Newsletter for March, 2019
From Our Minister:
To the Glory of Life
THEME OF THE MONTH: JOURNEY
Dear Friends,
Like all of us, I was born into a story that came from authors whose first drafts had been submitted to the Great Publisher. And, as the Great Publisher is want to do, my story emerged as a mash-up of two different plot lines that no amalgam of common interest or common sense would have blended together. But, of course, that is the case with most stories that get turned in. And they are the stories the Great Publisher likes best.
To make the mash up possible, the two plot lines usually get braided together with strands of intrigue, excitement, confusion, convenience, pain, stubbornness, discovery, determination and love. These are among the elements the Great Publisher pulls out from the box called “conflict”. Turns out, no matter what two stories come together, conflict always gets woven in. From there, we are given the intrigue that every life needs. And we are asked to journey toward the heart of the matter.
Matthew Fox, one of the Great Publishers in the school of Creation Spirituality, studied the early mystics (those who understand how all things are connected together) and discovered that everyone is constantly working on writing and re-writing their story – as well as the stories in which they appear. He noted that everyone is working to become the author – not simply the actor – in their own story. To do so, we need to affirm what we truly are, accept what we are not, join with what the essence we’ve become separated from, and transform the world (as it, all the while, transforms us).
To paraphrase Michaelangelo Buonarroti, when asked how he is able to transform a block of marble into a creation like the great statue of David, simply said,
“I simply train myself to see everything that is David and cut away everything that is not.”
The journey of our lives is like this. We are called to find our true selves by disentangling ourselves from what is no longer us. As Albert Schweitzer said,
“The path of awakening is not about becoming who you are. Rather it is about unbecoming who you are not.”
Some of what we need to do – before we co-create each other and transform the world, is affirm what is true and let go what is not. This will reduce our story to its essential truth.
There is an exercise that is recommended in Soul Matters – the program we use to develop our monthly themes – that asks us to get to the heart of things by paring down our story to just six words. This was inspired by one of the great minimalist writers, Earnest Hemingway who accepted a bar bet to write a novel in 6 words. He responded, “For sale: baby shoes, never worn.”
What follows are some of the six word life journeys that have come from this exercise. Consider them for the insight they may offer in describing your own story:
Married by Elvis; divorced by Friday
Threw spaghetti on wall; some stuck.
We’re the family you gossip about.
Tried surfing on a calm day.
Wasn’t born a redhead; fixed that.
Mom was “earthy”; Now I’m “green.”
Son’s autism broke and rebuilt me.
Tore up my own suicide letter.
Sixty. Still afraid of the dark.
Class clown; Class president; town drunk.
Forged through fire; sustained by friendships.
Life’s GPS keeps saying, recalculating… recalculating.
The exits were entrances in disguise.
Born. Love. Love. Love. Love. Die.
I continue to work on my story. And I follow the adage of famous writer James Michener who said, “I’m not a very good writer… but I’m a hell of a re-writer.” Sometimes we need to live through the first draft before we get the right words. Then, when we get to the heart of that first version, we are ready to tell the story we were born to tell.
My story is like our story. It’s about Love. And it has faced – and overcome – the obstacles that kept us from having and sharing Love. But, ultimately, it’s about learning that we are more who we were meant to be when we figure out how to serve love, rather than be served by it. And ultimately, we’re called to be generous in such service.
I hope, this month, as we write the next chapters of UUCCSM’s story, we are generous with love. That we tell the truth, call out what matters, and help connect those around us.
To the Glory of Life.
Featured Articles:
Stewardship on the Vitality of Monthly Giving
As we get ready for the pledge drive in March, we want to connect feel-good generosity to a real commitment. The Pledge Committee also asks that you give a thought to the mechanisms we use to fulfill our pledges. Consider a year-long giving strategy. If you’re not already one of our community’s stalwart monthly givers, please consider monthly giving to UUSM. It’s easy and convenient, and so much more.
Predictable monthly giving helps UUSM with confidence in planning and cashflow (more on that below). But it also helps members and pledging friends with their own finances. Quite a few of us still fulfill our pledges at the end of the year. Monthly giving lends peace of mind, with a fixed sum given on a fixed date each month. In contrast, a looming lump-sum payment can add stress and perhaps lead to a cash-flow crunch.
Automated monthly giving is even easier. Just sign up once, and you don’t ever have to remember whether you’ve paid your pledge. Monthly givers generally consider and adjust their pledge amount only once a year; though you can always make a change should your resources or personal circumstances change. Monthly givers enjoy our church celebrations and services, and continue our work together for common causes, all year long; knowing that our community is deeply grateful for their constancy. You’re able to focus on what’s important about church – making a difference in your life and in the world – rather than paying the bills.
Speaking of paying bills…
Monthly giving, particularly automated monthly giving, frees up staff and volunteer time. Rather than tracking unfulfilled pledges several times throughout the year, staff members and the Stewardship volunteers can focus more on music, environmental and social justice issues, meaningful connections, education, pastoral care… you name it. Our largest source of income is pledging, and our largest expense category is staff. As with any employer, UUSM has an obligation to staff. It is part of our community’s covenant with staff that we manage our collective resources such that they feel empowered to bring joy and dedicated engagement to their work.
It’s common for businesses to have cash ebbs and flows throughout the year, and the church has reserves in place for just that purpose. But having that steady monthly-giving income provides ease for the office staff and Stewardship. It gives the Board of Directors and the Finance Committee – all of us, really – a more realistic picture of the heath and capacity of the church as we look to the future and the initiatives we undertake.
You have bills. What if you weren’t sure when a third of your salary would be paid? Yes, 32% of UUSM’s pledge income is paid on a date (and sometimes amount) uncertain. About 40% households pay once a year.
This coming spring, our annual pledge drive will consider our congregation’s culture of generosity and commitment, bringing those issues to the fore of our vision. Though it is simple to enroll and forget about it, Stewardship and members in leadership want to thank monthly givers often. Thank you for your steadfastness. We remind you to embrace the joy of your generosity to our beloved community.
Any manner you choose to meet your pledge commitment and support our call to a more loving and just society is warmly welcomed, and deeply appreciated. But to those who usually make a single payment to fulfill your pledge: when you think about your 2019-20 pledge, please consider automated monthly giving. Is it right for you, your finances, and your commitment to UU Santa Monica?
In fact, you can start today. Call or email Finance Assistant Nancy Thompson and she’ll help you convert your current single-payment pledge to monthly giving going forward. Or visit the improved online giving platform right now. There’s an app for that!
Your investment in monthly giving to UUSM will lend you peace of mind, and then go on to bring joy and inspire change through the coming church year and beyond. Thank you.
Gretchen Goetz and Kit Shaw
Stewardship Committee Co-Chairs
Note: You’ll be hearing from Stewardship volunteers, “Connectors,” in March to discuss generosity and commitment. The Stewardship Committee is happy to support you as you make decisions about how you fulfill your pledge: transfers of investments, legacy giving, and year-end versus year-long giving. Contact Nancy with any questions, and we’ll be in touch.
Eating Simply So that We May Simply Survive
MARCH SECOND SUNDAY SUPPER
By reducing or eliminating our consumption of beef, pork, poultry, seafood and dairy products, our planet can produce more food for more people with less water, fewer greenhouse gases, and less environmental destruction. Join Faith In Action’s Peace and Social Justice Group and the Green Living Committee, Hunger Taskforce, and Disability Support Group at Second Sunday Supper on March 10, 2019, at 6 pm to find out how we can reduce our environmental and social impact while improving our own health and that of our planet. Bring a vegetarian, vegan, local or organic side dish, salad or dessert to share. Faith In Action will provide the Main Dishes. Be sure to stay afterward for Sunday Cinema’s “Cowspiracy” at 7pm in the Sanctuary.
Second Sunday Suppers are informal social events for all ages held in Forbes Hall on the second Sunday of each month at 6:00 p.m. 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.
You can also help by joining our Kitchen Cabinet and help with cooking (the day before), setup, or cleanup. You know that the most fun at any party is in the kitchen! Sign up at tinyurl.com/kitchenministry.
A Bridge to Replacing Our Black Lives Matter/Side with Love Banner
Working together, the UUSM Communications Team, Facilities Development and Maintenance Committee (FDMC), and Faith in Action have coordinated an approach to replacing our Black Lives Matter/Side with Love banner that was vandalized (again) in January. Comm Team is purchasing two temporary “feather” banners that can be put out on Sunday mornings and during special events, beginning in March. These 12-ft, stake-mounted banners can then be furled and stored safely during off hours. Over the next 6 months the committees will explore options to display a banner or other solution that is less vulnerable to vandals.
The UUSM congregation voted for “permanent” placement of this important social justice statement. However, FDMC currently has a separate, longstanding proposal being considered by the City of Santa Monica. This is a replacement of our corner sign, which is aged and severely damaged. We have been advised not to complicate our corner sign application with new banners or other signage. Our sanctuary at 18th and Arizona is a landmarked building in a residential neighborhood, so a nuanced approach is required. We will be thoughtful about how we proceed, so that we are successful in communicating our values.
Abby Arnold has taken point to push through approval of the corner sign, so that we can complete construction and inspection this summer. As we look for a new, less-vulnerable solution, Faith in Action welcomes comments, suggestions, and donations from members and friends.
The church remains committed to the denomination-wide effort to support Black Lives Matter in an ongoing, fixed way. The moveable feather banners are only a temporary bridge. We will continue to lift up the stories of the individuals and communities embraced by Black Lives Matter and Side with Love.
Stewardship Snapshot: Ask Not What Your Church Can Do for You
Today our 2019–20 spring pledge drive is in full swing and we are making connections throughout our community. Vital conversations are taking place concerning our mission and priorities and exploring our commitment as individuals and as a church. This year’s theme “This Is What Generosity Looks Like” covers pledges as well as our generosity of energy and precious time, our willingness to hear a diversity of voices, our acceptance of change and how these all can lead to true inclusion.
These are formative conversations as we deepen our efforts to effect change in troubled times. To “follow that challenging call at the heart of our faith to embody the fierceness of love in the face of hate and violence,” in the words of UU President Rev. Susan Frederick-Gray.
Members should already have heard from a Stewardship Connector, calling to meet with you to share stories about what fuels you, what fires you up, and what breaks your heart. And to explore what generosity and commitment look like. If you’re a member – or want to become a member – and haven’t been contacted by a Connector, call or email The Rev. Greg Ward to make a connection and have your voice heard.
What’s changed?
There’s lots more that’s new with this year’s pledge drive.
- First, it’s happening now. Instead of a fall-winter 2018 pledge drive, we have transitioned to a spring pledge drive to align better with our church year.
- This will be our only pledge drive, and it will not continue into the summer. On Monday, March 25 all the pledges will be tallied and the numbers will go to the Finance Committee and the UUSM Board of Directors to make decisions and formulate a budget for the 2019–20 church year.
- There will be a brief, Sunday afternoon meeting on the last day of the pledge drive March 24 to show near-final pledge numbers and what’s next.
- Are you playing possum? We want every member to activate and turn in a pledge form this year.
- If you’re an annual, lump-sum pledger, we thank you kindly and ask that you consider becoming an automatic monthly contributor, to benefit both your cashflow and the church’s.
- Instead of relying as much on our biggest pledgers, we are seeking to grow our average donation to the nationwide UU average of $1700 (last year we were at $1300). Not everyone can pledge at this level. We’re asking each member to do their very best.
- Our “heavy hitters” have joined forces to inspire the congregation through the Sustainability Fund.
- Anyone who increases their pledge by at least 10% will have their increase matched up to $500!
- Anyone who increases their pledge by 20% will have their increase matched up to $1000!
- Anyone currently pledging below our $1700 target who increases their pledge to $1700 or above will have their increase matched up to $1000!
Snapshot
So far, we have received $127,973 in pledges from 25% of our membership. More than $13,000 of these are increases that are eligible for a match; thanks to all our Sustainability Fund supporters. Here’s how it stacks up as of Wednesday, March 13.
Remember that UUSM receives no funding from our denomination and that 70% of our operating income comes from pledges. Please, when your connector calls, say “Yes!” Give your Connector your completed pledge form or turn it into the office by Sunday, March 24. The Stewardship Committee is so grateful for your pledge, which is critical to our covenantal community and to supporting our mission and ministry.
May we not be silent or shrink back from the demands of love. And may we hold one another as we follow new pathways of joy, of community, of change, of the unknown.
- -The Rev. Susan Frederick-Gray
News & Announcements:
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!
Faith in Action News:
Join the Discussion: “Justice on Earth” Common Read
STARTS SUNDAY, MARCH 31 AT 3 PM
Join us for the 2018-2019 UUA common read, Justice on Earth: People of Faith Working at the Intersections of Race, Class, and Environment, edited by Manish Mishra-Marzetti and Jennifer Nordstrom (Skinner House Books, 2018).
As we kick off Climate Justice Month (World Water Day to Earth Day), Alison Kendall and James Witker will facilitate a three-part discussion on the intersectional challenges of combating today’s environmental crisis and its many interconnected ills. Together, we will read and respond to this engaging anthology of essays from diverse authors within our greater UU movement. We will also consider recent developments like the proposed Green New Deal, Los Angeles’ decision to shutter natural gas power plants, and the latest international climate news. We plan to meet for the first session on Sunday, March 31, 3 pm to 5 pm.
More about the book, from UUA:
At a time when racial justice, environmental justice, and economic justice are seen as issues competing for time, attention, and resources, Justice on Earth explores the ways in which the three are intertwined. Those on the margins are invariably those most affected by climate disaster and environmental toxins. The book asks us to recognize that our faith calls us to long-haul work for justice for our human kin, for the Earth and for all life. It invites us to look at our current challenges through a variety of different perspectives, offers tools to equip us for sustained engagement, and proposes multiple pathways for follow-up action.
Justice on Earth is available at inSpirit: UU Book and Gift Shop and copies will be available for purchase at the RE table in Forbes Hall.
Any questions? Contact justice@uusm.org.
Splinters from the Board:
Board Highlights for February 2019: Preparing for Stewardship Kickoff
BOARD FOCUSES ON PLEDGING AND COMMITEE STRUCTURES
The Board of Directors met on February 12. After individual check-ins, UUSM President Jacki Weber’s opening remarks concerned the monies the church collected in response to the call to help fire victims. About $1300 was raised. Jacki discovered in calling around, that it is rather difficult to find a place for such monies. If you have ideas as to how this could be arranged, please contact Jacki.
A discussion on the preparations for the stewardship campaign ensued. Our intern minister, Robin Stillwater, is planning a Sustainability Fund dinner to encourage matching funds for 2019-20 pledge increases. There is a focus on a “ministry of generosity.” The Board voted to seed the Sustainability Fund with another $5000 from the Minister’s Equity Sharing fund.
There were no new members last month. Carl Hoppe was ratified as the third member of the Investment Committee; the others are Steve White and Garland Allen.
In terms of the “Big Rock” goals, the board is working on, #1 – clarify committee goals and purposes. There has been significant progress and many committees have responded to inquiries. The next Big Rock is #4 – developing the Membership Committee more along the lines of Worship and Pastoral Associates.
There was considerable discussion around the still unfinished effort to have a “Safety” document. This will not only include appropriate resources for those in need, but also how our volunteers might be trained to deal with unusual, perhaps hazardous situations.
RE News:
Praise The Journey
FROM OUR DRE, MARCH 2019
journey: an act of traveling from one place to another.
This definition of journey is not complete. It suggests that a journey is a physical act of movement. For me a journey can also be of the mind or of the spirit, as the hymn “Sing out Praises for the Journey” suggests.
“Sing out praises for the journey, pilgrims, we, who carry on,
searchers in the soul’s deep yearnings, like our forebears in their time.
We seek out the spirit’s wholeness in the endless human quest.” – STLT #295
Literally speaking, the longest journey I have ever taken was from Cleveland Ohio to Tucson Arizona, back in January of 1994. It took four days to drive 2007 miles with two kids in a moving truck. Add bad weather, and being four months pregnant, and it seemed like a really long journey. My family embarked on this incredible journey because of my health. We were seeking a warmer, drier climate for my lungs, and we were hoping not to lose the baby I was carrying, after having lost two already. My husband and I had a 37 year age difference, so we were also seeking a new life where we were accepted and not judged for that or for my son’s disability. We left behind all the people and family we knew. We left a home and work with steady income for something completely unknown.
“Stand we now upon the threshold, facing futures yet unknown.
Hearth behind us, wayside hostel built by those who knew wild roads.
Guard we e’er their sacred embers carried in our minds and hearts.” – STLT #295
We spent the first three weeks in a hotel, and nearly ran out of money. But the journey to Tucson ended up being a good choice. Eventually we found work, a place to live, services for my son and we had a healthy baby. We formed friendships and found the Unitarian Universalist Church of Tucson. I cannot imagine what life would have been like had we not chosen this road. Then, I took another journey; not too far geographically, but definitely a journey of the spirit, when I moved here to be your DRE.
Here at UUSM we have chosen to journey together in love and fellowship, knowing that we have come from many different paths and knowing also that we may take many different paths from here. But for now, we journey together having found a common purpose: to seek truth, to be of service, to work for peace, justice and freedom.
“Look inside, your soul’s the kindling of the hearth fire pilgrims knew.
Find the spirit, always restless, find it in each mind and heart.
Touch and hold that ancient yearning, kindling for a newfound truth.” – STLT #295
We journey our whole lives. From birth, childhood, and school, to work, relationships and even death, our journeys are truly lifespan. And the whole trip is a learning opportunity- always a chance for new experiences and growth. In the next couple of months I invite you to come explore with us. Here are just some of the opportunities:
Writing a Memoir: A Journey to UU with Leonard Cachola- Want to learn how to write and publish you religious journey? Come to this presentation by an accomplished writer.
Our Whole Lives (OWL) Sexuality Education for Adults of all Ages and Stages – ages 18 – 98 Join with other adults to fully consider this vital aspect of being a whole person. O.W.L. is fun and engaging too… we promise! When: Four Saturday sessions: April 6 & 27, May 11, June 1 (Forbes Hall), Followed by five sessions in the fall.
Awakening the Sage Within This workshop with Connie Zweig, PhD, will introduce aging as a spiritual journey, our images/fears of aging, harvesting wisdom from our life review, forgiveness to release the past, and facing our mortality.
“Come you accidental pilgrims, you who find yourself on a journey of surprise and wonder. Come you who emerge into this place as an act of liberation…
This path will ask much from us. Let us move forward with love. Let us move forward with appreciation for one another. Let us move forward knowing we are not alone. Whoever you are, whatever your gifts, you are welcome to join this journey.” – Lyn Cox
-- Kathleen Hogue
Personal and Spiritual Exploration for Adults, March 2019
YOU ARE INVITED
Learning and exploration are about the transformation of the individual, our community, and the larger society. Participation helps us grow in wisdom, compassion, and ethical living. See our upcoming activities, programs, and workshops for adults.
Writing a Memoir: A Journey to UU Sunday, March 3:
UUSM member and former Secretary of the Board of Directors Leonard Cachola leads a lecture and discussion of his self-published memoir about his journey to UUSM. From 1:00-2:30 pm in Forbes Classroom 3. Contact: Leonard Cachola.
Exploring the Sermon on the Mount Monday, March 4 and March 11:
The Sermon on the Mount is a core source of wisdom and knowledge, forming the basis of many of the values in Western literature and culture, from Hamlet to Harry Potter. Come explore this important part of our heritage with Abby Arnold and Laura Matthews in three weekly 2-hour sessions starting Monday, February 25. 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 today. Register with Abby or Laura to receive the Sermon to print out and read ahead of time. Our hope is that the discussion will be uplifting, positive, and practical, with all of us learning from the perspective of others to bring a fresh awareness to these ancient words. We meet from 7:00-9:00 pm in the Warren Matthews Community Room. Contacts: Abby Arnold and Laura Matthews.
An Enjoyable Dive into Who and What We Are Monday, March 4 and March 18:
This ongoing, twice-a-month class helps 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 monthly group meetings also focus on insights gained throughout the month. It is expected that participants will develop and enjoy a regular meditation practice. This group meets on the first and third Mondays from 7:30-9:00 pm in Classroom 3. Contact: Bill Blake.
UU Men’s Group Thursday, March 7 and March 21:
The Men’s Group offers a special opportunity to the men of the congregation and other like-minded men to join our welcoming group in provocative and stimulating discussion and to get to know others with UU perspectives in a more meaningful way. We meet from 7:309:00 pm in the NE Cottage. Contact: Richard Mathias.
Collage Group with Stan Bemis Saturday, March 9 and March 23:
Do you wish to express yourself creatively in art, and yet may feel inadequate or untrained? Do you yearn to make an artistic statement, yet not sure how? Do you have too many catalogs, magazines, and advertisements, and haven’t a clue what to do with them? We welcome you to create your own collages with Stan Bemis! Stan works to bring joy and peace into people’s lives through creating art. He has taught many who didn’t realize they had creative talent, from all across the world – from California to Palestine/Israel. He welcomes any age, from youths to older adults. The goal of this group is to help foster personal worth and empowerment, entering that holy place within and having sacred fun. The objectives are: 1) to create works of art; and 2) to possibly create cards for events or celebrations. We encourage you to bring your old magazines to work with as well. We meet from 10:00-12:00 pm in the NE Cottage. Contacts: Stan Bemis or Sarah Robson.
Open Meditation Monday, March 11 and March 25:
We sit quietly for 20 minutes, walk with gentle awareness for 7 minutes, and explore the integration of meditation with ordinary life through journaling, readings, and sharing. Anyone who senses they would benefit from 20 minutes of silent, non-guided sitting is welcome to join us. We meet on the second, fourth, (and fifth) Mondays from 7:30-9:00 pm in Classroom 3. Contacts: Bev Shoenberger or Carol Ring.
Conversations and Connections Saturday, March 16:
Come join Sue Stoyanoff and Bettye Barclay for Conversations and Connections. Each person attending sits 1 to 1 with several different people during the time we are together. In these dyads there is time to talk, to listen and to dialogue about the questions presented each time. It is our intention that these times will be relaxing, enjoyable and an opportunity for people in our congregation to create a growing web of connections. Meeting from 10:00-12:00 pm in the Warren Matthews Conf. Room. Contacts: Sue Stoyanoff or Bettye Barclay.
Come Dance with Us! Saturday, March 23:
Learn international folk dancing with instructors Sandy Helperin and Teri Hoffman. Folk dancing is for anyone who loves to move to traditional music. No partners needed! New dancers are welcome. We meet from 7:00-8:30 pm in Forbes Hall. Contact: Ellen Levy.
AAHS Freethinker Forum Sunday, March 24:
AAHS (Atheists, Agnostics, 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, atheism/agnosticism is a first step; Humanism is the thousand steps that come after. We meet 1:00-3:00 pm in the Warren Matthews Conference Room. Contact: James Witker.
The Disability Support Group Sunday March 24:
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. All church members interested in the topic are invited to attend. For March, we will be discussing “Seeking Enployment.” We meet the fourth Sunday of each month from 12:30-2:00 pm in the NE Cottage. Contact: Michael Young.
Highlights of additional interest groups coming in March:
Knitters and Friends
Please join us for fellowship in between services on Sundays. You are welcome to bring any project. All Sundays 10:00-11:00 am in West Forbes Hall. Contact: Linda Van Ligten.
Please join us for fellowship in between services on Sundays. You are welcome to bring any project. All Sundays 10:00-11:00 am in West Forbes Hall. Contact: Linda Van Ligten.
Body-Mind Tune Up for Seniors
This group is for seniors, superseniors, and people with physical difficulties for UUSM members. All Fridays 10:00-11:00 am in Forbes Hall. Contact: Bruno Lacombe. Note: Free for church members, $10 suggested donation for non-members.
This group is for seniors, superseniors, and people with physical difficulties for UUSM members. All Fridays 10:00-11:00 am in Forbes Hall. Contact: Bruno Lacombe. Note: Free for church members, $10 suggested donation for non-members.
Fiction Reading Book Club
We will be reading “An American Marriage” by Tayari Jones (308 pages).A profoundly insightful look into the hearts and minds of three people who are at once bound and separated by forces beyond their control. Monday, March 18, 7:00-8:30 pm.
We will be reading “An American Marriage” by Tayari Jones (308 pages).A profoundly insightful look into the hearts and minds of three people who are at once bound and separated by forces beyond their control. Monday, March 18, 7:00-8:30 pm.
Science Non-Fiction Book Group
We will discuss “How to Clone a Mammoth: The Science of De-extinction,” by Beth Shapiro. How would one decide what species to bring back from extinction? What likelihood is there that we could bring a long-dead species? What effect would it have on the environment? All are welcome. Tuesday, March 19, 7:30 pm, Forbes Hall. Contact: Rebecca Crawford.
We will discuss “How to Clone a Mammoth: The Science of De-extinction,” by Beth Shapiro. How would one decide what species to bring back from extinction? What likelihood is there that we could bring a long-dead species? What effect would it have on the environment? All are welcome. Tuesday, March 19, 7:30 pm, Forbes Hall. Contact: Rebecca Crawford.
And More...
Our Whole Lives (OWL) Sexuality Education for Adults of all Ages and Stages – ages 18 – 98
Join with other adults to fully consider this vital aspect of being a whole person. O.W.L. is fun and engaging too… we promise! When: Four Saturday sessions: April 6 & 27, May 11, June 1 (Forbes Hall), Followed by five sessions in the fall. Sign up at the RE Table or email uusmdre@gmail.com.
Join with other adults to fully consider this vital aspect of being a whole person. O.W.L. is fun and engaging too… we promise! When: Four Saturday sessions: April 6 & 27, May 11, June 1 (Forbes Hall), Followed by five sessions in the fall. Sign up at the RE Table or email uusmdre@gmail.com.
Camp de Bonneville Pines 2019 UU Family Summer Camp Circle of Life -2019
UU Family Summer Camp will be from Sunday, July 28 to Saturday, August 3, 2019: Family camp provides families a place to enjoy one another—to share and care. It also provides an atmosphere of warmth and friendship—to share and care about others outside of one’s immediate family. Together, and in the community, explore Unitarian Universalist values, worship together, play together and commune. This summer sing and dance and generally just have a blast. Through creative workshops, arts and crafts, groovy tie-dye, capture the flag, games, a walk to the fairy forest, archery and so much more, families will celebrate together the circle of life! Go to: https://www.uucamp.org/ to register.
UU Family Summer Camp will be from Sunday, July 28 to Saturday, August 3, 2019: Family camp provides families a place to enjoy one another—to share and care. It also provides an atmosphere of warmth and friendship—to share and care about others outside of one’s immediate family. Together, and in the community, explore Unitarian Universalist values, worship together, play together and commune. This summer sing and dance and generally just have a blast. Through creative workshops, arts and crafts, groovy tie-dye, capture the flag, games, a walk to the fairy forest, archery and so much more, families will celebrate together the circle of life! Go to: https://www.uucamp.org/ to register.
Schedule a Conversation and Tea with the DRE
- Come tell me how your family is doing. What is going on in your lives? What is your vision for the church and the RE Program? What can I do for you? Contact me to set up a time to meet after church. (Bring the kids!) uusmdre@gmail.com.
- Come tell me how your family is doing. What is going on in your lives? What is your vision for the church and the RE Program? What can I do for you? Contact me to set up a time to meet after church. (Bring the kids!) uusmdre@gmail.com.