The folks from our church love being together.  We have many long-time members but we also have many new folks who have been warmly welcomed into our community.  All churches claim to be welcoming, but we like to think that we go a bit further in quickly getting to know one another in a variety of ways.  There is always a lot going on at UPC; concerts, mission events, fundraisers, retreats, and lot’s of meals together!  We usually have a potluck every six weeks, and on every third Sunday we all go out for lunch in the community.

Here is a sampling of some of our monthly activities and yearly traditions:

In September, when our program year begins, we kick the year off with a “Rally Day” complete with a brat cookout, games, face-painting, etc.

October always brings with it our famous “Pasty Supper” which is a lot of work but a lot of fun and an important fundraiser.

In November, we have often enjoyed a progressive dinner; one family hosts drinks, and then we drive to another home for appetizers, and yet another home for the main course, and finally deserts at another location.

December is dominated by Advent activities.  We love to go Christmas caroling.  We’ve also made gingerbread houses and even experienced yoga to find a sense of calm in the midst of the seasonal frenzy.

In January, we host our annual meeting after worship and might host a special concert.

February is Black History Month and we celebrate this tradition at UPC.  We have our own Percussion Ensemble perform and we’ve also welcomed “Atimevu Drummers and Dancers” – a West African drum group from Madison, Wisconsin.  

February is also when we usually host our annual Pancake Supper which has been going on for at least 70 years, probably much longer.

In April, we host an Easter brunch prior to worship.

In May, we usually have an ice cream social following Pentecost, as well as a large cake after “Recognition Sunday.”