We are celebrating our beautiful planet, and calling forth our courage to ensure future generations can look back with gratitude for all we did to protect their future.
Rev. Dr. Kate Walker
For the month of April we will be sharing 50% of our Sunday offering each week with Bethel AME Reparations Project, here in Pittsburgh’s Hill District.
In the summer of 2023, the First Unitarian Church of Pittsburgh completed the installation of its 37 kW solar array on the roof of the Mason Wing (aka RE Wing). The array is named for long-time member and dedicated environmentalist, Ray Schinhofen. We wondered whether it was working. After all, it is located on the roof, and we never see it. Yes! It is working. The power generated by the array in January, February, and March 2024 was 481 kWh, 1,911 kWh, and 2,529 kWh. We expect even greater power production as we experience longer days of summer.
We love being part of all the wonderful developments at the Annie Margaret Barr school!
Our friend and colleague, Nangroi Suting, has sent us some wonderful pictures of the progress being made on the new classrooms. Funding for these came from the UU church in Dallas, which Nangroi visited last summer. But we feel part of it too, because our church's Social Justice Endowment funded Nangroi's trip to the US for General Assembly.
You can hear more about our students in India during the April 28th service. We have updates on two of our graduates and short notes from two current students.
Upcoming Meetings and Events
A Celebration of Life for Muriel Weeks is being held on Saturday, April 20, at 1 p.m. at the church. You can also watch on YouTube in a private listing (not listed on our website):
Take a stand against Gun Violence! END GUN VIOLENCE ADVOCACY DAY, May 7, 2024, Harrisburg* Saving lives from gun violence is an action in line with our UU Principles and our call to Love.
Last year, 500 Pennsylvanians descended on Harrisburg, demanding an end to gun violence. Soon after, the first bipartisan policies in years passed the PA House. But they haven’t reached the Governor’s desk yet!!
Calling ALL adults, whether you or your children or grandchildren, your friends, neighbors or colleagues, anyone you trust, - whether or not they are part of our First Unitarian Church of Pittsburgh congregation.
JOIN US!! on Tuesday, May 7th, Iin Harrisburg* as we continue our life-saving work.
*Buses from, and returning to, Pittsburgh will be available, or car-pooling is a possibility.
Lunch and T-shirts for all registered participants.
You will not be alone!! Meeting appointments will be arranged for you, you will have others with you at the meetings and if you can’t make the training, we will try to have our own, brief training on Zoom (but the CeaseFirePA training would be better if you can do it!) Questions? Email jmharrison@aol.com .
First Unitarian Church of Pittsburgh’s FANTASTIC FANTASY AUCTION Returns!
WHAT: A fundraiser event for our church and an amazing night of fun and fellowship with First UU friends that you will not want to miss!
Funds raised will support our beautiful historic church building and help fund critical capital projects.
WHERE: First Unitarian Church of Pittsburgh - Undercroft Gallery and Sanctuary
WHEN: Friday, May 10, 2024 ~ Doors open at 6 PM
• Silent and Teacup Auctions, 50/50 Raffle • Scrumptious Appetizers and Desserts Included • Wine and Beer Cash Bar • Live Auction @ 7:30 PM!
TICKETS: $10 per person (children free - childcare and dinner for them will be provided)
Purchase your tickets in advance by May 6 and receive 3 free raffle tickets to use in the Teacup Auction!
Tickets can be purchased on Sundays during social hour and online at https://www.first-unitarian-pgh.org/connect/donate/ (When purchasing online via the donate page, be sure to select “Give to the Fantasy Auction” from the drop down and indicate how many tickets being purchased in the comments section.)
Tickets will also be sold at the door. Bring your family, friends, and neighbors for an evening not to be missed!
Just a selection of the amazing items already donated that YOU could win include:
● Foodie Experiences: Greek, Egyptian, African Dinners, Southern Hospitality Brunch ● A perfect 5-day getaway for family or friends in the Laurel Highlands
● Secrets of the Strip: a fun tour of the Strip District ● A tasting of several flights of wines for beginners and knowledgeable wine lovers alike in the hosts’ Victorian home
● A private tour at Phipps Conservatory ● A whiskey tasting ● Plus our infamous Instant Wine Cellar!
Can you donate an experience or special item?
Auction items and experiences still needed! Gift certificates, homemade goodies, timeshares at vacation spots, artwork, gift baskets, tickets for cultural or sports events.
Offer a special talent or skill such as professional services, tutoring, yard work, pet sitting, cooking lessons, babysitting, yoga/massage, host a dinner and special activity.
Donated items and experiences are requested by April 26. For questions or more information contact Heather Masterson (hamasterson@gmail.com) or David Doorley (ozzieink@verizon.net). Thank you!
OMBUDSMAN
Need an answer to a question and don’t know who to ask? Want to pass along some feedback and not sure who to contact? Reach out to your Board Ombudsman Ebe Emmons. Ebe will coordinate with staff, committees, and the board to get an answer or pass along feedback. Ebe can be reached at firstuupghombudsman@gmail.com
