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!
When Parables Trouble Us
As we conclude our sermon series on Jesus’s parables, we turn to stories that may leave us unsettled—parables that appear to condone injustice, exclusion, or violence. This Sunday School class invites us to wrestle honestly with these difficult texts and consider how they have been interpreted across time. We may not arrive at easy answers, but all are welcome to bring their questions, concerns, and insights as we read and reflect together.
Questions? Email Pastor Earl—pastorearl@uumc.org!
Newcomers Brunch
Are you new to UUMC and want to know more about the church? We’d love to chat with you and share some of the great things happening in our church! Join us for a simple breakfast, meet other newcomers, hear some stories from recently joined members, and have a Q&A with Pastors Teresa and Earl
We’ll meet in Heath Conference Room located on the second floor of the Education Building at the end of the hall on the right.
No RSVP necessary, just come as you are. If you have any questions, you can email Pastor Earl at PastorEarl@uumc.org.
Parent Power Hour
We’re trying something new this year! We will provide childcare and plan a relaxing, rejuvenating, or fun outing for our parents of children and youth. Think Sound Bath, pilates, walks, kayaking, etc.
We’ll have our first Power Hour at the end of August!
Contact Jillian—jillian@uumc.org—with any questions or to RSVP!
UUMC MasterClass
What happens when some of the finest teachers in our congregation bring their compelling lectures beyond the classroom?
This fall, 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 new subject through an engaging and accessible presentation. No academic background is required. This is for anyone who enjoys learning and asking questions.
Topics will vary from week to week and may explore theology, history, literature, science, culture, public life, and more. Whether the subject is familiar or completely new, each gathering is designed to inspire curiosity, encourage thoughtful conversation, and make meaningful learning available to everyone. 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
Methodism 101
Sundays
September 13 - October 4
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.
Questions? Contact Pastor Earl at PastorEarl@uumc.org
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.
Sanctuary Choir Rehearsals Resume
Sanctuary Choir is Back!
UUMC is proud of its rich tradition of outstanding music. Our choir began more than 80 years ago and continues to uplift our Sanctuary services with sacred music from a variety of genres and style periods.
We’re always looking for more people to come and make a joyful noise with us!
Our director AV (they/them) practices identity-affirming voicing and rehearsal language, and encourages singers to choose the section that is healthiest for their vocal longevity and their gender expression. If you’re ready to sing get in touch with AV at av@uumc.org!
Moms of Emerging Adults
Mothers of college and soon-to-be college students, recent graduates and young adults are invited to an afternoon of connecting and fellowship at the home of Julia Hoke.
Contact our Community Life Director, Natasha—natasha@uumc.org—for more information.
Treble Choir Rehearsal
Rehearsal: Wednesday 7/1 from 7-9 PM
Lead Worship Music: Sunday 7/5 call at 10, Service at 11 AM
All Sopranos & Altos are invited to join this Pop-Up Treble Choir! Sing Z. Randall Stroope's vibrant, emotionally evocative setting of "Psalm 23" with esteemed local musicians- flautist Kenzie Slottow & pianist Dr. EunJoo Fierro. Don't miss this special choral opportunity to be immersed in treble energy. One rehearsal, one service- come for community and song :)
Questions? Contact AV!
Tenor & Bass Choir Rehearsal
Rehearsal: Wednesday 6/24 from 7-9 PM
Lead Worship Music: Sunday 6/28 call at 10, Service at 11 AM
All Tenors & Basses are invited to join this Pop-Up Choir! Bring your whole self to sing the rousing, community building anthem "Do Not Leave Your Cares at the Door" by Elizabeth Alexander. One rehearsal, one service- come for community and song :)
Questions? Contact AV!
Youth: Summer Shareholders
The youth are fundraising for their summer trips.
Our high schoolers are going on a civil rights road trip. The middle schoolers will be going on an education justice mission trip.
Shareholders are invited to donate to these adventures by buying $10 “shares” in the Youth Ministry. At the end of the summer, all shareholders are invited to join us for a pasta lunch where the youth will share details about their trips.
Questions? Want to learn more? Email Natasha at natasha@uumc.org.
Land and Legacy Update
Join us after worship in Fellowship Hall as we continue our discussion around property discernment. Land & Legacy members will be there to speak to survey responses we received from the congregation and talk a bit more about the opinion of value we've received from CBRE.
Please note: A hybrid (Zoom) option is not available for this event.
Questions? Contact Chad at chad@uumc.org.
What Do We Stand For?
First adopted by the 1972 General Conference, the Social Principles articulate Methodists’ ethical aspirations for the common good in our public policies and personal commitments. The 2025-2028 Social Principles especially address global social concerns, reflecting the diverse contexts of the worldwide church.
Pastor Teresa and Earl would like to explore with you what’s new in Social Principles and what we stand for as a Methodist church that does not separate love of God from love of neighbor, worship and personal holiness from working for holiness in society. Contact Pastor Earl—pastorearl@uumc.org—with any questions!
Youth: Summer Shareholders
The youth are fundraising for their summer trips.
Our high schoolers are going on a civil rights road trip. The middle schoolers will be going on an education justice mission trip.
Shareholders are invited to donate to these adventures by buying $10 “shares” in the Youth Ministry. At the end of the summer, all shareholders are invited to join us for a pasta lunch where the youth will share details about their trips.
Questions? Want to learn more? Email Natasha at natasha@uumc.org.
Youth: Summer Shareholders
The youth are fundraising for their summer trips.
Our high schoolers are going on a civil rights road trip. The middle schoolers will be going on an education justice mission trip.
Shareholders are invited to donate to these adventures by buying $10 “shares” in the Youth Ministry. At the end of the summer, all shareholders are invited to join us for a pasta lunch where the youth will share details about their trips.
Questions? Want to learn more? Email 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.
Youth: Summer Shareholders
The youth are fundraising for their summer trips.
Our high schoolers are going on a civil rights road trip. The middle schoolers will be going on an education justice mission trip.
Shareholders are invited to donate to these adventures by buying $10 “shares” in the Youth Ministry. At the end of the summer, all shareholders are invited to join us for a pasta lunch where the youth will share details about their trips.
Questions? Want to learn more? Email Natasha at natasha@uumc.org.
Youth: Summer Shareholders
The youth are fundraising for their summer trips.
Our high schoolers are going on a civil rights road trip. The middle schoolers will be going on an education justice mission trip. Our whole youth group will gather together for a Service Trip in Corpus Christi.
Shareholders are invited to donate to these adventures by buying $10 “shares” in the Youth Ministry. At the end of the summer, all shareholders are invited to join us for a pasta lunch where the youth will share details about their trips.
Questions? Want to learn more? Email Natasha at natasha@uumc.org.
Joint Sunday School with Felicia Martin, President of Texas Freedom Network
Join us as we welcome Felicia Martin, President and Executive Director of the Texas Freedom Network. Martin will provide an overview of the organization's mission and current efforts, including their critical work with the State Board of Education. She will offer clear, actionable ways for congregants to get involved and make an impact.
Felicia Martin is the President and Executive Director of the Texas Freedom Network, bringing nearly two decades of experience in advocacy, strategy, and movement building. She has led impactful work across civic engagement, mental health, college access, and youth organizing, with a deep commitment to equity and progressive change in Texas. A seasoned leader and coalition-builder, Felicia is driven by a bold vision for a more inclusive and just democracy.
Questions? Contact Pastor Earl at pastorearl@uumc.org.
Writers' Group
For the last few months, on Wednesday afternoons, about 3 - 6 of us have met in the Church Library, from 1 - 3 p.m., to write. It provides a nice, quiet, regular place to just sit down and write, a place where, once you’re there, the “What I ought to be doing’s” might have a little less persuasion in keeping you from getting something written down. If you’d like to join us, please do. And, if you’d have any questions, please contact me, Mark Jones (512-749-3898), or Christy Moore (deebuss@gmail.com).
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.
Sound Bath
Join yoga teacher Chris Leigh for a sound bath event in our chapel. Whether you are feeling overwhelmed or simply seeking solace, sound can assist meditation, relaxation and self-compassion.
Chris received her Hatha teaching certification under the guidance of her beloved teacher Sat Nam Joti Kaur Khalsi at the Blue Cypress School Of Holism in Wimberley Texas and has been teaching for a decade.
Questions? Contact Pastor Teresa at PastorTeresa@uumc.org.
Land & Legacy: Next Steps
Join Land & Legacy as we continue the discernment conversation around building development. We hope to have some information from the broker to share, but are excited to connect with y’all either way. If you haven’t attended one of our previous Town Halls, we encourage you to do so, as this conversation will build on earlier ones.
Childcare and some light bites will be available.
If you have any questions about this process, please reach out to Chad—chad@uumc.org—he’s more than happy to chat with you.
Lunch & Learn: The Texas Civil Rights Project
All are welcome to hear Rev. Jim Harrington, a Texas civil rights icon who has dedicated his life to the pursuit of justice. Rev. Harrington will share stories from his recently published book, The Texas Civil Rights Project: How We Built a Social Justice Movement, reflecting on his lifelong fight for equality—from advocating for farmworkers alongside César Chávez to securing major reforms for people with disabilities—and his work to build a movement for social justice.
Questions? Contact Pastor Earl at pastorearl@uumc.org.
RMN Reception: Drag Brunch
Join us as we rejoice in the progress our queer and trans community has made, and recommit to the work that remains before us.
After worship, join us in the Fellowship Hall for an intergenerational Drag Brunch, showcasing two of Austin's own Queens, Diamond Dior Davenport and Monica Monae! Check out AV’s video about what to expect this Sunday. If you’re curious about Drag Etiquette in general, we recommend this excellent video created by Waterloo Spectrum featuring kings and queens from their local community.
Questions? Want to help out? Contact AV at av@uumc.org!
Diversity Fellowship: New Year's Party
POSTPONED DUE TO WEATHER
Diversity Fellowship is kicking off the New Year with a collective celebration featuring traditional Korean New Year food! Diversity Fellowship is a great way for our community's ethnically diverse members to come together, enjoy food, and build meaningful friendships. Have questions or want to know more?
Feel free to contact Pastor Earl—pastorearl@uumc.org—we'd love to connect with you!
Tuesday Night Lights: Study on Christian Nationalism
The Racial Justice Task Force of UUMC invites you to a four-week study on Christian Nationalism. Together, we’ll explore historical examples and how Christian nationalism emerged in American history and continues to shape the political climate today. We’ll also consider faithful ways to respond: how we can be agents of change and reach out to our neighbors with understanding and hope. Please join us in person or via Zoom! Please email Pastor Earl for the Zoom link.
Joint Sunday School with Rev. Dr. Amy Laura Hall
Everyone is invited to the Fellowship Hall for a Sunday School hour opportunity. Rev. Dr. Amy Laura Hall will lead this time and give us a book talk on her forthcoming book. Her new book examines how religious rhetoric and preaching have shaped Christian nationalism in modern American history, and its title is "Erecting the Pulpit: Muscular Christianity from Teddy Roosevelt to Donald Trump." You can learn more on her publisher’s website. Contact Pastor Earl with any questions! pastorearl@uumc.org.
This opportunity will be in-person only. Thank you for your understanding.
Thursday Morning Lesson: Short Stories and Lasting Wisdom
Join us Thursday mornings at 10 a.m. for a meaningful time of reading and sharing.
Each session will begin with a short story from around the world and from different time periods—across cultures and religions—followed by a lively discussion and interpretation. Together, we will explore the meanings and lessons these stories offer for our lives today. Please join us in person or via Zoom (please email Pastor Earl for the Zoom link.)
Longest Night Service
The Longest Night service is a reflective time when we will hold 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.
Tuesday Night Lights: Faith & Art with Paul Harper
You are invited to the Tuesday Night Lights talk series: Faith and Art: A Conversation on Beauty and the Sacred. Each Tuesday evening, we’ll welcome a different artist or art expert from within our congregation to explore the meaningful intersection between art and spiritual life as they share their stories and lead a conversation. Come for some evenings or join us for them all, and step into a space where stories, questions, and shared reflections can awaken our sense of wonder, stir our hearts with beauty, and renew our hope in a broken world.
Questions? Contact Pastor Earl at PastorEarl@uumc.org.
About Paul Harper
Paul Harper is a musician and music educator. He plays guitar, banjo, mandolin, and bass guitar. He grew up in Minnesota, then moved to San Antonio in 1981 to attend the Southwest Guitar Conservatory. He later studied classical guitar at UTSA, where he earned both a Bachelor of Music degree and a Master of Music degree. He is an adjunct professor of music at Northeast Lakeview College in San Antonio. He sings in the bass section of the UUMC choir. He has played as an extra with the now defunct San Antonio Symphony Orchestra. He enjoys hiking, birding, and watching baseball (go Twins!)
Tuesday Night Lights: Faith & Art with David Mossman
You are invited to the Tuesday Night Lights talk series: Faith and Art: A Conversation on Beauty and the Sacred. Each Tuesday evening, we’ll welcome a different artist or art expert from within our congregation to explore the meaningful intersection between art and spiritual life as they share their stories and lead a conversation. Come for some evenings or join us for them all, and step into a space where stories, questions, and shared reflections can awaken our sense of wonder, stir our hearts with beauty, and renew our hope in a broken world.
Questions? Contact Pastor Earl at PastorEarl@uumc.org.
About David Mossman
I was raised as a United Methodist kid, and I also had a love of comic strips and cartoons. My dad would bring home lots of scrap paper, and I would lie on the floor in our den making goofy drawings for hours. I’d draw birthday cards for family members with corny jokes. After law school graduation we joined Tarrytown UMC and I started drawing a comic strip for the newsletter, which I continued at Asbury UMC where my wife Nancy started an internship while she was in seminary. Throughout my life I’ve tried to see the funny side of things and the absurdities of human existence – which includes Christian humans. A sense of humor is a good tool for not taking life – or faith – too seriously.
Next Up for Faith & Art:
Vital Conversations on Immigration
Week 1: November 30 | 9:45 - 10:45 am | Fellowship Hall
Weeks 2 - 4: December 7, 14 & 21 | 4 - 5 pm | Zoom
Please join this four-week Advent study series, Vital Conversations on Immigration. This study, provided by the General Commission on Religion and Race of The United Methodist Church, guides us in learning more about immigration, which is not merely a political issue—a theological and spiritual matter deeply rooted in our Christian faith. We will explore topics such as "Immigration and the Bible: what does our faith require?" "Why do people migrate?" "Race, culture, and immigration: who belongs?" "From charity to justice: the church's role in immigration" and "Connecting faith, race, and immigration justice."
For the zoom link and more information, please email Pastor Earl at pastorearl@uumc.org.
Chosen Family Friendsgiving
Queer, Trans, & Questioning folks, and all those we call our family are invited to a Chosen Family Friendsgiving potluck dinner. Location TBA, hopefully at AV & Kenzie's new home, fingers crossed! Bring a treat to share or just yourself, there will always be enough to go around. Intergenerational event, allies more than welcome!
Questions? Email AV at av@uumc.org.
Godly Play Training
Join Jillian for an abridged Godly Play training session at UUMC!
Our children's program is growing and we are in need of Sunday School leaders.
Godly Play is a beautiful way to express your own spirituality while teaching kiddos to wonder and be curious about God and faith. Dinner is provided! Please reach out with any questions. jillian@uumc.org!
Seasoned Supper Club: Thanksgiving Lunch
(Previously Prime Time Lunch)
The 70+ Seasoned Supper Club members are invited to our annual Thanksgiving lunch on November 12 from 11am - 1pm in the Fellowship Hall.
RSVP to Renee at renee@uumc.org!