The Unigram

Newsletter for January 2018

Unitarian Universalist Society of Sacramento
2425 Sierra Boulevard
Sacramento, CA 95825
Office (916) 483-9283
A MONTH OF SUNDAYS
Upcoming Services
New Year's Brunch and Labyrinth Walk
Monday, January 1, 2018, 9:00 a.m.
This will be our third year of celebrating the New Year with a Labyrinth walk and pot luck breakfast.  Rev. Lucy will guide us in starting off the new year with a spiritual tune-up that only the Labyrinth can provide.  We will celebrate the New Year by sharing breakfast together in the Welcome Hall.  Bring your favorite breakfast food to share.   All are welcome.  Bring a friend.
 
January 7
Self-Compassion as a New Year's Resolution... (Busted!)
Rev. Dr. Roger D. Jones, preaching, with  Worship Associate Larry Boles 
A new year is just the time to start regarding yourself with the same respect and patience that you know everybody needs.  If you have room to grow on this goal, you are not alone. This is part of a sermon series based on Karen Armstrong's book 12 Steps to a Compassionate Life. It is for sale in the Sunday Bookstore in our Library.

Spiritual Practice:  Labyrinth Walk at 9:45 in the Meadow
Breakfast for UUSS Parents of Youth at 9:40 in the Fahs Room
Soup Sunday for all after the service ($5 donation requested)

January 14
The Poor People's Campaign:  Restoring the Vision, Repairing the Breach
 Rev. Dr. Roger D. Jones, preaching, with Rev. Lucy Bunch
Worship Associate Ginny Johnson , Music Director Keith Atwater, and the UUSS Choir. 
Today we welcome youth from around the District during the Middle School UU Gathering.
On this Martin Luther King, Jr., holiday weekend, we consider the last campaign Dr. King began before his murder 30 years ago:  the Poor People's Campaign.  A new moral movement is renewing the call for economic justice as an antidote to embedded systems of racial and class oppression.
Spiritual Practice:  Tai Chi in the Fahs Room at 9:45
Soup Sunday after the service 
 
January 21-All Ages Worship
I Brought My Spirit to the Sea:  A Celebration of the Ocean  
Service for All Ages
Rev. Lucy Bunch,  Worship Associates Celia Buckley, Jim Eastman, and Jess Reynolds.
UUSS Choir, Music Director Keith Atwater, and accompanist Ina Jun
Each January at our all-ages service, we celebrate an aspect of the natural world.  We have honored trees, rivers, and mountains.  It's the ocean's turn!  Many of us feel a powerful connection to the ocean.  Let's come together to celebrate in story and song and share a special ritual where we offer our thanks to the ocean that adds so much to our lives and our ecosystem.  The choir will share a special piece, "The Last Leviathan," which honors the largest of the ocean creatures -- the whales.   
Sunday Morning Spiritual Practice:  Silent meditation at 9:45 in Room 6  
Exploring UUism--Social Justice:  9:30 in the Fahs Classroom with Karen Gunderson
 Chili Sunday--served by our Board of Trustees to support the congregation's mission
 
January 28
Defining Moments and Movements in UU History
Rev. Lucy Bunch, preaching, with Rev. Dr. Roger D. Jones
Worship Associate Marilyn Reynolds, Music Director Keith Atwater, and pianist Ina Jun
As religious denominations in the United States, both Unitarianism and Universalism are more than 200 years old.  How did we get from then to now?  What were the defining moments and movements in our denomination?  Rev. Lucy will share her top five (or maybe more) defining moments in UU history.  
Sunday Spiritual Practice:  Reading and reflection on poetry and prose at 9:45 in Room 6
Soup Sunday -- a fundraiser for Recreate for Health, American River Parkway Foundation's youth outreach program, offered by our Interfaith Earth Justice team
 
Feb. 4
Compassion or Caretaking or Codependency
 Rev. Dr. Roger D. Jones, preaching, with Rev. Lucy Bunch
Worship Associate Laura Sheperd and Music Director Keith Atwater
 "If you really cared about other people, you'd do this for me!"  Have you ever heard this?  Sometimes it can be confusing to know whether we are choosing compassionate action or being goaded into taking responsibility for another person.  Or we feel compelled ourselves to save others at our own expense.  It's a challenge to sort it out and observe healthy boundaries.  This is part of a sermon series on compassion.
Spiritual Practice:  Labyrinth Walk at 9:45 in the Meadow 
Soup Sunday for all after the service
Shared Offering Recipient this Month
Every month we give half of the Sunday service offering to a local not-for-profit group.  UUSS members vote every year to choose 12 community partners that embody our values and reflect our mission to be a force for healing in the world.  In November, we received $2,794 for Loaves and Fishes.  Our January Sunday offerings will be shared with Family Promise Sacramento, a nonprofit organization committed to helping low-income families achieve lasting independence.  More info at http://sacfamilypromise.org/ .
FROM YOUR MINISTERS
Senior Minister's Message
Dear Congregation,

Happy New Year--and Happy Anniversary!  
 
In 2018 we celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the founding of this congregation.  We are planning commemorative and fun events for the whole year ahead.  I invite you to join me in making an Anniversary Gift to one another and toward the completion of the building renovation and landscape improvements we began several years ago.  In January 
we aim to raise more than $200,000 for these purposes:
 

  • We will replace the lights and wiring in the main parking lot, improving visibility and safety-and giving a bright welcome to all who come to UUSS for events after dark.
 
  • We will furnish and install a cover on the large patio, protecting us from the hot sun and shielding us from the rain, and we will furnish the patio.  If it is more comfortable, welcoming, and usable, we can reduce Coffee Hour crowding and have more outside events.
Many wonderful adults and families with youth and children have arrived at UUSS since we completed the renovation and landscaping project.  That means you didn't have the chance to participate in the early giving that made possible this historic and beautiful accomplishment.  The goodwill and creativity that you are feeling at this place-and the energy that you bring to it-are the fruits of all that hard work, generosity, and love.  We are inviting you to participate in extending our mission as we complete the project.
Many of us who made large contributions in 2012 to make the renovation happen have been inspired by the new energy and spirit of this growing congregation as it lives out its mission in big new ways.  We are excited to give toward finishing the first phase of our expansion plans and in making our outdoor spaces more usable and beautiful.
  • What a problem to have-crowded facilities on Sundays and dozens more activities, all in service of the UUSS Mission--We come together to deepen our lives and be a force for healing in the world.
  • What an opportunity to pursue--having more space on Sundays, a sun-shielded and furnished patio, a safer parking lot, and lovely outdoor spaces to welcome all who come.  The added beauty outside will match the beauty indoors.
As of Winter Solstice, UUSS received Anniversary Gifts from 17 households totaling about $34,000.  Th ank you to those who have already contributed. To make a gift, stop by a table in the Welcome Hall on Sunday or contact Michele , our UUSS Bookkeeper.  She can let you know how to make a gift of appreciated stock or mutual funds.  
If you have any questions, talk to Anniversary Gifts chair Tina Stidman, Administrative and Property Management co-chair Glory Wicklund, or one of the ministers.  
Please join us in making a 150th Anniversary Gift to UUSS.  All gifts are valued and appreciated. Every donation brings us toward success and a Happy Anniversary.  
Thank you!
 
Yours in celebration,

Rev. Dr. Roger D. Jones
Where's Rev. Roger in January and February?
Let's make an appointment!  I'm at UUSS most Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursday afternoons; but to talk with you, I can find another suitable time!  I go to Florida January 21 to 26 for the UU Ministers Association Institute for Excellence in Ministry, back in time for the UUA's Board Development Day, which UUSS is hosting for area UU church boards.  My office hours will vary next month, as I've been asked to teach a weekly class on church administration in the spring semester at Starr King School for the Ministry in Berkeley.   Read about it here .
Assistant Minister's Message
#MeToo
It seems like every day there is some new revelation of inappropriate sexualized behavior by a man in power.  Prominent men in entertainment, media, politics, religion, and corporations are being fired or reassigned in response to allegations of sexual harassment or abuse. It is all happening so fast that it can feel like a rush to judgment. The floodgates have opened, and women are finding the courage to come forward and tell their stories.  
 
This is often how change comes in systems. Nothing happens for a long time and then suddenly there is a turning point, and everything spills out. For sexual harassment and abuse, the turning point is now.   
 
For every story you hear on the news, there is an unknown number of unheard stories of sexual harassment and abuse that women have suffered--in their families, in the workplace, in a thousand ways for a million women or more.  As women learn early in our lives to tolerate this kind of abuse, to warn each other to stay away from certain men, but to keep our pain to ourselves. It is necessary to survive and function in a world dominated by men.  
 
For those of us who have been victims, the current spotlight on the issue can be rewarding and challenging. It is gratifying to hear about abusive men who have been removed from their positions of power. We feel pride for the courage of the women who have come forth with their stories. But it is also difficult to hear the details of complaints against them--and the media has not spared us the details. These details can trigger some of our own unprocessed feelings.
 
If you are feeling stirred up and troubled by this focus on sexual harassment and abuse, you are not alone with your feelings. Reach out to someone and tell that person your story. I am here for you, with an open heart and the empathy that comes from my own experiences. Let's cry and heal together.   
 
Sending love,
Where's Lucy in January?
My regular office hours are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday afternoons. You are welcome to visit. Please call or e-mail before you come so I can be sure to be available. 
Music Director's Message
I suspect that many of us here at UUSS Sacramento enjoy radio programs like Beth Ruyak's "Insights" and Terry Gross's "Fresh Air."  When "our own' Greta Gerwig was interviewed by Terry Gross November 16, I listened closely and found that what she shared speaks to all of us here, too. After clarifying that she was brought up a Unitarian Universalist, she said that collaboration in this movie (and her other work) is so exciting and productive and joy-filled because the actors bring alive the script in unexpected and wonderful ways; the musical score and lights and camera techniques enhance and amplify the work; and together much more is achieved - "the whole [becomes] greater than the sum of its parts" (to quote Aristotle, if Google has it right).

This happens on Sunday mornings at UUSS, too, when the music and words on the page and screen are brought to life by Ina at the piano, and by the choir and musicians and sound and light technicians, and you, the people, singing from your hearts.  It happens when the worship associates, pastors, music team, and artists start with a basic organizing theme and together bring it to life in personal, memorable ways through creative collaboration.  We look forward to bringing you more collaborative Sunday experiences (as much as I look forward to Greta Gerwig's films).
 
Keith Atwater, Music Director
 
     L to R: Chris, Greta, Gordon Gerwig
FROM YOUR LEADERSHIP
President's Message
Did you know that our congregation is celebrating its Sesquicentennial year in 2018? In celebration of our 150 years, the Board at our November meeting discussed the possibility of a modest campaign to go toward our much-needed and long-desired patio cover and parking lot lighting. We unanimously passed a motion that authorizes Rev. Dr. Roger Jones, Tina Stidman, and Glory Wicklund to organize a team, in cooperation with the Fund Raising Strategy team (FRST), to raise $200,000 toward a new patio cover and parking lot lighting. What wonderful improvements those will be!
 
Our Treasurer's monthly report continues to show a small surplus for the fiscal year to date with actual income exceeding budgeted income, actual expenses slightly higher than budgeted, and net income exceeding what was budgeted.
 
Have you signed up yet for a strategic planning Listening Session this month?  Board members are enthusiastic about the progress we are making and the direction that our planning is going.  Now is your opportunity for input on the results of our October Retreat.  These small groups of 10 people will discuss the five-year draft goals and objectives that came out of our retreat. The Listening Sessions are limited to 10 people, so log on to the UUSS Force for the Future page and make your voice heard!
 
Margaret Wilcox, Board President
Planning for the Future of UUSS
Force for the Future: Come let us hear from you!
Building on the October retreat, Force for the Future's work on our congregation's long-range plan continues in January with ten listening sessions. We hope you will attend one and share your thoughts about our future.
 
Force for the Future has drafted potential goals and objectives that would form our long-range plan that the congregation is on track to adopt in May. We drafted these goals and objectives based on the day-long retreat in late October. The next step in checking and refining those goals and objectives is these listening circles during the month of January.  You can sign up to participate  here .
 
During each listening session, a facilitator will lead a small group of members and friends to solicit input. Force for the Future will use the information to revise these burgeoning goals and objectives for UUSS's next five years. Listening sessions are offered at church and at remote locations on Sundays, weekdays, evenings, and even on Saturday. The session on Sunday, January 28, right after church service, includes child care. We hope that these alternatives will provide you the opportunity to participate so we can receive your input.
 
Questions? Comments? Concerns? Reach out to any of the members of Force for the Future. We are Margaret Wilcox, Carrie Cornwell, Carl Gardner, Karen Gunderson, Marion Randall, and Shannon Williams.
A Message from the Stewardship Committee
Every Sunday the Worship Associate begins the announcements by reminding us all that we are a caring community.  We are also a very generous community, a compassionate community that gives with open and loving hearts. The ongoing financial commitment by so many of our members has enabled us to support new programs, maintain our beautifully remodeled facility and meet our other financial responsibilities.  
A heartfelt thank you to all who have provided ongoing support through your time, talent, and treasures.

Someone has defined Generosity as "the most natural outward expression of an inner attitude of compassion."  In 2017 we have shown that kind of generosity in many ways with our community outreach programs.  Just to highlight one...the International Rescue Committee (IRC).  As part of our support of their refugee resettlement efforts, we sponsor a Mommy and Me program that teaches newly arrived refugee women English while their children engage in supervised play, we have helped furnish several apartments for arriving refugees, we have participated in coat drives, and we have sponsored three refugee families for the holidays.  

Our generosity also supports funding for our worship services.  In August we were privileged to have Deborah Ortiz, CEO of Opening Doors, reflect on her organization's work in helping refugees, asylum seekers and survivors of human trafficking achieve self-sufficiency and healing.  Sharing worship around the issues we are involved in as a community of faith deepens our awareness and commitment to live out our mission to be a force for healing and peace in the world.
It is with grateful hearts that we look back at 2017 and all that we have accomplished with the collective gifts of this congregation, and look forward to 2018 and our ongoing work for peace and justice.

In Gratitude,

Your Stewardship Committee 2018
Janet Lopes and Bobbie Keill, Co-chairs
Eric Ross, Susan Lange, John Abbott, Hally Cahssai  
Share your pictures with us!
Did you happen to catch a photo of UUSS in action?  The Stewardship Committee would like to share photos of the events, people, and social justice work at UUSS in our upcoming campaign.  Please e-mail photos as an attachment to stewardship@uuss.org   or drop them off at the office.  To make sure we get the photos, please add a note "Stewardship Campaign."  Thank you to all you shutterbugs.
Coming soon: UUSS Facebook page for members and friends.
The church currently has a Facebook page that many of you "like" and "share."  This page is our public face to the world on Facebook, and is considered an outreach tool for UUSS.  Ministers and staff post to and monitor the page.
 
Starting soon we are creating a new Facebook page as a closed group for members and friends of UUSS.  This closed group is our inward facing Facebook presence.  Any member or friend who joins the group can make a post that shows up in the main group feed.  The primary purposes of this communal space are:
 
  • Sharing of meaningful things happening in your life, such as the birth of a child, a new job, or moving plans.  For general items or political posts, please use your personal Facebook page.
  • Posting events happening in the church and the larger community that may be of interest to our members, such as promoting a concert, inviting other UUSS folks on an outing, arranging a ride, suggesting movies, books, and enriching activities within or beyond the congregation.  
  • Posting notices about items for sale or rent, giveaways, or opportunities of interest to UUSS members and friends, such as a room for rent or car for sale. This is not a place to post sales pitches for a business on a regular basis, though it is appropriate to post general information about your business or a service that you offer.  
Posts are expected to be in line with our UUSS Mission, Covenant, and UU Principles.  The ministers, web master, and volunteer members serve as moderators for all content shared within the group.   All members and friends are welcome to participate.  Stay tuned for information on how to join the group.  We hope this page will spark greater communication and connection at UUSS.  
Community Partners Results
At our Congregational Meeting on October 22, we voted on which local organizations to be our Community Partners for 2018.  Below is the list of chosen groups and the month in which they will receive one-half of our Sunday offering: 

January - Family Promise Sacramento
February - Black Lives Matter Sacramento
March - Children's Receiving Home
April - St. John's Program for Real Change
May - Sacramento Senior Safe House
June - Welcome Home Housing
July - International Rescue Committee of Northern CA
August - Opening Doors
September - Mustard Seed School
October - Wind Youth Services
November - Loaves & Fishes
December - Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services

Thank you all for your continuing generosity to these worthy organizations and for supporting our mission--to deepen our lives and be a force for healing in the world.

Victoria Owens, Board Secretary
JUSTICE WORK
UUSS Interfaith Earth Justice Committee
Informed and Engaged
We continue to gain momentum through our work with the Sacramento Area Churches Together (ACT) Environmental Justice Committee.  At the November meeting there was an informative discussion about the intersectionality of environmental, racial, economic, and cultural injustice.  
 
In the current issue of UU World, there is an article by the Rev. Manish Mishra-Marzetti entitled "We Need an Intersectional Approach to Justice Making" that addresses how closely the issues of structural racism, lack of economic opportunity, poor schools, affordable housing, and environment degradation are linked together and must be addressed as a whole as we work toward justice for all.
 
The Sacramento ACT Environmental Justice Committee will meet January 16, 2018, from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m., at UUSS in the Fahs Room. We will hear a brief presentation by Oscar Balguer, an environmental scientist from the Sacramento Climate Sangha.  His topic will be the content and status of the Sacramento County Climate Action Plan.  If you would like to learn more about it, please attend the meeting or go to the county website at http://www.per.saccounty.net/PlansandProjectsIn-Progress/Pages/CAP.aspx for additional information.  We will also discuss our recent research meetings with Sacramento environmental justice leaders as we work toward developing our focus and action plans.  The meeting will be led by Gabby Trejo, Executive Director of Sacramento ACT, and will include people from other congregations in Sacramento.
 
A special Soup Sunday on January 28,  sponsored by the Interfaith Earth Justice Committee.  Proceeds will be donated to the American River Parkway Foundation's (ARPF) program, Recreate for Health, which "provides outdoor experiences and other skills-building opportunities to at-risk youth."  
 
In conjunction with this fundraiser, we are collecting bikes (they don't have to be in working condition) for recently incarcerated young adults as a transitional mode of transportation. We will be set up to receive bikes by the Fahs Room.
 
Interested in getting involved in Interfaith Earth Justice? Sign up to receive regular updates by contacting us at interfaithearth@uuss.org

First Thursday Social Justice Movie Night
UUJME is sponsoring the film
" Wrestling Jerusalem"
Thursday January 4, at 6:30
 In the UUSS Welcome Hall

In an exploration of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, writer-actor Aaron Davidman embodies 17 different characters in and around the city of Jerusalem. Exploring universal questions of identity and human connection, the film is about one man's effort to present and examine the multiplicity of conflicting viewpoints and the complex humanity at the heart of the conflict.
ADULT ENRICHMENT
Meditation Opportunities
On January 8, an eight-week Meditation Class will begin, led by Doug Kraft, a Dharma teacher, psychotherapist, author and our Minister Emeritus. He has trained in Buddhist meditation for 40 years with over a dozen American teachers and Asian masters. The meditation style is similar to Insight Meditation but has some essential differences. Not a one-pointed concentration method, it blends the cultivation of ease with the cultivation of insight. It emphasizes relaxation, ease, and sense of humor.

You'll be asked to meditate daily for at least a half hour or longer if possible. If you already have a meditation practice, please be ready to set it aside for the duration of the class so you can give this style a try. Classes will include meditation, discussion of various issues related to the practice, personalized instruction, and time for questions and answers.  

Beginning in January, the class will be from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. each Monday in the Fahs room at UUSS.  Doug's book, Buddha's Map, will be used as the text. The teachings are offered freely. Donations (called dana) are accepted gratefully as they help make it possible to offer these classes.   

Sign up at the Adult Enrichment table on Sunday mornings or at info@easingawake.com.
Second Tuesday TED Talk
January 9, 7 to 8:30 p.m., UUSS Welcome Hall.  Topic - "How Art Changes Us"
Join Rev. Lucy for viewing and discussion of three thoughtful TED talks on the transformative nature of art and its ability to shape the way we see ourselves and the world around us.
Alliance Programs Coming Up
Alliance meetings are held in the UUSS library at 10:45 a.m. on the second Thursday of the month--arranged by Vivian Counts.  Attendees generally donate $3 for refreshments.

Scheduled speakers:
January 11:  Kevin Sitter--the latest discoveries and treatments for AIDS
February 8:  Rev. Dr. Roger Jones--on his recent trip to Korea
Sunday Morning Spiritual Practices
Every Sunday before church (except the fifth Sunday) we offer a different form of spiritual practice.   They start at 9:45 and go until 10:15 so you won't be late for the service.
Child care is available, no reservation needed. You can drop off your child in room 11 as early as 9:30.
 
Here's the line-up:
1st Sunday - Labyrinth walk:  T his session starts with an introduction to help you get the most out of your experience.   Come experience this ancient form of walking meditation. Meet us at the Labyrinth.
 
2nd Sunday - QiGong & Tai Chi Chuan in the Fahs Room:   Join John McMillan and experience a taste of this transforming practice.   
 
3rd Sunday - Silent Meditation Room 6:  Need some silence in your week?  Our wonderful team of meditation leaders will help you settle into a quiet time and space.
 
4th Sunday - Reading and reflection on poetry and prose Room 6:  JoAnn Anglin - a wonderful poet herself - leads this spiritual deepening practice of finding your meaning in a piece of poetry and sharing your thoughts with others. 
Exploring Unitarian Universalism --3rd Sunday of the Month
This month:  January 21 at 9:30 a.m.  "Social Justice: How do we live our values?"
 
Join us every third Sunday of the month before the service for "Exploring Unitarian Universalism."  There are four different 45-minute sessions offered consecutively:
  • Principles and Sources
  • Faith
  • Social Justice
  • UU History
Both newcomers and long-time members are welcome.  Each class includes some presentation, sharing by current members, and opportunity for small group discussion.  
Religions of Japan, Part Two
On Sunday , January 14, at noon in the UUSS Main Hall, we will offer a one-hour class taught by Keith Atwater, our UUSS Music Director and also professor of humanities and religious studies at American River College.  Last year you may have attended his interesting presentations on Islam and Sikhism.

This session is "Religions of Japan, Part Two:  Pure Land and Soka Gakkai International Buddhism," when Keith will trace the beliefs, practices, and development of these popular branches of Japanese Buddhism from their origins back in Japan to their thriving communities here in our area today. 

Kelly Mishell Coaching 2018 Workshop
"The Practical Path to Joy"
Kelly Mishell is a Certified Life Coach who specializes in teaching people the key tools for realizing their unlimited potential. Men & women who have worked with Kelly have successfully released their limiting beliefs, overwhelm and frustration and are able to
easily manifest their heart's desires. Her coaching clients achieve more confidence, better focus and reduced stress in their daily lives. As well, they enjoy rock-solid relationships at home and in business. Kelly is a graduate of the Quantum Success Coaching Academy and is currently being mentored by industry leaders Christy Whitman (The Art of Having it All) and Lisa Nichols
(The Secret).

Kelly's group workshop, "The Practical Path to Joy", is designed to teach people how to
harness the power of energy to attract what they desire in the areas of relationships,
money & health. Content will include principles for how to deliberately create the life you
love, useful tools to help relieve stress and negative thoughts, strategies for better relationships and guided meditation to increase abundance in the New Year.
The workshop will be held on Saturday, January 27th from 10:00 to 11:30 in the Fahs room. Preregistration is preferred.

This workshop is valued at $40. A suggestion is a donation to UUSS of $20 on a sliding scale. Kelly will be videotaping her presentation; no participants will be videotaped.

You can sign up at the Adult Enrichment table on Sunday mornings or call the UUSS office.
Racial identity in UU churches - book discussion with Rev. Roger
Tuesday, February 6, 7:00-8:45PM at UUSS.

Centering: Navigating Race, Authenticity, and Power in Ministry , a new book edited by the Rev. Mitra Rahnema, is a UUA Common Read.  This book "centers" the stories, analyses, and insights of UU religious professionals of color as they explore how racial identity is made both visible and invisible in Unitarian Universalist communities. Bo ok is on sale in the UUSS Library during coffee hour or at www.uuabookstore.org.  

Register at Adult Enrichment by Jan. 28 and please read at least half the book. 
Introduction to Walking Meditations using the Labyrinth
February 24, 2018
9:00 a.m. - noon
Have you been wanting to learn about labyrinths?  Walking meditations using this ancient tool, as one of many techniques to meditate, is a powerful experience for many.  Come join this informative and fun workshop.

Christie Braziel is a certified, trained labyrinth facilitator and is providing a workshop for anyone new to labyrinths or wanting a refresher to learn about this ancient and powerful meditation tool.
YOU WILL LEARN:
  • What is a labyrinth and its history in world-wide civilizations
  • Difference between a maze and a labyrinth
  • Amazing meditation benefits from walking a labyrinth
  • Guidelines for walking the labyrinth
  • The three stages of the labyrinth walk
  • How to find local labyrinths to walk-wherever you live or travel
WHERE:  Library - Handouts included    COST:  Love offering
FEEDBACK:   "Joyful!  When I finished, I was smiling."  "Really calming." "I am much more at peace now." "Exhilarating"!  "I felt I left the world behind."  "The path reflected my life journey." 

Weather Note:  If the weather prohibits walking the outdoor labyrinth, an indoor, portable labyrinth is available.

Sign up at the Adult Enrichment table at UUSS on Sunday mornings or send a note to Christie_Braziel@hotmail.com .
                           
Facilitator: CHRISTIE BRAZIEL

Christie has walked labyrinths for over 20 years.  She has presented labyrinth workshops to both secular and religious audiences.  Feedback is always very positive from everyone who learns about this ancient practice for our busy lives.  She welcomes any opportunity to share the experience with others who seek a way to quiet the mind and enter into a space of peaceful contemplation.  Join her on this exciting journey.
UUSS Book Readers
On  Tuesday, January 30, the UUSS Book Readers will meet at  7 p.m. in the Welcome Hall to discuss  Sapiens: a Brief History of Mankind by Yuval Noah Harari.  We initially discussed this book in October, but because of several requests, we decided to do it again.  For more information, contact Jim Glidden   (916) 649-9697. 
More Things to Know and Do
Art Reception in January

Our next art reception featuring Sea Miller will be on Friday, January 19, 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. 
 
Sea's mixed media art starts with reality and goes from there, combining both traditional and technological techniques.  Her works predominantly feature enigmatic urban birds exploring cosmic connections in unexpected places--depicting both messages and mystery.
 
Sea will expound upon the meaning and method of her creations and will also bring along additional art just for the opening on January 19.  Contact:  Patricia Pratt at art@uuss.org .
Volunteers needed for kitchen inventory
We can use help on three Wednesdays, 10:00 a.m. to noon:
January 10, pantry (soup lunch included!)
January 17, Coffee Kitchen
January 24, laundry-tablecloth area
Come one, two, or all three times.  Contact Glory Wicklund  for information.
Save the Date - "Auction Jubilee" is Coming!
Are you looking for a way to get to know people and have fun?  Then the UUSS annual auction is the event for you!

Mark Saturday, April 14, on your calendars for "Auction Jubilee," the 2018 UUSS auction and dinner.  This annual event is our largest fundraiser and an opportunity to bid on events or items that will enhance your spiritual, social, and physical lives.  Have a special meal you like to prepare or a skill you can share with others?  Want to share memories of a trip or have a passion for the arts?  Love to explore the outdoors?  Think of what you can offer to the auction that others would enjoy.  We're looking for ways to bring people together in shared experiences.

Beginning in February, you can submit your donations on the auction web page or in paper form.  Look for more information in the February Unigram.  Remember, April 14 is the date of the biggest event of the year!  Don't miss it!
Theater One Presents Its Annual Bobby Award
At its annual Christmas party on December 12, 2017, Theater One presented its annual "Bobby Award" to Lonon Smith. The Bobby Award is named for Bobby Stewart, a co-founder of Theater One and is awarded in recognition of Outstanding Contributions to Theater One.  A one-time special award was presented to Heather Galbreath--the Best Audience Member Ever Award.













Foreground:  Recipient Heather Galbreath; Back row: Theatre One Co-chair Susan Madden, Theater One Chair David Paul, and Recipient Lonon Smith.

Pacific Western Regional Assembly, April 27 to 29
The four districts of the UUA's Pacific Western Region (PWR) will gather April 27 to 29 in Portland, OR, for the 2018 Regional Assembly.  Speakers include civil rights activist, the Rev. Dr. William Barber; Washington Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal--advocate for women's, immigrant, civil, and human rights; and the Rev. Susan Frederick-Gray, newly elected UUA president.  Programming includes workshops, worship, district meetings, and an optional social justice activity.  A day-long Professional Day designed for religious professionals is planned for Friday, April 27, before the start of Regional Assembly.  Discount lodging is available at the Portland Doubletree by Hilton Hotel, site of the Regional Assembly.  Child care and youth programming will be available.  Registration will open by January 4.  Watch the PWR website ( www.uua.org/pwr ) for full details to be posted soon.  
Leaves of Gratitude, November 2017
Photos by Anna Andrews

"Family, health, love, community"


"Friendship, family, love"
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION (RE)
Miranda Massa, RE Coordinator
2018
Holding all those involved with Religious Education at UUSS in caring thoughts as we begin a brand-new year.  It is the passionate dedication of our volunteers and participating families that make our programming shine.  I'm looking forward to more Sunday morning smiles with each of you!

RE Parents of Youth Meeting
Parents/Guardians/Families of youth in middle and high school: join in conversation with other families on Sunday, January 7 before service. Meet in the Fahs room beginning at 9:45 am. Bring your own coffee to sip and dialogue to share.   



Chalice Camp
The goal of Chalice Camp is to deepen children's and youths' understanding of themselves as Unitarian Universalists, to expand their knowledge of Unitarian Universalism and their capacity to be articulate about our faith.  Chalice Camp is designed for kids entering first through sixth grades and takes place five weekdays in July 2018, on the UUSS campus.  A Camp Director with UU experience along with two high school youth counselors and two junior high counselors-in- training, offer energetic daily worship, games, drama, art, community building, and community service.  Camp registration is not exclusive to church members.  We hope you will e-mail your interest in participating to re@uuss.org .   
Re: RE
  • UUSS is host site to the January 12 to 14 middle school retreat.  For more information e-mail re@uuss.org.
  • Sunday, January 21, is our all-ages service.
  • The Nursery in Room 11 is open every Sunday at 9:30 a.m. for parents attending Sunday Morning Spiritual Practices.
Religious Education (RE) Calendar, January 2018
Sunday, January 7 
9:30-12:00      Child care
9:30-10:30      Parents of Youth ~ Coffee & Conversation 
10:30-11:45    Spirit Play
10:00-12:00    Our Whole Lives grades 7-8-9

Friday, January 12 - Sunday, January 14 
Middle School Retreat at UUSS!

Sunday, January 14
9:30-12:00      Child care 
10:30-11:45    Spirit Play
10:00-12:00    Our Whole Lives grades 7-8-9

Sunday, January 21
9:30-12:00      Child care
10:30-11:45    All Ages Service, no RE 

Sunday, January 28
9:30-12:00      Child care
10:30-11:30    Spirit Play, JHYG, SHYG 
11:30-12:30    Kids' Freedom Club
WHO WE ARE AND WHERE TO FIND US
Office Hours & January Holidays 
The UUSS office is open Monday thru Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  
The UUSS office will be closed:
 Monday, January 1 (New Year's Day)
Monday, January 15 (Martin Luther King Jr. Day)
Serving Our Congregation
                                                         UUSS OFFICERS & BOARD of TRUSTEES

          Margaret Wilcox, President            Denis Edgren,  Vice-President
          Gordon Gerwig, Treasurer              Victoria Owens, Secretary
          Kathy Bernard                                   Carl Crain 
          Carl Gardner                                       Sally White
          Roger Olson                                        Annika Lawson, Youth Trustee
          Contact Board members by email:  president@uuss.org
          Board meetings:  7:00 p.m., 4th Thursday of the month (exception on November 30)
 
                                                           PROGRAM COUNCIL

        Marian Ashe                                      Linda Roth    
        Patty Budding                                     Deirdre Downes (Chair)
Tamara Olson                         
        Contact Program Council members by email:  programcouncil@uuss.org
        Program  Council meetings:  7:00 p.m., 3rd Thursday of the month.

Ministers
Rev Dr. Roger Jones, Senior Minister
Rev Lucy Bunch, Assistant Minister 
Rev. Douglas Kraft, Minister Emeritus

Church Staff Members
Krystal Gollaher, Administrative and Facilities Coordinator
Michele Ebler, Bookkeeper
Elaine Cooper, Receptionist
Miranda Massa, Religious Education Coordinator
Keith Atwater, Music Director ~  Ina Jun, Pianist
Shannon Ebler and Leticia Valdez, Childcare Providers
Aaron Molina - Sunday thru Thursday, Custodian 
Miguel Neri - Friday to Sunday, Custodian
Brett Hendrickson, Sunday Audio Tech