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Santa Clarita’s Unitarian Universalist Congregation November, 2018
This Month’s Themes:
1) Process 2) Patterns
(These themes are numbers 5 & 6 of the “17 Spiritual Laws” we’re exploring between September and June – See “Patterns of Blessing” on page 2.)
Sunday, November 4 −10:30 am
“Despite Our Progress, We Still Have
Everything to Learn” Bob Maitino
(Brian Huckaba as Worship Host)
Courageous and long human endeavor has borne fruit, and made clearer the considerable distance that lies ahead.
SERVICES ARE HELD AT:
SCV Senior Center Bldg.,
22900 Market St. Newhall, CA
(½ block from Newhall Ave.)
Sunday, November 11 − 10:30 am
“The Law of Process” Reverend Peter Farriday
We all want to accomplish things in life. Some big, like maybe creating a thriving business or organization. Some small, like baking a birthday cake. The practical part of the Law of Process says it’s essential to neither skip nor get stuck on any steps. The spiritual side says what we enjoy and learn on the journey is just as significant as reaching the goal—maybe more so. (Remember our annual Harvest Dinner takes place today! See other article for details on contributing auction and/or food items beforehand.)
Sunday, November 18 − 10:30 am
“Gratitude and Perspective – A
Shared-Pulpit Service”
What are we grateful for, and how have our life experiences influenced what we are grateful for? Third Sunday Special Collection – The Third Sunday Special Collection this week will be donated to the Domestic Violence Center of Santa Clarita Valley.
Sunday, November 25 − 10:30 am
The Law of Patterns” Reverend Peter Farriday
For most people in the U.S., the Thanksgiving holiday is one of the patterns that give shape to the year. On this Sunday after Thanksgiving we’ll explore how our own patterns shape our lives for better and worse, and look at some ways to bolster the positive and release the negative . (Please note there is no formal Religious Exploration class today, but child care for the littlest ones is provided.)
www.UUofSCV.org 661-254-7866
UU of SCV
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Patterns of Blessing Reverend Peter Farriday
Apparently I’m making a habit of offering a monthly reminder here that between Sept. and June we’re exploring the “Seventeen Spiritual Laws” devised by spiritual teacher and author Dan Millman. November’s Laws are “Process” (our Nov. 11 Sunday service) and “Patterns” (Nov. 25). For me, Process and Patterns come together most strongly this time of year. I think this partly has to do with growing up in the higher, cooler latitudes of Minnesota. Yes the daylight hours lessen here in LA too; but there the changes to nature’s processes and patterns are more pronounced. Consider that on the late-October day I’m writing this, the forecast overnight low temperature in Santa Clarita is 59 degrees; in my home town of St. Paul it’s 29. Leaves blaze with dazzling splendor one day… and the next the tree is mostly bare. Morning frost shimmers on the grass, and ice forms crystalline patterns on shallow puddles. And each fall’s changes augured more extreme transformations to come. I think the prominence of Process and Patterns in autumn also involves the cultural Pattern of Thanksgiving, the most universal of U.S. holidays. (Of course we now know that the prevailing folklore regarding some Native Americans and the Pilgrims contains inaccuracies and problems, but that’s not my
focus here.) It’s universal because anyone can join in regardless of their religious beliefs, cultural heritage, etc. And I’d venture that most folks feel that devoting a day to counting our blessings is a worthwhile custom. One of the blessings I now tally is that UU of SCV has a Thanksgiving “pre-game” celebration! The annual Harvest Dinner is one of the Patterns that shapes the congregational year. And this year there are a couple of important things to know. While people have always generously contributed items for the auction and/or dinner foods, some key volunteers won’t be doing as much as they’ve done in years past. This means that along with donating auction items, it’s extra important to support the Process by donating whatever volunteer time and/or dinner foods you can to the proceedings. Please remember that items to be auctioned need to be brought to the Senior Center by Sunday Nov. 4th at the latest. If you have a larger item you need help to transport, or if you can provide food or help set things up, please contact Board member Ingrid Van Dorn at [email protected], or by calling 661-645-1895 (cell) or 661 505-7555 (home). This is a terrific event, and I especially encourage newer UU of SCV visitors to come, as it’s a great way to get to know other folks better. And we need our regular members to help as much as possible, and make it as wonderful as it’s always been. We’re all fortunate for this extra opportunity to be together and count our blessings. And hey, you can depart after a fabulous evening and it won’t even be below freezing! Chalk up another one! Beaucoup Blessings, Rev. Peter Farriday
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This Month’s Activities
Harvest Dinner and
Silent Auction Ingrid Van Dorn
Our annual Harvest Dinner and Silent Auction is fast approaching! It will take place on Sunday, November 11 from 5 – 8 pm. The location is the Valencia Hills Homeowners’ Association Clubhouse, 24060 Oak Vale Drive in Valencia (off of Tournament Rd). For those who are not familiar with the location, we will have directions available before the event.
Please sign up for the dinner with Linda Lott. It is our version of a Thanksgiving dinner so if you feel like making a turkey, let Linda know. It is also helpful if you make a little card to go with your dish for those of us who would like to know the ingredients. It is a wonderful time to be thankful for our UU Community and enjoy our time together. Family and friends are invited, just tell Linda the number of guests ([email protected]).
The Silent Auction is usually our biggest fundraiser of the year, and it’s lots of fun! Please donate gently used or new items that people may want to bid on. You may also donate services such as a dinner party, game night, baking cookies, knitting lessons, etc. You may collect gift certificates donated by local businesses. I will have a sheet to fill out, where you can describe your service or gift certificate. Please bring your items on Sundays until and including Nov. 4. If you would like to drop off items on Sat., Nov. 10, please let me know. I do need time to price the items. We will also have glasses of wine available to purchase and a 50/50 raffle! Raffle tickets will be sold: the winner gets 50% of the money and the congregation gets 50%. Remember, it’s also a fundraiser! Please bring cash for items such as the raffle and buying drinks. Soda and bottled water are provided at no cost. When you pay for your auction items, cash or checks are accepted. I look forward to seeing you at the big event! Any questions, please contact me. Ingrid Van Dorn [email protected] home 661 505-7555 cell 661 645-1895.
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Just-4-Flavor Dining Group John & Susan Cooper
As is usually the case, the Just-4-Flavor International Dining group has not decided on a dining destination at press time. However, wherever we dine, we will do so at six o’clock on Tuesday the 6th of November. Check with John or Susan for the dining destination after the first of the month. For more information, contact John Cooper [email protected], 661-259-5486.
Conversation, (Pot-luck) Dinner and a Movie
Friday, November 8th @ 6 pm
Every day our media sources remind us of the many people who are unwittingly trapped, almost always by circumstances completely beyond their control, into fleeing their homes in search of safety, shelter, freedom from war, climate change, and economic devastation.
In November our film will be HUMAN FLOW, a powerful documentary that lets us closely examine what is happening to these millions of refugees on our planet. The film’s creator, producer & director, Ai WeiWei is a Chinese dissident and artist, long a spokesperson for, and defender of, human rights for all peoples. He served time in Chinese prisons for speaking out against the government on such issues, and currently, no longer welcome in China, resides in Germany. The making of this documentary involved visiting a number of countries, and listening to the stories of those fleeing the ravages of war, climate change, and impossible political and economic conditions. This is also an opportune time to show this film, as currently there are no less than three exhibitions of Ai WeiWei’s work in the Los Angeles area. This is a great learning opportunity, as these massive movements do affect all of us. You won’t want to miss this!
Friday, November 9, @ 6 pm at the home of Sally White
26242 Park View Road, Valencia 91355 661-259-9407
ALL ARE WELCOME!!
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Book Club John & Susan Cooper
The Book Club selection for November is Being Mortal by Atul Gawande. This book was named Best Book of the Year by the Washington Post, the New York Times, NPR and the Chicago Tribune. Gawande is a practicing surgeon and through his own experience and knowledge of eye-opening research, discusses the realities of aging and death. He asserts that what medicine can do often runs counter to what it should. As life draws to a close, the author examines the ultimate limitations and failures in his own practices as well as others. Being Mortal shows how the ultimate goal is not a good death but a good life – all the way to the very end. Though the subject sounds depressing, it is a life affirming read. Book Club will meet at the Coopers’ at six o’clock on Wednesday and Thursday, November 28th and 29th. Book Club members should read the book, let John know what evening they would prefer to attend and then come and enjoy good food, good company and conversation about good books. For more information, contact John Cooper [email protected], 661-259-5486.
Bending the Arc Social & Environmental Justice Team
Celebration dinner for all those who voted their UU values in the recent election. We will gather at Roselva Ungar’s home, 20349 Jay Carroll Dr., at the usual 6:30 pm on Thursday, November 15. Please RSVP so we can plan, as this helps ensure an enjoyable evening. Potluck welcome. Call 661-263-2049 and leave a message.
“New-2-UU” Orientation ─
An Enrichment Event Chris Hankla
Come and explore with us the historical origins and evolving character of Unitarian Universalism. Discover how it is firmly rooted in the past, yet still dynamically changing to embrace the present. New2UU is an opportunity to gain an overview, ask questions, and talk about membership at UU of SCV. Participation is open to anyone curious to learn more about this “free faith,” including those who may be considering joining in this community.
Sunday, November 18 At the Senior Center after our service, from 11:30 to 1:10 pm.
Kindly RSVP by November 16 to Susan Cooper at 661-259-5486 or [email protected].
Open Topics Discussion Group
Marianne Bakic The Open Topics Discussion Group is open to all. We each can suggest topics to be discussed and then by general agreement we choose topics for the next few months. Each person brings a pot luck item to share. The hostess provides wine and other refreshments. Our November meeting will be held on Monday, November 19 at 6 pm. We will be meeting at the home of Lois Linnert, 26327 Green Terrace Dr., Santa Clarita. (This is in the Friendly Valley community. Tell the gate staff you’re going to Lois Linnert’s home.) The TOPIC will be: What are your pet peeves? If you have any questions, please contact Marianne Bakic 661-297-5756 or Lois Linnert 661-299-5393
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Drum Circle Beth Jenkins
On Friday, Nov 16 at 7 pm, come join the peaceful flow found when blending your very own rhythm with those of the group. No experience or drums necessary! Home of Beth Jenkins, 27335 Weathersfield Dr., [email protected].
Game Night Beth Jenkins
Game Night will be on Friday, Nov 23 (yes, the day after Thanksgiving) at 6:45 pm. Join us for real conversation, yummy snack pot luck, wine, and lots of laughter. At the home of Beth Jenkins, 27335 Weathersfield Dr., [email protected].
Save the Date
All-Day Adult Religious Exploration Learning Circle
on December 8th Reverend Peter Farriday
On Saturday, December 8th, Reverend Farriday will guide a day-long Religious Exploration Learning Circle for adults and youth (HS and older). This highly interactive gathering will focus on aspects of the Unitarian Universalist Association’s “Riddle and Mystery” spiritual development curriculum, which explores UU approaches to some of life’s “Big Questions.” These queries can be loosely summed up in Paul Gauguin’s well-known triptych: “Where do we come from? What are we? Where are we going?” The aim is not to “solve” these Riddles and Mysteries, but to broaden and deepen our understandings by listening to and sharing with one another. We’ll also have fun getting to know each other better.
The Learning Circle runs from 9:30am – 5:30 pm at the home of John and Susan Cooper, 25618 Rancho Adobe, Valencia, 91355. Participants will bring their own lunches, and the Coopers will contribute beverages. (Please contact them if you’d like to help provide these.) After the gathering those interested will join in an informal dinner out together, with the eatery decided at the time. Please RSVP by December 6th to John at [email protected], or 661-259-5486. And again, remember to bring your lunch! Important Note: If you’d like to attend but need to either come late or leave early, that’s okay. But please make your expected plans clear when you RSVP, so Rev. Peter and others know what to expect. Thank you.
Adult Holiday Party Susan & John Cooper
Save the date for the annual adult holiday party. This is always a favorite social activity for our UU. The party features good company, lively conversation and the popular White Elephant Gift Exchange. The WEGE is filled with fun and interesting gifts. The party will be at seven o’clock on December 15th at the Coopers’.
District Assembly in April Louise Klatt
Save the weekend of April 26-28, 2019, for the next Pacific Southwest District Assembly at the UU Church of Long Beach! Our theme will be, "From the Ground Up: The Power of Our PSWD Communities."
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The congregation is the foundation of our Unitarian Universalist faith. Everything we do as an expression of our faith is grounded in the local communities from which we all take comfort and strength. Some of our greatest joys sprout from the spiritual communities and the congregations of the Pacific Southwest District – both large and small. How does the theme apply to your congregation or your life?
Helping the Church
Offer Your Services Rick Lott
Who makes sure that the congregation's many programs and activities keep going? We have wonderful paid staff – Minister, Music Director, and Pianist. But it’s members and friends of the congregation who pitch in to help and do everything else. The success of our congregation is built upon the volunteer efforts - large and small - of many people. You can be one of them. Consider contributing your time, talents, and service in support of the congregation. What You'll Gain • You can meet people and make new friends. • You'll make good use of your skills—and maybe
even learn new ones. • Your fellow congregation members and friends
will be genuinely grateful for your contributions. • You'll have a greater sense of ownership in
congregational life.
• Helping others just feels good! Getting Started What do you really love to do? Or what would you like to learn to do? We each have different gifts to offer. So the best place to start is to think about yourself—your interests, your skills, your ideas. What gets you energized? What do you really love to do? Want Ads What is the congregation looking for? After exploring your own desires, then ask yourself, “What is the church looking for?” Glad you asked! Here are some tasks where we could use a hand. Most need only an occasional commitment: • Musicians ─ Share your talent! Scott Roewe,
Music Director, would be happy to hear you audition. [email protected]
• Choir ─ Lift your voice and share the joy. Shy?
Doubtful? Sit in on a few rehearsals and see how it goes. [email protected]
• Fundraising ─ Think of it as party planning. Help with traditional fundraising activities such as Taco Nights and the Harvest Dinner. Recruit and coordinate the work of volunteers. Contact Rick Lott [email protected]
• Photographer ─ Take pictures at some of our
services and other events for use in The Flame, on Facebook, and on our web page. Contact Rick Kamlet [email protected].
• Backup Sound Board Operator ─ Learn about the
use of audio equipment and operate the sound board during services. Rick Kamlet will be glad to teach you how to do it until you’re confident in being able to run sound for the services (on a very occasional basis)! It’s fun, and it helps the UU of SCV congregation. [email protected]
• Religious Exploration (RE) Team Members ─
Nurture our UU of SCV youth by joining the team. Must be at least 18 years of age and pass a background check. Team members are scheduled to work with RE youth no more than two Sundays each month. Scheduled members never work alone. Members follow a curriculum provided by
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the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA). The team meets every other month on the fourth Sunday, 1:30 to 3:00 p.m., at the home of a member. See Chris Hankla at the Welcome Table. [email protected]
• Welcome Greeters ─ Welcome members and
visitors at the entrance one Sunday each month, 9:50 to 10:30 a.m. A friendly smile and the ability to offer a warm greeting required. Training offered. Sign up with Diane Tamburello at the Welcome Table. [email protected]
• Hospitality Donations ─ Provide edibles for after-
service fellowship four Sundays a year. Suggestions offered. Talk to Barbara at the Hospitality Table. [email protected]
• Set Up ─ Arrive early to set out the hymnals on
Sunday mornings. Contact Dru Hiller. [email protected]
• Pack Up ─ Beginning at noon following the service,
fold tablecloths, pack up hymnals, collect refuse, retrieve various banners. Commit to one Sunday each month or volunteer to be available as a substitute. See Rick Lott [email protected]
• Ushers ─ Once or twice a month, begin at 10:15 to
greet people at the inside door. Assist people as needed in picking up hymnals and finding seating. Be available during the service to assist with small tasks including taking the offering. Ask Rick Lott about this enriching role. [email protected]
It may be easiest to talk to these people at the service, but we’ve included their email addresses in case you want to write to them instead. Who makes sure that the congregation's many programs and activities keep going? We all do!!! Consider contributing your time, talents, and service in support of the congregation. We welcome you!!!
What is Guest at Your Table?
Louise Klatt
Guest at Your Table (GAYT) is Unitarian Universalist Service Committee’s (UUSC) annual intergenerational program to raise support for and awareness about key human rights issues. Since UUSC works in over 25 countries, with over 75 grassroots partners, there are thousands of individuals involved in and who benefit from the work that our members make possible. The program is an opportunity to celebrate grassroots partnership, support human rights, and learn about just four of these individuals – the “guests” in Guest at Your Table. Kick-off will be on during out Nov 18th service.
2018-2019 GAYT Theme: Justice across Borders
From the Northern Triangle of Central America, to deserts of Mexico and Arizona, to detention centers in the United States, the road away from danger is paved with injustices. Partnering with grassroots allies along the Central American migration trail, UUSC addresses root causes, supports migrants in transit, and protects the right to seek asylum. Join with UUSC for Guest at Your Table to learn more about UUSC’s and our nation’s involvement in Central America – historically and presently – and our courageous Migrant Justice partners.
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Friends in the News
Friend of UU of SCV on Science Mission aboard
SOFIA
Maya Loch (Roselva Ungar’s daughter and a friend of UU of SCV) was one of five science teachers from the William S. Hart School District who joined NASA on a flight into the stratosphere onboard the Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA), a specially designed plane for high-altitude research.
http://www.hometownstation.com/santa-clarita-latest-news/hart-district-science-teachers-take-to-the-
stars-video-253150
Social Justice
Thank You Letters
from the Community Our monthly Third-Sunday Special Collections are appreciated. We received thank-you letters from the
Santa Clarita Valley Food Pantry and from the Senior Center for our donations.
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The Social and Environmental Justice (SEJ) Team Invites You
Sally White The SEJ Team is the focal point for participation in activities that advance the causes of social and environmental justice. Our role is to learn while exploring the issues, and all thoughts and ideas are welcomed by our team. Since our regular meeting date, the 2nd Sunday of each month, coincides with the Harvest Dinner, our most important annual fundraiser, we will not meet in November, but will again gather on Sunday, December 9th, at 11:45, following our regular Sunday service. Everyone is welcome to our monthly meetings! We need your love, thoughts and ideas!
Congregation Biz
• The Board discussed the need to build a fundraising team and urges people to volunteer.
• The Board discussed the procedure involved in crafting a mission statement.
• We are preparing to launch Guest at your Table, a fundraiser to benefit the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee.
Board of Trustees • President - Rick Lott • Vice President - Bob Maitino
• Treasurer - Linda Lott • Secretary - Glenda Nowakowski, • Members at Large - Eric Klatt, Ingrid Van
Dorn, Steve Tannehill
Birthdays & Membership Anniversaries
Compiled by Chris Hankla
Birthdays Lourdes Villacorte 10/04 Rich Jaffke 11/02 Linda Lott 11/02 Victor Scherb 11/10 Trish Lester 11/11 Diane Lin 11/14 Lyndy Schaefer 11/15 Ingrid Van Dorn 11/22
UU Membership Anniversaries
Diane Geary 11/20/2011 Marilyn Logan 11/20/2011 Becky Greenough 11/26/2017 Paul Greenough 11/26/2017
The Pastoral Care Team and volunteers from the congregation are here to help you in times of crisis or need. We can provide meals, rides, do errands, and/or offer one-to-one support. Please contact Sally Thompson at (661) 476-5870.
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CALENDAR (See Most Recent Calendar Updates at
www.UUofSCV.org)
Sunday Services
4 Sunday Service, 10:30 am Despite Our Progress…
Bob Maitino
6 Just-4-Flavor Dinner
6 pm, (see article) 9 Conversation, Dinner & a Movie:
“Human Flow” 6 pm at Sally White’s home (see article)
Sunday Services
11 Sunday Service, 10:30 am The Law of Process
Reverend Peter Farriday Worship Team, 12:15 – 12:45 pm, shortened
meeting, Senior Center Harvest Dinner & Silent Auction, 5 pm,
24060 Oak Vale Drive in Valencia (off of Tournament Rd). (see article)
16 Drum Circle, 7 pm, Beth Jenkin’s home,
27335 Weathersfield Dr. (see article) Sunday Services
18 Sunday Service, 10:30 am Gratitude and Perspective
A Shared-Pulpit Service New-2-UU Enrichment Event,
11:50 am – 1:10 pm, Senior Center
15 Bend the Arc Discussion Group, 6:30 pm, Roselva Ungar’s home, 20349 Jay Carroll Dr. (see article)
19 Open Topics Discussion Group,
6:00 pm, Lois Linnert’s home, 26327 Green Terrace Dr. (see article)
23 Game Night, 6:45 pm, Beth Jenkin’s home,
27335 Weathersfield Dr. (see article)
Sunday Services 25 Sunday Service, 10:30 am
The Law of Patterns Reverend Peter Farriday
Board of Trustees Meeting, 1 pm, home of
Rick & Linda Lott
28 & 29 Book Club, 6 pm, Susan & John Cooper’s
home (see article) The Religious Exploration Team, Membership Team, and Social & Environmental Justice Team will NOT meet this month.
Mark Your Calendar Dec 8 Day-Long Religious Exploration, 9:30am – 5:30 pm, 25618 Rancho Adobe (see article) Dec 15 Holiday Party, (see article) 7 pm, 25618 Rancho Adobe April 26-28 District Assembly, (see article) UU Long Beach
Services are held at the SCV Senior Center’s Main Building,
22900 Market St. in Newhall (½ block from Newhall Ave.)
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SNAPSHOTS
Halloween Party
Our gracious hosts, Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Ruth
Bader Ginsburg (aka, Susan and John Cooper)
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Going to Camp (Mid-October at UU Camp deBenneville Pines, folks from our own and nearby
congregations)
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Vigils Inter-faith March/Vigil
Inter-faith Vigil
Candlelight Vigil It looked like most of our congregation
was in attendance there, showing support.
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Sunday Services
Photo Credits: Photographs this month were taken by Rick Lott and Alan Zuckerman
Musical Credits: Scott Roewe (Music Director), Monica Bowser (Pianist), Steve
Tannehill (Guitarist), and the wonderful UU of SCV Choir!
The Last Sermon of a Great UU Minister
Rich Jaffke (Oct 7)
The Law of Responsibility, Part 1
Reverend Peter Farriday (Oct 14)
Comment Board
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The Law of Responsibility, Part 2
Reverend Peter Farriday (Oct 21)
Karla Edwards spoke of her experience visiting
immigrants held in detention.
Guest Singer: Jeff Meyer
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Responding to Pittsburgh’s Tree of Life
Tragedy Reverend Peter Farriday
(Oct 28)
Meditation before the Service
