Upcoming Events
From fun, community building activities to educational and spiritual growth opportunities, there are always great events happening at UUMC. If you want to stay in the loop about upcoming events, sign up for our newsletters!
Tween Learning Project: Waste Audit & Creek Pickup
Join us for our annual discovery adventure. We will meet at the Central Library to do a waste audit activity. Then we'll walk along the creek to pick up trash and maybe finish with a treat. We'll learn something new and get some good hangout time!
Questions? Ready to RSVP? Contact Jillian—jillian@uumc.org!
Youth Learning Project: Waste Audit & Creek Pickup
Join us for our annual discovery adventure. We will meet at the Central Library to do a waste audit activity. Then we'll walk along the creek to pick up trash and maybe finish with a treat. We'll learn something new and get some good hangout time!
Questions? Ready to RSVP? Contact Natasha—natasha@uumc.org!
Juniors Day Camp
Calling all Kinder-3rd graders—now called Juniors—to join Jillian at the church for a day of fun. We'll have crafts, games, activities and cooking all centered around SLE, justice, citizenship and more! We'll celebrate the AISD holiday, give our Juniors bonding time and hopefully give parents some time for work!
Contact Jillian at jillian@uumc.org with any questions!
Queer Fellowship: First Fridays
Queer Fellowship First Fridays happen every month and rotate between host houses, restaurants, and UUMC. We chat, eat dinner and play games. This is a gathering of our LGBTQIA+ & ally UUMC folks and friends, all are welcome!
November location is TBA.
RSVP or email AV@uumc.org to be notified when it’s announced!
Parents of Trans & Non-Binary Kids
Parents of Trans and Non-Binary Children will gather on Sunday, September 20, following worship for lunch and a time of sharing.
Contact Youth and Community Life Director Natasha Ulack at Natasha@uumc.org for time, location or if you have any other questions.
Juniors Time
Junior's Time is new this year! Only a couple times per semester but we will focus on service, learning and fun. Think of it like the precursor to Tween Time! All Kinder-3rd graders are welcome to join Jillian for lunch, games and service projects every 2nd Sunday.
Contact Jillian—jillian@uumc.org—with any questions or to RSVP!
Parent Power Hour
Jillian’s friend at Good Pilates (and former ECC student) will teach a mat pilates class for parents on November 8th. Childcare is provided if needed and we’ll plan to walk to get drinks or apps. We have to have 10 to meet the group rate, so if you’re interested, email Jillian—jillian@uumc.org to sign up!
Second Monday Mahjong
Second Monday Mahjong is a fun way to get to know wonderful people you might not otherwise meet. This is an open group for any gender or age. We welcome new people of all skill levels at any time. If you are able, bring a side, snack, or a drink to share, but don't let it be a barrier to your participation.
Questions? Want to learn more? Contact Natasha at natasha@uumc.org.
Caregivers Support Group
The Caregivers Support Group will meet via Zoom on the Second Tuesday of each month at 6:30 pm. It is a safe place for persons to gather and share confidentially about the joys and challenges of caregiving. This group is facilitated by Pastor Teresa. Please reach out to her at PastorTeresa@uumc.org if you have any questions or concerns.
University of Texas Dell Med (UUMC Masterclass)
University of Texas Dell Med
A New Vision for Teaching Young Doctors
with Tom Caven, Clinical Assistant Professor of Medical Education at Dell Medical School, University of Texas
Dell Med is in many ways a different kind of medical school. We will talk about the differences and how they shape doctors for a new world.
About Tom Caven
Dr. Caven graduated summa cum laude from University of Texas at Austin, B.A. Plan II Honors Program. He completed his Medical Education at U.T. Medical School at San Antonio and postgraduate training at John Peter Smith Hospital in Ft.Worth. He started a private practice, later joined Austin Diagnostic Clinic, and still later was a founding member of Travis Physician Associates which merged into Seton Health Partners.
From 2001 to 2018 Dr. Caven was Chief Medical Officer and Medical Director at UMC Brackenridge Hospital and later Chief Medical Officer at Dell Seton Medical Center at U T. Currently he is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Medical Education at Dell Medical School, UT.
About UUMC Masterclass
What happens when some of the finest teachers in our congregation bring their compelling lectures beyond the classroom?
UUMC MasterClass invites professors from our church to share their knowledge, passions, and best ideas with the broader public. Every Tuesday, a different lecturer will introduce us to a subject through an engaging and accessible presentation. No academic background is required. This is for anyone who enjoys learning and asking questions. Attend in person or on Zoom for a single lecture or return each week for a new topic and teacher! For a Zoom link, or with any questions, please email Pastor Earl: pastorearl@uumc.org
High School: Rock Climbing Adventure
High School Youth! It’s time for our next Community Building Activity! We’ll meet at the church and carpool to Austin Bouldering Project, and try our hand at rock climbing. After, we’ll head to OMG Squee for a treat before heading back to the church. Hope to see you there!
Ready to RSVP? Have Questions? Email Natasha—natasha@uumc.org!
Tweens: Screen Printing with Brian Dulaney
Brian Dulaney, UUMC artist and friend, will lead the tweens in learning how to screen print their own creations on shirts! It's going to be amazing. Lunch and shirts are provided!
Questions? Ready to RSVP? Email Jillian—jillian@uumc.org.
Middle School: Cidercade
For our monthly middle school community event, we will eat lunch at the church and then head to Cidercade for the afternoon! Lunch provided!
Questions? Ready to RSVP? Email Natasha—natasha@uumc.org!
Pieter Bruegel and the Art of Human Nature (UUMC Masterclass)
Pieter Bruegel and the Art of Human Nature
with Jeff Smith, Professor emeritus and Kay Fortson Chair in European Art at the University of Texas
Pieter Bruegel the Elder (c. 1525-1569) excelled at capturing and sometimes comically parodying human behavior in his paintings and prints. Much as Shakespeare would do decades later, Bruegel viewed his Flemish world as a stage where the best and worst of humanity performed.
About Jeff Smith
Dr. Smith is Professor emeritus and Kay Fortson Chair in European Art at the University of Texas, where he taught from 1979 to 2023. His teaching and research focuses on Northern European art and culture 1350-1700.
About UUMC Masterclass
What happens when some of the finest teachers in our congregation bring their compelling lectures beyond the classroom?
UUMC MasterClass invites professors from our church to share their knowledge, passions, and best ideas with the broader public. Every Tuesday, a different lecturer will introduce us to a subject through an engaging and accessible presentation. No academic background is required. This is for anyone who enjoys learning and asking questions. Attend in person or on Zoom for a single lecture or return each week for a new topic and teacher! For a Zoom link, or with any questions, please email Pastor Earl: pastorearl@uumc.org
Seasoned Supper Club: Thanksgiving Lunch
(Previously Prime Time Lunch)
A special invitation to all seniors to join us for our annual Thanksgiving Luncheon on Wednesday, November 18. Traditionally this luncheon has been for our 70+ members, but we won't be checking IDs! Please come and enjoy a time of food and fellowship in the fellowship hall. Doors open at 11 for gathering and visiting and a Thanksgiving Lunch will be served beginning at 11:30.
RSVP to Natasha at natasha@uumc.org!
Little Ones Potluck
All families with any kiddo preschool and under is welcome to join our Little Ones crew for yummy food and good time together! Please plan to bring a small dish to share. This is always so fun and important for our little guys to know their church friends. Email Jillian to get the address!
Email Jillian at jillian@uumc.org to get the address!
Advent Festival
All are welcome to join our annual Advent Festival during the Sunday School hour! We are kicking off advent with crafts, games, fellowship and yummy breakfast. We hope all ages will join us!
Questions? Contact Jillian at jillian@uumc.org!
Find the Light, Be The Light: Advent and Christmas 2026
The theme of LIGHT will carry us through the Advent and Christmas season. Our journey begins in the nighttime of waiting. As we search for the light of Christ we find that ultimately God discovers us and invites us to carrying the light of love and hope to a weary world.
Advent 1 - A Light in the Night
Advent 2 - Morning Light
Advent 3 - Light of the World
Advent 4 - Hearts on Fire: Mary is Lit
Christmas Eve - You are the Light
1st Sunday after Christmas - The Light of our Ancestors
Epiphany Sunday - Starlight
Acolyte Training
All 2nd graders and older are welcome to stay after service to learn how to be an acolyte! This is a very important job that are kiddos take very seriously and we are so excited to have a new crop. Pastor Earl will lead us. Lunch is provided!
Questions? Contact Jillian at jillian@uumc.org!
Queer Fellowship: First Fridays
Queer Fellowship First Fridays happen every month and rotate between host houses, restaurants, and UUMC. We chat, eat dinner and play games. This is a gathering of our LGBTQIA+ & ally UUMC folks and friends, all are welcome!
RSVP or Email AV—AV@uumc.org—to be on the list for all the details!
High School: Christmas Lock-In
High Schoolers! Join Natasha for lots of Christmas games, prizes, and goodies. We will have lots of fun AND prep for Open Door for our service project.
Questions? Ready to RSVP? Email Natasha—natasha@uumc.org!
Children's Pageant
This is an exciting day in the life of the church. We will celebrate the Advent season with our Children's Christmas Pageant! All children (infant and up) are encouraged to come to Sunday School that day to find their costume and get ready. The pageant takes place at the beginning of the 11 am worship service.
Following the pageant, volunteers will escort all kiddos back to the classrooms to take off their costumes and do some Christmas activities.
When the service is over, parents are invited to pick up their kids and head to grab some chili lunch!
Questions? Contact Jillian at jillian@uumc.org!
Lessons and Carols
Join us for our annual Lessons and Carols service! The choir and congregation will join together to sing carols alongside choral compositions, interspersed with the traditional Lessons & Carols readings. Let's sing the songs of the season together!
Musical Christmas Market
Unique Gifts, Hot Cocoa, Merry Local Musicians! Shop from 12-5:30
Shop gifts made and sourced with intention by Austin artisans at booths in our courtyard and throughout our grounds. Tidings of comfort and joy will ring through our 100 year old building; eat a tasty treat and enjoy the merry sounds of local musicians including Pano Youth Choir, Leander HS Choir, Vandegrift HS Choir, Lockhart HS Choir, Austin Flute Choir, & Lamar Fine Arts Academy Choir!
Questions? Email AV at av@uumc.org
Festival of Carols
Sing-a-long to holiday favorites and enjoy beautiful choral music by the combined choirs of University UMC, University Christian Church, and Trinity Church of Austin. These affirming churches share missions of love, inclusion, and justice. If you are longing for a time of candlelit communal singing (without attending a worship service) this space of restorative, joyful, nostalgic music making is for YOU!
Questions? Email AV—av@uumc.org!
3rd Sunday of Advent
Light of the World
11 am - Lessons & Carols Service
12 pm - Musical Christmas Market
5:30 pm - Festival of Carols
4th Sunday of Advent
Hearts on Fire: Mary Is Lit
11 am - Worship Service | Luke 1:26-38; Luke 1:46b-55
Longest Night Service
The Longest Night service is a reflective time of holding sacred space for any who are experiencing a difficult time, or for whom the Christmas Season can spark memories of grief or loss. For all who struggle against the darkness, we will sing meditative and peaceful music, including some Taizé selections.
Looking for some additional support? Check out our Longest Night Resources.
Christmas Eve
3:00 pm - Family-Friendly Service
Designed by Children’s Director Jillian Moore and Senior Pastor Teresa Welborn, this worship service involves a fun and creative way for our youngest members of the community to help tell the Christmas story. We’ll also share in Holy Communion, candlelight, and sing some of our favorite carols.
5:30 pm - Traditional Service
A traditional Christmas Eve celebration with a brief homily by Senior Pastor Teresa Welborn, Christmas carols, special music by the Sanctuary Choir, communion and candlelight.
10:30 pm - Traditional Service
A traditional Christmas Eve celebration with a brief homily by Senior Pastor Teresa Welborn, Christmas carols, special music by the Sanctuary Choir, communion and candlelight.
Things you need to know for Sanctuary Services
Parking
All our usual parking will be available–the Platinum Parking Lot and the San Antonio Garage (see the Front Office for Parking Validation). There is limited parking available in the church parking lot on 25th, reserved for guests and those who might have some difficulty with the extra walking. If you are safely able to park in the platinum lot or San Antonio Garage, please consider doing so.
Doors
The South Sanctuary Doors and Education Building Doors will be open 30 minutes prior to the start of each service. If you arrive after the service has started, the best way to enter will be through the South Sanctuary Doors on 24th Street.
Epiphany Sunday
On Epiphany Sunday we remember the star the Magi followed to worship Jesus.
Baptism of the Lord Sunday
On January 11 we remember the Baptism of Jesus and we will welcome Rev. Tracey Beadle, North District UMC Superintendent, as our guest preacher.
Love & Loss: All Saints 2026
Join us in remembering All of our Saints through song and verse. Our Sanctuary Choir will share choral pieces spanning the breadth of love and loss. This service is guided by the structure of the traditional latin Requiem Mass, and anchored in three movements of Eleanor Daley's Requiem, additional composers include Brandon Williams, Craig Hella Johnson, John Rutter and Shawn Kirchner.
The service will also include scripture and contemporary readings on grief and loss including poems by Andrea Gibson and Merrit Malloy. We will celebrate Holy Communion and remember the members of UUMC who have died in the last year by candlelighting. As we worship together this day, you are invited to bring pictures of loved ones and/or friends you grieve and remember. Tables will be set up in the sanctuary for you to place the pictures.
This non-traditional All Saint's service will hold you with the warmth of the human voice, providing space for tears and remembrance of all that our saints have given us.
We hope you will join us, to carry our grief and gratitude together.
The Art of Gathering (UUMC Masterclass)
The Art of Gathering
with Melissa Wiginton, Vice President for Strategic Engagement and Partnerships for Austin Seminary
It is possible to leave a meeting being grateful you came and not just glad it's over. We will talk about intention, invitation, setting, facilitation, closing and reflection--with special attention to how we gather for the work of our church.
About Melissa Wiginton
Melissa Wiginton currently serves as Vice President for Strategic Engagement and Partnerships for Austin Seminary. She holds the M.Div. from Candler School of Theology. In her work, she has hosted over 200 learning and community-building events, always aiming for joy, purpose, creativity and connection.
About UUMC Masterclass
What happens when some of the finest teachers in our congregation bring their compelling lectures beyond the classroom?
UUMC MasterClass invites professors from our church to share their knowledge, passions, and best ideas with the broader public. Every Tuesday, a different lecturer will introduce us to a subject through an engaging and accessible presentation. No academic background is required. This is for anyone who enjoys learning and asking questions. Attend in person or on Zoom for a single lecture or return each week for a new topic and teacher! For a Zoom link, or with any questions, please email Pastor Earl: pastorearl@uumc.org
Sound Bath Sundays
On the last Sunday of the month, Lauren (Elford) Puthoff will come lead a sound bath in our chapel to help us connect and move peacefully into our week.
Participants should bring a yoga mat, small blanket, and pillow. This event is free for everyone, however there will be a Venmo for tips as people are able. RSVPs are helpful, but not required.
This class is open to anyone, of any age, that would like to participate. We are unable to provide childcare at this time.
Email Natasha—natasha@uumc.org—with any questions or to RSVP!
Fall Festival
Join us for our annual Fall Festival in the Courtyard and Fellowship Hall! We have fun planned for everyone. There will be games, photo booth, and all kinds of yummy food! Wear your costume to church and then head to the Fellowship Hall for Stewardship lunch. Looking forward to celebrating the Fall season with you!
Questions? Contact Jillian at jillian@uumc.org!
October Parents' Night Out
Treat your kids fifth grade and under to a fun night out with friends at UUMC! We'll always have crafts, recreation, STEM, pizza, movie and dessert. This month our theme is Halloween!
Questions? Contact Jillian!
Youth Service Project: Fall Fest Setup
The Youth will help Natasha and Jillian set up for the annual Fall Festival.
Please note, this is a UT game day! All drop off and pick up will happen in the church alley.
Questions? Ready to RSVP? Email Natasha—natasha@uumc.org!
Christian Visions, Imperial Designs (UUMC Masterclass)
Christian Visions, Imperial Designs:
The Contested Legacy Behind the Mapping of America
with Ángel Gallardo, Assistant Professor of Church History at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary.
What does latitude have to do with natural rights? How does climate theory impact modern racial hierarchies? In this lecture, Professor Gallardo explores these questions by examining the thought of two controversial yet foundation figures in Western Christian history: the Dominican bishop Bartolomé de Las Casas and the colonialist-explorer Christopher Columbus.
About Ángel J. Gallardo
Dr. Ángel J. Gallardo joined Austin Seminary in 2022. Previously he served on the faculty of Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University as the Associate Director of the Intern Program. Dr. Gallardo teaches survey courses on the history of Christian thought, race and religion in the Americas, and Methodism, as well as seminars on historical figures such as Bartolomé de Las Casas and Christopher Columbus. Dr. Gallardo is proud to represent Austin Seminary on the Board of Directors of the Hispanic Scholars Program, an organization founded in 1989 that creates Latinx-centered educational experiences for Latinx and non-Latinx students, faculty and staff in theological institutions of higher education.
In addition to his work on campus, Dr. Gallardo is actively involved in various academic societies. He is the co-chair of the Latina/o Religion, Society and Culture program unit in the American Academy of Religion and Society of Biblical Literature. Dr. Gallardo is also a member of the American Society of Church History and the En Conjunto Association of the Hispanic Theological Initiative at Princeton Theological Seminary.
About UUMC Masterclass
What happens when some of the finest teachers in our congregation bring their compelling lectures beyond the classroom?
UUMC MasterClass invites professors from our church to share their knowledge, passions, and best ideas with the broader public. Every Tuesday, a different lecturer will introduce us to a subject through an engaging and accessible presentation. No academic background is required. This is for anyone who enjoys learning and asking questions. Attend in person or on Zoom for a single lecture or return each week for a new topic and teacher! For a Zoom link, or with any questions, please email Pastor Earl: pastorearl@uumc.org
Central Texas Interfaith: Accountability Session
Central Texas Interfaith will be holding an accountability session at UUMC. CTI is a non-partisan organization that does not endorse candidates, rather they ask candidates to commit to work on our peoples agenda. An agenda of issues built from thousands of conversations with families in our member institutions—UUMC is one of those institutions. All are invited to join them to hear stories of how these issues are impacting Central Texas families, and what they are doing to address it.
RSVP on the Central Texas Interfaith website.
Event Details
Doors
Please use our Courtyard gates on Guadalupe to sign in and enter the Sanctuary.
Parking
The UUMC Lot is reserved for ADA Parking for this event.
Free Parking is available in the Platinum Parking Lot at 2438 Guadalupe St. and in the UT San Antonio Garage located at 2420 San Antonio St. If you park in the garage, you will need to get your ticket validated.
How Did Church Music Become Bach? (UUMC Masterclass)
How Did Church Music Become Bach?
with Eun Joo Fierro, Adjunct Professor of Music, Northwest Vista College.
Come spend an evening exploring how church music has changed through the centuries, from the simplicity of Gregorian chant to the beautiful and intricate music of J. S. Bach. We'll listen together, hear short musical examples, and discover how one generation of musicians built on the ideas of the past. No musical background is needed. Just come with curious ears and a love of music.
About Eun Joo Fierro
Born in Seoul, Korea, Eun Joo Fierro began playing piano at the age of six. When she was 15 years old she emigrated to the United States with her family. She earned her Bachelors of Music, Masters of Music, and Doctor of Musical Arts degrees from the University of Texas at Austin, where she studied with Dr. Frank Speller.
She is an award recipient of the Se-Kwang Piano Competition and the William Hall Organ Competition. Among her many performance credits is a live broadcast of the Saint-Saens Organ Symphony under the direction of Maestro Peter Bay and the Austin Symphony Orchestra. She has also appeared as guest organist with the University of Texas choirs and orchestras, UT Early Music Ensemble, and numerous school and church organizations.
About UUMC Masterclass
What happens when some of the finest teachers in our congregation bring their compelling lectures beyond the classroom?
UUMC MasterClass invites professors from our church to share their knowledge, passions, and best ideas with the broader public. Every Tuesday, a different lecturer will introduce us to a subject through an engaging and accessible presentation. No academic background is required. This is for anyone who enjoys learning and asking questions. Attend in person or on Zoom for a single lecture or return each week for a new topic and teacher! For a Zoom link, or with any questions, please email Pastor Earl: pastorearl@uumc.org
Caregivers Support Group
The Caregivers Support Group will meet via Zoom on the Second Tuesday of each month at 6:30 pm. It is a safe place for persons to gather and share confidentially about the joys and challenges of caregiving.
Juniors Time
October Juniors Time has been cancelled due to insufficient registration numbers. Thanks for your understanding.
Contact Jillian—jillian@uumc.org—with any questions!
Family Choir Rehearsal
Rehearsal & Hang-Out: Saturday 10/10 from 2-3 PM at Batch Kolache!
Lead Worship Music: Sunday 10/11 call at 10:30, Service at 11 AM
Bring your parents, your kiddos, your neighbors, and let's sing! This is a family focused pop-up sing event: we'll learn songs together pete-repeat style- no need to read music, no experience required. Everyone has a voice, come share them with your chosen families!
Questions? Contact AV!
Telling Stories through Clothing (UUMC Masterclass)
Telling Stories through Clothing
with Susan Branch Towne, Associate Professor of Practice in Theater Design at St. Edward's University.
In this session, Susan will discuss the process of costume design, the challenges and rewards of working in live theater, and share a range of her work as examples
About Susan Branch Towne
Susan Branch Towne has been designing costumes for plays, musicals, opera and ballet for over 40 years, and she is an Associate Professor of Practice in Theater Design at St. Edward's University. She holds a BFA from Carnegie-Mellon and an MFA from the Yale School of Drama. Her professional credits include numerous productions at regional theaters like The Denver Center, Salt Lake City's Pioneer Theater, and the Alabama Shakespeare Festival; Off Broadway and New York City Opera; Ballet Austin, Austin Opera, Mary Moody Northen Theater, and 43 shows at Austin's ZACH Theater.
About UUMC Masterclass
What happens when some of the finest teachers in our congregation bring their compelling lectures beyond the classroom?
UUMC MasterClass invites professors from our church to share their knowledge, passions, and best ideas with the broader public. Every Tuesday, a different lecturer will introduce us to a subject through an engaging and accessible presentation. No academic background is required. This is for anyone who enjoys learning and asking questions. Attend in person or on Zoom for a single lecture or return each week for a new topic and teacher! For a Zoom link, or with any questions, please email Pastor Earl: pastorearl@uumc.org
Tween Community Time: Fortlandia
Tweens (4th & 5th graders) will get to compete with each other to building a fort with the resources provided! Inspired by the wildflower center's Fortlandia, we will get to practice our engineering skills while making a cozy corner in our church. Lunch provided!
Contact Jillian—jillian@uumc.org—with any questions or to RSVP
Middle School Community Time: Scavenger Hunt
Natasha invites all Middle Schoolers (6th - 8th graders) to join her some Community Time! We’ll teaming up and go on a scavenger hunt through the Mueller neighborhood, ending with a treat at Quack's bakery. Lunch is provided!
Contact Natasha—natasha@uumc.org—with any questions or to RSVP!
Sermon Series: Who Are We Becoming
During October we celebrate our commitment to giving at University UMC. Commitment Sunday is October 25 and all members and friends of UUMC will have an opportunity to submit their pledge cards indicating their financial commitment for the year ahead.
By the grace of God, we celebrate all we have accomplished over the past year and we look ahead with great joy and hope for all that will be in the months and years head. God still has dreams for us and work for us to do. Spiritual practices shape us and form us as disciples who offer good news to a hurting world. Throughout October we will learn more about some of the spiritual practices that have the power to form us as individuals and as a community of faith. As followers of Jesus, we are on a journey to becoming more fully the people God is calling us to be for at time such as this!
High School Community Time: Escape Room Escapade
High schoolers are meeting for an Escape Room and dinner for their community time this month! Please plan to bring $15 for dinner!
Contact Natasha—natasha@uumc.org—with questions or to RSVP!
Tending the Fire at the Center of the World (UUMC Masterclass)
Tending the Fire at the Center of the World
with David F. White, Professor Emeritus of Christian Education at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary
This lecture will engage the central question of Christian formation: what kind of knowing is most likely to awaken and sustain Christian faith? This book seeks to reclaim aesthetics—beauty and creativity—as the church’s most native theological way of knowing and being, which participates with God’s own glory and creativity.
About David F. White
An ordained elder in the United Methodist Church, David F. White has served congregations in Alaska, California, and Mississippi, as well as in conference leadership in youth ministry.
Before joining Austin Seminary, White served at Candler School of Theology, Emory University, as visiting assistant professor of youth and education and associate director of research for the Youth Theological Initiative. From 1997 to 2002, he directed the Youth Discipleship Project at Claremont School of Theology, a research initiative exploring innovative approaches to youth ministry and congregational discernment.
White’s most recent book, Tending the Fire That Burns at the Center of the World: Beauty and the Art of Christian Formation(Cascade, 2023), will provide a primary resource for his masterclass at UUMC. His work explores Christian formation, beauty, discernment, vocation, and the spiritual lives of people. He previously served as a senior editor for the Theology of Joy and the Good Life project at the Yale Center for Faith and Culture, work that contributed toJoy: A Guide for Youth Ministry (Wesley’s Foundery Books, 2020).
His other books include Practicing Discernment with Youth (Pilgrim Press, 2005), Awakening Youth Discipleship in a Consumer Culture (Cascade, 2007), coauthored with Brian Mahan and Michael Warren, and Dreamcare: A Theology of Youth, Spirit, and Vocation (Cascade, 2013).
White’s research and teaching have been supported by grants from Lilly Endowment Inc., the Wabash Center, and the Templeton Foundation, including a $1.2 million Lilly Endowment grant supporting research and programming in youth discipleship.
About UUMC Masterclass
What happens when some of the finest teachers in our congregation bring their compelling lectures beyond the classroom?
UUMC MasterClass invites professors from our church to share their knowledge, passions, and best ideas with the broader public. Every Tuesday, a different lecturer will introduce us to a subject through an engaging and accessible presentation. No academic background is required. This is for anyone who enjoys learning and asking questions. Attend in person or on Zoom for a single lecture or return each week for a new topic and teacher! For a Zoom link, or with any questions, please email Pastor Earl: pastorearl@uumc.org
Sound Bath Sundays
Our Community Life Team has a new, peaceful event to add to your schedule. They’re starting Sound Bath Sundays on the last Sunday of every month.
Lauren (Elford) Puthoff will come leading a monthly sound bath in our chapel to help us connect and move peacefully into our week. Participants should bring a yoga mat, small blanket, and pillow. This event is free for everyone, however there will be a Venmo for tips as people are able. RSVPs are helpful, but not required.
This class is open to anyone, of any age, that would like to participate. We are unable to provide childcare at this time.
Email Natasha—natasha@uumc.org—with any questions or to RSVP!
UUMC Ministry Fair
It's that time of year again where we celebrate all the wonderful ministries of UUMC over a nice slice of pie! Each of our ministries will be on display in Fellowship Hall immediately following worship service on September 27th, and of course there will be a friendly little pie competition. Come stop by and learn about all the great works of UUMC!
Questions? Please contact Chad at chad@uumc.org.
Middle School Lock-In
Our middle schoolers (6th - 8th graders) will meet for their very own lock-in! We will play games and get some quality time together. Dinner and breakfast provided!
Contact Natasha—natasha@uumc.org—with any questions or to sign up your Middle Schooler!
The Origins of Jazz (UUMC Masterclass)
The Origins of Jazz
with Paul Harper, Adjunct Professor of Music, Northeast Lakeview College, San Antonio
This lecture will be a historical overview of how this truly American style of music came to be. We’ll talk about the roots of jazz and the musicians who helped make this America’s music.
About Paul Harper
Paul Harper is an Adjunct Professor of Music at Northeast Lakeview College in San Antonio where he teaches Music Appreciation.
About UUMC Masterclass
What happens when some of the finest teachers in our congregation bring their compelling lectures beyond the classroom?
UUMC MasterClass invites professors from our church to share their knowledge, passions, and best ideas with the broader public. Every Tuesday, a different lecturer will introduce us to a subject through an engaging and accessible presentation. No academic background is required. This is for anyone who enjoys learning and asking questions. Attend in person or on Zoom for a single lecture or return each week for a new topic and teacher! For a Zoom link, or with any questions, please email Pastor Earl: pastorearl@uumc.org
Tween Learning Project: Know Your Neighbor
Our annual Know Your Neighbor event is back! Our tweens (4th & 5th graders) will get to interview some our amazing congregants on their lives, careers, and hobbies. It's such a great way to learn about neighbors and hear about all the amazing things that our congregants do. Lunch is provided!
Contact Jillian—jillian@uumc.org—with any questions or to RSVP!
Youth Learning Project: Know Your Neighbor
Our annual Know Your Neighbor event is back! Our youth (6th - 12th graders) will get to interview some our amazing congregants on their lives, careers, and hobbies. It's such a great way to learn about neighbors and hear about all the amazing things that our congregants do. Lunch is provided!
Contact Natasha—natasha@uumc.org—with any questions or to RSVP!
Guest Preacher: Rev. Dr. Robert Lopez
We welcome guest preacher Rev. Dr. Robert Lopez on Sunday, September 20 as we continue our sermon series on The UMC's vision statement. This Sunday's theme is "Serve Joyfully" and Dr. Lopez will be sharing about his ministry experience serving along the US Mexico border.
About Rev. Dr. Lopez
Dr. Lopez is a United Methodist elder and currently appointed to Methodist Healthcare Services in San Antonio as Vice President of Pastoral Care Services. Previously he served in local parishes in the Río Texas Conference, as a District Superintendent and as Assistant to the Episcopal Office.
College Ministry: Religious Organizations Fair
We are hosting a Campus Ministry Fair put on by University Interfaith Council (UIC) in our parking lot off 25th street. The UIC consists of campus ministry directors and religious leaders in the UT area from organizations including Texas Canterbury, Texas Hillel, University UMC, Texas Wesley and Nieces Mosque. If you’re a college student, join us for free food, live music, and a chance to learn about all the wonderful ministries in our neighborhood.
Questions? Want to learn more? Email Pastor Earl—pastorearl@uumc.org!
UUMC's Got Talent
Join us for our 5th annual UUMC's Got Talent! Everyone is invited to a potluck lunch to celebrate the many talented humans who make up our congregation. Sign-up to share your talents, anything from dancing to poetry reading, singing, science demonstrations, recitation of your favorite dinosaurs: the more the merrier!
Email av@uumc.org to sign-up, or find them after worship to sign-up in person.
Family Sunday Celebration
We are kicking off our family Sundays—which happen every 2nd Sunday— with a big worship service to celebrate our acolytes, confirmands AND present our 2nd grade Bibles. Looking forward to celebrating all of our wonderful families.
Sermon Series: Love, Serve, Lead
In the Spring of 2025, The Council of Bishops, in conjunction with the Connectional Table, announced the unveiling of a new vision statement for The United Methodist Church. This vision reflects the Church's deep commitment to embodying God's dream for the world.
The vision states:
The United Methodist Church forms disciples of Jesus Christ who, empowered by the Holy Spirit, love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously in local communities and worldwide connections.
In worship on Sundays September 13, 20 and 27 we will learn more about what it means to love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously. On Sunday, September 27 we will celebrate Laity Sunday and our commitment to service.
Methodism 101
Would you like to learn more about the United Methodist Church and Methodism—its history, core beliefs, mission, and structure? Pastor Earl will be leading a three-week Sunday School class and everyone is welcome to attend. The class will meet during the Sunday School hour from 9:45 to 10:45 a.m. in the Heath Conference Room in the Educational Building—located on the second floor of the Education Building at the end of the hall on the right side.
September 13: "Methodism: What and Why?" led by Pastor Earl
September 20: "What Do Methodists Believe?" led by Dr. David White
September 27: "The Methodist Story” led by Ángel Gallardo
October 4: "How Methodists Connect and Serve" led by Pastor Teresa
Questions? Contact Pastor Earl at PastorEarl@uumc.org