Your generous response to our first call this year made it possible for Community UU Church in Pasco, WA, to purchase and install their new, efficient HVAC system without disrupting their long-term plans to grow and to achieve Green Sanctuary status in their new facility. Thank you!

The second call this year is for the UU Church in Eugene, Oregon, which is putting the finishing touches on their first new home in almost 50 years. The congregation has raised over $1.46 million; 270 members have provided over 25,000 hours of volunteer labor, which amounted to another $1 million contribution. All renovation and remodeling has been in harmony with our 7^th principle. They need $38,702 to provide a necessary part of their renovation: fully accessible choir risers and pulpit platform. A Chalice Lighter grant now would help make that happen!

The new facility is a former fraternal lodge on the edge of downtown. The building will double the space for worship and fellowship and triple that available for RE. The inner city location and a commercial kitchen will facilitate rental use as well as the church's social justice programs. The building is fully accessible, near bike routes, and on a city bus line.

With a flat floor in the sanctuary, an elevated platform for the chancel and risers for the choir are necessary – and because of UUCE’s commitment to being a Welcoming Congregation, these must be accessible to those with limited mobility. To fit the space design and maximize flexibility, a mobile lift is a required component.

In qualifying for a grant, Eugene increased its Chalice Lighter participation from under 7% to over 46%! They vowed to exceed and maintain 50% participation, setting new standards for participation in one of our larger churches. They need your help now and have promised to be there for you when you need it.

Eugene requested a grant of at least $30,000. But if you and all our other Chalice Lighters respond to the call with a donation of at least $17, we can actually support the full project cost of $38,702.

Click here to make your gift online, or mail your check, payable to Chalice Lighters, to PNWD Chalice Lighters, 12700 SE 32nd St. #E-101, Bellevue, WA 98005-4317.

If you have already contributed in advance to call #2, thank you! This letter is to let you know how your donation will be used. The Eugene call will be open for contributions through March 5, 2012. Donations received after March 5 go into the Chalice Lighters Undesignated Fund.

In gratitude,

 

Dave Dierdorff, for the Chalice Lighter Team