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Tapestry Unitarian Universal ist Fel lowship o f Athens
February 2015
Board of Trustees
Merridy McDaniel [email protected]
Jane Mayer President-Elect
Karen Solheim [email protected]
Rich Rayburn [email protected]
Marguerite Holmes Past-president
Penny Oldfather Member-at-large
Carol-Lee Baker Member-at-large
Lee Cornell
Member-at-Large
Jim Thomas
Member-at-Large
Lay Ministers
Fun & Fellowship:
Ange Kahn [email protected]
Connections:
Michelle Leebens-Mack [email protected]
Justice: Karen Solheim [email protected]
Stewardship: Herb West [email protected]
Lifespan Development:
Aleta Turner & Vivian Sellers [email protected]
Spiritual Arts:
Myrna Adams West [email protected]
Let’s Communicate!
* Yourself
* The Minister
* Programs,
governance, or
anything else that’s on your mind
4. The Committee on Shared Ministry
about
* Getting feedback on Fellowship gov-
ernance or ministry from members and
friends
We’re happy to assist you with any ideas
or concerns you may have. If you don’t
know who to contact for something not
named above, you can contact the Con-
gregational Administrator, Shaye Gam-
brell (Wed - Fri), to ask for assistance.
Also, be sure to look at the bulletin
boards in the Fellowship Hall or on the
website (uuathensga.org) for names and
contact info for the members of the
Board of Trustees and Ministry Council.
Do you wonder where to take your ideas
or concerns? If so, contact the follow-
ing—
1. A member of the Board of Trustees
about
* Management or governance
* Policies or procedures
* Where UUFA is headed
(direction/vision)
* What UUFA is doing (mission)
* About UUFA’s Minister
2. A Ministry Council member (the
Minister, Dir. of Religious Education,
or Music Dir., or a Lay Minister)
about
* Programs or activities
* Policies and procedures
* Leadership development
* What’s going on
* How to get involved
* How to communicate activities
3. The Minister about
* Staff
Selma Trip Deadline Extended to Feb. 8! Reserve Your Seat Now! Limited seats
remaining! Because of interest ex-
pressed, UUFA has booked a 43-person
bus to take a one-day trip to Selma for
the 50th anniversary re-enactment of the
crossing of the Edmund Pettus Bridge. At
least 10,000 people from around the
country are expected to participate.
If you want to be part of this trip, please
register by the February 8 deadline,
understanding that the cost will
range $50 to $100, depending on the
firm number of passengers and cost of
luncheon, which will be held in Mont-
gomery at St. Jude's Church.
Payment will be due at UUFA by Febru-
ary 13. Plans are to leave Athens on Sun-
day, March 8, at approximately 6 am to
arrive in Montgomery before 11. The ac-
tivities in Selma should end around 5 pm,
so Athens arrival should be between 9 and
10 pm Sunday evening.
Please reserve your seat by February 8!
Even if you have previously expressed
interest about this trip, you will still need
to reserve your seat! Click here to register
(or call the office) and note scholarship
need. For further information, contact
Betsy Bean (betsybean@gmail.
com or 706.850.7268).
February 1 – Insight from A Flow-
er Legend says a disciple received
Buddha’s teachings in a flash of in-
sight while viewing a flower.
Are we receptive to such in-
sight? Rev. Alison Eskildsen
with a guest musician
February 8 – Loving Mer-
cy “Have mercy on me” is an
oft-used prayer. Is it yours?
Rev. Alison Eskildsen with
the Chalice Choir
February 15 – Love Keeps
Us Together Committed relation-
ships can be challenging. Hear three
couples share their journeys and sing
love songs with UUFA’s You
Band. Blurb and title to come from
Amber
February 22 – Abundant Good For-
tune Need a second chance on your
New Year's resolu-
tions? Well, it's out
with the old and in with
the new on this Chinese
New Year celebration.
A Dragon Dance and
other festive surprises
inspire prosperity for
all ages. All are invited
to wear red or Asian-
inspired clothing.
Worship begins with everyone in the
sanctuary for the first 20 minutes or
so. Typically we share a welcome,
light our congregational chalice, sing
Spiritual Arts
This Month’s Worship Services
Worship Arts Committee
Share Your Thoughts!
TAPESTRY PAGE 2
a hymn, and experience a storytelling
or brief conversation. Children and
teachers are recessed from the sanctu-
ary by congregational singing. Chil-
dren and teachers go to their class-
rooms or to a special children’s wor-
ship in the Fellowship Hall. Parents
are welcome to accompany their chil-
dren if they wish.
Remaining adults hear a sermon, spe-
cial music, sing, meditate or pray, and
share brief joys and sorrows within
the community on most Sundays.
Some Sundays all ages remain in the
sanctuary for the entire service. For
more on UUFA’s worship services,
visit the Spiritual Arts page at
www.uuathensga.org.
The Worship Arts Committee is gathering information
about Sunday morning participation at UUFA as it con-
tinues to evaluate the Sunday morning schedule and
makes plans for the future.
Please go here: http://uuathensga.org/spiritual-arts/
worship-arts-committee/ to complete a very brief sur-
vey that will help the committee determine how to best
serve the congregation on Sunday mornings. It is only a
couple of questions and takes just a few minutes to
complete. Thank you for your time!
The Worship Arts Committee meets Feb. 3 at 6:30 pm.
Sundays ~ 10:15-11:05 am
February 1 -- Dr. Phillip Lanoue,
Getting Schooled about Clarke Coun-
ty Schools
February 8 -- RE and Green Sanctu-
ary, Bee Friends - an intergenerational
program on Mason bees
February 15 -- Members of UUFA
Childcare is available!
Forum Topics for February reproductive justice class, Reproduc-
tive Justice: What it is, what it isn't,
and how it affects you and others”
February 22 -- Lauren Barineau,
MBP, CHES Training and Technical
Assistance coordinator, Exploring the
Impact of Teen Pregnancy in Georgia
If you would like to be part of the team
selecting Sunday Forum speakers, at-
tend the next Forum Committee
meeting. The committee meets the
second Monday of each month. The
next meeting is Tuesday, February
10 at 4 pm.
For further information about Fo-
rum, contact any of the following
members of the Forum Committee
team: Betsy Bean, Bob Bitowft,
John Bleyle, Al Bergins, Jim Thom-
as, Karen Solheim, Terry Jones, Bar-
bara McLaughlin, or John Bleyle.
NEW Adult Summer Camp
Peace Camp for Adults~ March 27-28 Enjoy an overnight event of yoga, meditation, labyrinth
walking, Dances of Universal Peace, non-
violent communication, and conflict resolu-
tion to build peace within, peace with each
other, and peace with nature.
Camp Thrive for Adults~ April 24-25 Get in touch with your inner nature child with these wil-
derness adventure skills including fire and shelter-building,
cordage, orienteering, first aid, plant and animal identifica-
tion, and more! Don’t just survive, thrive!
Contact Morgan for details ([email protected]).
PAGE 3 TAPESTRY
accepted the following reports and
discussed when necessary: Minis-
ter's, Treasurer's including Share the
Plate, Funding UUA's GIFT program
through Enjoyable Entertainment
Events, Annual Budget Drive (ABD),
Facilities Planning Committee.
To read the minutes of the meeting,
visit the “board of trustees” area of
the website, or click here. The next
meeting of your Board of Trustees is
February 10 at 7 p.m.
Comments are invited. You are wel-
come to attend this meeting, and/or
share any feedback you have with any
board member. Karen Solheim, Sec-
retary, UUFA B.O.T.
What music do you love? What music
inspires you? We offer a variety of
music in our worship services, but I
am always looking for new sounds .
Share your favorites with me!
On Feb. 15th, You Band will be play-
ing the favorite songs of three UUFA
couples as they share their stories of
love and commitment. What is your
song?
In February, we're talking a lot about
caring, love, and compassion. All of
these things require taking risks and
reaching out to others. Have you
considered getting more involved at
UUFA? A great way to connect with
some of the great people here at
UUFA (and beyond) is to join one of
our music groups! Have a musical
gift to share? Not sure if you're
'musical' enough to get involved?
Talk to me!
Our drum circle, Palms of Fire, meets
Wednesdays, 5:30-6:30. Our Chalice
Choir (11:30 service) and JUUbila-
tion Singers (9:00 service) rehearse
every Wednesday, 7:15-8:45. Let me
know you are coming! ~Amber Fet-
ner, [email protected],
Music Notes
Inspiration through music
Governance
Board of Trustees studying the issue of
having a sexton and making a recom-
mendation back to the Board; having
Alison look at rental agreement poli-
cies and informing the congregational
administrator of recent problematic
incidents; having a board subcommit-
tee (Alison and Rich) to meet with the
congregational administrator to dis-
cuss maintenance expenses.
tabled action on the following items:
employee handbook, travel policy,
updated fundraising policy
At its January 13, 2015, meeting,
your Board of Trustees accomplished
the following:
listened to guest comments: Terry
Jones and Liz Weaver about the Bee
Friends project; Lynn Rinker about
children supervision by groups rent-
ing the Fellowship
discussed the following: information-
al (town hall meetings) on January
11; having a board subgroup to meet
prior to the Congregational Meeting
to discuss how to proceed at this Jan-
uary 18 meeting.
passed the following motions: to ac-
cept the Bee Friends Project as pre-
sented with the stipulation that the
bees be at least 200 feet from the
building; to reaffirm the email vote to
accept amendments to the proposed
bylaw changes; to direct the President
to sign the bus contract for the UUFA
Selma trip on March 8
agreed on the following: appointing
Lynn Rinker to replace Gini Carter on
the Committee on Shared Ministry;
having a board subcommittee look at
limitations policies concerning build-
ing and groups; having the monetary
proceeds from the UUFA Yard Sale
on May 9 go into the general fund;
having the Building and Grounds
Committee take initial ownership of
Bylaws Changes Approved Many thanks to all who attended last Sunday's Congregation Meeting at which the
proposed changes to the UUFA Bylaws were approved. These bylaw changes estab-
lished that the Board of Trustees will name the President from the current board and
the Vice President from the incoming board. In addition, among the items that the
adopted Bylaws changes established are the following:
eliminating the position of "President-Elect" and replacing it with "Vice President"
requiring that the President to have served on the Board of Trustees for at least one
year and no more than two years prior to being named
increasing the terms of both the Treasurer and Secretary from one to two years and
allowing both to serve two terms (four years in all) instead of the current three-year
cap
changing the total time that a person can serve as a member of the Board of Trustees
from three to four years without taking a one-year hiatus
All Bylaws changes will go into effect on July 1 except, as voted on, the current board
will name the upcoming President.
Watch for additional announcements that will contain links to the updated Bylaws and
minutes from the January 18 Congregational Meeting. The next Town Hall meeting is
scheduled for May 17 at noon, and the next Congregational Meeting is scheduled for
May 31 at noon.
Green Education
Bee Friends
Connections
President’s Column
PAGE 4 TAPESTRY
Flowers, heart-shaped boxes wrapped
in red satin filled with chocolates
adorned with blindfolded winged in-
fant cupids wielding tiny bows and
arrows, cards of love with words to
express our most intimate senti-
ments… a typical example of some
long-forgotten ancient ritual pre-
served and enhanced over the centu-
ries, because it in some way resonates
with a profound and deeply felt need
to communicate our passion and
show our compassion for one another.
We call it St. Valentine’s Day, vener-
ating one Valentine, a martyr and ear-
ly leader of an illegal group, who was
tortured and beheaded on February
14, 269 or 270, for the criminal act of
performing a ritual (marriage ceremo-
ny) to sanctify and recognize relation-
ships between members of that illegal
group.
In 1969, the Roman Catholic Church
decided that corroborating evidence
of Valentine’s worthiness for venera-
tion was lacking. Saint Valentine
was one for whom only the legend of
his courage to act in accordance with
his conscience in defiance of the
laws of the Roman Empire has sur-
vived, along with a few relics of du-
bious provenance.
But the symbols associated with this
feast to celebrate love are evidence
of more ancient rituals and worship –
such as those found in association
with Eros, son of Aphrodite, the Hel-
lenic Goddess of Love and Beauty,
who was venerated and worshipped
during a festival in the summer, and
whose symbols in turn, are found in
association with even earlier god-
desses of other near-eastern civiliza-
tions, back to the distant times of
prehistory, when love and beauty and
respect for life were venerated in
grateful acceptance of the bounty of
the earth, so very different from the
beliefs of our modern era that the
natural world was created to be sub-
jugated and
exploited by
man, and is
not worthy
of venera-
tion.
That a festival to celebrate love and
compassion has survived so many
millennia fills me with hope that we
will yet learn to see one another as
our beloved companions during this
brief journey, to greet one another
with respect and joy and understand-
ing, to do whatever we can to lessen
pain and suffering, and to share and
protect the bounty of this planet, to
preserve its beauty so that we and all
those who follow after us will be
able to live together in peace and
plenty.
So, I say, Happy St. Valentine’s Day
— Have the courage to act in accord-
ance with your conscience to pro-
mote love and compassion!
Merridy McDaniel
Would you like to solve the
mystery of how to Bee
Friend the children in the
congregation but don’t
have time or talent to be an
RE teacher?
Would you like to add some pollina-
tors to your garden but don’t have the
time or talent for honey bees?
Join us for Bee Friends beginning this
February! The RE and the Green
Sanctuary Committees are collaborat-
ing on adding non-aggressive Mason
Bees (not carpenter bees) to the Wild-
life Habitat and RE gardens. We’ll
start by learning about the Mason
Bees, what they are and what they
need, at an intergenerational Forum
on Feb. 8. On the following Sunday,
Feb. 15, after the second service,
we’ll gather in the Fellowship Hall to
build some houses for our bees and
develop teams to care for the
bees. When the bees begin to hatch in
March, the teams will begin the tasks
of caring for their bees.
Would you like to contribute to this
project? We are still in need of plants
that bloom in March and early April,
such as blueberries, Carolina Jessa-
mine, trillium, anemone, pansies, etc.
If you have some to spare, or would
like to buy some for us, please let Ter-
ry (wolpers4@ aol.com) or Bill
(wpierson99 @gmail.com) know first,
so that we don’t get way too much of
one thing and none of another, and
can prepare a space for the plants.
Care Notes Edwin Dale has moved to Florida.
His new address is Bldg. 400, 6209
Brooks Bartram Dr., Jacksonville,
FL, 32258, 904-528-3851. If you're
near Jacksonville, please visit him.
Thank you! The UUFA staff would like to thank
UUFA members and friends for your
generosity this holiday season. Thank
you for sharing your resources and
for supporting our work.
TAPESTRY PAGE 5
Spiritual Arts
Goddess Group & Writing as Spiritual Practice Elizabeth Preston will facilitate the
Goddess Group gathering on Feb-
ruary 15, as we study session two of
the Unitarian Universalist Women &
Religion curriculum Cakes for the
Queen of Heaven: On the Threshold.
This session is entitled, “Sarah the
Priestess” and asks us to re-imagine
one of the key figures of the Old Tes-
tament, Sarah, wife of Abraham. Did
she actually sit by idly while Abra-
ham led Isaac, their long-prayed-for
and long-waited-for son, off to be
sacrificed? The session will begin at
1:30 pm in the Fellowship Hall.
The six-session study will continue
on third Sundays through June 21.
All mature adults are invited to join
us. For more information, please
contact Myrna at myrnaaw@
bellsouth.net or 770/725-5397.
Writing as Spiritual Practice will
meet to share written and verbal
thoughts on the theme of “Caring” in
the sofa room behind the sanctuary at
10:15 am on Sunday, February 1. A
complete list of writing prompts is
posted on the UUFA web site at
www.uuathensga.org under the Spir-
itual Arts menu>Artistic Expressions
or you may contact Myrna Adams
West, the Lay Minister for Spiritual
Arts at [email protected].
You may write on one of those
prompts or make up your own or just
come to the meeting to enjoy the shar-
ing and discussion.
Here are a few of the prompts to get
you started:
·What is the most caring
thing someone has ever
done for you? Why? How did it
make you feel?
·What is the most caring thing you
have ever done for someone else?
Why? How did it make you feel?
·What is the difference between
“caring” and “nurturing”? Explain.
·How could you become more active-
ly involved in caring for others? Ex-
plain.
· “Compassionate” is a synonym of
“caring.” Can one be compassionate
without also being caring? Or vice-
versa? Explain.
·Can one care for the environment
without also caring for other people?
Or vice-versa? Explain.
Justice
Social Action Committee
Be the Change You Want to See in
the World! Join the UUFA SAC
(Social Action Committee) in body
and/or spirit: in body: The next meet-
ing of the UUFA Social Action Com-
mittee (SAC) is the first Sunday of
each month—February 1—
beginning at 1 pm in the admin of-
fice. Open not to just committee
members, YOU are invited to attend
this meeting to see what this group is
all about. Make a difference in our
world, locally and globally.
in spirit: If you would like to know
what transpires in the UUFASAC, go
to http://lists.uuathensga.org/
listinfo.cgi/social_action-
uuathensga.org to join the listserv.
This will let you know what tran-
spires not only in the UUFA SAC but
also in the local Athens area in terms
of social action. Everyone is encour-
aged to sign up!
SHARE THE PLATE: For the 2014-
mentary will be given about this
cause; and additional time, talent, and
treasure information about this cause
will be available throughout the
month in the order of service and the
weekly announcements.
CANtributions to the
ATHENS AREA EMER-
GENCY FOOD BANK:
"We're #2; we're #2!? After twelve
months of competition among the
twenty-five area faith communities
CANtributing to the Athens Area
Emergency Food Bank, UUFA was
SECOND PLACE!! With our total
CANtributions for 2014 of 4116
items, we were 3979 items out of first
place but 812 items away from thrid
place. Keep those CANtributions
coming as we start counting again for
2015!
Place your donations in the wicker
basket in the sanctuary. Tuna, salti-
nes, pork and beans, and green peas
are always needed. You may also do-
nate money at the Grocery Card table
on Sunday mornings, and savvy SAC
shoppers will convert your cash or
check to cans.
15 program year, the December Cause
of the Month (the Athens Area Emer-
gency Food Bank) received
$1002.98 from sharing the offerings
equally with UUFA and another $585
specifically designated for that cause
for a total of $1587.98.
The total shared with the January
Cause of the Month—The Ark—will
be shared in the March Tapestry.
Remember that the only funds that are
truly shared between UUFA and the
Cause of the Month are these monies
you put in the offering plate beyond
your pledge and/or beyond any other
earmarked contributions. IF you have
any suggestions about what you would
like to see as a UUFA SAC Cause of
the Month, please contact David Jar-
rett ([email protected]).
CAUSE OF THE MONTH: The
Cause of the Month for February is
The Athens-Clarke Literacy Council.
On Sunday, February 1, a pulpit com-
PAGE 6 TAPESTRY
By Myrna Adams West, Chair, 60th Anniversary Committee
What a year of celebration we had in 2014!! January a year ago, we kicked off the Diamond JUU-
bilee with a preview of what the 60th Anniversary Committee was planning for the year-long focus
on, not just the Founders of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Athens, Georgia, but also on the
men and women who over the last 60 years have stood courageously for civil rights, equality, justice,
education, liberal religion, and peace.
As I review our 60th year, I want to say a special thanks to the Diamond JUUbilee Committee, includ-
ing Carol-Lee Baker, Diane Bridges, Lee Cornell, Susan Curtis, Meredyth Fleisher, Jim Leebens-
Mack, Michelle Leebens-Mack, Ted Mayer, Hester Meyers, and Aleta Turner. Each member of the committee ac-
cepted at least one special area of responsibility but worked with each other and many, many other members and
friends of the Fellowship to make the year a rousing success. Four email “lurkers” also contributed ideas, materials,
and moral support. They are Rev. Alison Wilbur Eskildsen, Karen Solheim, Patty Freeman-Lynde and Barbara Tes-
key. UUFA’s paid staff — Congregational Administrator Shaye Gambrell, Bookkeeper Angela Brown and RE Direc-
tor Morgan Watson —were also invaluable in helping us take care of the details.
Lee Cornell took the committee’s many ideas of what a logo might look like and made them work, producing the
beautiful Diamond JUUbilee logo that was used throughout the year on everything from wall banners to bumper
stickers to mugs to tee shirts to tote bags to a fabulous cloth banner that Karen Solheim proudly carried at UUA Gen-
eral Assembly in Providence, Rhode Island. That special banner was made by Scott Mason and Suzanne Reeves with
contributions by Kathy Mason, Kay Giese, Herb West and Myrna Adams West.
Susan Curtis coordinated publicity throughout the year, work-
ing with Rev. Alison and Shaye Gambrell to create a pres-
ence on the website with a dedicated Diamond JUUbilee
Page, a blog, photos and other articles to highlight the year-
long activities. She ensured that blurbs and articles in the
Tapestry, the weekly E-news and the weekly orders of service
kept the congregation informed about what was happening
related to the 60th celebration. She also regularly sent press
releases to the local media, even though only a few were pub-
lished, and informed the Southern Region and the UUA of
our activities.
Monthly lobby displays highlighting a different ministry of
the Fellowship and “Anniversary Moments,” given by mem-
bers of the 60th Anniversary Committee and other members
of UUFA, also helped keep the congregation informed about
the events and activities of the celebration. Those who spoke
about the Diamond JUUbilee from the podium included Myr-
na Adams West, Michelle Leebens-Mack, Hester Meyers,
Diane Bridges, Aleta Turner, Caryl Sundland, Herb West,
Elizabeth Bishop-Martin, John Olive, Rich Rayburn, Virginia
Carver, Roger Bailey, Joy Carroll and Lee Cornell.
In February, Michelle Leebens-Mack coordinated a look at
our connections to the larger UU Community, including the
Unitarian Universalist Association, the Mid-South District
and the Southern Region, The Mountain Retreat & Learning
Centers, and our sister congregation in Okland, Romania.
Michelle also led the search for a dynamic speaker for the big
event in November.
Foyer Art
Reviewing UUFA’s Diamond JUUbilee
Continued on page 7.
Blooms & Boats by Dr. David Jarrett
FOYER ART — These are all prints of digital
photographs I have taken over the past few years
with my old Nikon D50 digital camera. My father
taught and inspired me to pursue his interest in
photography since my early adolescence.
I still enjoy looking at prints of his photographs from
around the world. Switching from film to digital has
allowed me to shoot freely and pick the few good
shots from hundreds of attempts. The photos in this
collection show two aesthetics I enjoy: the scenic
shot with boats in the foreground and the ultra-close-
up of flowers taken with the macro lens. The
landscapes are mostly from around Stonington,
Maine. The lighthouse is on Isle au Haut off the
coast of Deer Isle. The lobster buoys are on the wall
of an antique shop in Stonington. The rushing water
is from a little waterfall/rapids near the Library and
harbor in Camden, Maine.
The flowers, the stone angel and the pond with the
mansion in the background were all taken at the
Biltmore Estate in Ashville, NC. That pond, you
may recall was the setting for the last scene in the
Peter Sellers movie, “Being There” where his
character appears to walk on water of the pond. My
photo uses a similar angle as the shot in the film with
the house in the background.
PAGE 7 TAPESTRY
In March Hester Meyers invited our two living Founders,
Ethel Foster and Don Martin Sr., to sit down with her and
Lee Cornell to film an interview about their remembrances
of the early meetings and the other founders. Mrs. Foster
was also able to join us for the worship services and Fo-
rum, and the other living Founder, Don Martin Sr., sent his
son as his representative on that special Sunday when we
recognized all of the Founders. That morning’s Forum was
dedicated to our early leaders. Among those leaders were
Larry Dendy, Stu Fors, Margaret Holt, Elizabeth Bishop-
Martin, Ann Woodruff and Jim Woodruff, who formed a
panel to highlight their memories of the early years. A por-
tion of the video interview with Ethel Foster and Don Mar-
tin Sr., shown that morning, recognized the other Founders:
Jack Foster, Ruben Gotesky, Ann Martin, Gladys Mont-
gomery, Horace Montgomery, Paul Pfuetze and Thad
Suits.
Diane Bridges searched out information on our buildings
and grounds for the April celebration—not just the current
building but the two earlier buildings and other meeting
locations that came before. She also researched the origins
of the special objects in and around the Timothy Road
building that have been created by, donated by, and en-
joyed by our members and friends for, lo, these many
years.
In May, Meredyth Fleisher, who was then our ministerial
intern, helped us celebrate Lifespan Religious Education,
spotlighting our excellent Children and Youth RE pro-
grams and the many opportunities for adults to expand
their horizons through the Forum, Stepping Stones and oth-
er learning and service opportunities. Meredyth also digit-
ized the 50th Anniversary Timeline that was constructed for
that celebration 10 years ago by Barbara and John Schell
and Catherine Kleiner and worked with the Youth, espe-
cially Garrett Cornell, to video members as they shared
their special memories of UUFA.
In June, Caryl Sundland, Karen Solheim and other mem-
bers of the Social Action Committee helped us spotlight
the Social Action/Social Justice projects that continue to
make a positive difference in the lives of men, women, and
children in the greater Athens-Clarke area. We also re-
membered some of the people, like Horace Montgomery,
Janet Pomeroy and Ray MacNair, who made an impact on
the larger community through their dedicated service to
social justice.
Two special Sunday services in July highlighted our crea-
tive Spiritual Arts programs with one service, organized by
Michelle Leebens-Mack, that spotlighted Virginia Carver’s
inspired and inspiring dancing and Karen Pinkie Berg-
Jubilee Continued from Page 6. man’s stirring cello accompaniment. Another Sunday
that month, the Writing as Spiritual Practice writers, en-
couraged by Myrna Adams West, shared their moving
and heartfelt prose and poetry in a service titled
“Journeying Within.”
In August, we welcomed Music Director Amber Fetner
home from her sabbatical just in time to celebrate our
fabulous Music Program. We recognized Stu Fors, who
organized the first choir, and other musical leaders, such
as Elizabeth Bishop-Martin, who directed the choir for
more than 10 years, Jean Bryan, who was pianist for 10
years, and Albie Smith, who was pianist for 15 years.
Highlights that month included a moving In-Gathering
Service built around “Holy Waters” gathered from sum-
mer adventures. At the end of the month Rev. Alison
took us on a “Magical Mystical Tour,” in a service fea-
turing members of our two house bands in a tribute to
The Beatles.
In September we launched Sixty Days of Celebration
counting down to a special party on November 1. We
celebrated our ministers, administrators, and leaders,
from both the hallowed past and the spectacular present.
One of the highlights was Rev. Alison’s casting of her
experiences in a United Methodist Seminary as “Alison
Down the Rabbit Hole.” Another was the look at shared
ministry at UUFA by Rev. Alison, the Rev. Don Randall,
who is our Affiliated Community Minister, and the Rev.
Terre Balof, who was UUFA’s settled minister for 13
years, in a panel discussion moderated by Lay Minister
for Spiritual Arts, Myrna Adams West.
We began the month of October with the Congregational
Retreat at The Mountain, with activities coordinated by
Herb West. The retreat was attended by a record-
breaking 73 adults, youth and children. Then we took a
day of service to both the Fellowship and the community
with some members and friends working together on an
internal service project to spruce up our building and
grounds in a well-attended Fall Clean-up Day, organized
by Terry Jones, Lee Cornell and others. Simultaneously
other members and friends participated in an external
service project, coordinated by Julie Sapp, working with
other Habitat for Humanity volunteers to build an acces-
sibility ramp at a local residence.
In November we celebrated our members, friends and
partners in ministry at an anniversary party attended by
more than 130 folks, including Founder Ethel Foster,
UUA Moderator Jim Key, Southern Region Staffer Mag-
gie Lovins, Athens-Clarke Mayor Nancy Denson, and
several of our local Partners in Ministry.
Every member of the Diamond JUUbilee Committee
Continued on Page 8.
PAGE 8 TAPESTRY
worked diligently to make the party an unforgettable ex-
perience. Michelle Leebens-Mack and Meredyth Fleisher
spent hours throughout the year scoping out venues and
caterers. We finally settled on the Oconee County Civic
Center as the venue because of its proximity to the Fel-
lowship, its total accessibility for all abilities, its amenities
and the reasonable fees. Ted Mayer and Jim Leebens-
Mack volunteered to seek out food vendors, and everyone
on the committee pitched in to provide finger foods,
drinks and goodies.
Carol Lee Baker’s imaginative tablescapes and resource-
ful scouting for linens, dishes and silverware (with help
from Patty Freeman-Lynde) made the large room seem at
once warm, inviting and spacious. Lee Cornell’s slide
show and the display of the monthly exhibits and the re-
furbished timeline (thanks to John & Barbara Schell) gave
everyone something to focus on and discuss while mem-
bers of You Band provided gathering music. Larry Pet-
roff’s roaming camera work made everyone feel as if they
were at a high-end resort gathering. A welcome by Rev.
Alison, live greetings from Mayor Denson and Maggie
Lovins, as well as recorded greetings from UUA Presi-
dent, the Rev. Peter Morales, and friend of UUFA, the
Rev. Mark Kiyimba, set the tone for the inspiring message
from Jim Key. The presentation of the Anniversary Cake
by the children, dressed in their yellow Diamond JUU-
bilee shirts (courtesy of Lee Cornell) and lively singing by
BlUUgrass Folks closed out the afternoon.
A display of photographs of current and former members
and friends graced the sanctuary throughout November
and December, thanks to photographers Elizabeth Bish-
op-Martin, Lee Reed, Larry Petroff and Betsy Bean.
After a year of looking back at and celebrating our illus-
trious history, in December we looked ahead so that we
can move forward into the next 60 years and beyond.
We asked for dreams and expectations of Where do we
go from here? What are the dreams and goals and ambi-
tions of even our youngest members? What do we think
this Fellowship will look like, be like, be involved in
over the next 60 years? Information about the answers
to these questions and more as we move ahead into 2015
and beyond will be shared soon.
The work of the 60th Anniversary Committee continues
into 2015 as we prepare to publish an update to Horace
Montgomery’s treatise on the founding of UUFA, “In
Pursuit of the American Birthright: A Quarter-Century
of Unitarian-Universalist Involvement in Athens, 1954-
1979,” and his two later updates, “Pursuit Continued,
1980-1985” and “Still Pursuing, 1986-1988.” We hope
to make the updated history available in time for the
Congregational Annual Meeting in May.
We also plan to bury a time capsule on the Spring Equi-
nox. If you have contributions or ideas for the time cap-
sule, please see Diane Bridges, Lee Cornell or Morgan
Watson.
Finally, I want to say a heartfelt thank you to all who
participated in any way in the year-long celebration, not
just to members of the committee and others mentioned
here but to all of the members and friends of UUFA. It
is your dedication, devotion, and participation that help
to make UUFA an outstanding beacon of liberal religion
Working with UUFA's Volunteer Recognition Team, the
Ministry Council is launching its 2015 apprecia-
tion of volunteers by focusing on the Fellowship
Lay Ministry cluster in February. The other 5
clusters will celebrate their volunteers in alter-
nate months through the year.
Led by Lay Minister Ange Kahn, the Fellowship
cluster includes Sunday Hospitality, the Mem-
bership Committee, weekly and monthly social
get-togethers, and Pastoral Care and Care Rings.
Since taking on the cluster in 2014, Ange has been work-
ing to build involvement in Sunday hospitality volunteer-
ing twice each Sunday and thanks Kate Blane, Connie
Bruce, Lee Cornell, Sunnie Dempsey, Dan Everett, Linda
Gilbert, Bob Kobres, Jane Kobres, and Cory Taylor for
Jubilee Continued from Page 7.
their working to have refreshments ready for every-
one. To help make sure members, friends, and
visitors can enjoy coffee and tea, please contact
Ange at [email protected] or 706-318-
2250.
Thanks also to members of the Membership Com-
mittee - Larry Dendy (chair), Lynn Rinker, Gary
Rinker, Larry Petroff, Sherri Tanner, Kip Tanner,
Betsy Bean, Carol-Lee Baker, Linda Kjelgaard,
Mary Jean Hartel - who manage the Visitors Table, wel-
coming newcomers at every service, and present the New
UU programs.
As part of the February celebration, Ange and the Volun-
teer Recognition Team are highlighting the ongoing ef-
We Celebrate the Fellowship Cluster's Volunteers in February
Continued on Page 9.
PAGE 9 TAPESTRY
In 2014 team members and helpers provided 12 medical
rides, made 40 home visits, talked by phone or at the Fel-
lowship with over 100 people, sent 50 cards of concern
and 48 birthday cards to members over 75 years old, and
provided at least 58 rides to Sunday services.
UUFA also provides pastoral care to members through its
seven Care Rings. Upon joining the Fellowship, all mem-
bers are assigned to a Care Ring. Each Care Ring has its
own coordinator(s) and is composed of seven or more
families/single households in the same vicinity. Care Ring
members offer support in dealing with crises or stressful
situations. They also share members' joys: a new child in
the family, special birthdays, anniversaries and honors.
This year the Care Ring coordinators are Blue - Anna
Eidsvik (Peggy Horton had coordinated for a number of
years), Fuchsia - Gini Carter and Vivian Preston-Sellers
(Suzanne Murphy had coordinated for a number of years),
Green - Rosemary Woodel and Fabiana Hayden, Yellow -
Jane King and Carol-Lee Baker, Orange - Penny Oldfa-
ther, Silver - Kay Fors, and Purple - Debbie Hardegree and
Michael Martin. Contact Susan Ponsoldt at 706-548-
4821 for more information about the Care Ring Program.
Martha Phillips of the Volunteer Recognition Team is co-
ordinating the February 8 celebration which will feature a
song she has just written to celebrate UUFA volunteers.
Also helping are team members Carol-Lee Baker, Diane
Bridges, Barbara Leissner, Jane Mayer, Herb West, and
chair Susan Curtis.
Cluster Volunteers Continued from Page 8.
forts of the Pastoral Care Team and the Care Ring Coor-
dinators during the February 8 services.
The Pastoral Care Team supports the minister by provid-
ing a ministry of caring, support, and hope so that no
member of our congregation need be alone. Based on the
first UU principle, to affirm the inherent worth and dig-
nity of every person, the members visit/call the sick or
injured in the hospital or at home; visit/call members
residing in nursing homes, retirement communities, or
who are homebound; contact those who are dealing with
terminal illness or bereavement; stay in touch with mem-
bers who are affected by chronic mental or physical con-
ditions; and respond to the joys and concerns of the con-
gregation. Serving on the Team are volunteers Carol-Lee
Baker, Jean Bleyle, Albie Smith, John Huff, Debby Per-
ry, Rev. Dr. Don Randall, team leader Susan Ponsoldt,
all working with Rev. Alison Eskildsen.
Those in need may contact Rev. Alison at 706-424-
9449 or [email protected], Susan Ponsoldt
at 706-548-4821 [email protected], or any of the
members of the Pastoral Care Team.
In addition to the team members, other volunteers pro-
vide transportation to UUFA services and medical ap-
pointments and reach out with visits, cards of caring and
celebration. Among the drivers are Jane Kobres, Peggy
and Bill Horton, Hester Meyers, Susan Brown, Michael
Martin, John Bleyle, Diane Bridges, and Suzanne and
Chuck Murphy, and Susan Ponsoldt. Hester Meyers,
Bobby Tyler and Debbie Hardegree send the cards.
Members and friends gather on January 18 for
a Congregational Meeting to Vote on Bylaws
Changes. For more on the changes and a high-
light of January’s board meeting, see page 3.
If you eat food, you are invited to attend the next meet-
ing of the Ethical Eating Discussion group on Tues-
day, February 24, beginning at 6 p.m. Bring a potluck
dish to share and to explain to the group how and/or
why you consider it ethical.
Then join in for a viewing of Cowspiracy (www.cow
spiracy.com). One of its basic points is that animal agri-
culture contributes more to global warming than the
whole transportation sector so why are the big environ-
mental organizations not talking more about it? The
film also discusses the dairy industry.
The Ethical Eating Discussion group is open to any per-
son who eats food: omnivore, herbivore, pescatarian,
vegan, vegetaran, and/or gluten-freer. For further infor-
mation, contact Kate Blane (raya_mead@y ahoo.com).
Education & Fellowship
People Who Eat Wanted!
PAGE 10 TAPESTRY
Sign up Sundays for Enjoyable En-
tertainment Events Only a few seats
remain for some of this spring's En-
joyable Entertainment Events, so
bring your calendars and your
checkbooks to sign up and buy your
tickets on Sundays in the Fellowship
Hall!
Still available are tickets for the fol-
lowing:
January 31, 7 p.m.: Poetry and Pie
hosted by Rich Rayburn and Hilda
Kurtz
February 14, 6 p.m.: Valentine's
Day Dinner at the Fellowship
hosted by Merridy McDaniel,
Carol-Lee Baker, Lee Cornell, Kathy
Stege, and Betty Rice
February 27, 6:30 p.m.: Winter
Break--Chili and Games hosted by
the Kathy and Scott Mason and Jean
and John Blyles
February 28, 7:30 p.m.: Poetry and
Pie hosted by Penny Oldfather, Kay
Giese, and Mary Jean Hartel
April 11, 10 a.m.: Spring Brunch
hosted by Herb and Myrna Adams
West
Enjoyable Entertainment Events are a
great way to engage in fellowship and
fun! All tickets only $15 each with all
proceeds going to UUFA's remaining
contribution to UUA's GIFT pro-
gram! Watch for additional Enjoya-
ble Entertainment Events available
as they become available.
Would you like to host a Spring
Enjoyable Entertainment Event?
Contact Jane Mayer (jamkp42@
hotmail.com or706.614.4926), sign
All levels of players are welcome at
the second Friday Scrabble games!
Meet in the Fellowship Hall at 7 pm.
Often there are cookies!
Book Talks, has been meeting for at
UUFA for 17 years and has dis-
cussed more than 150 fiction and
nonfiction books, suggested by the
members, have been read. Members
take turns preparing a light lunch to
go along with the discussion. Con-
tact Clarissa Finco (706-543-6064) for
more information. A complete list of
books to be discussed this year is here:
http://uuathensga.org/fellowship/fun-
fellowship/ This month’s discussion
will be on The Years the Lights Came
On by Terry Kay.
Second Lookers meets on Tuesday
each month (Feb. 10) at noon is a
chance for men and women who have
retired from jobs, but most certainly,
not from life! We are interested and
interesting older members of the Fel-
lowship who gather to catch up with
each other over brown bag lunches
and coffee followed by a program of
interest to members.
Come check us out. Please con-
tact Sally Randall (706-769-7540,
[email protected]) for more
information or to give a presentation
at a meeting.
Fun & Fellowship
Scrabble, Book Talks, and Second Lookers
Please let John Olive know a week
ahead of time what value (and store)
grocery cards you need. He will
have them waiting for you at the Fel-
lowship the following week. The
Fellowship earns 3% on Publix cards
and 7% on Earthfare cards. Thanks
for supporting the UUFA through
your grocery purchases!
([email protected], 706 424-2715)
NEW MEMBER RECOGNI-
TION SCHEDULED FEB. 15!
Newcomers who have recently
joined the Fellowship will be intro-
duced in a New Member Recogni-
tion Ceremony during the morning
service on Feb. 15. If you have
been considering becoming a mem-
ber and would like to be included in
this ceremony, contact Rev. Alison
or Larry Dendy, chair of the Mem-
bership Committee (ldendy@uga.
edu, 706-546-0431).
Saturday, May
9, from 8-noon.
Save your
Stuff: Watch
for further an-
nouncements
about when and where to deliver
your merchandise contributions.
Save your Energy: Want to help
with the yard sale? Talk to Sherri or
click here. For further information,
contact Sherri Tanner sherritan-
[email protected] or 706.424.8310).
Grocery Fundraiser at
Publix & Earthfare
Stewardship & Fellowship
Enjoyable Entertainment Events
UUFA
A beacon of liberal religion and spirituality in Northeast Georgia
We invite you to experience this caring community and discover how
you might find meaning in this religiously free and open Fellowship.
The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Athens, or UUFA, includes
people of all ages and backgrounds who hold many beliefs. UUFA’s
mission, or purpose, is to care for one another while acting on the
shared principles of Unitarian Universalism. Join the many members
and friends of UUFA who explore what is of ultimate worth, seek per-
sonal truth and meaning, and live out UU values in the community and
beyond.
Unitarian Universalism is a historic religion with roots in the radical
Protestant Reformation. Over the centuries it has welcomed new ide-
as, embraced diverse beliefs, and become an inclusive spiritual tradi-
tion. Please explore this website and discover the Fellowship’s rich
heritage and future promise.
Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Athens
780 Timothy Road, Athens, Georgia 30606
706-546-7914, [email protected]
www.uuathensga.org Office Hours
Monday through Thursday, 10 am-4 pm
Friday, 10 am-noon.
Other times by appointment.
To share news, email [email protected]
For pastoral care concerns, contact Susan Ponsoldt,
CARE Program Coordinator, at 706-548-4821.
Rev. Alison Eskildsen, Minister
706-424-9449 ©, [email protected]
Rev. Dr. Don Randall, Community Minister
706-353-0709, [email protected]
Amber Fetner, Music Director [email protected]
Morgan Watson, Dir. of Religious Education,
Shaye Gambrell, Congregational Administrator
Robert Hjelmstad, Pianist, [email protected]
Angela Brown, [email protected]
Sometimes people forget how easy it is
to bruise one another. Modern social
media makes this especially easy. It
lends anonymity, allowing people to
hurl verbal abuse without fear of retali-
ation or its other consequences. When-
ever abuse targets someone it creates
wounds that require healing.
Another community event held at the
Athens-Clarke County Library during
the MLK holiday highlighted the need
for healing. Two panels were held, the
first consisting of police that focused
on protocols for citizens stopped by
police, what leads to escalating vio-
lence during police actions, and what
arrest statistics indicate about possible
racial profiling or inequities. The sec-
ond panel consisted of a variety of
community leaders, including elected
officials. It addressed minority repre-
sentation in local politics, upcoming
Georgia legislation, and more. Eight
UUFA members attended.
I mention this meeting because it
shows our larger Athens area leaders
reaching across racial, ethnic, and po-
litical differences to create a better
Rev. Alison Wilbur Eskildsen
Community Engagement
“Thank you!” to members who gar-
dened at Hill Chapel Baptist Church
and/or who attended the Rev. Dr.
Martin Luther King, Jr., ecumenical
service at First AME Church on
Mon., Jan. 19. It was a lively service
made especially joyful by our
Choir’s wonderful singing. Especial-
ly meaningful to me was hearing
Rev. A.R. Killian speak about his
feelings upon returning to the United
States after serving in World War II
in Germany. He shared how he was
treated equally and with respect in
Germany, only to return home to
Georgia to feel like a second-class
citizen. He felt betrayed by America
despite his army service.
Rev. Killian’s story poignantly re-
minds me of how racism destroys
one’s soul, or one’s sense of self-
worth. Even beyond racism’s ability
to cause pain, whenever anyone is
marginalized or objectified it signifi-
cantly impacts the person’s confi-
dence, resiliency, and sense of self.
community for all. It gives me hope
that our town will not blow up in vio-
lence like Ferguson, MO. It gives me
hope that we can work together to
meet the needs of all people in and
around Athens.
Religion can offer a means for people
to find happiness by giving guidance
for personal improvement and how to
live more meaningful lives, thus
making their lives happier. Social
justice and religious/ethical values
are interdependent because when jus-
tice is served, people’s lives get bet-
ter. If we’re worried about where our
next meal will come from or whether
we’ll be arrested for ‘driving while
black’, for example, then we can’t
focus on more meaningful activities.
Justice and values are intertwined in
Unitarian Universalism. Our First
Principle asks us to treat each other
with respect and dignity. Our Seventh
Principle affirms that one person’s
happiness is dependent upon an-
other’s happiness. I’m happy that
members of UUFA affirm these and
are active in the larger Athens com-
munity as well as within our UU Fel-
lowship. You are a blessing to the
world!
Wondering with AWE
Family Tree
Religious Education for Children & Youth FEBRUARY 2015
Morgan Watson
Director of Religious Education
www.uuathensga.org~ EDUCATION tab
Spring Schedule & Curricula During both services, children gather with their parents in
the sanctuary for the first 15-20 min and are then serenaded
by the congregation on to their Religious Education (RE)
activities.
8:45-12:45~ Nursery for children 3 & under
Our nursery caregivers, Erin Favre & Marcus Prince are
happy to care for our youngest UUs during services.
Children of all ages may join them during the forum or any
other UUFA activities held between services. Children
through age 4 may attend the nursery during all-ages
services.
9am Service
Discoverers (mixed elementary) meets in the Ocean
Room for the World of Friends world religion and
culture curriculum.
10:15-11:15 (Between Services)
Youth Group (gr 6-12) meets in the Youth Room on
2nd
& 4th
Sundays for Sharing the Journey: Small
Group Ministry with Youth. This UUA Tapestry of
Faith curriculum can be seen at:
http://uua.org/re/tapestry/youth/journey/index.shtml.
Our Whole Lives lifespan human sexuality program begins
the Grade K-1 level Sunday, February 1 with a Parent
Orientation meeting from 1:30-4pm in the Rainbow Room.
Class meets the 2nd
and 4th Sundays through May.
11:30am Service
Chalice Children (preK-K) meets in the Forest Room
for Chalice Children: A UU Preschool Curriculum
Rainbows (gr 1-2) meets in the Rainbow Room for the
World of Friends world religion and culture curriculum.
Seekers (gr 3-5) meets in the Ocean Room for the
World of Friends curriculum. Rainbows & Seekers will
occasionally meet together for their activities.
Children’s Charity Each Sunday during RE Class or the CWS, we pass an
offering can to give children the opportunity to donate to our
children’s charity, Food 2 Kids, a program of the Food Bank
of Northeast Georgia which assists children who are at risk
of hunger by sending them home from school with easy-to-
prepare bags of food. Please encourage your children to
bring their change or dollar bills for this love offering.
February Sunday Activities
Feb. 1 Children’s Worship Service (CWS)
Children & youth begin in the sanctuary, then dismiss to the
Ocean Room for our monthly 1st Sunday Children’s
Worship Service. This Sunday, we introduce the monthly
theme: Buddhism~ Be Here Now. We’ll learn the hymn
Filled with Loving Kindness and act out the story of
Buddha’s birth. Parents are welcomed to either stay for
CWS or go into the Sanctuary.
Feb. 8 Class Lessons
Chalice Children~ Rainbows: Children explore the
science and awe of this colorful phenomenon.
Discoverers, Rainbows, & Seekers~ Buddha in the
Garden: Children learn about the Enlightenment of
Buddha and practice some meditation and chanting.
Feb. 15 Class Lessons
Chalice Children~ Valentine’s Day
Discoverers, Rainbows, & Seekers~ Dragon Parade:
We’ll learn about the customs behind the Chinese New
Year and work on our dragon for next Sunday’s worship
service.
Feb. 22 All- Ages Worship Service
Abundant Good Fortune~ Need a second chance on
your New Year's resolutions? Well, it's out with the old
and in with the new on this Chinese New Year. A Dragon
Dance encourages prosperity. All are invited to wear red
or Asian-inspired clothing for good luck!
Bee Friends Sunday, February 8
You are invited to come to the
All-Ages Forum at 10:15 to
learn about caring for our
pollinators and the Mason
Bees that we will be nurturing
this year. Through this shared
learning experience, all ages
can make new friends, young
and old, insect and human.
Sunday, February 15
Our Bee Friends Workshop if held from 1:30 – 3:00pm.
Again, all ages will work together to build mason bee
houses, plant flowering plants, make signs for our bee
friends and, most importantly, strengthen friendships in
our UUFA community.
Mountain
CONs
Join these gatherings of
UU kids from all over the
southeast for fun and
fellowship in a beautiful
mountain-top setting. Cost
is $100 or $50 if
scholarship application completed three weeks before each
con. For more info and to register, visit The Mountain’s Con
Page. Adults, want a free trip to the Mountain?
Contact Morgan to register as a chaperone to one of our
youth CONs! Fall Con dates are: Elementary (ages 8-11): March 13-15
Middle School (ages 11-14): March 20-22
High School (ages14-18): April 10-12
Whirligig
Wednesdays
February 4
March 4
April 1
May 6
Kids and adults of all ages are invited to play interactive
mixer games, board games, and other fun activities on the
first Wednesday of each month. Folks are also welcomed to
bring their cards or favorite game and encouraged to share a
dish or side at the 6:30 Potluck Dinner in the Fellowship
Hall. Contact Morgan to share a mixer game or activity.
Childcare is available for our littlest UUs, too! Parents
should sign in before attending other UUFA activities.
5:30-7:30pm beginning in the Ocean Room
Simple
Saturdays February 21
March 21
April 18
May 23
Join other UUFA families for
an evening of food and fellowship , usually on the third
Saturday of each month but culminating in a daytime picnic
on Memorial Day weekend. Bring a potluck dish or side to
share and any games or activities children might enjoy.
5:30-7:30pm in the Fellowship Hall
More Fun to Come! Peace Camp for Adults~ March 27-28
Easter Egg Hunt~ Sunday, April 5
Seder Dinner~ Saturday, April 11
Sailing into Summer~ Sunday, May 31
Youth Group~
Footloose
Fridays February 13
March 13
April 17
May 15
Kick off your shoes and leave
the school week woes behind!
Each month, youth in grades 6-
12 can enjoy a variety of activities geared especially for
teens, including games, music, movies, and service
opportunities. February’s event begins with a Wackytines
Party from 6-8pm, where the youth can make Valentine
cards and play wild and wonderful mixer games that’ll be
sure to get the sock feet a-sliding! From 8-10pm, youth can
design and decorate a dragon and practice the Dragon Dance
for February’s Chinese New Year worship service. Invite
your friends and bring your favorite pizza topping, plus a $3-
5 dinner offering. Youth can bring their favorite music to
share at any Footloose Friday. Parents must sign youth in.
6-10pm in the Fellowship Hall
Youth Advisory Council Wednesday, February 25
The Youth Advisory Council, made up of parents, Youth
Advisors, and Youth Reps, meets on the fourth Wednesday
of each month .Join us in coordinating the youth Sunday RE
curriculum, Footloose Fridays, FUNdraisers, service
projects, leadership opportunites, and other events and
outings. 6-7:30pm in the Administrative Office
Religious Education Committee Sunday, February 8
Please join the Religious Education Committee on the
second Sunday of each month to help coordinate all aspects
of the children’s program, including Sunday RE, monthly
gatherings, and special events. 1-2:30pm, Youth Room
Our Rainbow Principles You can find our UU Principles on the back of the order of
service each week, but how do we say these principles in
kid-friendly language? Here are the Rainbow Principles
posted in each classroom. The first letter also stands for a
color of the rainbow to make them easy to remember!
1. Respect the importance and value of all beings. 2. Offer
fair and kind treatment to all. 3. Yearn to learn and grow
thoughout life. 4. Grow by exploring ideas and values
together. 5. Believe in your ideas and act on them. 6. Insist
on peace, freedom, and justice for all, 7. Value our
interdependence with nature.