The Unigram


November 2013 Newsletter

Unitarian Universalist Society of Sacramento

In This Issue
Blessing of Music
IMP Update
Spaghetti Fun-Raiser
Theater One Fall Play
Thanksgiving Potluck
In Loving Memory
Rev. Roger's Column
Rev. Lucy's Column
Ministerial Transition Facts
The President
Join the Auction Team
What Kind of Plant?
Games Night
Building Labyrinth
Trust Workshop
Hand in Hand
Gratitude Attitude
Re: RE
RE Reminders
Coming of Age
RE Calendar
Mini-Orientation
Newcomers' Circles
UUSS-UNO
Social Responsibility Network
Hands-On Service
Art Exhibit Reception
Remember UUSS in Your Will
Unigram Deadline
Serving Our Congregation
Join Our List
Join Our Mailing List
A Month of Sundays

Sunday Services:  9:30 a.m. and 11:15 a.m.

Religious Education program at 9:30 a.m.  

Nursery Care at both services

  

October 27

The Spiritual Lessons of Harry Potter

All-Ages Services at 9:30 AND 11:15

Rev. Lucy Bunch with Rev. Roger Jones

Jay Johnson, Pianist

Congregational Meeting at 12:30 p.m.

 

Calling all witches, muggles, Harry Potter fans and people who like stories of depth and richness.  The book series may be finished, but the stories remain alive and relevant for all generations.  What can we learn from these books that has relevance for our lives and our spirits?  In this intergenerational service we will hear readings from the books and reflect on what Harry learned about good, evil, and the power of love.

No Religious Education programs today, but Child Care is provided until 1:30 p.m. so parents may attend the 11:15 a.m. service, then stay for the Fall Congregational Meeting.

 

November 3

Fall Back!  Set your clock back ONE hour or you'll be too early!

Talking about Death Won't Kill You:  Loss and the Spirituality of Mortality

Rev. Roger Jones, preaching, with Rev. Lucy Bunch and UUSS Choir

Writers Orson Scott Card and Leo Tolstoy explore the uniquely human trait of knowing that we-and those we care about-will die.  What does it mean to mourn a loss?  What does it mean to die?  We consider these questions at this time of All Souls Day, Samhain and D�a de los Muertos, when the veil between this world and the next is thinnest.

 

"Wake Up and Smell the Coffee" -Fun-Raiser after service

Sunday, November 3, is not only the end of Daylight Savings Time.  It's also the day to perk up our coffee hospitality with special donations-"the richest kind!"

If you can, bring a can or pound bag or two of ground regular or decaf (drip grind), or a donation of $10 to $20 to keep UUSS well stocked for Coffee Hour.   You can make a donation before today or later, but today we'll sing the fun UU hymn "Coffee, Coffee, Coffee."

 

November 10

Open to the Possibilities

Rev. Lucy Bunch, preaching

Life is full of change and transitions.  Change is coming for the congregation when we relocate next May for a year while our facilities are renovated.  The new location was announced at the October 27 Congregational Meeting.  This Sunday we explore how to remain open to the possibilities that can come with change while managing our anxiety and expectations.

Today is a Soup Sunday-only $4 after the 11:15 service. 

 

November 17

Everyday Spirituality, Part 4:  A Tree Full of Angels, or Infinity in Your Hand

Rev. Roger Jones, preaching

The Sarah Bush Dance Project, Guest Artists

In the media we read of eye-catching miracles and manifestations of the divine all the time.  Do you feel left out?  Unspiritual?  Well, fear not!   Writers like Thich Nhat Hanh, Annie Dillard, Mary Oliver and H. D. Thoreau show us the miracle of the ordinary day.

Also, don't miss another visit by our lovely liturgical dancers from the Bay Area.

 

November 24:

The Domain of the Soul: Three Questions 

Rev. Beth Banks, preaching, with Rev. Roger Jones and Rev. Lucy Bunch

The season of thanks and giving has arrived.  How we use our environment, finances and time; and how we give our love and attention can bring great satisfaction-or grief.  This service offers a provocative story to understand what it means to give, bringing the greatest satisfaction.  We'll measure our life against three compelling questions which will stick with us through the upcoming holidays.

Rev. Beth has been senior minister at the UU Church of Davis since 2000.  A lifelong UU from Massachusetts, she taught in Korea before seminary.  She has been a minister for 25 years, serving also in Rochester, NY.  She has mentored over a dozen seminary interns.  In exchange for Beth's sermon, Roger will preach in Davis next spring.

 

November 28, 9:30 a.m.

Thanksgiving Day Service:  Circle Worship for Centering in Gratitude

Rev. Roger Jones and Musical Volunteers

A few hours before we chow down, this brief service highlights the reason for the holiday.  We'll gather in a circle in a UUSS meeting room and share silence, songs and words of thanksgiving for the blessings of life.  All Ages Welcome-no nursery staff here today.  If you can help with the service, contact Roger.  Read below about Thanksgiving Dinner needs and arrangements.

 

December 1

Heartbreak, Hope and Healing:  Reflections for World AIDS Day

Rev. Roger Jones with Kevin Sitter and Rev. Lucy Bunch

Nicholas Dold, Guest Pianist

Today is World AIDS Day.  Since HIV/AIDS first emerged as a killer over 30 years ago, we have seen advances in drug treatment, but continual devastation in poor countries around the globe.  The pandemic has brought suffering and loss, but also great acts of mercy, hope and courage.  Today is also the first Sunday of Advent, the day for the candle of hope.

Piano soloist Nicholas Dold returns!  Now in the Bay Area, he has degrees from the Indiana University School of Music.   He has held staff positions with the UU Church of Bloomington, the I.U. Summer Opera Workshop, I.U. Summer Piano Academy, and Roundabout Opera for Kids.   He is on the accompanying faculty of the Duxbury Music Festival.  He played for UUSS at our August 25 Ingathering. 
 

Congregational Meeting this Sunday, Oct. 27, 12:30 p.m.

The Board of Trustees invites you all to attend.   Child care is extended to 1:30 p.m. to enable families to attend.  There is no Religious Education, so you can attend the 11:15 a.m. Service for All Ages.  We need a quorum of members to conduct business, so please plan to come.

 

Topics:  Treasurer's Report, Update on Implementing the Master Plan and our construction relocation, Minutes of the last meeting, Ministers' Reports, and the vote on our Community Partners for the Sunday Shared Offering.  We use rank-order voting to select 12 not-for-profit organizations.  Each member making a nomination may speak for up to a total of 60 seconds about your nominees.  

 

The meeting is in the Main Hall on October 27.  Please sign in at the meeting table after the 11:15 a.m. service.  
Implementing the Master Plan Update

By Dennis Clear

 

October has been an important and critical month for the project to improve and modernize our campus.  Our architect - Jeff Gold - has continued to refine his design for our new social hall and he hopes the final drawings will be available for review in November.  He has been listening to the members in our various committees and has made changes based on their suggestions and recommendations.  We believe you will find the changes being made to be inspiring. 

 

Jeff and our committee have also been busy this month with the process to hire a building contractor.  A formal request for qualifications (RFQ) was issued and we received many packages from qualified individuals.  After a screening process, interviews were held with the most competitive and a recommendation to hire a contractor was made to the Board of Trustees at the end of the month.  The contractor will be introduced to the congregation in November.

 

This month has also been a pivotal one for the effort to identify the facility we will use during construction.  The IMP logistics committee held a forum on October 20 to share the progress of our search for a temporary home.  A recommendation on the most appropriate location will soon be made to the Board of Trustees and we will soon start the important work of preparing for the move.  Much more information on this activity will be provided over the next few months.

 

Finally, our committee has decided to hold a "congregational conversation" on the third Sunday of every month.  We believe it is essential to communicate as broadly and often as possible to ensure all of you have the opportunity to learn about this project and ask questions.  Please mark these dates on your calendar; and if you have any questions about this plan, do not hesitate to come and ask.  This project is owned by all of us and its success depends on everyone's being engaged and informed.

"The Only" Spaghetti Supper "Fun Raiser," November 8

By Meg Burnett

 

When the Board of Trustees pledged to help make up the deficit in the budget passed by the congregation last spring, we did not know it would be this much fun.  In September we brought in $900 with the delicious salad lunches after church.  Thank you all for your healthy appetites and conviviality. 

 

Our next scrumptious offering will be a spaghetti dinner with gift basket auction at 6 p.m. before opening night of Theatre One's new play.  Tickets are pre-sold separately from the play tickets before and after church on the patio.  You can come to one, or better yet, both events the same evening.  You can also volunteer in a variety of ways at the patio table or by e-mailing Meg Burnett at megburnett2010@gmail.com.  Hope to see all of you there!

Theater One Fall Play Set for November!

By Pat Skeels

 

Elly Award-winning director Leo McElroy is producing his play, The Only, at UUSS with an outstanding cast including the Elly supporting actor winner.  You don't want to miss this play!


Play Dates:  Opens Friday, November 8, and runs evenings on Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m.; 2 p.m. Sunday matinees until November 24.  Tickets are $12 for students and seniors, $15 for adults.  Tickets are available at UUSS and through http://theaterone.brownpapertickets.com.  Tickets are also available at the door, but it is best to purchase in advance and avoid the line at the door.

Thanksgiving Day Potluck

By Laurie Jones

 

We are holding a UUSS Thanksgiving Day potluck dinner again this year.  A $5 donation is requested in advance to pay for the turkeys, which will hopefully be cooked at home the day before by the volunteers.  Beth Bennett has also generously offered to donate tofurkeys.  Sign-ups on Sundays through November 24.  Contact: Laurie Jones at laurievaljo@gmail.com or (916) 342-3226.

In Loving Memory 

By Rev. Roger Jones

 

I know that many of you have lost parents and loved ones recently.  Others have marked a loved one's Yahrzeit recently.  You are in my thoughts and prayers.

 

In particular, Dixie Laws lost her mother, Betty Thysen, age 98.  A longtime UU, she was living in Cupertino, and a local UU chaplain will conduct a memorial service at her retirement complex on October 27. 

 

Our member Elizabeth Burg died October 9, by suicide, at age 45.  She had been a fitness trainer, aquatic exercise teacher and triathlete until an embolism and stroke hit her at age 38.  She gained an amazing degree of rehabilitation through long, hard work and her friends' support.

 

I'm sad about her death, and I will miss having her as part of UUSS.  Cheerful, energetic and affectionate, she was intent when working in her volunteer position with Coffee Hospitality on Sundays and as a Grasshopper.  Elizabeth had a bright spirit and was always encouraging to others.  Her service was October 16.

 

This death is tragic.  It's so important to reach out for help when we are feeling painful distress or as if we have no options, but sometimes people don't do that.  While we cannot stop someone who has determined to take her life, it can be agonizing to us when it happens.  Please be in touch if you might like support from our Listening Ministry volunteers or a minister.   Please take care.  Blessed be.

Which Minister Oversees What Programs and Staff Positions? 

By Rev. Roger Jones, Acting Senior Minister

 

Given the revenue challenges in last spring's budget preparations, we have only 1.5 ministry positions this fiscal year versus the two ministry positions that UUSS enjoyed for the prior 10 years.  Fortunately, we have an ideal match for our needs in our Assistant Minister, the Reverend Lucy Bunch.  She is here on a year's contract on a half-time basis.

 

Lucy supervises our Bookkeeper, Facilities Coordinator and Congregational Support Coordinator who in turn oversees other dedicated staff members.  She leads our biweekly staff meetings.   Lucy provides ministerial support to the Finance Committee, Property Management and Implementing the Master Plan Committee (for our building project and the related relocation for the year when the renovation takes place). 

 

Lucy will preach eight times this year and is at worship on the Sundays when she is here.  Often she leads a hymn or sings a solo.  As time allows, Lucy provides support to other committees.  She is available for pastoral care, especially for any stresses and needs related to the many transitions we have begun or have gone through already.

 

As Acting Senior Minister, I supervise the Assistant Minister, the music program and staff, and the dedicated Religious Education Coordinator who in turn supports our nursery staff and many volunteers. 

 

I provide ministerial support to our volunteer teams for Stewardship, Religious Services, Music, Adult Enrichment, Child/Youth Religious Education, Social Responsibility, Family Promise, "Faithful Friends" Jail Visitations, Lay Listening Ministry, Membership/Greeters, Theater One, fundraisers, and the Endowment Trust.

 

I write the Ministerial Message for e-mailing to all.  I lead the Newcomers' Orientation to Membership.  What am I forgetting?

 

I provide much of the pastoral care and, sadly, conduct our memorial services.  I'd like to do some baby dedications--soon!  In the senior minister position, I continue to be the minister who oversees Religious Education and All-Ages Community Building.  You could say that I am still a family minister-but for me, "family" now means the whole congregation!

 

Lucy and I both serve as ex officio members of the Board and Program Council and meet with the Executive Committee, which gives us input on management issues.  We share a Committee on Ministry, which meets monthly to reflect on the pulse of UUSS and the congregation's overall ministry.  Lucy and I meet often, as well.  I appreciate her wisdom, talents, commitment and energy.  I appreciate all the staff and volunteers who serve UUSS!

 

See you in church,

Roger

 

Where's Roger in November?

I am happy to make an appointment with you!  Office hours are weekday afternoons.  Usual day off is Tuesday, and sermon-writing day is Friday, so I avoid e-mail on those days.  You may feel free to call my home.  Our Office staff knows a lot of answers, and they can reach me in an emergency.

 

I'll be here on Thanksgiving.  From November 5 to 12, I go to the UUA in Boston for a meeting of the Fund for a Just Society grants panel on which I serve and to visit UU friends in the area.  Having been at UUSS non-stop since early August, I look forward to sitting in the pews of another minister's church.  Yet I'm sorry to miss the Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser and opening night for Theater One, Friday, November 8.  Enjoy!

Liberation and Homecoming 

By Rev. Lucy Bunch

 
Rev. Lucy

In my sermon in September, I talked about my first visit to UUSS in 1989.  I was new to Sacramento and wanted to find a community for support.  I chose the UU church because a friend had taken me to visit her UU church when I was 10-more than 20 years before.  I recalled how I came into the sanctuary and my eye caught the blank banner hanging toward the front of the hall:  "Your vision here," it said to me.  "There is room for your beliefs." 

 

After a repressive Christian upbringing I felt a powerful sense of liberation and homecoming.  Here was a church that welcomed my questions and engaged with me in finding the answers.  

 

At the newcomer orientation last month, I was reminded of the power of our faith by some of the stories from the participants-stories that were all the more poignant because they were still very new.  I reveled in the fresh sense of liberation and homecoming I heard from these newcomers as they shared why they wanted to be part of our UU community. 

 

If you are a longtime member or longtime UU, I encourage you to seek out some of these recent members to our congregation.  Their pictures should be posted soon on the board outside the library.  Talk with them about why they have joined the church, and you will be reminded of the power of what Unitarian Universalism can offer our hurting world.  And perhaps you will be reminded of the time when you first felt connected to UUism-and remember your own experience of liberation and homecoming. 

 

We are glad that you came, and we are glad that you stayed.  Your presence enriches us all.  Blessed be.

 

Where's Lucy in November? 

My regular office hours are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday afternoons.  I would love to have you visit, but please call or e-mail first so I can be sure to be available.  The Sundays I will be at church this month are November 3, 10 and 24.   

Ministerial Transition Fact Sheet

By Kathryn Canan

 

Why is the Rev. Roger Jones' title "Acting Senior Minister"?

Unitarian Universalist congregations are democratic organizations, and our UUSS constitution requires a 90 percent affirmative vote to call a settled minister.   Following the Rev. Doug Kraft's retirement, the Board of Trustees hired our associate minister, Roger Jones, as Acting Senior Minister.  The congregational vote to call him has been scheduled for January 26, 2014, to give members time to see him functioning in this role and learn about his vision for his ministry.

 

How was he chosen as our candidate for lead minister?

Roger was hired in 2008 as a consulting minister and revitalized our Religious Education (RE), Adult Enrichment and connections to new members, among other accomplishments.  UUSS called Roger as settled Associate Minister on April 1, 2012, with a 98 percent positive vote.  During the summer of 2012, following the Rev. Doug Kraft's announcement of retirement, the Board appointed a Ministerial Transition Task Force (MTTF) to discern the best course to follow in choosing our next lead minister.  They collected input from the congregation using tabling, focus groups, surveys and a forum to define the mission and vision of UUSS and the qualities desired in our next lead minister. The MTTF Final Report lists these as follows:

 

  • Enthusiastic, energetic, influential
  • Familiar with and has respect for RE and youth
  • Gives thoughtful and uplifting sermons
  • Has good sense of humor
  • Has excellent networking skills and is visible in the community
  • Respects and maintains UUSS values and strengths
  • Spiritual and inspirational
  • Warm, approachable, caring, good listener.

 

MTTF determined that Roger had all these qualities and he also provides continuity in a time of other challenges, such as our upcoming renovation.  The Board unanimously accepted the MTTF recommendation and hired Roger as Acting Senior Minister pending a congregational vote.

 

Why are there no other candidates?

MTTF determined that the standard protocol in our denomination is to look first at an inside candidate, if he or she is interested in the position.  Based on input from the congregation, MTTF and the Board agreed that Roger is an excellent fit for UUSS.  In the event that the congregation does not confirm Roger, the Board will hire an interim minister and open up a search for another candidate.  This could take at least two years.

 

What salary do we offer our lead minister?

The Board negotiates a salary with each minister based on denominational guidelines. The background, rationale, and methodology are found at "Salary and Fair Compensation for Congregational Staff" at http://uua.org/careers/compensation/fair/178552.shtml.  The recommended salary range for a minister in a congregation of our size in our geographical area is $69,200 (minimum), $90,700 (mid-range) and $112,600 (maximum).

 

What happens next?

The Candidate Committee will arrange informational events leading up to the vote:

 

  • October 20 to January 26: Information table on Sundays with question box and fact sheets.
  • November 8: Information table at the Spaghetti Fundraiser
  • November 17: Chat with Roger between services and afterward, focusing on membership and growth.
  • Late November: A booklet will be published detailing Roger's qualifications and experience in the ministry.
  • November to December: Roger will meet with various committees about their particular questions and concerns.
  • December to January: At least two more Chats with Roger concerning Social Justice/Outreach and Music/Worship
  • January 12: Reception for Roger following the second service.  His sermon that day will focus on his vision for his ministry at UUSS.
  • January 26: The Vote! 

The President

By Linda Clear, President, Board of Trustees

 

September really zoomed by and here we are already well into fall.  There has been a whirlwind of activity this past month and lots of new projects under way and others moving right along.

 

The Board had a really wonderful retreat on September 28, at Linda Klein's beautiful home.  We did lots of planning for the coming church year, but probably the most important thing we did was to reconfirm our covenant with each other.  For those of you who haven't attended a Board meeting, we always start our meeting with reading our covenant:

 

We represent our congregation in matters of policy, vision, communications, and advice regarding the business of the congregation.  We promise to be respectful of one another by listening to understand, by keeping confidentiality, by having our behavior reflect our word and by remembering to be honest, helpful, timely, forgiving, and kind.

 

The Board spends a lot of our time working on the higher level responsibilities of church finance, personnel issues and keeping ourselves informed of all the activities at the church.  Each Board member has liaison duties with a specific committee and working group.  We are responsible to make the final decisions on projects and policies that affect the congregation.  In addition we have made a commitment to help raise needed funds for the church operation.  To that end we have done Salad Sundays, and on November 8, we will host a spaghetti feed at 6 p.m. on opening night of the current Theater One production.  I hope lots of you attend this fundraiser and then stay to see another outstanding production.

 

The Implementing the Master Plan (IMP), Committee is working very hard to get the building project under way.  By the time you read this, a contractor will have been selected and the work will start on the actual working drawings for the project.  You will read more about that in the column from the IMP Committee.

 

A Candidate Committee has been selected that will be responsible for planning the call vote for our new lead minister.  As per normal protocol, Roger is our only candidate.  This is usually done when there is a minister already in the congregation that is interested in the lead minister position.  I know there has been some confusion around this issue, but hopefully we have made things clear at this point.

 

The Board also set the date for our Annual Service Auction.  It will be April 5, 2014.  Put on your thinking caps and come up with some really great items and activities that will bring in much-needed funds for the church operation.  Last year we had our best year ever and made over $18,000.  Let's see if we can exceed that figure.  I want to thank all of you again for putting your trust in me and the entire board to do this very important work for you.

 

Namaste,

Linda Clear

Join the Auction Team

By Christine Webb-Curtis

 

The UUSS Annual Auction is coming in the spring 2014.  Co-chairs Mary Howard and Christine Webb-Curtis are just beginning to prepare for a fun-filled and lucrative evening on April 5.  As three-time co-chairs, we are ready to turn over the reins to another pair of willing and enthusiastic volunteers to assist in the planning of the 2014 auction so they can assume the co-chair positions in 2015.  Are you that person?  The increasingly more fine-tuned process gets easier each year while the fun continues.

 

It's not too early to be soliciting other volunteers who can help with bits and pieces of the auction preparation and execution.  There is a variety of duties ranging from one-time ticket selling, donation solicitation and promotional activities before the auction to table set-up, ticket taking, data input and help with food serving all on the evening of the auction.  Volunteering for the auction is a great way to meet new people while helping with the biggest fund raiser of the year.

 

Contact Mary Howard at mhowarduu@gmail.com (916-203-7014) or Chris Webb-Curtis at cpwcurtis@gmail.com (916-216-6572) to join in the fun.

What Kind of Plant for That Empty Spot?

By JoAnn Anglin

 

Whether simple or elaborate, in pot or in vase, an arrangement of blooms or greenery at the service makes Sunday a bit more special.  And who doesn't like seasonal color around the holidays?  Special thanks to Elinor Anklin and Pat Skeels for their generous sharing of their arranging talent.


Those who have contributed floral arrangements to the service these past six months make a quiet but effective contribution.  Will you or your group sign up for a Sunday, or a few, over the next six months?  Just contact JoAnn Anglin (916-451-1372); or send e-mail to joannpen@comcast.net.
   

Come To Play at Games Night on November 8

By Carrie Cornwell

 

November's Games Night will occur on Friday evening, November 8, in the Fahs Room.  Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. for those who want to gather for a potluck dinner, which we will eat at 6 p.m.  Game playing begins at 6:30.  

 

Please join hosts Ginny Johnson, Megan Snyder and Carrie Cornwell for our monthly evening of gaming fun.  Games we play include cards, chess, checkers, board games, toddler games, kid games and adult games, including the ever-popular Rummikub.  If you're coming, bring your own favorite game, and we will play it with you.  We've had evenings of Fictionary, Game of Thrones and Apples for Apples. 

 

For more information or if you would be interested in helping to host Games Night, call or e-mail Megan Snyder (snydermegan76@gmail.com or 916-333-8203 ), Ginny Johnson (916-649-0575 or ginnyjuu@att.net), or Carrie Cornwell (916-442-1637 or ccornwell@surewest.net). 

 

Everyone of all ages is welcome, as long as you come to play.

UUSS is Building a Labyrinth

By Diane Kelly-Abrams

 

Question: What is a labyrinth, and how is it used?

If you google "Labyrinth" you will find that the history of labyrinths can be traced back over 4,000 years.

 

Labyrinths occur in different cultures, at different times and in places as diverse as Europe, the Americas, Iceland, Egypt and India.  The classic labyrinth is seven circuits; UUSS owns a portable seven circuit canvas labyrinth.  We have used that labyrinth in celebrations marking the changing of the seasons for the past few years.  "Seven circuits" refers to the seven circles that compose the design.  During the Middle Ages, an eleven-circuit labyrinth pattern emerged and was designed into the floor-stones of many cathedrals in Europe.  Our new labyrinth will be a full eleven circuits.

 

The labyrinth is used for walking meditation.  Walkers along its sinuous path find they are often deeply affected.  As one walks, breathing slowly and with a contemplative mind, many find answers to questions, peace from problems or insight into personal situations.  The labyrinth is a singular path; you cannot get lost: just follow the path to the center and then back out to the beginning.  For millennia, the circling path that evolved from the simple spiral has brought centeredness and healing to untold walkers.

 

During this month of November we will have several Labyrinth Work Days.  We would like to be finished in time for the celebration of the Winter Solstice, December 21.  We will need help!  For information and work dates, call Diane Kelly-Abrams or e-mail dkellyabrams@comcast.net.

Trust

By Judy Bell

 

"Trust" is the topic for the November workshop, which is part of the "Deepening Our Conversations and Connections" series.  These workshops are inspired by our UUSS mission, values and covenant.  During the "Trust" workshop we will be looking at trust in our lives and how crucial it is to the success of our life and relationships.  We all have a "default" setting for trust.  How did we get that?  Does it work for us?  Can we change it?  Through interactive exercises we will explore trust in our lives. 

 

The workshop is held on November 3, the first Sunday in November, at 12:45 p.m. in room 7/8.  The workshop is led by Lance Ryen and Judy Bell.  Please drop in and join us. 

Hand In Hand

From Your Stewardship Team

 

East/Air

Hear me Guardians of the East, the element of Air,

I call you tonight with open heart and clear voice to offer thanks....

For the wind that brings inspiration and plays with our thoughts...

For the ability of communication that offers us the power of understanding...

For the new dawn that greets us and offers a place to begin anew.

For the moments of poetry, song and story that blossom within.

We thank you for the breath that gives us life.

Wicca - This is one of the four watchtowers.  The candles at each watchtower are lit by a designated person.  This is an invocation indicating gratitude for the attributes of the air.

Gratitude Attitude

By Pat Skeels

 

Have you attended a Theater One production at UUSS?  Did you laugh, cry, become engrossed with the characters and plot, or were you inspired?   Plays must have a dedicated group of people making it all possible.  Two or three times a year, UUSS members select a play, director and cast which then begins the process of rehearsing, building sets and publicity.   

 

Q&A

Q.  How do Theater One plays come together so audiences may enjoy a night out at a modest cost?

A.  Theater One is allocated a budget that is used for royalty fees to the playwright, props, printing programs and, on occasion, dinner performances.  A portion of our pledges go toward those costs, allowing us to enjoy quality, affordable entertainment.  Theater One productions involve many hours of work and organization by volunteers.  Look for a new production in November!

Re: RE

By Miranda Massa, Religious Education (RE) Coordinator

 

Seven Principles

Unitarian Universalist congregations promote Seven Principles which have been modified for children. Spirit Play (grades 1-5) has connected a color with each Principle.

1. Each person is important. (Red Promise)

2. Be kind in all you do. (Orange Promise)

3. We're free to learn together. (Green Promise)

4. We search for what is true. (Blue Promise)

5. All people need a voice. (Yellow Promise)

6. Build a fair and peaceful world. (Indigo Promise)

7. We care for the Earth. (Violet Promise)

 

Home Away From Home

Beginning in May of 2014, UUSS will embark on the first phase of our Master Plan.  This means Sunday Services and Religious Education will take place in a temporary place while construction happens.  Last month, Reverend Roger, Margaret Wilcox and I visited potential rental sites for the Home we will be in.  After seeing the prospective rentals, we think either facility would serve our needs and provide an exciting year before coming back to a new church home.

 

Urgent RE Meeting for Parents and Other Guardians 

On December 1 the Religious Education Committee will hold a very important meeting to discuss our program. Please mark your calendars and stay tuned for more details. For more information or questions, please contact Miranda. Thanks!

 

Pet Blessing

Thanks to all the human and pet friends that made it out to our Animal Blessing Service!

 

Garden Salsa Day

RE cleaned out the spring garden beds, picked the remaining produce and helped to make salsa.  The children ate Oreos and sipped apple juice, too!  Warm thanks to Glory Wicklund for always inviting RE into the UUSS Community Garden!

RE Reminders!

By Miranda Massa, Religious Education (RE) Coordinator 

 

Each year families are to fill out a Religious Education Registration Form.  Forms are available at the RE Welcome Table or here.

 

2013-14 UUSS RE Class Breakdown:

Child Care (infant through age 5), Room 11

Story Time (3 years through Kindergarten), Room 10

Spirit Play (1st through 5th grades), Room 7/8

JHYG-Jr. High Youth Group (grades 6, 7, 8), Room 6

SHYG-Sr. High Youth Group (High School to age 20), Room 12

 

November Religious Education events:

- November 1-3: PCD MUUGs Retreat at UU Livermore

- November 3: Daylight Saving Time ends

- November 8: Game Night

- November 8: Spaghetti Dinner & Theater One Performance

- November 8-10: PCD YRUU Con at UU Redwood City

- November 10: OWL Class

- November 17: OWL Class, Guest Speaker Panel

- November 24: RE Yoga 

- November 24: COA Meeting

-RE schedule and calendar details at http://uuss.org/Groups/RE/index.php

Coming of Age

By Sally Lewis

 

This year's Coming of Age (COA) group consists of seven thoughtful, adventurous youth and their adult mentors.  The year began with a weekend-long retreat with other COA youth from northern California UU churches.  The Program kick-off weekend, emphasizing connection and challenge, was in the middle of October.  Youth and adults participated in a high ropes course with trust building exercises.  While this retreat encourages youth to push their own boundaries, it is all challenge-by-choice.  The ropes course took place at the beautiful Four Winds facility near Occidental.  Four Winds is the oldest, largest and most highly accredited challenge course in northern California.  The youth and mentors experienced a series of physical games that encouraged teamwork and exercised their mental agility and creativity on ground level cables, platforms, logs, rope ladders and suspension bridges.  They were engaged in appropriate risk-taking on physical, mental, emotional and spiritual levels.  The COA youth and adults built teamwork and developed individual skills.  Karen Edgren, one of the wonderful mentors, posted on her Facebook page that day, "Here with some amazing Coming of Age kids!"

Religious Education (RE) Calendar, November 2013

Friday, November 1 - Sunday, November 3   PCD MUUGs Retreat at UU Livermore

 

Sunday, November 3

9:15 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.   Child care available - age 5 and under

9:30 -10:45 a.m.            Religious Education

 

Friday, November 8

6 - 8 p.m.                      Game Night in Fahs Room

6 p.m.                           Spaghetti Dinner in Main Hall followed                                                      by 8p.m. Theater One Performance

 

Friday, November 8 - Sunday, November 10 

PCD YRUU CON at UU Redwood City

 

Sunday, November 10

9:15 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.   Child care available - age 5 and under

9:30 -10:45 a.m.            Religious Education

11:15 a.m. - 1:45 p.m.   Our Whole Lives (OWL) Class

 

Sunday, November 17

9:15 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.   Child care available - age 5 and under

9:30 -10:45 a.m.            Religious Education

11:15 a.m. - 1:45 p.m.   Our Whole Lives (OWL) - Guest Speaker Panel

 

Sunday, November 24

9:15 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.   Child care available - age 5 and under

9:30 -10:45 a.m.            Religious Education - Yoga with Paige

10:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.  Coming of Age (COA) Meeting 

Adult Enrichment

A Mini-Orientation to UUSS for Newcomers and Other People

Monday, November 25, 6-8 p.m. 

With Rev. Roger Jones and Others

 

This will be a short form of the six-hour course for newcomers.  Perhaps longtime members would like a refresher about Unitarian Universalism and UUSS, but all are welcome.  Key features:  "2,000 Years in 25 Minutes" (Universalist and Unitarian histories), easy icebreaker questions, the difference between being a Member and a Pledging Friend, group conversations about spiritual experience and how to get involved here.  Come and connect with a few others. 

 

Please register at the Adult Enrichment Table in Sunday Connection Central so we know how many to expect.  No charge, but donations to UUSS accepted.  

Connecting in a Newcomers' Circle

Five (or Six) Thursday Nights

By Tiffany Urness and Rev. Roger Jones  

 

An Introduction to Ministry Circles will take place from 6:45 to 9 p.m., Thursday, January 9, 2014, at UUSS and open to all.             

 

One week later, January 16, a five-week Newcomers' Ministry Circle for 12 people will take place at the home of co-leader Tiffany Urness.  There is no charge.

 

Known in some other congregations as Small Group Ministry or Covenant Groups, Ministry Circles offer members and pledging friends a way to deepen connections and pursue spiritual exploration in a caring, supportive small group.  Tiffany's 2012 Newcomers' Circle generated friendships, spiritual depth, and a sense of belonging in the church.  This opportunity is rare as she and her spouse spend half the year in Paris!            

We especially encourage new members to attend, but anyone curious about Ministry Circles is welcome to attend the Introduction and sign up for the series, which has a maximum of 12 people. 

 

Attendance at the January 9 Introduction is open to all.  But it is required for those planning on the weekly series, and we ask you to commit to at least four out of the next five sessions.  Note that attending the Introduction does not commit you to the series. 

 

On the next five weeks, the Newcomers' Circle will meet at the home of Tiffany Urness in the Foothill Farms/ARC area.  She will give you a map on January 9.          

 

Circle dates are January 16, 23, and 30, and February 6 and 13.  For questions, e-mail Tiffany  or Rev. Roger, or call the office.

Welcome to UUSS-United Nations Office

By Carl Sweet, UNO Envoy 

 

The United Nations Office (UNO) is part of the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA).  UUSS-UNO Committee promotes the principles and activities of the United Nations.

 

As a follow-up to our October 20 United Nations Sunday service our UNO Committee will have a meeting after church on Sunday November 3, to explore starting a Climate Action Team. We will discuss selling UNICEF Holiday cards to our congregation in support of the UNICEF program.  Thanks to Miranda Massa for providing Trick or Treat for UNICEF boxes to kids and families in our church.  We welcome participation of the congregation in our UNO Committee and our events.  You can obtain further information from our Envoy at the Connection Central table on Sunday mornings.

Changes in our Social Responsibility Network 

By Rev. Roger Jones 

 

Ray Reynolds has stepped down as chair of the Social Responsibility Network (SRN) after two years of service.  We thank him for his faith in the power of organizing for liberal religious values.  

 

Ray and UUSS friends often staffed a table on the patio with petitions on worker justice, health care, the death penalty, etc.  Ray's gift was linking us to outside activists, speakers and documentary producers.  For our "Beyond these Walls" series, people came in to talk about issues and ways for us to get involved. 

 

A crowd gathered one Sunday to meet the inspiring undocumented college students who came to church here during their long march to call for passage of the federal Dream Act.  One youth asked for a blessing on their journey.  We held hands in a circle while I prayed for their safety and success.  Another rich discussion followed the showing of "Half the Sky," a film about global oppression of women and girls-and opportunities for their flourishing.

 

Sometimes SRN turnout was this strong, but other times it was small.   Ray has emphasized that to be successful, any chosen effort needs a corps of people to champion the work.  No one person can be expected to make an effort happen without the contributions of other volunteer leaders.

 

Over the years, SRN's activities have varied, depending on the organizing interest of those who served on it or chaired it.  Many former SRN leaders have aged quite a bit, or moved away or died.  We have a number of new and ongoing activities in the social responsibility/social justice area. These are thriving!  I explain below.

 

JoAnn Anglin is the Program Council's liaison for UUSS groups under the "force for healing in the world" part of our Mission.  If you are a member interested in these areas or if you have a vision for leading the Social Responsibility Network, please contact her!

UUSS Opportunities for Hands-On Service and Healing 

in the World

By Rev. Roger Jones

 

As noted in the Social Responsibility Network article, there are many ways that people in the congregation can give of their time, service, or money to reach out beyond UUSS into the community and the world.  If you have an interest in any of these, call the UUSS Office to give your name and get connected.  Also, the Pathways brochure has a contact sheet for all UUSS activity groups.

 

*Family Promise Hosting - homeless parents and children stay overnight for a week three to four times a year.  Cathy and Don Bowen, Paul Kinsella, Nancy Oprsal, Barbara Hopkins and others coordinate!

 

*St. John's Shelter Program for Women and Children - UUSS members and friends buy the food, then cook and serve dinner for the women and kids on the fourth Wednesday each month.  Glory Wicklund can fill you in.

 

*Loaves and Fishes - Dick Taylor recruits volunteers for lunch preparation and serving the fourth Monday each month. 

 

*UU Legislative Ministry (CA) - In 2013, UU congregations in California formed local-area clusters; Bruce Moulton was recruited to be our UUSS liaison.  He has recruited members (and me) to attend Capitol rallies and lobby days.  Kathleen Mead is also involved.  There are several other UULM supporters here, including both ministers!

 

*"Faithful Friends" - Immigration Visits to ICE Detainees in Sacramento Jail-Coordinated by JoAnn Anglin and Mary Helen Doherty.  We did a service on August 18, generating additional volunteers.

 

*"Together We Share" donation basket - Cathy George coordinates five volunteers for weekly deliveries of our non-perishable donations to a pantry.  This outreach grows near Christmas to include toys, clothes and personal care items.

 

*UURTHSONG Community Garden - At the east end of the parking lot, the garden is our own way to engage with the "locally-grown" movement!  See Glory Wicklund.

 

*4th Sunday - Colorful boxes receive used ink cartridges, batteries, fluorescents, etc.  Kathy Styc has kept this going the fourth Sunday of every month.

 

*Kids' Freedom Club - Aliya and friends raise awareness about modern slavery and raise money for Free the Slaves.  They've raised $1,500 and counting!  On Sunday, September 1, the kids and I did a service together.  Soon they will hold a yard sale.  This is a new group started by a new UUSS family! 

 

*American River Parkway Stewards - Second Saturday morning clean-up of a one-mile stretch "adopted by UUSS."  Now coordinated by Chris Lord, the dad in another new church family. 

 

*United Nations UU Envoys - In this new UUSS group, organizer Carl Sweet seeks to raise awareness of UN issues.  Often a table is staffed after a service.  We can be proud that our annual UUA dues help the UUA to fund our faith's presence at the UN!

 

*UU Partner Church relationships - A few members are interested in visiting the UU Churches of the Philippines or exploring a "partner church relationship" there.  Some members enjoy bringing Transylvanian Unitarian ministers to UUSS for sermons, talks and/or communion while each one spends a year studying at Starr King School for the Ministry.  I am involved in both activities.  See me with questions!

 

*Interfaith Council - Dues are $300 for UUSS to belong.  Barbara Hopkins is our representative, and she publicizes local interfaith events. 

 

*Shared Offering to Community Partners - You and I and everyone else are giving over $24,000 a year to UU and local not-for-profit agencies by our regular Sunday donations to the offering basket.  In September, we donated $2,034 to Mustard Seed School, which welcomes and educates kids who are homeless.

New Art Exhibit and Reception

By Patty Taylor Gutermute

 

The impressive large scale linocuts created by Dixie Laws, a member of our UUSS congregation, will be on display November through January.  You are invited to hear about her creative process at the opening reception on November 14 from 5:30 to 7 p.m.

How to Remember UUSS in Your Will 

Many of our members have included UUSS in their trust, will or other estate planning documents.  This generosity ensures that your community will remain a strong presence of liberal religious values and spiritual hospitality in this region. 

 

Share the following suggested wording with your estate planning attorney to add to your will or living trust if you would like to support the congregation's mission, ministry and programs after your lifetime.  This information is provided by the UUA's Office of Legacy Gifts.  Click the link for more information.  Here is the suggested language for a will. 

 

"I give to the Unitarian Universalist Society of Sacramento, 2425 Sierra Boulevard, Sacramento, CA 95825, the sum of $_____  (or _____ percent of the rest, residue and remainder of my estate) for its general purposes." 

Unigram Deadline


Remember, the deadline for you to submit Unigram items is the 15th of the month preceding the month of publication and your event.  The most effective articles will pick out one or two items to highlight.  Any announcements should contain a date, a time, and a contact person, including an e-mail or phone number. 

 

Serving Our Congregation

 

UUSS OFFICERS & BOARD TRUSTEES

          Linda Clear, President                         Linda Klein, Vice-President

          Glory Wicklund, Treasurer                  Cathy George, Secretary

          Meg Burnett                                         Gordon Gerwig

          Peter Killian                                         Janet Lopes

          Eric Ross

         

Contact Board members by email: president@uuss.org

 

PROGRAM COUNCIL

          JoAnn Anglin                                       Kimberly Ayers

          Chris Gerwig                                       Sandra Meredith

          Carol Jacobs                                       Diane Kelly-Abrams         

              

Contact Program Council members by email: programcouncil@uuss.org

 

CHURCH STAFF

Rev. Roger Jones, Acting Senior Minister

Rev. Lucy Bunch, Assistant Minister

Rachel Kang, Accompanist

JoLane Blaylock, Congregational Support Coordinator

Stanton Vedell, Facilities Coordinator

Michele Ebler, Bookkeeper  *  Elaine Cooper, Receptionist

Miranda Massa, Religious Education Coordinator

Annie Green, Rebekah Chester, Childcare Providers

Aaron Molina, Miguel Neri & Angel Neri, Custodians

Ricardo Sanchez, Maintenance Technician