May / June Newsletter by First Unity of St Petersburg

May/June 2008 Volume #8, Issue #3

First Unity Campus | 460 46th Ave. N. | St. Petersburg, FL 33703 | (727) 527-2222 | UnityCampus.org

Happy Birthday! Wings Bookstore celebrates one year. From a tiny 350 square foot bookstore inside the church to a vibrant bookstore and coffee bar on 4th Street, Wings Bookstore celebrates its 1st anniversary May 4. Full story pg 12...

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Happening pg 4

pg 5

HERE II HERE (formerly known as Inner Voice) will be our guest musicians in June

Prosperity dynamo Edwene Gaines returns to fire us up on June 8

pg 16 Our third Great American Bake Sale on June 1

Fly Like an Eagle

My daughter Hannah and I were out for a boat ride not long ago and saw an odd pair of birds fishing the flats. As we got closer, we saw one very large bird with a fish in its talons, being chased by a smaller bird.

Jim Swayne, Board of Trustees President

“We know and

aﬃrm that when

we place our faith in God’s limitless supply and give

our time, talent, and treasure, we then open the door to receive all of God’s blessing and abundance.”

The “small” bird was an osprey—one of the thousands of majestic hunters we have in our area, and the large bird was a rare sight indeed —a beautiful bald eagle. I felt so blessed to see firsthand this spectacular expression of God and gave a silent prayer of thanksgiving for this living miracle. Bald eagles are magnificent and have been used as a symbol throughout history. Once on the brink of extinction, bald eagles in North America have made an astonishing comeback —they truly are living miracles and inspire us with their strength, courage, persistence, and grace. Eagles build very sturdy nests in which to lay their eggs and raise their young. Their nests are built high in trees near the water, and when it is time for their young to begin to fly, the parents begin to withhold food. Eagle parents will actually do “fly-bys” with tasty morsels of food—just out of reach of their eaglet—to encourage the eaglet to stretch upwards and perch on the edge of the nest. As the eaglet stretches and flaps its wings and bounces up and down in the nest, it experiences flight for the first time. Most eaglets make their first flight on their own, but some require a nudge or two. Some eagle

parents have been observed tearing away at the rim of the nest and gently pushing their eaglets to the edge. Sometimes as we grow, we need someone to set the example for us to follow—to do a “ﬂy-by” that increases our hunger and desire. Sometimes we need more of a nudge—from a parent or a friend or from Spirit—to move us beyond where we are and to where we know we truly want to be. By now you’ve heard about “Fueling Our Fire with Faith” and the Faith Council. For many, this new opportunity may be the nudge needed to move forward in an expanded prosperity consciousness and in service to others. We know and aﬃrm that when we place our faith in God’s limitless supply and give our time, talent, and treasure, we then open the door to receive all of God’s blessing and abundance. I encourage you to join our Faith Council—our gathering of eagles. We are soaring here at First Unity, and we see you, each of you, soaring with us! In friendship, love and Unity, Jim Swayne

“Thank You, God, for Your unlimited abundance, which ﬂows through Unity and creates new paths of growth for our service to the world.” First

Year to date 02/29/08

Unity Church tithes each month to the following: Association of Unity Churches, Association

Total Expenditures $118,772.86

of Unity Churches Living Curriculum, Silent Unity and Southeast Unity Ministries.

Net Total ($5,275.09)

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BOARD REPORT

Total Revenues $113,497.77

Time to Fully Wake!

What a great time of year between the springing of enthusiasm and the playtime of the summer heat. All of us as spiritual beings start making various commitments and adjustments, as we access the changes which we know are good for us. We access, evaluate and search for certain areas of our lives where we have been sleeping. We look at some of the habits, the unresolved “wouldology” and “woundology.” We identify with the subtle fears which keep us in bondage. Many of us in New Thought struggle with letting go of old beliefs and fully being in the now of possibilities. These are the moments in which we become awake. The greatest growth for a spiritual being is to move out of the “wouldology.” “I would do this if I had the money…I would do that if I had the education,” and the wouldology continues in our consciousness. It is crucial that we move out of this space and step into the moment right now. What are we declaring? What are we manifesting? In what ways do we need to become awake? Let us aﬃrm together: I now accept all the good that is available to me. When we aﬃrm and believe this statement, we become awake. When co-founder of the Unity movement, Myrtle Fillmore declared, “I made the greatest discovery in my life,” she became awake to a greater reality of her connection to spiritual love and spiritual law.

SPIRITUAL EDUCATION (see pgs 5 -11) People come from all over the world and teach in our Spiritual Education program. We are so proud that Rev. Helen Hornaday has joined us as our Spiritual Education Director. Please take advantage of the opportunity to connect with her on Sundays in Friendship Hall at our new Spiritual Education center. Allow God to guide you to the right courses and the right teacher. As the old axiom says, “when the student is ready, the teacher appears.”

POWER OF PERU (see pg 20)

One of my greatest experiences to practice the presence of God is to travel to a foreign country. I feel so connected to the country I am visiting and always come back with such expansion and new ways of seeing. I am able to expand beyond my “wouldology.” This August, we have been gifted with an amazing opportunity to travel to Peru with a native tour guide. Jorge Luis Delgado was born in a small Andean village. He is an indigenous Peruvian of Aymara heritage. Considered Peru’s renowned spiritual tour guide, he has trained with Kallawayas shamans of the northeast Lake Titicaca region; the lineage of the Amautas; the Wise Ones of the Andes; and the Q’ero Elders of the Cusco region, who are considered the last remaining descendants of the Incas. Delgado, author of Andean Awakening, has been interviewed by journalists worldwide, and the BBC featured him in a documentary. He has also represented the Inca Nation when elders of North, Central, and South America have gathered, and is currently organizing his vast collection of antique textiles and artifacts into a museum at Taypikala Hotel, Cusco. He is appearing this year as a teacher at Omega Institute, and we are fortunate to have him as our tour leader. This is the time and Peru is the place. Join us for the Power of Peru trip.

Rev. Temple Hayes

“I now accept all the good that is available to me. When we aﬃrm and believe this statement, we become awake. ”

Together we continue to expand as a community, reaching the few who touch the many, who change and alter our world. We are awake, and we are soaring. Namaste! Rev. Temple MINISTER’S MESSAGE

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Hot Music this Summer

G I

Grammy-nominated pianist, composer and producer Peter Kater has sold 1.5 million records and written the music for more than 70 television programs, ﬁlms and theatrical productions. His music ranges from World Fusion and Native American collaborations to contemporary jazz, vocal ensembles, full orchestrations and his signature solo piano recordings.

PETER KATER-SUNDAY, MAY 4

In addition to providing Sunday service music at 9 and 11 am, Peter will oﬀer an afternoon concert starting at 1:30 pm. Peter and his family will be moving to Maui the week after he is with us at First Unity, and he will be greatly reducing the number of appearances he makes on the mainland for a

while. It may be some time before we have the privilege to host him at First Unity again, so bring your friends and let’s pack the house! A suggested $20 Love Oﬀering will be taken during the concert. Peter’s numerous CDs will be for sale after the services and at the concert.

Inner Voice is a musical group based in Miami, featuring tight vocal harmony, eclectic instruments, and a rhythmic blend of smooth pop, rock, and soul-drenched R&B music. Their songs address a sprinkling of the entire spectrum of human emotions. The group has recently changed its name, and is now known as HERE II HERE. Their sound has been described as “a trilogy of Afro-Cuban sacred sensuality, Asian spiritual detachment, and African-American revivalist soul.”

HERE II HERE-SUNDAY, JUNE 1

According to the Miami New Times, “Just when it seems that all the music in the world has been fused together in every possible combo, the Latin boy(ish) band Inner Voice invents a new sound that I would call Buddhizm2Men.” Indeed, Ashley Ruiz, one of the vocalists and the main songwriter of HERE II HERE, is a former member of the Latin “boyband” group Menudo. Ruiz and Alex Perez, also on vocals, are Cuban-Americans. Vocalist/guitarist Jaime Triana is Colombian. Brothers Edwin Itoh, who plays guitar, harmonium and bass, and percussionist Kazuhiro Itoh, are Colombian-Japanese. The East meets West vibe features instrumentation such as Japanese bamboo ﬂutes and African drums. It’s all blended into positive pop melodies and inspirational, mystical lyrics. The group sings at conferences, churches, and national sporting

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MUSICAL GUESTS

events around the country and the world. They performed with other artists in an international concert of peace in Rome in December 2006, which was broadcast worldwide live on MTV. They have shared the stage with best-selling authors such as Neale Donald Walsh, John Gray, Dr. Masaru Emoto and Rev. Michael Beckwith. “We are thrilled to give this gift to the planet,” said Jaime Triana. “Every song is inspired by our love for every living being, our compassion for every experience and our commitment to being a clear voice of the universal heart.” HERE II HERE will provide music at the 9 and 11 am Sunday services. Their afternoon concert will begin at 1:30 pm, with a suggested $20 per person love oﬀering.

Prosperity Truths with Edwene Gaines If you are ready to learn and practice the principles of true prosperity, mark your calendars now to hear Unity minister and author Rev. Edwene Gaines Sunday, June 8! Hear the principles that Edwene guarantees will change your life. Rev. Edwene Gaines, author of The Four Spiritual Laws of Prosperity, a Simple Guide to Unlimited Abundance, has made a 100% commitment to the transformation of the abundance consciousness of the world. Her book brings an empowering message about the true meaning of prosperity, to help anyone achieve a life of material and spiritual abundance. A life of true prosperity includes a vitally alive, healthy body through which you experience relationships that are always satisfying and intimate, honest and nurturing; work you love so much that it’s not work, it’s play; and all the money you can spend. Living at this exceptional level is not only possible—it’s

right there for you, if only you abide by the four spiritual laws of prosperity. Gaines has been delivering her inspirational, life-changing message to audiences of all faiths at workshops across the US. If you would like to assign signiﬁcance to your life and bring a passion to all that you do, plan now to spend the day with Edwene, and bring a friend. This is a must-attend workshop for anyone looking for more prosperity in their lives! Hear Edwene at the 9 and 11 am Sunday services Sunday, June 8, and plan now to experience her inspirational workshop later that afternoon from 1:30 to 4 pm in the Sanctuary.

“Prosperity is our birthright... a comprehensive knowledge of the consciousness of God.”

We’re Growing!

What a glorious time to be alive and living on this planet, with all the shifts and changes that are happening moment by moment. It is a joy and thrill for me to be part of this Unity community and the Spiritual Education department. It is so exciting to be part of the creations and variety of classes and workshops with the core of each based on spiritual principles deepening our connection with Spirit. My intention and vision is that the classrooms are ﬁlled with committed teachers and eager students who together are creating an environment of enrichment and spiritual growth for themselves that naturally streams out into the whole planet. Let us envision

classes in Unity teachings, healing, prosperity, creative arts, relationships and successful living. We are oﬀering many of these classes and workshops right now, and details are on the following pages. Join us as students or teachers, as we all continue to grow and make a diﬀerence in our world. Namaste,

Rev. Helen Hornaday, Spiritual Education Director

Rev. Helen Hornaday UPCOMING EVENTS

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Expand mind, body and spirit! Our Spiritual Education

THE JOURNEY WITHIN:

Program oﬀers various ongoing classes, workshops and support groups. Registration is easy! Visit us online at www.ﬁrstunity.org, call us at (727) 527-2222 x101 or sign up in Friendship Hall.

Embracing the Gifts of God

A Course in Miracles Thursdays, May 1 - June 26 7 to 9 pm Location: Rm #301 A Course in Miracles, perhaps the most mystical document of the 20th century, provides a mechanism for changes in consciousness called for by the mystics. Join us as we experience the inner shift that forgiveness oﬀers through a series of exercises, meditations and group sharing. Suggested Love Oﬀering $5 per class. Nick Demore is a First Unity member, ACIM student for more than 10 years and teacher and father. His formal studies include philosophy, anthropology, logic and other general studies at Allegany Community College and St. Pete College.

Discover the Power Within Thursdays, May 1 - June 5 7 to 9 pm Location: Rm #300 Join us as we study the classic Unity work by Eric Butterworth, Discover the Power Within You. We will explore and discover the “Divine within,” how to release it and let our light shine in our own natural expression. This work is rich in Unity principles on prayer, healing, abundance and successful living. We will be

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SPIRITUAL EDUCATION PROGRAM

using Discover the Power Within You as text, available at Wings Bookstore. Everyone is invited to this class, however it is not for credit for those on the track for licensing. Suggested Love Oﬀering $10. Rev. Helen Hornaday was preparing to go to Unity School to become a Unity minister, studying everything available to her, when her path made a turn to Louise Hay’s work which led to her becoming a Religious Science minister.

The Artist’s Way Mondays, May 5 - July 21 10 am to noon & 7 to 9 pm Location: Rm #301 Discover, uncover, recover, awaken and ignite your creative self. Whether you are an aspiring or working artist, or even doubt the “artist within,” join us on this spiritual path to higher creativity. Strengthened with support and encouragement by each other, we delve into limiting beliefs and fears, clearing the way to emerge into our divine creative expression. We will be using The Artist’s Way as our textbook and we will create some projects. Suggested Love Oﬀering $15 per class. Rev. Helen Hornaday has been consciously expressing creativity since childhood, and is a working artist. She added The Artist’s Way to her teachings after living in Taos, New Mexico 10 years ago and experiencing this course with author Julia Cameron and 40 other artists. This course has deeply changed many people, who are now joyfully expressing their creative self.

Releasing Outdated Vows Saturday, May 3 10 to 11:30 am Location: Rm #301 Do you have vows that need to be released? Vows like “I’ll never have enough money to....” or “I’ll never find a partner.” Although The Secret gives us some ways to change these vows, often they are deep-seated and need some specific attention to release them. In a fun and playful environment, this workshop will help you clarify the outdated vows you still hold. Following this, we will do a guided meditation will help you release the vows. You will then have the skills to do the work on your own. Suggested Love Offering $10 per person. Susan Spilman was a licensed psychologist for more than 30 years. She now combines her psychological skills with energy healing to address emotional and spiritual issues. She has traveled extensively, was a Buddhist nun for a short while, and divides her time between St. Petersburg, Florida and Bali, Indonesia.

Physical & Spiritual Detoxifcation

Allowing Your Natural Well-Being to Flow Tuesdays, May 13 – June 10 7 to 9 pm Location: Rm #300 This course is designed to empower the creative genius within you! Learn practical ways to apply the law of attraction in your daily life through the application of processes that will release resistance to receiving your desires. Processes and techniques will also be covered that will allow you to keep your intentions focused on abundance rather than lack in order to manifest greater wellbeing in all areas of your experience. As you retrain your thinking, you are able to be an empowered, deliberate creator of your life! Suggested Love Oﬀering $15 per class or $50 in advance for all ﬁve classes. Andi Schenbeck graduated with a M.S. in education and has six years of high school teaching. Her personal brand is “Passionate soul appreciating a journey of inspiration through balance, love and joy.” She has enjoyed extensive spiritual study over the past few years. She speaks at women’s growth and learning forums as a part of the service for her company “Choose to Inspire.” Andi is currently enjoying her involvement with First Unity of St Petersburg as a Y.O.U. sponsor and barista at Wings Bookstore.

Tuesday, May 6 7 to 9 pm Location: Friendship Hall When you do your spring cleaning, don’t forget to include your physical and spiritual bodies! Be part of a carefully planned detoxification program that can offer more energy, better focus, allergy relief and anti-aging. This program gives you three strategic support meetings, all pertinent materials, guidelines and finally an “empty the junk drawer” celebration. Some symptoms that may be relieved by following a detoxification program are digestive problems, headaches, irritability, joint pain and fatigue. This Detox 101 talk will be presented by Sue Stewart RN, AP, Lorri Franckle and Rev. Temple Hayes. A Love Offering will be taken. Sue Stewart is a registered nurse and board-certified acupuncture physician. She utilizes a functional medicine approach to her practice, emphasizing detoxification and living “green.” Her mission is to help people of all ages integrate and balance the body, mind, emotions and spirit.

Many classes require pre-registration, so we have made it easy for you! SIGN UP:

t Online at www.ﬁrstunity.org t In Friendship Hall t Call 527-2222 x 101 Payment for classes can be made in advance at the church or at the door. Cash, check and credit cards accepted.

SPIRITUAL EDUCATION PROGRAM

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Recreational Music-Making Friday, May 9 7:30 to 9 pm Location: Friendship Hall Recreational Music Making drum circles involve hand drums from around the world, as well as an array of handheld percussion instruments. Our approach is to extend the benefits of group drumming as a form of recreational music-making to people, regardless of musical experience. This evening is not about performance, but rather one of self-expression. The foundation of our drumming program is the evidencebased HealthRHYTHMS® group empowerment drumming protocol. Scientific research has demonstrated that as a wellness strategy, HealthRHYTHMS can create positive changes in the immune system, reduce burn-out and improve mood states. Participating in HealthRHYTHMS® group empowerment drumming provides an extraordinary opportunity to discover your personal rhythm and enhance the overall quality of your life. Visit www.drum4wellness.com for more information. $20 Suggested Love Offering. Debbie Schults has been passionate about music since a young age. She has been the Music Director for Unity Church in the Gardens, in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida for four years. She has been facilitating community drum circles at the church for several years. Her passion and desire to empower others to express their joy through music has led her to become a Trained HealthRHYTHMS® facilitator. Using the HealthRHYTHMS® group empowerment drumming protocol, Debbie has expanded her monthly drum circle to encompass the larger community, bringing the healing power of rhythm to diverse populations such as senior citizens, women’s empowerment groups and children.

able to find the joy in all situations in life? How do we keep our heart open in the face of whatever life brings us? Learn how to manifest joy in difficult times as well as good times. Required materials: Illumination: Contemplations for an Awakened Life and Journal of Illumination. Suggested Love Offering of $50 includes this book at a special discounted price. Rev. Dr. Barbara Flood holds a Ph.D. in psychology and a master’s degree in social work. She is an ordained minister, a spiritual director, a Transitions Life Coach and a Professional Executive and Business Coach certified by Coach Training Alliance. She is a member of the International Coach Federation, the Denver Coach Federation and the National Association of Social Workers. Her keynote speaking topics include women in transition, career development, job searching skills, cultivating joy, atonement and the journey of a spiritual life. She has just completed publication of her own book Illumination: Contemplations for an Awakened Life, a compilation of essays in personal growth and development.

Conscious Prosperity: The Secret to Simple & Lasting Personal Wealth ™ Sunday, May 18 1:30 to 5 pm Location: Sanctuary Attend the workshop that people are calling the perfect companion to the 4T Program and the next step in prosperity consciousness. If you have a mortgage, car loan, credit cards, student loans, etc., you will want to attend this life-changing workshop! t

A simple, livable and GUARANTEED step-by-step system to retire as-soon-as-possible — ALL with the money you currently earn and to pay oﬀ ALL your “consumer debt” in one to two years and your “mortgage” in another four to ﬁve years, without having to increase your current income.

Where to ﬁnd the “extra” money to make this system work.

How to add more than $1 million to your wealth in the time it normally takes to pay oﬀ your mortgage.

The COST of saving a little money each month.

Cultivating Joy in Difficult Times Saturday, May 17 1 to 3:30 pm Location: Rm #300 Learn how joy is the unmistakable heartbeat of our soul during this twohour multi-media interactive workshop! Explore the presence of joy in your life and discover what joy means to you, how it supports you, how it aﬀects the value of your life and how to apply it to your well-being and your overall health. Expand the joy factor! What are the issues that stop us from being

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SPIRITUAL EDUCATION PROGRAM

This is not an investment program, debt-consolidation, reﬁnancing or bi-monthly mortgage plan. You will leave with a written plan on how to and when you will be out of debt, as well as when you will be able to live oﬀ the income from your investments! Bring a calculator and a list of your debts, showing current balance, current payment and minimum payment

(principal and interest only). This information is used only to complete your personal plan, is not shared in class and is completely confidential. John Moore, who has been called the “pied piper” of financial independence, has been teaching the system for more than eight years. It has had a profound impact on his life. He is on a crusade to increase the wealth of America. As an investment and consulting professional, Mr. Moore has led cash management and personal growth workshops throughout the country for more than 20 years. He offers this workshop with a Voluntary Value-Based Tuition™ based on the value that you feel you received. There is a comprehensive 18-page workbook included and an optional textbook available for $49.95.

Cooking in Community Tuesday, May 20 & June 24 6 to 8 pm Friendship Hall Set your intentions and watch what is created! Use what you know as a spiritual practice during your time in the kitchen. Cooking together, we will unfold a connection of power and union. Cost: $25 per person or bring a friend for only $10 more. Judy Staunko is a social architect, and community is her passion. She is a founder of the Saturday Morning Market and has been providing great food for wonderful people for 16 years. Through food and its presentation, Judy is committed to creating a world where communities radiate with vitality, beauty and grace—where the gift that we are to each other is realized!

Sacred Mandala Art: A Healing Tool for the Spirit Wednesday, May 21 7 to 9 pm Location: Sanctuary Throughout history, mandalas have been called architecture for enlightenment, bridges into the metaphysical realm and retention devices which make patterns of force visible. Called “portals of change,” mandalas are used in personal meditation, healing and self realization.

A heartwarming storyteller, Kare Possick will lead you on a visual journey from the center of the universe to the center of the cell, to the center of the sacred heart with the mandala as the vehicle. She is a visionary artist and quantum educator who has been creating and studying mandalas most of her life. This is the ﬁrst time that Kare will share her truly amazing personal stories about the meaning, the message and the manifesting abilities of her sacred geometric mandalas. A Love Oﬀering will be taken.

Creating Your Personal Mandala: Your Healing Tool for the Spirit Saturday, June 7 9 am to 5 pm Location: Friendship Hall Join Kare Possick, visionary artist and quantum educator, in a purely delightful day of tuning in, experiencing and drawing out the sacred geometry of your soul. This truly experiential workshop will blend a multi-sensory overview of the mandala, with meditation, movement and the sacred act of manifesting your own personal healing mandala. Mandalas are called the “architecture for enlightenment” by the Buddhists and “the bridge into the metaphysical realm” by the ancient Hindus. Carl Jung used the mandala as his special psychological healing tool ,and Joseph Campbell explained the mandala as a tool for personal meditation, healing and self-realization. So clear your schedule and register today for the workshop that will open your sacred heart as you are lead to draw out your personal sacred art. Space is limited. Art supplies are included. Suggested Love Oﬀering $89. For nearly 40 years Kare Possick has practiced and taught what she calls “quantum consciousness.” College professor and lecturer on quantum technologies, Kare opened the ﬁrst biofeedback clinic in Ohio, the Kare System of Yoga School, and quantum consciousness cruises where she brings therapists and healers together from all around the globe to study and play together in international energy forums. Her book “Why Are You Poisoning Your Family?” has sold nearly one million copies, and her sacred mandalas are used in healing centers worldwide. For more information go to www.KarePossick.com or call 397-0202. ...continued on next page *DATES and LOCATIONS of classes may occasionally change. Please call the church at 527-2222 or Wings at 522-6657 or visit FirstUnity.org for up-to-date information.

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WomanSpirit Expressing Your Creative Soul Saturday, May 31 8:30 am to 4 pm Location: Friendship Hall Is there a writer, poet, or singer in you? Is there a new career waiting to express in you? Do you wish to dance or laugh more? Is there a new you waiting to emerge? If you said “yes” to any of these questions, then come express your creative soul. Be a special, pampered part of this 12-year-old dream come true to bring women of all ages together for an experiential day of sharing, celebrating and creating. The three main themes include: gratitude, grace and growth. All materials will be supplied except for one; please bring four to six found objects from your home/garden. Invite your girlfriends, sisters, moms and/or friends to join you! $55 in advance; $70 at the door; reservations requested, plus $7 for a delicious catered luncheon buﬀet the day of the workshop. Hundreds have experienced Lore Raymond’s passionate presentation style through VisionMapping and Feng Shui workshops, coaching, and keynote speeches on “Living a Life of No Regrets” or Sunday lessons. Lore is the host of her weekly new radio talk show, The Soul Café, on WTAN1340 and is a contributing writer to the online magazine, Women Taking Care of Business (WomenTCB.org). She also writes inspiring stories for “The Soul of the Modern Woman.” A member of First Unity since 1984, Lore also serves as a Chaplain Emeritus. Learn more at www.LoreRaymond.com.

Ongoing Classes Energy Medicine for Healthy Living Study Group Facilitator: Melanie Smith, DOM, AP First Tuesdays, 6:30 to 8:30 pm Location: Sanctuary Explore the deeper realms of Energy Medicine in a practical hands-on environment. Learn to use a variety of

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SPIRITUAL EDUCATION PROGRAM

ancient healing systems to balance your own energy. Discover your body’s miraculous design for natural self-healing. There is a deep wisdom locked into the energies that ﬂow through your body—much like the blood that courses through your veins. Energy Medicine allows you to tap into this wisdom. It teaches you how to work with your body’s energy to increase your everyday zest and vitality, overcome chronic health problems and enhance the simple pleasure of living in your own body. Open to everyone interested in better health. $10 per class at the door. Recommended text: Energy Medicine by Donna Eden (available at Wings Bookstore).

Hatha Yoga Facilitator: Janet Maddox Mondays, 11 am to 12:30 pm Tuesdays & Thursdays, 5:30 to 7 pm Location: Rm #401 Join Janet in the practice of yoga, which helps your body and mind become more intimately connected with your spirit, resulting in more energy in the day, deeper sleep at night and more presence in your activities. Hatha Yoga brings balance, strength and a sense of well-being to the practitioner. Each class is followed by guided meditation with Tibetan bowls. Bring mats and wear comfortable clothing. The suggested Love Oﬀering is $10 per class.

Deeksha/Oneness Blessings Facilitator: Michael Milner Wednesdays, 7 to 9 pm Location: Friendship Hall Rev. Michael Milner presents regular Oneness Blessing/Deeksha sessions every Wednesday evening. Oneness Blessing/Deeksha frees the senses from the constant chatter of the mind resulting in clarity of perception and spontaneous feelings of love, joy, peace and inner silence. It dissolves negative life patterns, releases traumas stored at the cellular and energetic levels and facilitates deep emotional and physical healing. Suggested Love Oﬀering $20 per person requested (no one will be turned away). Call Wings at 522-6657 for more information.

*DATES and LOCATIONS of classes may occasionally change. Please call the church at 527-2222 or Wings at 522-6657 or visit FirstUnity.org for up-to-date information.

Nonviolent Communication Facilitator: Mark Thielmann 2nd & 4th Tuesdays, 7 to 9 pm Location: Rm #200 This group is a forum to practice reframing how we express ourselves and how we hear others, participating in an honest dialogue where everybody’s feelings and needs can be identiﬁed and met. Meets the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month from 7 to 9 pm. As a practice group for individuals who have read or are reading the book Nonviolent Communication by Marshall Rosenberg, our goal is to resolve conﬂicts by focusing our consciousness on what we are observing, feeling, needing and requesting. For more information, contact Mark at 735-5811.

Qigong Facilitator: Lisa Rathgeb Mondays, 6 to 7 pm Location: Rm #200 QiGong (pronounced chee-gong) is a form of martial arts for ultimate healing. It includes advanced breathing techniques and slow movements to expand your magnetic “Qi-Energy.” This Qi-Energy has a profound effect on blood circulation, longevity, strength and deep levels of awareness. On a spiritual level, it awakens your evolutionary process and deepens your God connection. It is an ancient scientific system of healing that awakens, aligns and directs the body’s own electromagnetic healing force. Only an open mind and heart are required to experience the immense benefits of this exercise. It is important to wear comfortable clothing while doing this practice in order to allow for maximum Qi-Energy flow. QiGong shoes are nice and can be purchased from any martial arts store. A yoga mat or blanket may be required at times. Suggested Love Offering is $10 per class.

FIRST UNITY HONORED AT 2008 CONVENTION This year at the Unity People’s Convention, First Unity Church will receive honors for cumulative giving of $561,000 since 1990, the most signiﬁcant tithing of any church in the association. The convention will be held June 9-14, 2008 at the exclusive Wigwam Golf Resort and Spa in Phoenix, Arizona. The trade show and bookstore will open June 10-14, and it is anticipated that 500-800 ministers, spiritual leaders, board members, lay leaders, and musicians will be in attendance during this educational, inspirational networking event. This year’s title is “Getting to Know You: Deepening our Relationship with God, Ourselves and Others.” Contact Debbie Ball at (816) 524-7414 or email convention@unity.org for more information about the 2008 Unity People’s Convention.

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Wings is One !

“Time ﬂies when you’re having fun” could possibly be the most over-used cliché ever spoken. And Wings Bookstore took ﬂight as soon as we opened the doors for business on May 1, 2007, and has been soaring ever since.

Sharon Jebens, Bookstore Manager

“You are here to enable the

divine purpose

of the universe to unfold. That is how important you are!” - Eckhart Tolle

A few years ago I read a piece about a lighthouse as a symbol of one’s spiritual practice, and I related to it so much that I began collecting them. The lighthouse is steadfast and consistent. It shines its light brightly, and the light never goes out. Its purpose is to show the way to those at sea. What a lighthouse doesn’t do is interfere; it doesn’t leave its foundation and wade out into the rocky waters to push the boats into harbor. It shines the light, and it guides. As it becomes more and more evident that our world is awakening, we take a breath, step back and give thanks for the timing— the Divine Order—that led us through the process of manifesting the new home for our First Unity bookstore. Last year, on April 22, we moved out of our little store nestled in the heart of the church. And shortly after, the new First Unity/Wings sign on 4th Street was erected and illuminated. Our light has always been bright, but suddenly, there are more and more ships becoming attracted to our guiding light. Some of you probably remember a few years ago, when our church studied Eckhart Tolle's The Power of Now as our Spirit Expressing book. Now, fast-forward to spring 2008. Here we are again, studying Eckhart's newest book, chapter by chapter at Wings on Tuesday evenings. This time, however, our classmates are millions of people all over the world, and our workbooks

are provided by the author and Oprah. “Feel the rush of light, sound and peace as 2,000,000 copies of pure light get unleashed on our dear planet.” - Anonymous Recently, we stopped to gaze around the store at the 50-plus people watching Wings’ big screen TV, transforming their lives in the largest online class ever. Our little bookstore has grown up. What an honor and a pleasure to be a part of an awakening world—a new earth—and to contribute to the First Unity light from Wings Bookstore on 4th Street. All of us at Wings would like to invite you to please join us for cake and celebration after both services on Sunday, May 4. As you take a moment to look around the bookstore, you will see A New Earth and other bestsellers prominently displayed on the right as you walk through the doors. Enjoy! Bless you, Sharon

727-52BOOKS (522-6657) | 4500 4th Street North | St. Petersburg Hours: Monday–Saturday, 8 am–9:30 pm & Sundays until 6 pm

WINGS BOOKSTORE NEWS

W NE

ONLINE BUSINESS DIRECTORY at ďŹ rstunity.org Advertise your business or services to our First Unity Campus. Visit us online at www.firstunity.org for rates. Our website averages 1,200 unique views a month with 90% from the greater Tampa Bay area, and our advertising rates are ridiculously cheap! Each listing includes a title line, your contact info, a description of up to 50 words and a link to your website.

YOUR AD HERE

Advertising with us is a great way to reach a targeted local audience while supporting First Unity Church.

Email newsletter@firstunity.org or call (727) 527-2222 x103 to place your ad.

WE LOVE OUR ADVERTISERS!

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Estate Planning and the Unmarried Couple

A by Edward C. Castagna Jr., Esq.

As a practical matter to the outside world, no one knows if this couple who get along so well and spend every minute with each other is married or not. Oftentimes there are financial and/or emotional reasons for not formalizing their relationship. But under the law, this lack of formal union can make a tremendous difference, oftentimes leaving unforeseen and harsh consequences for the survivor. With a little bit of estate planning, these hardships and heartbreaks can be avoided. If you are not married, it can be difficult for your significant other to help in times of health care emergencies without specific written authority. Due to HIPAA regulations, medical providers cannot recognize significant others as next of kin and legally cannot allow them to make health care decisions on your behalf. However, you can provide your significant other with a durable power of attorney, which would allow him/her to execute documents on your behalf and carry on with your affairs until you recover. Without a power of attorney, only a surviving spouse will be permitted to make these decisions. But if you are not married and there is no power of attorney, then there is no basis for any institution to extend you those rights. A will is also a necessary document since there are no legal rights to inherit anything from the deceased without it. In the eyes of the court, the surviving partner is a stranger. Executing a will can avoid a lot of heartache and anguish and will assure that your wishes to provide for your loved one in your absence are granted. This would be equally true with regard to medical decisions. Again, your significant other can be identified as your health care surrogate to make decisions regarding your health. Absent such a designation, other family members will have that right, and those

family members could conceivably keep you out of the medical decision making loop if they chose to. Make sure your significant other is named on your joint bank or investment accounts with rights of survivorship to ensure that these accounts pass to them after death, or named as a beneficiary on your retirement fund account if that is your intent. If you add your significant other as a joint tenant with right of survivorship, it will ensure that he or she can continue to enjoy a comparable lifestyle after your passing. Again, nothing in the banking process is automatic if you are not married. You must be proactive to ensure that a transfer of your funds is made to that special person in your life. Time is never under our control. Unfortunately, the reality of this situation all too often appears when a person has become incapacitated and can no longer make the arrangements he/she has promised and would have preferred. The person they wished to benefit is then left to cope without resources, along with coping with the loss of someone so dear to them. Therefore, if these issues exist, action should be taken sooner rather than later. Always consult a professional attorney and a CPA to ensure that decisions made in your estate planning are consistent with the law and that you understand the tax impact of those decisions.

Turn your vacations into donations at

FirstUnityTravel.com t t

t t

Purchase flowers Golf excursions

Cruises Group vacations

t t

Concert tickets Theater tickets and more!

Every time you use firstunitytravel.com, you are supporting First Unity Campus!

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FINANCIAL PLANNING

New!

First Unity’s Wedding Ministry

The First Unity Wedding Ministry is one of the most exciting new introductions for us in 2008. The use of our campus for weddings, dinners and other special events will bring more awareness of our campus to the community, and at the same time offer a wide range of income opportunities. Under the management of Wendy Armstrong, the wedding planning and coordination department will transform our facilities into the perfect spiritual environment for congregants and non-congregants to declare their sacred vows. In conjunction with Nan Klater, a certified licensed minister, First Unity will be able to provide a broad selection of wedding options that satisfy every need. The First Unity Campus is uniquely structured to provide an all-inclusive setting under one roof. Our wedding packages feature our beautiful Sanctuary, Friendship Hall that seats 150 with a full kitchen, the Rose Garden, child care room, bride and groom rooms, ample parking, rest rooms and many more options described in the individual packages. In addition, we will be offering an á la carte list of campus

venues and services for those who are planning smaller private meetings and social gatherings. Wings Bookstore will also support this ministry with spiritually related gifts and wedding materials. Destination weddings are a popular trend today, and Florida has become a number one choice for many people around the country. Our wedding packages and website information will be posted on “Florida’s Beach”- Destination Weddings website where they promote tourism in Pinellas County all over the world. As an integral part of our First Unity Campus, the Wedding Ministry will be highlighted on our website and will include information on all our wedding packages, as well as contact information. Visit www.ﬁrstunity.org and learn more.

WEDDINGS AT FIRST UNIT Y

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Ending Childhood Hunger can be a Piece of Cake!

It’s back! First Unity, along with the CommUniteam, is participating in another Great American Bake Sale to end childhood hunger, and we need your help! Prepare sweet treats, healthy snacks, pies, cakes and more, and bring them to our bake sale on Sunday, June 1. Proceeds will beneﬁt the Great American Bake Sale, a national campaign that mobilizes Americans to end childhood hunger by holding bake sales in their communities. Childhood hunger is a reality for more than 12.6 million children. To date, more than 5.3 million meals have been served to low-income children because of the continued eﬀorts of individuals, companies, restaurants, organizations and schools that hold bake sales. Since 2003, more than 1 million people have participated in Share Our Strength’s Great American Bake Sale, raising nearly $4 million to make sure no child in America grows up hungry. Funds raised through Share Our Strength’s Great American Bake Sale will be used to ensure that America's most vulnerable children, those living in poverty and at risk of hunger, in your state and across the country get the regular, healthy meals they need to learn, grow and thrive.

Grants from Share Our Strength’s Great American Bake Sale campaign support and promote: t

Access to after-school and summer feeding programs, ensuring that more children receive nutritious food.

Organizations administering Share Our Strength's Operation Frontline®, a groundbreaking nutrition education program that empowers families at risk of hunger with the knowledge and culinary skills they need to prepare healthy, lowcost meals and snacks.

Organizations working to provide services to low-income families living in areas of high-need and extreme poverty.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED Want to help? Find your favorite recipes and sign up at the Information Station in Friendship Hall Sundays May 4 - 25. Look for more details online and in your Sunday bulletin. DONATE ONLINE Can’t participate? Visit us at ﬁrstunity.org and click on the bake sale logo to donate funds online.

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OUTREACH

Reaching Out Together You may have heard the term CommUniteam by now, but do you know what it means exactly? The two words together are a combination of community and team, and our favorite link—Unity—happens to be right in the middle!

Y A

CommUniteam means reaching into the community to impact people’s lives. It means building our community at First Unity, helping people connect with each other from the moment they have contact with our church to actively volunteering in any of our many ministries. We believe that active volunteering, tithing time and talent, is an essential step on the journey of spiritual awakening and growth. Events and projects of CommUniteam will be wide-ranging, from small to big to huge. It can mean helping families, connecting with people that are down and need the healing we oﬀer, or maybe it’s a project to bring peace and love as a solution to problems faced by our city. Who knows? It will take many forms, but ultimately CommUniteam is about extending the reach of our message and the impact of our beliefs through projects and activities that make a diﬀerence within, then beyond, First Unity.

CommUniteam also means education and growth through ongoing small groups. Groups will form around interests, be they interests in learning or projects and activities. The common thread is connecting people together on their journey of spiritual development. Want to learn more? Attend the monthly meetings beginning Monday, May 12. Meetings will be held the second Monday of each month from 6 to 7 pm in the Conference room, located just oﬀ the Lobby. Join us — let’s make a diﬀerence together!

Unity in Action - Getting Involved Are you looking for ways to get more involved with First Unity? Volunteering is an excellent way to get involved and be of service to your church and congregation. Your level of involvement is up to you—we appreciate each and every one of our volunteers.

Without you, we would not be able to do all that we can for our congregation, our church and our community. We oﬀer several ongoing and committed opportunities, as well as one-time or occasional ways to support the work of First Unity Campus. The Unity in Action information board is located in Friendship Hall and contains the volunteer brochure full of volunteer options and opportunities. Review the many volunteer team opportunities and select the one that speaks to you. Complete the informational section of the brochure and return it to the church oﬃce, and you

are on your way to being part of the Unity in Action movement. Unity in Action brochures are also available at the Welcome Center located just oﬀ the Lobby. Browse all the opportunities online at www.ﬁrstunity.org. Do you have questions or need more information before you decide how to serve? Attend the next Volunteer 101 session on Sunday, May 18 at 12:30 pm in the Sanctuary. We are committed to inspiring personal greatness and transforming our world with love, and with your help, we will! GET INVOLVED

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Ongoing Groups

The following groups meet regularly at First Unity Campus. Newcomers are always welcome! A Course in Miracles (ACIM). Meets at 10 am every Wednesday. A modern-day expression of the demonstrations and teachings of our beloved brother Jesus. This study group reads and discusses the book, which invites us to open to a richer, deeper experience of our spiritual nature. The course focuses on forgiveness (letting go of thoughts and pictures in our minds that cause us to suffer) as the path to happiness, love and joy. Suggested Love Offering is $5 per class. Rm #300. *New class beginning on Thursdays, see pg. 6 for details. CommUniteam. Want to help others in our church family, community and the world? Join the CommUniteam! If you are looking for a way to get involved in outreach at First Unity, come to our meetings every second Monday from 6 to 7 pm in the Conference room.

➘ ENJOY RECEIVING THIS NEWSLETTER? Consider sending in a small donation of $10 for a yearly subscription. Simply mail your gift to: Newsletter Subscription 460 46th Avenue North St Petersburg, FL 33703

Thank you for your help to oﬀset the costs of this publication.

Listen to Rev. Temple’s messages

online at FirstUnity.org!

Darshan/Meditation/Science of Spirituality. Meets at 1:30 pm on the 1st through 4th Sundays. Rm #300. First Unity Choir. Join us in making a joyful noise! We rehearse Thursdays through June 5 at 7 pm and sing at Sunday services once a month. Contact Choir Director Garry Miller at 527-2222 x108 or choir@firstunity.org for more information. Friendship Hall/Sanctuary. Ladies Auxiliary. Share lunch, fellowship and ideas at 11 am every 2nd and 4th Friday of the month. Everyone is welcome. Various guest speakers present monthly. Rm #301. (2nd Friday only June through August.) The Next Generation of First Unity (NGU). Our purpose is to empower ourselves through service, prayer and personal education to embrace our spiritual potential. Service to our church and community enriches the lives of all involved. Prayer and meditation help us throw off those pesky adult stresses and reconnect with our inner mystic child. And every so often we do stuff just to have fun and be with friends. We invite everyone from the ages of 18 to 35 to join us on Wednesdays at 7 pm in Rm #301. Sober Spirits. This Alcoholics Anonymous group meets at 7:30 pm every Wednesday in Rm #200, and 10 am every Thursday in Rm #300.* No smoking, please. * non-handicapped accessible

18 |

ONGOING GROUPS

Just click on the podcast icon in the upper right corner, choose a message to listen to and hit play. It’s that simple! You can also help support this online ministry by giving a donation—right on the podcast page.

LOOKING FOR SPIRITUAL COUNSELING? Visit us at FirstUnity.org and click on “Prayer & Care” for direct links to our counseling team.

Our mission: To encourage awareness of Spirit within and inspire a way of life that brings love, freedom, peace and joy.

Sunday Schedule

First Unity Staff

Services ......................................... 9 and 11 am “Upper Room” Meditation ................. 10:30 am

Rev. Temple Hayes, Minister, x 106 reverendtemple@ﬁrstunity.org

Youth Education

Connie Barrett, Office Assistant, x 100 office@firstunity.org

Nursery through age 2 ................... 9 and 11 am Connections to Creation, all ages .............. 9 am Sunday School, ages 3 -10 ....................... 11 am Uniteens, ages 11-13 ............................... 11 am

Wednesday Schedule Silent Unity Prayer Service ............... 12:10 pm

Ami Bowen, Communications and Design, x 103 newsletter@firstunity.org Dianna Collins, Administrator, x 107 admin@firstunity.org Steve Krugler, Youth Education Director, x 109 youthed@firstunity.org Helen Harvey, Hospitality and Member Services, x 110 newmember@firstunity.org

Prayer & Healing Service .....................6:30 pm Youth of Unity, ages 14-19 ........................7 pm Next Generation Unity, ages 18-35 ...........7 pm

Rev. Helen Hornaday, Spiritual Education Director, x 101 spiritualeducation@ﬁrstunity.org

Church Information

Andrew Mayes, Webmaster, x 103 website@ﬁrstunity.org

Oﬃce Hours .......... Mon – Thurs, 9 am – 5 pm Website ....................................... FirstUnity.org Phone ......................................(727) 527-2222

Sharon Jebens, Bookstore Manager, (727) 522-6657 bookstore@ﬁrstunity.org

Garry Miller, Choir Director, x 108 choir@ﬁrstunity.org

FAX ........................................(727) 526-1277

Jamie Norman, Audio/Visual Director, x 351 av@ﬁrstunity.org

Recorded Prayer .......................(727) 525-1757

Susan Rodriguez, Communications & Design assistant

Silent Unity ..............................(816) 969-2000

Laura Watts, Creative Arts & Programming Director, x 108 music@ﬁrstunity.org

Bookstore Information

Barbara Zagaria, Bookkeeper, x 104 bookkeeper@ﬁrstunity.org

Website ........................... WingsBookstore.com Phone .......................................(727) 522-6657 Hours ................... Mon – Sat, 8 am – 9:30 pm ..............................................Sun, 8 am – 6 pm

Unity Chaplains

Daybree Thoms ................... chaplain@ﬁrstunity.org

Licensed Unity Teachers Linda Carney Lynn Colt Nancy Joy Hudnall Gloria Paul

Diana Rankin Patricia Starwyck Mildred Tyler Joyce Volz

The editorial staff has made every effort to ensure that the information in this newsletter is correct; however, we reserve the right to make changes to times, locations and teachers should the need arise. Please check our website www.ﬁrstunity.org regularly for updates about upcoming events or classes, and visit our home page to sign up to receive important emails about all of the exciting things happening here at First Unity Church.

CONTAC T US

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Get your eNews!

Sign-up for our regular eNewsletters online at www.ﬁrstunity.org and at www.wingsbookstore.com.

Restore your soul, rediscover yourself in Peru.

Stay up-to-date with all of our upcoming events, classes and specials on the Unity Campus.

Join Rev. Temple and 49 other spiritual travelers in Peru, August 7-17, 2008. Explore the ancient mysteries, participate in shaman rituals, restore your soul in the majesty of the Andes, and help celebrate Rev. T’s 50th birthday!

Show your support for everyone’s right to love

A $500 deposit is needed by May 1 to save on airfare; total amount due June 8, 2008.

March with First Unity at St. Pete Pride on Saturday, June 28 or help with our booth at the street fair afterwards.

Interested? Visit FirstUnity.org for more information or call Gayle at 785-5563.

Volunteer sign up begins May 15 in Friendship Hall. Call 527-2222 x 107 for more information.

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PAID 460 46th Ave North St Petersburg, FL 33703-4791

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