. Thanks to the state IPL organization led by the Rev. Sally Bingham, an hard work of Bev Bach, Ann Tolman, Christy Anne Episcopal priest in San For many years now, we have Francisco. In recent months, in been selling House Pins at First Mathews, the late Noreen collaboration with Elizabeth Unitarian in support of the Bayly, and the “Beading Sifter of Green Sanctuary, we Home Life Management Center Babes” Eleanor Morrow, have: of the YWCA Delaware. Carolyn Ray and Loretta  gathered signatures on a The Center provides much- Knight, the YW has been petition to Delaware and needed transitional housing the recipient of close to Pennsylvania senators to and training to homeless $25,000. This money is support the EPA 's Clean families, including women who used to further the Power Plan (CPP) to reduce have suffered from addiction or mission of the YW -- carbon emissions from domestic violence. The goal of eliminating racism, electricity generation, the Center is to provide safe empowering women and housing while helping the  co-sponsored an interfaith enriching families meeting of religious leaders families find permanent housing and permanent throughout Delaware. employment. Our thousands of successful clients as well In response to the increased cost of House Pins we have as the staff and volunteers begun to make bead bracelets are grateful for this on- and earrings, using donated going House Pin project materials. We donate the entire organized by the women sale price of the bracelets and of First UU.” earrings to the YWCA. —Pam Finkelman, YWCA In February 2016, First Board and First U Unitarian donated $1,000 to the member, 1984 Home Life Management Center ,

27 For the past year our 30 people attended each of the congregation has been actively four sessions. Rev. Roberta and exploring ways to be Jeff Lott were interviewed “#BlackLivesMatter is supportive of the Black Lives about this work on Delaware working for a world Matter movement. Inspired by Today. (https:// where black lives are no the General Assembly www.youtube.com/watch? longer systematically Resolution (http:// v=vd6KWSf6_aI&list=PL34rgsh and intentionally www.uua.org/statements/ OI3i8GOAD8KreLvo8C6LXjOBF targeted for demise. We support-black-lives-matter- s&index=2) affirm our contributions movement) our Board passed At the final session of the to this society, our their own resolution of support. workshop, the group made the humanity and our Rev. Roberta offered a number decision to install a banner on resilience in the face of of sermons and discussion First U property affirming that deadly oppression. We about how we could be part of “Black Lives Matter.” The group have put our sweat this important movement for plans to work through the equity and love for black civil rights. Many members spring to educate the people into creating a were already familiar with the congregation, address potential political project – taking issues through their work with safety and security concerns, the hashtag off of social The Coalition to Dismantle the identify the best location, and media and into the New Jim Crow and other finally hold a public event to streets. The call for black interfaith and community unveil the banner. Many of the lives to matter is a organizations. A four person congregations of all different rallying cry for all black teaching team (Rev. Roberta, faiths around the country that lives striving for Jeff Lott, Marie Oakburg and have put up such banners have liberation.” Judy Govatos) presented a work experienced vandalism and -shop series on “Being White in other reactions. We want to be —Black Lives Matter the Black Lives Matter fully prepared to respond with Movement” that was created by conviction and with love. UU Rev. Kate Lore. Between 25-

28 University Speer Trust, United Way of Research Professor Delaware, and a host of of Sociology. Keith churches and individuals James and Corley including generous members of Harris and son First Unitarian Church of described growing Wilmington. up on the streets of Additionally, the second Wilmington. summer Freedom School was a The conference great success with eighty reviewed patterns scholars from Kindergarten of racism and poverty in through high school who Delaware and workshops learned about voting rights. The Delaware Coalition to defined actions to address They also heard from guest Dismantle The New Jim Crow, these issues. Active committees readers Rita Landgraf, led by First Unitarian along are now working on projects Secretary of the Delaware with others from Mother and plans to transform unjust Department of Health & Social African Union Church and other systems that lead to Services, and Ernest Congo, faith communities, sponsored disproportionate incarceration Wilmington City Council the 2015 conference to address of poor and minority member. The Freedom School structural racism in Delaware populations. One of the great is a program of the Children’s and offer hope and opportunity. strengths of the Coalition, Defense Fund conducted by The conference was huge which grew out of the Interfaith Coalition members from the success with over 350 people Coalition Building Blocks for Mother African Union Church. attending the event at the Chase Wilmington (ICBBW), is the Another Freedom School will Riverfront. The objective of variety of backgrounds and be held this summer. this conference was to increase participation from a variety of More information on this awareness and to develop faith communities. actionable proposals and important initiative is available projects to drive change in The conference was funded by by emailing policies, practices, and even a grant from the Delaware endnewjimcrowde.org. laws to address the issue of Humanities Forum, DuPont, discrimination and inequality in order to improve the opportunities and lives of minorities in the state. Featured speakers included Dr. Jawanza Kunjufo, founder of African American Images, Governor Markell, and Senator Coons, Dr. Yasser Payne, University of Delaware Associate Professor of Black American Studies and Dr. Karl L. Alexander, Johns Hopkins 29 Peace (MCP) in Wilmington. Judy Govatos, Jeff Lott and Marie Oakberg serve on the steering committee. After a phalanx of yellow- shirted Love People participated in MCP’s second annual march in September, Unitarian Universalists have continued to further the mission of uniting the community against violence and oppression. First Unitarian was a founding MCP sponsored Alternatives to On Feb. 6, MCP invited dozens partner in August 2014 of the Violence training sessions in of nonprofit organizations, Movement for a Culture of November and February and churches, and community organized a December groups to a first planning community meeting to address workshop, designed and led by the future of the Hicks Marie Oakberg, to create the Anderson Community Center in first Delaware Peace Week, Wilmington. Sept. 18–25. At a January public forum, state First Unitarian members are officials responded to regular attendees at MCP important reports on gun events and the church violence as a public health maintains an account through Lessons Learned: issue. The latter was moderated which tax-deductible “The Movement for a by Jeff Lott. contributions may be passed through to the Movement. Culture of Peace has connected us with many activists of other faiths and cultures, challenging us to work across difference. Successful social justice work requires us to cross these cultural boundaries with humility, accepting that UUs don't have all the answers.” —Jeff Lott, First U member 2003

30 .( including distributing GAYT Resolution boxes, providing stewardship  The Black Lives Matter reflections and stories during Resolution church services, providing information through a variety  Environmental Justice and First Unitarian Church has been of church channels, helping Climate Change Resolution an active participant with the with the “Setting of the Table” Unitarian Universalist Service the Sunday before Committee (UUSC) over many Thanksgiving, and selling 50 years. pounds of donated honey for over $400 to support UUSC. “UUSC has been the During fiscal 2015-16, First enduring draw for us at Unitarian Church members and Nearly $6,000 were raised First U because of our life- friends contributed more than and donated to support UUSC $42,200 to UUSC from various programs. long interest in social promotional, events, collections,  We observed Justice Sunday justice. One of the extra pledges, fund raising campaign, on April 10, 2016, including highlights for me was online giving, and value of stock receiving a special offering to being a member of an gifts. This was an exceptional support the UUSC social UUSC Just Journey in 2008 year of support as we, First justice work throughout the to Guatemala to help Unitarian members, recognize world. monitor their elections. It that UUSC promotes our values  Humanitarian Crises are was a most unusual and and accomplishes social justice unscheduled, but when they on our behalf around the world. fantastic experience, and happen, the UUSC team certainly a variation on During the year, First Unitarian promotes support for those typical social justice who are most marginalized in  Supported the UUSC Coffee work. Many Guatemalans Project through the Fair these through timely special giving to UUSC. Ebola relief, expected violence to be Trade Equal Exchange/UUSC part of their election, but Coffee Project and its sale of Somalia and East Africa it was kept under control, products. With over $5,000 in Famine Relief, Syrian Refugee sales, First Unitarian is in the Relief, Central American mainly because of the top 5% of UU churches Refugee Relief, and Haiti presence of many supporting this program; Earthquake Relief are a few observers. Their election examples. happened, and, the better  Participated in Guest At Your Table (GAYT), a UUSC  The Board of Trustees of the two bad guys Program for all ages, during assigned the UUSC Team the running for the the six weeks prior to task of managing public policy Guatemalan Presidency Thanksgiving. Its two basic statements, which generally won. It has always been take the form of social justice goals are to educate members fun to share that about the world-wide UUSC resolutions, for the congregation. This experience. “ programs and to promote giving to support these assignment was made this —Doyle Dobbins, programs. The UUSC team year and three resolutions worked with the Children’s were approved and are being First U member, 1973 and Youth RE team made public. They are: throughout the 6 weeks,  The New Jim Crow

31 Unitarian Universalists in support of international cooperation and the work of “One of my most the United Nations.” treasured times was In January, Bruce Knotts, when I learned and did Director of the UU-UNO since commit to UU-UNO 2008, visited First Unitarian. (Unitarian Universalist Bruce founded faith-based United Nations Office). I advocacy for sexual had been a life time orientation/gender identity supporter of the United human rights at the United Nations. The years being Nations and he continues to a part of the UU-UNO advocate for the rights of The UU-UNO, once an active women, indigenous peoples Committee at First group at First Unitarian, was and for sustainable Unitarian Church were rejuvenated at First Unitarian development in moral terms of most rewarding. Our during the fall of 2015. faith and values. He spoke at a committee was full of “The Unitarian Universalist small gathering of church ideas. We invited United Nations Office promotes leaders and interested speakers. We committed the goal of world community members and then was in our to UNICEF (Halloween with peace, liberty and justice pulpit on Sunday morning to Children Ed and yearly for all, as reflected in the United speak to the congregation Nations Charter. Through about the work of the UU-UNO, cards and gifts sale after targeted education, advocacy, “Equal Justice for All”. Sixty- church). Our planning and outreach, we engage five members were added to meetings were a getting- the email list for the to-know-you moments. UU-UNO that Longtime Friendships Sunday. were formed. The In April, two First ongoing support of Rev. Unitarian youth and Doss certainly made a one adult member difference.” attended the UU- UNO International —Hetty Francke, Spring Seminar in First U member, 1979 New York City. The Seminar brings together world- class speakers and through expert-led panels, activists to address group discussions, interactive an issue of global activities, and worship. concern. This year's Participants learned more seminar addressed about income inequality and income inequality how they can get involved and from many take action globally and in their different local communities. perspectives

32 O UR I NSPIRED C ONGREGATION

We began the first year of developmental ministry with Our vision—People of all Reverend Roberta Finkelstein ages experience wonder, by dancing in the aisles— inspiration, fulfillment, literally. She concluded her and joy first sermon with us with these words: “So,” says my imaginary, blue suede shod God, “go for it many works of our faith. with all your heart and soul! The energy has been palpable bounce house for the children Make music! Be bold and on Sundays and throughout the made for a great day. creative! Be edgy! Bring the week. Our inspiration is drawn Along with the inspired justice good news to as many people as from investing our time and activities of September, will listen to you, using talent in all areas of our vision. including the Interfaith Climate whatever medium is most likely We were welcomed to the Vigil and the March for a to get their attention. Just . . . church year at our Ingathering Culture of Peace, Reverend don’t . . . step on my blue suede service in September, one of Finkelstein and newly certified shoes.” several multi-generational Professional Chaplain, our services this year. Music by the Honorary Minister of Music Harvey Price Quartet during the Scott Ward, conducted a service and the Diamond State wonderful Pet Blessing after Concert Band at our picnic, services, attended by many complete with ice cream truck, members and their pets. pre-ordering from Johnnie’s Dog House (with veggie options!) and an inflatable

We were invited to get up and dance to Blue Suede Shoes performed by Janina Williams, vocalist and on guitar, Martin Hargrove, vocalist and on bass, Barry Finkelstein on accordion As we progress along the path and Aaron Walker on drums of shared ministry, we also and dance we did. We knew we experienced more of what were in for a wonder-filled, multigenerational church can inspiring and joyful year. be. The UUA states that From worship, where many multigenerational ministry is First Unitarian members and congregational life where all visitors gather each week, to are welcomed, included, and our fun-filled potluck dinners encouraged to lead and we have been inspired to do the participate at any age. We have

33 been inspired by our children and youth during the past year “Recently, I have enjoyed more than ever. helping to create more Kindergartner, Ian Jacobs, has social events for the been participating in grounds church, such as our work for a couple of years monthly potlucks, so that now. He is quite the expert when it comes to mulching! we can build our community and continue Grace Laster, currently in 10th Explorers sold snacks to raise grade, has organized and run to do even more good funds in honor of Leon Huhn, fire circles at the all church works for those struggling many of our members, youth, retreat. She also created signs around us. I am proud to children and friends juggled, for a variety of Church call the First U my home.” told riddles, played their events. Additionally, she aided instruments among other in the planning and running of —Debbi Zarek, talents. We were thoroughly many social events over the First U member, 2011 entertained! years. She began participating in the life of the church in this We are also pleased to provide way when she was in 6th grade. space for the UUpbeats On Sundays, our families have Dixieland Band to practice as Jake Gladfelter, a 12th grader, is participated in the chalice they bring pleasure and musical serving in his second year as an lighting and we have again seen therapy to those who need it. assistant guide with the Seekers our children and youth as (2nd and 3rd graders). He also leaders in worship services. This was a year of celebration plays music in the worship We heard our First U Singers as we marked our 150th service and at other church from grade 3 to 9 at our Anniversary of Unitarian events. Thanksgiving Service and Universalism in Wilmington, heard from our Children’s Bell Delaware. We had several Audrey Donohue (a third Choir at the Solstice in grader) has been a member of December. the Pot Luck Team! She is very excited to share her ideas and We couldn’t help but be help in planning these inspired by the talented group multigenerational events. of performers at our Coffee House this winter. While the

34 unique fundraisers throughout members and inspirational Kindness project, brought in the year at local restaurants in words from Rev. Finkelstein. pennies to create a First U order to help offset the cost of We showed our gratitude for mosaic and raised funds as a our anniversary party in April. our founders and sustainers birthday gift to renovate our We created a slideshow through our 150 Acts of Youth Center. highlighting our members, ministers and staff through the years to accompany our updated history and member memory booklet. Our party in April was the culmination of 4 weeks of reflection on our journey, including guest speakers, Governor Jack Markell, Rev. Mary Katherine Morn from the UUA and Rev. Mary Higgins, ordained by First Unitarian in the 1990s, a personal video greeting from Rev. Peter Morales, UUA President, skits by our

“I had been searching for a spiritual home that also recognized my relationship with my partner Pat—being a “gay” couple was not accepted by most churches in the area. While certainly not the most important reason for coming to this church, it was an amazing feeling to be welcomed by the members and accepted by all for who we were as individuals. But it was also clear the congregation was going through a growing & learning process to fully accept and be comfortable in accepting the label of “Welcoming Congregation”. After a series of workshops and a vote we embraced the Welcoming concept ---- The manifestation of taking that position included putting the words not just on church documents but also on a large sign on Route 202.

Members of First UU did not stop at that step, they ‘walked the talk’ and held meetings, attended conferences and testified in Dover at the Delaware Assembly on the necessity of approving marriage equality for all. It was a matter of pride to know my fellow church members fully supported marriage equality. Pat and I were married by Rev. Collins a few years ago ( we’ve been together 28 years) and the ability to say with pride to all Delawareans my church helped make this possible is extraordinary. This First UU is a beloved community and I want the entire community to share in the love.”

—Marilyn Hyte, First U member, 1998

35 C ONTRIBUTIONS TO THE C OMMUNITY AND THE W ORLD

First Unitarian members, visitors and friends made the following contributions from May 2015—April 2016:

Bright Spot Ventures $2,138 Coalition to Dismantle the New Jim Crow $1358 C YRE—African Library Project $430 Delaware Coalition against Domestic Violence $534 Emmanuel Dining Room Alliance Donation $1500 Emmanuel Dining Room (meal prepared and served for 200+, once a month) $2,204 First Universalist Church of Southold $1,059 Grants for Growth: UU Congregation of Central DE $2,000 UU Fellowship at Easton $2,076 Independent Living for Young Adults: Backpacks $874 Holiday project $493 Support grants $3,924 Second Chances $531 Unitarian Universalist Service Committee (UUSC): Guest at Your Table $698 April special collection $1,048 UU House Outreach $737 YWCA—house pin sales $1,000 Total donations through First Unitarian Society $22,604

Direct contributions by First Unitarian Members: EDR International Dinners (approximately 200 seats purchased) $5,000 UUSC: Ebola Relief, Somalia and East Africa Famine Relief, Syrian Refugee Relief, Central American Refugee Relief, Haiti Earthquake Relief, Justice Sunday, stocks, endowment, major gifts & other miscellaneous gifts $42,200

36 2015—2016 F INANCIAL I NFORMATION M ARCH 31, 2016

Y OUR D OLLARS A T S OURCES OF W ORK R EVENUE

1% 2% 2% 3%

13% 4% 5% 35% 13%

16%

10% 67%

29%

Worship and Music Lifespan Religious Education Pledge income Rental income Outreach and Social Justice Investment income Non-pledged income Fellowship and Pastoral Care Designated donations Special offerings Growth of UUism Program fees Plate offering

I NVESTMENTS A ND F IXED A SSETS

N ET A SSETS (UNRESTRICTED ) $ 2 7 0 , 0 5 7 N ET A SSETS (RESTRICTED ) $ 6 7 3 , 0 0 0 C APITAL C AMPAIGN F UND $ 1 , 1 3 8 , 7 1 4 T OTAL N ET A SSETS : $ 2 , 0 8 1 , 7 7 1

37 2015—2016 M INISTER & S TAFF

Rev. Roberta Finkelstein, Developmental Minister

Rev. Dr. Robert M. Doss, Minister Emeritus

Scott Ward, Honorary Minister of Music

Catherine Williamson, Director of Religious Education

Marina VanRenssen, Business Manager

Miesha Lowman, Accounting Assistant

Joseph Capano, Publications Assistant

Harold Cannon, Night Custodian

Sam Russell, Sunday Custodian

Sophia Gorowara, Grace Ruoff & Alicia Corrado—Childcare

38 A CKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Many thanks to the planners, designers, writers, reviewers, editors and photographers for our 2015-16 Annual Report and Memory Booklet, published separately:

Bev Bach Robert Foss Burley Melton Glen Barbaras Hetty Francke Ruth Mette Beverley Baxter Ned Gladfelter Marge Meyermann Gary Blegstad Donna Gonzalez Lois Morris Jenny Brown Judy Govatos Suzanne Perry Dee Burdash Vivian Gray June Peterson Sally Christian Charlotte Hanby Nancy Pinson Jon Claney Laura Hanby Paul Pinson Cindy Cohen Bill Hardham Joan Priest Steve Cohen Edris Harrell Miriam Priest-Benedict Lew Collat Beth Kingsley Hawkins Joel Pust Jim Davis Marilyn Hyte Elizabeth Siftar Empress Devone Lisa Jacobs Tracy Spinka-Doms Dillon Dickerson Paul Jacobs Marina VanRenssen Doyle Dobbins Janet Jones Ostin Warren Phil Dowd Phil Krape Lori Weddell Maggie Duffy Don Lemasters Betty Weir Holly Feldheim Barbara Lenahan Keith Weiss Pam Finkelman Jeff Lott Pam Weiss Rev. Roberta Finkelstein Giovanni Maiorano Judy Windle Benjamin Fleury-Steiner Liz Marek Debbi Zarek Helen Foss Dale Megill

39 O UR P RINCIPLES

Unitarian Universalists covenant with each other to affirm and promote:  The inherent worth and dignity of every person  Justice, equity, and compassion in human relations  A free and responsible search for truth and meaning  Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations  The right of conscience and the use of the democratic process Within our congregations and in society at large  The goal of world community, with peace, liberty, and justice for all  Respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are part

My wife, Gerry, and I abandoned the conventional Protestant religions of our parents because we could not accept many of their beliefs. So we paid no attention to a conventional looking church which we often walked past adjacent to the campus of the University of Chicago (a Unitarian congregation served by Rev. Barbara Gadon more than 60 years later). In 1950, as we prepared for the transfer by DuPont from their Cleveland laboratory to the just completed expansion of the Experimental Station in Wilmington, we received at our home address some literature and an invitation to visit the Unitarian church in Wilmington. Gerry filed it to consider when we had a family, which we did by 1957, to give our children some religious experience. We found that Rev. John MacKinnon was giving a series of philosophy lectures on Sunday evenings, a non-committed way to explore the thinking of the church leader. His liberal, humanist approach appealed to us and many scientists in the audience, one of whom shared a copy of some of the lectures which he had typed for further thought. Unitarianism became a revelation to us so we began attending the church and joined in April 1958, beginning a family tradition of attending church and Sunday school every week, which I continue today. We were never able to identify the Unitarian angel who brought us the good tidings of great joy, but this became “our church”.

—Glen Barbaras, First U member, 1958

40 O UR S OURCES

The living tradition we share draws from many sources. They include:

 Direct experience of that transcending mystery and wonder, affirmed in all cultures, which moves us to a renewal of the spirit and an openness to the forces which create and uphold life;

 Words and deeds of prophetic women and men which challenge us to confront powers and structures of evil with justice, compassion and the transforming power of love;

 Wisdom from the world’s religions which inspires us in our ethical and spiritual life; Jewish and Christian teachings which call us to respond to God’s love by loving our neighbors as ourselves;

 Humanist teachings which counsel us to heed the guidance of reason and the results of science, and warn us against idolatries of the mind and spirit;

 Spiritual teachings of Earth-centered traditions which celebrate the sacred circle of life and instruct us to live in harmony with the rhythms of nature. These principles and sources of faith are the backbone of our religious community.

I've been a member of First UU for 35 years. Our younger members may not see themselves here thirty or forty years from now, but I want to tell them that the years fly by! As I glance back over my life, I am struck by how this church has been an ever constant and treasured presence. I can't imagine not coming here, and even more importantly, not belonging here. All the worship services, the people I've met and worked with, all the many ways I've been involved over these 35 years, all the times I found healing and inspiration here, are like rain water filling and refilling an ever deepening stream. I am grateful for this source of meaning, hope, love and joy that has been flowing through my life for so many years. May this church continue to be a place of belonging and a source of inspiration for all our young members for decades to come!

—Suzanne Perry, First U member 1982

41 First Unitarian Church of Wilmington Delaware, 730 Halstead Road, Wilmington, DE 19803 302-478-2384 www.firstuuwilm.org

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