Newsletter for September, 2019
From Our Minister:
Greetings from our Minister
BY REVEREND JEREMIAH KALENDAE
Dear UUSM,
I am so excited to begin developmental ministry with you this summer. I discerned months ago that I would only explore a new congregational ministry if I had a strong sense of calling to the work. When it was shared you were looking for a new developmental minister, I began to learn more about the community and started speaking with the appropriate leaders within and beyond the congregation. It became clear to me that I had a very strong sense of calling to the opportunities, challenges, and aspirations of this ministry. I was especially impressed with the skillful leadership of your Board of Directors, the progress you’ve already made in 2 years of developmental ministry, and the identified developmental goals. I was delighted to meet many of your leaders and was inspired by their commitment, wisdom, and love.
The compelling ministry before us will touch upon the very heart of congregational life. We will explore mission, vision, and the covenants that bind us to each other and to the larger world. We will learn to deepen our relationships, explore matters of the heart and emotional intelligence, practice good communication and setting appropriate boundaries in congregational life, and create spaciousness for an affirmation and celebration of the diversity inherent to our pluralistic spiritual life. We will also work to examine systems and structures of the congregation and continue the important work towards increased financial vitality and sustainability. We will be in deep conversation around these goals and others in the coming months. This is truly a time for a holistic reflection on the essence of beloved community and what is required of each of us to be transformed by liberal religious community.
My most recent ministries have been serving congregations in the San Francisco Bay Area and teaching multireligious philosophy and theology at Starr King School for the Ministry – our Unitarian Universalist seminary at the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley. At Starr King, I also served for many years recruiting and preparing our next generation of Unitarian Universalist ministers and progressive religious leaders. In addition to being a UU minister, I am a practicing Sufi in the lineage of Ibrahim Abdurrahman Farajajé and Moinuddin Chishti. In the larger community, I’ve been especially invested in the Black Lives Matter, Standing Rock, Climate Justice, Disability, Refugee and Aslyee, Transgender/Queer and Feminist Liberation movements. Before entering the ministry, I was a social justice activist, educator, nonprofit professional, and community leader.
We will have a lot of time to learn more from each other and I look forward to ministering with each of you!
With love and gratitude,
Jeremiah
Featured Articles:
Invitation to a Stewardship Study Group
Dear Members and Friends of UUSM,
As we continue our developmental work of building a community of faith united in common purpose this fall, I want to invite you to take a place in leadership at this congregation.
Stewardship is one of the most important (and most avoided) committees at UUSM. A healthy financial foundation is integral to a thriving congregation; and yet, many carry such shame and insecurity around the role that money plays in our lives that we want to avoid the topic if at all possible.
We are rebuilding our Stewardship Committee this fall and here is my invitation.
Rather than ask you to join a committee (who wants to do that?!), I want to invite you to join a study group that will read either The Soul of Money or Your Money or Your Life this September.
We will support each other in spiritual growth using money as the foundation. And then we will invite the congregation to join us in this important work as 2020 begins.
Our time together will culminate in a Spring pledge drive that will seek to help members of our UU congregation to put our financial resources where our liberal religious values are so that we are impactful as a faith community.
Your commitment is to help choose the book, participate in a discussion, commit to growing spiritually with a group of fellow UUSMers, consider the role that generosity might play in helping strengthen our congregation (financially and otherwise) and help in whatever way that feels comfortable in putting on the pledge drive.
What do you think? Are you game?
RSVP here.
I hope to see you soon!
-- Jacki Weber
News & Announcements:
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
Faith in Action News:
UUSM Joins a Nationwide Day of Healing
HONORING 400 YEARS OF AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY
Karl Lisovsky and Sue Bickford rang our bell for freedom and remembrance at noon on Sunday, August 25th, 2019 as part of a nationwide effort to mark 400 years since the first recorded arrival of enslaved Africans in English-occupied North America. Click here to learn more.
Saturday, Sept. 28 – A Warm Invitation to a Free Screening of “A Prayer for Compassion”
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 - EVENT STARTS AT 4:30 PM
You are invited to a special event on Saturday, September 28, including a vegan food tasting from 4:30 to 5:15 pm, a free screening of the documentary by Thomas Jackson, “A Prayer for Compassion” from 5:25 to 6:45 pm, and a Q&A session hosted by Arvind Thomas.
Come see a film that focuses on our spiritual connection to animals though the lens of the world’s religions. The film focuses on our innate merciful love for animals, and how we may honor that relationship through our consumer habits. This film has the power to transform hearts.
A Testimonial by Sarah Robson:
For me, food has always represented comfort; it meant feasting and social celebrations, cake and ice-cream, and big turkey dinners. Yet because of the efforts of very outspoken animal rights organizations, I intellectually knew what had been happening behind closed doors. So, I did what is currently socially acceptable — I made a conscious decision to turn a blind eye. This probably sounds familiar.
Choosing to turn my back on suffering was itself an internal form of suffering that I simply accepted — a tradeoff through which I consumed soothing feel-good meals at the expense of the animals who suffered greatly from their moment of birth. As a person who calls herself spiritual, I was aware that my appetite tore a big hole in my life, to the point where I felt internal shame. I was not who I wanted to be, but I didn’t know how to turn myself around. The transformation seemed too daunting.
A few months ago, thanks to Amy Lacombe, I was invited to see a screening of “A Prayer for Compassion” at All Vegan Organic (AVO) Café at Pico and 4th just next door to the Animal Kingdom store. The film highlights the sacred bond between humankind and animals. It features dialogues with representatives of all the world’s major religions — and then a few more! The film also features the relationship between the director and his young daughter as they explore their love for animals.
The film’s content caused me to stop and ponder. What I choose to do, especially habitually, does define who I am. It absolutely impacts my spiritual life, as well as my psychological wellbeing. I broadened my view considerably as I watched, and I considered my place within the cycle of life. As it is said, with great power comes great responsibility. This was a transformation of not just my intellect, but, more importantly, of my heart.
So, just a few weeks before the traditional day of “The Blessing of the Animals,” allow me to roll out the welcome mat to all those who are curious and open to new ideas, and who may not think that they can change old habits. You may be surprised.
And yes—the film does contain a little hard content which may be unsuitable for small children, but unlike many exposé films, that is not the primary focus. The footage is necessary to make the larger point – we can enjoy a new freedom in discovering and reclaiming our natural love and respect for animals, finding ourselves whole and integral, and living in alignment with our innate instinct (and our UU values) for showering loving mercy upon the afflicted.
Fun in the Sun as We Heal the Bay
On Sunday, August 25, a dozen UUSM youth and adults joined in an expedition to clean up the beach at Will Rogers State Beach.
Join us next time, on Saturday September 21, at 9:00 am, for Heal The Bay Coastal Clean Up Day 2019. This is a city-wide event with thousands of volunteers. UUSM’s site is Ballona Creek Bike Path at Syd Kronenthal Park in Culver City. Ballona Creek is a vital waterway that feeds into the Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve and empties into Santa Monica Bay. While we’re looking for Coke cans, sandwich wrappers, plastic straws, and other trash, we might spy a Snowy Egret or Great Blue Heron.
We will meet up in the southeast corner of the park at 9:00 am that day. Contact Erik Paesel or UUSM Director of Religious Exploration Cleo Anderson if you plan to attend. All ages are welcome, so bring someone new. We’ll connect with nature and make new friends. Because birds of feather…
In the meantime, enjoy more images of our “good stewards” at Will Rogers at http://news.uusm.org/fun-in-the-sun-as-we-heal-the-bay/.
UUSM Kids Work to Supply Local Food Pantries
On Sunday, August 4, UUSM youth and families visited the nearby Westside Food Bank for a 2-hour, mondo food sort. Each year the Westside Food Bank warehouses and distributes 4.5 million pounds of food to over 70 local social service agencies.
The event was a great success, as we were are now more mindful of the need for food assistance in our community. Join us for our next social justice action. All ages are warmly welcomed.
For more photos, see http://news.uusm.org/uusm-kids-work-to-supply-local-food-pantries/
Friday, Sept. 20 – Join Youth and Families for the Global Climate Strike
Our UU principles call us to honor the interconnected web of all life, and to save the natural world upon which our human civilization depends. At this year’s UUA General Assembly, delegates voted overwhelmingly to help Build the Movement for a Green New Deal. And this month, we will support the youth-led Global Climate Strike!
On Friday, September 20, join FIA Peace & Social Justice Committee and Green Committee members as we travel to Downtown LA to take part in the afternoon of action. We will gather at 17th/SMC Expo Station (17th and Colorado) to take the 10:50 am train to 7th and Figueroa, then walk along 7th Street to the 12 pm gathering point at Grand on 7th (in front of Bottega Louie). If you prefer, you can meet us at 7th & Grand. Once assembled, and no later than 12:30, we will walk to Pershing Square and then march to LA City Hall.
Bring water, sunscreen, signs, and TAP cards for Metro. The event is from 12:00 to 3:00 pm.
Contact justice@uusm.org or green@uusm.org with questions or to RSVP.
Sunday, Sept. 22 – Join Us for the 4th Annual Interfaith Solidarity March!
In 2016, amid concerns about increasing rhetoric and violence against religious minorities in our country, UUSM members and friends helped kick off the first LA Interfaith Solidarity March with our friends at the Institute for Religious Tolerance, Peace, and Justice. In 2019, as threats against our Jewish and Muslim neighbors persist even here in Los Angeles and Santa Monica, it is more important than ever for us to walk with our interfaith friends and allies for freedom, tolerance, and peace.
It’s also a fun way to spend an afternoon, hear inspiring speakers from many faith traditions, enjoy delicious free food and musical entertainment, make connections, and meet new friends!
Join Faith In Action on Sunday, September 22 for the 4th Annual Interfaith Solidarity March #InterfaithMarchLA. We will gather by the FIA table in Forbes Hall at 12:30 pm and coordinate rides to the Islamic Center of Southern California on Vermont.
Website and Flyer:
Facebook event here: https://www.facebook.com/events/433502910722717/
More event details
To all people of every faith, philosophy, and creed…
As a symbol of our solidarity with our neighbors and colleagues, we invite you to march with us between several select houses of worship, as together we lead the way toward peace and unity among all people.
The theme of this march is that we reject all hatred and oppression in the name of religion, both at home and abroad.
In light of the rise in politically motivated hate crimes, and the persistence of genocides, we support the most vulnerable of religious communities against Islamophobia, Anti-Semitism, and all forms of religious or ideological extremism, as we stand in support of every person’s right to freedom of worship or belief, and the right to live peacefully.
March route, approximately 1 mile (subject to change)
Meet at The Islamic Center of Southern California (434 S. Vermont Ave, Los Angeles) — Walk to Founders’ Church of Religious Science (3281 West 6th St.) — Next stop is Immanuel Presbyterian Church (3300 Wilshire Blvd.) — Return to The Islamic Center of Southern California.
There will be an exciting program of speakers, performers, and activities! Enjoy delicious food, courtesy of Sikhs of LA and the ICSC.
Interfaith Solidarity March Los Angeles is now a flagship partner of the Interfaith March for Peace & Justice, the world’s largest coalition of interfaith marches.
Join Marchers in 24 locations around the world on September 22!
USA: California: Grass Valley, Los Angeles, Ventura; Idaho: Boise; Iowa: Ames; Illinois: Chicago, Rock Valley; Michigan: Grand Rapids, Holland; New Jersey: Newark; Ohio: Columbus, Toledo, Zanesville; Pennsylvania: Pittsburgh; South Carolina: Columbia; Virginia: Charlottesville; Wyoming: Cheyenne
International: Jammu & Kashmir; Tel Aviv/Bethlehem; Malawi: Lilongwe, Nkhudzi Bay; Pakistan: Faisalabad; Uganda: Gulu
More updates will be placed here and on our website as the event draws near!
Event Ground Rules
By choosing to attend this event, you are committing to participate nonviolently and in accordance with the law, to work to de-escalate confrontations with others, and to obey the orders of authorized event marshals and of law enforcement. You also acknowledge that you are solely responsible for any injury or damage to your person or property resulting from or occurring during this event and that you release all event sponsors and organizers (and their officers, directors, employees, and agents) from any liability for that injury or damage.
LAPD and security will be present throughout.
FIA Summer Eyeglass Drive a Clear Success
NEARLY 100 PAIRS COLLECTED
Congratulations to UUSM friends and members for your support of those in need of prescription eyeglasses. At the conclusion of our Summer Eyeglass Drive, 93 pairs, plus sundry lenses and sunglasses, were delivered to Dr. Ross Somers and Compu-Eyecare Optometrist of Santa Monica. Dr. Somers will give the glasses to the Santa Monica Lions Club, whose service initiatives include Vision Awareness.
Thanks to the Faith in Action Commission for sponsoring the drive!
Splinters from the Board:
Board Highlights for September 2019: A New Year and a New Minister Bring Change
A NEW YEAR BRINGS EXCITING CHANGES
After check-in and reading the Board Covenant at the board meeting September 10, one new member was welcomed into the congregation: Frances Tibbits. Please welcome her when you see her.
Our new developmental minister, the Rev. Jeremiah Kalendae, made his first Minister’s Report orally. In the future, he will also submit a written report. He mentioned his appreciation for the many welcomes he has received. He has meetings scheduled with numerous members already. He said that in his short time with us, he has gotten the impression that we are “over-functioning.” By this he meant that we are doing things with more urgency than necessary―but maybe it is his NoCal background.
In the Treasurer’s Report, Vilma Ortiz commented that pledge receipts so far this year are below projected levels. She also updated the board on efforts to create a texting option for Sunday donations. Soon, we will be able to donate quickly to Generous Congregation during the offertory: 40% goes to the selected Generous Congregation recipient organization, and 60% to the church.
UUSM Board President Jacki Weber reported on efforts to rejuvenate the Stewardship Committee, after it lost of some highly valued members. She received responses from nine people who are interested in a study group on money. Starting October 1, the group will discuss The Soul of Money: Transforming Your Relationship with Money and Life, by Lynne Twist, in four parts―after Sunday services. If you are interested in joining this group, please contact Jacki.
On September 22 there will be a calendaring meeting, led by Board Member at Large Nina Emerson. The goal is to coordinate the timing of church-wide activities to maximize reach and success. All concerned committees are strongly encouraged to have at least one member attend.
One service continues through October
Jacki and Rev. Jeremiah put forward a proposal to keep with a single worship service each Sunday for a little longer this fall. (Previous Ingathering Sundays instigated the switch to two-service Sundays.) Rev. Jeremiah’s calculations of attendance suggest that we all fit comfortably within the capacity of the Sanctuary on almost all Sundays. The advantage this offers is to put the whole congregation in the same space, with the inherent combined energy and connectedness that offers. The board moved to support the minister’s recommendation to stay at one service through the month of October. The hours that the Music and RE staff work will not change.
The Safety Task Force is still forming. Eileen McCormack, board liaison for this activity, is hoping to get one person from each of several groups, for example ushers. If you are interested, please contact her.
Norm Richey was excited to update us on the first series of Faith Forward classes. The first group of nine classes is called The Enquirer Series and will start on October 6. The target audience is repeat visitors. Visitor Meet-Up on Sundays remains the first step in welcoming visitors; then they join the Enquirer Series. The order of classes is flexible, so someone can join at any point. The classes include subjects such as UU history, social action at UUSM, and a campus tour. Members will be able to attend, but future Enquirer Series sessions will be more geared toward members.
The exterior entrance to the sanctuary will soon have new doors and two new windows, thanks to a generous special donor! The board voted that the Facilities Development and Maintenance Committee will acquire and install the doors and hardware.
A new welcome class, a new entryway, and a united ingathering―all quite fitting for an exciting year ahead.
RE News:
Challenge for Change: Envisioning Vital, Empowering Programs for Children and Youth - A Fresh Direction for RE
Last spring, UUSM launched an outreach and visioning effort to preface the arrival of our new director of Religious Exploration and our 2019–20 Religious Exploration programs for children and youth (CYRE). As a foundation, a Lifespan Religious Exploration Task Force conducted a survey to current and former registered CYRE families; receiving 20+ responses. This was followed by an impassioned, extended workshop attended by members of the LRE Task Force; members of the UUSM Board of Directors; active CYRE parents; and many members of the congregation who have taught CYRE in the past.
The survey covered families’ motivations for joining RE (as well as barriers to attendance) and asked respondents to call out specific programs to make recommendations. The overarching reason parents gave for why they wanted to bring their children to LRE was to experience shared values. The UU seven Principles bring us together to be part of something bigger than ourselves and our extended family, a community that encourages personal growth and social responsibility.
Some parents requested less classwork on Sundays and increased social justice activities (e.g., field trips to the food bank and animal shelter); overall a more experiential program. Several respondents called out the Our Whole Lives (OWL) lifespan sexuality education program, which enjoys enthusiastic support throughout the church and a strong volunteer team.
We know from weekly headcounts that CYRE attendance has steadily declined since the change in ministers in 2016. The parents surveyed confirmed that sparse attendance breeds further decline. Some envisioned the CYRE program as a space where kids and teens build community amongst themselves
UUA-facilitated workshop
On June 2, Sarah Gibb Millspaugh, from the UUA Pacific Western Region Congregational Life Staff, facilitated the 6-hour CYRE workshop. Thanks go to the entire LRE Task Force for organizing the survey and the workshop (including lunch!): Beth Brownlie, Kelly Hatfield, Nick Henning, Teri Lucas, Eileen McCormack, Erik Paesel, and JoAn Peters.
About 45 congregants came together to collaborate on a new vision of what our RE program could mean for children and youth. But most of the discussion centered on where we are currently, and what our strengths and needs are now. The group spent a lot of time sharing gratitudes and disappointments for what the program has been over the past 3 years.
At the end of the workshop, shared priorities emerged along with terrific ideas for what the CYRE program could look like. These goals will shape the program under Director of Religious Exploration Cleo Anderson, and inform the leadership of our incoming developmental minister, the Rev. Jeremiah Kalendae.
What is our story?
Our role in relating the seven Principles forms the basis of the CYRE program and activities. The workshop explored UUSM’s current assets and needs, initiating an outpouring of gratitude and clear expressions of where needs have not been met.
The OWL program and the strong corps of RE teachers and volunteers who love our children well were named two of the greatest assets of the CYRE program. Our exemplary and well-maintained campus, space for kids with different abilities and needs, and the congregation’s financial support were also highlighted.
Social justice activities that welcome children were highly valued, as was exploration of different faiths. But the latter brought out a pain point: some attendees felt that lessons on appreciating a diversity of religious views aren’t always practiced by the congregation. Some youth have had negative experiences at church; the church has a strong and vocal cohort of aging members; and the current collapse in CYRE attendance – these are all barriers to a successful and enjoyable program.
A clear need was expressed for more children and youth, and more-committed children and youth. The workshop group envisioned a program rich enough to draw in and retain kids. Specific suggestions included a higher level of evangelism along with marketing and outreach; more inclusion of children and families at services, particularly at the beginning of services; and helping kids to feel empowered where social justice issues are concerned.
Fortunately, UUSM does have dedicated families who remain excited about and committed to CYRE, as well as a small pool of congregational families whose children do not currently attend regularly (potential attendees). The congregation as a whole does see the need for relevance in the lives of the next generation.
Lift every voice and sing!
After taking stock, the group was asked to envision the future of our CYRE program. Numerous images coalesced into seven.
What would a wildly successful Religious Exploration program for children and youth look like?
Kids are excited to participate; enthusiasm.
Kids are leaders in our community.
Kids are practicing the seven Principles outside of church.
Kids are inspired to find meaning in life and live lives of meaning.
Kids are connected to each other.
Kids have tools for dealing with conflict and difference.
UUSM has a whole-congregation commitment to children and youth.
In implementing the CYRE program and living the life, what are our most heartfelt priorities? The group consensed strongly on kindness.
What values are important to our CYRE program?
Community
Inclusion
Kindness; compassion; empathy
Respect; openness; listening
Respect for diversity and diverse beliefs
New directions?
This final part of the workshop explored individual and group commitments and strategized some next moves. There was such a wealth of suggestions, the remaining participants were invited to write down specific ideas.
The LRE Task Force will work with volunteers and staff to plan active, engaging programs, now and throughout 2019–20. The new DRE and minister will be encouraged to experiment with Sunday services to engage children and youth. We will seek to support parents and teens, as their need is as great now as it has ever been. The congregation will be asked to engage, as much as possible, in multigenerational programs.
UUSM leaders and RE volunteers are inspired to seize opportunity from crisis, and they seek to communicate strategies and shared priorities to the congregation at large. Beyond the congregation, they plan to continue outreach and to emphasize opportunities for families in the upcoming website redesign. Finally, UUSM’s new DRE and new minister bring the enthusiasm of youth, and will add fresh perspectives to our “challenge for change.”
– Eileen McCormack and Erik Paesel
with thanks to the entire LRE Task Force
Personal and Spiritual Exploration for Adults, September 2019
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.
To contact the facilitator in regards to any offering, you may email AdultRE@UUSM.org with the title of the group in the subject line. Your email will be forwarded.
New Offering:
Preparing Your Own Advance Directive for Healthcare Saturday, September 7
Your Advance Directive is a legal document that can speak for you when you cannot speak for yourself. It empowers an agent that you select to make medical decisions for you and act as your advocate in difficult times. In this workshop we’ll explore materials that can help you make the choices to mark on your directive. Bring your questions, maybe a previous directive or “living will” document, and join us for homemade muffins Saturday morning, from 9:30 am to noon in the Warren Mathews Conference Room. This is the first of a two part workshop. Contact: Joyce Holmen. One time materials cost: $5.00.
Community Building Through Personal Development:
Gentle Yoga Monday, September 9
We will explore traditional yoga poses in a safe, compassionate, non-competitive environment that is welcoming to all who are able to get up and down from a yoga mat. We will be working on traditional yoga poses with a focus on creating a safe, effective, compassionate, non-competitive environment that is welcoming to all. We will work on strength, flexibility, restorative poses and deep relaxation. Some equipment is required, including a yoga mat, 2 blankets, and a strap, and several other suggestions – see the calendar page linked above. Mary Lee Olsen has a 500 hour certificate as a yoga teacher. She will be offering the final class on September 9, from 6:00-7:00 pm in Forbes Hall. Preregistration is necessary. For more information or to register, drop by the Adult RE table on Sunday or email Mary Lee through AdultRE@UUSM.org.
Collage Group with Stan Bemis Saturday, September 14
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 will meet from 10:00-12:00 pm in the NE Cottage. Contacts: Stan Bemis or Sarah Robson.
Exploration of Ideas:
Science Non-Fiction Book Discussion Tuesday, September 17
We will discuss “The Innovators: How a Group of Hackers, Geniuses, and Geeks Created the Digital Revolution,” by Walter Isaacson and Dennis Boutsikaris. The author of “Steve Jobs” looks more broadly at the people who created the computer and the internet. All are welcome. We meet at 7:30 pm in Forbes Hall. Contact: Rebecca Crawford.
AAHS Freethinker Forum Sunday, September 22
In place of our September Freethinker Forum, we invite you to join us in Los Angeles at the 4th annual Interfaith Solidarity March #InterfaithMarchLA. This is an important event for everyone who cares about religious freedom and the repudiation of violence and discrimination based on faith.
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.
Contact: James Witker.
Interest Groups:
Discussion and Support for Persons with Disabilities Sunday, September 29, at 11:45 am [not September 22 at noon]
The Disability Support Group is promoting a dialogue on a selected topic at each of its meetings throughout this church year. The next meeting has been changed to Sunday, September 29, and the topic will be “Money Management, Finances, and ABLE accounts.” Join us in the NE Cottage at 11:45 am (we’re adjusting to the Sunday Service schedule change). All church members interested in the topic are invited to attend. Contact: Michael Young.
October’s meeting will be on Sunday, October 27, when the topic will be, “Personal Boundaries.” This will be at 11:45 am also.
UU Men’s Group Thursdays, September 5, 19
This 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 the first and third Thursdays of the month at 7:30 PM in the NE room of the Cottage. The topic for Sept. 5 is: What has been your biggest life blunder, if you had one, or something close, and how did it turn out? The topic for Sept. 19 is: What single event or experience during your childhood do you believe had the biggest effect on how your life has turned out? For more information contact Richard Mathias.
Meditations:
An Enjoyable Dive into Who and What We Are Mondays, September 2, 16
This ongoing 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 Forbes Classroom 3. Contact: Bill Blake.
Open Meditation Mondays, September 9, 23, 30
We gather twice a month to sit together quietly for 20 minutes, to walk with gentle awareness for seven minutes, and to explore the integration of meditation with ordinary life through reading and sharing. Anyone who senses they would benefit from 20 minutes of silent, non-guided sitting is welcome to join us. We have found that this time of quiet meditation and shared exploration can be deeply nourishing – a time of simply “being” amidst all the “doing” of our lives. We meet on the second, fourth, and fifth Mondays from 7:30-9:15 pm in Forbes. Contacts: Bev Shoenberger or Carol Ring.
Highlights of additional interest groups meeting in September:
Knitters and Friends On hiatus until September 22, 2019, when we return to two services. Contact: Linda Van Ligten.
Body-Mind Tune Up for Seniors This group is for seniors, superseniors, and people with physical difficulties. Now on a new day of the week! Each Saturday from 11:45 am to 12:45 pm in Forbes Hall. Contact: Bruno Lacombe. Note: Free for church members, $10 suggested donation for nonmembers.