The Unigram Newsletter for September 2019 Unitarian Universalist Society of Sacramento 2425 Sierra Boulevard, Sacramento, CA 95825 Office (916) 483-9283

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A MONTH OF SUNDAYS

Upcoming Services

September 1: A Few of My Favorite UU Things UUSS Religious Services Committee, Worship Associates with Rev. Lucy Bunch; Rev. Dr. Roger Jones Music Director Keith Atwater; Pianist Irina Tchantceva   This Sunday, members of the Religious Services Committee each will reflect on their favorite things about UUSS: what has opened their hearts, what keeps them coming back, how their lives have been enriched, and why they have committed their time, talents, and support to our community. Come, listen, and be blessed by their stories.     Sunday Spiritual Practices at 9:45 a.m.: Walking the Labyrinth in the Meadow Nursery Care 9:20 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. in Room 11 of the Education Wing

September 8: Ingathering Sunday—All-Ages Worship with Mingling of the Waters Rev. Lucy Bunch, Rev. Dr. Roger Jones Worship Associates Frances Myers & Molly Stuart; UUSS Choir; Music Director Keith Atwater, Pianist Irina Tchantceva   It's a new church year at UUSS! In our annual tradition, we will celebrate the power of water and the power of our community. Please bring water from the places or experiences that have stirred your hearts this summer. We will pour them into a communal container and create a well of love to quench our thirst and sustain us through the year. There will be special music, beloved hymns, and our traditional rainmaking.   Sunday Spiritual Practices at 9:45 a.m.: Tai Chi and Chi Gong in the Fahs Classroom September Birthdays honored in the service Family Ministry Team water slide and BBQ lunch after the service Nursery Care 9:20 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. in Room 11 of the Education Wing September 15: Legacies of Trust and Love: How Shall We Sustain Our Values Rev. Dr. Roger Jones, preaching  Worship Associate Jed Shapiro, Pianist Irina Tchantceva, Guitarist Ross Hammond We can’t be sure how our lives will touch our descendants and communities in future generations, but we can be intentional about how we give shape and form to our values. What impact would you like to make on the future, even if you don’t get remembered for it? Today we honor the memory of Paula Squire and Barbara Amberson; we appreciate their generous bequests and their faith in the future of UUSS. We also recognize the first group of current members who have joined the UUSS Legacy Circle by including UUSS as a beneficiary of their will, retirement fund or life insurance. There are many ways to touch the future. Exploring Unitarian Universalism at 9:30 a.m.: Social Justice-—Putting UU Values into Practice Sunday Spiritual Practices at 9:45 a.m.: Mindfulness Practice with Ann Kronser Candles of Sorrow and Celebration may be lit as you arrive for the service Nursery Care 9:20 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. in Room 11 of the Education Wing September 22: A UU Theology for the 21st Century  Rev. Lucy Bunch, preaching Worship Associate Larry Boles, UUSS Choir Music Director Keith Atwater, Pianist Irina Tchantceva In times of challenge and transformation we need a grounding theology to help us to be resilient and remain hopeful. This Sunday, we kick off a monthly series on theology that will draw from our theological ancestors and reframe/challenge these concepts for the 21 st century. In this kick-off sermon for the series, we will consider the origins of our current UU theology and what changes are relevant for our times.     Sunday Spiritual Practice: Reading, Responding to Poetry, Room 6 at 9:45 a.m. Newcomers’ Orientation and Tour: 11:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. starting in the Library Nursery Care 9:20 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. in Room 11 of the Education Wing September 29: Utopian Unitarians of 1569: My Pilgrimage to Poland  Rev. Dr. Roger Jones, preaching, with Rev. Lucy Bunch  Worship Associate Celia Buckley; Music Director Keith Atwater; Pianist .Irina Tchantceva In July, Rev. Roger joined a group of religious liberals to visit and honor sites of the Polish Brethren, an early group of Unitarians. They founded the town of Rakow 450 years ago as a haven of liberty and a place of dialogue and human respect. Their utopian reading of the New Testament made them heretical, and within a century they were expelled from Poland. Yet their legacy endured. Come find out how.     Benefit recital at 2:00 p.m.: Thomas Derthick, bass, and John Cozza, piano ($15) October 6: The Earth, the Air, the Fire, the Wate r Rev. Lucy Bunch, preaching, with Rev. Dr. Roger Jones  Worship Associate Francis Myers; UUSS Chalice Singers Music Director Keith Atwater, Pianist Irina Tchantceva As Unitarian Universalists, in addition to our Principles, which help define our values, we name the Sources of wisdom and spirituality that inspire us. The sixth source for UUs are “Spiritual teachings of Earth-centered traditions which celebrate the sacred circle of life and instruct us to live in harmony with the rhythms of nature.” For many of us, earth-based practices are a powerful form of spirituality. This Sunday we will explore what it means to draw from and live into earth based spiritual practice.   Sunday Spiritual Practice at 9:45 a.m.: Walking the Labyrinth in the Meadow Nursery Care 9:20 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. in Room 11 of the Education Wing

Shared Offering Recipient: Mustard Seed School

Every month, we give half of the Sunday 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 August, we contributed $2,259 to the International Rescue Committee. In September, our community partner is Mustard Seed School , a free, private school for homeless children 3-15 years old at Loaves and Fishes.

FROM YOUR MINISTERS

Rev. Roger’s Message: Such a Great Cloud of Witnesses -- Seen and Unseen

In July, I joined Unitarians from the U.S., U.K., and Europe to visit ruins and some restored sites of the Polish Brethren, a utopian movement of anti-trinitarians of the early Protestant Reformation. They had a lasting impact on the development of religious tolerance and Unitarian intellectual thought even though they were wiped out in a century and expelled from Poland. I hadn’t realized their impact till this trip, and I was quite moved by what’s left of their church buildings.   On a weekday last year, a young parent came by my office and knocked. “You may not remember talking to me a few months ago. I’ve been coming here a few times a week to walk the labyrinth on your grounds.” With tears, the person went on: “It has helped me get through a painful ordeal in my life to be able to do that. Thank you for your hospitality.” Last month on the phone, I spoke with someone who was inquiring about a wedding ceremony. They had attended on and off over several months, but I had not seen them for several years. Yet they couldn’t forget the values we promote or the tone of compassion we cultivate here at UUSS. “Even though we don’t go to church anywhere now, given the state of the world it really is helpful to know you are there showing up for values. It is helpful to know that the people are there doing that.”  We may not always hear directly or see explicitly the difference that our UU faith can make, yet now and then we hear testimony to the blessings of this congregation and the faith tradition we embody.   We may not always know the full impact of the many ways that we live our mission and sustain this congregation, yet we should pause to consider how deep and wide our impact is and can be. We come together to deepen our lives and to be a force for healing in the world. Thank you for being here as we do this work, seen and unseen, for ourselves now and for countless others in the years to come. It is a blessing to know you and serve here with you. With love and thanks, Roger Rev. Dr. Roger D. Jones PS—As a new program year begins, don’t miss the opportunities to support our Family Ministry and our Religious Education program. Your gift could be as simple as hosting the RE table one Sunday a month or coming to be trained as a Spirit Play volunteer for this church year. Let me know or talk with Miranda Massa, RE Coordinator.

Finding Rev. Roger in September

To have a good conversation, let’s make an appointment! We can find a time to talk or meet that works for your schedule and mine. I’d love to connect with you, so give me a call. I’m here Tuesday to Thursday afternoons and evenings. Friday and Saturday are days for writing or UUSS-related events. I’m here all month, except September 21-25, when I go preach at Cedar Lane UU Church in Bethesda, MD. Rev. Abhi Janamanchi will come back here in March!

Rev. Lucy's Message: No Time for a Casual Faith

There has been a message floating around on Facebook for the past few weeks that says: “if you want to know what you would have done during slavery, the holocaust and the civil rights movement, you are doing it now.”  Ouch. Wow. I was really struck by those words. Clearly this is no time to be a bystander. Despite these chilling words, I am feeling worn out and discouraged. And at the same time, I am aware that we are living at a time of great challenge and opportunity and that being passive is not an option. How do we navigate in this painful world and keep our hearts open and our minds engaged? How do we find the grounding we need to engage deeply and whole-heartedly in being an agent for change?  One thing that is critical is having a grounded and resilient faith. As Rebecca Parker (former President of Starr King School for the Ministry) tells us, “effective work for social change requires people of faith who are theologically literate and engaged.” And so, to that end we are offering a sermon series and a class on the theme of UU Theologies for the 21 st Century .    Many of us long to deepen our understanding of UU theology. But rather than accept ideas as we have inherited them, we need to draw from our theological ancestors and reframe these concepts for the 21 st Century. We need to bring humility and curiosity into a dialogue with ideas that challenge our frame of reference and open our hearts and minds to new ways of thinking. This is what we hope to do in our sermons and classes.   Rev. Roger and I will be offering monthly sermons on this theme starting in September, with the companion class starting in October (see article under Adult Enrichment). By offering these sermons and classes, we hope to open a dialogue with you about what is most important and strive together to deepen our faith and theological literacy. Let’s come together to deepen our lives and be a force for healing in the world.     Sending love to all, Rev. Lucy

Finding Rev. Lucy in September

My regular office hours are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday afternoons. I love your visits. Please call or e-mail if you want to visit so I can be sure to be available for you. You can access my calendar at calendly.com/revlucyb .

Music Director's Message Singing for Justice

Our Unitarian Universalist Musicians' national conference took place in Denver in July. While these gatherings of about 200 professional musicians are always inspiring, exhilarating, and informative, this year's event included a chance to join our voices in songs on the “front lines,” not just in our host church, the Universalist Church of Denver.   Shortly after our closing Sunday service, a busload of us drove out to an ICE detention facility, where an American Friends (Quaker) Service Committee member met us. This young Latino American said protests and vigils have been held here on Sundays (the only day visitors can come see detainees) for several years. This for-profit facility is known to be full to bursting, with inadequate medical care and lacking in nutritious food. The only space for fresh air is an interior basketball court. Our host said "a friend" on the inside had been tipped that we were coming, and had spread the word. Apparently, if we sang loudly enough, detainees — which included many families with children of all ages — could hear us from that basketball court that faced high, forbidding brick walls.   So we sang songs of solidarity and protest in English and Spanish. "Listen my people, the condor (Mexico) and eagle (USA)! No human being can ever be illegal!" All our UU principles resonated that day, hopefully carried in the hot dry desert wind to the ears and hearts of people from 30 different countries stuck in crowded, cavernous dorms awaiting their fate. I flew home with a sore throat, but with my heart pounding like the drums we brought with us, realizing again the power of music and the need to raise our voices in America at this difficult time. --Keith Atwater , Music Director

In Loving Memory

We extend our condolences to David Libby, Sally Lewis, and Ted Lewis-Libby on the passing of David’s father, Alfred Libby, Jr. in July at age 94. He was born in Winslow, Maine, in 1925. He served in the military during and after the Second World War from 1944-46. He and Rita Therrien married in 1948, and they lived in Maine, California, and Oregon. Al is survived by Rita and their six children, nine grandchildren, and two great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, six siblings, and granddaughter Megan. Al was a lifelong Roman Catholic and a postal worker; he retired as the postmaster in Quincy, California. He loved playing cribbage and eating lobster, corn on the cob, and fiddlehead ferns. We are thankful for his legacy of a wonderful family, including those who are members of UUSS. Memorial contributions to honor Al and family may be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America , 322 Eighth Avenue, 16th Floor, New York, NY 10001. See his obituary at this link .

Volunteer Pastoral Visitors - Are You Interested?

This team of UUSS volunteers meets monthly with Rev. Roger for ongoing support of our ministry to visit UUSS members who can’t easily get to church or who appreciate the caring presence of a good listener from the congregation. Each volunteer makes one or two visits per month to one or more members in their homes or care facilities. Sometimes we make a telephone call to check in and let folks know we are thinking about them. Many thanks to Rev. Martha Hodges for launching this team and supporting us for several years! If you’d like to apply to be part of this ministry team, please e-mail Rev. Roger. If you are a member who is interested in having a regular visitor, please contact Rev. Roger or call the office.

FROM YOUR LEADERSHIP

President's Message

It is that time of year again: the harvesting of those well planned and cared for gardens, the beginning of a new school year, hopefully cooler weather, and the return of our beloved children to Religious Education. This time of year is a favorite of mine: looking forward to rain (optimistic), cooler weather, comfy foods, and getting to work on our future.   The Board had its fall retreat on Saturday, August 10th and what a dynamic group of people, all keyed into “Focus, Future, Function, and FUN!” That is my motto for the year and it is already working. The Safety Task Force is busy creating teams and training sessions to assist in implementing new policies focused on safe communications, building security, and how to effectively respond to disruptions. Several of us met with the Central California Intelligence Center representatives to discuss the results of the recent safety assessment. The Board and the Safety Task Force will be focused on attending to the results of that assessment, creating policies to keep our congregation safe.     The Program Council and Board of Trustees will work together to create specific actions for implementing the Strategic Plan. Leadership development within our Congregation also is high on our list of priorities and you can expect to hear more on this subject going forward.     Based on feedback from many of you, we hope to improve the introduction of Community Partners to the congregation. Check out the new nomination forms to see how you can begin to make a difference in your nominations — all current partners must be re-nominated with new information provided. Your request for a better understanding of the nominees and how they tie into our UUSS mission and strategic goals are part of the forms for nomination. Check it out and let us know how you like it.   It is shaping up to be another year of enjoyment and accomplishment for UUSS, so stay tuned! I send to all wishes for a peaceful month.  Sally White, Board President

Community Partner Nominations for 2020

Every month, UUSS gives half of its Sunday offering to a local not-for-profit group. The congregation decides which 12 local not-for-profit groups will become “community partners” for the year at the UUSS congregational meeting in October. This year’s congregational meeting will be Sunday, October 20. If you would like to nominate an organization, please fill out the “UUSS Nomination for Community Partner” form (on the UUSS website at http://www.uuss.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/Community-Partner-Nomination-Form.pdf ). Your completed form must be received by the UUSS office by the close of business on October 1. Please note that this year’s community partners will not automatically be included on the ballot and must be nominated. Also, all nominations must be aligned with UUSS’ Strategic Plan, adopted by the congregation in October 2018.

Social Justice and Compassion Work

Join us on September 7. Greening Black Churches: Why Climate Change Matters

Are you concerned about environmental justice, racial equity, and climate change? Join us on Saturday, September 7 at 1:00 p.m. to learn more at our Environmental Justice fundraiser Greening Black Churches—Why Climate Change Matters. Get your tickets at www.sacact.brownpapertickets.com . Reflection by ACT leader Rev. Dr. Mary Westfall The woman in the church fellowship hall looked at the colorful flyer advertising an upcoming event, "Greening Black Churches," and quickly glanced past it and reached for another cup of coffee. "We are not a black church, she noted to a friend. It seems we've started advertising for everything now." The exchange happened in another community, but could happen in almost any predominantly white congregation in America. The call to "green the black church," might seem like a rallying cry only for black communities, but indeed is also an invitation for all communities of faith to participate in expanding our sense of environmental justice and our capacity to address climate change. Communities of color are disproportionately affected by extreme weather events. Heat waves, hurricanes, and rising oceans prove more devastating for poorer communities with fewer resources and that tend to be communities of color. In most climate change scenarios, the impact on these communities will be catastrophic. For congregations that care about economic justice, climate change, moving toward a green economy, greening the black church offers great hope as well as tangible steps toward addressing systemic injustices and moving toward greater sustainability. Greening Black Churches taps into the unmatched power of the African-American church as a moral leader and a force for social change—one with the potential to bring millions of new people into the climate movement. Polls show that African Americans consistently demonstrate the highest level of commitment to climate solutions. It will be imperative to harness that commitment—and engaging the church is one of the best ways we can do it. Black churches—and the millions of voters they represent—could make the difference in whether we win or lose on climate. It's not just about helping churches save energy (and money). Such engagement could bring new economic growth and stability to low income communities through access to green jobs and could have a ripple effect as an improved local economy would also begin to address food insecurity, health inequities, and indeed quality of life for black communities and ultimately for the nation and planet. Thanks to the SacACT Environmental Justice Committee (which started in our predominantly white UUSS congregation), the Rev. Dr. Ambrose Carroll, Senior Pastor of Berkeley's Church by the Side of the Road and founder of Greening the Black Church, will be sharing the vision of this transformative work on September 7. His presentation will include ways faith communities of all types can support this important justice initiative that could breathe new life into the climate justice movement and restore hope for a livable and sustainable future. Why should you care? Why will you want to support this work? Because there is not a black future or a white future, there is only our shared future. What sacred work for our time.

Honduran Priest to Speak about Why Migrants are Fleeing Honduras Tuesday, September 17, 7:00 p.m. Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, 2620 Capitol Avenue

UUSS is co-sponsoring a visit to Sacramento by a Jesuit priest, investigative broadcaster, and human rights activist from Honduras. The Rev. Ismael Moreno Coto, S.J., is known as “Padre Melo.” He will speak about the root causes of the migration from Honduras in recent years and the current protests against Honduran government actions. He is director of Radio Progreso, a leader in investigative reporting. He also directs a think tank in Honduras that reports on public opinion and social trends in Honduras. Recently in Honduras, he’s received death threats and the government has repressed free speech there. After speaking here, Padre Melo will go to Gonzaga University in Spokane, where he will receive a human rights award. All are welcome at this Midtown event, sponsored by St. Francis and St. Ignatius parishes and Dominican Sisters. You may wish to help in hosting a reception at UUSS for Padre Melo to talk with elected California and U.S. officials or their staff on the afternoon of Sept. 17 in advance of his public talk. Please contact Rev. Roger if you can assist.

Make Your Voice Heard at West Arden Arcade Environmental Justice Meeting September 26!

As part of Sacramento County’s Environmental Justice General Plan Update, County staff is presenting their draft plan for justice in underserved communities like West Arden Arcade. The County needs community input to be sure be sure they are addressing the needs and priorities of West Arden Arcade. If you are concerned about our community having things like enough affordable safe and sanitary housing, public amenities, safe streets, reduced exposure to pollution and poor air quality, etc., please attend this meeting on September 26, 7:00 p.m. at the Swanston Community Center, 2350 Northrop Avenue, Sacramento 95825 .   For more information, contact interfaithearth@uuss.org or come to our September 4 Environmental Justice Committee meeting at 7:00 p.m. in our UUSS library .

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION (RE) Miranda Massa, RE Coordinator

Religious Education at UUSS

Programs for children and youth begin September 15. We look forward to seeing the gathering of smiles and young friends in this spiritual community. Adult leaders have prepared to serve your family each Sunday morning. Your congregation is ready to grow with you during the all ages services - which are planned for every month. We'll see you soon! Religious Education on Sundays at UUSS Nursery care in Room 11 beginning at 9:20 a.m. until noon Spirit Play in Room 7/8 for children in Kinder - 5th grade Junior High Youth Group (JHYG) in Room 6 for grades 6-7-8 Senior High Youth Group (SHYG) in Room 12 for grades 9-10-11-12 Additional Programs this RE year Coming of Age for registered youth Our Whole Lives (grades 4-5-6) for registered participants Freedom Club meets monthly Look for 2019 - 2020 Religious Education registration forms soon!

RE Calendar September 2019 Sunday, 9/1 9:30-12:00 Child care 10:30-11:45 ArtWorks Sunday, 9/8 9:30-12:00 Child care 10:30-11:45 All Ages Sunday, 9/15 9:30-12:00 Child care 13:00-11:45 RE Sunday, 9/22 9:30-12:00 Child care 10:30-11:45 RE  Sunday, 9/29 9:30-12:00 Child care 10:30-11:45 RE Our Whole Lives (OWL) for 4 th , 5 th  & 6 th  Grade Youth OWL Information Meeting An informal gathering to answer any and all questions. Sunday, November 17, 2019 12:00 -1:30 pm / Location: Fahs Room Child Care in Room 11 Nursery available Parent/Caregiver & Child Orientation (Mandatory) A required meeting for parents & participating youth. Sunday, December 15, 2019 12:00 – 2:00 pm / Location: Fahs Room

Re: RE & Events

-Sunday, September 8 is our service for all ages. No RE class is scheduled. P lease bring water from your summer, we will celebrate our in-gathering.  -The Nursery in Room 11 is open every Sunday at 9:20 am for parents to attend Sunday Morning Spiritual Practices . It is available also on Sundays with services for all ages.

Lighting the Chalice We need child and youth volunteers to light the Flaming Chalice Sunday mornings in the sanctuary. We are asking you to sign up. Why have a child/teen light the Chalice?  It is important that the youth of our congregation to be a part of ritual of worship. With advance signup, your name will be listed in the Order of Service just like the Worship Associates and Ministers. How do I sign up?  Online here .

Senior High Fall Trip to Pt. Reyes. Our youth in grades 9 - 12 are invited to spend the weekend of October 11 th  – 13 th  camping at Coast Campground in Pt. Reyes National Seashore. Coast Campground is 200 yards from the beach and tidepool, and October is the most beautiful month on the California coast. Our campsite will be 1.8 miles hike in from the parking area. Mimi Lewis and Carrie Cornwell will serve as the adult leaders for this trip.    For more information or to sign up, please reach out to either Mimi ( mimilewis0518@gmail.com ) or Carrie ( ccornwell@surewest.net ).

ADULT ENRICHMENT

Second Tuesday TED Talk

TED   Talks are influential videos of expert speakers on education, business, science, technology, and creativity. We view and discuss several talks each month on a specific theme.   This month we will be watching a TED Talk on the subject of spirituality with a discussion facilitated by Ray Reynolds. Do you have a TED talk that you would like to share?   Contact Nathan Burg  to find out how you can host one of these sessions.

Three Conversations About Death

You might not be quite ready to call yourself “death-positive,” but evidence shows that thinking about your end-of-life goals improves your enjoyment of life now, increases the likelihood that you will get what you want at the end, and clarifies actions for advocates—improving their well-being, as well. Join us as we explore legal policy and medical practices and compare those to what we hope for—getting clear about our own values and priorities for this inevitable life experience. Then expect to be able to complete a basic or more thoughtful Advance Directive—helping to define your end-of-life care in the future.  Most people who take this class are not actively dying but seeing poor outcomes for their parents or friends or trying to protect and support adult children as designated decision makers. (For the most part we will not be talking about grief or what happens after the circumstances of death.) The classes will be held on three Tuesday nights: September 3, 10 and 17, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at UUSS .   Molly Stuart is a pledging friend and active participant of UUSS. She has a law degree from the University of the Pacific. She is a certified critical incident intervention trauma chaplain and an over-30-year ICU/Emergency Department volunteer. Our conversations will be direct and kind. Please join us. Website for more information: www.mylifemydeathmychoice.com . To RSVP for the three sessions at UUSS, sign up at the Adult Enrichment table or e-mail Adult Enrichment . UUSS suggested donation $20-$50. All contributions will go to UUSS.

Spiritual Deepening Circles

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 8-10 each will meet twice a month, October through May at UUSS. The curriculum is designed by the ministers to promote deep listening and reflection.  More information and registration forms are available after the service, in the UUSS Office, or online at http://www.uuss.org/circles . Register by September 15. 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!" “The focus on listening has improved all my relationships.”

Sunday Morning Spiritual Practices Gets a Reboot for the New Church Year!

We are excited to welcome Ann Kronser as a leader of Mindfulness Practices for the third Sunday program. Ann has been learning and practicing mindfulness meditation for the past 12 years. She is recently certified to teach mindfulness through The Mindfulness Training Institute and the International Mindfulness Teachers Association. She is excited to share her practice with you on the third Sunday each month . Cultivating present awareness takes practice. During these Sunday morning sessions we’ll develop our attention to the basics of mindfulness such as mindfulness of breath, and mindfulness of body and body sensations.  Don’t forget our other offerings.    Every Sunday before church we offer a different form of spiritual practice.  They start at 9:45 and go until 10:15 so you won’t be late for the service.  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 in the meadow. Come experience this ancient form of walking meditation. This session starts with an introduction to help you get the most out of your experience. Jerry Houseman and Rev. Lucy lead this session. Meet us at the Labyrinth in the meadow.  2nd Sunday – QiGong & Tai Chi Chuan in the Fahs Room. Join John McMillan and experience a taste of this transforming practice. All bodies and abilities welcome.    3rd Sunday – Mindfulness Practice in Room 6 Join Ann Kronser for practices aimed at cultivating awareness in daily life. All are welcome, beginners and seasoned meditators alike.      4th Sunday – Reading and reflection on poetry and prose in Room 6 JoAnn Anglin—a wonderful poet herself—leads this spiritual deepening practice of finding your meaning in a piece of poetry and sharing your thoughts with others.

Exploring UUism: Social Justice: How Do We Live Our Values?

Sunday, September 15 at 9:45 a.m. in the Fahs room.  This month’s topic:  Social Justice: How Do We Live Our Values?  Join us the third Sunday of every month before the service for Exploring Unitarian Universalism. There are four 45-minute sessions offered consecutively Survey of UU History (October 20) Principles and Sources of Our Tradition (November 17) Faith: What Does It Mean to a UU? (December 15) Social Justice: How Do We Live Our Values? (January 19)  Both newcomers and longtime members are welcome. Each class includes some presentation, sharing by current members, and opportunity for small group discussion.

Experienced Meditators Group

This group is about deepening our meditation practices through sharing our insights and listening to one another. It is for people who are dedicated to a regular meditation practice and ideally have some retreat experience. It will not be a traditional class in the sense of Doug Kraft's setting the curriculum, content, and topics and giving mini-lectures. It will be a group with everyone sharing, asking questions, suggesting topics, and listening. Doug expects to fully participate but not to direct the group. The class will be ten weeks starting on Friday, September 20, through November 22, from 12:00 to 2:30 p.m. in the Fahs room at UUSS . If you are interested, sign up at the Adult Enrichment table on Sunday mornings or contact Doug@easingawake.com .

UUSS Book Readers

On Tuesday, September 24, the UUSS Book Readers will meet at 7:00 p.m. in the Library to discuss Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens. For more information, contact the UUSS Book Readers at uureaders@uuss.org or (916) 475-7269.

Ukulele Strum-Along

Grab your uke and your voice to sing and strum along. Even if you just want to sing or you are new to the ukulele we encourage you to join us. Everyone is welcome. We have extra copies of the music to share and a few ukes to spare. Friday September 20th at 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. in the Library. Contact Nathan Burg at ukes@uuss.org

Coming in October Theater One Offers Acting Course

Have you wondered what it takes to be an actor? Have you considered acting yourself? If so, “The Art of Acting—A Personal Journey” offered through Adult Enrichment is for you.   The six-week course begins Thursday, October 10 and will be taught by UUSS member Michael Erwin. This course will examine the fundamentals of the acting process. Through the use of direct instruction, acting exercises, theatre games, and scene study, students will learn how to come to life emotionally using imaginary circumstances. Whether you are a beginning actor or a veteran actor, these fundamentals are essential in creating great (and enjoyable) performances.  Michael studied acting and directing at Indiana University and went on to earn a professional degree from The American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York, earning the prestigious Jehlinger Award for Outstanding Acting. He continued studies at the Professional Class at The Neighborhood Playhouse, New York. Michael has appeared in over 40 stage productions over the years. He also has directed and acted in many Theater One plays and was a teacher for 37 years. “The Art of Acting — A Personal Journey ” is available to all UUSS members. Sign-ups will be available Sundays at the Adult Enrichment table. For more information contact Mike Erwin at merwin157@gmail.com or theaterone@uuss.org .

Coming in October UU Theologies for the 21 st Century

Longing to deepen your understanding of UU theology? Want to strengthen your faith and develop resilience needed to engage in the challenges of our time?   We are at a time of great turning and social upheaval. It is a time of challenge and opportunity. As Rebecca Parker (former President of Starr King School for the Ministry) tells us, “effective work for social change requires people of faith who are theologically literate and engaged.”   Join Rev. Lucy and Rev. Dr. Roger on the third Tuesday of each month starting in October to explore theology and faith. This will be a companion class for a sermon series that starts in September. There will be an afternoon session and an evening session. The evening session will also be available on Zoom for those who need to participate remotely. Our grounding resource for the class will be House for Hope: The Promise of Progressive Religion for the Twenty-first Century, by Rebecca Parker and John Buehrens. Copies will be available in the UUSS bookstore.   This is a drop-in class. You may attend any or all of the sessions that interest you. The class will take place after the theme-based sermon and address the same topic. Each class will include presentation, discussion, and time for reflection.  Look for information at the Adult Enrichment table on Sunday and on the Adult Enrichment page at http://www.uuss.org/adultenrichment/ . Let’s learn and grow together. We hope you can join us.

MORE THINGS TO KNOW AND DO

Alliance-for-All Program  Ouch! Avoiding and Responding to Microaggressions Thursday, September 12, 10:45 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

All are welcome as Rev. Dr. Roger Jones joins us for a talk about the harm caused by microaggressions in UU settings. Sometimes our comments or behaviors, whether intended or unintentional, can demean or insult another person because of their ethnicity, gender, gender expression, appearance, or other aspect of who they are. There are ways to avoid categorizing people. We can we think before speaking, make fewer assumptions, and ask more open-ended questions. There also are ways we can respond supportively after witnessing a microaggression.    Alliance-for-All has programs that take place at UUSS the second Thursday morning of every month. Come at 10:45 to enjoy refreshments and meet people. The program starts at 11:00 a.m. We ask for a donation of $3-$5 to cover costs and help the Alliance support UUSS projects. For questions or ideas, contact alliance@uuss.org .

Third Democratic Candidates Debate-watch Party

Come to the Third Democratic 2020 Presidential Primary Candidates’ Debate Watch Party on Thursday evening, September 12 (time To Be Announced). There is a possible second debate on Friday, September 13. Open to all. Free. Please bring snacks to share. Sponsored by Covenant of Unitarian Universalist Pagans (CUUPs) . For questions, text Laurie Jones at (916) 716-2947.

Art at UUSS

“Flying High”, photo by Judy Stansbury “Young Red Fox”, photo by Rob Floerke

Art is back! Our walls will be filled with photographs after the summer hiatus. We welcome and encourage all to attend the art reception and artist talks on Thursday, September 12th from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. in the Main Hall . We are fortunate to have two talented animal photographers sharing their work with us. Judy Stansbury specializes in photographing dogs and says, "I love being in the moment, capturing the spirit and joy of play, whether it’s animals or people. Telling that story, along with the human connection, is what emerged as "WagTALE Photography...the spirit and story of the wag." Rob Floerke began taking photographs during his teenage years and continues to do so specializing in landscape, wildlife, and travel photography. This exhibit focuses on American wildlife in the natural habitat. Rob retired from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife after 35 years of service and his respect for wildlife and the environment is reflected in his photographs.   There will be light refreshments and a time to mingle, meet the artists, and enjoy the art. Free and open to all. (UUSS receives a portion of the proceeds from any artwork sold.)

CUUPs Annual Autumn Equinox Celebration

Join CUUPS on Saturday, September 21 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. for their Annual Autumn Equinox Celebration, Pot Luck and Discussion on sex, gender and relationships. The indoor labyrinth walk begins at 6:00 p.m., with a 7:00 p.m. pot luck, and 8:00 p.m. ritual and short discussion. Contact Laurie Jones at (916) 716-2947 with questions.

Time to Howl at the Moon

Calling all pagans and those interested in earth-based spiritualities. We will gather on Sunday October 13th to celebrate the full moon, and share our ideas for earth based practice at UUSS.  Planning meeting starts at 6:30 with ritual beginning when the moon rises. come howl with us.  contact Rev Lucy ( lucy@uuss.org ) for more info.

Music at UUSS: Bass & Piano Concert

“Our own” Thomas Derthick, professional bassist, teacher, and orchestra conductor, will perform a recital of major works accompanied by Dr. John Cozza on piano at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 29 in the Main Hall . He’ll play a suite by J.S. Bach, the “Prayer for a Jewish Life” by Ernest Bloch, and the exciting world premiere of a new work, “A Step in Time” by Dr. Hendel Almetus, among other works.    Tom has played double bass for the Sacramento and San Francisco symphonies; he's played double bass and bass guitar for numerous professional Broadway shows, and has been a bass teacher at several local colleges and universities. He also teaches bass and music at UOP and has conducted the Central Valley Youth Symphony for 20 years.    Please invite family and friends to this exciting and virtuoso performance: $15 for adults, and only $5 for children, youth, and college students. Our choir and other friends (fans!) of Tom Derthick will offer refreshments at intermission.

Arts & Crafts Marketplace

Follow link for information & to register uuss.org/fairapplication UUSS members and pledging friends are invited to sell their handicrafts and creations at the Arts and Crafts Marketplace on Saturday, November 16, 2019, 9:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m. The Marketplace will be in the UUSS Main Hall.  Examples of creative works by adults and children include:

Books/pamphlets/writing Photographs Paintings/drawings Wall hangings Sculpture Woodcarving Leather tooled pieces Fiber arts (weaving, handmade yarn) Knitted/crocheted scarves, hats, socks, baby blankets Quilts, quilted items  Handmade clothing, aprons Crafts (scrapbooks, trinket boxes) Seasonal or special occasion decorations  CDs (music) Sheet music Handmade musical instruments Preserved food (jams, jellies) Spice blends Handmade toys Greeting cards, gift wrapping and tags

The number of vendor spaces is limited. Registrations must be received by October 1. Preference will be given to UUSS members and pledging friends. Registrations will be accepted on a “first come, first served” basis. Vendor fee for one table is $20. 20 percent of vendor sales will be collected at the close of the Marketplace on November 16. (Cash and checks will be accepted.) The Marketplace will be advertised on on-line community event calendars, through social media and through all UUSS communication venues. To register, complete and return the attached registration form and $20 check made out to UUSS (reference “Arts and Crafts Marketplace”) to Bookkeeper, UUSS, 2425 Sierra Blvd., Sacramento, CA 95825. Questions? Contact Sandra Navarro ( uuss.Sandra@gmail.com ).

It’s Soup! Yes, Soup Sundays start again this fall.

While we may be in “the dog days of summer” right now, cooler fall weather is only a couple of months away, bringing with it fond memories of the delicious smells of soup in the Welcome Hall after the service. This fall we will bring back Soup Sundays starting in October and continuing through February. For a $5 donation our members and friends can enjoy a hearty bowl of soup, bread and a cookie the first two Sundays of the month. Proceeds go to the UUSS General Fund to support our mission, programs and people at UUSS. As in past years, we are looking for UUSS groups who would be willing to make eight different soups for a given Sunday and serve them. The Soup Sunday team will help with the logistics of set-up, clean-up, supplies and purchasing the other foods. It’s a wonderful and simple way to support UUSS. Soup Sundays are also great opportunities for getting to know each other better over a bowl of fragrant soup. If your group can sponsor a Soup Sunday, please contact Bobbie Keill .  The Soup Sunday Team also is recruiting volunteers to help out on a rotating basis during those 5 months. No experience necessary!

Theater One Receives Elly Nominations

Congratulations to the following Theater One participants for receiving five Elly Nominations:   Chicken Little’s Christmas Party (Children’s Theater Productions): Jill McMahon, Director Shaleen Schmutzer-Smith, Leading Female – Adult Jerold McFatter, Leading Male – Adult Kate Pratt, Sound and Light Design   Special Request (Original Scripts): Tim Foley & Theater One, script   The Sacramento Area Regional Theater Alliance (SARTA) honors outstanding achievements in local community theater with the Elly Awards named for the late Eleanor McClatchy.    Elly Award winners will be announced at two ceremonies:  Sunday, September 8, 7 p.m . at the Youth Elly Ceremony, Cosumnes Oaks High School, 8350 Lotz Parkway, Elk Grove and Sunday, September 22 at the Adult Elly Ceremony, The Center at 2300 Sierra Blvd, Sacramento. For further information about the awards ceremonies contact  sarta.com .

Theater One at UUSS: 2019-20 Season Preview

Theater One will present “Laundry & Bourbon,” directed by Lonon Smith in October 2019, “Confirmation,” written and directed by Lonon Smith in February 2020 and “Roe,” directed by Michael and Lisa Erwin in May 2020. Theater One's children's series will feature "Dr. Frankincense and the Christmas Monster" in November 2019, directed by Kate Pratt.

WHO WE ARE AND WHERE TO FIND US

Office Hours

The  UUSS Office  is open Monday thru Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. OFFICE CLOSED MONDAY SEPTEMBER 2 FOR LABOR DAY

Custodian Phone Number

Are you having an event at UUSS, and need to find a custodian ASAP? You're in luck! The Custodians have a new direct number 916-215-0658 . Gerald will be in possession of the phone Monday-Thursday 4:00 pm to 9:30pm and Miguel will be in possession on Friday nights and Saturday from 6:00-2:30pm.

Serving Our Congregation

UUSS OFFICERS & BOARD of TRUSTEES     Sally White, President    Denis Edgren, Vice-President      Victoria Owens, Treasurer    Sandra Navarro, Secretary      Kathy Bernard                  Marilyn Reynolds      David Harlow                Joseph Turner      Roger Olson                       Contact Board members by email:  president@uuss.org   Board meetings: 7:00 p.m., 4th Thursday of every month (changes in November & December) PROGRAM COUNCIL      Susan Davis Terrie Taylor      Michael Miller, Chair              Margaret Wilcox  Kathleen Olson        Lorri Reynard   Contact Program Council members by email:  programcouncil@uuss.org   Program Council meetings: 7:00 p.m., 3rd Thursday of every month. Ministers Rev. Dr. Roger Jones & Rev. Lucy Bunch 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 Irina Tchantceva, Pianist Shannon Ebler and Leticia Valdez, Childcare Providers Gerald Worley - Sunday thru Thursday, Evening Custodian  Miguel Neri - Friday to Sunday, Custodian ~ Ivan Caballero, Sunday Audio Tech

Unitarian Universalist Society of Sacramento, 2425 Sierra Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95825

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