The Unigram

Newsletter for September 2016

Unitarian Universalist Society of Sacramento

2425 Sierra Blvd.
Sacramento, CA 95825
(916) 483-9283
In This Issue
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Month of Sundays
Worship Service and Children's Religious Education at 10:30 AM
 
August 28
Called to Love, Justice and Vitality
Rev. Susan Frederick-Gray, preaching, 
with Rev. Roger Jones 
Worship Associate, Christopher Jensen
Special Music
Milestones: Spoken Joys and Sorrows Ritual

This is a defining moment. The challenges we face for humanity and the planet are great. Yet this is also a moment of opportunity. Our UU faith calls us to respond. What skills do we need to be prepared to respond to that calling? How can we be a vital force for love and justice in our time? 

Our guest, the lead minister at the UU Congregation of Phoenix, formerly served in Youngstown, OH. In both places, congregations experienced significant growth. She's a born UU from St. Louis, married to a minister, the mother of a six-year-old.  She's also a candidate for president of the Unitarian Universalist Association.  (Read about her in a separate article below. Click to see her website.)


September 4
The Colors of Oppression and the Arts of Endurance
Rev. Roger Jones, preaching, with Ministerial Intern D. Scott Cooper
Worship Associate Linda Roth
September Birthdays Recognized at Chalice Lighting
Dedication Ritual for New Sanctuary Banners, with Forum after Service
 
The art exhibit on our walls recalls the wartime internment of 100,000 U.S. citizens and residents of Japanese background at ten Relocation Centers, including Manzanar in the desert of Inyo County.  Americans of Italian and German background also were victims of suspicion and hostile treatment during World War II. 
 
Through courage and creativity, many were able to maintain their dignity and faith until the war's end.  Let's take a look.


September 11
Homecoming:  All-Ages Water Communion Sunday
Rev. Roger Jones, Rev. Lucy Bunch, Ministerial Intern D. Scott Cooper
Music Director Keith Atwater and the UUSS Choir, vocal solo by Lisa Derthick
Worship Associates Carl Gardner, Linda Roth, and Molly Stuart
 
For our traditional yearly ingathering ritual, bring a small vessel of water from (or to represent) a summer activity dear to your heart-whether near or far, traveling or staying close to home and UUSS.  We kick off a new program year and welcome new visitors and long-time members!
 
We also have the traditional Memorial Roll Call of Members, Friends and family members we have lost since last year's homecoming service.  Let the office know if you have a name to add.
 
 
September 18 
What Are You Worth?   What Are You?   Who Decides?
Rev. Roger Jones, Rev. Lucy Bunch, Ministerial Intern D. Scott Cooper
Worship Associate Mary Howard
Music Director Keith Atwater and the UUSS Choir
 
What is a person's spiritual and ethical worth, and how do we measure that in a market-based economy, where all of us are at risk of being seen as a consumer or a means to another person's end?  How do we maintain a sense of equal human dignity amid growing inequities of wealth and income?  This is our kickoff service for this year's social justice theme: Confronting Economic Inequality.
 
 
September 25
Why Can't We Get Along?
Rev. Lucy Bunch preaching, with Rev. Roger Jones, 
Ministerial Intern D. Scott Cooper 
Worship Associate Jim Eastman
Milestones:  Joys and Sorrows ritual today
 
Are you worn out on politics?  Tired of the endless intractable polarization?  You are not alone.  Rev. Lucy ponders these questions by drawing on the work of Jonathon Haidt and his book The Righteous Mind.  There is a way to start the conversation, and no matter what the outcome of the election, we will need to heal our rifts if we are to move forward in our country.
 
 
October 2
Home
Ministerial Intern D. Scott Cooper preaching, with Rev. Roger Jones 
and Rev. Lucy Bunch
October Birthdays Recognized at Chalice Lighting
 
Maya Angelou told us, "I long, as does every human being, to be at home wherever I find myself."
 
Scott has called various places home, from Kentucky to Texas to Northern California. But each move was a deliberate choice, one of several options.  We'll consider those with fewer options, including the homeless and refugees far from their native lands.  He'll ask how our principle of "justice, equity and compassion in human relations" may lead us to help these who long to find a home.
Shared Offering Recipient in September
Every month we give half of the Sunday service offering to a local not-for-profit. UUSS members vote every year to choose twelve community partners that embody our values and our mission to be a healing force.  In July we raised $2,530 for the Children's Receiving Home!  Thank you!  Our shared offering recipient in September is Sacramento Senior Safe House.
Senior Minister's Message
Away from Home and Learning about Home
By Rev. Roger Jones
 
In July I participated in a pilgrimage (or immersion trip) to historic Unitarian lands in Transylvania, a province in Romania with many ethnic Hungarians, many of whom are Unitarian. 
 
At one meal I had a good conversation with a pilgrim traveler from a Minnesota UU church.   A university scholar, she studies American society during the World War II era.  While the New Deal and GI Bill brought economic advancement on an unprecedented scale, African Americans were excluded from many of the benefits.  College scholarships were less valuable if you were excluded from admission to many elite institutions.  Government loans for a new house or a new business were not enough to get a black family or business into many American neighborhoods.  Discrimination in banking, zoning and real estate persisted long after the War.
 
In the War, men of different religions and a variety of American ethnic backgrounds served, lived and died together, breaking down old barriers.  Except for African Americans, who were segregated from the rest of the troops.  This woman recalled that her father had come back from the war as a racist against people of African and Japanese background.  As a young Minnesota farm boy, he had not been exposed to them or to hostility toward them.  Yet he was among the millions of Allied troops based in England, waiting two years for the D-Day Invasion of Normandy.  Since the U.S. was in charge, American military rules applied.  This meant that black soldiers had to sit in the balcony of movie theaters and find entertainment in segregated settings.  From this segregation, he came away imprinted with white supremacy. 
 
She said: "It's so easy for some to think we had all the same opportunities and our achievements belong only to our own efforts."  She's bringing long-invisible oppressions to light.  It makes me reflect on the persistence of systemic oppression.  What legacies of privilege and prejudice are we living through?  I'm glad to be in a beloved community where the conversation continues.
 
Yours in service,
Rev. Roger Jones
 
PS-Don't miss "Kinship," a contemporary art show featuring dance, music and visual arts, including the Manzanar water colors on our walls.  Friday, September 3, 7:30 p.m.  $15 at UUSS.   See Malia in Motion's website to learn about the dancers.

Where's Rev. Roger in September?
Office Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; evening meetings some of these nights.  Always good to make an appointment!  Sabbath day is Tuesday.  Writing/study on Friday and Saturday.  Read more about my sabbatical plans in the July Unigram.  I will be gone November and December, back for part of January, and then gone till late May.  Consider joining the pilgrimage tour to the UU congregations in the Philippines, January 30-February 13.
Assistant Minister's Message
It's a New Church Year
By Rev. Lucy Bunch
 
This month will mark one year since we returned to our renovated building.  At our ingathering service on September 11, you will see some new additions in our sanctuary including 14 more beautiful banners representing religions and spiritualties of the world and aspects of life that are important to UUs.  We will also have the debut of a beautiful new sculpture for the wall behind the piano. 
 
These new items will add much to the aesthetics of our worship space.  They also call to mind all the many new things that we have created and experienced in the past year.  When the congregation voted to fund the building renovation and contributed money to do so, it was with the hope that our new space would create momentum and excitement for our community.  And it has done so in a big way.  We have had 221  new visitors in the past year, and 30 of them have become members.  Several former members have returned to see what has been going on with us.  Many new programs have been started in the past year including our Sunday Morning Spiritual Practices and Exploring UU series.  We have amped up our social justice work with our refugee support group, racial justice programs, and our study group on the Palestine-Israel conflict.  We had lots of fun together with our newly energized Games Night, and activity groups of ukulele players, mah jongg players, and the Walkin' Boots hiking group.  We started two new groups for seniors and one for the 20/30's age group.  We had book groups and forums, plays and concerts!  I am sure I missed listing some of our wonderful new programs and activities.  All this is on top of the programs and activities that have been ongoing for many years.  Phew!!
 
I am excited about the year that is just starting.  Our intern Scott Cooper joins us this month, and we will have two full months with three ministers on staff before Roger heads off for his much deserved sabbatical.  We launch our social justice theme-Confronting Economic Inequality-this month with plans for sermons, films, book groups, and activism in our local community, including a Habitat for Humanity project this fall.  
 
Thanks for being a wonderful congregation and for your commitment to our mission to deepen our lives and be a force for healing in the world.  It's going to be a great year.
 
Where's Lucy in September?
I return from vacation on September 6.  My normal office hours are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday afternoons. Please call or e-mail in advance so I can be sure to be available to meet with you.
Ministerial Intern's Message
Autumn on the Horizon
By D. Scott Cooper
 
Despite an upcoming week of unusually and relatively cool, wet weather, it still definitely feels like summer as I sit to write this - in Dallas, and by the time you read it, a few weeks ago. The Olympics from Rio may be on NBC, but here in Texas, Friday night football is the subject of much discussion.  As legendary Cowboys coach Tom Landry once noted, "Football is to Texas what religion is to a priest."  Yes, autumn is on the horizon.
 
Just as January 1st has always represented a fresh start and "another chance for us to get it right" in the words of Oprah, September has always represented a fresh start to students and teachers.  Brand new pencils, pens, and notebooks; new and old friends to greet in challenging classes with different teachers; and if one was lucky, the latest pop-culture icon emblazoned on a brand-new backpack or lunchbox.
 
Things are gearing up at churches, fellowships, and societies, too, of course.  Ministers, facilitators, RE teachers, and other volunteers have been training, planning, and preparing for another busy, inspiring, and productive year.  I met Roger in Columbus at UU General Assembly and attended some wonderful worship services and workshops. Back in Dallas, I spent a weekend training to facilitate Our Whole Lives (OWL), our Lifespan sexuality curricula, and the following Saturday I joined in Hospitality training. Like many UU churches, my home church in Dallas will celebrate Ingathering, the kick-off for the church year, the first Sunday after Labor Day.
 
This September marks an especially challenging and exciting new start for me. I won't be living in Dallas and going to school in Fort Worth-I've moved here to Sacramento.  I am continuing my education, not by taking classes and writing innumerable papers, but by serving your congregation.  I'm looking forward to our Gathering of the Waters.  And I'm set to make many new friends, learn lots, and do much good work here in this religious community.
 
UU Minister Mark Morrison-Reed once wrote, "The religious community is essential, for alone our vision is too narrow to see all that must be seen. Together, our vision widens and strength is renewed."
 
Autumn is on the horizon, and this is an exciting time at UUSS.  If we haven't met yet, please make a point to introduce yourself.  We have a lot to do this year!  I look forward to this exciting, fresh start in September and to widening our vision and renewing our strength together.
 
Peace, Salaam, Shalom,
D. Scott Cooper

Where's Scott in September?
My regular office hours are on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from noon to 6 p.m.  I'm sharing the RE office with Miranda and welcome your visits.  Please call or e-mail first so I can be sure to be available.
Music Program Report
Keith's Notes
By Keith Atwater, UUSS Music Director
 
I recently returned from the Unitarian Universalist Musicians' Network national conference in Madison, Wisconsin, hosted by a UU church designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.  I came home with wonderful new friends, choral music, songs, hymns, and other helpful and inspiring materials-we sang some new songs from the conference at our wonderful choir retreat in mid-August.  The poem below was, in its conference context, part of a handout for music directors to think about as we work with our musicians, but I think it speaks to all of us in this tumultuous election year.
 
Be Gentle with One Another
By Rev. Richard Gilbert
 
Be gentle with one another-
It is a cry from the lives of people battered 
by thoughtless words and brutal deeds.
Who of us can look inside another and know what is there 
of hope and hurt, or promise and pain?
Who can know from what far places each has come.
Our lives are like fragile eggs.
They crack and the substance escapes. 
Handle with care!
Handle with exceedingly tender care. 
For there are human beings within, 
human beings as vulnerable as we are. 
Who feel as we feel.
Who hurt as we hurt.
Life is too transient to be cruel with one another; 
It is too short for thoughtlessness,
too brief for hurting;
be gentle with one another.
UUSS President's Message
By Linda Clear

Summer is coming to an end and we are ready to start our new church year.  By now Scott, our intern minister, has arrived and most of you will have had a chance to meet him.  The Board of Trustees had their annual retreat and came away with renewed energy and great goals and plans for the next fiscal year.  We also set the date for our two Congregational Meetings.  The meeting in the fall will be October 23 and the spring meeting will be May 21.  One of the major items on our October meeting agenda will be the selection of our Community Partners for 2017, so be thinking now of potential nominees.
 
One of the most important things that is coming up for us this year is Roger's Sabbatical.  I am sure most of you are aware of this, but it is important to be reminded of what this means.  It is part of Roger's Letter of Agreement that he be given a paid Sabbatical after 7 years of service with the congregation.  Roger could have taken it earlier but he felt it was important for him to be present during the first year after we returned to our renovated building.  Now it is time for him to take it.  Roger will be away for a total of six months, but not all at once. He will be gone the months of November and December, return for the month of January, and then gone again for the months of February through May.  During this time, Roger will not be available to the congregation.  This is the time for him to recharge his batteries and be renewed and refreshed.  We know that he will be doing some traveling outside the country, and then whatever else moves him. 
 
During this time Lucy will be the Acting Senior Minister, and she will be supervising our Intern.  Because Lucy will be taking on most of Roger's duties and still some of her own, it will be important that all of us pull together to support and help her in any way we can.  If you have any questions about Roger's Sabbatical, please don't hesitate to ask the Board, Lucy, or Roger.
 
By now most of you will have seen our new monument sign.  There will soon be new directional signs all over the campus to help everyone, especially visitors, find their way around.  I want to thank Jeff Voeller, Jim Eastman and Carrie Cornwell for all of the work they did to make this happen.  It's going to be a great church year!!
 
Namaste
Linda Clear
Black Lives Matter Banner
By Janet Lopes, Board Secretary
 
On Sunday, August 7, our Congregation voted to mount a banner indicating that Black Lives Matter to UUSS. The ballot language stated, "I approve the installation of a banner or sign on UUSS property to be visible from Sierra Blvd., indicating that Black Lives Matter to UUSS".  The vote was: Yes - 95, No - 22, Abstain - 3. The Board will convene a task force to come up with wording for the banner, raise funds for its purchase, and mount and maintain it.  The task force will be comprised of one member each from the Board, the Aesthetics Committee, and the Property Management Team, and one or two people from the existing BLM task force.
October Congregational Meeting-10/23/16
By Janet Lopes, Board Secretary
 
Please plan to attend our annual October Congregational Meeting on Sunday, October 23, where you'll hear updates on what's going on here at UUSS.  Expect to hear from our President, Treasurer, ministers, and other active groups.  We'll also vote on the Community Partners who will receive half of your generous donations each Sunday in 2017.
 
If you would like to nominate a non-profit organization to be a Community Partner, please download a form from our website , fill it out, and turn it in to the office.  You can reach the forms by clicking Members on the main website page, then choose Forms from the drop-down menu.  You will see "Community Partner Nomination Form" (PDF).
Let's Go 'Round Again
Spiritual Deepening Circles at UUSS
All are welcome!

By Rev. Lucy Bunch
 
Are you looking for ways to connect with members of the UUSS community?  Wanting to talk about what is important and meaningful to you?  Longing to listen and share deeply?
 
Everyone is on a spiritual journey.  Spiritual Deepening Circles will give you a chance to reflect on your journey in community and take steps to deepen your spirituality and connections.
 
Groups of about ten each will meet twice a month, October-May at UUSS or in a member's home.  The curriculum is designed by the ministers to promote deep listening and reflection.
 
More information and registration forms are available at the Adult Enrichment table in the Welcome Hall, in the UUSS office or online at by clicking here.
 
An Information table will be staffed in the Welcome Hall with Circle facilitators and past Circle members available to answer questions after each Sunday Service August 21-September 18.
 
Register by September 20.  Circles start the second week of October.
 
Comments received from prior year Circle members:
 
"I loved sharing my feelings and thoughts without interruption..."
"I'm a better listener now."
"I loved the warmth and acceptance I got from each member of my circle."
"The disciplined structure encouraged deeper reflection."
"I made two new friends!"
Welcome Home, to More Than We Imagined
By Rev. Roger Jones

 
One year ago September, we held the dedication ceremony for the renovation and expansion of our main building!  The joyous occasion came after relentless fundraising, designing, planning, choosing, and then building.  We had to face cost increases and vote on whether to take out a bank loan.  We also had to move out of this home for 13 months, schlep our Sunday materials to a rented site a mile away, shift offices to our education building, and then move it all back.  Happy Anniversary!
 
Had you told me in 2012 everything that this transformation would require of us, I would have had my doubts and fears.  But one step at a time, we did it.  With continuous communication, persistence, generosity, attention to detail, and some grace, our staff and volunteers made it happen.  Congratulations!
 
We thank those who joined in the capital fundraising campaign in 2012.  We thank those who made additional donations in 2013, 2014, and 2015 for equipment, furnishings, decorations, signs, landscape, sanctuary banners, and a water fountain for refillable bottles.  We thank the families who remembered UUSS in their wills and estate planning. 
 
If you missed the chance to give earlier, you may keep the love going now with your own gift to the Building Fund. This will help us to bring down the debt and make a few finishing touches.
 
All this effort has been a blessing to more people than those of us in the congregation.
  • Last month a local family held a memorial service for a young woman who by all accounts was a marvelous mother, wife and human being.  There was standing room only in our sanctuary and Welcome Hall, totaling over 400 people.  This would not have been possible before the renovation.
  • Theater One launched a family series with Saturday matinees.  "Alice in Wonderland" has garnered five Elly Award nominations!  And our matinee audiences include hundreds of kids from Head Start programs, with free admission.  These local kids may be enjoying live theater for the first time on our stage. 
  • Teenagers from UU congregations around our district have stayed at UUSS for weekend retreats or "cons."  On Sundays they clean up the spaces and then attend our service.  Those departing on August 14 left messages for us on a large page of newsprint.  See a few:
    • "Welcoming us into your facilities and community is a blessing beyond expression of words." 
    • "Thank you for sharing this wonderful space with all of us." 
    • "It means so much to be trusted with this space." 
    • "We are very grateful!" 
So, looking back over the years of work, worry, waiting and giving, I think it was worth it.  Thank you!
Kinship:  A Contemporary Art (and Dance) Show
By Meg Burnett
 
Coming to UUSS on Saturday, September 3, 2016, 7:30-9 p.m.
 
In support of Black Lives Matter and the vibrant Sacramento arts community, join the Malia in Motion Company dancers for an exciting and sophisticated evening of contemporary dance, live music, and visual art.  Through three soulful original dance works set to live musical accompaniment, we explore the struggle and resilience that exists within each one of us.  The evening will also include a vibrant visual art gallery.  All ages are invited.
 
Delectable snacks and wine will be sold.  Tickets can be purchased for $15,  General Admission at the door or  by clicking here.  Students and seniors (65+) may purchase tickets for $12 at the door.
 
We look forward to seeing you there!  With questions please e-mail Malia at this link or call (916) 266-3947.
Volunteer Reading Tutoring Opportunity
By Jeff Voeller
 
Members of UUSS have volunteered for the Literacy Little League reading program at Edison Language Institute in the San Juan School District since its beginning 21 years ago.  We are deeply grateful for your continued interest.  Our students have blossomed under your skillful attention and loving care.  Literacy Little League is unique in that it offers tutors a chance to connect with the same 3rd grade student for the entire school year, while reading and discussing fun and interesting books.   
 
You are invited to volunteer-come for coffee, tea, cake, training and scheduling:
 
Thursday, September 8
2:30 p.m. in the Fireside Room
St. Marks United Methodist Church
2391 St. Marks Way
 
Tutors come one day a week for about an hour either Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday in the early afternoon.  You may also sign up as a substitute who fills in when regular volunteers are away.
 
Please contact Dorothy Marshall, psychologist (ret.) San Juan Unified School District,  Coordinator Literacy Little League at (916) 488-2578, e-mail:   dorothym@csus.edu .
Visit the UU Church of the Philippines this Winter
Join Rev. Roger on a journey of the heart.  Deadline October 1 

During his sabbatical, Rev. Roger will be the designated minister for a UU pilgrimage visit to the UU Church of the Philippines. 
 
Enjoy an in-depth introduction to the people, programs, and spirit of the UU Church of the Philippines.  Starting in Manila, we learn about the vibrant culture and history of the Philippines and meet with the UUs in the Metro area.  Then we fly to lovely Negros Island for a warm welcome by the leaders at UUCP headquarters, in the seaside university town of Dumaguete.
 
Over the next several days, we are escorted on a road trip on the island to visit UU congregations in farming and fishing villages on the coast and in the mountains.  We meet people who treasure their UU faith, and we enjoy the tropical beauty of the island and the warmth and friendliness of the Filipinos.  Let our hearts be opened to our interconnectedness; let our minds be challenged and engaged.  The road trip concludes in an afternoon closing ceremony in a northern village. 
 
UUSS members are invited to plan on three extra nights so we can get to know the congregation in Nataban, which has been recommended as a potential match with UUSS as a partner church.
 
Dates:  January 31-February 13 (or February 10 if you need to leave sooner).
Cost:  $1,780, including in-country transport. 
Book your flights from SMF $800+; nonstop from SFO $600-900. 
Read more at:  uupcc.org/pilgrimages/.
Discover Unitarian England, September 27-October 7
If traipsing on a tropical island with UUs is not for you, consider this upcoming trip organized by Discover Europe and led by UU minister David Usher, who preached at UUSS last fall when he was the interim minister in Grass Valley.
 
It's a bit more costly, but very well organized, and our U.K. history is rich and the places are lovely.  September 27-October 7.  Read more by clicking here.
A Woman President for the 
Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA)
By Rev. Roger Jones
 
In June of 2017, delegates from UU congregations will elect the first woman president of the Unitarian Universalist Association!  All three of the candidates are women ministers.  All three will be at a forum at the Walnut Creek UU church on May 6.  But we have the best one here August 28!
 
At the Sunday service, the Rev. Susan Frederick-Gray will be our guest preacher.  I'm hosting a reception and fundraiser at 5:00 p.m. that evening.  Let me know if you'd like to help with refreshments or if you feel inclined to help out with the campaign.  Running for this office involves a ton of travel around the country between now and the General Assembly in June of 2017.
 
Here's Susan's background:  Her parents brought her up at Eliot Unitarian Chapel near St. Louis, MO. She has a B.S. in molecular biology from the University of Michigan and an M.Div. from Harvard Divinity School.  She was the intern and sabbatical minister at First UU Church of Nashville, TN, where she met her husband, who was a seminarian at Vanderbilt.  (Their son is now six.) 
 
In addition to her diplomas and her employment record, Susan also has an arrest record with the notorious Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio, whose horrific jail treatment she experienced first-hand.  She led her congregation in opposing his human rights abuses in the County and the State of Arizona.  She was recruited to be our denomination's local organizer for the Justice General Assembly held in Phoenix in 2012. 
 
Click here to see her platform , photographs, and many endorsements on her campaign website, or search for her Facebook page.  See tweets or postings at #sfg4uua.
The Meaning of Membership Class:  Ready to Join?
A special session Sunday, September 25, 12:00-1:30 p.m.
With Rev. Roger Jones, Rev. Lucy Bunch, Intern Scott Cooper and Lay Leaders

Have you been attending services regularly and now wish to know how to join the congregation as an official member?  Have you attended Exploring Unitarian Universalism on a third Sunday morning or the Orientation and Tour on a fourth Sunday afternoon, and now you want to know what's next?  If so, this class is for you! 
 
Wonderful lay leaders will tell how belonging to UUSS has enhanced their lives and the ways they have been involved in the life of the congregation.  Our ministers will explain what it means-what you can expect of UUSS and what is expected of members, and then how to join officially.  You are invited to consider making a membership commitment to UUSS, but the choice is yours.  You will meet folks like yourself-people who are eager to learn about making UUSS their spiritual home. 
 
Please register with Elaine in the UUSS office so we can plan for your presence.  We hold this Meaning of Membership Class just three times a year, so we hope you can make it.  But if you are not very familiar with UUSS or Unitarian Universalism yet, you may first want to attend Exploring Unitarian Universalism and a fourth Sunday's Orientation and Tour.  Read more here.
Social Justice Theme: Confronting Economic Inequality
By Rev. Lucy Bunch
 
Our social justice theme kicks off this month with a sermon by Rev. Roger on September 18.  Over the coming year, we will have book discussions, films, speakers, and a variety of ways to learn and explore this important topic.  Our first activity will be Build for Unity, an effort of local religious institutions and Habitat for Humanity to promote cooperation across faiths and solidarity with Muslim congregations.  Another goal is to build homes for two families between August and December.  (Habitat has identified two families of Ukrainian immigrants for the two homes.)  To promote fellowship and connections, Build for Unity events will be hosted by various congregations in this region, with food at those events, of course, and activities for children.
Adult Enrichment Classes
Third Sunday Exploring Unitarian Universalism
The third Sunday of every month 9:30-10:15 a.m., usually in the Fahs Classroom. Pick up a card with the full schedule on the pamphlet racks near the Coffee Kitchen. Or click here.
Monday Yoga at 10 a.m. and 7 p.m.
Page Labrie teaches Yoga with chairs in the 
Fahs Classroom at 10 a.m. and Yoga with mats in Classroom 7/8 at 7 p.m. $10 drop-in fee or $8/week for a two-month session.

Wednesday Meditation at 5:30 p.m.
Join a small group for 22 minutes of mindful sitting in silence together.  Every Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. in classroom 6.  No experience required.  No cushion required; we have folding chairs!  Donations are accepted to support UUSS Adult Enrichment, but there is no fee.
Wednesday Choir Practice at 7 p.m.
Every Wednesday 7 p.m. in the Fahs Classroom.  All welcome. Contact Keith if you have questions or feel shy about it.
Monthly UUSS Book Readers:  All the Light We Cannot See
On Tuesday, September 27, the UUSS Book Readers will meet at 7 p.m. in the Library to discuss All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr.  For more information, contact Jim Glidden or (916) 649-9697.
California End of Life Options Act:
A Presentation to Explain the Details
The new California End of Life Options Act (ELOA) was signed into law in 2015 by Governor Jerry Brown and went into effect June 9, 2016. The ELOA gives terminally ill, mentally competent Californians the option, together with their families, doctors, and their faith, to make the end-of-life decisions that are right for them in the final stages of their terminal illness. This includes the option to request a prescription from their doctor to shorten their dying process painlessly and peacefully.

On Sunday, October 2, at 12:30 p.m. after the service, a program will be presented to explain this new law and answer questions.  Our speaker will be Ruth Holton-Hodson, who is the co-leader of Sacramento's volunteer action team for Compassion and Choices . This organization advocated for the law and is now engaged in a massive outreach effort to ensure that California residents understand their full range of end-of-life options. They want to be sure terminally ill people get the end-of-life options they desire.
 
If you are interested in attending this presentation, please sign up at the Adult Enrichment table on Sunday mornings or call the UUSS office.
The Twelve Steps as a Spiritual Practice
Starting soon: a 12-Step Recovery group that is for anyone who is struggling (or not) with an addiction in any shape or form or who may just be interested in working/learning the 12 steps as a way of life and/or spiritual practice. 
 
The book we will be using is Recovery, The Sacred Art: The Twelve Steps As Spiritual Practice by Rami Shapiro (can be found at Amazon.com).  From the forward:  "If you are addicted to anything-and all of us are addicted to the delusion that we are in control of our lives-Rami opens the door to freedom through a deep inquiry into the Twelve Steps and a stunning collection of practical exercises that will guide you to your true nature, the soul within you that is beyond habits, beliefs and opinions.  The soul that is despite your past actions and current afflictions, always pure." 
 
Join Evan Correale and Frankie Crawford on the 12-Step journey as we explore our life's unmanageability and learn what it means to surrender or "let it go."  We will meet weekly for an hour and a half.  See the Adult Enrichment table on Sundays for more information.
In Walnut Creek:  David Richo Workshop:
You Are Not What You Think
How can you build the healthy ego necessary to be effective in life-yet avoid the kind of egotism that makes people dislike you?  A nationally renowned spiritual writer and psychologist returns to Mount Diablo UU Church in Walnut Creek to lead a presentation about his book You Are Not What You Think: The Egoless Path to Self-Esteem and Generous Love .
 
All of Dave Richo's books are full of examples from myth and religion, with plenty of exercises and practical advice.  (Rev. Roger has preached on his book about grace, and others have titles like How to Be an Adult in Love.)  The fee of $65 includes the book. Register by September 20 and a book will be ordered for you. Bring a bag lunch; beverages and dessert provided.
 
Saturday, Oct. 15, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
55 Eckley Lane, Walnut Creek. Click here for directions.
In Auburn:  Missing Books (and People) of the Bible:  
The Jesus Seminar
The Jesus Seminar is known for making new research known widely when traditional churches may be shy about exploring alternative ideas about how Christianity began.  Two professors of religious studies talk about a missing Gospel book and missing apostles (including Jesus's female apostles).  Takes place Friday night and Saturday, November 4-5, at First Congregational Church of Auburn, just an hour away.  Fee range, depending on how many sessions you attend, is $20-$75.  See more clicking here.
Alliance Luncheon and Speaker September 8
By Vivian Counts
 
On Thursday, September 8, at 10:45 a.m. in the Fahs Room, author Barry Martin will speak about his new book Bob Davies, A Basketball Legend.  Bob Davies was a superstar in the 1930's and 1940's with the Rochester Royals (now the Sacramento Kings).
 
Personal stories and surprising information are included, such as signing African American player Dolly King to a professional contract before Jackie Robinson.
 
Alliance Group welcomes men and women. Call Vivian Counts for reservations at 483- 8827 or e-mail her here.
Unitarian Universalist Saturday Stitchers
By Karen Sparrow
 
Are you are stitcher, quilter, knitter, crocheter or any other kind of fiber enthusiast? A new group is forming here at UUSS, Saturday Stitchers!  Starting in October, on the first Saturday of the month we will gather together to work on our favorite projects.  Need to learn a new skill?  Want to polish up some old ones?  Just want to carve out some time for your favorite hobby?  This group is for you! 
 
Beginning Saturday October 1, 2016, please join us from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Fahs Room.  Bring your project, machine, and all the tools to work on your craft.  We will supply tables, chairs, coffee, and bottled water.  Call Karen Sparrow at (818) 510-2337 or e-mail her by clicking here with your questions.
Senior Fellowship
By Jean Kohlhoff
 
This activity group is open to those 65 and more (or thereabouts) who want to get together for activities, friendship, community and adventure.  In September we have the following events planned:
 
Sunday September 11, 8 p.m., Fair Oaks Village Theater presents: A Grand Night for Singing.  $12 for seniors.  Eat in Fair Oaks for under $20.  Carpool from church at 6 p.m. so we have time to eat.  Hosted by Ray Reynolds.
 
Saturday, September 17, Powerhouse Science Museum, 10:30 a.m. with lunch after at Golden Corral Restaurant.  Carpool from church at 10 a.m.  Hosted by Ray Reynolds.
 
Saturday, September 24, Sacramento Scavenger Quest 10 a.m. Cost $10 if we have 5 people. Presale of tickets August 30-September 11.  Food during and after.  Hosted by Jean Kohlhoff.
 
For more information about any of these events or just to get added to our list, e-mail Jean Kohlhoff by clicking here.
Autumn Equinox, Saturday, September 17
By Laurie Jones
 
As usual, UUSS CUUPS (Covenant of UU Pagans) will hold a celebration of the autumn equinox, Saturday, September 17 from 5 to 8 p.m. (or possibly 9 p.m.)
 
5 p.m. portable canvas labyrinth available
6 p.m. potluck,
7 p.m. short ceremony.
 
Depending on the attendees, three vintage goddess videos are available: (1) Goddess Remembered, (2) Burning Times, (3) Full Circle. All include Starhawk, and the first video includes Charlene Spretnak. We may show one during the potluck and then a second one afterwards. Free, all welcome.  Please bring a potluck dish to share.  Contact: Laurie Jones 490-6697 or by clicking here.
Theater One Garners Seven Elly Nominations
By Susan Madden
 
Theater One is proud to announce that it has received seven Elly nominations stemming from its productions this year.  The Ellys are local theater awards for outstanding achievement (like the Tonys on Broadway).  Five nominations were made for Alice in Wonderland:  Best Lead Female (Andrea Kersten, Alice), Best Supporting Male (Gregory Smith, the Mad Hatter) and Jerold McFatter (the White Rabbit), Best Director (Jill McMahon), and Best Overall Production.  Voress Franklin was nominated for her role as Satan in The Last Days of Judas Iscariot.  And Tim Anderson was recognized for his outstanding set design for Steel Magnolias.
Help Family Promise Host Families in October
By Barbara Hopkins
 
We welcome you to sign up at the Family Promise table in the Welcome Hall beginning on Sunday, September 29 to help our homeless guest families feel comfortable during their week at UUSS from October 23 to October 30. The families really appreciate the caring and warm welcome they've received from UUSS volunteers since Family Promise Sacramento began in 2005. 
 
Family Promise (FP) has a variety of ways you can help this hospitality ministry run smoothly.
  • Help set up sleeping rooms in RE rooms (October 23) or remove cots/curtains (October 30)
  • Bring dinner meal (entree, salad, desert) or a part of a meal
  • Be one of the overnight hosts in the Fahs Room from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. (when guests leave) 
  • Help wash and bag the bedding for our next FP guests
  • Bring a food or pantry item listed at FP table, i.e. milk, juice, fruit, cereal, bread/bagels 
  • Help at our sign-up table on Sundays (September 29 to October 23)
  • Talk with us if you have light-weight twin size blankets, or can alter our king-size to a twin set
If you have any questions, ask a volunteer at the Family Promise table; or e-mail Nancy Oprsal  or Barbara Hopkins .
Out and About
By Jeff Voeller
 
Out and About connects UUs and friends for participation in various outings.  If you have an idea for an excursion to a play, a hike, bird watching, museum, etc., you can disseminate the information through the Out and About network.
 
Simply write up a description of the activity with dates, estimated costs, etc. and send it to Linda Roye at this link.  The activity you describe will be sent out via e-mail to all the people on the Out and About list.  You will be the contact person for the event and will coordinate the activity yourself; anyone interested will contact you directly.  Linda simply maintains the list and sends out the initial notice.
 
If you want to be included on the list to be notified of all activities, e-mail Linda by clicking here  (please do not phone) and ask to be put on the Out and About list.
Pass on Your Values by Leaving a Legacy Gift
By Cathy George
 
"Everyone must leave something behind when he dies, my grandfather said. A child or a book or a painting or a house or a wall built or a pair of shoes made. Or a garden planted.... It doesn't matter what you do, he said, so long as you change something from the way it was before you touched it into something that's like you after you take your hands away." 
 
UUSS has developed a legacy program to facilitate UUSS members and friends donating to UUSS through their estate or will. Whether you are preparing your first will or updating an existing one, we hope you will consider a planned gift to UUSS.  A gift from your estate will leave a lasting and important legacy for future generations of UUSS congregants and the Sacramento community. There are many benefits of giving through your estate. This type of giving allows you to pass on your values and support the work of our liberal religious tradition in the years to come. Regardless of the amount, your bequest is a statement of faith:  Faith that love, compassionate justice, and religious freedom are important now, and will be important long after we are gone.
 
Giving through your will or trust allows you to maintain control of your financial options during your lifetime.  We encourage you to seek the advice of your lawyer or financial advisor when arranging an estate gift.
 
If you have already arranged to leave a legacy gift to UUSS, please fill out the UUSS Legacy Intention form which will be available on the UUSS website very soon.

The UUSS community, both the current and the future, would like to thank you for your generous gift that will benefit UUSS for generations to come.
 
If you'd like more information on legacy giving, see the donation section of the UUSS website or talk to one of our ministers.
Religious Education (RE)
Farewell, summer
At each summer's end, I am amazed by the talents shared with our children and youth. We explored God's eyes, collaborative mural designing, acting improv; made stepping stones, created abstract art boxes, and more. Sincere thanks to all the volunteers that led and assisted with art projects over the summer months in our RE group. Your helping hands mean so much. We wrap up summer with a special Labor Day weekend yoga session with UUSS yoga teacher Paige on Sunday, September 4.  All ages are welcome, and please dress in yoga appropriate attire.
2016-2017 UUSS RE
Our regular RE programming begins on September 18.  Each class will receive orientation this morning and begin to build rapport with their volunteer leaders. Hope that you will attend.
  • Room 11 Nursery staffed for infants and children in preschool
  • Spirit Play for young children in Transitional Kinder through grade 2 (Room 10)
  • True Reflections for children in grades 3, 4 and 5  (Room 7/8)
  • Junior High Youth Group or JHYG for grades 6, 7, and 8 (Room 6)
  • Youth in grades 9, 10, 11, and 12 attend Senior High Youth Group or SHYG in Room 12
When you arrive at church, please visit the RE Table in the Welcome Hall to sign in and make a name tag.  You are welcome to sit all together in the sanctuary until the children and youth are sung out by the congregation.  I am happy to help with questions or thoughts via e-mail at this link  or phone (916) 483-9283, ext. 207.  RE registration forms are available online or at the RE Table on Sunday. 
Our Whole Lives
Using a comprehensive approach, youth examine values, learn and identify peer and media pressures, build on relationship skills, consider gender identity, study reproduction and safe sexual health practices, develop skills for tough situations (including rape, sexual harassment and sexual abuse), and discuss dating and commitment aspects.
 
The Our Whole Lives Sexuality Education  program will offer two classes for children in grades 4, 5 and 6 and then a separate class for youth in grades 7, 8 and 9.  This program requires a mandatory parent orientation and signed permission form.  Please contact  Miranda Massa, RE Coordinator for more details and to sign up your child(ren).
Come support us!
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Our ministry for children and youth always has a variety of helping out opportunities.  If you have considered volunteering in our program, contact Miranda soon.  Our program has many methods of volunteer work. I look forward to hearing from you so we can explore an avenue that suits you.  Your gifts of time and talents make our RE program work!
Re: RE
  • Sunday, September 11 we will have a worship for all ages. There is no RE.
  • All ages UUSS Games Night is scheduled for Friday, September 16, 6 p.m. in the Fahs classroom.
  • The Nursery in Room 11 is open every Sunday at 9:30 a.m. for parents attending Sunday Morning Spiritual Practices. For parents not attending these special events, the regular Nursery opening time is at 10:15 a.m. 
  • RE calendar details and other information, click here.
  • Sunday, September 25, our Nursery stays open later for families to attend the Newcomer's Orientation.  Just let our Nursery staff know when you drop off your child(ren) that they will be staying longer.  We appreciate you!
  • I hope you are able to stay up to date with reading the RE Outreach, as it is always a great source for information, events, and other neat things about our wonderful program.
  • Looking for a simple way to volunteer in RE?  Ask RE Coordinator Miranda about staffing the RE Welcome Table in the Welcome Hall on a Sunday morning. This is always a big help!
Religious Education (RE) Calendar, September 2016
Sunday, September 4
9:30-12:00     Child care available
10:30-11:45   RE Yoga with Paige
 
Sunday, September 11
9:30-12:00     Child care available
10:15-11:30    All ages. No RE scheduled. 
 
Sunday, September 18
9:30-12:00      Child care available
10:15-11:30    First day of RE Orientations
 
Sunday, September 25
9:30-1:30       Child care available
10:15-11:30    RE
Office Hours and Holiday Closings
The office is open Monday thru Friday from 8:30am to 5:00pm.
The office will be closed on September 5 for Labor Day
Serving Our Congregation
  UUSS OFFICERS & BOARD TRUSTEES
          Linda Clear, President                      Margaret Wilcox, Vice-President
          Gordon Gerwig, Treasurer              Janet Lopes, Secretary
          Kathy Bernard                                   Denis Edgren
          Carl Gardner                                       Dennis Pottenger                                                   Sally White                                          Erik Jensen , Youth Trustee 
     Contact Board members by email: president@uuss.org
 
PROGRAM COUNCIL
        JoAnn Anglin                                          Deirdre Downes (Chairperson)                       Patricia Johnson                                   Peggy Makie
         Linda Roth                               
     Contact Program Council members by email: programcouncil@uuss.org
 
CHURCH STAFF
Rev. Roger Jones, Senior Minister
Rev. Lucy Bunch, Assistant Minister
D. Scott Cooper, Ministerial Intern
Stanton Vedell, Communications and Facilities Coordinator
Michele Ebler, Bookkeeper
Elaine Cooper, Receptionist
Miranda Massa, Religious Education Coordinator
Keith Atwater, Music Director
Krystal Gollaher and Yer Chang, Childcare Providers
Aaron Molina - Sunday thru Thursday, Custodian 
Miguel Neri - Friday - Sunday, Custodian