News & Announcements Archive
Newsletter Deadline
January, 2018 issue of the UUSM Newsletter will be published on January 2. Deadline for that issue is Friday, December 15 at noon. Please submit announcements to office@uusm.org. Submit articles to newsletter@uusm.org.
IT’S A SING-ALONG SECOND SUNDAY SUPPER
Hosted by the Music Committee with Christmas Carols!
December 10 • 6 pm in Forbes Hall
Get in the holiday spirit at Second Sunday Supper in December! All are encouraged to attend this informal potluck feast – this month you are also encouraged to bring a potluck holiday dish that you’d like to share! Catch up with old friends and meet new ones, and come prepared to sing your favorite Christmas carols with the UUSM choir! You can help - join our Kitchen Cabinet and help with cooking (the day before), setup, or cleanup. You know that the most fun at any party is in the kitchen! Sign up at tinyurl.com/kitchenministry. Children are absolutely welcome! To save on waste and promote green living, we kindly ask that you bring your own plates, cups, utensils, and cloth napkins. We will have extra dishes if you cannot bring your own. Contact: Jacki Weber.
Heart & Soul: A Contemplative Worship Service
Second Sundays, 5 to 5:45 p.m. in the Sanctuary
Heart and Soul services are led by Rev. Kikanza Nuri-Robins, Joyce Holmen, and Karen Hsu Patterson. With singing and instrumental music, poetry, statements and questions, silence and sharing, we’ll explore monthly worship themes.
Sunday, December 10 – What Does It Mean to be A COMMUNITY OF HOPE?
Rev. Greg’s sermons are now available for purchase in the front office and on Sundays, in Forbes Hall
Suggested contribution to the Minister’s Discretionary Fund: $5
The minister’s discretionary fund is used to assist members and friends of the congregation and members of the larger community in meeting their basic living needs (such as shelter, food, utilities, medical) and other exigencies (such as transportation, fees). It may be given as a loan or a gift, depending upon the person’s ability and the circumstances. The minister has discretionary and confidential use of these funds. Please leave contributions in the donation box next to the publications.
Join the Choir for the Joy of Music During the Holidays
Caroling, Caroling… All Are Welcome! Spread the spirit of the season by singing holiday carols at Sunrise Assisted Living and Seaport Care Center on Saturday, December 9. We’ll meet upstairs in Forbes Classroom 2 (the choir room) at 1:30 pm to warm up our voices, then walk to the two locations, which are only a few blocks from the church. We will finish by 3:30 pm. Hope to see you there. It is an opportunity to bring joy to seniors. Contact Cindy Kelly if you have any questions.Heart to Heart Circles: Deadline for 2018
Over the past several years, Heart to Heart Circles have become an integral part of our UUSM community. Within these circles, church members have the opportunity to get to know each other beyond the role layers we present to the world each day. It is an opportunity to share oneself, and to develop the skill of deep listening in an atmosphere of confidentiality, openness, trust, and acceptance.
Until December 15, you may sign up for Heart to Heart Circles that will be held from January through June 2018. (Next summer, we will align new groups to the church calendar year, with groups meeting from October 2018 through June 2019, and signups over the summer.)
We invite you to join a Heart to Heart Circle if you have not done so, or to return for another season of deep listening and sharing. Please visit our table during coffee hour to sign up and to find out more about these wonderful groups, or contact leslie.beauvais@me.com if you have questions.
— Leslie Beauvais
Need a Photograph for the Directory?
All church members are listed in the church directory, along with their photographs. If you are a new member, or a long-time member whose photo needs refreshing, Charles Haskell welcomes you to his home studio for your headshot. Contact Charles to set up an appointment.
The Future of Second Sunday Supper
For nearly a decade, Second Sunday Suppers have been an integral component of UUSM congregational life, particularly valued by new and potential members, those who often eat alone, and all who simply enjoy one another in fellowship over food.
I took on coordination of Second Sunday Suppers a year ago to help bridge a gap when prior leaders stepped down. We tried some new systems and some different outreach and have kept it going. I had hoped to identify new leadership, but that hasn’t yet emerged, so we now have a choice to end the monthly community-building potluck or someone new can step up.
My dear board colleague Kim Miller has offered to help sustain Second Sunday Suppers through the spring, coordinating some groups willing to host. We will retire the program in May in the absence of new leadership and execution.
If you are interested in helping strengthen community through Second Sunday Supper, now is the time to step up. Contact me or Kim Miller.
— Jacki Weber
Join the Hiking Group!
On November 11 seven of us from UUSM hiked in Red Rock Canyon near Topanga. This was a wonderful hike, with beautiful scenery and mild, balmy weather. We hike as a UUSM group on the second Saturday of the month when the weather permits and a group is interested. Our next hike will be December 9. If interested in joining us please contact Steve Young
Left to right, above: Dean Wahls, Greg Wood, Dani Rengstorff, John Rengstorff, Sylvia Young, Linda van Ligten. Photo: Steve Young.
HOLIDAY SERVICES
Wednesday, December 20, 7pm: Solstice Vespers
Through readings, chant, candlelighting, and sacred silence, we will mark the coming of the longest night of the year. This evening service will be hosted by Rima Snyder.
Sunday, December 24 at 9am and 11am: Sunday Morning Services
“The Straight Skinny on the Fat Man in Red”
Rev. Greg Ward, Jacki Weber
Sunday, December 24 at 4pm: Beasts and Baubles Christmas Eve
“Would You Like to Hold the Baby?”
Join Kathleen Hogue and Dr. Zanaida Robles for a festive family-friendly Christmas Eve service, including our pageant and Friendly Beasts. PLEASE BRING an ornament you’re willing to part with on the Sunday morning before the services on the 17th or the 24th. Perhaps it can be from your personal collection, a new one picked out at a store, or a simple handmade one.
Sunday, December 24 at 6 & 8pm: Christmas Eve Candlelight Services
Rev. Greg Ward, Dr. Zanaida Robles
Adult Choir led by Dr. Zanaida Robles
Sunday, December 31, ONE SERVICE ONLY at 11am:
“All These Words Mean Happy Kwanzaa”
Gregory C. Carrow-Boyd
Remembrance Vespers
UUSM’s annual Remembrance Vespers will be held on Sunday, November 5, at 7 pm in the sanctuary. Under the direction of Dr. Zanaida Robles, the UUSM choir will sing selections from “”Requiem” K.626 by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. During this special evening of music and spoken word, we will turn toward that which we hold sacred, sharing our experience of love, loss and healing.
Heart & Soul: A Contemplative Worship Service
Second Sundays, 5 to 5:45 pm in the sanctuary
Heart and Soul services are led by Rev. Kikanza Nuri-Robins, Joyce Holmen, and Karen Hsu Patterson. With singing and instrumental music, poetry, statements and questions, silence and sharing, we’ll explore monthly worship themes.
Sunday, November 12: What Does It Mean to be a Community of Abundance?
Second Sunday Supper
Sunday, November 12 - Hosted by the Stewardship Committee
Please join us at 6 pm in Forbes Hall for this informal potluck dinner together with UUSM members and friends. It’s a great way to get to know your fellow congregants better!
Attendees should bring a main dish, side dish, salad, or dessert to share. You can help – join our Kitchen Cabinet and help with cooking (the day before), setup, or cleanup. You know that the most fun at any party is in the kitchen! Sign up at tinyurl.com/kitchenministry. Children are absolutely welcome! To save on waste and promote green living, we kindly ask that you bring your own plates, cups, utensils, and cloth napkins. We will have extra dishes if you cannot bring your own. Contact: Jacki Weber for more information.
Leslie Beuvais and Friends in Concert
Exploring Our Shared History
On Sunday November 12, Rev. Greg is calling on many leaders to gather in Forbes Hall, at 1 pm after the second service, to share with him – and all of us – the benefit of their insight. UUSM is blessed to have long-time members who have first-hand experience of key milestone events that helped shape our collective character. We also have many retrievable archived documents which describe key moments where the church faced a choice, what choices the church has made, the impact those choices had on the people then, and the way such choices might have influenced who we are now. Every person, and every church, has a choice about what it wants to change about itself in order to become what it feels called to be – but only if it takes the intentional step of becoming conscious of its own history and habits that helped shape it. This is not just for ‘leaders,’ but for anyone who has any interest in knowing a little more about who – and why – we are the way we are.
Garden of Eternity Remembrance and Celebration Ceremony - Sunday, November 5 at 12:30 pm
UUSM’s Garden of Eternity is a very important part of the church. Beyond being an annual ceremony and ritual…beyond raising a little money for the church… it does something that every strong community needs: it allows us all a moment to bring our past, present, and future together. We invite all who wish to come to help us commemorate and consecrate new bricks into the church’s memorial site. We seek to install a foundation of love into our collective lives that their love and influence instilled in us as leaders. In this simple ceremony in the garden, their investment in helping us understand love and justice finds a home in this community.
The 2017-2018 UUSM choir enriches our Sunday worship services, and will perform at the annual Remembrance Vespers on Sunday, November 5.
ITEMS STILL WANTED FOR THE HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR
Hosted by the Art Committee Sunday, Nov 19, following each service -- DON’T MISS OUT!
Art includes clay, glass, jewelry, paintings and more. Our regular artists and a few new ones will offer a selection of items for your enjoyment and/or for gifts. There is always a beautiful and interesting assortment of things to choose from. Contact: Bettye Barclay.
Beverly’s Treasure Table will be back with lots of ritzy glitzy items at great prices including: A SURFBOARD! Custom Infinity gun between 7 1/2 and 8 ft long. Glassed on fins in thruster configuration. Minor dings on the nose and tail along with some pressure dings on the deck and bottom. Bag and leash included. $100 (one-fifth the usual selling price! What a deal!)
Other Items Include:
• Original Movie Posters from Argentina
• A Bejeweled Jacket
• Original Art
• and much, much more!
Beverly Alison is still on the treasure trail at this time, so call for pick-up of items you have for the treasure table.
THANKSGIVING FEAST - All-Church Potluck - Saturday, November 18 - 6 p.m.
Sign-up in Forbes Hall after services starting November 5 or contact Kathy Cook. All are welcome. You will be asked to bring traditional food and choose a volunteer job. We also need several people to cook turkeys. If you sign up and then are unable to attend, please notify Kathy Cook so there will be room for others.
Newsletter schedule
The next issue of the UUSM Newsletter will be published on October 31. Deadline for that issue is SUNDAY, OCTOBER 15 at noon. Submit items to: newsletter@uusm.org.
Second Sunday Supper - October 8, 6 p.m.
Hosted by the Green Committee in Forbes Hall
Please join us for this informal, potluck dinner together with UUSM members and friends. It’s a great way to get to know your fellow congregants better! Attendees should bring a main dish, side dish, salad, or dessert to share. You can help: Join our Kitchen Cabinet and help with cooking (the day before), setup, or cleanup. You know that the most fun at any party is in the kitchen! Sign up at tinyurl.com/kitchenministry. Children are absolutely welcome! To save on waste and promote green living, we kindly ask that you bring your own plates, cups, utensils, and cloth napkins (we will have extra dishes if you cannot bring your own). Contact: Jacki Weber, jacki.weber@gmail.com.
Heart & Soul: A Contemplative Worship Service
Second Sundays 5 to 5:45 pm in the Sanctuary
Heart and Soul services are led by Rev. Kikanza NuriRobins, Joyce Holmen, and Karen Hsu Patterson. With singing and instrumental music, poetry, statements and questions, silence and sharing, we’ll explore monthly worship themes.
Sunday, October 8 – What Does It Mean to be a People of Courage?
Sunday Spotlight: Kai Landauer in Concert
Sunday, October 8, 7 pm. Sanctuary
Please join us for a special night of music with the songs of Kai Landauer. From his website, “I left Ann Arbor Michigan in 1976…From the very beginning…I have enjoyed my life here. I freed myself and my mind…I lived in the woods, pounded many nails, returned to college, got a degree, got married, survived cancer, raised a family, wrote much music, built a house, and grew in ways I never thought possible. California is my home. My music describes my California experience, defying the odds through my battle with cancer and my perception of life since.” We hope you will join us for this evening. (Click photo at left to see full size flier.)
The Worship Associates Program
Rev. Greg is using his background of teaching worship to educate and empower a group of people to help take on and expand the role of “pulpit host.” This cadre of people will learn leadership – not just in a worship setting, but how to inspire and transform people and communities. One of the main goals of this new program is to embody the diversity that is capable of providing new heart, new insight, to enlarge our understanding of 21st century realities. We are continuing with many of those who already have skill and experience in leading worship, but we want to add some new insights and energy from people who can broaden our diversity in every category – age, gender, race, class, sexuality, theology, religious or cultural history, etc. Please click on the Worship Associate Application form, or ask Rev. Greg if you are curious. He will be accepting applications for the month of October.
Annual Pipes Lecture to Feature The Rev. Judith Meyer on Nov. 5
The Pipes Lecture Committee is thrilled to bring you another fabulous weekend this year. We are excited to announce that our minister emerita, the Rev. Judith Meyer, has agreed to come for a Saturday afternoon tea on Nov. 4, and the Pipes Lecture on Sunday, Nov. 5 at 2:30 pm in the sanctuary.
The title of Rev. Meyer’s talk for the Pipes Lecture is “Falling Out: Alienation and Community in Divisive Times.” She will offer reflections on life in a red state, especially during this perilous year, and suggest ways to cope with the widening and hostile differences in our country.
Many of you will warmly remember Rev. Judith from her ministry here from 1993 to 2008. She and her husband, David Denton, will be returning to visit Santa Monica from their home in Knoxville, TN. Our minister emeritus, the Rev. Ernie Pipes, for whom the lecture series is endowed, is pleased to have Rev. Judith join us as speaker. For those of you who don’t know Rev. Judith Meyer, we expect you will share our enthusiasm when you meet and hear her.
Heart to Heart Circles: New Groups for 2018
Over the past several years, Heart to Heart Circles have become an integral part of our UUSM community. Within Heart to Heart Circles, church members have the opportunity to get to know each other beyond the role layers we present to the world each day. Heart to Heart Circles provide opportunities to share one’s self, and to develop the skill of deep listening in an atmosphere of confidentiality, openness, trust, and acceptance.
This October and November, you may sign up for Heart to Heart Circles that will be held from January through June 2018. (Next summer, we will align new groups to the church calendar year, with groups meeting from October 2018 through June 2019, and signups over the summer.)
We invite you to join a Heart to Heart Circle if you have not done so, or to return for another season of deep listening and sharing.
We also invite and encourage those who have had the Heart to Heart Circle experience to consider becoming a Heart to Heart facilitator. More information about becoming a facilitator will be announced soon.
Please visit our table during coffee hour after services in October and November to sign up and to find out more about these wonderful groups, or contact Leslie Beauvais if you have questions.
— Leslie Beauvais
Kudos for OWL
The “OWL Program Takes Flight” article in UU World magazine features the organization co-founded by a UUSM member!
Among the articles featured in UU World’s Fall, 2017 section was one about the benefits of OWL (Our Whole Lives) education beyond congregational walls. The local non-profit, “More Than Sex-Ed,” co-founded by UUSM member Beth Rendeiro, was featured in the article.
From the article: “More Than Sex-Ed: "The secular Los Angeles-based not-for-profit offers customized OWL workshops, discussions, and classes for organizations, schools, and private groups… More Than Sex-Ed has already had three contracts with Los Angeles-area schools. Through this work, the organization’s paid OWL trainers have taught students who express a range of religious views, from humanist and Buddhist to evangelical Christian.”
Congratulations Beth! More information about the organization can found at www.morethansex-ed.org.
FROM LINDA VAN LIGTEN: Volunteers Make Welcome Event a Success
Appreciations for those who came together to make the meet-and-greet a success. Because of you, this past Sunday’s first meet-and-greet with Rev. Greg was a huge success. Let me count the ways.
- Pam Teplitz and Kit Shaw coordinating the coffee, with the luncheon, helping serve both, Pam bringing watermelon, much appreciated on such a hot day.
- Wendi Gladstone, coming early, setting up, donating funds, and keeping the mimosas flowing, with a touch of mint in each cup, and helping clean up.
- Patricia Wright bringing the vegetable trays. Peggy Kharraz bringing homemade hummus and pita, in lovely serving dishes.
- Kim Miller, donating funds and orange juice, essential to the mimosas, delivered by her husband Mike Reivitis, since Kim was in choir rehearsal.
- Kathy Cook for bringing chips and dip, and helping during the luncheon.
- Rick Teplitz for helping set up.
- And the rest who kept the food and drink going, and helped clean up: Alicia Van Ooyen, Alison Kendall, Cathie Gentile, Eileen Mc Cormick, Audrey Lyness, Haygo Salibian and Sheila Cummings.
YOU ROCK ! It was a fun time in the kitchen with you all.
Caregivers’ Support Group holds its last meeting
When our Caregivers’ Support Group began meeting 17 years ago, “family caregiver” was not a common term, and those who had such responsibilities generally bore them in isolation, frustration, and confusion. Since then, many books, news stories, documentaries, websites, and organizations have become available to offer insight or assistance to folks taking care of a parent, spouse, friend, or grown child up close or across the continent. WISE services in Santa Monica now has a group for caregivers, too. Over the long years, a couple of dozen church members have benefited from having a regular opportunity to discuss their situation with those who truly know how difficult things can be. We’ve shared problem-solving suggestions, resources, tears, laughter, and more. Our group held its last meeting in September, but members will continue to be available to the church community, including Helen Brown and Joyce Holmen.
Summer and Fall Service and Newsletter Schedules
Services: one service at 10 a.m. through Sunday, September 17. Starting Sunday, September 24, two services at 9 and 11 a.m.
Newsletter: The next issue of the UUSM Newsletter will be published on September 25. Deadline for that issue is SEPTEMBER 11 at noon. Submit items to newsletter@uusm.org.
LAST HOURS OF LIFE:
How to be there with love and gentle care at the end of a life
At one’s most vulnerable hour, our UU Principles guide us to be there for one another, acknowledging the inherent worth and dignity of all.
We invite you to come to a Friday evening talk, and/or Saturday workshop. Be inspired and comforted with specific things to do and say to bring compassion and support to one who is dying. Most of us will have this powerful opportunity to be present for someone at the transitional moment of death. Having skills and understanding to apply at that time helps everyone involved. The two-part event is presented by Cassandra Christenson and Beth Rendeiro.
Dates to save on your calendar:
Friday, October 27, 7-9pm • Saturday October 28, 10-4pm
For information or to RSVP, see the RE Sunday table in Forbes Hall.
HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR
Sunday November 19, 2017
Hosted by the art committee. This event raises several hundred dollars for the church each year.
ART, CRAFT, TREASURES
The Treasure Table is returning • Treasures beckon Treasures for the taking • Art, antiques, or uniques
A wonder you have hoarded for years
To donate, contact Beverly Alison for pickup or questions.
ARTISTS AND CRAFTERS WANTED
We are looking for people who make something new and different and we will have our usual artists who do pottery, glass and jewelry. If you are interested in participating please contact Bettye Barclay
Labor Day Meet-and-Greet with Rev. Greg Ward
In September we extend a very warm welcome to our new Developmental Minister Rev. Greg Ward. Come for a potluck meet-and-greet Labor Day weekend, (details TBD), and bring your most ingenious “Welcome Back to L.A.” tips and insider connections.
Sunday, September 10 Rev. Greg will be in the pulpit at 10 am, and the guest of honor at a convivial Second Sunday Supper. How can you join in the fun? There’s more info at http://tinyurl.com/welcomerevgreg.
RE Seeks Funds to Match Grant
This is the month. We have been awarded a Spirit Level grant of $15,000, contingent on our ability to match it. The grant will allow us to hire an assistant for our RE director, Kathleen Hogue. Please don't miss this opportunity to support our church before the deadline at the end of this month. T shirts and tote bags as thank you gifts. We need a lot more money but only a little from each of you if enough of you can help! Contact Kathleen Hogue or the office to make your donation, or come to the Spirit table after the service on any Sunday. Credit cards. Or checks. Or cash. All welcome.
SUMMER SATURDAY SPOTLIGHT – SATURDAY, JULY 22
Sanctuary 7pm
Open mike for music, poetry, comedy, spoken word, etc.
Format same as Second Sunday Spotlights
Contact Tom Ahern — tsa90404@yahoo.com
Second Sunday Suppers: July 9 and August 13
Join us for the Second Sunday Supper on Sunday, July 9 and Sunday, August 13, 6 to 8 pm, after the Heart and Soul Comtemplative Worship Services. Happy hour starts at 5:45 pm. We welcome all for this once-a-month informal potluck feast! Meet up with old friends and meet new ones! To save on waste and promote green living, we kindly ask that you bring your own plates, cups, utensils and cloth napkins (we will have extra dishes if you cannot bring your own). This event is the cornerstone of our new Food Ministry program. Sign-up to help online at www.tinyurl.com/kitchenministry. Contact: Jacki Weber for more information.
Going Forward
The Rev. Greg Ward, a Transitional Minister trained in healing congregations that are experiencing conflict and dissension, begins his contract with UUSM on September 1. During the interim, Vilma Ortiz will coordinate Sunday worship, and Ron Crane will coordinate pastoral care. For other needs, please contact Nurit Gordon, church administrator.\
Newsletter Schedule
The next issue of the UUSM Newsletter will be published on August 15. Deadline for that issue is AUGUST 1 at noon. Submit items to: newsletter@uusm.org.
JOIN US AS STUART MOORE CELEBRATES 90 YEARS
On July 16, 1927, Stuart was delivered by a witch doctor in the jungles of the Republic of Panama. At the age of two he was introduced to the Unitarian Church of Memphis, TN (founded 1896). In the early 1940s he was active in their YPRU (Young Peoples Religious Union). In the late 1940s he was a member of the Unitarian Church of Champaign, IL. When he moved to California in 1952 he joined the Laymen’s League of the Santa Monica Church long before he became a member officially in 1961. Stuart served on the Board of Directors for six years; as Chairman in 1969-70. He was the church’s Building Engineer for 40 years under Reverends Pipes and Meyer.
Please join us for cake after the service on July 16 to help celebrate this milestone.
Anderson Courtyard Fountain Has a New Look
Have you seen the fountain in Anderson Courtyard lately? Does it look a little different? Smaller, maybe? For the past ten years or so, it has been not a fountain, but a large flower pot, maintained by members ever since it fell into disrepair over ten years ago.
Recently, that disrepair has gotten worse, to the point where our beloved monument was cracking visibly, crumbling even. And it was unsafe. On Sunday May 14th 2017, Steve White and Karl Lisovsky finally demolished the main part of the old fountain, got rid of the dangerous part, and restored a smaller version of what had been there.
During demolition we realized that we were doing the right thing: in some places, Steve was able to literally pull it apart with his bare hands! New plans are in the works for a replacement. For the moment, we have left a smaller version of the original, still topped by the vibrant fire plant, and still accented by the Marcus family plaque. Communicators Wanted!
JOIN US! COMMUNICATIONS TEAM MEETING: Sunday, July 2, 11am–12:30pm
Movie Night!
Picnic Time!
Join us for food, fun, and fellowship at the Annual All-Church Interweave* and Women's Alliance Picnic, Sunday, July 30, 11:00 a.m. (just after the 10 am service), in the church courtyard. We’ll be serving grilled hot dogs (vegan and meat), salads, desserts, lemonade, and iced tea. Donations will be welcome but, technically, it’s free!
roceeds from the picnic will be donated to The Trevor Project, the leading national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer/questioning (LGBTQ) young people. If you have questions or would like to provide a dish for the picnic or help on the day of the picnic, please contact Kris Langabeer.
*Interweave is our church’s group for LGBTQI individuals and our friends and allies
Celebration of Reverend Rebecca’s Ministry Save the Dates!
Rev Rebecca’s Portrait Unveiling Reception
Sunday, May 14 at 12:30 pm, UUSM Forbes Hall
All members, friends, and their families are invited to join Reverend Rebecca, local clergy and colleagues for the unveiling of her “official portrait” taken by our own Alice Hall. Following the unveiling, all are invited to enjoy a cake and champagne reception.
Rev Rebecca’s Celebrational Service
Saturday, June 3 at 1:30 pm, UUSM Sanctuary
Mark your calendar to attend this very special service honoring Rev Rebecca. Childcare will be provided. More details to come!
Rev Rebecca’s last service
Sunday, June 4 at 10 am, UUSM Sanctuary
Please note that this will be the beginning of our one service summer schedule. There will be refreshments for all, and a bouncing house for children in the courtyard, after this service.
Child Dedication: A Sacred Ceremony
Would you like this congregation to welcome your child to our life together on May 14?
Raising children is a sacred stewardship and a daily spiritual practice. A child dedication is an act of affirmation; a recognition of the reverence for life that we speak of in our first principle. On May 14 during either the 9 am service or the 11 am service (you choose), we will formally welcome children into our congregation. As a part of the service we will dedicate ourselves to nurture the inherent sense of personal dignity and worth of our children. Although we call this ceremony a Child Dedication, it is really a dedication of the primary caregivers and the congregation to nurture these children with those values that promote responsible and generous living. It is a celebration of both responsibility and promise. If you would like to participate, please contact Kathleen at 310-829-5436, ext. 105, no later than May 8.
Patio Furniture Renovation Project
Members Steve White and Mark Cristianson are giving our wooden outdoor furniture an upgrade, with repairs and refinishing to combat the effects of our ocean air. Thank you, Steve and Mark!
Saying Goodbye to Reverend Rebecca
Open Hours: Sat May 20, 9:30 to 11 am, in Forbes Hall. In this time of ministerial transition, you may want to spend some time with our Minister to share your thoughts, feelings, or stories of our time together, as we say goodbye. Open Hours are hosted by a member of our Board of Directors and/or our Right Relations Task Force with our Minister and intended to open space and time in our life together for a compassionate leavetaking. For our final Open Hours on May 20, hosted by Sue Stoyanoff of our Right Relations Task Force, you are welcome to drop in or rsvp to Rev. Rebecca at minister@uusm.org or Sue Stoyanoff to let us you know will be stopping by.Second Sunday Supper Spring Brunch!
Sunday, May 14
5:30 pm Social Hour
6 pm Dinner
Join us for Brunch for Dinner this month, hosted by the UUSM Kitchen Ministry (Jacki Weber and Beth Brownlie, co-chairs)
ON THE MENU: Spring Vegetable Egg Casserole, Roasted Potatoes and Salad
YOU CAN BRING: Beverages, fruit salad, muffins/rolls, sweet treats. Bring your own plates and silverware if you
can, to decrease cleanup
YOU CAN HELP: Join our Kitchen Cabinet and help with cooking (the day before), setup or cleanup. You know
that the most fun at any party is in the kitchen! Sign up at tinyurl.com/kitchenministry
MEMORIAL DAY SPECIAL
Engraved bricks for $400 if ordered by May 19th (Regular Price $500!) Provide a lasting memorial to your loved one with an engraved brick in the Garden of Eternity at the UUSM. You can include up to three lines of text including your loved one’s name, dates, quotations or fond memories.
We are offering this special rate for engraved bricks to take advantage of the brick supply now at the engraver. In future, engraved bricks may cost more than $500 due to extra transportation costs. If you order now, we can install your memorial brick in 2017. If you’ve been wanting to do this to honor and remember your parents, siblings or dear friends, this is your opportunity.
Please contact Nurit (admin@uusm.org or 310-829-5436 ext 100) in the office to order your bricks and provide payment and final wording by May 19 for this special offer!
ANNUAL CONGREGATIONAL MEETING
Sunday, May 21, 2017
12:30 pm
UUSM Sanctuary
Founded 90 years ago, our congregation has much to celebrate. One way we honor our commitment to the democratic process is by participating in annual meetings. All members are welcome and eligible to vote on leadership and policy for the church. Look for your ballot and more information in the mail.
Before the meeting, a light lunch will be available for a donation.
Save the Date - Annual All-Church Interweave Picnic
Sunday, July 30, 11 a.m. – Church Courtyard
To help, contact Kris Langabeer
Are You Aware? (Independence, Help)
People often like help when they need it, but want to do most things for themselves. This is true for persons with disabilities. It is good to ask when you see someone that might need help. “Can I help you with the door?” “Do you need help down the stairs, across the street?” However, the person may say, “No, I’ve got it!” This is fine.
If you offer to help a person with a visual impairment, let them take your elbow and follow you. Don’t grab their arm or elbow and push. You might mention unusual obstacles like stairs, or protruding furniture, but you do not need to describe every detail.
You can help by being a friend and friendly. Most help is part of our normal awareness of those we are with, and normal courtesy.
You can help by talking with the Disability Support Group and others in the church about ways to improve support for persons with disabilities in our church community, or by sharing your concerns and needs. Not sure whom to contact? Look for Mark Christiansen, Michael Young, Steve Young, or Sylvia Young.
Undy Sundays Return
Each Sunday in April, 40% of our non-pledge offering will go to Didi Hirsch Mental Health Services, to support quality mental health care and substance-use treatment in communities where stigma or poverty limit access. From 11 sites and in nearly 100 schools, the agency helps almost 100,000 SoCal adults and children each year. Its 24/7 Suicide Prevention Center receives over 80,000 calls on its Crisis Line annually and provides support groups for people who have lost loved ones to suicide or who have attempted it.
Want to get involved? Consider purchasing new, in-package underwear to donate to Didi Hirsch, sizes S to 2X for men and women. Socks are also welcome. Gerrie Lambson and Cassie Winters will collect your donations at the FIA table in Forbes.
You can learn more about Didi Hirsch from own Cassie Winters, Liam Mina, and Olga Felton, who works at the agency, and from its VP of Development, Joel Wyatt, who will speak at the services April 2.
— Cassie Winters and Rev. Rebecca Benefiel Bijur
Newsletters and Websites and Facebook, Oh My!
The volunteers and staff that produce the various communications of the church are pulling together as a Communications Team. We want to coordinate our efforts and use technology to communicate better with our community and to make a difference at UU Santa Monica and beyond. All are welcome to join the team and share their expertise — or just a willingness to help your community stay informed. Come meet with us April 30, 12:30 to 1:30 pm, in Forbes Hall, Room 2, or email Jackie Schwab in the church office, oos@uusm.org.
April 9, 2017 Second Sunday Supper - Sponsored by the UUCCSM Green Living Committee
Come learn about becoming a zero trash campus and our efforts to move toward a goal of becoming a Green Business with the City of Santa Monica. Win a Girl Scout Dunk Bag!
Potluck at 6 pm - Bring your favorite side dish that is local, organic, home-cooked, or healthy. Trashless: Bring your own plates, cups, utensils, and cloth napkins - show off your wares! (We will have extra dishes if needed, or if you cannot bring your own.)
Contact Alison Kendall or Beth Brownlie for more information.
Muppet Sing-a-Long!
Saturday, April 8. Sing along with The Muppets, and all you can eat dinner...with Let's Be Frank Gourmet Hot & Vegan Dogs, popcorn, candy and soda pop! Doors open at 5 p.m., move starts at 5:45 p.m. Pay what you can...proceeds benefit UUSM.
Does the Santa Monica Police Department Engage in Racial Profiling?
After Second Sunday Supper, April 9, the Coalition for Police Reform (CPR) will screen a video that collates information on community interactions with Santa Monica police officers. The CPR was formed of representatives from UU Santa Monica, Committee for Racial Justice, and the NAACP after the Trayvon Martin killing in Florida. CPR petitioned the Santa Monica City Council to get feedback from the community about interactions with SMPD officers. We raised the issue of racial profiling back then. As a result of CPR interactions with local leaders it became clear that many folks in Santa Monica are in denial about the level of racial profiling that is experienced here by people of color. After the video, two CPR members will lead a discussion of issues raised and inform those present of current efforts by CPR to change police behavior that oppresses primarily Black and Latino members of our communitiy.
Sunday, April 9, 7:15 pm, in the Sanctuary
Contact: Peggy Rhoads
Celebration of Rebecca's Ministry - Save the Dates!
Rev. Rebecca's Portrait Unveiling Reception
Sunday, May 14 at 12:30 pm
Forbes Hall
Rev. Rebecca's Celebrational Service
Sunday, June 3 at 1:30 pm
UUSM Sanctuary
Rev. Rebecca's last service
Sunday, June 4 at 10 am (one service starts)
MEMORIAL DAY SPECIAL -- Engraved bricks for $400 if ordered by May 19th (Regular Price $500!)
Provide a lasting memorial to your loved one with an engraved brick in the Garden of Eternity at the UUCCSM. You can include up to three lines of text including your loved one's name, dates, quotations or fond memories.
We are offering this special rate for engraved bricks to take advantage of the brick supply now at the engraver. In the future, engraved bricks may cost more than $500 due to extra transportation costs. If you order now, we can install your memorial brick in 2017. If you've been wanting to do this to honor and remember your parents, siblings or dear friends, this is your opportunity.
Please contact Nurit in the office (admin@uusm.org 310-829-5436 ext 100), to order your bricks and provide payment and final wording by May 19 for this special offer!
Congregational Meeting March 5 to Decide on Hiring of Developmental Minister
Our congregation will hold a business meeting Sunday, March 5, at 12:30 pm, to vote on whether to authorize our Board of Directors to proceed with searching for and potentially hiring a developmental minister.
We want as many people as possible to actively participate in the discussion. We must have a quorum of at least 55 people onsite for the vote to proceed. If you cannot be there, please participate via absentee ballot (go to, call, or email the church office).
There is a ton of information about developmental ministry on our Ministerial Transition page. If you have questions, we need to hear them so we can understand where there is lack of clarity or disagreement.
About Developmental Ministry (DM): DM is a type of transitional ministry that occurs between two long-term called/settled ministries over a period of three or more years. It’s ideal for a congregation that has goals it wants to work on before calling its next long-term minister.
What we see as our work to be done: Your Board of Directors feels that we have some congregational goals to pursue that are optimal for Developmental Ministry. Here they are in super simplistic form in no particular order:
• Get better at working and playing together — respecting difference while recognizing our common goals of making this life of ours the best it can be (as individuals and in community);
• Reconnect with and recommit to our shared mission and vision;
• Revitalize membership, leadership, and leadership development so that our UU congregation becomes a better instrument for personal and community development;
• Invest in strengthening programs that help us learn more about where we come from; get better about developing stronger stewardship of the programs and resources that fuel our mission and vision — that means
fundraising, but it’s more than that;
• Address structural issues in our church governance that may make our congregational work harder than it needs to be.
— Developmental Ministry Task Force Co-Chairs:
Kim Miller
Jacki Weber
Newsletters and Websites and Facebook, Oh My!
The volunteers and staff that produce the various communications of the church are pulling together as a Communications Team. We want to coordinate our efforts and use technology to communicate better with our community and to make a difference at UU Santa Monica and beyond. All are welcome to join the team and share their expertise — or just a willingness to help your community stay informed. Come meet with us March 12 and April 30, 12:30 to 1:30 pm, in Forbes Hall, Room 2, or email Jackie Schwab in the church office, oos@uusm.org.
Support UUSM Through the Ralphs Community Contribution Program
Ralphs Grocery Stores offers an easy way for church members with a Ralphs Rewards Card to support UUSM through Ralphs’ Community Contributions Program. Eight UUSM households are currently enrolled and effortlessly donated $105.97 by shopping and using their cards to donate a percentage (up to 4%) of their purchases between September 1 and November 30, 2016.
If you would like to participate too, please go to ralphs.com and create an account to register your Rewards Card. At the bottom of the Account Summary page is the Community Rewards section. Search for the UUSM organization number, 81397, enroll, and then go shopping! Important: you have to re-register EVERY year in
September. For questions about this nearly effortless UUSM fundraising program, contact Hildreth Simmons.
Ralphs Online Registration Instructions
REGISTERING YOUR REWARDS CARD ONLINE:
1. Log in to www.ralphs.com
2. Click on ‘Create an Account’
3. Follow the five easy steps to create an online account
4. You will be instructed to go to your email inbox to confirm your account
5. After you confirm your online account by clicking on the link in your email, return to www.
ralphs.com and click on ‘my account’ (you may have to sign in again first).
ALREADY REGISTERED YOUR REWARDS CARD ONLINE:
(This means that you have already entered your email address and chosen a password)
1. Log in to www.ralphs.com
2. Click Sign In
3. Enter your email address and password
4. Click on “My Account” (In the top right hand corner)
5. Link your card to our organization (Unitarian Universalist Community Ch #81397) by clicking on “edit my community contribution” and searching for 81397. Click the button to the left of our name and click Enroll.
Questions?
Supporters can earn rewards on almost everything, every time they shop! However, there are specific purchases that cannot be included: alcohol, tobacco, pharmacy, postage stamps, gift cards and Green Dot Prepaid Cards, gift certificates, CRV, fluid milk and milk products, lottery and promotional tickets, fuel, fuel center purchases, and sales tax. More information is available at https://www.ralphs.com/topic/community-contribution-2.
Are You Aware? (Transportation)
Depending on public transportation to get to church makes church participation more difficult.People in the congregation may stop coming or limit participation if they need to depend on public transportation.Despite improvements, public transportation is still unreliable and time consuming.
The Disability Support Group proposes reactivating a network to provide rides (like Care-Net).We want to try to help people come to church.We need you! If you are willing to be on a list of people who can offer rides to and from church, mainly on Sundays, or think you may sometimes need a ride, please contact Mark Christiansen or Steve Young.
You can help by talking with the Disability Support Group and others in the church about ways to improve support for persons with disabilities in our church community or by sharing your concerns and needs.Not sure whom to contact; look for Mark Christiansen, Michael Young, Steve Young, or Sylvia Young.
WE LOVE ANTI-RACISTS
Post Valentine’s Day fundraiser for the Anti-KKK3
Saturday • February 25 • 6 PM • Forbes Hall
Fine Vining & Dining (for omnivores, carnivores, vegans...) You could go out for dinner on Valentine’s Day and spend $200 for a mediocre dinner at an overcrowded restaurant. Or you could bring your love to church, sip good wine and enjoy delicious food, and help cover the legal expenses of Hugo Contreras, Mark Liddell, and Nikki Schop, who face trial in Orange County May 30. Many of you have already contributed generously, but the bills pile up. To have your contribution tax deductible, make out a check to UUSM and write FIA-Legal in the memo line, or go to uusm.org, MAKE A DONATION, check other, and type FIA–LEGAL.
For more info or if you’d like to help, contact Sarah Mae Harper.
Dining for Dollars is Coming!
Your Dining for Dollars committee is working hard to make 2017 our best year ever, and we need your help. D4$ events not only support the financial needs of our church, more importantly it provides yearlong availability of events that provide important social and community-building opportunities to all our members and friends.
Thank you to all the members who already signed up to host an event and we are more than half way there to our final goal of more than 50! Might you have an idea for an event or service that you can offer to our silent auction, the bidding for which will happen after services on February 19 and 26?
You can use our online D4$ entry form or see Emily at Sunday’s D4$ table following services. Questions to: uudining4dollars@gmail.com or Farrokh Allen
2017 Dining for Dollars Preliminary Event List
Please note that this is a preliminary list only. (Click on the list graphic to see a larger, more easily readable version.) Please check final dates and descriptions for events as printed on the bid sheets in Forbes Hall February 19 and 26 after both services. Bidding will close at 1:00 P.M. on Sunday February 26. Children pay at adult rates except where noted. Child’s name is to be placed on separate line on bid sheet. Money donated (paid) for winning bids is non-refundable. No email or mailed-in bids will be accepted. Questions may be directed to D4$ Chair, Farrokh Allen.
Our Black Lives Matter banner...
..which had been down for several months for repairs, is once again attached — far more firmly — to the Garden of Eternity fence, facing Arizona Avenue. Special thanks to Cathie Gentile, Kirk Silsbee, and Bob Dietz for their contributions to this effort.
Are You Aware? (Disability Support Group)
Our church Disability Support Group welcomes all members of our church community, whether you have an obvious disability, a hidden disability, know someone with a disability, or are curious how you can support the church efforts to become more inclusive. You can help by attending Disability Support Group meetings; we meet twice a month on the second and fourth Sundays. The group provides support for all persons with disabilities and those interested in providing support. We are working to increase awareness within this congregation and to provide information on accessibility in neighboring places of worship. You can help by talking with Disability Support Group members and others in the Church about ways to improve support for persons with disabilities in our church community, or by sharing your concerns and needs. Not sure whom to contact? Look for Mark Christiansen, Michael Young, Steve Young, or Sylvia Young.
Please Join Us on Sunday, January 22 at 3 p.m. for a Ceremony of Welcome for Our Director of Religious Education, Kathleen Hogue
We will share our hopes and dreams of our shared ministry together. A light dinner reception will follow the service. Please put this date on your calendar, and help us welcome Kathleen into our church family.
The Rev. Diane Dowgiert, preaching
“RELIGIOUS EDUCATION IS ALL WE DO”
If our UU congregation is where we come to learn how to live our liberal religious values and principles, then everything we do together is religious education. The great Universalist educator, Angus McLean, believed that how we teach is more important than what we teach. Or, as McLean would say, the method is the message. How we are together in community and how we embody our covenants — this is religious education.
Rev. Diane Dowgiert serves as interim minister of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Greensboro, NC. She served as minister at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Tucson, AZ for ten years and at the First Unitarian Universalist Society of Marietta, OH for five years. Diane is a graduate of Starr King School for the Ministry. With a background in social work, Diane has a passion for responding to the needs of the local community, bringing Unitarian Universalist principles and values to social justice issues. Outside of church, she enjoys hiking and quilting. She has been married to her husband AJ for 42 years. Their family includes two adult sons, one wonderful daughter-in-law, one grand dog, and two adorable cats.
Rev. Pipes Commendation
The Rev. Emeritus Ernie D. Pipes accepted a commendation from the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors on December 4, held by Rev. Rebecca. Longtime member of our congregation Diana Spears made the presentation. Photo by Carol Ring.
Sign Up for 2017 Heart to Heart Circles
Our congregation’s Heart to Heart Circles are groups of eight to ten people who participate in a structured practice of deep listening and intimate sharing within the safety of a covenant of interaction. Each group meets monthly from February through December, following a curriculum we share with UU congregations throughout the U.S.
The Third Principle of Unitarian Universalism is “acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations.” Heart to Heart Circles are small-group ministries designed to foster acceptance and spiritual growth by providing a structure in which values, ideas of spirituality, and personal experiences can be explored. Participants find the practice to be heart opening, as we listen with unconditional love and reflect from the depths of our experience. Some people consider this to be a spiritual practice; others value the strong connections they make with in their groups.
“What I like most is the opportunity to hear others’ perspectives,” says Rhonda Peacock, a participant and leader in Heart to Heart Circles. “It’s a time of deep listening, setting aside ‘me’ and holding the space for the one who is sharing. When it’s my turn, I receive the same respect and space. It is unique among our church programs.”
Heart to Heart Circles are “a way for me to connect deeply with other people and myself,” says Margot Page, a group facilitator.
Margot is echoed by Ken Alexander, a Circle participant, who says the program “enables me to connect and get to know people at a level that is different from ordinary social interactions.”
Denise Helton, a Circle leader in 2016, says that “in Heart to Heart Circles we build a deeper connection that does not come through social events.”
If you would like to be part of this program, now is the time to sign up for a group that begins in February. You can
sign up on our website: bit.ly/2017H2H (case sensitive), or at the Heart to Heart Circles table in Forbes Hall after services.
—Abby Arnold
2016 Winter Solstice
More than 60 people celebrated the Winter Solstice on December 21. The service was led by Rev. Rebecca, RE Director Kathleen Hogue, Rima Snyder, and Judith Martin-Straw. Music by Lynn Angebranndt, cello, and Karen Hsu-Patterson, piano. Ushering and reception by Tom Early, Peggy Kharraz, Jimmy Ranieri, Joyce Holman, Katie Malich, and Diana Spears. Photo by Katie Malich.Are You Aware (Service Animals)?
Service animals (usually dogs) provide many forms of assistance for persons with visible and invisible disabilities. Generally, service animals are permitted to accompany people with disabilities in all areas where members of the public are allowed to go — restaurants, farmers’ markets, churches, airplanes, and more.
You can help by recognizing that the service animal is working and is performing a vital service for their companion. The general advice is, “Do not pet a service animal while they are in public.” Help both person and animal feel welcome by permitting them the space they need; ask if they have any special needs, for example, access to water.
You can help by talking with the Disability Support Group and others in the church about ways to improve support for persons with disabilities in our church community, or by sharing your concerns and needs. Not sure whom to contact? Look for Mark Christiansen, Michael Young, Steve Young, or Sylvia Young.
Cookie Thanks
Thank you to the wonderful hosts for our three Christmas Eve Cookie Receptions: Sheila Cummins, Carol Ring, Emily Hero, Linda Van Ligten, and Wendi Gladstone. Photo by Carol Ring.A-Caroling We Went
Choir members and friends, joined by other church members, sang Christmas carols December 17 to residents of three Santa Monica rehab centers: Sunrise, Berkley East, and Seaport 17th. Rima Snyder organized the outing. Singers and residents had a joyous time. Photo by Karen Hsu-Patterson.