. Unitarian Pilgrimage ................2 News From the Board ...............3 From Rev. Joe ..........................4&5 Children & Youth .....................6&7 Evergreen's Offerings...........8&9 Broader Community ..........10&11 UUA, Holidays and Days of Observance .................................... 12
Winter 2025-26 | Covers December 21st through March 20th, 2026
Newsletter
the path to membership at Evergreen
Upcoming Worship Services
The Board of Trustees will be hosting another Sunday BrUUnch to continue our visioning as a congregation on January 18th. Save the date!
Submit something for the Weekly Update, Newsletter or Sunday Announcements using this form or go to www.bit.ly/EUUFblurb
Evergreen
Table of contents
We invite you to ring in the new year with community and intention. Join us for our first service of 2026 on Sunday, January 4th, led by Rev. Joe Rettenmaier. As we move through the season, we are thrilled to welcome fresh perspectives to our pulpit. In January, look forward to hearing from guest speaker Martha Durkee-Neuman (Jan. 11) and Heather Trim, Executive Director of Zero Waste WA (Jan. 25). In February, we are delighted to welcome back Mari Budlong (Feb. 1) followed by a special Youth-Led Service on February 15th. Stay tuned for more details and upcoming topics as the rest of our winter calendar takes shape!
Sunday Bruunch
If you've been coming to EUUF as a friend and would like to learn how to become a member, the path begins by attending one of our Membership classes! You will learn about Evergreen membership, history, our UU Principles and have your questions answered. Please contact Alonna Chatburn, our Membership Chair, if you're interested in attending a class. Then later in May, we'll welcome this year's new members for a new member breakfast and a brief ceremony during our Sunday service.
For those wishing to make a last minute 2025 tax deductible contribution to Evergreen UU Fellowship, checks need to be postmarked by December 31st.
Members of the Board 25-26
NEWS FROM THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Contact the Board via email at board@evergreenuu.org
Sage Billings, President Ken Rines, Vice President Ryan Weber, Secretary Marijo Duprey, Treasurer Sandie Biggerstaff, Past President Dave Speights, Member-at-large Bernard Wacher, Member-at-large Rev. Joe Rettenmaier, Ex-Officio Member
Reminder from the Treasurer
Winter 2025-26
Consider lending a helping hand with Coffee Hour! You can help with set-up, clean-up, or bring some snacks and treats to share. You can find the sign-up sheet near the coffee on Sunday and simply add your name to a future date. Have questions about the process? Just ask Alli, the Office Administrator, or ask a Coffee Hour Helper on Sunday.
Sign up to help with Coffee Hour
Happy Holidays! This is our third winter at the Carl Gipson Center. Our fellowship is continuing to grow and thrive. Before moving to the current location, the fellowship partook in a handful of in -depth visioning. In recent years when it was decided to move to our new location where we are now, in Everett. Questions that were once unknown, came into focus and now we get to share in this space and make it our new home. We are not sitting on our laurels-as they say (or as they used to say, rather). With a sense of humor and curiosity we continue to do the real work of visioning. The fellowship has grown in the volume of attendees that these brainstorming sessions are something we enjoy, and this is the recipe we need to figure out where we are going. Anyone is invited to attend board meetings and the minutes are made available for all to read. Gratefully yours in service, Sage Billings EUUF 2025-2026 Board President
Evergreen's Board of Trustees meets once a month for their business meetings on the second Sunday of the month. All are welcome to join at Noon in the Mt Olympus room or online via Zoom.
"It is an honor to welcome you to Transylvania, a land where East meets West, where diverse cultures have flourished side by side for centuries, and where the spirit of religious freedom was born. It was here, in 1568, that the Edict of Torda was proclaimed – a landmark moment that made Transylvania a beacon of tolerance and understanding in Europe. This is the birthplace of Unitarianism, a faith that champions freedom of belief and the dignity of the human spirit. As you explore the rolling hills and majestic mountains, you are invited to walk in the footsteps of those who stood for faith and tolerance. Transylvania’s breathtaking scenery, rich cultural heritage, and welcoming communities make it a unique destination for spiritual reflection and renewal." -Rev. István Kovács, Bishop of the Hungarian Unitarian Church Please find below several new opportunities offered by the Hungarian Unitarian Church and our partners in Transylvania and Hungary. Click the link of the title to see more details. A UNITARIAN TASTE OF TRANSYLVANIA Transylvanian Pilgrimage: March 19 - 30, 2026 Via Unitariana Walking Camp Transylvanian Pilgrimage: June 28 - July 4, 2026 A UNITARIAN TASTE OF TRANSYLVANIA Transylvanian Pilgrimage: September 8 - 19, 2026
Sunday Worship Service 10:30 am Online via Zoom & In-Person at the Carl Gipson Center, Cascade View Room Evergreen Unitarian Universalist Fellowship P.O. Box #3262, Everett, WA 98213 www.evergreenuu.org 360-659-6621 In-Person Office Hours Sundays 9:30 am - 3:30 pm Mondays & Wednesdays 11:00 am - 5:00 pm MINISTER Rev. Joe Rettenmaier BOARD PRESIDENT Sage Billings boardpresident@evergreenuu.org BOARD OF TRUSTEES board@evergreenuu.org OFFICE ADMIN Alli Curtis administrator@evergreenuu.org RELIGIOUS EDUCATOR JW Wenzel redirector@evergreenuu.org
Pilgrimage with the Hungarian UNitarian Church
The visions and dreams we all expressed during our October 26, 2025 Dream BrUUnch are now available. Check them out here! They’re a compelling look into what your fellow Evergreen friends are envisioning for our future and our next long-term home.
The Pleasure of a Winter’s Eve By Nancy Miller Rhythmically, the white mist flows from the horses nostrils. The geese noisily call as they take flight from the snow covered fields. A flock of hearty birds sing with a clicking sound as they pass by. The trees are decorated with pure white snow to better see the uniqueness, The imperfections that creates their history and beauty. Smoke flows horizontally from the chimneys and drifts gently Over the frosted branches. The wood pile stands as a brave protector against the winter’s cold. I am filled with serenity-a peace-and gaze in grateful awe at This moment in evolution, This moment that I play my part on the stage of life, as the cozy fire pleasures all my senses.
Visioning Our Future
Dear Evergreen, During these shortest days of the year, do you, like me, arrive into our Cascade View sanctuary on Sunday mornings feeling gratitude for our warmth and light and welcome? As we listen to new music rising among us, readings and poems, sermons of reflections echoing from our rows and pulpit, the hush of our shared meditative moments seem to settle us into a sacredness larger than ourselves. I must say, as we now turn through winter’s solstice and the longest nights of the year, I am grateful for the light and warmth of our fellowship. Autumn’s chills have now given way to winter’s rains, winds and snows, beckoning us to slow our pace and gather close. This is why I cherish December’s holidays the most, like Bodhi Day, Christmas Day, Hanukkah, Solstice, and others. They’re days of reviving legends to inspire our collective consciousness. Throughout the ages, humankind has woven stories of the arrival of new life into winter’s holy garment of legends -- suspended in the boughs of evergreen trees, floated skyward as illuminated lanterns, lit one candle at a time in the evening’s warmth of home. I love this time of year and our focus on humankind’s legends of the miraculous births of new prophets of wisdom because they remind us that even during the darkest nights, hope is always being born. As I write this letter, scenes of Christmas mangers are filling many minds and hearts with hope as the story of Jesus’ birth is shared via candlelight and carol. I’ve grown to cherish Unitarian Universalism’s perspective on winter holidays because we invite one another to widen our theological lens a bit, and embrace diverse journeys in faith beyond their simplistic tales. So beloveds, on this eve of solstice and Christmas I invite you to widen your wonder for the plurality of winter’s holidays and traditions around the world; holidays which honor the births and revelations of many prophets of peace and love who remind us -- during winter’s longest nights -- that wonder is always arriving. In the hushes and rushes of this season, we often find ourselves delighted by our children’s wonderment about all the legends swirling through the rains and snows. And I come to see their wonderment as a kind of testament of our faith in hope, wonder, generosity, and transformation. It can weave a winter’s worth of faith into the sacredness and preciousness of all life and living beings. These long holiday nights can teach us how the light within us is not to be chased anxiously, but caringly and wonderously welcomed. This December in our precious Salish Sea, we’re navigating floods, landslides, and torrents throughout our valleys once again. The world feels heavy with uncertainty for so many. But in such times, beloveds, I do believe we need our garments of legend more than ever; to remind our inundated souls that light and hope can and will arrive by our own hands and compassion -- as lifeboats, as safe dry places to rest, as nourishing groceries for body and spirit. This holiday season, beloveds, may you lend your hands to transforming prophecy into peace, May we celebrate and honor the gentle truth that there is no one path, no one faith, no one savior or teacher, And may winter’s garment of legends awaken loving kindness within you. With love and peace, warmly, Rev. Joe
FROM REVEREND JOE
Lend a Hand
RE Vision: We are a compassionate, interconnected community of spiritually-rooted carbon-based life forms living our values.
RE Families with Children and Youth
All children and youth need to registered to participate! Thank you!
Reflections and New Beginnings
Dear RE Families, As we approach the winter holidays and the end of the year, we wanted to take a moment to look back at the wonderful month we’ve shared and look forward to the bright year ahead. It has been a joy to see our community grow closer through laughter, learning, and, of course, plenty of good food! Celebrating a Month of Connection November and early December were filled with moments that reminded us why this community is so special: A Feast of Traditions: Our Family First Holiday Potluck was a delicious success! It was beautiful to see the variety of dishes representing the many holiday traditions our families cherish. Talent, Laughter, and Generosity: A massive thank you to everyone who attended the Youth-Led Talent/No Talent Night. Because of your incredible support, we raised significant donations that will directly benefit our youth programming and upcoming trips! The Magic of the Pageant: From rehearsals to the final production, the Solstice Pageant was a highlight of the season. Seeing our children and youth bring the story of the turning year to life was truly magical. Save the Date: Family First Sunday & Community Service We can't wait to see everyone back in the new year to kick off even more exploration and community. Join us for our Family First Sunday on January 4th, 2026! We are starting the year with a focus on Community Service. It’s a wonderful time to reflect on how we can put our values into action and support our neighbors in the coming months. Looking Forward As we head into the winter break, we hope you find time for rest, play, and connection with your loved ones. Thank you for being the heart of our Religious Education program. Your presence and your generous spirits make this fellowship a home. Wishing you a peaceful Solstice and a very Happy New Year! With gratitude, JW Wenzel
Registration
We are looking for volunteers to help facilitate our service projects and classroom activities for the winter term. If you’d like to share your time or a specific skill, please let us know!
Vocal and instrumental music is woven into each Sunday service. ALL are welcome, including teens!
Book Discussion Group Last Wednesday of the month 7:15 - 8:45 pm, online via Zoom January 28th "The Road to Little Dribbling: Adventures of an American in Britain" - another laugh-out-loud travelogue by humorist Bill Bryson 328 pgs. Michelle leads February 25th "Authentic Selves: Celebrating Trans & Non-Binary People & Their Friends" - Peggy Gillespie, Groundbreaking in its depictions of joy and community, Authentic Selves celebrates trans and nonbinary people and their families in stunning photographs and their own words. Foreword by transgender activist Jazz Jennings and her mom and fellow activist, Jeanette Jennings. 382 pgs, Michelle leads Contact Michelle Valentine for more information.
WISE Women's Group Sarah Taylor has stepped down from leading the women's group, as of Dec. 31st, and a new organizer/facilitator is needed for the new year. This group is open to women of all ages. Please consider volunteering as a leader or co-leader or even to sign up to lead a specific month. Locations and topics for meetings have been the duty of the leader. Jen Broadway has volunteered to manage the contact list and send out reminders.
Friday, March 27th through Sunday, March 29th, 2026 Pilgrim Firs Retreat Center in Port Orchard Stay tuned for more details!
Save the Date: EUUF Women's Retreat
Childcare at Evergreen
evergreen's offerings
Covenant Circles
Come feel the warmth of a Covenant Circle in 2026 Add warmth and light to your winter days by joining a Covenant Circle/Small Group Ministry. Being a member of a Covenant Circle can lift your spirits and warm your heart with deepening UU friendships and spiritual growth. Make meaningful connections with other Evergreen UU’s. We currently have three groups with openings. Sandie Biggerstaff has a few openings in her second Monday of the month Covenant Circle, meeting at 9:30 a.m. at the Carl Gibson Center in the Olympus Room. If you are interested in joining Sandie’s group please contact her at 253-318-4894 or skbigg@live.com. Wes Cain and Kate Mallahan are new leaders and both are eager to start new Covenant Circles. Wes would like his group to meet at his home in Stanwood. So far there are six new members. The day and time they will meet will be determined by group consensus. If you are eager to join please contact Wes: 206-719-1978 or wescain@comcast.net. Kate lives in south Everett and would like to host a Covenant Circle at her house once a month Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday. The specific day and time will be determined by group consensus. Please contact Kate if you are interested: 425-344-9838 or mallahankate526@gmail. Please email, text or call me if you would like more information. Warmly, Susan Gaskin EUUF Covenant Circle Coordinator scsg103@comcast.net 425-220-4678
Men's Circle 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 7:00 pm We are a group of men who gather to share with each other our authentic joys, challenges and insights, with the goals of personal growth and mutual support. We pledge to create affirmative, compassionate gatherings through heart-felt sharing, deep listening, honest communication, and confidentiality. We meet in various homes. Contact Dan Hall for more information.
Big Questions 1st & 3rd Fridays, potluck dinner at 6:00 pm, discussion at 7:30 pm, in person at the home of Judy & Desmond Smith in Snohomish, and Online Join us to discuss fundamental questions in philosophy. The questions take the Socratic form, What is??? What is justice? What is truth? What is it to be spiritual? All are welcome. Contact Desmond Smith for more information. http://bigquestionscafe.blogspot.com/.
Transforming Hearts Collective Workshop: Responding to the Anti-Trans Movement If you missed the last time we held this course in Fall, it'll be back sometime in late January / early February. Reach out to Alonna Chatburn or Rev. Joe if you're interested.
Common Ground Choir If you love to sing and want to be a part of a welcoming community that enlivens music each Sunday, the choir would love to have you with us! We are now meeting on Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m. for rehearsal in the Mt. Rainier Room.
Music
To help all adults get involved, we are happy to provide childcare for children whose guardians are attending any Evergreen UU adult programs, covenant circles, or committee meetings held at the Carl Gipson Center. Simply reach out to JW Wenzel in advance to coordinate your childcare needs. We look forward to seeing you there!
whale coast alaska
Please save the date for these upcoming advocacy days and trainings: Advocacy as Spiritual Practice, Tuesday, January 6th, 2026, Register here. Advocacy 101, Wednesday, January 14, 2026. Register here. Housing and Homelessness Advocacy Day, Monday, January 26th. Register here. Interfaith Advocacy Day, Thursday, February 12th, Register here. Learn more at fanwa.org
Volunteer Opportunity: Stay after the EUUF service at the Gipson Center on Sunday, January 18th to help with set up for the Rally in the Cascade View room.
WhaleCoast Alaska - A More Authentic Travel Experience Two unique, exciting fundraising tours organized by 4 Alaska UU congregations are being offered again next summer by WhaleCoast Alaska. Experience majestic scenery, wildlife, Denali National Park, Alaska Native culture, glaciers, and UU homestays. For 32 years, WhaleCoast Alaska tours have been the BEST way to visit Alaska. The tours offer a more authentic and spiritual Alaskan travel experience and an opportunity to connect with Alaskan UUs. Register now for this amazing experience! Details: www.WhaleCoastAK.org Questions: info@whalecoastak.org
In this spirit of reflection and renewal, we’re preparing to begin 30 Days of Love in January: our annual month-long spiritual journey that invites UUs and our partners to ground ourselves in imagination, justice, and faithful action. This year’s theme, Love at the Center: Imagining the World as It Could Be, calls us to engage the theological heart of our tradition: a belief in the transformative power of human agency, collective liberation, and the possibility of a world shaped by compassion and mutual care. At a time when fear, violence, and extraction dominate our politics and our planet, we practice another way. We believe love is not fragile; it is fierce. It grounds our organizing, fuels our imagination, and sustains our communities. Over five weeks (Mon, Jan 19, 2026 through Mon, Feb 16, 2026), we will move through a journey from imagination to action, rooting our freedom dreams in faith and bringing them to life in our world. Each week, we will have a written reflection from Side With Love staff; a conversation with a UU theologian; a multigenerational family activity; reflection questions for journaling; a meditative body practice; and a coloring sheet connected to the weekly theme. Our weekly themes are: Week 1: Reimagining Thriving Week 2: Grounding in Context Week 3: Mobilizing Action Week 4: Nurturing Community Week 5: Exploring Possibilities
Faith Action Network
30 days of Love
UU Society of Sacramento, CA or Online! The event will be multi-platform. April 10-12, 2026 Theme: Rising Resilient Stay tuned for more details! Registration and workshop proposals will open in January.
PWR Regional Assembly
General Assembly (GA) is the annual meeting of the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA), where participants gather to worship, witness, learn, connect, and make policy decisions for the Association through a democratic process. While anyone can attend, congregations must certify annually to have voting delegates. In 2026, we are creating a virtual “everywhere GA” with both online and distributed in-person options that will allow Unitarian Universalists to participate in whichever way works best for them. This new format will reduce travel costs and environmental impacts, offer optional in-person connections, streamline production costs, and provide a more flexible schedule for participants. We know there is a deep need in this moment to build and sustain community as Unitarian Universalists. Given the strain that our congregations and individual UUs face in the current political climate, when travel brings increased risks and person-to-person connection remains important to our continued thriving, we are leaning into this creative approach. To maintain safety, accessibility, and equity, the UUA is offering several ways to engage with the content and connections offered at this virtual GA, including fully virtual participation streaming live across many time zones. By experimenting with smaller, more localized gatherings we can uphold the value of equity for GA participants around the country and production quality that supports the experience of online attendees. Truly, we can be together everywhere as we build the courage and capacity to Meet the Moment.
December 24th: Christmas Eve 25th: Christmas 26th: Boxing Day & Kwanzaa begins January 1st: Kwanzaa ends 6th: Epiphany 19th: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day 27th: International Holocaust Remembrance Day February Black History Month 1st: Imbolc 2nd: Tu b’Shevat 4th: National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day 14th: Valentine’s Day 17th: Mardi Gras & Lunar New Year (year of the horse) & Ramadan begins 18th: Ash Wednesday March Women's History Month 1st: Disability Day of Mourning 2nd: (sunset) Purim 8th: clocks FORWARD one hour 19th: Eid al-Fitr (Ramadan ends) 20th: Spring Equinox / Ostara & Nowruz (Persian New Year)
submission deadline for the Spring newsletter: March 14th date range: March 21st through June 20th Send your submissions to newsletter@evergreenuu.org Or submit using this form
Please check the calendar on the Evergreen website for the most current offerings, activities, events and worship services.
UUA holidays & days of observance