The Community Church of Chapel Hill Unitarian Universalist
[email protected]
(919) 942-2050
  • HOME
  • GIVE
    • Annual Pledge Drive 2025-2026
    • Stewardship >
      • The Reverend charlie kast Ministerial Development Fund
      • The Endowment Fund: Supporting the Future of Our Congregational Mission >
        • Proposing a Project
        • Contribute to the Fund
        • Past Projects
        • What is the Fund
      • Qualified Charitable Distributions
    • Donate Now
  • Calendar
  • About Us
    • Building Use Policy
    • Contact Us
    • Our Minister
    • Our Staff
    • Our Governance >
      • Our Board of Trustees
      • Our Covenant
      • Our Mission and Vision
      • Our Strategic Plan
      • Our Bylaws
      • More About Our Governance
    • Committees and Ministries >
      • Caring Ministry
      • Living Our Covenant with Intention
      • Endowment Committee
      • Committee on Ministry
      • Finance Committee >
        • Sunday Counters
      • Worship Ministry
    • Our History >
      • Congregational Award Recipients
    • About Unitarian Universalism >
      • The Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA)
      • Our Beliefs
      • Unitarian Universalist History
      • Southeast District of the UUA >
        • Building On Our Legacy Capital Fund
  • Worship & Arts
    • Upcoming Services & Schedule
    • Recordings of Past Services >
      • Recording of Past Services
      • Wednesday Vespers
      • Sermon Archive Prior to March 2020
    • Music Ministry >
      • Community Church Choir
      • Music Gala 2025
      • CMS
      • CMS Program
      • 2021 Virtual Music Gala
      • 2020 Virtual Music Gala
      • Virtual Worship Music
      • Music Program
      • Community Church Singers
      • Children's Choir
      • Youth Music Ensemble
      • UUkes
      • Instrumentalists
      • Music Team
      • Music Gala
      • Musicals
      • Pageants
      • Choir Sundays
      • Concert Series
    • Art at Community Church >
      • Art in the Sanctuary >
        • Upcoming Art Exhibits
      • Art in the Commons
      • Past Art Exhibits
  • Newcomers
    • Welcome
    • What to Expect When You Visit
    • Visiting with Children and Youth
    • Map and Directions
    • The Path to Membership
    • How to Connect
  • Youth & Children
    • About Youth and Children's Ministry At The Community Church >
      • Program Philosophy
      • Helping Children and Youth Connect at Church
      • Parent Expectations
      • Program Leadership
      • Registration and Parent Cooperative >
        • Registration
        • Parent Cooperative Information
        • Parent Cooperative Requirement
    • Ready for RE, a visual guide
    • Children's Program
    • Youth Program >
      • Sunday Programs for youth
      • Bridging
      • Youth Staff Internship Program
      • Sarah Elizabeth Insch Church Youth Leadership Program >
        • Our Whole Lives (OWL) Sexuality Education
        • Insch Program History
        • Insch Program Description
        • Insch Associates
        • Insch Program Application
      • Coming of Age
    • Chalice Camp 2025
  • Justice & Service
    • Ongoing Racial Equity Work
    • Racial Justice Ministry
    • Racial Equity Challenges
    • Community Service Ministry >
      • Inter-Faith Council for Social Services (IFC)
      • Holiday Meals
      • School Supplies / Backpacks Drive
      • Charles House
      • Habitat For Humanity Outreach
      • Red Cross Blood Drives
      • TABLE
    • Eco Ministry for the Earth >
      • ECO-Helping the Environment
    • Immigrant Justice Initiative
    • Share the Plate
    • Side with Love Ministry
    • Charles M. Jones Peace & Justice Committee
  • Learning & Fellowship
    • Welcoming Ministry >
      • CONNECTIONS FAIR 2023
    • Buildings and Grounds
    • 20s and 30s Group
    • Annual Fall Auction >
      • Auction Resources
    • Community Church in Action >
      • Community Day of Service 2025
      • Community Day of Service 2024 Photos
      • Community Day of Service 2023
      • Community Day of Service 2023 Photos
      • Community Day of Service 2022 Photos
      • Community Day of Service 2022
      • Community Day of Service 2020 Photos
      • Community Day of Service 2019 Photos
    • Community Clickers >
      • Patterns and Instructions
      • Community Clickers - 2025 Projects
      • Community Clickers - 2024 Projects
      • Community Clickers - 2023 Projects
      • Community Clickers - 2022 Projects
      • Community Clickers - 2021 Projects
      • Community Clickers - 2020 Projects
      • Community Clickers - 2019 Projects
      • Community Clickers - 2018 Projects
      • Community Clickers - 2017 Projects
      • Community Clickers - 2016 Projects
    • qUUilters
    • Chalice Circles/Small Group Ministry
    • Flaming Chalices Softball
    • Outdoor Connections
    • Rare Women >
      • Resources for 2023-2024
      • Housing Options as We Age
      • Resources for Rare Women
    • Sanctuary for Dialogue >
      • Article II: Our Evolving Purposes, Principles, Sources, Values and Covenants
    • Spiritual Exploration for Adults (SEA) >
      • Summer Forum
      • Past SEA Classes and Programs
    • The Mountain Retreat
    • UNC Campus Fellowship
    • UU Non-Fiction Readers
    • WomenCircle
  • Members Only

Community Church in Action

Recent activities in the life of our church

SHARE YOUR GROUP'S "COMMUNITY CHURCH IN ACTION"!
Picture
SPRING RETREAT AT THE MOUNTAIN

At the end of May 2025, 27 members of The Community Church gathered for a relaxing and community-building retreat at The Mountain, in Highlands, NC. Although the weather was intermittently rainy, we found time for being outside, getting to know one another, exploring Rev. Thom's theme of Courage, all while taking in the beautiful mountains. Thank you to all who came to The Mountain!

For more info about The Mountain Retreat, contact Rev.  Alison Wilbur Eskildsen or Lois Lee. 



PLAYGROUND REFRESH
Silvering Chalices


On May 31, 2025, members of the the Silvering Chalices (Middle-Aged Men's Group) organized a repair project of the church playground. May 31 was the first phase of the project -- removing broken equipment and clearing the playground to ready it for repairs.
​
For more information about Silvering Chalices, contact Danvers Fleury.
Picture

Picture
​

MAKING OUR VOICES HEARD
Side With Love


On May 13, 2025, representatives from The Community Church joined with faith leaders active with Interfaith Voices for Reproductive Freedom. The group of progressive faith leaders met with legislators to voice our concerns about bills that are anti-trans, anti-DEI, anti-teen medical rights, and a broadly-stated book ban in schools. The morning ended with a media conference. If you would like to help out with such efforts, contact our Side With Love team.

CONGRATULATIONS TO MARION HIRSCH!
UUA CREDENTIAL AT LEADERSHIP LEVEL


On May 2, 2025, Marion Hirsch, Director of Religious Education at The Community Church, received her Leadership Level Credential from the Unitarian Universalist Association's Religious Education Credentialing Committee after they interviewed Marion and reviewed her extensive portfolio.

Marion received the Advanced Level Credential in 2021, and this latest credential is an acknowledgment of Marion's excellent leadership as a Religious Educator in Unitarian Universalism

Marion will be recognized at the Unitarian Universalist Association's General Assembly in June in the Service of the Living Tradition.

Learn more about the UUA's Religious Education Credentialing Program.
Picture

Picture






EASTER 2025
SERVICE AT MEMORIAL ROCK
​

On, April 20, 2025, over 150 of our congregants joined in an annual tradition - early Easter worship service at Memorial Rock, our beautiful rustic outdoor amphitheater. Our all-ages services was made more beautiful by Danny Gotham's music and the sounds of nature.



REPRODUCTIVE FREEDOM ADVOCACY DAY

Side With Love

On, March 25, 2025, members of the Side with Love team at The Community Church joined with the other 12 congregations of Interfaith Voices for Reproductive Freedom for the advocacy day on March 25 at the NC General Assembly. The day was organized by Equality NC and Planned Parenthood South Atlantic. Members of our church were speaking up for people’s rights to control their own bodies.


​Contact Side With Love
 for more information.
Picture

Picture


CARD-MAKING FOR MEALS ON WHEELS
​WomenCircle for Day of Service


March, 2026: For the third year in a row, WomenCircle members have been making cards for Meals on Wheels in both Durham and Orange County. Over 500 cards and supplements are given to be distributed among the people receiving meals. This year, we are including many cards for veterans. Enclosed are messages, such as: "Have a Good Day", "Happy Spring", "Thinking of You", "You are Appreciated", "A Little Something for You" and "Sending a Smile Your Way". Supplies are provided and over 60 church members participated in making cards.

For more information about WomenCircle, please contact Joann Haggerty.

Picture
UU YOUTH RALLY 2025
Youth Ministry


On March 8, 2025, more than 40 middle school and high school youth from four Unitarian Universalist congregations in central NC gathered for a day of justice workshops, playful connections and a collaborative youth-led worship.
Youth loved connecting with their UU peers from other churches.

For more information about Youth Ministry, contact Director of Religious Education, Marion Hirsch, or Assistant Director of Religious Education, Kat Good.

Picture



​WEEKLY TUESDAY MEETINGS, 6 - 8 PM

Men's Group (65 - 85)


On February 18, 2025, as they do each week, the older Men's Group led by Charles Lee met in the Living Room of the church. All eight current members of this groupwere present this week.

For more information about Men's Group (65 - 85), please contact Charles Lee.



​"LIVING HAND IN HAND"

Chalice Choir


On February 16, 2025, as the Chalice Choir, 15 of our children and youth sang a beautiful rendition of “Living Hand in Hand” during the Frog & Toad Multigenerational Service.

For more information about Chalice Choir, please contact Taryn Bonner.
Picture

Picture


AUCTION EVENT: VALENTINE'S DAY CABARET
Rachel Rose & Friends
​

On February 14, 2025, over 80 members of our community shared a sparkling evening of song, story, love & libations.





​



​DRAG STORY HOUR
Side With Love


1/18/2025: Through a grant from UU Justice NC, Side With Love was able to bring Drag Story Hour to The Community Church. More than 30 people enjoyed an hour of stories told by drag performer Stormie Daie.
Picture

Picture

BOWLING NIGHT!
Youth Ministry Team


On January 12, 2025, over 45 Middle and High School youth and their families gathered for an afternoon of bowling to get the new year rolling.

For more information about the Youth Ministry Team, contact Assistant Director of Religious Education, Kat Good.


PIZZA & BOARD GAMES
20s & 30s

On January 4, 2025, a dozen members of our congregation in their 20s and 30s gathered for games and pizza. They played the popular board game, "Wingspan", which was designed by Unitarian Universalist Elizabeth Hargrave.

For more information about our 20s & 30s group, please 
contact Director of Religious Education, Marion Hirsch.
Picture

Picture





"JESUS IS A GEODE!"
Religious Education


On December 8, 2024, one week before our annual holiday pageant, children in Religious Education cracked open geodes to learn about Jesus. Turns out, he was sparkly on the inside and full of inherent worth and dignity--just like all of us!

For more information about Religious Education, contact Kat Good, Assistant Director of Religious Education.







​NIFTY GIFTY 2024
Children's Ministry


On Saturday, December 7, 2024, twenty children spent two hours making 100 gifts
​to give to their friends and family this holiday season.


For more information about Children's Ministry, contact Kat Good.
Picture

Picture


​October 26, 2024:
Dedication Ceremony for Weavers Grove 

qUUilters / Habitat for Humanity

Joy Mermin, Susie Hafer, Marlene Meyers, and Laurie Prentice-Dunn had the pleasure of meeting Karen, the new homeowner of the unit our congregation helped to build. She gave us a tour of her soon-to-be-completed home, and these members of the qUUilters presented her with a quilt as well as one for her son, Brian.

For more information about qUUilters, contact Laurie Prentice Dunn.



HOLIDAY MARKET
Welcoming Ministry


On December 8, 2024, Artists and Creatives of all ages shared their talents and sold their wares at the annual Holiday Market during the Sunday Socials. 20% or more of profits were donated to The Community Church! It was a celebration of the Season of Giving.

For more information about Welcoming Ministry, contact Rachel Rose.
Picture

Picture
​

ALL-CHURCH
DAY-AFTER-THANKSGIVING POTLUCK

Welcoming Ministry

On November 29, 2024, over 75 people of all ages joined for fellowship and food for a delicious potluck. We shared the cooking, a blessing, a meal and the clean-up. We are thankful for Beloved Community!

For more information about Welcoming Ministry, contact Rachel Rose.


Picture
UUA SOUTHERN REGION CONSTELLATION YOUTH SUMMIT
Youth Ministry
​

On November 17, 2024, The Community Church was one of four host sites for the UUA Southern Region Constellation Youth Summit. There were over 30 youth and advisors from six UU congregations (Chapel Hill, Raleigh, Durham, Greensboro, Winston-Salem, Charlotte) at our site. There were over 95 participants engaged in the "constellation" of all four sites.

For more information about the Youth Ministry Team, contact Marion Hirsch.


​FIRST-YEAR MEMBER RECEPTION

Welcoming Ministry

On October 13, 2024, 45 members of our community - adults and children - shared a meal together hosted by the Welcoming Ministry. The group celebrated and helped the newest Members of The Community Church and group leaders connect so we can all learn, serve and grow together. Rev. Thom provided a reading.

For more information about Welcoming Ministry, contact Rachel Rose, Director of Membership & Communication.
Picture

Picture
UU THE VOTE FAMILY PARTY
UU the Vote & Children's Ministry

On October 12, 2024, 30 members of our community - adults and children -  worked together as way for families and kids to participate in UU the Vote, the nationwide Unitarian Universalist movement for voter engagement. They made posters, wrote postcards, learned how to canvass our neighbors, shared food, played games, had fun, and learned together.

For more information about Children's Ministry, contact Marion Hirsch, Director of Religious Education.






​​Blessing of The Animals

On September 29, 2024, our church held multi-generational, multi-species services in which people of all ages were invited to bring pets of all kinds to worship with us. Together, we recognized the special pets in our lives and hearts.
Picture

Picture

Connections Fair 2024
Welcoming Ministry


On September 15, 2024, Welcoming Ministry hosted the 2024  Connections Fair, where over thirty groups within The Community Church shared how it is that they live our faith. It was a wonderful display of the many ways to connect, learn, serve and grow within our Beloved Community.

For more information about the Connections Fair or Welcoming Ministry, please contact Rachel Rose, Director of Membership and Communications.






OUR WHOLE LIVES
ELEMENTARY FACILITATOR TRAINING

Our Whole Lives Ministry 


From Aug 30 to September 1, twelve people were trained to facilitate Our Whole Lives including four new facilitators from our church.

For more information about Our Whole Lives Sexuality Education, Please contact Kat Good, Assistant Director of Religious Education and OWL Coordinator.
Picture

Picture


​SCHOOL SUPPLIES DRIVE

Community Service Ministry

On August 13, 2024, fourteen members of our community met to stuff backpacks with requested school supplies which were donated by our church for under-resourced middle school students. In just over 45 minutes, many backpacks were filled for deserving students so that they can focus on school, not school supplies.

For more information about the School Supplies Drive, contact Teri Brooks.


Picture
YOU CAN VOTE VOTER REGISTRATION TRAINING
UU THE VOTE
​

On August 25, 2024, 34 people were trained to register voters with You Can Vote (YCV). After lunch, attendees learned how to best help people navigate the registration process and how they can take the next steps to volunteer with YCV. Thanks to all who donated their time and gifted food, and a special thanks to Wendy Jebens, Janet Stevens, Barb Chapman, and Ruth Gibson for making the event such a success. Missed the training? Online training is available at YCV.

FLOWER COMMUNION
Multi-Generational Service


On June 2, 2024, our congregation celebrated the annual Flower Communion, which is a treasured Unitarian Universalist tradition. Over 200 members of our community participated. Each person was asked to bring their own flower and adds it to a common vase, which signifies that by our own free will, we come together. During the communion, each person takes a flower from the vase other than the one they brought. The significance of the flower communion is that as no two flowers are alike, so no two people are alike, yet each has a contribution to make. Together the different flowers form a beautiful bouquet. Our common bouquet would not be the same without the unique addition of each individual flower, and thus it is with our church community: it would not be the same without each and every one of us. 

Picture




NEW MEMBER RECEPTION
​
Welcoming Ministry

On June 9, 2024, around 50 people joined for a shared meal - New Members to learn about the work we are doing as a community, and group leaders to share their efforts with the newest Members of our church.

For more information about Membership, please contact Rachel Rose, Director of Membership & Communications.


Picture





​INTERIOR RENEWAL PROJECT
​

This project includes a repainting of inside walls as well as replacing water-damaged drywall. The first stage of the project began on Tuesday, May 7, and includes repainting the Sanctuary, Commons, and Straley Room. When those areas are complete, the second stage will include repainting the Jones Building Community Room and staff offices.  It has been 17 years since the Sanctuary, Commons, and offices were last painted. Thanks to the Buildings & Grounds team for all their work to make this long-overdue project a reality!






​EASTER SERVICE AT MEMORIAL ROCK

​

On March 31. 2024, our early service was held outdoors at Memorial Rock, at our amphitheater. Over 150 people listened to beautiful music provided
by Danny Gotham and worshipped together in nature.
Picture

Picture


​HIKE AT BLUE JAY POINT COUNTY PARK
Outdoor Connections

On April 20, 2024, eleven church members gathered at the Blue Jay Center for Environmental Education to hike the Falls Lake Trail and to visit two view points on Falls Lake at Blue Jay Point County Park. Highlights of the trip were a large stand of mayapples and a very large osprey nest at the top of a very high tree! Lunch at Sassool in North Raleigh was also a fun, communal time.

MUSIC GALA 2024
"THESE UUNITED STATES"

Thanks to everyone who attended our annual Music Gala, "These UUnited States," on Saturday, April 13. It was a rousing success in every way, with over $2,000 raised for the Music Program and A/V needs. Over 200 people enjoyed 20 amazing performances with over 50 performers in one 90-minute act, then sampled homemade desserts and danced to live music afterwards.

If you didn't have cash handy, or watched online, and would still like to support the performers and the Music Program, you can do so by going to the "One Time Donation" page on the church website, and putting "Music Gala 2024" in the Memo line.

Contact Glenn Mehrbach, Music Director, for more information.
Picture

Picture



MARION HIRSCH'S SILVER JUBILEE

On April 6, 2024, Nearly 200 people came together to celebrate Marion Hirsch's 25 years of invaluable service to The Community Church. Readings, music, a commemorative quilt, balloons, a scavenger hunt, and a delicious meal were enjoyed by all.




​SUNDAY SOCIALS


Each Sunday, we have at least two opportunities to be social! In-person Sunday Socials follow each worship service, wherein there is coffee, tea, Tabling for groups within our church, and fellowship. Join us to connect!

For more information about the Sunday Social, contact Rachel Rose.


Picture

Picture
DAY OF SERVICE 2024
Mission: Possible!

On March 2, 2024, the Mission: Possible 2024 Day of Service was a great success, with 250 agents providing more than 700 hours of service to partner organizations. Members of our congregations contributed by playing music, organizing missions, preparing food, planning the event, and lending a hand where needed. Get ready for another great mission in 2025!
​

For more information about the Day of Service, contact Leigh Anne King
​or Becky Wilkes.




SPECIAL BUUDDIES

Children's Ministry



On February 24, 2024, forty children and adults in the congregation attended the Special bUUddy Friendship Forum together on Saturday, February 24. The bUUddy program matches adults and children together and they spend a month corresponding and making friends. The program culminates in a fun breakfast at the Friendship Forum with games and waffles.


For more information about Children's Ministry, contact Marion Hirsch, Director of Lifespan Religious Education


​
Picture

Picture



TEA AND SYMPATHY
Fall Auction Event
 
​



​On February 3, 2024, nine Members of The Community Church gathered at the home of Gail McKinley and Bill Poteat for an Auction event generously donated by Gail & Bill. Of the event, Kathy Putnam said: " 'Tea and Sympathy' gave us time to share and appreciate stories about our grandmothers and beyond, over tea and goodies in Gail's parlor." 



FROG & TOAD PUPPET THEATER

Multi-Generational Service



On Sunday, February 11, 2024, Intern Minister Jenn Kapranov and Walker Smith embodied the beloved Arnold Lobel characters, Frog and Toad, for an annual tradition, while Michael Smith served as Narrator; this year's production was of "The Hat."
Picture

Picture
​


BOOKFLOOD
The Community Church Staff

On Tuesday, January 9, 2024, some of The Community Church Staff joined together in their version of bookflood. Staff members bring a wrapped book - from their shelves or from a store - and fun, fellowship and a shared meal follow.




REPRODUCTIVE JUSTICE MEDIA RALLY
Side With Love

On Monday, January 21, our Side With Love ministry brought a busload of members to Raleigh for a rally in support of reproductive justice. Speakers at the rally included our own Melva Fager Okun as well as Rev. Lisa Garcia-Sampson, our affiliated community minister.
Picture

Picture


MIDDLE SCHOOL YOUTH GROUP
​OVERNIGHT RETREAT

Youth Ministry


On January 19, 2024, seventeen middle school youth gathered for an evening of games, worship, conversation, a movie, and snacks.

For more information about Youth Programming. contact Marion Hirsch, Director of Lifespan Religious Education.

QUILTS FOR REFUGEES
qUUilters
Over several months, 15 members of our qUUilters group have made quilted lap quilts. 30 of those quilts were delivered to the Refugee Support Center staff for distribution to refugees who had come from many countries around the world. We wanted to give some comfort, warmth, and color at this time of the year.
Individuals who have completed the tasks to become naturalized citizens were able to choose a quilt. While we were not present, comments were shared with us of their joy in having “something useful,” “that reminded me of my home country,” “I am having a baby soon and this will get used a lot.” There were also many comments of thankfulness shared with us that were heard by the staff at Thanksgiving time, such as “not worrying about what will happen to us in the night,” “feeling welcome by this country,” and “my child can attend school and get a ride on a bus.”
These comments feel like gifts to us!

For more information about the QUUilters, email Laurie Prentice-Dunn.
Picture

Picture
​




​SOLSTICE LANTERN WALK &
CHILI SUPPER 2023
​

On December 21, 2023, members of our community of all ages joined in a lantern walk through the woods, then enjoyed homemade chili around a bonfire.






​CHILDREN'S PAGEANT 2023
"Hail Mary"

More than 30 children and youth of the church (including two playing the role of Baby Jesus) told the story, with an unprecedented five playing the role of “Mary”
​at various stages of her life.


​For more information about the Music Ministry,
contact Glenn Mehrbach, Music Director.
Picture

Picture
​




HOLIDAY MARKET 2023

Welcoming Ministry


On December 3, 2023, The Community Church of Chapel Hill Welcoming Ministry hosted the Holiday Market during the Sunday Socials. Over twenty artists, vendors and ministries offered crafts, music, art, decor, and ways to live our Mission. Hundreds of people attended, and funds and spirits were raised!
For more information about the Welcoming Ministry, contact Rachel Rose.


​DAY-AFTER-THANKSGIVING POTLUCK 2023

Welcoming Ministry

On November 24, 2023, The Community Church of Chapel Hill Welcoming Ministry held its first-ever Day-AFTER-Thanksgiving Potluck. It was a fun, informal affair, with plenty of fresh food. Nearly sixty folks shared a meal and fellowship.
For more information about the Welcoming Ministry, contact Rachel Rose.
Picture

Picture


​A WRINKLE IN TIME
November 17 - 19, 2023

The Community Church of Chapel Hill presented a production of an adaptation of Madeleine L’Engle's A Wrinkle in Time, by Morgan Gould. The cast and crew included children, youth and adults in the congregation. The production was directed by church member Joëlle Bourjolly.









CHURCH PLAY
"A Wrinkle in Time" Rehearsals


Dozens of members of our congregation have worked for months on this wonder-filled theatrical production. Sets, costumes, music, lights, stage direction, choreography and amazing characters - all done by folks in or beloved community.



Picture

Picture






​Celebrating Glenn Mehrbach's
20 Years with The Community Church


On October 15, 2023, we joined to celebrate Glenn Mehrbach’s 20 years as our Music Director. Testimonials, given by Marion Hirsch & Ariadna Nacianceno were heartfelt. The Community Church Singers, led by Ed Steffes did a creative and entertaining parody on a song from the musical Les Miserable called “ Maestro of the House”. All enjoyed the homemade goodies, including a large cake baked & decorated by Dorothy Hammett.There were many people who were happy to volunteer to thank Glenn for the Music!


WELCOMING MINISTRY

​New Member Reception


On October 8, 2023, over 60 people joined to celebrate the many new Members who joined The Community Church over the last year. Congregational Award winners, other lay leaders and staff joined the new Members in a shared meal and a reading from Rev. Thom.

For more information about the Welcoming Ministry,
contact Director of Membership & Communications, Rachel Rose.
​
Picture

Picture
​WELCOMING MINISTRY
Connections Fair 2023​
On September 17, 2023, lay leaders and other volunteers participated in the life of our church by sharing and learning about the many groups within our beloved community that help us live our Mission at the Connections Fair, where 27 groups showcased their important work within and beyond our walls! 
​


For more information about the Welcoming Ministry,
contact Director of Membership & Communications, Rachel Rose.



​QUUILTERS
Habitat for Humanity Housewarming


On August 26, 2023, Habitat for Humanity of Orange County held a celebration for the Odie Street neighborhood completion of 24 homes. The Community Church of Chapel Hill Unitarian Universalist helped to build some of these homes, including the home dedicated for a young family. Our qUUilters group, represented by Laurie Prentice-Dunn, Dorothy Hammett, Carol Rogers and Sandy Young, delivered quilts for each member of this family. The event was a wonderful celebration of collaboration and partnership, creativity, vollunteering, and support for families.

For more information about the qUUilters, contact Laurie Prentice-Dunn. ​ For more information about Habitat for Humanity, please contact Glenn Davis.
Picture

Picture
​MUSIC MINISTRY
Annual Choir Potluck


On August 20, 2023, Twenty-eight members of the Music Program gathered in the home of Music Director Glenn Mehrbach and his wife, Deborah Klinger. Pictured: Paul Eskildsen and Scott Provan leading a sing-along after dinner and dessert at the annual Community Church Choir and Singers Potluck 

For more information about our Music Program,
​contact Music Director, Glenn Mehrbach.


COMMUNITY SERVICE MINISTRY

Filling School Backpacks


On August 12, 2023, eight volunteers from The Community Church Community Service Ministry filled loads of school backpacks with school supplies for local schoolchildren in need.

For more information about our annual School Backpack Project, 
​
contact Teri Brooks.
Picture

Picture





​CHILDREN'S MINISTRY

Chalice Camp 2023
​

Twenty children participated in our annual week-long summer camp for children at church. Activities included Sardines, field trips, worship, games, arts and crafts and service. One child memorably said afterward, "I wish every day was Chalice Camp."

For more information about Children's Ministry, contact Marion Hirsch.

YOUTH MINISTRY
Rising Up and Flower Communion 


On June 4, 2023, the Rising Up and Flower Communion Service honored children and youth in the church and particularly the graduating seniors pictured here.

For more information about the Youth Ministry,
please contact Marion Hirsch.
Picture


Picture
WELCOMING MINISTRY
​New Member Reception


On June 11, 2023, the newest Members of The Community Church joined with lay leaders in the New Member Reception, hosted by the Welcoming Ministry. Over 70 people made connections and shared a meal.

For more information about Membership or the Welcoming Ministry, contact Rachel Rose.




​YOUTH MINISTRY
Bridging


On May 31, 2023, five of the church's high school seniors celebrated the culmination of the year-long Bridging Program with crossing a literal bridge together and dinner.
​Congratulations, Seniors!
Picture

Picture



​CHILDREN'S MINISTRY

Game Day!


On Saturday, May 13, 2023, families gathered for fun and games and quality snacks (provided by Children's Ministry).

Please contact Marion Hirsch for more information about the Children's Ministry.

​
YOUTH MINISTRY
Coming of Age


On May 7, the congregation celebrated six youth who completed the Coming of Age Program and shared their credos with the congregation. They will be traveling to Boston together in June on the traditional UU Pilgrimage.

Please contact Marion Hirsch for more information
​about the Coming of Age program.
Picture

Picture

UU CAMPUS FELLOWSHIP
End of Semester Dinner
​

On May 4, 2023, fourteen folks participating in the UU Campus Fellowship celebrated the end of the semester at dinner with the minister and the faculty advisor. Contact Marion Hirsch for more information about UU Campus Fellowship.On May 4, 2023, fourteen folks participating in the UU Campus Fellowship celebrated the end of the semester at dinner with the minister and the faculty advisor.


​EARTH DAY MULTIGENERATIONAL WORSHIP

Braiding Meditation

​(Watch video)

On April 23, 2023, all ages in our congregation worshipped together and Kat Good led us (with the excellent help of a few assistants!) ​in a Braiding Meditation. 
Contact Marion Hirsch or Kat Good for more information about Children's and Youth programming.
Picture

Picture


​YOUTH MINISTRY TEAM
UU Youth Group from Raleigh visits

On April 23, 2023, Our Youth Group welcomed the Raleigh UU congregation's Youth Group; the two youth groups gathered for games and sharing.
Contact Marion Hirsch for more information about Youth Group.







SPRING BLOOD DRIVE
​


On April 22, 2023, The Community Church hosted a successful
Red Cross Blood Drive.


75 lives were saved!
Picture

Picture


RELIGIOUS EDUCATION
Easter Egg Drop
​

On Easter Sunday, children in Religious Education participated in a cooperative egg drop challenge, wrapping their eggs in "love" and dropping them out the window of the Gathering Room. At the second service, not a single egg broke!

To learn more about Children's & Youth Religious Education, contact Kat Good
, Assistant Director of Religious Education, or Marion Hirsch, Director of Religious Education.
​ 




​OUR WHOLE LIVES (OWL)

First Grade Our Whole Lives (OWL)

First Grade Our Whole Lives (OWL) concluded on March 19, 2023. Seven first graders spent eight Sundays learning about bodies, birth and babies.
They learned about consent and caring --
even practicing swaddling and feeding their stuffies.


To learn more about Our Whole Lives (OWL),
contact Kat Good, Assistant Director of Religious Education.
Picture

Picture



​LOBBYING FOR REPRODUCTIVE JUSTICE


On February 28, 2023, a group of Unitarian Universalists from our church and the UU Church of Greensboro participated in a reproductive justice lobbying day in Raleigh. We spoke with our legislators about the importance of protecting reproductive freedom in North Carolina.





​WELLSPRING SACRED EARTH GROUP
Haw River Clean-Up-A-Thon

On March 18, 2023, six members of our congregation embodied our respect for the interdependent web of all existence by volunteering for the Haw River Clean-Up-A-Thon to clean up trash from the waterways.
Contact Marion Hirsch to learn more
​about Wellspring Sacred Earth Group.
Picture

Picture



DAY OF SERVICE
Community Day of Service 2023

On March 4, 2023, over 260 volunteers served in
18 service projects for a total of more than 740 hours of total volunteer hours serving the community. It was a team effort that couldn’t have happened without all of us working together.




​CHILDREN'S MINISTRY
Special bUUddies

During the month of February 2023,forty-six children and grown-ups practiced friendship as Special bUUddies. They wrote letters, postcards and emails and talked with their bUUddy on the phone. Making church friends is the best!
Picture

Picture



WORSHIP MINISTRY

Microscopes & Telescopes


​​Our worship services on Sunday, January 29, invited scientists in our congregation to talk to us about seeing the unseen. Then, the Sunday Social was transformed into a microscope and telescope laboratory.









CHILDREN'S MINISTRY TEAM
Family Taco Bar & Games Night

On January 28, 2023, the Children's Ministry Team sponsored a Family Taco Bar and Games Night for over 70 people of all ages.

For more information about Children's Ministry, please contact Marion Hirsch.
Picture

Picture


qUUilters:
Charles House Visit

On January 18, 2023, Joy Mermin and Laurie Prentice-Dunn, members of our qUUilters group, accepted the invitation by staff of Charles House to share examples of our quilts to their group of participants. It is always a fun time and the Charles House folks were most welcoming and enthusiastic, as always. 

Contact Laurie for more information about qUUilters.





​qUUILTERS:
Making quilted placemats
​for Meals on Wheels

​
On January 7, 2023, At our regularly scheduled January meeting of the qUUilters, a dozen members worked on making quilted placemats. They have been working on this project for the past several months, leading up to the Church-wide Community Day of Service on March 4, when they will roll, tie, and tag the placemats for delivery to Meals on Wheels in Durham and Orange Counties.


​Learn more about the qUUilters, or join their email list.
Picture

Picture




​YOUTH MINISTRY
Spares, Strikes and Turkeys!

On January 8, 2023, over 50 youth and their families attended Youth Family Bowling Night.
For more information about Youth Programming,
​
contact Marion Hirsch.







​YOUTH MINISTRY TEAM

Annual Festive Potluck & White Elephant

On December 18, 2022, twenty High School youth ( and returning college youth!) celebrated at the Annual High School Youth Group Festive Potluck and hilarious White Elephant Exchange.
For more information about Youth Programming, contact Marion Hirsch.
Picture

Picture



HIGH SCHOOL YOUTH GROUP
Hijinks and gingerbread houses! 


On December 11, 2022, a dozen members of the High School Youth Group created gingerbread houses. Contact Marion Hirsch for more information about High School Youth Group.

​WELCOMING MINISTRY
Holiday Bazaar 2022


On December 4, 2022, a dozen members of The Community Church community celebrated the beginning of the season of giving  by offering their Spirit Dolls, ceramic bowls, knitted scarves, hats, cowls, baby blankets, beaded jewelry, fabric-wrapped rope bowls, Spell Jar Jewelry,  felt art, children's books, storytelling CDs and storytelling USBs, CDs, and original paintings for sale. The Holiday Bazaar is a long-standing Community Church tradition, and 20% of all proceeds are donated to The Community Church!
Picture

Picture
​


​MIDDLE SCHOOL YOUTH GROUP
Gingerbread Houses  (and a Chalice!)

​On December 4, 2022, sixteen (!) middle schoolers gathered for sticky, creative fun and made gingerbread houses (and a UU Chalice!).

​WORSHIP MINISTRY 
Greening of the Church & Chili Potluck Supper

On December 3, 2022, around 140 members of the Community Church community joined in fellowship for the church’s Greening and Chili Dinner. There was much work done with the Greening and the Holiday Service Project for the Women’s Center. And the Chili Dinner!! Wow, the Chili Dinner -- filled with good food, joy, and fellowship followed by sing-along of Holiday songs led by the UUkes. It was wonderful getting together and enjoying the fellowship after a long absence. Thanks to all involved.
Picture

Picture

COMMUNITY CHURCH THANKSGIVING

POTLUCK DINNER

On November 24, 2022, over 40 members of our community celebrated Thanksgiving at church together, a tradition which we are grateful has returned. Community, food, fellowship and music were enjoyed by all. 





​​AUCTION EVENT
Nano Felted Scarf-Making Workshop/Workout


On November 12, 2022, eight members of our congregation who participated in our Fall Auction attended the Nano Felted Scarf-Making Workshop / Workout. This workshop was an auction event in which participants, led by Lisa Lackmann and Selden Holt, made their own individualized pieces of wearable art with creativity and sweat equity, fueled by artsy focaccia.
Picture

Picture
​

​YOUTH MINISTRY
Pumpkin Carving


On October 23, 2022, members of the High School Youth group carved pumpkins together. Contact Marion Hirsch to learn more about Youth Programming.


WALK THE WALK
Stagville Plantation Tour
​

On October 8, 2022 more than a dozen members participated
in a tour of Stagville to learn more about the impact of slavery in our area. Walk the Walk is a program for racial justice learning which is local and in person.
​Walk the Walk is cosponsored by Spiritual Exploration for Adults (SEA), Side with Love, and Living Our Covenant with Intention
Picture

Picture






MIDDLE SCHOOL YOUTH GROUP
Pumpkin Carving on the Porch
​

On October 2, 2022, the Middle School Youth Group kicked-off with a great first event: pumpkin carving on the porch with twenty 6th, 7th and 8th Graders.


YOUTH MINISTRY TEAM
​Youth Family Dinner and Program Kickoff


​On September 27, 2022, Youth Families (over 65 people!) gathered for fellowship and pizza as a grand start of the Fall youth program.
Picture

Picture


WELCOMING MINISTRY

Connections Fair


On September 25, 2022, twenty-five groups within our church shared with our community how they are living The Community Church Mission within and beyond our walls.



​OWL MINISTRY:
OWL (Our Whole Lives ) Facilitator Training

On September 17, 2022, seventeen Our Whole Lives (OWL) facilitators from across the Triangle gathered to improve the quality of our sexuality education classes.
Picture

Picture



UNC UU CAMPUS FELLOWSHIP
Painting the "Cube"

On September 15, 2022, the UU Campus Fellowship at UNC painted the "Cube" in front of the Student Union to advertise the group. President Jenny Nelson made homemade chocolate chip cookies for the painters. Learn more about UNC UU Campus Fellowship.



YOUTH STAFF

Youth Staff Orientation

On September 4, 2022, our super youth staff gathered for Orientation before the start of the program year. Orientation included pizza, shout-outs, and all the nuts and bolts we need for a good start to the church year.
Picture

Picture




​YOUTH MINISTRY TEAM
Bowling Night

On August 31, 2022, over a dozen bowlers of all skill levels participated in a team-building event for the Youth Ministry Team to celebrate the beginning of the new church year.




​SINGING THE NATIONAL ANTHEM
AT THE DURHAM BULLS GAME

Community Church Choir


On September 11, 2022, The Community Church Choir continued their tradition of singing the national anthem at a Durham Bulls game!
Hear them sing!

​
Picture
​


Picture



UNC CAMPUS MINISTRY


On August 25, 2022, Rev. Thom, Director of Religious Education Marion Hirsch, and undergraduate and graduate students in the UU Campus Fellowship recruited new members for the group at Club Day on campus.





​RELIGIOUS EDUCATION
Special Musical Guests


On Sunday, August 7, special guests Scott and Jane Provan delighted over 25 children with song in Religious Education. 
Picture

Picture




​WORSHIP
Ingathering Water Service


On August 28, 2022, many people returned to the church after summer adventures. We combined our waters in our traditional Water Service and folded boats to float in the waters after service.





QUUILTERS
​Service Projects


On August 6, 2022, during the regular August meeting of the qUUilters group,
finished quilts and quilt tops for our holiday gifts to the First Home Women's Shelter were turned in. Bundles of fabrics were taken home by members
to make more placemats which will be given to Meals on Wheels participants during our church-wide Day of Service in March, 2023.
Picture

Picture
​

​
PIANO DEDICATION AT CHARLES HOUSE
​
​
On Tuesday, August 2, Charles House dedicated a new piano in honor of the historic partnership between Charles House and The Community Church. The dedication celebration included music from Erich Lieth and Scott & Jane Provan. Charles House Executive Director Paul Klever and Rev. Thom Belote each spoke about the historic connection between the two organizations, and how the partnership continues today through volunteering and financial support. The celebration included lots of singing, dancing, and joy.





​20S & 30S GROUP
Pizza and Games Night

On July 31, 2022, fourteen members of the 20s & 30s group enjoyed fun and fellowship with a Pizza and Games Night. Please contact Marion Hirsch, Director of Religious Education, for more information about the 20s & 30s group.
Picture

Picture

WELCOMING MINISTRY:
Celebration of Staff Transition

On July 31, 2022, Dana Lundquist officially left our congregation to become the Director of Religious Education at another UU congregation. She handed over the responsibilities (and official stapler!) of the Congregational Administrator to Harrison Gray, the newest member of our staff. The congregation celebrated the transition with sweet summer treats.

Picture
MUSIC MINISTRY:
End-of-Year Celebration
On June 11, 2022, Members of the Community Church Choir and Singers gathered for an “End-of-Year Celebration” at Music  Director Glenn Mehrbach’s house. They enjoyed conversation, an outdoor potluck meal, and, finally, a sing-along on the screened porch. It was the first social gathering since the fall of 2019.  A wonderful time was had by all.


Picture

WELCOMING MINISTRY:
New Member Reception
​
On Sunday, June 12, 2022, our congregation held a New Member Recognition during our worship service, in which we officially welcomed the newest Members of our congregation. Immediately following the service, our congregation held its Annual Congregational Meeting - then we all celebrated with a festive Reception.

RISING UP &
FLOWER COMMUNION

On Sunday, June 5, 2022, our congregation held its annual Rising Up service. Rising Up honors our children and youth as they "rise up" into Kindergarten, into middle school, into high school, or into life following high school. Each year this service also includes a UU Flower Communion ceremony and ends with a spirited singing of "Love Train."
Picture

Picture


OUR WHOLE LIVES (OWL):
8th Grade OWL Completion Celebration
​

On May 29th, seven eighth-graders completed 26 weeks of Our Whole Lives and celebrated with the six facilitators that made it possible to learn and grow this year.





ORDINATION OF SARA GUSH TOLFREE

​On Sunday, May 22, our congregation gathered to ordain
​Rev. Sara Gush Tolfree into the Unitarian Universalist ministry.
​Pictured here, Selden Holt and Steve Marshall present Rev. Sara
​with a stole made by Laurie Prentice-Dunn.
 
Picture

Picture






​COMING OF AGE

On May 15, 2022, Our congregation celebrated six of our youth completing Coming of Age and reading their credo statements during our Sunday service.




CHILDREN'S MINISTRY:
STUFFIE SLEEPOVER 2022

Fifteen auction-winning stuffed animals slept over at the church at the beginning of May. They were very naughty.
 You can see all their antics in this Stuffie Sleepover video. 
​
Picture

Picture

​MUSIC GALA 2022
​
On Saturday, April 30, 2022, we had the first in-person Music Gala in years. Titled “SPACE: The Final FUUntier,” the festive night featured music performed by  congregation members of all ages.  By the finale, "Age of Aquarius", the audience was dancing in the aisles.


JOURNEY OF RECONCILIATION COMMUNITY WALK

​On Sunday, April 10, our church partnered with University Presbyterian Church and the Orange County Community Remembrance Coalition to lead a community walk visiting notable sites from when the Freedom Riders came to Chapel Hill in 1947. Pictured: Rev. Thom Belote telling a portion of the story in front of the Presbyterian Manse.
Listen to Rev. Thom's 
sermon about the Journey of Reconciliation.
Picture

Picture
EARTH MONTH EVENT:
ECO's Electric Vehicle Car Show

On April 10, 2022, ECO hosted an electric vehicle car show in the church's front parking lot during Sunday Social. Church Members who own electric vehicles (EVs) helped others in our community learn more about EVs.








​AUCTION EVENT:
Storytelling with Donna Washington


On March 26, 2022, more than forty members of our congregation -  of all ages! -  gathered to hear stories from Communty Church Member and master storyteller Donna Washington.
Picture

Picture




​SPIRITUAL EXPLORATION FOR ADULTS / 
SIDE WITH LOVE / 
LIVING OUR COVENANT WITH INTENTION:
Northside Soundwalk

On March 18, 2022, Thirty members of our congregation learned  during the Northside Soundwalk--an audio tour and history of the historic African American neighborhood in Chapel Hill.





Community Day of Service/Annual Pledge Week

Thanks for all you did! Thanks to the more than 250 volunteers who joined us to provide more than 800 hours of service to more than 24 charities in our community on March 5, 2022. Through our Durham Bulls Baseball ticket raffle, we also raised $440 for the Inter-Faith Council for Social Services. It was a heart-warming and exciting day.
​
Picture

Picture


RELIGIOUS EDUCATION:

Special bUUddies
​

Thirty-six adults and children in our congregation are corresponding for the month of February to make a new church friend.


​WELCOMING MINISTRY:

Sunday Social


On Sunday, February 13, 2022, the congregation enjoyed hot cocoa, treats and fellowship outdoors in the Courtyard.
Picture

Picture

LECTIO:
Impromptu Gathering
​

On December 17, 2021, (a lovely Friday afternoon following regular Lectio Zoom), members of Lectio meditation group had an impromptu gathering on Barb Chapman's deck.

Picture


OUTDOOR CONNECTIONS:
Waterfalls & Fellowship


In October, 2021,  fourteen members of The Community Church hiked to a variety waterfalls while staying at a small retreat center called Sassy Goose in Cedar Mountain. They enjoyed great food, game-playing, and sights along the Blue Ridge Parkway.


Picture


WORSHIP MINISTRY:
Donations to HomeStart Shelter
​

On December 20, 2021,  Alexa Adamo Valverde, her son Oliver, and Kathy Putnam picked up donated and handmade gifts from generous church members from Joy Mermin’s porch and delivered them to the HomeStart Shelter for single women and parents. Tracey, the director was very appreciative. Thank you for making the holidays brighter!


CHILDREN'S MINISTRY: 
Family Solstice Lantern Walk & Bonfire 

​On December 22, 2021, 40 members of our community celebrated the coming of winter with 
Family Solstice Lantern Walk and Bonfire at the Lavinders'.
Picture

Picture

QUUILTERS:
Quilt delivery to Afghan refugee family

On November 12, 2021, the QUUilters delivered nine quilts to our new Manse guests. Laurie Prentice-Dunn, Joy Mermin and Ruth Gibson, who is coordinating volunteer services for our refugee families, met all the members of the family at the door of the manse with flashcards in Pashto to explain why we were there, which the father was able to read aloud to the family.  The card tied to the front of the basket contains the following message in Pashto:    Welcome!  
Here are 9 quilts we made for you.
We are so glad to have you here.
From the women who make quilts at the church.





​HOLIDAY BAZAAR 2021

On December 12, 2021, some of our congregation's creatives held a festive fundraiser, selling their pottery, music CDs, books they authored, honey,  candles, handmade ornaments, "Spirit Dolls" and other decor, with 20% of profits going to the church. 
​
Picture

Picture


​CHILDREN’S HOLIDAY PAGEANT:
"La Pastorela: Alfresco"


On December 5, 2021, the Pageant took place outdoors; congregants put on their walking shoes and enjoyed the pageant in the open, following the shepherds all over the church grounds.






​

UNC UU CAMPUS MINISTRY:
​
Friendsgiving Dinner


​On  November 6, 2021, members of the UNC UU Campus ministry celebrated Friendsgiving Dinner and made pie together.
Picture

Picture
 

CHILDREN'S & YOUTH MINISTRY:
Pie Day!

11/21/2021: On Sunday morning, over fifty children and youth, as well as a dozen adults worked together to make pumpkin pie for the whole church, an annual tradition for over 30 years.



CHILDREN'S MINISTRY:
Parents on the Playground


​On October 25, 2021, twenty-five parents had a social gathering  on the playground after service, taking advantage of a chance to visit while the children played. ​
Picture

Picture

​YOUTH MINISTRY TEAM:
Youth Staff Intern Meeting
​

On October 22, 2021, twenty members of our wonderful Youth Staff met for their first in-person meeting of the year.




​CHILDREN'S MINISTRY TEAM:

Story Time!

On October 22, 2021, dozens of members of our congregation - young  and old -  enjoyed Author Donna Washington's reading of her book, Boo Stew.
Picture








Picture

MIDDLE SCHOOL YOUTH GROUP
Pumpkin Hunt!
On October 17, 2021, Middle-Schoolers
carved pumpkins at church, but only after
finding the pumpkins hidden throughout the church.

Picture






UNC UU CAMPUS FELLOWSHIP:

Game Night!

On October 7, 2021, Campus Fellowship
​sponsored a game night for fun and fellowship.
Picture

Picture

​
ALL-CHURCH PICNIC 2021


​On September 11, 2021, The Community Church held its Annual All-Church Picnic! It was a joyful multigenerational gathering with fellowship, a bonfire, and bubbles!

qUUilters:
Quilt Demonstration

and Dignity Dining Vest Donation to Charles House
​

October 4, 2021: The presentation on Monday at Charles House was lots of fun. Participants and staff really enjoyed seeing our quilts and hearing our stories about them. Sandy, Joy and Laurie also enjoyed hearing their stories! They look forward to going back in December.

Everyone, participants and staff alike, was also very appreciative of the 24 Dining Vests that we gave to them. The staff member we talked with, Paul, had actually stitched their first batch and he could see that these are stronger and will hopefully survive longer.
Picture

Picture


CHILDREN'S MINISTRY:
Sculpture Walk


On September 18, 2021, the Children's Ministry went on a Sculpture Walk through the North Carolina Botanical Garden. Over twenty friends enjoyed art, nature and fellowship






UNC CAMPUS MINISTRY:
​UU Campus Fellowship

On August 25, 2021, the UNC Campus Ministry recruited new students for the group at the UNC Small Fest Club event. (pictured: Alan Reece, Co-Chair of the UNC Campus Fellowship).
Picture

Picture





​RELIGIOUS EDUCATION:

​Chalice Camp Returns!

On July 26, 2021, Chalice Camp returned!
Fifteen children, led by five members of our Youth Staff  enjoyed a week of camp at church this week. They studied famous UUs, played games, ate popsicles, and more! ​





BUILDING PROJECT:
​Open House!

​
On July 24, 2021, over 100 people of all ages attended the "Open House at a Moment's Notice";  it was a wonderful event in our beautiful new space!
Picture

Picture


YOUTH MINISTRY:

Furniture moves into our new space!

On July 18, 2021 eleven members of the Youth Ministry Team moved heavy furniture all the way from the Manse to the church to furnish the new Living Room on a very hot day.






CHILDREN'S & YOUTH MINISTRY:
"I Spy"


​Beginning on July 4, 2021, on Sunday mornings this summer, the church kids who attend the Zoom Family Worship are playing "I Spy" each week with the church kids who are attending worship in person. This project keeps our virtual and in-person community together. "I spy, with my little eye something.... green!"
Picture

Picture



​YOUTH MINISTRY:
Our Whole Lives (OWL)

The week of June 21-25, 2021,  church youth participated in
​the Our Whole Lives (OWL) Sexuality Education Program for 8th graders. 






​YOUTH MINISTRY:

ROSEing Up


On June 6, 2021, the Youth Ministry hosted a (masked, outdoor)
Flower Communion and Rising Up celebration of graduating Seniors
​in the church Courtyard.
Picture

Picture

​WELCOMING MINISTRY:

Lemonade Social
​

On May 16, 2021, the Welcoming Ministry hosted a (fully-vaccinated, outdoors) Lemonade Social for fun and fellowship in the church parking lot. Over fifteen friends connected and re-connected in person.





CAMPUS FELLOWSHIP:
End-of-Semester Meal

On May 4, 2021, the UNC Campus Fellowship had a (vaccinated, outdoors) end-of-semester meal to celebrate our wonderful seniors who are graduating. (Pictured: 
Paige Henderson, Jules Perkins, Jenny Nelson, Marion Hirsch, Maura Holt-Ling, Alex Greene & Alan Reece)
Picture

Picture


COMMUNITY CHURCH CHOIR:
​Outdoor Hymn Sing & Choir Rehearsal
​

On April 14, 2021, nine members of our congregation
made music together out-of-doors as the "Masked and Vaxxed Choir."




MUSIC TEAM:
​
Annual Music Gala

On April 24, 2021, Over fifty members of our congregation
performed in the Annual Music Gala, ​a fundraiser
​for the Capital Campaign, entitled "MasqUUerade."
Picture

Picture

CAMPUS MINISTRY:
Northside Tour

On March 30, 2021, six Members of the Campus ministry took the Soundwalk Histories of Home: A Walk with Northside Neighbors, 
​sponsored by Marian Jackson Cheek Center for Community and Justice.





CHILDREN'S MINISTRY:

Special BUUddies Friendship Forum
​

 On February 28, 2021, forty-two members of our congregation met to celebrate together in the Friendship Forum, the culmination of the Special bUUddy Program, the month-long intergenerational program which connects friends of all ages.
Picture

Picture


​WELCOMING & CHILDREN'S MINISTRIES:

Hot Cocoa & Wheels Social

On February 21, 2021, thirty-five members of our congregation
​gathered for socially-distanced fun, fellowship and treats in the church parking lot.



​YOUTH MINISTRY TEAM:
"Fishbowl"
​

On February 19, 2021, seventeen members of our congregation played "Fishbowl", a dynamic and fun word game, which was an event offered
​in our 2020 Fall Auction.
Picture

Picture


BUILDING CONSTRUCTION TASK FORCE:
Carpet Patterns
​

On January 22,  2021, after much deliberation, the carpet patterns for the new building were selected by the Building Task Force design team: Josh Socolar, Anna Waller, Maggie Scarborough, Tracy Kuhlman and our valued in-house consultants Marion Hirsch and Briton Bieze. 
Photo by Brad Kosiba.




LIVING OUR COVENANT WITH INTENTION &
SPIRITUAL EXPLORATION FOR ADULTS:
Panel on Faith


​On January 24, 2021, three panelists from our congregation
shared their faith and answered questions .
Picture

Picture

​
WELCOMING MINISTRY:
Chai Social(-Distancing)

On January 17, 2021, 16 members of our congregation participated in the Chai Social, enjoyed delicious chai, fun and socially-distanced fellowship in the church parking lot.


​HOGWARTS MINISTRY:
​zUUle Ball

On January 2, 2021, 65 children, youth and adults participated in zUUle ball, a Hogwarts theme Yule Party on Zoom. All ages. Dancing, fortune telling, conversation. Proceeds go to Close the Gap.
Picture

Picture




​WORSHIP MINISTRY & BUILDING PROJECT:
Rev. Thom preaches in the new space
On December 26,  2020, Rev. Thom recorded his sermon in the new space! It was thrilling to see how far this vision for new, expanded and accessible space has come.







CHILDREN'S MINISTRY TEAM:
Solstice Lantern Walk

On December19,  2020, fifty parents, children, youth and friends gathered
for a socially-distanced lantern walk outside together at a member family's home to celebrate Winter Solstice.
Picture

Picture



FALL AUCTION EVENT:
Tiki Night!
​

​December 14, 2020: This Fall Auction event featured our talented treasurer, Andrew Wright, showing church members how to construct playful Tiki drinks over Zoom. It was absolutely "bananas"! 
​









WORSHIP MINISTRY:
2020 Holiday Service Project

​
The Worship Ministry's Annual Service Project usually accompanies the Greening and the Chili Supper. This year, they got creative and, combined with some physical distancing and good planning, the Worship Ministry, Quuilters and Community Clickers and others made gifts and cards, while still others purchased pajamas, gloves, socks, chocolate bars and more for the 14 women at HomeStart.
Picture

Picture




CONSTRUCTION TASK FORCE:
SITE VISIT


On November 10, 2020, Construction Task Force members Brad Kosiba, Anna Waller, Josh Socolar, Tracy Kuhlman and (behind camera) Maggie Scarborough made a visit to the church's construction site to observe the amazing progress!




​CHILDREN'S MINISTRY TEAM: 
Stuffie Sleepover Auction Event

On Saturday,  November 14, 2020, Children's Ministry hosted a "stuffed animal sleepover" at church. Each winner dropped off one special stuffed animal to represent one special child at this sleepover. The stuffed animals drank coffee (!), played Sardines, lit the chalice and ran on the pews (shoes off, of course).
Picture

Picture


WELCOMING MINISTRY:
Cider & Donut Social(-Distancing)

On November 8, 2020, twenty-five members of our congregation met outdoors and enjoyed fun, fellowship and cider & donuts from a safe distance.





BUILDING PROJECT TASK FORCE:

Laying the foundation


On October 23, 2020, Workers poured the concrete slab

for the “Gallery” and “porch” parts of our new building.
Picture

Picture







​CHILDREN'S MINISTRY:
Monthly Sunday Surprise Kits
​

On October 1, 2020, twelve families picked up Monthly Sunday Surprise Activity Kits for children.





COMING OF AGE:
Socially-Distanced Family Service

On October 3, 2020, thirty-two members of our congregation joined to hear eight youth share their belief statement "credos" with their families in the Courtyard ​to complete their Coming of Age program.
Picture

Picture




​SIDE WITH LOVE:
Phone Banking for the NAACP and Reclaim our Vote
​

On September 3, 2020, twenty-five church members made over 80 hours of phone calls to voter access-
 you can join here!








​BUILDING PROJECT:

Laying the Foundation


On September 16, 2020, workers tamp down the dirt around the foundation of our new space, which will have improved disabled access and increased space for Religious Education and more!
Picture

Picture





​CAMPUS FELLOWSHIP:
Socially-Distanced In The Arboretum

On August 25, 2020, seven members of the UNC Campus Fellowship met to build connection and community in a beautiful, natural environment
​(and in a safe way).




SIDE WITH LOVE:
Postcard Writing Party

On August 18, 2020, Nine volunteers came together to write postcards to voters in partnership with the NAACP and Reclaim the vote. Over 50 members wrote over 2,000 postcards in August!
Picture

Picture


YOUTH MINISTRY TEAM:
Hogwarts On The Hill

On August 8, 2020, over 70 adults, youth & children of The Community Church held a magical, community building event: the first hybrid (online and socially-distanced in-person) Hogwarts on the Hill!


Picture






SIDE WITH LOVE
On August 7, 2020, in collaboration with The North Carolina NAACP and Reclaim the Vote, over 46 members and church friends wrote over 2,000 postcards ​to help mobilize voters in August.


Picture



​BUILDING CONSTRUCTION TASK FORCE:
Weekly Construction Review Conference
​

On July 28, 2020, Contractor representatives met with Brad Kosiba, Ernie Wilkes and Maggie Scarborough of The Community Church Construction Task Force, as well as Andrew Wright and Bill Poteat of The Community Church Finance Task Force to discuss details of the Building Project, which includes more disability access. Gail McKinley (photo)

Picture



IMMIGRANT JUSTICE INITIATIVE: 
NEW FAMILY IN THE MANSE 

The Immigrant Justice Initiative at The Community Church welcomed a family of asylum-seekers to live in the Manse on July 21, 2020, joining Yeimy. Oscar, Gaby and their children Jeziel, 8, and Angelina, 4, had been living with a former member of our church at her home in Chatham County for the past year. As a welcome gift to the new family, we presented them with quilts from the qUUilters. Church members also donated bicycles, and Mike Gilliom made sure they were road-ready with all the needed accessories. (Photo by Mike)


Picture



OUTDOOR CONNECTIONS: 
​12 KAYAKERS KEEP SIX FEET APART


On Friday, July 3, 2020, more than a dozen members of our church participated in a sunset paddle on Jordan Lake. Kayakers practiced social distancing in this relaxing, community-building event sponsored by Outdoor Connections.

Picture
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION:
ANTIRACIST PICTURE BOOK CLUB
​

​On July 8, 2020, children participated in the first meeting of the Antiracist Picture Book Club - a weekly storytime and small group discussion that centers BIPOC authors and illustrators and features Black and Brown lives and voices. This week,  we read Earth Mother (by Ellen Jackson illustrated by Leo and Diane Dillon),  a beautiful story about our interconnectedness. Next on the reading list is, A is for Activist (written and illustrated by Innosanto Nagara).

For more information about the Antiracist Picture Book Club or programming for children and youth, contact Marion Hirsch here.


Picture





BUILDING PROJECT:
GROUNDBREAKING!

Ground-breaking for construction of the new building was officially launched on June 23, 22020, with Rev. Thom posing for traditional photo-op at the excavator's helm.

See weekly updates via the Building Project webpages here.







CHILDREN'S MINISTRY:
DONNA WASHINGTON STORYTELLING EVENT 

On may 23, 2020, many church families with young children enjoyed a Zoom storytelling event with church member and professional storyteller, Donna Washington.
Picture

Picture
 



COMMUNITY SERVICE MINISTRY:
INTER-FAITH COUNCIL FOR SOCIAL SERVICES (IFC)


April 30, 2020: The Community Church is a founding church of the Inter-Faith Council for Social Services (IFC), and every month, volunteers from our church feed the hungry. Here, Jami Alexander (wearing a mask made by church member Susie Hafer) is bringing a carload of delicious pastries for IFC's Community House, a 24-hour residential facility for homeless men. Learn more about IFC here. Learn how to help here.

 



CHILDREN'S MINISTRY:
SPECIAL BUUDDIES
On February 9, 2020: Special bUUddies Breakfast brings children and adults together for a morning of friendship, food and fun. There were twenty adult "buuddies", twenty children, fifteen youth and parent volunteers!
Picture

Picture


​COMING OF AGE:
HISTORIC THOUSANDS ON JONES STREET

On 2/8/2020, six teens from our church marched in
​the Historic Thousands on Jones Street demonstration in Raleigh.





CHILDREN'S & YOUTH MINISTRY:
MAGIC: THE GATHERING
Over 25 children, youth and adults attended the first church Magic: The Gathering meeting on January 25, 2020;  all ages played Magic together for many hours.
Picture

Picture






​FALL AUCTION EVENT:
AN EVENING OF JAZZ 

On January 20, 2020, over twenty members of our congregation enjoyed  An Evening of Jazz with Erich Lieth at the home of Jeanne Lemkau
The music was great. Participants couldn't sit still!



​
THE COMMUNITY CHURCH CHOIR:
SINGS AT THE CHAPEL HILL-CARRBORO INTERFAITH MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY SERVICE 

On January 20, 2020,  more than 40 members of the Community Church attended  this inspirational event at First Baptist Church, including 6th- and 7th-graders ​in the Neighboring Faiths Class with their families.
Picture

Picture






​GECKOS  (and a salamander!) AT CHURCH!
Thanks to Cassidy Sexton for sharing her geckos and salamander on 1/12 during Religious Education. She shared her expertise and her critters with more than 50 children on Sunday  morning.


Picture







​CHILDREN'S MINISTRY:
​DONNA WASHINGTON STORYTELLING

After Children's Family Dinner on Saturday, January 11,
over 65 people of all ages enjoyed professional storyteller & Community Church Member, Donna Washington, regaling them with stories.


Picture









YUUle Ball 2020
Over 160 witches and wizards danced the night away at the YUUle Ball
on January 3, 2020. More than $1000 was raised to Close the Gap. 


Picture






 UNC UU FELLOWSHIP:
END-OF-SEMESTER DINNER

December 10, 2019 - celebrating the graduation of co-chair Rachel Raasch and the end of classes.



Picture
 





 CHILDREN'S MINISTRY: NIFTY GIFTY
On Saturday December 7,  2019, twenty-one church children at "Nifty Gifty"
make and wrap homemade gifts for family and friends for the holiday season.


Picture


ECO: MEGA-RECYCLING EVENT  
On November 17, 2019, about 25 church member households brought items n longer usable to be recycled, as well as the music, concert and buildings and grounds committees which cleared large amount of items from stage right and a storage shed.  Items were picked up by Anything With a Plug, a Raleigh-based company which recycles items in an environmentally sound way, and locally whenever possible.


Picture


CAMPUS   FELLOWSHIP
FRIENDSGIVING


On October 27, 2019, nine young adults of The UU Campus Fellowship at UNC celebrated their annual "Friendsgiving" Dinner with turkey and all the traditional fixings.


Picture




     OUTDOOR CONNECTIONS
          10/26/19: Enjoying a banner year for falling leaves and falling water!


Picture




CAMPUS FELLOWSHIP:
CAMPING TRIP


The UU Campus Fellowship at UNC-CH celebrates the beginning of fall break
​with a camping trip at Jordan Lake on October 12th, 2019.


Picture

Picture



COMMUNITY SERVICE MINISTRY:
EL CENTRO BRUNCH


On Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, the Community Service Ministry hosted a brunch to benefit the Center for Education and Leadership (Workers Center) at El Centro Hispano.  All proceeds will go towards helping to fund a storage shed where the workers can safely store their tools and equipment.  Approximately 70 folks enjoyed delicious buffet dishes prepared by church members and were serenaded by the music of Erich Lieth and Pablo Valencia of Saludos Compay.


Picture

Picture




WomenCircle  STORYTELLING
Award-winning storyteller, Donna Washington, led the WomenCircle program on Friday, September 6, 2019, telling stories of the Maiden, Mother, and Crone. Participants then broke into pairs to tell stories about significant women in their lives. Thirty women with ages spanning seven decades took part in the program.


Picture

Picture




COMMUNITY CHURCH CHOIRS SING THE NATIONAL ANTHEM
On Saturday, August 31, 2019, members from our church's choral ensembles, under the direction of Glenn Mehrbach, sang The Star Spangled Banner before the Durham Bulls game. Approximately 40 members of community rooted for the home team and enjoyed the post-game fireworks display.


Picture

Picture

Picture

Picture

Picture

Picture

Picture

Picture

Picture

Picture


HOGWARTS  ON  THE  HILL
On July 19-20, 2019, we held our third Hogwarts on the Hill camp. Nearly 50 children and youth as well dozens of adult volunteers participated. The Community Church was transformed into Hogwarts and our young wizards-in-training practiced spells, potions, care of magical creatures, and much more. In the photo the sorting hat determines the house assignment of one of our young wizards. (Photo credit: Jon van Ark.)


Picture

Picture

Picture

Picture


WHITE  ALLIES  TOOLKIT

On Sunday, April 14, nearly 20 members of 
The Community Church attended the
"White Allies Toolkit" workshop, 
led by Dr. David Campt at Kehillah Synagogue.
Those attending learned practical skills for challenging and disrupting racism
and having better conversations about racism. The Community Church was proud
to co-host this event.


Picture


SANCTUARY FOR DIALOGUE
March 30:  members after a Better Angels Skills Workshop (Talking Across the Political Divide) at Croasdaile Village retirement community, where there is significant tension between liberal and conservative residents.  The stars were added by a resident to express appreciation! 23 Croasdaile residents attended!


Picture



FIRST-EVER DAY OF SERVICE

On March 2, over 250 members of The Community Church congregation gathered to serve the greater community by participating in over 14 Service Projects. From building "Little Free Libraries" to helping to feed food-insecure children in Chapel Hill and Carrboro, and more - the people of our church worked together
to serve others. It was a huge success!


Picture



SPECIAL BUUDDY BREAKFAST, 2/10

Friendships across the generations are formed at the annual bUUddy breakfast. Church children and adults are paired and correspond for weeks and then it programs culminates in a fun morning of shared breakfast and activities.


Picture



BETTER  ANGELS  STATE  OF  THE  UNION

On January 31, the Sanctuary for Dialogue ministry hosted a watch party for David Blankenhorn's Better Angels State of the Union address.
Sanctuary for Dialogue partners with Better Angels to facilitate community conversations, in the Triangle and beyond, designed to de-polarize Americans.


Picture





2019  NAACP  MLK  SERVICE

On Monday, January 21, the Community Church Choir sang at the Chapel Hill/Carrboro NAACP's annual service celebrating the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The Community Church's participation in the service
is a long-standing tradition.


Picture






HELPING  HANDS  HELP  HABITAT
On January 13th, Church children learned about The Community Church's 23-year participation in Habitat for Humanity. The youth learned about how the homes are built and painted welcoming messages on insulation baffles
for our 23rd Habitat build!


Picture



  • MEGA-RECYCLE  EVENT  A  SUCCESS
  • Many thanks from ECO! About 80 households participated and extra volunteers appeared to help both Sunday and Monday, 1/13 & 1/4/19. Everyone was of such good spirit. Some useable items were donated. Also, Rachel repurposed an item for the office, building/ground crew rescued a cart to use and youth ministry scavenged a few items for a "maker" activity. The recycler was happy with the load and all of us can be proud of keeping so much out of landfills. Well done, everyone!


Picture


NAACP  SWEARING-IN CEREMONY

On December 17, leaders of the Chapel Hill/Carrboro NAACP were sworn in during a ceremony led by Senator Valerie Foushee.
Our minister, Rev. Thom Belote, who chairs the Religious Affairs Committee, took part in the ceremony, joining the Executive Committee of the local NAACP chapter.
The Religious Affairs Committee is currently hard at work planning the annual MLK service.


Picture


DECKING  THE  HALLS


The annual Greening of the Church, held on December 1,was a time of joyful community.
Activities included decorating the Sanctuary for the holidays, wreath-making,
a delicious chili supper with cornbread and eggnog, and a lively singing of Christmas carols led by our fabulous 16-piece ukulele ensemble, the UUkes!

The Greening again included a Service Project: the creation of 14 bountiful baskets
with care items and holiday treats for residents of the local women's shelter
as well as 8 bags overflowing with warm winter clothing.


Picture


LET'S   TALK  TRANS


As we mark our 15th anniversary as an LGBTQ Welcoming Congregation, our church hosted Let's Talk Transon Thursday, November 29. Ames Simmons, Director of Transgender Policy at Equality NC, spoke, providing an overview of gender identity and answering questions about how to be more welcoming and combat transphobia.


Picture

CHURCHWIDE  THANKSGIVING  POTLUCK


On November 22,  Members of The Community Church,
along with family and friends, celebrated Thanksgiving 2018 with a huge array of food and fellowship. Folks who have been part of this community for years, UUs from out of town - all had a festive time.  And,  all helped clean up afterward!


Picture


VISIT  TO  STEWART  DETENTION  CENTER

On November 10-11, a group from North Carolina, including Rev. Thom and two Members of The Community Church, traveled to Lumpkin, Georgia, to visit immigrants detained at the Stewart Detention Center. We worked in conjunction with El Refugio, an organization providing support to detainees and their families. The trip was organized through FaithAction House in Greensboro.


Picture



BLESSING  OF  THE  ANIMALS
On Sunday, November 4, The Community Church of Chapel Hill held a Blessing of the Animals Service. People of all ages were joined in the service by lots and lots of dogs and a couple of intrepid cats. The service celebrated our connection with our animal companions and a few dogs delighted everyone by howling along to the hymns.


Picture




​VOTER  ENGAGEMENT  DRIVE
On the weekend of October 19-21, Community Church hosted a busload of UUs from the Reeb Project of All Souls Unitarian Church in Washington D.C. Our guests were paired with members of our church, trained by You Can Vote and Democracy NC, and sent all around the Triangle to help with voter education and get-out-the-vote efforts.  Countless volunteers helped make the weekend a success with home hospitality and providing a potluck dinner on Saturday evening.


Picture








VOTER OUTREACH,
FOOD & FELLOWSHIP

October 20: After a full day working for voting rights with the Reeb Project,
visitors from All Souls Unitarian (DC) enjoyed a dinner prepared by members of The Community Church.

feeding the future

On Tuesday, October 9 a group of 10 members of our church's Community Service Ministry took part in a bagging party at TABLE in Carrboro. The group packed 200 backpacks of food for hungry students in our community.
Picture

uukes perform at hurricane shelter

Picture
When a member of the UUkes, the ukulele ensemble
hosted at The Community Church, learned that dozens of evacuees from Hurricane Florence were being sheltered at the Bill and Ida Friday Center
in Chapel Hill, she sprang to action. On Monday, September 24, the 26-piece uke ensemble played a show for the people in the shelter.


ALL-CHURCH PICNIC

On September 8th, folks of all ages came together
to share, eat, play and relax at the annual All-Church Picnic.
A delicious potluck dinner was followed by traditional family games:
Tug of War,  Three-Legged Race and Sack Races.
It was a wonderful way to bring our community together
​to start the church year.


Picture

Picture

LETTER-WRITING CAMPAIGN


On September 2nd,  members came to the ECO table
during Coffee Hour to write letters to Governor Cooper in opposition to the Atlantic Coast Pipeline.



​our church choir sings national anthem

After clowning around with Wooly Bull, the Community Church Choir
knocked it out of the park while singing the National Anthem at the
Durham Bulls game on Saturday, September 1.
The Bulls went on to win the game, 12-9.
Picture

Picture






                                              Flaming ChalicES          End Season With A Win

On Sunday, August 19, the Community Church's church league softball team, the Flaming Chalices, won their last game of the season playing against the United Church of Chapel Hill.
With players ranging in age from teens to folks in their 70s, the softball team is an opportunity for intergenerational bonding and good fun!

CHALICE CAMP








​Church children enjoyed a week of Chalice Camp
August 6-10 exploring UU values, playing games,
creating a play, and going on field trips.
Picture

Picture

hogwarts on the hill

On the weekend of July 27-29, The Community Church was transformed into Hogwarts for a Harry Potter-themed camp. More than 50 children and 60 adults took part in the experience which included a great feast, sorting in the four Hogwarts houses and magical classes.



Habitat House
Dedication

Community Church members turned out on Friday, May 25 to dedicate the Tengono family's completed Habitat house. Our QUUilters presented the family with two lap quilts. As a part of Building Hope we have partnered with other faith communities to build a house each year for the past 22 years. This year's house was made possible in part by the Joe Farinola Memorial Fund and we dedicated our work on the house to his memory.
Habitat House Dedication
click to enlarge

Members of the Community Service Ministry volunteer for TABLE
click to enlarge

volunteering for table

On Tuesday, May 5, members of the Community Service Ministry joined with others in filling bags at TABLE with shelf stable foods for children at risk for hunger in Carrboro/Chapel Hill schools.  Later in the week another shift added fresh fruits and produce to the bags which were then delivered to these kids at their schools and after school programs.  TABLE is currently serving over 650 children weekly!

shelter neck family retreat

13th Annual Shelter Neck Family Retreat--April 27-29.
Church families gathered at Shelter Neck UU Camp in Burgaw for a relaxing weekend of food, fellowship, campfires, games and a talent show. 
Shelter Neck retreat
click to enlarge

NAACP Dinner 2018
click to enlarge

naacp dinner

NAACP Freedom Fund Dinner April 28, 2018
The Community Church hosted a table at the Chapel Hill Carrboro NAACP  annual Freedom Fund Dinner.  We enjoyed a fun and inspiring evening of fellowship and inspiration including a terrific keynote address from Anita Earls. 

2018 music gala

On April 21 Community Church held our annual Music Gala, titled "Big BlUUe Marble: the earth in song." Favorites like Danny Gotham, the UUkes, both of our adult choirs, and many others performed, with music spanning styles and generations, including original songs and arrangement created specifically for the occasion. Funds raised will go towards music and sound equipment upgrades, including a new digital hearing assist system.
Ruth Gibson as
click to enlarge

C3HUU singers at SECU House
click to enlarge

Musicians Visit SECU House

A group of musicians from the Community Church visited SECU House on April 16. SECU House provides comfort, hospitality, and respite for patients and their families who travel long distances to receive treatment at UNC Medical Center. Our church shared the gift of music with the residents there. 

SYRIAN DINNER

The Sanctuary & Immigrant Support Ministry hosted a delicious and successful fundraising dinner at the church on Saturday, April 14. A Syrian refugee family catered the dinner and speakers talked about the services both available and needed within the refugee community. Funds raised went to compensate the caterer and support an organization that works with refugees in the Triangle.
More about the sanctuary and refugee support ministry
Syrian Dinner at The Community Church
click to enlarge

Community Church representing at the Raleigh March For Our Lives
click to enlarge

March for Our Lives

Dozens of young people and adults from the Community Church traveled to Raleigh joining thousands from across the state on Saturday, March 24 to attend the March for Our Lives and to call  for meaningful and responsible public policy to address gun violence in our nation.
youth and children's ministry info

Actor Joey Collins at Community Church

On Sunday, March 4, actor Joey Collins - starring in Playmaker's productions of The Christians and Tartuffe - joined us for worship at The Community Church. He performed a scene from The Christians and also told a story about how he came to question a belief in hell. You can hear the sermon here.


link to sermon on youtube
Joey Collins at Community Church

Capital Campaign kickoff celebration
click to enlarge

Campaign Kicks Off with Dinner and a Show

A large crowd attended a church party on Saturday, February 25 to kick off the combined Capital Campaign and Annual Pledge Drive. Festivities included a taco bar prepared by our high school youth, homemade donuts for dessert, and a wonderful talent show featuring talented church musicians of all ages as well as a magic performance

We Are a Sanctuary Church!

On February 18, our church held a congregational meeting to vote to become a Sanctuary Congregation. The vote passed and was met with cheers and applause. To learn more about Sanctuary - or to get involved - visit the website of the Sanctuary & Immigrant Support Ministry.

SANCTUARY SUPPORT MINISTRY
picture of a sanctuary church banner

Students from the UNC campusminitry led services on February 18

Campus Ministry Gives Us Hope

On Sunday, February 18 the UU Campus Ministry at UNC led our worship service. The service included three mini-sermons by members of the Campus Ministry as well as poems, meditations, and readings. The service ended with a joyous singing of "Tomorrow" from the musical "Annie." The Campus Ministry meets weekly in the Student Union during the school year and the Campus Ministry service is an annual highlight.

CAMPUS MINISTRY INFO

Community Church Choir Sings at Playmakers

On February 17 and 18, the Community Choir Choir, under the direction of Glenn Mehrbach, appeared in Playmakers' production of "The Christians." The play tells the story of a schism that occurs in a church when the senior pastor becomes a Universalist. Rev. Thom will preach about the play on March 4.

MUSIC PROGRAM
Community Church Choir performs in Playmakers'
click to enlarge

Church members march at the HK on J rally
click to enlarge

Community Church Shows Up for HKonJ

Dozens of members of the Community Church braved the rain in downtown Raleigh on Saturday, February 10 to attend the Forward Together Movement's annual Historic Thousands of Jones Street (HKonJ) march and rally. The Forward Together Movement articulates and promotes a moral vision for our state that includes voting rights, care for the poor, public education, women's rights, LGBTQ rights, and environmental justice.

rehearsing for "the Christians"

The Community Church Choir, under the direction of Glenn Mehrbach, will be one of six local choirs appearing on stage for Playmakers' production of "The Christians." "The Christians" portrays a church conflict that erupts when the pastor tells the congregation that he no longer believes in Hell. Our choir will be singing in the show on February 17 and 18 and on March 8-10.
More about our music program
Rehearsing for
click to enlarge

Guest Minister Rev. Paul Davis
click to enlarge

Rev. Paul Davis Guest Preaches at Community Church

Rev. Paul Davis, minister at the Congregational UCC Church in Greensboro, was our guest preacher on Sunday, January 21. Rev. Davis preached about his congregation's experience welcoming Minerva Cisneros Garcia and Oscar Canales into sanctuary. You can hear the whole sermon here.

Community Church Shows Up For Annual MLK Service

Nearly 50 members of the Community Church were present for the Chapel Hill / Carrboro NAACP's annual service commemorating the life of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. held at First Baptist Church on January 15. Our Community Church Choir with Glenn Mehrbach directing contributed a choral anthem during the service. And, our own Rev. Thom, serving as the chair of the Religious Affairs Committee of the NAACP took a leading role in planning the service.
Chapel Hill/Carrboro MLK Day service
click to enlarge

Students at the Racial Equity Institute Workshop
click to enlarge

Campus Ministry attends Racial Equity Institute Workshop


On January 12 and 13, six members of our Campus Ministry were among 30 other community member participating in Organizing Against Racism's training.
More About Campus Ministry

43,851 Reasons to be Grateful

The Share the Plate program, which schedules Sunday collections for local organizations that reflect our values, is proud to announce that a record $43,851 was raised in 2017. These funds went to organizations like Planned Parenthood, the Interfaith Council for Social Services, El Centro Hispano, and many others. Click here to see a list of all of the organizations we supported in 2017. We are amazed by our church's extraordinary generosity!

Music Director Glenn Mehrbach leads the Community Church Choir in the holiday performance of Bach's
click to enlarge

Magnificat Magnificent

The Community Church Choir and Music Director Glenn Mehrbach created a beautiful choir service on Sunday, December 17. Accompanied by a 16-piece orchestra our choir sang a stunning and moving rendition of J.S. Bach's Magnificat.

Holiday Fun at Grinch Night

A large crowd of children, their families, and others feeling young at heart enjoyed Grinch Night, an annual tradition at Community Church, on Friday, December 15. Scott Provan reprised his role as the Grinch offering an enthusiastic reading of the classic story by Dr. Seuss. Following the performance the congregation joined in singing Christmas carols.
Scott Provan as The Grinch
click to enlarge

Community church members at the Habitat for Humanity build site
click to enlarge

Community Service Ministry Takes Habitat to Lunch

On Saturday, December 16, our church's Community Service Ministry provided lunch to the team working at the Habitat for Humanity site in Efland. Our church is part of an interfaith team working to construct a home for Gerardo and Ilail Tengono. This year's project is extra special as it is being built to honor the memory of Joe Farinola.
More About habitat

Rev. Thom Attends National Interfaith Clergy Witness

On December 14, the fifth anniversary of the shootings at Sandy Hook elementary in which 20 children and 6 adults were killed, Rev. Thom Belote joined religious leaders from around the country at the National Interfaith Clergy Witness outside the NRA headquarters in Fairfax, VA. The witness mourned the tens of thousands firearm deaths each year in the United States and issued a moral call for reasonable and responsible gun laws in our country.
Rev. Thom at the interfaith clergy witness in Fairfax, VA
click to enlarge
Inetfaith Clergy Witness in Fairfax, VA
click to enlarge

The Community Church campus ministry celebrates last day of class
click to enlarge

Campus Ministry Celebrates LDOC

The Unitarian Universalist Campus Fellowship at UNC celebrated the last day of class by going out to an Indian restaurant on Franklin Street. After dinner the church presented each of the students a care package for finals. These care packages, filled with snacks and joyful items, were created by one of the covenant groups in our church.

Holiday Baskets
for HomeStart

At the Greening on December 2, volunteers assembled nearly 20 holiday care baskets for women staying at the Inter Faith Council's HomeStart shelter. Each basket included an assortment of personal care items and a homemade scarf knitted by the Community Clickers.
Volunteers put together holiday baskets for the HomeStart shelter
click to enlarge

Hanging garlands at the Greening of the Church
click to enlarge
UUkes perform at the Greening of the Church
click to enlarge

Holiday Fun at the Greening

Nearly 150 members of our church community took part in the annual Greening of the Church held on December 2. After decking the halls of the church, creating wreaths, and assembling baskets for HomeStart we enjoyed a chili supper, sipped egg nog, and our UU Ukelele group led us in singing our favorite Christmas songs.

Community Church Talks Turkey

On November 20 and 21, Sanctuary for Dialogue hosted two evenings of trainings to help people to learn how to have better conversations across the political divide. Utilizing material from Better Angels, these "Let's Talk Turkey" workshops helped participants learn how to listen better and be more effective at articulating their own values.

More About Sanctuary For Dialogue
Sanctuary for Dialogue group in action
click to enlarge

click to enlarge

Community Church Performs "Oliver!"

A cast and crew spanning the generations produced and performed the musical Oliver! at the Community Church of Chapel Hill on November 17-19. In response to the themes of poverty and abuse included in the musical, we raised over $1,000 for the Durham Crisis Response Center over the weekend. Beginning 10 years ago with our first church musical, we have produced a musical every other year.

Services Auction a Super Success

There was an abundance of Fellowship, Fun-raising, and Fund-raising at our annual Service Auction on Saturday, November 11. (Left) Attendees making their bids during the silent auction. (Right) Attendees pose with our fabulous auctioneer, Donna "The Peacock" Washington. Thanks to Susan and Don Blanchard, our Auction co-chairs for organizing our largest fellowship and fundraising event of the year!
Crowd placing bids at the Service Auction
click to enlarge
Attendees pose with our fabulous auctioneer, Donna
click to enlarge

Community Church members at the Better Angels training workshop
click to enlarge

Community Church Sends Team to "Better Angels" Training

Eight members of our church's Sanctuary for Dialogue team attended a two-day training with the organization "Better Angels" on November 10-11. Better Angels is an organization seeking to de-polarize Americans by training them in how to talk and listen across the blue-red divide.

Eric Bannan Plays Benefit Concert

On November 3 church member Eric Bannan performed a concert celebrating the release of his new album "You Are Welcome Here." Funds raised from the concert went to support the Movement to End Racism and Islamophobia (MERI.) Concertgoers enjoyed two sets of music from Eric and at intermission enjoyed sweet and savory fare catered by Hana Jabr, a Syrian refugee living in our community.
Eric Bannon performs at The Community Church
click to enlarge

Puerto Rican flag

Record Share the Plate for Puerto Rico

Our Share the Plate on Sunday, October 29 raised funds for disaster relief in Puerto Rico following Hurricanes Irma and Maria. That morning our special offering raised $3,145 for Unidos Por Puerto Rico / United for Puerto Rico, our largest Share the Plate collection to date. (Our Share the Plate program donates our Sunday collection twice a month to organizations that support our values. Each year we raise about $35,000 through Share the Plate.) 

SHARE THE PLATE PROGRAM

Rehearsals For "Oliver!" Enter Final Stretch

With just two weeks left until opening night, rehearsals for the musical "Oliver!" are heating up. Here is a clip of Scott Provan as "Fagin" rehearsing a scene with Fagin's Gang. "Oliver!" runs November 17-19 in the Sanctuary of the Community Church.

"OLIVER!" INFO AND TICKETS

Walking the Labyrinth at Camp New Hope
click to enlarge

Community Church Holds Labyrinth Walking Class

Members of Rev. Thom's Labyrinth Walking class walked local labyrinths on three consecutive Sunday afternoons this fall. The class visited labyrinths at UNC Hospital, Carol Woods, and Camp New Hope. Click the link below to view other offerings through the Spiritual Exploration for Adults program.

more info on SEA

High School Youth Group Habitat for Humanity

Members of the high school youth group volunteered with Habitat for Humanity on Saturday, September 30. The Community Church of Chapel Hill is currently working on the 22nd Habitat house that we've helped build.

MORE ABOUT YOUTH PROGRAMS
High School Youth Group volunteering for Habitat
click to enlarge

Middle School retreat at Shelter Neck
click to enlarge

Shelter Neck Retreat for Middle Schoolers

The Middle School Youth Group enjoyed a weekend retreat at Shelter Neck from 9/22-9/24. Highlights included trips to the beach and aquarium, a workshop on non-violent communication, Smoreos (S'mores + Oreos), and a magical creature costume contest (pictured.) Shelter Neck is a Universalist-owned retreat center near the NC coast.

Community Church
Sends Team to Sanctuary Matters Conference

On Saturday, September 16, our church sent a team to the Sanctuary Matters: Testimony and Best Practices conference held at United Church of Chapel Hill. More than 150 people from more than 20 congregations in the Triangle attended the conference. Follow the link below to learn more about the Sanctuary and Immigrant Support Ministry at Community Church.

Sanctuary and Refugee Support Ministry
Sanctuary Matters: Testimony and Best Practices conference
click to enlarge

Community Church Annual Picnic
click to enlarge
Community Church Annual Picnic
click to enlarge

Annual Picnic was Fun, Fun, Fun

One of the highlights at the beginning of every the church year is our annual All-Church Picnic, held at Camp New Hope on September 9. Participants enjoyed a potluck meal, played games including the popular "Tug-o-War," and finished the evening with a campfire.

Community Church Hosts MERI

The justice organization MERI (Movement to End Racism and Islamophobia) held its quarterly meeting at the Community Church of Chapel Hill on Tuesday, August 29 with our members serving as hosts. Participants shared a meal and planned justice events for the fall.
Meeting of the Movement to End Racism and Islamophobia group

UNC Campus Fellowship meeting
click to enlarge

UU Campus Fellowship @UNC

With the start of a new semester the Unitarian Universalist Campus Fellowship is back and resuming weekly meetings. The Community Church has sponsored a campus ministry program on UNC's campus since 1998. UNC students are invited to join us each Wednesday during the semester at 5:00 in a meeting room in the Student Union. Fellowship plus bread, hummus, and cookies every week!

MORE ABOUT UNC CAMPUS FELLOWSHIP

Welcome Blanket

On Sunday, August 20, the Community Clickers displayed the blanket their group created as part of the Welcome Blanket project. The blanket will be sent to the Smart Museum in Chicago where it will be displayed this fall and then gifted to a newly arrived immigrant family.
Info on Community Clickers
The Community Clickers display their Welcome Blanket
click to enlarge

Sanctuary and Refugee Support Ministry
click to enlarge

Sanctuary & Refugee Support Ministry

This photo is from the August 17 meeting of the Sanctuary & Refugee Support Ministry. This group, formed last spring, has been building momentum by providing direct service to Latino immigrants and refugees from Syria, partnering with other congregations and organizations, and attending events related to Sanctuary and immigration justice. 
Info on Sanctuary Ministry

Hogwarts on the Hill

August 11-13, 2017,  over 50 children, youth and adults gathered to create a Hogwarts mini-camp.  Pictured here is Headmistress Selden Holt presiding over the opening feast.  There was sorting, Defense Against the Dark Arts, Herbology, Quidditch skills, wand making, butterbeer and fun for all.
Seldon Holt as Headmistress at Hogwarts on the Hill camp
click to enlarge

Community Church Choir at Durham Bulls game
click to enlarge

Community Church Choir at Durham Bulls

On Thursday, August 10, the Community Church Choir performed the National Anthem at the Durham Bulls Athletic Park and then stuck around to root, root root, for the Bulls! The Community Church Choir rehearses every Wednesday evening in the Straley Room. Contact Glenn Mehrbach for more information.
Info on Music Program

Outreach by Peace and Justice Committee

On August 9 The Peace and Justice Committee commemorated Hiroshima and Nagasaki Days with a viewing of the documentary PICTURES FROM A HIROSHIMA SCHOOLYARD  and a performance from the Raging Grannies.
The raging Grannies perform at the Peace and Justice Comittee's outreach event
click to enlarge

Picture

Race Matters

Five youth from the congregation were participants in the Race Matters Training, August 5-6 at Carrboro High School. The Racial Equity Institute workshop was sponsored by Orange Organizing Against Racism. The Community Church, in addition to sending youth, also helped organize and sponsor this event.  

ECO Committee
Movie Night

On August 4, 2017, members and friends of ECO, the church’s environmental committee, went together to see Al Gore’s movie, An Inconvenient Sequel: Truth to Power. 
Info on ECO
ECO Committee movie night
click to enlarge

Community Church Chalice Camp
click to enlarge

Chalice Camp = Summer Fun

Church children enjoyed a week of Chalice Camp July 31-August 4 exploring UU values, playing games, creating a play and doing service projects and going on field trips.
Children & Youth Program

Tim Tyson Visits
Community Church

Those attending the Spiritual Education for Adults (SEA) book discussion of “The Blood of Emmett Till” on Sunday, July 23, got a special treat: a surprise visit from author Tim Tyson. Dr. Tyson reflected on his experience of writing the book, its reception when it was published six months ago, and the continuing relevance of Emmett Till in today’s social and political climate.
Info on SEA
Author Tim Tyson makes a surprise visit to the book group
click to enlarge

WomenCircle Clothing Exchange
click to enlarge

WomenCircle Clothing Exchange

July 2017 - WomenCircle Clothing Exchange when we brought our gently used clothes and exchanged for treasures from others. Great for home decluttering and lots of fun!

Info on WomenCircle

The Community Church
of Chapel Hill
Unitarian Universalist

106 Purefoy Road
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
  • HOME
  • GIVE
    • Annual Pledge Drive 2025-2026
    • Stewardship >
      • The Reverend charlie kast Ministerial Development Fund
      • The Endowment Fund: Supporting the Future of Our Congregational Mission >
        • Proposing a Project
        • Contribute to the Fund
        • Past Projects
        • What is the Fund
      • Qualified Charitable Distributions
    • Donate Now
  • Calendar
  • About Us
    • Building Use Policy
    • Contact Us
    • Our Minister
    • Our Staff
    • Our Governance >
      • Our Board of Trustees
      • Our Covenant
      • Our Mission and Vision
      • Our Strategic Plan
      • Our Bylaws
      • More About Our Governance
    • Committees and Ministries >
      • Caring Ministry
      • Living Our Covenant with Intention
      • Endowment Committee
      • Committee on Ministry
      • Finance Committee >
        • Sunday Counters
      • Worship Ministry
    • Our History >
      • Congregational Award Recipients
    • About Unitarian Universalism >
      • The Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA)
      • Our Beliefs
      • Unitarian Universalist History
      • Southeast District of the UUA >
        • Building On Our Legacy Capital Fund
  • Worship & Arts
    • Upcoming Services & Schedule
    • Recordings of Past Services >
      • Recording of Past Services
      • Wednesday Vespers
      • Sermon Archive Prior to March 2020
    • Music Ministry >
      • Community Church Choir
      • Music Gala 2025
      • CMS
      • CMS Program
      • 2021 Virtual Music Gala
      • 2020 Virtual Music Gala
      • Virtual Worship Music
      • Music Program
      • Community Church Singers
      • Children's Choir
      • Youth Music Ensemble
      • UUkes
      • Instrumentalists
      • Music Team
      • Music Gala
      • Musicals
      • Pageants
      • Choir Sundays
      • Concert Series
    • Art at Community Church >
      • Art in the Sanctuary >
        • Upcoming Art Exhibits
      • Art in the Commons
      • Past Art Exhibits
  • Newcomers
    • Welcome
    • What to Expect When You Visit
    • Visiting with Children and Youth
    • Map and Directions
    • The Path to Membership
    • How to Connect
  • Youth & Children
    • About Youth and Children's Ministry At The Community Church >
      • Program Philosophy
      • Helping Children and Youth Connect at Church
      • Parent Expectations
      • Program Leadership
      • Registration and Parent Cooperative >
        • Registration
        • Parent Cooperative Information
        • Parent Cooperative Requirement
    • Ready for RE, a visual guide
    • Children's Program
    • Youth Program >
      • Sunday Programs for youth
      • Bridging
      • Youth Staff Internship Program
      • Sarah Elizabeth Insch Church Youth Leadership Program >
        • Our Whole Lives (OWL) Sexuality Education
        • Insch Program History
        • Insch Program Description
        • Insch Associates
        • Insch Program Application
      • Coming of Age
    • Chalice Camp 2025
  • Justice & Service
    • Ongoing Racial Equity Work
    • Racial Justice Ministry
    • Racial Equity Challenges
    • Community Service Ministry >
      • Inter-Faith Council for Social Services (IFC)
      • Holiday Meals
      • School Supplies / Backpacks Drive
      • Charles House
      • Habitat For Humanity Outreach
      • Red Cross Blood Drives
      • TABLE
    • Eco Ministry for the Earth >
      • ECO-Helping the Environment
    • Immigrant Justice Initiative
    • Share the Plate
    • Side with Love Ministry
    • Charles M. Jones Peace & Justice Committee
  • Learning & Fellowship
    • Welcoming Ministry >
      • CONNECTIONS FAIR 2023
    • Buildings and Grounds
    • 20s and 30s Group
    • Annual Fall Auction >
      • Auction Resources
    • Community Church in Action >
      • Community Day of Service 2025
      • Community Day of Service 2024 Photos
      • Community Day of Service 2023
      • Community Day of Service 2023 Photos
      • Community Day of Service 2022 Photos
      • Community Day of Service 2022
      • Community Day of Service 2020 Photos
      • Community Day of Service 2019 Photos
    • Community Clickers >
      • Patterns and Instructions
      • Community Clickers - 2025 Projects
      • Community Clickers - 2024 Projects
      • Community Clickers - 2023 Projects
      • Community Clickers - 2022 Projects
      • Community Clickers - 2021 Projects
      • Community Clickers - 2020 Projects
      • Community Clickers - 2019 Projects
      • Community Clickers - 2018 Projects
      • Community Clickers - 2017 Projects
      • Community Clickers - 2016 Projects
    • qUUilters
    • Chalice Circles/Small Group Ministry
    • Flaming Chalices Softball
    • Outdoor Connections
    • Rare Women >
      • Resources for 2023-2024
      • Housing Options as We Age
      • Resources for Rare Women
    • Sanctuary for Dialogue >
      • Article II: Our Evolving Purposes, Principles, Sources, Values and Covenants
    • Spiritual Exploration for Adults (SEA) >
      • Summer Forum
      • Past SEA Classes and Programs
    • The Mountain Retreat
    • UNC Campus Fellowship
    • UU Non-Fiction Readers
    • WomenCircle
  • Members Only