October 07, 2026

Beth Brownfield’s Collages 

Exhibited in the Social Hall, Sun. Oct 11- Mon. Oct 26

"Opening up to WORLDS of CONVERSATIONS through Collaging" 

The language we inherit and speak influences and shapes our very lives.  The cliches we utter, the thoughts we think, the words we carelessly say, the conversations we engage in may affect us more than we realize?

For Beth, making collages was a joy because it helped her explore ideas, concepts and themes that cannot be easily explained in words.  She used collages to “tell stories, express ideas, transform thinking and explore concepts” through visual means. Her collages indeed open us up to other WORLDS, both visible and invisible. 

Books for Sale This Sunday Only in the Social Hall

 IN THE SPIRIT OF RIGHT AND RESPECTFUL RELATIONS: 

Conversations about Indigenous Ways of Knowing and Being in Nature

(For Sale for $10)

The book promotes dialogue with Indigenous Peoples to increase understandings, build relationships and momentum, and inspire action to support, protect, and restore our region's imperiled lands, waters, life, and lifeways. This book was inspirited from a gathering on Orcas Island where those present spoke from the heart and the mind on raising up Indigenous voices, narratives, and knowledge to help others re-imagine their relationship with Nature and preserve our shared earth.

The drop in salmon populations (some by 90%) threatens salmon-dependent economies and cultural traditions, tribal treaty rights, and our entire ecosystem. By working to recover wild salmon for future generations, the Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association (NSEA) contributes to a positive future for Whatcom County communities.  NSEA is a volunteer-powered program that improves habitat and water quality across the County, which in turn, saves salmon.  

NSEA collaborates with local tribes, partners, landowners and volunteers to address the degradation of streamside forests -- one of the main issues facing survival of spawning salmon in freshwater --  through its Stream Stewards Program.  Stream Stewards of all ages and backgrounds plant trees, remove weeds, pick up litter at new sites as well as maintain previously restored sites .  NSEA provides tools, plants, restrooms, snacks, gloves—all that is needed -- for each volunteer dependent Stream Restoration event, which   SEJC Collection funds will directly support.  The cost per event is about $3000.

BUFsters are invited to work parties of varying season-dependent tasks on Saturdays and every other Wednesday throughout most of the year.  Other volunteer opportunities include monitoring spawning salmon in local creeks, chaperoning field trips, or working with staff on vegetation monitoring. For more complete information, check out www.n-sea.org; and  www.n-sea.org/volunteer.

Upon arriving at BUF in October 2025, I was brought up to speed on BUF’s budget and financials, soon learning that in previous years, BUF had had a long-term renter who operated a weekday school on the Flex Room floor, resulting in approximately $40,000 in dependable annual rental income.  At the time of my arrival, the school was gone, and BUF’s rental income had fallen to less than half that amount.  Finding a new long-term renter who aligned with our values became a priority, especially as we welcomed Alison, our new Congregational Administrator, who has done an incredible job managing BUF’s rental program.

Accordingly, we are excited to announce that BUF will soon open its doors to Recovery Café Bellingham, who will be renting the BUF Social Hall, Kitchen and Library on Tuesdays through Thursdays, with Café hours from 12:00pm to 4:00pm (and staff access from 10:00am to 6:00pm for preparation and cleanup).  Founded in Seattle in 2003 to provide long-term recovery support, Recovery Café is a drug- and alcohol-free space offering meals, accountability circles, and support for anyone in recovery or close to someone in recovery.  

Recovery Café Bellingham is part of the larger Recovery Café Network, a model replication effort that has helped groups in cities across the U.S. begin their own Recovery Cafés.  They are fiscally sponsored by Chuckanut Health Foundation.  Their funds come from private donations, as well as grants from Chuckanut Health Foundation and North Sound Accountable Community of Health (ACH).  They are championed by local officials, such as Mayor Kim Lund (whose husband was an early mentor to the Directors), as well as Whatcom County Council member Elizabeth Boyle.  In fact, former BUFster and current Bellingham City Council Member, Michael Lilliquist, volunteers in their kitchen and attended our meeting with Café Directors Amy Kenna and Katie Honick, voicing his strong support as we explored this potential partnership.

This rental arrangement will result in approximately $22,000 of rental income for the 6-month trial period, with the potential for much more should BUF and Recovery Café decide to continue their agreement beyond the trial period.  You may be wondering, “But what about Community Night Dinner on Wednesdays?”  Never fear, Alison has coordinated with Jen Villalva-Cheap, and Recovery Café will operate in a slightly different way on Wednesdays so as not to interfere with Community Night Dinner or the folks who arrive early to cook.

We have heard concerns from a few folks within the congregation around potential negative impact to BUF’s facilities.  When these concerns were raised, we immediately reached out to Rev. Jeff at First Baptist Church, the congregation where Recovery Café has been operating since 2024.  Alison had a long conversation with Rev. Jeff, who is very supportive of Recovery Café and is cheering them on.  While he reported some minor damage (e.g., lost eating utensils and few folding chairs that needed to be replaced), Rev. Jeff confirmed that there were no major damages or incidents, and that the Café covered everything.  They also have a certificate of insurance through their fiscal sponsor, Chuckanut Health. 

Your BUF Operations Team (the Team tasked with implementing Board policy and maintaining day-to-day operations of the congregation, and comprised of the Minister, Congregational Administrator Alison, and lay leaders Todd Jones, Natalie Johnson, John Stewart, Doug Branson and Cindy Denchfield) carefully considered this proposal.  In addition to BUF’s existing Building Use & Rental Agreement and Policies, we crafted an additional Addendum to specifically and proactively address any potential issues and provide as many guardrails as possible (e.g., higher security deposit, shortened trial period, strict requirements that Café guests will enter the Social Hall from the ground-level backdoor using the exterior sidewalk on the eastside of the building with staff present outside BUF’s front door to guide them during Café hours, etc.).

I am sure we will encounter some bumps and challenges along the way as all get acclimated to this trial arrangement, and there likely will be some impact on our building.  However, we (me, Alison and the Operations Team with support from the Board) feel that the benefits to BUF and the larger community outweigh the potential downsides—downsides we have worked hard to mitigate through our contractual agreement with Recovery Café.  

We also are incredibly grateful to Alison, who is committed to overseeing this partnership.  In her words, “As the Administrator, I realize I will likely be the person in closest contact with the Café on a regular basis. I am willing and happy to commit to the monitoring, communication, meetings, and resolving of any issues that need attention.  I believe Recovery Café is doing some of the work most needed in Bellingham, and I see the potential for a meaningful partnership that aligns with our values. Amy and the other staff I have met from the Café have been delightful to work with so far. Like any new undertaking or significant change, there may be challenges along the way, but I hope and believe the outcome will be worth the effort.”   

When I arrived at BUF, before I heard about the goal of boosting rental income, I heard about BUF’s proud history of service in Bellingham, including:

• BUF’s role in the origin story of Lydia Place, a non-profit providing temporary housing and support for families with children;

• BUF’s housing of Maple Alley Inn, a hot meal program allowing low-income folks, the unhoused, veterans and more to dine with dignity; and 

• BUF’s weekly Humanitas program, an assistance program within the Alms Network providing support to guests through radical listening and offering limited emergency financial assistance.  

By partnering with Recovery Café, BUF once again has an opportunity to be a part of providing vital services to our Bellingham community in an effort that both aligns with our values and provides crucial rental income.  While Recovery Café Bellingham hopes to one day have their own dedicated space, their trial period at BUF helps get them one step closer to this worthy goal.

This past week, I read on the Recovery Café website that “Welcoming our Members into a community of radical hospitality is a fundamental aspect of our work.” I immediately was reminded of BUF’s oft-stated desire to offer radical welcome and hospitality to members, friends and visitors alike.  Our hope is for this partnership with Recovery Café to extend BUF’s welcome and hospitality even further into our Bellingham community.

Please feel free to reach out to me (BUFminister@buf.org) or Alison (BUFadmin@buf.org) with questions or concerns.

Rev. Sunny, minister

We’re so glad to have you with us! This guide is meant to provide basic information about our programs and events from September to December 2026. Contact DRE (Director of Religious Education) Lis Epperson at BUFReligiousEducation@buf.org for more information.

Sunday RE (Pre-K through High School)

Begins in the Sanctuary at 10:39 AM. Classes end at 11:45 AM,

PreK -5th graders need to be signed out by their parents/guardians.

Youth Group

This Sunday, Oct 11th will be a "stay-in-service" day for 7th graders and up (as always, any child is welcome to stay in the service instead of attend classes). This is an opportunity for all of us to hear Jay Julius of Lummi Nation, who will be the celebrant at the service.

On Monday, Oct 12th, Youth Group (6th and up) will be attending Indigenous People's Day at Lummi Nation School. This event is free and open to all who live in Whatcom County, so whatever your age, please join us

Pumpkin Carving

Wednesday, October 28, 5 PM in Social Hall

Bring your pumpkins (we will have some available) and we will bring the carving tools! All ages welcome. Thank you Rebecca!

Halloween Party

Friday, October 30, 5 PM in Social Hall

Arrive in costume for a potluck and party celebrating Halloween! It’s The Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown will be playing, and there will be some themed games and crafts.

Other Special Events

Parent’s Night Out

Friday, November 13th. Children arrive with their own dinner/having eaten for a craft, popcorn, and a movie. Parents walk to Elizabeth Station for a night out together. RSVP Not Required. Arrive at BUF at 5:15 PM

Solstice Party - December 19th

Let us gather for the third annual chili dinner as we celebrate the longest night of the year. Please bring along a topping and a side to share. Lantern making and an interactive Solstice Spiral!

Due to unforeseen circumstances we will no longer be able to run both a K-2 and 4-6 class this fall from 9/27-11/22 as planned. We will still be running the OWL K-2 program during that date and have delayed the 4-6 program till the new year.

New dates for the OWL 4-6 are 1/10 parent/youth orientation 1-3pm and class 1/31, 2/7, 2/21, 2/28,3/7, 3/14, 3/21 and 3/28. Classes will be during regular RE time (10:30-11:45) except for the last 2 sundays where youth will need to come at 9-10am for class with a 30 min break and then 10:30-11:45. If you signed up for the class for 4-6 and these new dates DON'T work for you and your family please let us know and we can refund your registration money back to your.

Sign ups for both classes are still available and open ifor BUFsters and the whole community if you have a child going into K-2 or 4-6. Our Whole Lives (OWL) is an award-winning lifespan sexuality education program providing honest, accurate information that dismantles stereotypes and assumptions, builds self-acceptance and self-esteem, fosters healthy relationships, improves decision making, and has the potential to save lives. 

REGISTRATION CLOSES for the K-2 class Sunday, September 13.

Any questions email us at owl@buf.org

Adult Religious Education Fall Courses

UU101

Facilitator: Rod Haynes

Sunday, October 4, 11, and 18

12:15 PM - 2:00 PM, Flex Room

The history of Unitarian Universalism is a continuing story of questioning inherited beliefs, expanding the sources of religious truth, and translating belief into ethical action and beloved community. Facilitator Rod Haynes will pose questions, lead breakouts, and examine key UU historical leaders and events back in time.

Register for the course: https://buf.breezechms.com/form/d21057

Exploring Your Religious Journey - Past and Present

Facilitator: Kathryn Allen and Bonnie Phinney

Sunday, October 25, November 1 and 8

12:15 PM - 2:00 PM, Flex Room

What is the story of your religious journey that brought you to UUism, and what about that journey keeps you here? Our minister, Sunny McMillan, several celebrants, and other members of the congregation have shared their religious journey story from the pulpit. It has been fascinating to hear. Come share your story in community, and tell us how it informs your being here now. This is an opportunity for you to share your story and learn about others’ as we continue to walk the path of growing, learning, and discovering.

Register for the course: https://buf.breezechms.com/form/e42611

Tickets to the annual BUF Auction are selling fast - only about 30 tickets left! Get yours now before we sell out. Join us Saturday, November 7th from 4:30-7:30pm. $35 per ticket covers an amazing catered dinner and childcare for those who need it. Purchase tickets online or at BUF on Sunday.

If you are able to volunteer before, during, or after the auction, we need your help! Set up and decorate the social hall on Friday, sell raffle tickets or pour drinks during the event, or help clean up afterwards. Many volunteer positions are available. Visit us during coffee hour or email auction@buf.org to sign up. Please note: volunteers will still need to purchase a ticket so that we can cover the cost of your catered meal. If you are in need of a reduced price ticket, please reach out to auction@buf.org.

Paddle Call donations, as well as raffle tickets are now available! 1 for $5 or 3 for $10. This year’s raffle is all online, so you don’t need to be present to win - you don’t even need to be present to purchase raffle tickets! And don’t forget to browse the auction catalog and mark your favorite items so that you’re ready to start bidding online November 1st! For assistance with the auction website, please contact auctionadmin@buf.org.

Purchase event tickets, browse the catalog, and get raffle tickets Here.

CPR/AED/First Aid Training

Save the Date: Saturday, November 14

Do you want to ensure you're equipped to help when the need arises? 

Raven CPR will conduct a customized training at BUF on SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1-4pm in the Social Hall for all those interested in learning, refreshing, and practicing their skills with CPR, AED and First Aid.  The cost to you will be only $25!  Thank you to the BUF Budget for  subsidizing 2/3 of the cost.  

We need at least 12 BUF members/friends for the class to go on as planned, so please RSVP to safety@buf.org to say you are coming.

Community Night Dinner

Every Wednesday Night at 6:00 PM

Social Hall

The new BUF year is upon us and that means cozy soups with Community Night Dinner (CND)! CND is a tradition here at BUF for Wednesday evenings where a low cost dinner of soup, salad, and a simple dessert is offered to BUFsters.

CND is run by volunteers. If you would like to participate, reach out to Jen Villalva-Cheap at cnd@buf.org or keep an eye out for the sign-up on the bulletin board in the Narthex

All Hindu Indians learn the story from childhood, but very few Americans have the name of the epic or its hero, Rama. It is the story behind Diwali, the Festival of Lights.

As India becomes more connected to the global world, both as a people and for commercial reasons, it is necessary to recognize the values that drive its people. Those values come from this epic. So, it is extremely relevant now that we at this spiritual institution understand the sacred text of the Hindus.

Please contact Debu at tbw@buf.org with any questions.

[image: Ravana, the evil king of Lanka, fights the vulture Jatayu to protect Rama’s wife, Sita. Painting by Raja Ravi Varma, Jatayu vadha, 1906.]

Postcard Writing for UU the Vote

BUF Black Lives Matter invites you to write nonpartisan postcards in community after the next two Sunday services encouraging and giving information to Black voters. Come write postcards- scripts and supplies will be provided. Monetary donations for stamps are greatly appreciated. If you have questions, email tbw@buf.org.

Dining with Friends

Dining with Friends is a program of small groups that gather around food and conversation once a month from October through May. All ages are welcome. For more information go to Learning and Connections on the BUF website, then find Dining with Friends under Affinity Groups. If this looks like something that you would like to participate in, then fill in and submit the Interest Form at the bottom of the web page.

Lunch For All

Lunch For All is a bring your own lunch every Tuesday at 12 Noon.

Everyone is welcome to join the conversation. We are in the Social Hall or the Library.

I am the host.

Thank you, Mark Allyn

Singing Resistance

Every Wednesday, starting at 4:30 pm

Sanctuary

Beginning September 2nd, BUF Singing Resistance will return to meeting at 4:30 on Wednesday afternoons in the sanctuary. All are welcome to our practices and events, as we develop a community of singers ready to hit the streets on short notice or to show up to events with songs of community, outrage and hope. This is not about singing ability or experience. It is not about performance. It is about joining with our neighbors and letting everyone in earshot know that “Our love for each other will conquer hate."

Defend our Public Lands

In following through on our collective commitment to Defend Against the Assault on Environmental Protections: Public Lands Rules and the Endangerment Finding, we invite you to join us on taking the following actions and be aware of actions coming up.  Each item has a link to a document with more background information, talking points and instructions on how and where to submit your comment.

EPA Rule Change on Power Plant Emissions Regulation

Link.  Heads up.  A proposed rule change would deregulate greenhouse gas emissions coming from power plants.  This will come open for comment soon and instructions will be available then.

Section 106 Historical Preservation Act Revisions

Link.  Heads up.  Recently, NCAI hosted a webinar expressing concern about proposed changes in Section 106 which specifically allow Tribes/Nations to protect sacred sites and culturally important areas.  Lummi Nation’s invoking of Section 106 was how we defeated the coal port at Cherry Point.  This will come open for comment soon and instructions will be available then.

Oppose the Fix Our Forests Act

Link.  The Act would streamline environmental reviews, reduce Tribal consultation, hamper filing injunctions to stop projects, doesn't address climate change impacts, doesn't address the real causes of wildfires and doesn't account for the cuts in budgets and manpower to implement the projects.

Oppose the Wildfire Prevention Act

Link.  The Act would permanently eliminate the Roadless Rule prevent agency leads and the courts from restoring it.  It would also increase the number projects that will bypass or be streamlined in the environmental review process.  It significantly increases timber harvesting by 40% by 2029, reduces Tribal consultation and does not address climate change or the real causes of wildfires.

Deb Cruz

President, JUUstice Washington

A Few Friendly Reminders About Being Together In Our Building

Parking: Members and friends, please reserve use of our parking lot for new visitors and those with mobility challenges. Parking is available in the North Coast Credit Union lot (Sundays only) as well as available around Fouts Park and the former school administration building. Note: Fencing around the school building is in place along Ellsworth Street, but you should be able to parallel park along it as well any available spots between the school building and the fire station.

Fragrance-Free Facility: BUF strives to be a fragrance-free environment for those in our community who have fragrance allergies or chemical sensitivies. Your care and consideration are deeply appreciated.

Alison, Congregational Administrator, bufadmin@buf.org.

How to Submit to the BUF Weekly

Submit content via email to tbw@buf.org (submissions sent to mwu@buf,org will continue to reach us). Content must be received by noon on the Tuesday prior to the distribution on Wednesday. If you wish a graphic or photo to be part of your submission, please send it earlier than the deadline (you can send the finalized content later) because of formatting considerations. Try to limit your blurb to 200 words. If you have a submission that is lengthier than 200, please contact tbw@buf.org so a possible accommodation can be made.

Find the BUF Calendar Online

For BUF events and meetings, visit buf.org/calendar. To see whether a room or space is available, visit buf.org/rentals. To reserve a room or space contact Alison, the Congregational Administrator, at bufadmin@buf.org.

Text to Give

You can donate to BUF from your phone by sending a text message to 360-345-3933.

Text “$10” to donate $10 to the collection basket

To give to a specific fund, text the amount followed by the keyword. Example: “$10 humanitas”

Keywords: humanitas, sejc, taize, cnd, fair, retreat, and uplift

You may also indicate the frequency with which your gift is processed. If no frequency is indicated in the text, your gift will be processed as one time gift. The options are: weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, yearly. Example “$10 humanitas monthly”

You’ll need to do a little setup and provide your account information the first time you do this, but after that, it’s just a text message.