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Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Blacksburg, VA October 2014 Getting to Know YoUU Margo Walter, President A picnic and spectacular hike at Mountain Lake; how to make and can salsa; a private pool party; a night of celestial sky gazing; a girl's night out; an exotic Indian dinner; and participating in a murder mystery are just a few of the auction items that were available for bids on Auction Night 2013. IT IS AUCTION TIME 2014 on November 8 at 5:30 PM at UUC, and the offerings will undoubtedly surpass previous years. There will be jewelry, crafts, art, services, clothing, toys, games, food, dinners, items made by UUC kids, and many, many fine gifts offered during the Live and Silent Auctions. However, there is something else at the Auction that does not have a price tag. This year's theme is Getting to Know YoUU. Making connections, meeting new members, enriching the friendships that already exist, and discovering interesting information about fellow members are happening at this year's Auction. You will love the icebreakers and games our Auction Committee has created to make this night like no other. Expect lots of laughter, joy, and fun. My first Auction four years ago was such a surprise. My husband and I thought it would be interesting to bid on a few items but had no idea where that would lead us. We were unprepared for the results. Since neither one of us is a gourmet cook, we were attracted to the many dinners that were being offered by UUC members. Our interest was the food, period. Our winning bids were spread throughout the year and ranged from a Pennsylvania Dutch dinner to an Italian fiesta and everything in between. Being new to the congregation, we looked forward to each of these events in order to taste the cuisine. No one told us we would have the most incredible time visiting different homes and getting to know members on a much deeper level. We talked about our families, our careers, our backgrounds, our volunteering, and even our pets. We truly made new friends. Since that time, every year we have bid on different dinners and have never been disappointed in the hosts, the company, or the food. You cannot buy friendship, but you sure can bid on opportunities to share an evening or two with new friends. Come to this Auction prepared to extend yourself to our congregation and enjoy the fruits of new friendships. We have discussed bidding, game playing, and dinners. But what about donating? Every year I am amazed at the talents exhibited by our members. We have artists, crafters, and creative juices flowing. The Auction is our major fundraiser, and it all begins with donations. Everyone, yes, everyone can make donations to the Auction via the Auction website . Be sure to check out last year's items for bid to get ideas on how you can participate. We are generous spirits when we give of our time, talent, and treasures. Your donations are greatly appreciated and will help UUC support all the programs we offer from Children's Choir to Sunday Circles to the best Religious Education anywhere. One more plug for something that I hope shows up on the Auction block. I need lessons on using my iPhone and my iPad. Desperately! I know that I am not the only computer inept person out there and would even welcome a group lesson. Help! I hope to see each of you at the 2014 Auction, November 8 at 5:30 PM! If this is your first time or you are an old pro, do not miss this great opportunity to meet, greet, and socialize with friends. UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CONGREGATION 1301 Gladewood Drive Blacksburg, VA 24060 Website: www.uucnrv.org E-mail: [email protected] Phone: (540)552-9716 NEWSLETTER October 2014 Year 49, Issue 10

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Page 1: UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CONGREGATION NEWSLETTER · Getting to Know YoUU. Making connections, meeting new members, enriching the friendships that already exist, and discovering interesting

Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Blacksburg, VA October 2014

Getting to Know YoUU Margo Walter, President

A picnic and spectacular hike at Mountain Lake; how to make and can salsa; a private pool party; a

night of celestial sky gazing; a girl's night out; an exotic Indian dinner; and participating in a murder

mystery are just a few of the auction items that were available for bids on Auction Night 2013. IT IS

AUCTION TIME 2014 on November 8 at 5:30 PM at UUC, and the offerings will undoubtedly surpass

previous years. There will be jewelry, crafts, art, services, clothing, toys, games, food, dinners, items

made by UUC kids, and many, many fine gifts offered during the Live and Silent Auctions.

However, there is something else at the Auction that does not have a price tag. This year's theme is

Getting to Know YoUU. Making connections, meeting new members, enriching the friendships that

already exist, and discovering interesting information about fellow members are happening at this year's

Auction. You will love the icebreakers and games our Auction Committee has created to make this night

like no other. Expect lots of laughter, joy, and fun.

My first Auction four years ago was such a surprise. My husband and I thought it would be interesting to

bid on a few items but had no idea where that would lead us. We were unprepared for the results. Since

neither one of us is a gourmet cook, we were attracted to the many dinners that were being offered by

UUC members. Our interest was the food, period. Our winning bids were spread throughout the year

and ranged from a Pennsylvania Dutch dinner to an Italian fiesta and everything in between. Being new

to the congregation, we looked forward to each of these events in order to taste the cuisine. No one told

us we would have the most incredible time visiting different homes and getting to know members on a

much deeper level. We talked about our families, our careers, our backgrounds, our volunteering, and

even our pets. We truly made new friends. Since that time, every year we have bid on different dinners

and have never been disappointed in the hosts, the company, or the food. You cannot buy friendship,

but you sure can bid on opportunities to share an evening or two with new friends. Come to this Auction

prepared to extend yourself to our congregation and enjoy the fruits of new friendships.

We have discussed bidding, game playing, and dinners. But what about donating? Every year I am

amazed at the talents exhibited by our members. We have artists, crafters, and creative juices flowing.

The Auction is our major fundraiser, and it all begins with donations. Everyone, yes, everyone can make

donations to the Auction via the Auction website. Be sure to check out last year's items for bid to get

ideas on how you can participate. We are generous spirits when we give of our time, talent, and

treasures. Your donations are greatly appreciated and will help UUC support all the programs we offer

from Children's Choir to Sunday Circles to the best Religious Education anywhere.

One more plug for something that I hope shows up on the Auction block. I need lessons on using my

iPhone and my iPad. Desperately! I know that I am not the only computer inept person out there and

would even welcome a group lesson. Help!

I hope to see each of you at the 2014 Auction, November 8 at 5:30 PM! If this is your first time or you

are an old pro, do not miss this great opportunity to meet, greet, and socialize with friends.

UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CONGREGATION

1301 Gladewood Drive

Blacksburg, VA 24060

Website: www.uucnrv.org

E-mail: [email protected]

Phone: (540)552-9716

NEWSLETTER October 2014

Year 49, Issue 10

Page 2: UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CONGREGATION NEWSLETTER · Getting to Know YoUU. Making connections, meeting new members, enriching the friendships that already exist, and discovering interesting

Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Blacksburg, VA 2 October 2014

Minister: On Maternity leave through Nov. 30

Rev. Dara Olandt

415-374-0656

[email protected]

President:

Margo Walter

540-230-0641

[email protected]

Director of Lifespan Faith Development:

Karen Hager

540-577-8043

[email protected]

Administrator/ Newsletter:

Lisa Evanylo

540-552-8050

[email protected]

Pianist:

Jared Gibbs

[email protected]

Choir Director:

Ella Kromin

[email protected]

Lay Pastoral Care Ministry:

[email protected]

UUC Website: uucnrv.org

UUC Office Phone:

540-552-9716

Minister Emerita:

Rev. Christine Brownlie

Contact

Information

Our Mission

We are a caring and diverse community bringing spirit, love, justice, learning, and reason to our

Congregation and to the larger world.

Staff Office Hours:

Minister:

On maternity leave

through November 30

Administrator:

Mondays 9-12,

Fridays 1-4

DLFD:

By appointment

Message from Our President Margo Walter

There is currently so much activity in our

congregation that we need a bigger calendar. We

are kicking off this fall with something for everyone.

The Social Justice Listening campaign is underway,

and there are conversations happening in every

room at UUC, every corner at Panera, and even in

parking lots. What matters to you is the big

question. The Small Group Ministries are getting

started - sign up with Barbara Taylor if you have not

done so. The Board liaisons are visiting different

committees, and our Councils are gearing up for another productive year. Do

you recognize a recurring theme here? Yes, we are communicating! We are

hearing each other and discovering all the issues we share in our lives and all

the diversity that exists among us. It is very exciting stuff.

The fall season seems to be a time of celebration also. I am attending my

second wedding within two weeks, and the VT football crowd can be heard

from my front deck in Giles County. The Center for the Arts is the place to see

many of our members or just take a walk on the Huckleberry Trail. The

mountains are getting ready to burst with their fall colors. We are so blessed

to live in the New River Valley. That brings us to Gratitude!

It has been three months and a few days since Laureen Blakemore began

celebrating the end of her presidency. Now she just gloats. When I accepted

the nomination for President-Elect and stepped (jumped) into the presidency

this year, I was a bit apprehensive and extremely enthusiastic. Wow! I am in

awe of our congregation, its leaders, and its members. The compassion, the

dedication, the experience, the wisdom, and the love that we share make

leadership an honor. Someone, you or your friend, are always stepping up to

the plate and making my job easy. And for that, I am so grateful. Sharing our

skills, talents, and generous gifts really works, and we will continue to grow.

I do have an ongoing challenge for each of you. We do a fantastic job

welcoming new members and helping them make connections. Please

congratulate your Connections Committee (formerly Membership) when you

see them. Isabel Berney and her team are incredible. However, this is not only

the charge of a committee but a task for each of us. Invite your family and

friends to join us on a Sunday morning or to come to one of our upcoming

social events - the Chile Cook-off (January 3) or the Service Auction. Growing

our membership keeps us exuberant and able to open up new conversations.

Last week I had the privilege of welcoming a new member to our congregation

and witnessed the signing of our “Membership Book.” It was an extremely

moving and proud moment. I also recently participated in a New Member

Orientation session and met three young families who are excited to be joining

us. Let's open our doors even wider and extend a welcome to future UUs.

Page 3: UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CONGREGATION NEWSLETTER · Getting to Know YoUU. Making connections, meeting new members, enriching the friendships that already exist, and discovering interesting

Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Blacksburg, VA 3 October 2014

Upcoming Events

UUC 2014 Service Auction & FUNdraiser

Auction fever is mounting as talents and treasures are being entered into

the 2014 Service Auction website (http://www.togetherauction.com/uucnrv)

for our November 8, 5:30 PM event! We have dinners, entertainment,

food, artwork, and more! Have you made your donations yet? Don’t delay –

the deadline for entering your donations for auction at Getting to Know

YoUU is midnight, October 26. Need ideas? Go to the Catalog Grid

section from the link at the top of the auction’s homepage. You can see

what is already being offered this year in each category and can click on

links for the 2011, 2012, and 2013 catalogs at the bottom of the page to

get ideas from previous years. For example, specialty food items that are

available at the auction or picked up at a later date, theme dinners, lessons

from experts, and skilled labor are always great sellers – and much appreciated by buyers! Please help

the Service Auction Team by entering your donations as soon as possible. Visit the Service Auction table

after Sunday services for more information or assistance with donation entries.

New this year is a 50/50 raffle with the house’s half going to support community service projects that

our children are undertaking, the Horcruxes of Dumbledore’s Army, for those of you who speak Harry

Potter. Also new is the Harry Potter Party for children 4 and up (organized and led by Rachel Craine)

with childcare available for those 3 and under. Please sign your children up at the Service Auction table

by November 2 so they can have fun at this kid friendly event while you enjoy the Service Auction.

Since specialty food items are always a hit, we are going to use the potluck on October 12 as an

opportunity for highlighting 2014 Service Auction offers. For your potluck contribution, please bring

samples (soup, quiche, cookies, pie, cheese cakes, applesauce, dish from a theme dinner, scones,

biscotti, bread, granola, truffles, salsa, ???) of what you will be offering and label them with their catalog

title, letter, and number. We hope to make sampling Service Auction goodies an annual tradition!

Be sure to read the Message from our President on the cover page to get a first-person account of the

many benefits of attending the Service Auction, UUC’s major FUNdraiser each year. Questions? Want to

help? Contact Don & Susan Blanchard or Joe and Linda Powers.

A few people have made requests for items and services they hope will be offered in this year's Service

Auction. They, of course, will offer PLENTY to have their wishes fulfilled. Can you provide any of these

services? If so, go to the auction website to enter your donation.

Requests include:

sewing lessons for children 8+ and perhaps a 12-yr. old group;

knitting and crocheting lessons;

constructing raised plants beds;

constructing and instillation of a picture rail;

copying RPM phonograph records and pictures onto CDs;

building a shed;

carpentry work;

raking leaves;

window washing;

power washing a deck and porch;

organizing pictures into albums or on CDs;

providing childcare after school and weekends;

delivering meals once a week for a busy month;

holiday desserts;

tree/wood cutting and/or removal

Other requests?? Send your donation requests to Cynthia Luke or Don & Susan Blanchard.

Page 4: UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CONGREGATION NEWSLETTER · Getting to Know YoUU. Making connections, meeting new members, enriching the friendships that already exist, and discovering interesting

Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Blacksburg, VA 4 October 2014

Second-Sunday Potluck Everyone is invited to enjoy lunch together following the service on October 12. It’s

a wonderful opportunity to meet new people while sharing a delicious meal. This

month, if your last name begins with A-Bak and K-Lam, bring a beverage; Lan-Z,

bring a main dish; Bal-J, bring a side dish or dessert. Don’t forget your list of the

ingredients in your dish to assist those with food allergies.

Please be sure to bring a LARGE DISH as there are many mouths to feed and to be

considerate of those at the end of the line that are also hungry. Lastly, please place all food trash in the

garbage and not in the sink as we have no disposal.

Be sure to bring your non-perishable food donations (canned meats, fruits, vegetables,

macaroni and cheese, rice, beans, cereal, peanut butter, jelly, coffee, sugar, etc.) for

the Interfaith Food Pantry. The donation basket is in the lobby just outside the

Meeting Room.

Women’s Lunch Group

The Women’s lunches for October will offer an

opportunity for continuing connection in the

smaller setting many of us enjoy. Originally

conceived as an alternative to the early morning

(7 AM) Women’s Breakfasts, we average around

10 - 12 attendees. Please note that the option of

Monday morning Women’s Breakfast gatherings

continues to be a welcoming venue as well!

On October 3 we will gather at the China Inn,

401 Draper Rd. in Blacksburg across from the

library. On October 17 we will meet at Sal’s in

the First & Main shopping center in Blacksburg.

We gather at noon. Ideas for future lunch options

are always welcome. We try to be mindful of

convenient parking options for all levels of

physical abilities in our selections.

EarthSpirit Sisters Full Moon Ritual

On Tuesday, October 7, all women are invited to

the monthly Full Moon Ritual in Elarth Hall. Social

time begins at 6:30 PM with the ritual at 7:00.

This is the celebration of the Blood Moon, also

known as the Harvest Moon, where we honor our

ancestors and think about the treasures we have

gained during the year. The theme of the ritual is

Raising the Cone of Power for peace-and healing.

For more info, contact K.C. Arceneaux.

EarthSpirit Sisters are a spirit-filled community of

sisters, supporting each other with love and

respect; creating safe, sacred spaces in which to

share rituals and celebrate milestones.

UU Music Breakfast Club

Love to make music?

Join the UU Music

Breakfast Club on

Saturday, October 25

from 10:30 AM -12:30 PM to prepare special

music for the service on Sunday, October 26. All

are welcome for this low-commitment, but fun

music making. Contact Natalie or Jared Gibbs for

more information.

Newcomers' Potluck Welcoming new members and those new to UUC

If you have begun attending or become a member

within the past year, welcome! We invite you to

join us at the Newcomers' Potluck on Saturday,

October 4 at 6:30-8:30 PM at UUC. The

gathering will give you a chance to meet other

newcomers through this enjoyable, informal

event. Contact Pauletta Copenheaver or Mark

Benson to sign up or for more information.

Page 5: UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CONGREGATION NEWSLETTER · Getting to Know YoUU. Making connections, meeting new members, enriching the friendships that already exist, and discovering interesting

Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Blacksburg, VA 5 October 2014

Lifespan Faith Development

October 2014

~ Our weapon is love Dumbledore’s Army (DA) begins the fight against the Hunger

Horcrux this month, and there are several ways that you can

join the fight!

~ Bring non-perishable items for DA’s food drive to benefit the

Interfaith Food Pantry. Collection bins are located upstairs and

downstairs. The food drive runs the entire month of October.

~ Participate in Crop Walk on the afternoon of Sunday, October

19 (see page 8 for more info). Great family activity!

~ Participate in the trick-or-treat for canned goods in the

Sunday service on Sunday, October 26. Kids come in costume!

~ Participate in the It’s Scary To Be Hungry food collection at

Kroger that same Sunday afternoon. Kids come in costume!

Watch your email for more details on how to participate!

“We are only as strong as we are united, as weak as we are

divided.” ~ Albus Dumbledore

Dumbledore’s Army

DA fights The Illiteracy Horcrux: 420 books donated!

MSYG Friday, October 10 6:30-8:30 PM

Middle School Youth Group meets offsite

this month at Sinkland Farms for some pre-

Halloween fun. A hayride, corn maze and

more round out this Pumpkin Festival.

MSYG meets the 2nd Friday of the month,

and is open to youth in grades 6-8. For

more information, contact

[email protected].

YRUU Sunday evenings 6:00-8:00 PM

Our high school youth group, YRUU, is open

to all teens in grades 9-12. YRUU meets on

Sunday evenings with some meetings held

offsite.

Teens participate in fundraisers,

conferences and fun activities while forming

bonds with other teens. For more info,

contact [email protected].

Page 6: UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CONGREGATION NEWSLETTER · Getting to Know YoUU. Making connections, meeting new members, enriching the friendships that already exist, and discovering interesting

Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Blacksburg, VA 6 October 2014

PAGE 6 LIFESPAN FAITH DEVELOPMENT

Harry Potter Movie Night Friday, October 17 6:30-8:30 PM

Harry Potter Movie Night continues with a showing of the 2nd movie in the

franchise, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. Harry's second year

at Hogwarts begins as the Heir of Salazar Slytherin opens the Chamber of

Secrets unleashing a deadly monster that petrifies the school's pupils.

Dobby the house-elf (one of our favorite characters) makes his first

appearance in this movie!

Order pizza when you arrive (optional) and you can enjoy dinner with

your movie. We supply the popcorn and drinks!

Parents are encouraged to visit the IMDb Parent Advisory on this movie

at http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0295297/parentalguide?ref_=tt_stry_pg

to determine if it is suitable for their child. This is an intergenerational

showing—children and adults are welcome to bring friends!

Buddhist Voices in Unitarian Universalism October 8, 15, 22 & 29 7:00-9:PM

This book brings together the voices of UUs who have become Buddhists while

not sacrificing their UU identity, and Buddhists who have found in Unitarian

Universalism a spiritual home where they can sustain a practice and join in an

activist religious community that accepts and encourages who they are. Also

included is an exploration of how American Buddhism has been influenced by

Unitarian Universalism and how UU congregations are being changed by Buddhist

practice. Meets for 4 sessions. Registration is required.

Adult OWL

October 12 & 26 2:00-4:00 PM

Using values, communication skills and spirituality as starting points, this

program explores sexuality issues for adults of all ages. Adult OWL builds an

understanding of healthy sexual relationships, affirms diversity and helps

participants accept and affirm their own sexuality throughout their lives

Registration is required.

October 2 & 16 7:00-8:30 PM

Class continues through November. Contact facilitator Nancy Norton for more information.

The Artist’s Way

Page 7: UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CONGREGATION NEWSLETTER · Getting to Know YoUU. Making connections, meeting new members, enriching the friendships that already exist, and discovering interesting

Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Blacksburg, VA 7 October 2014

PAGE 7 LIFESPAN FAITH DEVELOPMENT

A Course in Miracles

Monday, October 13 & 27, 7:30-9:30 pm

A Course In Miracles (ACIM) allows one to

reconnect with God without a religious doctrine.

Inner peace is achieved through an

understanding of the meaning of the world and

through the collective practice of forgiveness,

gratitude, asking for what is wanted and

communion with the divinity that dwells within.

New members are always welcome! Contact

Dick Kates for more information.

Conversations on Faith

Meets Wednesdays 12:00-1:00 PM

Bring a brown bag lunch and join our

conversation as we discuss the book, Moral Man

and Immoral Society; A Study in Ethics and

Politics, by Reinhold Neibuhr. All are welcome,

even if you have not read the chapters of the

book being discussed. Group members share

their insights and personal experiences and all

thoughts and opinions are welcome. For more

information, contact Cynthia Luke.

Meditation Group Meets every Tuesday 7:00-8:00 PM

Our meditation group meets on Tuesday evenings for those interested in starting

or deepening their meditation practice. Our format is drop-in, so you need not

attend all sessions. We open with centering words and basic instruction, followed

by sitting practice. Non-experienced and experienced meditators from all

traditions are welcome.

Sunday Circle Meets on the 1st & 3rd Sundays of the month 8:30-9:30 AM

October 5: UUC member Carl T. Hansen will discuss economic inequality, an ongoing problem

which could have profound effects on our society’s well-being. Three books, The Theory of the

Leisure Class by Thorstein Veblen, Capital in the Twenty-First Century by Thomas Piketty, and The

Son also Rises by Gregory Clark will serve as the basis for the discussion of a subject which has

broad societal impact.

October 19: UUC member William Baker will deliver a talk and lead a discussion on evidence-based

medicine.

Library Committee Recommends . . . Eight Mindful Steps to Happiness: Walking the Buddha's Path by Bhante Henepola

Gunaratana. Delves deeply into each step of the Buddha's most profound teaching

on bringing an end to suffering: the noble eightfold path. Whether you are an

experienced meditator or someone who's only just beginning, this gentle and

down-to-earth guide will help you bring the heart of the Buddha's teachings into

every aspect of your life.

Page 8: UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CONGREGATION NEWSLETTER · Getting to Know YoUU. Making connections, meeting new members, enriching the friendships that already exist, and discovering interesting

Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Blacksburg, VA 8 October 2014

Board Meeting The Space Cadets, an ad hoc committee

charged with analyzing our space needs, met

for the first time and will have

recommendations for the Board in November.

Isabel Berney, chair of the Connections

Council, presented a report including a plan

to restart Circle Suppers and possibly

purchasing Fair Trade Coffee.

The Board discussed objectives for the year.

Via email, the Board approved the charge for

the new Governance Oversight Committee.

The next Board meeting will be held on October

14 at 6:30 PM. The agenda can be accessed

through our web calendar prior to the meeting,

and the minutes and reports are available via the

member area of our website. Contact our

administrator for login info. All are welcome to

attend.

UUC Community News

Community Service Team (CST)

Fourth Sunday Collection: In August we raised

the astonishing sum of $1,000 to donate to the

Blacksburg Women's Health Center, our local

chapter of Planned Parenthood! Many, many

thanks to all who contributed. The generosity of

this congregation continues to amaze! The

collection on Sunday, October 26 will be in

conjunction with the LFD food donation program,

It's Scary to Be Hungry, with all funds donated to

the Blacksburg Interfaith Food Pantry. Contact

Polly Stimson with questions about this monthly

program.

CROP Hunger Walk: The UUC and Friends CROP

Walk team invites you to join them on Sunday,

October 19 as they walk 2 miles on the

Huckleberry Trail to support the elimination of

world hunger. We are pleased that Dumbledore’s

Army will also be walking as they fight against the

Hunger Horcrux.

Support may be offered by walking and obtaining

pledges, by making a donation, or by joining the

walk. Registration can be completed on line or at

the CROP Walk table in Elarth following the

service. For more information contact Alison

Armstrong, Pauletta Copenheaver, or see a

member of Dumbledore’s Army.

Questions & Ideas for UUC Board

Do you have a question, suggestion, complaint, or

comment for our Board members and don’t know

what to do with it? Just send an email to

[email protected].

Support Public Radio and UUC Visibility

Many first-time visitors to UUC say they first heard about us on WVTF.

It’s one of the best places to reach out to people who might want to

join our community. The fall WVTF Public Radio fund drive is now on.

Contributions made through UUC not only help the station, but also pay

for sponsorship announcements about all four area UU congregations:

Blacksburg, Roanoke, Lynchburg, and Charlottesville.

Help tell people about our growing community, support public radio, and get a tax deduction—all with

one check! To contribute please make your check out to UUC with “WVTF” on the memo line, and put it

in the offering basket or mail it to UUC by October 26. Note that your full donation goes to public radio.

If you’d like to make a direct pledge to be eligible for drawings for prizes or to have your name

announced on the air, please consider splitting your contribution and sending part through UUC. Thank

you for supporting public radio and UUC.

Page 9: UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CONGREGATION NEWSLETTER · Getting to Know YoUU. Making connections, meeting new members, enriching the friendships that already exist, and discovering interesting

Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Blacksburg, VA 9 October 2014

Two earth-based spirituality groups exist within

the framework of our community at UUC. Perhaps

you have wondered what exactly ESS (EarthSpirit

Sisters) members do every month at their full

moon celebrations? What does CUUPs stand for

(Covenant of Unitarian Universalist Pagans), and

how do they celebrate? Are we, as members of

UUC, invited to participate in these functions? Do

we have to know anything special, believe

anything in particular, or dress or act a certain

way to participate?

The histories of the two groups and their arrival at

UUC are quite different. In a series of three

articles, we will explain how each group got

started, what they do, how UUC members may

participate, and how each group participates in

congregational life.

We’ll start with ESS. In 1977, as a result of a

huge push within the denomination, the UUA

(Unitarian Universalist Assn.) adopted the Women

in Religion resolution (www.uuwr.org). All over

the world, groups sprang up, curricula were

written, and UUs began meeting to learn about

women’s history in religions of the world and

creating circles. One UU minister, Shirley Ranck,

wrote the Cakes for the Queen of Heaven

curriculum (newly revised and available via adult

RE next spring). Another by Liz Fisher, Rise Up

and Call Her Name, followed on its heels. This

interest in the Divine Feminine led to many

activities including regional meetings of Women in

Religion. Members of our congregation including

Cynthia Luke, Ethel-Marie Underhill and several

others attended these regional gatherings and

Benefit UUC When Ordering Via Amazon

Simply go to our website’s fundraising page. The

Amazon link takes you to the usual Amazon

homepage (can be bookmarked). Then just shop as

usual, and UUC receives up to 10% of the purchase

price. However, you must purchase by entering

Amazon through UUC’s link every time you shop!

Please do not use this link if you are purchasing

free e-books.

proposed starting a smaller

“group within a group” at UUC

called WomenSpirit (after the

Southeast regional group name)

in the 1990s. The group

continues to this day but is called

EarthSpirit Sisters, a name

chosen to emphasize the

connection to earth-based

spirituality and principles.

This circle is open to anyone who

identifies as female and is a member or friend of

UUC. Some circles choose to meet on new moons,

others meet on full moons and some celebrate the

quarter and cross-quarter days (solstices,

equinoxes and the four holidays “crossing” them).

A sacred space is created, an intention is stated,

there may be singing, drumming, guided

meditations or dancing, or all of the above! We

are committed to offering a safe and sacred space

for honoring nature, divinity and ourselves.

Currently, our ESS group meets on or around the

full moon, usually at UUC and often at our

outdoor labyrinth.

There are several of us who would love to have

more in-depth conversations with you about

either of these groups including Darla Bray, Susan

Coleman, Laureen Blakemore, Diane Jackson and

Kerry Sangster, to name a few. Seek them out for

further conversation, attend a ritual or meeting,

and learn more about celebrating our 7th UU

Principle: Respect for the interdependent web of

all existence of which we are a part.

ESS? CUUPs? What Are They?

Calling Administrator: Lisa Evanylo is getting rid of her home phone. Please

call her cell phone, if needed. Don’t know the number? Check out our member/

friend directory via our website’s member area. Email Lisa for the login

information.

Art Exhibit at UUC

We have a new art exhibit throughout our

building featuring pieces in a variety of media

by UUC members and friends. The 26 pieces by

10 different artists run the media gamut from

textile to wood to watercolor to acrylic to oil to

pencil. Be sure to take a close look at these

examples of the talent we have right here at

UUC. The exhibit will remain up through the

end of the year.

Page 10: UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CONGREGATION NEWSLETTER · Getting to Know YoUU. Making connections, meeting new members, enriching the friendships that already exist, and discovering interesting

Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Blacksburg, VA 10 October 2014

Note$ from Our Treasurer Linda Powers

The new fiscal year is continuing well.

The percentages are of the total budget. (YTD = year to date)

Financial Summary

August 31, 2014 (YTD)

16.7 % of the year

Current FY Prior FY

Pledges Paid YTD $77,077 (28.3%) $65,944 (24.2%)

Total Income YTD $80.988 (24.9%) $71,061 (21.9%)

Budgeted Expenses Paid YTD $53,866 (16.6%) $45,364 (14%)

Income – Expense +$27,132 +$25,397

Current overall financial picture is GOOD

An updated and detailed financial report is available via the members area of our website. Contact

[email protected] for login info.

New Procedure for Kroger Rewards to UUC: Visit the Scrip table in Elarth Hall after services to learn how to sign up so that UUC receives

5% cash back on your Kroger purchases at no charge to you. Gift cards for Food Lion will continue to be sold as usual.

Send an Email to a Council

To send an email to all members of one of our eight

councils, use the list below. Your email will go to

council members and the Board liaison. For a list of

all committees and councils with chairpersons,

check out this site. Contact Lisa for login info.

Council Aliases

Facilities [email protected]

Governance [email protected]

Finance & Administration [email protected]

Lifespan Faith Development [email protected]

Connection [email protected]

Pastoral Services [email protected]

Social Action [email protected]

Worship Opportunities [email protected]

Donate to UUC Online

Simply go to our website’s

fundraising page to find the

donate online button.This is a secure portal for

donating either with direct bank transfer (electronic

withdrawal from your bank account) or by credit/

debit card. Click the button, start your own profile,

choose either one-time or recurring payments, then

enter direct banking or credit card info. A receipt is

generated when you finish. If you’re pledging, keep

in mind that bank transfers are preferred over credit

cards for their low transaction cost. Give it a try next

time you are moved to donate and contact our

Treasurer with any questions. Thank you!

Page 11: UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CONGREGATION NEWSLETTER · Getting to Know YoUU. Making connections, meeting new members, enriching the friendships that already exist, and discovering interesting

Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Blacksburg, VA 11 October 2014

Unitarian Universalist Congregation

Sunday Services

October 2014

Services at 10:00 AM in the Meeting Hall

Religious Education Classes and Nursery Care

All are invited to share coffee & conversation following the service.

Each month, our services focus on a particular theme.

This month the theme is REBELS.

October 5: Revs. Rose Edington and Mel Hoover, Co-Ministers Emeriti of UU Congregation of Charleston, WV with Worship Associate Tommy Iafrate, Dissenting for Justice: UUs and Civil

Rights: Fifty years ago, in 1964, the Civil Rights movement was in full swing. Some of the issues from a half-century ago are still with us. UUs have a history of being involved in working

for Civil Rights. The Reverends Edington and Hoover will offer some reflections on the Civil Rights movement, its current conditions and calls to action. The UUC Choir will sing at the

service.

October 12: Rev. Christine Brownlie, Minister Emerita of UUC with Worship Associate Jane Mahone, Where Is God When I Need Her? Rev. Brownlie will speak about looking for hope in a

time of tragedy.

All are invited to stay for the Second Sunday Potluck following the service.

October 19: UUC member, Rev. Dr. Betty Powell with Worship Associates Tommy Iafrate and Ellen Plummer. Betty will speak about her story of standing up to the Episcopal Church over

women's ordination. She will connect her journey with that of one of our UU forebears. The UUC

Choir will sing at the service.

October 26: Rev. Karen Day with Worship Associate Jane Mahone, Born to Be Tame: Notes from a Reluctant Rebel: Our heritage as Unitarian Universalists is full of rebellious souls. Do you

identify as a rebel? We will explore how that history and identity impact our sense of

community today. The UU Musicians Breakfast Club will play at the service.

The Fourth Sunday Collection will be donated to the Blacksburg Interfaith Food Pantry. See

page 8 for more details.

Information for October’s Sunday Circles

can be found on page 7.

Page 12: UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CONGREGATION NEWSLETTER · Getting to Know YoUU. Making connections, meeting new members, enriching the friendships that already exist, and discovering interesting

Unitarian Universalist Congregation CALENDAR: October 20141301 Gladewood Drive, Blacksburg, VA 24060 Phone: (540) 552–9716 E-mail: [email protected] 8:P.O. Box 10116, Bburg 24062–10116 URL: uucnrv.org

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

(All Sundays)10:00 AM Worship Service &

Children's REℵ 6:00 YRUU ++++++++++++++5ℵ 8:30 AM Sunday Circle11:30 Children's Choir Rehearsal11:30 Green Sanctuary Team11:30 Men's Group

(All Mondays)7:00 AM Women’s

Breakfast8:00 AM Men’s

Breakfast Both at Panera Bread (Bburg)

(All Tuesdays)ℵ 7:00 Meditation

Group

(All Wednesdays)ℵ Noon Conversations

on Our Faith 5:30 Yoga++++++++++++15:45 Finance

Committee7:00 Intro to UU

(All Thursdays)ℵ 7:00 Choir

Rehearsal+++++++++2ℵ 7:00 The Artist's

Way

3ℵ Noon Women's

lunch bunch China Inn (Bburg)

4ℵ 6:30 Newcomer

Potluck

67:00 PFLAG

72:00 Sages6:30 Children's

RE Committeeℵ 6:30 ESS Full-

Moon Ritual7:00 Connection

Committee

8ℵ 7:00 Buddhist

Voices in UUism

9 10 ℵ 6:30 Middle-School

Youth Group

115:00 Parents'

Covenant Group

12ℵ 11:15 AM Second-Sunday

Potluck11:30 Children's Choir Rehearsal Noon People's Fellowshipℵ 2:00 Adult OWL

13ℵ 7:30 A Course in

Miracles

146:30 Board

Meeting

157:00 Committee on

Ministriesℵ 7:00 Buddhist

Voices in UUism

165:30 Worship

Services Committee

ℵ 7:00 The Artist's Way

7:00 Leadership Development Committee

17 ℵ Noon Women’s

lunch bunch Sal's Italian Restaurant (Bburg)

ℵ 6:30 Harry Potter Movie Night

18

19ℵ 8:30 AM Sunday Circle11:20 Get-to-know UUC11:30 Children's Choir Rehearsal11:30 Men's Groupℵ Noon CUUPs

20 212:00 Sages7:00 Lay

Pastoral-Care Committee

22ℵ 7:00 Buddhist

Voices in UUism

239:00 November

Newsletter Deadline

24 25ℵ 10:30 AM UU

Music Breakfast Club

7:30 Dances of Universal Peace

26 It's Scary to be Hungry11:30 People's Fellowshipℵ 2:00 Adult OWL

27ℵ 7:30 A Course in

Miracles

28Noon Adult RE

Committee

29ℵ 7:00 Buddhist

Voices in UUism

30 31 5:00 Parents'

Covenant Group Special Dinner

All times are PM unless noted otherwise. ℵ indicates that there is a write-up in the newsletter.

Staff Office Hours: Minister: On maternity leaveAdmin: Mon. 9 AM to Noon ; Fri. 1– 4DLFD: By appointment