When we think of what we want in a new minister, we always think of a desire to have stimulating and enlightening sermons (Creative, Competent, maybe even Comic).We likely also think of the need for a Caring or Cooperative individual. But much more needs to go into themix. As wemove toward a time of cottage meetings and questionnaires, which give you an opportunity for input into the search process, the search committee hopes to get you thinking as broadly as possible about what specifics are important to you.

This will be a sermon about nonviolence, which Parker Palmer calls The Third Way. We can do better than relying on our reptilian brain, which knows only fight or flight. The third way is beginning to receive consideration.

10. I can't read music.

There are many strategies for learning. Different members use tape recorders, make helpful notations on their scores, come early or meet outside to work with another choir member to practice parts. These are just some of the creative solutions.

9. I'm scared of auditions.

This one is easy. There are no auditions. Everyone is welcome.

8. I can't come every week.

Attendance is on an "as possible" basis. It's important to have a sense of commitment, but allowances are made for real life.

7. I've never sung anywhere but the shower.

This is just like singing in the shower, except for the water and being alone. Fear of being in front of a crowd is greatly reduced by being one of many. There is no individual pressure - it's a blend thing.

6. I don't have childcare.

We should try to figure that one out.

5. I am not a member.

Membership is not a requirement. Contributing to the music of the community makes you a much appreciated "friend."

4. I don't know what part I sing.

Saunder will know right away.

3. I have musical dyslexia.

See #10 above.

2. I can't take direction.

You WILL take direction! Saunder makes it easy.

1. The plate in my head receives messages from outer space, when I sing in harmony.

No problem - the chancel has been retrofitted with an intergalactic interceptor shield.

What's Your Excuse?

MacLean, guest speaker - Martin Luther King, Jr. Sunday We all know that religion is a good thing, don't we? And we cherish freedom of religion, which is enshrined in the First Amendment of our Constitution. Though the government can require doctors and bus drivers and liquor store operators to be licensed for our protection, we would be scandalized at the idea of preachers getting a license from the government, except to perform weddings. Do think there might be a problem here? Kenneth MacLean became a Unitarian while he was a member of our congregation. He is minister of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of the Desert. He and Judith Meyer are exchanging pulpits this morning.

Rev. Stephen Furrer deconstructs several of Jesus' parables in an attempt to look at them with fresh eyes. A glimpse at the Easter Myth through the lens of Process Theology -- the Interconnected Web comes alive!