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Unitarian Universalist Church of Bloomington, Indiana
Congregation founded 1949 | LGBTQ Welcoming Congregation since 1995 | Green Sanctuary since 2007
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Join us for online services
Livestreamed on Sunday mornings at 10:15 am
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Sunday, September 12, 2021
10:15 am Livestream
The Possibility of Forgiveness
Reverend Mary Ann Macklin
Reverend Emily Manvel Leite
Virtual Online Worship Service
Limited In Person Attendance (Registration Required)
As we continue this month’s theme of Possibility, we will explore the theme of forgiveness in Reverend Macklin’s annual offering of a forgiveness sermon to honor The Jewish High Holy Days, which began yesterday evening, Monday, September 6th with the New Year, Rosh Hashanah, and will conclude with the Day of Atonement, Yom Kippur, beginning sundown on September 15th. Our congregation’s sign-up for our small group ministry, Chalice Circles, will begin after the service. Special music will be provided by our car choir. Click here to register to attend the worship service on September 12.
It's not an easy journey, to get to a
place where you forgive people. But it
is such a powerful place,
because it frees you.
Tyler Perry
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Sunday, September 19, 2021
10:15 am Livestream
Autumnal Equinox Celebration
Reverend Emily Manvel Leite
Reverend Mary Ann Macklin
Join us as we mark the changing of the seasons and the time of harvest through story, song, and ritual. We will be connecting to the energy of the earth and providing an opportunity to reflect upon balance in your own life as we near the day of equal light and darkness. The UU Children’s Choir, directed by Jill Courtney, will offer a beautiful butterfly-themed song for this service.
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MAM Musing
If you did not get a chance to attend this Sunday’s service virtually, here it is. My, it was rich. Thank you, Reverend Emily for this creation. After the service we were calling ourselves, “The Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Muddle Puddle”. Whewee, these times need creativity, integrity and laughter. Thanks to musicians Ray Fellman, Rev. Dr. Susan Swaney and car choir, Jill Courtney and the children’s choir, and musician magician Colleen Haas.
Speaking of puddles, here is the video that was shown at the end of the service. It is a video that I created for a few friends, but then Reverend Emily reminded me that we would be talking about puddles and water on Sunday, so here’s my contribution from an excursion last week on the golf course. Short and Sweet. Remember, not initially created for public consumption, but I do look rather stunning.
Meanwhile, as we move toward limited gatherings for Sunday Worship Services, we have this insight about for our ongoing virtual services from one of our congregational leaders:
“Being in person today led to an aha moment about attending virtually. When we first went to online services, I prepared my “sanctuary space” by setting up a special area with candles, photos, a journal, etc. Gradually, I got away from that and started multi-tasking, like eating brunch while I watched and listened; jumping up to do something or getting sidetracked. I didn’t fully understand how this was impacting me emotionally and spiritually, until today. Thank you for this opportunity. When I am attending virtually, setting aside time and space will be key for me, and now I realize the full impact.”
And as my spiritual mentor taught, let us as a congregational community, Show Up and Be Present, including virtual presence. May we speak our truth without blame or judgment. May we be open to outcome, particularly in these changing times. And may we seek what has heart and meaning in our lives. In gratitude to Angeles Arrien and The Four Fold Way.
Peace and Love, Mary Ann
Reverend Mary Ann Macklin
Senior Minister
PS For the Trekkies amongst us, it’s September 7th; Happy Seven of Nine Day!
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MAM Invitation
I attended Cardinal Theater’s outdoor production of the one woman play Every Brilliant Thing on Saturday. Cardinal flew in local favorite actress, Diane Kondrat, from Portland, Oregon, to take center stage. The play is full of humor and gravitas as it engages the topic of gratitude in the face of such plagues on the soul as depression and suicide. As someone who has lost family members to suicide, I found the emphasis on gratitude and the audience participation to be quite healing.
Last week, Cardinal Theater Creative Director sat down with Diane Kondrat and me to explore the topic of gratitude. Here is the podcast of that conversation (scroll down a bit when you get there, to get to the podcast) . I invite you to listen. AND I invite you to watch for a future invitation into a practice of gratitude. --MAM Reverend Mary Ann Macklin
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Emily's Post
Dear Ones,
September has arrived—our month exploring Possibility, and our time of beginning to gather for worship both online and in limited numbers in person. This is an uncertain time—what is going to happen and how we will need to respond are about as clear as mud. But maybe mud is just what we need—unformed, rich in minerals and salts, the building blocks for many possible futures. We celebrated mud and the mud puddle yesterday in our Water Communion, with helpful thoughts shared by many of you, thus symbolically starting at the very beginning of the life of a butterfly.
We are considering the lifecycle of the butterfly as we explore Possibility because, if we didn’t know it was so, the possibilities that are open to a creature like a caterpillar would not seem to include becoming a butterfly. Yet, that is exactly what it does. On Sunday, we witnessed the lifecycle of a Swallowtail butterfly in a video accompanied by Colleen Haas. If you’d like to see that video again, with a recorded musical accompaniment, you can find it here:
I find I can watch it over and over again: emerging, growing, becoming something new. If you join us in coming weeks, we will be continuing the exploration of that lifecycle—this week reflecting on caterpillar to cocoon, on the equinox, cocoon to butterfly, and then… who knows what will emerge?
This is a time of myriad possibilities, both individual and congregational. We hope you’ll watch for ways to join in as we experiment, explore, and discover opportunities to build and become something new together.
Sending love,
Emily
Reverend Emily Manvel Leite
Minister of Story and Ritual
P.S. Many thanks to the photographers whose art enriched our experience of worship on Sunday: Janice Bagwell, Carol Holding, John Woodcock, Jill Courtney, and Christine Linnemeier.
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From Our Interim Religious Education Consultant
Dear UU Bloomington friends,
It is midnight on Tuesday morning and just a few minutes ago, I completed my first Unitarian Universalist Jubilee III training. I did this training with the First Unitarian Church of Honolulu, Hawaii, and it was a joy to be in community with them even if it meant that I stayed up late. The Jubilee III training leads participants to understand our personal and community journey in a white supremacist world as it intersects with racism, sexism, and our Unitarian Universalist communities. I am renewed and I am tired. I am also reminded of the complex and frightening nature of our world.
We are well on our way into September 2021 and the world is still unsure and shaken. Stories come to our doorstep from around the world and the pandemic to tell us that things are in a state of dis-ease. These stories intersect with our own personal struggles and uncertainties. I am sure that many of you encounter moments each day where you would love to scream! For many, these days are hard, and the difficulties are unceasing.
In this unique and challenging moment in time, I invite you to hear these words:
1. You are loved right where you are.
2. You have a place to be grounded with the Unitarian Universalist Church of Bloomington, Indiana.
3. We will provide opportunities to connect. They are optional, knowing that each of us has different needs and capacities. This is your church, no matter your level of participation.
I am here to journey with you as you discern your lifespan religious education vision for the future. This is a unique time for such a journey! And as Rev. Macklin has wisely encouraged, we will do so in spaciousness. Even though I have been with you for less than a month, I have heard wonderful stories that demonstrate your dedication to Unitarian Universalism and the Bloomington, Indiana community. In the next few weeks, watch for the following opportunities (which will shift with the state of the pandemic):
· A new Sunday morning Spirit Play children’s program which meets in an outdoor program once a month during worship.
· The opportunity to explore Our Whole Lives for middle, high, and elementary school aged persons. The exact age of each group is still being determined.
· Listening sessions for parents/caregivers, families, and the congregation – what are your current and future religious education wishes and dreams?
· Other learning opportunities for children, youth, adults, and families!
· Movies!
· Space to reflect and be your honest self.
· Some time for fun and laughter!
I am available for conversations. Call – text- email. I am off on Tuesdays but check communication on the other days. And watch for opportunities to connect!
Thank you for your dedication and passion.
Michele Grove
605-237-1319
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Our Folks...
Congratulations and many blessings to Emily and Tom Phelps, who welcomed new baby daughter Julia Ennis Phelps this past weekend,
8 lbs, 8 oz, 21.5 inches.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Alfred (Al) Strickholm, who died at Hospice House Thursday night, surrounded by family. A special note of comfort to Al’s wife, Lee; Al and Lee would have soon celebrated 70 years of marriage together.
We also learned that longtime congregation member Marty Joachim died last week after an extended illness. Our hearts are with Marty’s family and friends at this time.
Our thoughts of love and healing are with John and Peggy Woodcock, who are both undergoing chemotherapy treatment for cancer, and are sheltering at home. They miss everyone, and would be glad to hear from their friends in the congregation.
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Register for September 19 In-person Sunday Worship Service Attendance
Have you been missing in-person church attendance on Sundays? If you feel the need to attend in-person, you can sign up for the September 19 service starting on September 10, via this link: https://uucb.churchcenter.com/registrations. If you have already signed up to attend on September 12, consider watching online on September 19 to give others a chance to attend in-person.
Space is limited.
All the details and safety information is on the sign up. Please read the details carefully, because a lot has changed.
When deciding whether or not to attend in-person services, please take into account your health risk factors and the fact that we cannot ensure that all participants are vaccinated. Children's programming will not be held on the 19th. If you have questions or difficulty registering, please email office(at)uubloomington.org.
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UUCB Check-in:
Safety and Engagement Questionnaire
Dearest Members and Friends,
We miss you. We also know that many, if not all of you, have felt somewhat distanced from the congregation as a result of the pandemic.
While we have heard from a number of you through various channels, we want to reach out to discover how everyone is doing as we enter a new church year, beginning in September.
We will rely on your completion of the questionnaire to understand who we are as a congregation, as well as the wellbeing of each of you.
We look forward to hearing from you!
With well wishes and blessing,
Reverend Mary Ann Macklin, Senior Minister
Ann LeDuc, Connections Coordinator
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Chalice Circles Small Group Ministry Signup
Begins September 12
Chalice Circle sign ups begin on-line on Sunday, Sept 12 and will run through Sunday, Sept 26th. Watch the Friday Update on September 10 for link to the signup page.
Chalice Circle Testimonial by Judy Allensworth
In a Chalice Circle, a small group of UUs open themselves to spirit and community as we listen to each other in caring silence. We rise above the bounds of separateness to explore new ways of understanding. As a result, Circle members in effect become a family whose souls shine out to one another in fellowship and trust. Chalice Circles offer a unique opportunity to know others in depth and a way to share intimately with the same freedom. Chalice Circles lift and support my spirit, and I believe they will do the same for you. --Judy Allensworth
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UU Choir is Back!
The UU Choir continues to rehearse outdoors with masks on, weather permitting. Because of current public health conditions, things are likely to change quickly. If you would like to participate in Choir, it is important for you to be on the Choir email list to get the latest news on rehearsals. To be included, please contact Dr. Susan Swaney our Music Director at music (at) uubloomington.org.
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Please Make Your Pledge Today!
It's not too late! We are encouraging everyone who has not already done so to make a financial pledge to support our congregation for the coming year. Click here for the online pledge form.
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Bazaar 2021 is a Mystery!
This year's bazaar is a mystery! Will it be all on-line? Will there be an in-person component? Will there be a book sale? White elephants? All will be answered in the fullness of time... but not yet. We are waiting to assess safety for in-person gathering.
In the meantime.....
- as you harvest your garden save a jar or two of your pickles, jams, chutneys or salsas for the gourmet galaxy
- start planning what to bake for the gourmet galaxy.
- gather your used books to donate. I'm afraid that these will only be used if we have an in-person bazaar.
- dust off your white elephants and quality collectables.
- contact Jason Michalek michalja (at) mail.gvsu.edu if you are willing to pick up persimmons or if you have a tree that needs picking.
We have some persimmon pulp left from last year. If you want some, contact Ruellen Fessenbecker rfessenb (at)indiana.edu Pulp is $6 per 2 cup package.
If we have an in-person bazaar we will need plenty of help with set up and clean up. contact Ruellen with your offers of help.
Get ready for a great bazaar, however it evolves!
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Online Church Directory Coming Soon
Soon you will receive an automatic email from Planning Center, our database, to invite you to participate in our new online directory. Please respond to that email when you receive it, so that we can make the directory available soon!
--Carol Marks, Church Administrator, admin (at) uubloomington.org, 812-287-9615.
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UU Online Book Club Reads An Indigenous Peoples' History of the United States
The UU Online Book Club meets the first Monday of each month at 6:30 PM via Zoom. On October 4, they will discuss "The Indigenous People's History of the United States" by Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz. Our Interim RE Consultant Michele Grove will lead the discussion.
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Fall Diaper Drive
with the Reproductive Justice Task Force
Did you know that 57% of parents experiencing diaper needs who rely on child care said they missed an average of four days of school or work in the past month because they didn't have diapers? One of our UU youth, Mojo, created a video about the issue with more facts which you can watch here. Support our local diaper bank at All-Options Pregnancy Resource Center with a donation:
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Writing as a Spiritual Practice (Season 5)
A Drop-in Group with Rev. Barbara Child
Starts September 7
You are invited to join me on a journey of personal exploration
through autobiographical writing in community on Zoom.
We will meet every Tuesday afternoon 1:00-2:00 p.m.
September 7 through October 26.
Even if you took part in one or more sessions during Season 1, 2, 3, or 4, you need to register for Season 5 by clicking HERE.
You need to register only once, and can then attend as many Season 5 sessions after that as you choose. The link will stay the same for each session. You may register up to a few minutes before a session begins.
Rev. Barbara Child
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Monthly Life Stories Writing Group
Welcomes New Members --
Next Meeting Thursday, September 9
Thinking about writing a story from your life? We invite you to join the monthly life writers, a supportive group that meets on the second Thursday of every month from 3 to 5, on Zoom. Attendees usually read short excerpts from work in progress. If you are new, it’s fine to just listen and ask a few questions. To get your Zoom invitation for September 9, email John Woodcock at woodcock (at) indiana.edu.
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UU Freethinkers Meet Sunday, Sept 12, 12:45 pm
The UU Freethinkers bi-weekly meeting creates the opportunity for participants to raise questions and engage in open and non-structured discussion of issues of social, political, and theological/religious concern. Every other Sunday via Zoom at 12:45 pm. To join, contact Ann Watzel.
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UU Humanist Forum Meets Sunday, September 19,
12:45 pm
Every other Sunday at 12:45 pm, our UU Humanists meet together online on Zoom for discussion. On September 19 they will have a pitch-in picnic and select topics for Fall 2021. Email Ann Watzel if you would like to join the discussion.
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Shambhala Meditation Online on Mondays
Every Monday at noon online, or anytime it's easy, since there are saved sessions, you can join Sarah Flint in this 2500-year-old practice of cultivating peace and inner wisdom. Contact Sarah Flint to join the group in real time. On Facebook at UU Bloomington Meditation.
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Open Mind Zen Online
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, Open Mind Zen with Frank Seisho Diaz is currently holding away from our building. If you'd like to participate, visit openmindzenbloomington.org and use their contact page for more information.
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Community Connections
Our Faith in Action in the Community
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COVID-19 Vaccination News -
Vaccines for Age 12 and Older!
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Volunteer Call-Out at Boys & Girls Club September 18
There are volunteer opportunities for fall 2021 at the Boys & Girls Clubs and the Kenworthy Administration Center. See this link for information on the call-out session on September 18? https://bgcbloomington.org/volunteer/
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Spencer Pride Thanks
Because of UU contributions, and those of many others, to Spencer Pride’s Wall Rehab Fundraiser, we now have the funds to repair the CommUnity Center return wall section that has been leaking. This is a major step forward, thanks to your support! Spencer Pride succeeded in raising over $10,700 for the wall repair, and the masonry work is scheduled to start soon.
The Spencer Pride Board and volunteers are grateful for such strong community support.
--Judi Epp, UU member and Spencer Pride Board member
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Email SCAM Alert
Our ministers, staff, and board members or other members will never send you email asking you for any money besides your pledge payment!
How to Recognize an Email Phishing Scam:
Is the email impersonating Rev. Macklin or another of our staff or ministers? Are they asking you to purchase gift cards? Wait! Don't do it! We will never send you emails like that. To double check, look at the email address of the sender. Is it from an address at uubloomington.org? If not, that's the second good reason to delete it!
Office Hours, Calendar, Deadlines
Office hours: M-F, 10 am-4 pm. Our building is on Restricted Access right now, so staff is working from home.
The Church Office can be reached via text or voicemail during office hours at 812-287-9615. Email: admin (at) uubloomington.org or office (at) uubloomington.org
The Prologue is published on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month. Next issue is
September 21. Deadline is 10 am on date of publication, admin (at) uubloomington.org
Mailing Address
During the pandemic:
UU Church, PO Box 1158, Nashville, Indiana 47448-1158.
(Items mailed to 2120 N. Fee take 3-4 weeks on average to be forwarded by the Postal Service! So please use the PO Box instead of the street address!)
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Details on Membership & Offering
Membership: 574 certified members as of 2/1/2021;
571 current members.
Non-Pledge Offering:
August 22: $132
August 29: $262
To make a contribution for the Non-Pledge Offering (Sunday Plate), or to make a payment towards your pledge, click on this link to get to our new Giving page: uucb.churchcenter.com/giving
Total to be donated (25%) to The Nest childcare center at New Hope Family Shelter: $98.50
Grocery Card Sales: (Bloomingfoods or Fresh Thyme) $200; Total income to UUCB: $10
Free Money from Kroger!
Fresh Thyme and Bloomingfoods
Grocery Cards Available by Mail
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Did you know that Kroger sends us over $1,600 each year? This is made possible by those of you who participate in Kroger's Community Rewards program. Register your Kroger Plus card online at this link.
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We are also still selling grocery cards for Bloomingfoods and Fresh Thyme. Click here to see what kind of cards and how many are available. Send your check to the church (UU Church, P. O. Box 1158, Nashville, Indiana 47448-1158) with a note to let us know the type and value of card(s) you want, and we will mail them to you. You do not need to send an envelope. Orders are received in Nashville, but fulfilled in Bloomington. (smiley face)
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Masthead photo by Marcia Hart. Great spangled fritillary on butterfly bush. |
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Unitarian Universalist Church of Bloomington, IN
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