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UUSD Newsletter ■ January 2015
Jan. 4 — Begin Again: The New Year tradition revolves around the idea that we see the old year end and the new year begin, giving us a sense that things will be better this year – a time of hope, generally. Rev. Smith focuses on the good that has come out of last the year that will bring the promise of spiritual personal renewal and the strength to create a better world, sometimes an unimaginable task. We can learn from our mistakes and find ways not to repeat them. Jan. 11 — The Hole in the Soul: Using the PBS Masterpiece Theater presentation God on Trial, Paul Sharp, member of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship at Easton, will explore how Unitarianism allows us to creatively search for Spirituality, while maintaining a passionate commitment to science and reason. Jan. 18 — Music and Meaning: Rev. Smith, along with our middle school children and religious education staff and teachers, present a service of music and words. The children have been exploring the values of our principles as reflected in some of their favorite music. This has been a wonderful process for all involved. Come and listen; view the world through their ears and eyes. Jan. 25 — Guns of Outrageous Misfortune: It seems that when there is a gun involved in mass shootings that gun sales go up...and the lessons of gun control go down. Rev. Smith addresses what seems so obvious to some and oblivious to others.
Sunday Services at 10:00 a.m.
Religious Education & Childcare
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Moorings ……………..…………………………….. 2 President’s Column ……………………………. 3 Lifespan Faith Development ..……………. 4 New Home Updates ……………………………. 5-‐6 Board of Trustees Highlights ……………..6-‐7 Did You Know …………………………………….. 7-‐8 Committee News & Events .…………………. 8-‐12 Get to Know Our Committees ………..8-‐9 Monthly Highlights & Notices ……………. 13 Contacts ………………………………………………. 14
REMEMBERING JANE GERMAIN Jane Germain (30163 Territory Trail, Ocean View, DE 19970) passed away on Sunday, December 28 at age 89. She was at home with her daughter (Alyce Richter), who lived with her. Jane had been a UUSD member since 2000 and received the Clara Barton Award last fall. Jane was also our first newsletter editor. Cards may be sent to her daughter, Alyce, at the above address. Our thoughts go out to the entire family.
Unitarian Universalists of Southern Delaware (UUSD) 33739 Marsh Rd. #2, Lewes DE 19958 � 302-‐645-‐6334 � uussd.org
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MOORINGS — Rev. D Michael Smith
[2015! For those of us who remember reading futuristic novels like 1984 or 2001: A Space Odyssey must just be reeling right now. And we are still so young….] Lately I have given a number of prophetic sermons; yes, some seem angry and bitter, and not terribly filled with hope. For me, it felt cathartic to present them. Things needed to be said that were not easy to hear. Along with pastoral sermons, we sometimes need these uncomfortable sermons. And, I know many of you felt the same way. It is best, sometimes, when possible, to bring the two types together in one sermon. However, that is not always possible. And, sometimes my own angst (?) comes out in them. My passion is to keep creating a better world for so many who live in deep despair; it is also to ensure my children and grandchildren such a world – along with instilling in them the drive to share or to continue with the same passion. I
know that is asking a lot from them, but…. Like so many, I, too, want to hear words that will lift me up, and make me feel good and hopeful for the next week or so. I can, and will, do that because I know my needs, and sense those of others. I like doing that, however, my message is overtaken by events; and, I need to respond. If this sounds like I am being defensive, I am not – really. I just want to share the wondrous and often challenging world of preaching. I love this aspect of this awesome profession. Like the Babe (Ruth!), I hit some homers, and like him, I have some strikeouts. But, it is truly the love of the game (in baseball terms) or, more to the point, the love of this ever-‐evolving faith that makes me stay with it. I still have so much to say, so much to reflect upon, although some of it may have to wait until retirement and to start to work on that ever-‐elusive book. On a different subject: as I prepare for the move to our new church home (maybe) and retirement, I will be starting to pack up my books. So, I may be selling some (toward the new church fund) at a reasonable price, but, I will be honest about which ones fall into that category. Some books are going to colleagues and to students, some I will be keeping, some will be offered to my successor[s]. Feel free to drop in when I am in the office and explore. May you have Merry Everything and a Happy Always. In faith, Michael
FIRST FRIDAY FILM January 2: Inequality for All
Pot Luck 6:30 p.m., Film & Discussion 7:00 p.m.
Inequality for All is a documentary that follows former U.S. Labor Secretary Robert Reich as he looks to raise awareness about the country's widening economic gap. The film won Best Documentary at the 2013 Sundance Film Festival. Reich distills the story through the lens of widening income inequality—currently at historic highs—and explores what effects this increasing gap has not only on the U.S. economy, but also American democracy itself.? Potluck at 6:30 p.m., movie at 7 p.m. Don Peterson, Chair, Social & Environmental Justice Committee, will lead the discussion after the movie. Contacts: Karen & Wayne Lunstead by email or at 302-‐231-‐8192 or Anne Riley by email or at 302-‐436-‐2211. The complete list of films for the year is on our website at uussd.or/index.php/adult-‐enrichment-‐programs/first-‐friday-‐films.html.
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PRESIDENT’S COLUMN — Deanna Duby
Happy New Year! As we begin a new year -‐-‐-‐ a year that will be an eventful one for UUSD -‐-‐-‐ I know that we all have great hopes and anticipation! I think it is important for us to remember that this transition to a new home, a new minister, a possibly larger and more diverse congregation is a journey for all of us, and it began some time ago and will go on well beyond the day that we move to our new home on Route 9. Further, I think it’s important that we enjoy the journey and not just focus on the arrival at our destination. The Buddhists’ concept of non-‐attachment is one that can be a little hard to wrap one’s mind around, but, for me, it is of endless interest as I seek to apply it to “real life.” I recently saw
another great comment on this from Pema Chodron. It’s lengthy so I won’t share it all, but here is the part I particularly liked: “The spiritual journey is not about heaven and finally getting to a place that’s really swell. In fact, that way of looking at things is what keeps us miserable. Thinking that we can find some lasting pleasure and avoid pain is what in Buddhism is called samsara, a hopeless cycle that goes round and round endlessly and causes us to suffer greatly.” Shortly after the beginning of this new year, you will all be receiving the full results of the congregational survey that was conducted this fall. About half of the congregation responded to the survey, with feedback about the various aspects of this religious community. It gives a pretty good view of how we see ourselves, what our strengths are and what we think needs improvement. As I reviewed the results, I was struck particularly by how consistently we all described our strengths, with statements about our warm, welcoming, loving community being repeated over and over. This community has been carefully and lovingly built over the years, beginning with that small group who met on the beach to launch this new UU congregation. We have had ministerial leadership that has fostered and enriched this sense of community, and as our congregation has grown, folks have been drawn to the warmth, and then, as part of the community, contributed their own unique talents, warmth and other gifts to the mix. And the comments on the survey assure me that we know just how blessed we are to have what we have. The other part of the survey results that seemed significant to me was the degree to which, as responders discussed what needs improvement, they often ended the comment with a statement like “ …. but this will be resolved when we move into our new home.” It left me wondering if we really anticipate that this move will work overnight miracles! Or in Pema Chodron’s words, this move will be like “heaven and finally getting to a place that’s really swell.” As I said, this transition will be a journey. It began when we first discussed owning and/or building our own space. And it will go on well after we move into our new home next spring. It will go on after we have a new interim minister, and beyond the “settling in” phase, and probably even after we have a new settled minister. Not only individuals, but organizations, are dynamic. We are frequently changing, adapting, moving forward (and occasionally back). I hope that we will be patient and understanding with each other, with ourselves, with the process, and with the ups and downs inherent in transition. I also hope that as you review the results of our congregational survey, you will see us in all of our complexity and richness, as a community that is thriving, that has some concerns, and that is full of people with great gifts, compassion, dedication, flaws and, most of all, great humanity. As we move into 2015, let’s celebrate who we are and where we are going! And let’s enjoy the path we’re on. Happy New Year!
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LIFESPAN FAITH DEVELOPMENT — Peggy Smith
As always, we loved being part of the multigenerational annual Christmas Pageant! Thank you to all participants of all ages and to our very responsive audience! Kris and Dan Acker, once again, you made this happen!!! In the weeks before the service, we had fun learning the carols that would be in the show, choosing costumes, and decorating the Christmas tree. Did you know our children also sent hand-‐made cards and ornaments to our Partner Church in Tordatur? Holiday celebrations also included a multigenerational Christmas Eve service! We have some big events coming up which we hope you will support. Our Middle School group has been examining contemporary music that exemplifies our Seven Principles. They are preparing a wonderful service for you on the Meaning in Music, which will be held on
January 18. Teachers on this team will meet with youth on Saturday, January 10 at Michael and my home for an overnight! This will be our first overnight ever! We will have lots of fun, good food, activities, and a lot of hard work preparing the service. If we are ready for the January 18 service at the end of this special event, Middle School kids will have a day off from R.E. on January 11 so they can attend the adult service or make up for lost sleep from the overnight. If we need one more practice, Rev. Mike and I will conduct a Middle School class on January 11. We need every single Middle School youth to attend the overnight and the service on January 18! I want to give a special thank you to all the wonderful teachers who volunteered to teach one extra day to fill gaps in the schedule as they cropped up. Our teachers have not only made a commitment to teach more sessions, but they are sending personal invitations to children each week. Their efforts are reflected in the increase in consistency of attendance that we are experiencing. This was our number one goal this year and thanks to teachers and parents we are successfully achieving this goal. You are the best! Please be sure to thank a teacher (and a parent for sharing their great kids with us)! Our teachers are the true guardian angels of our kids who keep this program running so smoothly! I hope your holidays were wonderful and filled with family time where you created lots of loving memories. My New Year wish for you is that you are energized and excited about a new year with lots of changes and opportunities for our beloved community. NOTE: **Christmas Pageant photos are available in the Photo Gallery on the UUSD website**
PERSONNEL COMMITTEE LAUNCHES SEARCH FOR NEW DIRECTOR OF RELIGIOUS EDUCATION
UUSD is seeking a half-‐time Director of Religious Education, who with a team of lay volunteers, will continue to develop, implement and coordinate a Religious Education Program for its 120+ adult members/friends and 20+ children. You can find the position description on the UUSD website at: http://www.uussd.org/index.php/blog/entry/director-‐of-‐religious-‐education-‐is-‐sought-‐by-‐uusd.html
Please respond by January 15, 2015 via email with Resume to: Linda Marsden, Chair, UUSD Personnel Committee: [email protected]. Also, any questions about the position should be directed to Linda.
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NEW HOME UPDATES Welcome to New Home updates on our new home located at 30486 Lewes-‐Georgetown Highway (Route 9/404), Lewes, DE 19958. Members may also visit the UUSD website at www.uussd.org under the Members tab to access all the news by month.
FROM THE LAND & BUILDING COMMITTEE Jeff Cordiano, L&BC Member & Liaison to Contractors
November was historic for our purchase of the property and ground breaking ceremony. December was historic for the contractors and volunteers taking major steps ahead in the various projects assigned. Completion of the new septic system was one of those historic steps. Specifically: • A complete energy savings audit was performed on the existing house...top to bottom...resulting in a plan in the
making, to improve our ongoing commitment to staying as “green” as we can, that includes: reducing our energy losses and improving our energy efficiencies, while improving our comfort.
• As we got to know the property better, we saw there had been no ongoing care of the trees. We engaged certified arborist, Jeff Meridith, owner of Sussex Tree, to come walk the property and give us advice as to which trees we should save and which are dead or beyond saving and need removing. Most of that work has been accomplished by our volunteers (and there was a lot of it...and it’s ongoing).
• Many progress photos have been taken and are on our website now, thanks to Pat Schaeffer, who is acting as our ‘official’ photographer with many other contributors.
• Our major challenges have included: first and mainly, getting the site prepared sufficiently for Boothman Construction to start work on the foundation of our new sanctuary; as well, we have had key committee members and contractors either out of action or out of town. We are after all into the Holiday Season. In spite of these challenges there has been continued success in moving forward.
• We have maintained good communications with our neighbors, the Truitts and the Lambertsons, and look forward to gathering ‘stories’ from both these families. Helen Truitt has unknowingly started this by enthusiastically sharing her love for the woods, the pond and her walks.
• Continuing volunteer work: *Between the Meditation Garden team, Walt Smith and his ‘BushHog’ and chainsaw, Ken Lund and Tony Mattox and their chain-‐saws and pickup truck, we now have a much better view of and sense of the size of our beautiful property. *Walt and Dan Aker not only cleared the ongoing ‘leaves in the gutter’, but also fixed the problem by installing gutter guards. *Walt and John Sykes put up a red plastic fence along the trees lining the east side of the driveway, as well as lining up stumps to further enforce the “no parking/driving” on the tree roots. *Jeff is back from vacation and into our Liaison role with Mark Davidson at Pennoni and with the other contractors. * Gary Schmidt is back from vacation, has resumed his role as Property Manager and has stepped up as the point person briefly while Walt, Allan and Jeff recuperate from medical conditions.
Construction: • Boothman Construction has been meeting with subcontractors to finalize the plumbing plans for the new
bathrooms as well as working with our L&BC regarding the results of the energy audit and developing plans for implementation.
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• Melvin L Joseph Construction started land-‐clearing/site-‐work in a big way on Dec 16th. o A HUGE backhoe with other attachments showed up on a flatbed along with two workers...and got to work
taking out the west boundary underbrush that was both more than our volunteers could handle and is within the construction area, therefore, MLJ’s to do. These guys are pros and it showed, one in the backhoe the other on foot with a large chain saw. There are now several large piles of brush and trees to be hauled away.
o The tennis court is about to be torn up and parking area roughed in so that shortly after Christmas, Boothman can begin foundation work – a major milestone! This sets occupancy date as ca. June 1, 2015.
• Mark Davidson was on site on the 19th to take stock and drive our priorities. He will be back on site Tuesday the 23rd to continue his project supervision and coordination.
• McMullen and Sons started the installation of the new septic system on December 11th and finished on the 19th. Our volunteer crew will put up another red plastic fence all around the septic field to keep vehicles and pedestrians off the newly seeded area. Yea! That’s one major piece of the puzzle that is now complete.
Access procedures and tours (we repeat this message for your ongoing interest): • For safety reasons, members should not visit the property on their own. • For those that need access, please contact Jeff Cordiano or L&BC for scheduling, and guide service will be provided. • Also, when on the property please avoid driving and parking on the roots of the remaining trees and on the septic
areas. • Tours: For those that are interested, L&BC plans to offer guided tours on select Sundays after the service. Details
of when tours are planned and how to sign up will be announced later. Meanwhile please let L&BC know if you are interested; the level of interest will help planning.
As you can see we are on the move and visible changes are occurring rapidly. Take in the scenes and enjoy the journey!
Here are the highlights from the December 9, 2014 UUSD Board (BOT) meeting. The full minutes are in the Members section of the UUSD website at www.uussd.org.
1. Financial Issues Update -‐ Dan Payne:
• Update on FY16 budget process • Financial summary of purchase of Pioneer property. • Update of current year operating & capital budget projection. • Replacement for Valarie Killinger/PowerChurch software: Val to stay on until end of March. Finance
Committee to beta test PowerChurch software in January. If successful, the committee will recommend purchasing the software and implementing it as a replacement for current systems. PowerChurch, when fully implemented, will provide secure cloud access by committees to a centralized system.
• Finance Committee personnel: Ron stepped down as chair. Joanne Salzberg and Dan Payne will co-‐chair. • Joanne Saltzberg will be sending out requests for FY 16 Budget data in early January.
2. New Home Status/Outstanding Issues • Progress report on site work/construction -‐ Jeff Cordiano:
o Concerns: Boothman (foundation) has not yet started—not yet scheduled. Site work (Melvin Joseph) not scheduled. Possible need to re-‐contract. Legal review of contract needed if we need to make a contractor change.
o Septic system replacement being completed (McMullin)-‐-‐-‐new tank week of December 8. Arborist completed tree survey.
o Kris Aker working interior design, including electric service.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING HIGHLIGHTS
— Gary Colangelo, Secretary
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• Energy audit of house, benefits, loans for remediation -‐ John Sykes: John will proceed with recommended changes, as they will pay for themselves with future energy savings.
• Land Use Ad Hoc Subcommittee -‐ Paul Barnette: o Eric Wahl, Element Design, presentation and Q&A on property design. Discussion on contracting
with Eric, no decision to proceed. $5,000 costs are the primary concern. o Community Garden and Memorial Garden proposals are being worked on. Playground proposal
pending. Possible funding from First Church members for specific projects. • Moving committee (Paul Barnette): No updates. Need to decide what we can move ourselves versus
moving contractor.
3. Safety Deposit Box -‐ Motion Approved: The Board authorized the following officers’ access to the Community Bank safe deposit box #212 located at the Rehoboth Beach office: Daniel Payne, Treasurer and Financial Officer; and Gary Colangelo, Secretary.
4. Interim Ministry Task Force -‐ Deanna Duby: Updated application to UUA should be ready in early January.
Board will review application prior to submission. 5. Board Retreat: Report of planning committee. Survey results added to possible topics.
Scheduled for January 24 at Walt’s house.
Early Unitarian and Universalist Publications?
January, as it turns out, was a big month for starting up new Unitarian and Universalist publications. • In 1797, the first issue of the Universalist’s Miscellany, a monthly magazine in New England, was started. In 1805, it
became The Monthly Repository and was distributed throughout the East Coast. • In 1815, The Christian Reformer, one of the earliest monthly Unitarian journals in Europe, was started in England. • In 1821, the first issue of the Unitarian Miscellany and Christian Monitor was published. This was the very first
Unitarian periodical in America. It contained articles, hymns, sermons, and letters, and its stated purpose was “to teach plain doctrines in a plain way.” Also, in April of 1821, the first issue of the Unitarian periodical, The Christian Register, was published.
• In 1824, The Christian Telescope, a monthly Universalist publication was started in Rhode Island. • In 1829, Hosea Ballou and his great-‐nephew, Hosea Ballou 2nd, started the monthly publication, The Universalist
Expositor. • In 1831, the first issue of the Independent Messenger, a weekly Universalist publication, was started by Adin Ballou, a
distant relative of the Universalist minister, Hosea Ballou. Also in 1831, but in April, the first issue of the monthly Unitarian Monitor was published, but it only lasted for two years. Also in 1831, the Christian Messenger was formed (exact date not known) and later the name was changed to the Universalist Union.
• In 1835, the first issue of the Boston Observer and Religious Intelligencer, a weekly Unitarian publication that was edited by George Ripley, was started. Its caption read, “A weekly paper devoted to free religion.” Ripley was a Unitarian minister and eventually was one of the early founders of the Transcendental Club. He went on to become one of the country’s major newspaper editors working at the New York Harbinger and the New York Tribune. He also edited the monthly Unitarian publication, The Christian Examiner (exact dates not known).
• In July of 1839, The Christian Freeman and Family Visiter, a Universalist publication was started in New England. • In 1843, the first issue of the Unitarian periodical, The Christian World, was published by George Channing, the
brother of William Ellery Channing, but it only survived for five years.
DID YOU KNOW — Ron Schaeffer
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• In 1844, the first issue of The Monthly Religious Messenger, a Unitarian publication was published, and it survived for thirty years.
• In 1846, the New York Unitarian Association published the Christian Inquirer, a weekly newsletter in the state. • In 1855 (exact date unknown), the Christian Ambassador, a Unitarian publication was started. • In 1870, the first issue of the Unitarian publication, The Index, was published.
This is only a sample of the early weekly and monthly publications produced by both the Unitarians and Universalists in the nineteenth century to reach out to the broader population to promote their specific theology. Newspapers and magazines were the primary communication tools at the time to get messages to the masses. In addition, both the Unitarians and Universalists tried to continue to associate themselves closely with Christianity, through their titles, while still differentiating themselves from key segments of the traditional Christian doctrine. Our primary publication today is the UU World, which comes out quarterly and can also be accessed online. Every UUSD member is entitled to a free copy of the UU World, and you should receive a copy after you officially join a UU congregation. If by chance, you are not receiving a copy in the mail, contact the UUSD Membership Committee immediately. They provide your name and address to the UUA. You can also access UU publications through Beacon Press, Skinner Books, and the UUA Bookstore. Finally, there is a Unitarian Universalist app for your cellphone entitled, Illuminations. It’s free, and you can access inspirational words, the Seven Principles, chalice lighting statements, opening and closing words, and much more. Have a very happy New Year.
COMMITTEE NEWS and EVENTS
GET TO KNOW THE “GARDEN COMMITTEE” The Newsletter is featuring our committees and other informal groups so you can get to know them more -‐ their passion, roles, and membership. This month the informal “Garden Committee” is being featured.
UUSD “Garden Without a Name” — Dianne Conine & Margaret Keefe, Co-‐Chairs
As you all know, the new UUSD property is absolutely wonderful—a place with a spiritual quality all its own. The UUSD Garden Committee is an informal group of members who have formed for the purpose of planning a special area to capitalize on this atmosphere of peace and tranquility so that members and friends can truly experience the beautiful aspects of our new church home. The committee has been working since last summer drawing up tentative plans, working with the Land & Building Committee to salvage some of the excavated dirt from the site work, and beginning to clear the space. We plan to place the Garden in the back southeast
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corner of the property. Among the features we are considering are low maintenance native plants, accessible paths, incorporating the existing pergola as a welcoming entryway, including the bricks members have purchased, establishing seating areas and adding a peace pole and water feature. One of the highlights will be a beautiful hand-‐carved wooden sculpture created by our own talented Dan Acker. To the east of the garden there will be a wonderful labyrinth which people can walk at their leisure. The intention is to make a quiet, reflective area where people can look out over the pond, listen to the sounds of nature and take time to reflect and renew their spirits in the presence of the beautiful natural surroundings. On the more practical side, we are considering several names for the garden: Celebration, Contemplation, Inspiration, Meditation or Peace Garden. At some point, the committee will probably put the name issue to a vote of the congregation. Currently, there are no funds appropriated for the garden. Therefore, it will be a work in progress for some time and will require the ‘hands on’ approach of all members and friends who are interested in seeing the Garden come to life. The committee is also looking into getting advice from landscape architects and nursery experts so that we maximize the potential of our beautiful spot. On Sunday, January 11 at 11:45, the Garden Committee will be offering a “Garden Show and Share” session at which we will present the draft plans and discuss all the other related issues. If you are interested in hearing more and especially if you would like to join our merry band of ‘garden dreamers,’ we encourage you to stay after the January 11 service to share your thoughts with the committee which, currently consists of Dan Acker, Len Bowman, Lin Burleson, Dianne Conine, Bobbi Dunham, Joanne Holmes, Jena Hom, Kath Johnson and Margaret Keefe.
SOCIAL & ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE
— Don Peterson, Chair
UUSD Continues to Fight Discrimination in the Schools: The Social & Environmental Justice Committee (S&EJ) hopes everyone had a great holiday, and we wish you all a very happy New Year! December proved to be a memorable month for S&EJ. We continued to witness and speak at the Indian River School District board meetings in opposition to the elimination of any discussion of the LGBT community and HIV prevention. We especially wish to thank those UUSDers who spoke at these meeting. We heard powerful, heartfelt and thoughtful remarks from Amber Peterson, Lin Schmidt and Reverend Mike at the November meeting and from Len Bowman and Kris Acker at the December meeting. Our sincere thanks to all of these wonderful speakers! We expect there will be a public forum on this issue in early January, and we expect a final board vote at the end of January. If you would like to speak out at either of these meetings, please contact Don Peterson.
UUSD Speaks Out Against Discrimination in Law Enforcement: On December 7, the S&EJ Committee hosted a "healing circle" with about 40 participants. The purpose of the circle was to express our grief and anger at the deaths of too many young people of color at the hands of the police, to express our support for the healing of the families and the communities that have been hit so hard by these tragedies, and to express our hope that we as a nation can end the institutional racism that is the cause of so much pain. The circle was organized and led by Don Peterson. We wish to thank Anne Pikolas, Deb Davies, Reverend Mike, and Dan Acker for their contributions to this event. After the circle, 15 of us marched to Route 1 and demonstrated holding signs expressing our concerns. We were met with a lot of supportive car honking and only one negative reaction! Our thanks to all of the participants, who stood out in the cold wind to support this effort.
English as a Second Language (ESL) Finishes First Term Classes: On December 16, we ended the first half of the 2014-‐2015 ESL course with a party honoring the 10 students. Eight students, their children, the teachers and teaching assistants, and the child care mentors attended. For the first time in our three-‐year history, the ESL course consists of students in three levels (beginning, intermediate and advanced). The students are taught by volunteer teachers and TAs twice a week from 5 to 7 p.m. The children are cared for by our volunteers who, for many of the children, are the
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first time they have interacted with non-‐Hispanic adults. At the party, each student received a certificate of accomplishment for the hours attended. The party also included a potluck dinner, with many dishes from their home countries provided by the students and gifts and a pinata for the children. Many thanks go to our teachers: Sally Crouch and Betty Kirk; TAs: Lyn Burleson, Dianne Conine, Margaret Keefe, Jim Kelly, Wayne Lunstead, Phil Martin, Don Peterson, Sue Rosenberg, Peg Smith, and Peggy Smith; and child care mentors: Kris Acker, Bobbi Dunham, Gwen Johnson, Karen Lunstead, Jane Miller, Pat Mueller, Peggy Smith and Lora Zachow. The spring term starts February 3 and runs through May. With our move to our new home, we hope to expand the program in the fall of 2015. The program can always use more TAs and mentors. If you are interested in being a TA, contact Betty Kirk, and if you are interested in being a child mentor, contact Kris Acker. (See the photo gallery on the UUSD website for photos.)
Soup & Bread Community Dinner The Social & Environmental Justice Committee would like to invite the congregation to a Homemade Soup & Bread Dinner on January 24th at 5:30 p.m. Please decide on a favorite soup, bread, salad or dessert that you would like to bring to this community dinner and sign up in the alcove by January 18th. This will be a casual social evening where we all will have some time to enjoy each other's company. We are sponsoring this dinner to support the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee (UUSC) “Guest at the Table” fund raiser. UUSC is a group that raises awareness about human rights issues. We will be handing out some information and taking a collection to help support their work. Come enjoy a fun and informative evening. BYOB. For more information, contact Kris Acker at 302-‐537-‐0705 or e-‐mail her.
DENOMINATIONAL AFFAIRS
Hold These Dates! — Pat Schaeffer and Ron Schaeffer, Co-‐Chairs
JPD Worship Arts Festival: The annual JPD Worship Arts Festival will be held at the UU Congregation of Fairfax, in Fairfax, Virginia on February 20-‐21. Go to the Joseph Priestley District (JPD) website (http://jpduua.org/worship-‐arts-‐committee) for more information if you are interested. Return to Selma: Unitarian Universalists are called to “Return to Selma” on the Amtrak Crescent Train. The trip to Selma marks 50 years since the Southern Christian Leadership Conference appealed to people across the United States to join in the struggle for voting rights. Conference information states that Marching in the Arc of Justice will offer participants the opportunity to engage with Movement veterans, family members of those who were martyred, and historians about the events that changed America 50 years and to
be inspired by activists and organizers of today who are continuing the struggle. You can register for and learn more about the Marching in the Arc of Justice Conference scheduled March 5-‐8 at: http://www.uulivinglegacy.org/re-‐visiting-‐selma-‐2015.html. 2015 JPD District Meeting: The 2015 JPD District Meeting will be held in the ACE Conference Center in Lafayette Hill, PA (just north of Philadelphia) on April 11-‐12. To register, go to the JPD website (http://www.jpduua.org/news-‐and-‐notes/2015-‐district-‐assembly). 2015 General Assembly (GA): The 2015 GA is scheduled for June 24 – 28, 2015 in Portland, Oregon to be held at the Oregon Convention Center. The theme is, Building A New Way, and the Ware Lecturer will be Dr. Cornel West. For those of us with friends or family on the West Coast, this is an opportunity to tie in a vacation visit with General Assembly. For those unable to attend directly, there will be live streaming of many of the major GA events. And you can be an off-‐site delegate attending and voting from your home computer. More information on registration to come in the next several months. If you are interested in learning more about our Denominational Affairs Committee and might want to join, contact Ron or Pat Schaeffer, Betty Metzler, John Sykes, or Gary Colangelo for more information.
FINANCE COMMITTEE — Dan Payne and Joanne Saltzberg, Co-‐Chairs
As a result of the successful acquisition of the Pioneer property, including financing, in November, informal updates to the approved Operating and Capital budgets were made. These updates were necessitated to reflect primarily the impact of lower financing rates (Budget -‐4.5%-‐Actual 4.375%) and a longer loan amortization period (Budget 25 years—Actual -‐30 years). Also, the delay in closing resulted in lower maintenance and
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other costs offset in part by additional rent due to remaining in Toddy’s longer than anticipated. On the personnel side, Ron Schaeffer has resigned from the Finance committee effective December 31. To fill this void, Joanne Saltzberg will co-‐chair the committee along with Dan Payne The impending resignation of Valarie Killinger (which has been deferred until March 31, 2015) has prompted a review of our existing administrative and financial software. We are currently evaluating new software (PowerChurch), which will seamlessly integrate member data with financial information. It is anticipated a final recommendation will be made by January 31, 2015. The annual budget development process will begin in early January 2015 with requests to all committee chairs to participate in estimating their anticipated income and expenses for the next fiscal year. Overall, UUSD remains in a very healthy financial position and the contributions to the Capital Campaign are very encouraging.
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
Leadership, Teamwork and Community-‐Building as a Spiritual Practice — Kaz Huston, Chair
Ending or beginning a year may be the time we consider resolutions to resolve conflicts – and make changes in our lives. With conflicts, we know there are various ways to address them. Some conflicts we want gone. Others may prove difficult to manage. Our Retreat teaches us some useful ways to analyze and navigate these conflicts. So, we learn to manage conflicts in ways that are meaningful or evade them, if necessary. Yet other conflicts may be beyond our control. For handling some conflicts, we may need coaching and practice to be more successful. To be a better leader and team member, as well as for personal growth, we want to help create and sustain a vibrant and actively-‐committed and connected congregation. As the saying goes, sometimes the best way is not around, but through. Working through self-‐changes may not only help us grow, but also become a more vital part of a thriving spiritual community. For example, we may allow ourselves to be vulnerable. We can articulate our intention for spiritual growth by asking for, and then listening to constructive feedback about our behavior. And, in responding to a request for feedback, we can strive to be kind, diplomatic, and sincere in our intent and our execution. Being
compassionate, avoiding anger, or retaliation is vital. Approaching feedback with honesty and mindfulness will help to improve our relationships – and our spiritual growth. Conflict and change are inevitable in our world. Accepting a little “delay of gratification,” and being more patient is a very useful spiritual practice. And, we learn to be positive in the face of adversity with the aid of friends and family. As in the prayer of St. Francis, sometimes we simply must remember that there are things we can and cannot change, and we can learn to be wiser in understanding the difference. That spiritual wisdom helps us keep heart, keep our faith – in others and ourselves.
ADULT EDUCATION
UUSD Adult Education Classes Had a Busy Year
— Betty Kirk, Coordinator
This past year has been a busy time for offering Adult Education classes to potential and new members and those from outside the UUSD community. The year started off with Ron Schaeffer teaching a new format for the UU history class. In cooperation with the League of Women Voters, Anne Riley and Betty Kirk facilitated the Foreign Policy Association’s Great Decision 2014 classes, which focus on the year’s most salient foreign policy issues. Len Bowman offered a six-‐ week class on “The World’s Wisdom,” which focused on the beliefs of the world’s major religions. This was followed by “Religious Traditions with or Without God” facilitated by Len Bowman (the Christian perspective), John Sykes (the Buddhist perspective), the earth goddess perspective (Beebe Fraser) and the humanist perspective (Ron Schaeffer). Two UU101 classes were offered in June and November facilitated by Betty Kirk, Chuck Herbert, and Len Bowman. These classes offer the newcomer to UUSD an opportunity to explore their own spirituality while learning about UU history, beliefs, and culture as well as about our own UUSD history and governance. We had twelve First Friday films selected by the Lifespan Faith Development Program and the Social and Environmental Justice Committee, which were facilitated by Rev. Michael and Peggy Smith. Zumba and yoga classes continued weekly taught by Sally Crouch and Holly Piper-‐Smith, respectively. Our thanks to all those teachers and facilitators, who planned these classes. The coming year promises to be equally busy. The new aerobics classes continue along with yoga. A new tai chi class is in the offing. First Friday films will also
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continue under the leadership of Karen Lundstead. The UU101 class will be offered twice this year. The Great Decisions 2015 begins January 9. Beebe Fraser will be offering a new “Cakes for the Queen of Heaven” curriculum, which focuses on the goddess image throughout history and presently. More is in the offing. If you would like to facilitate a class, or have ideas for a class, please contact either Betty Kirk or Len Bowman, Adult Education Coordinators.
Tai Chi Short Yang Form Class -‐ Beginning Saturday, January 31 at 10:00 a.m.
Deb Davies, certified t’ai chi instructor with the T’ai Chi Foundation, will teach the Short Yang Form as taught by Professor Cheng Man Ch’ing. The T’ai Chi Short Yang Form is a succession of 32 postures with each posture leading to the next and therefore this is a progressive class. T’ai Chi has been found to lower blood pressure, improve balance, and support overall well-‐being. A free introductory class and registration will be held Saturday, January 31 from 10 -‐ 11:00 a.m. in the UUSD sanctuary. Classes will be begin Saturday, February 7 from 10 -‐ 11:00 a.m. and run through the end of March and cover the first half of the form. A second session will begin in April through May and cover the second set of postures. Deb has been a student since 1991 and teaching since 1993. In addition, she teaches meditation and is a Licensed Massage Therapist. A signup sheet will be at the back of the sanctuary starting Sunday, January 4. A minimum donation of $5 per session per person is suggested. Contact Deb Davies at 302-‐396-‐0433 for more information.
“Great Decisions” Starts January 9
UUSD and the League of Women Voters will begin the fourth season of Great Decisions classes on the 2nd and 4th Friday of each month beginning on January 9, 2015, from 6:30 until 8:00 pm at UUSD. A short DVD will be shown with a discussion following. The series is organized by the Foreign Policy Association. It covers eight key foreign policy topics: Russia and the Near Abroad, Privacy in the Digital Age, Sectarianism in the Middle East, India Changes Course,
US Policy Toward Africa, Syria's Refugee Crisis, Human Trafficking in the 21st Century, and Brazil's Metamorphosis. The book is available through the Foreign Policy Association website at www.fpa.org. There will be a one-‐time $5 fee for this series. Register by signing the sheet in the church alcove. Contact Anne Riley at 301-‐441-‐1311 or 302-‐436-‐2211 if you have any questions.
FUNDRAISING
UUSD Kicks Off 2015 with Its First Annual Sock Hop, Saturday, January 10
Dance the night away on Saturday, January 10 at the 1st Annual UUSD Sock Hop featuring local singer Cathy Gorman and songs from the 50s and 60s. There will be refreshments, games and prizes for the best dancers and best costumes (costumes encouraged but not required). Tickets are $20 per person and can be purchased in advance or at the door starting at 6:00 p.m. The Sock Hop will be held at UUSD. The proceeds will support UUSD's operations budget. Cathy Gorman is from Sussex County, Delaware and has been singing for approximately 25 years. She captivates audiences everywhere she goes with her charm and her love of doing what she does best…singing. Let Cathy take you back to the songs that created memories! She will get you going with her Big Band and World War II renditions. Then get hopping and bopping to the 50s and 60s rock and roll era. Want to hear some country favorites? Let her sing a few Patsy Cline classics! So get out those poodle skirts, white t-‐shirts, black motorcycle jackets and saddle shoes and let Cathy take you back to that “Remember When Time”! For more information or to purchase tickets in advance, contact Gwen or call 302-‐396-‐7107.
REMEMBERING JANE GERMAIN Jane Germain (30163 Territory Trail, Ocean View, DE 19970) passed away on Sunday, December 28 at age 89. She was at home with her daughter (Alyce Richter), who lived with her. Jane had been a UUSD member since 2000 and received the Clara Barton Award last fall. Jane was also our first newsletter editor. Cards may be sent to her daughter, Alyce, at the above address. Our thoughts go out to the entire family.
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JANUARY HIGHLIGHTS
Jan. 7, 14, 21, & 28 Wednesdays, 6:15 p.m. Gentle Yoga ongoing class Contact: Holly Piper-‐Smith Jan. 8, 15, 22, & 29. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. Low Impact Aerobics ongoing class Contact: Sally Crouch Jan.2, Friday, 6:30 p.m. Rising Inequality Pot Luck, Film Screening at 7:00 p.m. & Discussion Contact: Karen & Wayne Lunstead or Anne Riley Jan. 9, Friday, 6:30-‐8:00 p.m. Great Decisions Discussion Group Starts Contact: Anne Riley Jan. 10, Saturday, 9 – 11:00 a.m. Men’s Group Monthly Meeting All UUSD male members and friends are invited. Contacts: Ron Schaeffer or Paul Barnette Jan. 10, Saturday, 6:00 p.m. First Annual Sock Hop Contact: Gwen Johnson Jan. 11, Sunday, 11:45 a.m. Garden Show and Share Session Contact: Margaret Keefe or Dianne Conine Jan. 24, Saturday, 5:30 p.m. Soup & Bread Community Dinner Contact: Kris Acker Jan 31, Saturday, 10-‐11:00 a.m. Free Introductory Tai Chi Class Contact: Deb Davies at 302-‐396-‐0433
Jan. 26, Monday, 7 p.m. Book Group: The Giver by Lois Lowry. Facilitator: Pat Rockett The haunting story of a 12-‐year old boy living in a world of conformity, but who rebels after he is given his life assignment. Held at the home of Bobbi Dunham: 302-‐644-‐2207.
UUSD VISION Creating a diverse spiritual world community that celebrates and fosters the search for meaning, connection, and acceptance.
UUSD MISSION
• Nurture spiritual growth
• Embrace diversity
• Work for justice
• Strive for a loving world
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Staff & Officers
Minister Rev. D. Michael Smith 302-‐362-‐2769
[email protected] or [email protected]
Director of Lifespan Faith Development Peggy Smith 302-‐362-‐2771, Peggy Smith
Music Director Dr. Marcie Schiff
Youth Advisor Eric Standifer
Nursery Teacher Leah Greer-‐Pinzaru
Board of Trustees
Deanna Duby, Chair 302-‐684-‐3589, Deanna Duby Margaret Keefe, Vice-‐President Gary Colangelo, Secretary Dan Payne, Finance Officer Paul Barnette Jane Miller Walt Smith
Accountant Valarie Killinger (until March 31, 2015)
Send email and address changes to: Valarie Killinger (until March 31, 2015) Jean Charles
To email a designated person or open a website in the Beacon, move your cursor over the underlined name, a small hand comes up and simply click on the name, to bring up the email or site.
Committee Chairs Activities: Paul Barnette Capital Campaign: Gary Colangelo & Lee Summerville Cloud Society: Dan Payne Committee on Ministry: Gwen Johnson Communications: Joanne Saltzberg & Pat Schaeffer Denominational Affairs: Ron & Pat Schaeffer Facilities: TBD Finance: Dan Payne & Joanne Saltzberg Fundraising: Barbara Barnette Land and Building: Allan Cairncross & Jean Charles Leadership Development: Kaz Huston Lifespan Faith Development: Amber Peterson Adult Education: Betty Kirk Long Range Planning: Dara Schumaier Membership: Bobbi Dunham, Lori Reading & Betty Kirk Music: Dianne Conine & Margaret Keefe Transylvania Partner Church: Lauren Mund Pastoral Care: Rev. Smith & Dianne Conine Personnel: Linda Marsden Social and Environmental Justice: Don Peterson Stewardship: Jean Charles Threshold Program: Gary Colangelo & Betty Kirk Worship: Jean Charles & Rick Welk
UUSD WEBSITE www.uussd.org Webmaster: Alleane Taylor Website Content: Pat Schaeffer
FACEBOOK Administrators:
Pat Schaeffer
NEWSLETTER Editor at Large: Pat Schaeffer Copy Editors: Linda Palmer, Lead; Sue Brown & Betty Metzler.
• Newsletter Articles due the 20th of each month to Pat
Schaeffer • Publicity requests to Pat Schaeffer • Order of Service notices by Wednesday to
Jean Charles. • Weekly Community Updates by Thursday to Jean
Charles. • Website Calendar Updates to Jean Charles.
