May 2013

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Reverend Bret Lortie Called as From the Minister and EOD - 2 UCE Senior Minister Sundays at UCE - 3 From the Ministerial Search Committee Membership News - 4

The UCE Sanctuary was filled with cheers, songs and News from ISC and Peace and bubbles when results were announced of the congrega- Justice - 5

tional vote to call Rev. Bret Lortie as our Senior Minis- Upcoming Events - 6 Photo By: David Linsell ter. The vote on April 28 followed a service led by Membership News - 7, 8, 9 Rev. Lortie that included a sermon titled “The Future of Our Faith.” Rev. Lortie addressed the question: “How do we honor our Unitarian and Uni- Social Action News - 10 versalist traditions of reason and reverence and continue growing into a more bold and @UCE: News & Notes - 11 relevant expression of Unitarian Universalism?” Minister’s Schedule & “The Last Word” - back cover After the results of the vote were announced, the congregation sang “Happy Birthday” and the Ministerial Search Committee presented Reverend Lortie with a birthday gift: a selec- tion of books from Book H. The congregational meeting and the celebration were the final events in a busy week of candidating activities for Rev. Lortie and his wife, Cindy. They will Potluck and be making the transition from San Antonio, Texas to Evanston this summer, with Reverend Vespers

Lortie’s official tenure at UCE beginning in August. Wednesday, May 22

6pm - Vespers Our Guest Speaker for May 7pm - Potluck

Our guest speaker on May 19, Rev. Dr. William F. Schulz is President of For this last Vespers before the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee, advancing human rights we take a summer hiatus, and social justice in the United States and around the world. Previously, we are celebrating "The Bill served for 12 years as executive director of Amnesty International Lusty Month of May." We USA, and for eight years as president of the Unitarian Universalist Asso- invite you to contact one of ciation. us if you have a reading or a song (to contribute or sug- He has appeared frequently on radio and television news and analysis shows and is the au- gest), one that never fails to thor or contributing editor of several books, including In Our Own Best Interest: How Defend- fill you with energy and op- ing Human Rights Benefits Us All; Tainted Legacy: 9/11 and the Ruin of Human Rights; The Phe- timism. We will share some nomenon of Torture; and The Future of Human Rights: US Policy for a New Era. merriment and energy on this special evening. Enjoy

some food for the body and He graduated from Oberlin College in Ohio, received a master's degree in philosophy from food for the soul with a the University of Chicago and a doctor of ministry degree from Meadville/Lombard Theo- small group of members logical School at the University of Chicago, and holds eight honorary degrees. and friends of UCE. Page 2 - FROM the MINISTER and EOD

From Rev. Connie Grant, From Sandra Robinson, Minister for Congregational Life . . . Executive Operations Director . . .

“Human people” needed

… We do not want anybody who thinks he Rev. Connie Grant Welcome Rev. Bret Lortie. What an or she is very wise. We certainly do not want anybody who is exciting day on Sunday, April 28, as possessed with the idea she or he is very good, and we really do we voted to call our new Sr. Minister Sandra Robinson not want anybody who has nothing else to do. We want just hu- in a sanctuary filled with anticipation, excitement and man people, who appreciate that here is something that is worth their doing, and are willing to do the best they can. … The princi- cheer. Our staff is looking forward to his presence in pal thing, after all, is that you should bring the children with whom our work at UCE. I express my gratitude to the Min- you come in contact close to a warm heart, that you surround isterial Search Committee for their hard work and them with an atmosphere of devotion. Teach them, that they may dedication toward finding the right candidate for become a part of this great effort of humanity to lift up the world. UCE.

This passage, from the turn-of-the-last-century Unitarian minister Minot Savage (1841-1918), provides a kind of job An extraordinary flurry of activity and hard work has description for modern-day religious education teachers and been underway over the past few months. Today as I advisors. While no special knowledge is required, your par- work among the many volunteers at Rummage Sale ticular interest in the subject matter may help to enrich the set-up I realize just what a packed year of activity, experience for all. Next year’s curricula include: programs, meetings and events this has been, particu- larly the past three months. I am ready to take a deep Preschool, “Celebrating Me and My World”: Exploring the wonders of objects, people, and animals; offering children breath and move forward into the summer season. opportunities to sense their connectedness with the world around them. The Budget Working Group of the ISC began its work in January and will commence with a final Kindergarten and First Grade, “World of Wonder”: Experi- budget draft for the Annual Meeting in May. Expense encing and appreciating the beauty, excitement, and mystery control and efforts toward preserving our 1% reserve of nature. have been successful. We are poised to end the fiscal

Second Grade, “Free to Believe”: Learning about the princi- year with a net income and reserve. ples of Unitarian Universalism and the lifelong process of finding our own answers to life's big questions. Our very successful Annual Pledge Drive preliminary planning began in February. A great deal of our staff Third and Fourth Grades, “Toolbox of Faith”: Metaphorically effort supported and continues to support the pro- using tools such as a mirror (reflection), duct tape fessional work of Martha Holman and Kristin Larsen (flexibility), and a flashlight (justice) to explore tools for living on the planning and follow-up of our very important our lives and building our own faith. pledge drive. Much gratitude is due to them, their Fifth and Sixth Grades, “Jesus and His Kingdom of Equals”: great team and visiting stewards. Focusing on themes of love and justice and using insights from modern Biblical scholarship to explore stories of Jesus. For the past few months your EOD has been in- volved with the Ministerial Search Committee on the Seventh and Eighth Grades, “Building Bridges”: Exploring the Congregational Record and ongoing planning related religions of today’s world and our relationship to them, in- to Candidating week and participation in meetings cluding visits to houses of worship. during that time. If you would like to talk about the possibility of becoming part of one of our teaching teams for next year, please con- Meanwhile, upkeep of the building, its grounds, ad- tact me or a member of the Religious Education Board. ministrative and rental responsibilities continue.

While we will always face uncertainties and chal- I’m looking forward to working with the Rev. Bret Lortie, lenges, UCE is on a positive trajectory with excite- who will be our new Senior Minister, and to the many new possibilities before us. ment, energy and hope for our future. I am so very pleased…… Connie Page 3 - SUNDAYS at UCE

WORSHIP CRACKERBARREL compares to his Northwestern DISCUSSION University students. Discussion SERVICE leader: Jon Siegel. GROUP 10:30 am 9:15 - 10:15 am Sunday, May 26, Former Illinois Superintendent of Education and Sunday, May 5, “What I Be- Sunday, May 5, “Our Inconsis- Deputy Undersecretary in the lieve In” Participants in tent Ethical Instincts” U.S. Department of Education Dr. “Journeys: Boston and Beyond” Dr. Brenda Russell Cooksey dis- Michael Bakalis will discuss his will offer their responses to the cusses how a utilitarian ethical newest book, The Achilles Heel: question “What do you believe in perspective evaluates an action A Citizen's Guide to Understand- (today), not just in your head but purely by its consequences. How- ing and Closing the Black-White in your life?” Our seventh- and ever, good outcomes are not that Academic Achievement Gap in eighth-grade students will present simple to predict, and we can be Our Schools. Discussion leader: their credo statements as they persuaded to alter how we act Mike Bakalis. continue learning to develop and depending on the situation. How act upon their own beliefs. psychology determines moral principles. Discussion leader: Sunday, May 12, “The Mother Brenda Russell Cooksey. of Invention” One of my colleagues, mother of Sunday, May 12, “Things I've several children, once preached a Changed My Mind About” sermon titled “Why I Hate We UUs distinguish ourselves Mother’s Day.” I’ll go with “Why from more fundamentalist believ- I’m ambivalent….” Rev. Connie ers by our openness of mind. Grant speaking. With no dogma or common Sunday, May 19, “A Simple creed, we tend to listen for new Way to Save My Sanity” facts that might change our minds: YOGA ON Rev. Bill Schulz, President of the our minds are not made up. We Unitarian Universalist Service strive to move from everyone’s SUNDAYS Committee, former Executive Di- starting place, our own subjectiv- rector of Amnesty International ity, through dialogue, debate, and Join us before the Sunday morning USA (1994-2006) and President of critical thinking to greater and worship service for hatha yoga, 9:15 the Unitarian Universalist Associa- greater objectivity. Let's discuss – 10:15am. Yoga traditions bring tion (1985-1993) will talk about the many times we've changed awareness to your health: breathing how to insure both his mental our minds, why we believed what in vitality, letting go of tension and health and your own and, in the we came to reject, and why we tightness. Yoga at UCE is designed to reduce stress, bring relaxation, process, save the world. came to believe what we now do. Discussion leader: John Tobin. increase range of motion, and find Sunday, May 26, “For Peace balance – restorative yoga. and a New Hope?” Sunday, May 19, “University If you never have done yoga before The poet Archibald MacLeish Student Life in China and this is your opportunity. Drop in, wrote "The young dead soldiers America: A Comparison” wear comfortable clothing for do not speak. Nevertheless, they Long-time friend of UCE Dr. Jona- stretching, and try it. Yoga is are heard in the still houses…. than Siegel recently was a visiting learned by doing. Community yoga They say: whether our lives and lecturer in China and had the op- mats provided if needed. For more our deaths were for peace and a portunity to speak with and pho- information, contact Doug Erickson, new hope or for nothing we can- tograph university students. He [email protected] or Jessica not say; it is you who must say will offer comparisons about what Tomell-Presto, this….” How will we respond? he saw and heard and how that [email protected] Rev. Connie Grant speaking. Page 4 - Membership News

gates at the May 15 th Board Meet- 16th, in the early morning. Sign From the BOARD ing. GA is our Association’s an- up on line and let us know at

of TRUSTEES nual meeting where participants church that you did so. by Mike Takada, President can worship together, witness, Questions? Contact Martha learn, connect and make policy Holman, Shirley Adams, or Doug In last month’s newsletter col- for the UUA. It’s an energizing Erickson. Busy that day but want umn, I passed along a well- experience to see all the interest- to sponsor us? Go to the same deserved shout-out to the mem- ing things UUs are involved with site and sponsor the UCE Wings bers of our Ministerial Search across the country. team! Committee in recognition of their successful efforts to find us a solid I look forward to seeing you in candidate in Rev. Bret Lortie as church! our next Senior Minister. This Get Your Photo month, kudos go out to the 234 Mike Takada Taken for our voting members who participated Online th in the April 28 special congrega- Race Against Hate...It's Membership Directory tional meeting to vote whether to Sunday, May 5 and 12 Worth the Sweat call Rev. Lortie as our next minis- Please stop by the lobby after ter! As board president, it was By Martha Holman the worship service on these gratifying to convene this impor- dates and Carli Magel, our tant meeting in front of 60% of Communications Coordinator, our membership. I appreciated It finally feels like spring – what a will take your photo. She’ll then hearing from a number of mem- great day to sign up for the 14th bers who regretfully were unable annual Ricky Byrdsong Memorial upload it to the member direc- tory of our website in the pass- to adjust their schedules to be Race Against Hate. word protected section. Please able to join us as well as peoples’ understanding the precluding With chip-timed 5K and 10K contact Carli proxy voting. runs, a 5K recreational walk, ([email protected] ) with youth mile, on-field refreshments, any questions. For the (unofficial) record, we had music AND a great cause, the 234 members registered to par- race has grown every year since ticipate in the meeting. Once the its founding in 2000. votes were collected, we had 238 Annual Meeting Materials -Yes votes, 2-No votes, and 2- The Race honors the life of Ricky Abstentions (blank votes). Since it Byrdsong , and proceeds from The annual meeting materials will was impossible to know whether the Race support the YWCA be sent via email to UCE mem- the 4 extra Yes votes were in- Evanston/North Shore's programs bers. deed members, we nullified their and services, especially our racial Yes votes. Therefore, Bret’s suc- justice initiatives and violence pre- These materials will also be avail- cessful call came in at 98.3%, well vention programming, and able at www.ucevanston.org in the in excess of the required 80%! your support of both the Race members’ protected section. and our work is greatly appreci- ated. Hard copies will be available at Please let me know if you are in- teresting in serving as a UCE dele- UCE in the lobby and the office. Register today at www.ywca.org/ gate to this year’s General As- raceagainsthate . Join the UCE sembly, June 19-23 in Louisville, ◊ Slate Wings team when you register. KY. Delegates participate as UCE ◊ Bios Let's walk or run together to representatives, voting in special ◊ Agenda stand against hate and violence, assemblies during GA. The Board ◊ Budget and to have a great time on Fa- will vote on approving UCE dele- ◊ 2012 Annual Meeting Minutes thers Day. Yes, it's Sunday June

Page 5 when he spoke with a chorus of Register now for the UCE/ NEWS FROM THE others who are concerned about INTEGRATED STEWARDSHIP Countryside UU camping trip! the same issues. COMMITTEE An all-congregation campout!! July If you want to find your 'voice' on 12-14, 2013 Lake Le-Aqua-Na State On Sunday, May 19, the Church issues about which you feel pas- Recreation Area, Lena, IL There’s will hold its annual meeting, during sionate, contact members of the hiking, swimming, and a whole lot which we will approve the budget Peace and Justice Team. We will more! We will join Countryside for the coming fiscal year. Two help you find your voice and be Unitarian Church (CCUU) from weeks prior to the meeting, you heard. The Peace and Justice team Palatine and enjoy campfires and will have an opportunity to review meets the 2nd Sunday of each lots of great time together com- the proposed 2013-14 budget, month after the service. All are muning with nature and each other! learn more about the workings of welcome. the church, and how our pledges All-church activities include a pot- support UCE activities. ISC/ luck dinner Saturday night AND a Budget chair Robb Geiger will beautiful Sunday service outdoors – lead a discussion of the numbers Have you noticed the it doesn’t get any better!! Total at a Town Hall Meeting on Sun- cost is $46 for the camping. Please day, May 5, after church. new shiny labels on our send a check payable to Dale Grif- coffee pots? fin, 2010 McDaniel Avenue, Evans- By the way, if you are one of the ton, 60201 with completed flyer few members who have not yet from church. Questions? Call Dale pledged, don’t wait any longer! They look like the Griffin or Liz Goodwin. images here. NEWS FROM Intergenerational Book Group PEACE AND JUSTICE We want you to know that we are We will be discussing the book,

Wonder by RJ Palacio on Wednes- At one of our Springfield rallies serving and you are day, May 8th from 6:30 – 8pm. This we heard a minister talk about drinking coffee that is is the last book chosen for this how he used to think that voting part of an ethical sys- year. We would love to have your was the extent of his civic duty. tem of growth and presence at this book group session Then he realized that even after delivery. to help select next year’s titles. voting in some good people to office, those folks did not always These are organic take positions that agreed with his 'fellowship' blends values. roasted and ground

for the big percola- He decided that he was going to tors Kathy uses have to put a voice to his vote and every Sunday. actually talk to elected officials about specific issues. He uses his membership in various issue When you pay for Save The Dates groups to stay informed on how this cup of joe, you benefit the the issues are affected by legisla- land and the water and the fami- Soup kitchens this fall will be tion that is proposed, discussed lies of farmers around the world. September 4, 11, 18 and 25. and ultimately passed. Invite a friend to coffee with you and enjoy the taste of fairly Mark your calendars, sign ups will He found out that legislators actu- traded coffee on Sunday morn- start in early August! ally appreciated hearing from him ing. and that his voice was magnified Page 6 - UPCOMING EVENTS

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION FOR ADULTS SUMMER SUNDAY CHILDREN’S ACTIVITY

The Little Book of Atheist PROGRAM The Folly of Fools by Robert Triv- Spirituality ers - June 4 & 11, 7 – 9 pm. We On Sunday mornings at 10:30 am will read critically Robert Trivers' (during the worship service) from Tuesdays, May 7, 14, 21, 28 book The Folly of Fools and discuss its June 16 through September 1, chil- implications. Trivers is one of the dren who will be entering kindergar- leading theoreticians in the evolution 7-9pm ten through sixth grade are invited of social behavior and a very pro- to participate in a multiage program vocative and tough-minded thinker. Eminent contemporary French of crafts, games and other activities. In 1976 he put forward the thesis philosopher Andre Comte- Child care will be provided for nurs- that human beings have an evolved Sponville draws on many spiritual ery and preschool children. tendency to deceive themselves in and philosophical sources, includ- order to better deceive others. In Adults are needed to share your ing Eastern spirituality. He offers The Folly of Fools (2011) he explores skill, interest, or expertise with our a convincing argument for a new this thesis from several perspectives, children on a Summer Sunday or form of spiritual life, in relation to including politics, science, health, two. What is it you like to do that the universe itself, rather than to family relationships, and everyday life. our children might enjoy doing, too? a supreme intelligence. This book In effect, the book is an exploration

of a large part of the dark side of is on sale at UCE’s Book H. Here Teach a craft, play a game, or read a human nature. We will learn what are suggested readings: favorite book and lead related activi- Trivers has to say about this topic ties. To share your creativity with and discuss what we believe our- May 7 -- Part 1, “Can We Do our children, please sign up on the selves. Led by Bill Irons, UCE mem- Without Religion?” Religious Education bulletin board ber and Professor Emeritus of An- near the Lobby or contact Christine thropology at Northwestern Univer- Peters at [email protected] May 14 -- Part II, “Does God sity, whose expertise includes the or Rev. Connie Grant. Exist? evolutionary foundation of morality

and religion. May 21 & 28 -- Part III, “Can

There Be an Atheist Spirituality?” Flower Communion – Mother’s Day Volunteer Discussions will be led by Dick Child Dedications Recognition – Whitaker, Jerry Stone and Dan Church Picnic On Mother’s Day, May 12, a ceremony Solomon. Jerry and Dan have of dedication of children will be in- June 9th found this to be an excellent fol- cluded in the service on request. In this low-up to their presentations on ceremony, children are named and Mark your calendars for flower Baruch Spinoza in April. blessed, parents dedicate themselves to communion during the worship ser- the young lives entrusted to them, and vice on Sunday, June 9th. Bring a the congregation dedicates itself to be a flower from your yard, garden, or Religious education is for every- loving community in which all may local florist, and take a different one! What would you like to thrive. flower home. learn? What would you like to This ceremony is appropriate for in- teach? Do you have an idea for fants as well children who may be new We will also recognize the hard an adult religious education pres- to the congregation or have not previ- work of volunteers throughout the entation or class that you’d like to ously been dedicated. Parents who year. Following the service, please offer? To plan, coordinate, and would like their children to be included stay for our annual church picnic. schedule, please contact Rev. in this ceremony are asked to contact Meat and meat substitutes will be Connie Grant or a member of the Rev. Connie Grant by May 5 at 847- provided. We ask that you bring a Learning Associates. 864-1330 ext. 103 salad, side dish, or a dessert to or [email protected]. share.

Page 7 - MEMBERSHIP NEWS

Welcome New Members to the Unitarian Church of Evanston UUA General Assembly in Louisville, KY; June 19-23 April 2013 If you’ve never been to GA, think about attending this year. Registration is open at uua.org/ga/registration. This is a 5-6 hour drive from Evanston and home hospitality is available, making the trip more affordable. If you would like to be a delegate, please contact Mike Takada, our board president. Northwest Suburbs Neighborhood Group

We will have our next gathering at the Liz and Mike Goodwin’s house in Mor- ton Grove on May 18th at 6pm. If you are in one of the suburbs north and west of Evanston and would like to be added to the email list, please contact Eileen Wiviott at

[email protected] . Standing left to right: Bradley Stone, Sheila Holder, Kristi Anderson, Cynthia and Dan Rich with children Ethan (10) and Ellie (6). Seated left to right: Paul and Lara Zalmezak with children An email with specifics will be sent out William (6) and Alex (4), Keri Stone and Sue Vaughan with sons Parker (30 months) and Noah (5) a few weeks before the event. Be Not pictured: Bob Sholtes. thinking of what you’d like to bring!

Bob Sholtes lives and works in Evanston where he practices psychiatry for children and adults. He has 3 sons, Joel, David and Matthew and is married to Susan Kennell Sholtes. He and the family were very active in the Unitarian Church in Columbia SC before they moved to Chicago in 1992. His interests include mindful practices, woodworking, beer brewing and sailing.

Kristi Anderson recently moved to Evanston from the far south side of Chicago to live nearer her daughter and grand-children. She's is a long time UU member and enjoyed the fellowship of the Beverly Unitarian Church for the last 40 years. Kristi is a retired school social worker and school administrator. She says, "UU fellowship 'grows me and sustains me.' " Thank you, UCE, for being here for me now."

Lara and Paul Zalmezak unknowingly began their slow journey to UCE in 1998 as they shared wedding vows in a "Metholic" or "Cathodist" (depending on your preference) ceremony. Paul and Lara met at Michigan State University in 1992. Both spent the majority of their childhood in suburban Detroit before moving to Seattle and then to Chicago in 2003. In Seattle they attended University Unitar- ian, and for a short time were members of 2U in Lakeview. Their sons William (6 years old) and Alex (soon to be 4) are their inspiration and the force behind rooting in southeast Evanston and making UCE home.

Sheila Holder is the mother of Kara, age 15, living in Park Ridge with two cats. She is a full-time international flight attendant with de- grees in education and social work. She is very happy to have found this community at UCE.

Dan Rich and Cynthia Kater Rich are happy to be joining UCE after greatly enjoying "visiting" on a regular basis for the past few years. Cynthia and Dan live in Niles with their children, Ethan, 10 and Ellie, 6. Dan is den leader to a dozen scouts, a volunteer youth sports coach and the family’s short order cook. In his free time, he is the information technology director for a company in Arlington Heights. Cynthia brings skills from her past life as a marketing communications manager to managing the kid's schedules while squeezing in freelance client projects. She is tentatively thrilled to be finding a spiritual home after all these years.

Bradley Stone I'm in my 20th year as a CPS middle school teacher. My pride and joy is my son Nicholas, who is a sophomore offensive lineman and B student at Augustana College and if all goes well, the band I play bass in will get HUGE any minute now and I'll be able to shower my loved ones with $100 bills. In the meantime, I'm thrilled to be here, and thankful to the lovely Jill Revivo for bringing me in.

Keri Stone and Sue Vaughan - Partners for 20 years this August, Sue and Keri, their sons Noah (5) and Parker (3mos) and dog, Syd- ney, live in Highland Park. Sue and Keri are both teachers on the north shore and enjoy traveling, music, the outdoors and time spent with family and friends. They are excited to finally find a spiritual home where they can nurture their family and be a part of a community of compassion and service. Page 8 - MEMBERSHIP NEWS Action: The act of yoga is doing it and Introduction to Unitarian Uni- similarly there is no devotion with versalism: Sunday June, 30 and some act, some sort of action. again August 18 (12-2pm) Newcom- ers to our church and our faith are Devotion: the fact or state of being invited to join us for a deeper under- ardently dedicated. Duty, work, obli- standing of Unitarian Universalism. Rummage sale is not just a commercial gation is many times the opposite of This 2 hour session, led by Rev. Con- event. It is a joyous community enter- devotion, devotion being will- nie Grant and Membership Director, prise. Our donors support UCE by ful. Habit/inertia takes over where Eileen Wiviott, will provide an over- giving their no longer needed items a devotion is lacking. However dedica- view of Unitarian Universalist history, new home and purpose. Our volun- tion to making things a habit you in- the seven principles of our faith, teers get to know one another while crease devotion. church governance, and how we live in bringing order out of chaos. Our cus- Devotion makes renunciation easy, beloved community. It is designed for self-mastery possible, and concentra- tomers find needed items at prices anyone who wants to know more they can afford. Truly a win – win en- tion/meditation natural. about our UU faith, and is also the deavor. first step if you are considering mem- One can renounce the lower only for bership at the Unitarian Church of On April 28, we transform our church the sake of the higher, the lesser for Evanston. into a bustling market place. From the greater. Renunciation is never April 28 thru May, 2 we will be as negative. Be kind to yourself. Orientation Toward Membership busy as Selfridges setting up. On May 3, 9am – 6pm and May 4, 9am –noon, (OTM): Saturday, August 24, 9 we will make a lot of people happy Meditation: When we bring prayer to am – noon What is the meaning of our real being, no prayer is unan- membership? How will your life be selling these hidden treasures. swered. Being ourselves, accepting different if you join UCE? If you’ve If you haven’t volunteered yet, there who we are makes self-mastery possi- been asking yourself these questions is still time. Set up needs lots of help- ble. Being in the moment (not attach- and have participated in an Intro to ing hands. In the afternoon on Satur- ing to nothingness), devoting oneself Unitarian Universalism class, please day, May 4, many helping hands are to what is doable, what is accessi- consider signing up for Orientation needed to transform our church back ble. Letting go of things that aren’t Toward Membership . This class will to its usual place of tranquility. Con- working. Letting go of the past - bring address our various spiritual journeys, tact Maggie Wilson, forward those moments of the past the meaning of covenant, as well as [email protected] or Nancy that bring contentment of the present UCE culture and programs. By the end Lee, [email protected] , if you and bring it to the future. of the session, you’ll have a good sense need information about volunteering. A brief period of meditation with in- of the rewards and responsibilities of tense devotion is equal to many hours membership at the Unitarian Church of This is sure to be another great sale. of meditation unaccompanied by the So, in advance let me give all our vol- Evanston, and whether you’re ready to right mood. join. unteers thanks and a pat on the back.

Maggie Wilson, Knowledge: Concentration - being in Please register for Intro to UU and/ Chair Rummage Sale the practice of service/yoga, intense or OTM at the Guest & Member Ser- mental application, complete atten- vices table in the lobby or contact Covenant Groups tion. Giving yourself the gift of mind/ Membership Director, Eileen Wiviott, body/breath - soothing, relaxing, heal- at 847-864-1330 x111 or ewivi- The following is part of a session on ing …. [email protected] . Childcare will be provided upon request. ‘Devotion’ developed by Doug Erick- Deep Sharing/Deep Listening fol- son of the UCE Mid-Day Covenant lowed by five minutes of re- Our Giving House in Group. If you would like to see the sponse/reaction full session, visit the website under May will be collecting program-covenant groups. If you are 1. What does devotion mean in your granola bars. The co- interested in joining a covenant group, life? sponsors this month are contact Eileen Wiviott at ewivi- 2. What reactions do you have to the the Patel-Moore family and the Hart- [email protected]. reading above? mann-Schmidt family. Please bring your 3. What is the relationship between granola bars this month and your dona- Reading devotion and meditation? tions will be matched and given to Action, Devotion, Meditation, and 4. To what are you devoted? Hilda’s Place Shelter. Knowledge - the 4 yogas Page 9 - MEMBERSHIP NEWS cont.

JOYS AND SORROWS OF OUR COMMUNITY

Members & friends may share personal news by writing brief notes to be read at Sunday morning services or by sending items to the church office by email or another legible form. You may also read our community’s news at ucevanston.org/members section.

Sunday, March 31 performing at Evanston SPACE this afternoon of congregations yesterday, delegates voted at 2pm. Kathy is an award winning Bluegrass 99 to 3 to merge Central Midwest District A joy from Martha Holman and Wayne musician. She was a member of UCE’s LRY with Prairie Star and Heartland Districts to Guzy – Their daughter Sarah is going to group in the 60s and attended ETHS. create the Mid America Region of the UUA, Harvard Divinity School in August to work greatly expanding resources and opportuni- on a Masters in Theological Studies with a A joy from Tom Barounis – Diane and I ties for all congregations. concentration in religions of the Americas. recently returned from a week spent in San We’re all pleased that she’s going to Harvard, Diego with our son Jim, daughter-in-law, Kya From Cynthia Dvorak – Please hold my a place with a long UU history. and our new grandson. Simon Thomas Ba- mother, Alice Dvorak in your thoughts and

Lisa Coveliers is asking for prayers and posi- rounis was born on Saturday, March 16. He prayers as she recovers from quintuple by- tive energy for this week to surround me. weighed in at 8lb, 9oz and was a constant pass surgery. delight all the time we were there. He is a Thanks! blessing to us all and we anxiously look for- From Jill Donovan – Please hold my family in A joy from Janet Hartmann – This Wednes- ward to our next visit. your hearts as we cope with our mother’s day we welcomed 95 guests at our soup increasing dementia, the loss of our brother kitchen and served the taco plate we cooked Sunday, April 21 Greg on March 5, and our brother Chuck’s together here. Many thanks to all our volun- ongoing struggle with cancer. A joy that teer cooks, lunch makers, servers, cleaners- Luella Mosher is now at Ballard Rehab Cen- through these struggles we have grown up, and all of you who brought food. ter in Des Plaines for therapy after being closer. One other joy: that with my two new hospitalized for pneumonia and ongoing is- knees, I will finally walk in the YWCA Race From Kent Stanton – I am grateful for the sues. She can be visited there and would love Against Hate this June. memories of dear departed family and friends to receive cards or calls. that are not with me on a holiday such as A joy from Jane Bannor – I want to thank this. Barbara Schon Lundberg invited all into A sorrow from the family of Bill Fischer . It is the God of Rummage for leading me to my her home with her husband Larry and made with sad hearts that we tell you that Bill is in grandfather’s WWI dog tags and a collection all folks whether they be straight and espe- the hospital with pneumonia. He is not able of 100-year-old family photos. cially LGBTQ, feel like family. to breathe on his own, but is conscious and

responsive. The family is letting Bill decide A sorrow from Matt Brenner – I mourn the From Harry Jones – A joy for the city of when he is ready for the life support to be death of Anne Clary, my colleague for 13 Topeka, KS where a citizen named Aaron removed. We welcome love and support years. She taught me a lot about writing and Jackson recently bought a home directly from our UU family. editing – among many other things. I will miss across the street from Fred Phelps’ notori- her greatly. ous Westboro Baptist Church and painted A joy from Gini Sayad – See how beautiful the house the colors of the rainbow. our Peace Pole looks! Thank you to the reli- Mark Saint Amour and Andrea McLain gious ed students who planted the tulip express great joy at the success of the Unity Sunday, April 7 bulbs, to Kay Gibbs-Novy for bringing the Weekend Blue Star Prairie project. From

A sorrow from Janelle Brittain – Roger pansies and to Barbara Butz for planting meeting new friends Sally and Ralph from Ebert left us too soon, but we celebrate his them. Second Baptist, to having fun with existing friend Dale Griffin, much joy and hard work open and intelligent discourse. A joy from Dale Griffin –This past Tuesday, was had on a beautiful spring day in the A joy from Joan Retzloff – I am very proud eight UCE members had a successful day in woods. that my grandson, Ted Retzloff, has been Springfield with 450 other Community Re- given a full scholarship to Cambridge Univer- newal Society members. Since then, and as a Thoughts and prayers are with Kristin Lar- sity this summer to study economics. result, the IL house passed the sealing of sen on the death of her father, William Rich- records bill to help employment opportuni- ard Larsen, on April 21 in Mountain Home, A joy from Lois Taft – I’m happy to an- ties for certain former prisoners. Arkansas at the age of 73. nounce the birth of my granddaughter, Kira nd Rose Hanrahan, born last Tuesday, April 2 . A joy from Eileen Wiviott - It was a joy to The family of Bill Fischer wants his UCE She weighed 7ob 8oz and makes her home have over a hundred people here yesterday family to share in the peace – and, yes, even here in Evanston with her parents, Rachel to kick off a day of service with Beth Emet, joy – for the sacred way in which he died this and Kevin and her siblings, Isaac and Maya. St. Nick’s and 2 nd Baptist. I’m so pleased that past Monday. At the moment of his death,

A joy from Jane and Lee Bannor – We may our congregation has been able to participate those closest to him were there touching have lost our hair and our figures, but not in Unity Weekend 2013! Thank you to all the him, reciting devotions and singing. He died our love for each other. We are pleased to project leaders, volunteers and to Marty peacefully and surrounded by love. Although th Flint and Marty Morrison for all your work there is a hole in our hearts, we are so celebrate our 39 wedding anniversary today. to promote the event. thankful he was spared the most horrific Sunday, April 14 chapters of ALS. He lived 5 years with this Sunday, April 28 disease as a grateful and happy man, thanks in A joy from Bruce Kallick and Claudia no small part to the support he felt from his Dancing – They are excited that Bruce’s A joy from Peggy Boccard – With great joy UCE family. For that, we are equally joyful. daughter Kathy Kallick and her band will be I report that at the CMWD annual meeting Page 10 - SOCIAL ACTION

UCE/Community Renewal communities and it was fulfilling ◊ June 1st – We’ll celebrate the Society goes to Springfield to take part in worship in other children’s birthdays (March to congregations as well as have June) with cake and a light others join us in our space.Thank lunch. you to all who volunteered, led projects, coordinated the sign ups ◊ June 15th- Roller Skating at and promotion of the event. Orbit Skate Center in Pala- tine. Again, drivers and willing Here is a link to an article in the and able skaters are needed. Chicago Tribune about Unity Weekend - ◊ July 15th – Beach party and http://www.chicagotribune.com/ picnic. We’ll prepare sand- April 16 th , 2013 was a very posi- news/local/suburbs/ wiches, fruit and chips to take tive one for 450 people of vari- evanston_skokie_morton_grove/ with us to a nearby beach. ous faiths who rode to Springfield community/chi-ugc-article-unity- This is a return of our very in order to meet with all 177 of weekend-draws-more-than-530- successful and fun trip to the our state legislators. We urged volunteers-2013-04- beach last year. their approval of two measures 25,0,5398035.story important to our communities - one on employment opportuni- “The arc of the moral uni- Saturday Morning Activities ties for people with certain non- verse is long, but it bends with Children at the Jonquil toward justice.” violent criminal offenses (the Hotel “sealing” bill), the other discour- aging illegal gun trafficking. Eight A Justice Conversation members of UCE participated. More people are catching on to The event was organized beauti- the fun of baking and cooking fully by the Community Renewal with children at the Jonquil Hotel If we cannot achieve a complete Society. Since the trip, the IL of Good News Partners. It is al- solution to an injustice, can we House has voted to approve ways our pleasure to spend time accept attaining some of our the sealing bill! We did that! with these kids who don’t have goals as a victory? much opportunity to cook in the Unity Weekend close quarters of the single room Is it enough to only oppose a occupancy hotel. We have a moral wrong? Do we need also What an inspiring, fun and pro- schedule for the summer and to work on alternatives? ductive weekend we had April 19 would love to have you join us -21. The Unitarian Church of either for baking/cooking or What are the costs of injustice? Evanston was pleased to be in- other activities we have planned. How can we find ways to heal the vited to participate in the coordi- Please contact Eileen Wiviott at damage? nated volunteer event with Beth [email protected] or Carol Emet, Saint Nick’s and Second Nielsen at In the community around us, are Baptist and it was a huge success. [email protected] to we connected for good? Are we 530 people participated in 49 sign up. all of the same tribe? projects from Harms Woods Cleanup, to baking with kids at On May 18th we’ll prepare some These are some of the perspec- the Jonquil Hotel, to collecting handy and healthy snacks (trail tives gleaned from the evening food for Hillside Pantry, to demo- mix, veggies and dip, fruit kabobs) class with Sharon Welch. They lition at Good News Partners. and take the kids to Penny Park guide our work. Every project leader and partici- in Evanston. If you are able to pant seemed to enjoy working drive a few kids that is a big help. with members of other faith Page 11 - @ UCE News & Notes quences. The mined tar sands are EcoNews EVANSTON UNITARIAN NEWS then transported to crushers, The Keystone Pipeline washed, screened, steamed, and The UCE newsletter is published monthly. All Disaster newsletter articles should be sent to Editor finally reduced to a usable crude By Dick Whitaker Carli Magel at [email protected]. Sub- oil product. This entire process missions may be sent by email (preferred), or emits 17% more greenhouse gas- as legible ‘hard copy.’ WANT MORE NEWS? The Green Sanctuary Committee ses than conventional oil produc- Join the UCE Announcements list for email is circulating a petition to stop tion. news items throughout the week. Call or construction of the fourth phase email the office, [email protected], 847- 864-1330. Also consider the UCE website, of the Keystone XL Pipeline Sys- Green Sanctuary’s Keystone Pipe- www.ucevanston.org , as a regular source of tem. Running from Alberta to information. line petition will be in the UCE Nebraska, this 1,179 mile exten- Lobby after Sunday services. If UNITARIAN CHURCH OF EVANSTON sion will be another source of oil you agree with us and with the 1330 Ridge Ave., Evanston, IL 602 01 www.ucevanston.org spills and will encourage the en- many arguments against this pipe- ergy intensive extraction of oil line extension, please consider Minister : Rev. Ms. Constance L. Grant from Canadian tar sands. It’s part signing our petition. We will pass (ext. 103), Minister for Congregational of an ongoing environmental disas- Life Staff : Bart Bradfield, Director of Mu- it on to legislators as soon as pos- sic ; Gregory Shifrin, Pianist ; Sandra Rob- ter. sible. inson, Executive Operations Director (108); Chris Isely, Accounting Manager On March 29 th , an old pipeline UCE Men’s Group (109); Carli Magel, Communications Co- ruptured in Mayflower, Arkansas, ordinator (102); Eileen Wiviott, Member- releasing 5,000 galllons of tar ship Director (111); Sylvia Cornell, Office sands oil into local streets. It at- The UCE Men's Group will have their Assistant (101); Brenda Dunkins, Church tracted widespread press coverage 'Annual Spring Retreat' on Friday Assistant (101); Daniel Baer, Lindsey because this oil sinks in water and May 31st - June 2nd . This year it Kennedy, Liz Kennedy, and Ryan Rogulich Lobby Staff; Kathy Talmage , Kitchen Staff. is hard to recover, because 22 will be at 'The DeKoven Center in

Racine, WI. All men arrive there on homes in an affluent suburb of Lit- BOARD OF TRUSTEES tle Rock had to be evacuated, and Friday evening & leave Sunday mid- TERMS EXPIRING IN 2013 because the planned Keystone ex- morning. Discussions over the week- Robb Geiger [email protected] tension could traverse ecologically end include, among other personal Bill Hartgering [email protected] vulnerable, seismically active areas. issues, our own Genealogy. All men Tom Ticknor [email protected] of UCE are invited & encouraged to Mike Tracy [email protected] contact Dick Whitaker at dwhitak- The Mayflower tar sands oil was [email protected] about details and TERMS EXPIRING IN 2014 transported from Canada through reservations that will fill soon. earlier phases of the Keystone sys- Claudia Dancing [email protected] Kathy Monk [email protected] tem. The Mayflower rupture was (Vice-President) one of 24 major oil spills in the UCE Mother’s Michael Takada [email protected] United States during last eight (President) Day Lunch years. (Wikipedia) These spills are occurring in all phases of oil TERMS EXPIRING IN 2015 Sunday, May 12 handling, including drilling rigs, Janet Hartmann [email protected]

Jane Kenamore pipelines, tanker ships, and refiner- ies. Many unrecorded spills from After the 10:30am church service [email protected] storage farms, rail cars, delivery on Mother's Day, the UCE Men's Group will have a special luncheon. SECRETARY trucks, and even local gas stations Jim Clark [email protected] are also continuing. We will give each lady a flower to commemorate the occasion. Each TREASURER Extraction of oil from tar sands in year, for several times in the past, it Marc Rolfes [email protected] northern Alberta involves exten- has been a good Luncheon to bring sive open-pit mining which, in it- your mother and celebrate with the self, has far reaching conse- whole UCE family.

MINISTER’S SCHEDULE The YWCA Stand Against Racism na- Rev. Connie Grant is generally in the office dur- tional campaign had ing the day on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thurs- approximately 300,000 day, and often has evening meetings on those people in 39 states re- days. She takes Mondays off and works at home citing a pledge against on Fridays. Please email or call Connie for an racism at the same time appointment. In an emergency, you can call her on Friday, April 26th. on her cell phone at any time. Contact [email protected]; (847) 864-1330 Our congrega- ext. 103 (office); (847) 840-8542 (cell). tion hosted about 40 of them along Ridge, holding signs and waving PERSONAL TELEPHONE NUMBERS to honking cars. Reminder note to newsletter readers/contributors: Later that day, I was recognized by the We no longer include personal telephone numbers in cashier at Poochie's as I wore my sticker the newsletter. If are a member of UCE, and you declaring the truth that Racism Hurts Eve- need a number, you may get it from the Church ryone. "I saw you on Ridge today," She Office or in the Members’ Directory at ucevanston.org/members . said proudly, "and I honked!"

UNITARIAN CHURCH OF EVANSTON 1330 Ridge Avenue at Greenwood Evanston, Illinois 60201

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