HighLights

The Unitarian Universalist Church of Annapolis (UUCA)
333 Dubois Road, Annapolis, MD 21401; Phone: 410/266-8044; Fax: 410/266-6910
mailto:newsletter@uuca-md.org Web site: The Home Page at: http://www.uuca-md.org

Staff:
Reverend Dr. Fredric J. Muir, Parish Minister

Reverend Amber Beland, Assistant Minister
Francoise H. Ateto, Director of Religious Exploration
Betsy Jo Angebranndt, Minister of Music
Christol Medley, Church Administrator/Editor

Theresa Novak, Intern Minister

Susan Eckert, Members Services Coordinator

Lori Frederick, Office Assistant

LaVonne Rineholt, Office Assistant/DRE Assistant

Church Office Hours: Mon. - Fri. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Next News Deadline: midnight, 02/07/2007

Next Mailing: 02/13/2007

Volume 50, Issue 2

January 23, 2007

Green Grotto?

There is something growing downstairs in the church, but don’t be alarmed --it is our new GREEN GROTTO! It is being put together to better serve as clearing house for many of our “green” info and ideas.

Need some suggestions for a “green” gift? There will be Alternative Gift catalogs for your perusal. Want to ask a “green” question of a master gardener? An “ask the expert” section will be posted. Info about fluorescent bulbs and recipes (and samples) of inexpensive and easy to make “green” cleaning products will be available, as well as receptacles for our recycling projects including printer ink cartridges and (very soon) our cell phone recycling program which both not only help the environment but also help raise funds for the church! You will also be able to keep tabs on our Abitibi Paper Recycling program to see how close we are to meeting our 6 month goal of 50,000 lbs. Check out the Green Grotto downstairs, across from the Purple Cow room. Of course, there will be some great coffee and Green & Black’s Organic chocolate for the first to come down and visit!

As we all know, the 7^th principle talks about respect for the interdependent web of all existence of which we are a part. Supporting these efforts and our new Green Grotto is a very easy way you can support our church community as well as our values. For more information, suggestions, or requests please contact the current Green Grotto Guide: Debbie Cole (debcole@cablespeed.com, or 410-969-7986

Habitat for Humanity

Construction has begun on building our fourth Habitat home, this one for Ms. Dana Cornish and her two daughters, Hilda and Erika, and three grandchildren, LaNesha, LaKira, and LaNaya.  We completed the house deck on 01/13 and framed the exterior walls and roof on 01/20.  We have raised $10,600 toward our $21,000 commitment.  If you wish to get involved in this exciting project, joining a Saturday work crew or providing lunches, please contact Patrick Fleeharty at 410/268-9038 or pfleeharty@hotmail.com

Upcoming Sermons

January 28

Round and Round and Round We Go

By Reverend Amber Beland

Circles and spirals have long been used as religious symbols. The idea of a path without an end and circumambulation around holy sites is found in many religions. Why do we embrace circles and spirals so much – come and explore together.

february 4

Staying on the Side of Love

By Reverend Amber Beland, Reverend Fred Muir and Intern Minister Theresa Novak

UUCA became a Welcoming Congregation on April 27, 1997.  Where are we now and where are we going in terms of our commitment to fully welcome gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered people?

february 11

Darwin Sunday

By Fred Muir

february 18

holding in faith

By Theresa Novak, Intern Minister

Sometimes we are so afraid of losing something or someone we love that we hold on much too tightly. If we are not careful, we can squeeze the very life out of what is most precious to us. As Unitarian Universalists, our faith tradition calls us to hold on to what we love in a very different way, both as individuals and as a religious community.

Celebrating Our Beloved Community

Finance News

I’m happy to report that UUCA ended the year with a surplus of about $3000. That is much better than the major shortfall we saw at the start of December. We closed this gap with your year-end contributions, including some major 2006 commitments that were fulfilled as the year ended. Thanks to all who made extra contributions and to all for your continued generosity!

I have continued to tally the commitments for 2007 – we’ll be tracking this all year long. At the December 3 Congregation Meeting, we were challenged to support an ambitious but necessary budget with increased commitments. The response was magnificent - members and friends have committed a total $541,483 as of January 17, and our progress toward the $600,000 goal has improved. However, I still estimate that, without additional effort, our stewardship campaign will only reach about $585,000. This shortfall means that we are now searching for donors to match Bill Curtis’s generous offer, stated at the Congregational Meeting. Bill committed to contribute $10,000 toward Major Repairs IF his contribution is matched by others. So we are again challenged, this time challenged to respond to Bill’s generosity, and when we do, we will push our Stewardship Campaign ahead of our goal.

Finally, UUCA needs to complete an audit this year. I am searching for finance professionals or money-minded people who could serve on an Internal Audit Committee during February through May. I need people not currently on the Finance Committee. If you can help, please contact Dick Roop at dickroop@verizon.net.

R.E.Flections

The first four weeks of the new year in the Religious Exploration program have marked the transition between semesters, when some of the group leaders "pass the baton" to a new team while others choose to continue until the end of the church year.  All RE facilitators and advisors were invited to a meeting followed by a luncheon; it was an opportunity to share their experience, and to plan for the months ahead.

One of my personal goals is once again to provide the congregation with a glimpse into the activities of each RE group.  Here are a few highlights of the first semester...  Babies and toddler settled easily into their new room where attendants Bethany and Mia provided a familiar presence each week.  One Sunday, Pre-K made butter (from scratch, by shaking a clothespin in a jar of milk!), and enjoyed eating the fruit of their labor.  K/Grade 1 set the tone early on when they joined "Pinwheels for Peace," a worldwide effort.  Grades 2/3 celebrated various holidays, including Sukkot - take a look at the photos displayed on the hallway bulletin board downstairs.  Grades 4/5 focused on the life of Jesus - re-enacting some of the scenes, including a surprise encounter with a wild-looking John the Baptist in our woods!  The Tweens group visited a synagogue, the Friends Meeting House and for the first time a Greek Orthodox church.  After their pa rents had attended a special orientation, the Seventh Graders discussed not only sexual language, anatomy and physiology, but also values, gender roles, friendship and relationships.  A retreat at a West River camp kicked off the Coming of Age year for 8th Graders; they learned how to make pies and under the guidance of their mentor, started reflecting on their beliefs and life goals.  YRUU, the high school group, spent an afternoon at the Renaissance Festival, and organized a weekend-long Con(ference), hosting youth from the entire District.  All groups participated in the church-wide "books for Djibouti" project - they made unique bookmarks, collected and packaged books to be sent to an orphanage in East Africa.

The 11 AM session remains a challenge.  Because fo few families are involved consistently, staffing is difficult and continuity is an issue.  My plan is to form a team to focus on that program and look at possibilities.  If you are a creative person who can "think out the box," that's a job for you.  Call me!

Fran

Music For Peace & Justice Concert

January 27, 2007

The Sonora Ensemble is a unique and innovative group comprised of some of the finest musicians from the Baltimore-Annapolis area. A fresh twist on the traditional clarinet quartet, Sonora adds the depth and versatility of a percussionist. This exceptional quintet has been delighting audiences all over with their masterful artistry and pure enjoyment of music. Every member of the ensemble is a virtuoso in his or her own right and is associated with some of the area’s more illustrious performing groups. Combining all of their talents in this intimate chamber music setting makes for a truly extraordinary ensemble.

UUCA Outdoor Club

Saturday January 27 Moderate Hike in Savage Park and Mill 9:00 a.m. to 3:00pm Meet in church parking lot at 9:00 a.m. Lunch at Savage Mill. Dress for the weather. Cancel if driving conditions are poor.

Saturday February 24 Hike in Patapsco Valley State Park

Saturday, March 24 Hike in Gwynns Falls

UUCA Book Club

The Book Club meets on the third Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in the church library.

Our selection for February 20 is Lisa See’s Snow Flower and the Secret Fan, a novel set in 19th century China. For March 20 we have chosen Asne Seierstad’s The Bookseller of Kabul, a non-fiction observation of Afghanistan through the eyes of a post-U.S. invasion family.

If you have questions, contact Jackie Rocca at 410-349-8351. All are welcome to join us.

For all that is our life

Theresa Novak, Intern Minister

I got a little lost in the labyrinth behind UUCA the other day. It was a cold day, 37 degrees at three in the afternoon. The office internet wasn’t working, and I was feeling a bit restless. I grabbed my jacket and headed out for a walk. The labyrinth drew me. I love labyrinths and once walked the ancient one in the cathedral at Chartres. Labyrinths are not mazes. There is supposed to be only one path through them. Walking a labyrinth can be calming and energizing at the same time. One walks to the center via a very circuitous path and then outward again. Something about moving your body in this patterned and deliberate way can aid an inner journey, a journey that is mental, emotional, and spiritual.

Our UUCA labyrinth is a work in progress. A plastic orange cord is simply staked into the ground, an outline of where a more permanent one of stones or other materials might eventually be placed. Leaves, grey and brown, covered much of the orange cord. The ground was spongy; my feet sank into mud in places. I wondered about snakes for a quick minute, but then decided any sensible snake would likely be curled up someplace warmer. As I walked, I had to toss a few branches out of the way, but I made it to the center just fine, taking note of the orange cord very carefully. At the center, I paused and rearranged two stones I found there, wanting to leave some small evidence that I had been there.

Walking into the labyrinth had cured my restlessness. As I turned and began to retrace my steps, I moved with more energy, confidence and speed. It seemed to be taking longer on the way out, however, and I finally noticed that I had lost my way and was walking the same part of the path over and over. Rather than go back and try again, I left the labyrinth and walked back to my office. Sometimes just taking some time to explore is all we need, and sometimes being a little lost is OK too. Metaphor and meaning can be found in the simplest of things and we don’t have to do everything perfectly. Aren’t we all works in progress? Many blessings on the journey!

Welcoming, Caring & Connecting

“The New UU”

Saturday, March 31

8:45 AM – 12 Noon

“The New UU” is designed for newcomers and new members.  It offers an introduction to Unitarian Universalism’s theology and history and provides an opportunity to learn more about the programs and activities of this congregation – the UU Church of Annapolis.  Anyone thinking of becoming a member of the congregation is strongly encouraged to attend.  We will meet in the Sanctuary and a continental breakfast will be provided.    It’s a wonderful way to learn more about Unitarian Universalism as well as a chance to meet church leaders and staff.  Please call Susan Eckert, at 410.266.8044 x110 to let us know that you will be attending and/or to request childcare.

EGG-CITING STUNT SHOW!! (Or another teaser about the All-Church Retreat)

Sound interesting? Reserve April 27-29, 2007 for our ALL-CHURCH RETREAT which includes the outstanding, outrageous, and courageous ‘Egg’citing Stunt Show!! You may want to watch or participate, but you will have to join the rest of us at Hashawha Environmental Center in Westminster, MD to do it! We will have many interesting and exciting opportunities to go “beyond the social hour” with other members and friends of our congregation. Many have fond memories of making s’mores around the campfire, fishing, hiking, board games, kite flying, and, of course, the annual trek across the rope bridge. This is not just fun for the young (or young at heart), there will be opportunities of focused sharing for those interested in deepening their spirituality in small group settings including meditation, yoga, and/or T’ai Chi Chih. Come share in the joy, the deepening and the lightening up! Together we can have an incredible time.

The cost is $55 per adult, $50 for children (5 – 16) --those 4 and under are free. This price includes two nights accommodations (in heated dormitory-style cabins), all meals Saturday and breakfast and lunch on Sunday. Limited scholarships will be available as needed. Please contact Debbie Cole (debcole@cablespeed.com or 410-969-7986) or Lisa Combs (lisacombs@verizon.net or 410/267-6987) for more information or to sign up for our information e-list. Be brave, come share yourself at the 2007 ALL-Church Retreat –we’d love to spend some time with you!

Welcome New Members!

We would like to welcome our newest members who singed the Membership Book on January 7:

Margaret A. McGregor

Leticia (Lettie) Ozuna

Sophia Parafina

Kathryn M. Wilber

It’s good to have you with us!

“Newcomer Talk & Tour”– Sunday, February 25, 12: 30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

You don’t have to wait until the next New UU class to get to know the Unitarian Universalist Church of Annapolis.  This 1-hour introduction provides an opportunity for newcomers to learn about the many programs and activities of the church as well as how to find your way around the buildings and grounds.  Advance registration is not required; all are invited to attend – please join us!

Susan

Faith Development

Religious exploration News

Tree Climbing: Children love to climb trees, and we have the perfect tree in the church playground – a pine tree with branches low to the ground and spaced at close intervals! Occasionally during a service someone will spot a child high up in the branches, looking into the Sanctuary from this vantage point. As much fun as it is, we want to discourage that – it is distracting for people attending the service, and dangerous for the child at any time. If you are a parent, please supervise your children when they are on the playground, and ask them not to climb too high into the tree.

Think Summer: believe it or not, it’s already time to start making plans for the summer! Parents may want to look into JustWorks camps sponsored by the UU Service Committee, particularly:

Freedom Summer: A Civil Rights Journey in July for 14-year-olds and up (intergenerational);

D.C. Teen Leadership Camp in August.

Complete listing and registration information can be found at http://www.uusc.org/programs/workcamps/wcsched2007.html

Perfect Love, Imperfect relationship

There will be a new class offered starting Monday, March 5, 2007 as part of our PathWork adult enrichment program. This offering is based on the book “Perfect Love, Imperfect Relationships: Healing the Wound of the Heart” by John Welwood. This 6-week course will explore our “core wounding around love that affects not only our personal relationships but the quality of life in our world as a whole.” Through reading and sharing the exercises in this book, we will work toward a deepened understanding of ourselves and a knowledge of ”how we have direct access to the love and happiness we most long for, our very essence.”

The book is anticipated to be available soon through the church bookstore. The classes will meet 7:00pm to 8:30pm Mondays –March 5^th through April 9^th. Watch for sign-ups after services and/or online through the church website.

You’re invited to join us in this exploration. For more information, contact course facilitators Debbie Cole (debcole@cablespeed.com or 410-969-7986) or Peter Lamb

Easton UU's Seek Coordinator of Religious Education

The UU Fellowship at Easton has an opening for an experienced volunteer coordinator with proven skills in leading educational programs for children and youth. Focus of this 12 hour/week job is on recruiting and guiding volunteer teachers for Sunday programs. College degree or equivalent required. Good opportunity for professional development. Send resume and cover letter by 2/9/07 to UUFE Board President, P.O. Box 1162, Easton, MD 21601. www.uufeaston.org

Annual Reports

Looking for a way to let church members know what’s going on in your program?

The Annual Report is an excellent way to share your success stories and challenges. UUCA is requesting that all programs and groups of the church submit their Annual Report by March 1, 2007. Electronic copies of the Annual Report forms can be found on our website, paper copies or available in the office area.

If you have questions about who should submit an Annual Report please contact your Management Team Representative for guidance.

Social Justice & Outreach

Intergenerational Cultural Event to Kick Off partner Church Weekend

Save Saturday evening, March 3rd, for a stimulating intergenerational event of participation and entertainment. This is an exciting part of our Partner Church Weekend celebration that will continue Sunday morning in our worship services. Our Unitarian partners in Rava live in Romania but are ethnically Hungarian. This evening of “Hungarian Desserts and Dancing” will include delicious treats, fun, entertainment, and information. We are pleased to welcome back The Tisza Ensemble who will perform Hungarian dances and also teach us dances and lead us on the dance floor. Last year’s event was a huge success and we invite even more folks to participate this year. So grab the kids, invite family and friends, and join us at the church for this event.

We designate Partner Church Weekend to be early in March because that is the anniversary of the 1568 Edict of Torda declaring religious tolerance and freedom of conscience, principles which unite Unitarian Universalists in the United States with our Unitarian sisters and brothers in Transylvania.

If you would like to volunteer to make a dessert for our intergenerational event or to help with this or other partner church activities, please contact Heather Millar at 410-544-8973 or via email at heathermillar@gmail.com.

The Death Penalty in Maryland:

More and more people are concerned that Maryland’s death penalty law is unjust, racially discriminatory and a poor use of our resources to combat crime. The UUCA Legislative Action Team is sponsoring an informational/planning meeting on Sunday, January 28 after the second service in the sanctuary for people interested in learning more about the history and status of the death penalty in Maryland and the growing abolitionist movement. We will discuss and plan what if anything further the Team will do during this year’s legislative session on this important issue facing Marylanders. A representative from MD CASE, MD Citizens Against State Executions will join us. If you are interested in this issue or simply want to learn more, please attend. Any questions, contact Evelyn Spurgin at (410) 956-0435 or mes@hbdlaw.com

Arts in the Woods

Gallery At 333

The Gallery at 333 will have an opening on Sunday January 7th after the second service.  Featured for the months of January and February are The River Gallery Group-Laura Dixon, Roxanne Weidele and Elsie Whitman, owners of the gallery of same name in Gailesville.  This is a well traveled and educated group with an eclectic style, from collage and assemblages to watercolor, oils and pastels.

333 CoffeeHouse

Upcoming 333 shows:

Friday, March 16, 2007: 15th Anniversary, Max Ochs and friends

Friday, April 20, 2007: Mad Agnes (folk-rock trio)

Friday, May 18, 2007: Greentree (Griffith, Marshall, & Creed)

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333 Coffeehouse at the UU Church of Annapolis

Friday, Febraury 16, 2007 8:00 PM

Keltish

Keltish plays a mix of acoustic and electric instruments, including fiddle, Irish harp, penny whistle, guitar, bass, and Irish drum, playing traditional Celtic tunes with a fun and tasteful modern twist.

Admission $10 ($8 senior/$5 student) Web site: www.fsgw.org/333

Coming Friday, March 16, 2007: 15th Anniversary, Max Ochs and friends

MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Annapolis is to serve the congregation and the community and to affirm the universal spirit of human dignity by creating an environment that challenges, inspires, encourages and supports the quest for religious fulfillment.

We are committed to the church as an institution, to social justice, to liberal religious education, to mutual caring and support, and to the value of diversity.

We invite all persons of every faith and background to engage in a search for truth. We believe in the dignity and worth of every human being and in freedom of expression. We strive to care about each other and the health of our community and the world.

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