May 2025

Building Beloved Community Beyond the Binary: Showing Up for Our Values

By Lisa Schilansky, Minister for Justice and Pastoral Care

On Saturday, April 26, 20 UUCWC members came together to learn how to show up for the trans and non-binary community in this most urgent time. We had the honor of being one of dozens of congregations serving as satellite locations for the incredible Building Beloved Community Beyond the Binary conference.

One of our sibling UU congregations has hosted this conference since 2017. In the past several years, the UUA has begun offering the infrastructure to help congregations around the nation live stream the conference, spreading vital knowledge.

Over five hours, we gathered to explore what a truly trans inclusive, welcoming world and congregation can look like. Your Board of Trustees connected us with this incredible initiative as part of our congregation’s commitment to trans inclusivity, knowing that we can’t show up in the community until we show up for our congregation right here at home.

If you want to learn more about how to show up for the trans and non-binary community at UUCWC, please join me on Sunday, June 15, for Gender 201, a Question Box program where all of your well-intentioned questions about gender will be answered. If you are trans and/or non-binary and wish to talk more about your experience at the church or about anything on your heart, please reach out to me at LSchilansky@uucwc.org.

May we create the world we long to see and be the radically welcoming congregation we strive to be.

Congregational Engagement News: It’s Easy! Share Your Light at UUCWC

By Pam Shadzik, Chair, and Martha Bell, Congregational Engagement Ministry

Every Sunday, we are reminded, “Today would not have been the same if you hadn’t chosen to be here. ” Your connections to this loving congregation begin with your presence. If making that hour happen is all you can manage, it is enough.

But if you’re ready and able for more, you may have wondered where to find more information about volunteer needs and opportunities in our congregation. So much happens within and outside our walls in Titusville—trying to figure out where you can best fit in can be overwhelming.

That’s why we’re introducing this standing section in the CrossCurrents newsletter. Every month, we’ll highlight a ministry, event, or committee at UUCWC. We’ll also post news about upcoming volunteer opportunities in the weekly announcements. We hope these updates will help you find what you’re looking for!

Here are some steps to take when you’re ready to deepen your friendships and connections to “your people” here at UUCWC:

Legacy in Action: More Than $14,000 in Grants Awarded Through Endowment Fund

By Mike Hanson and Bonnie Gilbert, Endowment Committee Co-chairs

We have an Endowment Fund to ensure that the church continues to exist and thrive over the long term. The fund is invested and professionally managed in concert with other UU church endowments in the UU Common Endowment Fund. The UUCWC Fund has grown nicely over its 24 years of existence via generous legacy gifts from members and overall market performance.

Our committee’s practice, whenever possible, has been to award a portion of annual fund growth as grants for worthy projects and services. We typically invite grant proposals in February. This year, according to our formula, we were able to award grants totaling over $14,000.

We are pleased to announce these winning grant proposals:

• A wheeled book cart to support Social Justice, requested by the Racial Justice Ministry for $500.
• An OWL 3 camera for the smaller conference room to encourage connection on multi-platform meetings for $1,050.
• Melamine place-settings and plastic tumblers for more environmentally friendly meals and snacks for $2,900. Several food-related committees and the Earth and Climate Ministry support this. These were used at the recent Auction party.
• Paint supplies for Faith Engagement classrooms to enhance the environment for our children for $1,000.
• A freezer to replace the one that recently broke for the Food Ministry in support of Homefront, TASK, and social events. $5,522.
• A water heater for the Food Ministry’s dishwasher at a cost of $3,450 to replace the one that recently broke.
• A table cart to better store tables in the Crossings Room, used for Homefront and Fellowship, for $300.

Finding Joy Together: 2025 UUCWC Auction Exceeds Expectations

By Barbara Drew, Jayme Trott, Lori O’Neil & Marcia Wittmann, Auction Committee Co-chairs

We have been, we are, and we will be Finding Joy Together! Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, this year’s UUCWC Auction met—and surpassed—our $31,000 goal, with a surplus of approximately $8,000. In keeping with our values, 50% of that surplus will be donated to the UUA Disaster Relief Fund, selected by the Council for Faith in Action’s Faith Expression Funding Team.

With nearly 280 creative and generous item offerings, the auction was more than a successful spring fundraiser. It showcased the warmth, talent, and spirit of UUCWC and created opportunities for connection that will last all year. Whether it’s nature walks, themed dinners, wine tastings, handmade foods, group crafting, or professional services, the auction allows us to support our community and deepen our relationships. Some group offerings are still open—Texas Hold ’Em Poker, sing-alongs, craft gatherings, nature hikes, and more. For availability, contact the auction co-chairs at auction@uucwc.org.

As co-chair Barbara Drew often says, “Name an item or activity, and I’ll bet you there’s a related auction offering! This year, it seemed we had everything but the kitchen sink.” This year’s auction was a treasure trove of creativity from an almost-new TV to juggling lessons by a new member, from custom-knit socks admired during services to a personalized choir arrangement by Dr. Erin Busch. Four lucky congregants even won the chance for Rev. Kim to preach a sermon on a topic of their choosing—a true gift for the whole community.

UUCWC Monthly Meet & Greet | Spirit, Service, and South Indian Dosas: Getting to Know Jo Wiedman

By Scott Cullen

This month, we’re pleased to introduce Jo Wiedman, a relatively new member of the UUCWC community who officially joined in December 2023 but whose sense of belonging began much earlier. After hearing about UUCWC from their partner, Colin Campbell, Jo attended their first service and immediately felt at home. “I knew I had found my place,” they recall—a sentiment that captures the heart of their faith journey, which they describe as “a homecoming.”

Jo brings a rich personal history shaped by a pluralistic upbringing, a deep appreciation for diverse spiritual stories, and a lifelong curiosity about the world. Whether participating in reading groups, serving on the Visioning Committee, or attending the Trans Day of Remembrance, they find meaning in community and the shared commitment to justice and healing.

With warmth, insight, and a reverence for ritual (ask Jo about their family’s fiercely competitive Danish rice pudding tradition!), Jo is a vibrant and welcome presence at UUCWC. Let’s get to know they/them better.

Meet Your General Assembly Delegates

By Holly Bussey, Liaison, Denominational Affairs

June is fast approaching, and UUCWC is preparing to attend this year’s General Assembly (GA) in Baltimore, Maryland—a gathering that promises excitement and milestones for our congregation. Our own Rev. Lisa Schilansky will process on stage during the Service of the Living Tradition, and Director of Family Ministry Julie Rigano will present the “Story for All Ages” during the Sunday service broadcast at 11 a.m. on June 22.

Nine UUCWC congregants plan to attend, and six of them are delegates who will represent UUCWC by voting on key matters such as the election of a new moderator and Actions of Immediate Witness.

Know Your Delegates

Jen Couchoud: Member since 2019, first GA.

“I look forward to deepening my involvement and connection with UUism beyond our walls. Also, I’m looking forward to learning about the UUA, doing justice work together, and being with like-minded people.”

Council for Faith in Action News

Welcome Trenton Microloan Collective to UUCWC

By Holly Bussey, Facilitator, Faith Expression and Funding Team Ministry  

Mark your calendars. On June 1, UUCWC will welcome representatives from the Trenton MicroLoan Collaborative (TMC). The TMC’s mission is to help formerly incarcerated entrepreneurs build thriving businesses by providing zero-interest loans, accounting assistance, and ongoing support. Learn more at trentonmicroloan.org.

This year, we deepened our partnership with Westminster Presbyterian (Trenton) and Nassau Presbyterian (Princeton) by contributing $6,000 to fund three scholarships for Trenton-area entrepreneurs.

At the June 1 service—and during coffee hour before the annual meeting—you’ll have the chance to meet TMC representatives and hear inspiring stories about the impact we’re making together. Don’t miss this opportunity to see the “50% of the plate” initiative in action!

If you have questions, feel free to contact anyone on the Council for Faith in Action’s Faith Expression and Funding Team Ministry (FEFT): Dan Tuft, Jane Root, Jim Sanders, Bud Johnson, or me at faithfunding@uucwc.org.

By Barbara Drew, Earth & Climate Ministry

Below is a brief synopsis of news provided by Earth & Climate Ministry, which we are calling Good, Green News. We are pleased to focus on these news items from various local, state, and national sources, cited below.

Cornell Ornithological Lab February 2025 – Annual Bird Count

More than 700,000 people (100,000 more than last year!) from 214 countries or regions spent four days over the Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) identifying and counting birds. Collectively, bird enthusiasts identified 8,004 of the world’s bird species (7,842 were spotted in 2024).

[Note: Several UUCWC members participated; for more info, contact earthministry@uucwc.org]

Natural Resources Defense Council, Winter 2025

New York became the first state to clamp down on the most widespread uses of bee-killing neonic pesticides, and Vermont quickly followed suit.

League of Conservation Voters, May 12, 2025

Clean energy continues to grow across the U.S. In March 2025, renewable energy provided more electricity to the U.S. grid than fossil fuels for the first time ever. During that month, clean energy provided 51% of U.S. electricity, compared to fossil fuels’ 49%. This is a major milestone for clean energy in the U.S., which continues to prove its strength despite the constant barrage of attacks from the current administration. The durability of the clean energy transition is great news for the future of our planet and the health of our communities.

In a long-awaited decision, Judge Tanya Chutkan of the District Court for the District of Columbia ruled that the EPA illegally froze $20 billion in congressionally appropriated climate grants obligated to eight nonprofit organizations. EPA alleged fraud within the program but could produce no evidence to support its claim. Due to this lack of evidence, Chutkan ordered the immediate release of the frozen funds to the organizations. While the EPA has appealed the ruling, it sets an important precedent for holding agencies accountable for carrying out congressionally mandated duties.

Making the World More Fair and Caring: Voices from UUCWC

An Invitation to Ensure Freedom Prevails

By Mike Wilson

The very ideas that form the basis for the United States of America are currently under attack, which means our country is in the throes of an existential crisis. In these times, we must ask ourselves whether we are prepared to participate in activities that counter these attacks and ultimately forge a union that is firmly behind the cause of freedom for all Americans. We must ask ourselves, as Unitarian Universalists who stand on the side of love, whether to allow hate to rule, autocracy to overcome democracy, and the world to become much less loving.

We must ask ourselves whether freedom and the ideals of love are worth our time, energy, and strength. If we are to reject those who would destroy our Constitution and deny the freedoms Americans have been pursuing for over 200 years, we must spend time, energy, and strength to make this happen. If we do not invest in a loving America, we will have no one to blame but ourselves as it disappears, because we, as Americans, bear the responsibility for the condition of America. It is only we who can reject those who would turn this country into one that discards freedom for all and chooses tyranny instead.

By Bob Busch

My wife and I have attended several protests this year and expect to participate in many more. Along with writing to our representatives in Congress, protests are a way we express our displeasure with the state of our nation. The protests have been well attended. We have been cheered on with celebratory car horns and extended hands with thumbs pointing up. Surrounded by like-minded people is heartening, liberating, and just plain fun. There are always a lot of smiles and laughter. Counter protesters have been scant or non-existent.

Many of our friends and associates wonder if standing on a street corner holding a clever sign does any good. It does. Or rather, it does collectively. The more of us who gather in one place to demonstrate our outrage, the greater the impact. It is like the degree to which your purchases affect the economy. You buy groceries, clothing, gasoline, pay your water, sewer, and electric bills, and your taxes. All these activities support the local economy and, when summed up, are part of our country’s GDP.

Sacred Journeys: Embracing the Shamanic Within Our Unitarian Universalist Community

By Brian Tucker

I invite you to ponder the life of a Unitarian Universalist Minister, David Paladin, whose astonishing life story, artistic expression, curiosity, and teachings continue to have a profound impact on my life and exemplify the awakening of Shamanic imagination.

David “Chetlahe” Paladin, a Unitarian Universalist minister and artist of Navajo and European heritage, embodied the concept of the “Warrior Shaman,” a figure who transforms personal wounds into sources of healing for others. His life, marked by wartime trauma and spiritual awakening, serves as a powerful example of shamanic imagination within the Unitarian Universalist community.

Paladin’s experiences, including his capture and imprisonment by the Nazis during World War II, profoundly shaped his understanding of suffering. He believed that true warriors “take the arrows into themselves,” using their own healing process to extend compassion to others. This concept, outlined in his work Warrior Shaman, emphasizes that physical, emotional, or spiritual wounds can be transformed into gifts and opportunities for growth.

Upcoming Events

By Nick Mellis

Our next concert features an eclectic lineup of acclaimed musicians known for their boundary-pushing creativity and improvisational brilliance. Pianist, composer, and synthesist David Berends, a classically trained musician with roots at Peabody Conservatory and Princeton University, brings a rich background that spans progressive rock, jazz, and solo piano. His career includes performances with artists such as Chuck Berry, Stanley Jordan, and New Wave band The_Name. Berends has released multiple solo piano albums and collaborated widely across genres, including with Karl Fury and G Calvin Weston. His current project, Two Bald Wizards, is an improvisational duo with percussionist Michael Mironov, blending world, jazz, rock, funk, classical, and ambient music into spontaneous soundscapes.

Joining the lineup are Jair-Rohm Parker Wells and Karl Fury, both acclaimed for their experimental approaches and cross-genre innovation. Wells is a visionary bassist and composer whose genre-defying improvisations have made him a respected figure in jazz fusion and avant-garde circles. Fury, a multi-instrumentalist and inventor of electro-acoustic instruments like the NoiseBox and JunkBoard, creates dynamic sonic fusions incorporating jazz, folk, blues-rock, classical, and electronic elements.

Tickets are $10, with all proceeds benefiting UUCWC. Doors open at 7:30. Can’t make it to the show? Join the Twitch live stream at https://www.twitch.tv/cosmic_crossings

Jessica Alaimo

Parker Cohen

Exciting Updates from the Birthplace of Universalism

By Jessica Alaimo, Executive Director, Murray Grove & Parker Cohen, Murray Grove Board Secretary

Murray Grove is currently buzzing with new energy, fresh programs, and exciting partnerships – all rooted in our mission to be a sanctuary for spiritual growth, community connection, and radical inclusion.

We’re thrilled to announce that our saltwater pool is officially open for the season! Nestled among the trees on our peaceful 20-acre property, the pool is just one of the many outdoor amenities we’re proud to offer. Don’t forget that we also offer everything from walking trails and fire pits to a beautiful labyrinth. We are always the perfect destination for spiritual retreats, congregational gatherings, and family getaways, but there’s something about spring and summer at Murray Grove that is so special.

But perhaps the most exciting news of all: Murray Grove is partnering with Garden State Equality to host a groundbreaking LGBTQ+ Youth and Family Camp from September 26–28. This weekend retreat will provide a safe, affirming, and joyful space for LGBTQ+ youth and their families to connect, reflect, and thrive in a community grounded in love and acceptance.