Sunday Morning Book Discussion

This group meets every Sunday from 9 am to 10 am via zoom. Newcomers are always welcome.

Contact:                 Mary Galligan uuftsundaymorningbooks@gmail.com

Current book:  On Indigenuity: Learning the Lessons of Mother Earth by Daniel Wildcat

From the publisher’s website:

“Indigenuity, or Indigenous ingenuity, stems from an ancient idea and practice that Native peoples have engaged in for millennia. It was born of a careful mindfulness and attentiveness to our planet and all of its creatures, and a recognition that human experience is intertwined with all that surrounds us. As a society, we rarely pay attention to our land, air, and water, exacting a high price for all life on this planet. On Indigenuity is a call for us to learn a key lesson: it’s time to apply ancient Indigenous wisdom to solve modern problems. 

“The author, leading Indigenous thinker Daniel Wildcat, discusses some of the most important Native knowledge that is the foundation of science, the environment, biology, and our culture, arguing that restoration through the practice of Indigenuity is essential if we are to make progress toward saving our home.

“By surrounding ourselves with human creations, Wildcat contends that we have created an “insulated ignorance” for ourselves, and what we need to solve the problems of the twenty-first century is a different perspective. Drawing upon history, personal experiences, and extensive research, Wildcat invites readers on a profound journey of discovery, bridging the gap between how we’ve already tried to help our planet and the traditional Indigenous knowledge that could be the key to making a real difference.”

Sunday Forum

The UUFT Sunday Forum occurs once per month, at 9:00 am, in the Horace Mann room.  Each Forum is a presentation by a community member on a matter of Social Justice, Education and/or Politics.  In addition to UUFT members and friends, their guests and interested community members are welcome to attend.

Currently, the schedule of speakers is paused while we assess needs of our community. The meetings continue on the first Sunday of each month, and all Members and Friends are welcome to attend to discuss the future of the Forums.

June 1, 2025: Followup to the May Forum, “Can ART offer solace, comfort or relief during these trying times?”  Cathy Callen will provide Part 2, including some activities, and continuing the conversation.

May 4, 2025: Whether it’s visual or auditory, tactile, spoken or written, improvised or planned for weeks, the question is “Can ART offer solace, comfort or relief during these trying times?“

• What do you think?  
• How does it work?  
• What do other artists and creatives, like you, believe?

Join us this Sunday, May 4, at 9AM for the UUFT Forum to watch a short video on the topic and to participate in some provocative discussion with one another.

For additional information or to join the UUFT Sunday Forum committee, please contact gemonaco@gmail.com.

Past speakers:

December 1, 2024:  Karen Hiller, City Councilperson & Topeka United activist, on Topeka United’s  efforts to bring our community together and in particular the Mosaic Partners efforts.

November 3, 2024:  Anita Alexander, VP of Loud Light, on their efforts to increase voter turnout in Kansas for progressive causes.

October 6, 2024:  Bill Lucero, Ric Silber and more on Unitarian Universalists for Peace.

September 8, 2024:  Diana Carlin, to discuss her recent book about First Ladies

April 21, 2024: Wendy Guerra-Garcia & TaZaras Isom, Bilingual Outreach Coordinator & Community Engagement Manager, Topeka Habitat for Humanity

April 7, 2024: Carl Frazier, Executive Director, Topeka Center for Peace and Justice

March 3, 2024: Marge Ahrens, Community Organizer

February 4, 2024: Micah Kubic, Executive Director, Kansas ACLU

January 7, 2024: Andrew Howell, Election Commissioner, Shawnee County Election Commission

UU Women’s Group

We have a new home. It’s the Emily Stowe room, the RE room where the adolescents meet during service. The group needed larger quarters and finds the colorful atmosphere and “good vibes” to be a fine fit. Meetings are on 2nd and 4th Sundays at 12:30. Come early at 11:45 for social time—bring your own lunch. Contact suewestwind@gmail.com for information.