The JUC Crier The Newsletter of the Jefferson Unitarian Church 14350 W. 32nd Avenue • Golden, Colorado 80401 • 303-279-5282
January 12, 2015 • office@jeffersonunitarian.org • www.jeffersonunitarian.org • Volume 2015, Issue 1
Sunday, January 18 • 9:15 & 11 a.m. • Infant/toddler care provided.
Prophesy and Politics presented by Rev. Wendy Williams, Senior Minister
As we remember Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., we note that his life was lived at the intersection between social justice and spirituality. For him and others, living with integrity meant action grounded in transcendent values. Music: Adam Revell, piano. Sunday, January 25 • 9:15 & 11 a.m. • Infant/toddler care provided.
In Whole and in Part presented by Rev. Wendy Williams, Senior Minister
Integrity means coherence. In that wholeness, there is room for all the parts and the parts all fit even when it seems like they might not. How might that shape our thinking about the groups of which we are a part? Music: JUC Choir; Adam Revell, piano. ☛ Looking ahead to… Sunday, Feb. 1: No Other Shore presented by Rev. Wendy Williams, Senior Minister. Faith has often been
thought to have been addressing some other place and time. Could it be that faith actually has more to do with the here and now? Music: Worship Band; Adam Revell, piano.
Evergreen Campus Sunday, Jan. 18 • 4 p.m.
1 Visitors' Circle • 2nd & 4th Sundays
2981 Bergen Peak Dr.
5 minutes after each service (Meet @ the Welcome Table)
(at Congregation Beth Evergreen)
For newcomers: an informal discussion to answer your questions about Unitarian Universalism and JUC. Next session: January 25.
Commitment When Times Are Tough presented by Rev. Eric Banner, Assistant Minister
Quaker author Parker Palmer writes in a number of his books of the hazards of living what he calls the divided life. At some point or another in each of our lives we’ll be asked to answer the question, Are you in, or are you out? How will you decide whether you’re in or out without living an integrated life? Music: Adam Revell, piano. Worship Associate: Patti Stone.
1 Path to Membership
Saturday, February 21 • 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (chapel) Designed to familiarize those considering joining JUC with some of our staff, our diverse programs and activities, UU history and the responsibilities and benefits of membership. Sessions include child care and a light lunch. You may RSVP at the Sign Up Site or call the JUC office (303-279-5282). Please call Annie Hedberg, Membership Coordinator (303279-7451), for more information on the joining process.
Worship services held on first and third Sundays at 4 p.m. 2981 Bergen Peak Dr. (at Congregation Beth Evergreen) If you wish to be informed about news regarding our Evergreen campus, please contact Sue Parilla, Director of Congregational Engagement (sueparilla@jeffersonunitarian.org).
1
Jan. 18 Special Plate Collection: Habitat for Humanity Next Sunday, January 18, donations to our plate collection will support the building of the next Habitat for Humanity home JUC will build with Jeffco Partners. This home will provide affordable housing for a hard-working family who needs help to own a home that is safe and reasonably priced. Each adult in a screened family provides 200 hours of sweat equity at the build site, and then takes on a 0% mortgage through Habitat for Humanity. Watch for opportunities to volunteer at this home build starting in June.
2nd Tuesdays
Light Dinner • 6 p.m. (commons) Worship • 6:30 p.m. (chapel) If your small group meets on Tuesday night, you’ll be able to attend dinner, the worship service and your group meeting. Worship will be led by one of our ministers; soup and bread will be available for a modest donation. Sign up at the Sign Up Site or online (tinyurl.com/ ToGatherTuesday) to donate a crock pot of soup/stew or bread. Cooks can be reimbursed up to $25 for ingredients if requested. Next ToGather Tuesday: Jan. 13.
The Year-Round Pledging Process Pledges—what each household promises to pay during a twelve-month period—are the foundation of our operation as a faith community. All budgeting and spending hinges on our collective pledges. Everything you see, hear and touch at JUC is supported almost entirely by pledging members and friends. That means every pledge—your pledge—is important! Each household is assigned a pledging month and the pledge is in effect for twelve months starting with that month. Here is what to expect beginning one month before your current pledge expires (note that Steps 1 through 3 are the ideal – 4, 5 and 6 are what happen if you don’t respond): 1. You will receive an email from the office letting you know that your pledge packet is on the way. 2. You will receive a pledge packet in the mail. 3. You return your pledge form within approximately two weeks. Skip to step 7. 4. If you have not returned your pledge form in the expected time frame, you receive a reminder email. 5. If you still have not returned your pledge form, then a Pledge Steward will call and/or email you to remind you. 6. If you still have not returned your pledge form: - if your pledge is by Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) we assume your pledge remains the same. - if you are not on EFT, we will “plug in” a pledge and notify you by letter. - in some cases, the Business Administrator or Membership Coordinator will attempt to contact you. 7. Your new pledge is effective on the first day of your pledge month.
Calling All Young Singers and Actors!
Musical Rehearsals Begin Tues., Jan. 13 To Be Presented in Services Sunday, March 15 It’s time again to think about participating in our annual Children’s and Youth Musical. This year we will present Roots and Wings: Digging Deep So We Can Fly, which will feature songs and stories about kids finding the courage to make it through the tough times and finding a way to shine in the good times. Rehearsals are held on Tuesdays from 6:30-7:15 p.m., and selected Sunday mornings from 10:20-10:50 a.m. Open to all JUC kids in kindergarten – 8th grade. Note that the musical takes place of choir for the duration of this project and ALL kids will rehearse during the 6:30-7:15 p.m. time. For more information, please contact Sarah Billerbeck, Director of Music for Children and Youth (Billerbeck@comcast. net; 720-855-8584).
LIVING OUR VALUES (LOV!)
Family Activity Sunday, Feb. 1 • 12:30 to 2 p.m. (The Super Bowl starts later in the afternoon!) Join the Green Task Force to create seed balls and bird seed ornaments to feed our bees and birds. Seed will be placed in clay balls. Rain will dissolve the clay and the seeds will plant themselves. Even the youngest child can help. Soup, sandwiches, and supplies will be provided for a free will donation. Each family will be able to take home some bird and bee food containers to feed creatures in their own back yards. Please call or email Peggy Gates (303-668-3761; peggygates@ live.com) to RSVP and have questions answered.
Important things to note: ● You can pledge online at any time in the process at jeffersonunitarian.org/pledge ● Any increase in your pledge is appreciated. ● You can call the Business Administrator, Carol Wilsey (303-279-5282, x 11), at any time with questions or to make or change your pledge.
Little Mermaid Sing-Along
Saturday, Feb. 28 • 6 to 8:30 p.m.
Did You Know... ...JUC’s newcomer welcoming and Path to Membership program were the subject of Unitarian Universalist Association General Assembly workshops and the first ever UU University? Pledges make it all possible!
2
Disney lovers of all ages are welcome to come enjoy an alltime favorite, The Little Mermaid, and sing along with all the fabulous classic songs from the movie. Doors open at 5:45 p.m. - Fun props make watching the movie interactive and silly - Sing along to great classics like Under the Sea, Kiss the Girl, and Part of Your World - Costume contest with prizes - Trivia fun throughout the evening - Concessions during intermission, including beer and wine for the grown-ups Want to volunteer? Research some trivia? Purchase and sell concessions? Clean up? Contact Melissa Monforti (melissa@ fortemusiceducation.com; 303-455-4896).
Family Spotlight Ashley Johnson, Director of Religious Education (ashleyjohnson@jeffersonunitarian.org; 303-279-5282, x18)
Children’s Worship: First Sundays in the Chapel Sunday, February 1: Faith
Introduction to Middle School Programming at JUC
Coming of Age (COA): 8th Grade
Consisting of three programs (Neighboring Faiths, Our Whole Lives, and Coming of Age), our middle school program helps our children grow roots before we give them wings. The goals of the Middle School program are for the children to: • Neighboring Faiths (typically 6th grade): Participants explore other faith traditions with the purpose of developing an understanding and appreciation of the UU faith. They place our faith in the timeline of religion, develop their ability to be open to others, discover spiritual practices that may fit in their lives, and compare and contrast our faith with others. • Our Whole Lives (7th grade): As explored in depth in the previous edition of the Crier, Our Whole Lives is a lifeaffirming relationship and sexuality course. The program is grounded in the core values of justice, inclusivity, responsibility and self worth. • Coming of Age (8th grade): A year of team building, mentored learning, group discussions, fun, and service. Our teens are encouraged to explore their personal beliefs, examine their UU identity, take responsibility for individual behavior, and give thought to the variety of roles they play in life. Teens work with a JUC adult mentor during the program who will accompany them on their spiritual journey. Given the emphasis on responsibility, personal reflection and choice, families are encouraged to enter into this program with an awareness of commitment and sincerity. The class runs from early September through May of each year, and closes to new students mid-October.
Sue Parilla I am Sue Parilla, Coming of Age Program co-advisor, along with Debbie Klisis. I taught preschool in 1994 when my youngest son was 3 years old, and I have been involved with religious education at JUC ever since. I started the Coming of Age program in 1999. An estimated 188 youth have passed through the program since it began, mentored by 93 different adult mentors, some of whom have served as long as 11 years as a mentor. My connection to the youth of the church and to the adult mentors with whom I serve has been one of the most fulfilling parts of my life. I serve in this role as a volunteer. I am also a full-time staff member at the church. I enjoy spending time with my family. This summer we visited Yellowstone National Park. Debbie Klisis My name is Debbie Klisis. This is my first year of Cofacilitating the Coming of Age Program. I have been a COA mentor for two years and am excited to dig deeper and help lead the program. In addition to our COA program, I chaired the JUC Auction this year, and am on the committee for Strategic Planning, investigating options for the JUC Golden campus. I have worked with youth at JUC for many years as the CURK chair and as a part of SOUPS, the parents and preschoolers program. Since joining JUC in 2003, I have been on one committee or another! My favorite trip this summer was a road trip visiting Laura Ingalls Wilder homesites and the Black Hills area. Along with my husband, Chas, and our two daughters, ages eight and ten, I live in Arvada on a mini-farm where we grow and raise most of our own food. We have too many chickens, five ducks, a turkey, a cow, a dog, three kittens, and thousands of bees.
Neighboring Faiths: 6th Grade
Gillie Bishop My name is Gillie Bishop. I will be co-teaching 6th grade Neighboring Faiths this year. My hope is that the Neighboring Faiths program will offer our UU kids ideas about ways of practicing spirituality and also help them see how unique and special our UU faith is in the world of religions. I have been teaching in the RE program on and off since I first started coming to JUC in 2001. I also served as co-chair of the Youth Religious Education program from 2007-2011. My summer included a houseboat trip with friends (and kids) on Lake Powell, my 20th college reunion, and a Scottish arts camp in British Columbia. One of my hobbies is hosting an Oscar party and several Best Picture movie and dinner parties each year. (Look for them at the JUC auction!)
From the Classrooms Kim Stevens (1st-3rd Grades) - This morning we talked about how people come to church to grapple with big questions. Here’s a list of big questions the students posed during a wonderfully thoughtful class discussion. Pretty impressive!
Sandra Fisher Prior to teaching Neighboring Faiths, Sandra teamed up with Julia Wilson to co-lead Natures Keepers for four years. A stay-at-home mom with a masters in Communication Disorders, she has been busy homeschooling her own children for the last seven years. Sandra is excited to journey alongside our 6th graders in learning about the world’s religions.
Our Whole Lives (OWL): 7th Grade
Our facilitators were highlighted in the last edition of the Crier. Thank you to DeDe & Mike Cross, Fred Wilson, Ashley Armstrong and Jill Pond for your continued commitment to sexual health.
3
Why are people bullies? How can people be too nice? Who was the first person on Earth? How was the Earth made? Who will be the last person alive? Why can’t people live forever? How long is forever? When will the sun burn out? Is there life on other planets? How do people become people? Why are people different? How is God created? When did the universe start? Who made the first fabric? Who will invent something new? How are colors made? Why were dinosaurs born before humans? How are planets created?
New LEAP Class What Moves Us
Tuesday, Jan. 27 • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. • chapel
A UUA Tapestry of Faith curriculum by Rev. Dr. Thandeka 2nd & 4th Sundays beginning January 25 • 9:15 a.m.• M3/4 Facilitated by Pam Bond, Barb Scherer
Need a chance to unwind, settle down, go deeper? Evensong services at JUC are opportunities to employ singing and silence as a Unitarian Universalist spiritual practice. We reconnect with our breath, listen to ourselves and one another with compassion, and become more aware of our connectedness with all things. If you’re having a tough week or are in difficult circumstances, Evensong is a super way to let go. If you are feeling in good harmony, this hour of intention will magnify your well-being. Gather with other spiritual seekers and be prepared to exhale and energize. Evensong services are held monthly on selected Tuesdays. January’s Evensong service will be led by Gail Abbott.
The Lifespan Education and Adult Programs (LEAP) Group is excited to offer this class as part of our new focus on Unitarian Universalist faith formation. What Moves Us invites us to explore the faith journeys of some of our Unitarian, Universalist and Unitarian Universalist forebears in order to help us articulate our own understanding of liberal religious faith. Through readings, lessons and sharing, we will find common themes, theology and diversity that have endured through UU history, and discover how they inform our personal theology, ethical behavior and UU identity. While the ten workshops in this class are sequential, you are welcome to attend individual workshops even if you can’t attend all of them. Information for each upcoming workshop will be posted online (jeffersonunitarian.org/LEAP-Classes).
Find out more about JUC’s Lifespan Education and Adult Programs at http://jeffersonunitarian.org/Adult-Education Sign up for classes at the Sign Up Site or by calling the church office (303-279-5282). Contact: Patti Coe-Withington (303-596-1130), LEAP facilitator.
Theology on Tap: 3rd Fridays • 7 p.m. For 20s & 30s and Young Adults
The 20s & 30s Group and Rev. Eric Banner, Assistant Minister, meet each month to discuss spiritual topics in a casual setting. Young adults under 21 and nondrinkers are welcome. Next Theology on Tap: Friday, Jan. 16, 7 p.m. at the Cannonball Brewery (393 Washington Ave., Golden). Contact: Morgan Davies (morganmdavies@gmail.com; 408-839-1497).
Board Blog Judy Gangloff, President 303-463-6154; judith.gangloff@gmail.com
Happy New Year! Do you have your resolutions all written? Are they the same ones you make every year? I’m going to eat better, exercise, get more sleep, and on and on. Many of us do this exercise every year and tell ourselves this year is going to be different; we’re going to actually accomplish them. Your local rec center loves us. We sign up for new membership in January. We are there three or four times a week, then we start skipping a day here and there. Some of us make it until the end of January, a few more of us hang on until mid February, but not many of us last until the end of the year. That’s one reason I no longer make resolutions. I know with the best intentions, I don’t keep them for more than a few weeks or months. This year, instead of resolutions, I’m challenging myself. I plan to try something new each month: something that is out of my comfort zone or a little scary for me. I hope it will be something at JUC, but that’s not a requirement. Some of the ideas I’ve been thinking of are: Taking a class in an area I’m unfamiliar with. I’ve never been able to draw even a recognizable stick figure, so maybe a drawing class is in my future.
Learn a new skill. I’ve always wanted to learn how to knit. This may be the year. Maybe join a task force. My interests have been more in the Pastoral Care area. Maybe it’s time for me to be more involved in social action such as joining with Sloan’s Lake Community Church in preparing a hot breakfast for the homeless on Sundays. What new activity are you willing to try? There are many opportunities both at JUC and within your community. Maybe join a book group at your local library; send a thinking of you card to someone who is struggling; or make a pot of soup or a loaf of bread for a family who needs some caring. What might you want to try? Let’s check with each other in December and see how many different ideas we tried during the year.
JUC Board of Trustees Next meeting: Thursday, Feb. 12, 7 p.m. jeffersonunitarian.org/Board-of-Trustees 4
Social Action Funds Are Available! Does your JUC group envision a social action project and need funds? If it meets the goals of the Taguchi Social Action Fund (TSAF), you may wish to consider applying. The TSAF was founded in 2003 by a gift from Dr. James and Mrs. Til Taguchi, with the vision of supporting social action projects to extend JUC’s reach into the community. Recent projects funded by TSAF have included sponsoring the Fire Within curriculum at Thomas Jefferson High School, aimed at preventing teen suicides; providing funds for special activities for Family Promise and their storage facility at JUC; letter writing, printing and distributing copies of Rudi Gelsey’s book Mending Our Broken World: a Path to Perpetual Peace to various world leaders; and supporting last year’s Guatemalan Family Fiesta for their scholarship program. Each proposal must be supported by a JUC group, must have JUC members actively participating, must support the TSAF mission and goals, and should have accomplishments and outcomes to be described in a final report. Grants should be for special purposes and not continuing support of a project. Instructions for the grant process are available online (jeffersonunitarian.org/Taguchi-Social-Action-Fund). Contact TSAF chair Ken May (mayekenneth74@centurylink. net) with any questions.
Visit jeffersonunitarian.org/src for general information on SRC Task Forces and their goals. . . . Eating Ethically Task Force (EETF) . . .
A New Name for Eating Ethically Monday, Jan. 19 • 7 p.m. • M1/2 At this meeting, we will brainstorm for a new name to better describe our task force. Join us for a creative experience with Lisa Bickford facilitating! Contact: Gilla Lachnitt (303-2169674; lachnittg@gmail.com). . . . Green Task Force . . .
Replacing Fossil Fuels: Can Biomass Take Over? Thursday, Jan. 22 • 7 p.m. • sanctuary Presented by Dr. Helena Chum, NREL Many industrial products depend on fossil fuels, from transportation fuels to lubricants to pharmaceuticals to plastics. Researchers worldwide and at Golden’s National Renewable Energy Labs are working hard to develop biofuels and other substitutes from biomass. Learn about this important field and its potential for slowing and mitigating climate change from NREL’s Dr. Helena Chum, one of the world’s foremost authorities on biomass. Stay for refreshments and networking. Contact: Martin Voelker (303215-1110; mv@martinvoelker. com). Co-sponsored by the Green Task Force, Colorado Renewable Energy Society, and Golden Earth Days.
2-CONS: Conversation and Connoisseurs Next Event: Saturday, February 7
Join the fun at our intimate adult pot luck dinner/luncheon parties. Meet other JUCers and share good food, drink and great conversation. Our next event will be on Saturday, February 7. You will have a choice of either a luncheon or dinner party. Sign up at the 2-Cons table in the commons on Sundays, January 18–25, where you will receive further instructions. If you have any food restrictions, we have hosts who can accommodate vegetarians and gluten free folks. Just let us know. For more info, contact: Bette & Charlie Carcano (303-6701527; carcano@evcohs.com), Carol & Bob Drew (303-4225977; robertdrew1@msn.com).
. . . Unitarian Universalist Service Committee (UUSC) Task Force . . .
New Bequest for Guatemala Scholarship Program The UUSC Task Force has some exciting news to share! On behalf of the late Helen M. McLoraine, the trustees of her estate have donated $15,000 to the Guatemala Scholarship Partners program at JUC. This bequest stipulates that the $15,000 be used to educate five students (in addition to the 40 we already support) through the next six years. We have heard many times from ADIVIMA that the number of applicants for the scholarship program far exceeds the number of students chosen, so we are excited to be able to offer scholarships to these five additional young people. Helen M. McLoraine, born in 1918, was a pioneer who broke new ground for women to assume leadership roles in business. She was a business leader who successfully managed many pension funds. Helen was deeply influenced by her own mother’s dedication to philanthropy and had a heart for small non-profit organizations with great missions and small resources. Her philanthropy included scholarships to high achieving individuals who were accountable for their lives and people in need who knew they were responsible for the direction of their lives and had a desire to help others. We feel Helen would be pleased with the trustees’ decision to support our students in Guatemala.
ANNUAL QUILT SHOW
5
The February 2015 JUC quilt show is coming soon. If you have a quilt that has not been shown, please contact Jean Decker (jeandteach@q.com; 303/2749872) to make arrangements for her to get your quilt to show. Quilts need to be brought in on or before Sunday, January 25 for hanging on Saturday, January 31.
Science & Spirit Group
Pastoral Care
Life As We Know It Presentation and Discussion Sunday, Jan. 25 • 12:30 p.m. • R6/7
How JUCers Care for Each Other
What do we mean when we talk about life as we know it? What does it take to get life started and what makes carbon based life seem so inevitable? What does the chemistry of life, and how it has evolved on Earth, tell us about humanity’s relationship to the universe and whether we are significant? These questions will be addressed in a half hour presentation by Pat Emery, based upon her reading of two books: First Life by David Deamer and The Copernicus Complex by Caleb Scharf. Participants are not expected to have read either of these books, but are encouraged to do so if they have the time and inclination. After the presentation, Pat will facilitate a discussion on the topic. Join the Science and Spirit regulars for this special session. Snacks provided. Contact: Joe Kraus (swish@ nuthingbut.net).
We Hold in Our Hearts… ❦ Sue Ammen, as her uncle, Bill Ammen, died unexpectedly at home after a fall on Sunday, Jan. 4;
❦ Dindy Fuller and her family on the passing of her father,
Wesley Judd Fuller, on Dec. 30 at Collier Hospice. He lived 91 lively years;
❦ Chris & Pam Johnstone and their family as they celebrate
the life of Chris’s stepfather, Hugh Scott, who passed away on Thurs., Jan. 8 at the age of 93;
❦ Joan & Bart Alexander, on the passing of Joan’s mother,
Marvel Hillebrand. Marvel passed away peacefully in her sleep on December 29 after celebrating her 100th Christmas;
Community Events
❦ Alice Sharp, as she continues to recover from knee surgery;
After Ferguson: A Town Hall Meeting Sunday, Jan. 18 • 12:30 p.m. First Universalist Church of Denver
❦ Marymae Seaman as she was admitted to the hospital
recently due to pneumonia. She has since returned home, but it may take 4-6 weeks to regain her strength.
At this special forum we will start with an excerpt from the PBS special America After Ferguson: a Town Hall Meeting with Gwen Ifill. Following the video, a Town Hall-style meeting will be moderated by Spud Van de Water. The program is modeled upon traditional New England Town Hall meetings in which all members of a community are invited to share ideas, opinions, or ask questions on a particular topic. The topic for this meeting is: As UU’s, what is our reaction to recent police killings of young, unarmed black men in Ferguson, Missouri, New York City and Cleveland, Ohio? What is our understanding of systemic racism and the growing inequality in our country? How do our UU Principles guide us? This forum is an opportunity for UUs to express feelings, thoughts and ideas about these most disturbing events. JUC Contact: Debby Bower (debbymbower@gmail.com).
We Celebrate with… ❦ Brenna & Eric Vaughn and their family, as they welcome Willa Grace Vaughn, born on December 28.
., Issues in Aging Group Continues in 2015
The next meeting of Issues in Aging is scheduled for 7 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 26. There will be a presentation of the film The Open Road: America looks at Aging with a discussion following. The discussion will lead into ideas for topics members would be interested in pursuing in more detail. Also, we will review whether the last Monday of each month continues to work for the majority of participants. Previous facilitator Valerie Stone has taken on new work assignments and no longer has time to organize topics for the meetings. Jim Mayer has agreed to serve as coordinator to continue the studies of the group, but the focus will change somewhat. Valerie and Jim would appreciate your help in finding topics of broad interest to senior members of the congregation and to caregivers of seniors. Please contact Jim Mayer (303-431-1740; JimMayer.Colo@ gmail.com) with questions or suggestions.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Marade Monday, Jan. 19 • 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Meet in the open field near the stage at City Park: Look for UU church banners Join a large contingent of UUs to march in the Marade, with a special focus on justice for all! For individuals and family members of all ages. Feel free to wear black in support of the Black Lives Matter movement, a Standing on the Side of Love t-shirt, a JUC-specific shirt, or whatever else is clean, comfy and available! Feel free to bring UU themed signs or banners that emphasize solidarity. Questions? Contact Debby Bower (debbymbower@gmail.com).
Your Grocery (and Gas) Purchases Can Help JUC!
Interfaith Alliance Day at the Legislature Monday, Feb. 9 • 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. • Colorado State Capitol Meet in House Committee Room 112
King Soopers, Safeway, and Vitamin Cottage cards are available in the office. When you purchase these cards from JUC, 5% of the face value goes to our operating budget! King Soopers and Safeway cards are now reloadable—fill them back up at the store and JUC still reaps the benefit. Contact: Kristin Miller, Bookkeeper (kristinmiller@ jeffersonunitarian.org). 6
Learn about the legislative process, tour the capitol, meet your state senator and representative, and learn how to become an effective advocate on the issues you care about most passionately. $25 fee includes snacks, lunch, materials. Register by Feb. 2 (www.interfaithallianceco.org/events).
Ongoing Affinity Groups Groups on this page meet on a regular basis and welcome new members. Meeting locations are posted in the common areas of both church buildings. Blue Mountain Meditation Group: 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. • Annie & John Hedberg (303-279-7451) For those practicing Eknath Easwaran’s Eight-Point Program for living a spiritual life in the everyday world. If you wish to join without the introductory course, read Passage Meditation by Easwaran and meditate 30 minutes daily for a month.
Retirees' Brown Bag Lunch: 1st Fridays, 11:30 a.m. • Betty Halladay (303-274-9144) Next meeting: Feb. 6. Roving Readers: 4th Sundays, 12:30 p.m. • Mike Foster (303456-2647) Open to anyone who reads the monthly selection. Books selected by group participants. Science and Spirit: 4th Sundays, 12:30 p.m. • Joe Kraus (swish@nuthingbut.net) Discuss recent discoveries and wonder together. More info at http://jucscienceandspirit.wordpress.com
Buddhist Sangha: 1st & 3rd Sundays, 5 p.m. • Doug Anderson (dca-crm@hotmail.com; 720-474-6723) The Buddha was a highly unorthodox person. His teachings are not sets of dogma but rather propositions for people to investigate and validate for themselves. No experience necessary. Child care upon request.
Slow Soup Group: 4th Sundays, 12:30 p.m. • Gilla Lachnitt (303-216-9674; lachnittg@gmail.com), Carol Kolesnikoff (303588-9198; eatingethically@gmail.com) We’ll prepare soups together to take home and to donate. Ingredients provided; cost is $10/person.
Charla! 1st & 3rd Sundays, 5 p.m. • Carol Drew (303-422-5977) Discuss important topics in Spanish. Intermediate level recommended.
Spiritual Healing Circle: 2nd Saturdays, 10 a.m. (6620 Quitman Ct., Arvada) Joyce Thiessen-Barrett (joycebarrett@comcast. net), Emily Townsend (emily.townsend@gmail.com) Weaving together practices from shamanism, energy healing, and music healing to create sacred space, offer prayers, and send/receive healing energy. RSVP requested.
Covenant of UU Pagans (CUUPS) • Angela Priest (angelapriest30@gmail.com; 303-877-6055) Dream Study: 2nd and 4th Mondays, 9:15 a.m. • Marie Schottler (303-278-8035; mschottler@comcast.net) Based on the writings of Jeremy Taylor, in this gentle group process questions are asked of the dreamer leading to an aha! about his or her own dream. Please call before attending.
Story Circle: 3rd Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. • Lev Ropes (303-2780177; levropes@comcast.net) A gathering to foster the traditional art of storytelling for adults. Tell a polished story for fun, or a story that you’d like to polish up in front of a forgiving and friendly audience. Receive help from other tellers, or come to listen. All are welcome.
Great Books Discussion Group: 2nd & 4th Mondays, 7:30 p.m. Dona Chilcoat (303-989-6945) Based on the idea that by reading from the great books of our civilization and discussing them with others, sharing insights and questions, you can reach a fuller understanding of these works than you could on your own. Note: Dec. 8 mtg. will be held at Dona Chilcoat’s home. Jan. 26: Aias/Ajax (Sophocles)
Thin Air: Tuesdays, 1 p.m. • Margaret Bakker (303-986-0769) An informal group of folks who wish to keep up their musical skills as well as have fun. Repertoire consists of traditional, folk, instrumental and vocal music. Please call for more details.
Issues in Aging: 4th Mondays, 7 p.m. • Jim Mayer (303-4311740; jimmayer.colo@gmail.com) Information and education on issues related to healthy aging and dementia, to include lectures, panels, and discussion. Next mtg: Jan. 26.
Understanding the Heart of Buddhism: 2nd & 4th Thursdays, 7 p.m. • Doug Anderson (dca-crm@hotmail.com; 720-4746723) Meditation and discussion presented online by Rodney Smith, author of Lessons from the Dying, Stepping Out of Self-Deception and Awakening; founder of the Seattle Insight Meditation Society.
JUC Knitters: 3rd Fridays, 7 p.m. in members' homes • Jean Decker (303-274-9872; jeandteach@Q.com) All knitters and crocheters are invited to join in making hats and blankets for Denver Health.
UU Liberal Christians: 1st & 3rd Tuesdays, 7 p.m. • Sara Lohaus (pslohaus@comcast.net; 303-432-3149) Connect with Christianity from a fresh, open-minded perspective.
Memoirs: 3rd Sundays, 7 p.m. • Len Wheeler (303-467-3342; lenkt@earthlink.net) We’re gentle, we laugh, and we’re serious about commenting on ways to improve our non-fiction writing. No prior experience is needed.
UU Piecemakers: 3rd Fridays, 9:30 a.m. in members' homes Edna Mae Miller (303-989-4793) Work on personal projects as well as quilts donated to charities selected by the group.
Non-Violent Communication: 2nd & 4th Thursdays, 7 p.m. Dindy Fuller (720-402-4099) Anyone who has previously taken NVC training is eligible to participate. A great way to practice and improve your skills.
WomenSpirit: 2nd Fridays, 7 p.m. • Kalin Baker (Kalin@ KalinArtAndSpirit.com; 720-253-6561) A lively community of women 18+ who playfully reflect and share interactive programs based on participants’ interests. Feb. 13: Girls’ Night on the Town. We’ll carpool to an undisclosed location for a bit of Valentine’s sweetness and spice! We will return a little after 9 p.m.
Origins: 1st Wednesdays, 1 p.m. • Lisa Rountree (lisa.rtree@ gmail.com; 720-273-7511) Discuss literature exploring the origins of our religious traditions. Poetry Group: 1st & 3rd Thursdays, 7 p.m. • Julie Excell (julieexcell@gmail.com; 541-778-4724) Explore poetry as an art form and a spiritual practice through appreciation of the work of master poets, and through writing and sharing your own poetry. Quuilters' Group: 1st Saturdays, 9 a.m. to noon • Jean Decker (303-274-9872; jeandteach@Q.com) Call for meeting details.
7
Office Hours
Monday – Friday • 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday – Thursday • 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Sunday • 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. • Rev. Wendy Williams, Senior Minister Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. • 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. • Rev. Keith Arnold, Minister of Music Tuesday–Friday • 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. • Rev. Eric Banner, Assistant Minister Tuesday–Friday • 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. • Ashley Johnson, Director of Religious Education Mon., Tues., Wed., Fri. • 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Staff will generally be available according to the schedule above, but it is always wise to call ahead!
Sunday Morning Announcements
If you would like your JUC event to be announced via our order of service and/ or weekly email notice, please submit 75 words or less to Rona Bradley (ronabradley@jeffersonunitarian.org) by Wednesday at 9 a.m. on the week you’d like your announcement to appear.
Weekly Attendance Jan. 4 9:15 178 RE: 50 (12 adults) 11 171 RE: 28 (10 adults) Evergreen 4p 25 RE: 7 (4 adults) Jan. 11 9:15 208 RE: 57 (10 adults) 11 182 RE: 70 (14 adults)
The JUC Crier This newsletter of the Jefferson Unitarian Church is delivered electronically to all members and pledging friends. First class mail delivery is available upon request to the church office (303-279-5282; office@ jeffersonunitarian.org). Upon request, visitors may be added to the email list or receive four (4) complimentary issues, after which they may continue receiving the newsletter by notifying the church office. E-mail ronabradley@jeffersonunitarian.org to submit an article. Editor: Rona Bradley Next deadline: 3 p.m., Mon., Jan. 19 Next publication date: Mon., Jan. 26
Calendar Highlights
(full calendar available online at jeffersonunitarian.org/calendar) Tuesday, Jan. 13 Wed., Jan. 14 Thurs., Jan. 15
1:00pm 2:00pm 6:00pm 6:30pm 6:30pm 7:00pm 7:00pm 7:00pm 6:15pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 9:00am 7:00pm 7:00pm 7:00pm 7:30pm
MMG: Thin Air (Priestley rm.) Small Group - Rountree (M1/2) B&C: ToGather Meal (south commons, kit) WG: ToGather Worship (chapel) MMG: Musical Rehearsal (sanc., Priestley rm.) EETF: Foodies Book Group (M3/4) SRC: UUSC TF mtg. (M1/2) Small Groups (R6/7, R3/4, M5, Mitchell rm.) JUC Ringers (Priestley rm.) Small Group - Swahnberg (Mitchell rm.) JUC Choir (sanc.) Pastoral Care Group mtg. (M1/2) B&C: JUC Poetry Group (M3/4) Committee on Ministry mtg. (M5) EMGT mtg (M1/2) B&C: Blue Mountain Meditation Group (chapel)
Sunday, Jan. 18 9:15/11am Prophesy and Politics w/Wendy Williams 12:30pm Green TF Meeting (M3/4) 12:30pm 4th/5th OWL Class (R3/4) 4:00pm Evergreen Campus Service w/Eric Banner 5:00pm B&C: ¡Charla! (M3/4) 5:00pm WT: Buddhist Sangha Service (chapel) 7:00pm B&C: Memoirs (M1/2) Monday, Jan. 19 Office Closed (Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday) 3:00pm Newsletter Deadline 6:00pm MMG: Golden Bells rehearsal (Priestley rm.) 7:00pm MMG: Bell Ensemble rehearsal (Priestley rm.) 7:00pm SRC: Eating Ethically TF mtg. (M1/2) Tuesday, Jan. 20 10:30am Golden Circle Chapel (chapel) 11:15am Golden Circle Lunch Social Hour (commons/kit) 12:00pm B&C: Golden Circle Luncheon (commons/kit) 1:00pm MMG: Thin Air (Priestley rm.) 6:00pm LEAP Group mtg. (M1/2) 6:30pm B&C: Story Circle (R6/7) 6:30pm MMG: Musical Rehearsal (sanc., Priestley rm.) 7:00pm B&C: Non-Violent Communication (Mitchell rm.) 7:00pm B&C: UU Liberal Christians (R3/4) Wed., Jan. 21 6:15pm JUC Ringers (Priestley rm.) 7:30pm JUC Choir (sanc.) Thurs., Jan. 22 7:00pm Green TF/CRES: Biofuels (sanc., comm., kit.) 7:00pm LEAP: Undertanding the Heart of Buddhism (chapel) Friday, Jan. 23 5:30pm Freedom Fund movie (sanc., comm., kit.) Sat., Jan. 24 9:00am EETF: Nourishing Connections (comm., kit.) 7:00pm Auction Event: Karaoke Party (comm., kit.) Sunday, Jan. 25 Monday, Jan. 26 Tuesday, Jan. 27
9:15/11am In Whole and in Part w/Wendy Williams 9:15am LEAP: What Moves Us (M3/4) 10:20am MMG: Musical Rehearsal (Priestley rm.) 12:30pm EETF: Slow Soup Group (kit.) 12:30pm Small Groups (M3/4, Priestley rm.) 12:30pm B&C: Roving Readers (R3/4) 12:30pm B&C: Science and Spirit (R6/7) 12:30pm 4th/5th OWL Class (R3/4) 9:00am CURK: SOUPS (chapel, R1/2, R8) 9:15am B&C: Dream Study (M1/2) 6:00pm MMG: Golden Bells rehearsal (Priestley rm.) 6:30pm B&C: Great Books Discussion Group (M3/4) 6:30pm Small Group - Beal (M1/2) 7:00pm MMG: Bell Ensemble rehearsal (Priestley rm.) 1:00pm MMG: Thin Air (Priestley rm.) 2:00pm Small Group - Rountree (M1/2) 6:30pm Evensong (chapel) 8
Welcome JUC’s Newest Members! Dan Beausoleil works as a telecommunications engineer and is a long time UU. He enjoys many outdoor activities including rock and ice climbing, camping, hunting, and fishing.
Barb Hinnenkamp is a retired nurse who now works as an artist. She enjoys painting and cooking. David Hurlbut works as a policy analyst and economist. He enjoys renewable energy, hiking, and genealogy and is married to JUC member Ruth Rinehart.
Lark Birdsong works in philanthropy and higher education research. She is a former member of First Unitarian Society of Denver who enjoys bicycling, walks, bowling, and reading.
David & Sarah Kowalski are UUs from North Carolina. David works as an engineer and Sara is a school counselor. They enjoy running, skiing, and mountain biking.
Julie Brisson works in recreation for the City of Wheat Ridge. She enjoys walking, hiking, gardening, CU women’s basketball, reading, and bowling.
Bob May is a retired software development employee who would like to work in his field again. He enjoys computers and East Indian classical music.
Julia Deutsch is a student at Metro State, studying technical theater. She enjoys quilting, singing, baking, social justice, and handcrafts.
John Niemela works as a systems engineer. He enjoys skiing and hiking.
Matt & Jenny Fischer are busy with four children, but they find time to enjoy reading, travelling, crafts, and hiking. Matt works for Jefferson County Public Schools while Jenny does IT consulting.
Jeffery Pederson is a retired Game and Fish Department employee who enjoys hiking, biking, reading, fishing, and spending time with his grandchildren.
Tom & Shawna Foster come to us from First Unitarian Church of Omaha. Shawna works in community ministry while Tom works as an operations analyst. They have two children, Rex and Rose, ages 8 and 10.
Angela Priest works as a Certified Nurse’s Assistant. She is a master herbalist in Chinese medicine and is a priestess in the Wiccan and Pagan Community. Angela has one daughter, Ariana, age 4.
Steven Gebhard & Kathy Smith have a college-aged son named Brian. Kathy works as a research geologist, and Steven works as an R&D chemist and engineer. They enjoy model railroading, mineral collecting, climbing and caving.
Peter & Jane Vernig: Jane is a retired nurse while Peter works for the VA medical center. Jane enjoys walking, reading, and sewing while Peter runs 5K races and reads science fiction. John & Gay Williford are both long time UUs from Athens, Georgia. They enjoy writing, traveling, fishing, and walking.
Chili Cookoff
Wednesday, Jan. 28 • 6 p.m. Submit Entries @ 5:45 Hosted by the Belonging and Connections Group Cooks eat free! Others pay fellowship dinner prices: $7 if signed up in advance; $8 at the door; $20/family Categories: Best Beef Best Pork Best Vegetarian Best Other (chicken, elk, rattlesnake, etc.) Best Overall
Join the JUC Choir If you ever thought you might like to sing in the JUC Choir, here’s your chance. Join us during the month of January and commit to three Wednesday evening rehearsals. After three weeks, we think you’ll be hooked. If not, feel free to turn in your music and move on to another adventure.
Judging Criteria: Flavor Texture Appearance
Rehearsals are held in the sanctuary on Wednesdays from 7:30 to 9 p.m. If you can, give Keith Arnold or Phyllis Bunting a heads up so they can see that you are welcomed with rehearsal music and we can alert your section leader of your expected presence. You can also just drop in. Come a little early so you can feel settled in when rehearsal begins.
Contact: Linda Grantham (mtnmoonbeam@gmail.com; 303-910-7361).
Questions? Contact Rev. Keith Arnold, Minister of Music (303-279-5282; keitharnold@jeffersonunitarian.org) or Phyllis Bunting, Choir Manager (303 420-1580; phyllis.co@hotmail. com). 9