The Unigram

June 2014 Newsletter

Unitarian Universalist Society of Sacramento

In This Issue
Fun & Fellowship
Senior Minister
Associate Minister
Presidential Prose
Newcomers' Orientation
Sound System
Sermons & Music
Big Day of Giving
In Loving Memory
RE Hope & Leadership
Artworks Nature Mandala
RE Summer Retreats
COA Credo Excerpts
Re: RE
RE Calendar
Kids' Freedom Club
Loaves & Fishes
Water Crisis Film
Faithful Friends
Adult Enrichment
Fiscal Year Closing
Building Project Update
UU Mile
Theatre One Meeting
Staff Changes
Indepence Day Holiday
Unigram Deadline
Serving Our Congregation
Join Our List
Join Our Mailing List
A Month of Sundays

One Summer Sunday Service at 10am

 

June 1

Flower Communion Sunday

All-Ages Service

Rev. Roger Jones, Rev. Lucy Bunch

and Miranda Massa, Religious Education Coordinator

Musical Guests:  Heartroot - Mindy Dillard and Eric McEuen from Berkeley

We can help one another to blossom into our fullness.  Bring one or more stems of fresh flowers before the service begins and place in the common vessel.  We take home a flower given by somebody else.  All welcome even if you forget a flower.  We honor Religious Education volunteers today.

Heartroot musicians Mindy and Eric sang at our 2013 Auction and did an all-ages service.  Today they sing joyful Americana!

No Religious Education today; child care available for ages 0-5 in the Room 11 Nursery.

 

June 8

Climate Change, Despair and Hope:  Remembering the Creation Within

Cindy Pincus, Pacific School of Religion, Preaching

Eli'jah Carroll, Pacific School of Religion, piano and guitar

Diane O'Mara, Lay Leader

Now preparing for the Unitarian Universalist ministry, Cindy has an undergraduate degree in environmental biology.  She worked as a field biologist and environmental chemist before seminary.  She also was a lay leader at First Unitarian in Denver.  In February she participated in the National Preach-In on Climate Change, organized by Interfaith Power and Light.  Don't miss her prophetic and spiritual message today!  Discussion follows the service.

In Religious Education, ART WORKS! begins today.  Child care available for ages 0-5 at all services through the summer.

 

June 15

My Father's Theology

Reverend Lucy Bunch, Preaching

My Father is not a Unitarian Universalist nor is he of any other religion.  But his life and choices reflect a deep theology that has influenced me greatly.  This Sunday I will share with you the life's lessons I have learned from my father and that have made me the person (and the minister) that I am today.   (There will also be worship at the all-church camp at Sons of Norway Rec Center.)

 

June 22

Rhythms of Prayer

Rev. Roger Jones, preaching, with Rev. Lucy Bunch and Lay Leader Taylor Lewis

Baby Dedication/Child Blessing Ritual

Music by the UUSS Rhythm Section with Ross Hammond

Roger asks, "What can prayer do for you? I don't know, but it saves my spiritual sanity, renews me and gives me a fresh perspective.  Sometimes it can surprise me."

Today we offer prayers of hope and our community's dedication to the children of several families in the church with a UU child blessing ritual.  See article below.

This is the debut of our occasional rhythm section, offering bass, percussion and guitar accompaniment to some new gems and old favorites in our UU hymn books.

 

June 29

Breaking the Silence:  A Caregiver's Voice

Ms. Frances Kakugawa, speaking, Lay Leader Mary Howard

Nicholas Dold, guest pianist

Discussion follows at 11:30

Ms. Kakugawa is a poet, writer and teacher.  She's the author of books for adults and for children about the experience of caring for loved ones with a long-term illness, about the Hawaiian town of her childhood which was buried under a lava flow, and about the challenges of the teacher-student relationship.  For five years, she was the main caregiver for her mother with Alzheimer's disease.

A longer talk with discussion will follow the service at 11:30.  Don't miss this rare appearance by a celebrated speaker.

We're happy to welcome Nicholas Dold back after his first year working at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music and before he heads east for the Duxbury Music Festival where he is on the accompanist faculty.

 

July 6

Eulogy or Resume:  How Do You Want to Be Remembered?

Rev. Dr. David Sammons, guest preacher

with Lay Leader Deirdre Downes and Barbara Lazar, guest pianist

When famous people die the urge is to memorialize them with all the noteworthy things on their resume. But is that the way we really want to be remembered? When Steve Jobs' sister eulogized her brother at his memorial service she didn't say a thing about iPhones or Apple. She talked about the man who wanted love to inform all his relationships with his family, friends and the world. So, come our memorial service, what is it we really want remembered about us?

David Sammons has been Interim Senior Minister at First Unitarian in San Francisco (where Roger preached in December for this delayed pulpit exchange).  He was Interim Senior Minister in Golden, CO, where he followed Peter Morales after he was elected President of the UUA. Dave served the Mt. Diablo UU Church for 23 years.

 

July 13

It's the End of the World As We Know It (Again):

The Millennial Generation and American Religious Life

Rev. Annie Gonzalez,

Unitarian Universalist Association, Office of Campus and Young Adult Ministries

Discussion follows 11:30 to 12:20.

Mike Erwin, Lay Leader; Barbara Lazar, guest pianist

"Millennials" are a hot topic these days.  Depending on whom you ask, those of us born between 1980 and 2000 are narcissistic and entitled, glued to our technology, or we're inclusive and engaged, moving society into better days.  One thing is for certain: young adults don't go to church very much and they shy away from institutions in general. Does this mean certain demise for our religious institutions?

Perhaps we can look back at how other generations have changed America's cultural landscape. We can learn how institutions adapt to new eras and new generations, time and time again.

Rev. Gonzalez serves our denomination's young adult and campus ministries office.  She grew up as a UU in Central Illinois, attended Union Theological Seminary and did her internship at the UU Church in Davis.

Don't miss this passionate and promising new leader for our liberal faith.

Fun & Fellowship In June

"Gatehouse Saints" and Others in Concert-at UUSS Sunday, 

June 8, 6:00 p.m.

By Rev. Roger Jones

Ross Hammond will host a concert on Sunday evening, June 8, by a folk-rock-blues-inspired pair of UU singers from Iowa known as Gatehouse Saints, with an opening act by Amy Reed, a local folk singer/songwriter, with Ross Hammond, guitar. UUSS will get half the ticket sales.  If a UUSS volunteer group wishes to sell snacks as a fundraiser, let Roger know. The Gatehouse Saints duo includes LA native and recording artist Jen McClung and NYC native and poet, singer, and rhythm accompanist Jim Coppoc.  Sliding scale price from $10 to $20. If you can help out on June 8, please contact Ross.  If you haven't heard Ross on guitar in church on a Sunday, see www.rosshammond.com for his local venues.

 

All-Ages Church Camp - UUSS at Camp Norge

By Denise Wieland, Christopher Jensen & Others

This year the camp is Friday, June 13 to Sunday, June 15.  Dads make breakfast on Sunday, and we have a potluck supper Saturday.  The pool is cool and the meadow is groovy.  The people are the best-UUSS has exclusive use!  Dorm lodging was getting claimed fast but there is plenty of tent and RV space at Sons of Norway Rec Center.  And motels nearby. To register and pay for the weekend, stop by the table before service June 1 & 8.  For details, click here.

 

Picnic, Potluck, Music-June 22

By Janet Lopes, Aggie Vawter and Glory Wicklund

We are celebrating together "one more time" on our patio after the June 22 Sunday service with a Potluck Picnic.  A big batch of vegetarian chili, lemonade and iced tea will be served along with whatever you bring to the potluck.  The theme is, Our Generations at UUSS -- the 1960s, 1970s, and Beyond, and we will have music from those eras.  Be groovy: bring an appetizer, salad or main dish to share that was popular during those years-Pigs In A Blanket?  Jell-O Salad?  Stuffed Celery?  Chips and Dip?  What else?  Be there or be square!

 

Shared Offering to Support Senior Safe House

By Roger Jones

We share every weekly offering with the greater community.  For April, we sent $1,931 to St. John's Program for Real Change.   Thank you!         In June we have a new Community Partner recipient by vote of the congregation.  Senior Safe House is an emergency shelter for elders where they can go if they are neglected, abused or at risk.  It provides hospitality, support services and protection to a group whose victimization may not be visible.  After losing a grant it almost closed early this year, but many generous people donated $200,000 to keep it going.  This is our time to pitch in to sustain this place of healing and hope.

Senior Minister's Message:  Where there's a Will, there's a Way!

By Rev. Roger Jones

 

I'm overdue to redraft my Last Will and Testament.  I also should create a Trust. Since doing my will in 1991, things have changed.  My nephews have grown up.  They are out on their own, and their parents have done quite well, so they are not in need of all my assets.  For 17 years, I haven't even been in the Midwestern UU church that I listed as a beneficiary in my will long ago.  Now I have a new congregation that is near to my heart and whose mission inspires my actions.  This one!

 

Other things have changed.  Since those days, I've become a graduate of one UU seminary and I feel very close to another one.  I want them to continue to produce "all the ministers that are above average" for a long time to come. 

 

At UUSS, our 50-year Master Plan for the Buildings and Grounds is visionary and beautiful, and the amount of resources necessary over the years for it will not be small.  What made this plan possible in the first place were bequests of beloved members and friends of UUSS, now departed.  You can see all their names on the metal Gratitude and Appreciation tree sculpture in the Connection Central lobby.

 

Our fundraising consultant, Rev. Bud Swank, told me that we need an organized program to invite people to consider and plan on leaving a bequest or other legacy to UUSS with instruments like wills, trusts, mutual fund beneficiary designations, etc.  This will ensure the Master Plan has sufficient resources down the road.  I decided to get going on this need myself.

 

I don't expect to die soon, but I don't want to neglect putting down on paper the decisions that could put my assets to use in the service of my liberal religious values and in support of the mission and continuing ministry of this congregation. 

 

If you'd like to talk to a minister about the kind of legacy you would like to plan for the future of Unitarian Universalism, please be in touch with one of us.  I'm glad you are here now, in person.  I look forward to seeing you soon on a Sunday.  Take care!

 

Thank you for being part of UUSS.

 

Yours in service,

Roger

 

P.S.-In June, Adult Enrichment features a workshop on related issues and making elder health and housing decisions--given by our own Maureen Sullivan.  See below.

 

Where's Roger in June?

If you send me an e-mail but don't hear back in a few days, I may have missed it.  Please e-mail again or call me!  I'm here weekday afternoons and won't take a regular weekday off in June.  However:  June 2 I'm at the Sparks for Growth ministerial study group.  June 5 to 9 I am in Boston for my last meeting on the grants panel of the Fund for a Just Society, where I've served eight years.  June 13 and 14 I'm at our all-church, all-ages camp at Sons of Norway Rec Center in Alta. And I leave on June 23 for the UUA General Assembly and meetings of the UU Ministers' Association.

 

Where's Roger in July?

I'll be somewhere on vacation and/or on retreat until July 20!  Not sure where yet-suggestions?  Last July I stayed here to ensure we would have clergy presence and to work with a team of lay leaders to select an Assistant Minister.  I'm thrilled that Rev. Lucy Bunch has been serving us this year, and grateful that she'll be available to you this July.  Also, RE Coordinator Miranda Massa will be here all summer to lead and support RE volunteers and nursery staff.  Last summer she was in Ghana!

Peter Pan's Flight

By Rev. Lucy Bunch, Assistant Minister

 
Rev. Lucy

Disneyland was a magical place in my childhood.  My family had many traditions when we visited and my favorites were the evening rides in Fantasyland - Mr. Toad's Wild Ride,  Alice in Wonderland and especially Peter Pan's Flight.  In that ride you climbed aboard a ship which flew through the dark, high above the city below. 

 

On the precipice of the flight, Peter Pan's voice would cry out "Come on everybody - here we go!"  I remember the mixture of anticipation, excitement, fear and delight that would fill me when I heard those words and the ride began.

 

I am thinking about the ride today because Peter's words evoke the same feelings that are coming up for me around our building project - "come on everybody - here we go! "  In 2 months, we move out of our facility and begin our great remodeling adventure.  Anticipation, excitement, fear and delight are among the many feelings coming up for me and for the volunteers engaged in planning and preparing; anticipation of everything that we need to get done by the end of July; excitement and delight in finalizing plans for the renovations.  

 

And fear. 

 

With the scope of the project, and the many details to be considered, it makes sense that fear would be on the list of emotions.  It's OK to be afraid.  Many things worth doing involve some fear.  I certainly have my list of things to fear in this project. 

 

However, just like the ride at Disneyland, we are not alone in our journey - we have each other for support and encouragement.  Whatever emotions you may have about the project, Roger and I are here to listen and support.  We are all in this ride together.  So hold on and get ready - because we are on our way. 

 

Where's Lucy in June?

My office hours are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday afternoons.  Please call or e-mail if you would like to visit so that I can be sure to be available.  I will be with you three Sundays in June: June 1, 15, and 22.

 

See you in church!

Presidential Prose

By Linda Clear, UUSS Board President

 
Linda Clear

As our church year comes to a close, it is heartening to look back on all that we have accomplished in the past 12 months: calling a new lead minister, having a very successful Stewardship Campaign and a fun and profitable Church Auction, getting the building project under way and implementing a new Committee Structure to lead the project.  As members, we have had our own milestones of births, marriages, anniversaries, birthdays and personal loss.  It has truly been an eventful time.

I look forward to what this next year will bring for us.  We break ground for our remodel at the end of July, we move to our temporary location at Sierra Arden United Church of Christ in August and we will continue to have our usual committee meetings and events.  Our move will mean a completely different schedule on Sundays.  We will be in a location unfamiliar and maybe in some ways uncomfortable for us.  (You know they have a cross hanging in the sanctuary that we will use.)  It could be a time for some to say they will take a break from church, but I certainly hope that will not be the case. 

It will be more important than ever to stick together and strengthen our bond as a community.  I also think it will be an exciting time.  Change is good, even if it is temporary.  We have opportunities to work together in different ways and in different places.  It will be challenging, but in a good way. 

But the most exciting prospect is what it will feel like to come home again. I look forward to that first Sunday service in our new surroundings.  It probably sounds a little sentimental, but I really get chills just contemplating it. 

As I write this column, we have just had our congregation meeting where we voted in new officers for the church, a new budget and an update on the building plans. We will be winding down for our summer plans and a new chapter will start for UUSS.  I hope all of you have a wonderful summer and feel renewed as we start our next church year.

Newcomers' Orientation to Membership Course
 Tuesday, June 10 & 17, 6-9 PM

Meet others, learn about our heritage and spiritual values, find out how to get connected at UUSS, take a tour, see the plans for the building project.  Most important, learn what it means to become a member and stakeholder of this thriving congregation, and decide if you'd like to join.  This course is offered only three times a year, so don't miss it!

 

We start with a light supper both nights at 6:00 and the program starts at 6:20.  We're done by 9:00 PM. Please reserve your spot and child care at the Welcome Table or call the UUSS Office.  Child care must be reserved by June 2 so we can arrange for staff.  

Sunday Sound System-It's Easy to Help 

By Rev. Roger Jones

 

Tech-phobic?  No worries-it's like following a recipe, very easy to learn and do.  Megan is available to train you and provide ongoing support.  This is a great way to support the congregation.  Contact Megan Brooks by e-mail or see her on Sunday, or call the UUSS Office and leave your name and number.  Thanks!  

Sermons and Music in Summer-and Next Year

By Rev. Roger Jones

 

I'm pleased to have lined up a great set of guest sermons by some of our most promising young seminarians and new UU ministers this summer. 

 

Also, some wonderful musicians will return to enliven our services.  The Heartroot duo returns June 1 from Berkeley.  On June 8, pianist, guitarist and seminarian Eli'jah Carroll joins us as his classmate Cindy Pincus (pictured) offers the sermon.  Eli'jah is a youth minister at a Bay Area UCC church and a native of Wisconsin. 

 

On June 22, Ross Hammond introduces us to the UUSS Rhythm Section!  On June 29 and August 17 and 24, Nicholas Dold returns from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music.  Our beloved Barbara Lazar is at the piano several Sundays this summer. 

 

Conductor Meg Burnett and I hope to hire a piano accompanist by mid-August for Wednesday night choir rehearsals and the Sunday services each month when the choir sings.  This will give us flexibility to hear a variety of musical styles, instrument and voice configurations, and both volunteer and guest musicians to enrich services on the other Sundays.  Let Music Chair Judy Lane and me know how you like our guests!

Big Results on the Big Day of Giving, May 6

By Rev. Roger Jones

 

Over 400 local not-for-profit organizations raised funds on just ONE day of special giving--Tuesday, May 6.  The goal was $1 million in the aggregate, but they raised over $3 million in the 24 hours of on-line giving.  Several of these organizations have UUSS folks as active members, staff or volunteers.  Some are UUSS Community Partners, which receive half of our Sunday offerings.  Thanks and congrats for keeping generosity local!

In Loving Memory-Lillian Toole

By Rev. Roger Jones

 

 

We extend our condolences to our member Marc Tool on the passing of his wife, Lillian, at age 92.  A teacher, active community member, singer, folk dancer, arts patron, cook, and long-time UUSS member, Lillian leaves behind two grown children. 

 

I conducted her memorial service at UUSS Saturday, May 24.  Memorial donations for Lillian may be made to the UUSS Heritage Fund or the Endowment Fund and the Sacramento Saturday Club.  Support for our Memorial Receptions committee expenses go into the Operating Fund. Read her obituary here.   

RE Hope and Leadership

By Miranda Massa, Religious Education (RE) Coordinator

 

Last year at this time I was living in Ghana, fully immersed in a beautiful vibrant culture.  I was constantly reminded by the deaf children of my purpose and reason for being there: to bring language, compassion, education and, most of all, hope.  Signs of Hope International brings hope to young deaf Ghanaian children in the village of Mampong.  

              

Here at UUSS I am often reminded of our community and the hope we bring to our children and youth.  We bring young UUs hope by being present, by volunteering our time and talents and guiding them on their overall path to seek friendship and truth.    Do you see the same hope?  Do you imagine yourself providing and giving to the children and youth here at UUSS?  I want to work beside you as we build our Religious Education program.  Your gifts of time and dedication are rewarding and mean so much.  I am in Sacramento this summer and look forward to speaking with you.

ArtWorks Nature Mandala

By Miranda Massa, Religious Education (RE) Coordinator

 

RE ArtWorks children will participate in a project to make a nature mandala this summer.  Mandalas can appear to us in many aspects of life.  They represent our life journey and spirit.  We are asking for UUSS to come together to make this happen.  What do we need from you?  Dried flowers, petals, twigs, bark, moss, unique stones, big leaves and other fabulous pieces of nature.  Gather these materials from your garden or on your nature walk.  A large amount of any item is certainly a plus!  Please ask Miranda if you have any questions or ideas.

UU Retreats in Summer

By Miranda Massa, Religious Education (RE) Coordinator

 

They will be held the first week of July for middle and high school youth. The PCD middle school summer camp, MiSC, and the YRUU high school camp, WUUKY, have information available for families now. 

 

Coming of Age Credo Statements

By Youth Prot�g�s

 

Excerpts from the youth credos heard in the Coming of Age service held at the beginning of May.

  • "With progress will come a decrease in suffering, which will improve all lives.  Being empathetic creatures, I believe, by nature, we do not enjoy the pain of our fellow people."
  • "In my world this is one phrase I follow, "Joy helps us get through life."  People should do things that give them joy in the world.  Joy should come from things that don't mean hurting people or animals, destroying other people's possessions or creative destructive mischief.  Joy should come from things you enjoy doing in the world." 
  • "I discovered my affinity for individuality a few years back when I realized how easy it was to accept myself and be myself instead of what everyone else wanted. This trait in many ways is incredibly important to the UU religion."

Re: RE

By Miranda Massa, Religious Education (RE) Coordinator 

  • June 1: we recognize the fabulous RE volunteers at our annual all ages Flower Communion/Teacher Appreciation service.  Bring a stem or two of flowers.
  • Summer ArtWorks in a Basket.  We have simple art and conversation activities prepped and ready to go for a volunteer to work with the RE group this summer.  One-Sunday commitment and everything is supplied to make it easy to plan.  See Miranda if this sounds fun! 
  • RE calendar details and other information http://uuss.org/Groups/RE/index.php

Religious Education (RE) Calendar, June 2014

Sunday, June 1

9:45-11:45           Child care available - age 5 and under

10:00-11:15        All ages Flower Communion/Teacher Appreciation

11:30-12:45        Kids Freedom Club Meeting

 

Sunday, June 8

9:45-11:45           Child care available - age 5 and under

10:00-11:15        RE ArtWorks

 

Friday, June 13 to Sunday, June 15, Family Camp in Alta, CA

 

Sunday, June 15, Father's Day

9:45-11:45           Child care available - age 5 and under

10:00-11:15        RE ArtWorks

 

Sunday, June 22

9:45-11:45           Child care available - age 5 and under

10:00-11:15        RE ArtWorks

 

Sunday, June 29

9:45-11:45           Child care available - age 5 and under

10:00-11:15        RE ArtWorks 

SOCIAL JUSTICE AND SOCIAL SERVICE


Kids' Freedom Club success - Meeting June 29

By Rev. Roger Jones

 

Congrats to our kids who raised $450 in the May "Freedom Challenge" at UUSS for Free the Slaves, and to the adults who took on a personal challenge and made a pledge of money toward meeting their 30-day goals.  The average cost to rescue a person from debt bondage and other forms of contemporary slavery is $94, so you provided funds to free four more people.  Two kids raised $100 each!  We will mark this soon at a service.

Next meeting of UUSS Kids' Freedom Club is after church June 29. 

Slicing and Dicing at Loaves & Fishes:  Monday Meals 

By JoAnn Anglin   

Every fourth Monday, a group of UUSS volunteers go out to Loaves & Fishes on North C Street at 7:30 a.m. to help prepare the food to be served later to the indigent clients who show up for a daily nutritious meal.  Pictured here, front to back, on the left:  Larry Shaw, Lynne Greaves, and Dick Taylor; on the right are Jeff Voeller and Ray, one of the non-UUSS regulars.  (Photo supplied by Lynne Greaves)

 

Feel like cutting up with them?  Contact Dick Taylor at:  gophot@att.net or (916) 274-4925.

California's water crisis explained in new movie

By JoAnn Anglin

 

On May 14, about 20 members of UUSS attended the premiere of the movie, Thirsty for Justice, at the California Museum in midtown Sacramento.  Efforts will be made to bring the movie to UUSS. 

 

Through stories of inadequate safe water and its effects in the Central Valley and other parts of the state, the film showed the hardships for residents, especially the poor and powerless, and the actions of many people to pass AB 685, the Human Right to Water law.

 

Seeing the movie has inspired several UUSS members to revitalize some form of the Green Sanctuary/Environmental Justice action team.  First meeting is June 1.  Watch for more details to come.   

 

The movie, largely the product of in-depth work by Rev. Lindi Ramsden, UU lay leader Ian Slattery and the UU Justice Ministry of California, was presented by the Environmental Justice Coalition for Water.  A panel included members of the Community Water Center, Safe Ground Sacramento, the Winnemem Wintu Tribe and the International Human Rights Law Clinic of the UC Berkeley School of Law.

Faithful Friends--Amigos Fieles:  Visiting Immigrant Detainees

By Mary Helen Doherty 

 

You are invited to an evening of refreshments, sharing, and support on Thursday June 5, at 6:15 p.m.  The meeting starts at 6:30 at Sol Collective, 2574 21st Street, Sacramento.  Faithful Friends is a group of volunteers who visit the undocumented immigrants detained by ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) in local jails.

 

Please join us to hear a recently-released detainee share her story, and share your story as a volunteer.  Bring your friends and colleagues.

 

We need MORE volunteers to join us to help end the isolation!!!

 

THANK YOU to all the volunteers who visit immigrants in ICE Units at Rio Cosumnes Correctional Center and the Yuba County Jail!

 

Call (916) 708-3390 or visit www.endisolation.org for further info.

Adult Enrichment Programs

UUSS BOOK GROUP

The UUSS Book Readers meet on Tuesdays, May 27 and June 24, at 7 p.m. (always on the last Tuesday of a month)  For more information, contact Jim Glidden by e-mail or call (916) 649-9697.

 

Aging and Reassurance through Planning: 

Wills, Trusts, Estates, Health Care Needs and Issues of Aging for Everyone. 

With Maureen Sullivan, Esq.

A two-session workshop for elders, their adult children and others who care about their future needs presented by UUSS member Maureen Sullivan.  She is an estate-planning attorney with a specialty in issues of aging, including how to have those tender, important conversations with loved ones about health care decisions, asset management and financial security, and the kind of legacies we build and leave to people and institutions we care about. 

Topics Covered:

  • What is the value of estate planning for you?  Who controls the estate plan and its assets?  Types of planning documents, including Durable Power of Attorney for Financial Affairs and Advanced Directives for Health Care Decision Making.
  • Decisions, Decisions, Decisions:  Disagreements between children and parents about the course of action or care; disagreements among siblings about what to do to meet care needs of parents.
  • Mediation as a tool for Resolution:  What is mediation and how does it work in family disagreements?
  • What services are available to care for aging parents?  In-home care (health care at home vs. home care), Assisted Living, Nursing Homes, Rehabilitation Facilities and Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly.
  • Costs - Planning for the costs of long-term care
  • Issues of Capacity and Competency

The workshop will be on two Wednesdays, June 18 and 25, 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.  A freewill donation is requested to UUSS for Adult Enrichment and overhead costs. 

 

Buddhist Meditation Booster-Wednesday Nights: June 4, 11 and 18

With Rev. Roger Jones

The most important thing is just to start sitting!  No experience required.  Group support makes a difference; we encourage one another to take time for sitting in the days between meetings.  But if you'd like to find an introductory course, try Sacramento Insight Meditation.  Join us for introductory words at 6:10 p.m., silent meditation from 6:15 to 6:45 and a gentle discussion on mindfulness meditation practice until 7 p.m.  A freewill donation to UUSS Adult Enrichment is encouraged for overhead expenses.

 

Banner Banter:  Traditions Reflected in our Sanctuary

With Jerry Houseman

7 Sunday mornings, 8:45 a.m. to 9:45 a.m., June 15 through July 27

Have you wondered about the spiritual significance of the banners in our Main Hall?  Come, learn and discuss how various spiritual and cultural practices over the ages may relate to your spiritual journey.   "Banner Banter" is facilitated by Jerry Houseman, BA Religion and Ed D curriculum and instruction.  The class will meet on Sundays prior to the 10 a.m. church service starting June 15.  We will take one banner per Sunday.  There is no long-term commitment; each class stands alone.  Sign up at the Adult Enrichment Table for "Banner Banter" to indicate you hope to attend some of these classes. We need at least six sign-ups for the June 15class to take place.

 

Engaging with Islam

Led by Rev. Lucy Bunch, with Rev. Roger and discussion and Quran recitation by a young adult guest speaker from Masjid Annur in Sacramento. Two sessions. Schedule and fee to be announced at Adult Enrichment Table and in the weekly Blue Sheet.

 

Full-Moon Labyrinth Walk-Once a Month

Would you like to walk the Labyrinth one night a month in the presence of other walkers?  Our outdoor Labyrinth is available at all times, but at night you might prefer some company.  Let Roger Jones know and he will connect you with others. 

 

Adventures in the Southern Corners of France

Book Review by Judy Lane
UUSS's own Christine Webb-Curtis has just published her most recent book,
Adventures in the Southern Corners of France.  I just finished reading it and enjoyed it very much, including Chris' excellent photos.  I didn't realize how much Roman history is still visible in Europe.  The scenery in Basque country is particularly stunning.  Chris' warm descriptions of people and places will encourage anyone thinking of making such a trip.  All that driving, though!  She has probably driven more in France than I have in the U.S.  A good read, available for Kindle readers at Amazon.com.  I don't have a Kindle, but found I could read the book on my PC with a download of free software from Amazon.

 

Solstice Activities of CUUPs: Earth-Based Spirituality

By Laurie Jones

On Saturday, June 21, the Summer Solstice, the Labyrinth will be available from 5 to 8 p.m..  We'll start at 5 p.m., have a potluck at 6 p.m. and ritual at 7 p.m.  CUUPs is holding a small informal summer solstice ceremony and potluck with access to both our UUSS labyrinths.  Instead of a speaker, we will have a ritual and conversation and enjoy the summer bounty and weather.  We hope to have replaced our missing fire pit by then. Open to all. Anyone wish to play music or bring a reading?  Email Laurie Jones or call me at (916) 342-3226.

CONGREGATIONAL CONCERNS, REMINDERS & CELEBRATIONS


FISCAL YEAR END CLOSING REMINDER:  Pledge Payment Catch-Up

By Michele Ebler and Glory Wicklund

 

By June 15, please bring your pledge payments up to date for the church budget year, which closes at the end of the month.  Committee Members:  please submit your reimbursement requests and receipts so that income and expenses for budget year 2013-14 can be recorded and the fiscal year closed out by June 30.  Thank You!  

Building Project Update

By Dennis Clear

 

Since the congregation approved borrowing money to assist in the funding of the campus renovation on April 6, progress on the UUSS Building Project has continued with three primary efforts:  1. applying for and securing a loan, 2. creating an organizational structure to lead and manage the project; 3. developing a detailed project schedule with Jackson Construction.

 

An update on these activities.

 

Status of the Loan

Various lenders were contacted regarding a loan and an application was submitted to Five Star Bank.  Our loan request for up to $1.1 million was tentatively approved; however the property appraisal has not yet been completed and is necessary before final approval is received.  Loan approval is expected in the next 30 days, but no payments will be required and interest will not begin accruing until UUSS spends the funds we already have on hand - approximately $2 million. 

 

A New Committee

The Board of Trustees has approved replacing the Implementing the Master Plan (IMP) Committee with a new Building Project Steering Committee (BPSC) to enable quicker decision making and more focused and immediate oversight of the project.  The BPSC has five members and three reporting groups:  a Project Delivery Team, a Project Funding Team and the construction Project Managers.  Team members are being recruited from previous Master Planning efforts, If anyone is interested in participating, please contact BPSC Chair Margaret Wilcox.

 

The Project Schedule

Development of the project schedule has been significantly affected by the recent resignation of our architect, Jeff Gold, whose family obligations forced him to withdraw from our project. The UUSS leadership team, along with Jackson Construction, interviewed two firms with local experience in designing religious facilities.  The architectural firm of Comstock-Johnson was selected as our new partner; As a result of this change, an updated design and new project schedule are being developed.  

 

Next Steps

Our logistics team is working on the move to Sierra Arden United Church of Christ (SAUCC) and next month's Unigram will contain important information on these activities.

 

Please note on your calendars that our last service for this year at UUSS will be July 27, and our first service at Sierra Arden will be August 3.  More details on the transition to SAUCC will be shared soon to ensure this move is smooth and uneventful. 

The "UU Mile"

By Jeff Voeller

 

Seven hikers met to walk the "UU mile" on Saturday, May 3, as an auction item.  They enjoyed a light picnic and became acquainted with the portion of the American River Parkway Trail that our congregation cleans once a month on each 2nd Saturday.

 

Mile Six-to-Seven extends from the bend at Ethan Way to the midpoint of the Campus Commons golf course.  Anyone interested in joining the cleanup may come to the west end of Northrup Avenue at 9 a.m. on 2nd Saturdays.  To get on the e-mail reminder list or for more information, contact Chris Lord.

 

This is a great way to enjoy our native outdoors and your fellow members while fostering our UU environmental values.

Theatre One Meeting:  On-Stage, Back-Stage, in the Community

By Laurie Jones

 

Thursday, June 17, from 7 to 9 p.m., is the regular 3rd Thursday monthly meeting.  We may continue elections from candidates nominated at the May 22nd meeting if enough people attend. There will be a progress report on the planned August 10 Theatre 1 Sunday service.  We will discuss room availability during construction/renovation on the main hall, which begins August 1, and possible activities during the next church year. All are welcome and no theater experience is necessary.  It's fun and we need more participants.  Theater One is a UUSS fund-raiser and one of the best attended community theaters in the region.

Recent and Upcoming Staff Changes at UUSS

By Rev. Roger Jones


JoLane Blaylock made an always-challenging transition from congregant to staff member three years ago when she rescued us administratively during a time of transition.  As our Congregational Support Coordinator, she brought her organizing and rearranging skills to the office, the membership records, the newsletter, weekly announcements and all-church emails (among much more) and brought an esthetic touch.  She is the queen of the to-do list.  Now we have another transition as she moves to a leadership opportunity using her MSW and technical savvy.  She leaves at the end of June and will be here on a Sunday for a goodbye.  Congrats, farewell, and thank you, JoLane. 

              

We have reduced that position to 15-18 hours a week and named it  Membership & Communication Coordinator.  We have named our Facilities Coordinator, Stanton Vedell, to the new position in a three-month "acting coordinator" role. We'll evaluate how it goes before the term ends.  If all goes well, we'll combine his two jobs under one title.  Stanton and we are excited to have him on site nearly twice as much as he is now and working with receptionist Elaine Cooper on room reservations and communications.  He and JoLane will overlap for training in June.  Thanks, Stanton.

              

We give our deep thanks to the two custodians who will be working elsewhere--but not here--after July, while the Main Hall is renovated. 

              

We appreciate the continuity provided by our dedicated bookkeeper, receptionist, facilities coordinator, custodians, RE coordinator and child care providers. 

              

I'm thrilled that the amazing Rev. Lucy Bunch will be serving UUSS on a 75% basis in the coming budget year, up from 50% this year.  Thanks to Lucy for her generosity with her many talents and the enthusiasm, creativity, and encouragement that she brings to us. 

              

RE Coordinator Miranda Massa is here all summer and welcomes you to sign up for "Art Works in a Basket" one Sunday--or to talk to either of us about joining a team of Religious Education volunteers in September.

              

Thanks to our Board of Trustees for supporting our ministers, staff, and volunteers this year, and to all members and pledging friends whose generous giving makes possible all of the good work of those who serve UUSS. 

Independence Day Holiday

The UUSS office will be closed Friday, July 4, in observance of Independence Day. Be sure to check the Blue Sheet and Daily Events Lists for information on your favorite church activities.

Unigram Deadline


Remember, the deadline for you to submit Unigram items is the 15
th 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

  Lisa Derthick                                       Chris Gerwig                           Sandra Meredith                                  Carol Jacobs                         Diane Kelly-Abrams         

              

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

 

CHURCH STAFF

Rev. Roger Jones, 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