the uu news · 2015. 1. 2. · the story of queen isabella and her son king john sigismund, two uu...

The UU News The Unitarian Universalist Society of Iowa City Founded in 1841________________________________________________________________________________

In This IssueMinister’s Column....................................................2Religious Education…...............................................3Staff Reports..............................................................4Upcoming Events.....................................................5Committee Reports.................................................8Board Highlights.....................................................11February Calendar.........................................INSERTFacilities Update............................................INSERT

Upcoming ServicesFebruary 1st: ‘The Bride of Spring,’ Rev. Steven ProtzmanImbolc, also known as Candlemas, is the pagan festival that celebrates the coming of spring. In the Celtic tradition, this feast belongs to Brigid, the goddess of fire, poetry, childbirth, and healing, who is the Bride that breathes new life into the death of winter. Together we will welcome the return of spring and reflect on the seeds within us, our dreams and hopes, that are ready to germinate. 9:30 & 11:15 am Services in the Sanctuary 10:30 am Social Hour in Channing Hall

February 8th: ‘Kings, Queens and Other Heroes,’ Alison Oliver, Jane DeWitt and Ron Pile

As we celebrate the Festival of the First Bread and reflect on the Eastern European Unitarian roots of our spiritual heritage, the Worship Associates will present a dramatic presentation based on the Rev. Kendyl Gibbon’s sermon “Crowns and Dreams.” This presentation tells the story of Queen Isabella and her son King John Sigismund, two UU heroes who helped Unitarianism flourish for a brief period in 17th century Transylvania.

9:30 & 11:15 am Services in the Sanctuary 10:30 am Social Hour in Channing Hall

February 15th: ‘The Magical Soup Stone,’ Rev. Steven ProtzmanAll sorts of wonderful things happen when people share what they have with others. We will gather as a community of all ages to celebrate the completion of our Thirty Days of Love by telling the classic story of the magic soup stone, in which two clever travelers convince a village that is experiencing hard times to share their meager food supplies to create an abundant feast.


February 22nd: ‘The Premise and the Promise,’ Rev. Steven ProtzmanAfter 100 years of attempts at merger, in 1961 the American Unitarian Association and the Universalist Church of America consolidated to become the Unitarian Universalist Association. This service will be a primer on the theology, history, polity and social justice that are the heart of our denomination, a critique of our 54 year history as liberal religion, and reflection on our unique opportunity to become THE religion for the 21st century.


February 2015

Sunday ChildcareNursery: open 9:30 am to 12:30 pmFirst Service: Multi-age children’s programming (9:45 - 10:45 am)Second Service: Religious Education Classes (11:30 am - 12:30 pm)

February’s Social Justice Offerings BenefitIowa City Hospice

“Everyone deserves the best end-of-life care available. We bring comfort and peace, adding life to each day.” Iowa City Hospice provides personalized support to patients, caregivers and families by highly qualified, experienced staff and many dedicated volunteers. Services include bereavement support and counseling, community education, a speakers bureau, and promotion of advanced care planning. Please help support this well-used agency with cash or checks to UUSIC (‘IC Hospice’ on memo line) during Sunday offerings or send to the office. Thank you!

February 2015 The UU News

From Our Minister

“A freedom that reveres the past,but trusts the dawning future more;and bids the soul, in search of truth,adventure boldly and explore.” —from Singing the Living Tradition #145

February is UU History Month here at UUSIC. Each Sunday this month our worship time will explore some aspect of Unitarian Universalist history, including our European roots as we celebrate the Festival of the First Bread, and the birth of the Unitarian Universalist Association in 1961. There will also be a Welcome Home Wednesday film series and discussion about UU history. Although we are a progressive people, eager to get things done and looking to our future, it is important to take time to reflect on our history. Of the many reasons for learning about our long and rich tradition, which is full of colorful and inspiring stories and people, it has been suggested that in the absence of a single dominant narrative (for example, Christianity’s story of Jesus as its central narrative or Buddhism with its story of the Buddha) we find common ground and meaning in our roots. In “Engaging Our Theological Diversity,” a report of the UU Commission on Appraisal (whose mission is to provoke deep reflection and evoke timely, creative transformation of Unitarian Universalism by independently reviewing and studying activities and issues of importance to the Unitarian Universalist Association and reporting findings), the Commission begins by talking about the importance of our history:

The story of our past has been suggested as one of the unifying elements of contemporary Unitarian Universalism. It may be that in the absence of a common doctrine or creed, religious beliefs, scripture, mythos or cosmic story, or distinctive liturgical tradition (except perhaps the remnant of a vaguely Puritan minimalism), what UUs share is a sense of connection to a common past. Indeed, the celebration of that past, and especially of particular individuals associated with it, is a notable feature of many introductory UU pamphlets, sermons, and newcomer classes (not to mention T-shirts).

What can we learn from our history? How does it shape who we are as a congregation and a movement today? First, it teaches us to take risks and to remember that the freedom to be heretics (from a Greek word that means “choice”), to choose what we believe, comes with a high cost. From the very beginnings of Unitarianism and Universalism (which we trace back to the early days of Christianity), our liberal tradition has continued to evolve because of spiritual ancestors who devoted their lives to this faith, often put their lives and careers on the line, and sometimes even gave

their lives for the religious freedom and spiritual diversity we cherish today. Second, history instructs us about the values we hold of highest importance. The roots of our faith go deep and spread very wide, anchoring Unitarian Universalism in all of the world’s sacred wisdom. Our roots include Judeo-Christian teachings, earth-centered traditions, our Humanist heritage, science and reason, art and music, poetry and stories, sacred rituals and symbols, and the voices and actions of the prophetic men and women who have gone before us, all of which assist us in our search to, as UU Religious Educator Judith Frediani says, “make meaning of life and live lives of meaning.” We are reminded of the watchwords of Unitarianism through the centuries: freedom, reason, and tolerance; the truth that all of life is one, interconnected in a fragile web of existence; and a Love so powerful it banished the cruel threat of hell. Finally, we are inspired to revere the past but to also look to the future. We speak of Unitarian Universalism as a living tradition because we know that a faith that is relevant and vibrant needs wings as well as roots to thrive. The Older Testament book of Proverbs says that “without a vision the people perish.” Without wings, without any vision of possibilities and a shared destiny, religion can become an empty rote exercise, losing its meaning, its power and its vitality. In hearing the stories of how our spiritual ancestors challenged existing ideas about Truth, religion, sacred texts and doctrines, and rediscovering for ourselves the Truths that were revealed to them, we are inspired to be open to new ideas, new revelations, and our own ongoing discoveries of Truth.

Wider grows the vision, realm of love and light, for it we must labor, till our faith is sight. Prophets have proclaimed it, martyrs testified, poets sung its glory, heroes for it died. —from Singing the Living Tradition #114

Our worship theme for February is “Forward Through the Ages.” This theme was inspired by hymn #114 (verse two is quoted here), which was written by Frederick Lucian Hosmer. The lyrics refer to “it,” to “a shining goal.” What is it that’s moving forward through our history and guiding us into the future? As the hymn tells us, it is the “call divine,” which is a vision proclaimed by prophets and martyrs, heroes and dreamers, artists and poets. This vision is the heart of Unitarian Universalism: the realm of love and light, the Beloved Community, a world where there is peace, justice and freedom; where diversity is welcomed and celebrated; where all people share in the abundance of the earth; where war, poverty and discrimination are ancient memories.

As we wrap up our celebration of the Thirty Days of Love and we learn more about UU history, I invite you to reflect on these questions: How are each of us called to be part of this long, rich tradition of freedom, reason and tolerance? What spiritual legacy do we want to leave for future generations? How does our history inspire and help us to continue being a prophetic, liberal church that reveres our past but also walks boldly forward in faith through the ages?

Grateful to be here with you as our long and wondrous journey together continues,

Steven

The UU News February 2015

From Our RE Director

Last month the RE teachers met for their annual Midyear Teacher’s Meeting. It was great hearing more about each class and what the teachers have enjoyed so far this year. However, my favorite part of the day had to be an activity we used that focused on

the effects of labels. This activity and the following discussion is from Linette Lowe’s “Creative Inclusion” webinar that the Special Needs Committee wrote about a few months ago, and I’d like to share it with you. You can try this activity on your own, but it is even better if you do it with a friend or two. All you will need is a piece of paper and a pen.

To begin, fold your paper in half. Now, write down four or five of your deficits. They could be criticisms you have received in the past, areas that you struggle in, or maybe they are just things you don’t like about yourself. For myself, I would write words like ‘too independent,’ ‘aggressive,’ or ‘opinionated.’ After completing your list, I want you to hold up your list of deficits in front of you with the words facing out so others can read them. Imagine if this list was all anyone ever saw of you.

Next, flip your list over, and write down five or six of your gifts. These are things you’ve been recognized for, your strengths, or things you like about yourself. I might write ‘organized,’ ‘go-getter,’ or ‘fast learner.’ Again, hold your list up in front of you with your gift words facing out. Now, imagine if this was the only thing people saw of you.

How did having your deficits on display versus your gifts feel? How would it be to only be viewed through a lens focusing on our deficits?

Obviously, we don’t walk around with our deficits list on full display, but often those deficit labels are words we use to describe people. Everyone has heard about that hyperactive, “problem” child in class or maybe that co-worker or family member that always has hare-brained ideas. In addition to being

Religious Education News

unflattering and sometimes hurtful to the labeled individual, they also affect how we interact with that person. For instance, in the case of the “problem” child, hyperactive behaviors are something that is viewed as needing to be managed and fixed.

What would happen, though, if we looked at their gifts list instead, and, to take it step further, what would happen if we looked at those deficit labels through the gifts lens? Suddenly, that hyperactive child becomes someone who brings great energy to our classes, and that hare-brained co-worker is an innovator. This shift in perspective then changes our interactions with that person. Instead of needing to manage their deficits we look at how we can work with and tap this great gift they are sharing with us.

This is one of the goals of RE every Sunday. To live out creative inclusion and radical hospitality. To look at all the children who grace our rooms through the gifted lens. To work with all the gifts they bring to us, even those some may view as deficits, and to utilize them to make our classes even better. Imagine if we used our gifted lens in every part of our day. Imagine how much better our interpersonal relationships would be, the gifts we would be able to share and those that would be shared with us.

Thank you for all the gifts you bring every day!

Jessica

Join the CYC for an afternoon of

Ice Skating

Saturday, February 28 1-3pm Terry Trueblood Recreation Area 4213 Sand Road Southeast, Iowa City Please RSVP to Jessica: [email protected] or 337-3443 ext. 103 Skate rental is available: $6 for kids and $8 for adults. In the event of inclement weather, we will move to the Coral Ridge Ice Arena.

Help Stock the RE PantryIf you have ever taken part in social hour, a special event, or a meeting at UUSIC, it is evident that the sharing of food is an important ritual we take part in, and it is no different for RE. Every Sunday the kids take part in the sharing of snacks. This not only helps fill their hungry bellies, but also helps them build a sense of community and predictability in their

classes. We need your help with stocking our RE pantry with goodies! We are in need of:

• Whole Wheat Crackers• Graham Crackers• Pretzels• Popcorn• Dried Fruit• Pita or Tortilla Chips• Individual Servings of Applesauce• Perishable items like: Fresh Fruits

and Veggies, String Cheese, and Bagels (Check with the DLRE before bringing these items in)

Snacks can be dropped off in the RE Office. Please note, we do have nut allergies in multiple classes so we prefer items that are tree nut and peanut free. Also, dairy free items are always appreciated. Thank you!


Staff ReportsFrom Your AdministratorComing soon (hopefully in February) to a UUSIC building near you: updated internet! We are in the process of buying and installing a new wireless setup for UUSIC, which will hopefully see more consistent and widespread WiFi access in the buildings. Thank you to Pete Brokaw for his generous donation of funds for this much needed upgrade! Also thank you to Adam Ingersoll, who donated some great computer equipment for the RE and Admin offices.Picture directories will also be coming soon! Make sure to thank Jean Hood, Diane Martin, and the other directory volunteers for their tireless work in compiling information, arranging the picture schedule, and formatting and proofing the design.As always, remember to use your best judgment when deciding whether to attend a UUSIC event or activity during bad weather. Check the website or call the office before coming in if you are unsure whether we are open! —Emma Barnum

February BirthdaysIf you see the following UUSIC members and friends this month, please wish them a happy birthday!

If you would like your birthday to be reported in the UU News, please contact the office.

Alice AtkinsonSusan BoydJoe BrisbenSue Eberly

Kathleen HendersonLila Howe

Kathy HuedepohlBetsy Klein

Juanita KosierCory ManningAyla McFarland

Kate NesbettNancy Noyer

Gerald PearsonJaia RosenfelsJessie Shaw

Jill StephensonPeg Voelker

Nora WittenkellerAdam WolfeGrace Young

From Your Congregational Life CoordinatorThere appears to be an ever-increasing interest in Unitarian Universalism, as evidenced by the number of visitors to our services. The Membership Associates are providing many opportunities for them to learn about our faith tradition. The “Discovering UUism,” a series of one-hour, introductory classes held on Sunday mornings after the second service, are held on a monthly basis in the library. Six people attended the January 4th session. Those who want to explore further attend a “Becoming a Member” class. These two-hour classes are held four times per year.

The first “Becoming a Member” class of the year was held on Wednesday, January 21st. Twenty-one enthusiastic people participated. Some were new to UUism and others have been attending services for some time. Many expressed excitement in discovering UUSIC and their eagerness to begin this new phase of their spiritual journey with us.

The number of people choosing to become members each year is increasing. In 2012, 27 joined; in 2013, 34; and in 2014, 38. There are indications that this trend will continue in 2015.

I am happy to announce that Marianne Mason has joined our Membership Associates’ team. We and the UUSIC congregation will benefit greatly from her energy and fresh perspective. Welcome, Marianne!

The Membership Associates are continuing work on a project for the congregation’s involvement: the Membership Auxiliary. These volunteers will serve as Membership Associate Assistants (MAAs) and will have the enjoyable task of serving as greeters on Sunday mornings—both for the worship services and social time. During social hour, they will actively seek out people who appear to be visitors or guests, engaging them in conversation, introducing them to others, and guiding them to the Welcome Table. At the Welcome Table, MAAs will answer questions and provide educational materials as requested. They might also help out with the new-member classes, make visitor follow-up phone calls, and assist in a myriad of other ways.

MAAs would not need to attend Membership Associates’ meetings. They will receive 1-2 hours of preparatory training and serve on an ‘as-needed-basis’ as their schedule permits.

If being a MAA looks intriguing to you, please let the Membership Associates know! It promises to be an enjoyable adventure that will provide a valuable service to UUSIC. —Carol Throckmorton

Sunday Attendance for January 4th - 25thJanuary 4th: 124 total: 98 adults, 26 children Janaury 11th: 173 total: 146 adults, 27 children January 18th: 174 total: 135 adults, 39 childrenJanuary 25th: 94 total: 70 adults, 24 children (One Service & Congregational Meeting)

From Your Music DirectorWon’t you come and join us? The Fireside Choir gathers each Thursday evening for a 90-minute rehearsal starting at 7 pm. We warm up, review the hymns selected for the Sunday services, and work on music including short pieces, such as calls to worship and mediation, and longer pieces to enhance the theme of the Sunday service. It is a great fellowship and music-making time. This past Thursday evening we turned the pipe organ on and played it! It generates both a gentle and robust sound. The next step is to get it ready for services. We hope that sooner rather than later it will grace our Sunday services.

We have started planning to organize a UU children’s choir. If you would like to have your child involved please contact Jessica Zimmer-Saltzman and we will be in touch with you with details. Is Saturday morning a good time for rehearsal? Would you, as a parent, like to sing along with the children? Send along your ideas/suggestions/questions. We have already identified potential music and look forward to hearing our children’s voices.

As the new choir director, I want to thank you for the warm welcome. I am really enjoying my work with you at 10 S. Gilbert Street. Thank you for the opportunity.

Upcoming Events(See the calendar insert and/or go to uusic.org/calendar for more events and information!)

Discovering Unitarian Universalism, February 1stIf you are new to Unitarian Universalism, join the Membership Associates from 12:30 - 1:15 pm after the second service in the library on Sunday, February 1st. You’ll learn the basics about UUism and how our church works and plays. Contact Carol Throckmorton for more information at 337-3030 or [email protected].

Facilities Committee Supermeeting, February 3rdOur Facilities Supercommittee will meet on Tuesday, February 3rd, to discuss the next steps in our journey together. The meeting is from 7 – 9 pm in Channing Hall, and everyone is welcome to attend and listen in on the discussion.

Welcome Home Wednesdays, February 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th, March 4th & 11thWelcome Home Wednesdays (WHW) is a time to create community and nurture spiritual and intellectual growth. Enjoy a tasty, vegan meal, take a midweek break with a moment of inspiration and reflection at the evening service, and stay for one of our engaging classes. Full class descriptions and online registration is available on the website (http://www.uusic.org/about-us/groups-activities/welcome-home-wednesdays/), or you can stop by the WHW table in Channing Hall.

Buddhist Sangha, February 4th, 11th, 18th, & 25thThe UU Buddhist Sangha is a community of people that gathers weekly to explore contemporary Buddhist practice and teachings in the context of Unitarian Universalist principles and for meditation. To join the Buddhist Sangha listserv or to find out more about our group, please contact Charity Rowley at 466-3070 or [email protected] or the UUSIC office.

Special Needs Committee Meeting, February 5thThe monthly meeting of the Special Needs Committee, will be on Thursday, February 5th at 7 pm in the Sr. High Room. At our meetings we establish goals and priorities, plan events, discuss and problem-solve issues facing families that have a member with special needs, and develop communications. Anyone with a family member who has special needs and is interested in building Radical Hospitality at UUSIC is welcome to join. Contact Renee Speh at [email protected] with questions.

Special Needs Support Groups, February 6thA support group, “Friends of Friends,” for individuals with special needs and their friends, will meet from 5:30 - 6:30 pm on Friday, February 6th in Channing Hall to build community within UUSIC for those with special needs (please note the time and date change).

A support group for caregivers of people with special needs will meet right afterwards from 6:30 - 7:30 pm, also in Channing Hall. To learn more or to request to join either group, please contact Renee Speh, [email protected].

Festival of the First Bread, February 7thYou’re invited to the 22nd annual Festival of the First Bread on Saturday, February 7th from 6 - 8:30 pm in Channing Hall. Hungarian decorations, delicious food, and lively conversation will mark this event, which will conclude with inspiring music by Kol Shira. This is a fundraiser to support our Partner Church in Janosfalva, a small village in Transylvania, Romania. Our goal is to raise $3,000 for the village—this action supports greater social justice in the world. Tickets are on sale for $30 each during social hour and at the door (if any are left!). Be sure to join us! (The offering during services on Sunday, February 8th, will also go to benefit our Partner Church).

Nut Sale, February 8thThe popular Nut Sale will be back Sunday, February 8th, during coffee hour. You can buy nuts like cashews, the tastiest apricots, or gummi bears for your sweetheart. To answer inquiries, no UU Nuts will be for sale. Proceeds from the sale go to the youth to support their service trip to Guatemala. (Pictured right: Some UU Nuts, not available for purchase)


2015 Treats and Talents AuctionAs every baseball fan knows, February kicks off spring training for our favorite NBL teams. This year February also sees planning for the 2015 Annual Treats and Talents Auction move into high gear.

This year’s theme, suggested by committee member, Joe Brisben, is appropriately “Take Me Out to The Ballgame,” and promises to showcase the talents of many of our UUSIC members and friends.

The annual auction is both a community building and fUUnd-raising event, and depends heavily on the participation of all of our members and friends. Here is how you can be involved:

1. Mark the following dates on your calendar:• April 25th- Opening Reception and Silent

Auction• April 26th- Silent Auction Continues and Cake

Walk• May 2nd- Dinner and Live Auction

2. Begin thinking now of items/services you would like to donate to the live and/or silent auction.

3. There are still many opportunities to volunteer to help with the auction. If this interests you, please contact one of our co-chairs; Mary Jepsen ([email protected]) or Sharon Booker ([email protected]).

Watch for complete auction information in a flyer that will be part of the March newsletter. Thank you!

Upcoming Events, cont’dGreen Sanctuary 2nd Sunday Lunch & Films, February 8thThe Green Sanctuary’s Second Sunday environmental film for February will be Gasland: Part II. In this explosive follow-up to his Oscar-nominated film Gasland, filmmaker Josh Fox uses his trademark dark humor to take a deeper, broader look at the dangers of hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, the controversial method of extracting natural gas and oil, now occurring in 32 countries. A light lunch with a freewill offering will be served at 12:30 pm, after the second service, prepared by the Senior High Youth. The film will be shown at 1 pm in Channing Hall. In March our film will be Genetic Roulette and April’s film is A Fierce Green Fire. For more information, please contact Deb Schoelerman at [email protected].

Campus & Young Adult Community, February 8th & 22ndWhether you are a student or in the community, please join other young adults following the second service on the second and fourth Sundays each month for good food and conversation with the UU CAYAC (Campus & Young Adult Community). This is an opportunity for fellowship and sharing ideas about campus and young adult programming. Contact Pete Brokaw ([email protected]) for more information, or if you would like to provide a meal for the group.

Dances of Universal Peace, February 8thParticipants will gather in Channing Hall at 6 pm for chanting and simple folk dance movements honoring various religious traditions. These prayerful, heart-opening dances foster connections between people. No experience needed. All are welcome to attend. A freewill donation will be collected at the door. Contact Virginia Melroy (338-1778 or [email protected]) if you have questions.

UU Book Group, February 9thOur next meeting of the UU Book Discussion Group is Monday, February 9th at 7:30 pm in the church library. We will be discussing Americanah by Chimanda Ngozi Adichie during this meeting. Our selection for March is Behind the Beautiful Forevers by Katherine Boo. Everyone is welcome to attend on a regular monthly basis or just once in a while when a book interests you. If you have questions about the group, contact Mary Lou Welter at [email protected] or 354-1231.

Free Lunch Program, February 13thThe objective and mission for the Greater Iowa City Free Lunch Program (located at 1105 Gilbert Court, IC) is to provide free hot meals six days a week for the needy in our community. UUSIC supports the Free Lunch Program by sending a group of volunteers on the second Friday of each month to prepare, serve, and clean up after a lunch for approximately 140 people. To find out more or to join the team, please contact Sue and Lee Eberly at [email protected] or Sherry Dolash at [email protected] (also see the monthly report on page 9).

Vegetarian Community, February 15thThe Vegetarian Community will meet on Sunday, February 15th, at 5 pm for their monthly potluck in Channing Hall. Please bring a favorite plant-based (vegan) dish to share along with your own table service. We’ll celebrate American Heart Month by hearing inspiring stories of people who have addressed their heart disease through adopting a plant-based lifestyle. Reservations are not required. For questions, contact Carol Throckmorton at 337-3030 or [email protected].

Secular Humanists, February 17thWe will gather again at 7 pm in the Fireside Room at UUSIC on Tuesday, February 17th. After checking in and catching up, we will discuss radical/extremist religious expressions/terror and their effects upon world/local culture, society, and safety. We will hear from our SecSI cohorts about their experience at ApostaCon in Springfield, MO, which we supported financially. For info on Secular Humanists please contact Mark Yuskis at [email protected].

UU Grief Group, February 18thDealing with the death of a loved one can be overwhelming. Sometimes we don’t have anyone to talk to about our loss, or our friends may be tired of hearing us talk about it. The UU Grief Group (UUGG) offers a safe place to share our stories and support one another. Using UU principles as our foundation, we meet monthly on the third Wednesday from 12:30 to 1:30 pm in the Henriksen Library at UUSIC. This free group is offered to all. If you think such a group might help you with the grieving process, please join fellow UUs and facilitators Gail Garwood and Marilyn Jennewein.


Valentine’s Dance, February 13thThe Smith Studio Band under the direction of Suzanne Smith will conclude the “30 Days of Love” celebration at

UUSIC on Friday, February 13th, with a free St. Valentine’s Dance. Festivities will begin at 7 pm in Channing Hall. Although the event is free and open to the public, UUSIC will ask for contributions to benefit Access2Independence (A2I), which helps people with special needs in the eight-county area adjust to their home and work environments. Refreshments will be served. The Smith band is a 20-piece organization that plays such tunes as “Mack the Knife,” “Birdland,” and “Route 66.”


Upcoming Events, cont’dUU Scrabble Group, February 19thThe UU Scrabble Group meets the third Thursday of every month at 1:30 pm in Channing Hall or the UUSIC library. Everyone is welcome to join in regardless of skill level! Beginners are welcome! Contact Gary Lawrenson at 936-1291 or [email protected] for more information.

CUUPs New Moon Gathering, February 19thThe Owl Moon Covenant of UU Pagans (CUUPs) will have a New Moon Gathering on Thursday, February 19th at 6:30 pm in the library. Look in the weekly emails and on the calendar closer to the event for more details, or contact Marsha at 321-2307 or [email protected] with any questions.

Girls’ Night Out, February 23rdAll UUSIC women are invited for conversation, lots of laughs, and good food on Monday, February 23rd, from 5:15 - 7 pm at Monica’s (303 2nd Street, Coralville). Drop in as your schedule permits. Please RSVP to Carol Throckmorton at 337-3030 or [email protected].

Kiirtan, February 23rdThere will be a Kiirtan in the UUSIC library at 6 pm on Monday, February 23rd. Kiirtan is a combination of music and spiritual practice - it is the chanting or singing of a certain phrase that is charged with meaning. Kiirtan uplifts the spirit, calms the mind and opens the heart. It is a wonderful prelude for meditation and a good practice in its own right. It can be combined with a variety of instruments (we’ll start out with guitar) and also with dance. Done within a group of people, powerful healing energy is generated. If you would like more information about this event, contact Andy Douglas at [email protected].

Guatemala Guest Speaker, February 24thJorge Amando will visit Iowa City and give a presentation as part of a national speaking tour on Tuesday, February 24th. He is the director of the Chico Mendes Reforestation Project in Pachaj, Guatemala, and the host of the UUSIC intergenerational social justice trip in June. The location and time for the presentation on February 24th will be announced later.

MidAmerica Regional Assembly, April 17th - 19thJoin UUs from across our MidAmerica Region in Naperville, Illinois from April 17th to 19th for three days of stimulating activities including two outstanding keynote speakers (Rev. Rosemary Bray McNatt, new President of Starr King School of Religion, and Rev. Dr. Marlin Lavanhar, minister of All Souls in Tulsa, OK, the largest UU congregation in the U.S.); three worship services; and 24 workshops. Consider attending and/or representing UUSIC as one of our voting delegates. Early registration deadline is March 16th. For full information, see http://www.midamericauua.org/governance/bus.iness-meeting. If you are interested in attending and/or serving as a delegate, please contact Steve Vincent, Chair, of the Denominational Affairs Committee by February 18th ([email protected] or 847-650-1634).

Intergenerational Guatemala Service Trip, June 4th - 13thA UUSIC intergenerational service trip leaves for Guatemala on June 4th, returning on June 13th (changed from the 14th). We will be working on a reforestation project in the Guatemala Highlands and will be staying with host families. The trip cost is estimated at $1,500; A deposit of $200 will be due by February 10th. Anyone interested should contact Deb Schoelerman ([email protected]) or Sally Hartman ([email protected]).

Secular Humanists: “Darwin Remembers,” March 7thPlease mark your calendars on Saturday, March 7th for a Dinner/Theatre event presented by the Secular Humanists. Floyd Sanford will revive “Darwin Remembers,” his One Act performance on the life of Charles Darwin, on the Channing Hall stage. Dinner will be at 6 pm: BBQ pulled pork sandwiches, salad, desserts, and beverages (a veggie alternative will be available). The performance will start at 7 pm and is approximately 75 minutes long. Tickets are $15 each and proceeds will go to support UUSIC CAYAC (College & Young Adult Group), SecSI (Secular Students at Iowa), and the Southern Poverty Law Center. This event is open to all. For info on the Secular Humanists or this event, please contact Mark Yuskis at [email protected].


InterweaveMembers and friends were invited to attend an Interweave meeting in the UU library on Saturday, January 31st from 10 am until noon. We gathered to discuss the past, present and future of our Interweave Chapter. Your comments, reflections and ideas are always welcome.

Although we have not been as active on the local level as we were in the past, here are some things that are happening on the national level because of our membership dues:

• The annual LGBTQA conference “Creating Change” in Denver, February 4th - 8th. We have representatives and host an LGBTQA reception.

• General Assembly will be in Portland, OR in June this year. We host a reception for LGBTQ ministers, have an information booth, and host an LGBTQ banquet. We also give a sermon award for the best sermon given in support of LGBTQ issues and concerns and give the Mark De Wolfe Award to a person who has shown dedication to helping and supporting LGBTQ people.

• We receive, edit and print articles and information in Interweave Connect, the national newsletter.

• We have a webmaster who is in the process of reconfiguring Interweave Continental’s website.

• We are talking with some teaching assistants at the University of Central Oklahoma’s Modern Language Department about translating our web-pages into Spanish.

• Interweave Continental received a $10,000 grant from the UUA’s Funding Program. The Interweave Continental board is discussing how best to spend the money in regard to social responsibility.

The Interweave Continental board members are all volunteers. At the moment, we are in need of a treasurer and a social media/communications/database person.

Contact Tova Vitiello, Co-chair of UUSIC’s Interweave chapter at [email protected] if you have any questions.

—Tova Vitiello

Committee ReportsLeadership Development CommitteeIt’s that time of year again, when the Leadership Development Committee gears up to fill a slate of talented church members to elected positions. Who do you want as President of our Board of Trustees? Do you know someone who is organized, dependable, available, willing, process-oriented, and manages conflicting interests well? Who would you like to see on the board? Do you have a recommendation for the CCLAM (Committee on Congregational Life and Ministry)—someone who has good communications skills and enjoys being a liaison to the many entities which contribute to our whole mission? Is there someone who knows the congregation well and has training skills to work on the Leadership Development Committee? How about that business-savvy, financial guru friend of yours who could help us manage the Endowment for the enhancement of our ministry? Please step forward to let us know your interest or share your ideas for candidates by February 15th. A conversation with a member of the Leadership Development Committee does not commit you to serve, but we may be able to help you find your position on UUSIC’s leadership team. —Russ Lenth

UNI-CareDon’t forget about UNI-Care! This group of dedicated people provide person-to-person assistance for UUSIC members and friends in need. They provide meals to those recovering from an illness or families dealing with a death in the family, transportation for physicians’ office visits, and memorial service support. UNI-Care members also maintain an inventory of medical equipment that can be borrowed for use during recuperation from an illness. If you become aware of someone who might benefit from these services, please let me know.

We currently have 27 UNI-Care volunteers. If you would like to be a member of this group, please contact me at [email protected] or 337-3030.

—Carol Throckmorton

Stewardship CommitteeThank you to everyone who has pledged for 2015. Our committee is still contacting folks: it’s not too late if you have not sent in a pledge. In fact, it’s never too late! Pledges are accepted during the entire year. Please notify Emma in the office at [email protected] or contact Dave Martin at [email protected]. —Dave Martin


Committee Reports, cont’d

Covenant GroupsIn January, members discussed Gandhi’s doctrine of non-violence and its ways to achieve peace. Among his most memorable quotes:

“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”

“Before it is too late, we must narrow the gaping chasm between our proclamations of peace and our lowly deeds which precipitate and perpetuate war.”

“One day we must come to see that peace is not merely a distant goal that we seek but a means by which we arrive at that goal.”

How do you react to statements like these? Do these ideas shape your thinking, or the way you live your life, in any way?

In February, we will take up the topic of “Courage.” According to author Richard Louv, “Many people think ‘courage’ means ‘not being afraid.’ But, courage is a quality that people can draw on when they must do something, even when they are afraid. Courage is what allows you to be yourself, to take risks, to have convictions, and to stand up for what you believe, even when it is hard to do so.” Members will share their ideas on the nature and importance of courage, as well as examples from their own lives and the lives of others.

Covenant groups offer members the opportunity to express their views and deepen their understanding of a wide range of issues, while fostering closer ties to other UUs. If you’d like to find out more about the program, please contact either Phil Beck (530-4715 or [email protected]) or Jan Locher (354-6260 or [email protected]). We’re always eager to welcome new members. And watch for announcements about the Covenant Group Potluck later this month! —Phil Beck

Historical RecordsUUSIC AUTHORS ARCHIVE

Some of our congregation’s special treasures are books written by our members, which the Historical Records Committee is collecting for a UUSIC Authors Archive. Many of these volumes document their interesting lives; recent acquisitions of this sort include books by Andy Douglas, Kenn Hubel, Claudine Harris, and Gordon Strayer. The archive also includes books like Bertha Shambaugh’s works on the Amanas, and Wayne Johnson’s on sociology. You can view selections from this Authors Archive in the Horak bookcase at the back of the sanctuary.

Do you have a volume, written by yourself or by another UUSIC member, which should be part of this UUSIC archive? If you do, we’d love to hear from you—please contact one of us from the Historical Records Committee: Jeanette Carter, Sue Eberly, Marilyn Jennewein, Charity Rowley, or Faye Strayer. —Sue Eberly for the Historical Records Committee

Free Lunch ProgramAt our first Free Lunch of the New Year, UUs served 139 meals. The centerpiece this month was truly excellent fried chicken from John’s Grocery. For the holidays each year, one of our volunteers makes a donation of this entrée in honor of their family, and we all share—volunteers and diners alike—in the festive feeling this generosity creates. A wonderful gift indeed!

Our next Free Lunch will be served on February 13th, and we invite you to join in by providing ingredients or by helping to prepare and serve the meal. Want to learn more? Contact Sherry Dolash ([email protected]) or Lee and Sue Eberly ([email protected]). —Sue Eberly

Circle of FriendsThank you to all UUSIC members and friends who donated gifts and gift cards to the families of Vidal Sanchez Cordova and Griselda Lopez. You donated $490 in gift cards–and many gifts for the children. Thank you for your generosity! Both families expressed their immense gratitude for the support we have provided to them this year.

On Sunday, January 4th, we celebrated Three Kings’ Day in Channing Hall with a potluck meal with the families. We played games, made gingerbread houses, and got to know each other a bit more. Once again, the Magi found us in Iowa. Balthazar shared the story of their long journey, and Gaspar and Melchior handed small gift bags to the children. It was a great afternoon of touching hearts, changing lives and transforming the world. —Deb Schoelerman


Social Justice Coordinating Committee50 UU’S SERVING TOGETHER!

On Saturday, January 24th, the UUs were in action. In coordination with Habitat for Humanity ReStore, the Center for Worker Justice, Access2Independence and Shelter House, carpets were cleaned, bathrooms were cleaned and painted, apartments were cleaned, data was entered, clothing and donations of all sorts were sorted, and shelves were stocked.At UUSIC, sewing machines were humming as quilt squares were created for a quilt to be sent to our Partner Church. In Channing, teens and adults turned t-shirts into reusable bags to be given to food pantries.UUs were making a difference during “Thirty Days of Love!” —Diane Martin

Committee Reports, cont’d


UUSIC Board Meeting HighlightsMinutes from all regular Board meetings are reviewed by the Board members and are then collected electronically.

Minutes may be requested from the UUSIC administrator.

January 8th, 2015

Most of the Board met in UUSIC’s Henriksen Library. Several others were forced to call in on the conference line, a result of the inclement weather. President Vicki Siefers called the regular meeting to order at 7:03 pm.

Rev. Steven Protzman was absent, but it was noted that his monthly report recommended exploring a requirement that all new members make a contribution of record to the Society. The Board will discuss this in the coming months. The Green Sanctuary Policy was approved as part of the consent calendar. Several Board members suggested that all new policies be given separate consideration as agenda action items, not just Board-authored policies. President Siefers indicated that will be the practice in the future. A second reading of the Children and Youth Safety Policy was postponed until the regular meeting in February.

Phil Beck, appearing on behalf of the Communications Committee, presented a draft of the new Website Policy. This will be but one part of a comprehensive set of communications policies the CommComm hopes to work on this spring. Phil noted that the policy draws on the UUA’s best practices, other congregations’ policies, and the processes that have developed over the years at UUSIC. The policy will be read a second time in February. The Board will also revisit the need for a “members-only” section of the website in the future.

A final version of the 2015 budget was unavailable for consideration, pending some revised estimates on both income and expenses over the next year. The Board will plan to review the budget by email prior to its presentation to the congregation on January 25th.

Kirk Witzberger walked the Board through the scheduled activities leading up to the facilities vote on February 1st. He highlighted the importance of having every member attend the design workshop with Neumann-Monson Architects on January 17th.

The Board unanimously approved the composition of the New Facilities Committee, which will comprise Kirk Witzberger, Garrett Saltzman, Peggy Dietrich, Sue Otto, Deb Schoelerman, Adam Ingersoll, Jeffrey Ford, Steve Locher, and Jan DeWitt. Mr. Ford has also offered to serve on the Capital Campaign Committee. Thank you to all of our members who have volunteered to help guide the UUSIC through the next stage of our facilities process.

The meeting briefly entered a closed executive session to discuss details of the current facilities situation. Upon returning to open session, the Board approved a Weapons Policy for UUSIC which lays out procedures for removing a weapon from the premises and calls for the placement of “No Weapons Allowed” signs at the entrances. If members have questions about this (or any other) policy, they are invited to speak with any member of the Board.

Announcements included: the Festival of the First Bread, supporting our partner church, will be on February 7th; a Board retreat is tentatively scheduled for March 7th; the congregational meeting on January 25th will include a vote to place a statement of conscience on the agenda for the 2015 UUA General Assembly; a Day of Service on January 24th; and Welcome Home Wednesday registration is now available online.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:25 pm.- Recorded by Jim Olson, Vice President, and Chris Taylor, Secretary

ERRATA: Last month’s Board Highlights failed to mention the vital role played by the Staff Relations Committee in the writing of the Child at Work Policy. The Board does extend its thanks to the SRC for its fine work on that and numerous other staff/personnel policies approved by the Board in recent months, as well as to all the groups and committees who work with the Board to enhance our shared ministries. I apologize for this omission.

- Chris Taylor, Secretary

The UU NewsThe Unitarian Universalist Society of Iowa City10 South Gilbert at Iowa AvenueIowa City, IA 52240

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UUSIC Board of Trustees, 2014-2015President: Vicki Siefers.......................................... 331-1798 [email protected]

Vice President: Jim Olson..................................... 512-0007 [email protected]

Past President: Diane Martin.................................351-7616 [email protected]

Secretary: Chris Taylor......…..........................563-343-4711 [email protected]

Treasurer: Adam Ingersoll...………...….................338-8811 [email protected]

Trustee: Pete Brokaw.............................................354-9725 [email protected]

Trustee: Mary McMurray.......................................351-2555 [email protected]

Trustee: Kirk Witzberger…………………............... 325-3425 [email protected]

Trustee: Kari Yorek..................................................560-0423 [email protected]

UUSIC StaffOffice Phone: 319-337-3443Website: www.uusic.org

Minister - Rev. Steven ProtzmanOffice Hours: 10- 3 Tues. thru Thurs.Email: [email protected]

Office Administrator - Emma BarnumOffice Hours: 10 - 4 Tues. thru Fri.Email: [email protected]

Director of Lifespan Religious Education - Jessica Zimmer-Saltzman Office Hours: 9 - 2 Mon. & Wed. & 4:30 - 7 Thurs.Email: [email protected]

Congregational Life Coordinator - Carol ThrockmortonEmail: [email protected]

Music Director - Gloria L. CorbinEmail: [email protected]

Accompanist - Jonathan TauscheckEmail: [email protected]


Our Mission Statement:We are a diverse spiritual community that touches hearts, changes lives, and transforms the world.

Our Vision Statement:Our vision is to be a loving, inclusive, and growing spiritual community. We celebrate life and a liberal tradition that leads social justice work, heals the earth, and nurtures the lifelong journey of mind and spirit.

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

19:30 AM Service (S)10:30 AM Social Hour (CH)11:15 AM Service (S)12:30 PM Discovering Unitarian Universalism (L)

25:30 PM Zumba (CH)

310 AM Pastoral Care Team (L)7 PM Facilities Supermeeting (CH)7 PM SJCC (L)

45:45 PM Welcome Home Wednesdays 7 PM Buddhist Sangha (L)

57 PM 1st Thurs. Covenant Group (L)7 PM Special Needs Committee (34)7 PM Fireside Choir (S)

69:30 AM Executive Committee (L)5:30 PM Friends of Friends (CH)6:30 PM Caregivers of People with Special Needs (CH)

76 PM Festival of First Bread (CH)

89:30 AM Service (S)10:30 AM Social Hour (CH)11:15 AM Service (S)12:30 PM Green Sanctuary Lunch & Film Screening (CH)12:30 PM CAYAC (L)6 PM Dances of UniversalPeace (CH)

95:30 PM Zumba (CH)5 PM Green Sanctuary (L)7:30 PM UU Book Discussion (L)

107:30 PM CCLAM (L)8 PM Yahoo Drummers (CH)

115:45 PM Welcome Home Wednesdays7 PM Buddhist Sangha (L)

127 PM UUSIC Board Meeting (L) 7 PM Fireside Choir (S)7 PM 2nd Thurs. Covenant Group (34)

1311 AM Free Lunch Program (1105 Gilbert Ct.)7 PM Valentine’s Day Dance (CH)7 PM 2nd Fri. Covenant Group (L)

14Valentine’s Day

159:30 AM Service (S)10:30 AM Social Hour (CH)11:15 AM Service (S)5 PM Vegetarian Community (CH)

165:30 PM Zumba (CH)

177 PM Secular Humanists (F)

1812:30 PM UU Grief Group (L)5:45 PM Welcome Home Wednesdays 7 PM Buddhist Sangha (L)

191:30 PM UU Scrabble Group (CH) 6:30 PM CUUPs New Moon Gathering (L)7 PM Fireside Choir (S)

2012 PM Newsletter Submissions Due7 PM Dreamwell Show (CH)

217 PM Dreamwell Show (CH)

229:30 AM Service (S)10:30 AM Social Hour (CH)11:15 AM Service (S)12:30 PM CAYAC (L)

235:15 PM Girls’ Night Out (Monica’s)5:30 PM Zumba (CH)6 PM Kiirtan (L)

246:30 PM Guatemalan Anti-Poverty lecture (CH)

255:45 PM Welcome Home Wednesdays 7 PM Buddhist Sangha (L)

269 AM Newsletter Folding (L)7 PM Fireside Choir (S)

277 PM Dreamwell Show (CH)

281 PM CYC Ice Skating (Terry Trueblood)7 PM Dreamwell Show (CH)

UUSIC Calendar for February 2015(CH) Channing Hall (S) Sanctuary (L) Library (34) Room 34 (Sr. High Room) (F) Fireside Room

Look for new events, updates or cancellations, and event details on the calendar at uusic.org.

UUSIC’s Design Workshop, January 17, 2015

About 140 of us gathered to talk about our current activities and our

long-term goals and aspirations. We imagined facilities that, rather than

constraining us, opened new possibilities. We chose a theme and sat at

small tables, each table focusing on one of these themes:

Worship

Children’s RE and Childcare

Youth RE and Activities

Adult Education and Ministry

Music/Theatre/Performance

Meditation/Spiritual Practice

Fellowship/Hospitality

Building and Grounds

Administration

Social Justice/Outreach

Special Needs/Accessibility

We generated dozens of flip charts of ideas that we shared with the whole group.

We ran out of wall space and had to put the ideas that poured out on

windows and doors.

Then we broke into random groups and wrote our facilities priorities for

the first 5 years, 5 – 10 years, and beyond 10 years.

Neumann Monson Architects will take the information they gathered

from us and will use it as a basis for a second workshop.

If you missed this first workshop, you might want to participate in the

second “site planning” workshop at a date and location to be determined.

We’re told it might be even more fun (though this will be hard to beat),

and will once again provide invaluable guidance toward facilities

uniquely designed by and for the members of UUSIC.

Thank you to everyone that made this workshop such a success!

the uu news · 2015. 1. 2. · the story of queen isabella and her son king john sigismund, two uu...

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