Skylights newsletter

TABLE OF CONTENTS ON BACK COVER

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Princeton

APRIL 2017 Vol. 38 No. 9

BRINGING OUR PRINCIPLES TO LIFE

By Chris Sturm, UUCP President People who aren’t familiar with Unitarian Universalism sometimes wonder what our religion is about because it doesn’t have a well-defined dogma or creed. In response, I usually explain that we have seven principles or core values that guide our faith. But, as many of you know, an abstract explanation doesn’t always paint a clear, compelling picture, especially for those from more traditional backgrounds. The times, though, they are a’changin. Recent political statements and actions are doing more to clarify the meaning and value of the Unitarian Universalist principles than any fuzzy, if earnest, explanations ever could. Consider our denomination’s new Declaration of Conscience that affirms key UU principles by standing them up against looming threats to immigrants, voting rights, environmental protection and unjust government actions. Our Board of Trustees voted to adopt the Declaration last month. If you haven’t seen the giant poster board with scores of colorful signatures brightening up Robinson Lounge, I urge you to check it out, and if so moved, find a spot (which is getting harder!) to add your signature. (You can see the full text online at http://www.uua.org/action/show-love/declaration-conscience).

(Sanctuary continued on page 5)

LAWN SIGN ENVY

By Louise Senior Back in January, I got an email from our UUCP President, Chris Sturm, with a forwarded picture saying, “I'm starting to see these and want one. Can probably figure out how to order one. But might UUCP want to order a bunch and make them available? Might the social justice group or youth group be interested in taking this on … just a thought”— but everybody on the email probably thought someone else would move forward with the idea…. Then I started noticing them. And it nagged at me, and I wanted one, too! Dear Chris emailed me again in mid-February to say that a colleague really wanted one…might we put in an order? That tipped the balance – but there were decisions to be made….I was torn between two messages: ‘Hate Has No Home Here’ (in English, Urdu, Korean, Hebrew, Arabic, Spanish), and the other one that is widespread around Princeton now, “No Matter Where You Are From, We’re Glad You’re Our Neighbor” in Spanish, English & Arabic. FastSigns in Lawrenceville gave me price quotes super-quickly, then I email-polled our Social Justice group with some questions: Which message? 2-sided or 1-sided signs? Would you want one?

No one I asked said NO –but we’re UUs, so all had different suggestions! I couldn’t decide, so I chose everything, and

(Lawn Sign continued on page 5)

SHOWING SUPPORT FOR IMMIGRANTS

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The Good News Reverend Bill Neely

I’m so grateful to the Board for their faithful and wise discernment of our Sanctuary Congregation question, and also for the many members of our community who have engaged this discussion with thoughtfulness and compassion. Should our members vote in the affirmative at our Special Meeting on April 9 after worship, UU Princeton will move, in the words of the Resolution, into supporting congregations serving as physical sanctuary sites for undocumented immigrants at risk of deportation, advocating for the principles of the Sanctuary movement locally and nationally, and promising to serve as a physical Sanctuary site should the current administration engage in unjust immigration enforcement and should our Executive Team determine that our congregation has the space and resources to serve as such a site. That last promise has understandably raised the most questions, probably because there are many, many details to work through before we actually offer physical Sanctuary. Even for a congregation operating in its typical way, there are many things to work out, but for us, as we embark on our Major Renovation in the coming church year, we have more to negotiate. We know we can’t offer physical Sanctuary while the renovation is active, but we also know that we will likely have that capacity once the renovation is complete. There are also insurance and other issues to work through that could take a while. And it’s easy to get wrapped up in those processes, but the question for a congregation in a situation like this is about the big picture: Should we do this? Is becoming a Sanctuary Congregation an expression of our faith that we wish to make right now? Shall we join this interfaith movement? If we answer yes, then we quickly move into developing that shared ministry. The Executive Team (ET) would convene a Sanctuary Task Force charged with moving us forward in relation to all three of the promises in the resolution. The Task Force and ET would plan educational sessions and discussions, align us with advocacy events, and present opportunities to support other houses of faith serving as Sanctuary sites. We would continue working deliberately through the internal process of developing as a site of physical sanctuary, updating the Board and congregation as we are able, but more noticeable would be our development as an external voice of support for the Sanctuary Movement. That external voice is very important. Resistance to unjust immigration enforcement from one faith, or a few houses of worship, is one thing. But widespread, public, proactive, religiously-principled resistance can act as a deterrent against the inhumane enforcement of

immigration policies. The question before us affords us the opportunity to be a part of that interfaith religious voice of compassion that puts people before policies, humanity before bigotry, and insists on a moral, unbiased, and reasonable approach to immigration enforcement. I look forward to the discussions ahead and our vote on April 9. And should we vote to faithfully proclaim that we are Sanctuary Congregation, I am eager to move into creating that ministry together. I believe that compassion and justice call us to this question. Our love for the stranger; for the persecuted and maligned calls to this question as well. And I believe that our faith calls us to answer it with the courage and conviction afforded us by those who came before, and that we will pass on to those to come. May our message shine bright during these difficult days; and may that light join others of many faith in leading those seeking safety and dignity, to find it.

LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR/WELCOME THE STRANGER

- A statement for consideration of endorsement by Princeton-area religious communities. Coordi-nated by the Princeton Clergy Association. En-dorsed by the UU Princeton Board of Trustees on March 14, 2017.

...As congregations serving the town of Princeton, we seek to live out the very foundation of our faiths by being in solidarity with immigrants, ref-ugees, and other vulnerable populations in our community. Our covenant is to a ministry of ac-companying, advocacy, and bold, faith-filled hos-pitality. We seek to walk with and support indi-viduals and families who are involved in immi-gration proceedings, to advocate for fair and just immigration policies, and to care for our neigh-bors negatively impacted or families torn apart by immigration enforcement.

We pledge to work with non-profit groups, schools and public officials in representing and carrying out the values of loving the neighbor, welcoming the stranger, and speaking up for those who have no voice.

Our intent is to continue to carry out our existing ministries and services while discerning how best to be faithful and serve in the months and years ahead.

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Princeton Skylights April 2017 Page 3

April 2, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. Our Jewish Roots

Many aspects of our modern faith are reflections of our Jewish roots. What are some of these reflections, and how do they strengthen and beautify our faith?

Worship Leader: Rev. Bill Neely Worship Associate: Andy Maskell

Music: Jon Kaledin, cello; Victoria Chow, piano; Marjorie Herman

April 9, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. Sanctuary as Prayer and Practice

As we prepare to vote on becoming a Sanctuary Congregation at a Special Meeting following the service, let us consider the prayers we might offer, and the practices we might enliven, in the spirit of being a sanctuary.

Worship Leader: Rev. Bill Neely Worship Associate: Judy Vee Music: Victoria Chow, piano; Marjorie Herman

April 16, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. Blessed are the ...

On this Easter Sunday, we’ll reflect anew on the Beatitudes that Jesus preached in the Gospel of Matthew. “Blessed are the poor in spirit, the mournful, the meek, those who hunger for righteousness, the merciful, the pure in heart, the peacemakers, the persecuted …,” what do these ancient blessings that formed the center of his message mean for us today?

Worship Leader: Rev. Bill Neely Worship Associate: Maggie Capewell Music: Bell Choir; Victoria Chow, piano; Marjorie Herman

April 23, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. From Roots to Branches—The Youth Group (grades 9-12)

On this Earth Day weekend, the Youth of this congregation decided to combine the monthly congregational theme, Roots, with the challenge of appreciating the many Branches of our interdependent world. Our UU faith gives us a rooted sense of identity as we negotiate our lives; but our faith also encourages us to know about and value opinions and lives very different from our own. This Sunday, we live into a central tension: how do we strengthen our sense of purpose and strength while not living in an echo chamber of our own ideas? How do we move from our roots to life's branches?

Guest Worship Leaders: Youth Group and Advisors Worship Associate: Michael Berman Music: Victoria Chow, piano; Marjorie Herman

April 30, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. Let it be a Dance

As our Evergreen Chapter of the Covenant of Unitarian Universalist Pagans (CUUPS) lead us in our annual Maypole Celebration, and as the Morris Dancers join us for a dance or two, let us consider our lives and community as dances of faith, resilience, and love.

Worship Leader: Rev. Bill Neely Worship Associate: Blair Williams Music: Victoria Chow, piano; Marjorie Herman

Upcoming Sunday Worship Services

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April UU Princeton Spiritual Theme – Roots By Rev. Bill

Our Monthly Spiritual Themes guide our Chalice Circles, which are small, intentional groups of members and friends that gather for spiritual enrichment through personal sharing. For more information on Chalice Circles, please contact Linda Benson at Membership@UUPrinceton.org. Our Chalice Circle thoughts and questions around the theme of Roots this month are:

“All that is gold does not glitter, Not all those who wander are lost; The old that is strong does not wither, Deep roots are not reached by the frost.” - J.R.R. Tolkien What are some of your roots that have kept you centered during times of frost?

“You can't hate the roots of a tree and not hate the tree.” ― Malcolm X

What are the roots of a strong dislike that you feel about something today? Are they personal? How so?

“No risk is more terrifying than that taken by the first root. A lucky root will eventually find water, but its first job is to anchor.” - Hope Jahren When have you risked growing roots? What was the risk? “The higher a tree wants to rise, the lower its roots must grow.” ― Matshona Dhliwayo

What is your deepest root?

A Fabulous Fellowship and Auction

Last February’s Annual Fellowship Auction broke all previous profit records with a gross of over $20,000 (though 2011 came darned close!) But even more gratifying was the good cheer and camaraderie – whether you were slyly outbidding someone, enjoying the great hors d’oeuvres, or were helping lubricate the festivities by serving Japanese treats (thank you Cheiko!) or homebrew (thank you Doug!).

And the socializing continues with a whirl of new social engagements mixing up our UUCPers at sumptuous dinners, BBQs, tours, hikes, tractor rides, an arboreal tour of the Princeton campus, crotchet lessons, as well as practical services rendered by our talented members for one another. For those who just cannot delay gratification, over 25 lovely (and tasty!) items were ‘take me home tonight’ offerings.

The night’s biggest surprise was the popularity of the Witherspoon-Jackson Neighborhood walking tour led by local expert Shirley Satterfield, offered by the Fetters. We easily could have filled the trip three times! Seems like we should organize another group outing for it later this Spring!

Many of us miss the cheeky humor of the auction catalogue. Auction Chair Laurie Powsner – though still churning out those fabulous descriptions – swears that modern Auction research demonstrates that profits are higher when bidders need to read through all the items to find their ‘quarry.’ OK, Laurie – since it worked this year, we’ll believe you!

All of the profits are contributed to the UUCP general fund to help pay salaries, benefits, and utility bills. Thank you to everyone who made the 2017 Auction a resounding success! If you missed it this year, we hope you’ll come next February!

— Louise Senior

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The Board of Trustees has also employed the UU principles in its proposed resolution for UUCP to become a “sanctuary congregation”. Recent threats of unjust mass deportation of undocumented immigrants violate many of our principles, especially the first – the inherent worth and dignity of every person. So, we are recommending three action steps: to advocate for sanctuary, to support others in providing sanctuary, and ultimately, assuming our executive team determines its feasibility, to provide physical sanctuary to an immigrant at risk of deportation. Whether or not we take this step is in the congregation’s hands. I hope you will join in considering this important action. By now many of you will have attended an information session. If not, check out the proposed sanctuary congregation resolution and the Frequently Asked Questions on our website (http://www.uuprinceton.org) Contact any board member, Ted Fetter or Rev. Bill Neely with your questions and concerns. And most importantly, join us at the special congregational meeting on April 9 to vote on adopting the resolution. Let’s put our principles into practice to make a difference in the world!

(Sanctuary continued from page 1)

ordered 150 double-sided signs with one message on each side. There are still several left for sale for $10 each – come buy yours before they run out! And they’ve flown out of UUCP so fast! Though other groups are putting out the signs as well, it’s incredibly gratifying to drive around town and see OUR signs out there – the ones with one message on each side! THANK you to everyone who has helped out and purchased one to get the word out. To those who choose not to post – either because of home owners’ association rules or fear of conservative neighbors – we completely understand, no worries!

(Lawn Sign Envy continued from page 1)

So what’s the story behind the signs? ‘Hate Has no Home’ started as a slogan suggested by a 3rd grader for their neighborhood’s response in Chicago last fall. A pho-to of the slogan, on a child’s hand-lettered sign in an O’Hara airport protest, went viral on the internet in late January. From there, the multi-language sign was created, and pdf’s shared for free on the internet. Now they’re widespread across the U.S.– and are even showing up in other countries! http://www.chicagotribune.com/lifestyles/sc-hate-has-no-home-here-posters-0201-20170202-story.html

And how about the ‘Neighbor’ sign? Thousands of the tri-lingual ‘neighbor’ signs have popped up across the coun-try, and all were inspired by a social media posting of a single, black-and-white, hand-painted sign at a Mennonite church in Harrisonburg, Va. During last year’s primary de-bates, the pastor was disappointed by the rhetoric expressed by many candidates, so painted the sign! http://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2016/12/09/504969049/a-message-of-tolerance-and-welcome-spreading-from-yard-to-yard

The Declaration of Conscience on display in Robinson Lounge.

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Legislative Ministry

“What Direction for UULMNJ in the ‘Age of Trump’?

Over 80 people gathered on Sunday, February 26, at UU Princeton to join a wide-ranging con-versation about the direction and priorities for the UU Legislative Ministry of NJ. Along with many of our own members, there were UUs from Bordentown (Dorothea Dix UU) and Washington Crossing in attendance. The purpose of the conference was to solicit ideas from UUs on the question: “In the age of Trump, what actions do you most want UULMNJ and its Task Forces to be prepared to take?”

The Rev. Rob Gregson, the Executive Director for UULMNJ, and Clara Haignere, a UU Princeton member, co-facilitated the program. Rob first provided an overview of the six Task Forces that track and advocate for state-level legislation: Criminal Justice Reform, Economic Justice, Environ-mental Protection, Gun Violence Prevention, Immigration Reform, and Reproductive Justice. Rob also spoke briefly about the board’s Anti-Racism Task Force, and UULMNJ’s Legal Advocacy project.

Clara facilitated the participatory segment of the conference, asking those sitting at a table to-gether to use an index card to write down, first, their own response to the question posed for the day, without any group discussion. After each person had taken time to respond to this question, she asked that the group work together to designate one idea or initiative that they felt was the most important or perhaps the most inclusive of the sense of the group, and to then write that action idea on one of the three white boards at the front of Channing.

Of the thirteen groups represented at each of the tables, a rich variety of ideas was generated. Reflecting the great attention recently on the new administration’s Executive Order for immigration enforcement, it was not surprising to see that this issue was first on many people’s minds—over half of the groups identified this as an issue they saw as needing immediate action. Other common threads included racial and gender justice, criminal justice reform, and doing more to work within wider com-munity and faith coalitions.

A final presentation by Gary Nissenbaum, the Director of UULMNJ’s Legal Advocacy Pro-ject, provided attendees with inspiring information about the effectiveness of LAP in recent court cases involving the protection of human rights in New Jersey.

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Princeton Skylights April 2017 Page 7

SPEAK UP AND TAKE ACTION

As a bold thought leader, guest speaker Christopher Hedges urged the Channing Hall audience of about 100 people to take action immediately with acts of defiance on social justice issues.

Railing equally at both political parties and corporate self-interest, the author, ordained minister and former New Y ork Times journalist urged people to resist. His “Defeating Fascism” address on Feb. 18, was the 21st James Luther Adams Forum on Religion and Society.

Drawing on the leadership and writings of Hannah Arendt, the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., Immanuel Kant and others, he tried to shake people from political paralysis and into non-violent protest.

“The reclaiming of our democracy will happen only when we make our physical presence felt in public spaces,” he said. “Now is not the time to

cooperate. Now is the time to shut down the systems of power. Now is the time to resist. It is our last chance. The fanatics are moving with lightning speed. So should we.”

He said people should find hope from the numerous protests on the streets, in town halls, by members of Congress and at “flash points” such as Standing Rock. He also saw hope if a significant number of the 2.5 million federal civil servants choose to resist edicts they find unjust.

“Politics is a game of fear. Those who do not have the ability to make power elites afraid do not succeed. The movements that opened up the democratic space in America – the abolitionists, suffragists, labor movement, communists, socialists, anarchists and civil rights and labor movements – developed a critical mass and militancy that forced the centers of power to respond.”

He urged people to step toward reform and resistance with concrete acts. He entreated people to reach out in their communities on housing, food security, public education and other bedrock issues.

“We must engage in these battles on the local and the national level. We must, in our own community, mobilize to prevent the deportation of undocumented workers, the evictions from their homes of the unemployed, those with disabilities, the elderly or those living on small, fixed incomes.”

He suggested paths forward, including taking the time to listen carefully to each other, build solid relationships in person, and connect with local communities.

“We have to disrupt the machinery of governance,” he said. “None of this will come by forming flash mobs on the Internet. It will come by building real and enduring relationships within our communities the old way – person by person. It will come when we take the time to listen.”

He concluded by encouraging people to build new radical movements that challenge the nexus of political and corporate power, as well as creating new, parallel institutions that resist the ruling power.

"The moment we rise up to defy radical evil we are victorious. The moment we stand alongside the oppressed, and accept being treated like the oppressed, we are victorious. The moment we hold up a flickering light in the darkness for others to see another narrative, another way of being, we are victorious. The moment we reopen a public library or save a public school, we are victorious. The moment we thwart the building of a pipeline or fracking site, we are victorious. And the moment those in power fear us, we are victorious.

“Let those who come after us say we tried. Let them say of us that we kept hope alive.”

Highlights from his speech —- By Pamela J. Podger

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Gracenotes

March 18: Our Choir Raised Funds for UULMNJ

On Saturday afternoon, March 18, in Paramus, NJ, our choir was one of eight from UU congregations in New Jersey meeting to raise funds for UULMNJ. This was our second appearance at this event, and we were thrilled to be able to support an organization that is needed now more than ever. We combined forces with the Hun-terdon UU choir and sang our hearts out! This event is beginning to have a forceful energy behind it. The choir

directors of NJ have begun to organize with choir swaps, repertoire exchanges and other activities beneficial to each of us. THIS IS YOUR MUSIC MINISTRY AT WORK!!

April 22: Roy Zimmerman Returns to UU Princeton

There couldn’t be a better time to host singer/songwriter/satirist Roy Zimmerman. Roy has performed at UU Princeton a few times before, always to great acclaim. Featured on NPR’s “All Things Considered,” he has shared the air with Al Franken on NPR’s “Talk of the Nation.” This year’s tour is called “Rezist” and helps us see the lighter side of cur-rent events. One new song, “Religious Freedom,” is a history of America in four minutes from the point of view of Kim Davis, Mike Huckabee, Michele Bachmann, and Donald Trump. One line from this song, “I’m free to practice my religion, and you’re free to practice mine!!”

Tickets at the door are $20 or by donation. The show, likely to be a sell-out performance, begins at 7:30 pm in Channing Hall, so mark your calendars!

Our ensembles are always looking for new participants:

Adult Choir. The ensemble has 36 members, and now includes several people from the community who have come to sing! We’re looking for singers in all sections. If you hesitate thinking that your voice isn’t good enough, or in shape, come and be surprised at how quickly your voice will expand when surrounded with voices just like yours. Even a minimal amount of choral or music-reading experience, recent or long ago, is all you’ll need to add your voice to this wonderful and welcoming ensemble. Rehearsals are every Wednesday evening, beginning August 31, from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. and the choir sings for services about two Sundays per month. To sing in the Adult Choir, contact Marjorie at marjmuse@verizon.net.

Bell Choir. Our Director , Joelle Pirecy leads our enthusiastic ensemble of bell r ingers. Rehearsals are on Thursday evenings from 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. With her consummate experience as a bell ringer, Joelle is the Di-rector Extraordinaire. Please note that we not only have 3 octaves of bells, but we also have an octave of chimes, with a softer, sweeter sound. Bells rehearse every Thursday evening in Founders Room from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. If interested, contact Joelle Piercy at handbells@uuprinceton.org.

Kids’ Chorale. This ensemble grew in musical sophistication last year , and sang for more services than ever before. The director of our wonderful children’s choir is Evan Corn, a graduate of the American Boychoir School, and a student at the Peddie School. The Kids have a terrific time rehearsing under Evan’s leadership most Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m. We’re looking for lots more kids to join us this year, so contact kidscho-rale@uuprinceton.org.

Oompah Band. This jolly ensemble is for woodwind and brass players, and is always looking for more in-strumentalists. This is the group that adds so much color and charm to church events such as the Hanging of the Greens. With the addition of a few more musicians last year, the Band sounded fuller than ever. If interested, con-tact Herb Foster at Herb_foster@yahoo.com.

Music Ministry Mission Statement

To provide, through the power of music, a dynamic ministry that will inspire transcendent personal experiences, draw the congregation into greater kinship, and

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Princeton Skylights April 2017 Page 9

UU HISTORY

DOROTHEA DIX AND THE AMERICAN CIVIL WAR Dorothea Dix left Europe and returned to America in 1856. When the Civil War broke out, Dix volunteered her services in April 1861 and was named Superintendent of Army Nurses. She was responsible for setting up the field hospitals and first-aid stations, recruiting nurses, managing supplies and setting up training programs. Dix was the first woman to serve in such a high capacity in a federally appointed role. Dix set guidelines for nurse candidates. Volunteers had to be aged 35 to 50 and plain looking. They were required to wear unhooped black or brown dresses, with no jewelry or cosmetics. Dix wanted to avoid sending vulnerable attractive young women into the hospitals, where she feared they would be exploited by the men (doctors as well as patients). With supplies pouring in from voluntary societies across the north, Dix’s administrative skills were sorely needed to manage the flow of bandages and clothing as the war wore on. Although Dix did muster the resolve and stamina required to pursue these enormous tasks throughout the war, she lacked the social skills of an effective administrator. In her reform efforts she had worked autonomously and was thus poorly prepared for the bureaucracy she found in the military establishment. She was often at odds with doctors over their drinking habits and neglect of sanitation. Many doctors and surgeons did not want any nurses in their hospitals. Dix was widely feared and disliked by her volunteer female nurses. One of these nurses was Louisa May Alcott, a Unitarian born in Philadelphia, who said nurses tended to “stay clear” of her. Alcott wrote of her short time as a nurse in “Hospital Sketches,” years before achieving fame with the classic Little Women. Dorothea began to be eclipsed by other prominent women, including Clara Barton. Barton was a Universalist who made her way from Massachusetts to live in Hightstown and then Bordentown, where her early “public school” still remains. She followed her boys in the Civil War and delivered supplies to them and others on the battlefields. She founded the American Red Cross later. After an exhausting period of time, working without a day off, Dix was relieved of her duties and sent home. Later, she considered this “episode” in her career a failure. But her even-handed caring for Union and Confederate wounded alike assured her memory in the North and the South. She was called by wounded soldiers “an angel of mercy.” Even after the war, Dix helped trace missing soldiers, wrote letters to families concerning the status of their sons, and helped soldiers secure their pensions. Dorothea also took up her work for the mentally ill and found conditions deteriorating due to massive immigration, a swelling population of the insane poor, and much depleted state treasuries. The hospitals she had

directed to be built were now overcrowded, understaffed, and in disrepair. She again directed her energies to rectifying the problems, but when she contracted malaria in 1870, Dix was forced to abandon aggressive traveling, although she continued to write and lobby for her causes. She took up residence in an apartment at the hospital she had founded 40 years earlier, the Trenton State Psychiatric Hospital. She died there at age 85 on July 17, 1887. She was buried in the Mount Auburn Cemetery in Cambridge, MA. She received many honors. In December 1866 she was awarded two national flags for her service in the Civil War for “the Care, Succor, and Relief of the Sick and wounded Soldiers of the United States on the Battle-Field, in Camps and Hospitals during the recent War.” Among other honors were a 1 cent Dorothea Dix postage stamp as part of the Great American series. A WW II navy ship was named for her, as was a crater on Venus. The Dorothea Dix UU Church in Bordentown, NJ chose her name because “We think her qualities of mind and character make her an appropriate and worthy ‘inspiration’ for us as we establish our individual and group path toward the ideals of Unitarian Universalism. —- By Carl H. Haag

ART, SPIRIT AND PIZZA By Carol Haag On Friday, February 17th, Bill invited the Coming of Age youth and their mentors to an evening together. Using various art media, Bill guided the group in ways of non-verbal prayer. First we filled a heart with our thoughts and concern for people in our lives. We put leaves on a tree for picturing values that we wish for life and for each other. And we were invited to discover the roots of our own spirit with symbols of parts of our own lives that make us feel alive. We started with pizza and finished with ice cream, deepening our friendships and nourishing our spirits. It was good for our youth to spend time with their minis-ter.

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Signing the Membership Book Ceremony

This ceremony of becoming a member is for those who have previously taken the ”Exploring UU” workshop and want to become members. Please sign-up at the Welcome Circle or contact Rev. Bill Neely at 609-924-1604 ext. 11 or bill@uuprinceton.org to arrange a time.

Congregation Updates

UU Legislative Ministry Statewide Annual Meeting

April 8, 2016

Unitarian Society of Ridgewood Help choose advocacy issues in economic justice, environment, crimi-nal justice reform, immigration reform, reproductive health, gun vio-

lence prevention. Meet other UUs and build coalitions. We will organize car pools from Princeton—watch for carpool signups at

UULMNJ table on Sundays. Registration for both events is available at www.uulmnj.org.

Welcome New Members!

Francesca

Vollaro

Jeffrey Wilkes

Daniel Cassidy

Joys and Sorrows

To help nurture a beloved community here in this congregation, please remember to share significant events in members’ lives with the Pastoral Associates, who are charged with extending the pastoral ministry. This column is a place to inform the larger community of major events in peo-ple’s lives. Sometimes people want to have their news shared; sometimes privacy and confidentiality prevail. Items for this column should be sent to pa@uuprinceton.org. All items will be reviewed by the Pastoral Associate leadership team before publishing (Judy Malsbury, Sofia Strauss, and the Rev. Bill Neely. Andy Maskell announces the bir th of his son: Benjamin David Maskell, born Feb 27, 8 pounds 4 ounces, 21 inches long. Mom Lydia is making a speedy recovery from an intense 36 hour labor. We couldn't be happier to bring him up surrounded by the loving commu-nity of UUCP. Congratulations to Lydia and to Andy! Gloria Gietz became a grandmother on January 24 when her daughter Hilary and her husband John Frost brought home their adopted little girl, Ursula Francis, who was born on Christmas. Ursula is eating, gaining weight, wiggling and stretching like a pro. Congratulations to Gloria and her family!

Community Building WOMEN'S ALLIANCE

The Women's Alliance invites you to enjoy a delicious lunch and very interesting program on Thursday, April 20, in Founders Room. Our speaker, Paul McGovern, will present "The Wonderful World of Bamboo Fabric". Paul will share information and samples of this remarkable renewable resource. Lunch begins at 12 noon. Please bring a salad to share. Desserts and beverages are provided. Program begins at 1:00 p.m. All women and men are welcome! Questions? Call Sally Easter, 609-466-7301.

Pastoral Associates is a group of trained and caring members of the congregation who offer support and assistance to congregants facing difficulties, crises, or life transitions. If you believe that someone within the congregation or you, yourself, might benefit from the PA program, please send an email to PA@UUPrinceton.org, or contact Judy Malsbury or Sofia Strauss.

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Saturday, May 13th, 9 am–2 pm All proceeds go to our Social Justice Outreach Activities

Dust off those stored-away household goods you’re not using but someone else could. Ask your colleagues and neighbors if they have items to donate. Donations are tax deductible and re-ceipts provided. Share your treasures – not your junk!

Clothing, furniture, lamps, books, DVDs, computers, jewelry, antiques, art & posters, linens, kitch-en appliances, dishes, trinkets, toys & games,sports equipment, gardening tools, general household items. (Please, only items in good, working condition and NO tires, mattresses, cathode-ray tube TV/monitors, damaged furniture, encyclopedias, magazines or textbooks.)

Do you have a "HIGH-END" donation, such as a car, boat, fine furniture, art piece, jewelry, antique or collectible? You can specify a minimum price and provide key selling points on the “High-End Donation” form. If the item isn’t sold on May 13, we may offer it on Craigslist or eBay. If we can't get your minimum price, the item can be returned to you. A great way to make a significant contribution to our Social Justice Ministries!

In addition to bargains galore, come and enjoy delicious food, cappuccino at the courtyard Bistro, live music, fun & FELLOWSHIP. Bring the whole family, colleagues, friends & neighbors!

-- Amanda Gillum, Binnie Thom & Judy Vee, Spring Sale Co-Chairs

CALLING FOR VOLUNTEERS

Many hands make light work – Please say “Yes!” when a Booth Chair calls to ask for your help sorting the treasure trove and staffing booths on Sale day --plenty of opportunities to help.

Busy May 13th? Come for an afternoon or evening during Set-up Week.

We are seeking volunteers to help Chair:

CLEAN-UP CHAIR and volunteers to help relieve those who have worked hard all week!

ON-LINE SALES VOLUNTEERS: For our High-End donations, we need people with eBay or other on-line sales experience to get the items listed and sold.

BARISTA for Bistro: We are planning lattes and cappuccino in the Courtyard. Want to help?

ALSO, TO BORROW: van or truck to use for pick-up during Set-up Week; Wire shelving and bookcases for displaying BOOKS and CDs at the Sale; Patio tables & chairs for the BISTRO in the courtyard.

Please consider helping – SIGN UP AT THE SPRING SALE TABLE ON SUNDAYS.

SAVE THE DATE

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Children’s and Youth Faith Development

Faith Journeys for Children

April 2 Regular RE (meet in Channing at 10:30) April 9 Regular RE (meet in Channing at 10:30) April 14–15 Youth overnight at Murray Grove Universalist Heritage Center April 16 Easter (no RE; table in Robinson for Easter cards making); Egg Hunt April 23 Youth-led Sunday (All are welcomed to the service); Faith Development Committee meeting (12 PM, Room 1) April 30 Regular RE (Classes will be dismissed after May Pole festivities) — Craig Rubano, Coordinator for Youth Programs / Point person for Lifespan Faith Development until August, 2017

April 23, 2017 at 10:30 a.m. From Roots to Branches: Youth-led Sunday On this Earth Day weekend, the Youth of this congregation decided to combine the monthly congregational theme, Roots, with the challenge of appreciating the many Branches of our interdependent world. Our UU faith gives us a rooted sense of identity as we negotiate our lives; but our faith also encourages us to know about and value opinions and lives very different from our own. This Sunday, we live into a central tension: how do we strengthen our sense of purpose and strength while not living in an echo chamber of our own ideas? How do we move from our roots to life's branches?

Worship Leaders: Youth Group and Advisors Worship Associate: Michael Berman Music: Victoria Chow, piano; Marjorie Herman

Got something to share? Write an article for Skylights and send along to: skylights@uuprinceton.org

Youth Group is more than just a group of Youth — we are high-schoolers who covenant with one another to have a good time and treat one another with loving respect. YOU (if you’re a high-schooler) are always welcome to be with us.

@uuprinceton

Youth Group

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Princeton Skylights April 2017 Page 13

Spring Sale PLANTS PRE-ORDERS Fill out the order form, tally up your total, deduct 10%, and write a check to UUCP. Deadline for pre-orders is Sunday, April 9. Your order can be picked up late Friday afternoon, May 12, or Saturday, May 13 at the Spring Sale. ORDER FORMS available Sundays in Robinson Lounge or On-Line: http://www.uuprinceton.org Questions? Contact Lorette Pruden (908-359-4130)

The Rainbow ministry will be meeting on Monday, March 27th at 7:30 in the Founders room. For more information please contact lgbtq@uuprinceton.org

The Mission of the UU Princeton Membership Ministry is that all who enter feel welcome, known, and loved. Newcomers experience personal and congregational connections that lead them to become committed UUs and members of our congregation. To this end, we offer newcomers the following programs to get to know us better: Beginning Together: Our 30-minute introduction to our faith and congregation is usually held on the second Sunday of the month at 11:45 a.m. Meet at the Welcome Circle where we will walk with you to Rev. Bill’s office. Next session: Sunday, April 9. No sign-up is needed. Exploring Unitarian Universalism: Two 75 minute sessions will be held on consecutive Sundays: fir st Sunday – History and Beliefs and second Sunday – UU Princeton and Membership, including time with various lay leaders. Organized by Rev. Bill with Membership Ministry presence and support, all sessions will be from noon to 1:15 p.m. Upcoming sessions are April 23

and 30. You can sign up at the Welcome Circle

or by emailing welcome@uuprinceton.org. You also can call Marty Akers at 609-915-7564. Wine and Cheese Reception: This is a casual get-to-know you gathering which provides an opportunity to meet Rev. Bill Neely, UU Princeton members and other newcomers. It is usually held at a member’s home on a Sunday afternoon from 4:00-6:00. The next reception will be Sunday April 2 at 4:00-6:00. You can sign up at the Welcome Circle, by e-mailing welcome@uuprinceton.org or by calling Marty Akers at 609-915-7564. If you have any questions about this event, membership or our congregation, please email us at membership@uuprinceton.org.

Newcomers’ Events

Page 14 Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Princeton Skylights April 2017

Seder 2017 On Friday, April 7th @6-8pm... join us for a UUCP sponsored intergenerational event - our Seder Celebration.

This year we are extending the invitation to String of Pearls. All invited to participate in the celebra-tion - cost is $5 for adults and children are free. Bring your own Passover wine and a dish to share... please see the following list and sign-up accordingly as we want to make certain there is enough to go around. Please feel free to share a special family Passover dish with your UUCP family. Any ques-tions, please contact Ray Nichols (acer-nichols@verizon.net) or Susan Griffin (sfgriffin99@gmail.com).

We will be supplying Matzoh Ball Soup, Matzoh, soda water, gefilte fish and items for the Seder plate. Please sign-up to help with serving and clean-up - if you are able. Sign up link: www.SignUpGenius.com/go/30E0544A5A922A57-seder1

The UU Princeton Relational Covenant

Our covenant affirms a commitment to build loving, healthy and trusting relationships within our congregation. We make these promises in order to love better, relate more compassionately and feel the power of our human connections.

Our Promises: We warmly welcome all. We speak with honesty, respect and compassion. We listen attentively. We express gratitude for the service of others. We honor and support one another in our spiritual journeys and in times of joy,

need and struggle. We embrace our diversity and the opportunity to share our different perspectives. We address our disagreements directly and openly and see conflict through to an

authentic resolution. We serve our spiritual community with generosity and joy. We strive to keep these promises, but when we fall short, we forgive ourselves and

others and begin again in love.

Brunch: The April YA Bagel Brunch will be replaced this month by a Young Adult hosted brunch in Founders Room on April 30 immediately following service. If you are available to help serve, set-up, or volunteer to bring food the day of the brunch please email uucpyoungadult@gmail.com. Monies raised help support our YA ministry. Monthly event: Join us this month for dinner at the Brick House Tavern + Tap located next to the Mar-ketfair Plaza in Princeton. The event will be held on April 21st at 7:30pm. Address is 3569 US-1, Princeton, NJ 08540. Please email uucpyoungadult@gmail.com if you plan on attending, or if you have suggestions for a future event!

Young Adults

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Princeton Skylights April 2017 Page 15

So Just How Did We Go from Being a Nation of Slaves

to Being a Nation of Criminals?

Learn the answer to this question by coming to UU Princeton on April 4, to watch 13TH, a pow-erful documentary that will challenge your ideas about the intersection of race, justice and mass incarcer-ation in the United States. The film’s producer, Ava DuVernay-- best known for “Selma” -- has made a movie that’s as timely as the latest Black Lives Matter protest and the now-decided presidential election.

The movie hinges on the 13th Amendment. Ratified in 1865, the amendment states in full: “Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction.” As this documentary makes clear, slavery was abolished for everyone except criminals.

The film runs just under 100 minutes, and we will have refreshments in Robinson Lounge after it ends so you can stay to share your thoughts with others. Open to everyone, so bring friends and col-leagues; very appropriate and important for young people. Questions? Contact Susan MacDonnell at susmacdonn@gmail.com.

13TH

TUESDAY, APRIL 4, 2017

Film begins at 6:30 p.m.

Fahs Theater

Page 16 Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Princeton Skylights April 2017

About Skylights

Skylights is published monthly except August. Skylights is a publication of the:

Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Princeton 50 Cherry Hill Rd. Princeton, N.J. 08540-7626

Submissions to be sent to:

skylights @uuprinceton.org Please submit your article as an attachment in our preferred font, Times New Roman, 11 pt. Describe your submission in the subject line of your e-mail and tell us under which section it belongs.

Next Skylights

Deadline is for the:

MAY ISSUE

SUBMISSIONS DUE April 10

skylights @ uuprinceton.org

Meeting with the Minister

Rev. Bill is happy to meet with you at church, for lunch, over coffee, etc., at a time that works for everyone. Please email or call him to make an appointment. You’re also welcome to drop in during the daytime, but visits, meetings, denominational events, etc., regularly pull him out of the office, sometimes with very little notice. It’s always a good idea to call first before dropping by to visit.

609-924-1604 ext. 11 In the event of emergencies needing the attention of our minister, please contact him first, irrespective of time or day. If necessary, contact Chris Sturm, President of the Board of Trustees, president @ uuprinceton.org

CONTENTS

Sanctuary 1

Lawn Sign Envy 1

The Good News 2

Love Your Neighbor 2

Sunday Worship Services 3

Spiritual Theme 4

Fellowship Auction 4

Legislative Ministry 6

Chris Hedges’ Speech 7

Music Ministry 8

UU History 9

Congregation Updates 10

Contacts 16

Skylights Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Princeton 50 Cherry Hill Road Princeton, NJ 08540-7626

Names & Numbers

Rev. Bill Neely bill @ uuprinceton.org Parish Minister ext. 11

Marjorie Herman marjorie @ uuprinceton.org Music Director ext. 16

Lorraine Shiarappa lorraine @ uuprinceton.org Director of Lifespan RE ext. 14

Craig Rubano craig @ uuprinceton.org Youth Programs ext. 18

Pam Podger pam@uuprinceton.org External Communications ext. 12

Shatara Ryland shatara @ uuprinceton.org Office Assistant ext. 15

Jorge Garcia Salas jorge @ uuprinceton.org Sexton ext. 19 or 609-954-7789

Sara Oderwald sara @ uuprinceton.org Administrator ext. 10

Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Phone: 609-924-1604 FAX: 609-924-0533

e-mail:

office @ uuprinceton.org

Web page:

http://www.uuprinceton.org