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January 2008 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 2008

****IMPORTANT********IMPORTANT************IMPORTANT**********

All services during January will be held at 10:30am 835 W. College Street

  • Sunday, January 6: "An Epiphany! The Gifts We Bring" -Reverend Sally Hamlin, Interim Minister. If you think the work of ministry is just for the ordained, think again!
  • Sunday, January 13: "The Five Tasks of Interim Ministry"- Reverend Sally Hamlin, Interim Minister. Hear the latest news from your Ministry Transition Team.
  • Sunday, January 20: Celebrate Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King. Join Hal Bertilson, Sue Dailey and Reverend Sally Hamlin, Interim Minister for this Intergenerational Service focused on the life of this great religious activist.
  • Sunday, January 27: "Tending the Hearth" – Reverend Sally Hamlin, Interim Minister. What are the stories you tell about your life?  What is the story you tell about UUCD?

Congregational Meeting a Wonderful Success

The Congregation voted unanimously and in record time to approve the 2008 budget (and the other items up for congregational vote, as detailed in the December newsletter.)  There were 83 members present and 43 proxies, for a total of 126 voting members!  After this great turnout, the Bake and Craft sale items quickly disappeared and earned over $1700 for the last fund-raiser of 2007!  Hurray!

Guidelines for Newsletter Submissions

The newsletter for the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Duluth is produced monthly and released by the first of each month. It is available online at www.uuduluth.org. The deadline for submissions to the February 2008 newsletter is January 17. Priority will be given to items received on time; late submissions may not be included due to space constraints. Submissions should be directed to the Congregational Administrator at uucduluth@gmail.com

If at all possible, please email newsletter submissions (uucduluth@gmail.com) rather than handwriting them or leaving a print copy in the church office.  When emailing, please both embed and attach submissions in a .doc (Microsoft Word) format, and write "Newsletter" in the subject heading. Be sure to include a contact name and phone number.

From our Interim Minister: Reverend Sally Hamlin

Picture of SallyYou will most likely receive this newsletter in late December but perhaps you are only now sitting down to read it in January, retrieving it from the pile set aside before the holidays hit full force. 

But I am writing this message on the twelfth of December because of an earlier than usual deadline. And December has been such a busy month already! For you, the UUCD community working and planning on moving into your new building, December has brought other changes as well.

December was the month when you finally decided that it was time to move on, to move into College Street, once and for all, come hell or high water, in early January.  You decided to hold your January 6th service there, bringing with you brooms and mops.  No more wandering around town, holding services at other venues, no matter how friendly and hospitable they may be.  No more shifting this way and that with the rituals that mean so much to you; no more deciding from week to week, where and when your services will happen.

Now, you know, for once and for all, that your new religious home is 835 West College Street.  And there will be no moving again for a very long time. 

In the past ten or so years, you have been in at least four locations.  Now you will be in one place.  One place that is yours, by your own design, built by your dollars and your sweat equity, by your dreams and your vision.  At last, the promised land is in sight.  No more wandering.  You can dig in and set down roots.  You can stop moving.

What a ride it has been this past year for you!

At the end of the year, or in early January, it is common to spend some time reviewing the past year, evaluating how it has gone, and to see where you want things to go in the coming year.  You might ask: what goals did I set last January that I accomplished?  What other ones resulted in disappointment and failure, despite best my best efforts?  Which ones did I put aside once the true cost of what it would mean to succeed became apparent? 

What did you wish you had put on the list and never did?

I like metaphors, as you know, and when I think of the work of congregations and all that goes on, especially in times of transition, I think that being involved with a congregation can seem like being in an amusement park.  You just never know which ride you will be on.  When I was a child, we visited an amusement park in Canada called Crystal Beach, right on the Lake Erie shore.  Crystal Beach was the home of The Comet, the highest wooden roller coaster in the country.  When this monster ride finally crawled to its highest peak, all you could see directly below you was the shallow waters of Lake Erie, glistening far below.  As the cars roared their dizzying final dash towards the ground, your life passed before your eyes.  I loved it, and the exhilaration of such risk. I wanted to go on it again and again, never tiring of the thrill.

And sometimes, that's what it feels like in a congregation, from day to day, that you are on rides like that, one thrill after another. 

Or, sometimes, not so much thrill; instead it might feel like you are on the Tilt-a-Whirl ride, that one takes you upside down, and spins you like crazy, back and forth, a somewhat dangerous ride, despite the safety harnesses holding you in place.  The Laugh-in-the-Dark ride, on the other hand, where surprises dart out from each corner and take your breath away from fright, is like other times in a congregation.  The Kiddie Cars that go round and round, making it look like you are the one driving, but really you have absolutely no control are a safer choice, a ride virtually without risk.  But who lives that way, you might ask?

Or how about the Bumper Cars, driven with sheer madness, crashing into one another, seeing whose car you can disable first? (Okay, well, I really haven't seen too many of you on this ride!).

Think about it.  When was the last time you visited an amusement park?  Was it recently, or is it only a distant memory of your childhood?

In one of the Harry Potter books, anyone who sat before the Mirror of Esired (Esired is Desire spelled backward for those of you not HP fans!), found reflected back to them their dearly held secret desires. The Mirror of Erised is like a variation on the Hall of Mirrors amusement park ride.  Lately, as I listen to each of you express your longing and dreams you have for your building on College Street, I hear each your speaking of own visions for that place.  From you I hear about dreams of a sanctuary space filled with color and light and lots and lots of people. I hear about smoothly functioning administrative offices that are welcoming and organized. I hear of plans for religious education classes tailored to each of life's cycles.  And I hear of green spaces that honor the earth.  I hear about music that fills the air and and inspires.  I hear of visitors coming in droves, becoming members, after being radically welcomed into the fold! 

So here is my new year's message for you.  Take a break and get off the merry-go-round of the tasks of the congregational life.  Spend a few minutes gazing into your own and others' Mirrors of Erised.  Take in one another's desires.  Listen to others' longing, of their dreams and vision for UUCD. Drink it all in.  Stay on this ride for a while.

The significance of being in a new place, a permanent place, cannot be underestimated, especially for a congregation that has been on the move for over a decade.  Bless each space there with your loving energy and your dreams and desires.  Place into each corner and room and window and tree and rock, all of what you hope for UUCD.

You have worked very hard this year.  Congratulations. You are finally home. See you in church (on College Street this time!)     

Making It Home! – REALLY!

To:  The incomparable UUCD  

The New Year is upon us with all the hope that a New Year brings, and what a better way to start the New Year than in our new building. 

Our first service in our new building is January 6th at 10:30 a.m.   Oh, fer exciting!

Come dressed casually because Phase I of the building will not be quite finished and you should not be surprised if you see some dust and some construction materials here and there.   Also, please pay careful attention to the map in this newsletter as to vehicle traffic flow into and out of our property on College Street.  Be safe.  We are all anxious to be in our own home and we are going to make it happen sooner rather than later.   I know this is exciting and we want you to invite your family, friends and others to UUism, but please hold off on inviting visitors for just a bit longer to give us time to work out traffic, parking and other logistical issues.

There's more…The Dedication and Grand Opening of our new "green" building is officially set for the weekend of May 16, 2008.  The Rev. William Sinkford, President of the Unitarian Universalist Association has confirmed that he will come for our dedication.  Prairie Star District Executive Director Nancy Heege has also confirmed that she is coming.   Oh, fer exciting!      

Each successive week in January will yield more and more operational functionality at College Street including administrative functions and meeting room availability for UUCD ONLY committee meetings.  Contact Kathy Stinnett after January 15th to check on scheduling dates, times and rooms.  Of course, experience will help us smooth out scheduling in the future.

Happy New Year!

In faith ,

Ann Fryberger
President Board of Trustees

Board Report

Your Board of Trustees met on November 27, 2007 and worked through the following items:

  • We moved to accept an Alcohol Policy
  • We moved to accept with regret the resignation of Katie Neff Dawson, Secretary of the Board of Trustees as of 12/31/07 and we voted in Larissa Schmitt to fill Katie's vacancy as of 1/1/08.
  • We received the Operating Budget report from treasurer Paul Borrmann.
  • We received two real estate conveyance motions to go before the congregation for vote on December 16, 2007; 1.  Assignment of Winona Contract for Deed, and 2. Mortgage on the College Street property.
  • We approved the treasurer's proposed 2008 Operating Budget for congregational vote on December 16, 2007.
  • We reviewed By-law language in Article 3 for potential amendment for vote at the May 2008 annual meeting and dated prior amendments to reflect name change and fiscal year date changes heretofore approved by the congregation.
  • We received notice that the January Association Sunday service has been changed to Feb 3
  • We received copies of UUCD Congregational Goal 2008 & Beyond
  • We moved to reduce the Director of Religious Education position from 30 hours a week to 20 hours a week and employ a 10 hour a week Youth Program Coordinator after the Personnel Committee develops a job description of terms of employment.
  • We discussed the number of years we should have an Interim Minister.
  • We received information about a Growth Initiative Grant which will be investigated further.

Board of Trustees 2008

Please bring issues, compliments and complaints to any of the Board members. We welcome your input. Feel free to contact board members with questions, concerns, or compliments.

Many thanks to Katie Neff Dawson for her good work on the Board of Trustees.  We'll miss you on the Board, Katie.

Welcome Larissa Schmitt, our newest Trustee on the Board. 

Elevator Speeches

What do you say when someone asks you "What's a Unitarian Universalist?" Do you have a short response that you could give if you were asked this question, for example, in an elevator?

Here's what Bruce Holmen would say:
"Our religion is not based on creed but on free and responsible search for truth. We are a liberal religion that encourages diversity."

Do you have an elevator speech that you are willing to share? If so, please send it pschwarz@css.edu.

Thanks!
Penny Schwarze, Membership Steering Committee

Under Construction

Building to grow logoA column to answer questions about our new church building

SanctuaryHome Stretch

We are in our final weeks of construction for Phase I of completing our new community home on College Street.  During this time there will be ample opportunity to volunteer for a variety of tasks that will need completing before we can occupy our new space…..so heed the call!

In The Loop

Here are a few of the latest time tables we have been given.

  • Carpeting and chairs arriving the first part of January.
  • Phones are currently being installed.
  • Garden and Entry space installation mid-December.
  • Bathrooms being finished by the end of December.
  • Drawing of the entrances, exit, traffic flow and parking is accompanying this newsletter.

Financial $$$

By the reading of this newsletter the members of the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Duluth will have voted on granting a mortgage on our College Street property and assigning our Winona property Contract for Deed to the Zeppa Family Foundation to provide collateral on our construction loan, which we will want to pay off as soon as possible.  Financial hearings were held in advance of the vote on December 16th.

Occupancy….the final frontier!

Ever an elusive item!  We plan to hold a "Work-ship Service" on January 6th at 10:30 am.  Just bring along your favorite broom, dust cloth, dust pan, hammer, nails, measuring tape or any other cleaning or construction utensil. Won't that be fun!!!  We are incredibly excited to get into our new space!!!

College Street Project Task Force

Members: Lori Bauman, Alisa DeRider, John Evans, Ann Fryberger, Richard Fryberger, Warren High, Dave Stinson, Beth Travis-Betts, Geiger Yount and of course, our very own, Chris Edwardson, Owner's Representation Extraordinaire. Please call us if you have any questions or concerns.

College Street Building and Grounds Formative Meeting

When: 6:00pm., January 9, 2008
Where: College Street Property
Why: The new structure and site at College Street along with the continuing transformation from Pastoral to Program Congregation is cause for us to expand our definition of "Building and Grounds" from the traditional custodial maintenance and repair model to now include the operation of a multi-dimensional, multi-use performance platform that includes the exterior spaces as well as the interior. This meeting is intended to pull together the expertise, energy and willingness to insure the efficient care & management of our new space. All interested parties are welcome to attend.

Dick Fryberger rdf80355@yahoo.com

Green Corner

Green sactuary logoIt may be surprising to many people that the air inside our living spaces is likely polluted – often more so than outdoor air. Modern windows and doors with tight seals result in less air exchange than in leaky older buildings. Noxious gases coming from fireplaces and gas stoves, mold caused by excessive moisture or dust build-up, radon, tobacco smoke, and ‘off-gassing' from chemicals in furniture, building materials, and cleaning products all contribute to the quality of our air and affect our health. Exposure to pollutants can cause a range of health problems including eye and throat irritation, headaches, fatigue, respiratory diseases, and even legionnaire's disease and cancer.

Public health and environmental protection efforts over the past several years have addressed the most obvious causes of poor indoor air quality, such as improper or dirty ventilation, radon, tobacco smoke, mold, carbon monoxide, and asbestos (although these contaminants continue to exist and cause problems in buildings), but have we considered other toxins such as formaldehyde, pesticides, and harmful chemicals in our flooring, furniture, paint and cleaning supplies? The numbers of chemicals that we are exposed to on a daily basis from a variety of sources can be astounding. It can be overwhelming to try to sort through all of the environmental and health concerns that we need to be aware of.

People in North America typically spend over 80% of their time in indoor environments, including homes, schools, offices, and automobiles. While we do our best to make these public and private spaces aesthetically pleasing and comfortable, we may be doing ourselves a disservice with the very materials we use to finish and clean the spaces. Formaldehyde, a significant pollutant which causes cancer in laboratory animals and is recognized by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as a probable human carcinogen, can often be found in homes. Likely sources are building materials, cigarette smoke, household products, furniture, unvented fuel burning, glues, adhesives, and paints. Pesticides are another source of toxic chemicals in our living spaces. Carpets, adhesives in flooring and wood products, paints and other wall coverings, flame retardants, fabrics and foams are all sources of potential indoor air contamination.
The primary chemical used for dry cleaning, perchloroethylene (PERC), is another threat to our indoor air and health. The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences states that: "Short-term exposure to PERC can cause adverse health effects on the nervous system that include dizziness, fatigue, headaches, sweating, lack of coordination, and unconsciousness. Long-term exposure can cause liver and kidney damage." The International Association for Research on Cancer classifies PERC as a probable carcinogen. If you do use dry cleaning, you can reduce your exposure to PERC by removing the plastic and airing the items outside for several hours prior to bringing them indoors.

If we are remodeling or building new, there are steps we can take to prevent indoor air pollution and contamination. Request that builders and other professionals on your project use non-toxic products such as formaldehyde-free fiber board, non-toxic paint, strippers, stains, adhesives and finishes with low or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs). We can limit (or completely eliminate) carpet, which harbors mold, bacteria, dust and dirt. If you choose to use carpet, choose natural fibers made without pesticides or petroleum products.

Non-toxic or ‘green' materials are widely available today. It is up to us to ask for what we need and insist that our spaces are safe and healthy for all of us as we work, live and play. Read labels and ask questions about chemicals used in products you purchase. Several plant species are known to remove chemicals from air – including several varieties of palm, Boston fern, English ivy, peace lily, and rubber plant.

(Original by Julie McDonnell; edited slightly)

CARING CORNER

Caring Corner LogoGreetings all you caring folks!  Thanks for the many ways you care.  Please remember those who cannot get out to enjoy the holiday season.  Keep letting us know when there is a need and—let us know about those joys too!
Warren High & Julie Morgan

JOYS & CONCERNS

Congratulations to Cal Benson on the recent publication of his book of poetry, Dakota Boy.  This book is in three sections: growing up in the Dakotas, the loss and legacy of Cal's son, Peter, and reflections on Lake Superior.  Dakota Boy is available in local bookstores.

Best wishes to Bob Hart who resides at Bayside Health Center (1601 St. Louis Avenue) on Park Point.  Mara reports that Bob appreciates guests—3:00 is a good time to visit. 

Healing Wishes to John Langdon who continues to reside at Lakeshore, (4002 London Road #248, 625-8248).  John says:  "Once again I am touched by an outpouring of love and caring from you all.  Again I am disabled and out of my home.  Your cards, visits, calls and many kindnesses fill me again with love and caring.  Thank you so much!"

Congratulations to Sheila Packa on publication of her recent book, The Mother Tongue, published by Calyx Press Duluth.  It explores coming of age on the Iron Range, and is also a mother/daughter story exploring identity, sexuality and language.  The Mother Tongue is a coming out story set in the context of the working class on the Iron Range, and a story of love.  The title refers to Siiri, Sheila's  mother, whose first language was Finnish. 

Good News from Beth Travis & Tom Betts: "We would like everyone to know that Beth has completed all her chemo treatments.   There is no radiation treatment in this plan. We will see the surgeon in January. All signs would have us believe she will be told that she is in remission. Another surgery will be scheduled to remove the port used for the chemo. We expect that to be as successful as everything else has been. We thank all for their support. We always hoped that if we ever needed you that you'd be there, and you certainly were."

THE WELCOMING CONGREGATION NEWS

Upcoming Events:

Living the Welcoming Congregation Course Series "Busting Boxes: Sexuality and Gender Outside the Box" – to be offered in February 2008.  Join us five Wednesday nights for discussions guaranteed to challenge your notions of gender and sexuality.  Join Paula Pederson, Ian Christensen, Trisha O'Keefe, and Faris Keeling for this exploratory discussion on lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender experience.

Interfaith Billboard – Watch the billboards up by the mall late this coming winter. We are participating in an interfaith billboard that will announce (in rainbow colors) "We Support You On Your Faith Journey."

Opening Our Doors Celebration – April 4-5, 2008 – We will be hosting the event in our new building and will be looking for lots of help from our UUCD community!

NEED MORE INFORMATION OR INTERESTED IN JOINING THE WELCOMING CONGREGATION COMMITTEE??
We'd love to have you join us. Our next meeting will be January 20th. Call Karen B. or Julie M. for more information!

Music notes logoMusic Notes

"The aim and final end of all music should be none other than the glory of God and the refreshment of the soul." Johann Sebastian Bach

What a December it was!   There was so much meaning-filled music presented in such loving ways that every soul present may have received refreshment enough to stay glowing brightly until April!    UUCD has many committed music makers whose hard work and generosity of spirit we are deeply grateful for: Barbara Kelly, Lee Weintraub, Grace Bauman, Dan Burrows, trio "Cins and Hell' (Cindy Edwardson, Cyndi Gritzmacher and Hella Wartman) Young UU Singers and the Choir with choir director Cyndi Gritzmacher, and members of 8 VA with music programming administrator Karen Bauman.   

Remember – YOU are always welcome to try out making music at UUCD! Call  choir director Cyndi Gritzmacher or music programming administrator Karen Bauman to join in the wonder of creating beautiful music and  explore your potential!

Speaking of wonder Dec. 8th provided plenty and lots of drama to boot!  Our lovely 9 ft. concert grand piano had the rare experience of being moved from our former Winona St. home to the new College St. building!  Over the course of 3 hours a team of 7 hearty souls( including Dan Norlein of Masters Piano) carefully tipped the 1500 lb. piano onto a sledge, removed the legs and pedals, pulled it down to a small,  enclosed freight truck, drove to College St and through muscle, skill and some luck got the instrument placed in the new sanctuary safe and sound!   In the coming weeks the piano will receive regulation, tuning and some assorted maintenance so it will be ready to once again provide a medium for spiritual uplift in UUCD's  community life.

So, here is the schedule for January rehearsals.  Feel free to cut this out and put near your calendar!   

UUCD JANUARY 2008 MUSIC REHEARSAL SCHEDULE

  • Sunday Jan. 6: 8 VA 9 am UUCD Social Hall. Choir  9:30 am UUCD Social Hall
  • Wed Jan 9: 8 VA 6 pm TBA. Choir 7 pm TBA
  • Sun Jan 13: Choir 9:30 am UUCD Social Hall
  • Sun Jan 20: Strings Attached 9:30 am UUCD Social Hall
  • Wed Jan 23: 8 VA 6 pm TBA Choir 7 pm TBA
  • Sun Jan 27: Choir 9:30 am UUCD Social Hall

Religious Education News

Greetings UU Families,

Just prior to the holidays, local artist, UMD professor and UUCD member Alison Aune taught several whole-group lessons on medieval Swedish holiday art (with a Unitarian twist!) Thank you, Alison, for taking time out of your busy schedule to do this!

Kids learned about history and symbolism of the Swedish mobiles called "Oros" (pronounced "Ooroo") that are to be hung over Christmas tables. Their gentle movement is a reminder that the spirits of those we love are nearby.

Kids also crafted Swedish star ornaments that are traditionally hung in windows to symbolize the star that lead the three wise men to Jesus' manger.

Additionally, Alison taught about the colorful embroidered ornamentation of the Sami (a native nomadic people from Northern Scandinavia). Kids replicated these designs with colorful felt, ribbon and yarn.

YRUU NEWS

YRUU students bagged groceries as a fund raiser at CUB foods on December 20. They are hoping that this money will serve as a foundation for a service trip this coming summer.

Exciting news about Staffing for Growth:

Elsewhere in this newsletter, you will find a posting for a new Youth Program Coordinator position.  A Youth Program Coordinator will work in conjunction with youth to nurture leadership, plan service projects and explore our UU principles.  This position has been created by separating 10 hours per week from the Director of Religious Education position, so for now, I will be working as your DRE 20 hours per week.

Getting to Know You - Again!

Many of you participated in the "Getting to Know You" visiting program last spring. About 30 visitors visited between 2-4 people each. Well, we are planning to do another round of visits for the simple purpose of getting to know one another better. Perhaps you would like to be a visitor this time, or maybe you want to make sure somebody visits you! (It's OK if you were visited last year; we'll be happy to send somebody again this year!)

As a result from feedback from last year, we will be doing the visits starting in March this time around, so we will be conducting orientation in late February. Dates will be announced in next month's newsletter. Please contact Paul Borrmann if you think you might like to be a visitor this spring.

UU PRETTY GOOD BOOK CLUB

Book logoThe UU pretty good book club is open to everyone, not just members.  Bring a friend!  If you enjoy reading good books and discussing them, why don't you join us.  Meetings are usually the third Tuesdays of the month. Watch for possible changes in location monthly.

JANUARY SELECTION:
Woman Warrior by Maxine Hong Kingston, Tuesday, January 15, 2008 at 7:15 at UUCD, College Street, Library. The Woman Warrior is a pungent, bitter, but beautifully written memoir of growing up Chinese American in Stockton, California. Maxine Hong Kingston (China Men) instills the dire lessons of her mother's mesmerizing "talk-story" tales of a China where girls are worthless, tradition is exalted and only a strong, wily woman can scratch her way upward. The author's America is a landscape of confounding white "ghosts"—the policeman ghost, the social worker ghost--with equally rigid, but very different rules. Like the woman warrior of the title, Kingston carries the crimes against her family carved into her back by her parents in testimony to
and defiance of the pain.

FEBRUARY SELECTION:
Middlemarch by George Eliot, Tuesday, February 18, 2008 in the UUCD Library.  Considered to be Eliot's masterpiece, the novel is a complete study of every class of Middlemarch society--from the landed gentry and clergy to the manufacturers and professional men, farmers, and laborers.  The focus of the novel is on the thwarted idealism of its two principal characters, Dorothea Brooke and Tertius Lydgate, both of whom marry disastrously. 

MARCH SELECTION:
Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Mission to Promote Peace... One School at a Time by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin. Tuesday, March 18, 7:15 in the Library.  This book is also chosen for the "community read" for March. We will hopefully reserve a bag from the library for this book, so if you would like to participate, please let Carol Michealson know as soon as possible cmicheal@d.umn.edu. "Some failures lead to phenomenal successes, and this American nurse's unsuccessful attempt to climb K2, the world's second tallest mountain, is one of them. Dangerously ill when he finished his climb in 1993, Mortenson was sheltered for seven weeks by the small Pakistani village of Korphe; in return, he promised to build the impoverished town's first school, a project that grew into the Central Asia Institute, which has since constructed more than 50 schools across rural Pakistan and Afghanistan. Co-author Relin recounts Mortenson's efforts in fascinating detail, presenting compelling portraits of the village elders, con artists, philanthropists, mujahideen, Taliban officials, ambitious school girls and upright Muslims Mortenson met along the way. As the book moves into the post-9/11 world, Mortenson and Relin argue that the United States must fight Islamic extremism in the region through collaborative efforts to alleviate poverty and improve access to education, especially for girls. Captivating and suspenseful, with engrossing accounts of both hostilities and unlikely friendships, this book will win many readers' hearts." Publishers Weekly (Starred Review) (Copyright Reed Business Information, Inc.)

Keeping up with Prairie Star District

The Prairie Star District newsletter, including archived past copies, can be found online at the PSD website, http://www.psduua.org.  Go to "What's New at PSD?" and you will find the newsletters, as well as other great information and ways to connect with the other like-minded people in our region!

Movin' On Up!

Golly!  It's nearly time to move all our stuff from Winona, (currently secured in our new parking garage), up to the main floor of our new home!  I've been humming the tune, Movin' On Up, for days.   

This catchy tune, Movin' On Up, came from a 1970's TV show.  In the show, African American businessman, George Jefferson becomes wealthy with his seven dry cleaning stores.  Comic situations take place when George leaves behind his lower class, working background and with his wife Weezie and son Lionel, moves to New York's East Side in a deluxe apartment in the sky to live with the nouveau rich. 

How ironic, I thought, at the time we are moving into our classy new home on College Street, I'm humming a tune about a bigoted, loud mouthed, social climbing character in a thirty year old TV show.  I googled the show and was reminded that in addition to being an award winning, long playing TV show,  Movin' On Up, created by Norman Lear, addressed societal issues of race, crime, addiction and poverty.  That's not so bad!  UU's aspire to make the world a better place by addressing these same issues.  Maybe we too can become more humorous and successful in our efforts to make our world a better place!  I guess I'll keep singing this tune! 

So, I'm asking you to join me and lots of other UU's to begin our work in January for Movin' On Up to our new home.  Our first opportunity for work in the new year is the weekend of January 4th, 5th and 6th.   We'll be cleaning up the place and will end with a work-ship service on Sunday, January 6th.  Please email or call to let me know if you can come.  

Barb Lund 
blund@lakenet.com

Speaking of Furniture . . .

Furniture For Sale!   You've all heard the phrase, " No room at the Inn?"  Well, Charlie and Diana Moore (the effervescent couple who graciously allows UUs to store "stuff" at their house all year long for the Summer Rummage Sale) are having a little "room" problem of their own!  The issue is that a few large items are hogging up space.  So, now available for pre-saleare 2 sturdy, wooden desks and a very nice Bistro-style, drop-leaf table with 2 upholstered chairs (perfect for a small space or apartment).  Until we can sell these larger items and free up some space, please hold off on dropping off any more "stuff".  Anyone interested in purchasing the above items, please call the Moore's

Any Questions? Suggestions?  Or if anyone wants to help out at Special Events, please contact Gloria at dansing52@yahoo.com

Guest at Your Table

After the holidays, especially at this time of year, we can all feel a little "nickeled and dimed". If you didn't find "Pennies from Heaven" to put in the "Guest at Your Table" bank, don't worry. There's still time and you won't be "drawn and quartered". Our drive ends on Sunday, January 20th, when your family can bring your bank to the Social Hall for a token of appreciation from the Denominational Affairs Committee. More information about these Unitarian Universalist Service Committee programs are available at www.uusc.org . Together we can make a difference to coin a phrase. Thank you for your generosity.

Peace & Justice Shows Film

"Speak Truth to Power" is a powerful mix of poetry, music and documentary footage dedicated to human rights advocates from more than 40 countries.  This moving film will be shown at the Peace & Justice committee meeting on January 5, 2008 at 10:00 am in the Library at the new College Street building.  All are welcome.

SPIRIT VALLEY YOUNG MOTHERS

            A holiday party complete with trimmed tree, food and gifts was held December 10 at Spirit Valley.  Each of the seven children received a gift, and eight moms each received $25.  The children all began sharing their toys with each other, mostly in the holiday spirit of peace, which is difficult for toddlers.  Thanks to all of you who donated money, gifts and/or food: Bev Sturgis, Diana Moore, Jill Lakhan, Carol Turner, Ruth Strom McCutcheon, Julie Morgan, Traci Eaton, Sanna Shields, Marree Seitz, Sue Dailey, and Carol Michealson.  The moms gave each of the guests a gaily trimmed bag of cookies and nuts.
            A new mom by the name of Megan arrived in early December.  Her baby daughter is due in February.  We have begun a tradition of supplying each mother with a layette of new baby things: a blanket, several receiving blankets, sleepers, diapers, wash cloths and towel, crib sheet and pacifiers.  A box for collecting these items will be set up in our new home on College Street in early January and will be presented to Megan towards the end of the month.  Thanks to all of you UUs and friends for the true holiday spirit of generosity and love.

Network of Spiritual Progressives

A new chapter of the Network of Spiritual Progressives (NSP) has been started in Duluth.  The purpose of NSP is to bring together progressives of various faith traditions to work together to make this a better and safer world.  The co-chairs of the national organization are Rabbi Michael Lerner, a psychologist and editor of the progressive Jewish magazine Tikkun; Sister Joan Chittister, whose 1998 book Heart of Flesh: A Feminist Spirituality for Women and Men I find quite inspiring; and Cornel West, the Professor of Religion and African American Studies at Princeton University who is the author of the highly praised 2005 book  Democracy Matters.

An overall theme of NSP is to change the "bottom line" in the United States from power and making money to love and caring.  One of the recommendations articulated in Michael Lerner's (2006) The Left Hand of God: Taking Back Our Country from the Religious Right is a  Spiritual Covenant with America.  Briefly the Covenant includes the following 8 themes:

  1. Covenant with American families: a culture that nurtures spiritual and emotional underpinnings of family.
  2. Personal responsibility including informing ourselves of what is happening in the world around us and what we can do to foster positive change.
  3. Covenant of social responsibility: rights of seniors, those in poverty, amendment to the constitution that requires corporations to seek a new charter every ten years
  4. Value-based education: generosity and compassion, humility, intellectual curiosity, justice, nonviolence, emotional and spiritual intelligence
  5. Covenant for Health Care: all dimensions including physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual
  6. Environmental Stewardship
  7. Covenant for Building a Safer World
  8. Covenant to Separate Church and State and Science. 

If you are interested in learning more about NSP contact, Hal Bertilson, Chair of the UUCD Denominational Affairs Committee.  More information and meeting times/schedules may be found at http://www.nspmn.org/index.html

Do you know someone considering seminary

--or someone you think ought to be considering it?  If so, please pass this information along:

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Duluth (UUCD) seeks a Youth Program Coordinator to begin work in early February.  Please send resume and cover letter to the UUCD office at 145 West Winona, Duluth, MN 55803.  Call 724-0308 if you have questions.   This is a 10 hour per week position beginning at $12.00 per hour. 

Necessary Qualifications: 1-3 years experience with adolescents.  Desirable Qualification: BA preferred
Resume and cover letter with 3 references to be submitted online or by regular mail. Background check required.
Submission deadline: 1/15/08   Interviews: 1/15 – 1/31/08


Thanks to Arnold and Julia Bradburd, Meadville Lombard Theological School, a Unitarian Universalist seminary in Chicago, Illinois, is offering a brand new, merit-based, full scholarship to an exceptional student, matriculating into our Master of Divinity residential degree program in September 2008. Meadville Lombard is taking applications now for the Arnold and Julia Bradburd Scholarship for Excellence.

Visit our website for more information or contact Erika Chavez, Director of Admissions at 773.256.3000 x250 or echavez@meadville.edu. The deadline for the scholarship application is March 15—so don't let this opportunity slip away.

From the Treasurer

Program (Operating)  Budget

A 2008 operating budget of $261,150 was approved at the December 16, 2007 congregational meeting. This represents a 14% increase over 2007 budget levels. Most of the increase is in the personnel area, as we now have our Staffing for Growth in place for all 12 months of 2008. We also have to budget for moving expenses for our next interim minister, and there was a general 2.3% increase in salary and benefits. We can pay for these higher expenses, in part because of the success of the ...

2008 Canvass

Many of you increased your pledge from 2007. Thank you so much! Plus, we have 13 pledgers who had not pledged in 2007, so we are indeed growing. If you have not yet submitted your pledge for 2008, please do so as soon as possible.

EVENSONG: An Eight Week Series of Gatherings

We hope you will want to be part of Evensong. In this Evensong series, participants will explore individual life journeys through sharing thoughts, experiences, doubts, and current beliefs.  Evensong is a good way to explore personal beliefs and possibilities and a great way to get to know a group of people.

We will meet on Thursday evenings from 6:00pm to 8:00pm.

Each week, we will follow an order of service, with the central event being a sharing time.  We will be listening attentively and without interruption to one another.

Here is our plan:

  • January 10, 2008 Gathering One: Beginning Together - Show and Tell
  • January 17, 2008 Gathering Two: Religious and Spiritual Experiences
  • January 24, 2008 Gathering Three: The Divine: What Do I Really Want?
  • January 31, 2008 Gathering Four: The Human: What Limits Do I Encounter?
  • February 7, 2008 Gathering Five: The Messiah, the Christ, the Buddha, the Divine Made Manifest: What is Possible? What Keeps Me Going?
  • February 14, 2008 Gathering Six: The Community: What is PossibleTogether? 
  • February 21, 2008 Gathering Seven: Endings: How Do I Live with Loss and Death?
  • February 28, 2008 Gathering Eight Ministry: What Is My Ministry?  What Am I Called to Do in the World?

There is no fee for Evensong, but registration is REQUIRED, due to space limitations.  This class will be limited to twelve participants in order to allow for full participation of all.  Registration will occur on a first come, first served basis. To register, please call the church office at 724-0308. 

NOTE: Where: Our first meetings will most likely be held at W. Winona Street.  If you register for EVENSONG, please take care to note that the PLACE of meeting will change once we move to W. College Street.

For the first session, we would like to have a Show and Tell as part of the gathering.  Please bring an object, photo, or memento to speak to the rest of us. We look forward to beginning. If you have any questions, please give me a call.

Thank you,
Reverend Sally

ANNOUNCING ‘NEW UU' Classes!

  • Have you been attending UUCD services, but have questions about Unitarian Universalism?
  • Have you been a member for while, but have a need for an update/refresher about basic UU?
  • Are you brand new to UU and want to find out more?
  • Are you considering ‘signing the book' (becoming a member)?

If so, this series may be for you!

WHAT: Topics and Dates

  • February 10, 2008 Session One: The Free Mind: Our UU history and the core principles of our faith.
  • February 17, 2008 Session Two: UU Spirituality: Our spiritual practices and the quest for spiritual depth
  • February 24, 2008 Session Three: Meaning and Community: Benefits of being in a religious community and opportunities for involvement.
  • March 2, 2008 Session Four: UUCD Tour: Our building's green design, room use, etc.

TIME: Each session will last about forty-five minutes, and will begin about ten minutes after Worship Service. 
WHERE: ‘New UU' will be held in the Library.

NOTE: No prior registration required and no need to attend all sessions.  Attendance is highly recommended for those considering membership.
For more information, contact Molly Benson

Before the New Year

Some staff members will be taking holiday trips between December 25 and January 4.  Our capable Office Assistant, Sanna Shields, will be collecting mail and checking on voicemail.

I sincerely wish you all a VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Kathy Stinnett, Congregational Administrator 

Contact Helen Mongan-Rallis, UUCD Page Coordinator