This week, we’ll watch Sonja’s interview with Pastor Earl, in which she shares her life and faith journey and discusses her “Street Stories” project—a series of portraits of the unhoused currently on display in Fellowship Hall. She will reflect on the project’s history, her painting process, and the stories behind the portraits. Following the interview, Pastor Earl will lead a discussion and share stories from the Open Door ministry.

Questions? Contact Pastor Earl at PastorEarl@uumc.org.

About Sonja Kever

Sonja A Kever is the artist of all of the portraits hanging in the Fellowship Hall. They are part of a collection of 32 that were part of her project called Street Stories which traveled to 4 different venues around the city to raise awareness and money for organizations providing services for the unhoused. Many were sold raising over $27,000, 100% of which was given to the hosting entities. The remaining portraits were donated to those same organizations for their permanent collections. Sonja was born in a small town in northwestern Iowa, attended the University of Kansas as an art major and graduated from the University of Missouri with a Bachelor of Science. She later achieved her Paralegal Certificate from then Southwest Texas State University. Her art education has been largely self-taught though she has studied with masters David Leffel, Sherrie McGraw, Stephanie Birdsall, Dominique Medici and many others. She has been married to Andy Kever for 44 years and has two daughters and two grandchildren. 

You are invited to the Tuesday Night Lights talk series: Faith and Art: A Conversation on Beauty and the Sacred. Each Tuesday evening, we’ll welcome a different artist or art expert from within our congregation to explore the meaningful intersection between art and spiritual life as they share their stories and lead a conversation. Come for some evenings or join us for them all, and step into a space where stories, questions, and shared reflections can awaken our sense of wonder, stir our hearts with beauty, and renew our hope in a broken world.

Questions? Contact Pastor Earl at PastorEarl@uumc.org.

About Ginger Geyer

Austin artist Ginger Henry Geyer is known for her quixotic porcelains, detailed hand built sculptures that explore art history, vintage culture and theology. These are often accompanied by poignant and humorous stories on her website. Recently she has developed a related body of work in collage murals made from children’s books and wallpaper, exploring a lifelong interest in words connected to imagery. Ginger grew up in Arkansas and has been an Austin resident since 1988. She earned BFA and MFA degrees from SMU and a Masters in Pastoral Ministry at the Seminary of the Southwest. She has taught there and was Artist-in-Residence in 2022-2023. Her previous careers have been in art museum planning and collections management, and in art programming for a retreat center. She has an extensive record of exhibitions, publications, and speaking engagements.

A Q&A with Ginger Geyer

What would you like to share with us in your talk?

Art has been my driving interest since childhood when I wrote sappy poems in my treehouse, went to UMC Sunday School, coveted my aunt’s art history book, and ruined both bedspread and carpet with oil paints.

My education was in painting and museum studies at SMU, and my formative career was in art museums, where I marinated in Western European art. For over 30 years I honed in on porcelain sculpture which allowed me to play with the intersections of art, religion and humor. Lately I’ve used the more direct medium of collage to explore theological and political conundrums. Art making and storytelling connect all of these interests and always prompts deeper curiosity that fuels my fire. I’ll be sharing images from recent work in the UUMC studio and trying to integrate new ideas from recent travels.

The Caregivers Support Group will meet via Zoom on the Second Tuesday of each month at 6:30 pm. It is a safe place for persons to gather and share confidentially about the joys and challenges of caregiving.

JOIN US ON ZOOM

In this Lunch and Learn, the Rev. Leyla K. King, Canon for Mission in Small Congregations of the Episcopal Diocese of West Texas, will share highlights from her recently published book, "Daughters of Palestine: A Memoir in Five Generations," as well as reflections on the current humanitarian tragedy in Palestine and broader challenges in global politics.

About the Book

Leyla King has been a keeper of family stories since long before she sat down across from her grandmother with a tiny cassette tape recorder. And in this beautifully crafted memoir, she braids matriarchal memory into a vivid saga of love and survival as her ancestors flee war and poverty. From Haifa to Ramallah, Damascus, Beirut, and finally Texas, Leyla makes global politics deeply personal as family squabbles, ambition, mental illness, romance, and religion shape their immigrant journey.

You are invited to the Tuesday Night Lights talk series: Faith and Art: A Conversation on Beauty and the Sacred. Each Tuesday evening, we’ll welcome a different artist or art expert from within our congregation to explore the meaningful intersection between art and spiritual life as they share their stories and lead a conversation. Come for some evenings or join us for them all, and step into a space where stories, questions, and shared reflections can awaken our sense of wonder, stir our hearts with beauty, and renew our hope in a broken world.

Questions? Contact Pastor Earl at PastorEarl@uumc.org.

About Christy Moore

I am a songwriter, an essayist, a sixth-generation Texan, and a lifelong Democrat who has been teaching writing to engineering students at the University of Texas for 30 years. I host the weekly open mic at New World Deli and a bimonthly songwriter showcase. I have a Masters degree in creative writing from Wilkes University and am currently finishing up a memoir made up of essays populated by a cast of memorable characters, from philandering cowboys to struggling songwriters, who are all trying to find hope in the ashes. 

A Q&A with Christy Moore

What would you like to share with us in your talk?

I'd like to talk about my journey as a writer. My friend, Patti Dixon, is a great, unknown songwriter with a great sense of humor. I once heard her describe herself as “a multi-faceted flop.” It was a description that resonated with me. I’ve always wanted to be a writer. In all honesty I believe I’m called to write. I tried my hand as a novelist and a playwright before I switched genres again and took up songwriting. I want to talk about how hard and humiliating it is to give ourselves permission to try creative pursuits. In our society we seem to think that to be considered an artist you need to be making money at it or to be famous. That attitude makes many of us shut down a vital part of ourselves.

How did your interest in music begin and grow over time?

I was was forty, newly widowed, and fueled by grief when I decided to take up songwriting. It didn't take long to discover that I had paralyzing stagefright. On top of that I had no formal musical training. To my credit, I saw the error of my ways and gave up songwriting almost immediately. To God's credit, that was easier said than done. Ultimately I fell in love with and married someone who became my biggest booster and encouraged me to keep writing. Without him there probably wouldn't be much to tell. With him I kept taking baby steps and eventually found myself in a community of songwriters who faced the same challenges and reaped the same joy I did. 

In what ways do music and songwriting connect with your life and your faith journey?

1. I believe writing is a spiritual discipline that is as rewarding as prayer.
2. In my experience, music is as close as I can get to the divine. 
3. I've had some tragedies in my life. I believe that writing and songwriting, in particular, have saved me.

You are invited to the Tuesday Night Lights talk series: Faith and Art: A Conversation on Beauty and the Sacred. Each Tuesday evening, we’ll welcome a different artist or art expert from within our congregation to explore the meaningful intersection between art and spiritual life as they share their stories and lead a conversation. Come for some evenings or join us for them all, and step into a space where stories, questions, and shared reflections can awaken our sense of wonder, stir our hearts with beauty, and renew our hope in a broken world.

Questions? Contact Pastor Earl at PastorEarl@uumc.org.

About Jeff Smith

I had the privilege of living in Europe, mostly in Brussels, as a teenager. I became fascinated by the medieval and early modern culture (800-1700 CE) and by artists such as Pieter Bruegel the Elder. That experience set me on the road to a Ph.D. (Columbia University) and ultimately a long career teaching Northern European art at the University of Texas from 1979 to 2023, when I retired. I held the Kay Fortson Chair in European Art from 2000-2023. I had the opportunity to travel in Europe with my graduate seminar students and to lecture around the world. My writings have focused mainly on German and Netherlandish art as well as on issues of religious culture.

A Q&A with Jeff Smith

What would you like to share with us in your talk?

As an art historian, I am fascinated by the power of art to communicate with various audiences over time. I am intrigued by the question of why people make art. Since I work on the historical culture of northern Europe between about 1350 and 1700, religion and the debate about religious art were central subjects. Much pre-Reformation art was created for churches and private devotional use. Luther, Calvin, and others challenged Catholic beliefs about the efficacy of art in aiding one’s salvation. Luther, at least, recognized its pedagogical benefits. As a teacher, I enjoy getting students and others to think about societies where art was one of the most powerful means of learning about faith.

Could you give us a brief preview of the talk you’ll be giving on Tuesday?

I’ve selected Rembrandt’s Return of the Prodigal Son as a vehicle for thinking about the deeper meanings and the human dramas of this story. How did Rembrandt translate the biblical account into, at least for me, a moving drama of human emotions and love. I’ll ask the participates to think about each of the “actors” in this painting. I shall also offer a bit of context about Rembrandt’s own life when the picture was made in the later 1660s.

Have you had the opportunity to see the painting in person? What was your impression?

I’ll be discussing Rembrandt van Rijn’s Return of the Prodigal Son painting. The original owner is unknown. Since Catherine the Great purchased it in 1766, the picture has been in the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg. I had the opportunity to see it in 2017 when I was invited to give a talk at the National Library of Russia in St. Petersburg. It is an incredibly impressive painting.

What does this painting mean to you in relation to your faith journey?

Most of what I know about religion and faith has been learned from my years of teaching and research. Even if one is skeptical about some claims (eg. the Virgin birth, Mary’s Assumption, the Trinity), art allows you to begin to understand how others, especially in past centuries, thought about these matters and how such beliefs impacted their spiritual journeys. I find deep humanity in certain art works, like this painting by Rembrandt, as the art grapples to find meaning and expression in a particular story.

UUMC's Sunday Schools will be introduced during the worship service, and we will get to know more about their exciting and meaningful programs and people. Following worship, you can also meet people from each Sunday School in the courtyard to engage in conversation and sign up for the Sunday School that interests you.

Questions? Contact Pastor Earl at PastorEarl@uumc.org!

Join us for an intergenerational queer fellowship event! All LGBTQIA+ and questioning folks are invited to this community-building event to share our joys and concerns, and eat tasty pancakes. Colored batter will be provided, and an opportunity to design your own pancake as unique as yourself. We’d love to see you there!

Questions? Contact AV at av@uumc.org!

You are invited to the Tuesday Night Lights talk series: Faith and Art: A Conversation on Beauty and the Sacred. Each Tuesday evening, we’ll welcome a different artist or art expert from within our congregation to explore the meaningful intersection between art and spiritual life as they share their stories and lead a conversation. Come for some evenings or join us for them all, and step into a space where stories, questions, and shared reflections can awaken our sense of wonder, stir our hearts with beauty, and renew our hope in a broken world.

Questions? Contact Pastor Earl at PastorEarl@uumc.org.

In September, we’ll celebrate our commitment to service and reflect on how we can use our skills to help this space we love so much.

On September 14, the Ministries of UUMC will be in the Fellowship Hall to share where they need help and how you can join. We’ll also have some delicious pies–homemade by y’all! Just another way we can share our gifts with our community!

Questions? Please contact Chad at chad@uumc.org.

Sundays
September 14 - 28

Are you interested in learning more about the United Methodist Church, including its history, core beliefs, mission, and structure? Pastor Earl will be leading a three-week Sunday School class for all who would like to come and discuss Methodism. The class will meet during the Sunday School hour from 9:45 am to 10:45 am in Fellowship Hall.

Questions? Contact Pastor Earl at PastorEarl@uumc.org

The Caregivers Support Group will meet via Zoom on the Second Tuesday of each month at 6:30 pm. It is a safe place for persons to gather and share confidentially about the joys and challenges of caregiving.

JOIN US ON ZOOM

Trans, gender nonconforming, intersex, nonbinary folks of all ages, shapes and sizes are welcome at the Trans Clothing Swap! This is an affinity space for gender non-conforming folks to freely share clothing, community, and resources with one another. Please bring items to swap AND any donations you may have for our neighbors on the street (they especially need jeans, caps, and shoes).

Allies - We can use your help to make this event a success! If you’re interested in helping out as a greeter, sorter, clean-up crew, or have another skill you’d like to offer, please contact AV!

Feel good, look good, do good. Questions? Want to volunteer to help? Contact AV at av@uumc.org.

Are you new to UUMC and want to know more about the church? Join us for a simple breakfast and hang out with Pastors Teresa and Earl.

No RSVP necessary, just come as you are. If you have any questions, you can email Pastor Earl at PastorEarl@uumc.org.

During the Sunday School hour, everyone is invited to the Fellowship Hall for a time with the staff and intergenerational conversation. The program staff will share some of the highlights coming up on the church calendar this Fall and then we'll have a fun time of connecting with one another. This Labor Day weekend is a great opportunity to be with the community we know and love as University UMC. Please come whether you're in a Sunday School class or not! A zoom option for this gathering will not be available.

Pastor Kennedy Mwita is the pastor of the first Reconciling Congregation in Moheto, Kenya. His vision for an inclusive, equitable, and just UMC is both inspiring and practical. With an advisory board in Kenya and another here in the U.S., he has founded and opened the Wesley Mission School - a school for all children no matter their family, body, or identity. (His leadership and their commitment for intersex children is barrier-breaking.) Join us as he shares about his inspiring mission and the good work God has for us to do.

Sanctuary Choir is Back!

UUMC is proud of its rich tradition of outstanding music. Our choir began more than 80 years ago and continues to uplift our Sanctuary services with sacred music from a variety of genres and style periods.

We’re always looking for more people to come and make a joyful noise with us!

Our director AV (they/them) practices identity-affirming voicing and rehearsal language, and encourages singers to choose the section that is healthiest for their vocal longevity and their gender expression. If you’re ready to sing get in touch with AV at av@uumc.org!

On Sunday, July 27 church members will vote on whether to become a Reproductive Freedom Congregation. The vote will take place in the sanctuary following worship and all members will have voice and vote. This vote follows various educational events and conversations among staff members and church leaders.

Participating congregations affirm the following three key principles:
* We trust and respect women and people who can become pregnant.
* We promise that people who attend our congregation will be free from stigma, shame, or judgment for their reproductive decisions, including abortion.
* We believe access to comprehensive and affordable reproductive health services, including abortion, is a moral and social good.

The Reproductive Freedom Congregation program is a part of Texas Freedom Network, an Austin-based grassroots organization of religious and community leaders who support religious freedom, individual liberties and public education. You can read more on our website.

Calling all Sopranos and Altos of any experience level, join us in this one-rehearsal one-performance pop-up choir event! We will sing "What Happens When a Woman Takes Power" by Alexandra Olsavsky of Artemisia, a powerful percussive musical call to action.

We will rehearse on 7/26 from 2-4, and sing in worship on Sunday 7/27 at 11 AM. That same day, our congregation will vote to become a Reproductive Freedom Congregation.

Questions? Contact AV!

Join Shan Schaffer of the Texas Freedom Network for a zoom info session on what it means to be a Reproductive Justice Congregation. TFN is an Austin-based grassroots organization of religious and community leaders who support religious freedom, individual liberties and public education. We have been studying (including a Lunch and Learn with Shan) and considering this question for a couple of years now, and the Church Council is looking at bringing the above question to the congregation for a vote on Sunday July 27 following worship.

Join the Meeting

A small group, including staff and lay leadership, has been meeting to discuss topics surrounding our building. This group has been tackling some big questions. How can we address concerns for our aging campus while imagining a future where we serve an even wider community?

Join us for this fifth Sunday joint Sunday School as we unpack these conversations and explore the possibilities of how we continue to be University UMC for generations to come.

Questions? Contact Chad for more information.

Calling all tenors and basses of any experience level for this one-rehearsal one-Sunday pop-up choir. Last year's group was excellent, and this year I've decided we will sing the exciting BYU Vocal Point arrangement of "Nearer, My God to Thee."

This ensemble will lead music in worship on 6/29–when Representative James Talrico is preaching! Help us make this Sunday special and be a part of the tradition of excellent tenors and basses at UUMC.

After rehearsal we'll head to Draught House Pub & Brewery and share a pint and fellowship.

Questions? Contact AV!

Our UUMC Central Texas Interfaith leaders invite you to come and share your concerns about what is happening in our country. Perhaps you are concerned about immigration, the free press, the judicial branch, or the diminishing work of federal agencies. You will have an opportunity to share what is on your mind.

A short historic overview to provide context will be presented followed by small group discussions. Together we will identify common concerns and explore opportunities to respond.

You are invited back to Wesley Falls for a week of exploring stories of Jesus’ leadership, learning about community leaders and celebrating our place in this ever-changing, beautiful world.

Come to Wesley Falls and join our town’s efforts to grow leaders who will go out into the big wide world and live out Wesley Falls’ newest mantra: On Earth as it is in Heaven. In our world, love is needed more than ever. We have it here. We want YOU to be you, be a learner, be a servant, be a voice and be a leader. We’ll see you there,

It will take place June 2-June 6 from 9 am to 12 pm. Extended care from 12 to 4 pm also available! Parents welcome to volunteer. Email Jillian with any questions and make sure to register your child ASAP!

VCC Registration

Extended Care Registration

Volunteer Registration

Every Sunday in May, the youth will be fundraising in the courtyard. They’ll use the money for a service week in Bentonville, Arkasas, learning about economic justice!

They’re asking people to buy shares in the youth program at $10 a piece before or after worship for the next three weeks. The youth will cook and host a special dinner to thank all our shareholders and share photos of their week later in the summer!

Click here to donate!

Tuesdays April 29-May 20

This four week study is led by Pastor Earl and Pastor Teresa. We will explore how God is revealed in scripture, share how we experience God and together discover expansive language for God. This study uses curriculum from The General Commission on the Status and Role of Women of The UMC. As Bishop Hope Morgan Ward says, "God is big, beautiful, and beyond our imagining." Join us in person or on zoom!

Click Here to Register

Join us for this fifth Sunday joint Sunday School. Our music director, AV, and organist, EunJoo, with Bill Bingham, will tell us about the status of our pipe organ, the repair options, and the process. For all of us who love and enjoy organ music in our worship services, this will be a good time to have an open conversation about how we can better care for and appreciate our beloved instrument.

Please join us for a regional advocacy webinar provided by Equality Texas, the largest statewide nonprofit fighting for equality for LGBTQIA+ Texans. In this webinar, we will learn how to advocate more for LGBTQIA+ rights in this challenging time and have more information about the current state of equality in Texas, including key legislative developments and the ways to engage in advocacy efforts at the capitol, including tips for providing testimony at the capitol and how to effectively meet with your lawmakers. Please email Pastor Earl for the Zoom link.

Join us for a happy hour fellowship sip and chat at Lazarus Brewery. All LGBTQIA+ folks welcome.

Questions? Contact AV at av@uumc.org.

Join us for the six-session study through Lent on Emeritus Pastor John Elford's book Our Hearts Were Strangely Lukewarm: The American Methodist Church and the Struggle with White Supremacy. This study, presented by the General Commission on Religion and Race of The United Methodist Church, will be facilitated by Pastors John and Earl. We will have a chance to reflect on the many ways that Anti-black racism in our history has harmed our Black neighbors and hurt our witness and mission as a church. We will also shine a light on how some Methodist Christians preached the prophetic gospel of inclusion and the hope of the Beloved Community. Join us in person or on Zoom!

Contact: Pastor Earl - PastorEarl@uumc.org

Click Here to Register