Welcome to Greater Nashville UU Congregation
The transforming power of love is our core belief.
We embody a sanctuary of compassion, integrity, and respect.
We champion justice, equity, and peace.
— The Greater Nashville UU Congregation Mission Statement
An Invitation
Symbols matter. They create solidarity. They rally. But, symbols must be linked to substance. They must be a short-hand for deeper ideas, for deeper commitment. The triple evils of poverty, racism, and militarism have been with us for a long time. They will not disappear overnight, but through renewed commitment and sustained effort we believe we can reach the Beloved Community.
We invite you to join us.
Find Out What’s Happening!
Visit our “What’s Next?” page for links to our weekly e-blast, announcements, and upcoming events.
Looking for the Sunday Service Link? See How to Join a Virtual Service at GNUUC
Events & Announcements
In July and August, we host a Summer Song series of Worship services lay-led by members of our congregation. Summer Song services are a great way to learn more about a topic of interest from a member of our community.
This hybrid service will be in the Sanctuary at Greater Nashville UU Congregation and on Zoom. See How to Join a Virtual Service at GNUUC.
Children’s Programming
Children and youth will be dismissed to programming or the Wiggle Room after the Time for All Sages.
Curious about Children's RE or the schedule for a specific summer Sunday? Contact Kristin R. at kristin.reveal@gnuuc.org.
Join Us for Potluck Lunch
After the service, join us for a potluck lunch.
Join us as we introduce the monthly Woven Faith theme of “Interdependence.”
What does it means to belong to one another over time — showing up as our whole selves with people we trust, caring for each other reciprocally, and honoring both our needs and our limits along the way? We hope you'll bring your whole self, and join us in exploring what it means to truly belong.
An interactive, multi-generational service. All ages are welcome!
This hybrid service will be in the Sanctuary at Greater Nashville UU Congregation, as well as on Zoom. See How to Join a Virtual Service at GNUUC.
After the service, join us for a potluck lunch.
The Worship Team meetings are in-person/hybrid on the 2nd Sunday of the month at 1 PM in the Sanctuary.
Please join us if you are interested in the Sunday Worship Service content, volunteering as a Service Leader or Service Designer, volunteering to play music or sing, or joining the Tech Team. We would love to have you!
If interested in joining on Zoom, the link is in Slack at the top of the Worship channel reach out to revdenise@gnuuc.org to join this channel.
Board Members and those interested in Social Justice training — join us at the Tennessee Solidarity Summit.
DATES: Friday, September 18th - Sunday, September 20th
LOCATION: Neshoba Unitarian Universalist Church in East Memphis, 7350 Raleigh Lagrange Rd, Cordova, TN 38018 (3 hour drive from GNUUC)
Featured Speakers: Rep. Justin Pearson, Emily Yelin
This is free to attend, and travel/housing will be arranged.
Tennessee UU Community Action Network (TUUCAN) in coordination with UU The Vote and Side With Love is hosting a regional Solidarity Summit in Memphis.
The Solidarity Summit is a regional interfaith justice training and practice gathering that brings together Unitarian Universalists and other people of faith to strengthen the relationships, tools, and capacities needed for this moment. It will provide hands-on tools focused on training, relationship-building, and collective practice.
Participants can expect:
Political education on the role of faith in justice movements
Skill-building workshops and strategic training
Concrete tools for community building, safety, resilience, and action
Relationship-building with faith leaders, organizers, and movement partners
Opportunities to strengthen local and regional collaboration
Depending on the summit, gatherings may include tracks or workshops focused on:
Electoral and pro-democracy organizing
Community defense and safety
Bodily autonomy and liberation struggles
Immigration and decriminalization justice
No matter what your organizing experience, or issue area, this is a place for you to grow your skills and deepen your relationships.
If you are interested in attending or have any questions, please email Caren S-S.
This hybrid service will be in the Sanctuary at Greater Nashville UU Congregation and on Zoom. See How to Join a Virtual Service at GNUUC.
Children and youth will be dismissed to programming after the Time for All Sages.
After service, please join us for a potluck lunch.
Join us for UU Compass, a multi-generational small group (teens through adults).
Upcoming Dates: Sept 20, Oct 18, Nov 15, Dec 20
What is UU Compass Small Group?
Join us for UU Compass, a multi-generational small group (teens through adults) that explores how to use our UU Values as we interact with the world.
Together, we’ll practice deep listening, share our personal journeys, and explore Unitarian Universalism as a living path of meaning and connection.
Who is UU Compass Small Group for?
Newcomers who want more than information — a real taste of UU community.
Long-time members seeking to reconnect with UU values and practices.
Teens and adults alike, eager to walk together across generations.
Facilitators: Kristin R. and Nathaniel B.
Want more information? Contact Kristin R. (kristin.reveal@gnuuc.org)
You are Invited to the Installation of
Reverend Denise Gyauch
as the settled minister of
Greater Nashville Unitarian Universalist Congregation.
Saturday, September 26, 2 PM.
Reception to Follow.
An installation is the congregational act of formally entering into shared ministry with their professional minister. Offering and accepting a call to parish ministry is a life-changing event that gives us the opportunity to embody our Unitarian Universalist history and theology in a meaningful way.
Rev. Denise Gyauch joined Greater Nashville Unitarian Universalist Congregation as a contracted minister in the Fall of 2021 as we started to meet again in person after the pandemic. During these years together, our congregation has grown and become more grounded. Earlier this year, our congregation held a vote to call Rev. Denise as our settled minister.
We invite everyone to participate in the preparation of the installation service and join us that day as we celebrate this important milestone for GNUUC, our third permanently called minister in our 34 year history.
This hybrid service will be in the Sanctuary at Greater Nashville UU Congregation and on Zoom. See How to Join a Virtual Service at GNUUC.
Children and youth will be dismissed to programming after the Time for All Sages.
After service, please join us for a potluck lunch.
Theme: Join us as we introduce the October Woven Faith theme of “Living the Question.” An interactive, multi-generational service. All ages are welcome!
This hybrid service will be in the Sanctuary at Greater Nashville UU Congregation, as well as on Zoom. See How to Join a Virtual Service at GNUUC.
After the service, join us for a potluck lunch.
All members and friends, join us at 1 PM for the Shared Ministries Meeting, where we organize and plan our upcoming events.
Please make sure that we have a representative from each of the following Teams/Groups. If you are interested in joining/working with any of these teams, show up too!
- Greeters
- Worship Team
- Lunch Team
- Religious Education Team
- Building and Grounds Team
- Women’s Group
- Fellowship/Fun Events Team
- Room In The Inn Team
- NOAH Team
- TUUCAN Team
- Climate Justice Team
- Membership Team (NEW Potential)
- Social Media Team (NEW Potential)
This hybrid service will be in the Sanctuary at Greater Nashville UU Congregation and on Zoom. See How to Join a Virtual Service at GNUUC.
Children and youth will be dismissed to programming after the Time for All Sages.
After service, please join us for a potluck lunch.
The Worship Team meetings are in-person/hybrid on the 2nd Sunday of the month at 1 PM in the Sanctuary.
Please join us if you are interested in the Sunday Worship Service content, volunteering as a Service Leader or Service Designer, volunteering to play music or sing, or joining the Tech Team. We would love to have you!
If interested in joining on Zoom, the link is in Slack at the top of the Worship channel reach out to revdenise@gnuuc.org to join this channel.
Join us on Saturday, October 17 at 4 PM for Game Night! Bring your favorite board game to share. Bring your favorite board game to share. Pizza will be provided!
All ages are welcome.
Questions? Contact Ryan / Kristin
Join us for UU Compass, a multi-generational small group (teens through adults).
Upcoming Dates: Oct 18, Nov 15, Dec 20
What is UU Compass Small Group?
Join us for UU Compass, a multi-generational small group (teens through adults) that explores how to use our UU Values as we interact with the world.
Together, we’ll practice deep listening, share our personal journeys, and explore Unitarian Universalism as a living path of meaning and connection.
Who is UU Compass Small Group for?
Newcomers who want more than information — a real taste of UU community.
Long-time members seeking to reconnect with UU values and practices.
Teens and adults alike, eager to walk together across generations.
Facilitators: Kristin R. and Nathaniel B.
Want more information? Contact Kristin R. (kristin.reveal@gnuuc.org)
Join us at GNUUC on October 18th at 3PM for a concert by Shawn Tairyu Head. Attendance is free and open to the public.
https://www.tairyushakuhachi.com/
With an active performing and recording schedule, and a growing studio of students, Shawn Tairyu Head has dedicated himself to bringing the shakuhachi to new audiences around the world. While he embraces the traditional melodies of the ancient repertoire known as honkyoku, his classical conservatory training and Western spiritual perspective make him equally at home composing and commissioning new works that explore the unique sonic possibilities of the shakuhachi. As a performer, composer, and teacher, his goal is nothing less than a shakuhachi revival.
Theme: Join us as we introduce the November Woven Faith theme of “Covenant.” An interactive, multi-generational service. All ages are welcome!
This hybrid service will be in the Sanctuary at Greater Nashville UU Congregation, as well as on Zoom. See How to Join a Virtual Service at GNUUC.
After the service, join us for a potluck lunch.
All members and friends, join us at 1 PM for the Shared Ministries Meeting, where we organize and plan our upcoming events.
Please make sure that we have a representative from each of the following Teams/Groups. If you are interested in joining/working with any of these teams, show up too!
- Greeters
- Worship Team
- Lunch Team
- Religious Education Team
- Building and Grounds Team
- Women’s Group
- Fellowship/Fun Events Team
- Room In The Inn Team
- NOAH Team
- TUUCAN Team
- Climate Justice Team
- Membership Team (NEW Potential)
- Social Media Team (NEW Potential)
Join us on Saturday, November 7 at 4:30 PM for Movie Night with pizza and popcorn!
Cost: This is an Auction Fundraiser Event. If you purchased tickets at the Auction, you are set. Otherwise, we encourage a suggested donation of $10.
We’ll be watching Wicked For Good, the continuation of the Wicked series. It is rated PG.
Adults - you will enjoy this movie too! Please come! Wicked reframes a familiar fantasy based on The Wizard of OZ, through complex moral, political, and social questions. It challenges the ideas of good and evil, showing how systems of power define morality to maintain control. The main character, Elphaba refuses to conform when she sees injustice, choosing truth over reputation. Wicked also explores how propaganda, fear, and bureaucracy sustain power. The Wizard’s regime depends on controlling narratives and silencing dissent. In short, Wicked asks profoundly adult questions: What does it cost to stay true to your values? How do we tell truth from illusion when authority shapes the story?
The Worship Team meetings are in-person/hybrid on the 2nd Sunday of the month at 1 PM in the Sanctuary.
Please join us if you are interested in the Sunday Worship Service content, volunteering as a Service Leader or Service Designer, volunteering to play music or sing, or joining the Tech Team. We would love to have you!
If interested in joining on Zoom, the link is in Slack at the top of the Worship channel reach out to revdenise@gnuuc.org to join this channel.
Join us for UU Compass, a multi-generational small group (teens through adults).
Upcoming Dates: Nov 15, Dec 20
What is UU Compass Small Group?
Join us for UU Compass, a multi-generational small group (teens through adults) that explores how to use our UU Values as we interact with the world.
Together, we’ll practice deep listening, share our personal journeys, and explore Unitarian Universalism as a living path of meaning and connection.
Who is UU Compass Small Group for?
Newcomers who want more than information — a real taste of UU community.
Long-time members seeking to reconnect with UU values and practices.
Teens and adults alike, eager to walk together across generations.
Facilitators: Kristin R. and Nathaniel B.
Want more information? Contact Kristin R. (kristin.reveal@gnuuc.org)
Join us for a potluck chili dinner and to decorate the building for the holidays! All ages welcome.
We need 5 people to bring a pot of chili to share. The rest of y’all can bring sides/desserts.
After dinner, we will decorate the building for the holidays.
Then, join us for an evening of Trivia! We’ll form teams and have several fun (and random!) categories to choose from. Prizes too!
Theme: Join us as we introduce the December Woven Faith theme of “Pluralism.” An interactive, multi-generational service. All ages are welcome!
This hybrid service will be in the Sanctuary at Greater Nashville UU Congregation, as well as on Zoom. See How to Join a Virtual Service at GNUUC.
After the service, join us for a potluck lunch.
All members and friends, join us at 1 PM for the Shared Ministries Meeting, where we organize and plan our upcoming events.
Please make sure that we have a representative from each of the following Teams/Groups. If you are interested in joining/working with any of these teams, show up too!
- Greeters
- Worship Team
- Lunch Team
- Religious Education Team
- Building and Grounds Team
- Women’s Group
- Fellowship/Fun Events Team
- Room In The Inn Team
- NOAH Team
- TUUCAN Team
- Climate Justice Team
- Membership Team (NEW Potential)
- Social Media Team (NEW Potential)
The Worship Team meetings are in-person/hybrid on the 2nd Sunday of the month at 1 PM in the Sanctuary.
Please join us if you are interested in the Sunday Worship Service content, volunteering as a Service Leader or Service Designer, volunteering to play music or sing, or joining the Tech Team. We would love to have you!
If interested in joining on Zoom, the link is in Slack at the top of the Worship channel reach out to revdenise@gnuuc.org to join this channel.
Join us for UU Compass, a multi-generational small group (teens through adults).
What is UU Compass Small Group?
Join us for UU Compass, a multi-generational small group (teens through adults) that explores how to use our UU Values as we interact with the world.
Together, we’ll practice deep listening, share our personal journeys, and explore Unitarian Universalism as a living path of meaning and connection.
Who is UU Compass Small Group for?
Newcomers who want more than information — a real taste of UU community.
Long-time members seeking to reconnect with UU values and practices.
Teens and adults alike, eager to walk together across generations.
Facilitators: Kristin R. and Nathaniel B.
Want more information? Contact Kristin R. (kristin.reveal@gnuuc.org)
For 40 years, Nashville CARES has been working to reduce the impact of HIV in Middle Tennessee and beyond. We love and respect this community, because it is our community too. It’s a privilege to serve our friends and neighbors as the CARES mission expands to meet today’s evolving client needs.
THE CARES MISSION
While we continue to honor our 40-year legacy in HIV services and prevention, we’re also boldly expanding to provide a wider range of stigma-free care. This will continue to include comprehensive wraparound services specifically tailored to support those living with HIV. It’s all about dignity and compassion, coupled with clinical excellence.
WHO BELONGS AT CARES?
Short answer: everyone. Traditionally, our core audiences have included LGBTQ+ communities, people living with HIV, Black, Brown, and Indigenous communities, as well as injection drug users. But all are welcome. If you’re looking for compassionate, judgement-free care and a real sense of community, we’d love to welcome you in.
We believe deeply that everyone deserves hassle-free access to whatever care, treatment, and support they need to achieve optimal health and self-sufficiency. Effective whole-person care includes sexual, physical, and emotional health. No stigma. No discrimination. No barriers.
HOW TO DONATE
Help Greater Nashville UU raise funds to support the critical mission of Nashville CARES. Our goal this year is to raise over $500! Here are ways to donate:
Most members of the congregation will be giving to Nashville CARES through the regular Share the Plate fundraiser. You can donate via Breeze to “Share the Plate”, or by paper check, made out to “GNUUC”, with “Share the Plate” in the memo. 50% of your donation will go to the Nashville CARES AIDS Walk (taking place this year on September 26 in the Neuhoff District of Germantown), and 50% of your donation will go to the GNUUC plate.
On the other hand, if you can contribute $100 or more, your generous donation will go into the Direct Donor fund. If you want your donation to be in memory of someone, please let us know.
Pre-Release of Bad Faith: 2026 Christian Nationalism in Power
The Reverend Dr. William Barber II, co-chair of the Poor People’s Campaign: A National Call for Moral Revival, and other faith leaders warn that the implementation of Project 2025 has accelerated a full-scale assault on government— gutting the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, tearing apart public education, social programs and health care.
Darkhorse Theatre
4610 Charlotte Ave
Nashville, TN 37209
An installation is the congregational act of formally entering into shared ministry with their professional minister. Offering and accepting a call to parish ministry is a life-changing event that gives us the opportunity to embody our Unitarian Universalist history and theology in a meaningful way.
Rev. Denise Gyauch joined Greater Nashville Unitarian Universalist Congregation as a contracted minister in the Fall of 2021 as we started to meet again in person after the pandemic. During these years together, our congregation has grown and become more grounded. Earlier this year, our congregation held a vote to call Rev. Denise as our settled minister.
We invite everyone to participate in the preparation of the installation service and join us that day as we celebrate this important milestone for GNUUC, our third permanently called minister in our 34 year history.
NOAH’s annual public meeting will be on Sunday, September 27th, at 3 pm at First Baptist Church Capitol Hill.
Make plans to join your fellow GNUUC delegates to attend and to act on our values and fight authoritarianism in our city, state and country! All interested members encouraged to attend.
Register here.
A New Whole Church Curriculum for Greater Nashville UU!
This year, GNUUC is moving from Soul Matters to a new curricular series from the UUA called Woven Faith. We're excited to be part of its inaugural pilot year!
Woven Faith is built on a simple idea: the congregation is the curriculum. Rather than treating faith formation as something that happens only in a classroom, Woven Faith weaves a shared monthly theme through every part of congregational life — worship, religious education, small groups, fellowship, and justice work alike. Wherever you find your place in our community this year, you'll find the same thread running through it.
Each month centers on one of our UU shared values. This year's themes are:
September — Interdependence
October — Living the Questions
November — Covenant
December — Pluralism
January — Courageous Love
February — Equity
March — Transformation
April — Generosity
May — Expressing Our Faith
June — Justice
September’s Theme: Interdependence
We're kicking things off in September with Interdependence — the recognition that our lives, our choices, and our wellbeing are bound up with one another and with the wider world. You'll see this theme show up throughout September: in worship, in our small groups, in the Fellowship Hall, and beyond. We hope you'll find your own thread to add to the weaving.
People’s Hearing on Corporate Greed
NOAH is working with Tennessee for All on Ending the Grocery Tax. Please join us on Wednesday, September 16 at Scarritt-Bennett to learn more!
Save the Date for NOAH's Annual Public Meeting
Sunday, 3 pm, September 27th
First Baptist Church Capitol Hill
Our annual public meeting will be in the afternoon on Sunday, September 27th, at First Baptist Capitol Hill. We hope you and your congregation will join us to act on our values and fight authoritarianism in our city, state and country!
Voter Hubs in NOAH Organizations
Fifteen NOAH organizations are building "Voter Hubs" (teams that focus on voter engagement) that will move: 1) Faith Leaders to lead their congregations; 2) voter registration, verification and voter commitment; 3) voting in the community (canvassing, phone-banking, etc.); 4) Ballots and Brunch to analyze what and who is on the ballot.
A few voter hub teams are even working across different congregations to hold Block Parties and Canvasses!
Want to sign your organization up as a Voter Hub? Please contact our organizers: Brian Zralek, Shawn Whitsell or Claire Hennigan!
Rev. Denise's Installation Service is Saturday, September 26, 2–4 PM — and we need your help to make it happen!
Join the Installation Service Planning Meeting on Sunday, August 30, 1–2 PM in the Sanctuary to sign up and help shape the celebration.
A catered reception from 615 Chutney follows the service in the Fellowship Hall.
Many roles are already filled — marshal, service leader, Zoom host, buffet coordinator, order of service — and we're still looking for greeters, ushers, childcare for the wiggle room, flower providers, offering counters, buffet support, room setup on September 20, and cleanup. For more details about roles needed, see Installation Service Planning Meeting.
Come to the meeting, or reach out to Rev. Denise, Kristin R., or Jesse S-S. if there's a specific role you'd like.
The UUA's Worship Arts team is launching Worship Well, a new program for lay worship leaders — and because GNUUC is an Honor Congregation this year, it costs us nothing.
Five monthly Zoom gatherings, late August through November, focused on building confidence, trading ideas, and connecting with UUs across the country. Each 75-minute session includes small-group conversation, with an optional 15 minutes afterward for our own team to talk through what we've learned. Come to as many as your schedule allows.
Sessions meet 4:15–5:30 p.m. Central on August 31, September 28, October 14 (a Wednesday), October 26, and November 30.
Have you led worship here, or wondered what it would be like? This is a warm place to grow into it. Take a look at the sample session, then let Rev. Denise know by Wednesday, August 19.
Cricut Makerspace Party for 12 – A Creative Afternoon of DIY Fun!
Date: August 29, 2026
Time: 1:30 - 3:30 PM
Location: Greater Nashville UU Congregation, 374 Hicks Road, Nashville, TN 37221
Donation: $25
Spots Available: 8
Get ready to unleash your creativity at the Cricut Makerspace Party, hosted by The Reveals, The Baileys, and Gina Achtmann! Whether you're a crafting pro or a total beginner, this hands-on workshop is your chance to design and print custom items using state-of-the-art Cricut printers.
What’s Included:
Expert guidance from Lindyne & Eddie, Kristin & Nathanael, and Gina, who will bring their Cricut machines.
Personalized design assistance – create your own custom item!
All materials for printing.
A fun, creative atmosphere with fellow DIY enthusiasts!
We'll vote: Should we print cards, T-shirt Iron-Ons, Stickers, or mugs? Several options will be available due to supplies.
Sign up now for a spot at this exclusive crafting experience! Whether you’re making a one-of-a-kind gift or a fun keepsake, this event promises an afternoon of creativity, laughter, and hands-on fun.
Contact: Kristin R.
Board Members and those interested in Social Justice training — join us at the Tennessee Solidarity Summit.
DATES: Friday, September 18th - Sunday, September 20th
LOCATION: Neshoba Unitarian Universalist Church in East Memphis, 7350 Raleigh Lagrange Rd, Cordova, TN 38018 (3 hour drive from GNUUC)
Featured Speakers: Rep. Justin Pearson, Emily Yellin
This is free to attend, and travel/housing will be arranged.
Tennessee UU Community Action Network (TUUCAN) in coordination with UU The Vote and Side With Love is hosting a regional Solidarity Summit in Memphis.
The Solidarity Summit is a regional interfaith justice training and practice gathering that brings together Unitarian Universalists and other people of faith to strengthen the relationships, tools, and capacities needed for this moment. It will provide hands-on tools focused on training, relationship-building, and collective practice.
Participants can expect:
Political education on the role of faith in justice movements
Skill-building workshops and strategic training
Concrete tools for community building, safety, resilience, and action
Relationship-building with faith leaders, organizers, and movement partners
Opportunities to strengthen local and regional collaboration
Depending on the summit, gatherings may include tracks or workshops focused on:
Electoral and pro-democracy organizing
Community defense and safety
Bodily autonomy and liberation struggles
Immigration and decriminalization justice
No matter what your organizing experience, or issue area, this is a place for you to grow your skills and deepen your relationships.
If you are interested in attending or have any questions, please email Caren S-S.
Our August Share the Plate partner is The Equity Alliance.
Founded in 2016, The Equity Alliance is Tennessee's most influential Black-led organizing force, building culturally rooted civic engagement in Black communities year-round. They have registered over 90,000 voters and organize across Nashville, Memphis, and Clarksville, with plans to grow statewide. Their work meets people where they are, giving them tools to shape the systems that govern their lives — through voter education, policy advocacy, campaigns, and economic power building.
This year, The Equity Alliance is leading three priority campaigns: Universal Childcare, which fights to cap costs and expand state funding for Tennessee families; Housing Justice, which creates pathways to homeownership and keeps new development benefiting existing communities; and Environmental Justice, which ensures Black communities have a voice in decisions affecting their health and safety.
Please give generously this month to our Share the Plate partner, The Equity Alliance.
How to give
Each Share the Plate gift is divided evenly: half supports Just Us, and half supports GNUUC's general fund. To direct your gift to Share the Plate, use the keyword "share":
In the sanctuary: cash or check in a provided envelope (memo: share)
Online: visit NashvilleUU.org, click Donate, then Give to and choose the “Give to Share the Plate” fund
By text: text 615-246-5553 with "[Amount] share" (example: $50 share)
By mail: GNUUC, 374 Hicks Road, Nashville, TN 37221 (memo: share)
Good Trouble Lives On!
Early voting for the August 6th election starts Friday, July 17!
Click here to find out when and where to early vote in Davidson County!
And speaking of exercising our right to vote, don’t miss the annual John Lewis Way March this Saturday, July 18, from 8:00am to noon, starting at the Tennessee State Library and Archives at the corner of Jefferson Street and Rep John R Lewis Way.
The fight to protect voting rights never ends. Six years after John Lewis’ death, we carry the torch to continue his legacy and pass it forward to future generations. Register here to join us! See flyer for details.
Voter Happy Hour #2
Saturday, July 11, 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Em & Me Cafe
1244 3rd Ave N
Come chat with the Integrated Voter Engagement team about how we need to engage voters in this election season and beyond!
Topics include:
How you can get out the vote in your community
What can be done to get people more involved in voting
Redistricting and how to be heard
Integrated Voter Engagement (IVE) Phonebanking
Sunday, July 12, 1:00 pm
Join NOAH’s IVE team to get out the vote in targeted Nashville neighborhoods, because TN is Home! Location TBD.
I wanted to send a great big Thank You on behalf of the Pride organizing team here at FUUN, GNUUC and UUFC. We accomplished so much this weekend at Nashville Pride, which we could only do because of you!
Over 60 UUs and friends marched in the Parade, handing out 700 pocket blessing zines (find them here: https://foothillsuu.org/fiercetogether/) and sending love to the LGBTQ+ community of Nashville and Middle Tennessee.
More than 25 UUs staffed our booth at the Festival—that’s 14% of the membership of the three congregations willing to sit or stand and talk with people about UU in the heat and rain, y’all. Many stickers, pens, pins, uu-value bracelet kits, and love cars were given out. Not to mention all the love shared with festival-goers. Using the number of folks (of all ages!) who decorated their own love car to race hate (see photo), we interacted with at least 1000 attendees.
Additionally, at least 89 folks added comments against the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s proposed revision to its Equal Access Rule that would roll back protections meant to ensure the safety of any trans person seeking HUD-funded support. This was a call-to-action from the UUSC called Pride in Action (https://www.uusc.org/action/pride-in-action/). While the campaign is over, the website has links to learn more about the work being done by UUs nationwide in solidarity with transgender, nonbinary, two spirit, and gender expansive people.
That’s amazing work you guys!
With love and solidarity,
Jeannie Haman
Our July Share the Plate partner is the Southern Alliance for People and Animal Welfare. SAFPAW is a non-profit organization serving Davidson County by improving the quality of life for people and pets in need. SAFPAW provides free pet food, supplies, and veterinary care to pet owners who are homeless or living at or below the poverty level, and so much more.
How to give
Each Share the Plate gift is divided evenly: half supports the current Share the Plate recipient, and half supports GNUUC's general fund. To direct your gift to Share the Plate, use the keyword "share":
In the Sanctuary: cash or check in a provided envelope (memo: share)
Online: visit nashvilleuu.org/donate, then click Give to and choose the “Give to Share the Plate” fund.
By text: text 615-246-5553 with "[Amount] share" (example: $50 share)
By mail: GNUUC, 374 Hicks Road, Nashville, TN 37221 (memo: share)
Each summer, worship at GNUUC becomes a chorus of our own voices. From July through Labor Day weekend, members of our congregation take turns leading Sunday services — each offering a story, a passion, or something they've come to understand over a lifetime. It's a season to know one another more deeply and to celebrate the gifts woven through our community.
We're delighted to share this year's lineup of ten members. Join us:
Sun., July 5 — Lisa Gunner, "An Exploration of Identity Through Acknowledgement and Consecration"
Sun., July 12 — Susan Timmons
Sun., July 19 — Mike Morgan, "Sharing Our Stories"
Sun., July 26 — Mir Stoedter
Sun., Aug. 2 — Denise Graves
Sun., Aug. 9 — Charles Pettigrew
Sun., Aug. 16 — Hashim Salameh
Sun., Aug. 23 — Kayla Zumbrunnen
Sun., Aug. 30 — Elizabeth Marlowe
Sun., Sept. 6 — Nathaniel Berle
GNUUC and FUUN will be joining forces in volunteering at Nashville Pride this year. You can:
Join FUUN at the Pride March. Note that at 9:15 AM Marchers (groups and individuals marching next to vehicles and/or floats) need to be lined up. Kick off at 10 am (Broadway and 8th Ave). Parade takes place on Broadway between 8th Ave and 2nd Ave.
Volunteer at the FUUN Booth at Pride.
Please click the title for the links and details for joining Nashville Pride this year.
On Sunday, June 28, GNUUC is holding a special service celebrating Pride — a morning honoring LGBTQIA+ lives and the many shapes love and family take: the families we’re born into and the ones we build by choice.
We’d love for our LGBTQIA+ members and friends to help lead and shape it. There are two ways to take part, and you’re welcome to choose either or both:
1) Read a piece of the service. We’re looking for voices to read parts of the liturgy — the chalice lighting, the meditation, the closing words. Each is short, and we’ll send you the text ahead of time.
2) Join our LGBTQIA+ panel. In place of the sermon, several members will share how this faith helps them move through the world, and how their families — born and chosen — hold them up. You’ll see the questions in advance, can skip anything that doesn’t fit, and share only what you’d like. It’s a warm, friendly room.
Whether you’ve been part of things for years or this would be your first time stepping forward, you are welcome here. If any of this calls to you — or if you’d just like to ask a question first — reach out to Kristin R. at kristin.reveal@gnuuc.orgby Sunday, June 21. You’re welcome to respond privately; nothing is ever shared without your okay.
This month's Share the Plate supports Just Us | Oasis Center, a Nashville program helping LGBTQ+ youth across Middle Tennessee be seen, supported, and celebrated as their authentic selves—a fitting partner for our "Flourishing Together" June. Learn More About Just Us.
It's a fitting partner for our June theme, Flourishing Together, and for our own commitment to being a welcoming congregation—a reminder that when our LGBTQ+ youth thrive, our whole community flourishes.
How to give
Each Share the Plate gift is divided evenly: half supports Just Us, and half supports GNUUC's general fund. To direct your gift to Share the Plate, use the keyword "share":
In the Sanctuary: cash or check in a provided envelope (memo: share)
Online: visit nashvilleuu.org/donate, then click Give to and choose the “Give to Share the Plate” fund.
By text: text 615-246-5553 with "[Amount] share" (example: $50 share)
By mail: GNUUC, 374 Hicks Road, Nashville, TN 37221 (memo: share)
Join us on Saturday, June 13, at 4 PM for Game Night! Bring your favorite board game to share.
Pizza will be provided! You are welcome to bring a side, drinks, or dessert (optional).
All ages are welcome.
Questions? Contact Ryan
Join us at GNUUC for a nationwide watch party celebrating the freedoms of speech, religion, press, assembly, and protest. Hosted by the Committee for the First Amendment, this 90-minute concert streams live from NYC with an all-star lineup—including Bette Midler, Patti Smith, Rufus Wainwright, Julia Roberts, Lily Gladstone, and Jane Fonda. Come sing along, find inspiration, build community, and take meaningful action together. Watch parties are happening across the country, and ours is right here at GNUUC.
Watch Party Sign-Up: Rise Up, Sing Out Nashville Greater Nashville Unitarian Universalists Watch Party
Learn More About This Event:Rise Up Sing Out — A Concert for the First Amendment
To buy a ticket, purchase an ad, or pay for a sponsorship, click here. Tickets are discounted this year for those under 35!
NOAH is thrilled to announce our keynote speaker for this year’s banquet, Dr. Taure Brown, Director of the James Lawson Institute at Vanderbilt University and a sociologist, educator, and organizer from Kinston, North Carolina. His work sits at the intersection of scholarship and action, equipping communities with the tools to challenge injustice and build collective power.
All GNUUC members — please plan to attend the Annual Congregational Meeting — Sunday, May 31, immediately after service, we'll vote on:
New Board Members 2026-2027
The Budget for Fiscal Year 2026–2027
The floor will not be open for discussion at this meeting — questions and concerns were addressed at the May 17 Town Hall.
Proxies and Absentee ballots have been e-mailed by Kristin R. If you did not receive one, let her know.
Saturday, May 30, 2026 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM CT
Join us to call inactive voters and encourage them to VOTE in the upcoming elections, because Tennessee is our home and we all deserve to be heard!
NOAH’s Integrated Voter Education working group invites you to help activate inactive voters!
Register at bit.ly/NOAHMayPB.
Many members of the GNUUC congregation lent a helping hand at the Bellevue picnic on May 16!
Thank you to all who volunteered at the Bellevue Picnic on May 16 - Caren and Jesse S-S, Lisa G., Susan Timmons, Christi Witcher, Shana Summers, Larry B., Nathaniel B., Kayla Z., Kristin R., and Helena R.
Greater Nashville UU Congregation will have a booth at the Bellevue Community Picnic on Saturday, May 16, and we'd love for you to stop by.
Even better — consider helping out at the booth! Volunteers are signed up for 2-hour shifts, but even a 30-minute drop-in to give someone a bathroom or food break would be a huge help.
Booth Details
Booth hours: 11 AM – 6 PM
Want to help? Sign up by:
-Emailing organizer Caren S-S at caren.spencersmith@gmail.com
-Catching Kristin R. after service this Sunday
-Joining the Slack channel #bellevue_picnic
Bellevue Community Picnic Details
-Date: Saturday, May 16, 2026
-Festival hours: 11 AM – 9:30 PM (our booth wraps up at 6 PM, but the festival continues into the evening with a fireworks display)
-Location: 655 Colice Jean Road, Nashville, TN 37221
The Bellevue Community Picnic is an annual festival hosted by the Bellevue Harpeth Chamber of Commerce, featuring live music, family entertainment, food trucks, carnival rides, inflatable attractions, exhibitors, and fireworks.
Hope to see you there!
All GNUUC members — please plan to attend these two important governance events:
Town Hall Meeting — Sunday, May 17 at 1 PM
Members should have gotten an email with the slate and budget. If you did not, reach out to kristin.reveal@gnuuc.org.
We'll discuss the agenda for the upcoming Congregational Annual Meeting, focusing on:
-New Board Members 2026-2027
-The Budget for Fiscal Year 2026–2027
Absentee and Proxy ballots for the Annual Congregational Meeting will be available at the Town Hall and emailed out later that day.
This is the meeting for discussion and questions.
Annual Congregational Meeting — Sunday, May 31, immediately after service
We'll vote on:
-New Board Members 2026-2027
-The Budget for Fiscal Year 2026–2027
The floor will not be open for discussion at this meeting — please bring your questions and concerns to the May 17 Town Hall.
Documentary Film Screening
Date: Saturday, May 9
Time: 3:45 pm - 5:30 PM (Film starts promptly at 4 PM. Show up at 3:45 for seating and snacks!)
This is an Auction Fundraiser hosted by Mir S. It’s open to the public - invite friends!
Suggested Donation: $15 per person.
To pre-purchase tickets, see Kristin R. at Sunday potluck. Otherwise, show up at the door.
Pasha Talankin, a beloved Russian primary school teacher, becomes an unlikely dissident when Russia's invasion of Ukraine forces him into promoting state propaganda — horrified by what he witnesses, he secretly uses his role as the school's videographer to document the regime's impact on everyday Russians, from militarized youth groups to the recruitment of students for war, ultimately risking his life and planning a dangerous escape from Russia. Directed by Borenstein and Talankin himself, Mr. Nobody Against Putin is a 90-minute documentary and Sundance Official Selection that offers rare, intimate footage of how Putin's regime transforms communities and children from the inside.
Our May Share the Plate partner is Isaiah 117 House. Half of all plate donations will be donated to the organization in May.
Isaiah 117 House provides a safe, welcoming home for children awaiting foster placement—offering clean clothes, warm meals, toys, and loving volunteers during one of the most frightening moments of their lives. Their mission: reduce trauma for children, lighten the load for child welfare workers, and ease the transition for foster families.
Our Ministries
Worship
Sunday worship services are the congregational communal event for individuals searching for connection to one another, and to the wholeness and possibilities known by many names, including Love. Sermons, music, stories, readings, and meditations are intended to open our minds and hearts that we may be reasoned thinkers and compassionate doers in service to love, mercy, and justice. Our ritual of sharing joys and sorrows allows us to bear witness to the stories of our lives.
Faith Formation
For Unitarian Universalists, religious education programs include more than classes. Programs may incorporate social justice and community service activities, worship opportunities, or creating art to share with the congregation.
Find Out More About Faith Formation
Social Justice
The Greater Nashville UU Social Justice ministries serve as a catalyst for peace and social justice to realize our shared UU values within our fellowship, the Metro Nashville area, our country, and the global community.
Find Out More about Social Justice
Community
Greater Nashville UU is a family sized community that also has fun outside of worship, social justice work, and faith formation.
Gatherings like our Sunday Potlucks, Movie Nights, Games Nights, Trivia Nights, the festive "Hanging of the Greens," and the Annual Auction provide opportunities for us to connect, building friendships and fostering a sense of belonging that extends beyond the weekly worship service.
Plus we volunteer together to help our building & grounds, our home, flourish.
Still Spring Park
Did you know Greater Nashville UU owns 4+ acres of wooded land on our property that include a memorial garden, wooded trails, meditation area, and playground?
Integrated Voter Engagement (IVE) Phone Banking
Next action: Saturday, August 8th, 1pm-2:30pm
Register for location info!
We are calling inactive voters because we believe our vote is our voice, and we all deserve to be heard.
Join NOAH’s IVE team to get out the vote in targeted Nashville neighborhoods, because TN is Home!
RSVP for 8/8 Phonebanking
NOAH August Monthly Meeting
Next Tuesday, August 11th, 6:30pm @ First UU Nashville