News & Announcements Archive
The First Call Goes Out to Our UU Chalice Lighters
SPRING REQUEST FOR GRANT FUNDING
More than 20 Santa Monica UU’s have joined the Chalice Lighters program this past year. We are thrilled to announce that our first request for grant funding has arrived — and it comes from the Chalice UU Fellowship of Conejo Valley and their minister, the Rev. Nica Eaton-Guinn. Many of you will recall Rev. Nica with great fondness, as she served our own congregation as ministerial intern from 2014 to 2015, and then as interim minister in the summer of 2015.
She writes, “We are endeavoring to build the most dynamic multi-media worship services possible, striving for an experience that fully engages the participants, keeps their attention, and flows smoothly from one moment to the next. We have made great strides over the past few years… This contemporary approach to worship has contributed to increased membership, more young people, increased enrollment in Religious Education…” What’s not to like about that?
By enrolling in the Chalice Lighters program, you pledge to respond with a donation of $20 or more to support one of a maximum of three grant requests per year from other UU congregations in the Pacific Southwest District. If you are interested in joining the Chalice Lighters program, in support of Rev. Nica’s request and/or future grant proposals, please contact Chalice Lighter Ambassador Barbara Kernochan. It just takes a minute and can make all the difference for a UU congregation struggling to grow and thrive.
More info:
Chalice Lighters program: http://news.uusm.org/becoming-a-chalice-lighter/
Conejo Valley’s request for grant funding: https://pswduua.org/uncategorized/pswd-spring-2019-20-chalice-lighter-call/
Pacific Southwest District: https://pswduua.org/
Pacific Western Region: https://www.uua.org/pacific-western
June Generous Congregation Supports Westside Food Bank
EMERGENCY AID NEEDED
The NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc. is America’s premier legal organization fighting for racial justice. Through litigation, advocacy, and public education, LDF seeks structural changes to expand democracy, eliminate disparities, and achieve racial justice in a society that fulfills the promise of equality for all Americans. LDF also defends the gains and protections won over the past 75 years of civil rights struggle and works to improve the quality and diversity of judicial and executive appointments.
Generous Congregation
Our practice here at UUSM is to dedicate half of our non-pledge Sunday offerings to organizations doing work in the world that advances our Unitarian Universalist principles; the other 50% of the offering is used to support the life of our church.
UUSM’s Generous Congregation supports our church community. And together, we uplift the reach and impact of vital organizations doing work we could not do on our own. This month, we support the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc.
The NAACP LDF is America’s premier legal organization fighting for racial justice. Through litigation, advocacy, and public education, LDF seeks structural changes to expand democracy, eliminate disparities, and achieve racial justice in a society that fulfills the promise of equality for all Americans. LDF also defends the gains and protections won over the past 75 years of civil rights struggle and works to improve the quality and diversity of judicial and executive appointments.
Please consider supporting the mission of our church, and the NAACP LDF. To give right now, text “$10 GCC” to 844-982-0209. (One-time-only credit card registration required.)
Online GA This Year Expands Access: Scholarships Available
This year’s General Assembly of the Unitarian Universalist Association will be different. Like so many large events, 2020 GA is being held virtually Wednesday through Sunday, June 24 – 28. As an online-only event, GA will be a different experience with fewer opportunities to strike up conversations with strangers that start casual and then go deep. But there are also significant advantages. The cost of travel to the conference site and accommodations are a non-issue, and the registration fee to attend all the ceremonies, worship, and workshops is only $150. The leadership at UUSM is so excited for our members to attend the virtual GA, the Board of Directors is providing a limited number of half and full scholarships for any member who might find the registration fee difficult in our current economic environment.
For many years, GA has offered virtual attendance as an option, and this year they will scale and enhance the streaming technology to accommodate a wider, more global audience. Just as UUSM has embraced virtual meetings and Sunday services, UUs use technology to come together in large numbers to worship, witness, learn, and connect to our greater Unitarian Universalist faith.
Rooted, Inspired, & Ready! is the theme for General Assembly 2020: we remain in touch with our theological roots as we engage in transforming our faith, fired up to take action in the wider world. As the annual gathering of Unitarian Universalists from all over the country, attendees of past GAs report an exciting, invigorating experience. It’s an opportunity for UUs to deep dive and then “come home” inspired by ideas and examples of ways to move our faith forward and live into our principles.
“I have attended three previous GAs and have always returned with my faith revitalized, inspired to try new things at our church. If you are in a position to attend online this year, I encourage you to do so,” said member Dorothy Steinicke.
Scholarships
The Rev. Jeremiah Kalendae and the UUSM Board of Directors encourage all interested members of our congregation to register and participate in GA. Attend as many workshops, lectures, and musical events as possible over the five days, as you remain sheltered in the comfort of your home. Register now at https://www.uua.org/ga/registration. Full and half scholarships are available to those who express a need: send your request to Administrator Nurit Gordon (admin@uusm.org). We hope to “see” you at GA this year!Join the Coffee Committee
Wednesday, Sept. 25 – Healthy Congregation Council Offers Dialogue About Theology
THEOLOGY: NEED WE THINK ALIKE TO LOVE ALIKE?
Have you been heeding the guideline to refrain from talking in polite company about religion or politics – even in church? Have you been hankering for the opportunity to do so? If so, here is your chance.
On Wednesday, September 25 from 7 to 9 pm, Healthy Congregation Council will host the third in its InterGroup Dialogues across Difference series, entitled “Theology: Need We Think Alike to Love Alike?”
Topics explored will include how our social identities have informed our past and present religious or ethical beliefs; spiritual crises or epiphanies that may have led us to the UU church; how narrowly or expansively we individually view the UU umbrella (i.e. , who “belongs” here); and how comfortable with and accepting of we, as individuals and as a community, are of folks whose beliefs are in conflict with ours.
InterGroup Dialogues establish contained and respectful spaces in which congregants may discuss and disagree about sensitive topics in an effort to more thoroughly understand each other’s perspectives. The goal is not to debate, nor to change each other’s minds, nor even to come to an agreement, but rather to appreciate the inherent worth of one another’s conflicting viewpoints.
If you would like to join us in Forbes Hall for snacks, treats and InterGroup Dialogue Across Difference, please contact us at rightrelations@uusm.org or let council members know.
By Vilma Ortiz, Audrey Lyness, Cassie Winters, Linda van Ligten and Aubrey Sassoon
Healthy Congregation Council
Healthy Congregation Council
Please join us to celebrate the contributions Rev. Greg has made to UUSM in helping us become better together over the past two years! We will be enjoying each other's company as well as Lorenzo's famous southern BBQ after service, and we'll be putting together a well-wish jar for Rev. Greg to which you can add a sentiment for him.
If you'd like to participate, we'd like your RSVP so that we don't over-purchase.
The menu is Southern BBQ (Ribs, Brisket, Pulled Pork) with coleslaw, potato salad, dessert, and drinks. We'll have veggie burgers for vegetarians.
If you would like, you may donate to support the BBQ, volunteer for setup, cleanup, serving, or activities. Just indicate in your RSVP and Janine deZarn will follow up with further instructions.
Proceeds from donations will be split among all departing staff members (Rev Greg, Kathleen, and Robin) to help with moving expenses. Your generosity is appreciated.
https://www.evite.com/event/020CG7RYIS4IZUBCUEPJQFREE5ZS3Y/rsvp
Farewell to Our DRE
On Sunday, June 16 we are saying farewell to Kathleen Hogue. Please help by creating a card or write a short note and give it to Teri Lucas or Robin Stillwater. We’ll have an insert in the order of service with the prompts: “I loved the time you...” “I’ve always been impressed the way you...” “When I think of you I will always appreciate…”
Fiction Reading Group News: Farewell
The Fiction Reading Group has disbanded.
The group will not meet on Monday, June 17, nor on Monday, July 15 and will not meet in the future. The group has been meeting for five years to share wonderful books with great members. We are now interested in reading many types of books independently without any pressure.
-- Melinda Ewen and Lucy Hahn
PLEDGE CONTRIBUTIONS REMINDER
The Pledge Year now runs in parallel with the Fiscal (budget) year. As the fiscal year ends on the last day of June, and in order for finances to stay on track with the 2018-2019 approved budget, all 2018-19 pledges should be paid in full by the end of June.
If you pay your pledge on an annual, one-time contribution, and you have not made your contribution for the 2018-19 fiscal year, please make your payment by Friday, June 28.
If you pay your pledge on a monthly, quarterly or other staggered payment, and you have not yet fulfilled your pledge commitment for the 2018-19 fiscal year, please fulfill your pledge by Friday, June 28.
You can mail your contribution to the office or contact Cyndee Hayes to make other payment arrangements at assistant@uusm.org or call her at 310-829-5436 ext 102.
Thank you for your continued support of UUSM.
Summer Schedule, Sunday Meetings: May 19, 2019 to September 15, 2019
If your recurring Sunday meeting time is changing due to the summer schedule changes, please contact Cyndee Hayes at assistant@uusm.org and Diego Andres at oos@uusm.org and provide them with your summer meeting start and end time. The office does not automatically change the Sunday meetings scheduled during the summer since some meetings are kept at the same time.
UU Santa Monica Book Group Discussion on May 13: "How to Be Less Stupid about Race"
Explore an essential new book in three weekly two-hour sessions starting Monday, May 13, at 7:00 pm, in Forbes Hall, by registering either at the RE table or by email.
How to Be Less Stupid About Race is an essential guide to breaking through the half-truths, and ridiculous misconceptions that have thoroughly corrupted the representation of race in the classroom, pop culture, media, and politics.
Combining no-holds-barred social critique, humorous personal anecdotes, and analysis of the latest interdisciplinary scholarship on systemic racism, sociologist Crystal M. Fleming provides a fresh, accessible, and irreverent take on everything that’s wrong with our national conversation about race.
We’ll discuss how the ideas speak to us (if at all), what the ideas might mean in practical application, and how they are or are not useful in our fight against racism.
Everyone is welcome to audit the discussion; if you’d like to participate, please be sure to have read the Introduction and the first two chapters for the first session.
Please also register for this series either at the RE table or by emailing Audrey Lyness or Laura Matthews.
Copies of the book are available online or for $17 at the RE table after the Sunday church services.
The purpose of this book discussion is to be informative, positive, and practical, by learning from the book and the perspective of others.
"Have you ever wondered how people lived with slavery, Jim Crow, and lynching but looked the other way? Look around right now. This is how they did it." ~ Crystal M. Fleming
Looking for a few good ushers
Want to help out with worship services but don't like meetings? Do you like handing out things and counting money? Usher as much or as little as you want. Email Dan Patterson (patterson169@gmail.com) if you are interested in being trained as a UUSM usher!
The UUSM softball team practice ⚾️
Practice will be this Sunday, March 10th from 4 pm to 5 pm at Veterans Park in Culver City. If you're an athlete, not athletic or just athletic curious you are welcome. It's really about building community and having fun in an interfaith league. For more info contact Erik Paesel.
Annual Reports on Programs
The Annual Reports on Programs are due by Friday, April 26, 2019. If you are a staff member or a Committee Chair and received the Annual Report on Programs request, please make sure to email your report as requested, or any questions to Nurit Gordon at admin@uusm.org. We will not be able to publish reports received after Friday, April 26.
Journey of the Universe: An Earth Sunday Screening
Join us on Sunday, April 28 at 1 pm for a special Earth Sunday screening of Journey of the Universe, a unique odyssey of cosmic, biological, and cultural evolution that offers insight and inspiration for our present ecological challenges. In a single 60-minute narrative, writer and host Brian Swimme guides us through a scientific and spiritual Great Story, from the birth of the universe to the emergence of complex structures, from the dawn of life as we know it to the conscious present moment. The whole experience is framed by a single day on the Greek island of Samos, a crossroads of history and discovery.
Different from purely scientific approaches, Journey is the first film to integrate arts and humanities into the cosmic big picture. Drawing on the work of the late Fr. Thomas Berry, a cosmologist, historian, and eco-theologian, Journey won an Emmy Award for Best Documentary in 2012 and has birthed an online video series and podcast, as well as a sequence of online courses through the Yale Forum on Religion and Ecology.
Learn more and see the trailer at the official website: https://www.journeyoftheuniverse.org/
(This event is sponsored by AAHS.)
More information from the filmmakers:
Journey of the Universe narrates the 14 billion−year story of the universe’s development, from the great flaring forth at the universe’s inception to the emergence of simple molecules and atoms to the evolution of galaxies, stars, solar systems, and planetary life of greater complexity and consciousness. This is a story that inspires wonder as we begin to understand such complexity through science and appreciate such beauty through poetry, art, history, philosophy, and religion. It also awakens us to the dynamic processes of evolution that are chaotic and destructive, as well as creative and life-generating.
Journey of the Universe is a cosmology, although not just in the scientific sense of the study of the early universe. Rather, it is a cosmology in the sense of being an integrated story that explains where both humans and life forms have come from. All cultures have had such stories. We now have the capacity to tell a comprehensive story drawing on astronomy and physics to explain the emergence of galaxies and stars, geology and chemistry to understand the formation of Earth, biology and botany to envision life’s evolution, and anthropology and the humanities to trace the rise of humans. Journey draws on all these disciplines to narrate a story of universe, Earth, and human evolution that is widely accessible.
Journey weaves science and humanities in a new way that allows for a comprehensive sense of mystery and awe to arise. Such an approach expands the human perspective beyond an anthropocentric worldview to one that values life’s complexity and sees the role of humans as critical to the further flourishing of the Earth community.
Second Sunday Cinema Presents “Cowspiracy: The Sustainability Secret”
A SCREENING SPONSORED BY GREEN LIVING AND P&SJ
Join us for Second Sunday Cinema in March, sponsored by the Green Living Committee and Peace & Social Justice Committee. After Second Sunday Supper on March 10, at 7:30 pm we will screen Cowspiracy: The Sustainability Secret.
Cowspiracy is a groundbreaking feature-length environmental documentary. It follows filmmaker Kip Andersen as he uncovers the most destructive industry facing the planet today, and investigates why the world’s leading environmental organizations are too afraid to talk about it.
Animal agriculture is the leading cause of deforestation, water consumption, and pollution. It is responsible for more greenhouse gases than the transportation industry, and is a primary driver of rainforest destruction, species extinction, habitat loss, topsoil erosion, ocean “dead zones,” and virtually every other environmental ill. Yet it goes on, almost entirely unchallenged.
As Andersen approaches leaders in the environmental movement, he increasingly uncovers what appears to be an intentional refusal to discuss the issue of animal agriculture, while industry whistleblowers and watchdogs warn him of the risks to his freedom and even his life if he dares to persist.
Save the Date
Sunday, March 3, 2019 12:30pm - 1:30pm:
We warmly welcome all new visitors to our church from the previous month. This Sunday in the North East Cottage room from 12:30-1:30 pm, you will have a lovely chance to meet with people from our congregation where we will discuss: what is UU about; what drew us to our church; what is our vision; and how people can get directly involved. Come get to know us as we would love to get to know you. Refreshments will be provided.
Contact Sarah Robson, co-chair of the Membership Committee, for more information.
Special Event: “Humanitas” West Coast Premiere Plus Q&A
Join us Friday, March 8, 2019 at 7:00 pm for an exclusive screening, the West Coast premiere of a unique new film that explores humanism, racial justice, and some little-known history. Filmmaker Jé Hooper, a leader-in-traning with the American Ethical Union, will follow the screening of Humanitas: A Conscious Coloring of Kindness with a live Q&A.
Felix Adler (Ritchie Szoke), the founder and philosopher of the Ethical Culture Movement, and W.E.B. DuBois (Joe Tolbert), the author of “the Souls of Black Folk” and activist-scholar, are re-imagined in this histo-contemporary retrospective of July 1900. Throughout this experimental film, we journey with Adler and DuBois through a series of poetic prose, soulful music and choreo-movements, as they stir justice in one another through a new lens of nonreligious ethics, African-based spirituality, and civil philosophy.
DuBois, after completing a variety of lectures and books is endowed by the “spirit-of-rightness” with a new love for the intersectionality of Africaniety, where all lives can’t matter until black lives matter. As a result, his passion becomes contagious to anyone who comes in contact with his infectious conscious-kindness–his heart-work becomes the coloring of white spaces. Through an encounter with DuBois, Adler “weighs the soul” of the young negro leader and establishes a life-changing relationship that is solidified at the first Pan-African Conference at Westminster Hall in London.
Adler is also challenged by this consciousness, conflicted by the thoughts of other intellectuals, who reveal a hidden unethical, racist agenda for scholastic fame, and a refusal to acknowledge the true souls and spirits of black folks.
Co-sponsored by AAHS: Agnostics, Atheists, Humanists & Secularists and the UU Santa Monica Peace & Justice Team in collaboration with the Ethical Culture Society of Los Angeles.
Passover Seder to be Held on April 20 at 5 pm
Come celebrate Passover with a Seder on Saturday, April 20 at 5 pm in Forbes Hall.
A special intern Rabbi will lead the service, which will include a reading of the Haggadah. Traditional Passover food and wine will be served. A donation of $15 per person or $30 per family is requested. Please also bring a side dish, such as a vegetable, salad, or dessert (macaroons, honey cake) to share. No one will be turned away for their inability to pay.
Attendance is limited to 40 people to preserve an intimate family setting.
If you are interested in volunteering to help with organizing, set-up and clean-up for the event, please contact Resa Foreman or Teri Lucas by email.
Sign up to attend this event at the RE table in Forbes Hall, or by e-mail to Resa Foreman or Teri Lucas.
-- The Passover Committee
Heart and Soul on Hiatus until the Fall.
It is with heavy hearts that the Worship Associates announce putting the Heart and Soul service on hiatus, due to lack of time and attendance. If you are a lover of Heart and Soul and would like to attend again in the fall, please inform a Worship Associate or Robin. Much appreciation to everyone who has led and attended Heart and Soul. You make it special!
Goodbye and Hello
This month we are saying Goodbye to Nancy Thompson, our Administrative and Financial Assistant who is retiring at the end of March. Nancy has been with us since 2012 and has been a pleasure to work according to testimonials from staff and members. We would like to thank Nancy for her years of service to the church, her welcoming smile, and her patience. It has been a pleasure having Nancy with us for so many years, we are sad to see her leave but wishing her the best in her years of retirement.
We are also welcoming the new Administrative and Financial Assistant, Cyndee Hayes, who will start her employment with us on Monday, March 18. We are looking forward to working with Cyndee who has experience in Nonprofit, administration, and finances.
Dining for Dollars News: GOING FAST!
There are just a few “AFTER SALES” events still offered so NOW is the time. If for any reason you missed the opportunity to bid earlier. Check these out on Sunday in Forbes Hall.
Come pick up your winning lists as you pay your invoice at the D4$ payment table.
Remember please, paying by cash or checks is much preferred. If you do pay with a credit card it is appreciated if you add the 3 % credit card fee.
Thanks All!
- Barbara J. Gibbs
Performers include
Leslie Beauvais
Pat Quinn
Saunder Choi
Thomas Ahern
Kenneth Alexander
Teri Bond
Kai Landauer
and maybe a few surprises!
Second Spring Music Fundraiser
Leslie Beauvais and Friends in Concert
Sunday, April 14th, 2019
After Second Sunday Supper
Doors Open at 7:15 PM
Concert 7:30 - 9:00pm
Come and join us for an evening of everything from
Broadway and Jazz Standards, to original Singer-Songwriter music, to Blues, Pop, Folk, and Classical selections. Something for everyone to love!
Performers include:
Leslie Beauvais
Pat Quinn
Saunder Choi
Thomas Ahern
Kenneth Alexander
Teri Bond
Kai Landauer
and maybe a few surprises!
Community Donations
To the People Concern (formerly the Ocean Park Community Center/OPCC), through its various locations in Santa Monica, seeks to transition people from life on the streets to healthy living. Donations may be left in Forbes Hall every Sunday, by the Faith in Action table.
Contact Peggy Kharraz for more information.
Office Schedule
Church offices will be closed on Monday, February 18, 2019 for the President's Day holiday.
UUSM Committee list for review and update by committees members
To keep our Committees list updated and accurate we are asking all committees members and chairs to review and update the list. The list will be posted in the Announcements every week,and you are invited to make any appropriate changes at the link above.
Calling all Connectors!
The Stewardship Committee has begun looking for people to be Connectors to help with the upcoming Pledge Drive. If you are interested in talking to fellow congregants about our church's many gifts and about giving a pledge to the church, please contact committee chair Kit Shaw or another committee member.
West Side Community Resources
The Westside Community Resources binder is now available on the counter in the front office. The Binder includes information and contacts related to Homelessness, Adult Daycare, Seniors, Care Givers, Senior Centers etc.
Thank you to Linda Van Lighten who put it all together!
Dining for Dollars - Important Announcement!
Our thanks to the 28 people who have signed up so far to host an event.
To match our 2018 record breaking revenue, we need at least 20 more hosts. So please don't wait any longer to make your final decision.
Deadline for sign up is Sunday, February 3.
Auction Dates: February 17 and 24
Dinning 4 Dollars Table in Forbes Hall is waiting for you. Contact Barbara Gibbs for more information.
Westside Food Bank Food Sort
Sunday February 10, 11am to 1pm. This is a family friendly social service event. The age cut-off is 4 years old. So who is in? They can take 15 to 20 volunteers. If interested, contact Erik Paesel.
Camp De Benneville Pines Family Winter Camp - Saturday-Monday, February 16-18
Come Join families from UU congregations across Southern California for a long winter weekend with: Sledding, snow play, games, puzzles and crafts, family friendly workshops and activities where we “time travel,” exploring our history and imagine a future that foster kindness, learning, and caring for the earth, Dogma-free worship with songs, music, and wise words that celebrate our connection to nature and each other.
Find out more and sign up at www.bit.ly/2HfPSSv
Safe Sitter Class!
Safe Sitter® teaches young babysitters how to handle crises and how to nurture and guide young child. Safe Sitter® babysitters help children stay safe and sound while their parents are away. In the process, these 11 to 18-year-olds emerge as more confident, responsible and compassionate teens and adults.
February 16, 9:00am-4:00pm, Forbes Classroom 4. Bring a lunch! For more information or to sign up, contact Kathleen Hogue at uusmdre@gmail.com
Interfaith Co-ed Softball League Forming this Spring
Games are held on Monday nights. If interested in playing (or curious) about playing on the UU Santa Monica team contact Erik Passel. We're asking interested individuals to contribute a $25 donation to offset the dues for this activity.
Looking for Ushers
Want to help out with worship services but don't like meetings? Do you like handing out things and counting money? No commitment needed - just help when you can. Email Dan Patterson if you have questions or are interested in being trained as a UUCCSM usher!
Passover
We welcome you to join us in celebrating Passover with a Seder to be held Saturday, April 20 at 5 PM in Forbes Hall
We have invited a Rabbi intern to help us with the service which will include a reading of the Haggadah and the traditional Passover foods and wine. To cover the costs, we are asking for a donation of 15$ per person or 30$ per family plus a side dish like a vegetable, salad or dessert (macaroons, honey cake) No one will be turned away for lack of funds.
We are capping the number attending at 40 so as to provide an intimate family-like setting.
We NEED volunteers to help us with ideas, setting up and cleaning up. If you would like to help in this joyous event, please contact Resa Foreman or Teri Lucas.
Attendees can sign up at the Adult RE table in Forbes Hall or by contacting one of us.
Thank you,
The Passover Committee
Freethinker Forum Considers Anthony Pinn and Humanism in the Civil Rights Movement
In honor of Black History Month, AAHS: Agnostics, Atheists, Humanists & Secularists continues to explore the legacy of freethought and humanism within African American thought and culture, and its impact on efforts for racial and social justice in our time. We will consider some short reading excerpts and video clips, emphasizing the scholarship and thought of Dr. Anthony Pinn, a scholar of religion and Humanist philosophy, a professor at Rice University, and an African American Unitarian Universalist Atheist/Humanist.
Freethinker Forum Sunday, February 24, 1:30-3:00 PM in the Cottage. Join us for a thought-provoking and lively conversation! A diversity of viewpoints is always welcomed and encouraged.
Please note the later start time due to D4$ bidding.
Contact: aahs@uusm.org
Pledge Packets
On Sunday, February 24, and Sunday, March 3, Stewardship will be handing out pledge packets after each service. If you're a member, stop by to get your packet! If you're not a member, stop by to pick up a pledge form! This is what generosity looks like.
Second Sunday Cinema: “The Great White Hoax: Donald Trump and the Politics of Race & Class in America”
Sunday, January 13, 7:30 p.m.
Join us after the Second Sunday Supper for this documentary, featuring Tim Wise, a prominent white antiracist author and educator. It explores the rise of Donald Trump and the way Trumpism reflects longstanding white racial resentment in America.
UU Rendez-Vous for the Women’s March
Saturday, January 19, 9:00 am
7th & Grand in Downtown LA, front of Bottega Louie
Join Faith In Action and UUs from all over the LA area for the 3rd annual LA Women’s March! Once again, we will march together to speak truth to power and bear witness to the force of thousands of our diverse friends and neighbors showing up for women’s rights and the worth and dignity of all.
Sunday, February 17 & February 24:
Dining for Dining for $$$ Dollars Auctions
We proudly announce that due to your amazing generosity and participation, the proceeds from last year's D4$, after expenses, was a record-breaking $37, 343. Our campaign for 2019 is about to start and soon you will hear from one of us as to how we can make 2019 another banner year. Time to start thinking about what event you might host in the coming year. If you want new ideas, please let us help, though we do love repeats! With sincere gratitude to all those who host and to all those who bid.
December UUSM News Podcast: News plus Rev. Greg on Holiday Services
UUSM’s Interfaith Quest RE class presents the December news podcast. Listen in for highlights from the online Newsletter plus an interview with Rev. Greg Ward. He discusses all the special holiday services being celebrated at “18th & Arizona.”
Let us know what you think, and share with your friends if you think these middle-schoolers deserve a thumbs up.
Adult RE Book Group
Please join us for "Recognizing and Resisting Racist Responses," a discussion of academic and whiteness studies lecturer Robin DiAngelo's new book, "White Fragility." We will share our responses to the author's perspectives on implicit bias and structural racism, and explore the unconscious strategies that white folks engage in to defend against the notion that they are complicit. Books are available for purchase at the Lifespan R.E. table. For further information, please contact Roberta Frye or Audrey Lyness.
Save the Date
Sunday, January 13, 6pm - 8pm, Second Sunday Supper, Forbes Hall
Second Sunday Suppers are informal social events for all ages held in Forbes Hall on the second Sunday of each month at 6 pm. Initial set up time is followed by communal meal. Attendees should bring a main dish, side dish, salad or dessert to share. Please join us! 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. Happy hour begins at 5:45 pm.
Second Sunday Suppers are informal social events for all ages held in Forbes Hall on the second Sunday of each month at 6 pm. Initial set up time is followed by communal meal. Attendees should bring a main dish, side dish, salad or dessert to share. Please join us! 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. Happy hour begins at 5:45 pm.
Sunday, February 17 & February 24, Dining for Dollars Auctions
We proudly announce that due to your amazing generosity and participation, the proceeds from last year's D4$, after expenses, was a record-breaking $37, 343. Our campaign for 2019 is about to start and soon you will hear from one of us as to how we can make 2019 another banner year. Time to start thinking about what event you might host in the coming year. If you want new ideas, please let us help, though we do love repeats! With sincere gratitude to all those who host and to all those who bid.
We proudly announce that due to your amazing generosity and participation, the proceeds from last year's D4$, after expenses, was a record-breaking $37, 343. Our campaign for 2019 is about to start and soon you will hear from one of us as to how we can make 2019 another banner year. Time to start thinking about what event you might host in the coming year. If you want new ideas, please let us help, though we do love repeats! With sincere gratitude to all those who host and to all those who bid.
Garden of Eternity. Donate a brick engraved with your loved one’s name.
Engraved bricks at $500 per brick.
Download the order form or get one from the church front office. You may leave the completed form and your contribution in the Church Administrator’s mailbox.
Holiday Office Closures
Church Offices will be closed on the following dates:
Monday, December 24
Tuesday, December 25 for Christmas Day
Tuesday, January 1, 2019 for New Year's Day
December Worship Services Include Seven Holiday Celebrations
DECEMBER THEME: MYSTERY
Join us each Sunday as we celebrate and worship as a community. This month, we welcome the public to seven special holiday services of spirited celebration, quiet reflection and forward-looking inspiration.
Sunday, December 2
Millennials are Ruining Everything
SERVICES AT 9 AM AND 11 AM
Robin Stillwater, preaching
Abby Arnold, Worship Associate
Millennials can seem like a separate species from the older adults in congregations. How does one even talk to these strange creatures? More importantly, as Unitarian Universalism ages, how do we welcome in millennials; offering them sanctuary and hope in a too-often toxic and attacking world?
Sunday, December 9
Confessions of an Apocaloptimist
SERVICES AT 9 AM AND 11 AM
The Rev. Greg Ward, preachingRima Snyder and Natalie Kahn, Worship Associates
The Urban Dictionary defines an apocaloptimist as “someone who knows it’s all going to s–, but refuses to lose theirs in the process.” We can all find reasons to panic about the environment, the economy, the rise of corruption and greed, or the collapse of human civility. How can we look at the world earnestly – with its capacity to break our hearts – and not lose hope? A person who can stand amidst impossible odds and still be engaged and idealistic is an apocaloptimist.
Sunday, December 9
Heart and Soul Service: Mystery
SERVICE AT 5 PM
Catie Grasso, preaching
Heart and Soul is a quiet, contemplative service held each month on the second Sunday evening. It is a time of fellowship and sharing, with more silence than many services. All are welcome to join us in the sanctuary for this vespers-like experience.
Sunday, December 16
A Star is Born
SERVICES AT 9 AM AND 11 AM
The Rev. Greg Ward, preaching
James Witker, Worship Associate
There are religions of every kind that explore birth. Because birth is such a miraculous and sacred event in our lives, it has become a hearth at the center of many religious stories. A buddha’s birth (as opposed to ‘the Buddha’) is the central story of Buddhism – how a devotee begins their path of enlightenment. Jesus’ birth as an agent of the world’s salvation is a central story of Christianity. Science and Cosmology also have a birth story involving the origin of the universe, including each and every galaxy, star, solar system and planet. This service is the sacred story of this planet’s birth and it’s ability to call into existence a radical array of life.
Sunday, December 16
Winter Solstice Celebration
SERVICE AT 5:30 PM, ANGELINE FORBES HAL
Rima Snyder, Worship Leader
This year we commemorate the solstice by learning about the Iranian festival of Yalda, the longest night. Join us to celebrate the beginning of winter and the emergence of the light with music, poems, and shared community.
Sunday, December 23
The Star of Bethlehem
SERVICES AT 9 AM AND 11 AM
Kathleen Hogue, preaching
Margot Page, Worship Associate
Why do we celebrate Christmas? As Unitarian Universalists, most of us believe that Jesus was a human being, that he was an inspired spiritual teacher and compelling social revolutionary. For some of us, we do celebrate the story of the only Son of God come to save the world, and that belief is welcome here today. For others, the culture in which we live tells this story, over and over, and we gather to experience it once again. But it is not only the Christian religion that needs to tell this story, over and over. As a Unitarian Universalist people of faith, we, too, need to tell this story over and over because, like all great religious myths that have been told through the ages, this night and this story hold essential spiritual truths. Come and experience the story once again, with all the characters you know and love including our congregation’s beloved Friendly Beasts! Join us for a Christmas Nativity pageant in word and song with the timeless story of Mary and Joseph, the kings, and the shepherds.
Monday, December 24
Ring the Bells and Light the Lights
SERVICE AT 4 PM
Kathleen Hogue, Worship Leader
Teri Lucas, Worship Associate
Join us for a multigenerational worship service complete with holiday music, story, and ritual. You are invited to bring an ornament (either a bell or a star) to trade with someone else. Our interactive story, The Sounds of Christmas by Deb Brammer, gives everyone an opportunity to make joyous noise. Cookies, cider, and hot chocolate will follow the service.
Monday, December 24
Christmas Eve Candlelight Service
SERVICES AT 6 PM AND 8 PM
The Rev. Greg Ward, preaching
Margot Page, Dorothy Steinicke, and Robin Stillwater, Worship Associates
We’re all familiar with the traditional story the describes a particularly dark moment in humanity’s existence, and the birth of a child that grows up to be a great light. We are certainly in dark times today. This traditional Candlelight Christmas Eve service of lessons and carols will be a contemporary adaptation of a sacred story based on Unitarian educator Sophia Lyon Fahs’ prophecy that “every night a child is born is a holy night.” We will imagine what it would look like if the prophet called to bring light to the world were born today. Come to sing, hear stories, light candles, and rejoice in the shared calling for us all to create Peace on Earth. The choir will perform at both services.
Sunday, December 30
A Sense of Purpose
ONE SERVICE ONLY AT 11 AM
The Rev. Kikanza Nuri-Robins, preaching
Leon Henderson-MacLennan, Worship Associate
Making meaning of the old year and the new year to come.
Thanksgiving Feast Saturday, November 17 at 6 pm
Thanksgiving FeastJoin our church community at our annual all-church Thanksgiving feast as we give thanks for all that is our life. Sign up in Forbes Hall after services starting November 4, or contact Kathy Cook (check your directory for contact information). All are welcome. Plan 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, pleasure notify Kathy Cook so there will be room for others.
Holiday Office Closing Schedule
Church offices will be closed on the following dates:
• Monday, November 12 for observation of Veterans Day
• Thursday, November 22 and Friday, November 23 for Thanksgiving Holiday
• Tuesday, December 25 for Christmas Day
• Tuesday, January 1, 2019 for News Years Day
Pageant Time!
Please sign up to play a moving part or to sing in our new pageant to be held December 23 for both Sunday services: the tentative title is“Joseph, Mary, Bethlehem, a Manger, Angeles, and All That.” Contact Kathleen Hogue, uusmdre@gmail.com – and remember the pancake breakfast Saturday, December 22 for all pageant participants and RE families!
Garden of Eternity. Donate a brick engraved with your loved one’s name
BrickMemorialEngrave bricks at $500 per brick.
You may click here to complete the order form on our website, or you may download the form by clicking here. Order forms are also available at the church front office. You may leave the completed form and your contribution in the Church Administrator’s mailbox.
D4$ “Beauty and the Beast” Sing-Along Saturday, Nov. 10
FOR KIDS OF ALL AGES
Bonjour! Beauties, Beasts, and all Villagers in between are welcome to sing-along until the last petal drops on Saturday evening, November 10. The Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along (2017 live action version) gives the chance to belt out your favorites and there’s always rollicking fun with audience commentary. (Be loud and proud, Lefou!)
All-you-can-eat gourmet hotdogs from Let’s Be Frank start at 5 pm, so come early. Popcorn, candy, water, and sodas are all included. New this year: opportunity prizes! One chance with entry; extra tickets $1 each. Win some fun Beauty and the Beast swag.
The movie starts around 5:45 pm; definitely by 6.
Thanks to our Dining for Dollars hosts Patrick Meighan and Amy Thiel, the price for all this is a pre-purchased D4$ reservation or a donation at the door: suggested $15.
Ball gowns, beast’s claws, and other costumes optional, but most welcome. Join us for an enchanting evening.