Here it is … a chance to engage UUs in the power of collective gathering … an opportunity to share the unconditional love and acceptance of our faith with a broader community ... and enjoy a spirited celebration for all ages. Its Huusier Paluuza! On Saturday, September 18, UU congregants will gather on the campus of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Indianapolis (UUI; 615 W. 43rd St.) for a camp-meeting style extravaganza will celebrate the "big tent" philosophy of our faith with hands-on family activities, youth/young adult worship, and a rock band, followed by a community meal. An exciting evening of dynamic music and worship will follow, featuring the preaching talents of three "firebrands:" Rev. Meg Barnhouse (www.megbarnhouse.com), Rev. Bill Breeden (UU Bloomington), and Rev. Stephen Sinclair (UUI). Music will be provided by the Celebration Choir (composed of singers from UU congregations and UUI neighbors), the UU Blues Gospel Band from UU Bloomington, and Thin Air (www.myspace.com/thinairindy5).

Leaders and members before us provided our sanctuary in the woods. Now is the time for all of us to step forward to save and revitalize it. As I write, many dedicated, hardworking and creative committee members (led by President-Elect Eleanor Johnson and subcommittee chairs Linda Gregory, Linda Hanson, and Judy Lowe) are planning the SOS (Save Our Sanctuary) capital campaign that begins during worship on August 29th. Please say yes when you are asked to participate in this effort to save the building we all love.

A Brief History

For the last several years the Property Maintenance (PM) Committee, the board, and all of us have known that we needed to stop the leaks, repair the water and raccoon damage, and secure the building. In the spring of 2009, our insurance carrier informed the board and PM Committee that without repairs we would lose our coverage. The board established a committee to evaluate the damage, consider options, and make a recommendation to the board.