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UUCM Newsletter
April 2019
603-673-1870
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Table of Contents

Minister's Message
"There's no power greater than a community discovering what it cares about."
 
From Turning To One Another by Margaret Wheatley
 
We've had some great conversations about what you care about during the last two years. It's become clear that one of the things you value most is working together in community. And I've certainly seen you pull together to do some great things -- caring for one another in times of need, cooking for the community, and hosting an amazing Holiday Fair, just to name a few.
 
You also care deeply about social justice. Some of you are on the Women in Transition Team. Some of you volunteer at the Nashua Soup Kitchen. Others participate in anti-racism trainings and our new book/discussion group, Reading for Change.
 
UUCM is a Welcoming Congregation -- a public declaration that UUCM is actively working to make sure lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer people are full members of this community. And some of you are actively involved in learning more about GLBTQI identity and current issues that affect our ability to be truly welcoming. In fact, the next session of Reading for Change will be discussing the results of a recent survey of Transgender UU's that indicates we still have a lot of work to fully include Transgender UU's in the circle of our welcome. (See those survey results at https://www.uuworld.org/articles/uu-trans-leaders-appeal and then join us on April 11 at 6pm in Barnum for a potluck and discussion. Please contact me if you're interested in learning more.) While I know many of you care about these issues and want to support the GLBTQI community, I don't see UUCM actively working together on this issue -- or any other social justice issue -- as a congregation.  
 
So I got curious. I started wondering if there are social justice issues that many, if not most of you, care enough about to organize around - as a congregation. To that end, I created a Faith in Action Poll, which I distributed during the worship service on March 10th. I asked, "What social justice issues could you work on together to help put your UU faith into practice?"
 
Based on survey ratings from 37 respondents, your social justice priorities are:  

 

1. Environmental Issues/Climate Change (76)  

    & Environmental Justice (41) = 117 total

Environmental Justice specifically refers to the disproportionate environmental impact on communities of color and the poor (that is, the environmental impact that people of privilege can afford to keep out of their own backyards). These results clearly speak to this congregation's deep concern for what's happening to the Earth. UUCM became a Green Sanctuary congregation years ago. The UUA's Green Sanctuary program is designed to help congregations develop ongoing programs of education and action for engaging environmental and climate justice work. You can use this program to help organize a congregation-wide response.  

 

2. Defending Democratic Process/Voting Rights (59)

Democracy Uncorrupted is a current UUA Congregational Study/Action Issue. You can use the study guide to learn more about what's happening and organize a congregation-wide response. I also highly recommend the book, Daring Democracy, for an in-depth look at both the problems and solutions for ensuring a healthier democratic process. The UUA's Standing on the Side of Love campaign  is currently working to ensure that voter rights in Florida that were restored in November 2018 aren't restricted by the Florida legislature. It takes persistence to ensure that the voices of people are heard over the voices of those in power. How can UUCM be part of creating a more powerful voice for the people?
 

3. Poverty/Economic Justice (58)

How can UUCM work more closely with community organizations like SHARE to learn more about these issues and respond to systems of oppression in and around Milford as well as supporting those people with donations?
 

4. Gender/Sexuality (55)

The UUA is encouraging congregations to revisit their commitment to the Welcoming Congregation program with five practices of welcome renewal that include worship, study, and action.
 

5. Gun Violence/Gun Control (50)

I keep wondering, "When will we say Enough!" And how can UUCM be part of the collective voice that says, "No More!" -- no more hate, no more White Supremacy, no more glorification of deadly violence in the media. How can we play a part in stopping the feeding frenzy that's driving this culture of violence? It's a complicated issue, but I encourage you to find a way to organize a response together.
 
Now, I realize you can't do everything. But I guarantee that if you work on one of these issue areas together, you will be addressing the underlying issues that keep all forms of oppression in place.
 
Your collective passion, first and foremost right now, seems to be the Environment. I'm planning a worship service in celebration of Earth Day that I hope will give you an opportunity to take this conversation to the next level. My greatest hope is that you will begin to truly discover the power that comes from a community discovering what it cares about.
 
A drop of water alone might never reach the ocean. But if you band together, as a river, you will get there. We can do so much more together than any of us can do on our own. Go together, my friends -- go together!
 
Faithfully Yours,
Rev. Carol
 
P.S. If you haven't yet filled out the Faith in Action Poll, you can do so by going to https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VWKLGWM . Rank in order of importan ce the top five social justice issues you think UUCM could work on as a congregation.  
 
Sunday Worship Services at 10:30am
April 7 - Learning to Laugh at Ourselves
Rev. Carol Strecker
Humor is an important teaching tool in many religious traditions, including Unitarian Universalism.  What are the spiritual gifts of good humor in a world where so much is deadly serious?  Today we will also celebrate some of our newer UUCM members!

April 14 - Earth Day Celebration  
Rev. Carol Strecker
The Unitarian Universalist Service Committee (UUSC) is encouraging congregations to focus on human rights issues related to climate justice.  We can celebrate and honor the Earth and acknowledge that our climate is changing -- with deadly consequences for all living beings.  We need to be able to hold both in tension -- bearing witness to both the beauty and the despair -- if we hope to create justice for the Earth. 
There will be an opportunity to continue the conversation with Rev. Strecker after the service. Grab a cup of coffee and meet in the Fireside Room. 

April 21 - Easter Sunday: Lo, the Earth Awakes Again!  
Worship Committee
Join us for an Intergenerational Celebration of New Life.  Unitarian Universalism draws from many sources for inspiration. Today we'll draw on stories from the Jewish, Christian, and Earth-centered traditions as we celebrate new life together.

April 28   It's a Mystery...   
 
Stay tuned....
 
Faith Formation
April Sunday Morning Circle Schedule
April 7 - What Does it Mean to be of Privilege? 
T he children will hear stories and engage in thought provoking exercises that will help them gain insight into the concept of privilege.
 
April 14 - All About Butterflies!   
Through a craft, we will learn all about the life of butterflies and how they play a part in the interdependent web of life. We will also plant milkweed around UUCM to help our local butterfly friends. The children will also be given milkweed seeds and their own butterfly kits (including a real caterpillar!) to take home.  
 
April 21 - Multigenerational Worship and Egg Hunt
We invite all children and youth to remain in the Sanctuary for the entire service. Childcare and the Family Room will be available.   Join the EGG HUNT after the service. 
 
April 28 - Kid Yoga 
Amidst the busyness at this time of year, it can be challenging to find time to unwind and regroup. We invite children and youth of all ages and abilities to come and try some simple yoga with Michael Conley.
 
As a reminder, every Sunday we offer:
  • Free childcare (for infants through kindergarten age) - Available every Sunday starting at 10:15am. 
  • A Family Room - Available to families every Sunday at any time during a service. In the Family Room, you can listen to the service and play with an array of crafts, books, and games. Parents must stay with their children in this room. 
And remember to join UUCM's Family Facebook Group !  It's interactive!  
 
Children & Youth Committee Update
The Children & Youth Committee invite members and friends who have an interest in our children and youth to either join the committee or offer to share a talent or help lead a Sunday Morning Circle. Contact the office to help.
 
Attention all Families  
Pizza Pizza& Song Night! April 12, 5:30-6:30pm.
Come at 5:30pm for pizza (veggie and plain) and Singalong with Amy Conley & Friends (for ALL ages) until 6:30pm. 

After a quick break, the regularly scheduled 2nd Friday Song circle will begin at 7:00pm, where you can stay as long as you like for more songs from Rise Again songbook (we have extras). Instruments, drums, etc are also welcome! Call Amy Conley, 603-249-9560 to RSVP (no texts). 

UUCM newsNews & Activities
From Marti, UUCM Council Acting President
We are happy to share with you the mission statement revision the Council  has been working on, and you can send comments to the Council.

"We are a compassionate spiritual community that honors each person's search for truth, learning, and working together to create a better world."

Thank you to all who have participated in the workshops and conversations during our interim; you have given us plenty of inspiration.

Thank you to the Stewardship Team for all your hard work on this year's campaign, and to all who have turned in their pledge cards. You have truly planted the seeds of our future here at UUCM.

Thank you to all who worked to make this year's Auction a success, and to all the bidders! Your generosity supports UUCM as well.

Nursery Provider Needed
Do you, or someone you know, love babies and young children? Are you free on Sunday mornings from 10am to noon? If so, we'd love to hear from you. The Children & Youth Committee (CYC) seeks to hire an additional nursery care provider. This is a paid position! Please contact the office if you can help. 
 
Game Night - First Friday
April 5, 7-8:30pm
Come to Barnum Hall for an evening of fun and fellowship.  We will meet to play board games and get to know one another better. Kids, families, and adults are all welcome. Bring a favorite game if you wish.  We will supply beverages and something sweet.  Questions?  Contact Leslie Bennett.   
 
All Women's Potluck
April 8, 11:45am 
Enjoy one another's company and learn a bit more about each other in a relaxed setting with delicious food. We'll gather in Barnum Hall at 11:45 to set up, and enjoy lunch at noon. Afterwards, many hands make cleanup fast. For questions, call Elise deMichael. 
 
Reading for Change: About Gender Identity
April 11 - 6pm Potluck, gender6:30 Discussion
Recently we decided to read several articles about gender identity. The first thing to read is probably an apology to readers of "After L, G, and B", an article in the Spring 2019 UU World magazine. You can also read that controversial article itself online if you don't get the magazine in the mail.
 
But please don't stop there. Here are more articles that will help broaden your understanding and perspective in important ways. 

Please let me know if you want a printed copy of any of these articles.
~ Rev. Carol
 
Song Circle - Second Friday  
April 12, 7-10pmsong
People who love to sing and/or play acoustic instruments for fun meet monthly at UUCM and use the Rise Again songbook.  Contact Amy Conley.  (And, if you like, come early for pizza and song!)

WITT Subcommittee for Legislative Advocacy
April 13, 10:30am 
During this meeting a number of issues of interest will be discussed with the aim of choosing what the committee will focus on in the coming months.  New members are most welcome to attend.
 
'On Being' Podcast & Potluck - Third Friday
April 19, 6:30-9pm
Join us on the third Friday of each month. We will start by sharing a potluck meal and listening to a Krista Tippett " On Being" podcast, which promises "intelligent conversation on religion, meaning, and moral imagination."  Following dinner, we'll talk about what we heard. It's like a book club with no homework!  Questions? Call Leslie Bennett. 
 
Sacred Circle Dancing - Fourth Thursdays
April 25 - 7-8:45pm in Emerson Hall
Open to the public. All are welcome -- from teens to seniors. No experience (and no partner) necessary. Sacred Circle dances are easy to learn, and every dance is taught by leader Mary Koon.  Dances range from playful to meditative, with ancient to modern music and choreography. They are good for the body -- and for the soul!  Questions?  Contact Mary at maryfloyd62@comcast.net or 603-487-2732.

Adult Potluck  with Travelogue
Saturday, April 20 at 6pm
Enjoy meeting new and old friends during a potluck  
dinner. Appetizers and adult beverages (BYOB) start at 6pm. Please list ingredients for those with food sensitivity. See the  Food Allergen Policy . Contact  Dona Eaton . -- Stay after dinner for a travelogue from a recent trip by Bob and Nancy Baker to the far north -- Iceland, Shetland, Orkney, and the Faroe Islands. 
 
Save the Date
New, Better, BIGGER Spring Fling! 
Saturday, May 18 from 8:30am-1pm

Yard Sale: Declutter now!  Gather up your unwanted stuff to sell.  We do the advertising and provide you with a table (or two) in front of UUCM.  You set up and sell your stuff and take home whatever does not sell after the sale and give 20% of your profits to UUCM.  

Plant Sale: UUCM will make beaucoup bucks if you donate perennial plants from your garden. Label your plants, please. If you need pots or help digging or more information, contact Dona Eaton.

Bake Sale: People love to spend money on big muffins, scones, and cookies.  If the great UUCM bakers can make something for us to sell, that would be great!

See more information and the signup sheet in Barnum Hall.  

Or contact Jane or John Mika.

 
Outreach - Helping Others
UUCM Community Suppers  - HELP Wanted!
On the 3rd Wednesday every month (5:30-6:30pm) UUCM provides a free supper to the greater community and generally serves around 70 meals. 

We have a core group of volunteers, but would LOVE to have you join us.  
The jobs at UUCM are 1-2 hours. Or you can bake at home. Training and free dinner provided!   
  • Set-up team -- 4:30 - 5:30  
    • Set tables, beverage & serving area; plate bread and desserts.
  • Serving Team -- 5:15 - 6:30
    • Serve food; restock buffet and beverages as needed.
  • Clean-up Team -- 5:45 - 7:00 
    • Dish washing
    • Pot washing 
    • Bus tables, scrape & stack dishes
    • Dry dishes & put away
    • Launder dishtowels
  • Clear Dining Room and Kitchen -- 6:30 - 7:00
  • Donate baked cookies/bars.
  • Pick up bread at Dutch Epicure on 101A.
Each month Nancy Danzinger sends a message soliciting volunteers for that month.  Contact her to get on the distribution list.

 

Try it!  Volunteer at NSK This Spring
Every month we need three volunteers to help serve Sunday lunch at the Nashua Soup Kitchen.  
When: 2nd Sunday of every month (Next on April 14 )  
Time:   10:30am-2:30pm 
Duties: Setup, simple food prep, serving, cleanup 
Who:   Adults and youth 12 and older (accompanied by a responsible adult). 
You can sign up online or contact Marti Kennedy or Meghan Hoye. 
 
SHARE Collections in April
UUCM supports SHARE by 'sharing the plate' and donating to their monthly collections. Your donations help people in Milford, Amherst, Brookline, and Mont Vernon. 
  • Water Bottle/Beach Towel Month: Donate new water bottles and beach towels. 
  • Groceries: Pancake Mix & Syrup, Condiments, Cooking Sauces & Seasonings, Cooking Oil, Jelly, Cold Cereal
Please place your donation in marked baskets in Barnum Hall. 
 
Reminders  
Pastoral Care pcareContact
April:  Carole Treen

Monthly Newsletter Deadline - 20th of Each Month
Monthly newsletters offer a way to plan ahead.  See all information about upcoming UUCM events in the monthly newsletter.  Articles must be sent to news@uucm.org by the 20th of each month.  
 
Updated Member and Leadership Directories
The Leadership and Member Directories are updated as necessary to reflect changes to leadership and to add new members. Now that the newsletter is public on the website and no personal contact info is provided, it is especially important to make sure all your info is correct in the directories. Look for the directories online. Let Jamie know if you need to update your email address, phone number, or other information (office@uucm.org or 603-673-1870).
 
Log On to the Members & Friends Section of UUCM.ORG Why? Get the latest Church Directory, Council minutes, services provided by UUCM members & friends, ways to shop to benefit UUCM, and more. Contact commteam@uucm.org if you need help logging on. 
  
Guidelines: Bringing Food & Serving Alcohol at UUCM
Please observe UUCM's Food Allergen and Alcohol policies on the UUCM Policies webpage. 

Parking at UUCM
 
Weekdays before 6pm and Saturdays before 5pm: Park only behind the church or in the circular driveway in front (and NOT in front of the Garden Door). For more parking information (including a printable map), click here .