A Message from Rev. Barbara

The purpose of my article this month is to review the contents of the Jan. 21 “Co-Creating Our Covenant” workshop led by UUFD's Primary Contact for the UUA Pacific Western Region, Rev. Sarah Gibb Millspaugh. In Rev. Millspaugh’s words, she designed the workshop to “harvest the wisdom that’s been emerging about how UUFD participants are called to be together, how we approach conflict, what we promise when destructive behavior emerges, what we can do when we’ve caused harm, and how we can co-create an environment of support and trust.” The congregation is to be congratulated: nearly sixty people attended, in person and online: that is, over one-third of the membership. For you readers who attended, please see this review of this high-energy gathering. For readers who missed the workshop, I hope these notes will encourage you to join in this important, on-going process of creating a UUFD covenant.

In the first half of the workshop, we addressed several facets of the “theory” of covenant. Rev. Sarah opened by inviting participants, in person and on line, to consider the UUFD sanctuary as Brave Space. To initiate connections among the participants, she asked us to turn to one another to discuss briefly “what quality or activity at UUFD is so good so as to take an emotional risk to preserve its goodness.” Rev. Sarah then referenced her two zoom conversations, attended by over twenty-five congregants, which she had offered prior to the workshop. These conversations addressed 1) Embodied Anxiety and 2) Accountability, important preparatory themes for grounding the creation of an all-congregation covenant. She also referred several times to Danya Ruttenberg’s Repentance and Repair, which over forty congregants participated in conversations about several months ago.

Rev. Sarah then posed several questions to define reasons for this workshop: why create a covenant, what is a covenant, and what is an effective covenant? Among her helpful handouts was one comparing “Limiting Covenants” and “Liberating Covenants.” Clearly UUFD will strive for the latter. Liberating Covenants are not overly long nor overly prescriptive. Additional handouts included sample covenants from other UU congregations as models for UUFD. Paper copies of these handouts are available, especially for readers who did not attend the workshop, in a file folder at the back of the sanctuary.

Rev. Sarah also continued to amplify the two themes of her recent zoom meetings. 1) Anxiety may easily threaten group stability, which may lead to conflict. She explained five stages of conflict: a) problems to solve, b) disagreements to work out, c) contests, d) battles, or e) world war. Getting in touch with our bodily responses can do much to regulate conflict and restore feelings of safety. 2) Accountability lies at the heart of justice work. To practice accountability, we must understand the nature of harm we inflict on one another in the form of loss, pain, abuse, and more. The nature of harm calls us to find appropriate methods of accountability and healing. Effective healing moves past shame and blame. 

After a stretch break, the workshop transitioned to a more practical bent, to begin the organic work of crafting a covenant for UUFD, a covenant to be identified not only through words but also through lived experiences. Crafting the words for a covenant will be based on several assumptions: 1) we are all human and thus likely to have different viewpoints with others at some point; 2) power is an ever-present factor as we live in covenant, and we may choose to share that power or abuse it; 3) we assume good intentions for our actions, and 4) we will ground the UUFD covenant in ethical values compatible with liberal religion.

Rev. Sarah then invited a “brain dump:” for any and all in the room to name values which they hope to see included in the covenant. From the initial list of nearly thirty values, by grouping those of similar meaning or impact, the assembly defined seven values topics. These topics were assigned to the congregants sitting at seven tables, to discern, dissect, and amplify the meaning of the values, and to compose phrases and sentences which might appear in the eventual covenant statement. The entire gathering heard the results of this discernment from each of the seven breakout groups. Themes for the covenant which emerged often during conversation included “commitment,” “spirituality,” “trust,” “transparency,” and “joy.” To conclude this second session of the workshop, Rev. Sarah invited anyone to name any other important values which were not included in the “brain dump.”

Next steps in this covenanting process, overseen by the Transition Team, will include formation of a smaller “Coordinating Team” of five or six participants. The roles of this team will include leading a process of brief duration for congregants who could not attend this workshop who are interested in giving input into this covenanting process. The Coordinating Team may also continue to focus on the seven values statements and themes which received most support during the workshop. There will be several other roles for this Coordinating Team as it moves forward. As of the deadline for this February newsletter, the specifics for identifying the members of the Coordinating Team have not been finalized. Stay tuned to weekly UUFD e-announcements for updates.



-Rev. Dr. Barbara Coeyman

President's Message

What have you learned about covenanting? We recently had the opportunity to experience a series of Repentance & Repair workshops and are currently participating in a combination of virtual and in person co-creation workshops facilitated by Sarah Millspaugh.  Every time I attend one of these, I learn something new. 

One of the most valuable lessons, or bits of personal wisdom as Sarah considers it, is that it’s just as important for a harmed individual to speak up as it is for the those who caused or were involved in the harm to acknowledge and repair their action. This means talking with those directly involved. Talking to those not involved in a particular situation doesn’t necessarily help resolve the issue and can dramatically extend the repentance process, especially if those doing harm are unaware that they caused harm in the first place.

It is understandable that those harmed may be reluctant to do this for a number of reasons, but the bottom line is that all of us need to be safe and secure enough in our community that we are comfortable speaking up.  By being intentional in creating a covenant that includes this understanding, that it is recognized as both good and expected, goes a long way to laying the groundwork for maintaining and growing our relationships with each other.

Don’t worry if you missed any of these workshops. There will be other opportunities to study covenanting and how it is applied to conflict resolution, starting with the next series of Circle of Trust workshops.

In gratitude and respect,

Steve Govreau

Love courageously. Inspire spiritual growth. Work for justice.

Gearing up for the future!

2024 Pledge Campaign now rolling

UUFD members and friends, 

It’s that time of year again to start thinking about your annual pledge to UUFD. Just like the gears of a bicycle help a rider change the speed and effort of pedaling, pledges affect how our fellowship grows and flourishes. Your pledge enables our fellowship to offer thought provoking worship services, robust Faith Formation programs, and inspiring musical accompaniments. Covenant Groups, Circle Suppers, and Affinity Groups are also impacted by your pledge. All these things are designed to provide a smooth ride for you, your family, and other members of the congregation, as you travel along your spiritual journey.  

Your pledge packet will be available at the back of the sanctuary on Sundays. Those not picked up by February 25 will be mailed. 

SAVE THE DATE for our Celebration Sunday MARCH 17! Please return your pledge cards on, but not before, March 17. There’s a surprise coming following the March 17th service.  



For more information, contact Christy Pennington or Ilona Hruska. 

New membership class March 9 and 10

All are welcome

Do you have questions about Unitarian Universalism? What is the UU link to Transylvania?! Do you know the history of our UU church here in Durango? Are you interested in membership at UUFD?

Bring your questions to the next Membership Class on March 9 and 10!  This is open to the whole congregation.

On Saturday, March 9, from 12:30-3PM, come meet with the Membership Team, Rev. Barbara Coeyman, a talented UU historian, and several leaders from our congregation. On Sunday, March 10 from 11:30 am to 2 pm, enjoy conversation and fellowship with new people over a light lunch after the service. We will also introduce you to activities and opportunities for service within our congregation, in the community and beyond. Finally, mark your calendar for a reception of new members at the March 24 service. To sign up for any of these events, come to the Welcome Center on Sundays or contact Carroll at cgroeg@gmail.com.

February News from Faith Formation

“Fairness does not mean everyone gets the same. Fairness means everyone gets what they need.”

― Rick Riordan, The Red Pyramid

The concept of fair gets to the heart of proposed Article II values of justice and equity and also to the Golden Rule, which most of us learn soon after we learn to talk – to treat others the way we would like to be treated. Regardless of how we identify ourselves by ethnicity, religion, gender, identity, or any other criteria, we want to be seen for ourselves. It’s so clear, so simple. And yet, granting to everyone the justice and equity that we want for ourselves is at the root of almost every conflict we have with one another. This is true at the personal level and in our larger communities. Since this is true at the personal level, we might be left with this troubling and empowering realization: the change for a more equitable and just world begins with me. 

Faith Formation in February

Sunday Faith Formation Focus

February 4 – Equity, equality, and justice

February 11 – Building better relationships

February 18 – Building a better community

February 24 – Living with one another in fairness, love, and joy

Faith Formation on February 11

Please join in the fun for a Valentine's Party after service and before the town hall on February 11.  The children participating in Val Pals will find out who their secret Valentine is. This program is a fun way for children to develop relationships with adults in UUFD beyond their immediate circle.  In a word – new friendships.

Then, please join the Faith Formation Team and Staff at 11:30 for a town hall.  This is your chance to find out everything you ever wanted to know about faith formation programs for both children and adults. Bring your questions and your ideas.  

OWL

Plans to offer OWL for elementary students has been put on hold until we have additional trained facilitators.  If you are an OWL trained facilitator for the Elementary Grades and have an interest in this program, please contact the Coordinator of Faith Formation, Sharon Mignerey.  

Circles of Trust – Exploring “Habits of the Heart” began January 27

If you missed this and are still interested, please contact Rev. Barbara Coeyman at intmin@durangouu.org.

Personal Faith Development – the Gifts of Justice and Equity

“Suppose you had the revolution you are talking and dreaming about. Suppose your side had won, and you had the kind of society that you wanted. How would you live, you personally, in that society? Start living that way now!”  ~ Paul Goodman 

This quote from writer and activist (during the 1960s) Paul Goodman directly addresses the affirmation we in UUFD acknowledge each Sunday with being an open and inclusive congregation.  Goodman invites us to walk our talk, and he offers specific suggestions. 

• Write down 8 things that would characterize the revolution and kind of society you dream about.
• Write down 8 ways you would live differently than you do today in that dreamed of society.
• Of those 8 ways you’d live differently, pick one and figure out a way to “start living that way now!”

Many of us in UUFD are involved in social justice—our walking of the talk.  I think Goodman’s invitation encourages us to go deeper into our personal practices and become more mindful in our daily living.  May it be so.

Respectfully submitted,

Sharon Mignerey, Coordinator of Faith Formation

Is it hyperbole??

UUFD members propose new "Preserve our Democracy" social justice team

Many of us have recently heard and read statements expressing worries about trends impacting democracy in our country, often including words like...momentous, desperate, catastrophic, dangerous, crisis...to describe the erosion of the democratic process. With 2024 being an election year, and the alarming rise of authoritarianism, the potential consequences of these trends are enormous.

A few UUFD members (Bonnie Miller, Liz Volz, Mary Ocken, Kathleen Adams) have been talking about this, and we personally do not believe the concerns being expressed are hyperbolic. We believe that the assaults on democracy are such that we are in genuine danger of losing the liberal democratic process that is the foundation of our government. This has led us to conclude that we must make preservation of our democracy a priority in our volunteer commitments, especially this year. The use of the democratic process is a fundamental principle of our faith, one we hold dear as a religious community, and a foundational tenet necessary to just governance in the United States. 

What do you believe?  How important is preservation of democracy to you?  If you share our convictions, would you consider a new social justice team: Preserve Our Democracy?  

If you may be ready to join these efforts, contact Bonnie Miller (yjmiller2@gmail.com).  Interested people will meet to consider the potential for a team and the focus of the team’s work.  We would certainly ally with others doing this work, such as the League of Women Voters, UU the Vote, Side with Love, and possibly others. Work could include actions such as voter registration, get out the vote efforts, advocacy for voter rights and protections, or election reform.

Whether you have a little time or a lot, all involvement helps make a difference!

UUA Pacific Western Regional Assembly

Register now for April 19-20 event, occurring in Denver and online

It's time to get together! Registration is open for the Pacific Western Regional Assembly this April 19 and 20! People can attend either in person, at First Universalist in Denver, or remotely.  We are planning a family friendly event and children are welcome.  This is a great chance to connect with our larger faith and connect with new and old friends. Stay up to date on all the PWR RA Plans here.

Gearing up for the future

Nominating Committee seeks candidates

The Nominating and Leadership Development Committee is currently seeking candidates for two positions on the Board of Trustees, as well as candidates for two positions on the Nominating Committee. Candidates for these positions will be presented to the Fellowship for election at the annual meeting in May. The Nominating Committee is hopeful that all UUFD members will consider this opportunity to serve our community. 

As we anticipate the transition from interim ministry toward a new settled minister, this is an exciting time. The Nominating Committee would love to hear from any of you—long-timer or newly engaged—of your interest in a leadership role as we “gear up for the future.” Serving on the Board or the Nominating Committee not only benefits our UUFD community but is an opportunity for personal growth and is a great way to get to know the fellow members of the congregation.

Please contact any member of the Nominating Committee to learn more about serving on the Board or the Nominating Committee. Over the next few months, the Nominating Committee will also be contacting individual members to ask you about serving. You are needed, and we look forward to hearing of your interest!

In gratitude,

The Nominating and Leadership Development Committee

Ilona Hruska, Lisa Govreau, Mary Sison

Eyes and ears...on real estate

One of the challenging aspects of our search for a wonderful, settled minister will be their search for a place to live.  Perhaps you’ve noticed that real estate prices have moved up a bit since our first ministerial search 10 years ago – and that 2014’s 4.2% 30-year fixed rate mortgages are about 2.5 percent higher now?  We will know more about the identity and housing needs of our next minister in early spring.

But, in the meantime, UUFD members and friends, in the interest of leaving no stone unturned, if you have, see, or hear of a condo, townhouse, or single-family home that might be coming on the market this summer, please let me or another member of the Ministerial Search Committee know.  Thank you.    

Tim Miller, on behalf of the Ministerial Search Committee

Feb. 16 recital features saxophone and piano

The third recital in this year’s Recital Series will take place on Feb. 16 and will feature Justin Hubbard, saxophone, and Holly Quist, piano. The program will open with the unaccompanied Cello Suite No. 3 by J.S. Bach (1685-1750) which Justin will perform on the baritone sax. The suite consists of a prelude followed by six Baroque dance movements.

The works on the rest of the program were composed in the 20th and 21st centuries. Billie was composed by Jacob TV (Jacob ter Veldhuis) in 2003 for alto sax, piano and audio. The music is entirely based on the voice of Billie Holiday from various interviews during her career. Billie uses an electronic track as the basis of the performance which will be presented on modern speakers. The composer followed Billie’s cadences and patterns of speech and directly mimics her words in the saxophone. Tableaux de Provence by Paule Maurice is one of her most famous works. Though originally written for saxophone and orchestra, the work is most often performed with sax and piano. She wrote the work to capture the culture and scenery of Provence in southeast France. Each of the five movements captures a different mood and scene. The program will conclude with the Saxophone Concerto by Alexander Glazunov, a student of Rimsky-Korsakov. The concerto, in one movement without pause, was written in 1934 and is a staple of the saxophone repertoire.

Justin Hubbard is currently Assistant Professor of Music at Fort Lewis College where he leads the Symphonic Band and teaches the saxophone and clarinet. He also works as a freelance audio engineer, producer, and woodwind specialist. He started studying the clarinet in the 5th grade and quickly switched to saxophone. He studied music education and sax at Central Michigan University then taught high school band in Reno, Nevada. He later studied wind band conducting and saxophone at the University of Nevada, Reno. In addition to his undergraduate and master’s degrees, Justin earned his Doctorate in Musical Arts in Integrated Conducting from Arizona State University.  

Holly Quist was the Music Director at UUFD in the fall semester but has since accepted a full-time teaching position at Fort Lewis College where she teaches piano, music theory and music history. She has performed, collaborated and taught within communities throughout the United States, Ireland and Italy. Holly studied piano and chamber music at the Bay View Summer Music Festival, the Interharmony International Music Festival in Arcidosso and Aqui Terme Italy, and the Dublin International Piano Festival. She received a Bachelor of Music degree at Western Michigan University, and a Master of Music degree at the University of Missouri, both in piano performance. She held a graduate assistantship at the University of Missouri and recently completed her Doctor of Musical Arts degree at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.