the OUUC spark

Maybe [joy is] a beautiful and elegant contagion,

over which we just might have more control than we think.

If only we share it.

If only we notice that joy is not ours to keep,

but ours to give.

Maybe joy is a gift that opens us

as much as we open to it.

Maybe that’s the way light leaks into our weary world.

~Soul Matters April 2025

April is a month of transition as we move through the unpredictable weather of Spring on our way to sunshine of Summer. This month, we celebrate the holy days of the Jewish Passover and the Christian Holy Week. It’s also a very challenging time in our nation.

All these things make it important that we remember to tap into joy. Whether you find joy in the new life bursting around us or mountains on clear days — clear days! — or connection with people, noticing the joy all around us can refill our spirits and help keep us ready to be with what is and respond as needed.

Today, Maggie Post shares about the ASHHO Community Center in Tumwater, a local place of joy and justice. The OUUC Auction will be held at ASHHO again this year as we come together to support the work of OUUC and the work of ASHHO. I hope to see you there!

Rev. Mary

First, ASHHO is a Cultural Community Center in Tumwater, near TwinStar Credit Union. It offers job training, monthly walks, cultural night markets and the Runia Soul Cafe (now open every Saturday, with a "Buy One, Give One" option to support those without access to meals).

But ASHHO to me is so much more, and the above offerings are big! I first stepped into the facility in a class with Windowseat Media, a non-profit trying to create positive change and inclusion through oral storytelling. Our class was catered by Runia Soul Cafe so I was able to meet the exuberant Khursida, founder and chef at ASHHO then.

The second time I experienced ASHHO was as a volunteer for the monthly Saturday vendor markets, where I managed the Wild Grief booth, a non-profit offering support for grief through activities in nature. I could feel and see the diversity and inclusion in the room while at this market.

And finally, the OUUC auction at ASHHO, last May. The colorful foyer filled with positive messages and warmth took on a deeper understanding as I knew this was Khursida's long time goal, to create a center of inclusion and training for under-served people. I learned more specifics about this remarkable journey at ASHHO's three-year celebration last fall.

Each time I step my foot through the door, I learn more, feel more and am in awe. ASHHO supports people who are marginalized, people of color, people who need support yet as an older white woman I felt such compassion and acceptance in the arms of both Khursida and Zazil, who I worked closely with for the setting and food portion of the auction. The warmth radiates in the building but it is from these advocates’ and activists’ hearts that it stems. Inclusion is the only way at ASHHO, no matter who you are.

As a business, ASHHO creates social good, develops community, offers professional growth and training, all with love. What if all our community centers, public facilities and institutions used this model? Can you visualize what that would feel like? I believe the essence is coming from love, not fear.

We have much work to do but thankfully we have a wonderful model who we now have a relationship with and support in our fundraisers. Let us keep these special people and this special place in our hearts as we move forward.

LIVE AUCTION AND DINNER EVENT: May 3, ASHHO Cultural Community Center, 5 – 8 PM

ONLINE Auction: April 26 – MAY 4

Submit your donations for the auction this week! We need more donations! Social events, gift cards, outings, handmade items, and unique opportunities are welcome! Please click on “Donate an Auction Item” on the auction website. The deadline for submissions is extended to Monday, April 22nd.

Everyone is welcome to the Live Auction and Dinner May 3. Tickets are $10 to $100 — pay what you can at "Buy Your Ticket" on the auction website. Childcare will be provided this year — simply select a youth ticket childcare. There is no cost for youth tickets or childcare.

You may now register to participate in online bidding! Check out the growing catalog of interesting items, events, and gatherings and register today.

If you would like to participate in the auction and need financial assistance, please contact Rev. Mary.

At the OUUC auction last year, you generously supported the request for new technology for the sanctuary. We now have new microphone stands, a new headset microphone, and best of all, a new digital soundboard. You will have seen those things in use the past few Sunday services.

Thank you for your patience as we learn new technology.

And thank you so much for your support of our virtual ministry!

Rev. Mary & the Tech Team

We will hold a Dirt Communion in the worship service this Sunday, April 20th. All are invited to bring a small cup or container of dirt or soil from your home, whatever home means to you.

Thank you to all who have supported OUUC with a financial pledge to meet our dreams for the next congregational year. We trimmed some of the program expenses, which means we have almost reached a balanced budget. We're just $30,000 short! Help us bridge the gap by increasing your pledge a bit or make a pledge if you haven't already.

We can do this — together!

Tonight's menu plan will be southwest rice bowls.

All are welcome for food and fellowship at 5:30 pm. If you can help cook or set up, please contact Rev. Sara at dcfd@ouuc.org.

After-dinner (6:30 pm) options include: Kids' Class: Dharma Kids, and UU Buddhist Sangha.

In this week's Tiny Little News Show, learn how to donate an item to the Auction and why you should bring dirt to Easter worship services:

Website: https://www.ouuc.org

Email: office@ouuc.org

Location: 2306 East End St NW, Olympia, WA, USA
Phone: (360) 634-2005

Office Hours

Tuesday and Thursday, 12:00 – 4:00 pm

Sunday, during services

Staff Contacts

Rev. Mary Gear, Minister

Rev. Sara Lewis, Director of Community & Faith Development

Troy Fisher, Music Director

Isaac Jennings, Business Manager

Rosie Koppelman, Office & Communications Specialist

Teresa Madsen, Tech Coordinator

Marie Arensmeyer, Facilities Manager

Anissa Bentlemsani, Religious Education Assistant

Carbon Marshall, Tech Specialist