| The Unigram Newsletter for November 2017 Unitarian Universalist Society of Sacramento |
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2425 Sierra Boulevard
Sacramento, CA 95825
Office (916) 483-9283
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October 29
We Call our Beloved Dead -- All-ages Worship with Memorial Roll Call
Come today to remember loved ones we have lost and hear the names of those in our UUSS family who died in the past 12 months.
Special Outreach Offering: 100% of non-pledge contributions today will support the UUA's Disaster Relief Fund and the Hurricane Irma Community Relief Fund to help the most vulnerable survivors in Puerto Rico.
- Parents' Breakfast with Rev. Roger, 9:00 a.m. (about Child Dedication ritual)
- Newcomers' Orientation & Tour, 12:00-1:00 p.m., starts in the UUSS Library
November 5 --
Fall Back an Hour
- Daylight Saving Time ends!
What I Don't Understand about Compassion
Rev. Dr. Roger D. Jones, with Rev. Lucy Bunch, Worship Associate Marilyn Reynolds, Music Director Keith Atwater; Special Music by tenor Tom Voigt
This is Part One of a sermon series based on Karen Armstrong's book
Twelve Steps to a Compassionate Life (oh, 12. Is that all?). What is compassion and how does it work? Is it easy for you, or difficult? Remember to set your clocks back, or just come early and walk the Labyrinth!
- First Sunday Labyrinth Walk in the meadow at 9:45 a.m.
- Soup Sunday Lunch after Service
November 12
Discomfort, Diversity and the Higgs Boson particle
Rev. Lucy Bunch, with Rev. Dr. Roger D. Jones, Worship Associate Celia Buckley
What do Keith Jarrett, process theology and physics have in common? Come learn about the Higgs Boson particle and how it is evidence of the divine force that calls us to engage deeply in the discomfort and the challenge of post-modern living.
- Sunday Spiritual Practice at 9:45 a.m.: QiGong & Tai Chi Chuan in Fahs Room
- Soup Sunday after the service
November 19
Gratitude -- All-ages worship with Child Blessings
Rev. Dr. Roger D. Jones and Rev. Lucy Bunch with Worship Associates Jim Eastman and Laura Sheperd, Music Director Keith Atwater, and the UUSS Choir
Child Blessings - This all-ages service includes a UU baby dedication and child blessing ceremony by our ministers. Family members were invited to a pot-luck breakfast meeting with Rev. Roger on October 29 to discuss the meaning of this ritual and the spiritual dimensions of child-rearing.
Gratitude is a powerful force of love and healing. At this time of thanksgiving, we bring together our church community of all ages to offer our thanks for all the gifts we have been given in this life. Come let your heart be full as we celebrate together.
- Exploring Unitarian Universalism: Principles and Sources, 9:30 a.m. in Fahs Room
- Sunday Spiritual Practice at 9:45 a.m.: Silent Meditation in Classroom 6
- Celebration of November Birthdays
November 26
Active Hope
Rev. Lucy Bunch, with Rev. Dr. Roger D. Jones
Worship Associate Marilyn Reynolds, Music Director Keith Atwater
For many years, Joanna Macy, the well-known Buddhist author, has been sharing her wisdom on how to survive through difficult times. Her latest book is called
Active Hope: How to face the mess we're in without going crazy. Macy's ideas can serve as a guidepost through the chaos.
- Sunday Morning Spiritual Practice at 9:45 a.m.: Reading and reflection on poetry and prose in Classroom 9
- Youth Groups meet! Both JHYG and SHYG meet as well as Spirit Play today.
December 3 --
This is Marathon Day
-- allow extra time to avoid Fair Oaks Blvd
The Mystic's Resistance: Our Anti-Racist Apostle of Simplicity
Rev. Dr. Roger D. Jones, preaching, with Rev. Lucy Bunch
Worship Associate Larry Boles. Vocal solo by Keith Atwater for World AIDS Day.
Happy Birthday, Henry David Thoreau! Our original American UU Pagan recently turned 200 years old. Today, we come together to consider the relevance in our own day of the life, words and wisdom of this American apostle of simplicity and frugality, who at the same time was also an advocate of resistance to the abuses of civil government.
- First Sunday Labyrinth Walk in the meadow at 9:45 a.m.
- Soup Sunday Lunch after Service
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Special Offering Sunday, October 29: Disaster Relief
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On October 29, all of our Offering contributions will go toward disaster relief and recovery. The fires in Northern California and hurricanes in the Gulf Coast and Caribbean have been heartbreaking, and many UUs have asked how we can help out--as UUs.
Donations will be divided between the
Disaster Relief Fund of the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) for UU people and communities affected and the Hurricane Irma Community Relief and Recovery Fund for some of the most vulnerable groups of survivors in Puerto Rico.
Thanks to our Board of Trustees for this designation--and to everyone for your care and support. If you are away Sunday, you may send a check.
Note: Any UUSS pledge payments should be marked "pledge," as 100% of all other gifts will go to this special offering.
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Shared Offering Recipient in November
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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 September we received $2,374 for Mustard Seed School. Our community partner for November is
Loaves and Fishes whose Mission Statement is "
In an environment of welcome, hospitality, safety, and cleanliness we seek to provide an oasis for homeless men, women, and children seeking survival services."
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Senior Minister's Message
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The killing of 55 people by one man with automatic weapons in Las Vegas is hard to imagine--though we've seen a steady stream of such shootings in recent years. The disasters in the Gulf Coast and Caribbean areas as well as in Mexico have been heartbreaking. President Trump's dismissal of the survivors and the elected leaders in the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico is an outrage, just as is his threat of attacking North Korea and risking millions of lives.
In the midst of all of this, we find catastrophe hitting close to home-17 wildfires in Northern California, with 44 or more people killed and thousands of buildings, homes, and businesses lost, not to mention the deaths of pets, farm animals and wildlife in the fires. Many of those affected are members and staff of UU congregations in the North Bay area. Santa Rosa UU congregants have lost a dozen homes, and many folks must work, move, and live amid smoky, toxic air, unless they have fled the area.
Such losses remind me of the precious gift of community. Not merely to be awakened by your neighbors' knocking on the door to tell you to flee the house immediately, but also to be held as you weep, or to be served some food and water, or to be given a place to sleep. To be in community can mean survival, but it can also mean companionship as you do the work of recovery and rebuilding. In a time when folks are more isolated, we can be grateful that we sustain, support and belong to a congregation that has community as its mission: We come together to deepen our lives and to be a force for healing in the world.
Our Board of Trustees has designated 100% of the Sunday offering of October 29 to be given to disaster relief, since October has five Sundays in it. Half of our donations will go to the
disaster relief fund at the Unitarian Universalist Association. The other half will support the Hurricane Irma Community Relief Fund in its work to support marginalized communities of people in Puerto Rico.
Thank you for any gifts you are able to make for these efforts. Thank you also for keeping our varied and far-flung neighbors in your thoughts, prayers, meditations and loving intentions. I am grateful for this community.
Yours in faith,
Rev. Dr. Roger D. Jones
PS-Please don't miss the all-ages, all-congregation Long-Range Planning day this Saturday, October 28, at UUSS from 9:30-3:00. Help to launch UUSS into the future. Please register now at
www.uuss.org/future/
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Where's Rev. Roger in November?
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Office hours are Monday, Wednesday and Thursday afternoons. Let's make an appointment! It's very hard to have good connections with so many folks on Sundays, so drop me a line or give me a call. I'll be here all month long, so I hope to see you soon!
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Assistant Minister's Message
Pilgrimage
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In September I took the trip of a lifetime to Chartres Cathedral in France. I have been a Labyrinth practitioner since the mid-nineties and have dreamed of this trip for more than 20 years. The labyrinth at Chartres was built in 1130 and is the original medieval pattern that is replicated in our labyrinth at UUSS. The Chartres labyrinth is laid in stones in the floor of one of the most beautiful gothic cathedrals in the world. It is one of the few remaining labyrinths of the medieval period - the others were destroyed by the church because they were believed to be of pagan origin. The Chartres labyrinth was saved because the stones are of such depth that to remove them might destabilize the cathedral.
My group of 10 had a closed cathedral, candlelit walk accompanied by a quartet singing medieval music. It was a transcendent experience where I felt connected to all the pilgrims that had come to Chartres for the past 900 years. When I got to the center of the labyrinth, I closed my eyes and saw myself in the center of
our labyrinth, in the meadow among
our trees. Time and space fell away in a profound experience of oneness.
We have a labyrinth walk at UUSS every first Sunday before church. While you won't be in one of the most beautiful cathedrals in the world, you will be walking an ancient path trod by many over hundreds of years. Who knows what you will find.
Blessing on your journey,
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Where's Lucy in November?
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My regular office hours are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday afternoons. Please call or e-mail if you would like to visit so I can be sure to be available.
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| In Loving Memory |
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We extend our condolences to Rev. Martha Hodges and family on the loss of her sister Sue Russ after a sudden illness. Sue and her husband and adult son had moved here last year to be closer to Martha and their other sister. We are holding you in love and care.
Chuck Berkstresser (member since 1961) died in September. His memorial service and reception will take place at UUSS on Sunday, November 12, at 1:30 p.m. Come to share stories about this amazing person! In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are invited to the ACLU, Planned Parenthood, and the UUSS Heritage Fund.
Read his obituary here.
The memorial service for Ruth Davis Barr (member since 1981) will take place at UUSS on Sunday, November 19, at 1:30 p.m. Ruth was a native of rural Oklahoma, a poet and a gracious member of the community. Her children and grandchildren will be honored by your attendance. Memorial donations are invited to the UUSS Heritage Fund.
The Memorial Receptions team welcomes your donations of finger food, cookies, time or money to help in hosting the family of these beloved members.
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Child Dedication Ritual -- Family Breakfast this Sunday to Discuss
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UU ministers conduct a blessing ritual for children of any age in UU congregations. With words, a flower, and a few drops of water, we pronounce the child as blessed and whole, and pray for a life that is rich in love and joy. In the service we invite the whole community to make a commitment to the nurture of children among us.
We have set Sunday, November 19, as the day when the ritual will take place.
Parents, guardians, grandparents: THIS SUNDAY, October 29, you are invited to join Rev. Roger in an hour of conversation to talk about the spiritual experience of child rearing and this ritual. Child Care opens early for you today!
E-mail me of your interest
, and let me know if you'd like to bring something for the breakfast.
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Unitarian Communion from Tranylvania
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Many of you were moved by the Rev. Emese Bodor, the young preacher from the Unitarian Church of Transylvania, and charmed by her forum conversation after the October 1 service. As many Protestant faiths mark this month as the Reformation's 500th anniversary, it's worth noting that in less than a half century after Martin Luther started a German-speaking movement, Protestant diversity included Unitarians in Polish and Hungarian-speaking lands. In fact, the only Unitarian king in history made an Edict of Religious Toleration in 1568!
Read more here.
If you have never attended a communion, or a communion presided over by a clergy
woman, or a Unitarian communion, think about attending an evening ceremony in the Transylvanian tradition with Rev. Emese, held at UUSS on a date TBD. It is a ceremony in memory of Jesus of Nazareth, a human teacher and prophet. If you are interested in helping prepare for this or helping to cover the cost of bringing her back to Sacramento,
contact Roger.
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Music Director's Message
The Power of Words and Songs
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Every semester I meet my American River College humanities class at the Crocker museum for a close look at some very good art.
On my last visit, I noticed a happy young couple (not students, just visiting "millennials") standing on the front steps of the old Crocker mansion / museum, trying to take a "selfie." I volunteered to help, and they gladly if a bit shyly agreed. It was a nice Sacramento morning moment, with the young lady in hijab (the Arabic term for a head scarf); my photo must have been satisfactory. They said thank you and I spontaneously said "a salaamu alaikum," which is a standard Arabic greeting to Muslims everywhere, and all others, too, in Islamic cultures, primarily.
It means "peace be upon you. " Instantly they broke into big beaming smiles and relaxed warmth and effusive thank you's. I realized later the power of accepting, embracing, supportive words, especially when spoken to those perhaps more alienated or self-conscious or vulnerable.
Last summer members of our choir and I went to Ron and Heather Galbreath's house to sing UU songs with them. As Ron (who can't easily come to our services any more) requested his favorite songs from the Teal songbook and grey hymnal, and with me fumbling to play Meg Burnett's plug-in electric keyboard, I also felt that energy and joy and power when we find the words and songs that speak to those who need them and cherish them. May we all keep finding the words and songs to nourish others!
PS--Choir rehearsal is every Wednesday in the Fahs Classroom, 7:00-8:30 p.m. One Sunday each month we have a song fest around the piano after the service. All welcome!
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This month I'm delighted to introduce our UUSS Board Youth Trustee, Annika Lawson. She is a high school senior whose parents belonged to UUCC and now are members of our congregation. Annika spent the summer working at Camp Sacramento and now is busy with senior activities including college applications. She also performs in musical theater as an actor and singer. We are very happy to have her join the Board.
What else has our Board accomplished this month? We discussed and unanimously endorsed naming Rev. Doug Kraft our Emeritus Minister. At the October 22 Congregational Meeting, members voted overwhelmingly in favor of granting this honor to Doug!
We reviewed and clarified the Board's pledge in May "to make permanent the boycott of HP products at UUSS" -- meaning that the UUSS office would no longer purchase HP supplies for its current office equipment and would not purchase HP equipment when buying replacements. More information is coming soon to explain this decision.
Did you know that UUSS is celebrating its sesquicentennial in 2018? That's 150 years since we were founded. Very impressive! The Board discussed various ways we might celebrate. This will include fundraiser for new lighting in the large parking lot--for safety at night--and a new patio cover and awning to provide shade from hot sun and shelter from the rain, and more space for fellowship among UUSS folks. As Roger noted, the goal is $150,000 for symmetry as well as shade and safety. What celebration ideas do you have for our 150th?
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Are you a Facebook fan?
Looking for volunteers to plan and moderate a new UUSS Facebook page.
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UUSS has an active Facebook page that is designed for outreach to the greater community. Many of you "like" and "share" our postings, which helps spread the word about our congregation.
But the current page is not used for general posting among members. We are exploring the idea of a closed Facebook group for member and friends of the congregation. This page would allow members and friends to post events and activities. It would also serve as a virtual bulletin board for announcements about items for sale, housing opportunities, etc.
To get us started two things are needed: a policy to governs the types of things that can be posted, and at least two moderators to ensure that postings are appropriate given the guidelines. Are you interested in helping out? Willing to take a turn as a moderator?Contact Rev. Lucy.
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A Force for the Future
Strategic Planning Retreat this Saturday, October 28
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Join us on Saturday, October 28, as UUSS takes its first step on our journey into the future! We will gather in the Welcome Hall at 9:30 a.m. for light refreshments and coffee, followed by the "Force for the Future" retreat in the Sanctuary from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Lunch will be provided.
- Please register for the October 28 retreat by calling the office or register online at http://uuss.org/future.
Force for the Future is our chance to chart the way forward for our spiritual home and our community. At the retreat, the congregation will begin identifying ideas, priorities and goals for a five-year strategic plan. The retreat will be facilitated by Rev. Tandi Rogers from the Unitarian Universalist Association, with support by Rev. Sarah Schurr, our UUA liaison.
The retreat will be followed by smaller group listening sessions in November and January to explore ideas arising from the retreat more deeply. The draft strategic plan will be presented to the Board and at a Congregational Meeting on May 20, 2018. UUSS' last strategic plan resulted in commitments to our renovated and refurbished campus, to deeper connections among newcomers and long-time UUSS members, and to deepening our families' and children's religious life here.
We value the perspective of all voices -- UUSS members and friends are welcome at the retreat, as are youth. Childcare and activities for young people will be provided. We are exploring opportunities for youth to participate in listening sessions as well.
Force for the Future team members Margaret Wilcox, Carl Gardner, Carrie Cornwell, Karen Gunderson, Marion Randall and Shannon Williams would be happy to talk with you about the strategic planning process.
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Social Justice Movie Night--1st Thursday every month
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Thursday, November 2, 6:30 p.m.
Martin Luther King in Palestine
Host: UUs for Justice in the Middle East
This 2013 film tells the story of a play about M.L. King performed by the Palestinian National Theatre and an African-American gospel choir; it was presented to audiences all over the West Bank. This intense cultural exchange between two peoples encompassed the joy of new friendships, creative collaborations, and eye-opening experiences. None who participated remained unchanged.
http://www.clarityfilms.org/mlk/index.html
Thursday, December 7, 6:30 p.m.
Defying the Nazis: The Sharps' War
Host: UUSS Refugee Support Program
"Defying The Nazis: The Sharps' War," directed by Ken Burns and Artemis Joukowsky. "Deying the Nazis: The Sharps War" is an account of a daring rescue mission that occurred on the precipice of World War II. It tells the story of Waitstill and Martha Sharp, a Unitarian minister and his wife from Wellesley, Massachusetts, who left their children behind in the care of their parish and boldly committed to multiple life-threatening missions in Europe. Over two dangerous years they helped to save hundreds of imperiled political dissidents and Jewish refugees fleeing the Nazi occupation across Europe.
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UUSS Interfaith Earth Justice:
Doing "Small Great Things" that bring about change:
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Reflections on the Interfaith Forum on Climate Change held October 8 at UUSS:
60 people attended this event. While the majority of the attendees were from our church, other churches represented were St. Ignatius Loyola, Elk Grove United Methodist Church, Quakers, United Church of Christ/PCUSA, Presbyterian, Episcopal, the Catholic Diocese and Congregation Beth Shalom...a wonderful interfaith gathering.
Speakers represented five faith-based organizations: Muslim, Jewish, Christian, Buddhist and UU. In addition, there were information tables from other Sacramento area environmental groups and a beautiful art exhibit by Amjad Malik from the SALAM Center.
Each speaker shared their spiritual basis for striving to be good stewards of the earth. While everyone's sources were from a different Wisdom Path, the overarching common denominator was that we are all interconnected; all living beings are part of the web of life, and we have a responsibility to protect the earth and heal the earth for those living today and those yet to be born.
Theo Goodwin from the Congregation B'nai Israel spoke about "Tikkun Olam" which is action-oriented and spirit filled living to heal the earth. We must keep moving forward even when we know we will not achieve this goal in our lifetime. As Rev. Lucy Bunch said in her remarks at this event, we trust that the arc of the universe is always bending toward justice.
The messages were filled with hope and encouragement. All emphasized that by working together, the faith community is a powerful force for healing, preserving the earth and giving voice to what is just and moral.
Moving forward, the UUSS Interfaith Earth Justice Committee will continue to evaluate different ways in which to engage with the interfaith community in climate activism.
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Sacramento Area Congregations Together (ACT):
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Monthly meetings of the Sacramento ACT Environmental Justice Committee are held at UUSS on the third Tuesday of the month. The committee is meeting with environmental groups to access the local issues for developing priorities and next steps. Hally Cahssai is the liaison from UUSS for this important advocacy work. Please come and show your support and share your ideas for taking the next step to heal our earth.
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Climate Change: Where Are We Now? -- Lecture November 5
Dr. Tom Suchanek, marine ecologist and climate scientist, will speak at UUSS at 1:00 p.m. Sunday, November 5. His talk, "Climate Change: Where Are We Now?" will include the scientific basis behind the detection, risks, impacts and solutions to Climate Change. He will address how climate change affects extreme and unpredictable events, including temperature, tornadoes, hurricanes, fires, sea level rise, El Niño, ocean acidification, and global energy sources. He will also discuss the critical Paris Climate Agreement and how each of us can make a difference. Q&A will follow. The talk is free of charge.
Earth Justice Ministry monthly general meeting, Nov. 13
We will meet Monday, November 13, 4:30 to 6 p.m. to discuss our planned carbon footprint game, plan a tour of milkweed, and plan future speakers, movies and more. The Blue Sheet will have more information on location, or check the meeting room locations announcement posted on all entry doors that day. Contact:
EarthJustice@uuss.org
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TED Talks on Tuesdays at UUSS
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Do you enjoy TED talks? These presentations by thought leaders from around the world are provocative and inspiring. Wouldn't it be even more fun to be able watch them in a group and discuss them afterward? You can !!! Rev. Lucy Bunch and the Adult Enrichment committee are sponsoring monthly TED talk presentations and discussions. The next TED talk will be November 14 in the Welcome Hall at 7:30 pm sharp. Glory Wicklund will host a talk entitled "Are You Biased or Just Partial to...." We are interested in finding volunteers to host future talks. If you have a TED talk you would like shared and/or you would like to lead the discussion, contact the Adult Enrichment table on Sunday or e-mail
Lucy@uuss.org
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Meditation Opportunities
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On January 8, 2018, an eight-week Meditation Class will begin, led by Doug Kraft, a Dharma teacher, retired UU minister, psychotherapist, and author. 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.
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More meditation:
A currently ongoing program
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On Tuesday evenings from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the Library at UUSS, there is a weekly Sangha for meditators. No need to sign up, but you can get questions answered about the Sangha by sending a note to
info@easingawake.com.
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UUSS Book Readers
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On Tuesday, November 28, the UUSS Book Readers will meet at 7 p.m. in the Welcome Hall to discuss
Small Great Things by Jodi Picoult.
For more information, contact
Jim Glidden
by email
o
r (916) 649-9697
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Sunday Morning Spiritual Practices
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Every Sunday before church (except the fifth Sunday) we offer a different form of spiritual practice. Fall is the perfect time to try one. They start at 9:45 and conclude by 10:15 so you won't be late for the service.
Childcare 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- this 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 or 9. Need some silence in your week? Our wonderful team of meditation leaders will help you settle into a quiet time and space. (Check room location announcements posted on every UUSS door.)
- 4th Sunday - Reading and reflection on poetry and prose, Room 6 or 9 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.
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Exploring Unitarian Universalism 3rd Sunday of the Month
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November 19 at 9:30 a.m.
"UU Principles and Sources" -- Fahs Classroom
Join us every third Sunday of the month before the service, for "Exploring Unitarian Universalism." Four different 45-minute sessions are 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.
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Alliance Programs Coming Up
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Alliance Group provides speakers, community, and refreshments on the second Thursday of every month. Meetings are held in the Library at 10:45. Requestred $3 donation.
Schedule of speaker or programs:
- November 9: Rich and Mary Howard will speak about their recent trip to the Amazon
- December 14: Holiday Luncheon ($5 donation)
- January 11: Kevin Sitter will provide information on the latest discoveries and treatments for AIDS
- February 8: Rev. Dr. Roger Jones will fill us in on his recent trip to South Korea
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World Religions Video Lecture Series: Buddhism
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Shortly we will begin the last of the Great Courses on Buddhism. Video lectures are given by Professor Malcolm Eckel of Boston University. He has authored two books, including
Metaphors Buddhists Live By
. There will be 24 lectures followed by discussion.
The word "Buddha" means "the awakened one." We will learn about the mystery of reincarnation and that the purpose of Buddhist practice is to understand a realistic assessment of life's challenges and to achieve a sense of liberation and peace.
We will listen about the various types of Buddhism particularly as it relates to the philosophy of emptiness. We will also learn about the significance of the mandala in both art and architecture.
Finally, we will learn about the precepts of Tibetan Buddhism, Chinese Buddhism, Japanese Buddhism, Zen meditation and the practice of Buddhism in America. Two showings: at 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
The lecture series will commence on Wednesday, November 1 and continues on Wednesdays (except for Thanksgiving week). Everyone can participate as it's on a drop in basis. Look for a Blue Sheet listing or the daily Room Location sheets for more detail.
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Introduction to Walking Meditations using the Labyrinth
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Saturday, November 11
9:00 a.m. to 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. Plus, it's a great preparation for our December Solstice celebration using the labyrinth.
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".
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.
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More Things to Know and Do
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United Nations Day Dinner October 29: Good Health & Well-Being
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Join UUSS members and others who care about the values and Global Goals of the UN. Speakers are UUSS member and a former UN Executive Secretary
Celine Walker and Patrick Koga, MD, MPH, Director of Refugee Health Research at UC Davis. Sunday, October 29, 5:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m., 9000 La Riviera Dr. SacUnDay2017.eventbrite.com
$15 students, $35 non-students. To learn about our denomination's office at the United Nations: www.uua.org/international-justice/un
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Kristallnacht Anniversary Talk ~ Thursday, November 9
"Rescue in Latin America: Refuge from the Holocaust"
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We have been invited by a member of Mosaic Law Congregation synagogue--our neighbors down the street at 2300 Sierra Blvd, KOH Library and Cultura Center, guest speakers Dr. Murray Baumgarten and Hillel Salomon, 6:30, Thursday, November 9. $5 donation requested. Hosted by Central Valley Holocaust Educators' Network: www.cvhen.com
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Art Exhibit Opening Reception November 16
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Please join the Art Committee on Thursday, November 16 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. in the Main Hall for a reception featuring the artwork of Sue Chapman. Sue shows a special attraction to Northern California's native oaks and evergreens, rolling foothills, and the rock formations of the Sierras. She states that she is privileged to live and paint in this beautiful and inspiring part of the country.
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Carpooling to Sunday Services
Share a Ride to Church
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More than 35 people are currently signed up to participate in our ride-sharing program. We are now forming ride-sharing clusters of members and friends of UUSS who live in relative proximity. Once names and contact information have been gathered, it will be up to interested parties to make arrangements to drive and/or ride--occasionally or every week, based on the information provided. It's not too late for you to join in! This is an ongoing opportunity. To enjoy sharing transportation to church, use the sign-up forms found at the Adult Enrichment table every Sunday. You can also sign up by dropping by the church office, or calling (916) 483-9283, or by using the form on the UUSS website at
http://uuss.org/ridesharing
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Community Interfaith Thanksgiving Service November 21
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UUSS members and friends are invited to attend this year's Community Interfaith Thanksgiving Service on Tuesday, November 21, at 7 p.m. This year's host site is the SALAM Center at
4545 College Oak Drive, Sacramento. As noted by the organizer Rev. Mahsea Evans, an assistant pastor at St. Mark's United Methodist: In these times of great unrest and uncertainty, our coming together is even more essential. It is an unifying statement of the virtues of peace, justice, and the hope for a better world. This event embodies that noble intention.
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Save the Date: Thanksgiving Potluck
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Save Thursday, November 23, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. for the UUSS Potluck Thanksgiving. All welcome! Sign-ups after service starting October 22.
$5/adult donation and potluck dish requested.
Donations will reimburse our advance expenses.
Last year, we had 80 people. Need turkey pre-cookers, set-up volunteers, and dishwashers. Vegetarian/vegan options welcome. For more information, contact the organizer, Laurie Jones at
(916) 694-4471 or at
ljones.asbarc@gmail.com
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RELIGIOUS EDUCATION (RE)
Miranda Massa, RE Coordinator
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Under way now!
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Youth ministry for our junior and high school youth began October 22. Now all Religious Education programs are underway for this church year. We have been using wonderful new stories in our Montessori based Spirit Play program. The junior high youth group is engaging in a series of workshops on topics such as empathy, courage, abundance, and joy under the leadership of Darcy and Kirsten. Youth in high school has met with Rev. Roger, Yvonne and Anita to discuss a variety of social issues, and to work on community building and leadership. Our Whole Lives for advance-registered youth have been participating in engaging and important sessions. Each volunteer, every family, and all the children and youth participants contribute so much to our Sunday morning offerings. Thank you!
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Pot of Gold Religious Educators' Conference, 2017
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In addition to the inspiring workshops, the annual Pot of Gold conference for religious educators persistently fulfills my inspiration bucket. This year, the keynote speaker was the
Rev. Dr. Mark Morrison-Reed. He spoke to us with a focus on our children of color and how we can help them navigate through the multicultural world. Pictured here with me is the Rev. Mark Morrison-Reed, the host minister Rev. Jacqueline Duhart, and other wonderful colleagues I had the opportunity to make affirmation boxes with.
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Re: RE
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- November 5 - daylight savings ends. Set your clocks back an hour Saturday night.
- November 10 - 12, high school Fall Conference at UU Davis; and the MUUGs middle school Fall Retreat: November 3 - 5 at UU Fellowship of Redwood City. For more information e-mail re@uuss.org.
- Sunday, November 19 is our all-ages gratitude service.
- Miranda will be out of state November 10 - 21. Please send any e-mail inquiries to krystal@uuss.org.
- December 3 is Marathon day, so allow extra time to avoid Fair Oaks Blvd.
- Want to donate? Spirit Play could use large pieces of solid color felt. Red, yellow, green, brown, and black for example. Thank you.
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Religious Education (RE) Calendar, November 2017
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Sunday, November 5 -- fall back one hour!
9:30-12:00 Child care
10:30-11:45 Spirit Play
All weekend UUA District Middle School Fall Retreat (grades 6-9), Redwood City
Sunday, November 12
9:30-12:00 Child care
10:30-11:45 Spirit Play
All weekend UUA District Youth Conference (grades 9-12), Davis
Sunday, November 19
9:30-12:00 Child care
10:30-11:45 All ages, no RE classes. Child Blessing & Baby Dedication Ritual.
10:00-12:00 Our Whole Lives grades 7-8-9
Sunday, November 26
9:30-12:00 Child care
10:30-11:30 Spirit Play, JHYG, SHYG
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WHO WE ARE AND WHERE TO FIND US
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Office Hours &
November Holidays
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The UUSS office is open Monday thru Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
The UUSS office will be closed:
Friday, November 10 for Veterans' Day
Thursday, November 23 for Thanksgiving
Friday, November 24 the day after Thanksgiving
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Serving Our Congregation
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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
Board meetings: 7:00 p.m., 4th Thursday of the month (exception on November 30)
Marian Ashe Linda Roth
Patty Budding
Deirdre Downes (Chair)
Tamara Olson
Program
Council meetings: 7:00 p.m., 3rd Thursday of the month.
Ministers
Rev. Dr. Roger Jones &
Rev. Lucy Bunch, Ministers
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
Mike Galindo, Sunday Audio Tech
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Our Congregation's Mission
We come together to deepen our lives
and be a force for healing in the world.
We value the goodness in everyone,
the openness and curiosity that illuminate that goodness
and the love and courage that sustain us.
Our Covenant with One Another
We, an intergenerational community, travel together
with open minds, open hearts, and helping hands.
We value justice, compassion, integrity and acceptance.
We seek spiritual growth,
learning together, caring and laughter.
To these ends we pledge our time, talents and support.
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