Connections Newsletter
All the news you need to know to connect, grow, and serve.
Building Blocks of Community, sermon by Rev. Terasa
Sunday, January 26, 2020 | 9:15 & 11:15 a.m.
"Building Blocks of Community"
Sermon by Rev. Dr. Terasa Cooley, Interim Senior Minister
What does it take to build community in times of such deep division and disruption. Rev. Terasa will share a prescription for deep and healthy community that comes from Dr. Brene Brown and reflect on what it could mean for us as a religious community.

Gail Crawford is our Worship Associate and Janice Morris is the Board Representative. Cellist Rosanna Butterfield is our guest musician. She and Sophia Morreale , on piano, will perform The Swan from Carnival of the Animals - C. Saint-Saens and Sarabande from Suite in G Major by J.S. Bach. Our advanced bell choir, Polymnia, rings Grazioso by Arnold B. Sherman, under the direction of Ken Bissell , Director of Handbells.
Upcoming Service
February 2, 9:15 and 11:15 a.m. “White Supremacy Teach-In - A step in our process to live into the 8th Principle.  Featuring Whitney Parnell, Charles Brown, Tracey Rogers, Danny Cendejas, and Azza Altiraifi. Join us for this white supremacy teach-in, as we center people of color's knowledge, experience, and calls-to-action. We hope attendees will enter this space with open hearts, and leave with a commitment to racial justice moving forward. We look forward to seeing you for this service of powerful testimonies and music. 

Church Matters
UUCA chalice logo
Talk to Nom Com!
Sunday, January 26, February 2, 9, 16, 23, March 1

The Nominating Committee is the body that interviews prospective board members and nominates attendees to General Assembly. But that's not all! Think of us as one entryway to deeper involvement in our community. Do you have an interest in leadership or volunteering but can’t find the right fit? Talk to us! Do you know someone amazing but who needs a little encouragement to get more involved? Talk to us! Want to learn more about open board positions or GA 2020? Come to our "Talk to Us!" table on January 26, February 2, 9, 16, and 23, and March 1. We are also looking for candidates to join Nominating Committee next year, so stop by if that might be you or someone you know.
 
See you soon!
Josh Mohr, Nancy Hyde, Paula Bendl Smith, Danielle Jones, & Ashley Greve

Opportunities to Connect and Grow
UUCA Adult Faith Development
Faith 360 Classes for Winter 2020
Faith 360 is the Adult Faith Development program we offer here at UUCA. The Unitarian Universalist faith assumes that we are always learning and growing. Personal insight, disciplined reflection, group faith exploration—all are pieces of how we support one another in bringing more depth and value to our lives. Through classes, workshops and practice groups we can help support those who are new to Unitarian Universalism while also providing seasoned UUs opportunities for spiritual growth—truly there is something for everyone. 

UPCOMING CLASSES
Geography of Grace
Begins Saturday, January 25, 9 - 11 a.m.
Meets 4th Saturday January thru June

Using the natural landscape as metaphor, this program will provide participants the opportunity to explore and reflect on their spiritual journey. We will be using a combination of journaling, art, collage, and deep sharing. Must be able to commit to all sessions, Jan.-June on 4th Saturdays, 9—11:30 a.m. This workshop is produced by the Center for Courage and Renewal and part of the Circles of Trust model. 

Read what Janice Morris (UUCA board member and Circle of Trust participant) has to say about her experience with COT:

"Circles of Trust training was the most transformational, impactful experience I have had at UUCA since joining the church 20 years ago. Maybe it was because it was the right opportunity at the right time, but in fact a part of me wishes I could have learned this practice of how to better reflect and view my life in a more insightful way when I was much younger. Better late than never I guess. The commitment I made to this training four years ago (five weekend retreats over a year) finally gave me the depth of understanding I needed to relate better to other people--particularly no fixing, saving, correcting, or advising--and to myself--including a deeper knowledge of my shadow self. I confess it was instinctual at first to shy away from opening up my mind to a new perspective, but I am so grateful now for the well-trained Circles of Trust leaders who carefully led me down this path. It is an ongoing journey, but I now have the foundation I need to continue my spiritual growth in the most meaningful of ways. I encourage you to take advantage of the Geography of Grace series and give this gift to yourself." Register here.
Enneagram 
Three sessions: Tuesdays, Jan. 28, Feb. 4, Feb. 11, 7-9 p.m.

Join Rev. Terasa for a three-part series exploring the Enneagram.  Have you ever asked yourself the quintessential human question of identity, “Who am I?” Most of us spend a lifetime trying to figure out who we are and how we relate to others. The Enneagram offers a bright path to cutting through the internal clutter and finding our way back to who we are created to be. Based on the nine classic archetypes of human character structure, the Enneagram exposes the nine ways we lie to ourselves about who we think we are, illustrates the nine ways we get lost, and reveals nine ways we find our way home to our True Self. Recommended text for this class The Road Back to You by Ian Cron. 3 sessions, Tuesdays, Jan. 28, Feb. 4 and Feb. 11, 7-9 p.m. Register here.  
Cooking Together
Friday, January 31, 6-8 p.m.

Join Rev. Terasa for a night of cooking and eating together. Cooking can seem like a lot of pressure sometimes and so Rev. Terasa is hoping to take some of the pressure off (literally!) by offering a demo of how to use your Instant Pot! So many people have talked about getting one for Christmas and then not knowing how to use it. All are welcome but you must sign up in advance. There is a $10 offering for food supplies. Register here.
Spirituality Book Club - February Selection
Acedia and Me
by Kathleen Norris
Tuesday, February 4, 7-9 p.m.

Kathleen Norris has written several much loved books, yet she couldn't drag herself out of bed in the morning, couldn't summon the energy for her daily tasks. Norris recognized her familiar battle with acedia, a word she had discovered in early Church text years earlier. Discussion led by Betsy Rosso Rosenblatt. No registration.
Tea and Crafts
1st and 3rd Tuesdays, 1-3 p.m. Begins February 4

Join Linda Lutes Corsoro and friends for this time of fellowship and fun. Bring your current project for an afternoon of creativity and conversation. All crafts and projects welcome—knitting, crochet, sewing, beading. Don’t craft? Come anyway—you can pour the tea! Meets 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of the month from 1-3 in Room 13/15. Begins February 4. No registration.
Chalice Theatre Tickets On Sale

A celebration of personal discovery, Alix in Wonderland is a wholly original take on social norms, self-perception, and what it really means to grow up in today's world. A tumble down that world-famous rabbit hole brings teenage Alix face-to-face with the wild, wacky, and annoying denizens of Lewis Carroll's Wonderland, but none of them are quite as anyone remembers them. Alix's journey becomes one of profound questioning and exploration on the way to becoming fully and joyfully oneself.  Tickets available here.
Join the Carbon Footprint Challenge Workshop
Friday, January 24, 7:00-8:30 p.m. Board Room

Did you know 40% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions come from five basic household activities we do every day--electricity use, home heating, transportation, food choices, and waste. There are affordable and accessible alternatives to all of these activities that can help stop global warming and save money. Learn what steps you can take to make the biggest differences. Help make UUCA a part of the global solution to the climate crisis. Sign-up for the Climate Footprint Challenge Workshop here . Participation is limited to 15 people, so sign up now. Visit the Climate Crisis Action Coalition’s website for more information.
Social Justice Soiree
Saturday, January 25, 9 a.m. to Noon
  
The Social Justice Ministries Team [SJMT] invites all who are involved or interested in becoming involved in social justice groups/activities at UUCA to explore opportunities to support one another and to examine the overlap of our missions and priorities as they relate to UUCA Principles and the UUCA priorities identified in the 2019 Congregational Survey. Members of the SJMT are Allan Kellum, Chris Sutton, Jacomina de Regt, Kristin Keller, McGennis Williams, MJ Schmeltzer, Walter Clark, and Wendy Jessup. Questions about the upcoming January 25 gathering, contact McGennis Williams mcgennis@mcgenniswilliams.com.
Annual Chili Cook-Off
Sunday, January 26, after 2nd service

The Annual Chili Cook-Off is this Sunday! We have over 20 chilis to taste-test! Chili-eaters and volunteers needed! There still are a few slots left for chili cooks. Cooks and volunteers sign up below. Chili-eaters come hungry and make a donation! Proceeds benefit UUCA's Youth Group program.
  • Enter chili competition here.
  • Support or volunteer here.
UUCA CENTER STATE PRESENTS

Books & Boots BASH
A book release celebration
w/ Dr. Cullen Ruff
Saturday, February 1, 7:15 p.m.

UUCA member Cullen Ruff invites everyone to come and kick up your heels in celebration of the publication of his book, Looking WITHIN. For those of you who may not be aware, Dr. Ruff is an experienced dancer and he and his favorite DJ will lead us in line-dancing and West Coast Swing! Book-signing and refreshments. Boots and western wear encouraged but not required.
Our Stories, Our Lives 
Tuesday, January 28, 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. Board Room

Come and join us for a morning of sharing stories and conversation at "Our Stories, Our Lives" on Tuesday, January 28, 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. The theme this month is "What was one of the best, most satisfying meals you ever had? What made it so special?" Each participant will have about seven minutes to tell a story--more or less, depending on attendance--and we'll share comments and questions as we go. You may choose to prepare a written piece or a few notes, or just to respond spontaneously in the moment. It's a low-key way to connect with old friends and meet new ones. Facilitated by Jacomina de Regt and/or Diane Ullius. Fresh coffee and tea available. All welcome. No need to register in advance; just come, and bring a friend.  
Living the 8th Principle

We are proud to let you know that 25 people received Allyship training from Service Never Sleeps at UUCA over the Martin Luther King day weekend!

Deepen your understanding of systemic oppression 
Mark your calendars for the UUCA Spring Anti-Racism workshop series! Each session 7:00-9:00 p.m. at UUCA. Registration helpful – contact Ann Ulmschneider, aulmsch@msn.com.
  • Microaggressions (led by Ann Ulmschneider) on Wed., Feb. 26
  • Implicit Bias (led by Warren Wright) on Wed., Mar. 25
  • Speaking Out (led by Diane Dorius) on Tues., Mar. 31

Further the anti-racist transformation of Unitarian Universalism 
  • Poor People’s Campaign will be in DC! UUs are one of the many faith organizations engaged in the National Call for Moral Revival. RSVP here to attend this mobilization meeting on Wed., Jan. 29, 5:30 p.m., at the Church of the Epiphany, 1317 G Street NW.

Show up, speak out and challenge oppression and racism in our community
  • Showing Up for Racial Justice DC will host their next welcome/orientation session on Sun., Feb. 9, from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m., Cleveland Park Library in DC. This is a great way to plug in to racial justice work in the District, including how to be an ally to Black Lives Matter DC. Sign up here.
Advocate for Reforms in Richmond!
Two dates to choose from: Feb. 4 or 20

VOICE ( Virginia Organized for Interfaith Community Engagement) is pressing for reforms in state-level laws, for the second year in a row. A UUCA contingent is joining fellow VOICE leaders from across Northern Virginia to advocate in Richmond in February. VOICE is aiming to have a presence there among our lawmakers every day while they're in session. This year we'll talk with our delegates and senators to 
  • Press for reforms to end unnecessary incarceration for nonviolent offenses and permanently end the practice of suspending driver's licenses for nonpayment of court fines and fees
  • Seek state funding to double the number of counselors in our elementary schools
  • Increase state investment in pre-K and after-school programs for our neediest families
  • Increase Virginia's Housing Trust Fund and require cities and towns to plan for affordable housing

Can you join us? It's a big commitment--one full day--but one day is all we ask. Please join us on either Tuesday February 4 or Thursday February 20 (leave at 6 a.m. and return by 7 p.m.). Our task is to visit legislators in small groups, remaining flexible about lawmakers ever-changing schedules. Online sign-ups here. Questions? Stop by the VOICE table in Fellowship Hall on Sunday or contact Pat Findikoglu, patfindikoglu@gmail.com.
Men's Book Group
The Rise
Sunday, February 9, 7:30 p.m. Chapel

The non-fiction book choice for the February is The Rise, by Sarah Lewis, suggested by Lyle Priddy. The group meets on the second Sunday. All men are welcome. Questions? Contact Ken Marshall, kenmar42@gmail.com. Upcoming reads:
  • March 8. Bel Canto, a novel, by Ann Patchett
  • April 12. The Killers of the Flower Moon, by David Grann
Discipline Series: It’s All Good...Until It’s Not
Four Thursdays, Jan. 30 - Feb. 20, 7-8:30 p.m.

Join UUCA and AUCP (Arlington Unitarian Preschool Cooperative) parents to learn new techniques for managing children's behavior so it's easier on you, and they learn independence and responsibility. This series, sponsored by AUCP, is presented by Michael Swisher, a parent educator with the Partnership for Children, Youth, and Families at the Arlington Department of Human Services. He brings 15+ years of experience training parents on managing behaviors. Join us for all four sessions or pick and choose. Each session includes discussion, reflection, and creating take-home tools and materials. These events are aimed at parents of preschool and early elementary-aged children, but are open to all.

  • January 30: Attitudes and Aspirations - How we were raised impacts how we raise our children. We'll explore our own history, what we want for our children, and foundations of discipline.
  • February 6: Structure and Routine - Structure is critically important for small children! The more organized we are with time, things/spaces, and expectations, the more our children will learn autonomy and responsibility.
  • February 13: Incentives - Incentive systems can help us encourage children to do what they don’t necessarily want to do (or stop doing something we don’t want them to do).
  • February 20: The Right Response and Consequences - How do we respond ‘in the moment’? Take home strategies and techniques; along with guidelines for appropriate consequences – all with a goal of helping children to learn, and maintaining a positive relationship between them.
Opportunities to Serve
Bagged-Meals for A-SPAN
Last Sunday of each month - THIS SUNDAY -
January 26

On the last Sunday of every month, in partnership with A-SPAN (Arlington Street People's Assistance Network), UUCAers of all ages gather to prepare and deliver bagged meals and hot soup to homeless individuals in our community. We need your help! Please consider signing up to volunteer, either as an individual or as a family group (kids elementary age and up are welcome). The time commitment is approximately 1-2 hours, and you can sign up for as many or as few volunteer slots as you like.  Sign-ups here. Questions? Please reach out to Sarah Yue, alanandsarah@gmail.com
ESOL Teachers Needed

UUCA's ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) program needs a few more teacher/conversationalists to join our team. Knowing a foreign language is not required since our adult students already speak fair English. Volunteers help students improve their English and knowledge of the United States. Students come from Central and South America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Africa, East Asia, Central Asia, etc. They range from diplomatic staff to students to au pairs. Classes are held Tue-Wed-Th 7:30-9:00 p.m. and Sat. 10:30 a.m.-Noon. Typically, volunteers are assigned to one of four teams. Each team covers a day of the week and volunteers may teach every other week. We can also tailor a schedule to your availability. "Floaters" or substitutes are also needed. For more information or to volunteer, contact Ric Blacksten, hricblacksten@gmail.com or message/text 703-980-5899.
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Unitarian Universalist Church of Arlington, VA
4444 Arlington Blvd
Arlington, Virginia
Call: (703) 892-2565