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January 2009 Newsletter

Vision:  We will be a beacon of progressive religion in our region,
inspiring positive change in the world.
Mission:  Caring for one another, growing spiritually, and working for justice.

Sunday Services and Religious Education for January 2009

Services at 9:00 and 11:00 on Sunday mornings 835 W. College Street. Nursery care is provided during the service for children up to 6 years old.

Sunday, January 4:  Earth Trilogy Part One:  Made from Stardust. Rev. Gail Lindsay Marriner

This is the first of three services celebrating our scientific creation story. This month we will explore our origins in the great radiance and the birth of our atoms and molecules in the bellies of the great stars – this service concludes with a star dust communion.  Part two, in February, will explore evolution. In March, part three will celebrate the rise of consciousness. The first Sunday in April we will put all three services together with lots of music and guest speakers for a three hour rolling Earth Revival as a grand finale for the Prairie Star District Conference! 

Sunday, January 11:  The Courage of Conversation. Rev. Gail Lindsay Marriner

Conversation. It is hard to believe that such a simple thing had the power to change cultures, heal wounded feelings, and profoundly improve the quality of life in a community.  

Sunday, January 18:  Martin Luther King Sunday. Mysticism, Empowerment and Resistance. Rev. Gail Lindsay Marriner

Religion without justice making is self serving.  Justice making without a strong grounding in faith is suicidal. Just over a year ago I attended an inspiring conference which explored the relationship between mystical experience and the ability to do sustained work for justice. This sermon is my response to the conference and my thoughts on how it applies to UUs.   

Sunday, January 25:  Bhagavad Gita. Bonnie Williams Ambrosi

Bonnie Williams Ambrosi is a long-time yoga teacher and devotee of Sri Swami Satchidananda.  Her message will be drawn from the Bhagavad Gita, one of Yoga's most beloved scriptures.

In Medias Res *

Photo of Gail in her studyPerhaps it's having lived in Texas for ten years, but I am loving winter.  I have always appreciated the way the landscape opens up in the winter once the leaves fall and the snow carpets the ground, but this year I am even enjoying the way the snow makes me squint when the light bounces off of every sparkling surface.  I am delighted by the taste of the cold air and the feel of it in my nostrils. It has been years since I have seen stars as bright as those that shine above the trees when we walk the dog in the 4:30 darkness.   I have missed winter. 

There is wisdom in the breathing in and breathing out of the cycles in the natural world; times of growth followed by times of dormancy.  Times of busyness and productivity followed by times of comparative rest and quiet. Times of struggle followed by times of healing and renewal.  Times filled with celebration and revelry followed by quieter times. I look forward to January, to the white spaces of new calendar so like the whiteness of the snow covering my backyard before my kids descend on it with snowsuits and sleds. After the intensity of the holiday season, I look forward to the comparatively quiet schedule that business as usual represents. 

I wonder if you experience this rhythm of breathing in and breathing out as well.  It happens in community life as well as in our personal lives and the natural world.  One thing I always need to remember is that even in the "quiet" times, important growth may be occurring.   In temperate climates you plant trees and perennials in the fall so they can grow strong roots during the dark months.   After a time of lots of outward growth – a new building, new landscaping,  new walls, new furnishings,  new ways of doing things, new systems and structures and new members,  it might be time to consciously create some spaces  for your  new roots to go deeper.   January is a great time for spiritual reflection, study, spiritual practice.  It's a lovely time just to get together to be together to talk, to play, to hang out … What do you think?    Shall we take a collective breath before we plunge into what ever comes next?  Maybe that will be my New Year's resolution – to take time to breathe. 
Blessings, Gail

*In Medias Res is a literary term meaning "in the middle of things."

UUCD November Board Report

The UUCD Board met on December 2 at 7PM at UUCD. The regular November date spanned Thanksgiving, so we adjusted the meeting date to December 2. During the meeting the following items were discussed and voted on as needed.

  • The consent agenda was discussed and accepted.
  • The October 27 Board minutes were accepted
  • There were no special program fund requests
  • The most recent changes to various personnel policies were reviewed. Jan Magree brought us up to date on some things that are still in the works. After some discussion and clarification we agreed to table this until our next meeting in January.
  • The 2009 proposed Operating Budget was discussed in detail. Paul Borrmann explained the major changes and answered questions from Board members. With a few minor adjustments (updated requests from committees) the Board voted to recommend the budget to the congregation at the December 21 meeting.
  • The Board covenant was distributed in email ahead of the meeting and read as part of the readings to start the meeting. We wrote this with guidance from our minister and updated it at several retreats. We voted to accept it. A copy is included below.
  • We discussed and planned for the December 21 congregational meeting. We also discussed and planned the hearings on December 7 and December 14. These hearings will cover all four agenda items and there will be people at each meeting that can provide information and answer questions regarding all four agenda items.
  • We discussed the packet that was to be sent to the congregation ahead of the forums and congregational meeting. We assigned people and staff to each area to be sure to include all the required information.
  • We reviewed some statistics from the Minister Report including Sunday attendance and the number of new members that joined during the calendar year (24). Counting adults and children and combining 9 and 11 AM for Sunday services for the last three months we had an average of 163 for each Sunday. The plans are drafted and we are waiting on permits to begin enclosing the Religious Education spaces.
  • We were brought up to date regarding the woven basket collection. Collections are up and several committees and the Board are interested in extending support where we can. The recommendation is to both continue our support of a family and to have special collections on some Sundays. We specifically discussed giving the entire contents of the two Christmas service collections (except for envelopes or checks written specifically for pledge payments or UUCD contributions) to an outreach program. A subgroup of several committees will recommend outreach organizations and bring this back to our Minister. The Board voted to support this enhancement to extend our support to local organizations.
  • The Program Council brought to our attention that the bylaws require our organization to have a Long Range Planning committee. It was argued that during recent history the LRP has been replaced by a variety of other named committees. Two examples are:
    • After selling Winona the planning was done by the College Street Project Task Force (financing and building the new building) and the Transition Council (resolving the issues created by our in-between buildings era). Short range planning was mostly what was feasible, although wishes were certainly discussed.
    • As we were moving into the new building the Minister Transition Team was created to start planning to hire a settled minister. This committee is now doing many of the same things a LRP committee would do – review where we have come from and consider where we are going.
  • The Board agreed in general with the LRP explanation to date but also agreed the LRP should be reconsidered around the time the MTT is disbanded. This will be added to a future agenda item.
  • There were additional new agenda items that had not been submitted in time to get them on the agenda, and we had already run over time. It was agreed that we would see if we could meet some evening during the next two weeks. It was noted that considerable energy is going into the hearings and the congregational meeting, plus many of us have Holiday commitments. If we cannot meet, the Executive Committee would attempt to meet and handle the extra agenda items. Otherwise, these will wait until the January 27 meeting.
  • We agreed to Board welcome Sundays and agreed on the next Governance Council and Board meeting date.
  • We adjourned about 9:20 PM.

Board of Trustees 2008

We welcome your input. Feel free to contact board members with questions, concerns, or compliments.

Covenant for the UUCD Board of Trustees

In consideration of our UU principles, we hold dear the following values recognizing they are what guide us in our work as Board members together.

  • Honest and respectful communication
  • Responsibility and accountability
  • Patience, caring and forgiveness
  • Active engagement

Additionally we acknowledge our individual responsibility to honor these values while serving in the leadership role entrusted to us by this community.

Our promises to Our Congregational Community

  • We promise to demonstrate our leadership and commitment by our example.
  • We promise to support our Minister and staff so that their efforts can be most productive
  • We promise to try to discover what is best for our congregation as a whole.
  • We promise to communicate our actions and information openly to our congregation as a two way process to ensure that we are heard and we have heard congregational feedback.

Our Promises to Each other on the Board of Trustees

  • We promise to respect and care for one another.
  • We promise to attend Board meetings and to come prepared to conduct business efficiently.
  • We promise to assume that everyone is operating from a place of honesty and integrity in accordance with our principles. We will not make assumptions about motives but will ask for clarification when appropriate.
  • We promise to listen with an open heart and an open non-judgmental mind to the words and ideas of others in our congregation and on our Board.
  • We promise to debate, discuss and disagree openly during Board meetings, expressing ourselves as clearly and honestly as possible, using "I" statements, so that we are certain the Board understands our point of view.
  • We promise to keep conversations and information shared during closed session confidential. We will agree on what issue(s) and decision(s) can be made public during closed session, and will communicate them effectively to the congregation.
  • We promise to support the final decision of the Board, whether it reflects our view or not. When asked and when appropriate we will explain our own vote followed by the reasons the Board used for making a decision.

Adopted 12/02/2008

Money Talks

Take A Bow, UUCD

As I write this on December 11, the 2009 Canvass has so far produced 148 predictions for almost $189,000. Both numbers shatter our previous records. The Board has recommended a budget that we believe will produce enough income to meet 2009 operating needs. And all this, during a great national economic crisis.

Important challenges remain ahead, but this month let's pat each other on the back for a job well done.

Paul Borrmann, Treasurer

Our Blue Boat Home Prairie Star District Conference

April 3-5 in Duluth! Update

Now in our bookstore: the book selected for reading (beforehand) and discussion at a conference workshop, Blessed Unrest, by Paul Hawken, explores how the largest movement in the world came into being and why nobody saw it coming. The keynote speakers, owners of a sustainable farm, chose this book that "inspires and delights" those who despair of the world's fate.

Stop by the information table between services and browse the book, consider possible ways you can volunteer (we'll need about 70 volunteers of one sort or another – some have already started!) and check out the itinerary for the weekend.

Online registration for the conference will be available in mid-January.  If you want to simply volunteer for any of the tasks, you will not need to register. But if you want to attend the Saturday evening banquet (with Sara Thompson), workshops, and the other meals, you will need to register.

Got Those "Too-Much-Stuff-After-The-Holidays" Blues?

Wondering what to do with that lovely noodle-drier from Aunt Gladys? The lava lamp from your brother-in-law Harvey? The Rummage Sale Committee has the perfect solution for you! We now have a spot to bring all those unwanted gifts and other quality, usable surplus items. Drop them off in Storage Room #2 on the parking level at UUCD. As always, please place articles in clean, closed, stackable boxes, clearly marked "RUMMAGE SALE". If you have any questions or have larger items, please call Jill Lakhan to make special arrangements.  Thank you!

Ministerial Transition Team "Identity" Suppers

On October 22 and November 17, the Ministerial Transition Team held the first two of six identity suppers.  Approximately 30 congregation members attended each of these suppers. 

The first supper was to gather information about our history.  As 40% of the congregation has joined UUCD within the last 4 years, many members are unaware of the rich history of UUCD, where it met at various times, and the richness of our contributions to the community. 

Knowledge of our history is important in order that we appreciate how far we have come since our inception in 1887, the first meeting place (August Fitger and his wife –A. Fitger Brewing Company- were founding members) and the church building at 1802 East First street.  As the congregation outgrew 1802, we held services St. Edwards Episcopal Church, the YWCA, and finally purchased the West Winona Street building – a former Methodist church.

Equally as important were discussions about the different ministers who served the congregation over the years.  One piece of important history is about how one of our former ministers helped a Black family.  The family was trying to buy a lot in Lakeside on which to build a house but neither the realtor nor the owner would sell the lot to the family.  Our minister purchased the lot and then sold the lot to the family.

On November 17, we held our second supper, the theme of which was "How do we care for one another".  Using our Mission Statement, "….to care for one another, to grow spiritually, and to work for justice", Rev. Gail Lindsey Marriner created a series of questions regarding how we care for one another.

The first question was: "Reflect on a time when you felt cared for by UUCD".  The responses were:

  • acknowledging our pain and offering help;
  • adult and child religious education;
  • music at our services;
  • inspirational services;
  • providing a place for us to meet;
  • the welcoming table and the membership committees.

The second question was: "How does UUCD practice caring"?  The responses were:

  • reaching out to the sick and shut-ins;
  • recognizing special diets when serving food;
  • circle suppers,
  • composting and recycling;
  • showing respect for one another;
  • sharing responsibilities;
  • challenging each other to grow spiritually;
  • providing handicap accessible building;
  • large print hymnals;
  • a green sanctuary building;
  • care for our environment;
  • car pooling;
  • support programs;
  • welcoming newcomers and talking with them;
  • memorial services;
  • covenant groups;
  • support for social justice;
  • support for Starfish;
  • freedom of thought;
  • adult and child religious education;
  • inclusion of children in services;
  • being able to formally express our "joys and concerns";
  • Radical Hospitality;
  • promotion of lay leadership;
  • leadership training.

Question three was "what actions or behaviors show that our minister cares for us?"  The responses were:

  • challenges us to think;
  • visits new members;
  • providing inspirational services;
  • listening to and helping clarify issues;
  • leadership;
  • guidance with our personal major life events;
  • personal spiritual guidance;

Question four was "What actions do we expect from one another in the way of caring?"  The responses were: 

  • respect for one another;
  • spiritual freedom;
  • reaching out to those experiencing pain.

The fifth question was "What is missing?"  Those responses were: 

  • no signing for the deaf;
  • no ministry in prisons;
  • absence of low income people and people of color;
  • support for those in the military;
  • absence of teenagers;
  • people or groups who are marginalized.

The last question was "How do we carry the circle of care out to the community?"  There were five responses to this question: 

  • learning about other religions;
  • support of CHUM;
  • support for and inclusion of the GLBT community;
  • sharing the "plate";
  • inviting organizations in the community to use UUCD's building.

It is information like this that will provide the basis for the search for a settled minister. Future soup suppers (5:30 PM) are scheduled for December 17th, January 21st, and a noon session is planned on February 21st.  Please add your important voice to this process by attending one of the sessions or speaking to a member of the Ministerial

Transition Team: Jim Seitz, Ann Nordgren, Ruth Strom McCutcheon, Bob Seitz, Kathy Heltzer, Marree Seitz, Barb Lund, Jan Magree, Gail Marriner

drum circle logoDrum Circle

The monthly drum circle will meet on Friday, January 2 in the Great Room at UUCD.  This is an "in-the-moment" drum circle.  It is not a drum class nor do we attempt to play any ethnic specific rhythms.  What we do is play off each other.  This circle starts at 7:00 PM on the first Friday of the month and goes until 9:00 PM. Please try to arrive before 6:50.  If you don't have a drum, we generally have an extra.  Call Bruce Holmen for confirmation of dates.

Membership Steering Committee Musings 

from Molly Benson 

After our December Membership Steering Committee meeting, when--with Gail's guidance--we began to compose our covenant, I reflected on the importance and meaning FULLNESS of our work and on the satisfaction that comes from being on a dynamic team.  (I know that sounds trite and cliche, but it's TRUE!)  And--intangible!

Some of our tangible recent accomplishments are: 

  • a thoughtful listing of the give and take that comprises membership at UUCD.  "What UUCD Offers/Asks of It's Members" is printed elsewhere in this newsletter.  Copies will also be available at the Welcome Center.
  • an evermore systematic support network for both newcomers and new members (through notes, phone calls, mailed written materials, and get togethers) as they become integrated into our congregation
  • a 10% increase in membership (24 adults) during 2008.  The GOOD NEWS of Unitarian Universalism is being shared with an evergrowing circle of Seekers and Searchers!
  • two new members (Beth Marks and Tina Welsh).  Tina will also serve as co-chair.  Hooray!   (Good news indeed!)

The "bad news" is that Diane Anderson, Betsy Presley, and Helen Prosser have moved on after many moons of offering their wisdom, energy, and goodwill to Membership Steering Committee.  Please join us in thanking them and in welcoming our new members.

And now for an offer too good to by-pass:  Membership Steering Committee needs a few more willing souls.  We invite you to come and sample a meeting.  (You won't be asked to sign a contract or anything.)  But if you decide to join our "dynamic team," there will be tangible and intangible rewards!

New In 2009--Newcomers Information Sessions Will Be Held On The Third Sunday Of Every Month! 

Starting this month, hour-long Newcomers' Information Sessions will be held in the RE Great Room immediately after the 11:00 service on the third Sunday of every month.  (In January, the third Sunday is the 18th.)  All newcomers are encouraged to attend, and it's wonderful when a few "old timers" drop in, too. (Hint.  Hint.)

Newcomers' Information Sessions are an opportunity to meet other newcomers, congregation members, and our Interim Minister, Gail; as well as an opportunity to learn a little more about our congregation and about Unitarian Universalism, in general.

Snacks and childcare will be available, and you will receive a Newcomers' Packet chock full of good stuff.  For more information, call or e-mail Kathy S. at the UUCD Office, 724-0308 or uucduluth@gmail.com.

Hot off the Press:  "What UUCD Offers/Asks of Its Members" 

The following is the culmination of several months of thoughtful consideration by a Membership Steering Committee Task Force:

UUCD offers its members: 

  • -Services that speak to the mind and the heart.
  • -A caring and supportive community.
  • -A place to celebrate and commemorate important life events.
  • -Religious education for children.
  • -A variety of enrichment opportunities for adults.
  • -Opportunities to have their voices heard and their votes counted in the decision-making processes of the congregation.

UUCD ask that its members: 

  • -Attend services.
  • -Pursue a reflective or spiritual practice.
  • -Develop relationships through small group activities.
  • -Contribute financially.
  • -Serve the congregation with time, talents, and skills.
  • -Serve the wider community and world.

Music Notes

music notes logo"Music at its essence is what gives us memories." Stevie Wonder

Judging from the outcome of our Holiday Chorister singing plus the numerous groups and individuals who offered gifts of music throughout the holiday season I am guessing that everyone who attended Sunday services during December carries some special music memories with them as Winter sets itself firmly at our doorstep. May they help warm you in this coldest time of the year.

There are SO many folks to thank for making December warm and bright, despite Dec 14th Wassail Services getting postponed to Dec 28th!  Hearty thanks to: Brian and Wyatt Barber, members of vocal octet 8 VA, Greg and Tanya Moore, all of the Holiday Choristers, the Volkman Family Singers, Grace Bauman, Suzanne Wasilczuk, Kathy Heltzer, Paul Borrmann, Dan Burrows, dancer Larissa Schmitt, cellist Joe Marty, Mel and Jan Magree, plus Sam Gibbens and Leif Hinkel.

You all shared the wonder of music in spiritual community.  There is nothing quite like it!

The music program is still in transition as we sort through the possibilities for best serving our beloved congregation.   This being said many individuals have voiced desires to sing more in a group setting and to that end a vocal ensemble is being started to address those desires.

Chorale of the Month will begin rehearsing every Wednesday starting on January 7th from 7 pm – 8 pm in our Sanctuary.   All singers interested in providing choral style music for one Sunday service per month are invited to participate!  For the most part the selections will be new to UUCD, UU in message, will range from easy to medium in vocal difficulty, and will be beautiful to experience!

Singers will need to attend 3 rehearsals during the month and can expect to sing at a service the last Sunday of the month (usually!)    All participants will sing during the April 5th Prairie Star District Annual Conference Sunday service(s) as well.

The Chorale of the Month will act as a bridge to see us through the rest of the program year.  At that time we will have a better idea as to what our more permanent music program structure will look like.

Vocal octet 8 VA is expanding and seeking one alto, one tenor, and one soprano to join the group.  The repertoire 8 VA sings tends toward the advanced and more difficult types of 4 part vocal music.  We work on blend, often sing acappella, and sometimes sing for the broader community. 

Rehearsals take place every Sunday following the late service. Each singer in 8 VA also sings in the Chorale of the Month.

If you are interested in auditioning for the group please contact Music Programming Administrator Karen Bauman (kklgb4820@msn.com).

January Rehearsal Schedule

Sun. Jan.  4

8 VA

Noon

Sanctuary

Wed. Jan.  7

Chorale of the Month

7pm

Sanctuary

Sun. Jan.  11

8 VA

Noon

Sanctuary

Wed. Jan.  14

Chorale of the Month

7pm

Sanctuary

Sat. Jan.  17

8 VA with guest singer

1pm

Sanctuary

Sun. Jan.  18

8 VA

10:15 am warm up
11:00 am SING!

Sanctuary

Wed. Jan.  21

Chorales of the Month

7pm

Sanctuary

Sun. Jan.  25

Chorale of the Month

10:15 am warm up
11:00 am SING!

Sanctuary

Wed. Jan.  28

Take a well deserved break

 

 

Snail Mail icon of snailor Website? icon of globe

During November and December we gathered your preferences for newsletter delivery.  Some readers let me know that they would like to continue receiving the newsletter by hard copy in the mail, and about the same number chose to be reminded by email when the newsletter is available to read on the website.

If you have not responded, this may be your last mailed hard copy of the newsletter!  That is, unless you call or email or write and ask to have it continued.  Please let me know if you would like to be dropped from the newsletter mailing list.  Otherwise, if I don't hear from you and you don't get a copy in the mail next month, please check our website at www.uuduluth.org around the first of each month for the news!

Get ‘em While They're HOT! Hot Cinnamon Rolls $1.00

Every Sunday in January between services Fundraising Special Events will be serving Cinnamon Rolls hot out of the oven to go with the best coffee served in a church social hall.  Get ‘em while they're hot!  If this is popular it could continue indefinitely. 

From the Pooley Bookstore 

Linda Barnes will be the Keynote Speaker at "our" Prairie Star District Conference this coming April 2009.
She has chosen the book, Blessed Unrest by Paul Hawken to be read, digested, shared...and then discussed in a workshop session at this conference.  She wants us to be prepared, and to make this a bit easier I have several copies available in our Bookstore for your purchase.  I will also order additional copies as needed.  Other books arriving soon are Darwin's Dangerous Idea by Daniel Dennett, Breaking the Spell, and Dirt: The Ecstatic Skin of the Earth, and Robert Fulghum's What on Earth Have I Done?   

See you around the Bookstore, Diana

book corner iconUU Pretty Good Book Group

The UU pretty good book group is open to everyone, not just members.  If you enjoy reading good books and discussing them why don't you join us?  Meetings are usually the third Tuesdays of each month in the library at UUCD.

January Book Selection

The Secret Agent by Joseph Conrad: Tuesday, January 20, 7:15 pm. Library

This is the hundredth anniversary of The Secret Agent.  It was written in 1908.  I guess technically we will be meeting and discussing it in 2009, but close enough.  Inspired by an actual attempt to blow up the Greenwich Observatory, this chillingly prophetic examination of terrorism is the literary precursor to the espionage thrillers of such writers as Graham Greene and John Le Carre.  The Secret Agent portrays the world of law and order in late-nineteenth-century London, with its fatuous civil servants and corrupt police.  Then it grotesquely mirrors such a society in its underworld. A squalid terrorist landscape inhabited by the Professor, who always carries a bomb in his pocket, and Verloc, the pornographer acting undercover as a counterrevolutionary mole.  Verloc's mission is to provide the radical group he has penetrated to commit a monstrous act of violence sure to bring about its own destruction.  Using questionable characters and amoral caricatures, the story spins a black satire of English society, one in which each individual eventually becomes a puppet.

You Are Invited!  Prairie Star District Video Link WebFest

Saturday, January 31, 2008: 10 am to 3 pm  UUCD Boardroom

Anyone involved or interested in using Web technology for UU congregations -- whether you provide content, post items, or are more technically involved.

Have questions about congregational use of the Web? Have answers to share? Then come to PSD's second WebFest. Participants at the first WebFest in September were excited enough about the event to request another opportunity to gather in January.

Registration Fee:  $5.00 includes lunch

RSVP required by January 23:  uucduluth@gmail.com

Covenant Groups

In January it will be time again to sign up for Covenant Groups.  Some groups will continue, and there will be new groups forming.

Watch for information and sign-up sheets in the social hall on the Sundays in January.

How Do I Get in the Building?

If you are a member, you may purchase a door card for $5.00 in the office.  Call Kathy at 724-0308 and let her know you need one and when you want to pick it up.  The door card works on the card reader at the garage door entrance (East end) and at the front door.  Another option is to get your own keycode (at no charge) to punch in at the front door when it is locked.  Each code is unique and registered to the individual, so don't tell others your code. 

Religious Education News

from Carol Turner, our Director of Religious Education

Greetings UUCD Families, 

Thanks to Reverend Gail, Deb Landon, Bev Bernston,  Rebecca St. George and Deb DeLuca, UUCD now has a Religious Education Leadership Team! (Please note capital letters and exclamation point!)  Earlier this Fall, many of you attended our Sunday School Summit and told us what you wanted for your children's religious education. Parents were asked to complete the sentence "By the time my child leaves UUCD..."

Here are the"top five" responses (out of the dozens of ideas) that were discussed at that meeting.  

By the time our children leave UUCD, we hope that they will...

  • learn the importance of kindness, respect and compassion
  • have a solid foundation in religious literacy (knowledge of world faiths and Native American traditions) 
  • be able to think critically - listen, analyze and question and be able to articulate personal values 
  • use our UU Seven principles as a navigational tool for every day living 
  • have a strong sense, and be deeply connected, to their faith community.   

As we roll up our sleeves and get to work refining, crafting and implementing these ideas, please remember that you, too, have a critical role in the success of our vision for our children.

Rev. Phil Lund, Prairie Star District's Head of Life Span learning will be coming on Saturday the 24th of this month to talk with our newly-formed leadership about the nuts and bolts of working together and moving our vision forward.

Rev. Gail has planted a seed-of-an-idea regarding summer RE programming. Hmmmmm... Imagine being surrounded by the soothing babbling of the creek and the warm glow of flourishing foliage as you walk with a group of curious children down a trail in Chester Park.

Contact me if you'd like to know more, or better yet, participate in summer programming.
Carol Turner, cgeot1@gmail.com

Kitchen Kollege On January 25th

The Kitchen Kabinet will be conducting its second session of Kitchen Kollege 101. This is an opportunity to learn about the kitchen layout, equipment and general rules for working in the kitchen. We have some wonderful new equipment but you really need to learn how to use it properly, i.e. the dishwasher, the new coffee maker. 

We will meet after the church service on the 25th, have a light lunch and then spend about 1 ½ - 2 hours in and around the kitchen. If you plan to be part of this class, please notify Bob and Marree Seitz (canoebobs@yahoo.com).  Class size is limited. We want attendees to have the opportunity to see everything, to each receive a handout on kitchen procedure and to have enough food.

For those of you who attended the first session of Kitchen Kollege 101, another session will be held soon so that you can learn about the range, the coffee pot and the exhaust fan system.

Please make your reservation by January 22nd!

caring corner logoCaring Corner

Hi! Keep signing up for the Caring Committee.  Forms are on the "Get Connected Table"  or email juliemorgan1231@yahoo.com. We'll be happy to have you--and remember, NO COMMITTEE MEETINGS.  EVER!Thanks to Maureen Langdon, we have a very nice walker on loan until summer.  It is the kind with a seat, so whoever is using it can sit down if they get tired of walking.  You can borrow it for short-term use.  Call UUCD 724-0308

The Caring Committee has purchased three new books for the UUCD Library.  They are:

  • Dying, A Book of Comfort, Healing Words on Loss and Grief selected and edited by Pat McNees.  No one teaches us how to die, how to help someone die, how to grieve, or how to help the grieving.  This book includes personal experiences, readings and thoughts of each of these.
  • The Pagan Book of Living and Dying.  Practical Rituals, Prayers, Blessings, and Meditations on Crossing Over by Starhawk.  This is a resource guide to death and the process of dying.  It provides both spiritual counsel and practical tools.
  • Handbook for Mortals, Guidance for People Facing Serious Illness by Joanne Lynn, MD and Joan Harrold, MD.  This book is for all who want to approach the final years of life with greater awareness of what to expect and confidence about how to make the end of life a time for growth, comfort and meaningful reflection.

Check ‘em out!

Caring Notes

  • Best wishes to Kay Campbell who is home with a broken leg.  Well, she's not home she's pet sitting somewhere.  Kay reports that she is doing fine and appreciates the calls and caring she's received.  Go Kay!
  • Condolences to Maureen Langdon Shaiman and husband Mark on the death of Maureen's father, John Langdon on December 6, 2008.  John was an active and beloved UUCD member for forty two years.
  • Continued good wishes to David Backstrand who has resumed chemo for his esophageal cancer.  He is out and about almost every day and continues to look forward to coffee with other UUs.

Forum on draft of Peacemaking Statement of Conscience

January 11, 2009, 12:15 PM after the Service in the Social Hall

Comments by congregations on the draft Peacemaking Statement of Conscience are due on February 1.  Come and join us in crafting our suggestions for a Unitarian Universalist statement of conscience on peacemaking.  The draft statement is the culmination of four years of work on a positions statement for Unitarian Universalism. 

The Peacemaking Draft Unitarian Universalist Statement of Conscience, November 2008 may be found at:
http://www.uua.org/socialjustice/issuesprocess/currentissues/peacemaking/121606.shtml

Big Event A Super Success

Will everybody give everybody a hug that worked, donated, bought, and in any way participated in THE BIG EVENT!!!!!!! Net Profit:  $13,041.68  
You all never cease to amaze me.

Ann Fryberger, Fundraising Special Events Chair
ann@thefrybergers.net

January Woven Basket: Supporting The Work Of Chum

In January 2009 our Woven Basket donations will go to support the work of CHUM – Churches United in Ministry.  UUCD is one of 34 local member congregations affiliated with this non-profit, which has the mission of "Caring about People and Working for Change through programs and efforts that respond to, serve, advocate for, and empower people with unmet needs."   CHUM fulfills its mission by providing emergency food and shelter, stabilizing lives, and organizing for justice. 

Ongoing services include the Food Shelf, Drop-in Center, Emergency Shelters for individuals and families, street outreach, family stabilization, Gabriel project (housing issues), CHUM church and telecare friends.  

CHUM advocacy efforts increase with the MN legislative sessions, and these upcoming events provide us with a way to participate in advocacy for a more just and equitable society:

  • Sunday, Jan. 11, 1 pm at St. Benedict's Church (our neighbor near Arrowhead & Kenwood):  Forum with Brian Rusche, Director of the Joint Religious Legislative Commission (JRLC) regarding social justice issues and the 2009 MN Legislative session.  He will focus on the efforts of the Legislative Commission to End Poverty, plus possible bills regarding emergency jobs packages, health care, budget and taxes. 
  • Tuesday, Feb. 3:  JRLC annual ‘Day on the Hill" at the state Capitol, which includes time for learning and time for visiting legislators.  There will be a bus from CHUM; Elizabeth Olson at CHUM (eolson@chumduluth.org, 740-2496) can provide more information (also check www.jrlc.org).    
  • Thursday, Feb. 5, 6:30 pm:  CHUM Annual Meeting at Hope United Methodist (another neighbor on St. Marie St) with ELCA Bishop Thomas Aitkin speaking.  This meeting is a chance for members of all affiliated congregations to come together to hear about the full scope of CHUM's work to fulfill its mission in our community. 

Women's Moon LogoWomen's Moon Group

Event

Date

Time

Ritual Leader

UU Room

Full Moon

Saturday, Jan 10, 2009

7:00-8:30 pm

Salima

Library

New Moon

Monday, Jan 26, 2009

7:00-8:30 pm

Lorraine

Library

Full Moon

Monday, Feb 09, 2009

7:00-8:30 pm

Sue

Library

New Moon

Tuesday, Feb 24, 2009

7:00-8:30 pm

Lorraine

Library

All rituals take place at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Duluth (unless noted otherwise). The rituals are roughly an hour long starting promptly at 7:00 pm. You're welcome to come early for meet-and-greet time beforehand. After the ritual we end with socializing and snacks.

There are always opportunities to lead a moon ritual or take part in a Solstice service. Contact Alisa DeRider if you're interested: aderider@msn.com

Adult Enrichment and Religious Education Programs for Winter 2009

Adult Enrichment Committee Mission Statement:

Our mission is to enrich the community by developing a program of classes and activities through a cooperative and creative process which fosters spiritual, intellectual and emotional growth.               

The Body's Path of Yoga

Simple Anatomy & Physiology with Caroline Woods  A one-time two-hour class. Thursday, January 22 at 6:30 p.m. in the Library.  Free and open to the public. Learn a variety of yoga terms and how they correlate with the body.  Also discover what is happening to the body when it does yoga.  

Visiting the Galapagos Islands with Richard Dawkins and Charles Darwin:

Slide presentation of David and Geiger Yount's trip to the Galapagos in May, 2007, Thursday, Feb. 12 (which is Darwin's, and also Lincoln's, 200th birthday). 7:00,p.m. in the social hall.  Free and open to the public.

Menu for the Future by the Northwest Earth Institute

Offered by Chris Edwardson of UUCD's Green Sanctuary committee.

Discussion Course Goals:

  • To explore food systems and their impacts on culture, society and ecological systems. 
  • To gain insight into agricultural and individual practices that promote personal and ecological well-being. 
  • To consider your role in creating or supporting sustainable food systems.

There will be six discussion sessions and an optional wrap-up celebration.  Class will meet on Thursday evenings from 7 - 9 p.m. in one of the new Religious Education rooms.  Preferred class size is 15, but will take up to 20.  NW Earth Institute books are required and cost $20.  Payment is due at first meeting.  Deadline for sign-up is February 1, 2009.  For more information about the course and the NW Earth Institute, visit www.nwei.org 

The Sessions and dates are:

  • 2/26/09  What's Eating America
  • 3/5/09  Anonymous Food
  • 3/12/09 Farming for the Future
  • 3/19/09  You Are What You Eat
  • 3/26/09  Towards a Just Food System
  • 4/2/09  Choices for Change

Information about the UU Pretty Good Book Club and other events can be found elsewhere in the newsletter.

Unitarian Universalist Congregation Of Duluth: Adult Enrichment Registration
Winter 2009

Non-fee registration is for instructor planning only.  Courses offered at UUCD, 835 College Street, unless otherwise noted.

Name_____________________________________________  Phone  ________________________

E-mail address ____________________________________________________________________

To register for all courses: Mail this form to Kathy Stinnett, Office Administrator, UUCD, 835 W. College St., Duluth, 55811, or phone Kathy at 724-0308 or e-mail Kathy at uucduluth@gmail.com

  • ______The Body's Path of Yoga with Caroline Woods
  • ______Visiting the Galapagos with Richard Dawkins and Charles Darwin with David and Geiger Yount
  • ______Menu for the Future by the Northwest Earth Institute with Chris Edwardson

Ministerial Transition Team Soup Suppers

Who are we?  How do we care?  How do we practice justice?  How do we grow spiritually?  How do we communicate?

Come to soup suppers and help us answer the questions

  • Jan 21 – Justice
  • Feb 18 – Communication

5:30-7:00 Supper and Discussion  Cost:  $1.00
Reservations encouraged. Child care available upon request
Email Carol Turner if you'll need childcare and indicate which dates –cgeot1@gmail.com
What we discover will be part of our search for a settled minister.

Sponsored by Ministerial Transition Team (MTT).  Questions?  Visit MTT table after service or contact Barbara Lund blund@lakenet.com.

Contact UUCD Administrator