Iowa Lakes Unitarian Universalist Fellowship

09/08/2026

Sydney De Arena recalls going to construction sites with her father and never questioning whether she could do his job, run a company, or enter any field she chose simply because she was a woman.

“It was only later, as an entrepreneur, that I began recognizing the gender barriers that were still there.”

For Sydney, that is the power of Steinem’s work: it changed not only laws and institutions, but women’s expectations for their own lives.

“You build something, challenge a system, or open a door so effectively that the women coming behind you assume that door was always theirs. https://www.forbes.com/sites/allysonkapin/2026/09/04/why-gloria-steinem-is-the-ultimate-model-for-social-entrepreneurs/

09/07/2026

Labor Day

We're honoring ! Generations of movement organizers and working people fought for our labor rights. Today, we thank them for unions, employee benefits, child labor protections, workplace safety, and more. Alongside our grantee partners, we'll keep fighting for economic power until it's a reality for everyone.

🖼️ by ricardolevinsmorales on IG

09/04/2026

Why yes it is!

08/28/2026

08/23/2026

Today’s program by Dr. Philip Spevak was powerful. We learned of his experience helping build a cardiatric hospital in Tanzania. Click the link below to learn more & consider donating to this very worthy endeavor. ♥️

Listen to Your Heart In Tanzania, one in every 112 children has heart disease, and basic cardiac care is hard to find. Our mission is changing that. Donate Now Madeline Island Bike RideJoin Us Aug 4, 2024! Because you can ride, they can live. Across the African continent, basic cardiac care is hard....

08/20/2026

For some students, teachers, families, and school communities, the new school year is already underway. For others, those first days are just around the corner.

As another school year begins, we’re thinking especially of the students, educators, staff, caregivers, and families stepping into new classrooms, campuses, routines, relationships, and expectations.

May our schools be places where every person is welcomed in the fullness of who they are—places where students and educators are safe, where curiosity is nurtured, differences are honored, and everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow, and belong.

In the words of Rev. Debra Haffner’s blessing, "A New Year for Beloved Community":

“We gather together at the start of this new year
With gratitude and love
For those who have come before us
For those who stand here with us
May it be a good year. May it be a sweet year.”

To everyone beginning a new school year: may it be a year of learning, safety, belonging, growth, and beloved community. 💛

Read the full blessing at the link in the comments.

08/20/2026

I've been sailing all my life now
Never harbor or port have I known
The wide universe is the ocean I travel
And the earth is my blue boat home

08/17/2026

🐈‍⬛🐰🐽🦆🐭🦁

Congratulations to Unitarian Universalist Animal Ministry (UUAM) on 40 years of widening the circle of compassion. 🐾🌎

For four decades, UUAM has helped UUs deepen our understanding of interdependence and recognize that humanity is only one strand in the web of life.

Through education, advocacy, spiritual reflection, and community, UUAM continues to call us toward greater compassion, justice, and reverence for nonhuman animals and the Earth we share.

Happy 40th anniversary, UUAM! 💛