Website: uucw.org | E-mail: uucw@uucw.org  | Phone:  (262) 782-3535
Weekly UUCW E-News 
Sunday, February 26, 2017
THIS SUNDAY: 
 BUILD THE VISION INVITATION DAY
"What Love, Understanding, and Commitment Can Do"

Sunday, February 26, 2017
9:15 a.m. & 11:00 a.m.
With The Rev. Suzelle Lynch & The Rev. Joyce Palmer
Our UU Association President, the Rev. Peter Morales, said "I am a UU because I need other people who love what I love. I am a UU because I want to join hands with others to create a community where we grow spiritually, where we support one another, and where we work together to create a world in which everyone matters, everyone is free, everyone is respected.... I am a UU because I have seen what love, understanding, and commitment can do. And I am a UU because I am convinced that if we let the love in our hearts guide our ways, the possibilities before us are breathtaking." YES! This is what UUCW is all about. Today is "Invitation-to-Share Sunday" -we'll reflect on the love, understanding, and commitment we embody, and will provide everyone with the means to be part of the Build the Vision Campaign! 

Music from the fabulous UUCW Choir and special guest vocalist, Cynthia Cobb - and delicious treats provided after today's service!
Religious Education

Our religious education program for children and youth meet during each of the worship service times.
Living Our Values values
NAMI (NATIONAL ALLIANCE ON MENTAL ILLNESS), SPLIT-THE-PLATE RECIPIENT FOR FEBRUARY:

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Greater Milwaukee is the recipient of our February Split the Plate donations.  NAMI  is a non-profit community-based, self-help, support, education and advocacy organization dedicated to improving the lives of those with mental illness, their families, and those touched by mental illness. Please help this valuable program continue its important work and give generously!
   
THE FOOD PANTRY OF WAUKESHA COUNTY, FEBRUARY FOOD PANTRY RECIPIENT: 
The Food Pantry of Waukesha County will receive donations of non-perishable items in February. The most needed items are: 
 
  • soup
  • stews/Spam 
  • mac n' cheese 
  • canned fruit
  • cereal
  • cooking oil
  • peanut butter & jelly
Your contributions for the less fortunate are much appreciated. For more information or to suggest future food drive recipients, contact Ellen Newbauer or Melanie Weston via the church office .
THE GUEST HOUSE: 

It's time to help at Guest House again. Every month the UU churches
of Milwaukee provide a meal to over 100 homeless at the Guest House, a shelter for men in downtown Milwaukee. Our next turn will be Saturday, March 18. We need volunteers to provide food or soda and servers and adult assistants to help with transportation and serving. If you are able to help please sign up at the Social Action table after the service or contact Eileen Gleeson  via the church office. Please note: Children are generally welcome to help serve, but please consult with us before signing them up.
WILL YOU SIGN THE DECLARATION OF CONSCIENCE?

The Rev. Peter Morales, President of the Unitarian Universalist Association and the Hon. Thomas Andrews, President and CEO of the UU Service Committee have asked all Unitarian Universalists and our congregations to consider signing on to a Declaration of Conscience.  The Declaration is in response to the recent political changes and the sense among so many UUs that we must be united in purpose to protect the values of our democracy and those vulnerable populations among us.  Rev. Morales says, "This is not about partisan politics. It is a principled response to the potential targeting of people not for what they have done, but for who they are. It is a commitment to speak out and to act in support of basic human rights." 

Copies of the Declaration are available on the foyer table, and/or you can read more about it and access the way to sign it here:  https://www.uua.org/pressroom/press-releases/calling-all-friends-faith-and-conscience-invitation-uua-president-and-uusc
Church Life church
NEXT SUNDAY: 
 "Imagine the Dawn" 
Guest Pulpit: Nic Cable, Ministerial Intern

Sunday, February 26, 2017
9:15 a.m. & 11:00 a.m.
Worship Coordinators: Steve Frey & Eddee Daniel
One of the greatest spiritual gifts we share as Unitarian Universalists is the power of imagination. This creative muscle we strengthened as children is now perhaps our most precious asset moving forward. With pulpit guest and UUCW-native Nic Cable, we Imagine the Dawn by opening our hearts and minds to a vision of Beloved Community that we can build together in the days to come. Special Music today from a UUCW Vocal Ensemble.
About our guest: Nic Cable is a lifelong UU who grew up at UU Church West and is currently serving as a Ministerial Intern at Unity Church-Unitarian in Saint Paul, MN. Before moving to Minnesota, Nic served on the staff of both the UU Church of Greater Lansing and the Unitarian Universalist Association as his wife completed her law degree at Michigan State University. 
 
Build 2020 Capital Campaign and 
2017-18 Annual  Pledge Drive

 
  BUILD THE VISION Begins Today! This is the Sunday we are sharing more about our Build the Vision Campaign at our worship services. Campaign packets are being provided to our members and friends. During the next two weeks, please spend time considering your response to this campaign. Everyone is asked to bring their pledge form to the worship services on Pledge Sunday, March 12. If you prefer, you may return your pledge form to the church office prior to March 12.
The Build the Vision Campaign has two important purposes:
  • This is our annual pledge drive to support the church Operating Budget for the 2017-18 fiscal year. The Operating Budget pays for building operations, program costs, staff salaries, and everything else that is needed to run UUCW for a year.
  • Build the Vision is also a church-wide effort over the next five years to raise the money we need for our Build 2020 Capital Fund. Build 2020 will allow us to make changes in our facilities to address important congregational needs.

Ultimately, your pledge response to our Build the Vision Campaign helps secure the future of our vibrant congregation -- this "home for the soul" we each hold close to our hearts.
 


We have a tremendous Campaign Steering Team consisting of The Rev. Suzelle Lynch, Phil Kroner, Vicki Banville, Kurt Gaetano, Kathy Herrewig, Larry Hawley, Leslie Peterson, Ann Bertz, and Ron Trilling.

More volunteers are currently being enlisted. You may receive a phone call asking you to serve as a volunteer in our campaign. Please be open to this invitation. Don't worry... you do not have to ask for money! The campaign is organized so that the
activity is distributed among many people. Each person does just a little work. We are confident you will enjoy this experience.

Stay tuned! In the weeks ahead, you will be receiving more information about our Build the Vision Campaign.
WHY I SUPPORT BUILD THE VISION 
- Leslie Peterson

  I'm grateful for this community of caring and loving people that support me in my life journey. I'm grateful for UUCW's commitment to social justice and interfaith work and how this commitment has helped me grow spiritually and broadened my awareness.
I believe deeply in the important role UUCW plays in my life and the life of others both inside and outside the church. In this fractured and anxiety filled world, UUCW offers a beacon of hope and solace.
I'm hopeful for a more welcoming and collaborative space that nurtures and inspires staff and congregation members. A remodel and refresh that positions us well for future growth - inward and outward!

 
 

 

 


WINTER WORK DAY MARCH 4

 Consider helping on Saturday, March 4 between 8 a.m. and noon.  The Winter Work Day is being held by the Campus Committee in order to accomplish some indoor tasks in the church.  There are projects that include organizing, cleaning, painting, and repairing.  Everyone is welcome to help.  Please contact Vicki Banville at vickib@uucw.org if you are willing to help and she can get you paired up with a project. 
HARMONIC CHANT GROUP

Harmonic Chant Group starts Friday, March 10, 6:30-8:00 and will be held the second Friday of every month. Everyone come join us for a an interactive musical experience where we will learn and sing together sacred prayers and chants from many of the worlds spiritual groups, ALL AGES, bring a blanket or pillow to sit on and an open mind. Dancing, singing and clapping encouraged. Group facilitated by Bhavani Hope. Contact Bhavani  via the church office with questions.
CHILDREN'S CHOIR REHEARSAL DATES

Rehearsals for the Children's Choir performance on Sunday, March 26 will be March 5 and March 19, 10:30-11:00 a.m. Rehearsal tracks will be available for practicing at home. please contact Lead Music Director Jennifer Nicolosi via the church office if you are interested.
ENDOWMENT FUND GRANT OPPORTUNITIES

Endowment Fund Committee is now accepting grant request proposals throughout January and February. Forms are located on the information table in the lobby. Completed grant requests should be placed in the Endowment Fund Committee mailbox by February 28, 2017. Questions? Contact committee chair Mike Brown via the church office.
UUCW COMMON GROUND GUN SAFETY CAMPAIGN

UUCW Common Ground's Gun Safety Campaign: All of us are increasingly vulnerable to gun violence no matter where we live.  It makes sense for UUCW members to become involved in Common Ground's DO NOT STAND IDLY BY campaign to advocate for developing safer guns and shut down gun dealers responsible for the majority of guns retrieved at crime scenes. For more information see an article in the upcoming West Wind.  Contact Dennis Briley if you have questions or want to volunteer.
MADISON ACTION DAY
Thursday, March 30

The Social Action Council, in collaboration with the SOPHIA organization, encourages you to register for Madison Action Day. Join over 800 WISDOM leaders from across Wisconsin at the State Capitol to advocate and educate legislators about issues in the proposed state budget, including criminal justice reform, public transit and immigration! Details and registration are at http://wisdommadisonactio.wixsite.com/mysite Cost: $25.00 for lunch and materials; $10 for the Bus. Scholarships are available. For more information contact Barbara Pfarr   via the church office.
RACIAL JUSTICE: THE COURAGE TO ACT
Sat. April 1, 9 - 4pm, Alverno College

Register now for this exciting workshop featuring UU racial justice activist and educator Chris Crass. Focus is on overcoming our fears and building our skills to move forward with courage for our work in support of Black Lives Matter. Breakout sessions with a variety of local groups active in anti-racism work. Cost: Early Bird til 3/15 - $20 Adult; $10 Student/Youth. Don't wait to register at https://racialjusticecourage.eventbrite.com/ or through the link at uucw.org. Space is limited and tickets are likely to go fast. Pick up a flyer at the Social Action Table after service today! For more info, contact Ann Heidkamp   via the church office .
MILWAUKEE: 53206
Film Screening and Discussion 
Saturday, February 25, 3:00 - 5:30 pm at UUCW

This one-hour documentary chronicles the lives of those affected by incarceration in America's most incarcerated zip code, demonstrating the significant toll that mass incarceration takes on individuals and families. Following the film showing, join for discussion with speakers from the EXPO (Ex-Prisoners Organizing) project and WISDOM, the state-wide organization working for prison reform in Wisconsin. 

Registration is requested at http://www.uucw.org/adult-spirituality/registration, noting which event you are planning to attend. For more information, contact Ann Heidkamp via the church office.
THE THIRD RECONSTRUCTION BOOK DISCUSSION AT UUCW
Sunday, March 12, 1:00 -3:00 p.m. 

Please register  online at  www.uucw.org/adult-spirituality/registration , noting in the comment section which session you wish to attend. Or contact Maria O'Connor   
  via the church office.   You can also r egister  at the Social Action table in the Community Room today.  Registration for   Monday, February 27, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.  is now closed.
SOCIAL ACTION COUNCIL SEEKS NEW MEMBERS 

Are you interested in helping UUCW make a difference in the world?  If so, the Social Action Council is in need of your talents and ideas.  The Council meets once a month (usually on the fourth Wednesday evening) to coordinate activities of the on-going social justice projects and discuss educational programming and new initiatives.  If you're interested in becoming a member or just want to find out more about any aspect of social action at UUCW, contact Ann Heidkamp  via the church office.    
Photo of the Week church
  


Welcoming new members to UUCW
on New Member Sunday!
Fellowship and Learning church
DUUVERSITY THEATER
Best of Enemies by Mark St. Germain
Sunday, March 19, 3:00 p.m. 

Join us on Sunday, March 19th for our next play of the DUUversity Theater season: Best of Enemies by Mark St. Germain for the Acacia Theater presented at Concordia University's Todd Wehr Auditorium, 12800 North Lake Shore Drive, Mequon at 3:00 p.m. This is the true story of the relationship between C.P. Ellis, a Grand Cyclops of the KKK, and Ann Atwater, an African-American civil rights activist which developed during meetings about the desegregation of the Durham, North Carolina schools in 1971. These two strong characters work to overcome in an unexpected and heartening way.

The DUUversity Theater group is a group of members and friends who support diversity in the Milwaukee community by attending plays that feature cultural, class, and ethical themes. We follow each play with discussion and dinner at a local restaurant. Everyone is responsible for purchasing their own tickets: Call (414)744-5995 or go online at www.acaciatheatre.com. To get more information, to RSVP for dinner, or to carpool contact Kristin Fewel  via the church office .   
ENGAGE WITH A WIDER CIRCLE OF UUs:  

 MidAmerica UU Regional Assembly 2017:   Registration is now open for Regional Assembly 2017, April 28-30 in Oak Brook Illinois.  The Rev. Dr. Lee Barker, President and Professor of Ministry at Meadville-Lombard Theological School will be the Keynote speaker addressing the topic "To Multi-faith: A Verb." Early bird registration deadline is April 6. To register or learn more, please visit http://www.midamericauua.org/events/regional-assembly/2604-regional-assembly-2017.

General Assembly (GA) 2017:  Will be held in New Orleans, Louisiana, June 21-25. The GA is the annual meeting of our Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA). Attendees worship, witness, learn, connect, and make policy for the Association through democratic process. Anyone may attend. Registration opens March 1. To register or learn more, please visit http://www.uua.org/ga
  
 
 
QUICK GUIDE TO THIS WEEK'S GROUPS: ALL ARE WELCOME!   

  • 2/27 Book Discussion "The Third Reconstruction": 6:30 pm at UUCW Registration is now closed for this event.
  • 3/1 Recovery & Addiction: 7:00 p.m. at UUCW. Group meets twice a month on first and third Wednesdays.
  • 3/1 Spiritual Book Group: 7:00 p.m. at UUCW
  • 3/2 Meditation: Available time slots: 4:30, 5:30, or 6:30 p.m. Meets in UUCW's Wellspring room.  
  • 3/4 Winter Work Day: 8:00 a.m- Noon at UUCW
Monthly Newsletter: February 2017

You're reading the weekly E-News. UUCW also publishes a monthly newsletter called the West Wind, which has more in-depth articles and announcements.

To download the latest edition and see past editions of the West Wind, click here .
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