A REGIONAL CHURCH SERVING COMMUNITIES NORTH OF BOSTON - WELCOMING PEOPLE OF ALL AGES, RELIGIOUS BACKGROUNDS, CULTURAL ORIGINS, DIFFERING ABILITIES, AND SEXUAL ORIENTATIONS
REV. TIM KUTZMARK, MINISTER 239 WOBURN STREET, READING, MA 01867 PHONE: 781- 944-0494 WEB PAGE:HTTP://WWW.UUREADING.ORG E-MAIL: [email protected]
WORSHIP SERVICE
Date Sunday, March 7, 2010 Sunday, March 14, 2010 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM set your clocks one hour ahead by 2AM Sermon ―Spring Cleaning for Your Soul‖ ―Who Do You Hate?‖ Youth Sunday New Member Sunday Rev. Tim Kutzmark Children Youth Sunday Intergenerational Service. Pre-k - Grade 6 begin in Sanctuary. 9:00 Pre-k through Grade 5 remain in Sanctuary dismiss to class until 10:15; 11:00 dismiss to for entire service. Playschool in Community Loring House for St. Patrick's Day until 12:15. Hall. No COA 1 or COA 2 class. Grade 6, COA 1 meets in Loring House from 9 - 10:15. Grade 7, COA 1, COA 2 and SHYP Playschool in Community Hall. COA 2 and involved in Youth Sunday Service at both 9 mentors meet in Loring House from 12:30 - AM and 11 AM OWL 6:00 - 8:30 PM in 1:45. OWL meets 6:00 - 8:30 in Loring House. Loring House. SHYP meets 6:30 - 8:30 in Loring House. Ushers 9:00 AM Natalie McCarthy, Emma 9:00 AM Sarah Hickok and Mike Zarin Turner, Natasha McCarthy, Beverly 11:00 AM Ann Mottl McCarthy 11:00 AM Michela Tucci, Justine Rose, Lu Yao Friedmann, Gretchen Latowsky Coffeemakers 9:00 AM Monday Evening Chalice Circle 9:00 AM Montserrat Michelman 11:00 AM Needed 11:00 AM Montserrat Michelman Altar Flowers Needed Fisher Family
Greeters 9:00 AM Rowan Curley, Bridget Noell, 9:00 AM Aaron Clark Rachel Grimes, Grace Curley, Alexindra 11:00 AM Nan Bodebender Wheeler, Erin Ferguson, Margaret Gould, Katie Wheeler. 11:00 AM Michela Tucci, Lu Yao Friedmann, Alison Friedmann, Justine Rose, Anne D’Urso-Rose Faith 9:00 AM Grace Curley 9:00 AM Sharlene Reynolds Santo Development 11:00 AM Lisa Cashins 11:00 AM Jane Jolkovski Greeters
Sunday, March 7, 2010 – 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM “Spring Cleaning for Your Soul” Youth Sunday
Our Youth Sunday this year explores the idea of spring cleaning. Homes, offices, and even our souls can be refreshed, renewed, and recharged this time of year. Come and experience as our youth (grades 6-12) lead us in an intergenerational worship of rebirth for our spirits at springtime.
Calling all UUCR Girl Scouts! - A reminder that Girl Scout Sunday at UUCR is March 7. This is in recognition of the 99th birthday of Girl Scouts USA! Uniformed Girl Scouts will greet, usher, and light the chalice at both services.
If your child wants to participate, please contact Katie Wheeler at [email protected] And if your child has a strong preference for which task she would rather be involved in--greeting, ushering, or lighting the chalice--please specify that too.
Sunday, March 14, 2010 – 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM Note: set your clocks one hour ahead by 2:00 AM “Who Do You Hate?” New Member Sunday Rev. Tim Kutzmark
On the surface, Unitarian Univeralists pride themselves on being welcoming and accepting of all people. And yet, folks with an affinity for Jesus or the Christian perspective often say they feel unwelcome and even mocked within a Unitarian Universalist church. The same can be said for Republicans or other political conservatives. Today, we’ll explore the limits of our love. Today is also New Member Sunday, and we’ll welcome our newest members to our church community.
WORSHIP NOTES
BRING A FRIEND SUNDAY IS MARCH 21ST Did you know that 85% of the people who ever visit a Unitarian Universalist Congregation do so because someone invited them to visit? Don’t keep the warm and welcoming community here at the UU Church of Reading a secret. Why not share our Unitarian Universalist faith with someone you know? Rev. Tim and the Worship Arts ministry are creating a service perfect for first time visitors. Please extend an invitation to someone you know.
GEORGE WHITE TO RETIRE IN JUNE George White, our beloved and multi-talented organist and accompanist, has announced his retirement, effective June 20th. George arrived at UUCR as a fresh-faced youth in October of 1954. His retirement comes after fifty-six years of musical service to our church. George is looking forward to joining the bass section of the choir, and continuing to be an active part of the congregation. We love you George, and will savor every note you play between now and June 20th!
UPCOMING WEDNESDAY EVENING WORSHIP SERVICES Join us for an intimate evening of spiritual reflection, worship, ritual, and community connection. Each month, we gather to explore different forms of worship and ritual influenced by a variety of spiritual traditions. These evenings will provide a quieter alternative and complement to Sunday morning services.
Soul Song: A Service of Celtic Wisdom and Other Traditions Led by Rev. Maddie Sifantus and Rev. Laura Cavicchio With Musical Vocal Selections by the Rev. Maddie Sifantus Wednesday, March 24, 2010 7:30 PM Drawing from ancient and contemporary sources, this service will weave together the rich and evocative voices of Celtic and other earth-based poets and sages, spoken and sung. On this mid-March evening, we look to the manuscript of nature to awaken us to the hope and wisdom we seek in Spring's return. Silence, candlelight, and shared ritual round out this evening of beauty and reflection.
Maddie Sifantus served UUCR as Choir Director and is known and loved by many at UUCR. She currently serves our neighbor church, the Unitarian Universalist Church of Wakefield, as Parish Minister. She is also the Affiliate Minister at First Parish in Wayland, Massachusetts. Maddie is a talented a cappella singer/performer of many genres including Spirituals and Celtic music. She is the Acting Director of MUSE (Music Serving Elders) and the Founder/Director Emerita of the Golden Tones elder chorus. Maddie is an ordained UU minister with a Master of Divinity degree from Andover Newton Theological School where she serves as Adjunct Faculty.
Laura Cavicchio is a 30-year member of UUCR and served as Director of Religious Education for seven years. She is an ordained UU minister with a Master of Divinity from Andover Newton Theological School. Laura served First Parish in Lexington for three years as the Assistant Minister. She is now a Chaplain with Hospice of the North Shore in Danvers. Laura combines the healing practices of Reiki and Expressive Arts with her ministry of Pastoral Care.
NEW MEMBER SUNDAY If you want to become an official member of UUCR, our next NEW MEMBER SUNDAY is March 14th. We’ll share in our ritual of welcome and membership during the service, and then all new members are invited to a special welcome lunch. Please let Rev. Tim know if you are considering membership, as he tries to schedule a time to meet with all new members before the service. Contact him at [email protected]
SERMONS All sermons are online in podcast, audio, and some are in video format.
If this picture is next to a sermon it indicates it is available in audio.
If this picture is next to a sermon it indicates it is also available in video While you are online note that our sermons are available in a printable format if you desire a hard copy. On church campus our sermons are available in printed booklet form in both the atrium and front foyer of the church. See our sermon website address http://www.uureading.org/sermonlist.htm
SPRING PLANTS FOR OUR EASTER SERVICES SUNDAY APRIL 4 ORDER DEADLINE March 26, 2010
Use this page as your order form!
We are asking UUCR members and friends to help beautify our Sanctuary for the Easter Services on Sunday April 4. Order a lily, tulip or daffodil plant – you choose!
The flowers will decorate the Sanctuary for both the 9:00 AM and the 11:00 AM. Easter Services.
Please take your plant home after the second morning service on Sunday April 4!
On the Wednesday following our Easter Sunday services any plants remaining in the Sanctuary will be delivered to those who are homebound and local nursing homes.
We are also asking for plant dedications, in memory of or in celebration of a loved one. Fill out the form below, enclose your check made out to UUCR for $12.00 per plant, and leave the form in Rosemary’s inbox in our copy room off the atrium, or mail the form to Unitarian Universalist Church of Reading, 239 Woburn Street, Reading, MA 01867. Please email [email protected] if you have any questions!
Orders due at greenhouse on Friday, March 26, 2010
NAME(S)______
EMAIL ADDRESS______
PHONE # ______
SPECIFY: number of Easter Lilies______# of Tulip Plants ______# of Daffodil Plants______
PLEASE TAKE YOUR PLANT(S) HOME AFTER THE 2ND SERVICE – all plants remaining after the 2nd service will be delivered to those who are homebound and to local nursing homes.
PLEASE ATTACH PAYMENT MADE OUT TO UUCR (EACH PLANT IS $12.00) $______
DEDICATION Please be so kind as to indicate ―none‖ if you do not want a dedication______
MINISTER’S MESSAGE
Dear Friends:
One of the best-kept secrets in Unitarian Universalism is our two publishing houses: Beacon Press and Skinner House Books. These two groups publish a wide range of books and materials pertinent to Unitarian Universalism.
Beacon Press tends to take on weighty world issues, social justice, memoirs, and biographies.
Skinner House Books tends to print books related directly to being a Unitarian Universalist.
One new book from Skinner House Books that might be of interest to parents in the congregation is the just published ―Tending the Flame: The Art of Unitarian Universalist Parenting‖ by Michelle Richards. In this first-of-its-kind guide to Unitarian Universalist parenting, the book provides a practical and proactive approach to raising Unitarian Universalist children.
For those of us looking to understand a bit more of the dynamics that occur in a growing and changing church (such as ours), I’d suggest checking out ―The Growing Church: Keys to Congregational Vitality.‖ Perfect for lay leaders and anyone else, these short essays help us better understand how being part of a church community can be a transformational opportunity. You’ll find bold and creative thinking in its pages. The essay on ―Power‖ is a must for anyone engaged in church leadership.
―A People So Bold: Theology and Ministry for Unitarian Universalists‖ is a collection of essays on the future of Unitarian Universalist social justice work, while ―The Whole World Kin: Darwin and the Spirit of Liberal Religion‖ contains nine essays on (Unitarian) Charles Darwin’s contributions to theology, spirituality, and ethics.
If you are looking for inspirational reading and reflection, you can check out any of the collections of meditations, readings, and Meditation Manuals, including ―We Build Temples in the Heart,‖ Sonata for Voice and Silence,‖ Instructions in Joy,‖ and ―All the Gifts of Life.‖
There are also some wonderful, short, and readable books on various aspects of Unitarian Universalist history.
You can order these books, and many more, by visiting Skinner House publications at www.uua.org/skinner. Learn more and become more through the many resources available to us as Unitarian Universalists.
See you on the path,
Tim
PS: New Member Sunday is fast approaching—Sunday, March 14th. If you are interested in becoming an official member of the church, please contact me asap so we can arrange a time to chat ([email protected])
FAITH DEVELOPMENT NEWS
CALENDAR Sunday, February 28 Pre-K - Grade 6 begin in Sanctuary. 9:00 dismiss to class until 10:15; 11:00 dismiss to Loring House for Holi Festival of Color until 12:15. COA 1 meets in Loring House from 9 - 10:15. Playschool in Community Hall. COA 2 and mentors meet in Loring House from 12:30 - 1:45. OWL meets 6:00 - 8:30 in Loring House. SHYP meets 6:30 - 8:30 in Loring House.
Sunday March 7 - Youth Sunday Intergenerational Service. Pre-k through Grade 5 remain in Sanctuary for entire service. Playschool in Community Hall. No COA 1 or COA 2 class. Grade 6, Grade 7, COA 1, COA 2 and SHYP involved in Youth Sunday Service at both 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. OWL 6:00 - 8:30 in Loring House.
Sunday March 14 - Pre-k - Grade 6 begin in Sanctuary. 9:00 dismiss to class until 10:15; 11:00 dismiss to Loring House for St. Patrick's Day until 12:15. COA 1 meets in Loring House from 9 - 10:15. Playschool in Community Hall. COA 2 and mentors meet in Loring House from 12:30 - 1:45. OWL meets 6:00 - 8:30 in Loring House. SHYP meets 6:30 - 8:30 in Loring House.
March Senior High Youth Program (SHYP) Meetings: 7 - No SHYP - Youth Sunday 14 – SHYP at 6:30 PM Loring House 21 SHYP at 6:30 PM Loring House 27 SHYP Fundraiser, 7:00 to 10:00 PM UUCR Fellowship Hall 28 - No SHYP Meeting April Senior High Youth Program (SHYP) Meetings: 4 - No SHYP - Easter Sunday 9-10- Homeless Weekend 11 - NO SHYP 18 – SHYP at 6:30 PM Loring House 25 - SHYP at 6:30 PM Loring House
SHYP goes to Puerto Rico! This year the SHYP youth are planning a service trip to Puerto Rico! We will be working with a church in San Marcos helping to restore some of their painting and landscaping. Fundraising efforts have begun. The group needs to raise close to $8000 for the trip in order to cover flights, food and materials. If you would like to be involved or to donate to help our youth experience a great trip, please contact SHYP advisor Jayms Battaglia at [email protected] Senior High Youth Program Coordinator: Jayms Battaglia, Volunteer advisors are: Nancy Littlehale, David Michaud, Arlene Deluca
Salsa Night! - The Senior High Youth Program Service Trip Fundraiser Join us for some great food, music, salsa lessons and dancing! Save the date of Saturday March 27th from 7:00 to 10:00 PM at the UUCR Fellowship Hall at 239 Woburn Street in Reading, Massachusetts. Tickets are $15 per person with a ticket price of $5 for kids under the age of 13. 100% of the proceeds will be to support the SHYP service trip to Puerto Rico! For more information contact Jayms Battaglia, SHYP Advisor [email protected]
Our Playschool children are on the rise! Thanks to our wonderful professional Playschool staff, Jenn, Karyn and Lynne, our Playschool numbers are increasing. Feel free to stop by Community Hall and meet our terrific staff on Sunday mornings!
Festivals Together takes on 11:00 coffee hour and more! The 11:00 Faith Development Program, Festivals Together, thrilled coffee hour attendees last week with their celebration of Chinese New Year! This multiage group spends Sunday mornings making and tasting new foods from all over the world, dancing to music and singing songs from all different cultures, listening or acting out traditional stories, and reflecting on the value, fun and importance of diversity in our world! The first Spring Festival is Feb. 28, Holi - The Hindu Festival of Color, and then St. Patrick's Day on March 14 with the Spring Equinox on March 21st!
Coming of Age 1 has begun to gather their class mentors! They begin their spring study of Unitarian Universalism with a talk from Bill Grace about the history of UUCR.
Coming of Age 2 is in the final stretch of their second year of the Coming of Age experience! They begin planning their Celebration Service this week.
Youth Adult Committee has been busy organizing Youth Sunday! Please join our talented and wise youth on Sunday March 7 at both the 9 and the 11 service for "Spring Cleaning Your Soul"! Grades 6 - 12 create and participate in this high energy service! This year the service is intergenerational, expanding to touch congregants of all ages.
Upcoming Important Dates: March 7 - Youth Sunday Intergenerational Service 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. March 12 - COA 1 Dance Fundraiser in Fellowship Hall March 13 from 9:30-11:00 a.m. Faith Development Cottage meetings Loring House Room 205 - The Faith Development Committee will be hosting the second cottage meeting for families and youth to share their experience with two services and the changes that have occurred. The meeting is Saturday, March 13, 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a..m. in Loring 101. This is an important opportunity for Faith Development families to talk about how they are feeling about the changes, any concerns they may have regarding the change, new opportunities they may be experiencing, positive surprises they have experienced due to the change, and unexpected struggles that have arisen with two services. April 25 - 11 a.m. service Coming of Age Celebration
ADULT ENRICHMENT
CHALICE CIRCLES: A Circle Where There is Always an Open Chair Five Chalice Circles convened this November and will continue meeting twice a month through the spring. If the late winter has found you seeking contemplation and companionship, our circles are open and would welcome your presence. One of our circles meets via a conference telephone call, so if being physically present in a circle is a challenge, we still have a place for you. Contact Jean Hanson [email protected] 781-779-1382 or Paula Koppel [email protected] 781-944-3262 if you would like to know more.
Unitarian Universalist Basics: An Introduction to Our Faith One-day Saturday Class March 13 - Saturday, 8:45 AM-12:30 PM Rev. Tim Kutzmark and guest facilitators Note: This condensed one-day Saturday class will include kid-friendly breakfast, bagels and coffee for adults, and child care to make it easier for parents with young children to attend the UU Basics class. This condensed class is also perfect for those who cannot make four evening classes but would like a basic introduction to our faith and this church.
Are you new to the church? Would you like to meet other folks who are new as well? Have you been here a while but would like to learn more about Unitarian Universalism? Do you have questions about what it means to be a Unitarian Universalist? Are you thinking about becoming a member of UUCR? Join Rev. Tim and members of the Teaching Team for this condensed one-day Saturday class and introduction to our faith. Registration is required, so please call or email the church office 781-944-0494 or [email protected] or sign up on Sunday at coffee hour.
IKIGAI Facilitators: Ann Fisher and Tom Mottl Saturday, March 13th 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM Ikigai is a Japanese word meaning the sense of ―life worth living‖. When one has ikigai, one is living a life of full engagement, putting one’s time, energy and talents into pursuits that have genuine meaning and purpose.
Perhaps you find yourself at a point in your life where you’re taking stock of where you’ve been and what lies ahead. You may be asking questions such as:
Is the life I’m living in alignment with my values? What am I ―called‖ to do? Have I lost sight of my unique mission? Where in my life do I feel passion? If I knew I could not fail, what do I long to do? What changes – big or small – do I want to make to increase my ikigai?
We’re inviting others to join us in forming a group to explore these questions. Our hope is that addressing these issues with others will provide a sense of community, mutual support and creativity. We expect that the format, structure and process of the group will be determined by the participants. If you think you may be interested in exploring this topic as an adult enrichment then please sign your name on the sign up sheet in the atrium during coffee hour, or call Rosemary at 781.944.0494 or email the church office at [email protected]
Pillars of Faith: Intro to Islam Wednesday, May 5 7:30 to 9:00 PM Andrew Tripp, Facilitator Loring 101 Did you know that Islam and Unitarian Universalism hold many similar beliefs? There is only one (non- trinitarian) God in both traditions. Both make strong claims about welcome, hospitality, and responsibility to the poor. Both traditions believe in the importance of deeds over creeds. While the Edict of Torda offered the first official religious tolerance in a Christian nation, Islamic nations expressed religious toleration for some time previous to this historic event. This class will offer an introduction to Islamic beliefs, practices, and will point out how this third Abrahamic faith is not far from our own Unitarian Universalist faith. Registration is required. Please sign during coffee hour or call the church at 781-944-0494 or email the office at [email protected]
HELPING HANDS AND GREEN SANCTUARY ANNOUNCE PART 3 OF A 3-PART SERIES ON WATER STEWARDSHIP: GREENSCAPES ON SATURDAY MARCH 27
Part 3 of this series, GreenScapes, will be held on Saturday, March 27th from 2:00 - 4:00 PM and will feature Peter Phippen, who is Coastal Coordinator of Eight Towns and the Mass Bay Program, Merrimack Valley Planning Commission.
These events are in support of our 2009 - 2010 Helping Hands recipient, Ipswich River Watershed Association and are sponsored by the Helping Hands Committee and the Green Sanctuary Committee.
FELLOWSHIP: THREE WONDERFUL OPPORTUNITIES
DINNERS FOR 5-9 ON SATURDAY, MARCH 27 The last Dinners for 5-9 will be on Saturday, March 27, and will offer a chance to gather informally with other UUCR members for good food and good conversation. Once again, we'll offer a dinner for families with children and, if there's enough interest, a lunchtime gathering. Sign-up at coffee hour or email [email protected].
SAVE THE DATE Potluck and Open Mike Night - Saturday, April 10. Come for a potluck meal followed by an Open Mike night featuring the talents of UUCR folks of all ages!! If you'd like to find out about performing, contact Chris West at [email protected]
UUCR READS - Advance Notice for those of you who like to get their homework done WAY ahead of time (or those who take a long time to read a book).
This year's book will be Mountains Beyond Mountains, by Tracy Kidder, author of Soul of A New Machine, House and Among Schoolchildren. Mountains Beyond Mountains tells the story of Dr. Paul Farmer, founder of Partners in Health, which has pioneered medical care in Haiti for the past twenty years. Because of their strong connections in Haiti, Partners in Health has been at the forefront of the earthquake recovery efforts in Haiti.
The title comes from the Haitian proverb, "Beyond mountains, there are more mountains" , which means that as you solve one problem, another problem presents itself and so you set about trying to solve that problem. The book tells an inspiring personal story of a visionary leader, but it also provides an understanding of the historical issues Haiti has faced long before the current crisis.
UUCR Reads will include a kick-off Sunday and program/discussion in May.
SOCIAL ACTION
Second Offering for Girls Get Connected: Thanks! Thank you to all who donated so generously during the February 21 Second Offering for Girls Get Connected! The congregation will be sending $1292 to help middle- and high-school girls in Boston ―get connected‖ with the world of science and technology. Thanks also to Executive Director Deborah Muscella and GGC participants Asia and Rodley for their words during the two church services. From the lively conversations at coffee hour, it seems there will be ways that UUCR members and GGC will get connected, too.
Please Save the Date: Sat., April 17, 4–6 p.m., Promise of Peace at UUCR All are invited for live music, delicious food, and inspiring words as the UUCR hosts ―Promise of Peace‖—a joint benefit for Promise the Children (www.promisethechildrenuu.org) and the Louis D. Brown Peace Institute in Dorchester (www.louisdbrownpeaceinstitute.org). Right in our own Fellowship Hall: enjoy a jazz trio and singer/songwriter Jennifer Aldana, and hear from Becky Richardson and Tina Chery about their work to bring about a world where all children can flourish in health and safety.
Suggested donation will be $25 per person. There will be more info about the event to come! Rev. Catherine Senghas Installation at the UU Urban Ministry Date: Sunday, March 14, Time: 3:00 PM Location: UU Urban Ministry at First Church in Roxbury (10 Putnam St.)
Please join the UU Urban Ministry for the installation of Rev. Catherine Senghas as the UUUM's Senior Minister and Executive. Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) President Rev. Peter Morales will deliver the installation sermon. Rev. Senghas' installation will be held in the sanctuary of the historic First Church in Roxbury, site of the UU Urban Ministry's headquarters and primary program space.
―For nearly 200 years, the UUUM has been working side-by-side with Boston's urban communities to create opportunities and instill hope for a brighter future. We concentrate our efforts primarily in out-of-school-time programming for at-risk youth and shelter for those fleeing domestic violence. We also operate a program focused on providing support for men in transition, including those involved with the criminal justice system.‖ (www.uuum.org)
Habitat for Humanity of Greater Lowell Annual Gala: Sat., March 20, 6–10 p.m. ―What do eating, building, and Billy Costa all have in common? They all add up to an evening of fun! Habitat for Humanity of Greater Lowell’s 3rd Annual Gala Fundraiser will be held at the Tewksbury Country Club. This year’s theme ―Come Help Us Build‖ ties into the call ringing nationally for people of all ages to give back to their communities by both volunteering their time and supporting local organizations with their donations.
―We invite you to an evening of dinner, entertainment, and opportunities to bid on a number of silent and live auction items. Billy Costa of TV Diner will auction off 2 NASCAR tickets with pit passes in Loudon, NH; plane ride; cooking with Costa (be part of the TV Diner show); golf get-away on Hilton Head; a handi-woman for a day for those jobs you keep putting off; hang-gliding.‖
Tickets $75 per person. To order online: www.lowellhabitat.org (click on Events) or call the office at 978- 692-0927. To volunteer with HFHGL, also visit the website.
INTERN’S INSIGHTS
This week I get to visit my new nephew. He's a few months old now, and according to my brother he's starting to smile. I remember when my niece was still a baby how much she would smile, and how these little things we take for granted seemed to be miracles in her like smiling and laughter. With the recent rain, the green on the ground, and the start of March, it seems like spring might actually be here. What is springing up in your life, those startling moments of newness and growth that sometimes can be taken for granted?
Life renews itself fresh each year. Our youth this coming Sunday will speak on that for Youth Sunday, with the theme of Spring Cleaning for your Soul. I have had the privilege of working with them for this service, and am often amazed by how awesome our youth are, and how profound their insight can be. There is something deep and powerfully spiritual in the hearts, minds, and souls of these youth. They spring forth signs of hope, signs of the power of our tradition, and I hope you all come to participate with them in the coming Sunday.
Best, Andrew
A WORD FROM OUR ENERGY REDUCTION TASK FORCE
Reduce Energy Use UUCR heating and electricity bills are skyrocketing and our carbon footprint is growing. What can we all do to help UUCR save money and the environment?
Use the Vestibule Doors The entrances at either end of the atrium have vestibules that isolate the interior space from the outdoor temperatures. The double doors act as an air lock and help keep the cold winter air or hot summer air in the vestibule—the interior space is less affected and the heating/air conditioning system does have to reheat/re- cool the interior air as often. Also, do not prop open the vestibule doors.
Do Not Use Side Doors—While the side doors may save steps, these doors (near the kitchen serving window and near Sawyer) increase our energy use and environmental impact because they do not have vestibules. As stated above, using the vestibule doors at either end of the atrium will help us save money and the environment.
Turn Off the Lights We’ve all heard this one before, but our building is often found with lights on and no one here! If you are one of the last ones here for an event or activity, please be sure to turn off the lights when you leave.
Please check the entire building to be sure all of the lights are turned off.
Dimmer Switches - The dimmer switches in Fellowship Hall and the Sanctuary are tricky because the switches must be pushed all the way down past the ―click‖ to be turned off. If you don’t push the switch down far enough, the lights remain on (at a energy-consuming glow).
Turn Down the Heat The entire old building is on one heating zone—that is, upstairs and down, the Sanctuary and Community Hall are both controlled by the same thermostat. Turning the heat up for a meeting in Community Hall means you are heating the entire Sanctuary as well.
Please be sure to turn the heat back down to 60° when you leave!
Note: Press ―Temporary Not Occupied‖ on the thermostats for Fellowship Hall and the Atrium when you leave.
Isolate Heating Zones We have three heating zones in the main building: Sanctuary/Community Hall, the Atrium, and Fellowship Hall. It saves energy to keep the doors between zones closed. Please do not prop any doors open—the doors from the Atrium into the Sanctuary and especially the door to the stairs from the Atrium to Community Hall, both at the top and bottom of the stairs. When the glass wall is unfolded, be sure to close the doors between the Atrium and Fellowship Hall.
Loring and Sawyer Please save energy in all of our church campus buildings. Turn off the lights, turn down the heat and close windows when you leave Loring or Sawyer.
Building Security (while we have your attention…) Building security is also important. Please be sure to lock all doors when you leave—and be sure to check that the door is closed all the way and latched. Very often, the doors are locked but are not latched, so they open right up with a tug, leaving our building open to anyone. Please give a tug on all doors to be sure they are secure before you leave. Thank you! ALL THOSE DEADLINES
Newsletter deadline is every other Thursday. Our next newsletter deadline is Thursday, March 11, 2010, at 2:00 PM. Your newsletter contribution can include your full copy.
Sunday news deadline is every Wednesday at 2:00 pm.
Order of service information deadline is every Wednesday at 2:00 pm. If you have an attribution, dedication, or celebration for altar flowers which you are donating, please direct this information to Rosemary at [email protected] by Wednesday.
AN IMPORTANT REMINDER FROM THE BRIDGE TO TOMORROW
Please see the Bridge to Tomorrow reminder at the end of this newsletter about ―Optimizing Our Campus‖
WELCOMING CONGREGATION COMMITTEE SAVE THE DATE – JUNE 12
UUCR marches Boston Pride (June 12) is NOT Father’s day weekend (which is June 20) and it is NOT Ferry Beach Weekend (which is June 5). The Unitarian Universalist Church of Reading/Welcoming Congregation will be marching in the 2010 Boston Pride Parade which is scheduled for Saturday, June 12, 2010. Show your support, inclusion, and heart, and mark your calendar today! The weather, company, and smiles were picture perfect last year. We truly had a wonderful time! We are planning carpools from UUCR at 9:15 AM. The parade route kicks off at 12 Noon after a short service at the Arlington Street UU chuch. The Theme for Boston Pride 2010 is "Riots to Rights - Celebrating 40 Years of Progress" Register at coffee hour or email [email protected] so that we can keep you in the loop during our planning stages.
PARTNER CHURH
The Power of Partnership: Courageous Ugandan UUs fight "Anti-Homosexuality Bill" For 20 years, our congregation has partnered with a Unitarian congregation in Transylvania (Romania). Joining the 100+ partnerships between US UU churches and Transylvanian Unitarian churches are new partnerships with congregations in the Philippines, India, and Africa. Here is a powerful story of partnership, from the UUA website.
The Unitarian Universalist (UU) Association of Uganda is preparing to take a strong and courageous stand against the Ugandan government's proposed "Anti-Homosexuality Bill of 2009." This hate-filled legislation, proposed in the Ugandan Parliament, would criminalize homosexuality and enforce penalties of life imprisonment and capital punishment against gays and lesbians. Bisexual, Gay, Lesbian, and Transgender (BGLT) allies would also face drastic punishments. (Full article at http://www.uua.org/news/newssubmissions/158042.shtml.)
The UU Church of Kampala is partnered with All Souls Unitarian Church of Tulsa Oklahoma. Tulsa's minister, the Rev. Marlin Lavanhar was asked by Kampala's Rev. Mark Kiyimba to stand with him at the upcoming conference in opposition to this legislation which took place in Uganda on February 14. Rev. Lavanhar left Tulsa February 11 to join Rev. Kiyimba. Rev. Lavanhar's sermon from February 7 is a powerful statement about this courageous stand and about his own reasons for going. Listen to Rev. Lavanhar's sermon from Sunday February 7 by clicking on this link: http://allsoulschurch.libsyn.com/ Rev. Lavanhar is also blogging during his trip (visit http://www.allsoulschurch.org/). Spring/Pentecost Pilgrimage to Transylvania & Budapest: May 14–24 From the UU Partner Church Council Travel Service: ―A group pilgrimage to Eastern Europe to experience the historic roots of Unitarianism. We will share in the lives of our co-religionists in Eastern Europe, discuss the origins of our denomination with Unitarian ministers, and visit a number of significant Unitarian sites as well as attractions of general interest.
―Beginning in Kolozsvar (Cluj), Romania and ending in the lovely Hungarian capital city of Budapest, the trip will also include a stay in a Unitarian village, and visits to numerous historic village & town churches. Travelers will discover the warmth and loving hospitality of Transylvanian Unitarian families during a home stay in a Unitarian village and experience rural village life.‖ For a day-by-day itinerary and to register, visit www.uupcc.org. For information, contact John Dale, [email protected].
BITS AND PIECES
UUCR CONTACT LIST
Minister - Rev. Tim Kutzmark , 781-944-0494, extension 101 pastoral emergencies:781-718-8378 Director of Religious Education - Aileen Dashurova, 781-944-0494, extension 108 Administrator – Rosemary Fiori, 781-944-0494, extension 100, [email protected] Ministerial Intern – Andrew Tripp, [email protected] , 781-944-0494 Member Services and Volunteer Coordinator, Jenny Costello, [email protected] 781-944-0494, extension 103 Choir Director - Dr. Mark Bennett, 781-944-0494, extension 161 Youth Group Advisor, Jayms Battaglia, 781-944-0494, extension 108 Facility Manager - Marc Evans, 781-944-0494, extension 104, [email protected] Organist - George White, 781-944-0494, extension 161 Infant Care Provider – Jennifer DeSantis, 781-944-0494, extension 108 Playschool Teacher - Karyn Carmichael, 781-944-0494, extension 108 Governing Board President, Clyde Hardin, 781-942-2324 [email protected]
CARING AND SHARING
The Caring and Sharing Coordinator for March will be Jane Jolkovski. Jane can be reached at [email protected]
BUDDHIST MEDITATION GROUP
Please join us for an hour of peace and mindful community every Sunday at 7:00 p.m. downstairs in Community Hall. The Buddhist Meditation Group at UUCR is led by Andrew Furst. The hour consists of simple and enjoyable meditation practices that offer great benefit for the body and the mind. No meditation experience necessary. Please contact Andrew Furst [email protected]
WE ARE A WELCOMING CONGREGATION
The UUCR is a Welcoming Congregation. The UUCR has a Welcoming Congregation Committee. A Welcoming Congregation is a Congregation who publicly and successfully welcomes bisexual, gay, lesbian, and transgender people including and addressing the needs of bisexual, gay, lesbian and transgendered persons at every level of congregational life — in worship, in programs, in social occasions, and in rites of passage — welcoming not only their presence, but the gifts and particularities of their lives as well! Our UUCR Welcoming Congregation Committee welcomes you to participation. Our Committee co-chairs are Martha Moore and [email protected] and Paula DiGiovine at [email protected]
UUCR’S FIRST NETWORKING EVENT – MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR MARCH 6!
UUCR's first NETWORKING EVENT will take place Saturday, March 6th from 6-8 PM in Fellowship Hall. It is brought to you by the UUCR Employment Support Group. Why network, you ask? Do it because it's fun. Do it because networking lets you find out what your fellow church members do for a living. Networking offers you the benefit of gaining new business contacts and can lead to new clients. In addition, you might be able to assist a UUCR friend. The event is free of charge. Refreshments will be served. Register for the event at http://uucrnetworking.eventbrite.com. Questions? Contact Andy Furst at [email protected].
UUCR Employment Support Group: If you're out of work, concerned about your job stability or considering changing careers, the UUCR Employment Support Group is here for you. We meet twice monthly offering learning opportunities on topics like online job searching, networking, resume writing as well as general support during these tough economic times. Contact Andy Furst [email protected] or Elaine Ohlson [email protected]
JOIN THE UUCR LAST TUESDAY OF THE MONTH BOOK CLUB – ALL ARE WELCOME!
Our book selection for March is "The Help" by Kathryn Stockett.
REV. JANE RZEPKA
Rev. Jane Rzepka, a former minister at UUCR, has announced her retirement from full-time ministry due to complications from post-polio syndrome. Jane had been serving as Senior Minister of the Church of the Larger Fellowship. We wish her well in her retirement, as she finds new ways to continue to enrich our faith tradition. Her fifteen years at UUCR are remembered fondly by so many of us. jUUnior MUSIC
For your jUUnior music calendars: jUUnior Music will meet on March 14 and March 28. Contact Beth Murray: [email protected] or 781-229-9394.
YOUTH CHOIR
Youth Choir Rehearses on Sunday, March 7 at 8:30 AM. Youth Sunday Services are at 9 AM and 11:00 AM. There will be no afternoon rehearsal on Sunday March 7. Youth Choir is led by Dee and Aaron Clark. [email protected] 781-944-4620
COMING OF AGE 1 FUNDRAISER DANCE PARTY PLANNED ON FRIDAY MARCH 12 AT THE UUCR!
Shake off those winter blues! Have these cold winter nights got you down? Then come on out to UUCR for a night of great 60's, 70's and 80's music with the fabulous DJ, Paul Liberty. The party will be held on Friday, March 12 from 7 to 10 pm in Fellowship Hall at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Reading, 239 Woburn Street in Reading. Coming of Age 1 is raising money for their summer field trip. This dance was such a blast last August that we couldn't resist holding a repeat. There will be dancing, snacks for sale and lots of wonderful people to mingle with. Come on out of the cold and get hot, hot, hot! All donations gratefully accepted. We hope to see you there!
PLEASE WELCOME OUR NEWEST RENTER: AGE-WELL-BE-WELL
Our newest renter, Paula Koppel, is excited about her Health & Wellness Planning Workshops and has been renting space in Loring House for her presentations. There are a few seats still available for a free workshop scheduled for Tuesday March 2 from 7:00 to 9:00 PM. If you are interested, please let me know Paula know so she can save you a space. This is a free workshop. Paula has developed this workshop because she believes that there are many ways to prevent or at least postpone the disabilities that are associated with aging but this requires proactive planning and lifestyle changes. Just as we all make plans to secure our financial future, building a plan to maintain and maximize our wellness is equally important but often overlooked. The best time to begin such planning is at mid-life (somewhere between your 40s and 70s). Don't have a wellness plan? Join the crowd. Few people have made this investment or know how to go about it. This workshop walks through the steps necessary to build a Wellness Roadmap--a tool to guide your investments in health and wellness over the coming decades. To register or ask questions, feel free to call Paula Koppel at 617-835- 7087 or email Paula at [email protected] You can also register for a workshop or read Paula’s newsletter by visiting her website www.age-well-be-well.com
FUN TIMES FOR SINGLES PROGRAM TO LAUNCH AT BELMONT UU
Single Adults: Are you interested in connecting with other single UU’s? The First Church in Belmont is launching a new Fun Times for Singles program. The Belmont UU will have a first meeting on Saturday February 27 at 6:30 pm, with a potluck dinner at the Belmont Church, 404 Concord Ave, Belmont 02478. The second meeting will be 3/27 – same location, time and format. The Belmont UU envisions an ongoing group that can get together for potluck dinners at rotating churches every other month along with outings (such as theater, kayaking, cross country skiing - you name it!) on the off months. This group is interested in hearing your ideas. Please RSVP to: Patricia at [email protected] or Debbie at [email protected] so coordinators can coordinate refreshments. Patricia Garcia 617- 932-1764 and Debbie Dobbins 781-507-1552. This is an inter-parish collaborative effort and all are invited.
VOLUNTEER TO ASSIST TEMPORARY PROTECTED STATUS APPLICANTS
New laws this month provide that Haitians in the United States prior and up to the date of the Haiti earthquake (January 12) may apply for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) which would allow them to legally work and live for the next 18 months without fear of deportation. This program is estimated to help 100,000-200,000 Haitians currently in the United States. The UUA and UUSC are organizing and supporting legal services clinics for TPS applicants in Massachusetts. At these clinics, volunteers will provide free advice and assistance in filling out the necessary forms, as well as help in completing TPS fee-waiver applications. Volunteers need NOT be attorneys (although they are very much needed!) in order to participate, but do need to take part in a TPS training supervised by immigration attorneys prior to volunteering. The UUSC is hosting two TPS webinars - open to all - facilitated by immigration attorneys from Greater Boston Legal Services, to train volunteers to serve at these clinics. These two webinars will be on: Wednesday, March 3, 7:00-8:30 and Wednesday, March 10, 7:00-8:30. Once you have participated in training, UUSC and the UUA will invite you to volunteer in TPS clinics as they are scheduled. If you have any questions about others ways to help, please call UUSC Campaign Manager Nichole Cirillo at 617-301-4336 or email Nichole at [email protected]