RE News Archive
Focus on Adult Education – October 2018
Check out the full calendar for more details on special events and our regular Adult Religious Education activities. The public is warmly welcomed.
Monday October 22 and Tuesday Oct. 30: Humanist Voices
In October, we will read and discuss “The Church of What We Know,” a guest sermon and reflection on what UU identity means by our beloved songwriter Peter Mayer (“Blue Boat Home”) which was delivered to a congregation in San Diego in 2017. 7 to 9 pm both evenings. Contact James Witker for more information.
Saturday, October 20: Conversations and Connections Workshop
Adult Religious Exploration hosts a new series to provide structure and opportunities for meaningful connections between individuals in our congregation. Within the context of small gatherings, we break off into pairs, encouraging conversation between us that deepens our connections. Each meeting will offer the opportunity to connect with at least three different people. We believe that as the number of one-to-one connections grows over time, there will be an expanding web of connections in our community based on trust and acceptance. Sign up at the RE Table in Forbes Hall after Sunday services, intended for UUSM members and pledging Friends. 12 to 2 pm in the Warren Mathews Conference Room.
Sunday, October 28: AAHS Freethinker Forum
AAHS Freethinker Forum: Agnostics, Atheists, Humanists, and Secularists is an open group that meets for lively and engaging discussion on topics of politics, science, religion and philosophy. We also host occasional guest speakers, films, and outings. We are a home base for non-believers and questioners, but everyone is welcome. For many, it is said that atheism/agnosticism is a first step. Humanism is the thousand steps that come afterwards. 12 pm – 2 pm, Warren Mathews Conference Room. Contact aahs@uusm.org.
Sunday October 28: The Disability Support Group
The Disability Support Group will be promoting a dialogue on a selected topic at each of its meetings throughout this church year. There is a different theme for each month. We meet the fourth Sunday of each month at 12:30 pm in the Cottage. All church members interested in the topic are invited to attend. We hope these topics are of interest to you. The dates and topics are as follows:
October 28, 2018 – Church Barriers to Persons with Disabilities
November 25, 2018 – Dating Opportunities and Challenges
December 23, 2018 – Positive Self Definition
January 27, 2019 – Sports Activities and Opportunities
February 24, 2019 – Governmental Programs
March, 24, 2019 – Seeking Employment
April, 28, 2019 – Interactions with Local, State, and Federal Government
May 26, 2019 – Self Empowerment
Highlights of our regular activities and interest groups:
Meditation Mondays, 7:30 pm
Senior Exercise Fridays, 10 am
Balanced Behaviors, October 3, 17, and 24; 7 pm
Men’s Group, October 4, 7 pm
Come Dance with Us folk dancing, October 7, 7:15 pm
Fiction Reading Book Club, October, 15, 7 pm, My Cousin Rachel by Daphne du Maurier
Science Non-Fiction Book Group, October 16, 7:30 pm, Lab Girl: A Story of Trees, Science and Love by Hope Jahren.
From the Director of Religious Education
"...what came to me in the night was the realization that I don’t “do” religious education because I’ve mastered a lot of theory about it, although I have mastered some. I “do” religious education because of experiences which have shaped and transformed me, and continue to do so as I continue to reflect on them."— Betty Jo Middleton
WHY DO TEACHERS TEACH IN OUR UU CONGREGATIONS?
They teach because they want to nurture their own spiritual development. What better way to learn about your own spirit than to teach others about theirs? They teach because they have a passion for social justice. What better way to change the future than to raise the next generation to care deeply about justice work? They teach because they have a need to connect and find a sense of belonging. What better way is there to connect than to be a part of a community of love and support that is found in our religious exploration (RE) programs? Mostly, I hear that our teachers come back year after year because they are committed to making a difference in our world.
“It is more important than ever, in this particular moment in time, given the current political climate, urgency for social justice and the ongoing struggle for sexuality and gender equality that our children and youth have strong, committed leaders to help lead them soundly into understanding their own spiritual and moral compass!”— Katie Maedke Hall
I, too, was a volunteer teacher at a UU congregation in Tucson, Arizona many years ago. I remember that first day I attended and stayed with my daughter, Kat, in her classroom. I helped the teacher with activities, snack, singing, etc. The next day, I got a call from the RE director. She said they really needed someone like me to teach. She invited me to join a teaching team. I laughed and informed her that I had never been to a UU church, knew nothing about it, and had no teaching credentials. She told me that made me perfect for the job! I guess she was right because look where I am now.
We need you! We are in need of teachers for our Spirit Explorers class (Grades 3 to 5) and our middle school class. Teachers are trained and supported all year round and all supplies are provided. You will work with a team of four teachers so you would be in the classroom up to two times per month. And…you need not miss a service since we have two of them!
Come teach with us! Email Kathleen Hogue, uusmdre@gmail.com
— Kathleen Hogue
New Class: "A Year to Live"
This is a class for those who are tired of waiting around for their “real life” to start. It is a class that will jump start us out of our ruts, our avoidance, our fears, our unrealistic fantasies and propel us into more acceptance, more focus, more intentionality, more accountability and surround us with people who will love us into the people we’ve always wanted to be.
This will be a year-long course that meets once a month. Although the end-result for those who see it through will be more love and more joy, make no mistake: it is not about empty promises and feel-good phrases. It’s going to be hard work “getting real” with ourselves and daring to allow people to love us in the process.
We will have a sample up at de Benneville Pines during the UUSM Church Weekend on Sept. 14 to16. The class will start in October on Wednesday evenings from 7 to 8:30 pm. Ask Rev. Greg for more details.
Conversations and Connections
This Adult RE program will provide our church community with the opportunity to develop meaningful connections, two people at a time. Within the context of small group gatherings, we will break into groups of two, encouraging conversation between us that deepen our connections. Each meeting will offer an opportunity for these one-to-one conversations with at least three people. We will meet once a month, in three-month cycles. The third meeting of each cycle will be a potluck for those who have attended one or more of the Conversations and Connections meetings prior. Participants will be invited to discuss two or three questions that relate to the monthly church theme—for example, September is “vision.”
Our guiding intention is to provide structure and opportunities for meaningful connections between individuals in our congregation. We believe that as the number of one-to-one connections grows over time, there will be an expanding web of connections in our community, based on trust and acceptance.
We hope you’ll join us.
Please sign up at the RE Table in Forbes Hall after services. For more information, contact Bettye Barclay or Sue Stoyanoff.
FROM OUR DIRECTOR OF RELIGIOUS EXPLORATION
Fishing as a Spiritual Practice
For me, the call to religious leadership has always been powerful. From my first visit to a UU congregation, where I helped out in the K/1 classroom, I knew it was what I wanted to do with my life. I could help people, but even with all of my love and passion for the work, I have come to recognize the need for self-care. It has taken many years, and I still struggle with balance. As it says in the Safe Congregation Handbook, “Modeling self-care is a religious practice, and like all such practices, it is a daily commitment and challenge.”
Self-care is important for mental, emotional, spiritual and physical well-being. Practicing self-care can help us avoid overload and burnout and reduce stress which causes and worsens many physical ailments. In addition to the effect it has on our relationship with ourselves, stress also affects our relationships with others. We cannot expect to be in healthy relationships with others if we do not have a healthy relationship with ourselves, and we most certainly cannot be effective leaders in our congregations. “Stress can destroy much more than just our physical health. Too often, it eats away at our hope, belief, and faith,” says Charles F. Glassman.
Prayer, gratitude, exercise, meditation, and journaling are some of my spiritual practices. Fishing is another. “Many men go fishing all of their lives without knowing that it is not fish they are after,” said Henry David Thoreau.
In February 2017 I decided to take a five-day self-care, meditative fishing trip to the Colorado River that divides Nevada and Arizona. A part of my journal entry for the first day of that trip echoes Thoreau’s observation.
Fishing requires determination. Often that determination requires one to get up very early. I got up at 5 am and was out at the river by 6. As I left my car, a woman was coming up from the riverbank. She was soaked. When I asked her if she had a morning swim in the beautiful Colorado, she said she had actually been fishing, but only for a short time. She described to me how a man and a two-year-old boy had been in a raft that had tipped over. She had jumped into the river and saved the little boy. What an interesting morning so far!
As I prepped my line I realized I had left my bait at the hotel room. A fellow fisherman was kind enough to share some worms with me. It is very interesting how people of different backgrounds, beliefs, genders, and races share and help each other when they are fishing. People share bait, tackle, snacks, drinks, fishing secrets, and even their catches. Neither my fellow fisherman nor I had any luck catching a fish that morning. There were plenty of fish in the river, but as we baited, casted, reeled, the rather large, uninterested fish swam right on by, often within inches of me wading in the water. Fishing takes a great deal of patience. Most of the time one is caught up in various thoughts of nature, self-reflection, the existence of God, love, and the purpose of life.
I jumped up to grab my rod when I felt a painful tug just above the inside of my right ankle. I looked down and saw that I had caught a fish, but not on my line and not a real fish; it was a lure caught in my leg. I had no clue where the nearest fish hook removal experts could be found. My GPS led me to three locations on both sides of the Colorado River that were closed. As I drove, instead of worrying about my foot I thought about the elusive fish and the book I’d sat down to read while fishing, White Like Me, in which author Tim Wise tells us that we inherit the legacy of our families and we inherit the legacy of our race whether we like it or not. Fishing is part of my legacy, I thought as my foot bled.
About 45 minutes later, feeling a little drained and loopy, I pulled into a gas station and was told there was an urgent care facility about a half mile away. I was no longer thinking of fish, race, or the big questions of life by this point. I was only thinking of the ANCHOR hanging from my foot. When I walked in and they saw my predicament, the good people of the facility did not laugh. They were very kind and quick. After assessing, numbing, and removing the lure, the doctor asked if I wanted to keep it and use it the next time I went fishing! Following a tetanus shot, a prescription for antibiotics, and more laughs, I went back to my hotel room. I thought about my day, though by now it was only 10:30 am. Proof that fishing is a spiritual practice!
I leave you with the words of Sophia Lyon Fahs: “Life becomes religious whenever we make it so: when some new light is seen, when some deeper appreciation is felt, when some larger outlook is gained, when some nobler purpose is formed, when some task is well done.”
– Kathleen Hogue
FROM THE DIRECTOR OF RELIGIOUS EXPLORATION
Religious Education for People of All Ages
Did you know that I do not just work with children here at UUSM? I am the Director of Lifespan Religious Exploration which means that I work with adults as well.
What is it?
Exploration is a vital part of our adult lives as Unitarian Universalists. Adult Religious Exploration is about transformation – of the individual, our UUSM community, and the larger society. By learning, discovering new perspectives, and working towards deeper understanding of ourselves, one another, and our world we become part of a greater whole working for peace and justice.
Who does it?
The Director of Religious Exploration works with the Adult RE Committee. We meet every month and communicate through email. We also have facilitators that we work with and support. Meetings are held in Forbes Hall each first Friday of the month at 7 pm.
What do we do?
We seek to offer programs which demonstrate a compassionate, respectful, and insightful environment where each of us can openly and honestly explore what is true for us; where each of us is respected; where spiritual emotional and intellectual growth are stimulated and encouraged; where the process is open and democratic; where our interdependence with all life on earth is recognized and honored; and where the transforming power of love and respect is acknowledged.
Our programs and offerings represent one or more of our seven core exploration areas:
• Unitarian Universalism
• Jewish and Christian Heritage
• World Religions
• Personal and Spiritual Growth
• Spiritual Practice
• Peace and Justice
• The Interdependent Web
If you are interested in facilitating your own class or discussion group related to one or more of these core areas, please email uusmdre@gmail.com to get an application. Once filled out, the Adult Programs Subcommittee will review it and, if approved, work with you to schedule and promote your program.
Wherever your interest leads you, we welcome you and encourage you to join us in another exciting year of personal and spiritual exploration at UU Santa Monica.
– Kathleen Hogue
Summer Adult RE Offering, One-Time Workshop:
Finding Right Relationship with Your Inner Critic
Saturday, August 11, 1 pm to 4 pm. Location: to be determined. Contacts: Beverly Shoenberger and Norman Richey,
We often blame and shame ourselves in ways that we would never openly do to someone else. We can be so used to self-doubt and self-criticism that it seems like the truth, or that we deserve it. Maybe we believe that the inner critic is what keeps us “in line” and safe from being shamed by others. Maybe we think we need the critical voice to stay motivated. Maybe negativity has become familiar and “is just the way it is.”
In this introduction, we will be looking directly at our Inner Critic and learning to discriminate it from our deepest inner truth. Taking this workshop could be a first step in turning these judgmental voices into allies.
Imagine the light that could come into our community and the world, if we could live more fully, without being held back by self-criticism or self-doubt.
Summer Adult RE Offering, One-Time Workshop: Emergence, a Creative Universe, and You
Tuesday, July 24, 7 pm to 9 pm. Location: to be determined.
Contact: James Witker
(Please note: this presentation and discussion is adapted from an AAHS Freethinker Forum held in April, and offered again by request.)
(Please note: this presentation and discussion is adapted from an AAHS Freethinker Forum held in April, and offered again by request.)
EMERGENCE (Emergent Properties) is a cross-disciplinary idea in science, philosophy, and art dealing with complex systems arising from -- and having properties not merely defined by -- their simpler component parts. Some examples include snowflakes, fractals, galaxies, and life itself.
Whether by blind chance, the whims of quantum spacetime, the Multiverse, or something more deeply mysterious about the nature of Reality, we live in a universe whose internal dynamics are geared toward the development of complex structures -- otherwise we wouldn’t be here at all! Mathematical Cosmologist Brian Swimme says: “This is the greatest discovery of the scientific enterprise: You take hydrogen gas, and you leave it alone, and it turns into rosebushes, giraffes, and humans.” (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emergence)
Where does God fit in? For most of human history, people have seen a divine hand or some kind of animating intelligence behind the workings of our world and its creative properties. But the steady march of science has revealed a universe obedient to fixed natural laws and chaotically governed by chance. These days, most atheists will say that there is no reliable evidence for anything in or beyond the cosmos that can be called “God.” Meanwhile, newer movements in religion and spirituality, such as Pantheism, Panentheism and some Religious Naturalists, have sought to re-define God as something akin to nature itself, or the inherent creativity within it.
Join us for an exploration of Emergence in a humanistic frame. We will try to understand this concept better, ask some questions to get at what is still mysterious, and appreciate the awesomeness of Nature’s self-organizing dynamics.
Love, Community and Pride!
So, you have taken your kids to help out at the soup kitchen, with lunches for bunches, attended women’s marches, Black Lives Matter rallies, and other social justice demonstrations. Awesome! Great work parents, but what about Pride?
June is Pride Month. As we know, families come in every shape, size, and color of the rainbow. Many of our UU children are educated about LGBTQ issues thanks to the Our Whole Lives (OWL) program at UUSM. However, have you let your children know how important these issues are to you? Have you talked with your children about homosexuality and transgenderism? Have you demonstrated and shared with them positive attitudes and values towards gay people, lesbians, and people who are transgender? It is never too early, or too late, and Pride Fest is a great place to start or continue in raising sexually healthy children.
Pride means different things to different people, whether you identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community or stand with them as allies. For some, it is about standing up for equality and human rights, and being role models for younger generations. For many, it’s about being part of a celebration where we put our differences aside and stand together as one community.
Look at all the UU Principles you will be demonstrating by attending Pride!
• The inherent worth and dignity of every person;
• Justice, equity and compassion in human relations;
• Acceptance of one another and encouragement to spiritual growth in our congregations;
• A free and responsible search for truth and meaning;
• The goal of world community with peace, liberty, and justice for all.
Show your children a kind and loving community that encourages discovery, creativity, and individual expression. Bringing your children to Pride demonstrates that you are open to the many ways people can identify and love, which is particularly important for them to know as they grow and discover who they are. Most importantly, they learn that being a UU is not only about tolerance and acceptance, but also about love and community.
This year’s Pride Parade is June 10 from 11 am to 2 pm in West Hollywood. Some UUSM members are leaving from the church by Uber and Lyft. The parade is held in West Hollywood Park, along San Vicente Boulevard, between Santa Monica Boulevard and Melrose Avenue.
There are plenty of festive opportunities that kids of all ages are welcome to take part in. The 2018 LA Pride Festival will take place on Saturday, June 9 from 12 noon to 1 am, and on Sunday, June 10, from 11am to 11pm. More information can be found on the website: https://lapride.org/pride-2018/
— Kathleen Hogue
Sacred Nature: The Emerging Theology of Religious Naturalism
Informed by new knowledge and inspired by ancient wisdom, Religious Naturalism weds scientific understanding of the universe with perceptions, values, and reverence usually reserved for more traditional religious positions. It counts among its forebears thinkers such as Lao-Tzu, Spinoza, and Einstein; modern proponents include Ursula Goodenough, Loyal Rue, Stuart Kauffman, Michael Dowd, and many Unitarian Universalists.
J. Ash Bowie writes: “Religious Naturalism is a spiritual and philosophical orientation arising from profound responses to the wonder and mystery of Nature and its emergent manifestations in human creativity and culture. Its views of Nature are embodied in the Epic of Evolution and informed by scientific inquiry, without reference to supernatural explanations.”
Join me for an introductory exploration of Religious Naturalism and its implications — for our movement and our world. What if we really did regard nature itself as sacred? How do concepts of god(s) and the divine fit into such a framework? Are scientific inquiry (the Universe revealing itself) and spiritual inspiration inextricably linked? We will meet on Saturdays, June 2, 9, and 16, from 4 to 6 pm. Little reading outside of our sessions will be required, and material will be provided. Check weekly announcements, stop by the Adult RE table to, or send me an email to sign up.
— James Witker
What I Learned in Sunday School: A Visit to Neighboring Faiths
M y family started attending UUSM about two years ago so that my brother and I could experience religious education. This past year, I have begun to do the part of religious education that I was most looking forward to: visiting other places of worship. I was excited for this because I thought it would be interesting to learn about religions besides my own.
Since my family started going to UUSM, and my brother and I started RE, I have seen three different places of worship: a Lutheran church, an African Episcopal Methodist church, and a Christian Science church.
The Lutheran church was just down the street from UUSM, and they were very welcoming. We were told stories about Martin Luther, as well as other stories in the bible, and as a parting gift they gave us little Lutheran activity books.
I missed the time that RE went to the Jewish Temple, so the next place I went was the African Episcopal Methodist
church. There, before we went in, the smell of the barbecue that was happening outside the church filled the air. We went inside, and they had pretty stained glass windows and almost everything was the color green. The service started and the preacher read from the bible and preached about current events. The choir at the African Episcopal Methodist church was really great, and they sang about what the preacher was saying. At the very end, the Sunday school class led us in guessing the significant African-Americans whom they were talking about for Black History Month.
At the Christian Science church we sat down and ate pizza with the kids from that Sunday school. They explained some of their beliefs with the help of their parents and Sunday school teacher. Afterwards, they showed us their atrium. They had folding chairs instead of pews and plants and sunlight behind where the speaker stands to preach.
The Christian Science church and both of the other places of worship that I visited were very different from UUSM and from each other. It just goes to show that religion is different for everyone and Religious Education does a good job of teaching that fact to kids like me.
— Elleanor Quist
UUSM youth share their faith journey at the April 22 Coming of Age ceremony
UUSM Youth at the United Nations
With the support of UUSM, members of the Young Religious Unitarian Universalists (YRUU) spent spring break at the Unitarian Universalist United Nations Office in New York City, where they participated in When Crisis Calls:
Advancing Just Migration For All. During the four-day event, our youth learned to collaborate with others while learning to be global activists. They shared their experience during the 9 am service on Sunday, April 22.
Photos by Carol Ring
From the Director of Religious Exploration: Emergence and Creativity
How wonderful that the Soul Matters theme for last month was emergence, and this month it is creativity! In April, during The Time For All Ages, we talked about our brains and of what could emerge if we use our non-dominant hand. We discovered that one of the things this enhances is creativity. I hope you have all been using your non-dominant hands, because I need your help.
I need your help with creating a multigenerational community at UUSM. It is not enough that we have children and adults of all ages in the same place at the same time. If we are all there together but not connecting, this is not community – it’s more like being stuck on the 405. We need to talk to our children, listen to them, share with them, and support them, and we need to do it together.
“Better forms of community are built on the
back of those who have toiled and sacrificed
long before we put ourselves on the line.
Simply put, there are no creators without
companions.” – Soul Matters
How can we do this? This summer I would like to have YOU come and share your wisdom, gifts, talents and skills with our children in their class. I call this program “You Can Do It Too!” Each Sunday a “guest” will come and share something with the kids. In addition to sharing, the guest shows them how to do what was shared. Some ideas of what to share are poetry, writing, art, cooking, music, science, stories, how to repair something – the choices are endless. Each class will follow a format and be led by an experienced teacher, keeping you free to focus on sharing.
Come to the RE table to sign up. Come and make a difference. Come discover something wonderful about others and yourself. Remember, you never know when you scatter seeds what will emerge. I believe that in working together as a loving community we are sure to grow beauty, kindness, connection, joy and affirmation. From you I receive, to you I give, together we share, and from this we live!
— Kathleen Hogue
5th and 6th Grade OWL Graduates
Our Whole Lives (OWL) is the sexuality curriculum used by Unitarian Universalists across the lifespan. This year, nine 5th and 6th graders completed the agespecific OWL class at UUSM, and celebrated with a graduation
ceremony on the patio.
FROM OUR DIRECTOR OF RELIGIOUS EXPLORATION
Let’s Grow Together: Opportunities Abound
In Rev. Greg Ward’s article, he talks about investing in one another. “It’s our faith, inclusivity, generosity and hope –
with and for one another –that’ll allow our best to emerge,” he writes.
But how can we know what will emerge? When we plant seeds, how can we be sure what those seeds are going to grow into? We can hope! We can do our best to invest in our church by being involved. One thing is for certain: if we do not show up, then nothing will grow.
I am encouraging you to show up. Here’s how:
• Encourage children to come to RE classes
• Attend Second Sunday Supper
• Attend a Heart and Soul Service, which takes place on the second Sunday of each month
• Volunteer to help out with a story for all ages in our worship service
• Check out our new Women Over 50 group that begins April 3
• Join us on April 29 for our Faith in Action Sunday as we plant a community garden
• Attend our annual meeting on May 20, and vote!
• Sign up to teach in our summer children’s RE program.
When you get involved, you have the wonderful opportunity to make connections with others. You never know what to expect, or what you will discover about one another or yourself. You may find you have special gifts or talents. You could form lifelong friendships. As it says on the Soul Matters website, “Being a people of emergence involves doing all we can, trusting the process and keeping an eye out for unexpected opportunities to emerge.”
– Kathleen Hogue
Having a Great Time Learning about Humanism in Adult RE
I am grateful to James Witker for the hard and meaningful work that he does for the Faith in Action Committee and
different discussion groups he leads. I had the opportunity to take a class from James recently where we read and discussed the book, “Humanist Voices in Unitarian Universalism.”
Through reading and group discussion of this book, I became more familiar with the Humanism aspect of Unitarian
Universalism. I learned the concepts and ideas of Humanism, and how they are reflected in our faith. I learned that Humanism is a powerful tool that can be used to deal with so many difficult issues, which we encounter in today’s world, from never-ending wars to global warming. It was a great opportunity to explore my beliefs in the context of the current period in history. Though many people in our church are familiar with Humanism, a class with James can open your mind to new ways of thinking. I look forward to his next offering in Adult Religious Growth and Exploration.
– Jila Tayefehnowrooz
FROM THE DIRECTOR OF RELIGIOUS EXPLORATION:
Moving Toward Credentialed Status
My credentialing work is well underway. This process takes time and it takes support from you! For me it involves a great deal of reading, writing, reflection, and even more education. This is going to make me a stronger leader in doing the work that we all do together.
Some benefits to the congregation are:
• A stronger, more vital religious education program and multigenerational ministry
• A religious educator with demonstrated knowledge and skill in the many areas of religious education leadership, such as program administration, Unitarian Universalist history, religious education philosophy, anti-racism, anti-oppression, and multiculturalism, and right relations and professional ethics
• Assurance that the religious educator has met professional development standards and is held accountable to professional ethics guidelines by the UUA
• The potential for enhanced collegial relationships among staff members
• A religious educator with the professional confidence that comes from knowing that s/he has been evaluated and recognized by the UUA as a professional religious educator, and
• Recognition by the UUA as a congregation that supports and values professional excellence.
This will continue to be a journey full of accomplishments, joys, and opportunities for congregational support. One of the ways you can show your support is by showing up for church services, children’s classes, OWL, and adult and multigenerational gatherings. See below for our next event. I appreciate this congregation’s commitment and support in continuing education and professional development of its staff members. I am looking forward to many years of shared ministry here at UUSM.
— Kathleen Hogue
March Madness: March 17 6 pm in Forbes Hall - Cost: $25
Dress in your jersey, stripes, hats, and shoes. This party will be fun no matter which team you choose. We will have pizza, wings, sandwiches, and more. Whatever your taste you will definitely score. Bring the kids, they’ll have fun too, with lots of activities for them to do. Come watch the game and be a team player. Funds will go toward paying our RE Assistant. Tickets: Kathleen Hogue uusmdre@gmail.com
ADULT RELIGIOUS GROWTH AND EDUCATION
New Adult RE Offerings for March 2017
Humanist Voices in Unitarian Universalism
Join me as we read and discuss this new and remarkable little volume of provocative, inspiring, and heart-warming essays that just might challenge your view of Humanism – whether you consider yourself a Humanist or not. Contributors include luminaries of Secular Humanism and Unitarian Universalism such as Edd Doerr, Michael Werner, Chris Stedman, Rev. David Bumbaugh, Rev. Kendyl Gibbons, and Rev. William Murry.
From the publisher:
“In this highly anticipated collection, Unitarian Universalist Humanists present their faith perspectives in 23 engaging and thought-provoking essays. The contributors, both lay and ordained, demonstrate why Humanism has been one of the bedrock theologies of Unitarian Universalism for the last hundred years. They reflect on what it means to be a religious Humanist today and how they see the movement evolving in the twenty-first century. They explore Humanist history, beliefs, approach to life, social justice, community, and religious education. Together, these voices proclaim a passionate affirmation of a rich and dynamic tradition within Unitarian Universalism.”
We’ll meet for three to four sessions. Dates, times, and locations will be decided by the group participants at the meetings. Sign up and purchase the book at the Adult RE table and/or contact James Witker.
“Building Your Own Theology: Ethics meets the 5th UU Principle”
Over two workshops, we have focused on eight dimensions of moral decision-making: authority, motivation, responsibility, situation, intention, relationships, values, and character. In this workshop, we strive to discuss the 5th Principle of Unitarian Universalism in the context of these dimensions.
The 5th Principle stresses the right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large. Let us explore this principle in the context of the elements of moral decision-making both in the abstract and in specific scenarios generated by BYOT’s author, coverage and interpretations of current events, and workshop participants!
Don’t worry if you have not participated in past BYOT Ethics workshops – the only prerequisite for this gathering is interest.
Facilitator Leon Henderson-MacLennan. Scheduled for Sundays March 4, 11, 1 pm to 3 pm Location: Room 3 For questions, contact Dorothy Steinicke.
March Madness Party
Dress in your jersey, stripes, hats and shoes. This party will be fun no matter which team you choose. We will have pizza, wings, sandwiches and more, Whatever your taste you will definitely score. Bring the kids, they’ll have fun too, With lots of activities for them to do. Come watch the game and be a team player, Funds will go to the RE Assistant (so we can pay her).
Date: Saturday, March 17
Time: 6 pm Place: UUSM Forbes Hall
Cost: $25
Tickets: Kathleen Hogue, uusmdre@gmail.com
OWL K/1 Class Begins in February
Our Whole Lives helps participants make informed and responsible decisions about their sexual health and behavior. It equips participants with accurate, age-appropriate information in six subject areas: human development, relationships, personal skills, sexual behavior, sexual health, and society and culture. Orientations will be held Sunday, February 25 from 1 to 3 pm, and Sunday, March 11 from 12:30 to 4 pm. For more information on OWL or to sign up contact Kathleen Hogue, Director of Lifespan Religious Exploration (DRE) at uusmdre@gmail.com.ADULT RELIGIOUS EXPLOR ATION OFFERINGS FOR FEBRUARY 2018
“An Enjoyable Dive into Who and What We Are”
This ongoing, twice a month class is presented to help participants master specific meditation skills. We endeavor to answer the questions: Who am I? (attitudes and beliefs) and What am I? (Essence or True Nature). This class will include meditations that explore participants’ spiritual goals. The bi-monthly group meetings will also focus on insights gained throughout the month. It is expected that participants have a regular meditation practice.
Location: Patio area
When: First and Third Sundays (February 4, 18)
Time: 9:30 to 10:45 am
Contact Facilitator: Bill Blake
When: First and Third Sundays (February 4, 18)
Time: 9:30 to 10:45 am
Contact Facilitator: Bill Blake
“Open Meditation Group”
Whether you are a beginner who is just curious about meditation or whether you have been meditating for many years - you are welcome. Meditation at its root is a natural and deeply human practice. We are not teaching a particular form of meditation or doctrine. You don’t need to know anything, do any particular activity or believe in anything. We will have brief readings, two 20-minute periods of sitting with walking meditation, and time for journaling and sharing, You can drop in when it serves you, or come regularly. If you are late, just come in quietly and join us.
Whether you are a beginner who is just curious about meditation or whether you have been meditating for many years - you are welcome. Meditation at its root is a natural and deeply human practice. We are not teaching a particular form of meditation or doctrine. You don’t need to know anything, do any particular activity or believe in anything. We will have brief readings, two 20-minute periods of sitting with walking meditation, and time for journaling and sharing, You can drop in when it serves you, or come regularly. If you are late, just come in quietly and join us.
Location: Forbes Hall
When: to be decided by participants
Time: 7 to 8:30 pm
When: to be decided by participants
Time: 7 to 8:30 pm
In response to requests, we are now offering a monthly Friday afternoon “Open Meditation” group, in addition to the monthly Friday evening group.
Location: Forbes Hall
When: First Friday, February 2
Time: 1 to 2:30 pm
When: First Friday, February 2
Time: 1 to 2:30 pm
If you have questions, speak with either Beverly Shoenberger or Carol Ring at coffee hour.
“Introduction to Meditation”
Carol Ring and Beverly Shoenberger are also offering a three-week introductory exploration of meditation for those who are new to meditating. This will begin on Saturday, Feb. 24th and run for three weeks, from 10 am to noon. Location TBD
Carol Ring and Beverly Shoenberger are also offering a three-week introductory exploration of meditation for those who are new to meditating. This will begin on Saturday, Feb. 24th and run for three weeks, from 10 am to noon. Location TBD
“Humanist Voices in Unitarian Universalism.”
Join me as we read and discuss this new and remarkable little volume of provocative, inspiring, and heart-warming essays that just might challenge your view of Humanism – whether you consider yourself a Humanist or not. Contributors include luminaries of Secular Humanism and Unitarian Universalism such as Edd Doerr, Michael Werner, Chris Stedman, the Rev. David Bumbaugh, the Rev. Kendyl Gibbons, and the Rev. William Murry.
Join me as we read and discuss this new and remarkable little volume of provocative, inspiring, and heart-warming essays that just might challenge your view of Humanism – whether you consider yourself a Humanist or not. Contributors include luminaries of Secular Humanism and Unitarian Universalism such as Edd Doerr, Michael Werner, Chris Stedman, the Rev. David Bumbaugh, the Rev. Kendyl Gibbons, and the Rev. William Murry.
From the publisher: “In this highly anticipated collection, Unitarian Universalist Humanists present their faith perspectives in 23 engaging and thought-provoking essays. The contributors, both lay and ordained, demonstrate why Humanism has been one of the bedrock theologies of Unitarian Universalism for the last hundred years. They reflect on what it means to be a religious Humanist today and how they see the movement evolving in the twenty-first century. They explore Humanist history, beliefs, approach to life, social justice, community, and religious education. Together, these voices proclaim a passionate affirmation of a rich and dynamic tradition within Unitarian Universalism.”
We’ll meet for three sessions beginning in February, Dates and times will be decided by the group. Sign up and purchase the book at the Adult RE table and/or contact James Witker.
“Building Your Own Theology (BYOT): Ethics meets the 5th UU Principle”
Over two workshops, we have focused on eight dimensions of moral decision-making: authority, motivation, responsibility, situation, intention, relationships, values, and character. In this workshop, we strive to discuss the 5th Principle of Unitarian Universalism in the context of these dimensions.
Over two workshops, we have focused on eight dimensions of moral decision-making: authority, motivation, responsibility, situation, intention, relationships, values, and character. In this workshop, we strive to discuss the 5th Principle of Unitarian Universalism in the context of these dimensions.
The 5th Principle stresses “the right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large.” Let us explore this principle in the context of the elements of moral decision-making, both in the abstract and in specific scenarios generated by BYOT’s author. We may explore coverage and interpretations of current events, and experiences of workshop participants!
Don’t worry if you have not participated in past BYOT Ethics workshops – the only prerequisite for this gathering is interest.
Facilitator Leon Henderson-MacLennan
Scheduled for Sundays February 11, 18; March 4 and 11, 1 to 3 pm.
Location: TBD
Scheduled for Sundays February 11, 18; March 4 and 11, 1 to 3 pm.
Location: TBD
“Can We Make Room Enough for Love?”
Recently, a pair of guest speakers at a college human sexuality class in Orange County introduced themselves this way: a trans-man, married to a butch dyke (“I am NOT a lesbian”), in a 24/7 master/slave relationship, raising a child together.
Recently, a pair of guest speakers at a college human sexuality class in Orange County introduced themselves this way: a trans-man, married to a butch dyke (“I am NOT a lesbian”), in a 24/7 master/slave relationship, raising a child together.
“Toto, I’ve a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore.” Queer, poly, kinky, platonic, bro-mantic, asexual. Today, many relationships don’t look like the traditional model of meet, marry and multiply happily ever after. Last summer guest speaker Ian Dodd gave a sermon called, “Can We Make Room Enough for Love?” which explored the roots of romantic love and both ancient and modern alternatives to our society’s traditional views of loving relationships. His talk provoked a wide variety of reactions, questions, and comments from the UUSM community.
As a follow up, Ian and his wife, Margot Page, and Beth Rendeiro, UUSM’s OWL coordinator, will be facilitating a one-day workshop where participants will explore their questions, cultural overlays, attitudes, and assumptions about love, loving relationships, marriage, and monogamy. Are you curious about what these out-of-the-mainstream relationships look like? Are you in a non-traditional one yourself and wanting to “come out” to your community, including your church community? Be prepared for a day of critically examining your ideas, learning from others, and exploring a wider variety of love and loving relationships than maybe you ever considered before. Come share your views and experiences with others in a safe, intimate atmosphere of inquiry and support.
Just in time for Valentine’s Day, join us for “Can We Make Room Enough for Love?”– a day of looking at love and contemporary relationships, Saturday, February 10, 9 to 3 pm, in Forbes Hall.
Contact Ian Dodd or Beth Rendeiro.
Teri Lucas Joins RE Staff
INTRODUCING TERI LUCAS, OUR NEW ASSISTANT IN THE RELIGIOUS EXPLORATION OFFICE!
Teri will begin on January 2, 2018. Her professional work experience has been in higher education admissions in New York City where she was Director of Admissions at the New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music for 17 years. After moving back to Los Angeles in 2011, she was the Director of Admissions at Union Institute and University and the Cornel School of Contemporary Music.
Teri has her own consulting business, “Fashion & Fitness.” She has taught Healthy Eating classes in New York and at the Santa Monica and Glendale YMCAs. She is currently embarking on a new project with Jodi Shannahan, whom she met at UUSM. They will be offering classes and groups on mindful eating and behavior changes that help us to reach our goals.
Teri recently returned from seven months in Vietnam where she volunteered at the Christina Noble Children’s Foundation working with children and families. In Saigon she taught English, and worked with women on issues of health and healthy eating.
Teri has been attending our church services for a few months now and has been involved in Adult Exploration offerings as well. She has already made friends and connections here and even attended a second Sunday Supper. She is interested in the exploration of religion and spirituality and is looking to apply her talents and abilities in the creative environment of UUSM.
The work that Teri will be doing involves registration, record keeping, publication of materials, communication, and organization. You may also see Teri some Sundays as she will be covering for the RE Director occasionally. Thank you all who have been donating matching funds to our Spirit Grant that has allowed us to hire Teri. Please keep it coming so we can continue!
— Kathleen Hogue
Adult RE Offerings for January 2018
“An Enjoyable Dive into Who and What We Are”
This on-going, twice a month class is presented to help participants master specific meditation skills. We endeavor to answer the questions: Who am I? (attitudes and beliefs) and What am I? (Essence or True Nature). This class will include meditations which explore participants’ spiritual goals. The bi-monthly group meetings will also focus on insights gained throughout the month. It is expected that participants have a regular meditation practice. Location: TBD on day of meditation
When: First and Third Sundays (January 7, January 21)
Time: 9:30 to 10:45 am Contact
Facilitator: Bill Blake
“Open Meditation” Group
You are cordially invited to a new meditation group called “Open Meditation.” Whether you are a beginner who is just curious about meditation or whether you have been meditating for many years, you are welcome. Meditation at its root is a natural and deeply human practice. We are not teaching a particular form of meditation or doctrine. You don’t need to know anything, do any particular activity or believe in anything. We will have brief readings, two 20-minute periods of sitting with walking meditation, and time for journaling and sharing. You can drop in when it serves you, or come regularly. If you are late, just come in quietly and join us. If you have questions, speak with either Beverly Shoenberger or Carol Ring at coffee hour.
Location: Forbes Hall
When: Friday, January 19th
Time: 7 pm to 8:30 pm
Contact Facilitators: Carol Ring, and Beverly Shoenberger
“Humanist Voices in Unitarian Universalism”
Join me as we read and discuss this new and remarkable little volume of provocative, inspiring, and heart-warming essays that just might challenge your view of Humanism whether you consider yourself a Humanist or not. Contributors include luminaries of Secular Humanism and Unitarian Universalism such as Edd Doerr, Michael Werner, Chris Stedman, Rev. David Bumbaugh, Rev. Kendyl Gibbons, and Rev. William Murry.
FROM THE PUBLISHER:
“In this highly anticipated collection, Unitarian Universalist Humanists present their faith perspectives in 23 engaging and thought-provoking essays. The contributors, both lay and ordained, demonstrate why Humanism has been one of the bedrock theologies of Unitarian Universalism for the last hundred years. They reflect on what it means to be a religious Humanist today and how they see the movement evolving in the twenty-first century. They explore Humanist history, beliefs, approach to life, social justice, community, and religious education. Together, these voices proclaim a passionate affirmation of a rich and dynamic tradition within Unitarian Universalism.”
We’ll meet for 3-4 sessions beginning the third week of January. Dates and times will be decided by the group. Sign up and purchase the book at the Adult RE table and/or contact James Witker.
— James Witker
New Offerings for February - Sneak Peek
Ethics Meets the 5th UU Principle: Build Your Own Theology
Over two workshops, we have focused on eight dimensions of moral decision-making: authority, motivation, responsibility, situation, intention, relationships, values, and character. In this workshop, we strive to discuss the 5th Principle of Unitarian Universalism in the context of these dimensions. The 5th Principle stresses the right of conscience and the use of the democratic process within our congregations and in society at large. Let us explore this principle in the context of the elements of moral decision-making – both in the abstract, and in specific scenarios generated by Build your Own Theology’s (BYOT’s) author, as well as in coverage and interpretations of current events, and workshop participants! Don’t worry if you have not participated in past BYOT Ethics workshops – the only prerequisite for this gathering is interest.
Facilitator Leon Henderson-MacLennan
Scheduled for February: Date, Time, and Location TBD
“Can We Make Room Enough for Love?”
Last summer a sermon by guest speaker Ian Dodd called “Can We Make Room Enough for Love?” which explored the roots of romantic love and both ancient and modern alternatives to our society’s traditional views of loving relationships, provoked a wide variety of reactions, questions and comments from the UUSM community.
In response, Ian and his wife Margot Page and Beth Rendeiro, UUSM’s OWL coordinator, will be facilitating a one-day workshop where participants will be able to explore their questions, cultural overlays, attitudes, and assumptions about love, loving relationships, marriage and monogamy, and how we can “stand on the side of love” with people whose relationships don’t fit the societal norms, or even how people in non-mainstream relationships can feel empowered to “come out” in their communities, including their church community. Be prepared for a day of critically examining your ideas, learning from others, and maybe being exposed to a wider variety of love and loving relationships than you ever considered before. Come share your views and experiences with others in a safe, intimate atmosphere of inquiry and support.
Just in time for Valentine’s Day, join us for “Can We Make Room Enough for Love?”, a day of looking at love and contemporary relationships, Saturday, February 10, 9 am to 3 pm, in Forbes Hall. Contact Ian Dodd or Beth Rendeiro for more information.