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 UnityCenter for Spiritual Growth
Athens
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Will This Be Your Season of Love?
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Sunday, December 14, 2014
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At Unity Center for Spiritual Growth, we celebrate ~
One loving, empowering, supportive God ~
Human diversity in all its delightful forms ~
An open atmosphere of positive thinking ~
And the expansion and renewal of our spiritual nature.
You are always welcome at Unity Athens.
At Unity, 2014 has been a year of realizing the higher Self -- that ever-unfolding, spiritually-expanding, connected-to-Source part of us. It's that place of divine intuition, of sacred knowing, of perpetual, streaming God-stuff. We hope you've felt the call, the nudge, the urge in 2014 to "Come Home" to the realization of your "higher Self," that experience of serenity, confidence, balance, and infinite love.
How does one come home? By shifting from the busy-ness of the "outer" and relaxing into the heart-enhanced place of "inner." One of the most frequent comments heard at Unity spiritual centers from people is that when they first visit, or continue at Unity, they feel as if they have "come home." We hope you'll join Unity Worldwide Ministries, Unity Worldwide Headquarters at Unity Village, and Unity Athens in the powerful inner alignment of Coming Home.
We'd love to see you at our 11:00 Sunday celebrations and/or at our classes, circles, workshops, and events.
Our Spiritual Faculty for December is "Life," the ability to energize, vitalize, enliven, animate, and invigorate.The corresponding color is red and the location is the regenerative organs.The disciple is Judas. He represents the cleansing of selfishness, allowing the life force to flow to every part of the body. Consider affirming: "I am filled with life, sweet life"
You can read more about "Life" here.
In December we will look at ways to use and expand this faculty, or power, in our lives. And remember, we can tap into, create from, and explore the Field of Infinite Possibilities through creative, imaginative thought, spiritual awareness and consciousness. We are wishing you December days filled with even more things to appreciate, along with vibrant health, lavish abundance, and peaceful moments to become still and to know beyond all knowing that Mother-Father God is always with you and blessing you beyond your wildest dreams.
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Sunday, December 14, 2014 ~ "Your Season of Love" 11:00 a.m. 
9:40 - 10:25 a.m. ~ "Morning Quietude" ~ Details below
11:00 ~ Sunday Celebration ~ "Your Season of Love" with Rev. Bronte
Music by Leanne Allen ~ Plus Our Annual Christmas GIveaway!
This Sunday we will light the Advent candle for Love. Often easy to talk about, Love can be more difficult to practice out in a world where we don't always feel warm and fuzzy toward others. It can seem to be so easy to point to our surroundings, the people in our lives, the broader "stuff" of the world as elements that make loving more difficult. But is it really so hard to love? Could love be dependent upon our "practice of it"? Can sheathing our thoughts in love really expand the giving and receiving of love? Does love consist of being pleasant & kind or is there more to it than that?
We would love to see the Loving Light that is you this Sunday. If you can't be with us, perhaps think on this affirmation from the 2014 Unity Advent booklet, Christmas in My Heart: "God is love and God in me is love. As I express love, I feel whole, happy, and fulfilled. As I receive love, I feel blessed, grateful, and worthy. The love I give returns to me, increased and multiplied. Loving others is a gift I give to myself." We are wishing you a weekend and week ahead that is blessed with love, peace, and harmony.
Leanne Allen is our guest musician this Sunday. 
Sample Leanne's Music here !
Singer / Songwriter, Spiritual Being, Wife, Mother, Friend, etc., Leanne is a creative spirit who is guided by the desire to help others find peace in their lives through outlets such as music and yoga. Leanne blossomed into a songwriter as an adult. Music began flowing in her head when she started journaling about the many challenges she had faced throughout her childhood. As a result, her songs are filled with stories of personal growth and insights. Her sound is unique; typically labeled soft rock or indie. She likes to call it "Pop-Psychology." Regardless of genre, she is a self-labeled PMS writer; that's 'Positive Message Songs' writer. Leanne's new CD, "The Light in You," contains six original songs expressing gratitude, self-acceptance and hope. The arrangements and production were part of a collaborative effort with the incomparable Daniel Nahmod.
Nancy has CDs available for purchase.
1:00 to 3:00 Workshop with Jennifer Ziegler-Gorman: Make your own unique body scrub. Details below
2:00 ~ 3:30 A Course in Miracles class
"UP-COMINGS & ON-GOINGS" - Events & classes plus weekly, monthly gatherings & more!
Sunday Messages and Music (Messages by Rev. Bronte Colbert unless noted otherwise)
Sundays in December - Messages and music will be about "Inviting In" the essences of spirituality for the holidays.
Sun. Dec 14 ~ "Your Season of Love" & Christmas Celebration Our annual Christmas Give-away! Music by Leanne Allen
Sun. Dec 21 ~"Your Season of Joy- Christmas Sunday" Candlelighting & carols including music by Marguerite Vardman. Potluck breakfast before service!
Sun. Dec. 28 ~ Pre-New Year's Eve Burning Bowl Ceremony at 11:00 a.m. Release what no longer serves you!
Sun. Jan 04 ~ "White Stone" Ceremony
Sundays in January will cover the core concepts of Unity spirituality and belief systems - a very popular series.
WE INVITE YOU TO TRY OUR EARLY MEDITATION SERVICE 
"MORNING QUIETUDE" Sundays, 9:40 to 10:25 AM.
Morning Quietude meets in the Lobby area (through the double glass doors in the middle of the building). Led by Rev. Bronte, this is a time for quiet contemplation, soft music, and centering. Whether you join us as a pre-service preparation time, a stand-alone "church service," or as a preface to your other Sunday plans, we welcome all. If you arrive after 9:40, that's fine, just please turn off phone, etc., and quietly take your place at the circle. Donations are appreciated. Reiki practitioners are often available to freely give healing touch and energy.
Sun,  Dec. 14: Special Holiday Hands-On Workshop: 1:00 to 3:00 "Make Your Own Unique Body Scrub with Jennifer Ziegler-Gorman"
Held at Unity Athens, from 1:00 to 3:00 and led by Jennifer Ziegler-Gorman, LMT and owner of "Raindrops...Massage by Jennifer." A highly-skilled massage therapist, energy worker and intuitive, Jennifer will share information with us on body scrubs and aromatherapy. Participants have the opportunity to create a jar of a unique body scrub to keep -- or to give as a gift. Jennifer will also demonstrate the effect of words and energy on water in an experiment similar to Dr. Emoto's work.
From Rev. Bronte: "Jennifer is an interesting teacher -- there's always something new and intriguing to learn from her. Her knowledge, including in the areas of health, healing, and wholeness, make her a great teacher and presenter. We hope you can join us for what is sure to be a fun, hands-on, positive-energy time as we learn about and get the chance to make natural, good-for-you body scrubs!"
Details: Suggested donation of at least $8 ( or "value received") but no one will be turned away for lack of funds. Glass jars, ingredients, and use of essential oils will be provided, but if you have an essential oil at home that you prefer to use, feel free to bring it. Seating may be limited, so if at all possible, please register for this class ahead of time so we can hold a seat for you and to be sure we have enough materials. Sign up on the sheet available at church or email us at [email protected] with "workshop" in the subject line. Because the workshop starts at 1:00, we suggest that if you plan to attend the 11:00 a.m. service that you bring a lunch to eat between the end of church and the workshop, or run out to get some quick food. We hope to see you there!
The Unity Athens Annual Unexpected Income Program has been rescheduled to start in January. Remember to sign up then and get 2015 off to a fabulous financial start!
 Tuesday BOOK STUDY GROUP
THE GAME OF LIFE AND HOW TO PLAY IT ~ This class concluded at our final gathering on Tues., Nov. 25.
We've had a great time reading and discussing this book and Ms. Shinn's ideas. We will start another study group in early January. Time, date, and location will be announced soon.
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EVERY SUNDAY, 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm - Meets in the main room unless otherwise indicated.
A COURSE IN MIRACLES. Taught by the highly experienced and insightful facilitator, Drew Smith, this popular class dives deeply into A Course, while making the text even more understandable and relevant to daily life. Open to all. If you don't own the book, there's always someone willing to share. Because of the ongoing nature of this class, feel free to stop in as you can, or to participate every Sunday. Donations are accepted and appreciated.
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 CommUnity Movies, popular movie & DVD showings, meet monthly, usually on the second Sunday. We will not have a movie in December, but stay tuned for our next movie gathering in January. Join us then around the extra-big screen TV for a casual atmosphere of spiritual films and DVDs plus interesting discussions for those that chose to stay for a bit after. Feel free to bring your own snacks and beverages. CommUnity Movie cost is $5.
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Attend a "New Member" class to become a member of Unity Athens. We welcomed four new members on Nov. 9th.
To achieve membership, there are several requirements: attendance at a New Member class, taught by Rev. Bronte, and all new members are asked to view the DVD, "What is New Thought?," which explores the history and philosophy of the New Thought movement, including Unity. We will have showings of this important documentary around the time of New Member classes, or you can purchase it online to watch. If you are transferring an active membership from another Unity church, it may be possible to waive one or both requirements. It is also highly recommended that you attend one of our book study groups for a deeper insight into Unity principles and teachings. There is no fee to take the New Member class or to become a member. These classes are open to all and are a good way to lean more about the Unity movement and Unity Athens. Check with Bronte for dates & schedules for classes, the movie showing, and the next opportunity to join Unity Athens. Consider making a deeper connection and becoming a member of our Unity Athens Family.
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Exciting News! Unity Athens will soon be launching an Idiegogo funding campaign for our Expansion Fund; yes, to have a "place of our own."
How can YOU HELP? By visiting the prelaunch site you can keep apprised of our campaign and help us get the interest and momentum going. Take a moment now, please!
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MARK YOUR CALENDARS!
Stay turned for upcoming classes, music, events, Sunday happenings, and social gatherings.
From Christy Gray:
Beloved Wise Woman and Tribe leader Christy Gray is once again leading some very popular classes. If you are interested, contact Christy via email: [email protected]
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Your opportunity to give back...
 Unity Athens is so grateful for the loving support and generosity that is extended to us. You bless us with your presence, your prayers, your love, your positive thoughts, and your financial support. Please remember to support the people, places, and organizations in your life where you are spiritually nourished.
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"God leads us to our perfect place!"
And there now is an Indiegogo campaign to help us grow!
Help Unity Athens Find Our Ideal Home
Now you can keep apprised of all our Indiegogo (internet crowd fund raising) activities by clicking on the link below and signing up for that email list. That way you can hear all the latest news on our goals, funds raised, and the kick-off of our campaign. Help us reach more people by telling others. Blessings! Help us by signing up to receive fund-raising news!
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Other Happenings -- So much good stuff going on !
Cathy Payne initiated a Gratitude Program and Challenge that started Oct. 26 with her inspiring workshop. You can follow along at the Unity Center for Spiritual Growth Athens Facebook page and/or energize your personal Gratitude Practice though the use of a gratitude journal, gratitude prayers, or other thankfulness & appreciation techniques. If you haven't "liked" this page yet, please do ~ it's already at 519 fans and growing!
DOLLAR BILL GIVEAWAYS! Inspired in part by Pam Grout's book, E-cubed, we asked for volunteers on Sunday, November 2nd, and  gave them a task & a dollar bill. (Pam used 5s). Each bill has a positive abundance affirmation. They are to hide them in spots out and about where the dollars will be found. This followed the wonderful Cindy Lou Harrington performing her new song, "Give It Away," for us. Church is supposed to be fun, right?? You can read Pam Grout's response to our program at here on our other Facebook page. (P.S. word has it that more dollar bills will be given away on upcoming Sundays!)
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Other Area Events & Services
Have you "liked" our new Facebook page yet? Stop in and "like" us and comment on a post. It helps us get the "word out" and it's fun to meet more like-minded people. Plus, there's so much to see! Check it out. Leave a post. Spread the word !
Rev. Karen Dancing-Doe Cosgrove offers Angel Readings, energy work, workshops, ceremonies, and retreats.Contact her at [email protected]
Energy worker Laurie Hart ~ offers a variety of classes and workshop. Contact Laurie for details about this and other classes. [email protected]
Healing Arts Centre offers yoga, classes, an herb shop, acupuncture, practitioners, and so much more. Healing Arts Centre Link
Contact Christy Gray for info on MotherPeace Tarot Readings, spiritually-oriented travel, and a myriad of classes. You can reach Christy at [email protected].
Join the groups "THE TRIBE" and /or "Athens Community Spirit" on Facebook to stay in touch with many of the wonderful events and spirit-minded folks around town including healing arts, readings, workshops, metaphysics, artsy things, and more.
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SOCIAL EVENTS! Call a Unity friend and go out for some music, fun, or author events!
Athens Botanical Gardens "Full Moon Hike" Register here Ongoing, once a month.
There is a wonderful selection of holiday concerts, plays, gift fares, and children's activities in Athens through December. Check the weekly Flagpole newspaper for a complete list.
You can hear David Matthews-Morgan along with other carolers in Victorian costumes in the atrium of the Classic Center on Sunday, Dec. 14 before the 3:00 PM Christmas concert.
Check out this link for a complete listing of holiday events, music, holiday shops, children's activities and more in Athens & the surrounding area.
2014 Holiday Calendar
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I  Have you seen this new App from Silent Unity? It's awesome and available from the iPhones App store and through this link. Be sure you check out the 3-minute, wonderful meditation.
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| Find Unity Athens on the web... Our website is at www.UnityAthens.com
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Prayer for Protection by James Dillet Freeman
The light of God surrounds us; 
The love of God enfolds us;
The power of God protects us;
The presence of God watches over us;
Wherever we are, God is!
From a Unity Christmas Booklet, Living in the Presence: The Promise of Christmas
"I know without doubt that God is the ultimate Provider. My greatest desire is to experience more fully the unconditional love and peaceful presence of God within me. I also know love, peace, and goodwill are inherent in every person and that together we can create harmony throughout the world. I look forward to a peaceful Christmas season. I extend thoughts of peace and love to everyone I know. I have faith the peace I feel in my heart today is the peace that will unite the world."
This eNewsletter is brought to you with Love from --
Your Family of Friends at Unity Center for Spiritual Growth
Meeting Sundays at The Family Counseling Service Building
1435 Oglethorpe Avenue, Athens 30606 www.UnityAthens.com
Connect with us on Facebook and Twitter
Stop in at our New, interactive Facebook page !!
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