Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Christmas Eve Ushers Needed
If you can usher at one or both of the Christmas Eve services, please email emailmanager@firstunitarian.com
Monday, December 21, 2009
Post Holiday Schedule
First Unitarian Church will be closed from December 25, 2009 through January 2, 2009 due to the shortfall in the 2009 pledge campaign. This includes the December 27th service, the church office and all activities at the church.
Wheel of Life December 26, 2009
Our deepest sympathy to Cathy Levine and her family upon the loss of her husband, Dr. Peter Levine, who died on December 15th of a sudden and unexpected heart attack. A memorial service was held on Saturday, December 19th at First Unitarian. Rev. Merritt and Rev. Schade officiated.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Wheel of Life December 19, 2009
A memorial service was held at First Unitarian on Sunday, December 13th for Nyla Margaret Rose Clarke, 1 day old, daughter of Amy Rose Clarke and great-granddaughter of Fran and David Nase.
Monday, December 14, 2009
How to Print Out Parts of the Newsletter
Would you like to print out the news, or the memos from the newsletters?
It can be done.
(1) Go to the bottom of the newsletter. In the Box with the heading "For Mobile Phone users", there are the internet addresses for the blogs that contain all of the information that is in the newsletter.
It looks like this:
Minister's Memo: http://firstunitarianworcestermemos.blogspot.com/
Parish News: http://firstunitarianworcesternews.blogspot.com/
Faith Development: http://lifespanfaithdevelopment.blogspot.com/
UU Sisterhood: http://firstuusisterhood.blogspot.com/
Click on one of those URL's and you will be taken to the blog that has all those news stories.
2. Scroll down to the very bottom of the page. There you will find:
Subscribe to: Posts (atom)
Click on it. You will be taken to a neatly formatted and compact listing of all the stories of the week.
3. You can print out that summary, through the print function of your browser.
4. Each blog must be printed out separately.
It can be done.
(1) Go to the bottom of the newsletter. In the Box with the heading "For Mobile Phone users", there are the internet addresses for the blogs that contain all of the information that is in the newsletter.
It looks like this:
Minister's Memo: http://firstunitarianworcestermemos.blogspot.com/
Parish News: http://firstunitarianworcesternews.blogspot.com/
Faith Development: http://lifespanfaithdevelopment.blogspot.com/
UU Sisterhood: http://firstuusisterhood.blogspot.com/
Click on one of those URL's and you will be taken to the blog that has all those news stories.
2. Scroll down to the very bottom of the page. There you will find:
Subscribe to: Posts (atom)
Click on it. You will be taken to a neatly formatted and compact listing of all the stories of the week.
3. You can print out that summary, through the print function of your browser.
4. Each blog must be printed out separately.
Among Ourselves December 19, 2009
Our congratulations to Christina (Tina) Bowes and Joseph Berardi who were married at First Unitarian on December 12th. Tina is the daughter of Bill and Jennifer Bowes.
Monday Night At The Church December 21, 2009
Monday, December 21st at 6:30 p.m. is our annual Christmas Potluck Dinner. It is a festive gathering of the tribe! Hosted by our Advent Group, all members and friends of the church are invited to bring a dish to pass, and the wish to get to know one another better. Children are especially welcome. If you’d like to sign up on the sheet in the Bancroft Room we’ll avoid having all cranberry sauce, but this is not essential. Categories of food include bread, salads, vegetables, main dishes (omnivore and vegetarian,) desserts and drinks.
Monday Night At the Church begins at 5:30 p.m. with an hour of Zen (meditation) practice in the Chapel. Come Be with us in the intimate silence - no experience necessary!
Childcare is available every Monday night. All are welcome to any or all of the Monday night activities.
Monday Night At the Church begins at 5:30 p.m. with an hour of Zen (meditation) practice in the Chapel. Come Be with us in the intimate silence - no experience necessary!
Childcare is available every Monday night. All are welcome to any or all of the Monday night activities.
Circle Suppers
The sign up sheet for Circle Suppers is in the dining room area. We are planning to begin the suppers in January. Everyone interested should get signed up as quickly as possible so that they can be included in the first dinner invitations. I will be looking for one or two hosts for January. Then we will let folks assign themselves to a dinner as schedules allow!
Susan Carpenter
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Congratulations to the Waugh Family Farm
The official state Christmas tree this year is a 50-foot tree from the Waugh Family Farm. Congratulations to Ken Waugh and family who will attend the lighting in Boston at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, December 9th.
Among Ourselves December 12, 2009
Our prayers and best wishes go to Victoriahope McAuliffe, who is undergoing major surgery on Tuesday, December 8th, in Boston.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Special Christmas Collections - Outreach
We have three special collections for Christmas. You can help trim a tree, stuff a stocking and fulfill a child’s Christmas wish .Donate to the Mitten Tree for mittens, gloves, hats, and scarves in all sizes, or to the Stocking for warm socks and thermal underwear in adult sizes.
For many years, First Unitarian Church has participated in a collaborative effort with the Department of Children and Families (formerly DSS) to provide asked-for presents for children in foster-home care. You can make a child's wish come true by being a Secret Santa: Purchase an asked-for gift, wrap it and include a gift tag with the child's name, and bring it to the church for pick-up by DCF in time for Christmas. For more information, contact Liz Gustavson at (508) 852-0814.
Hanging of the Greens
Special thanks to member Al Southwick and his son, Jason, for their donation of this year's Christmas trees. The trees were cut down and delivered to the church by member Ken Waugh and Parish Administrator, Barbara Foley. Our gratitude is also extended to Ken for his donation of the greens, which were hung by our Sexton, Jim Mousseau.
Wheel of Life December 12, 2009
Our deepest sympathies go to Al Southwick and his family upon the loss of his brother, Ralph E. Southwick, Sr., age 87, who died peacefully at home on November 20, 2009.
Monday Night At the Church December 13, 2009
Advent Series: "The Gifts You Bring"
Monday Night, December 14th, our 3rd program in our Advent series will consider "The Gift of Music". Come to sing carols, and to explore why the sacred and the secular music of this season has such a hold on us. Led by Rev. Merritt and Rev. Schade. All are welcome. We begin at 730 pm in the chapel.
Monday Night At the Church begins at 530 p.m. with an hour of Zen (meditation) practice in the Chapel. Come Be with us in the intimate silence - no experience necessary!
The centerpiece of MNATC is of course Ken Waugh and friends' fellowship dinner at 630 p.m.
Childcare is available every Monday night. All are welcome to any or all of the Monday night activities.
Monday Night, December 14th, our 3rd program in our Advent series will consider "The Gift of Music". Come to sing carols, and to explore why the sacred and the secular music of this season has such a hold on us. Led by Rev. Merritt and Rev. Schade. All are welcome. We begin at 730 pm in the chapel.
Monday Night At the Church begins at 530 p.m. with an hour of Zen (meditation) practice in the Chapel. Come Be with us in the intimate silence - no experience necessary!
The centerpiece of MNATC is of course Ken Waugh and friends' fellowship dinner at 630 p.m.
Childcare is available every Monday night. All are welcome to any or all of the Monday night activities.
Monday, November 30, 2009
The First Advent Candle: Hope.
Candlelighter: Cindy Cordova
Hope is expressed differently by different people. There are the hopeful (glass half full) like my husband and the hopeless (glass half empty) like myself. And a lot of us tend to hang out on the fence . . . teetering . . . balancing between the two.
There are those that would say GOD gives us “hope” and that with no “hope” certainly there would be no joy. And so “hope” is often interpreted as “faith.” Some use these words interchangeably.
Our family subscribes to the idea of “hope” as a faith. A faith in being . . . and not just in being . . . but in doing. Each moment is an opportunity. If we do and act in that moment in such a way that promotes kindness, compassion and meaning we have fulfilled a hope of betterment. Not in a specific or personal betterment or in a specific goal, but in a broader betterment . . . of how our actions are received and passed on in the universe.
So I light our first advent candle with the hope that we each and every one of us positively “do” in the moment. May the universe carry your positive energy forward and disperse it where it’s needed most.
Hope is expressed differently by different people. There are the hopeful (glass half full) like my husband and the hopeless (glass half empty) like myself. And a lot of us tend to hang out on the fence . . . teetering . . . balancing between the two.
There are those that would say GOD gives us “hope” and that with no “hope” certainly there would be no joy. And so “hope” is often interpreted as “faith.” Some use these words interchangeably.
Our family subscribes to the idea of “hope” as a faith. A faith in being . . . and not just in being . . . but in doing. Each moment is an opportunity. If we do and act in that moment in such a way that promotes kindness, compassion and meaning we have fulfilled a hope of betterment. Not in a specific or personal betterment or in a specific goal, but in a broader betterment . . . of how our actions are received and passed on in the universe.
So I light our first advent candle with the hope that we each and every one of us positively “do” in the moment. May the universe carry your positive energy forward and disperse it where it’s needed most.
Wheel of Life December 5, 2009
We extend our sympathy to Christine Sugarman whose father, Gary A. Anderson died on November 24th.
Advent Series December 7, 2009
Advent Series: "The Gifts You Bring"
Christmas has been celebrated in our culture as a time when we offer gifts to one another. But are we conscious of the real and lasting gift that is our own life? Are we aware of how we bless the world, help our neighbor and make a difference? This Advent Series, led by Rev. Merritt and Rev. Schade, will ask us to take a spiritual inventory, and to consider the many ways that we are uniquely called to give, and to receive. Our Monday Night At The Church series will be held at 7:15 -8:30 p.m., starting on November 30th, and will be held through December 21. The second in the series on December 7th is: "The Gift of Christmas Poetry." You are welcome to attend any or all sessions.
Monday Night At the Church begins at 5:30 p.m. with an hour of Zen (meditation) practice in the Chapel. Come Be with us in the intimate silence - no experience necessary!The centerpiece of MNATC is of course Ken Waugh and friends' fellowship dinner at 6:30 p.m.Childcare is available every Monday night. All are welcome to any or all of the Monday night activities.
Christmas has been celebrated in our culture as a time when we offer gifts to one another. But are we conscious of the real and lasting gift that is our own life? Are we aware of how we bless the world, help our neighbor and make a difference? This Advent Series, led by Rev. Merritt and Rev. Schade, will ask us to take a spiritual inventory, and to consider the many ways that we are uniquely called to give, and to receive. Our Monday Night At The Church series will be held at 7:15 -8:30 p.m., starting on November 30th, and will be held through December 21. The second in the series on December 7th is: "The Gift of Christmas Poetry." You are welcome to attend any or all sessions.
Monday Night At the Church begins at 5:30 p.m. with an hour of Zen (meditation) practice in the Chapel. Come Be with us in the intimate silence - no experience necessary!The centerpiece of MNATC is of course Ken Waugh and friends' fellowship dinner at 6:30 p.m.Childcare is available every Monday night. All are welcome to any or all of the Monday night activities.
Christmas Outreach Opportunities
Christmas Elves NeededTwo small, but very meaningful projects, require care in December. If you'd like to volunteer, please talk to Rev. Schade or Rev. Merritt. First: The Mitten Tree. Job Description: Encourage members and friends to contribute children's mittens, scarves, and knit hats, to decorate our Bancroft Christmas tree. And then when schools starts up again in January, deliver them to the Elm Park School. Second: Long underwear. Encourage members and friends to fill our Christmas stockings in the Bancroft Room with what the poor and the homeless most desperately need long underwear, especially in large sizes. After January 4th take the men's to the Vet Shelter, and the women's to the Salvation Army or Abby's House. You can do this work with friends, just let us know if we can rely on you to carry the Christmas spirit out into the community.
December At First Unitarian Church
Friday, December 4, 2009
“Christmas Memories” Concert
7:30 p.m. in the Sanctuary
Featuring Maria Ferrante, soprano and Will Sherwood, piano, pipe organ. (Homemade Christmas cookies and fresh apple cider reception to follow the concert.)
“Christmas Memories” Concert
7:30 p.m. in the Sanctuary
Featuring Maria Ferrante, soprano and Will Sherwood, piano, pipe organ. (Homemade Christmas cookies and fresh apple cider reception to follow the concert.)
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Sermon: “A Somewhat Desperate Need for New Hope.”
Preaching: Rev. Barbara Merritt
Liturgist: Rev. Thomas Schade
Sermon: “A Somewhat Desperate Need for New Hope.”
Preaching: Rev. Barbara Merritt
Liturgist: Rev. Thomas Schade
Green Christmas Coffee Hour in Unity Hall. There will be good food, family-friendly holiday preparations, and opportunities to make donations of time and money to the church and other worthy causes.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Advent Series: “The Poetry of Christmas”
7:15 p.m. in the Chapel.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Christmas Pageant Sunday
Hanukkah Party Coffee Hour in Unity Hall. (Latkes! Games!)
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Christmas Music Sunday
Monday, December 21, 2009
All Church Christmas Potluck
6:30 p.m. in the Dining Room. Hosted by the Advent Series participants.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Christmas Eve Candlelight Services
4:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. in the Sanctuary
Both services are identical.
Preaching: Rev. Barbara Merritt and Rev. Thomas Schade
(We could use some more ushers and greeters. Please call the church 508-757-2708 if you can help.)
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Church service has been cancelled this Sunday due to the shortfall in the 2009 pledge campaign. First Unitarian Church will be closed from December 26, 2009 through January 2, 2009. This includes the December 27th service, the church office and all activities at the church.
Sunday, January 3, 2009
Sermon: “Ring the Fuller Minstrel In: The New Year Calls to Us.”
Preaching: Rev. Thomas Schade
Liturgist: Rev. Barbara Merritt
Green Christmas Coffee Hour This Week
Please join us in Unity Hall for the Green Christmas festivities during Coffee Hour this Sunday. There will be good food, family-friendly holiday preparations, and opportunities to make donations of time and money to the church and other worthy causes.
Among Ourselves December 5, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with Chuck Dewey who is in hospice care at Holy Name Nursing Home.
Attention: Floral Designers and Christmas Decorators
In order to accommodate the standing room crowds in our sanctuary on December 24th, First Unitarian will be having two identical Christmas Eve Candle light services this year, with full choir at both and identical worship. The first will be at 4:00 pm and the second at 5:30 pm. We would love to have a wonderful Christmas Floral arrangement on the altar. If you can arrange the flowers, or contribute to a fund for a professional florist to do the creative work, please contact Barbara Foley at the church office, or either Rev. Schade or Rev. Merritt.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Monday Night At The Church November 30, 2009
Advent Series
"The Gifts You Bring" Christmas has been celebrated in our culture as a time when we offer gifts to one another. But are we conscious of the real and lasting gift that is our own life? Are we aware of how we bless the world, help our neighbor and make a difference? This Advent Series, led by Rev. Merritt and Rev. Schade, will ask us to take a spiritual inventory, and to consider the many ways that we are uniquely called to give, and to receive. Our Monday Night At The Church series will be held at 7:15 -8:30 p.m., starting on November 30th, and will be held through December 21. The first in the series on November 30th is: "Complex, Crazy-making, Wonderful, Terrible Gifts."
You are welcome to attend any or all sessions.Monday Night At the Church begins at 5:30 p.m. with an hour of Zen (meditation) practice in the Chapel. Come Be with us in the intimate silence - no experience necessary!
The centerpiece of MNATC is of course Ken Waugh and friends' fellowship dinner at 6:30 p.m.
Childcare is available every Monday night. All are welcome to any or all of the Monday night activities.
"The Gifts You Bring" Christmas has been celebrated in our culture as a time when we offer gifts to one another. But are we conscious of the real and lasting gift that is our own life? Are we aware of how we bless the world, help our neighbor and make a difference? This Advent Series, led by Rev. Merritt and Rev. Schade, will ask us to take a spiritual inventory, and to consider the many ways that we are uniquely called to give, and to receive. Our Monday Night At The Church series will be held at 7:15 -8:30 p.m., starting on November 30th, and will be held through December 21. The first in the series on November 30th is: "Complex, Crazy-making, Wonderful, Terrible Gifts."
You are welcome to attend any or all sessions.Monday Night At the Church begins at 5:30 p.m. with an hour of Zen (meditation) practice in the Chapel. Come Be with us in the intimate silence - no experience necessary!
The centerpiece of MNATC is of course Ken Waugh and friends' fellowship dinner at 6:30 p.m.
Childcare is available every Monday night. All are welcome to any or all of the Monday night activities.
Wheel of Life November 28, 2009
We extend our sympathy to Susan Peckitt whose father, Wally Peckitt died on November 17th.
Chapel Holiday Exhibit
Please bring in your favorite holiday or winter art/decoration to exhibit in the Chapel for the holiday season. It could be something that you created or purchased, a tree ornament, a wreath, photo, painting, something from your religious or ethnic heritage, winter solstice artwork, etc. Use your imagination!
Please bring your art and decorations to the chapel on Sunday, December 6. The holiday exhibit will stay up until January 9. Call or Ken Mandile if you have questions (508-949-2469) or email church office at office@firstunitarian.com for email contact info.
Holiday Stressbuster
HOLIDAY STRESSBUSTER:
A MORNING OF KUNDALINI YOGA AND MEDITATION
As taught by Yogi Bhajan
Saturday December 12, 2009
9:30 am to 12:30 pm
FIRST UNITARIAN CHURCH
90 Main Street
Worcester
State Street upper level parking lot and entrance into Unity Hall
Please wear comfortable clothing,
bring a blanket and mat if possible, and water, and a sitting pillow
Light refreshments will be served
Anonymous Sliding Scale donation $1 to $50
ALL proceeds will be donated to the Worcester County Food Bank
No prior yoga experience is needed! This is the yoga of awareness. There will be breathwork, a yoga set, a deep relaxation and a meditation. You will leave feeling renewed!
Andrea Rigiero (Shiv Antar) and Diane Pingeton (Hari Kirin)
are certified Kundalini Yoga Teachers. They will collaborate for this third annual event for your health and enjoyment
For more information, or to pre-register,
please contact Diane at 508-753-1797
“You must leave your limitations and use all methods to raise your consciousness. If you understand kundalini, you understand the whole universe. It is your existence. It is the power in you through which you make your mind expand” -Yogi Bhajan
A MORNING OF KUNDALINI YOGA AND MEDITATION
As taught by Yogi Bhajan
Saturday December 12, 2009
9:30 am to 12:30 pm
FIRST UNITARIAN CHURCH
90 Main Street
Worcester
State Street upper level parking lot and entrance into Unity Hall
Please wear comfortable clothing,
bring a blanket and mat if possible, and water, and a sitting pillow
Light refreshments will be served
Anonymous Sliding Scale donation $1 to $50
ALL proceeds will be donated to the Worcester County Food Bank
No prior yoga experience is needed! This is the yoga of awareness. There will be breathwork, a yoga set, a deep relaxation and a meditation. You will leave feeling renewed!
Andrea Rigiero (Shiv Antar) and Diane Pingeton (Hari Kirin)
are certified Kundalini Yoga Teachers. They will collaborate for this third annual event for your health and enjoyment
For more information, or to pre-register,
please contact Diane at 508-753-1797
“You must leave your limitations and use all methods to raise your consciousness. If you understand kundalini, you understand the whole universe. It is your existence. It is the power in you through which you make your mind expand” -Yogi Bhajan
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Green Christmas Coffee Hour
Please join the
Environment Committee
on December 6th for our
annual Green Christmas Coffee Hour.
Share in ornament making, cookie decorating, bird feeder creating
and good fellowship in preparation for the holiday season.
Interfaith Thanksgiving Celebration
Rev. Schade will be participating in a community wide Interfaith Thanksgiving Celebration at Temple Emmanuel on Sunday, November 22 at 5 p.m. Everyone is welcome.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Monday Night At The Church November 23, 2009
Monday Night Book Club
The Monday Night Book Club is celebrating First Unitarian's 225th anniversary by reading about our history. This week is the third session with Walter King's book, "The Fruits of Our Labors". Please read from page 141 to 254 for this session. If it seems that people are interested and willing to read, we'll go on to some sermons and other writings of our ministers after finishing the book.
Monday Night At the Church begins at 5:30 p.m. with an hour of Zen (meditation) practice in the Chapel. Come Be with us in the intimate silence - no experience necessary!
The centerpiece of MNATC is of course Ken Waugh and friends' fellowship dinner at 6:30 p.m.
Childcare is available every Monday night. All are welcome to any or all of the Monday night activities.
The Monday Night Book Club is celebrating First Unitarian's 225th anniversary by reading about our history. This week is the third session with Walter King's book, "The Fruits of Our Labors". Please read from page 141 to 254 for this session. If it seems that people are interested and willing to read, we'll go on to some sermons and other writings of our ministers after finishing the book.
Monday Night At the Church begins at 5:30 p.m. with an hour of Zen (meditation) practice in the Chapel. Come Be with us in the intimate silence - no experience necessary!
The centerpiece of MNATC is of course Ken Waugh and friends' fellowship dinner at 6:30 p.m.
Childcare is available every Monday night. All are welcome to any or all of the Monday night activities.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Wheel of Life November 14, 2009
We extend our sympathy to the friends and family of Ron Lundin who died recently in Indiana. Ron was the sexton here at First Unitarian from 1996 to 2002.
The Subject is PECANS!
NOT Super Market frozen 2008 pecans, but this year's crop picked from the trees in the last 2 or 3 weeks.
Again this year, the First U Garden Committee is selling these super fresh nuts with all profits to benefit our church grounds. So, pecan pie lovers look for them to be available after the worship service on the next four Sundays -- just in time for Thanksgiving and Christmas. The one pound bags will sell for $10 and they make great gifts, as well as year-round hostess presents.
Again this year, the First U Garden Committee is selling these super fresh nuts with all profits to benefit our church grounds. So, pecan pie lovers look for them to be available after the worship service on the next four Sundays -- just in time for Thanksgiving and Christmas. The one pound bags will sell for $10 and they make great gifts, as well as year-round hostess presents.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Nonviolent Solutions in Worcester and the World: It's Time!
What are the real costs of war? Is nonviolence effective in resolving conflicts? How does violence impact our lives? What can we do to reduce violence at all levels, from the family to the neighborhood to the state to the world?
Members of our Peace Committee, Bill Densmore and Marj and Paul Ropp, have been working for the past year to establish the Center for Nonviolent Solutions here in Worcester. Congressman James McGovern and Washington journalist Colman McCarthy recently spoke at the Worcester Public Library to launch the Center. At Religion In Our Times on November 22nd at 12:00 noon in the Chapel, Bill, Paul and Marj will briefly introduce the mission of the Center and lead a discussion of its goals and purposes.
Members of our Peace Committee, Bill Densmore and Marj and Paul Ropp, have been working for the past year to establish the Center for Nonviolent Solutions here in Worcester. Congressman James McGovern and Washington journalist Colman McCarthy recently spoke at the Worcester Public Library to launch the Center. At Religion In Our Times on November 22nd at 12:00 noon in the Chapel, Bill, Paul and Marj will briefly introduce the mission of the Center and lead a discussion of its goals and purposes.
Among Ourselves November 14th
Our best wishes for a speedy recovery to our Sexton, Jim Mousseau, who underwent carotid endarterectomy surgery last week and is home recuperating.
Coffee House
THE LUCKY COFFEE HOUSE
Friday, Nov. 13th
7-9:30pm
Unitarian Universalist Church Of Worcester
90 Holden Street
$5 per ticket
Tickets available at door
20+ Fantastic Acts
(from UUCW and First Unitarian +more)
Brought to you by the UUCW Youth Group
This could be your Lucky Night!!
questions? Contact Robin Caracciolo -robin.caracciolo@gmail.com
Christmas Concert - Save the Date!
Save the Date!
CHRISTMAS CONCERT
FRIDAY DECEMBER 4th 2009 at 7:30PM
First Unitarian Church
Worcester’s renowned soprano, Maria Ferrante, and keyboard artist, Will Sherwood, will present a unique Christmas Musical Event to benefit Jericho Road Worcester, a newly formed organization that matches volunteers with skilled and professional talents to non-profit organizations that need them, within the Greater Worcester area.
This concert will prove exciting as the musicians premiere newly uncovered repertoire gems and present an array of fresh musical arrangements, along with Christmas favorites.
Ferrante and Sherwood also launch their new CD, Christmas Memories, with this program. Hailed as the musicians' musicians, Ferrante and Sherwood display a rare blend of exquisite technique and emotion that connects with the holiday spirit of the listener. CDs will be on sale after the concert or online at www.Christmas-Memories.us.
A Christmas cookie and hot cider reception will immediately follow the concert. Free to attendees.
Concert Tickets are $10 (adults), and $5 (Sr./students), with a maximum of $25 (per family) at the door. For more information, contact Mary Frandsen at 508-852-8122
CHRISTMAS CONCERT
FRIDAY DECEMBER 4th 2009 at 7:30PM
First Unitarian Church
Worcester’s renowned soprano, Maria Ferrante, and keyboard artist, Will Sherwood, will present a unique Christmas Musical Event to benefit Jericho Road Worcester, a newly formed organization that matches volunteers with skilled and professional talents to non-profit organizations that need them, within the Greater Worcester area.
This concert will prove exciting as the musicians premiere newly uncovered repertoire gems and present an array of fresh musical arrangements, along with Christmas favorites.
Ferrante and Sherwood also launch their new CD, Christmas Memories, with this program. Hailed as the musicians' musicians, Ferrante and Sherwood display a rare blend of exquisite technique and emotion that connects with the holiday spirit of the listener. CDs will be on sale after the concert or online at www.Christmas-Memories.us.
A Christmas cookie and hot cider reception will immediately follow the concert. Free to attendees.
Concert Tickets are $10 (adults), and $5 (Sr./students), with a maximum of $25 (per family) at the door. For more information, contact Mary Frandsen at 508-852-8122
Green Christmas Event
"Save $$, save resources, spend time"
That's the theme of this year's Green Christmas event, scheduled for Dec. 6th after the service. Come and join us for an hour of traditional holiday-themed family activities. In addition, there will be service opportunities for your family to help improve the church community and the greater community. If you are interested in helping with the event, please contact Stacey Hill at 508-799-0998.
That's the theme of this year's Green Christmas event, scheduled for Dec. 6th after the service. Come and join us for an hour of traditional holiday-themed family activities. In addition, there will be service opportunities for your family to help improve the church community and the greater community. If you are interested in helping with the event, please contact Stacey Hill at 508-799-0998.
Monday Night At The Church November 16, 2009
MNATC: Music Monday
Come join us on Monday Night, November 16th, in the Bancroft Room for a delightful musical Monday led by Nancy Smith. Nancy will lead us in singalongs as we warm ourselves with a song in our hearts and a fire on the hearth. Don't miss this wonderful opportunity for community and entertainment.
Monday Night at the Church begins at 5:30 p.m. with an hour of Zen (meditation) practice in the Chapel. Come BE with us in the intimate silence - no experience necessary! The centerpiece of MNATC is of course Ken Waugh and friends’ fellowship dinner. Come join us for a home cooked meal among good company. Childcare is available every Monday night. All are welcome to any or all of the Monday Night activities.
Come join us on Monday Night, November 16th, in the Bancroft Room for a delightful musical Monday led by Nancy Smith. Nancy will lead us in singalongs as we warm ourselves with a song in our hearts and a fire on the hearth. Don't miss this wonderful opportunity for community and entertainment.
Monday Night at the Church begins at 5:30 p.m. with an hour of Zen (meditation) practice in the Chapel. Come BE with us in the intimate silence - no experience necessary! The centerpiece of MNATC is of course Ken Waugh and friends’ fellowship dinner. Come join us for a home cooked meal among good company. Childcare is available every Monday night. All are welcome to any or all of the Monday Night activities.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Monday Night At the Church November 9, 2009
Monday Night Book Club
The Monday Night Book Cub will celebrate 1st Unitarian's 225th anniversary by reading about our history. For the first three sessions we'll read Walter Kring's book "The Fruits of Our Labors". Please read up to page 140 for the second session. Most of you have copies, if not, a few will be available at the Welcome Table. If it seems that people are interested and willing to read, we'll go on to some sermons and other writings of our ministers after finishing the book. Monday Night at the Church begins at 5:30 p.m. with an hour of Zen (meditation) practice in the Chapel.
Come BE with us in the intimate silence - no experience necessary! The centerpiece of MNATC is of course Ken Waugh and friends’ fellowship dinner at 6:30 p.m. Childcare is available every Monday night. All are welcome to any or all of the Monday night activities.
The Monday Night Book Cub will celebrate 1st Unitarian's 225th anniversary by reading about our history. For the first three sessions we'll read Walter Kring's book "The Fruits of Our Labors". Please read up to page 140 for the second session. Most of you have copies, if not, a few will be available at the Welcome Table. If it seems that people are interested and willing to read, we'll go on to some sermons and other writings of our ministers after finishing the book. Monday Night at the Church begins at 5:30 p.m. with an hour of Zen (meditation) practice in the Chapel.
Come BE with us in the intimate silence - no experience necessary! The centerpiece of MNATC is of course Ken Waugh and friends’ fellowship dinner at 6:30 p.m. Childcare is available every Monday night. All are welcome to any or all of the Monday night activities.
Church Leadership Opportunities for 2010
The Annual Meeting in January 2010 is not that far away! It's time to start reflecting again on the role you'd like to play in the church in the new year. Some leadership positions open every year, while others are filled by members who were elected to 3-year terms at prior annual meetings. This year, we will need new members for:
The Lay Leadership Council:
Two new members are added to the Lay Leadership Council every year, each filling a 3-year post, so there are always 6 active members. This creative group works to maximize the role of our church community by identifying and facilitating programs that meet congregational needs and interests in a broad range of areas, like education, social interaction, community involvement and outreach. The Council also helps members match varied skills, interests, and passions with other members and resources needed to build an ever more vibrant and fulfilling spiritual community. Ellen O'Neall Waite is the 2009 chair, and can tell you more. If you are interested, please let a member of the Nominating Committee know (Priscilla Arbuckle, Kate O'Dell, Karen Reilly, or Sue Stafford).
The Nominating Committee:
While Nominating Committee members are always on the look-out for new and long-term members who show an interest in a deeper commitment to the work of the church, the real work of this committee takes place in the late fall, preparing a slate of candidates for the January Annual Meeting. It's a great committee for members who want learn the interests and skills of new and long-term members, and better understand the organization of the church. For 2010, the Nominating Committee is seeking 3 new members--each for a 3-year term--for a total of 5 members. These nominees are selected by the Prudential Committee; if you are interested, please talk to Liz Gustafson (moderator) or David Spanagel (Vice Moderator).
The Lay Leadership Council:
Two new members are added to the Lay Leadership Council every year, each filling a 3-year post, so there are always 6 active members. This creative group works to maximize the role of our church community by identifying and facilitating programs that meet congregational needs and interests in a broad range of areas, like education, social interaction, community involvement and outreach. The Council also helps members match varied skills, interests, and passions with other members and resources needed to build an ever more vibrant and fulfilling spiritual community. Ellen O'Neall Waite is the 2009 chair, and can tell you more. If you are interested, please let a member of the Nominating Committee know (Priscilla Arbuckle, Kate O'Dell, Karen Reilly, or Sue Stafford).
The Nominating Committee:
While Nominating Committee members are always on the look-out for new and long-term members who show an interest in a deeper commitment to the work of the church, the real work of this committee takes place in the late fall, preparing a slate of candidates for the January Annual Meeting. It's a great committee for members who want learn the interests and skills of new and long-term members, and better understand the organization of the church. For 2010, the Nominating Committee is seeking 3 new members--each for a 3-year term--for a total of 5 members. These nominees are selected by the Prudential Committee; if you are interested, please talk to Liz Gustafson (moderator) or David Spanagel (Vice Moderator).
Chili Supper to Benefit Salifu Kamara
Members and friends of First Unitarian are invited to a chili supper at the First Congregational Church of Shrewsbury (140 and Main) on Saturday, November 14th. The dinner, sponsored by their youth group and ours, is to benefit Salifu Kamara, former child soldier from Sierra Leone, now a student of Peace Studies at Clark University. Since escaping at age 15 (he was captured at 9, when his entire family was killed) Salifu has spoken at churches and colleges about the conditions that give rise to the conscription of young children (boys AND girls) in military campaigns world-wide. Salifu has received a full scholarship to Clark, but needs a relatively small amount of money for books and fees.
Tickets for the chili supper will be available after church this Sunday. Or call Paul Kelly at 508 792-9661. Tickets are $8.00 for adults, $4.00 for children, $25.00 for families. Seatings at 6:00 p.m., 7:00 p.m., and 8:00 p.m.
Tickets for the chili supper will be available after church this Sunday. Or call Paul Kelly at 508 792-9661. Tickets are $8.00 for adults, $4.00 for children, $25.00 for families. Seatings at 6:00 p.m., 7:00 p.m., and 8:00 p.m.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Sacred Writings November 1, 2009
This opportunity for spiritual reflection is held on Sunday mornings from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. Each week we discuss and reflect upon a selection chosen by a member of our church community. Is there a piece of writing that inspires or encourages you, a piece that touches you in a way that is sacred to you? Please let us know and share it with us in an hour of spiritual reflection and exploration. Everyone is welcome to join us when the spirit, or the writing moves you to be with us. The October 25 selection will be provided by Leone Scanlon. Rev. Merritt leads the group. Childcare is provided
Urgent Need
We need volunteers to help move the IHN families out on Sunday, November 1st prior to church at 8 a.m. and to help reset the classrooms. Currently WE DO NOT HAVE ANY VOLUNTEERS TO HELP WITH THIS. Many hands make light work! Please contact Joonu Coste at 508-472-9633 or email office@firstunitarian.com if you can help out. Thank you!
Welcome New Members
The Membership Committee is hosting a pre-service Coffee Hour to welcome new members who have signed the book since January 2009. The New Members Coffee Hour will be Sunday, November 8th fro 9:30 a.m. to 10:15 a.m.
Monday Night At The Church November 2, 2009
First Monday Poetry Series
Come join us on Monday night, November 2nd, at 7:30 p.m. in the Bancroft Room for the First Monday Poetry Series with the Worcester County Poetry Association. This month’s reader will be Beth Sweeney. Beth Sweeney, MFA, PhD, is a published poet and professor of English at the College of the Holy Cross where she specializes in detective stories, fairy tales, and Vladimir Nabokov.
For a sample of the poet's work go to: http://www.firstunitarian.com/PDF4Display/WCPASWEENEY_NOV2.pdf
Monday Night at the Church begins at 5:30 p.m. with an hour of Zen (meditation) practice in the Chapel. Come BE with us in the intimate silence - no experience necessary! The centerpiece of MNATC is of course Ken Waugh and friends’ Fellowship Dinner at 6:30 p.m. Childcare is available every Monday night. All are welcome to any or all of the Monday night activities.
Come join us on Monday night, November 2nd, at 7:30 p.m. in the Bancroft Room for the First Monday Poetry Series with the Worcester County Poetry Association. This month’s reader will be Beth Sweeney. Beth Sweeney, MFA, PhD, is a published poet and professor of English at the College of the Holy Cross where she specializes in detective stories, fairy tales, and Vladimir Nabokov.
For a sample of the poet's work go to: http://www.firstunitarian.com/PDF4Display/WCPASWEENEY_NOV2.pdf
Monday Night at the Church begins at 5:30 p.m. with an hour of Zen (meditation) practice in the Chapel. Come BE with us in the intimate silence - no experience necessary! The centerpiece of MNATC is of course Ken Waugh and friends’ Fellowship Dinner at 6:30 p.m. Childcare is available every Monday night. All are welcome to any or all of the Monday night activities.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Annual Thanksgiving Potluck
Come one, come all to our traditional Thanksgiving Day dinner on Thursday, November 26th. Bring a dish to share or non-cooks bring drinks or paper products. Vegetarians most welcome. We gather at noon and eat around 1:00 p.m. Sign up sheet is on the Dining Room bulletin board....or call Kris Johnson at (508) 754-5497.Monday Night At the Church October 26, 2009
The Monday Night Book Cub will celebrate 1st Unitarian's 225th anniversary by reading about our history. For the first three sessions we'll read Walter Kring's book "The Fruits of Our Labors". Please read 1-77 for the first session. Most of you have copies, if not, a few will be available at the Welcome Table. If it seems that people are interested and willing to read, we'll go on to some sermons and other writings of our ministers after finishing the book.
Monday Night at the Church begins at 5:30 p.m. with an hour of Zen (meditation) practice in the Chapel. Come BE with us in the intimate silence - no experience necessary! The centerpiece of MNATC is of course Ken Waugh and friends’ fellowship dinner at 6:30 p.m. Childcare is available every Monday night. All are welcome to any or all of the Monday night events.
Monday Night at the Church begins at 5:30 p.m. with an hour of Zen (meditation) practice in the Chapel. Come BE with us in the intimate silence - no experience necessary! The centerpiece of MNATC is of course Ken Waugh and friends’ fellowship dinner at 6:30 p.m. Childcare is available every Monday night. All are welcome to any or all of the Monday night events.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Sacred Writings October 25, 2009
This opportunity for spiritual reflection is held on Sunday mornings from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. Each week we discuss and reflect upon a selection chosen by a member of our church community. Is there a piece of writing that inspires or encourages you, a piece that touches you in a way that is sacred to you? Please let us know and share it with us in an hour of spiritual reflection and exploration. Everyone is welcome to join us when the spirit, or the writing moves you to be with us. The October 25 selection will be excerpts from Aaron Bancroft's sermon "The System of Calvinism". Rev. Merritt leads the group. Childcare is provided.
Interfaith Hospitality Network Families Arrive October 25th
We are hosting the families from the Interfaith Hospitality Network starting THIS Sunday, the 25th until Sunday the 31st. We are still looking for overnight hosts for Sunday, October 25th and Tuesday, October 27th. We would also appreciate monetary donations to buy supplies as needed for the families through the week (diapers, formula, etc). We usually need about $100. Right now we've had $25 donated. Cash and checks accepted. To volunteer or for questions, please call Joonu Coste at 508-472-9633 or email (office@firstunitarian.com) or phone (508-757-2708) for email contact information. Thank you for the consideration!
Church Yard Cleanup -- Need Volunteers
Church Yard Cleanup, Saturday, Nov. 7, 11am - 2 pm.
Please join us to rake leaves. Bring a rake and, if you have one, a tarp for transporting leaves to the compost pile; and bring whatever lunch you will need. If you have any questions or wish to find out whether or not the event will be canceled because of weather, call Peter Gray, 508-753-1797, or his cell 508 740-7968.
Please join us to rake leaves. Bring a rake and, if you have one, a tarp for transporting leaves to the compost pile; and bring whatever lunch you will need. If you have any questions or wish to find out whether or not the event will be canceled because of weather, call Peter Gray, 508-753-1797, or his cell 508 740-7968.
Thank You from Worcester County Poetry Association
29 September 2009
Dear Ms. Gustavson,
As the publicist of the Worcester County Poetry Association, I would like to extend our gratitude to your Board of Directors for the use of the Bancroft Room for our Annual Poetry Contest Winners' Reading event on Sunday.
We were welcomed by Jay and found it a wonderful venue for our event, spacious and well appointed with luxurious furniture of period note. We appreciate your generosity, especially after losing the library last month.
Thank you greatly for your hospitality.
Warmth,
Anne Marie Lucci
Vice President/Publicist/W.C.PA.
Dear Ms. Gustavson,
As the publicist of the Worcester County Poetry Association, I would like to extend our gratitude to your Board of Directors for the use of the Bancroft Room for our Annual Poetry Contest Winners' Reading event on Sunday.
We were welcomed by Jay and found it a wonderful venue for our event, spacious and well appointed with luxurious furniture of period note. We appreciate your generosity, especially after losing the library last month.
Thank you greatly for your hospitality.
Warmth,
Anne Marie Lucci
Vice President/Publicist/W.C.PA.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
225th Anniversary Activities
Calling for genealogists, history enthusiasts or interested folks…
Wouldn’t it be a great idea to invite descendants of early church members to our 225th anniversary celebration on March 21, 2010? Well, we will have to find them. Many names of early church members are noted in Walter Kring’s book “Fruits of Our Labors”. If you are interested, please speak with Jim Dolan or call ( 508-757-2708) /email (office@firstunitarian.com) the church office for contact information
Wouldn’t it be a great idea to invite descendants of early church members to our 225th anniversary celebration on March 21, 2010? Well, we will have to find them. Many names of early church members are noted in Walter Kring’s book “Fruits of Our Labors”. If you are interested, please speak with Jim Dolan or call ( 508-757-2708) /email (office@firstunitarian.com) the church office for contact information
Monday, October 12, 2009
Wheel of Life October 17, 2009
Our deepest sympathy to Nathaniel Needle whose father, Edwin Needle died on October 10th.
Sacred Writings October 18, 2009
This opportunity for spiritual reflection is held on Sunday mornings from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. Each week we discuss and reflect upon a selection chosen by a member of our church community. Is there a piece of writing that inspires or encourages you, a piece that touches you in a way that is sacred to you? Please let us know and share it with us in an hour of spiritual reflection and exploration. Everyone is welcome to join us when the spirit, or the writing moves you to be with us. This week's selection is Sayings of Jesus and Buddha.You will find the whole selection on our blog: http://90mainstreet.com/sacred/ Rev. Merritt leads the group. Childcare is provided.
Monday Night At The Church October 19, 2009 Scenes from the Waugh Family Farm
Come join us on Monday Night, October 19th, at 7:30 p.m. in the Chapel for a visual visit to Ken Waugh's family farm. The new chapel gallery exhibition will feature photos taken of Ken's farm and sugar house. We will be given a guided tour of the beauty, majesty, and the welcoming generosity that are the hallmarks of Ken's family home and farm.
Monday Night at the Church begins at 5:30 p.m. with an hour of Zen (meditation) practice in the Chapel. Come BE with us in the intimate silence - no experience necessary! The centerpiece of MNATC is of course Ken Waugh and friends’ fellowship dinner at 6:30 p.m. Childcare is available every Monday night. All are welcome to any or all of the Monday night events.
Monday Night at the Church begins at 5:30 p.m. with an hour of Zen (meditation) practice in the Chapel. Come BE with us in the intimate silence - no experience necessary! The centerpiece of MNATC is of course Ken Waugh and friends’ fellowship dinner at 6:30 p.m. Childcare is available every Monday night. All are welcome to any or all of the Monday night events.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Sacred Writings October 11,2009
This opportunity for spiritual reflection is held on Sunday mornings from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. Each week we discuss and reflect upon a selection chosen by a member of our church community. Is there a piece of writing that inspires or encourages you, a piece that touches you in a way that is sacred to you? Please let us know and share it with us in an hour of spiritual reflection and exploration. Everyone is welcome to join us when the spirit, or the writing moves you to be with us. You will find the whole selection on our new blog: http://90mainstreet.com/sacred/ Rev. Merritt leads the group. Childcare is provided.
New Chaplains and a Worship Associate
The Prudential Committee last week accepted the recommendation of Rev. Merritt and Rev. Schade to recognize the ministries of three more of our members. Jerry Bellows is our newest Worship Associate: he has contributed his music and managerial talents to the Choir, to Will Sherwood, to the summer services and to the Sunday School. Our newest Chaplains are Jane Beckwith and Joan Russo. Both have worked a lifetime in the medical field, and they have been shown up at hospitals and for members and friends with comfort and a healing presence.
It is our congregants who come to the ministers with reports of "good works" and kindness extended to them by the laity. If you have someone to recommend, (and we get similar reports from others,) then we are pleased to formally recognize their important contribution.
It is our congregants who come to the ministers with reports of "good works" and kindness extended to them by the laity. If you have someone to recommend, (and we get similar reports from others,) then we are pleased to formally recognize their important contribution.
Center for Nonviolent Solutions - Launch Event
Saturday, Oct. 17 from 9:30 to 11 a.m.
Worcester Public Library, Saxe Room
Free and Open to the Public
In response to the growing community interest in acquiring skills for conflict resolution, and access to educational resources in peace, conflict, and nonviolence studies, the new Center for Nonviolent Solutions (CNVS) will launch on Saturday, October 17. The event includes appearances by Congressman James McGovern, and by Colman McCarthy, nationally known journalist and lecturer, and the announcement of a community survey on the subject of nonviolence. Everyone is welcome to attend. For more information visit www.nonviolentsolution.org or call Paul and Marj Ropp at 508-752-8373.
Worcester Public Library, Saxe Room
Free and Open to the Public
In response to the growing community interest in acquiring skills for conflict resolution, and access to educational resources in peace, conflict, and nonviolence studies, the new Center for Nonviolent Solutions (CNVS) will launch on Saturday, October 17. The event includes appearances by Congressman James McGovern, and by Colman McCarthy, nationally known journalist and lecturer, and the announcement of a community survey on the subject of nonviolence. Everyone is welcome to attend. For more information visit www.nonviolentsolution.org or call Paul and Marj Ropp at 508-752-8373.
Thank You From Tom
Tom Schade wants to thank everyone for their kindness and generosity last week. The celebration seemed just right in every way. Sue and Tom are making the weekend getaway offered by the congregation over the Columbus Day holiday.
Mayor's Breakfast - Daybreak Breakfast
First Unitarian has purchased tables at two upcoming community breakfasts.
The Mayor's Interfaith Prayer Breakfast:
October 13, 2009
Beechwood Hotel 7:00 AM
Clementina M. Chery, Keynote Speaker
Daybreak Breakfast
YWCA Program on Domestic Violence
October 19, 2009
Holy Cross Hogan Center 7:00 AM
Attorney General Martha Coakley, Keynote Speaker
If you would like to represent our church at either of these breakfasts, contact Rev. Schade
The Mayor's Interfaith Prayer Breakfast:
October 13, 2009
Beechwood Hotel 7:00 AM
Clementina M. Chery, Keynote Speaker
Daybreak Breakfast
YWCA Program on Domestic Violence
October 19, 2009
Holy Cross Hogan Center 7:00 AM
Attorney General Martha Coakley, Keynote Speaker
If you would like to represent our church at either of these breakfasts, contact Rev. Schade
Monday Night At the Church October 12, 2009
Come join us on Monday night, October 12th, at 7:30 p.m. in the Bancroft Room for a Music Monday with song, verse and good company.
Monday Night at the Church begins at 5:30 p.m. with an hour of Zen (meditation) practice in the Chapel. Come BE with us in the intimate silence - no experience necessary! The centerpiece of MNATC is of course Ken Waugh and friends’ fellowship dinner. Come join us for a home cooked meal among good company. Childcare is available every Monday night. All are welcome.
Monday Night at the Church begins at 5:30 p.m. with an hour of Zen (meditation) practice in the Chapel. Come BE with us in the intimate silence - no experience necessary! The centerpiece of MNATC is of course Ken Waugh and friends’ fellowship dinner. Come join us for a home cooked meal among good company. Childcare is available every Monday night. All are welcome.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Yard Sale Success
We made over $2,000 on Saturday's Church Yard Sale. Thank you to everyone who donated items, time organizing and working on the yard sale and to those who made purchases to make this a success.
Wheel of Life October 10, 2009
Our deepest sympathy to Tom Crowley whose mother, Patricia Crowley died on September 27th after a long battle with cancer.
Our deepest sympathy to Katherine Kowaloff whose mother, Mary Bibly died in Illinois on October 1st at the age of 95.
Our deepest sympathy to Katherine Kowaloff whose mother, Mary Bibly died in Illinois on October 1st at the age of 95.
Citizen Diplomacy in Your Own Home
Would you help us extend the hand of friendship and peace around the world? By hosting an international visitor in your home for a short time (1-3 weeks) you can be a Citizen Diplomat and demonstrate the genuine spirit of America. The International Center of Worcester (ICW) is asking for families to provide homestays for adult professionals and future leaders from overseas. If you have a spare bedroom, you can share American life and develop a lasting friendship with a visiting delegate. You and your family will be enriched by the experience while learning about another culture. For more information visit our website www.intcent.org or call us at 508-793-7626. Note: Kathy & Bob Rentsch, members of the congregation, have hosted several times and would be happy to share their experience. Feel free to call them at 508-853-6530.
Pictorial Directories at the Membership Table
The Pictorial Directories have been printed and are available at the Membership Table. Most members have picked up their copy, but we still have about 30 copies unclaimed. So, if you had a photo taken or you submitted a photo, and you haven't picked up your copy of the directory, please stop by the Membership Table after the service.
Autumn Happenings In Our Gardens
We are pleased to pass on a warm compliment paid to Rev. Merritt about our gardeners and our gardens. At a mid-September wedding of a member of the Unitarian clergy, they held their reception in the garden courtyard late one fine afternoon. Visiting ministers told Rev. Merritt that they had never seen a lovelier setting in all New England for such an event! That is welcome and well-deserved reward to all of us volunteers who contributed gardening time during the summer months. On Saturday morning October 17, at 9:30 a.m., we plan to tuck in the garden for the winter. The Garden Committee asks members and other friends to come work together one more morning this season. Bring a clipper, and a digger and a plastic bag; we'll bring the coffee and donuts!
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Church Yard Sale This Saturday, October 3rd
Yard Sale – October 3
9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Saturday is our yard sale! We’re counting on a successful sale to help balance the Church’s 2009 budget. We need stuff to sell and volunteers to help!
Donations: Clean out your attic and garage! Make room in your closets and cupboards! If it’s useful, bring it in! We cannot accept items that would cost money for disposal (old TVs, computer monitors, mattresses, etc) but almost anything else can go into the sale. You can drop things off Sunday, September 27, or from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday October 1 and Friday Oct 2. ITEMS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED ON THE DAY OF THE YARD SALE, OCT 3rd.
9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Saturday is our yard sale! We’re counting on a successful sale to help balance the Church’s 2009 budget. We need stuff to sell and volunteers to help!
Donations: Clean out your attic and garage! Make room in your closets and cupboards! If it’s useful, bring it in! We cannot accept items that would cost money for disposal (old TVs, computer monitors, mattresses, etc) but almost anything else can go into the sale. You can drop things off Sunday, September 27, or from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday October 1 and Friday Oct 2. ITEMS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED ON THE DAY OF THE YARD SALE, OCT 3rd.
Clothing Tools
Dishes and glasses Kitchen utensils
Lamps Sports equipment
DVDs and CDs Books
Smaller Furniture Vases
Picnic Tables Lawn furniture
Toys Bicycles
Radios CD players
Knicknacks Garden things
And anything else that could be useful!
Please make sure your item is clean, in working order, and please place a price tag on it with your suggested price. We’re going to sort and mark everything and welcome your suggestions!
Consignments: Do you have some things that are more valuable than the usual yard sale offerings, that you’d like to sell and make a little money for yourself as well as the Church? Bring them, marked with a price (and a reserve price in case we need to bargain). We’ll put on a special label, sell them for you, and return to you 80% of the proceeds. BUT we need you to plan to stop by after Church on October 4 and retrieve anything that did not sell.
Rent a Table: Do you want to sell your own stuff? Or sell crafts? For a $25 contribution to the Church, we’ll give you a table. You keep all your proceeds.
And Please Volunteer!
Set Up and Marking. This will be Thursday, October 1, and Friday, October 2, in Unity Hall, from 5:00 until 8:00 or so. We need to help unload cars, set up tables, sort and organize stuff, and price and mark it. Come an hour or the entire evening!
Selling. We need cashiers, runners, and helpers from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 3. Actually, we need the first shift to show up at 8:00 a.m. to open up and to deal with the inevitable early birds who come to yard sales. We’d like you to commit for 2-hour shifts – but you can stay longer if you want! We really want to have 3-4 people available at all times.
And then on Sunday, October 4, there will be a “make me an offer” opportunity to sell anything that’s left over. We need a couple of people before and after Church.
Advertising. We’re advertising the yard sale in the newspapers and on the Church website, and we’re coordinated with Wesley Methodist which is holding a yard sale on the same day. But there’s no such thing as “enough” advertising. Take a flyer, and post it on your bulletin board at work or in the grocery store. Send flyers to friends – through the postal service or by e-mail. Get the word out! The more people who come, the more successful the yard sale will be.
Please see Joonu Coste or John Mirick to sign up as a volunteer. We have some coverage for everything, but coverage is a little skimpy in a couple of times. With lots of volunteers this will be a fun project!
225th Anniversary News
225th Anniversary Happenings
First Unitarian Church will celebrate its 225th anniversary in 2010. Event planning to honor this milestone is underway. One way YOU can get involved is with 225 ACTS OF KINDNESS. If you did not get a little "acts of kindness" notebook at the Opportunity Fair, stop by the Welcome Table and pick one up. Here's how it works. Just mark down 225 individual acts of kindness in your little book during our celebration year. What you mark down can be just a number, date or the specific act of kindness. The act can be anything from picking up a piece of trash, letting a car in ahead of you, relieving your spouse of a chore, sending a check to charity, etc. The idea is to be aware, take note and mark your book. So, if 225 people complete 225 acts of kindness, that’s 50,625 good deeds, done as a gift for and in celebration of First Unitarian Church’s 225th Anniversary. It might be fun to share your entries with family members. Children can participate too!
225th Anniversary Theme Ideas
We are looking for a theme to capture the spirit of our church’s 225th Anniversary Year. What has sustained us so far, what will sustain us for another 225 years? We are asking you to help us by posting your brief theme idea on a 3"x5" card to be found on the Welcome Table in the Bancroft Room. Or you can email them to office@firstunitarian.com
First Unitarian Church will celebrate its 225th anniversary in 2010. Event planning to honor this milestone is underway. One way YOU can get involved is with 225 ACTS OF KINDNESS. If you did not get a little "acts of kindness" notebook at the Opportunity Fair, stop by the Welcome Table and pick one up. Here's how it works. Just mark down 225 individual acts of kindness in your little book during our celebration year. What you mark down can be just a number, date or the specific act of kindness. The act can be anything from picking up a piece of trash, letting a car in ahead of you, relieving your spouse of a chore, sending a check to charity, etc. The idea is to be aware, take note and mark your book. So, if 225 people complete 225 acts of kindness, that’s 50,625 good deeds, done as a gift for and in celebration of First Unitarian Church’s 225th Anniversary. It might be fun to share your entries with family members. Children can participate too!
225th Anniversary Theme Ideas
We are looking for a theme to capture the spirit of our church’s 225th Anniversary Year. What has sustained us so far, what will sustain us for another 225 years? We are asking you to help us by posting your brief theme idea on a 3"x5" card to be found on the Welcome Table in the Bancroft Room. Or you can email them to office@firstunitarian.com
Monday Night At the Church October 5, 2009
Come join us on Monday night, October 5th, at 7:30 p.m. in the Bancroft Room for the first session of a new monthly program series with poets associated with the Worcester County Poetry Association. Readers will be Carle Johnson, who taught for many years at Worcester's Vocational High School, and Laura Menides, Emeritus Professor of English at WPI. They will be reading their own work and discussing how Worcester poets Elizabeth Bishop and Stanley Kunitz influenced their work.
For a sample of the poets work go to http://www.firstunitarian.com/PDF4Display/WCPA_OCTOBER_5_BROADSIDE.pdf
Monday Night at the Church begins at 5:30 p.m. with an hour of Zen (meditation) practice in the Chapel. Come BE with us in the intimate silence - no experience necessary! The centerpiece of MNATC is of course Ken Waugh and friends’ fellowship dinner. Come join us for a home cooked meal among good company. Childcare is available every Monday night. All are welcome.
For a sample of the poets work go to http://www.firstunitarian.com/PDF4Display/WCPA_OCTOBER_5_BROADSIDE.pdf
Monday Night at the Church begins at 5:30 p.m. with an hour of Zen (meditation) practice in the Chapel. Come BE with us in the intimate silence - no experience necessary! The centerpiece of MNATC is of course Ken Waugh and friends’ fellowship dinner. Come join us for a home cooked meal among good company. Childcare is available every Monday night. All are welcome.
Wheel of Life October 3, 2009
A memorial Service for Susan Elizabeth Langley, age 54, was held in our sanctuary on Saturday, September 26th. The Rev. Barbara Merritt conducted the service.
FPN is Back!
The For "People" That Need It group is back. Their first meeting is scheduled for Sunday, October 4th at 12:30 p.m. in the Chapel. This will be a planning session to determine which cause(s) they will focus on this year.
FPN welcomes all children and adults who care about people in need, including homeless "people" of all species, endangered species, and those adversely affected by damage to the environment.
FPN welcomes all children and adults who care about people in need, including homeless "people" of all species, endangered species, and those adversely affected by damage to the environment.
Sacred Writings Oct. 4, 2009
This opportunity for spiritual reflection is held on Sunday mornings from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. Each week we discuss and reflect upon a selection chosen by a member of our church community. Is there a piece of writing that inspires or encourages you, a piece that touches you in a way that is sacred to you? Please let us know and share it with us in an hour of spiritual reflection and exploration. Everyone is welcome to join us when the spirit, or the writing moves you to be with us. You will find the whole selection on our new blog: http://90mainstreet.com/sacred/ Rev. Merritt leads the group. Childcare is provided.
Bible As Literature
Sundays at noon, after the coffee hour, in the Mirick Room, a few of us meet to read the Bible. The Bible was once the foundation of Western civilization and is still a revealing book for searchers. We are currently reading Proverbs, which, after chapter 9, hardly mentions God. Some proverbs ended up as Jesus' parables. We occasionally consult works of Biblical criticism, but basically we just open the Bible and read. Then we reflect on what the words mean to us. Result is quite a nice reflection on liberal religion. We are looking for another five people.
-Joseph
-Joseph
Circle Suppers
Parishioners are invited to sign up for monthly circle suppers (except December). We have 13 people so far but could use 30. Sign up in the Dining Room. The suppers are occasions for small groups (of 8) to meet. One will host and the others contribute potluck. We share our homes and favorite foods. I am collecting recipes for a recipe book! Conversation around the table usually turns to religion and to Unitarianism; thus we build the community. Everybody does not have to host. Singles welcome. -Joseph
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Meet the Minister
Rev. Schade will be hosting a "Meet the Minister" session in the Court Street side of the Dining Room. All questions about the First Unitarian Church, Unitarian Universalism and the meaning of life will be welcomed. Some will be answered. 9:00 AM on Sunday, September 27th. Childcare is available at this time.
10th Anniversary Celebration of Tom Schade's Ministry at First U
Celebration Luncheon - After the Worship Service
Please come and celebrate with us the Rev. Tom Schade’s tenth year of ministry at First Unitarian. There will be great food and a bit of a “roast.” We hope to see you.
Please come and celebrate with us the Rev. Tom Schade’s tenth year of ministry at First Unitarian. There will be great food and a bit of a “roast.” We hope to see you.
Multi-generational Peace Vigil
October 3, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
In honor of the annual UN International Day of Peace, we invite you to participate in a Peace Vigil at the Holden Street UU Church. This event features music by the Unitonians and the joint teen choir, singing for all ages, a story, quiet meditation, and lotus blossoms with promises of peace floated in pools on the front lawn. The evening will conclude with candles held high around the Peace Pole. Don’t miss a most extraordinary opportunity to participate in this circle of peace. We welcome families and children as well as friends and neighbors of all ages from the Worcester community.
-from the First Unitarian Peace Group
In honor of the annual UN International Day of Peace, we invite you to participate in a Peace Vigil at the Holden Street UU Church. This event features music by the Unitonians and the joint teen choir, singing for all ages, a story, quiet meditation, and lotus blossoms with promises of peace floated in pools on the front lawn. The evening will conclude with candles held high around the Peace Pole. Don’t miss a most extraordinary opportunity to participate in this circle of peace. We welcome families and children as well as friends and neighbors of all ages from the Worcester community.
-from the First Unitarian Peace Group
225th Anniversary Happenings
First Unitarian Church will celebrate its 225th anniversary in 2010. Event planning to honor this milestone is underway. One way YOU can get involved is with 225 ACTS OF KINDNESS. If you did not get a little "acts of kindness" notebook at the Opportunity Fair, stop by the Welcome Table and pick one up. Here's how it works. Just mark down 225 individual acts of kindness in your little book during our celebration year. What you mark down can be just a number, date or the specific act of kindness. The act can be anything from picking up a piece of trash, letting a car in ahead of you, relieving your spouse of a chore, sending a check to charity, etc. The idea is to be aware, take note and mark your book. So, if 225 people complete 225 acts of kindness, that’s 50,625 good deeds, done as a gift for and in celebration of First Unitarian Church’s 225th Anniversary. It might be fun to share your entries with family members. Children can participate too!
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Among Ourselves
Congratulations to Rev. Laurel Hallman and Mr. Larry Ladd who were married at First Unitarian on September 19th. Rev. Barbara Merritt officiated.
Abbie Bennett, granddaughter of Roz Bennett, married Richard Raeke in a ceremony on Chebeague Island in Maine on Saturday, September 19th. Rev. Schade presided.
Abbie Bennett, granddaughter of Roz Bennett, married Richard Raeke in a ceremony on Chebeague Island in Maine on Saturday, September 19th. Rev. Schade presided.
Jericho Road Worcester Seeks Skilled Volunteers
Jericho Road Worcester (JRW) is a new nonprofit founded by leaders from First Unitarian and First Baptist churches. We provide a range of skill-based volunteer services to local nonprofits. For example:
· A health and social services agency for poor families needs to standardize some of their operating procedures. This nonprofit could benefit from a volunteer who can research and write documentation in a timely manner.
· A conservation organization needs someone with marketing/fundraising expertise to help them re-assess and expand their outreach to the Worcester community. The organization has a great “brand” and a dynamic leader ready to get to work on what promises to be a creative project.
· A database expert can make a huge impact in a short time, helping an affordable housing nonprofit improve their fundraising database; coaching them on how run queries and reports.
· Nonprofit leaders work grueling hours to keep their organizations solvent and accountable to their missions. Many would appreciate occasional coaching from professionals who can help them sort out a thousand ideas, concerns, and initiatives; helping them to stay strategic in their planning and encouraging them to take care of themselves.
If you would like to add your professional skills to the JRW roster, or if you know of a local nonprofit that can benefit from JRW, please contact Deborah Wild, Program Director at dwild@jerichoroadproject.org, 617-633-9939. (Note: check out the JRW website at www.jerichoroadproject.org and watch a YouTube™ video of interviews with Jericho Road volunteers who rave about their experiences.)
· A health and social services agency for poor families needs to standardize some of their operating procedures. This nonprofit could benefit from a volunteer who can research and write documentation in a timely manner.
· A conservation organization needs someone with marketing/fundraising expertise to help them re-assess and expand their outreach to the Worcester community. The organization has a great “brand” and a dynamic leader ready to get to work on what promises to be a creative project.
· A database expert can make a huge impact in a short time, helping an affordable housing nonprofit improve their fundraising database; coaching them on how run queries and reports.
· Nonprofit leaders work grueling hours to keep their organizations solvent and accountable to their missions. Many would appreciate occasional coaching from professionals who can help them sort out a thousand ideas, concerns, and initiatives; helping them to stay strategic in their planning and encouraging them to take care of themselves.
If you would like to add your professional skills to the JRW roster, or if you know of a local nonprofit that can benefit from JRW, please contact Deborah Wild, Program Director at dwild@jerichoroadproject.org, 617-633-9939. (Note: check out the JRW website at www.jerichoroadproject.org and watch a YouTube™ video of interviews with Jericho Road volunteers who rave about their experiences.)
Monday Night At the Church
Please join us on Monday, September 28th, at 7:30 in the Bancroft Room for a planning discussion for this year's monthly Monday bookclub. This year's theme is First U's 225th anniversary. Selections being considered are from past ministers ranging from Walter Kring to Aaron Bancroft.
Monday Night at the Church begins at 5:30 p.m. with an hour of Zen (meditation) practice in the Chapel. Come BE with us in the intimate silence - no experience necessary! Come join us for a home cooked meal among good company. Childcare is available every Monday night. All are welcome.
Monday Night at the Church begins at 5:30 p.m. with an hour of Zen (meditation) practice in the Chapel. Come BE with us in the intimate silence - no experience necessary! Come join us for a home cooked meal among good company. Childcare is available every Monday night. All are welcome.
Worcester Interfaith Beggar's Bowl
4th Annual Beggar’s Bowl
The Beggar’s Bowl, a fund-raiser sponsored by Worcester Interfaith, will be held on Tuesday, October 20, 2009 at First Baptist Church, 111 Park Ave., Worcester, MA from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. All are invited to come and enjoy a hearty, homemade soup served in a hand-thrown stoneware bowl that is yours to keep at the end of the evening. Donation: $50, fully tax deductible. For tickets or more information, call Frank Kartheiser at (508) 754-5001.
The Beggar’s Bowl, a fund-raiser sponsored by Worcester Interfaith, will be held on Tuesday, October 20, 2009 at First Baptist Church, 111 Park Ave., Worcester, MA from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. All are invited to come and enjoy a hearty, homemade soup served in a hand-thrown stoneware bowl that is yours to keep at the end of the evening. Donation: $50, fully tax deductible. For tickets or more information, call Frank Kartheiser at (508) 754-5001.
Winning Poets
The winners of the 2009 Worcester Poetry Association’s writing contest will read their works on Sunday, September 27th in the Sanctuary at 2:00 p.m. All welcome. No charge.
Sacred Writings
This opportunity for spiritual reflection is held on Sunday mornings from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. Members of the group submit for discussion a piece of writing that inspires or encourages. Each week you will find a few lines of the upcoming subject in the newsletter. Come when the spirit, or the writing moves you to be with us. Childcare is provided. The September 27th selection is from “A Time to Keep Silence” by Patrick Leigh Fermor. “With curiosity and misgiving I walked up the hill from the Rouen-Yvetot road towards the Abbey of St Wandruille. I had spent an abominable night in Rouen in a small hotel near the station where a procession of nightmares turned my night into a period of acute and apparently interminable agony. I was arriving unknown and unannounced; I was in search of somewhere quiet and cheap to stay while I continued to work on a book I was writing…”
Bus Trip to New York City
The next NYC bus trip will be on Saturday, November 14th. The bus will leave the church at 7:30 a.m. and return at 10:30 p.m. There will be 7 hours in New York, with drop-offs at the Metropolitan Museum and Greenwich Village. This is always a fun day — invite your friends! Cost is $60, with children 12 and under free. Contact Jay Lavelle for more info: jay_lavelle@earthlink.net.
See the NYC trip facebook page.
See the NYC trip facebook page.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Opportunity Fair for Youth and Adults
Sunday, September 20, 2009
The Lay Leadership Council is hosting the Annual Opportunity Fair on September 20th during fellowship hour featuring all the groups and committees in the church.
Come! Don’t miss this chance to discover all the ways to be known and to know others in our church. There will be a light lunch of sandwiches provided.
Learn! Browse the “menu” of over twenty opportunities to get involved in our church community and in the broader community as well.
Sign-up! Select the group for you and sign-up. And if you don’t see a group that interests you – share your idea at the “Post-your-Interests” area where all ideas are welcome!
If you have a group and would like to host a table at the fair please contact Mary McAllister through the church office.
The Lay Leadership Council is hosting the Annual Opportunity Fair on September 20th during fellowship hour featuring all the groups and committees in the church.
Come! Don’t miss this chance to discover all the ways to be known and to know others in our church. There will be a light lunch of sandwiches provided.
Learn! Browse the “menu” of over twenty opportunities to get involved in our church community and in the broader community as well.
Sign-up! Select the group for you and sign-up. And if you don’t see a group that interests you – share your idea at the “Post-your-Interests” area where all ideas are welcome!
If you have a group and would like to host a table at the fair please contact Mary McAllister through the church office.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Church Yard Sale October 3
Reminder - October 3rd - Yard Sale and Kids Safety Fair!
Craft and Consignment Sale!
Yes it is a bit ambitious - but the payoff will be a great family-oriented event to raise needed funds for First Unitarian! We will run our sale in coordination with Wesley Methodist. John Mirick and Joonu Coste are co-coordinating this event. Please connect with either of us with your ideas and to volunteer!
First - We need volunteers for this undertaking.
Please let us know if you can help out. My promise to you - this will be fun and highly rewarding!
Yes it is a bit ambitious - but the payoff will be a great family-oriented event to raise needed funds for First Unitarian! We will run our sale in coordination with Wesley Methodist. John Mirick and Joonu Coste are co-coordinating this event. Please connect with either of us with your ideas and to volunteer!
First - We need volunteers for this undertaking.
Please let us know if you can help out. My promise to you - this will be fun and highly rewarding!
ITEM PRICING - (2 people) help with items that are donated to assess pricing - experienced "antiquers" and yard sale aficionados wanted. Est. 5 hours of work over September.
MARKETING/ADVERTISING - (2 people) help with ID of opportunities to get the word out about the yard sale and create ad-copy. Est. 5 hours over September.
ITEM ORGANIZATION - (Sept. 30th and Oct. 1st) - (8 people) help organize items and set up for yard sale - camaraderie, music, and yummy food!! - Est 3 hours per shift / 2 shifts)
CASHIERS/RUNNERS - (10 people) day of yard sale - will receive training for cashier position - 2-hour shifts on day of yard sale. No lifting.
Second - We need stuff to sell!
Here are the ways you can participate and help make this a successful fundraiser.
DONATIONS - Clearing the clutter from your home? Moving? Downsizing? Save your items and bring them to church with you in September for donation to the church yard sale. There will be drop-off points in the church for collection starting September 13th. We request that item donations are clean, in working order, and that you tag and price each item. We will not be accepting items that cost money for disposal (i.e. computer monitors, mattresses, etc...). Additionally, we will not be able to accept items that require two people to move them.
CONSIGNMENT - We will also sell items at the yard sale on consignment. These are items that will sell for $20 or more. Please contact the church office at office@firstunitarian.com for more information.
CRAFTERS/VENDORS - Would you like to rent space at the yard sale for your business to set up a table to sell items? We offer this opportunity to First U members first. Please contact the church office at office@firstunitarian.com for more details.
KID'S SAFETY FAIR - Working in coordination with the RE Committee and Lay Leadership, we will offer Kid's ID kits with fingerprinting by the Worcester police and photos - by donation - as well as some fun games and activities for kids. We are looking for volunteers to help out that day with this. Interested? Please connect with Sierra-Marie, our RE Director or Joonu Coste.
Thanks to the Court Hill Singers
Congratulations and many thanks to the the dedicated folks that sang with the Court Hill Singers for the Summer Services. Cindy Bizzaro, Dave Blodgett, Cassie Datena, Kris Johnson, Marcia Leonard, Cathy Levine, Kim McCoy, Rosel Patton, Susan Peckett, Marge Ropp, Paul Ropp, Vivian Shortreed, Nancy Smith, Ellen ONeal Waite, and Linda Wyatt all gave of their time and talents to make a joyful noise, to rejoice, and to sing praise.
With great appreciation for your participation, Jerry Bellows.
With great appreciation for your participation, Jerry Bellows.
Kundalini Yoga in the Chapel
This fall, try a new way to clean your inner landscape: Kundalini Yoga as taught by Yogi Bhajan, continues in the Chapel from 7:30-9:00 p.m. on Tuesday nights. No prior yoga experience is needed. You may attend each week, or drop in when you can. This fall we will explore the tattvas and chakras, working our way up from earth to the ethers! For more information visit the website http://www.kundaliniyogaforall.com/ which also Googles asAnahata Yoga. Sat nam!
225th Anniversary Theme Ideas
We are looking for a theme to capture the spirit of our church’s 225th Anniversary Year. What has sustained us so far, what will sustain us for another 225 years? We are asking you to help us by posting your brief theme idea on a 3"x5" card to be found on the Welcome Table in the Bancroft Room. Or you can email them to office@firstunitarian.com
Church Spruce Up
Please join Rev. Merritt and Barbara Foley at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 10th for a quick polish and paint touch-up, in preparation for two weddings, and opening Sunday. Coffee will be provided!
Wheel of Life
Our deepest sympathy is extended to Blaine Bershad whose mother Bernice, 87, died in July, in Chicago.
Sunday Morning Experience
There is possibly nothing better to do on a Sunday morning than to attend our church service. Between our ministers and our choir (and our overall church community), our Sunday service can be moving, inspiring, humorous, and educational, among other adjectives. While it may not be apparent to those attending, our service runs beautifully not only because of the ministers and choir, but also because of the many volunteers needed each Sunday. During the upcoming year, please consider volunteering for one (or more) of the opportunities to help our service run: donate flowers, be a greeter and/or usher, record the service, duplicate the CDs, or provide food.
I am also seeking individuals who would be willing to be called on when there is a need for hospitality on a given Sunday morning (e.g., no sign up, special celebration). My goal is to limit the number of times one would be called upon, but it would be nice (and easy) for me to work from a list of interested folks.
If any of this speaks to you, please email the church (office@firstunitarian) or stop by the Hospitality Table during the Opportunity Fair on Sunday, Sept. 20th. You can also catch me (if you can) at church, and there are signup sheets posted in the Dining Room.
Thank you!
Susan M Anderson
Chair, Hospitality
I am also seeking individuals who would be willing to be called on when there is a need for hospitality on a given Sunday morning (e.g., no sign up, special celebration). My goal is to limit the number of times one would be called upon, but it would be nice (and easy) for me to work from a list of interested folks.
If any of this speaks to you, please email the church (office@firstunitarian) or stop by the Hospitality Table during the Opportunity Fair on Sunday, Sept. 20th. You can also catch me (if you can) at church, and there are signup sheets posted in the Dining Room.
Thank you!
Susan M Anderson
Chair, Hospitality
UU Sisterhood Fall Schedule
Open to all women. Potlucks begin at 6pm. Activities start at 7:15pm. Please join us.
Friday, September 25 – Potluck, Ice Breakers, Group Game
with sisters from the Holden St. Church.
Friday, October 16 – Potluck, Show and Tell
Friday, November 20 – Potluck, Quick and Easy Craft, Thankful theme
Friday, December 18 – Potluck, Cookie Swap, Yankee Swap
Friday, September 25 – Potluck, Ice Breakers, Group Game
with sisters from the Holden St. Church.
Friday, October 16 – Potluck, Show and Tell
Friday, November 20 – Potluck, Quick and Easy Craft, Thankful theme
Friday, December 18 – Potluck, Cookie Swap, Yankee Swap
Circle Suppers
Members meet in small groups of eight for dinner and conversation in each others' homes monthly. Last year, 11 couples and 10 singles participated. Everyone does not have to host once. Our purpose is to know others and to become known. Organized by Joseph Baratta. Watch for sign-up sheet on bulletin board.
Bible Study
We read the Bible, not according to a lectionary for doctrinal belief, but as literature, book by book, as it was written in order to persuade people about the truths of religion. Discussions are open and wide-ranging. Led by Joseph Baratta. All are invited. Meetings on Sunday, after coffee hour, at 12 noon in the Mirick Room.
Green From the Garden Committee Green Exchange
Thanks to all who made this spring's flower and plant sale a big success. As a result of all efforts, the Garden Club has donated $826.00 to the Church and has made additional plantings around the Church grounds. It was a very tough summer to keep up with grounds maintenance but New England plants are a hardy stock and made it through the wet and dry spells just fine. Our next goal is a "1st Annual" fall bulb sale so keep that in mind as you tidy up before the frost sets in. Look for more information in the next newsletter!
Music Program Wish List
Volunteers & Donations
Music Program Wishlist
With tightened budgets and increased requests of the staff, we are seeking your help to support the quality of our program throughout the church year. Please take a moment to look at our “shopping list” – these are volunteer tasks and donations that you may be interested in contributing for.
www.FirstUMusic.com/wishlist
Music Program Wishlist
With tightened budgets and increased requests of the staff, we are seeking your help to support the quality of our program throughout the church year. Please take a moment to look at our “shopping list” – these are volunteer tasks and donations that you may be interested in contributing for.
www.FirstUMusic.com/wishlist
Open Choir Loft Sunday - Singers Wanted
It’s an electrifying experience!
Plug in Your Vocal Cords!
Wanted: singers for Open Loft Sunday(Sep 20) and
Gospel Mass (All Souls Sunday, Nov 1).
Experience the ecstasy of music-making!
No auditions needed.
Rehearsals: Thursdays 7-9pm, Bancroft Room.
www.FirstUMusic.com
Plug in Your Vocal Cords!
Wanted: singers for Open Loft Sunday(Sep 20) and
Gospel Mass (All Souls Sunday, Nov 1).
Experience the ecstasy of music-making!
No auditions needed.
Rehearsals: Thursdays 7-9pm, Bancroft Room.
www.FirstUMusic.com
Pictorial Directories
Our new Pictorial Directories will be distributed on Sunday, September 13. The Directory has over 130 family photos, church staff photos, several special pages of church activities - including full-page spreads for RE and the Choir, and a complete church roster. If you had your photo taken, or you submitted a photo for the directory, you can pick up your copy of the directory from a member of the Membership Committee at our table. Each copy will have a name and address label on the back cover to ensure that everyone who has a photo in the directory gets a copy. Thank you to all who participated in this project. We know that the Directory will become an important aid in helping us to better connect with each other.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
225th Anniversary Theme Ideas
We are looking for a theme to capture the spirit of our church’s 225th Anniversary Year. What has sustained us so far, what will sustain us for another 225 years? We are asking you to help us by posting your brief (no more than seven words or so) theme idea on a 3"x5" card to be found on the Welcome Table in the Bancroft Room. We will be collecting ideas over the summer during lay services. Or you can email them to the church office. If you like, add your name so we can acknowledge your contribution. The 225th Anniversary Committee will choose among the submissions.
Kundalini Yoga
Kundalini Yoga as taught by Yogi Bhajan continues over the summer as listed in the summer events calendar. Now is the time to be kind to yourself! Please drop in anytime, or come to all. Each class is its own entity of breathwork, a yoga set, a deep relaxation and a meditation. Yoga quiets the mind so that meditation and merger can occur. No yoga experience or flexibility is required. Questions-please contact Diane Pingeton at dmpinge@townisp.com or 508-753-1797 or refer to the website kundaliniyogaforall.com also googles as Anahata yoga. Classes are from 7:30-9:00 p.m. in the Chapel. We are transitioning to Tuesday nights this summer as listed in the calendar. Sat Nam!
Monday Night at the Church
MNATC: Summer Schedule
Monday Night at the Church is on its Summer Schedule. The centerpiece of MNATC, Ken Waugh and friends’ fellowship dinner, will continue at least through July. Please note, several of our kitchen regulars will not be available this summer, if you can help in the kitchen or bring food, it will be helpful. It has not yet been determined whether a prepared dinner will be served in August. However, at the very least, people will be welcome to bring their own, do potluck, or order out.
Please keep Ken Waugh in your thoughts and prayers as he faces his journey and struggle with cancer. We love you Ken.
The Worcester Zen Community continues to meet throughout the summer, (Zen never ends!), at 5:30 p.m. with an hour of Zen (meditation) practice in the Chapel. No experience is necessary. If you can breathe and sit still at the same time, you can practice Zen!
We will continue to have occasional programs on Monday evenings including music and movie nights.
Please note that childcare is not available during the summer. Please feel free bring your children, but you will need to arrange your own supervision.
Volunteer Wednesdays
Volunteer Wednesdays are held once a month on the second Wednesday of the month at 9:00 a.m. There are now “Facility Request” forms available at the church office and on the kiosk in the Dining Room. These multiuse forms can be used to report building and grounds problems around the church that we can use to create volunteer projects. An Email Volunteer List is being started to notify volunteers to the upcoming projects on Volunteer Wednesday. If you would like to be added to the list email me at GeeBeeY@aol.com.
Bob Shaw – Chair, Building and Grounds
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