Weekly e-nUUs – January 15. 2014

enUUs_newlogo 12.2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Worship & Music

Sunday services are offered at 9:45 and 11:30 AM.

 

January 19 – Arresting Art

Led by the Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Worship Associate Ted Voneida

This Martin Luther King, Jr. weekend we will honor his legacy by reflecting on the courage it takes to resist oppression. Drawing on our recent tradition of Art Sunday, we will explore the courage of resistance through the arts

 

Seeking Reflections on the Power of “We”

Our capabilities as individuals are enhanced by the shared creativity of others.  Members and friends of the congregation are invited to illustrate the power of collaboration by contributing true personal reflections for the Music Sunday service.  The Feb. 2 worship theme will celebrate the power of an ensemble of people to inspire new possibilities.  Brief personal reflections from any type of setting are sought that highlight a new opportunity that emerged from a group effort. Contributors are urged to express the emotional tone of the experience.  

Selected submissions will be read aloud during the service without revealing authorship. Please note that based on the number of submissions, it’s possible that not all will be able to be included for this particular service.  Email your reflection to both Hal Walker and Christie Anderson by Sunday, Jan. 26.  Thanks!!

 

Lifespan Learning

RADIOLAB AND PANCAKES will return during 2nd service on Jan.26th. Our short is “Cosmic Habituation”.

“Cosmic Habituation explores the ways that new scientific discoveries can invalidate old, our Unitarian Universalism puts science and reason among our spiritual sources, what happens to our spirits when something we have long considered fact is proven false? That is the start of our discussion for Jan.26th.

We will return on Feb.23rd during 2nd service, our short then is “Ally’s Choice”  “Ally’s Choice” is about a girl who lives in a very racist environment.  How will her friends and family respond when she decides that she is not “African-American” but “White”, and is accepted as such by the racist leaders in her school? This short challenges all our preconceptions about “race” and identity.

Thank you for attending RADIOLAB AND PANCAKES throughout the previous year, I promise to bring the most interesting and thoughtful Radiolab shorts to our discussion group throughout the coming year. If you have any questions, please contact Cheryl Spoehr.

 

Community Within

Coffee Hour Celebration

The Committee on Ministry invites everyone to attend a special coffee hour this Sunday, January 19 in honor of Dan Hayes.  Dan has been mowing the church lawn for the past 15 years!  He has just retired from this position and we hope you can join us to thank him for his service.  Coffee, tea, and cake will be provided.

CoM members: Please attend if you can.

 

Retiree’s Lunch

Tuesday, January 21 at noon in Fessenden Hall

We’ll meet for an hour to an hour and a half depending on the number of people who attend so everyone has an opportunity to check in with the group. All retirees are welcome to join us. Bring your own lunch; beverages will be provided.

 

Save the date February 2

Recently the UUCK Membership Team decided to celebrate the membership of some of our longstanding Church members by designating them as Jubilee members.  We envision such Jubilee membership status would be recognized first at twenty years of service and each five-year interval thereafter (i.e., 25, 30, 35, etc.).  In honor of those members who have reached such landmark membership anniversaries in 2013 and 2014, we are holding our first Jubilee Anniversary Celebration during coffee hour on Sunday, February 2.  We hope that you will be able to join us so that we can recognize these long commitments to our beloved church.

 

New UU Classes in February

Our New UU classes cover everything you wanted to know about the Unitarian Universalist Church of Kent in particular and Unitarian Universalism in general, but were afraid to ask.  Well, maybe not everything, but we try to give you an overview, a starting point.  Some history of both, some organizational details. Come join the conversation.  And, if you’re curious about membership, this is the place to be.

Part 1 will be on Sunday, February 9, from 9-11 am. Part 2 will be on Sunday, February 16, from 9-11 am.  You may attend one or both, although attendance at both is encouraged.  Different topics will be covered in each.  We will gather at the Annex, the yellow house next to the church.

If you have any questions, contact Claudia Miller or Marion Yeagler.

 

The Patricia Pownall UU Book Group will be meeting on Tuesday, February 11 at 7 pm at the home of Kathy Kerns. This month we are reading Empire of the Summer Moon by S.C. Gwynne. This book spans two astonishing stories. The first traces the rise and fall of the Comanches, the most powerful Indian tribe in American history. The second entails one of the most remarkable narratives ever to come out of the Old West: the epic saga of the pioneer woman Cynthia Ann Parker and her mixed blood son Quanah, who became the last and greatest chief of the Comanches.  In March we will be reading The Signature of All Things by Elizabeth Gilbert. If you have any questions you may contact Bonnie Harper.  All are welcome

 

The Library Committee would like to thank all those who purchased the 2013, volume 3, of Here We Have Gathered. Your support of the Library is deeply appreciated and will give us the resources to continue adding new books to our collection. A few copies remain. If you would like one please see any Library committee member.

The Library Committee is pleased to welcome Jane Krimmer and Gene Wenninger as active committee members. We are indeed grateful to you both for agreeing to help us with this important work.

A brief heads-up: the final Symposium for this church year will be held on Tuesday, February 25th at 7:00 P.M. in Fessenden Hall. We will view a discussion between Bill Moyers and the the author, Margaret Atwood. Refreshments will be served after the viewing, to be followed by a discussion. Joel Slater will be the Moderator.  Do plan to join us for a thoughtful and stimulating evening. The program should conclude around 8:45 P.M.

 

Book Review   

Madiga, Arthur J., ed. How to be a Perfect Stranger: A Guide to Etiquette in Other People’s Religious Ceremonies. v.1, 1996; v.2, 1997; Jewish Lights Publishing, Woodstock VT, 2nd ed. Coedited by Stuart M. Matlins. This 2 volume set was recently donated to the church library collection and is located in the category, “Celebrations and Passages.”

Ecumenical interaction has always been a part of the UU tradition, whether in the RE program visiting other churches or when adults participate in various community groups. Vol. 1 covers the basic service and ceremonies of all major religions and denominations in America. Vol. 2 covers other religions and denominations in America with smaller memberships. This group includes Unitarian Universalists. In both cases the material is based on information obtained directly from each group. Submitted by Martha S. Kluth

 

With winter weather arriving, we are aware that there may be occasions when we need to cancel programming at the church.  Though we are unlikely to need to cancel Sunday services entirely (Rev. Melissa, our minister, and Hal Walker, our music director, live within walking distance), we may choose to have only the first service if the weather or the roads indicate limiting programming.  It is more likely that we may need to cancel our religious education program in inclement weather as our Director of Religious Education, Karen Lapidus, and many of our volunteer teachers and advisers drive some distance to get to church.

If the weather or the condition of the roads cause you to wonder whether we are proceeding with our programming as scheduled, please check for cancellations before you head out.

You can check in one of three places:

  • our church’s Facebook page,
  • call the church number and listen to the message on voicemail
  • tune in to any television or radio station connected with iAlert.  (WKYC-TV, Channel 3)

 

We’d like to remind our members and friends of the online tool we are using to help schedule volunteers for Sundays.   It would be really helpful to the Sunday Volunteer Coordinators if you would be willing to use this tool.  Please see the link below.  Thank you.

All the members and friends of this church are needed to extend hospitality to our visitors. We need a large team of people who volunteer to help greet and usher on Sunday mornings, to prepare an inviting coffee hour or to donate flowers to add a focal point of beauty to our services.  In order to make it easier to participate, we are using a new tool that will allow you to see what Sunday morning hospitality positions are available and to decide when and how frequently you might be able to help.

Sign up at:  www.SignUpGenius.com/go/904054FA9A62BA57-sunday

 

Outreach and Social Justice

January Special Collection – This Sunday our monthly special collection will be taken to replenish the Minister’s Discretionary Fund.  This fund exists primarily to help members and friends of the congregation in times of financial emergencies. We take a collection to replenish the fund once each year. A few people have already made their contributions for this year and for them we are grateful. Thank you for considering this fund as part of your annual giving.

 

UU and Interfaith Connections

The Unitarian Universalist Church of Greater Lansing (UUCGL) seeks to hire an experienced and qualified Director of Music, to lead the welcoming and inspiring music program at our church.  The Director of Music supervises the entire music program (including several ensembles) and the music staff of the church. S/he also serves as the Adult Choir Director or the pianist/accompanist.  The Director of Music reports to the Senior Minister, leads the planning and goal-setting for the music program, and is accountable for the program budget.  This half-time position consists of 20 hours a week (averaged throughout the year) with attendance expected on no fewer than 43 out of 52 Sunday mornings, as well as Christmas Eve.

Salary is $25,000 annually, plus annual leave, sick leave, and access to purchasing health insurance coverage.  Please submit a resume, cover letter, and professional references. You are also encouraged to send a video or audio recording representing your musical expertise. Send application materials by way of email to [email protected] or mail to UUCGL, Attn: Director of Music Search, 855 Grove St, East Lansing, MI 48823.  Preference will be given to candidates who submit materials by 3/1/14.

Visit http://bit.do/UUCGLmusicdirector for more information about this position andwww.uulansing.org for more information about the church.

 

Income Generation

THANK YOU!

A heartfelt and sincere thank you to all who have caught up on their pledges and made up the financial shortfall that I wrote about in the January newsletter. The response has been tremendous and our dire straits are no longer dire, thank goodness. We are in much healthier financial shape now and we are breathing easier.

On behalf of your Board of Trustees and the UUCK staff, thank you.

In service and in faith,

Elaine

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Christmas Eve 2013

advent 4Led by Rev. Christie Anderson and Worship Associate Elaine Bowen – Celebrate festive Christmas fellowship at the adult- oriented service at 8:30 PM. Join in singing traditional Christmas carols, be moved by musical pieces by the talented UUCK choir, contemplate a message on the inspirational power of Christmas, and share a communal candle lighting.

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Welcome All, Welcome to the Stable! – December 22, 2013

animal nativityLed by Director of Religious Education Karen Lapidus and Sandra Eaglen – Music, pageantry, poetry, costumes and drama!   Join us for our annual multigenerational winter holiday worship service featuring the Golden Tones choir and many other talented thespians.  We look at the nativity story through the eyes of the animals and consider what they can teach us about hospitality. The service will include elements of a traditional Christmas Pageant and will be fun and meaningful for all.  Both the 9:45 and 11:30 services will be identical, so families may opt to attend either one.

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Weekly e-nUUs – September 25, 2013

enUUs_newlogo 12.2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Worship & Music

 

Sunday services are offered at 9:45 and 11:30 AM.

 

September 29 – Returning to a Faith That Matters

Led by the Rev. Doug Wadkins and Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer

As we move into the autumn together, it is a good time to recall essential matters and think about how we will journey through this new year together. This service will explore some of the core aspects of our faith, past, present and future, that bring us back to a dynamic understanding of who we are as a community.

 

Seeking photos for worship service

I am hoping to include a short slide show as part of the worship service that I’ll be leading in October.  The topic is about environmentalist Rachel Carson and her philosophy on the importance of instilling a sense of wonder in children.  You are invited to email several photos to me that illustrate a child’s sense of awe, curiosity or excitement about the natural world.  The photo can be of your children, grandchildren or even yourself as a child.  Email photos to [email protected] by Oct. 4.  Thanks!  Christie Anderson

 

Sacred Song Circle Returns

The Sacred Song Circle returns to Thursday nights starting Sept. 26 for 30 minutes of community harmony and sacular stimulation beginning at 6:15 PM. Please note that this is a slightly earlier time than we had been meeting.  In addition, I will be available at 6:00 for 15 minutes of teaching time to help people become familiar with the songs, and to explain the framework we use and it’s theoretical underpinnings for anyone who is interested.  In addition, due to popular request, I’m going to try having a Sacred Song Circle every week instead of every two or three weeks.  As always, you don’t have to consider yourself a singer to be able to participate, and in fact you don’t even have to sing.  It’s free and open to all.  The more voices the better!  Bring your friends, and a water bottle if you’ll need it. Please gather in the Sanctuary.  Hope to see you there.

 

We hope you plan to join us for what is sure to be an entertaining event!

U.U.’ve Got Talent!  “An Evening of Musical Variety”

On Saturday September 28th, the UU church of Kent Music Committee is hosting a musical fundraiser. We are hoping to raise $800 to pay for the services of an accompanist for our beloved choir.  Join us at 7:30 that evening as we transform the Kent sanctuary into a venue for highlighting the remarkable talents of local UU’s and Friends!  $10 is the suggested donation, but please give what you can – hope to see you there!

 

Lifespan Learning

 

The Super Brain group will meet at 3 PM on Sunday, October 6 in the Annex.  The group will be examining developing your greatest gift and how the brain makes reality.  All are welcome to join in the exploration.  Any questions, call Mary Maske at 330.677.0174.

 

Dear members and friends of UUCK,

If you were thinking about joining a small group this year but didn’t get around to signing up, you have another chance!  We met this morning to sort people into groups and it looks like we may be able to offer the following small groups (each meeting once per month from October through May):

Sunday night Food for Thought Group from 6-8pm

Monday night Chalice Group from 7-9pm

Tuesday night Chalice Group from 7-9pm

Thursday night Chalice group from 7-9pm

Each of these groups can accommodate a couple more people.  If you would like to participate, please email me with your preferred day and the other information requested on the attached sign-up sheet and copy the church office at [email protected] by this coming Friday, 9/27.

I personally think that participating in a monthly small group is a wonderful way to deepen your connections with others in the congregation while having meaningful conversations.  Each month’s theme for the small group conversations reflects our monthly worship themes, thus the groups provide an opportunity to share your own ideas, feelings and experiences about the themes we are exploring in our services.  The brochure about this program is attached if you need more information.

 

Save the Date!

The annual Halloween Party and Haunted House will take place on Saturday, October 26th starting at 6:00. More details are forthcoming in the October edition of the Chalice Flame and in future eNuu’s and Facebook posts.

 

Community Within

 

The planning task force for the church’s 150th anniversary celebration will be meeting on Sunday, September 29 at 12:45 in the Annex. 

 

The Patricia Pownall UU Book Group will be meeting on Tuesday, October 8 at 7 pm. We are again meeting in the home of Trish Johnson-Kwartler, 2937 Overlook Rd. in Silver Lake. Please bring a snack to share. Beverages will be provided. This month we are reading The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh.   A mesmerizing, moving, and elegantly written debut novel, The Language of Flowers beautifully weaves past and present, creating a vivid portrait of an unforgettable woman whose gift for flowers helps her change the lives of others even as she struggles to overcome her own troubled past. In November we will be reading The Absolutely True Diary of a Part Time Indian by Sherman Alexie. If you have any questions you may contact Bonnie Harper at [email protected].  All are welcome.

 

The 2nd Bill Moyers Symposium will be held on Wednesday, October 9th at 7:30 P.M. in Fessenden

Hall. The program will be an interview by Moyers with the atheist philosopher, Colin McGinn. It is part of the series exploring the theme, “Faith vs.Reason”. After viewing the program, Carolyn Schlemmer will moderate the discussion. Please join us. Our first program was enthusiastically received.

 

Parents and guardians of our older (age 9 and above) children,

On behalf of KentHogwarts I would like to cordially invite you participate in our upcoming Forbidden Forest night hike. Prepare to face down Dementors, Death Eaters and Acromantulas in an after dark adventure!

We are hosting this event on Saturday, October 12th 2013 at the Tallmadge Meadows Metropark in Munroe Falls. This is an open event so please feel free to invite other friends but due to the scary nature of the program we do ask that all participants be 9 years old or older.

We do require that parents/guardians be present during the event, you don’t have to go on the hike as we have a hangout spot by the shelter, but we will need to have a signed permission slip for the event.

Please do RSVP for this event at http://tinyurl.com/forbiddenforest and feel free to pass along this information and invitation to any others you think may be interested. For updated information please visit our website at www.kenthogwarts.org or email [email protected].

Yours in magical fraternity,
Professor Chroniculus FizzBOOM!
Headmaster, KentHogwarts

 

Be the first to see the artwork for the 2013 auction! Hear the artists talk about their creations while you enjoy appetizers and beverages. Artists this year are Brad Bolton, Don Easterling, Heidrun Hultgren, Wendy Jenks, John Kluth, Claudia Miller, Georgia Quinn, Rhonda Mitchell, and Jan Noden.

Date: Friday, Oct. 18

Time: 7-9 pm

Place: Fessenden Hall

Donation: $15

 

The Library continues to process new books. Below are more new titles we are adding to the collection.They will be ready for circulation the beginning of October.

Jonathan Haidt, “The Righteous Mind”; Martin Luther King Jr.

“Thou Dear God”:Prayers that Open the Hearts and Spirits.; Eboo Patel

“Acts of Faith: The Story of an American Muslim, the Struggle for the Soul of a Generation; Margaret Regan

“The Death of Josseline: Immigration Stories from the Arizona-Mexico Borderlands.

The Library Committee would like to remind everyone to put complete information on the card you find in each book you check out. In order for the Library to function efficiently, we need to know where the books in circulation are located. Books may be checked out for 2 weeks, and may be renewed with the Library committee member in Founders Lounge during each Sunday coffee hour. We have a number of over-due books. Since we do not have a fine policy for over-due books we count on your cooperation to return the books in a timely manner. We are aggressively pursuing those volumes that are overdue. Please check to see if you are holding overdue books: if you see a Library committee member bearing down on you, forewarned is forearmed.

In addition, the Library Committee is very pleased to welcome Jane Krimmer as a new committee member. We are grateful to the following congregational members who volunteered to help the committee on a one-time-only basis with various Library functions: Sue Crossen, Paulette Thurman, Barbara Brovarone, Zachary Johnson, Mary Lou Holly and Ruth Peterson. Thank you all.

 

Outreach and Social Justice

 

Social Justice Human Rights Committee Meeting – Thursday, October 17, 2013 at 6:30 PM in the Annex.  All are welcome!   

 

UU and Interfaith Connections

 

The October Kent Community Dinner Needs our Help!

On October 19, the Kent Community Dinner will be held at the United Church of Christ in Kent.  As it did two years ago, this dinner will once again focus on celebrating the GLBTQ community, though this time with particular

emphasis on one segment of that community. Two members of our congregation will be involved in the leadership of that dinner; Rev. Christie Anderson will be the moderator of the panel and Kat Holtz will be one of the presenters.  We have been asked to identify 4-6 people who would support this dinner by agreeing to cook. The 4-6 cooks will receive about 20 pounds of meat or fish and asked to cook it and stretch it by making it into a meal to feed many. The cooks could work together or separately. Are you willing to help? Please let Rev. Melissa know.

 

Income Generation

 

Thanks4Giving Auction Saturday, November 2, 6 pm

Did you save the date?  You don’t want to miss this year’s auction of goods and services in support of our beloved church.  Fun, food, fraternizing, fundraising. something for everyone in every price range.  Look for our table at coffee hour, soon.  Tickets will soon be on sale, and FAQS brochures are being made.  We’ll be looking for volunteers to help that weekend.  Have you thought about making a donation, maybe more than one donation?  The FAQS brochure can help with ideas, and donation forms are available.  You will be hearing more about the auction as time goes on.

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Weekly e-nUUs – September 18, 2013

enUUs_newlogo 12.2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Worship & Music

 

Sunday services are offered at 9:45 and 11:30 AM.

 

September 22 – Building Your Own Theology: Journeys in Faith

Led by Elaine Yehle Bowen

Participants of the 10 session Adult Religious Exploration class, Building Your Own Theology (BYOT), will share their personal credos or statement of beliefs, discerned through reading, discussion and art over the past 3 months of meetings. Come join us on our journeys of faith.

 

Sacred Song Circle Returns

The Sacred Song Circle returns to Thursday nights starting Sept. 26 for 30 minutes of community harmony and sacular stimulation beginning at 6:15 PM. Please note that this is a slightly earlier time than we had been meeting.  In addition, I will be available at 6:00 for 15 minutes of teaching time to help people become familiar with the songs, and to explain the framework we use and it’s theoretical underpinnings for anyone who is interested.  In addition, due to popular request, I’m going to try having a Sacred Song Circle every week instead of every two or three weeks.  As always, you don’t have to consider yourself a singer to be able to participate, and in fact you don’t even have to sing.  It’s free and open to all.  The more voices the better!  Bring your friends, and a water bottle if you’ll need it. Please gather in the Sanctuary.  Hope to see you there.

 

Lay-Led Programs Solicited:

The Sunday program committee wants to hear from YOU for your ideas and/or proposals for Sunday services.  If you have an idea, please consider talking to someone on the committee (Lois Weir, Christie Anderson, Liz Bright, Joe Kuemerle, Lori McGee, Andrew Rome, and Kristofer Sperry), and/or submitting a proposal (find more information and the form at //kentuu.org/ministry/sunday-program/).  Contact Lois Weir with your questions or to submit a proposal.  The Sunday Program Committee meets tonight, September 11th at 6:30 PM.

 

Following the Returning to Right Relationship Sermon

During my sermon on Sept.  8, I raised a series of questions for self-reflection inspired by the practices of returning, repentance and atonement kept by Jewish people who observe the High Holy Days of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.  If you’d like to reflect on them further, the questions follow:

SELF

How have you done this year taking care of your body?  Are you satisfied with the way you are eating, with how much rest and exercise you are getting?  How have you done taking care of your mind?  Are you satisfied with the ways you are engaging your intellect?  How have you done taking care of your spirit?  Are you satisfied with your spiritual life and the way you have nurtured that part of yourself?  Are you satisfied with your connection with something larger than yourself?

OTHERS

How are your relationships with the people who are closest to you – your family and your friends? Take each important relationship in turn.  Is there friction or challenge anywhere and, if there is, in what ways might you be contributing?  How are your relationships with your co-workers, or classmates or the people in your communities?  Again you can ask yourself, if any of those relationships have friction or challenge, in what ways might you be contributing?

WIDER WORLD

How have you done this year in engaging concerns beyond your own?  Are you satisfied with the ways you have responded to some of the social or political or environmental concerns of our common life today?

I took inspiration for these questions from Rabbi Michael Lerner’s High Holiday Repentance Workbook which you can find at http://www.tikkun.org/nextgen/high-holiday-repentance-workbook-2013-5774

 

We hope you’re planning to join us for what is sure to be an entertaining event!

U.U.’ve Got Talent!  “An Evening of Musical Variety”

On Saturday September 28th, the UU church of Kent Music Committee is hosting a musical fundraiser. We are hoping to raise $800 to pay for the services of an accompanist for our beloved choir.  Join us at 7:30 that evening as we transform the Kent sanctuary into a venue for highlighting the remarkable talents of local UU’s and Friends!  $10 is the suggested donation, but please give what you can – hope to see you there!

 

It takes all of us to create a welcoming environment on Sunday mornings.  All the members and friends of this church are needed to extend hospitality to our visitors.  On any given Sunday, some people volunteer to be a part of our hospitality efforts in particular ways.  We have a large team of people who volunteer to help greet and usher on Sunday mornings, to prepare an inviting coffee hour and to donate flowers to add a focal point of beauty to our services.  In order to make it easier to participate, we are using a new tool that will allow you to see what Sunday morning hospitality positions are available and to decide when and how frequently you might be able to help.

If you are a member or an active friend of this congregation, we hope you will consider finding at least one time this fall and early winter when you might be able to volunteer in one of this very easy but extremely important roles.  Of course, there is no limit to the number of times you can volunteer!  Also, we want you to know that children and youth are welcome to participate in any of these roles.  Thank you for considering how you might be part of helping us practice the fragile art of hospitality every Sunday.   Sign up at:  www.SignUpGenius.com/go/904054FA9A62BA57-sunday

 

Lifespan Learning

 

Small Group Ministry:  Food for Thought Groups and Chalice Groups

Deadline to register is this Sunday, September 22.  Please complete your sign-up form and drop it in the offering plate, in the box marked Small Group Ministry located in Founders Lounge or mail it to the Church office.  Thank you.

 

The Super Brain group will meet at 3 PM on Sunday, September 22 in the Annex.  The group will be examining the concepts of personal power, core self, happiness and self-healing.  All are welcome to join in the exploration.  Any questions, call Mary Maske at 330.677.0174.

 

Save the Date!

The annual Halloween Party and Haunted House will take place on Saturday, October 26th starting at 6:00. More details are forthcoming in the October edition of the Chalice Flame and in future eNuu’s and Facebook posts.

(Many thanks to those families who participated in the straw poll to identify the best date!)

 

Community Within

 

Locavore Dinner Tickets Available:

On Saturday, September 21 at 6:30 pm, Jennifer May and Lois Weir will host the 4th annual Locavore Dinner, which will be all vegetarian this year.  A multi-course meal will be served that features the best produce that northeast Ohio has to offer.  Lois & Jennifer source almost everything locally (including the wine, beer, and cocktails) for this unique event.  Some vegan dishes will be included, and most dietary restrictions can be accommodated.  Children and adults are welcome.  This was a 2012 Thanks4Giving Auction offering which did not sell out; therefore, there are 3 tickets available for purchase at $80 each.  Contact Lois Weir to reserve your seat(s).

 

UUCK Men’s Group – Join Us!

The Men’s Group, led by Max Grubb,  will be meeting on September 22 in the Sanctuary.  This is an opportunity for men to connect and engage each other for support concerning issues and challenges that arise from being male, husband or partner, father and friend in today’s society.  All men are welcome.   Please contact Max if you have any questions.

 

The planning task force for the church’s 150th anniversary celebration will be meeting on Sunday, September 29 at 12:45 in the Annex. 

 

The Patricia Pownall UU Book Group will be meeting on Tuesday, October 8 at 7 pm. We are again meeting in the home of Trish Johnson-Kwartler.  Please bring a snack to share. Beverages will be provided. This month we are reading The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh.   A mesmerizing, moving, and elegantly written debut novel, The Language of Flowers beautifully weaves past and present, creating a vivid portrait of an unforgettable woman whose gift for flowers helps her change the lives of others even as she struggles to overcome her own troubled past. In November we will be reading The Absolutely True Diary of a Part Time Indian by Sherman Alexie. If you have any questions you may contact Bonnie Harper.  All are welcome.

 

Parents and guardians of our older (age 9 and above) children,

On behalf of KentHogwarts I would like to cordially invite you participate in our upcoming Forbidden Forest night hike. Prepare to face down Dementors, Death Eaters and Acromantulas in an after dark adventure!

We are hosting this event on Saturday, October 12th 2013 at the Tallmadge Meadows Metropark in Munroe Falls. This is an open event so please feel free to invite other friends but due to the scary nature of the program we do ask that all participants be 9 years old or older.

We do require that parents/guardians be present during the event, you don’t have to go on the hike as we have a hangout spot by the shelter, but we will need to have a signed permission slip for the event.

Please do RSVP for this event at http://tinyurl.com/forbiddenforest and feel free to pass along this information and invitation to any others you think may be interested. For updated information please visit our website at www.kenthogwarts.org or email [email protected].

Yours in magical fraternity,
Professor Chroniculus FizzBOOM!
Headmaster, KentHogwarts

 

Be the first to see the artwork for the 2013 auction! Hear the artists talk about their creations while you enjoy appetizers and beverages. Artists this year are Brad Bolton, Don Easterling, Heidrun Hultgren, Wendy Jenks, John Kluth, Claudia Miller, Georgia Quinn, Rhonda Mitchell, and Jan Noden.

Date: Friday, Oct. 18

Time: 7-9 pm

Place: Fessenden Hall

Donation: $15

 

From the Library

The Library has received almost 20 new titles that will be available by the end of the month. Included are Proof of Heaven, by Eben Alexander; Sticks and Stones: Defeating the Culture of Bullying and Rediscovering the Power of Character and Empathy, by Emily Bazelton; The Separation of Church and State: Writings on a Fundamental Freedom by America’s Founders, by Forrest Church; Acts of Faith: The Story of an American Muslim, the Struggle for the Soul of a Generation by Eboo Patel. A complete list will be available once all new titles have been processed. Below is a review of The Life and Times of Jesus of Nazareth by Resa Aslan, also a new addition

Aslan, Resa, The Life and Times of Jesus of Nazareth (New York, Random House, 2013). This book has just been added to the Library collection and should be available by the last week in September, 2013. It is popular new treatment of the life of Jesus based on information from the Bible and from historical sources. Aslan is an Iranian American Muslim, a religious studies scholar, and a creative writing professor. The author believes that the best way to understand the life of Jesus is to see him in his historical and social context.  by Martha Kluth

The Library Committee thanks all those who committed to volunteer on a limited, one-time-only basis, to the work of the Library. If you are able to give us a small amount of your time, either during coffee hour by helping a committee member, or any other Library activity, please speak to a committee member:  Matthew Cox, Martha Kluth, Harry Noden, Carolyn Schlemmer, Ann Waters or Kathy Wilen. We thank you in advance.

Ann Waters, Publicity

 

Outreach and Social Justice

 

Many thanks to everyone who support the September 15 Special Collection to benefit  Family and Community Services to help fund security deposits for families moving out of homeless shelters into transitional housing.  $599.00 was raised for this cause.

 

Social Justice Human Rights Committee Meeting – Thursday, October 17, 2013 at 6:30 PM in the Annex.  All are welcome!   

 

The October Kent Community Dinner Needs our Help!

On October 19, the Kent Community Dinner will be held at the United Church of Christ in Kent.  As it did two years ago, this dinner will once again focus on celebrating the GLBTQ community, though this time with particular

emphasis on one segment of that community. Two members of our congregation will be involved in the leadership of that dinner; Rev. Christie Anderson will be the moderator of the panel and Kat Holtz will be one of the presenters.  We have been asked to identify 4-6 people who would support this dinner by agreeing to cook. The 4-6 cooks will receive about 20 pounds of meat or fish and asked to cook it and stretch it by making it into a meal to feed many. The cooks could work together or separately. Are you willing to help? Please let Rev. Melissa know.

 

Clothing Donations Needed

The network of shelters for veterans in Northeast OH has expanded with the opening of Valor Home in Akron.  Valor Home has also opened a thrift shop, the proceeds of which will be used to help fund supportive housing for veterans who are moving out of a shelter.  The Valor Home Thrift Shop is located in Akron in Highland Square and sells used clothing for men and women.  They are especially in need of donations of women’s clothing to stock the store.  Donations may be brought directly to the Valor Home Thrift Shop or to Freedom House in Kent.

 

Opportunities from the Hunger and Economic Justice Task Group

We have been invited by Trinity Lutheran Church in Kent to be part of augmenting the hot meals available for hungry people in our community.  Currently meals are offered every day of the week save Saturdays under the auspices of Kent Social Services. Trinity Lutheran, a trusted partner of Kent Social Services, is planning to offer a hot lunch every Saturday and has invited us to help. We get to determine the frequency with which we would host and to do so we need to know how many of you would be interested in being involved. For each meal we host, we would need 10 – 12 people to cook, serve and clean up. Children are welcome to be an active part of our team so we are especially encouraging families to consider volunteering to participate together. We are thinking we might start with one Saturday every month or every other month. If you might be interested in being involved, please write to Rev. Melissa and Tanya Kahl.  Let us know how frequently you would be interested in participating and whether you would be volunteering on your own or with others in your family. Once we know how many people are interested, we’ll make a more concrete plan for our congregation’s involvement.

 

UU and Interfaith Connections

 

Our Congregation – 2020 and Beyond

A congregation is the product of both the surrounding society as well as the members within.  Drawing on sociological research, join other UUs in exploring how we can be a liberal religious beacon in the greater Cleveland area.  What does a “UU to be” look like?   Karen LoBracco, Lifespan Faith Development Consultant with the Ohio Meadville District will uncover practical applications from the research.  This FREE workshop is Saturday, Sept. 21 from 9:30 am to noon in Fellowship Hall at First Unitarian Church of Cleveland (www.firstunitariancleveland.org).  Light refreshments provided.  RSVP for childcare by Sept. 16. Register by contacting Bethany Ward, DRE, at [email protected] or by calling the office at (216) 751-2320.

 

Income Generation

 

Thanks4Giving Auction Saturday, November 2, 6 pm

Did you save the date?  You don’t want to miss this year’s auction of goods and services in support of our beloved church.  Fun, food, fraternizing, fundraising. something for everyone in every price range.  Look for our table at coffee hour, soon.  Tickets will soon be on sale, and FAQS brochures are being made.  We’ll be looking for volunteers to help that weekend.  Have you thought about making a donation, maybe more than one donation?  The FAQS brochure can help with ideas, and donation forms are available.  You will be hearing more about the auction as time goes on.

 

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Weekly e-nUUs – September 11, 2013

enUUs_newlogo 12.2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Worship & Music

 

Sunday services are offered at 9:45 and 11:30 AM.

 

September 15 – Revisiting our Stories

Led by the Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Worship Associate Joel Slater

Several members and friends of the congregation and I have been engaging in a series exploring our spiritual autobiographies. In returning to our stories, we discover insights about who we have been and who we are now that might not have been accessible to us at the time of the original experience. It may even be that revisiting our stories can help us discover how we are called at this time in our lives.

 

Lay-Led Programs Solicited:

The Sunday program committee wants to hear from YOU for your ideas and/or proposals for Sunday services.  If you have an idea, please consider talking to someone on the committee (Lois Weir, Christie Anderson, Liz Bright, Joe Kuemerle, Lori McGee, Andrew Rome, and Kristofer Sperry), and/or submitting a proposal (find more information and the form at //kentuu.org/ministry/sunday-program/).  Contact Lois Weir with your questions or to submit a proposal.  The Sunday Program Committee meets tonight, September 11th at 6:30 PM.

 

Following the Returning to Right Relationship Sermon

During my sermon last week I raised a series of questions for self-reflection inspired by the practices of returning, repentance and atonement kept by Jewish people who observe the High Holy Days of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.  If you’d like to reflect on them further, the questions follow:

SELF

How have you done this year taking care of your body?  Are you satisfied with the way you are eating, with how much rest and exercise you are getting?  How have you done taking care of your mind?  Are you satisfied with the ways you are engaging your intellect?  How have you done taking care of your spirit?  Are you satisfied with your spiritual life and the way you have nurtured that part of yourself?  Are you satisfied with your connection with something larger than yourself?

OTHERS

How are your relationships with the people who are closest to you – your family and your friends? Take each important relationship in turn.  Is there friction or challenge anywhere and, if there is, in what ways might you be contributing?  How are your relationships with your co-workers, or classmates or the people in your communities?  Again you can ask yourself, if any of those relationships have friction or challenge, in what ways might you be contributing?

WIDER WORLD

How have you done this year in engaging concerns beyond your own?  Are you satisfied with the ways you have responded to some of the social or political or environmental concerns of our common life today?

I took inspiration for these questions from Rabbi Michael Lerner’s High Holiday Repentance Workbook which you can find at http://www.tikkun.org/nextgen/high-holiday-repentance-workbook-2013-5774

 

 

U.U.’ve Got Talent!

“We know you’ve got it, it’s time to let it out!”

WE ARE IN SEARCH OF TALENT. This is your opportunity to perform solo or to invite other members of the congregation and friends to create a small ensemble. This is your chance to release that creative spark within you. Before Sunday, September 15, please contact Hal Walker  with your idea. We are looking for a diverse range of 3 to 5 minute musical selections that express your unique talent. Only a limited number of spots are available, so start getting ready now!   All ages welcome!

 

SAVE THE DATE!

U.U.’ve Got Talent!  “An Evening of Musical Variety”

Please SAVE THE DATE!  On Saturday September 28th, the UU church of Kent Music Committee is hosting a musical fundraiser. We are hoping to raise $800 to pay for the services of an accompanist for our beloved choir.  Join us at 7:30 that evening as we transform the Kent sanctuary into a venue for highlighting the remarkable talents of local UU’s and Friends!  $10 is the suggested donation, but please give what you can – hope to see you there!

 

It takes all of us to create a welcoming environment on Sunday mornings.  All the members and friends of this church are needed to extend hospitality to our visitors.  On any given Sunday, some people volunteer to be a part of our hospitality efforts in particular ways.  We have a large team of people who volunteer to help greet and usher on Sunday mornings, to prepare an inviting coffee hour and to donate flowers to add a focal point of beauty to our services.  In order to make it easier to participate, we are using a new tool that will allow you to see what Sunday morning hospitality positions are available and to decide when and how frequently you might be able to help.

If you are a member or an active friend of this congregation, we hope you will consider finding at least one time this fall and early winter when you might be able to volunteer in one of this very easy but extremely important roles.  Of course, there is no limit to the number of times you can volunteer!  Also, we want you to know that children and youth are welcome to participate in any of these roles.  Thank you for considering how you might be part of helping us practice the fragile art of hospitality every Sunday.

Sign up at:  www.SignUpGenius.com/go/904054FA9A62BA57-sunday

 

 

Lifespan Learning

 

Small Group Ministry:  Food for Thought Groups and Chalice Groups

Deadline to register is September 22.  Please complete your sign-up form and drop it in the offering plate, in the box marked Small Group Ministry located on the Adult Religious Exploration table during our Ministry Fair or you may mail it to the Church office.  Thank you.

 

Have you ever wanted to volunteer at church but cannot make a continued or lengthy time commitment? Do you enjoy spending time with infants and toddlers? If yes, then volunteering in the nursery is right up your alley! Every Sunday we ask that 2 adults or older teens (1 for each service) assist Michelle in the nursery. We are scheduling for nursery helpers now and we NEED you! To volunteer to be placed in the potential pool of nursery helpers, please email  Colleen Thoele.

 

The Super Brain book group will meet at 3:00 PM on Sunday, September 22 in the Annex.  The group will be examining the concepts of personal power, core self, happiness and self-healing.  All are welcome to join in the exploration.  Any questions, please call Mary Maske.

 

Spiritual Cinema: Contact

This year the middle school youth group will be studying “Popcorn Theology” and we are going to use our monthly Spiritual Cinema as an opportunity to watch some of the movies in their entirety. Our movie nights have always been open to people of all ages but we strongly encourage youth to attend with their parents.

For our next Spiritual Cinema on Friday, September 13 at 7:00 PM, we will watch the motion picture, “Contact” (1997) which was written by the late Dr. Carl Sagan. The movie is 150 minutes and will be followed by a short discussion of some of the topics raised by the movie. Previously Dan Flippo has shown this movie in his home but we will be showing the film at the church to allow more people to attend. Please RSVP to Dan.

Comments by Dan:

One of the key themes in “Contact” is the conflict between science and religion. In the movie, a message discovered by radio telescope immediately causes conflict between scientists who would learn more about the message and others who find their beliefs threatened.  At the conclusion I believe the protagonist realizes that even science might require an element of faith.
 

Community Within


We hope you can join us for this special evening!

Tonight is the first of the Library’s evening gathering for viewing Bill Moyers DVD followed by refreshments and discussion.  7:30 in Fessenden Hall.   We’re looking forward to seeing you. 

 

Don’t forget to join us for the Ministries Fair this Sunday, September 15

Several of the programs and ministries will be highlighted.   Following each of the services, representatives from each team and committee will be available to help you learn about their activities and explore varied opportunities to get involved.  We hope you’ll find something that both interests you and helps build your faith and sense of community here at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Kent.

 

Locavore Dinner Tickets Available:

On Saturday, September 21 at 6:30 pm, Jennifer May and Lois Weir will host the 4th annual Locavore Dinner, which will be all vegetarian this year.  A multi-course meal will be served that features the best produce that northeast Ohio has to offer.  Lois & Jennifer source almost everything locally (including the wine, beer, and cocktails) for this unique event.  Some vegan dishes will be included, and most dietary restrictions can be accommodated.  Children and adults are welcome.  This was a 2012 Thanks4Giving Auction offering which did not sell out; therefore, there are 3 tickets available for purchase at $80 each.  Contact Lois Weir  to reserve your seat(s).

 

UUCK Men’s Group – Join Us!

The Men’s Group, led by Max Grubb,  will be meeting on September 22 in the Sanctuary.  This is an opportunity for men to connect and engage each other for support concerning issues and challenges that arise from being male, husband or partner, father and friend in today’s society.  All men are welcome.   Please contact Max if you have any questions.

 

The planning task force for the church’s 150th anniversary celebration will be meeting on Sunday, September 29 at 12:45 in the Annex. 

 

As our days are getting shorter and we have a need for lights on at the church, especially for our evening meetings, we ask that you please ensure that all lights are turned off prior to leaving the building, with the exception of the foyer lights by the front door.  These are left on through the night to ensure that our front door area is illuminated.  Thank you!

 

The Patricia Pownall UU Book Group will be meeting on Tuesday, October 8 at 7 pm. We are again meeting in the home of Trish Johnson-Kwartler. Please bring a snack to share. Beverages will be provided. This month we are reading The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh.   A mesmerizing, moving, and elegantly written debut novel, The Language of Flowers beautifully weaves past and present, creating a vivid portrait of an unforgettable woman whose gift for flowers helps her change the lives of others even as she struggles to overcome her own troubled past. In November we will be reading The Absolutely True Diary of a Part Time Indian by Sherman Alexie. If you have any questions you may contact Bonnie Harper.  All are welcome.

 

Be the first to see the artwork for the 2013 auction! Hear the artists talk about their creations while you enjoy appetizers and beverages. Artists this year are Brad Bolton, Don Easterling, Heidrun Hultgren, Wendy Jenks, John Kluth, Claudia Miller, Georgia Quinn, Rhonda Mitchell, and Jan Noden.

Date: Friday, Oct. 18

Time: 7-9 pm

Place: Fessenden Hall

Donation: $15

 

Outreach and Social Justice

 

The Human Rights Social Justice Committee will meet on tomorrow, September 12th at 6:30 pm in the Annex.  All are welcome.

 

Clothing Donations Needed

The network of shelters for veterans in Northeast OH has expanded with the opening of Valor Home in Akron.  Valor Home has also opened a thrift shop, the proceeds of which will be used to help fund supportive housing for veterans who are moving out of a shelter.  The Valor Home Thrift Shop is located in Akron in Highland Square and sells used clothing for men and women.  They are especially in need of donations of women’s clothing to stock the store.  Donations may be brought directly to the Valor Home Thrift Shop or to Freedom House in Kent.

 

Opportunities from the Hunger and Economic Justice Task Group

We have been invited by Trinity Lutheran Church in Kent to be part of augmenting the hot meals available for hungry people in our community.  Currently meals are offered every day of the week save Saturdays under the auspices of Kent Social Services. Trinity Lutheran, a trusted partner of Kent Social Services, is planning to offer a hot lunch every Saturday and has invited us to help. We get to determine the frequency with which we would host and to do so we need to know how many of you would be interested in being involved. For each meal we host, we would need 10 – 12 people to cook, serve and clean up. Children are welcome to be an active part of our team so we are especially encouraging families to consider volunteering to participate together. We are thinking we might start with one Saturday every month or every other month. If you might be interested in being involved, please write to Rev. Melissa and Tanya Kahl.   Let us know how frequently you would be interested in participating and whether you would be volunteering on your own or with others in your family. Once we know how many people are interested, we’ll make a more concrete plan for our congregation’s involvement.

 

 

The October Kent Community Dinner Needs our Help!

On October 19, the Kent Community Dinner will be held at the United Church of Christ in Kent.  As it did two years ago, this dinner will once again focus on celebrating the GLBTQ community, though this time with particular

emphasis on one segment of that community. Two members of our congregation will be involved in the leadership of that dinner; Rev. Christie Anderson will be the moderator of the panel and Kat Holtz will be one of the presenters.  We have been asked to identify 4-6 people who would support this dinner by agreeing to cook. The 4-6 cooks will receive about 20 pounds of meat or fish and asked to cook it and stretch it by making it into a meal to feed many. The cooks could work together or separately. Are you willing to help? Please let Rev. Melissa know.

 

 

Income Generation

 

WHAT ARE THOSE GROCERY CARDS ABOUT ANYHOW?

Every week we sell gift cards for ACME and Giant Eagle stores during coffee hour.  This program raises a few thousand dollars for the church every year!  There is nothing special you have to do – when you buy your grocery cards from the Church, the Church receives 5% of the card’s value.  You get to spend the full value of the card; use them like a debit card at either ACME or Giant Eagle. Cards can be used for anything bought at the store: Prescriptions, other name-brand gift cards sold at the stores, and of course groceries. And there is an added bonus…you still receive the fuel rewards!  For those who don’t bring cash or checks to church, you may use your credit or debit card to purchase your Acme or Giant Eagle cards, Fair Trade Coffee and the cost of fund raising events such as the pancake breakfasts. We do pay a fee per credit card transaction, so if you have cash or a check, that would be better, but if not, we’re happy to process the payment through your credit or debit card. Stop by and visit Carol Gould or Bob Erdman or one of the many who help in this effort.

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Weekly e-nUUs – September 4, 2013

enUUs_newlogo 12.2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Worship & Music

 

Sunday services are offered at 9:45 and 11:30 AM.

 

 

September 8      Returning to Right Relationship

Led by the Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Worship Associate Elaine Bowen

The Jewish observances of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur and the Ten Days of Repentance in between are steeped in tradition and infused with the wisdom of generations.  Drawing on that wisdom, we will consider again what is required of us if we would return to right relationship with the people in our own lives and with source of life itself.

 

Lay-Led Programs Solicited:

The Sunday program committee wants to hear from YOU for your ideas and/or proposals for Sunday services.  If you have an idea, please consider talking to someone on the committee (Lois Weir, Christie Anderson, Liz Bright, Joe Kuemerle, Lori McGee, Andrew Rome, and Kristofer Sperry), and/or submitting a proposal (find more information and the form at //kentuu.org/ministry/sunday-program/).  Contact Lois Weir with your questions or to submit a proposal.  The Sunday Program Committee meets next on September 11th.

 

 

U.U.’ve Got Talent!

“We know you’ve got it, it’s time to let it out!”

On Saturday, September 28, the UU Church of Kent music committee is hosting a musical fundraiser. WE ARE IN SEARCH OF TALENT. This is your opportunity to perform solo or to invite other members of the congregation and friends to create a small ensemble. This is your chance to release that creative spark within you. Before Sunday, September 15, please contact Hal Walker with your idea. We are looking for a diverse range of 3 to 5 minute musical selections that express your unique talent. Only a limited number of spots are available, so start getting ready now!   All ages welcome!

 

 

SAVE THE DATE!

U.U.’ve Got Talent!  “An Evening of Musical Variety”

Please SAVE THE DATE!  On Saturday September 28th, the UU church of Kent Music Committee is hosting a musical fundraiser. We are hoping to raise $800 to pay for the services of an accompanist for our beloved choir.  Join us at 7:30 that evening as we transform the Kent sanctuary into a venue for highlighting the remarkable talents of local UU’s and Friends!  $10 is the suggested donation, but please give what you can – hope to see you there!

 

 

It takes all of us to create a welcoming environment on Sunday mornings.  All the members and friends of this church are needed to extend hospitality to our visitors.  On any given Sunday, some people volunteer to be a part of our hospitality efforts in particular ways.  We have a large team of people who volunteer to help greet and usher on Sunday mornings, to prepare an inviting coffee hour and to donate flowers to add a focal point of beauty to our services.  In order to make it easier to participate, we are using a new tool that will allow you to see what Sunday morning hospitality positions are available and to decide when and how frequently you might be able to help.

If you are a member or an active friend of this congregation, we hope you will consider finding at least one time this fall and early winter when you might be able to volunteer in one of this very easy but extremely important roles.  Of course, there is no limit to the number of times you can volunteer!  Also, we want you to know that children and youth are welcome to participate in any of these roles.  Thank you for considering how you might be part of helping us practice the fragile art of hospitality every Sunday.

Sign up at:  www.SignUpGenius.com/go/904054FA9A62BA57-sunday

 

 

Lifespan Learning

 

Small Group Ministry:  Food for Thought Groups and Chalice Groups

Attached to today’s e-nUUs is this year’s Small Group Ministry brochure and sign-up form.  Deadline to register is September 22.  Please complete the sign-up form and drop it in the offering plate or mail it to the Church office.  Thank you.

 

 

Our Religious Education is back to its regular schedule. The RE committee is very excited about the curriculum.  And we are even more excited about the amazing group of teachers who are graciously giving their talents to the awesome kids of our church!  It’s going to be a great year!

Please see the website for detailed information:  //kentuu.org/education/childrens-religious-education/

During the 9:45 service we will offer:

  • Nursery
  • Preschool for ages 3 + 4
  • Early Elementary for grades K-2
  • Upper Elementary for grades 3-5

During the 11:30 service we will offer:

  • Nursery/playtime for babies through preschool
  • Multi-age class for school-aged children
  • Middle School Youth Group for grades 6-8
  • High School Youth Group for grades 9-12

With the new RE year comes fall registration so that our information is current. Please stop by the registration table during coffee hour on 8/25 and register the children in your family. For more information on registering your family please contact RE Assistant Colleen Thoele.

 

 

Have you ever wanted to volunteer at church but cannot make a continued or lengthy time commitment? Do you enjoy spending time with infants and toddlers? If yes, then volunteering in the nursery is right up your alley! Every Sunday we ask that 2 adults or older teens (1 for each service) assist Michelle in the nursery. We are scheduling for nursery helpers now and we NEED you! To volunteer to be placed in the potential pool of nursery helpers, please email  Colleen Thoele.

 

 

Super Brain: Unleashing the Explosive Power of Your Mind to Maximize Health, Happiness, and Spiritual Well-Being by Deepak Chopra, M.D. and Rudolph E. Tanzi, Ph.D.; Joseph P. and Rose F. Kennedy Professor of Neurology, Havard medical School.

The group will meet today, Sunday, Sept. 8 from 6:00 to 7:30 at the Eldredge Annex .  There will be a general overview of the book as well as examination of what we each believe about our brains.  The authors present us with five myths about our brains we can work to dispel as well as three brain Super Heros.

 

 

Spiritual Cinema: Contact

This year the middle school youth group will be studying “Popcorn Theology” and we are going to use our monthly Spiritual Cinema as an opportunity to watch some of the movies in their entirety. Our movie nights have always been open to people of all ages but we strongly encourage youth to attend with their parents.

For our next Spiritual Cinema on Friday, September 13 at 7:00 PM, we will watch the motion picture, “Contact” (1997) which was written by the late Dr. Carl Sagan. The movie is 150 minutes and will be followed by a short discussion of some of the topics raised by the movie. Previously Dan Flippo has shown this movie in his home but we will be showing the film at the church to allow more people to attend. Please RSVP to Dan..

Comments by Dan:

One of the key themes in “Contact” is the conflict between science and religion. In the movie, a message discovered by radio telescope immediately causes conflict between scientists who would learn more about the message and others who find their beliefs threatened.  At the conclusion I believe the protagonist realizes that even science might require an element of faith.

 

 

Community Within

 

In a recent Chalice Flame newsletter article, I wrote that Evin and I are not in need of any gifts for our baby, but that if someone wants to give a gift perhaps they might consider donating some new toys or clothes (for children of any age) to Summit County Children Services for children in foster care.  Someone recently asked me how exactly to go about making such a donation.  Items must be dropped off in person at the main SCCS building at 264 S. Arlington Street, Akron, Ohio, 44306.  Donations are accepted between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., seven days a week and donation receipts are available.  Just be sure to let the person at the desk know the items are for the holiday gift program.

Thank you for your thoughtfulness and generosity.

~ Melissa

 

 

Several people asked this past Sunday for the title of the UUA Common Read book I referenced during my sermon as well as information about how to access the Restaurant Opportunities Center Dining Guide.  The book is called Behind the Kitchen Door by Saru Jayaraman and is available from the UUA Bookstore.  I also understand our church library is hoping to acquire a copy as well.  The Dining Guide is an online resource which also has an app you can use if you have a smartphone.  You can find a link to the guide as well as the app at http://rocunited.org/dinersguide/

~ Melissa

 

 

The Patricia Pownall UU Book Group will be meeting on Tuesday, September 10 at 7 pm in the home of Trish Johnson-Kwartler.  This month we are offering a choice of two older novels: Main Street by Sinclair Lewis or Sister Carrie by Theodore Dreiser.  Main Street tells the tale of a big-city girl who marries a physician and settles in a small town in the Midwest, only to fall victim to the narrow-mindedness and unimaginative natures of the town’s residents. Sister Carrie is a novel about a young country girl who moves to the big city where she starts realizing her own American Dream, first as a mistress to men that she perceives as superior, and later becoming a famous actress. In October we will be reading The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh.  If you have any questions you may contact Bonnie Harper.  All are welcome.

 

 

From the Library:  One week from tonight, Wednesday, Sept. 11th, the first Library Symposium will be held in the Library at 7:30 P.M. We look forward to a lively discussion and refreshments after viewing the Bill Moyer’s examination of 2 faith journeys one by author Mary Gordon, and the other by philosopher Colin McGinn. Harry Noden will be Moderator.  We hope you can join us for this special evening, and we look forward to seeing you.

 

 

Ministries Fair:  September 15

Please join us on Sunday, Sept. 15 when we highlight the many programs and ministries here at the Church.  Following each of the services, representatives from each team and committee will be available to help you explore varied opportunities to get involved.  We hope you’ll find something that both interests you and helps build your faith and sense of community here at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Kent.

 

 

Locavore Dinner Tickets Available:

On Saturday, September 21 at 6:30 pm, Jennifer May and Lois Weir will host the 4th annual Locavore Dinner, which will be all vegetarian this year.  A multi-course meal will be served that features the best produce that northeast Ohio has to offer.  Lois & Jennifer source almost everything locally (including the wine, beer, and cocktails) for this unique event.  Some vegan dishes will be included, and most dietary restrictions can be accommodated.  Children and adults are welcome.  This was a 2012 Thanks4Giving Auction offering which did not sell out; therefore, there are 3 tickets available for purchase at $80 each.  Contact Lois Weir to reserve your seat(s).

 

 

The planning task force for the church’s 150th anniversary celebration will be meeting on Sunday, September 29 at 12:45 in the Annex. 

 

 

Outreach and Social Justice

 

The Human Rights Social Justice Committee will meet on Thursday, September 12th at 6:30 pm in the Annex.  All are welcome.

 

 

Income Generation

 

WHAT ARE THOSE GROCERY CARDS ABOUT ANYHOW?

Every week we sell gift cards for ACME and Giant Eagle stores during coffee hour.  This program raises a few thousand dollars for the church every year!  There is nothing special you have to do – when you buy your grocery cards from the Church, the Church receives 5% of the card’s value.  You get to spend the full value of the card; use them like a debit card at either ACME or Giant Eagle. Cards can be used for anything bought at the store: Prescriptions, other name-brand gift cards sold at the stores, and of course groceries. And there is an added bonus…you still receive the fuel rewards!  For those who don’t bring cash or checks to church, you may use your credit or debit card to purchase your Acme or Giant Eagle cards, Fair Trade Coffee and the cost of fund raising events such as the pancake breakfasts. We do pay a fee per credit card transaction, so if you have cash or a check, that would be better, but if not, we’re happy to process the payment through your credit or debit card. Stop by and visit Carol Gould or Bob Erdman or one of the many who help in this effort.

Share this:

Weekly e-nUUs, August 28, 2013

enUUs_newlogo 12.2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Worship & Music

 

Sunday services are offered at 9:45 and 11:30 AM.

 

September 1 – Strong is What We Make Each Other

Led by the Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer  and Worship Associate John Marfy.

For many, Labor Day is the marker that connotes the end of the summer.  This morning we will return to the stories that gave rise to the Labor Day holiday and consider again the ways in which we are all lifted up by the power of union.

 

U.U.’ve Got Talent!

“We know you’ve got it, it’s time to let it out!”

On Saturday, September 28, the UU Church of Kent music committee is hosting a musical fundraiser. WE ARE IN SEARCH OF TALENT. This is your opportunity to perform solo or to invite other members of the congregation and friends to create a small ensemble. This is your chance to release that creative spark within you. Before Sunday, September 15, please contact Hal Walker with your idea. We are looking for a diverse range of 3 to 5 minute musical selections that express your unique talent. Only a limited number of spots are available, so start getting ready now!   All ages welcome!

 

SAVE THE DATE!

U.U.’ve Got Talent!  “An Evening of Musical Variety”

Please SAVE THE DATE!  On Saturday September 28th, the UU church of Kent Music Committee is hosting a musical fundraiser. We are hoping to raise $800 to pay for the services of an accompanist for our beloved choir.  Join us at 7:30 that evening as we transform the Kent sanctuary into a venue for highlighting the remarkable talents of local UU’s and Friends!  $10 is the suggested donation, but please give what you can – hope to see you there!

 

It takes all of us to create a welcoming environment on Sunday mornings.  All the members and friends of this church are needed to extend hospitality to our visitors.  On any given Sunday, some people volunteer to be a part of our hospitality efforts in particular ways.  We have a large team of people who volunteer to help greet and usher on Sunday mornings, to prepare an inviting coffee hour and to donate flowers to add a focal point of beauty to our services.  In order to make it easier to participate, we are using a new tool that will allow you to see what Sunday morning hospitality positions are available and to decide when and how frequently you might be able to help.

If you are a member or an active friend of this congregation, we hope you will consider finding at least one time this fall and early winter when you might be able to volunteer in one of this very easy but extremely important roles.  Of course, there is no limit to the number of times you can volunteer!  Also, we want you to know that children and youth are welcome to participate in any of these roles.  Thank you for considering how you might be part of helping us practice the fragile art of hospitality every Sunday.

Sign up at:  www.SignUpGenius.com/go/904054FA9A62BA57-sunday

 

 

Lifespan Learning

 

Small Group Ministry:  Food for Thought Groups and Chalice Groups

Please keep an eye open for this year’s Small Group Ministry brochure and sign-up form  that will be attached to next week’s e-nUUs!

 

Our Religious Education is back to its regular schedule. The RE committee is very excited about the curriculum.  And we are even more excited about the amazing group of teachers who are graciously giving their talents to the awesome kids of our church!  It’s going to be a great year!

Please see the website for detailed information:  //kentuu.org/education/childrens-religious-education/

During the 9:45 service we will offer:

  • Nursery
  • Preschool for ages 3 + 4
  • Early Elementary for grades K-2
  • Upper Elementary for grades 3-5

During the 11:30 service we will offer:

  • Nursery/playtime for babies through preschool
  • Multi-age class for school-aged children
  • Middle School Youth Group for grades 6-8
  • High School Youth Group for grades 9-12

With the new RE year comes fall registration so that our information is current. Please stop by the registration table during coffee hour on 8/25 and register the children in your family. For more information on registering your family please contact RE Assistant Colleen Thoele.

 

Have you ever wanted to volunteer at church but cannot make a continued or lengthy time commitment? Do you enjoy spending time with infants and toddlers? If yes, then volunteering in the nursery is right up your alley! Every Sunday we ask that 2 adults or older teens (1 for each service) assist Michelle in the nursery. We are scheduling for nursery helpers now and we NEED you! To volunteer to be placed in the potential pool of nursery helpers, please email  Colleen Thoele.

 

Super Brain: Unleashing the Explosive Power of Your Mind to Maximize Health, Happiness, and Spiritual Well-Being by Deepak Chopra, M.D. and Rudolph E. Tanzi, Ph.D.; Joseph P. and Rose F. Kennedy Professor of Neurology, Harvard medical School.

The group will meet from 6:00 to 7:30 at the Eldredge Annex on the following Sunday evenings:  September 8 & 22, October 6 & 20, and November 3 & 17.

Upcoming Meeting Topics

September 8:    There will be a general overview of the book as well as examination of what we each believe about our brains.  The authors present us with five myths about our brains we can work to dispel as well as three brain Super         Heroes.

September 22:  The topic will be depression.  Additional materials will be presented.

Feel free to join us as you are able for an exciting examination of who we are as humans and as individuals.

Questions? Call May Maske.

 

Community Within

 

Ministries Fair:  September 15

Please join us on Sunday, Sept. 15 when we highlight the many programs and ministries here at the Church.  Following each of the services, representatives from each team and committee will be available to help you explore varied opportunities to get involved.  We hope you’ll find something that both interests you and helps build your faith and sense of community here at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Kent.

 

 Art in the Sanctuary

Thoughts on the Human Brain

This year, President Obama announced a $100 million project to map the human brain. This got me thinking about exploring the relationship between what we know about the brain (anatomy) and what we still don’t yet understand (imagination). Perhaps we are more than the sum of our parts. I have cited the literary inspiration for each painting.

About the Artist

Lyndse Rae Faba studied painting and illustration at Pratt Institute, under the guidance of Charles Goslin, who she still refers to as “Goose,” despite his having rejoined the force in 2007. She eventually completed her BFA at the University of Akron where she majored in graphic design and minored in illustration and drawing with the support of Vlada Vukadinovic.

She has a long-standing love affair with jazz guitar and includes among her hobbies the study of physics: longboarding, sportmotorcycle riding and obstacle course running.

 

The Library Symposium on Faith Vs Reason, with Bill Moyers’ interview of author Mary Gordon, and philosopher Colin McGinn is coming faster than we realize. (Where did summer go?)

Please join us Wednesday evening, September 11th, at 7:15 in Fessenden Hall for a lively discussion of the arguments presented in Moyers’ program, recorded on DVD. We will view the video, then discuss the conflicting points of view. Harry Noden will be Moderator.

Reservations Not Necessary.  Come; enjoy stimulating conversation and tasty refreshments. The program should conclude by 9:00 P.M.   We look forward to seeing you.

 

The Patricia Pownall UU Book Group will be meeting on Tuesday, September 10 at 7 pm in the home of Trish Johnson-Kwartler.  This month we are offering a choice of two older novels: Main Street by Sinclair Lewis or Sister Carrie by Theodore Dreiser.  Main Street tells the tale of a big-city girl who marries a physician and settles in a small town in the Midwest, only to fall victim to the narrow-mindedness and unimaginative natures of the town’s residents. Sister Carrie is a novel about a young country girl who moves to the big city where she starts realizing her own American Dream, first as a mistress to men that she perceives as superior, and later becoming a famous actress. In October we will be reading The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh.  If you have any questions you may contact Bonnie Harper.  All are welcome.

 

Outreach and Social Justice

The Human Rights Social Justice Committee will meet on Thursday, September 12th at 6:30 pm in the Annex.  All are welcome.

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Weekly e-nUUs, August 18, 2013

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Worship & Music 

 

Sunday services are offered at 9:45 and 11:30 AM.

 

August 18 – Heirlooms, Curiosities, and Castoffs

Rev. Renee Ruchotzke with Worship Associate Justin Czekaj

Our lives are influenced by the legacy of those who preceded us.  How might we choose what to keep and what to set aside as we attempt to live lives of authenticity and purpose?

 

August 25 – The Spiritual Wisdom of Children

Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer, Director of Religious Education Karen Lapidus, and Worship Associate Sophie Smith.

Everyone is invited to join together for our annual multigenerational, ingathering service. During this special service for all ages, we will celebrate coming together again for the start of a new church year as we lift up children and youth as a source of spiritual wisdom for us all. Nursery care will be provided for our littlest ones during both services.

Please bring a small vial of water and/or a small amount of earth from a place you have been this summer which has nourished your own spirit.

 

Cuyahoga River Concert Series  presents Mignarda

Come enjoy and evening of music featuring the both voice and lute.  THIS FRIDAY, August 16 at 8:00 pm in the Sanctuary.  Admission is $10 at the door.  For more information on this duo, please visit www.mignarda.com

 

Expanding our music program!

As September approaches, we look forward to the beginning of a new season of our wonderful adult choir.  This fall, we return to an old tradition of Sunday evening rehearsals from 6:30-8:00.  If you’re interested in singing, we’d love to have you join us.  Please contact Hal Walker for a conversation about where in the choir your voice would fit best.

This year, we’re also excited about the start of our own “UU Folk Orchestra.”  A “folk orchestra” combines the unique instrumental talents of the congregation.  Music reading skills are required.  We will rehearse on Thursday evenings from 7-8:15.

Finally, we will be creating a youth choir for treble voices from 3rd grade-7th grade. The weekly one-hour rehearsals will be Wednesdays from 5-6 pm.

As a kickoff to a great year of music, Hal Walker will be hosting an open house potluck at his house for anyone with any interest in either singing in the choir or playing in the folk orchestra. The open house will be merely for fun and information… No commitment required, yet.  If you are able to, please bring a dish to share.

Singers and Musicians Open House Potluck!

Sunday, August 18 at 6 o’clock.

Hal Walker’s house

all are welcome…

 

Lifespan Learning

 

How Do You Like to Play?  

Last Sunday for Summer RE

for Children Preschool through Grade 5

It is still  not too late to participate in Summer RE!    On Sunday, August 18th, the Thiel/Smith family will be sharing the science of bounciness.  Does that sound cool, or what?   We will light the chalice promptly at 9:45 am in Fessenden Hall. Nursery care is available for our littlest ones at both the 9:45 and 11:30 services.

 

Super Brain: Unleashing the Explosive Power of Your Mind to Maximize Health, Happiness, and Spiritual Well-Being by Deepak Chopra, M.D. and Rudolph E. Tanzi, Ph.D.; Joseph P. and Rose F. Kennedy Professor of Neurology, Harvard medical School.

The group will meet from 6:00 to 7:30 at the Eldredge Annex on the following Sunday evenings:  September 8 & 22, October 6 & 20, and November 3 & 17.

Upcoming Meeting Topics

September 8:    There will be a general overview of the book as well as examination of what we each believe about our brains.  The authors present us with five myths about our brains we can work to dispel as well as three brain Super Heroes.

September 22:  The topic will be depression.  Additional materials will be presented.

Feel free to join us as you are able for an exciting examination of who we are as humans and as individuals.

Questions? Call May Maske.

 

Community Within

 

Retirees Luncheon: August 20   12:00 PM in Fessenden Hall

We’ll meet for an hour to an hour and a half depending on the number of people who attend so everyone has an opportunity to check in with the group. All retirees are welcome to join us. Bring your own lunch, beverages will be provided.  Please remember that we have shifted our meeting time to the third Tuesday of each month.

 

Walden Information Meeting – Sunday, August 25   11:00 – 11:15 am in the Sanctuary

Come fine out what we’re all about and we’ll answer any questions you may have about Walden.  We hope you’ll consider joining us for this fall’s Walden trip.   More information about  this fall’s Walden trip can be found in the announcement below.

 

The Lost & Found is once again overflowing!

Please check the Lost and Found, located on the coat rack shelf outside of Fessenden Hall, for any items that you may have recently left at the Church.  After Sunday, August 25th any remaining items will be donated.

 

New UU Classes in August

Our New UU classes cover everything you wanted to know about the Unitarian Universalist Church of Kent in particular and Unitarian Universalism in general, but were afraid to ask.  Well, maybe not everything, but we try to give you an overview, a starting point.  Some history of both, some organizational details. Come join the conversation.  And, if you’re curious about membership, this is the place to be.

Part 2 will be on Sunday, August 18, from 9-11 am.  You may attend one or both, although attendance at both is encouraged.  Different topics will be covered in each.  We will gather at the Annex, the yellow house next to the church.

If you have any questions, contact Claudia Miller or Marion Yeagler.

 

Sacred Song Circle
Join us for another Sacred Song Circle on Thursday, August 15, at 6:30 in the Founder’s Lounge for 30 minutes of sacular stimulation and community harmony.  You don’t have to consider yourself a singer to be able to participate.  It’s free and open to all.  The more voices the better!  Bring your friends and a water bottle if you’ll need it.  Hope to see you there.  Saunis

 

Bill Moyers, one of television’s most perceptive commentators, is known for his thoughtful interviews with guests from many fields.  Many of these programs have been recorded on DVD, and we have a number of them in our Library. The Library committee is preparing two programs on Wednesdays, September 11th, and October 9th. Both programs begin at 7:15 P.M. in Fessenden Hall and should conclude by 9:00 P. M.  We will view one of Moyer’s programs, and then have a discussion of the issues presented. Refreshments will be served.

The first program on September 9th is a dialogue on faith and reason, described by Moyer’s this Way:

“One of the intriguing questions about faith and reason is how is how two finely-honed minds can examine the case for belief and come to totally different conclusions. Consider Mary Gordon and Colin McGinn. One is a novelist, the other a philosopher. Both were born into Catholic families.  One remains a believer, the other an atheist. Yet both are champions of reason.

If you enjoy discussion on questions like these, come and join us. Harry Noden will be Moderator for this program. We promise a stimulating evening of lively exchange.

 

My dear friends at UUCK,

I’ve had a handful of people ask me recently, “When are you coming back to church?!” The short answer that I know for sure is October 6, when I’ll be serving as Worship Associate when George Buchanan leads worship. The long answer is that I’ve recently become the new Director of Religious Education at SouthWest Unitarian Universalist Church in North Royalton (the church where Evin Carvill-Ziemer is currently serving as half-time Interim Minister).

I accepted the position in June and have been traveling there some Sunday mornings, when I haven’t been in Chicago for classes or preaching or doing professional development (I went to the OWL training the last weekend of August – it was excellent!).

SouthWest has a smaller congregation, and the RE program is only about 20 children right now, but they are looking forward to growth. The DRE position is quarter-time, which works really well with my studies and program requirements. I am learning all sorts of new and wonderful things, and am just in awe of the many, amazing resources we have in our denomination, as well as the amount of support.

Apart from these new adventures in ministerial formation, I’ve just finished my first year at Meadville Lombard (at this point, I’m expecting to be at it another 3 years or so), plan to start Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) in the fall, still involved with the Kent Community TimeBank, and enjoying our now 4 cats and sweet puppy.

I miss being in community with all of you – it has meant so very much to me in the almost 7 years I’ve been attending services and participating in service at UUCK, but I am very thankful to have this opportunity to use and develop skills, sharing with SouthWest all I’ve learned from you. Please don’t hesitate to be in touch, and I look forward to seeing some of you in October!

In peace and with love,  Kristina Spaude

 

The Library committee is planning a fall issue of the church publication, Here We Have Gathered, about people and activities of our church.  The planning is well underway, but if you would like to submit an article (500 – 1000 words), please contact Martha Kluth or Ann Waters.

The Library Committee is also planning 2 fall Symposiums. Each event will include a one-segment viewing from the Bill Moyers Faith and Reason series, followed by a discussion and refreshments. Each program will

begin at 7:30 and should end by 9:00 P.M.  The schedule is:

Wednesday, Sept. 11, 7:30 P.M. in Fessenden Hall, “The Mirror Image”.

Moderator – Harry Noden

Wednesday, Oct. 9, 7:30 P.M. in Fessenden Hall, “Richard Rodrigues”

Moderator – Carolyn Schlemmer

We hope you will be able to attend and look forward to seeing you. If you have any questions, please speak to any Library committee member.   Ann Waters

 

 

Outreach and Social Justice

 

Thank you to everyone who supported last week’s special collection.   Together we raised $362.00 along with several bags of school supplies in support of Family and Community Service’s Annual School Supply Drive.

 

Income Generation

 

Hot Dogs & Ice Cream anyone?

Your Fundraising team would like to have hot dogs and ice cream Sunday, August 18 during coffee hour and after 2nd service.  It’s more of a Thank You for all you support this past year than an actual fundraiser, but if you’d like to make a free will donation we won’t turn it down since it all goes to the church.

Hope you can come enjoy!

 

SAVE THE DATE – ANNUAL THANKS 4 GIVING AUCTION – November 2, 2013

Our annual Thanks 4 Giving Auction will be held on Saturday, November 2, 2013 at the Kent United Church of Christ.  Stay tuned for details in the coming months as planning gets under way.

Also, if you want to get involved in a VERY fun committee, the Auction Committee is looking for a few good people to join us!  We begin meeting in August a couple times a month to plan and execute our annual auction.

Let me know if you are interested.

Meg Milko

Auction Chair

 

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Worship & Music 

 

Sunday services are offered at 9:45 and 11:00 AM.

 

August 11 – Lions and Tigers and Bears! Oh My!

Led by Kathy Walker and Saul Flanner

In this multimedia service, Kathy and Saul will explore the interdependent web of which we are all a part. We are not qualified to do so, but we think you’ll appreciate our attempt as we share our limited experience with the seventh principle of Unitarian Universalism and the spirit animals that keep pestering Kathy to lead this service.

As we will be enjoying the services led by Kathy and Saul, Rev. Melissa will be leading services at the Akron UU Church.  We look forward to her returning from study leave to lead services along with Director of Religious Education Karen Lapidus and Worship Associate Sophie Smith on Sunday, August 25 at our multigenerational ingathering: The Spiritual Wisdom of Children.   In the meantime, Rev. Renee Ruchotzke along with Worship Associate Justin Czekaj will lead us next week, Sunday, August 18, focusing on Heirlooms, Curiosities, and Castoffs.

 

Expanding our music program!

As September approaches, we look forward to the beginning of a new season of our wonderful adult choir.  This fall, we return to an old tradition of Sunday evening rehearsals from 6:30-8:00.  If you’re interested in singing, we’d love to have you join us.  Please contact Hal Walker for a conversation about where in the choir your voice would fit best.

This year, we’re also excited about the start of our own “UU Folk Orchestra.”  A “folk orchestra” combines the unique instrumental talents of the congregation.  Music reading skills are required.  We will rehearse on Thursday evenings from 7-8:15.

Finally, we will be creating a youth choir for treble voices from 3rd grade-7th grade. The weekly one-hour rehearsals will be Wednesdays from 5-6 pm.

As a kickoff to a great year of music, Hal Walker will be hosting an open house potluck at his house for anyone with any interest in either singing in the choir or playing in the folk orchestra. The open house will be merely for fun and information… No commitment required, yet.  If you are able to, please bring a dish to share.

Singers and Musicians Open House Potluck!

Sunday, August 18 at 6 o’clock.

Hal Walker’s house

all are welcome…

 

 

Cuyahoga River Concert Series  presents Mignarda

Come enjoy and evening of music featuring the both voice and lute.  Friday, August 16 at 8:00 pm in the Sanctuary.  Admission is $10 at the door.  For more information on this duo, please visit www.mignarda.com

 

 

 Lifespan Learning

How Do You Like to Play?  Summer RE ~ Just two more weeks of Summer Fun!

Summer RE is going so well and it is not too late to join in the good times!  The children and the various leaders have been experiencing a wide variety of fun activities.  On Sunday, August 11th, the Barzizza-Young family will be sharing the fun of science.  A nut-free treat will be served.  We will light the chalice promptly at 9:45 am in Fessenden Hall.  Nursery care is available for our littlest ones at both the 9:45 and 11:30 services.

 

Super Brain: Unleashing the Explosive Power of Your Mind to Maximize Health, Happiness, and Spiritual Well-Being

Just a reminder that this book group will be meeting twice monthly during September, October and November in the Annex from 6:00 – 7:30 pm.  Meeting topics will be published in the September Chalice Flame.  Attendance at every meeting is not mandatory to participate; please join us as you are able or interested.  For more information please contact Mary Maske.

 

 

Community Within 

 

New UU Classes in August

Our New UU classes cover everything you wanted to know about the Unitarian Universalist Church of Kent in particular and Unitarian Universalism in general, but were afraid to ask.  Well, maybe not everything, but we try to give you an overview, a starting point.  Some history of both, some organizational details. Come join the conversation.  And, if you’re curious about membership, this is the place to be.

Part 1 will be on Sunday, August 11, from 9-11 am. Part 2 will be on Sunday, August 18, from 9-11 am.  You may attend one or both, although attendance at both is encouraged.  Different topics will be covered in each.  We will gather at the Annex, the yellow house next to the church.

If you have any questions, contact Claudia Miller or Marion Yeagler.

 

 

Art in the Sanctuary

Geoff Hill Photography:  Awake in Nature

Geoff Hill is a fine art photographer and nature enthusiast. Through his work, he hopes to bring to light awareness and preservation of our natural Earth.

With roots in Kent Ohio, Geoff has expanded his travels to several areas along the eastern US, documenting wildlife and landscapes along the way. His experience in the arts has also included music, drawing & painting, and poetry. Through his time as a photographer, he has discovered his solace in nature, as well as an understanding of how precious and fragile life is.

This exhibit features Geoff’s work during his stay in Florida. Special thanks to Frederick Kluth and the Unitarian Universalist Church of Kent for allowing this opportunity.

Geoff will be having an artist reception Sunday, August 11, 1:00 – 4:00 PM at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Kent.  He hopes you’ll come to meet him and learn more about his work.

Enjoy!

 

 

Change of plans for the Patricia Pownall UU Book Group. The book group will be meeting on Tuesday, August 13 at 7 pm in the home of Bonnie Harper. We will not be meeting at the home of Annie Brightbill.  This month we are reading Flight Behavior by Barbara Kingsolver.  Dellarobia Turnbow is a restless farm wife who gave up her own plans when she accidentally became pregnant at seventeen. After a decade of domestic disharmony, she hikes up a mountain road behind her house toward a secret tryst, but instead encounters a shocking sight: a silent, forested valley filled with what looks like a lake of fire. She can only understand it as a miracle, but it sparks a raft of other explanations from scientists, religious leaders and the media.  In September we are offering a choice of two older novels: Main Street by Sinclair Lewis or Sister Carrie by Theodore Dreiser. In October we will be reading The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh.  If you have any questions you may contact Bonnie Harper.  All are welcome.

 

 

Sacred Song Circle
Join us for another Sacred Song Circle on Thursday, August 15, at 6:30 in the Founder’s Lounge for 30 minutes of sacular stimulation and community harmony.  You don’t have to consider yourself a singer to be able to participate.  It’s free and open to all.  The more voices the better!  Bring your friends and a water bottle if you’ll need it.

Hope to see you there.    Saunis

 

 

The Library committee is planning a fall issue of the church publication, Here We Have Gathered, about people and activities of our church.  The planning is well underway, but if you would like to submit an article (500 – 1000 words), please contact Martha Kluth or Ann Waters.

The Library Committee is also planning 2 fall Symposiums. Each event will include a one-segment viewing from the Bill Moyers Faith and Reason series, followed by a discussion and refreshments. Each program will

begin at 7:30 and should end by 9:00 P.M.  The schedule is:

Wednesday, Sept. 11, 7:30 P.M. in Fessenden Hall, “The Mirror Image”.

Moderator – Harry Noden

Wednesday, Oct. 9, 7:30 P.M. in Fessenden Hall, “Richard Rodrigues”

Moderator – Carolyn Schlemmer

We hope you will be able to attend and look forward to seeing you. If you have any questions, please speak to any Library committee member.

Ann Waters

 

 

Fall Walden Scheduled for October 4-6, 2013

Mark your calendars for the first weekend in October (4-6th) to participate in the annual campout and celebration of our seventh principle knows as “Walden”.

The group site reserved this year is located in the “Buckaloons Recreation Area”, which rests on the site of a former Seneca Indian village, six miles west of Warren, Pa.  Buckaloons is the only camping and recreation area within the Allegheny National Forest that is along the Allegheny River.  There are also 50 family campsites (15 with electrical hookups) for those who have Rv’s and pop-ups.

Some suggested activities include a visit to the Audubon Center and Sanctuary near Jamestown, N.Y., canoeing/kayaking the Allegheny River or the Conewango Creek (where you may spot an otter), hiking the many trails of the Allegheny National Forest or just connecting with the natural world on your own terms.

There will be an upcoming informational meeting between services in August.  Members of other U.U. congregations have expressed interest in this event also.

Questions?  Contact [email protected]

 

 

Outreach and Social Justice

 

August Special Collection

On August 11, a special collection will be taken to benefit Portage County Family and Community Services in support of the organization’s school supply drive.  This program will assist families with school age children that are in be prepared for the upcoming school year.

In response to this need, the children who attended the summer RE class last Sunday decided to hold a drive to collect school supplies for children in Portage County.  We have a quick turn-around time and will only be collecting on Sunday, August 11th.  The school supplies will be collected in Fessenden Hall before and after the services on Sunday, August 11th. Please note that the first 4 items listed in bold print are especially needed.

  • Pocket folders (with prongs)
  • Rulers
  • Pencil sharpeners
  • 1” Binders
  • Wide-ruled paper
  • Wide-ruled spiral note books
  • Crayons
  • Markers
  • Glue bottles
  • Glue Sticks
  • Black and blue pens
  • Pencils
  • Pink erasers

We appreciate your consideration to support this worthwhile cause.

 

 

UU and Interfaith Connections

 

Jim Scott in Concert at the UU Congregation of Greater Canton, Friday, August 9!

“Jim’s lyrical melodies, well-crafted words, guitar mastery and humorous surprises moved Pete Seeger to call him ‘some kind of magician.’ Cultivated in his days with the Paul Winder Consort, Jim brings warmth and authenticity that turns any concert into an intimate gathering.”

Potluck dinner at 6 pm, Concert at 7 pm.

Suggested donation: $5 (“more if you can, less if you can’t”)

Print and recorded music will be available, too.

The potluck was Jim’s suggestion as an opportunity for all to talk with him about music, Sunday worship services, and anything else before the concert begins. More about Jim can be found here: http://jimscottmusic.com/ The UU Congregation of Greater Canton is located at 2585 Easton St NE, Canton, OH  44721.

 

Income Generation

 

Hot Dogs & Ice Cream anyone?

Your Fundraising team would like to have hot dogs and ice cream Sunday, August 18 during coffee hour and after 2nd service.  It’s more of a Thank You for all you support this past year than an actual fundraiser, but if you’d like to make a free will donation we won’t turn it down since it all goes to the church.

Hope you can come enjoy!

 

 

SAVE THE DATE – ANNUAL THANKS 4 GIVING AUCTION 11-2-13

Our annual Thanks 4 Giving Auction will be held on Saturday, November 2, 2013 at the Kent United Church of Christ.  Stay tuned for details in the coming months as planning gets under way.

Also, if you want to get involved in a VERY fun committee, the Auction Committee is looking for a few good people to join us!  We begin meeting in August a couple times a month to plan and execute our annual auction.

Let me know if you are interested.

Meg Milko

Auction Chair

 

 

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Weekly e-nUUs, May 8, 2013

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Worship & Music

 

 Services are held on Sunday mornings at 10:00 and 11:30.

 

Sunday, May 12                Family Matters

Led by the Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Worship Associate John Marfy

We often say that families come in all shapes and sizes and that love is what makes a family. This morning we will again affirm the many ways in which families are formed and nurtured as we reflect upon why it is that families still matter.

 

What are you passionate about?

Would you like to lead a Sunday service about it?  The Sunday Program Committee meets on May 24th, and is seeking proposals for lay-led services for Summer and Fall.  We believe that that the Sunday Service is best reflected in a variety of voices and experiences.   Lay-led services allow us to share our individual spiritual journeys, experiences and diverse world views — an important part of our rich Unitarian Universalist heritage.  If you might be interested in presenting a service, please complete a proposal, which may be downloaded from our web site at:  //kentuu.org/docs/spc/sunday-proposal-e-form.pdf,   and send it to Lois Weir.

Not sure about how to put together a complete service?  Members of the committee can provide you with the help you need, so don’t be shy!  General information about proposal preparation may be found at //kentuu.org/ministry/sunday-program/.   Still have questions?  Contact Lois.

 

 

Community Within

 

Annual Meeting:  Information Meeting     Thursday, May 30    7:00 PM

                                    Voting Meeting                 Sunday, June 2      12:30 PM

 

The Library committee is working on a brief, online survey of your Library needs and suggestions. It will be posted in the EE-News and the May Chalice. Your response will be most appreciated. We continue to explore ways to serve our congregation more effectively.

Do stop by the Library to see the display of books recommended by Rev. Melissa. These books are available for checkout,and we plan to rotate titles every two weeks.

 

New UU Classes in May
Everything you wanted to know about the Unitarian Universalist Church of Kent in particular and Unitarian Universalism in general, but were afraid to ask.  Well, maybe not everything, but we try to give you an overview, a starting point.  Some history of both, some organizational details. Come join the conversation.  And, if you’re curious about membership, this is the place to be.

Part 1 will be on Sunday, May 12, from 9-11 am. Part 2 will be on Sunday, May 19, from 9-11 am.  You may attend one or both, although attendance at both is encouraged.  Different topics will be covered in each.  We will gather at the Annex, the yellow house next to the church.

If you have any questions, contact Claudia Miller or Marion Yeagler.

 

Art in the Sanctuary

The Middle School Youth have been considering these three central questions in their RE classroom this year:  What is a family?  What does a family do?  Who defines family?   Their Family Photography Project is the culmination of that study.  It includes photographs and the text from interviews with six of our church families.

 

Surprise Friends: please remember, to leave your notes on Sundays May 5 and May 12 and the “big reveal” is May 19!  Make sure you are there for coffee hour to meet your Surprise Friend in person. In the past, Surprise Friends have exchanged small tokens of friendship during the special revealing celebration. Can’t wait to see you there!

 

The Patricia Pownall UU Book Group will be meeting on Tuesday, May 14 at 7 pm in the home of Mary Ann Kasper.   Please bring a non-dessert snack to share. This month we are reading Breakfast with Buddha by Roland Merullo. The only thing certain about a journey is that it has a beginning and an end-for you never know what may happen along the way. And so it is with this journey into the minds and souls of two very different men-one of them in search of the truth, the other a man who may have already found it. Witty and inventive, this book takes readers into the heart of America and in the process shows us a man about to discover his own true heart. In June, we will be reading a biography of your choice. If you have any questions you may contact Bonnie Harper.  All are welcome.

 

 

UU & Interfaith Connections

 

The May Community Dinner will be held on May 18 at Plum Creek State Park at Cherry Street near Mogadore Road in Kent. Kent continues the celebration of our Natural Heritage at the River Day Dinner followed by a program by the KSU Native American Student Assiciation (NASA). There will be a Celebration of Running Water with drumming, dancing and singing around a central fire. The dinner will be 6-8 pm, and the NASA program 8-10 pm. The Crooked River Stompers will provide dinner music. The Portage County Historical Society will provide a teepee. The Fire River Singers will later perform drumming and singing.

Bring food to share to the potluck at 6 pm. Bring a blanket for the ground so that at 8 pm you can find a place around the central fire for the final NASA led event of the day. Questions? Call 330-678-8760.

 

“Mother Wove the Morning” presents an uncensored view of the experiences of women through history, casting light on little taught realities of endurance and triumph that will leave the audience wiser and more appreciative of women’s collective journey. Three actors bring sixteen different women from 20,000 b.c.e. to the present to the stage to share their lives.

Queen Bee’s adaptation of Pearson’s play provides an opportunity to include current events dramatically increasing our investment in these women’s lives and putting them in a global context.

The performance will be held on Thursday, May 9, 2013 at 7:00 pm at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Akron, 3300 Morewood Rd, Fairlawn, OH, (across from Summit Mall.)   $10 suggested donation at the door.  A talk back with the actors will follow the production.  Refreshments will be served. Childcare provided.

We know some of you are perhaps a road trip distance away.  If a group from your church would like to come and arrive early for dinner, give us a call and we can recommend some local eateries.

Don’t hesitate to call if you have questions.

Thank you!  And see you soon!

Linda Ryder, Program Chair, UUWA of UUCA

[email protected]

UUCA church office 330-836-2206

 

Last Call! Urban Notes Fundraiser Concert, May 18

Don’t miss a delightful evening of music in a relaxed coffee house atmosphere.

Our ‘Urban Notes’ fund-raiser has become a popular event with Cleveland area UUs, and this year, we’ll be performing at West Shore UU Church, 20401 Hilliard Blvd., Rocky River.

Our star-studded line-up of performers includes  Mary Grigolia, Marge Adler, Pam Wetula, Barry and Vicky Irvin and April Stoltz.   Refreshments will be served at 6:30 p.m.

The concert begins at 7:00 p.m.   Advance reservations $10.

Contact Anne Osborne at 440-617-9000 or [email protected].

$12 at the door, $5 child, $25 family

 

Outreach and Social Justice

 

Empty Baskets = Empty Stomachs

A gentle reminder and nudge to honor UUCK’s committment to collect non-perishible food items and Acme gift cards for Kent Social Services’ food programs. The two baskets have been a bit empty lately . . . please remember the hungry and food insecure in our community when doing your weekly shopping. Basic everyday food staples are always needed – peanut butter & jelly, tuna, canned fruit & vegetables, macaroni & cheese mix, rice, beans, pasta & spaghetti sauce, cereal, 100% juice and “meal-in-a-can” items or meal mixes.

Let’s fill the baskets and feed some people – one basket is in the ground floor closet next to the elevator and the other is just outside the elevator on the sanctuary level. Acme cards may be purchased and donated at the grocery card sales table in Fessenden Hall between services every Sunday. Large brown paper grocery bags are also an on-going need for the food pantry.

Thank you in advance for your generosity,

Elaine Bowen for the Hunger and Economic Justice Task Group

 

 

Income Generation

 

Tupperware Fundraiser

The Tupperware fundraiser which began on Sunday, May 5 will remain open for 2 or 3 weeks so make sure you get a new catalog and start showing it around to family, friends, neighbors and coworkers. People love Tupperware and it really keeps your food fresh and reduces waste.  Good for your pocket and the environment.

A link on the website will be up soon and I will have a link to an online party if you want to buy online and have it shipped directly to you or someone else.  Call or email me for the online party link.

Meg Milko, Fundraising Chair

 

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Weekly e-nUUs, April 24, 2013

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Attention All Leaders and Committee Chairs

All Annual Reports to be included in the Annual Meeting packet are due May 1, 2013. Please submit or email reports to MaryBeth at [email protected]. Annual Meeting packets will be available to the congregation on May 15. The Annual Congregational Information Meeting is scheduled for May 30 @ 7 PM and the Voting Meeting will be held on June 2 @ 12:30 PM.

 

Worship & Music

 

Services are held on Sunday mornings at 10:00 and 11:30.

 

Sunday, April 28     Does Life Long Learning Have to Be ALL My Life?

Led by the Rev. Elaine Strawn and Worship Associate Bonnie Harper –  Continuing Education requirements never end…neither does spiritual development. We will try to integrate psychological and spiritual ideas to understand where we are in the scope of things. Rev. Elaine Strawn is the minister of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Wayne County. Along with Melissa, she is participating in a three congregation pulpit swap this morning. Melissa will be leading services at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Meadville, PA.

 

Can You Share Spring Flowers?

Now that the flowers are blooming again, perhaps you might consider sharing some on Sunday morning.  If you have some flowers growing in your yard you would be willing to bring for a Sunday morning service, please sign up on the flower sign-up sheet in Fessenden Hall.  In addition, the offer always stands to make a contribution and have the church provide flowers on your behalf.  If it is easier, you are welcome to call or email the church office to make arrangements for bringing or purchasing flowers.  Thank you for helping to add beauty to our Sunday mornings!

 

Cuyahoga River Concert Series: Steve Gillette and Cindy Mangsen

April 26   8 PM

Unitarian Universalist Church of Kent

Tickets are $10.00 at the Door

Steve and Cindy and their partnership Compass Rose Music represent the very best in contemporary and traditional folk music.   http://www.compassrosemusic.com/

 

Lifespan Learning

 

Theological Meet-Up, Part ll

This Sunday, April 28, another opportunity will be offered to make theological connections.  At the pancake breakfast following each service, tables will be marked with the theological labels from the spring 2012 congregational survey.  All are welcome to sit and chat about theology with others at the tables, even if you’re not indulging in the pancake meal.   It’s informal, so feel free to visit multiple tables.

 

Building Your Own Theology 1 (BYOT)

BYOT is an adult religious exploration class of 10 sessions that guides and encourages to the participants to explore and define their individual belief systems related to religion and spirituality. Classes are 2 to 2 1/2 hours long and will be facilitated by Elaine Bowen, a BYOT veteran of 3 previous sessions. What’s involved? 1) a commitment to attendance (at least 7 – 8 of the 10 sessions) and participation and 2) the willingness to work toward the drafting of your personal credo, a statement of belief(s).

Classes will be held on the following Thursday evenings: May 9 – 16 – 23 – 30, June 6 – 13 – 27 (no 20th due to General Assembly), July 11 & 25 (no 4th for the holiday or 18th due to Summer Institute) and the final session, a sharing of credos with a potluck dinner on August 1. We will begin promptly at 7:00 pm in either Fessenden Hall or the Annex (I do not have reservations made yet) and will try to wrap up by 9:15 pm.   There is some “homework” – primarily reading (and thinking); journaling is recommended. During class, there is discussion, activities and personal sharing (we can skip the role playing if you want to!)

A BYOT 1 workbook is necessary; there are a few available for check-out from the church library (do not write in them!) but it is suggested that each participant purchase one from the UUA online bookstore. If that is a financial hardship, please see me and we will work something out.

For the class to work as it is intended, a minimum of 6 people is needed and a maximum of 12 can be accommodated. Please contact me, Elaine Bowen, with any questions and to sign up by no later than May 5th. If there is not enough interest, this offering will be cancelled.

 

 

Community Within

 

New UU Classes in May
Everything you wanted to know about the Unitarian Universalist Church of Kent in particular and Unitarian Universalism in general, but were afraid to ask.  Well, maybe not everything, but we try to give you an overview, a starting point.  Some history of both, some organizational details. Come join the conversation.  And, if you’re curious about membership, this is the place to be.

Part 1 will be on Sunday, May 12, from 9-11 am. Part 2 will be on Sunday, May 19, from 9-11 am.  You may attend one or both, although attendance at both is encouraged.  Different topics will be covered in each.  We will gather at the Annex, the yellow house next to the church.

If you have any questions, contact Claudia Miller or Marion Yeagler.

 

The Patricia Pownall UU Book Group will be meeting on Tuesday, May 14 at 7 pm in the home of Mary Ann Kasper.   Please bring a non-dessert snack to share. This month we are reading Breakfast with Buddha by Roland Merullo. The only thing certain about a journey is that it has a beginning and an end-for you never know what may happen along the way. And so it is with this journey into the minds and souls of two very different men-one of them in search of the truth, the other a man who may have already found it. Witty and inventive, this book takes readers into the heart of America and in the process shows us a man about to discover his own true heart. In June, we will be reading a biography of your choice. If you have any questions you may contact Bonnie Harper.  All are welcome.

 

Art in the Sanctuary

Jan Noden’s artwork consisting of her many recently created collages, watercolors, and monotypes will be on display this month. She is a signature member of the Ohio Watercolor Society and the National Collage Society.

 

The Sanctuary Carpeting Has Been Newly Steam Cleaned . . .

and we would like to keep it clean!  This most recent cleaning revealed a fair amount of spilled beverages and ground in food.  To preserve the carpeting (and the pew cushions) as long as possible, we request that you do not bring food or beverages except water into the sanctuary.  Thank you!

 

Supporting Our Loved Ones Living With Memory Loss

Please join us for a discussion of memory loss, an introduction to the different kinds of dementia and how it effects the brain, and how we can support and care for the people in our life who have memory loss. The workshop is presented by Rev. Katie Norris and sponsored by our Care Team. Rev. Katie is a caregiver for her mother who was diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia seven years ago. Through this experience and her work as the Executive Director the Carolyn L. Farrell Foundation for Brain Health (farrellfoundation.com), she has been helping to raise awareness about dementia and help communities and families communicate and care for their loved ones with memory loss. We will engage in discussion, discover local resources, and even try a few dementia-friendly activities.

This event will take place on Sunday, May 5 from 1 to 3 pm.  A light lunch will be offered immediately following the second service in Fessenden Hall.  Please RSVP to the church office so that we can be sure to have enough food available.  This event is open to the public so please feel free to invite family and friends to join us.

 

Surprise Friends: please remember, to leave your notes Sundays April 21 through May 12 and the “big reveal” is May 19!  Make sure you are there for coffee hour to meet your Surprise Friend in person. In the past, Surprise Friends have exchanged small tokens of friendship during the special revealing celebration. Can’t wait to see you there!

 

UU & Interfaith Connections

 

“Love and Help” Boy Scout Program

Have you noticed the scouts in uniform among us on recent Sunday mornings?  We are offering a 5-week program for Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts who are working to achieve the “Love and Help” emblem.  Daniel Flippo, Eliot Flippo and Lucas Pierre are joining Karen Lapidus and Dan Flippo to complete the requirements of the program.  Each scout completes a workbook which leads them on a discovery of levels of responsibility to themselves, their family, their friends, their church and ultimately to the greater community.  Their service project will be to clean up the grounds around the Annex.  The emblems will be awarded during the RE Sunday worship service on June 2nd.

 

District Assembly convening in Niagara Falls April 26-27
This year our Ohio-Meadville District, in a historic move, is having a joint District Assembly with St Lawrence District.  And the Rev Peter Morales, President of the Unitarian Universalist Association,  is the keynote speaker!  This promises to be an energizing event not to be missed!  Deadlines are fast upon us.  Some partial scholarships are available, and must be applied for by March 29.  If you would like more information about workshops and timelines, please go to https://www.uua.org/central-east/events .  You may also contact Marion Yeagler, Ohio-Meadville District Board of Trustees.

 

Outreach and Social Justice

 

We are convening a meeting of the Social Justice Group’s Human Rights Committee.  This will include areas of focus that will include Immigration, Race, LGBTQ rights, and Women’s Rights.  The opportunity to provide advocacy, empowerment, education and understanding and transformation in these areas will be the energy driving this committee.  In the arena of Immigration we, as UUs, have a history of affirming human diversity, advocating to break down barriers and challenging human rights abuses.  The committee focusing on Race has the ability to challenge racism and oppression and  to advocate for racial justice by being inclusive of all races and cultural backgrounds.  The LBGTQ group will promote acceptance, inclusion, understanding and advocacy opportunities for interested committee members and the Women’s Rights committee will reflect the UU principle of recognizing the inherent worth and dignity of every person as we protect and affirm the lives of women.

Your energy and ideas as we work to develop and envision the process and focus of these groups will be welcomed and embraced.  We look forward to seeing you on Thursday, April 25th as we continue the legacy of social justice espoused by this community and congregation.

 

Hunger and Economic Justice Task Group Update

Sincere thanks and gratitude to our generous and be-loved community for the phenomenal collection for the Akron-Canton Regional Food Bank on Easter Sunday. We donated $887.25 which funds 3,549 meals for the hungry and food insecure in an 8 county service area. Thank you for sharing the love. And . . . for your support of the KSU Campus Ministers’ “April Showers” collection of personal hygiene products for shower kits for the homeless. In a 2 week period, you showed your faith in action through toothbrushes, shampoo, soap, washcloths and a variety of other goods. Well done, UUCK, well done!

The task group is looking for a volunteer leader and a dedicated small cadre of folks to work a monthly (or twice monthly) two hour shift at the County Clothing Center on Rte. 59 in Ravenna. We are trying to revive our efforts to be a volunteer presence in helping sort & fold clothes & assist clients. Plastic grocery bags are always needed and can be dropped off in the closet next to the elevator on the lower level of the church.

Do you enjoy meal planning and cooking??? Would you like to be one of 7 or 8 people to prepare and serve a Sun-day evening meal for clients of KSS? I’m trying to gauge interest in this activity and would like for you to let me know. It is a volunteer opportunity that you can try once and you’re not locked in to doing it again.

I’d like to hear from you if you would like to work on small projects for the hungry and poor of the community. I know you have ideas . . . please contact Elaine Bowen.

 

Want to save our Earth?  Join us for the Environmental Justice meeting on Tuesday April 30th, 7-9pm in Fessenden Hall!  We’ll discuss environmental special collections, project priorities for the year, and the Green Sanctuary program.  Contact Andrew Rome with questions.

 

Income Generation

 

Annual UUCK Book Sale Transformed

The Annual UUCK Book Sale has been transformed into the UUCK BookBook Sale!  In addition to our usual collection of great reads, a Tupperware book party will be concurrently held in the Sanctuary. But wait . . . THERE’S MORE!  We will also be hosting a bake sale and a lunch counter. Books, food and Tupperware; how could it possibly be better? The UUCK BookBook Sale will take place on Saturday, May 4 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Be there and be transformed!

The things I want to know are in books; my best friend is the man who’ll get me a book I ain’t read.  –  Abraham Lincoln

I’ve had so much plastic surgery, when I die they will donate my body to Tupperware. – Joan Rivers

 

A DIFFERENT WAY TO BUY STUFF:

At the grocery card table, someone pointed out that Giant Eagle sells all kinds of gift cards for other establishments, including theaters, restaurants, department stores, hardware stores etc…dozens if not hundreds of stores. I checked into this, and Giant Eagle gift cards purchased at the church can used for any of these cards. You still get the fuel perks too! They even have a “Parent-Student” card for your college student: just buy a gift card at the church, and use it to purchase or re-load the student’s card with money at Giant Eagle. Their general rule is: “Use a Giant Eagle gift card in the Giant Eagle store, just like cash”. Our thought is: “Don’t spend cash at Giant Eagle or Acme, buy a gift card from the church, its like donating 5% of the card value to the church, but it costs you nothing”. Contact Bob Erdman if any questions, or other great ideas!

 

Spring Forth With the Giving of Books. 

The time of year has come once more when Robins sing in the rain, the flowers poke their heads up from the warming earth and books appear as if by magic in Fessenden Hall. Yea, the  Annual UUCK Book Sale is nigh, riding in on the southern winds, returning with the geese who had flown south but two short seasons ago. As you perform the ancient ritual of Spring cleaning, please set aside all your gently used books, DVDs, and CDs to donate to the Annual UUCK Book Sale. Just leave them in the designated space in Fessenden Hall through April 30 and the book sprites will whisk them away, only to be returned on that foretold day, May 4, where they will take their honored place in supporting the growth and well-being of the UUCK. In addition we will be hosting a bake sale table as well. Please consider contributing your favorite home baked cookies, brownies, muffins and other goodies. You may drop them off in the kitchen on Friday May 3rd or Saturday May 4th. Please label them “Book Sale” so we know they are intended for that purpose. Thank you in advance for your generous, heartfelt donations.

Spring—an experience in immortality. -Henry D. Thoreau

Anyone who says they have only one life to live must not know how to read a book. –Author Unknown

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Weekly e-nUUs – April 17, 2013

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Worship & Music

 

Services are held on Sunday mornings at 10:00 and 11:30.

 

Sunday, April 21     Growing Greener

Led by the Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Worship Associate Mary Lou Holly

Join us for our annual celebration of Earth Day! This year we will lift up a few of the many ways individuals and communities are exploring to grow greener lives and a greener planet.

 

Did you love the Zeng Quartet?  Well then you’re in for another treat!

Andrea Beltran Landers is a cellist from Peru who is currently pursuing a master’s degree in performance at Kent State University.  She will be offering a free concert on Sunday, April 21 at 7:00 PM in our Sanctuary.  Free will offerings in support of our UUCK Music Committee will be gratefully accepted.  Spread the word!

 

Can You Share Spring Flowers?

Now that the flowers are blooming again, perhaps you might consider sharing some on Sunday morning.  If you have some flowers growing in your yard you would be willing to bring for a Sunday morning service, please sign up on the flower sign-up sheet in Fessenden Hall.  In addition, the offer always stands to make a contribution and have the church provide flowers on your behalf.  If it is easier, you are welcome to call or email the church office to make arrangements for bringing or purchasing flowers.  Thank you for helping to add beauty to our Sunday mornings!

 

 

Cuyahoga River Concert Series: Steve Gillette and Cindy Mangsen

April 26   8 PM

Unitarian Universalist Church of Kent

Tickets are $10.00 at the Door

Steve and Cindy and their partnership Compass Rose Music represent the very best in contemporary and traditional folk music.   http://www.compassrosemusic.com/

 

CD Subscription for Sunday Services?

Thanks to volunteer extraordinaire Brad Bolton, much of each Sunday’s service is podcast on our website.  Many people who are unable to make it to church use the podcast as a way of catching the services they missed.  People who are thinking about checking out the church often listen to services before they come and some folks forward links to friends or family who they think might be interested in a particular sermon.  Due to the restrictions of copyright law, only the original parts of each service are included in the podcast.  However, Brad records the entirety of the service and is willing to turn those recordings into cds if there are people who might be interested in receiving a weekly subscription.  So long as we are mailing cds to people who are members or friends of the church, we can share the whole service without violating copyright law.  We are thinking this option might be appealing to folks who do not make it to church regularly and who either do not have a computer or are not comfortable with the technology required to listen to podcasts.   We would like to know if such a service would be useful.  If you would be interested in being mailed a cd of the Sunday service each week, please call or send a note to the church office.

 

 

Community Within

 

Attention All Leaders and Committee Chairs

All Annual Reports to be included in the Annual Meeting packet are due May 1, 2013. Please submit or email reports to MaryBeth at [email protected]. Annual Meeting packets will be available to the congregation on

May 15. The Annual Congregational Information Meeting is scheduled for May 30 @ 7 PM and the Voting Meeting will be held on June 2 @ 12:30 PM.

 

Interested in Being Part of a Men’s Group

On April 21 at 1:00 pm in the Annex, Max Grubb will lead a group for men who are interested in the possibility of participating in a men’s group at the church.  Several years ago we had an active men’s group that eventually disbanded for a variety of reasons. It seems at least one of those reasons was a lack of a clear sense of purpose for the group.  One of the goals of this initial meeting, in addition to finding out how many people might be interested, is also to find out what kind of men’s group people might be interested in joining.

Max has been a part of a men’s group for over 20 years and has lots of experience with different forms and styles of men’s groups.  He is happy to share that experience with our church and is looking forward to exploring what kind of men’s group might work well here.  Please RSVP to Max  if you plan to attend.

 

Art in the Sanctuary

Jan Noden’s artwork consisting of her many recently created collages, watercolors, and monotypes will be on display this month. She is a signature member of the Ohio Watercolor Society and the National Collage Society.

 

The Sanctuary Carpeting Has Been Newly Steam Cleaned . . .

and we would like to keep it clean!  This most recent cleaning revealed a fair amount of spilled beverages and ground in food.  To preserve the carpeting (and the pew cushions) as long as possible, we request that you do not bring food or beverages except water into the sanctuary.  Thank you!

 

Supporting Our Loved Ones Living With Memory Loss

Please join us for a discussion of memory loss, an introduction to the different kinds of dementia and how it effects the brain, and how we can support and care for the people in our life who have memory loss. The workshop is presented by Rev. Katie Norris and sponsored by our Care Team. Rev. Katie is a caregiver for her mother who was diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia seven years ago. Through this experience and her work as the Executive Director the Carolyn L. Farrell Foundation for Brain Health (farrellfoundation.com), she has been helping to raise awareness about dementia and help communities and families communicate and care for their loved ones with memory loss. We will engage in discussion, discover local resources, and even try a few dementia-friendly activities.

This event will take place on Sunday, May 5 from 1 to 3 pm.  A light lunch will be offered immediately following the second service in Fessenden Hall.  Please RSVP to the church office so that we can be sure to have enough food available.  This event is open to the public so please feel free to invite family and friends to join us.

 

Surprise Friends: please remember, to leave your notes Sundays April 21 through May 12 and the “big reveal” is May 19!  Make sure you are there for coffee hour to meet your Surprise Friend in person. In the past, Surprise Friends have exchanged small tokens of friendship during the special revealing celebration. Can’t wait to see you there!

 

Electronic Giving Now Live!

We are excited to announce that after many months of research and planning, we are now able to accept financial contributions on our website.  We are using PayPal in order to provide this service which will allow you to decide the frequency of your giving and also enable you to direct your gift to a particular program or ministry.  Find the yellow Donate Now buttons on left side of each page.  Many thanks to Dan Flippo for his help in setting up this service!

 

ONE MORE CHANCE

To see “Your Basic Treasure Chest of Humor”, in case you missed the April 5th performance.  DVDs of the entire performance will be available for anyone wishing to have one, for the modest price of $5.00; all benefits, of course, going to the church.  If you are interested in receiving one (or more), please enter your name on the signup sheet, which will be available at Coffee Hour this morning.

                                     Thank you, Ted Voneida

 

UU & Interfaith Connections

 

The April Kent Community Dinner will be held on April 20 at 5:30 pm at the Islamic Community Center at 152 East Steels Corners Road in Cuyahoga Falls.  The Islamic Society of Akron and Kent invites the people of Kent over to get to know them.  Reservations are required.  Call 330-922-9991. Speakers will include Mr. Haleem Najeeullah of the Board of Directors of  the Islamic Society with a keynote address by Dr. Kara Ellis Skora of the Department of Religious Studies of the College of Wooster.

It is a dress affair.  Modest attire is a must in this group. Bring a dessert (no gelatin, lard or pork). Transportation is available. Meet at 4:45 pm behind the United Church of Christ.  Questions?  Call 330-678-8760.

 

District Assembly convening in Niagara Falls April 26-27
This year our Ohio-Meadville District, in a historic move, is having a joint District Assembly with St Lawrence District.  And the Rev Peter Morales, President of the Unitarian Universalist Association,  is the keynote speaker!  This promises to be an energizing event not to be missed!  Deadlines are fast upon us.  Some partial scholarships are available, and must be applied for by March 29.  If you would like more information about workshops and timelines, please go to https://www.uua.org/central-east/events .  You may also contact Marion Yeagler, Ohio-Meadville District Board of Trustees.

 

Outreach and Social Justice

 

UUs to Consider Fracking

If you haven’t registered yet, be sure to do so for the Ohio Meadville-Saint Lawrence Joint District Assembly to be held in Niagara Falls, NY on April 26-27.    www.ohiomeadville.org/districtassembly/deregistration

 

Annual Garlic Mustard Pull
Join us on Saturday, April 20th from 9am-11am pull invasive Garlic Mustard from the parks along the river. This weed chokes out native species and must be pulled before the prolific seed heads open. Afterward, saunter downtown for the Who’s Your Mama? Earth Day festival, knowing you’ve done your part. Meet in the church parking lot across the street and ask Andrew Rome for more information.

 

Income Generation

 

A DIFFERENT WAY TO BUY STUFF:

At the grocery card table, someone pointed out that Giant Eagle sells all kinds of gift cards for other establishments, including theaters, restaurants, department stores, hardware stores etc…dozens if not hundreds of stores. I checked into this, and Giant Eagle gift cards purchased at the church can used for any of these cards. You still get the fuel perks too! They even have a “Parent-Student” card for your college student: just buy a gift card at the church, and use it to purchase or re-load the student’s card with money at Giant Eagle. Their general rule is: “Use a Giant Eagle gift card in the Giant Eagle store, just like cash”. Our thought is: “Don’t spend cash at Giant Eagle or Acme, buy a gift card from the church, it’s like donating 5% of the card value to the church, but it costs you nothing”. Contact Bob Erdman  if any questions, or other great ideas!

 

Spring Forth With the Giving of Books. 

The time of year has come once more when Robins sing in the rain, the flowers poke their heads up from the warming earth and books appear as if by magic in Fessenden Hall. Yea, the  Annual UUCK Book Sale is nigh, riding in on the southern winds, returning with the geese who had flown south but two short seasons ago. As you perform the ancient ritual of Spring cleaning, please set aside all your gently used books, DVDs, and CDs to donate to the Annual UUCK Book Sale. Just leave them in the designated space in Fessenden Hall through April 30 and the book sprites will whisk them away, only to be returned on that foretold day, May 4, where they will take their honored place in supporting the growth and well-being of the UUCK. In addition we will be hosting a bake sale table as well. Please consider contributing your favorite home baked cookies, brownies, muffins and other goodies. You may drop them off in the kitchen on Friday May 3rd or Saturday May 4th. Please label them “Book Sale” so we know they are intended for that purpose. Thank you in advance for your generous, heartfelt donations.

Spring—an experience in immortality. -Henry D. Thoreau

Anyone who says they have only one life to live must not know how to read a book. –Author Unknown

 

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Weekly e-nUUs, April 10, 2013

enUUs_newlogo 12.2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Worship & Music

 

Services are held on Sunday mornings at 10:00 and 11:30.

 

Sunday, April 14      “Like” this Service

Led by the Rev. Melissa Carvill-Ziemer and Worship Associate Max Grubb

A colleague recently asked me whether I have ever used the teleprompter app on an iPad when preaching my sermons.  I didn’t even know a teleprompter app existed! There are so many technologies being devised to help us work, learn, connect and play better and more efficiently. How do we decide when technological developments can help and when they might actually hinder our growth?

 

Bring your phone, tablet or laptop with you to church on April 14 (but don’t worry if you don’t have one or don’t want to bring it with you – you won’t be excluded!)

Our April 14 service will be exploring the ways in which technology generally and social media in particular can help and/or hinder our spiritual growth.  We hope the service will be interactive and would like to invite you to bring your phone, tablet or laptop with you to church that day.  We will be inviting you to post responses to questions we raise in the service on either Facebook or Twitter and those responses will be projected so that they are visible to everyone in attendance.  In order to make this as accessible as possible, we will have both sites up at the same time.  If you do not have a smart phone, tablet or laptop that would allow you to post to Facebook during the service, you can post to Twitter with any phone that has texting capacity.  To sign up for a Twitter account go to https://twitter.com/signup

 

Did you love the Zeng Quartet?  Well then you’re in for another treat!

Andrea Beltran Landers is a cellist from Peru who is currently pursuing a master’s degree in performance at Kent State University.  She will be offering a free concert on Sunday, April 21 at 7:00 PM in our Sanctuary.  Free will offerings in support of our UUCK Music Committee will be gratefully accepted.  Spread the word!

 

CD Subscription for Sunday Services?

Thanks to volunteer extraordinaire Brad Bolton, much of each Sunday’s service is podcast on our website.  Many people who are unable to make it to church use the podcast as a way of catching the services they missed.  People who are thinking about checking out the church often listen to services before they come and some folks forward links to friends or family who they think might be interested in a particular sermon.  Due to the restrictions of copyright law, only the original parts of each service are included in the podcast.  However, Brad records the entirety of the service and is willing to turn those recordings into cds if there are people who might be interested in receiving a weekly subscription.  So long as we are mailing cds to people who are members or friends of the church, we can share the whole service without violating copyright law.  We are thinking this option might be appealing to folks who do not make it to church regularly and who either do not have a computer or are not comfortable with the technology required to listen to podcasts.   We would like to know if such a service would be useful.  If you would be interested in being mailed a cd of the Sunday service each week, please call or send a note to the church office.

 

Lifespan Learning

 

Spiritual Cinema has been rescheduled! 

Please join us for Spiritual Cinema this Friday, April 12 at 7:00 PM. We will watch the motion picture, “The Da Vinci Code” (2006). The movie is 174 minutes and will be followed by a short discussion of some of the topics raised by the movie. This month we will be screening the movie in Dan Flippo’s home.   Please RSVP to Dan at [email protected].

Comments by Dan

Since it is Easter, I thought it would be interesting to watch a movie that brings up many controversial questions about Jesus Christ.  For two thousand years there has been a debate over whether Jesus Christ was a man, god, or both.  Originally, the term “Unitarian” was intended to be an insult of American liberal ministers who questioned the holy trinity concept of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.  Famously Thomas Jefferson created his own version of the Gospels in that time period eliminating all miracles and ending at the crucifixion   While I am aware of the creative license that Dan Brown used while writing the Da Vinci Code, I believe it is very effective at raising questions about how much of the gospels is based on historical events and whether it is possible that there are living descendants of Jesus.  Ours is a faith that welcomes these questions and I hope you will join me in a discussion of the historical Jesus after the movie.

 

Community Within

 

Church Directory Complete!

We thank everyone for updating their information and reviewing the draft of our new Church Picture Directory.  Please see the attached file for our now complete Church Directory.    Updated directories will be sent our approximately every 6 months from here forward.  We also would like to extend our appreciation to the members of the Membership Committee for undertaking this arduous task – thank you!

 

Electronic Giving Now Live!

We are excited to announce that after many months of research and planning, we are now able to accept financial contributions on our website.  We are using PayPal in order to provide this service which will allow you to decide the frequency of your giving and also enable you to direct your gift to a particular program or ministry.  Find the yellow Donate Now buttons on left side of each page.  Many thanks to Dan Flippo for his help in setting up this service!

 

ONE MORE CHANCE

To see “Your Basic Treasure Chest of Humor”, in case you missed the April 5th performance.  DVDs of the entire performance will be available for anyone wishing to have one, for the modest price of $5.00; all benefits, of course, going to the church.  If you are interested in receiving one (or more), please enter your name on the signup sheet, which will be available at Coffee Hour this morning.     Thank you, Ted Voneida

Surprise Friends: please remember, to leave your notes Sundays April 21 through May 12 and the “big reveal” is May 19!  Make sure you are there for coffee hour to meet your Surprise Friend in person. In the past, Surprise Friends have exchanged small tokens of friendship during the special revealing celebration. Can’t wait to see you there!

 

UU & Interfaith Connections

 

The April Kent Community Dinner will be held on April 20 at 5:30 pm at the Islamic Community Center at 152 East Steels Corners Road in Cuyahoga Falls.  The Islamic Society of Akron and Kent invites the people of Kent over to get to know them.  Reservations are required.  Call 330-922-9991. Speakers will include Mr. Haleem Najeeullah of the Board of Directors of  the Islamic Society with a keynote address by Dr. Kara Ellis Skora of the Department of Religious Studies of the College of Wooster.

It is a dress affair.  Modest attire is a must in this group. Bring a dessert (no gelatin, lard or pork). Transportation is available. Meet at 4:45 pm behind the United Church of Christ.  Questions?  Call 330-678-8760.

 

District Assembly convening in Niagara Falls April 26-27
This year our Ohio-Meadville District, in a historic move, is having a joint District Assembly with St Lawrence District.  And the Rev Peter Morales, President of the Unitarian Universalist Association,  is the keynote speaker!  This promises to be an energizing event not to be missed!  Deadlines are fast upon us.  Some partial scholarships are available, and must be applied for by March 29.  If you would like more information about workshops and timelines, please go to https://www.uua.org/central-east/events .  You may also contact Marion Yeagler, Ohio-Meadville District Board of Trustees.

 

Outreach and Social Justice

 

UUs to Consider Fracking

If you haven’t registered yet, be sure to do so for the Ohio Meadville-Saint Lawrence Joint District Assembly to be held in Niagara Falls, NY on April 26-27.    www.ohiomeadville.org/districtassembly/deregistration

 

Annual Garlic Mustard Pull
Join us on Saturday, April 20th from 9am-11am pull invasive Garlic Mustard from the parks along the river. This weed chokes out native species and must be pulled before the prolific seed heads open. Afterward, saunter downtown for the Who’s Your Mama? Earth Day festival, knowing you’ve done your part. Meet in the church parking lot across the street and ask Andrew Rome for more information.

 

Thanks to all who donated items for the April Showers outreach project.  Rev. Melissa dropped off and car-load of toiletries donated by you!  We know the generosity of the folks here at UU Church of Kent will be very much appreciated!

 

Income Generation

 

Another successful slice of the PIE!!
Thank you SO much to everyone who helped to make the 2014 Stewardship campaign another success!   Because we came in above last year’s total, we will be able to add some of the programming that we hoped to.  If we can get the six or seven pledges that we are still short, we will be able to do even more.  It’s not too late;  the Finance Committee is meeting on Sunday, the 14th, to set the budget.  You may call the office with your pledge, 330-673-4247, or send it via email, [email protected].  We will report the final numbers next week.  And thank you again to everyone who made a financial commitment!

 

Wanna buy a bunch of cards?  OK!

We sell gift cards for Giant Eagle and Acme stores every Sunday at coffee hour.  This helps the church since we receive 5% of the value of the cards sold, and is convenient for the buyers, since they pay for the face value of the card and use it like a debit card. We rarely run out, but some people occasionally are disappointed when they want buy several hundred dollars’ worth of cards and we only have a few hundred available left to sell. In order to address this issue, we now will guarantee that we have any amount $500 or more available for you on a given Sunday if you email me the previous Sunday or earlier (please allow a minimum of 7 days). Sometimes we have them available in any case–if we have them, we’ll sell them to you. But if you want to be sure, email me and we will arrange to have them reserved for you the following Sunday.

Thanks for buying gift cards through the church rather than using cash at Acme and Giant Eagle stores.

Bob Erdman, Grocery Card Coordinator.

 

Spring Forth With the Giving of Books. 

The time of year has come once more when Robins sing in the rain, the flowers poke their heads up from the warming earth and books appear as if by magic in Fessenden Hall. Yea, the  Annual UUCK Book Sale is nigh, riding in on the southern winds, returning with the geese who had flown south but two short seasons ago. As you perform the ancient ritual of Spring cleaning, please set aside all your gently used books, DVDs, and CDs to donate to the Annual UUCK Book Sale. Just leave them in the designated space in Fessenden Hall between the dates of April 14 and 30 and the book sprites will whisk them away, only to be returned on that foretold day, May 4, where they will take their honored place in supporting the growth and well being of the UUCK. In addition we will be hosting a bake sale table as well. Please consider contributing your favorite home baked cookies, brownies, muffins and other goodies. You may drop them off in the kitchen on Friday May 3rd or Saturday May 4th. Please label them “Book Sale” so we know they are intended for that purpose. Thank you in advance for your generous, heartfelt donations.

Spring—an experience in immortality. -Henry D. Thoreau

Anyone who says they have only one life to live must not know how to read a book. –Author Unknown

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Weekly e-nUUs, April 3, 2013

enUUs_newlogo 12.2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Worship & Music

 

Services are held on Sunday mornings at 10:00 and 11:30.

 

Sunday, April 7      Youth Sunday Change and Growth as Young Unitarian Universalists

Led by the Youth Through music, readings, ritual and individual reflection, our high school youth will offer the congregation a window into what it means to grow up UU. Join us for this beloved annual worship experience. See p. 4 for comments about Youth Sunday from Karen Lapidus.

 

Did you love the Zeng Quartet?  Well then you’re in for another treat!

Andrea Beltran Landers is a cellist from Peru is currently pursuing a master’s degree in performance at Kent State University.  She will be offering a free concert on Sunday, April 21 at 7:00 PM in our Sanctuary.  Free will offerings in support of our UUCK Music Committee will be gratefully accepted.  Spread the word!

 

CD Subscription for Sunday Services?

Thanks to volunteer extraordinaire Brad Bolton, much of each Sunday’s service is podcast on our website.  Many people who are unable to make it to church use the podcast as a way of catching the services they missed.  People who are thinking about checking out the church often listen to services before they come and some folks forward links to friends or family who they think might be interested in a particular sermon.  Due to the restrictions of copyright law, only the original parts of each service are included in the podcast.  However, Brad records the entirety of the service and is willing to turn those recordings into cds if there are people who might be interested in receiving a weekly subscription.  So long as we are mailing cds to people who are members or friends of the church, we can share the whole service without violating copyright law.  We are thinking this option might be appealing to folks who do not make it to church regularly and who either do not have a computer or are not comfortable with the technology required to listen to podcasts.   We would like to know if such a service would be useful.  If you would be interested in being mailed a cd of the Sunday service each week, please call or send a note to the church office.

 

Lifespan Learning

 

Please join us for Spiritual Cinema this Friday, April 5 at 7:00 PM. We will watch the motion picture, “The Da Vinci Code” (2006). The movie is 174 minutes and will be followed by a short discussion of some of the topics raised by the movie. This month we will be screening the movie in Dan Flippo’s home, 2650 Easthaven Drive, Hudson OH 44236Please RSVP to Dan at [email protected].

Comments by Dan –

Since it is Easter, I thought it would be interesting to watch a movie that brings up many controversial questions about Jesus Christ.  For two thousand years there has been a debate over whether Jesus Christ was a man, god, or both.  Originally, the term “Unitarian” was intended to be an insult of American liberal ministers who questioned the holy trinity concept of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.  Famously Thomas Jefferson created his own version of the Gospels in that time period eliminating all miracles and ending at the crucifixion   While I am aware of the creative license that Dan Brown used while writing the Da Vinci Code, I believe it is very effective at raising questions about how much of the gospels is based on historical events and whether it is possible that there are living descendants of Jesus.  Ours is a faith that welcomes these questions and I hope you will join me in a discussion of the historical Jesus after the movie.

 

On Sunday, April 7 you are invited to join us for TED and pizza after the second service in Fessenden Hall.   We will be screening the talk What Makes Life Meaningful by Michael Steger.  Steger is an Associate Professor of Psychology at Colorado State University. He has spent more than a decade researching people’s ability to find meaning in their lives and the benefits of living a meaningful life. In his talk, he asks the question “What Makes Life Meaningful?” and will share what psychological science can tell us about the answer. He is the co-editor of ‘Designing Positive Psychology’ and the forthcoming ‘Purpose and Meaning in the Workplace.’  If you plan to attend and would like pizza, please send a quick email to the church office so that we can be sure to order enough.  If you’d rather, you are also welcome to bring your own lunch.

Joel Slater has been the driving force behind our monthly TED talks this year and he is ready to take a break from this role in order to pursue some new ideas he has brewing.  Many thanks to Joel for all his good work!  If you have enjoyed this series and would like to step up lead it in the future, please let Rev. Melissa know.

 

Community Within

 

Electronic Giving Now Live!

We are excited to announce that after many months of research and planning, we are now able to accept financial contributions on our website.  We are using PayPal in order to provide this service which will allow you to decide the frequency of your giving and also enable you to direct your gift to a particular program or ministry.  Find the yellow Donate Now buttons on left side of each page.  Many thanks to Dan Flippo for his help in setting up this service!

 

Please be aware of the revised time!

Your Basic Treasure Chest of Humor” presented by Ted Voneida and Cast 

Friday, April 5, 2012   7:30 PM

 

An Afternoon of Card?Making – Saturday, April 6, 2013

Come spend an afternoon making cards with friends, NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY. Michelle Bores will lead you in the making of 6 different cards, 2 of each card and a note pad with cover. Michelle will supply all of the cards, envelopes, paper, double sided tape & any other items needed. She will also bring the ideas, patterns, instructions, Stamps, ink pads, paper cutter & Sizzix die cutting machine. If you have scissors, pencil and a ruler, please bring them. If you have any other “tools” and would not mind sharing, please let her know. Some examples of the cards we will make are birthday, anniversary, thank you, blank note cards, etc… This event is family-friendly, for adults and kids in 5th grade or older.   This is a service auction event, please call Michelle if you would like to attend.

Date: April 6, 2013

Time: 1 – 4 pm

Location: Fessenden Hall

20 seats offered – 10 left

 

Surprise — it’s that time of year again!

Want to make a new friend in the church? Looking for a way to celebrate spring? Here is your chance! You are all invited to participate in this fun, intergenerational activity of friendship and caring! We will have a sign up table outside of the sanctuary Sunday, April 7. Participating adults will be matched with children in the congregation on April 14 and encouraged to exchange notes and artwork on Sundays, April 21 through May 12.  Adults will remain anonymous until the “big reveal” on May 19. Sign-up forms will be available until April 7.

 

The Patricia Pownall UU Book Group will be meeting on Tuesday, April 9 at 7 pm in the home of Kathie Slater.  Please bring a non-dessert snack to share. This month we are reading The Book Thief by Markus Zusak  (young adult fiction, 2006). It is 1939 Germany. The country is holding its breath. Death has never been busier and it will become busier still. By her brother’s graveside, Liesel Meminger’s life is changed when she picks up a single object, partially hidden by the snow. It is The Grave Digger’s Handbook, left there by accident and it is her first act of book thievery. So begins a love affair with books and words, as Liesel, with the help of her accordion-playing foster father, learns to read. Soon she is stealing books from Nazi book-burnings, the mayor’s wife’s library; wherever there are books to be found. But these are dangerous times. When Liesel’s foster family hides a Jew in their basement, Liesel’s world is both opened up and closed down. In May we will be reading Breakfast with Buddha by Roland Merullo. If you have any questions you may contact Bonnie Harper.  All are welcome.

 

UU & Interfaith Connections

 

The award-winning documentary, “The House I Live In,” (pbs.org/independentlens/house-i-live-in/), directed by Eugene Jarecki, will air on PBS April 8, 2013. Michelle Alexander, author of “The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness”, appears in the documentary. Her book was selected as the current Common Read by the UUA.

 

The April Kent Community Dinner will be held on April 20 at 5:30 pm at the Islamic Community Center at 152 East Steels Corners Road in Cuyahoga Falls.  The Islamic Society of Akron and Kent invites the people of Kent over to get to know them.  Reservations are required.  Call 330-922-9991. Speakers will include Mr. Haleem Najeeullah of the Board of Directors of  the Islamic Society with a keynote address by Dr. Kara Ellis Skora of the Department of Religious Studies of the College of Wooster.

It is a dress affair.  Modest attire is a must in this group. Bring a dessert (no gelatin, lard or pork). Transportation is available. Meet at 4:45 pm behind the United Church of Christ.  Questions?  Call 330-678-8760.

 

District Assembly convening in Niagara Falls April 26-27
This year our Ohio-Meadville District, in a historic move, is having a joint District Assembly with St Lawrence District.  And the Rev Peter Morales, President of the Unitarian Universalist Association,  is the keynote speaker!  This promises to be an energizing event not to be missed!  Deadlines are fast upon us.  Some partial scholarships are available, and must be applied for by March 29.  If you would like more information about workshops and timelines, please go to https://www.uua.org/central-east/events .  You may also contact Marion Yeagler, Ohio-Meadville District Board of Trustees.

 

Outreach and Social Justice

 

UUs to Consider Fracking

If you haven’t registered yet, be sure to do so for the Ohio Meadville-Saint Lawrence Joint District Assembly to be held in Niagara Falls, NY on April 26-27.    www.ohiomeadville.org/districtassembly/deregistration

 

Annual Garlic Mustard Pull
Join us on Saturday, April 20th from 9am-11am pull invasive Garlic Mustard from the parks along the river. This weed chokes out native species and must be pulled before the prolific seed heads open. Afterward, saunter downtown for the Who’s Your Mama? Earth Day festival, knowing you’ve done your part. Meet in the church parking lot across the street and ask Andrew Rome for more information.

 

April Showers Service Project

The Campus Ministers’ Organization at Kent State University hopes to make showering a little bit easier for the homeless and transient populations in Portage County with the April Showers Service Project. As a congregational member of the Campus Minister’s Organization, we will collect new, unopened travel size hygiene items for the people at Family and Community Services. These items will be assembled into personal hygiene kits by students and anyone else who passes through the main lobby of the Kent Student Center on Tuesday, April 16 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. These kits will be given to Family and Community Services, who will distribute them to persons in need.

All new, unopened, travel size personal hygiene items will be accepted, but we are particularly encouraging donations of toothpaste, toothbrushes, disposable razors, deodorant, shampoo, bar soap (can be regular sized), and wash cloths.  Please drop your items in the box located in the Founders Lounge by April 7.

 

Income Generation

 

It’s not too late to make your pledge of financial commitment

The PIE may be all gone,  but we’re still waiting for a few of the faithful to make their annual pledges of financial commitment for fiscal year 2013-14, which begins on July 1, 2013 and ends on June 30, 2014.  We are still working toward our goal, so if, for one reason or another, you haven’t turned in your pledge, this is the week to do it.  There are many ways to accomplish this:  email the church office with the information,  put your pledge card in the offering basket, or give the information to your canvasser when he or she calls.

Please help us to be able to plan a realistic year of church programming by making your pledge now.

 

Wanna buy a bunch of cards?  OK!

We sell gift cards for Giant Eagle and Acme stores every Sunday at coffee hour.  This helps the church since we receive 5% of the value of the cards sold, and is convenient for the buyers, since they pay for the face value of the card and use it like a debit card. We rarely run out, but some people occasionally are disappointed when they want buy several hundred dollars’ worth of cards and we only have a few hundred available left to sell. In order to address this issue, we now will guarantee that we have any amount $500 or more available for you on a given Sunday if you email me the previous Sunday or earlier (please allow a minimum of 7 days). Sometimes we have them available in any case–if we have them, we’ll sell them to you. But if you want to be sure, email me and we will arrange to have them reserved for you the following Sunday.

Thanks for buying gift cards through the church rather than using cash at Acme and Giant Eagle stores.

Bob Erdman, Grocery Card Coordinator.

 

Spring Forth With the Giving of Books. 

The time of year has come once more when Robins sing in the rain, the flowers poke their heads up from the warming earth and books appear as if by magic in Fessenden Hall. Yea, the  Annual UUCK Book Sale is nigh, riding in on the southern winds, returning with the geese who had flown south but two short seasons ago. As you perform the ancient ritual of Spring cleaning, please set aside all your gently used books, DVDs, and CDs to donate to the Annual UUCK Book Sale. Just leave them in the designated space in Fessenden Hall between the dates of April 14 and 30 and the book sprites will whisk them away, only to be returned on that foretold day, May 4, where they will take their honored place in supporting the growth and well being of the UUCK. In addition we will be hosting a bake sale table as well. Please consider contributing your favorite home baked cookies, brownies, muffins and other goodies. You may drop them off in the kitchen on Friday May 3rd or Saturday May 4th. Please label them “Book Sale” so we know they are intended for that purpose. Thank you in advance for your generous, heartfelt donations.

Spring—an experience in immortality. -Henry D. Thoreau

Anyone who says they have only one life to live must not know how to read a book. –Author Unknown

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