HIGHLIGHTS Unitarian Universalist Church of Annapolis Volume 61, Issue 3 March 2018 To create the Beloved Community by inspiring and empowering all souls to live bold and compassionate lives. Balance & Moderation By Rev. John Crestwell Jr. Continued on page 8 I have used this picture of a glass of water oſten in my analogies. It so aptly expresses my theological and sociologi- cal worldview. It’s true that you can look at this glass as half-full or half- empty. It’s both! Mulple realies exist. No maer which view you choose (or don’t choose) there are con- sequences (good and bad) and somemes what we choose (or don’t choose) can mean life or death. Today in America there are many forces, realies and ideas asking us to choose. We are polarized and truth and what is the “real truth” are tangled webs. How do we choose? Where is the balance (our theme in March) when reason and facts are framed as untruths or fake? Balance is about moderaon in all things religious, polical or otherwise. Balance is a middle-path; a way of looking at all sides and filtering what is true and false for you; but balance also asks that we not hold extremist viewpoints. Balance leaves room for reconciliaon and for you to change your mind. Fanacs and zealots do not leave this space—it’s either their way or no way. Our faith demands that we choose the side of balance as a way of bringing us back to love, equality and jusce which is why I promote moderaon as a way for humanity to thrive and survive. Yet, when the balance is off in society, are we not compelled by this great love to speak our truth to pow- er? Our truth—aligned with the great truths found in all religions, teaches that all have worth and dignity, we are On Sunday, February 18th, Youth Co- ordinator Paul Berry invited me in to talk to UUCA’s youth group about this most recent mass murder at the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Flor- ida. My intent was a pastoral visit—to see how the youth were processing this tragedy and to let them know that we—their church—were there for them. What I had not fully appreciated was how wise, knowl- edgeable and arculate about the realies of aending high school our youth are. They are the unfortunate ex- perts on the need for lockdown drills, how to protect oneself against violence, and what to do in the case of an acve shooter in one’s school. Later that aſternoon, I read that some of the survivors of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School were calling for a march on Wash- ington on March 24th to say to the naonal that we can no longer wait to tackle issues of school safety and gun control reform. They are asking those who are in soli- darity with their posion to either aend the march or to march in their own communies. High school stu- dent, Emma Gonzalez, said “Maybe the adults have got used to saying “it is what it is…” but if we students have learned anything, it’s that if you don’t study, you will fail. And in this case, if you acvely do nothing, people con- nually end up dead.” As the adults agonize about how to bring out a bal- anced soluon to our seemingly intractable problem with gun violence, the youth are leading the way. That’s why I am supporng the March For Our Lives to be held on Saturday, March 24th. As of this wring, the details Can there be a balanced response to gun laws? By Rev. Kathleen Rolenz Continued on page 9 The March Soul Matters Theme is “Balance”
Transcript
HIGHLIGHTS Unitarian Universalist Church of Annapolis
Volume 61, Issue 3 March 2018
To create the Beloved Community by inspiring and empowering all souls to live bold and compassionate lives.
Balance & Moderation
By Rev. John Crestwell Jr.
Continued on page 8
I have used this picture of a glass of water often in my analogies. It so aptly expresses my theological and sociologi-cal worldview. It’s true that you can
look at this glass as half-full or half-empty. It’s both! Multiple realities exist. No matter which view you choose (or don’t choose) there are con-sequences (good and bad) and sometimes what we
choose (or don’t choose) can mean life or death.
Today in America there are many forces, realities and ideas asking us to choose. We are polarized and truth
and what is the “real truth” are tangled webs. How do we choose? Where is the balance (our theme in March) when reason and facts are framed as untruths or fake?
Balance is about moderation in all things religious, political or otherwise. Balance is a middle-path; a way of looking at all sides and filtering what is true and false for you; but balance also asks that we not hold extremist viewpoints. Balance leaves room for reconciliation and for you to change your mind. Fanatics and zealots do not leave this space—it’s either their way or no way.
Our faith demands that we choose the side of balance as a way of bringing us back to love, equality and justice which is why I promote moderation as a way for humanity to thrive and survive.
Yet, when the balance is off in society, are we not compelled by this great love to speak our truth to pow-er? Our truth—aligned with the great truths found in all religions, teaches that all have worth and dignity, we are
On Sunday, February 18th, Youth Co-
ordinator Paul Berry invited me in to talk to UUCA’s
youth group about this most recent mass murder at the
Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Flor-
ida. My intent was a pastoral visit—to see how the
youth were processing this tragedy and to let them
know that we—their church—were there for them.
What I had not fully appreciated was how wise, knowl-
edgeable and articulate about the realities of attending
high school our youth are. They are the unfortunate ex-
perts on the need for lockdown drills, how to protect
oneself against violence, and what to do
in the case of an active shooter in one’s
school.
Later that afternoon, I read that some
of the survivors of the Marjory Stoneman
Douglas High School were calling for a march on Wash-
ington on March 24th to say to the national that we can
no longer wait to tackle issues of school safety and gun
control reform. They are asking those who are in soli-
darity with their position to either attend the march or
to march in their own communities. High school stu-
dent, Emma Gonzalez, said “Maybe the adults have got
used to saying “it is what it is…” but if we students have
learned anything, it’s that if you don’t study, you will fail.
And in this case, if you actively do nothing, people con-
tinually end up dead.”
As the adults agonize about how to bring out a bal-
anced solution to our seemingly intractable problem
with gun violence, the youth are leading the way. That’s
why I am supporting the March For Our Lives to be held
on Saturday, March 24th. As of this writing, the details
Can there be a
balanced response
to gun laws?
By Rev. Kathleen Rolenz
Continued on page 9
The March Soul Matters
Theme is “Balance”
2 www.uuannapolis.org; 410/266-8044
Sunday Services at UUCA 9:00 am and 11:15 am
March 4, 2018
A #MeToo Nation Rev. Kathleen Rolenz and Jane Carrigan, Worship Lay Minister This past year the nation witnessed an unprecedented reporting of sexual harassment and assault against women as well as some men. The coverage has revealed not only the pervasiveness of inappropriate conduct, but a nation’s own uncertainty about what the next steps should be in creating an environment where all people feel welcome, safe and valued. UUCA Choir will provide music. Note: There will be opportunities available to discuss the sermon and the topic after both services. Details about rooms and facilitators will be announced on Sunday.
March 11, 2018
An Invisible Religion Rev. Kathleen Rolenz and Thornell Jones, Worship Lay Minister If Unitarian Universalist were reviewed in a local magazine would it read “the best kept secret in town?” If so, why is that? Why is it, when people discover Unitarian Universalism, they exclaim: “where have you been all my life?” If the nature of religious life is to make the “invisible visible” then there is much spiritual work to be done. Music provided by Sara Jones.
March 18, 2018
Fist, Stick, Knife, Gun Rev. John Crestwell and Shauntee Daniels, Worship Lay Minister Leader of the Harlem Children's Zone in New York City, Geoffrey Canada, told his story of how things escalate into violence in his book Fist, Stick, Knife, Gun. Canada was able to turn many New York blocks into safe zones for children to be educated. We can do the same in our own way if we develop the moral courage as a nation. As we prepare to march for our children on March 24th, let's discuss what de-escalation and balance could look like in our society. Music provided by UUCA Choir.
March 25, 2018
Fire & Fury
Rev. John Crestwell and Alethea Shiplett, Worship Lay Minister Are you angry? Have you struggled with anger? There are many schools of thought about anger and its productive and counter-productive qualities. Join us as we analyze the many angles of anger and how we can balance our own internal fire and fury. Music by Joshua Long and others.
March Share the Plate Recipient:
John Fisher
J ust over 27 years ago the UUCA and 10 other local faith communities banded together to try to deal with the serious problem of homelessness in the greater Annapolis community. A shelter was
established at 202 West St and three underutilized town homes were acquired and converted into the area's first homeless shelter. In the intervening years the now Light
House Homeless Prevention Support Center has expanded dramatically to meet an ever expanding need for housing, support, training, and a host of other community services. In 2010 with tremendous community support, a new shelter was built at 10
Continued on page 7
HIGHLIGHTS March 2018 3
Religious Exploration Elise Berrocal, Acting Director of Religious Exploration
Solve the Mystery of the Petulant Express
A Night with UUCA Youth—Saturday, March 17, 5:00—8:30 PM
Please join the YRUU high school youth for a night of food, fellowship, fun and murder! A Murder Mystery Dinner Fundraiser to benefit future YRUU service opportunities. Help solve the "Murder on the Petulant Express!" Advance ticket sales only. Limited Seating available. Adults and Youth 11 and up $20.00; children 10 and under $10.00. Dinner includes salad, pasta (with gluten free and vegetarian options), bread and dessert. Free child care available during the show for children 6 and under. Reserve your spot here: https://tinyurl.com/YRUU-MM2018
A hoy, Sailors! I am pleased to announce regis-tration for Camp Beagle 2018 is now open. In the spirit of Charles Darwin's 1831 exploratory expedition aboard the H.M.S.
Beagle, Camp Beagle is a fun-filled nature adventure that encourages questioning, active discovery, and respect for the interconnectedness of the Earth. This year’s voyage sets sail Monday, July 16 through Friday, July 20.
Registration will run through Sunday, March 11, with priority given to campers with family members or friends who are able to volunteer for the entire week of camp, and are registered for the 2017-18 RE program (in that order). After March 11, applicants will be considered on a first come, first served basis. For more information about camp, its age ranges, and application requirements, please visit www.tinyurl.com/Beagle2018.
Because Camp Beagle is a volunteer-led function, it is imperative we receive volunteer support from the con-gregation to proceed with this year’s planning. We cannot hold camp without YOU. Many positions are available, with varying time commitments. There is something for everyone – from donating snack to serving as camp counselors (known as Captains). For a full listing of volunteer opportunities and to learn more please visit: www.tinyurl.com/BeagleVols2018 .
Given this, recruitment of volunteers must be com-
pleted by the March 11 deadline in order to host
camp. Families will be notified no later than April 1 on
the status of camp and whether alternative plans for
summer childcare should be made. Thank you for your
A group of 11 UUCA members, including four Board members, have been meeting, plan-ning, holding discussions, and earnestly communicating with our congregation to
prepare for a vote on the 8th Principle Resolution at our April Congregation Meeting.
The proposed 8th Principle for the Unitarian Univer-salist Association (UUA) was first authored by Paula Cole Jones and Bruce Pollack-Johnson. The UUA is fol-lowing procedures to encourage input and provide opportunities for all UUs to participate in the process before making any changes to our 7 Principles. Final action would be by vote at a General Assembly. This will take time, perhaps up to two years.
Our church has been diligently working toward be-coming a Beloved Community--a group of people of diverse racial, ethnic, educational, class, gender, sexual orientation backgrounds/identities in an interdepend-ent relationship of love, mutual respect, and care. These efforts, now spanning over 21 years, are summarized in our 8th Principle Resolution FAQS on the UUCA website.
In our discussions to date, one of the most often asked questions has been about what is meant by “other oppressions” in the 8th Principle. There are many oppressions--the exercise of authority or power in a burdensome, cruel, or unjust manner. Sexism, classism,
The 8th Principle Resolution An Update from the UUCA Board of Trustees
poverty, and ableism are examples. Combine one or more of these with darker skin and a person immediately will be in the position of losing even more privilege.
We have passed By-Law V and hung the Black Lives Matter sign. Now the Board and its Task Force feel that UUCA is ready to consciously and courageously chal-lenge ourselves. We are ready to hold our institution accountable to actively and openly work towards dis-mantling racism and other oppressions. UUCA’s Reso-lution to support the 8th Principle concepts is not just a piece of paper. It is a call to ACTION. Change often comes with challenging and uncomfortable feelings. With our continued learning opportunities we will be able to meet these challenges. The change to prioritize anti-racism in all UUCA activities will enrich our under-standing of ourselves and challenge us to deepen our commitment to the existing UUA Seven Principles.
And finally…we encourage you to attend Mid-dle Hour sessions March 11 and/or 18 and/or the Congregational Conversation from 12:30-2:30 on March 25. You will have time to discuss, digest and be prepared to vote. An RSVP contact will be set up for March 25 so we may prepare for child care and food. Diane Goforth, [email protected], Dianne Moreau, [email protected], and Lex Robertson, [email protected] co-chairs of the 8th Principle Task Force.
As February winds down and we move into March, I’m optimistic on many levels. We have started the search for a new Administrative Assistant in earnest. Our goal is to have a staff member in place by the end of March. It’s been a tough couple of months operating without an assistant. Thank you for your kind words and offers of support, which have kept me going. A considerable amount of my time is devoted to working closely with Rev. Kathleen as she continues to become familiar with some of the gritty details of administration and finance at UUCA. We have established a good working relationship and I’m excited about her ministry.
Meanwhile, there is good news to report on the financial front. The books for 2017 have not been formally closed; however, a budget surplus of approximately $27k looks promising. This was possible in large part due to pledge income exceeding budget by nearly $11k, a successful Basket Auction, the generosity of 48 households that contributed to the Year-End Appeal, and a keen eye on controlling expenses. And last, but not least, 2018 is off to a healthy start with a 5% overall increase in pledging from the January pledge group. Let’s keep the momentum going – we can do great things together!
Administrative Update by Susan Eckert, Church Administrator
Two years ago I went to a training session with Rev. Christina Leone Tracy and Alethea Shiplett about a new min-istry forming in the church. They had run a pilot program and were now moving forward with groups. December 2016 our group met for the first time. At first, it was strange, these were people who I went to church with but I didn't really know them personally. However, by the end of the night, many connections had been made. By our next meeting in January 2017, we were sharing some our deepest joys, pains, sorrows, and desires with our group. This was small group ministry. It is a nation-wide format of doing cov-enant groups that many UU and other faith communities participate in. Groups are formed based on zip code and meet in individual homes. Participants will discuss the topic based on a UU thematic program entitled, "Soul Matters Sharing Circle." These are the same monthly themes which Sunday services are centered around. This is an open chair ministry meant to grow in quantity of members and quality of relationships. If you are interested in participating or facilitating, please contact me: [email protected]
Beyond Inquirers: UU Theology
The Beyond Inquirers series is for people who have joined the church in the past 12-18 months but would like to go deeper into what it means to be UU. However, even for lifelong UU's, the word “theology” can still seem foreign to us. Not only does Unitarian Universalism have a rich history but it has a theology grounded in reason, hope, justice, and love. The second installment of this new series will focus on what do UU's believe?, our theological history, and ways our own personal theology is formed. The class takes place dur-ing Middle Hour on March 18 in the MacLean Room.
Upcoming Dates:
March 3: Small Group Ministry Facilitator Training 10:30 am Young Room March 4: Membership 101 Class 10:10 am Library March 11: New Members Ceremony, Book signing 10:10 am Library March 18: Beyond Inquirers Session 2 "UU Theology", 10:10 am MacLean Room
WHEREAS: The Unitarian Universalist Church of An-napolis (UUCA) and the Unitarian Universalist Associa-tion (UUA) both have long histories of taking signifi-cant steps in combating racism; and the UUA in 1997 committed to becoming a multicultural and anti-racist institution; and UUCA in 2012 adopted By-Law V: “UUCA is committed to becoming and sustaining an anti-racist, anti-oppressive and multicultural religious community where people of all races, ethnicities, and colors see their identities reflected and affirmed in all aspects of congregational life;” and
WHEREAS: There is a growing movement within Uni-tarian Universalism to go further by modifying UU’s Seven Principles through the integration of an 8th Prin-ciple that goes beyond our current commitments to anti-racism to specifically address oppressions in our-selves and in our institutions; and
WHEREAS: UUA By-Laws state that proposed changes to UU Principles must first be sent to a study commis-sion charged to solicit input from all congregations about change; and during the 2017 UUA General As-sembly, a "Responsive Resolution" was adopted calling on the UUA Board to establish a study commission to discuss adding an 8th Principle; and
WHEREAS: UUCA now has an important opportunity to be part of the UUA process as it unfolds in the months ahead;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: We, the members of UUCA, believe that embracing the concepts of the 8th Principle is the next important step in our journey to-wards wholeness.
THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: We, the members of UUCA, resolve to affirm and pro-mote: journeying toward spiritual wholeness by build-ing a diverse, multicultural Beloved Community by our actions that accountably dismantle racism and other oppressions in ourselves and our institutions.
THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: We, the members of UUCA, urge the UUCA Board to revise UUCA’s governing documents to reflect the 8th Princi-ple concepts.
THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: We, the members of UUCA, urge the Unitarian Universalist As-sociation to take steps to incorporate the 8th Principle into our UU Principles.
Arts in the Woods: Sunday Afternoon Concert Series Sunday, March 4th, 3:00 pm
Virtuoso pianist, Marianna Prjevalskaya will explore the evocative sound world of Debussy's "Preludes for Solo Piano". The program features Debussy’s piano preludes Books I and II, composed between 1909 and 1913. Inspired by nature, poetry, decorative objects, and art, each prelude has a descriptive title that is placed at the end of the piece as an apparent afterthought, giving way to free imagination. Marianna Prjevalskaya has been praised as a “virtuoso, impetuous, passionate and mature pianist of great musicality” (Diario Segre, Spain), making her Annapolis debut. Come hear why New York Concert Review called her recent New York recital a stunning display. Tickets are $15 at the door.
BLM / Dismantling Racism Concert: Sunday April 15th, 3:00pm Arts in the Woods, Black Lives Matter/Dismantling Racism Concert with Expressions Dance Company, The Gospel Travelers, and TBD Jazz Band All three of these groups were well received and loved at our Black Lives Matter Concerts in past years. Come join us for a wonderful afternoon and support UUCA and these amazing groups. Contact: Music Director, Elizabeth Kraning at [email protected] or 410 375 3992
Multi-Generational Choir All ages, all voices welcome! This choir will sing on Mother's Day, Sunday, May 13th for the 9:00am and 11:15am church services. Rehearsals will be held 9:00am to 9:55am in the Angebranndt Room on Sunday, April 1st, April 15th, and April 22nd. Bring your children age 13 and under to be part of this choir! Sing with your children! Adults are welcome without children! All are welcome! Let's make music together! Contact: Music Director, Elizabeth Kraning at [email protected] or 410-375-3992
Spirit Singers Come join the Spirit Singers! Practice is held once a month on Friday evenings from 6:00pm - 7:30 pm in the sanctuary. Rehearsals are March 23rd, April 20th. The following are Sundays where the Spirit Singers will be singing: April 8th (Singing with YRUU for 9:00am only), April 22nd, May 6th (Music Sunday with all church musicians and choirs), May 13th (with Multi-Generational Choir). Contact: Music Director, Elizabeth Kraning at [email protected] or 410 -375- 3992 or Contemporary Music Director, Josh Long at [email protected]
MAD Camp at UUCA—August 6-10; Registration Opens March 4th! M.A.D. (Music, Art, & Drama) CAMP is day camp for grades 3-8, (with assistant opportunities for grades 9+) who enjoy the arts. During the week, campers will experience music, art, and drama as they assemble the musical, Pinocchio. The week culminates with an evening performance! There's just no telling what kind of mischief this famous fictitious puppet will get into on his very first day of school. Will Pinocchio follow Geppetto's instructions to stop briefly at the bookshop on his way through the piazza, or will the sly Mr. Fox and a silly sidekick Cat convince Pinocchio to spend his two pence on a more interesting investment? Camp fee is $150 per camper. Space is limited. Need-based scholarship funds are available on a limited basis. To register: https://tinyurl.com/MADCamp2018. For information please contact camp director, Len Langrick: [email protected]
Hudson St. to house a resident population of 30 men, 15 women, and 5 or more families as a safe place for those experiencing homelessness to find the help and skills needed to transition into, or back into, the larger community. Last year Light House Bistro opened on the site of the original shelter to continue the mission of training individuals for the food service industry. Throughout its history UUCA has been an active part of the Light House story. Church members also provide a Saturday evening meal for the residents once a month and our R.E groups often provide bagged lunches and other services to the shelter. Please remember that the Church collects food for the Light House throughout the year, but especially in March. Please give generously to this very worthy organization. For further information contact John Fischer, [email protected]. To volunteer for the monthly meal or for other volunteer opportunities contact Rob Malone, [email protected]
March Mindfulness Series: The Dalai Lama on the Gospels
For the end of Lent, the Mindfulness Practice Group will offer a series on The Good Heart: His Holiness The Dalai Lama Explores the Heart of Humanity and of Christianity (2002 Rider,) produced by the World Community for Christian Meditation, a Catholic group who invited the Dalai Lama to comment on the Gospels. All sessions can be separately understood. None require the book.
Sunday sessions are 8:30-9:30 AM in the Emerson Room and begin with 20 min. of guided meditation; Thursday sessions are 7-8:30 PM in the Sanctuary and usually begin with 40 min. of silent meditation.
Sun. Mar 18: Community & Harmony Result from Sharing Spiritual Practices, not in finding allegedly similar beliefs in other religions.
Thurs. Mar. 22: Loving Enemies in Both Gospels & Buddhist texts. Compassion comes from equanimity.
Sun. Mar. 25: Palm Sunday: Both/And?: Faith/Confidence in Self & Path.
Thurs. Mar. 29: Day Before Good Friday: Both/And? Kingdom of God & Karma.
March Share the Plate Recipient—continued from page 2
The “House of Usher” is seeking recruits
The "House of Usher" is seeking new ushers for the upcoming 9 a.m, and 11:15 a.m. services. The number of times and hours you usher are up to you. Most ushers pick one Sunday a month and can be counted upon to handle that service throughout the year. This is a light, easy way to meet many of your fellow UUs. Often, you are the first person to meet and greet a visitor if they have bypassed the greeters at the door - or you reinforce the positive impression the greeters have already given them. It's fun! New ushers will be trained by seasoned ushers. There is also an "Ushering 101" manual (actually a couple sheets of paper) that's been drafted to aid you during your first couple services. Yes! Youth ages 10 and up are welcome to join as Junior Ushers! One of our most active new ushers is an Annapolis High freshman (And, high school students DO get credit for service hours.). Junior Ushers work with two Adult Ushers when they volunteer for a service. For more information or if you have any questions, get in touch with me at 410-562-4189 or [email protected]
Red Cross Blood Drive Coming This Month
The 17th Annual Wintertime UUCA-Red Cross Blood Drive is Saturday, March 10, 2018, from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the UUCA Sanctuary. To be a success, we need you! Appointments are being scheduled in 15-minute increments, beginning at 9 a.m. To schedule an appointment, call Wendi Winters at 410-562-4189 or email her at [email protected]. Every pint donated has the ability to save three lives. Together, over the years, we've helped save a lot of lives – perhaps HUNDREDS! Thank you! To prepare for your donations, please have a full meal before you arrive and, beginning the day before, Friday, March 9, hydrate! Hydrate! Hydrate! If you are unsure of your blood donation appointment time, email or call me at the contact information listed above. PLEASE bring a photo I.D. (I cannot tell you how many adults in the past have shown up without their drivers license!!) A photo I.D. is required to donate. If you are between the ages of 16 -17, you must have a signed note from a parent allowing you to donate. And a photo I.D. If you have any questions about your eligibility to donate blood, call the 24-hour line 1-866-236-3276 or access the online site www.my-redcross.org. If you are ineligible to give blood but would like to help, we need volunteers throughout the day to help out or to donate baked goodies.
all con nected, and love is greater than fear. It is because of this interdependence that we act and choose sides—the side that promotes inclusive love—the kind of love that protects us from ideas and constructs that are detri-mental to our survival as a species.
There are multiple realities within us that we wrestle with every day. And there are eternal truths that shine through providing us with clari-ty. These truths transcend the half-
full and half-empty. These sacred truths—fairness, equality, reciprocity, generosity, integrity, honesty, and love bind us to each other and hold us accountable for what we say and do to each other.
When we are out of covenant as a congregation or when the social contract of democracy is being under-mined we are called to act in the name of that which is eternal.
My challenge to you, in this month where we exam-
ine balance, is to look into your life and see where you
can become clearer about what is sacred to you. Ask if
your belief is aligned with the holy. Does it embrace or
erase? Does your notion bring us together or tear us
apart? Does your idea create the ‘we are together’ reali-
ty or the ‘us against them’ mentality?
Balance & Moderation (con’t from page 1)
By Rev. John Crestwell Jr.
UU Humanists
Book Discussion: The Reluctant Mr. Darwin
When: 1st and 3rd Tuesday Evenings, March 6 & 20 Where: UUCA Narthex What: 6 PM Potluck Dinner (bring an item to share) and Check-In; 6:30 PM Book Discussion "The Reluctant Mr. Darwin" by David Quammen (available for sale in the UUCA Bookstore) See: http://www.nytimes.com/2006/08/27/books/review/Desmond.t.html Info: Cliff Andrew [email protected]
Discussion of UU Humanist Principles
When: 2nd and 4th Sunday Afternoons, March 11 & 25 Where: Fahs House Emerson Room; 12:30 PM Immediately following the 2nd service. What: Light Lunch (bring an item to share) Check-in and discussion of relevant current events and UU Humanist Principles Info: Cliff Andrew [email protected]
Pastoral Care Group for Memory Care?
After the Feb. 18th sermon entitled “The Persistence of
Memory” I was approached by several members who
were interested in starting a group for those who are
currently dealing with memory loss, either for
themselves or someone close to them. I would be happy
to convene an initial gathering of interested persons to
determine if such a group should exist at UUCA and how
on-going leadership might be provided. If you are
interested in attending and/or participating in such a
Beginning March 4th, the ushers will no longer put
individual hymnals on each chair. Instead, if you would
like a hymnal, please pick one up as you enter the
sanctuary (and remember to put it back when you
leave!) The hymns (and occasionally) the music will be
projected on the screen as usual. If there are Sundays
where the music would be helpful to have handy, the
ushers will be instructed to hand out hymnals as usual.
After the Service is Over...
Just a friendly reminder that in addition to returning
the hymnal (if you picked one up) after the service,
please remember to collect your belongings and clean up
after yourself, returning your order of service to the
recycle box, picking up your Kleenex, coffee cups etc.
Your fellow church members who volunteer would be
grateful for your consideration.
About the “Chancel” Furniture
In church parlance, the “chancel’ is the stage area
where the pulpit, chalice, etc. reside. One of the
problems I’ve heard from you that I’m trying to address
is that the sight lines to the screen are regularly blocked
by the pulpit, flowers, chalice, etc. The worship team
and I are going to experiment with the chancel furniture
for the next couple of weeks until we can figure it out.
Thanks for your patience!
From Keeping Our Space Beautiful Committee
The Lost and Found Box is overflowing!
It is sitting on the floor in the small area behind our name tags. There are also a few jackets hanging toward the back of the coat area that are also in need of a home.
Please look for your lost items. Thank you! Dianne Moreau, contact.
Schedule of Events & Activities Events & Happenings at UUCA
Gallery 333 presents "Awe and Wonder" an installation by nature photographer Rick Dove, on view from March 1 to April 29, 2018. Meet the Artist - March 4th between 12:30 and 1:30 PM. One of Rick's main goals is to display the natural beauty and charac-ter of nature and his subject as well as to bring the viewers memories to life. He continually grabs the moment so others can enjoy what he has witnessed. Rick's photographs have been published in both local and regional publications as well as displayed at area art show and galleries.
UUCA Outdoor Club - Saturday, March 10, 9:00am-3:00pm Walk at Irvine Nature Center. Lunch at a local restaurant. Meet at the Park & Ride at I-97 & Benfield Blvd (by Severna Park Racquetball and Fitness Club) at 9:00am to carpool. For more information or to sign up, please contact Eloise Hoyt 410-768-4932 or [email protected]
UUCA All-Church Retreat Registration Opens March 11—April 1 This year’s retreat will be the weekend of April 20-22 at the Hashawha Environmental Center in Westmin-ster, MD. This yearly tradition is a great opportunity to deepen our connection as a community, relax in nature, have fun, and make new friends. There are only 100 spots so register early! Contact: Mike Wanhatalo, [email protected]
are still unfolding, as they will in the weeks leading up
to the march. I expect that in the weeks leading up to
the march, members of UUCA, Rev. John and I will be
organizing a group to attend.
I want to be able to balance the needs of those
responsible gun owners who enjoy firearms as a hobby
with policies that create sane, sensible and compre-
hensive legislation to ensure that our children, youth
and citizens can be both free and safe.
Are you interested in attending the March as a con-
Sunday, March 18, 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM Debby Irving is a racial justice educator, author, and public speaker. A community organizer and classroom teacher for 25 years, Debby Irving grappled with racial injustice without understanding racism as a systemic issue or her own whiteness as an obstacle to it. A graduate of the Winsor School in Boston, she holds a BA from Kenyon College and an MBA from Simmons College. Her first book, Waking Up White, tells the story of how she went from well-meaning to well-doing. Cost is $20.00 with pre-registration here (ends March 11) : https://tinyurl.com/UUCA-DebbyIrving ; $25.00 at the door.
In Memoriam It is with deep sadness that we report the death of
