June Share the Plate Partner is The Belonging Fund
June Share the Plate Partner is The Belonging Fund

The Belonging Fund was established by the Tennessee Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition, Conexión Americas, and Tennessee Justice For Our Neighbors, in conjunction with the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, and will be used to support families impacted by civil immigration enforcement operations in Middle Tennessee that began on May 4, 2025, and are ongoing. This fund will be responsive and evolving to the community's needs as determined by the founding organizations and will be flexible to adjust to the shifting policy landscape. 

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Community, Social JusticeKris ThresherGeneral Announcement
GNUUC Board Meeting Summary -May 2025
GNUUC Board Meeting Summary -May 2025

The GNUUC Board met on May 14, 2025, with all members present. 

The board reviewed the upcoming annual congregational meeting agenda, approving nominations for Nathaniel B. as President and Gabby D. as Director at Large, with Theresa, Jesse, and Claire up for re-election. They noted no Secretary nomination was received despite efforts by the nominating committee. The board discussed meeting procedures, including how to handle the slate vote, and confirmed a quorum requirement of 14 members.

The board unanimously approved the 2025-26 proposed budget presented by Jesse, which shows a balanced budget with plans to use $9,938 from contingency funds. Key budget elements include maintaining ministerial compensation in line with UUA guidelines, establishing a new lay pastoral care program with Rev. Michelle Peterson as consultant (4 hours/month), and temporarily suspending UUA Annual Program Fund contributions with hopes to make a contribution from the current year's surplus instead.

The board scheduled a transition meeting for June 18th to welcome new board members, and Claire reported on the Contract to Call Task Force progress. Board members also recognized the need to review bylaws in the coming year to better fit the congregation's current size and structure.

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GovernanceKris Thresher
A Message from Our Board President
A Message from Our Board President

Thank you to all who attended the Congregational Annual Meeting on Sunday, either in the sanctuary or via Zoom. It is your unceasing dedication that allows the mission of GNUUC to thrive.
I also want to thank GNUUC for choosing me to serve as your president for these past three years.

I have had the honor of working alongside some awesome folks on the Board, with a plethora of talents. Each one of you brought something unique and valuable to the table, every single meeting, and you all have found ways to keep GNUUC strong. I am awe-inspired… Nathanael, Caren, Ryan, Sandy, Theresa, Jesse, Eddie, Carol, Claire, and thank you to Rev. Denise for your continued thoughtful conversations and encouragement. 

One door is closing, and another will open for new opportunities of service with GNUUC. 

GNUUC is one of the most welcoming environments I have been a part of. I do think that we can carry this welcoming spirit to every person we come into contact with. You never know what someone is going through… a smile, a quick hello, or a wave might give that person the lift they need in that moment, and you will receive the same one day. That’s the way it works!

Tina

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Community, GovernanceKris Thresher
Sat., May 17, 10 AM - 7 PM: Visit Our Booth at the Bellevue Picnic
Sat., May 17, 10 AM - 7 PM: Visit Our Booth at the Bellevue Picnic

Join us at the Bellevue Picnic. Many members of the congregation have volunteered at our booth, which will be open 10 AM to 7 PM. Come by and visit us!

May 17th, 2025: Bellevue Picnic

In the recreational area behind Bellevue Middle School

10 am until 9:30 pm!

655 Colice Jeanne Road Nashville, TN 37221

To learn more about the Bellevue Picnic, visit: https://www.bellevueharpethchamber.com/bellevue-community-picnic/

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CommunityKris Thresher
May 2025 Share the Plate:  Free Hearts | Support for those Impacted by Incarceration
May 2025 Share the Plate:  Free Hearts | Support for those Impacted by Incarceration

This month we are honored to share our offering with Free Hearts, a Tennessee-based organization led by formerly incarcerated women. Rooted in Nashville, Free Hearts works to support and reunite families impacted by incarceration through education, advocacy, and grassroots organizing.

In partnership with the National Bail Out collective, Free Hearts is participating in the 2025 campaign to free as many Black mothers and caregivers as possible in time for Mother’s Day—offering not only release, but reunion, dignity, and healing.

Free Hearts also leads Nashville’s Participatory Defense Hub, a powerful community initiative where families and loved ones come together each week to learn about the court system and advocate for justice. Since 2017, these efforts have resulted in more than 1,100 years of incarceration avoided—a testament to the transformative power of collective care and resistance.

Your generosity today helps Free Hearts continue this vital work: reuniting families, shifting power within the criminal legal system, and imagining a world where love and liberation prevail.

To learn more about Free Hearts, visit https://freeheartsorg.com/.

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Community, Social JusticeKris ThresherGeneral Announcement
Annual Stewardship Campaign: $11,640 to Go! Please Fill Out Pledge Form
Annual Stewardship Campaign: $11,640 to Go! Please Fill Out Pledge Form

Dear Members and Friends,

We are grateful to share that we have raised $68,360 so far in our annual pledge campaign. To fund our programs and commitments, we still need at least $11,640.

If you have not yet submitted your pledge card, we invite you to do so as soon as possible. Even if you are giving to sustaining pledge, we like to know that you plan to continue. Your continuing pledge has not been included in this year’s total.

Please visit nashvilleuu.org/pledge to make your pledge today. Your generous support sustains our shared ministry and strengthens our beloved community. (If the form is complicated, you are welcome to email Kristin at kristin.reveal@gnuuc.org or call her directly. Email for phone number.)

With gratitude,
Jesse S-S, Pledge Drive Coordinator
Kristin R, Finance Chair

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GovernanceKristin RevealPledge Drive
NOAH Annual Banquet May 29
NOAH Annual Banquet May 29

This year’s banquet will again take place at the Boone Center at Trevecca Nazarene University, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Charlane Oliver, District 19 Senator in the Tennessee legislature, will be our keynote speaker. Tickets may be purchased here. The deadline is MAY 15 for ticket purchase. GNUUC folks can share a table. For information about NOAH and some of its recent accomplishments, opportunities to purchase ads in the banquet program, as well as different levels of sponsorship, click here.

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Social Justice, CommunityKris ThresherGeneral Announcement
GNUUC Board Meeting Summary - April 16, 2025
GNUUC Board Meeting Summary - April 16, 2025

Nominating Committee

The Nominating Committee currently includes Nathanael R (past-president), Caren S-S, Ryan D, Gina A, and Elizabeth M. The committee faces a challenge finding a President from among the congregation, and board members are encouraged to consider suggestions.

Annual Meeting

The Annual Meeting is scheduled for Sunday, May 18th. The board voted to move their regular meeting from May 21st to Wednesday, May 14th to prepare for the Annual Meeting.

Budget Draft

Draft budget was discussed, but will be finalized after all pledges forms are returned. 

The meeting concluded with appreciation for the successful auction fundraiser, which exceeded expectations.

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GovernanceKris ThresherGeneral Announcement
April 2025 Share the Plate:  ACLU Foundation
April 2025 Share the Plate:  ACLU Foundation

The American Civil Liberties Union originated in 1920 as a response to the Palmer raids, in which thousands of people were arrested without warrants or regard to constitutional protections against unlawful search and seizure, then brutally treated and held in horrible conditions before deportation. The ACLU today is the nation's largest public interest law firm, with a 50-state network of staffed, autonomous affiliate offices. It appears before the United States Supreme Court more than any other organization except the U.S. Department of Justice. About 500 ACLU staff attorneys collaborate with about 2,000 volunteer attorneys in handling close to 2,000 cases annually.

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Community, Social JusticeKris ThresherGeneral Announcement
Auction 2025 was a Success! Thank you to all who participated!
Auction 2025 was a Success! Thank you to all who participated!

We are thrilled to share that the Fiesta 2025 Auction raised $8,343, surpassing our goal of $8,000!

This year’s auction was a resounding success — and it was amazing to witness our community come together to make it happen. The event was a true reflection of the power of collaboration, generosity, and shared purpose. Thank you all for turning our vision into reality.

Heartfelt thanks to everyone who made it possible:

-Kris T. for Auctria support and donation entry— a monumental effort!
-Jesse S-S. for thoughtfully assisting with live auction item planning.
-Dan L. for his dynamic and entertaining work as our auctioneer.
-Mirabelle S. and the Tex-Mex food crew for preparing a truly delicious meal (see Maribelle’s Thank You).
-The Women’s Group for crafting beautiful and festive decorations.
-The Saturday Setup Crew for transforming the space by setting up tables, silent auction displays, and live auction items.
-Kris T. and family (again!) for stepping up to ensure a smooth registration, bidding, and checkout process.
-To all who donated, all who attended, and all who bid — your contributions made this event joyful and successful.

Together, we created more than just an auction — we strengthened our community. Thank you!

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CommunityKristin Reveal
Thank You to All the Volunteers for the Fiesta Taco Bar!
Thank You to All the Volunteers for the Fiesta Taco Bar!

Many thanks to the following who helped make the Taco Bar a great success-I know I’ve missed some, please forgive me, if I have.

Bonnie, who supplied lovely Mexican cookies and rice, an homage to her New Mexico roots, and took care of the cold section;

Leisa, who prepped all the veggies and took care of the tacos and tortillas;

Mike for his delicious key lime pies;

Lisa who brought a delicious flan with chocolate cake, and with Gina, were the baristas for the delicious beverages;

Jane W. who quietly and without fuss did whatever she was called upon to do, cleared tables, and more;

Dan, who sourced 99% of the food, and was still running to Kroger in the last minutes; 

And very, very special thanks to Charles and Melissa who were there when I arrived, warmed up and set up almost all of the food, stayed throughout  the serving, washed ALL of the dishes, pots and pans, and serving dishes ENTIRELY by themselves- thank you - you were my rock.

Mirabelle

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CommunityKris Thresher
GNUUC Board Meeting Summary - March 19, 2025
GNUUC Board Meeting Summary - March 19, 2025

Minister's Report and Updates

-Rev. Denise shared that about 5 new members will be signing the membership book this Sunday
-Plans are developing for a Lay Pastoral Care Team to be supported by Rev. Dr. Michelle Pederson, which would provide support and connection within the congregation. The Board expressed enthusiasm for this initiative.
-Discussion about re-establishing both a Committee on Ministry and a Healthy Congregation Team as the congregation begins to grow again.

Financial Update

-The congregation is on track with its budget for the current fiscal year.
-Jesse reported that the Finance Committee is preparing next year's budget, which may require drawing from the contingency fund, though the amount will be clearer after the pledge campaign. He noted that we have not needed to draw on the fund this year even though it had been planned
-The Finance Committee will be working with members to help facilitate donations from Required Minimum Distributions for those who might benefit from this option.

Leadership Transitions

-Carol Looney will not continue for another term as Member-at-Large.
-Tina announced she will not serve a fourth year as President, citing the need for fresh energy and to explore other areas of service within the congregation.
-The Nominating Committee, headed by Nathanael Reveal as immediate past president, will be seeking candidates for these positions and for a Secretary.
-Tina will reach out to several members to serve on the Nominating Committee with Nathanael.

Contracts

-Rev. Denise's contract was approved and signed.
-A New Leaf contract was reviewed with minor updates, including a 3% increase and adjustments to space usage. The contract would cover 8/1/2025 to 7/31/2026.

The meeting ended early, reflecting an efficient and productive session.

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GovernanceKris Thresher
REMINDER: Food for Fiesta
REMINDER: Food for Fiesta

All food, drinks, and desserts will be provided. Please do not bring any food, as there is no need or room. Vegetarian and vegan options will be available.

Sunday morning at 9:00 AM, assistance is needed to put out the food and clean up after lunch.

Please, can you let Mirabelle S. know if you’re available.

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CommunityKris Thresher
Deadline Approaching to Apply for Property Tax Freeze or Tax Relief
Deadline Approaching to Apply for Property Tax Freeze or Tax Relief

April 5, 2025, is the deadline to apply or recertify for Nashville’s Tax Relief and Tax Freeze programs for 2024. These programs are for those 65 and older, the disabled, and disabled veterans and widow(ers). This is the first year that the qualifying annual household income limit has been raised to $60,000 for the tax freeze program; the income limit for the tax relief program is $36,370. You can find more information about the two programs here and here. Download a flyer here.

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Community, Social JusticeKris Thresher
Sun., Mar. 30, 12:15 PM: Join us for "Fiesta 2025!" Lunch & Live Auction. Register & Purchase Tickets Now!
Sun., Mar. 30, 12:15 PM: Join us for "Fiesta 2025!" Lunch & Live Auction. Register & Purchase Tickets Now!

Join us on Sunday, March 30, 2025, for the GNUUC Fiesta 2025! Our annual lunch & auction is our biggest fundraiser of the year.

Tex Mex Taco Lunch: 12:15 PM
Live Auction: 1:30 PM
Location: 374 Hicks Road, Nashville, TN 37221
Cost: $10 for Tex Mex Taco lunch and bidder number
Guests and children eat lunch for free.

Visit the Auction Website to See the Catalog and buy Tickets!

The Auction Website is LIVE! Go to the Auction website to register and purchase tickets to the auction and to see the Auction catalog. Tickets can also be purchased at the door.

Can’t Make the Auction?

If you can't make the Auction date/time:

  • Consider using a Proxy bidder.
    Peruse the online auction catalog and your proxy can make bids for you. You will be sent an invoice after the Auction, which you can pay online. Need help or a proxy? Contact Kristin at kristin.reveal@gnuuc.org.

  • Some "Intermission" concerts/events can also be purchased online right now!
    There are upcoming concerts and events that are discounted if you purchase tickets at the Auction. 

  • Or consider making a donation to Greater Nashville UU with "Auction" in the memo.
    Go to the Donate page at our website and choose "Give to the Auction" in the box.

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CommunityKristin Revealauction
In Memory of Founding Member John Brown
In Memory of Founding Member John Brown

John Brown, a founding member of GNUUC, died early this morning, March 5, 2025, after a year-long battle with a rare form of leukemia. John and his wife Loretta moved to Perth, West Australia, several years ago to be near their only daughter Kristen, her children, and grandchildren. Kristen was with John at his passing. Two sisters of John from eastern North Carolina, John’s home of origin, have been in Australia to be with John at the end. Many will remember John as the blind bagpipe and penny whistle player at GNUUC. John was always ready with a good tale or arcane fact. He was blind from birth and, for more than 25 years, held the record for the lowest-weight surviving birth in North Carolina. To John’s great fortune, he met Loretta early in life, and they had been married for more than 50 years.  Our dear Loretta has welcomed messages from her church family. You will find her contact information on Breeze.

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CommunityKris Thresher