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Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Blacksburg, VA October 2018
UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST CONGREGATION
1301 Gladewood Drive
Blacksburg, VA 24060
Website: www.uucnrv.org
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone: (540) 552-9716
NEWSLETTER October 2018
Year 53, Issue 10
What does it mean to be a People of Sanctuary?
Writing this letter after watching the Senate Judiciary Committee’s hearings on the Supreme Court nominee highlights the need for sanctuary in the world. No matter our political leanings, most of us have been shaken by the hearings - in which a woman bared her most painful experience of sexual assault to a nationwide audience, and a man shared his rage and frustration at the allegation. To say nothing of the death threats and online attacks both people and their families have endured. How did we get here?
There’s no telling what will have happened in this situation by the time you read this letter, but I find myself feeling outrage over the state of our nation’s political landscape. My heart aches for those who have experienced sexual violence. I struggle with despair. Where can we find sanctuary? Certainly not by staying glued to the news on television or social media. Instead, we can find respite and relief in spiritual practices - meditation, journaling, yoga, walking - and in our relationships - our family, friends, and community.
As I listened to Dr. Ford’s experience of sexual assault, I’m also reminded how grateful I am for Our Whole Lives (OWL), the UUA Lifespan Sexuality Education curriculum that UUC offers from kindergarten through adulthood. Her testimony and some of the public response make it abundantly clear that we must teach our children about healthy sexuality, about agency, and about consent. As an OWL facilitator, I worked with youth whose understanding and attitudes about healthy relationships gives me hope that ours does not have to be a culture that accepts or excuses sexual violence. I have hope that these young people have the skills and the knowledge that will help transform their community and the world.
I’m mindful also that while we may find sanctuary - a place of safety and retreat from the evils of the world - in our religious community, we cannot allow ourselves to remain there. Instead, we can use the healing and renewal we find in our sanctuary to go back out into the world and fight injustice. When we come together, we can educate ourselves about the ills of the world -be it racism, sexism, environmental degradation, stigmatization of mental illness, assaults on democracy. When we come together, we can find the resolve to fight for the inherent worth and dignity of every person and for the protection of the interdependent web of all life. When we come together, we amplify our cries for justice.
As we explore what it means to be a people of sanctuary, let us find practices and spaces that will give us respite and relief. But let us also find renewal for ourselves so that we can go out and help heal a hurting world.
In faith and with hope, Rev. Pam
Message from Our Minister Rev. Pam Philips
Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Blacksburg, VA 2 October 2018
Minister: Rev. Pam Philips 434-996-7094 [email protected]
President: Ellen Plummer 540-230-8433 [email protected]
Director of Lifespan Faith Development:
Karen Hager 540-577-8043 [email protected]
Administrator/ Newsletter/Website:
Lisa Evanylo 540-257-3612 [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
Staff Office Hours:
Minister:
Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays, 9-1
Contact for appointment or use this link to set one up online.
Administrator:
Mondays 9-12, Fridays 1-4
DLFD:
Contact for appointment.
Our Mission
Inspire. Create. Transform. Inspire spiritual and ethical growth. Create compassionate community. Transform our community and the world through
courageous love.
Our Vision UUC will be a beacon of liberal religion in the New River Valley. We
will join with other organizations and faiths to work for just causes.
We will practice generosity and radical hospitality. We will be known as a place of beauty, welcome, joy, and celebration.
Message from Our President
Sanctuary. Sitting with the word sanctuary leads me to take a deep breath, settle, imagine calm, support, peace and quiet. Our worship theme this month is sanctuary, which seems additionally important at this time when Supreme Court nominations have ripped open the complex emotions associated with sexual violence and harassment. It’s humbling to consider the intense pull that the hope of sanctuary brings to hundreds of thousands of refugees and immigrants across the globe. So many of us – as individuals and as communities of people – hope for the peace promised by a sanctuary.
At one time, a sanctuary was a sacred and holy location – such as a shrine. In some traditions, a sanctuary was – literally – a haven. A sacred and faith-based location where one could not be apprehended. Over time, the use of the word sanctuary has broadened beyond sacred places to mean any place of safety for humans, other animals, and plants. It seems to me that, currently, there are not enough safe spaces - sacred and otherwise – for each and all of us. My conversations are populated with discussions of heartfelt hunger for respite – for peace and quiet – for sanctuary from fear, noise, hate-filled emotions. Sanctuary to rest and think and collect oneself for the purpose of persisting.
By initiating our new Small Group Ministry effort (see page 13 for more info and how to sign up), Rev. Pam is leading our congregation to participate in creating sanctuary for each other and for ourselves as a community. As a congregation, we benefit from the resources provided by Soul Matters including participating with UU congregations across the country in using worship themes to inspire worship and small group ministry. Many of us have agreed to serve as Small Group facilitators (thank you!), and many more of us have signed up to join a Small Group once a month to discuss the month’s worship theme. This is a form of creating sanctuary – with and for one another. It is sanctuary we are offering one another. When we are together, we offer sanctuary – sacred sanctuary – to be together in peace, to share, explore, offer support, encouragement, and celebration.
If you can, I encourage each of us to join a Small Group and help to create sanctuary for others – and, as a bonus, you might just benefit from the sanctuary others have committed to provide you.
Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Blacksburg, VA 3 October 2018
Upcoming Events
UUC 2018 Service Auction & FUNdraiser
Theme: Tricks and Treats
Join us on October 27 promptly at 5 PM for the 2018 Goods & Service Auction. We’ll bid and buy during both Silent and Live Auctions while making new friends and enjoying tasty goodies. Don’t miss
UUC’s premier FUNdraising event of the year!
Things to know about the service auction:
The last date to get your item in the printed catalog will be Sunday, October 14. Items will continue to be accepted but won’t necessarily be in the printed catalog.
An abbreviated printed auction catalog will be available after the service on October 21 and at the auction. For a more detailed catalog, you can browse all catalog items online, either as a list or by category, at http://www.togetherauction.com/uucnrv.
Auction items can be dropped off at UUC on Friday October 26 from 4-7 PM and on Saturday, October 27 from 10 AM – noon. Be sure to attach the item’s catalog number, e.g. A1, to it before dropping it off.
When you arrive at the auction, register to bid and pick up a bidding number. Remember to bring your checkbook or credit card so that you can check out and pick up the items you have won before leaving.
Children who have been registered for their Tricks and Treats party should be dropped off downstairs. Children 3 and under will be in the room off the nursery. To register your child(ren), contact Rachel Craine. Forget to register? Not a problem – they are most welcome.
The Silent Auction begins at 5 PM and will close after the first Live Auction session. See the printed catalog for details. The food and bar will be available at 5 PM and during breaks between Live Auction segments.
50/50 raffle tickets ($1 each and 6 for $5, cash only) will be available until the beginning of the second (and final) Live Auction segment. The winner will be selected during this auction period.
Can’t come due to a conflict? Bummer! You will miss so much fun, but all is not lost. Send a friend with a bidding list and ask them to get a bidding number and bid for you – the higher, the better!!!
Our monetary fundraising goal is $18,000. Our community-based FUNraising goal is to have fun at the auction and to have everyone engaged in auction-related activities together throughout the coming year, so we can get to know each other better.
Need more information? Contact Linda or Joe Powers, Irene Peterson, or Molly McClintock.
Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Blacksburg, VA 4 October 2018
Second-Sunday Potluck Everyone is invited to enjoy lunch together following the service on October 14. 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.
As always, 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 Sanctuary.
Women’s Lunch
All women are invited to lunch together on the 1st & 3rd Fridays of each month to enjoy good food and fellowship. We start at 11:45 AM to beat the lunch crowds. On October 5, gather at Spicity, a new Chinese restaurant next to India Garden in Blacksburg. On October 19, gather at Outback in Christiansburg. Contact Cynthia Luke for more info.
Newcomers’ Orientation
Interested in learning more about UUism and our congregation? On Saturday, October 13 from 9 AM – noon, join Rev. Pam, other newcomers, congregants, and Connections Committee members to listen, share, and discuss topics which will answer your questions. The orientation is open to newcomers and to those who have been attending UUC for awhile. The session will begin with a light breakfast. Childcare provided upon request. If you plan to attend, or would like more information, contact Pauletta Copenheaver. Grounds’ Workday Help Needed
We will be “putting the grounds to bed for the winter” and need your help! There are many chores to do that do not require exper-ience, so everyone is encouraged to pitch in on Saturday, October 13 from 9:30-11:30 AM. Contact George Lally or Susan Baker if you can be there so they can plan the “to-do” list.
Creative Writers’ Group All writers and aspiring writers of all genres are welcome to join our Creative Writers’ Group on the 4th Tuesday of each month at 1:30 PM. This is an informal, encouraging, stimulating gathering with feedback for those who desire. Contact Leslie to be added to the group's email list and to receive further details.
WVTF Fall Fund Drive
Support public radio and help tell people about UUC. Contributions made through UUC not only help the station, but also pay for day sponsorship announcements about all four area UU churches: UUC, Roanoke, Lynchburg, and Charlottesville.
To contribute please make your check out to UUC with "WVTF" on the memo line and put it in the collection basket or mail it to UUC by October 13. Thank you for supporting public radio.
Human Flow at the Lyric
UUC is one of the sponsors (thanks to your generous donations to one of our 1/2 plate collections) of the showing of the documentary on the world-wide refugee crisis, Human Flow by Ai Weiwei, at the Lyric on Sunday, October 7 at 3 PM. The showing is free, but donations for the Blacksburg Refugee Partnership are gratefully accepted.
Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Blacksburg, VA 5 October 2018
Lifespan Faith Development
MSYG Friday, October 19, time TBD
Middle School Youth Group meets this month at Sinkland Farms for a hayride and after-dark corn maze. Youth in grades 6-8 are invited to come join the fun. Parents, watch your email for more information.
MSYG meets the 3rd Friday of the month, with meetings at UUC and offsite locations. Contact [email protected] to learn more.
Register online.
YRUU Sundays, 6-8 PM
Our high school youth group, YRUU, meets on Sunday evenings, with some meetings held offsite. Teens participate in fundraisers, fun activities, social action, and conferences, while forming bonds with other teens.
YRUU is open to youth in grades 9-12. Friends are welcome at meetings. Contact [email protected] to learn more.
Register online.
It’s Scary To Be Hungry Dumbledore’s Army fights the Hunger Horcrux with a food donation drive!
It’s that time of year again. Time for the ghoulies and goblins to make their annual visit to scare us in exchange for candy. And while we totally support trick-or-treating, here’s an opportunity to turn Halloween fun into something meaningful to others!
Sunday, October 21 is our annual It’s Scary To Be Hungry event. That Sunday, kids should come to church in costume, and adults should bring lots of canned goods and other non-perishable food. During For All Ages, the kids will trick or treat for the food!
After church, LFD will run a donation drive at the University Kroger from 12-4 PM. This is an ideal social action project for the whole family! Cute kids in costume get big donations! Sign up for a 1-hour shift online at http://signup.com/go/AfdvXsw. Those interested can also go to the Interfaith Food Pantry after the event to help stock the warehouse shelves.
All donations help support the Interfaith Food Pantry, an all-volunteer organization which addresses the real world scary issue of hunger in our community, serving over 550 families per month.
Learn more about IFP at http://interfaithfoodpantry.acciai.us/.
Our Children’s Offering also benefits the Interfaith Food Pantry. Offerings of
canned goods or small cash donations are collected weekly.
Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Blacksburg, VA 6 October 2018
YRUU Book Sale Sept 30-Oct 7
Social Justice Film Series
In this documentary series from National Geographic, Katie Couric travels the country to speak with people bearing witness to the most complicated and consequential questions today in American culture. Each month, we will watch an episode and discuss the topic within. All classes stand alone.
Monday, October 22, 7-8:30 PM, in the Library: The Muslim Next Door
Katie Couric learns about why this moment is a time of great pressure and opportunity for Muslim Amer-icans, beginning her journey with comedian and actor, Aasif Mandvi. Couric spends time with a Muslim community in Raleigh, NC; meets a glamorous young model who is a Somali refugee; and hangs out in Brooklyn with a Muslim hip-hop artist, Olympic medalist and tech entrepreneur. How do we balance our fears with fairness? What is it really like to be Muslim in America?
UUC shows a different movie on the first Friday of each month on a pertinent social justice topic. The community is welcome - bring a friend!
Friday, October 5, 6:30 PM in the Sanctuary
Straws
With colorful straw history animation narrated by Oscar winner Tim Robbins, Straws leaves audiences with a clear understanding of the problems caused by plastic pollution and empowers individuals to be part of the solution. It's estimated every day 500,000,000+ plastic straws are used once and tossed in the U.S. alone. Ocean Conservancy ranks straws as the #5 most found litter item on beaches. They're non-recyclable, so they wind up in landfills, litter streets and add to the estimated 8.5 million metric tons of plastic debris in oceans annually. Come learn about the movement around the world that's making a sea of change, one plastic straw at a time.
Carol Davis, from Sustainable Blacksburg, will facilitate a discussion after the movie.
Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Blacksburg, VA 7 October 2018
The Buddy Project Returns! Yes, it’s happening again! Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to become buddies with a member of another generation! Registered children and adults will be paired and exchange short notes and small gifts, without knowing each other’s names. On December 9, Buddies will meet in person at our Holiday Multi-generational Service. High school youth may register as either Children or Adult Buddies. Perhaps everyone in your family can make a new Buddy!
You must register by October 31 to participate, so don’t delay!
Register today at https://goo.gl/forms/NRzCeLjkQp1PqAGF3 .
CSAI Workshop: The Corrupting of Our
Democracy Tuesdays, October 16 & 30, 7-9 PM
Congregational Study/Action Issues (CSAIs) are issues selected by Unitarian Universalist member congregations for four years of study, reflection and action, so that congregations can combine efforts to make a difference.
We are stronger together. Our combined efforts to make the world more fair and humane can accomplish more than any one of us working alone. As Unitarian Universalists, we set priorities for our social justice efforts by investing in key issues that exemplify our commitments to justice, equity, and compassion.
As corporations use “corporate personhood” and “money as speech” for their interests rather than the people’s needs, can a constitutional amendment be passed to protect us? Could this further Unitarian Universalist work for social and environmental justice and help protect the health and safety of the people and the planet?
Join UUC congregant and Blacksburg’s Mayor, Leslie Hager-Smith, in this two-part workshop to explore how we understand, participate and engage in democratic living. Registration is requested, but not required. Register online at https://goo.gl/forms/xkD4I9v7usnzbk192.
New (Or Not So New) to UU Six sessions, beginning October 18
Join Rev. Pam as she explores Unitarian Universalism in a class designed for both newcomers and those who want to feel new to UU again. Learn more about our roots, theology and traditions, and how we approach religious education and social justice.
The class will meet on Thursdays in the Library from 7-8:30 PM. Class dates are: October 18; October 25; November 1; November 15; November 29; and December 6. Although you are encouraged to attend all classes, it is not mandatory.
Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Blacksburg, VA 8 October 2018
On-Going Adult RE Programs
Sunday Circle
Meets the first and third Sundays 8:30-9:30 AM
October 7: Doug Pfeiffer discusses Past and coming plagues: How we deal with invasive insect pests.
October 21: Join Paul Quigley for Remembering the Confederacy.
Anti-Racism Discussion Groups
Group 1 meets the second and fourth Sundays, 8:30-9:30 AM
Group 2 meets the second and fourth Wednesdays, 1:15-2:15 PM
All are welcome to join either of our ongoing discussion groups on white privilege and racism. Topics are announced via email. Email Karen Hager to join the listserv and receive links to the discussion articles.
Meditation Group
Meets Tuesdays 7-8 PM
Our meditation group meets weekly for those interested in starting or deepening their meditation practice. Our format is drop-in, so you need not attend all sessions. Open with centering words and basic instruction, followed by sitting practice. Meditators from all traditions and all levels of experience are welcome.
Conversations on Our Faith
Meets Wednesdays 12-1 PM
Bring a brown bag lunch and join our conversation as we read our current book, Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer. All are welcome, even if you have not read the chapters of the book under discussion. Group members share their insights and personal experiences, and all thoughts and opinions are welcome. To learn more, contact Tim Pickering.
New in the UUC Children’s Library!
The Princess and the Fog: A Story for Children with Depression by Lloyd Jones
Once upon a time there was a Princess. She had everything a little girl could ever want, and she was happy. That is, until the fog came...
The Princess and the Fog is a picture book to help sufferers of depression aged 5-7 cope with their difficult feelings. It’s enjoyable story describes the symptoms of childhood depression while also providing hope that things can get better with a little help and support. The story is also a great starting point for explaining depression to all children, especially those who may have a parent or close family member with depression.
With an essential guide for parents and caregivers by clinical pediatric psychologists, Dr Melinda Edwards, MBE and Linda Bayliss, this book will be of immeasurable value to anyone supporting a child with, or affected by, depression.
Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Blacksburg, VA 9 October 2018
September Board Mtg. Highlights
A meeting was held with the Blacksburg Police Dept. regarding security issues and evacuation plans. Tim Pickering and Karen Hager will draft a policy and submit it to the Safety Committee.
The Environmental Justice Team (EJT) Solar Energy Proposal was discussed. A rep from EJT will attend the October Board meeting to address concerns.
The Board is working on Rev. Pam’s minister evaluation.
The Board is working to replace one at-large Board member who needed to resign.
The next Board meeting will be held on Thursday, October 4 at 7 PM. The minutes and reports of meetings for the past two calendar years are available.
Questions, Ideas, Complaints for the Board: Simply send an email to [email protected].
UUC Community News Update on ½-Plate Donations
Thanks to your generosity, UUC continued its practice of helping others in both our community and beyond. The September recipients and amounts donated were:
September 2: BBurg Volunteer Rescue Squad, $321
September 9: Access to community college education, $277
September 16: Alzheimer's Assn/UUC NRV team, $257
September 23: Black Lives of UUism, $257
September 30: UUA disaster relief fund, $242
Watch the weekly announcements and website for the coming weeks’ ½-plate recipients. Have a suggestion—fill out the form in Elarth Hall and place in the lantern or email Lisa.
Update from UUC’s Leadership Development Committee
Are you interested in serving on UUC’s Board? If you have never thought about it, consider doing so. The Leadership Development Committee (LDC), among other things, acts as the Nominating Committee to prepare a slate of Board members to present to the Board. The Board then approves the slate and submits it to the congregational for approval at the Annual Meeting in the spring. The committee begins this work in the fall to identify interested members to consider. Each Board member serves a two-year term with positions staggered to give stability to the Board - one half of the members are newly elected, and one half are in their second year.
LDC is asking for your suggestions for these leadership positions. You can submit your own name or someone who you think should be considered. Members of the Board must be official members of UUC meaning they must have signed the Membership Book. This spring we will elect a president-elect, a secretary, and two at-large Board members. The committee tries to balance the slate and Board as to gender, age, interests/talents.
Our bylaws allow anyone to be nominated in addition to the Board approved slate. It just takes a petition signed by 10 members of the congregation and presented to the President at least 10 days before the Annual Meeting and to the congregation one week before the vote is taken.
There are many other opportunities to serve UUC. If interested, contact Jim Flowers, chair of LDC, or Pauletta Copenheaver or Isabel Berney, co-chairs of the Connections Committee.
Lay Pastoral Care Ministry “Office Hours”
Lay Pastoral Care Ministry (LPCM) will have two Associates available for conversation about any issue of a personal nature you would like to discuss in confidence, after the services on Sundays. They are prepared to discuss whatever is weighing on your mind and heart and further to offer information on the services of LPCM and our Minister. Meet them in the Sanctuary in the corner by the piano. If that seems too public for your comfort, there is a Contact Card in an envelope hanging on the LPCM kiosk section in Elarth Hall.
If paying by check, please make check out to UUC with “1/2 plate” on memo line. Please
do not make check out to organization.
Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Blacksburg, VA October 2018
Envirobits from Our Environmental Justice Team
According to the USDA, Americans dispose of approximately 250 pounds of food/person each year with $215 billion dollars spent yearly on growing, processing, transporting, and disposing of food that’s never eaten. According to Forbes, 20% of food on plates is trashed every year - enough to feed 60 million in the U.S.
Resources in our area that you might consider contributing food or funds to include: Feeding America SWVA, Micah's Back Pack Program, and the Women's Resource Center.
Ways to reduce food waste:
• Make menus for a week.
• Make a shopping list for the week based on items needed for your menu.
• Check refrigerator and pantry to ensure you do not already have a
needed item.
• Buy only what you need for your weekly meals.
• Don't shop when you are hungry as you might purchase items you do
not need and probably will end up throwing out.
‘Round the Grounds
NEWS FLASH! UUC’s grounds have been selected to be part of the 2019 Friends of the Library Garden Tour! This is a huge honor as well as the opportunity to be part of the fundraising effort for the Mont-gomery Regional Library system. The tour is on Saturday, July 6 from 9 - 5. Many UUC hands will be needed to get the grounds ready for the tour. Sooooo, please be a part of the pre-tour grounds work day, Saturday, June 30, 9-noon.
Our grounds have become a certified Monarch Waystation. We had to meet criteria set by the Monarch Watch program based at the University of Kentucky. The ground’s crew has, for the past four years, planted and protected plants that are necessary for the Monarch life cycle. Host plants (varieties of milkweed) and nectar plants are among the plantings. Most of our milkweed can be found in the upper lawn and the peacock meadow areas with smaller varieties found in the Crescent Garden by the upper side building entrance.
Three of the bluebird boxes had successful fledging of bluebirds this summer. Other bird houses provided nesting for wrens, chickadees, and swallows. Doug & Sally Pfeiffer monitor the bluebird boxes and keep them cleaned out after nests have been vacated.
From July 7 - September 21, ground’s volunteers provided 189 hours of service! This works out to be almost five 45-hour work weeks or, translated into dollars at a salary of $12/hour, $2,268. That is $2,268 UUC saved by having dedicated volunteers. Appreciation is given to our mowers, Joe Powers and David Warner; grounds helpers Bill and David Baker and Amanda Haynes; labyrinth caretakers EarthSpirit Sisters; potted plant waterers (when needed) Cynthia Luke, Sally Pfeiffer, Julie Griffin, Helen Renqvist, Sharon Day, Nancy Norton and Brigitte Flowers; and George Lally and Susan Baker who keep it all together (sort of). With the volunteer help, UUC grounds are a haven for wildlife and a place of enjoy-ment for UUC congregants and our neighbors. Thank you!
See page 4 for info on upcoming workday on Saturday, October 13.
The Grounds Ministry is contributing to the upcoming auction with its notorious “hot-diggity-dog, bang-up cookout” on Saturday, May 4, 2019 at UUC. Hotdogs, salads, desserts, beverages and a fire pit are part of the deal. Buy a ticket at the auction and join us!
Monarch waystation sign
Monarch chrysalis found on 9/25 on a milkweed plant in
the pollinator garden
Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Blacksburg, VA 11 October 2018
Endowments at UUC What, Why, How?
Part 1
An endowment is a fund that ensures stability and sustainability into the future for UUC and is distinct from the annual budget which provides funds for the day-to-day operations of UUC such as paying for salaries, utilities, and our many ministries (e.g. LFD, music, grounds, worship).
UUC has two types of endowment funds: unrestricted and restricted. The unrestricted fund means that monies given to the fund accumulate until the fund reaches $250,000. At that time, earnings from the fund can be used for general operating expenses that the Board approves while the principal stays intact. Earnings from the unrestricted fund create an ongoing source of income that provides partial funding for UUC’s ministries.
The restricted endowment, on the other hand, allows the donor to specify how his or her contribution is to be used. For example, one might choose to create an endowment fund for music, LFD, leadership development, grounds, or another aspect of UUC’s ministries. You may designate your intent to contribute to either the unrestricted or restricted endowments on forms that the Endowment Committee has prepared.
The money that our endowment receives is invested in the UU Common Endowment Fund with UU socially-responsible investing goals.
The members of the Endowment Committee are appointed by the Board and currently are Bill Baker, Dennis Moody, and Linda Powers. Please contact one of them should you have questions. Next month in Part 2, the Endowment Committee will explain different ways that you can contribute to the funds.
Your Pledge Dollars at Work! Lifespan Faith Development
In each of the next several newsletters, the Stewardship Committee will be highlighting some of the prominent UUC programs that are supported by your pledges.
Lifespan Faith Development (LFD) is a vital and popular component of our Congregation. While many of us associate LFD with Children’s RE on Sundays, there is so much more to this broad program. In addition to six Sunday classes from nursery through 8th grade, there are 3 other programs for our youth, and an adult enrichment program. See graphic on page 12.
The Middle School Youth Group (MSYG) meets monthly with the emphasis on fun, social activities, and social action projects that encourage bonding among participants.
Youth in grades 9-12 participate in YRUU (Young Religious UUs). Weekly meetings begin with a check-in in an environment of acceptance and support followed by other activities. Members enjoy social activities, hold fundraisers, perform service projects, put on an annual coffeehouse, and attend one youth convention or “CON” at a nearby UU congregation. Every 4th year, they travel to Boston, home of our denomination.
Coming of Age (CoA) is a special program that pairs 8th graders with an adult mentor to prepare for the transition from childhood to adulthood. This program emphasizes self-awareness, confidence-building and service. It culminates in an affirmation ceremony and in the writing of personal credos.
Our Whole Lives (OWL) is UUC’s acclaimed human sexuality program. Grounded in a holistic view of sexuality, OWL not only provides facts about anatomy and human development, but also helps participants clarify their values; build interpersonal skills; understand the spiritual, emotional, and social aspects of sexuality; and make informed and responsible decisions about their sexual health and behavior. UUC offers OWL classes for grades K-1, 4-5 and 8-9, as well as for adults.
With the increase in hours for our LFD Director (thanks to your pledges), our Adult Enrichment program is able to offer a wide variety of classes throughout the year including relevant videos, book discussions, classes on UUism and more.
As you can see, there is a lot going on in LFD! And it all is dependent upon financial support through your contributions; without which these wonderful programs would fall to the wayside. With over $50,000 allocated for LFD programs in the current budget, it becomes apparent how important stewardship is to our congregation. To get more detail and information on LFD programs, go here.
Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Blacksburg, VA 12 October 2018
Two Mental Health Support Groups at UUC
On Monday, October 15 at 6 PM, our two community mental health support groups will meet at UUC. One group is designed for those with a mental health illness themselves, and the other group is for family and friends of those with a mental illness. Both are facilitated by professionals from New River Valley Community Services. All are welcome. Contact Margo Walter for more info.
Ways to Live Our UU Faith
We have two volunteer opportunities to help put our UU values out into the world.
Do you have social media skills and a desire to deepen and widen our reach into the community?
Under the creative care of member, Rhonda Johnson, our Facebook page has been a consistent source of information for UUC and the rest of the New River Valley. Sadly, Rhonda will be leaving us soon to move to Colorado, so we are in need of someone who can take on the role of Facebook page administrator. We have a brand new social media toolkit from Soul Matters, complete with a training video, to help you populate our page and to help us transform this important outreach.
We are also hoping to start an internal Facebook group for online discussions among those already in our community. Many congregations find this is an excellent way to deepen our connections, but this will also require some member help.
Facebook page monitors add people who would like to join the discussion and keep an eye on content to make sure that we are living into our covenant. Sign up here to volunteer for either role and also if you are interested in being our Twitter account administrator.
Do you have a passion for politics and a desire to advocate for change on the state level?
The Unitarian Universalist Legislative Ministry Virginia (UULMVA) is being rejuvenated and is looking for participation from all UU congregations. This is an opportunity to join with other UUs from around Virginia to advocate for legislation that promotes our UU values. Read their new strategic plan here for more info. We are looking for two members of UUC to volunteer to participate in monthly online meetings and make occasional trips to Richmond to lobby. If interested in learning more, contact Rev. Pam.
NAACP Freedom Fund Banquet
UUC is pleased to announce that we will be sponsoring 2 tables of 10 seats each at the 43rd annual Freedom Fund Banquet on Saturday, October 13 at the Inn at VT. Many thanks to all who will be attending and supporting our local branch of the NAACP.
Staff Out of Office
Rev. Pam will be on vacation October 19-21.
Karen Hager, Director of Lifespan Faith Development, will be on vacation October 23-29.
Get Rid of Your Unwanted Items & Benefit UUC Via eBay
If you have possessions such as antiques, old jewelry, coins, shoes, photography equipment, etc. that you no longer use, consider donating them to UUC for sale on eBay through our dealer, AJ’s Antiques and Art Gallery in Christiansburg. AJ will research the value of each item and post it on eBay as long as the value of the item exceeds $10. If the value is lower, items will be bundled to achieve that $10 cutoff. Once the item sells, you will receive a receipt for the amount that can be used as a charitable-gift tax deduction. Bring items to UUC and leave them with Lisa Evanylo, Administrator. For more information or to have items picked up at your home, contact Linda Powers.
Graphic accompanying article on LFD on page 11.
Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Blacksburg, VA 13 October 2018
Unitarian Universalist Congregation Sunday Services October 2018
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.
Theme for October: SANCTUARY October 7: Rev. Pam Philips with Worship Associates David Lally and Hayden Catlett, Peace Within. As we begin exploring what it means to be a people of Sanctuary, we’ll consider where and how we find refuge for ourselves from a sometimes raucous world. How might we quiet the outside noise so that we can listen to the still small voice within? UUC’s Choir will sing at the service.
October 14: Rev. Pam Philips with Worship Associates Jim Kern and Kimberley Homer, Being Sanctuary. As we practice making sacred space within and for ourselves, how might we embody that inner peace to extend sanctuary and a welcoming space to others, within our congregation and beyond? UUC’s Choir will sing at the service.
All are invited to our monthly potluck following the service. October 21: Constellation with Worship Associate Ellen Plummer, Gather the Spirit. The word “spirit” is often bandied about in UU congregations, but it seems to mean different things to different people. What might the concept of spirit mean from a humanist perspective? Does the word embody a core concept that can be meaningful to the humanist? The musical duo Constellation, Eric Thomas and Helen Wolfson, are members of Eno River Unitarian Universalist Fellowship in Durham, NC. October 28: Rev. Pam Philips with Worship Associates Earle Irwin and Stephen Henninger, What Are We Willing to Risk? Current refugee and immigration policies make questions about giving sanctuary real, not just theoretical. We’ll explore the history of the Sanctuary Movement and what it might mean for us today, both individually and as a congregation.
Explore Our Monthly Worship Themes More Deeply:
Sign Up NOW for Small Groups!
If you would like to join an intimate small group to explore our monthly worship themes more deeply, sign up for a small group by filling out this online form by October 7. Groups will meet October through June with both day and evening options available. Paper sign-up forms are available from Marilyn DuPont and Rev. Pam or visit the table in Elarth after services. If there is additional interest, new groups will form in January. Check out our Small Group Ministries webpage for more info. Click here for the Small Group Reading materials including a Participant Guide and monthly packets. Due to copyright laws, the materials are password protected – email Lisa for the password. For more information about the UUA Soul Matters approach to small groups, check out this link.
Unitarian Universalist Congregation CALENDAR: October 20181301 Gladewood Drive, Blacksburg, VA 24060 Phone: (540) 552–9716 E-mail: [email protected] : P.O. Box 10116, Bburg 24062–0116 URL: uucnrv.org
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
(All Sundays)10:00 AM Worship Service &
Children's RE ℵ YRUU 6:00
(All Mondays)7:00 AM Women’s
Breakfast & Men's Breakfast at Panera Bread (Bburg)
(All Tuesdays)
ℵ 7:00 Meditation
(All Wednesdays) ℵ Noon Conversationson Our Faith
5:30 YogaUUC Choir rehearsals: 6 Children, 7 Adult
(All Thursdays) ℵ 7:30 Adult
Children of Alcoholics SupportGroup
1 22:00 Sages4:30 Mental Health
Justice Ministry
36:00 Connection
Committee
47:00 Board
meeting
5 ℵ 11:45 AM Women's Lunch Bunch: Spicity (Blacksburg) ℵ 6:30 Social Justice Film Series: Straws
6
7 ℵ Last day of YRUU Book Sale ℵ 8:30 AM Sunday Circle
11:30 Mens Group ℵ 3:00 Human Flow (at the Lyric)
8 9 10 ℵ 1:15 Anti-Racism discussion group #2
5:45 Finance Comm
11 12 13 ℵ 9:00 AM NewcomerOrientation ℵ 9:30 Grounds Workday
5:00 Parents' Covenant Group
6:00 NAACP Banquet (offsite)
14 ℵ 8:30 Anti-Racism discussion group #1 ℵ 11:15 2nd-Sunday Potluck
11:30 CST/RE activity
15 ℵ 6:00 Mental Health Support Groups
162:00 Sages5:30 National
Alliance on Mental Illness meeting 7ℵ :00 CSAI Democracy Workshop
174:00 Lay Pastoral
Care Ministry7:00 Worship Team
185:30 Leadership
Development ℵ 7:00 New to UU
19ℵ 11:45 AM Women's
Lunch Bunch: Outback (Cburg) ℵ 6:30 Middle-School Youth Group (Sinkland Farm)
20
21 ℵ 8:30 AM Sunday Circle
9:30 Coming of Age11:20 Get-to-know UUC11:30 Mens Group ℵ Noon It's Scary to be Hungry(University Mall Kroger)
5:00 YAC
22 ℵ 7:00 America Inside Out: The Muslim Next Door
23 ℵ 1:30 Creative Writers' Group
24 ℵ 1:15 Anti-Racism discussion group #2
254:30
Environmental Justice Team mtg ℵ 7:00 New to UU
9:00 November Newsletter Deadline
26 27ℵ 5:00 Annual
Goods & ServicesAuction
28 ℵ 8:30 AM Anti-Racism discussion group #1
11:30 Stewardship Committee
29 30 7ℵ :00 CSAI Democracy Workshop
31 ℵ Buddy Project Registration Ends
Staff Office Hours: Minister: 9–1 Tu – Th; Contact for appointmentAdministrator: Mon. 9–12; Fri. 1– 4DLFD: Contact for appointment
All times are PM unless noted otherwise
ℵ indicates that there is a write-up in the newsletter
