THE PRESENT - Unity of Surprise | Where the light of Grace

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December 2012 December 2012 December 2012 December 2012 ♥ Volume 12 Issue 12 Volume 12 Issue 12 Volume 12 Issue 12 Volume 12 Issue 12

Everyone is Holy NowEveryone is Holy NowEveryone is Holy NowEveryone is Holy Now

Unity of Surprise ♥ The Church of Practical Christianity ♥ Where Good Happens Page 2

Blessings & BitsBlessings & BitsBlessings & BitsBlessings & Bits

By Reverend Billie MartiniBy Reverend Billie MartiniBy Reverend Billie MartiniBy Reverend Billie Martini Many weeks ago James sang

“Everything is Holy Now” as one of his

Sunday solos. I wasn’t able to get the

song out of my head or my heart. I

kept humming it and singing it as I

went about my week. I was even

guided to use “everything is holy now”

as our Christmas theme.

The following wonderful story came to mind as

an illustration that everything truly is holy now as

we reveal and birth the Christ within.

Once upon a time a seeker heard there was a

council of masters high atop a mountain in a far

away land. This seeker so desired to learn at the

feet of these masters that he sells everything he

owns and heads out on a long journey to reach

them. The journey is filled with hardships, losses

and pain. It takes years and years to get to the

place where they live. As the years pass on this

journey the seeker accumulates a small band of

other seekers, so they travel together. Finally,

they reach the precipice; finally they reach the

location of the masters. They walk into the house

and see the robed and hooded masters all sitting

around a table. Their hearts leap for joy. Finally,

after this arduous journey, they have arrived.

They rush to the table only to find the robes emp-

ty. They’re shocked, dismayed and disheartened.

But then they come to a realization, they are to

put on the robes and become the Masters.

Dearest Ones,

Everything and everyone is holy now. It’s time for

us to put on the robes and live from the Christ

consciousness within, to become the masters. It’s

time for us to live as God’s highest truth. It’s time

for us to realize, in the holy now, that our

presence is a present, that we are gifts of God.

Let us put on the robe of the highest expression of

the Christ we can be. Let us put on the robe of

knowing, allowing the Christ consciousness to be

the center and circumference of our lives, the

beginning and endless part of us. Let us be fully

aware that the Christ consciousness is the eternal

reality of us, the everlasting power within us, the

eternal good working through us, the infinite love

impelling us, the limitless peace and calm within

us. The Presence is the perfect life living in us, as

us and through us. It ‘s the joy of the soul and the

light illumining us. It is our whole being!

Thank you for being a gift to the world!

Merry Christ….mas….Happy New Year,

Reverend Billie

Christmas Christmas Christmas Christmas

Communion ServiceCommunion ServiceCommunion ServiceCommunion Service December 9th at 11:45 am

Join the Unity of Surprise Prayer Chaplains and

Reverend Billie as we celebrate a special Christ-

mas Communion Service using Nativity wafers

called Oplatki Wafers imported from Poland and

donated by Carolyn Sodini. This communion time

will be tender and touching, a time of love and

forgiveness helping us to let go of 2012 and to

prepare ourselves for 2013.

Note: Birthday & Anniversary Sunday will also be

celebrated on December 9th.


“First Monday’s with Your Self”“First Monday’s with Your Self”“First Monday’s with Your Self”“First Monday’s with Your Self”

FacilitatorFacilitatorFacilitatorFacilitator————Helen SlemonsHelen SlemonsHelen SlemonsHelen Slemons There’s still time to join us!

1:00—3:00 pm (1st Monday of the month)

October 2012 through May 2013

Myrtle Fillmore Room

The Gift of Years by Joan Chittister. This very

readable book has many short chapters related

to aging gracefully. This review of the book

comes from Amazon:

Not only accepting but also celebrating getting

old, this inspirational and illuminating book looks

at the many facets of the aging process, from

purposes and challenges to struggles and sur-

prises. Central throughout is a call to cherish the

blessing of aging as a natural part of life that is

active, productive, and deeply rewarding.

Perhaps the most important dimension revealed

lies in the awareness that there is a purpose to

aging and intention built into every stage of life.

Chittister reflects on many key issues, including

the temptation towards isolation, the need to

stay involved, the importance of health and

well-being, what happens when old relation-

ships end or shift, the fear of tomorrow, and the

mystery of forever. Readers are encouraged to

surmount their fears of getting older and find

beauty in aging well.

During each monthly group meeting, we will

discuss several chapters which you will have read

at home before we meet (about 25 pages each

month). After the discussion, you’ll have an

opportunity for further reflection on the topics

through journaling.

The books are available through the Unity of

Surprise book store. There is no fee for this class. A

love offering will be accepted.

Hope to see you December 3rd. Please call (623)

544-8202 or email [email protected] if you

have any questions about the class.

Biography

Helen, a member of Unity of Surprise, is a certified

Journal to the Self instructor. She strongly believes

in the healing and transforming power of journal

writing. She is an experienced small group facilita-

tor with graduate degrees in Counseling and Ger-

ontology, Technical and Scientific Writing, English

and Reading, and Transpersonal Psychology.

Confidential Prayer Support Confidential Prayer Support Confidential Prayer Support Confidential Prayer Support Here to pray with youHere to pray with youHere to pray with youHere to pray with you

The Unity of Surprise High Watchers prayer team

trusts in the creative, regenerating, transformative

power of Divine Love.

Through God’s Wisdom, we immerse the dear

ones for whom we pray in God’s absolute love.

We see these Beloved as perfect, whole &

complete, limitless & free.

A Prayer Request box is located on the information

counter in the lobby and also in the Sanctuary

each Sunday.

Remember, God is always with you. All His

blessings and goodness are yours by divine

inheritance. God is the freeing transformative

power within; infinite Intelligence and Wisdom,

always your light and inspiration, healing and

harmonizing in every way.

I give birth to the Christ potential through loving acceptance and

gentle example.


Saturday, December 8, 2012 at 5:00 PM

The Playful Sisters of Unity of Surprise will kick-off

the holiday season with a Progressive Dinner

Christmas Celebration which begins at 5:00 PM

Saturday, December 8. Any woman who

attends Unity of Surprise is encouraged to attend

the event.

Get to know other Unity “sisters,” view exciting

Christmas decorations, and enjoy scrumptious

eats at the gala affair. Come dressed in your

holiday finery if you wish.

The event begins with hors d’oeuvres at the

home of (a volunteer hostess is needed); pro-

ceeds to the main course go to Lynda Thomas

(23207 N Padaro Court, Sun City West), and ends

with dessert at Valerie Griffin’s house, (17826 N

131st Street, Sun City West). Some Christmas

singing might also be included.

A sign up sheet and map with addresses will be

available at the church. The deadline for

registering for the event is December 2nd.

Those wishing to carpool can meet at the church

at 4:30 pm, Saturday December 8.

You can contribute to the menu by contacting

the person hosting the type of food you’d like to

bring. Or, you can contact Lynda Thomas and

make a love offering toward the cost of the main

meal.

If you wish to volunteer as a hostess for hors

d’oeuvres, or if you have questions, call or

email Valerie Griffin at 480-459-8603,

[email protected] or Patti Masters at

623-889-1429, [email protected].

Dynamic Women of UnityDynamic Women of UnityDynamic Women of UnityDynamic Women of Unity

Unity Playful Sisters Unity Playful Sisters Unity Playful Sisters Unity Playful Sisters

Birthday LunchBirthday LunchBirthday LunchBirthday Lunch

ALL December BIRTHDAYS! ALL December BIRTHDAYS! ALL December BIRTHDAYS! ALL December BIRTHDAYS! SATURDAY, December 8 at 10:00 AM

Charles Fillmore Room

Lynda Thomas is cooking a great brunch for all of

you who have December birthdays and Reverend

Billie is leading the celebration.

Join us for a fun-filled, reflective morning of sharing

and laughter.

See you here!

Bettie Wright ♫ December 9

Robert Jacobson ♫ December 11

Carol Anderson ♫ December 14

Jim Young ♫ December 18

Donna Eisenbaugh ♫ December 19

Diane Kucera ♫ December 25

Carol Ricketts ♫ December 25

Ken Weidner ♫ December 26

Carol Beyer ♫ December 31

I am a gift to the world.


Let’s Make Music Let’s Make Music Let’s Make Music Let’s Make Music

By James Crowley By James Crowley By James Crowley By James Crowley

It’s that time of year, again, when

there’s a chill in the air and sleigh bells can be

heard in the distance on a cold winter’s night. In

short… it’s the most wonderful time of the year!

As such, one of my favorite things to do, during

this time of year, is decorate my house. It’s

something I’ve been doing since I was a

teenager; sawing wood, painting decorations,

stringing lights all over the house. I take particular

delight in creating original decorations that you

wouldn’t find in Wal-Mart or Home Depot.

I also look forward to the baking of treats, candy

as well as cakes and pies, especially pumpkin!

Unfortunately, this also means that any weight I

might lose during the year will most likely be

found during this last month of the year. Actually,

I’ve been working on the treats and decorating

since the middle of November.

But most of all, this time of year makes me think

about family, community, and how fortunate I

am to be able to do the things I do—singing,

playing the piano, writing, and everything else I

enjoy. So, get out and have a wonderful

Christmas, this year. Sing a carol or two… or

three! Maybe even have a mug of hot

chocolate or a few s’mores. I know I will!

Have a wonderful December, and an even

better Christmas!

Let’s Make Music!

James Crowley

Tuesday, December 11

1:00—2:30 PM in the Myrtle Fillmore Room

Reverend Billie Martini Officiating

Experience with us the power of group focus and

healing potential of that focus for our individual

needs. Our healing circle uses the concepts and

work of Myrtle Fillmore and expands the healing

power within us. Our circle embraces the concept

of Jesus—whenever two or more are gathered in

his name there is love and greater power—and

the lessons he taught us about helping each other

see the wholeness of our bodies and lives.

Join us from 1 to 2:30 PM on Tuesday, December

11th in the Myrtle Fillmore Room.

Everyone is welcome.

A love offering will be accepted.

A Course in MiraclesA Course in MiraclesA Course in MiraclesA Course in Miracles Facilitator—Reverend Hal Lafler

Friday’s from 1:30—3:00 PM

Serenity Room

A Course in Miracles (ACIM) is a self-study curricu-

lum that aims to assist its readers in achieving

spiritual transformation. The book describes a

purely non-dualistic philosophy of forgiveness and

includes what are meant to be practical lessons

and applications for the practice of forgiveness

in one's daily life. The introduction to the book

contains the following summary, "Nothing real can

be threatened. Nothing unreal exists. Herein lies

the peace of God." (Ref: Wikipedia)

For more information call Reverend Hal Lafler at

(623) 215-3080. This study group is open ended. Feel

free to drop in any Friday you choose to. A love

offering is accepted.

The gifts of Spirit are faith, love, peace and joy.

Healing CircleHealing CircleHealing CircleHealing Circle

Reverend Billie Martini Reverend Billie Martini Reverend Billie Martini Reverend Billie Martini


What an inspiring celebration we

had on Sunday, Veterans Day for

both our Veterans and Volunteers.

I know we have always said that

we have about 80% participation

in our volunteers at Unity of Sur-

prise but I guess that was just a

statement until everyone stood up. When Rever-

end Billie asked me to take on being the Volun-

teer Coordinator, I mainly thought about Hospi-

tality, Ushers and Greeters, Newsletters and the

Bookstore. What a surprise I found when I re-

viewed all the Volunteer Teams we have! There

are so many “behind the scenes” people making

Unity of Surprise really special. I am excited to get

to know everyone and help find homes for all

those volunteers who are looking to use their spe-

cial talents and gifts.

My past business experience has mainly been

related to commercial real estate, real estate

acquisitions and paralegal work, or as I refer to it

as the “logic business”. I’ve lived in Washington

State, California, and Arizona and usually been

active in the community where I lived. I’ve

worked with many volunteer groups in the past

but mainly related to social groups and educa-

tional trainings. I haven’t experienced the spiritu-

al volunteering that I have seen at Unity of sur-

prise. Our church community is so blessed and I

am so blessed to be an active part of the spiritu-

al growth we all share. I am so looking forward to

what I can contribute and what I will be learning

from the emotional/spiritual side of my life.

There are so many opportunities within the volun-

teer teams to serve. I didn’t even know we had a

History Team that has been scrapbooking the

history and photos of the Life of Unity

of Surprise. With Rich and Joy returning

to the Chicago area, there is an opening for some-

one who loves scrapbooking to step into that Team.

Whatever you’re calling, let me know because you

may find there is already a Team for that.

Greetings and Blessings,

Carol Sarna

Byron Katie WorkshopByron Katie WorkshopByron Katie WorkshopByron Katie Workshop The 4th Monday, 1-2 PM

Myrtle Fillmore Room

Another summer is gone, and we’re

gearing up for the exciting upcoming

events. THE WORK by Byron Katie open workshops

are facilitated by Molly Harala, with backup team of

Lynda Thomas and Joyce Hahn. This is an open class

for anyone who is interested in doing “The Work” to-

gether in a safe and supportive group setting. Come

one, come all. This is for anyone who is interested or

just curious, whether you have done “The Work” or

not.

For those new to “The Work”, Reading Katie’s book,

Loving What Is (which is available in our book store) is

helpful, but not required.

We will meet in the Myrtle Fillmore room every 4th

Monday afternoon from 1:00—2:30 PM.

See you here Where Good Happens.

Selfless ServiceSelfless ServiceSelfless ServiceSelfless Service

By Carol Sarna By Carol Sarna By Carol Sarna By Carol Sarna

Co-chairs: Reverend, Dr. Carol Beyer and

Reverend Julia Leakey

Light coming into the darknessLight coming into the darknessLight coming into the darknessLight coming into the darkness

By Reverend Carol Beyer

Thursday

December 13

1:30—3:30 PM—Myrtle Fillmore Room

Very early in the history of humanity the light of the

sun was worshiped as the creator of life itself.

Great devotion to the light began. This is a won-

derful symbol for us to ponder since many religions

have festivals of light. The celebrations began

honoring the Light of the son (Son) and the light

within as well as other expressions of light. Most

traditions celebrate during the winter months

when the light of the day is shortest.

Please join us this winter to learn about several

traditions as we celebrate the season. We will be

meeting from 1:30—3:30 on Thursday, December

13th. We’ll see you there.

Input WantedInput WantedInput WantedInput Wanted

Were you surprised when you opened your mail

and read your letter to God, your covenant for

this year?

Reverend Billie would like to share your experience

of our Burning Bowl Ceremony and how this

process of releasing the old and affirming the new

has helped you grow spiritually.

Please email her at [email protected] if you’d

like to share.


Dynamic Spiritual WomenDynamic Spiritual WomenDynamic Spiritual WomenDynamic Spiritual Women

Friday, December 21 at 6:30 PM

Sanctuary

There can be calm in the midst of noise.

My mind quiets as I play…

suspending its judgments,

rehearsals, and self-reproaching…

Time slows down…

...just enough

that I begin to see the moments. I become

grounded and aware of myself

and of others

and of the music we have become.

There can be such healing in Joy.

This poem is by Rich Cormier and it speaks to my

heart. The next Unity of Surprise Drumming Circle

is scheduled for Friday, December 16th beginning

at 6:30 pm in the Sanctuary.

Bring a drum or any other instrument, plus we

have some “Toys of Sound” like rattles and

shakers to share. We are meeting back in the

sanctuary because some of our snowbirds are

back and we have more room. We had the

Drumming Circle there last month and it was such

a great time together. Details on our new place

and time will be distributed at this final meeting.

Fellowship After

Feel free to bring a treat to share. After the

Drumming Circle, and after we have put our toys

away, we can use the patio tables and chairs

where we can enjoy some fellowship and possibly

share some treats together. Come Join the

celebration!

Thank you, I consider this to be an honor.

Joyce Hahn, Facilitator

(623) 266-3331

Drumming Circle atDrumming Circle atDrumming Circle atDrumming Circle at

Unity of SurpriseUnity of SurpriseUnity of SurpriseUnity of Surprise

I count my blessings

great and small.


We’re back and ready to serve you delicious

flavored coffee before and after the Worship

Celebration. Meet our new barista’s. Inquire

about how to become a barista.

Come to church early and enjoy your favorite

coffee drink and some good conversation. Our

baristas are on duty each Sunday morning

9:00—9:35 am and again after the worship

celebration.

You’ll find us located in the Lobby across from

the Living Light Bookstore. Enjoy your beverage,

socialize, or shop the bookstore.

A love offering is accepted.

Pilgrimage Pilgrimage Pilgrimage Pilgrimage

to the to the to the to the Is a trip to the Holy Land on your “bucket” list?

Have you always wanted to see Bethlehem,

Jerusalem and Nazareth? Does a trip with

Reverend Billie and your Unity of Surprise family

sound like the trip for you?

Start planning now for our May 2014 trip to the

Holy Land.

Our Unity Trip Coordinator has put together a

Pilgrimage you won’t want to miss!

Get your Itinerary flyer at the information counter

and put your name on the list of interested

travelers. Tell your friends too,

everyone is welcome.

Dottie Hurd

Unity Trip Coordinator

14495 W RH Johnson Blvd Sun City West, AZ 85375 Phone: 623.242.8202

Email: [email protected]

Early Bird Early Bird Early Bird Early Bird

Coffee Service Coffee Service Coffee Service Coffee Service StreetLightUSA is a non-profit

tax-exempt public charitable

organization comprised of

passionate individuals who have

the vision and dedication to

stand against child rape, by caring for and healing

child victims of sex trafficking/exploitation. Each

girl that has been rescued and placed in

StreetLightUSA has a chance at a new life.

StreetLightUSA encourages schooling, provides a

safe house to live in, counseling, and more.

Stop by the church lobby and visit our Christmas

‘Angel’ tree with in-kind donation ideas for the girls.

Unity of Surprise is providing an opportunity for you

to serve in this unique way this holiday season. Just

pick up your Angel and follow the message on the

card, then return your gift by December 20th. Your

gifts will be taken to the organization by special

delivery.

We are so blessed…. Are you looking for a way to

share your blessings? Consider joining others here

at Unity of Surprise this holiday season and give a

gift that keeps on giving.

Merry Christmas!

Just a ReminderJust a ReminderJust a ReminderJust a Reminder

Sunday lessons can be heard on pod cast. Go to

our website www.unityofsurprise.org.

We’d also like to offer video on our website. If

interested in this service opportunity, call Carol

Sarna at (425) 766-0945.

Be an Angel and Give toBe an Angel and Give toBe an Angel and Give toBe an Angel and Give to

StreetLightUSA this ChristmasStreetLightUSA this ChristmasStreetLightUSA this ChristmasStreetLightUSA this Christmas SM

Holy LandHoly LandHoly LandHoly Land

My husband and I recently found ourselves with

front row seats to Hurricane Sandy from the 34th

floor of a Midtown Manhattan hotel for a few days.

It was interesting to watch the people we encoun-

tered. And what I remember is a hotel staff that

stayed for several nights while their loved ones

were managing crisis at home, but they never

showed it in their smiling, loving service to those of

us held captive. We saw it in people helping

others, and doing it with joy. And we saw it in the

recipients of service. And we all watched it unfold

on the news.

We serve in so many ways, big and small. We don’t

have to be employed or trained in the service

industry to serve. We serve in our communities, in

our personal lives. We serve with the unique gifts of

ourselves. Some of the greatest gifts of service will

never make the news; they are acts that are

seemingly small but are large to the recipient.

How are you serving? I will venture to guess that

you are serving far more than you think you are.

Make a list, check it twice and then think about

how you can expand that list. A very wise person

once said, “The magic in life sits just outside your

comfort zone.”

So, this Christmas, celebrate the joy of the season

by finding interesting ways to serve that reach

beyond where you have been before. Do you

have a neighbor who is home bound that could

represent service with the gift of a visit, no matter

how brief” Find new ways to serve that are also fun

and make your heart sing and makes the world

smile. Giving of your time and your talents and

your treasures is the heart of Christmas. And smile

when someone gives the gift of service to you.

We live to serve and we serve to live. May these

words live through you this Christmas. Have a

blessed, wonderful, sacred serving, holiday season.

Christmas! It evokes so many feelings

and memories, but for most of us, it is a

time of celebration, a time of Joy, a

time of gift giving.

And what is a way to celebrate joyful

gift giving? Have we considered that one of the

most joyful gifts we can give and receive is the gift

of Service? It is a gift that most clearly represents this

season of celebration and one that just flows easily

into your days when the holidays have passed.

Service. It often carries with it uncomfortable

feelings, but we are not talking about selling your

possessions and giving the money away. We are

not talking about sacrifice or discomfort or losing

ourselves in “doing” to avoid other aspects of our

lives or to be accepted by others. We are talking

about the service we do when we realize in our

spiritual growth that we give for the joy of it. We

don’t give to get something back, even though that

is often the result because in giving, we learn to

accept receiving.

I see so much evidence of this joyful service in our

own church community. The smile that greets me on

Sunday with a program, the people who have

prayer in service over our Sanctuary, those who

work through the week to keep us clean or spiritually

educated, and serve in endless volunteer ways. I

see it in our staff, and especially in our minister. I

hear it in our music. I experience this gift of service

with a dedicated Board, who joyfully serve this

community. And I see it in the many households in

our congregation where individuals are providing

sacred service to a loved one or a neighbor or

friend who is in need because of physical or other

challenges. I also see it in the smiles of the people in

our local shops and businesses. We all know when

we have been joyfully served and when we

haven’t!

We also don’t have to wait for a crisis to serve.

Side By SideSide By SideSide By SideSide By Side

By Carolyn Sodini, SecretaryBy Carolyn Sodini, SecretaryBy Carolyn Sodini, SecretaryBy Carolyn Sodini, Secretary


As I look back at this year, this has

been a year of transformation for

me. I told God that I wanted to

have a year of new experiences

and I can tell you that God took my

request very seriously. The one thing

that I did not realize when I made

my request is that in order to experience new

things in life that I had to give up some old ways of

thinking and feeling. Now, I keep telling myself that

giving up the old for something new should be an

easy task but if it is something that I have believed

in for a long period of time then letting go of part

of it is not so easy. And if I am truly honest with my-

self, there is some degree of comfort in staying with

the old ways because at least I know what they

are and usually know what the outcome with be.

One of my new experiences this year has been

ballroom dancing. In my mind, this task was only a

matter of learning the steps of the dance so it

should be great fun. However, behind the scenes,

it started to be so much more than that. With every

lesson, the steps were starting to get more compli-

cated. Therefore in order to continue dancing, I

had to start turning my thoughts of I can’t into I

can. I had to turn feelings of I am not good

enough into good is the only thing I can be, and

last but not least, I had to let go my fear of failure

and just have fun at something that I love to do. By

letting go of my old ways of thinking, I have been

able to have a wonderful new experience at

dancing.

I have also found with all my new experiences this

year that I also have to be willing to live in the land

of the unknown for awhile. I did not appreciate this

at first but it has taught me in a very big way to

surrender and trust God. I have learned that I can

Prayer Chaplain CornerPrayer Chaplain CornerPrayer Chaplain CornerPrayer Chaplain Corner

By Reverend Denise OstendorfBy Reverend Denise OstendorfBy Reverend Denise OstendorfBy Reverend Denise Ostendorf be confident in all that I do because

God is always with me. God has supported me

with every new step that I have taken.

God can do amazing things when we surrender

our worries and trust in Him. Life is supposed to be

adventure. This means that sometimes we have

to move out of our comfort zone and see what

else life can bring. In the Bible we are told to seek

the truth and the truth shall set us free. So let’s

claim our freedom by living the truth. The truth is

that you are a precious child of God and know

that you can be confident in all that you desire to

do because God is always with you.

I put on the robe of the

Master. I am the Christ!

Front Row: Marty Gonyea, Discernmentarian; Sherry Ritchie

Special Member

Back Row: Jan Karns, President; Pat Shipley, Wisdom

Council; Carolyn Sodini, Secretary; Denise Ostendorf,

Treasurer; Reverend Billie Martini, Minister; Joyce Hahn,

Vice President and Special Events Coordinator


Friday, December 28, 10:00 AM—Noon

Charles Fillmore Room

I just want to say a big thank you to all of you who

have contributed yarn to our Purls of Wisdom Craft

Club. It is so very much appreciated by all of us

and keeps us busy each month.

This past week I donated to the Salvation Army a

large bag of hats which we made from looms and

another large bag of crocheted lap covers also

know as lap-gans. The hats are being forwarded

to New York and New Jersey to help with the Hurri-

cane Sandy Relief Operation and the lap-gans go

to local nursing homes. They will be appreciated

by many!

In September a donation of pillows was given to

the Relief for Life Cancer Program for women

surviving breast cancer. These pillow are used as a

cushion between the survivor and the car seat

belt.

If you should be cleaning out a closet and run

across any yarn and unused material we would be

happy to take them off your hands. Drop them off

on Sunday or with Kathryn at the office during the

week. If you’d like to see us in production just stop

by on the last Friday of the month between 10 AM

and Noon to see our busy hands at work. We

might even put you to work.

Thanks again for your donations which will benefit

so many.

Gayle Whitmer and Sherry Ritchie

For more information, contact Galye Whitmer at

(623) 975-7421 or email: [email protected] or just

show up!

‘Purls of Wisdom’ Craft Club‘Purls of Wisdom’ Craft Club‘Purls of Wisdom’ Craft Club‘Purls of Wisdom’ Craft Club

A Community Outreach A Community Outreach A Community Outreach A Community Outreach The Gift of Giving

One year my sister received a bag full of gifts

left on her porch. There was a note inside, thank-

ing her for making a difference in so many lives.

She worked at a children’s home, so we figured it

had to do something with that, but had no idea

who it was from. Now, every year we pass that on

and pick one person or family to leave a bag of

gifts for or sometimes just a simple gift basket. The

people that we have picked have been both

people we knew and people that we didn’t.

-Kim and Jackie’s Christmas Tradition

Christmas Dinner (Simple but Nice)

This may seem simple, but it has been a tradi-

tion for my whole family to help plan and cook

Christmas dinner. It is SO nice not being the only

one in the kitchen and responsible for dinner.

Everyone picks their favorite dish and prepares it

themselves. Everyone has enjoyed preparing their

own specialty and the best part is that we are all

there together having fun with it.

-Debbie’s Holiday Tradition

Journal Outburst

Every December everyone in my family writes

a journal entry to sum up their thoughts about the

current year and their hopes for the following

year. They can be silly, wild, heartfelt or whatever

they feel like writing about. Then on Christmas Eve

everyone takes turns reading theirs out loud and

then they are all put together in a notebook.

-The Olson’s Family Christmas Tradition

Fun Christmas TraditionsFun Christmas TraditionsFun Christmas TraditionsFun Christmas Traditions

For Any FamilyFor Any FamilyFor Any FamilyFor Any Family

All my needs are

provided for.

Holiday Happenings

The Radio City Christmas Program

December 2 at 10:00 am

Please join us for fun and glorious Christmas music featuring The Unity Rockettes

and The Unity of Surprise Orchestra.

Christmas Communion Service

December 9th at 11:45 am Join the Unity of Surprise Prayer Chaplains and Reverend Billie as we celebrate a special

Christmas Communion Service using Nativity wafers called Oplatki Wafers imported from

Poland and donated by Carolyn Sodini. This communion time will be tender and touching, a

time of love and forgiveness helping us to let go of 2012 and to prepare ourselves for 2013.

Christmas Eve Candle Lighting Service

Monday, December 24 at 5:00 pm You won’t want to miss our beautiful traditional Unity Christmas Eve Service

complete with a powerful message and magical music.

Old Fashioned Christmas Morning

Tuesday, December 25 at 10:00 am

Join your Unity family and friends, Reverend Billie and James Crowley for this

intimate Christmas morning celebration. Our espresso bar will be open serving coffee, hot

chocolate, and teas. Yummy brunch items will be offered including cinnamon rolls,

Christmas breads and ham. There will be gifts for everyone, stories, carols, inspirations,

joy, laughter, surprises and tons of fun for everyone. You can even

come to the party with your pj’s, robes and slippers.

New Year’s Eve Burning Bowl Service and Party

Monday, December 31 at 5:00 pm Reverend Billie will lead us in this traditional meditative service that helps us release

2012 and all those things in consciousness that no longer serve us. After the releasing,

we focus on affirming our good by writing our covenants for the new year,

clarifying our intentions for 2013. Then we party!

Bring a favorite snack or dessert to share. Fun and fellowship for everyone!


For Your ReferenceFor Your ReferenceFor Your ReferenceFor Your Reference

Contact Information Contact Information Contact Information Contact Information Our new Sanctuary is such a beautiful place for

special ceremonies.

Unity of Surprise has many ordained ministers to

choose from for your special occasion.

Call the church office for details and available

dates—(623) 214-3884.

Space AvailableSpace AvailableSpace AvailableSpace Available

Are your or your study group looking for a room

to hold class during the week or early evening?

We have space available for individuals and

groups devoted to mind, body, spirit connection.

Not sure that’s you? Call Kathryn for more infor-

mation, (623) 214-3884, Mon.—Thurs. from 9:30—

4:30 pm or email [email protected].

Annual January Boot Camp Annual January Boot Camp Annual January Boot Camp Annual January Boot Camp Saturday, January 19, 10:00 am—5:00 pm

Want to attend a workshop like no other? The

Unity of Surprise Annual Boot Camp experience is

like no other.

This yearly seminar is offered as a way for current

board and wisdom council members, prospec-

tive board members, team leaders and everyone

interested in a comprehensive Unity study to

come together to learn and grow.

Reverend Billie will be using the book Do Greater

Things by Felicia Blanco Searcy, available in

the Living Light Bookstore, as the text for the

workshop. Please come to the workshop with

the book read.

Bring a brown bag lunch, beverages will be

provided.

As with all classes and events at Unity of Surprise,

there is no charge, a love offering will be

accepted.

Minister

Reverend Billie Martini

Minister E-mail: [email protected]

Call Reverend Billie if you would like prayer, a home

or hospital visit, or spiritual counseling. She is also

available for baptisms, christenings, memorial or

funeral services, weddings, office or home blessings.

Music Director

James Crowley

[email protected]

Administrator

Kathryn Clouther

Church E-mail

[email protected]

Volunteer Coordinator

Carol Sarna

623 255-4965 or 425 766-0945

E-mail

[email protected]

Church Main Telephone Number

623 214-3884

Church Fax

623 214-5223

Reverend Billie Martini—Option 1

Kathryn & General Information—Option 2

Prayer & Inspiration—Option 3

Office Hours

Monday—Thursday

9:30—5:00 PM

Closed on Friday for classes.

Church Website

www.unityofsurprise.org

Tuesday Whispers

Connect mid-week with an inspiration e-mail

message. To sign up, e-mail Reverend Billie at

[email protected].

Planning a Wedding, Vow Planning a Wedding, Vow Planning a Wedding, Vow Planning a Wedding, Vow

Renewal or Christening? Renewal or Christening? Renewal or Christening? Renewal or Christening?

2222 A Radio City Christmas

Everything is Holy Now—even Santa

Food Bank Sunday Share your daily bread by bringing dry food items & toiletries, to

3333

1st Monday’s with Your Self

1—3:00 PM Helen Slemons

Facilitator

(Myrtle Fillmore)

4444

Faith Lift 11:00 AM

Reverend Billie Facilitator

(Myrtle Fillmore)

5555

6666

7777 ACIM

1:30—3:00 PM Reverend Hal

8888 Bir thday Brunch

10:00 AM (ALL Dec. Birth-

days)

(Charles Room) ~~~~~~~~~~

UPS Christmas

9999 Expecting 2nd Sunday

in Advent (Love)

BIRTHDAY & ANNIVERSARY SUNDAY

Communion Sunday 11:45 AM

10101010

11111111 Faith Lift at 11 AM

Healing Service 1:00 PM


(Myrtle Fillmore)

12121212

13131313 Dynamic Spiritual

Women

Light Coming into the Darkness

1:30—3:30 PM Rev. Carol Beyer

Facilitator (Myrtle Fillmore)

14141414 ACIM

1:30—3:00 PM

(Serenity Room)

15151515

16161616 Silent Night, Holy Night

3rd Sunday in Advent (Peace)

17171717 Soul Collage NEW CLASS

Marilyn Watkins

1:30—3:30

(Charles Room)

18181818 Faith Lift 11:00 AM


(Myrtle Fillmore)

19191919

20202020 21212121 ACIM

1:30—3:00 PM (Serenity Room) ~~~~~~~~~~~

Drumming Circle

6:30 PM

(Sanctuary)

22222222

23232323 Oh, Come all ye

Faithful

4th Sunday In Advent

(Faith)

24242424 Byron Katie The Work’s

Study Group 1—2:30 PM

(Myrtle Fillmore)

Christmas Eve Service 5:00 PM

25252525 Old Fashioned

Christmas Morning

10:000 AM

26262626 27272727 28282828 ACIM

1:30—3:00 PM

(Serenity Room) ~~~~~~~~~~~

Purls of Wisdom 10 AM—Noon

(Charles Room)

29292929

30303030 Take a Deep

Breath

31313131 New Years Eve Burning Bowl

Service & Party

5:00 PM

SundaySundaySundaySunday ServiceServiceServiceService 10 AM10 AM10 AM10 AM

Sign up SheetsSign up SheetsSign up SheetsSign up Sheets are located on are located on are located on are located on the Information the Information the Information the Information counter off the counter off the counter off the counter off the

lobby. lobby. lobby. lobby.

DecemberDecemberDecemberDecember

Everything is Holy NowEverything is Holy NowEverything is Holy NowEverything is Holy NowEverything is Holy NowEverything is Holy NowEverything is Holy NowEverything is Holy Now

Sun.Sun.Sun.Sun.Sun.Sun.Sun.Sun. Mon. Tues.Mon. Tues.Mon. Tues.Mon. Tues.Mon. Tues.Mon. Tues.Mon. Tues.Mon. Tues. Wed. Thurs. Fri. Sat.Wed. Thurs. Fri. Sat.Wed. Thurs. Fri. Sat.Wed. Thurs. Fri. Sat.Wed. Thurs. Fri. Sat.Wed. Thurs. Fri. Sat.Wed. Thurs. Fri. Sat.Wed. Thurs. Fri. Sat.

Unity of Surprise 14495 W RH Johnson Blvd

Sun City West, AZ 85375-5671 unityofsurprise.org

[email protected] Phone: (623) 214-3884

Fax: (623) 214-5223

U.S. Postage Paid Sun City, AZ

Permit No. 339 Nonprofit Organization

UNITY OF SURPRISE—WHERE GOOD HAPPENS

Unity Worldwide Ministries ♥ Affiliated with Unity ♥ Publishers of the Daily Word

Member of the International New Thought Alliance

Everything is Holy Now 10:00 AM Service

December

2

“Everything is Holy Now—even Santa” A Radio City Christmas Reverend Billie Martini

December

9

“Expecting” 2nd Sunday of Advent ~ Love

Communion Sunday Reverend Billie Martini

December

16

“Silent Night, Holy Night” 3rd Sunday of Advent ~ Peace


December

23

“Oh, Come all ye Faithful” 4th Sunday of Advent ~ Faith


December 30

“Take a Deep Breath” Reverend Billie Martini

Board of Trustees

Jan Karns—President

Joyce Hahn—Vice President/Special Events Coordinator

Carolyn Sodini—Secretary

Denise Ostendorf—Treasurer

Reverend Marcia Gonyea—Discernmentarian

Sherry Ritchie—Support Member

Wisdom Council Pat Shipley

Documents

THE PRESENT - Unity of Surprise | Where the light of Grace