Unitarian Universalist Humour: "HOW MANY (xxxxxx) DOES IT TAKE TO CHANGE A LIGHT BULB?"
Thursday, November 08, 2007
Unitarian Universalist Humour
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Randy Bellamy, Facilitator, Current Events Discussion Group writes:
Well, we'll be sandwiched in between the two services once again, which is our usual scheduled meeting time following Labor Day and prior to Memorial Day. We'll meet twice monthly and USUALLY we'll meet in room #25. And so, life begins again with our having a chance to review, thrash out, rant and thoughtfully compare and contrast our concerns and views within a friendly framework which you'll find both challenging and congenial.
These times are complex and challenging, and demand our becoming more clearly focused and better informed. Please join us as we attempt to reach informed conclusions of what we will and will not tolerate, of what matters and what we will or may dismiss. During each of our biweekly considerations of events, which are certainly among Pittsburgh's liveliest, we will attempt, through discussion and debate, to gather perspectives and resolve needed to face the demands made upon each of us. I hope you'll come and make your own contribution to the continuing discussion.
These times are complex and challenging, and demand our becoming more clearly focused and better informed. Please join us as we attempt to reach informed conclusions of what we will and will not tolerate, of what matters and what we will or may dismiss. During each of our biweekly considerations of events, which are certainly among Pittsburgh's liveliest, we will attempt, through discussion and debate, to gather perspectives and resolve needed to face the demands made upon each of us. I hope you'll come and make your own contribution to the continuing discussion.
Monday, September 03, 2007
Open Letter to Unitarian Universalists
There is no "if" about the President's abuse of the First Amendment. As a 14 year Marine veteran I've seen the results when one religion is favored over another.
Take a look at reaction and information about recent actions by the Supreme Court.
http://www.lawmemo.com/sct/06/Freedom/
http://www.religionandsocialpolicy.org/homepage/article.cfm?id=6106
http://www.ca7.uscourts.gov/fdocs/docs.fwx?caseno=05-1130&submit=showdkt
http://ffrf.org/legal/legal2.php
http://www.law.cornell.edu/supct/html/06-157.ZS.html
My letter is meant to be a wake up call.
To date Unitarian Universalists and the UUA have not joined in any coordinated action against the ecclesiastical administration of the United States on Faith Based initiatives.
The UUA came out opposing the nomination of Samuel Alito to the supreme court in December of 2005 and we went as far as a letter of opposition.
http://www.uua.org/pressroom/pressreleases/14622.shtml
What can we do now besides say, "We told you so."
So far I've not been able to find any Church groups or bodies that are joining this fight.
http://www.secular.org/
The closest on their web site is the society for Humanistic Judaism
http://www.shj.org/.
We Unitarian Universalists have democracy at the very core of our belief system. We respect the inherent worth and dignity of every individual in their search for spiritual fulfillment. If we stand on the sidelines we are not only accepting whatever theocracy the current or future administration has or have but are allowing an alliance of two branches of the government to over rule the third.
What do you all think of the actions of the President and the Supreme Court?
If we can't beat them should we Joining them to get our "fair share"? (Yes that is meant as Sarcasm.)
Or do we band together to return the separation of church and state to the first secular government in the world?
If we chose the latter as the high ground how do fund the fight?
I know our church could not afford a battle independently. But is this something that we pay UUA dues for?
Bob Lee
UUCSH (AKA Sunnyhill)
Pittsburgh, PA
Take a look at reaction and information about recent actions by the Supreme Court.
http://www.lawmemo.com/sct/06/Freedom/
http://www.religionandsocialpolicy.org/homepage/article.cfm?id=6106
http://www.ca7.uscourts.gov/fdocs/docs.fwx?caseno=05-1130&submit=showdkt
http://ffrf.org/legal/legal2.php
http://www.law.cornell.edu/supct/html/06-157.ZS.html
My letter is meant to be a wake up call.
To date Unitarian Universalists and the UUA have not joined in any coordinated action against the ecclesiastical administration of the United States on Faith Based initiatives.
The UUA came out opposing the nomination of Samuel Alito to the supreme court in December of 2005 and we went as far as a letter of opposition.
http://www.uua.org/pressroom/pressreleases/14622.shtml
What can we do now besides say, "We told you so."
So far I've not been able to find any Church groups or bodies that are joining this fight.
http://www.secular.org/
The closest on their web site is the society for Humanistic Judaism
http://www.shj.org/.
We Unitarian Universalists have democracy at the very core of our belief system. We respect the inherent worth and dignity of every individual in their search for spiritual fulfillment. If we stand on the sidelines we are not only accepting whatever theocracy the current or future administration has or have but are allowing an alliance of two branches of the government to over rule the third.
What do you all think of the actions of the President and the Supreme Court?
If we can't beat them should we Joining them to get our "fair share"? (Yes that is meant as Sarcasm.)
Or do we band together to return the separation of church and state to the first secular government in the world?
If we chose the latter as the high ground how do fund the fight?
I know our church could not afford a battle independently. But is this something that we pay UUA dues for?
Bob Lee
UUCSH (AKA Sunnyhill)
Pittsburgh, PA
Sunday, August 26, 2007
First Friday meeting covers the movie, Sicko
First Friday will meet at 7:30 pm on September 7, 2007 at Sunnyhill.
The topic will be Sicko, the new film by Michael Moore. Some have hailed it as his best and most professional film, others have labeled it as only a showpiece for his biased views.
Previous to the film's showing 33% of Lion's Gate (the distributor) stock was sold to a doctor. The number of theaters showing the film was cut from 1600 to 400 one week
before the release. Could this have been a coincidence? We will discuss the related
health care issues. Whether or not you have seen the film, come and give us your opinion. The meeting will start at 7:30 pm with recommendations regarding movies, plays, concerts, books, restaurants, etc. that you believe the group would enjoy. As usual, bring a snack and beverage to share.
The topic will be Sicko, the new film by Michael Moore. Some have hailed it as his best and most professional film, others have labeled it as only a showpiece for his biased views.
Previous to the film's showing 33% of Lion's Gate (the distributor) stock was sold to a doctor. The number of theaters showing the film was cut from 1600 to 400 one week
before the release. Could this have been a coincidence? We will discuss the related
health care issues. Whether or not you have seen the film, come and give us your opinion. The meeting will start at 7:30 pm with recommendations regarding movies, plays, concerts, books, restaurants, etc. that you believe the group would enjoy. As usual, bring a snack and beverage to share.
Sunday, July 15, 2007
UU Church sign draws attention
Kerry may have to ketchup - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
SIGNAGE. Members of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Ligonier Valley didn't realize they'd gain nationwide notoriety when they put up a banner on their church, nestled along Route 30 in Ligonier Township, to attract new members.
The sign has drawn the curious attention from one of television evangelist Pat Robertson's disciples, Lee Webb, an anchor at Robertson's Christian Broadcasting Network.
In an opinion column posted last week on the channel's Web site, Webb posted a photograph of the banner.
"My family and I passed a Unitarian Universalist Church while we were vacationing in Western Pennsylvania last week. Displayed on the front of the building was a banner that read, "A Beacon of Liberal Religion," Webb wrote.
"I've driven by a lot of churches over the years, but never one so proud of its liberalism," Webb added.
Webb reports he was so "intrigued" by the banner's declaration, he visited the church's Web site and was surprised that its pride "in its unorthodoxy runs deep."
"Sad, isn't it? Is it any wonder, then, that liberal Protestant denominations are losing members in droves?" Webb asks.
The church pastor, the Rev. Dr. Renee Waun, said last week that Webb's lumping the local congregation into a liberal Protestant denomination "is like comparing apples and oranges."
"Basically, we're a new church -- only 3 years old -- and the sign is to show people what we are offering. The comments are almost absurd. ... We have a lot of members in our congregation who remain strong to the Christian faith," she said.
SIGNAGE. Members of the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Ligonier Valley didn't realize they'd gain nationwide notoriety when they put up a banner on their church, nestled along Route 30 in Ligonier Township, to attract new members.
The sign has drawn the curious attention from one of television evangelist Pat Robertson's disciples, Lee Webb, an anchor at Robertson's Christian Broadcasting Network.
In an opinion column posted last week on the channel's Web site, Webb posted a photograph of the banner.
"My family and I passed a Unitarian Universalist Church while we were vacationing in Western Pennsylvania last week. Displayed on the front of the building was a banner that read, "A Beacon of Liberal Religion," Webb wrote.
"I've driven by a lot of churches over the years, but never one so proud of its liberalism," Webb added.
Webb reports he was so "intrigued" by the banner's declaration, he visited the church's Web site and was surprised that its pride "in its unorthodoxy runs deep."
"Sad, isn't it? Is it any wonder, then, that liberal Protestant denominations are losing members in droves?" Webb asks.
The church pastor, the Rev. Dr. Renee Waun, said last week that Webb's lumping the local congregation into a liberal Protestant denomination "is like comparing apples and oranges."
"Basically, we're a new church -- only 3 years old -- and the sign is to show people what we are offering. The comments are almost absurd. ... We have a lot of members in our congregation who remain strong to the Christian faith," she said.
Thursday, June 14, 2007
Dean's Diner
Cheers is where everybody knows your name, but at Dean’s Diner, they know your name, your financial status, and they don’t care. Join us on June 22, 2007 at 8 pm, or June 23 at 2 pm and 8 pm, and you’ll see what we mean. Dean and Vicky will be there, along with the Senator, a musician who can’t sing, a pregnant woman who can, and other assorted strange people. There’ll be pie, too.
Of course, everything is bartered.
Admission is free, in exchange for a donation to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. The pie is free, in exchange for 5 dollars. Laughs are free, in exchange for telling us how good we are.
Of course, everything is bartered.
Admission is free, in exchange for a donation to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. The pie is free, in exchange for 5 dollars. Laughs are free, in exchange for telling us how good we are.
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
Sign-Up for Sunnyhill Conversations
Please take part in Sunnyhill Conversations that will be held at Sunnyhill May 13, 14, 15, & 16. There is a sign-up sheet posted in the dining room and all members and friends are invited to take part. If you can’t make it to Sunnyhill to sign-up, you may phone Elizabeth during her office hours at church 412-561-6277 to schedule a time. Please DO NOT leave her a voice mail. Feel free to speak to a Board member or COM member if you have any questions and don’t forget to attend the Congregational Meeting on Wed, May 16 at 8:00!
Sunday, April 01, 2007
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Docs for annual meeting and candidates for board
In preparation for our Annual Meeting on Sunday, April 15, I have prepared the Annual Report 2006-2007 for your review. Bio’s of the candidates running for the Board of Trustees is also available. Click the headline.
Hard copies, if needed, will be available in the dining room this Sunday.
If you are a member of UUCSH we hope to see you at our Annual Meeting where we will be voting for President, Treasurer, At-Large Board of Trustees members, and Nominating Committee members.
Hard copies, if needed, will be available in the dining room this Sunday.
If you are a member of UUCSH we hope to see you at our Annual Meeting where we will be voting for President, Treasurer, At-Large Board of Trustees members, and Nominating Committee members.
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Help Review our UU Principles and Purposes
Gather from 7-9:30 p.m. Wed. March 28th at Sunnyhill, room 25. Be part of the national review process of our current UU Principles and Purposes. What works? What’s missing? What could be changed to more accurately reflect Unitarian Universalism today? Your input will be forwarded to the UUA Commission on Appraisal. RSVP isn’t necessary, but would be helpful. Contact Lynn.
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
Cato Unbound: Splendid article
Cato Unbound - Blog Archive - Libertarianism: Past and ProspectsRecognize that the principles of free minds and free markets are most suited to making a rich and varied and lovable world, and thus are likely to triumph in the long term.Many of these concepts can be spun into being U.U. Do take the time to read the article or book mark it.
Monday, March 05, 2007
Legislating Violations of the Constitution - washingtonpost.com
Legislating Violations of the Constitution - washingtonpost.com conservatives in the House of Representatives have now passed an insidious bill to try and limit enforcement of the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment, by denying attorneys fees to lawyers who successfully challenge government actions as violating this key constitutional provision. For instance, a lawyer who successfully challenged unconstitutional prayers in schools or unconstitutional symbols on religious property or impermissible aid to religious groups would -- under the bill -- not be entitled to recover attorneys' fees.
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Social Justice Meeting
March 4, 10:15-11:15 Main Room
Please mark your calendars for the 1st full justice meeting. We will be putting 2007 projects together. These will include, a committee for the Designated Plate. A presentation on a potential Sunnyhill service weekend or greater in New Orleans to help the Katrina victims who are still just that. Contact people for Single payer Health issues and the Legislative advocacy network that Barry Tepperman discussed last month. A possible multi-church initiative in the South Hills and a partnering with AUUC for an urban outreach program. I would also encourage anyone who is in the Peak Oil group or any of the other green programs we have to join us. Oh yeah and we will get a name before the end of the meeting. WALK THE TALK.
Please mark your calendars for the 1st full justice meeting. We will be putting 2007 projects together. These will include, a committee for the Designated Plate. A presentation on a potential Sunnyhill service weekend or greater in New Orleans to help the Katrina victims who are still just that. Contact people for Single payer Health issues and the Legislative advocacy network that Barry Tepperman discussed last month. A possible multi-church initiative in the South Hills and a partnering with AUUC for an urban outreach program. I would also encourage anyone who is in the Peak Oil group or any of the other green programs we have to join us. Oh yeah and we will get a name before the end of the meeting. WALK THE TALK.
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Models of Thinking
Usually people focus on what is believed by themselves and others. Over the past
fifty years some researchers and psychologists have tracked the history of what is
more important – how we think and the models of thinking that have been devel-
oped and adopted by succeeding cultures.
From this has developed the concept of memes which we should understand and incorporate into our vocabulary as we each continue our journey into the future. The
Forum on March 25th will be an introduction to this subject and be followed by two
more sessions at times other than LifeCraft.
One source of the information is the book, Spiral Dynamics: Mastering Values, Lead-
ership and Change by Beck & Cowan.
Come and join in the discussion at 10:15 on March 25. Handouts will be available for
the session.
fifty years some researchers and psychologists have tracked the history of what is
more important – how we think and the models of thinking that have been devel-
oped and adopted by succeeding cultures.
From this has developed the concept of memes which we should understand and incorporate into our vocabulary as we each continue our journey into the future. The
Forum on March 25th will be an introduction to this subject and be followed by two
more sessions at times other than LifeCraft.
One source of the information is the book, Spiral Dynamics: Mastering Values, Lead-
ership and Change by Beck & Cowan.
Come and join in the discussion at 10:15 on March 25. Handouts will be available for
the session.
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Pop City - A Bow to Zen
Pop City - A Bow to Zen
Interesting article. Perhaps someone should contact the POP City editors or even Robert Isenberg and get an article about activities at Sunnyhill along the same lines. Furthermore, there might be some who go there who might be interested in knowing more about Sunnyhill.
Interesting article. Perhaps someone should contact the POP City editors or even Robert Isenberg and get an article about activities at Sunnyhill along the same lines. Furthermore, there might be some who go there who might be interested in knowing more about Sunnyhill.
Friday, February 16, 2007
SHIM (South Hills Interfaith Ministries) is more than a food pantry
SHIM offers after school homework clubs, early childhood programs, religious diversity education, clothing, and utility assistance. While regular assistance is based on income and number of members in the family, anyone asking for help will receive an emergency supply of food. They serve seniors on fixed incomes and many single mothers with children.
The have families they have helped for years and families that only need assistance for a few months. Sunnyhill has been a member of SHIM for many years.
This Sunday’s plate collection will go to SHIM (last week’s Tidbits mistakenly said Feb. 11). If you would like to write a check to go to SHIM, please write it out to UUCSH and write “plate collection/SHIM” in the memo. If you would like your check to go towards your pledge, please write “pledge” in the memo. And please feel free to contact Judy Kelly for additional information on SHIM.
The have families they have helped for years and families that only need assistance for a few months. Sunnyhill has been a member of SHIM for many years.
This Sunday’s plate collection will go to SHIM (last week’s Tidbits mistakenly said Feb. 11). If you would like to write a check to go to SHIM, please write it out to UUCSH and write “plate collection/SHIM” in the memo. If you would like your check to go towards your pledge, please write “pledge” in the memo. And please feel free to contact Judy Kelly for additional information on SHIM.
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Sunday, February 11, 2007
How Cuba Survived Peak Oil
Movie, 7 pm on Monday, Feb 19, 2007.
Until 1990, Cuba got much of its oil and food from the USSR, but that ended with the superpower's collapse. Cuba's GDP dropped by more than one-third. Transportation nearly stopped. Food bacame scares. But Cuba survived. Find out how by seeing this documentary.
Concerned about future energy scarcity. Watch these films.
Until 1990, Cuba got much of its oil and food from the USSR, but that ended with the superpower's collapse. Cuba's GDP dropped by more than one-third. Transportation nearly stopped. Food bacame scares. But Cuba survived. Find out how by seeing this documentary.
Concerned about future energy scarcity. Watch these films.
Saturday, February 03, 2007
A Spork in the Drawer: SuperBowl Party Snafu
A Spork in the Drawer Farmland Friends on Friday joined churches nationwide in abruptly canceling its Super Bowl party for fear of violating a federal copyright law that prohibits public venues from showing NFL games on big-screen TVs.Unreal.
Friday, February 02, 2007
Sunnyhill Boxes for Books
The Thursday Chalice Circle group will be collecting gently used books for boys ages 8 - 18 in Februrary. Pick up an empty box this Sunday or next, and return it on Sunday, Feb. 18 or 25. The books will be donated to the Ohiopyle Wilderness Program of Pressley Ridge, which houses challenged boys but has very few books for them to read. Especially welcome will be sports and adventure books, classics, biographies, educational books and current encyclopedias, which will be incorporated into the therapeutic program. Questions may be directed to Dorothy Burns.
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
Sunnyhill's Partner Church in Europe
Click on an image below and see it in a larger size.
Partner Church.
Partner Church.
Thursday, January 04, 2007
Special musical guest for Sunday, Jan 7 -- Joe Jencks
On Sunday morning, Joe Jencks is playing for our Chapel and for the opening music of the main service (led by Sue Richmond).
The Chapel is a once per month family-centered kids friendly gathering at both 9 am and again at 11:30. We've got two services. This week's theme is "Listening and Hearing. You Hear with the ears. You Listen with your brain." Plus, with Joe's music, it can even move your heart with strong feelings.
Hope to see you Sunday!
Joe Jencks, a friend from SUUSI, a singer and songwritter, is going to be in Pittsburgh to perform at a house concert at 4 pm on Sunday afternoon in Pittsburgh's Friendship neighborhood. The video above is from a house concert on the South Side in 2006.
The Chapel is a once per month family-centered kids friendly gathering at both 9 am and again at 11:30. We've got two services. This week's theme is "Listening and Hearing. You Hear with the ears. You Listen with your brain." Plus, with Joe's music, it can even move your heart with strong feelings.
Hope to see you Sunday!
Joe Jencks, a friend from SUUSI, a singer and songwritter, is going to be in Pittsburgh to perform at a house concert at 4 pm on Sunday afternoon in Pittsburgh's Friendship neighborhood. The video above is from a house concert on the South Side in 2006.
Sunday, December 24, 2006
Joy To The World, with 20 strings
Watch and hear Erik, Grant, Phillip, Tess and Marina (left to right) at Christmas Eve service, December 2006.
Monday, December 18, 2006
Saturday, December 09, 2006
Calendar
This can be posted to the Calendar page at Sunnyhill.org too. Let's test it for a bit here at the blog.
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
Hill clergy lead effort to rebuff slots casino in Hill
Hill clergy lead effort to rebuff slots casino in Hill 'This is our first action to ensure that the spiritual and economic well-being of this community is not compromised,' he said.Some ministers went out on a limb to speak out against gambling in Pittsburgh.
Sadly, their first action comes about a month before the decision is going to be announced as to where the casino is to be built.
Too many have been silent on this issue for a long time. Seemingly, this is another example of doing 'too little' and doing it 'too late' in the process.
Houses of worship face threat of crime - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
Houses of worship face threat of crime - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review Yet simply taking a few low-cost measures can dramatically increase safety and security, Spacek said. He referred to these as the 'five L's' of crime prevention: lock doors and windows, keep landscaping to a minimum around entries, have adequate lighting, start a church 'lookout' group similar to a neighborhood watch group, and establish a good relationship with law-enforcement agencies.
Monday, October 09, 2006
Current Events Schedule for LifeCraft
Current Events is scheduled for next week, in the Main room. Here is
the schedule for the rest of the year:
Oct. 15 - Main Room - current events
Oct. 29 - Room 25 - current events
Nov. 12 - Main Room - current events
Nov. 26 - Room 25 - current events
Dec. 10 - Room 24 - current events
Jan 14 - Main Room - current events
Jan. 28 - Room 24 - current events
Feb. 11 - Main Room - current events
Feb. 25 - Room 25 - current events
Mar. 11 - Main Room - current events
Mar. 25 - Room 24 - current events
Apr. 8 - Room 24 - current events (Easter)
Apr. 22 - Room 25 - current Events
May 6 - Main - current events
May 20 - Room 25 - current events
the schedule for the rest of the year:
Oct. 15 - Main Room - current events
Oct. 29 - Room 25 - current events
Nov. 12 - Main Room - current events
Nov. 26 - Room 25 - current events
Dec. 10 - Room 24 - current events
Jan 14 - Main Room - current events
Jan. 28 - Room 24 - current events
Feb. 11 - Main Room - current events
Feb. 25 - Room 25 - current events
Mar. 11 - Main Room - current events
Mar. 25 - Room 24 - current events
Apr. 8 - Room 24 - current events (Easter)
Apr. 22 - Room 25 - current Events
May 6 - Main - current events
May 20 - Room 25 - current events
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
Gifts and home decorations -- Plus home-cooked soups, breads, desserts, and more!
October 12, 13, & 14, 2006
Thursday & Friday 9:00 A.M.– 9:00 P.M. & Saturday 9:00 A.M.– 3:00 P.M.
FREE PARKING • VISA & MASTERCARD ACCEPTED
Location:
Unitarian Universalist Church of the South Hills, 1240 Washington Road, (Rt. 19), Mt. Lebanon
Thursday & Friday 9:00 A.M.– 9:00 P.M. & Saturday 9:00 A.M.– 3:00 P.M.
FREE PARKING • VISA & MASTERCARD ACCEPTED
Location:
Unitarian Universalist Church of the South Hills, 1240 Washington Road, (Rt. 19), Mt. Lebanon
Monday, October 02, 2006
March For Sustainability On Oct. 7th
The Pittsburgh Chapter of the Association for India’s Development and the First Unitarian Church of Pittsburgh are sponsoring a March for Sustainable Living. The march’s objective is to convey the message that many aspects of our lifestyles are unsustainable, and that it is our moral responsibility to consume less and preserve the planet's resources for future generations. Marchers will use sidewalks throughout, with volunteers located along the way to guide the public. The march will culminate at Flagstaff Hill in Schenley Park, where speakers will talk about sustainable living. Speakers include State Senator Jim Ferlo, City Councilman Bill Peduto, Myron Arnowitt from Clean Water Action, Michael Parker from GASP and others. The march is the final event of the Mahatma Gandhi birthday celebration week conducted jointly by Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pittsburgh, starting October 1st.
The organizers believe that contemporary lifestyles are not only unsustainable, but lead to a poor quality of life: for instance, consumerism has resulted in wasteful living, which has led to restlessness in the mind, unrestrained desires and complex health problems. Simple living is the only solution; this is exactly the message of great men like Einstein, Thoreau and Gandhi. The organizing committee for the march comprises executive directors, professionals, church ministers, professors, researchers and students from various organizations in Pittsburgh. Other supporting organizations include the Thomas Merton Center, Steel City Biofuels, and Child Relief and You (CRY).
The event is free and open to the public. For program details and parking directions, email sustainability_march@yahoo.com or call Ravikant Pathak at (412) 683 1315. Additional information is available online at: http://www.geocities.com/sustainability_march/
Saturday, October 7, 2006 at 2:00 PM.
Starting point is at the First Unitarian Church of Pittsburgh, 605 Morewood Avenue (the corner of Morewood and Ellsworth Avenues), in Shadyside. The march ends at Flagstaff Hill in Schenley Park.
The organizers believe that contemporary lifestyles are not only unsustainable, but lead to a poor quality of life: for instance, consumerism has resulted in wasteful living, which has led to restlessness in the mind, unrestrained desires and complex health problems. Simple living is the only solution; this is exactly the message of great men like Einstein, Thoreau and Gandhi. The organizing committee for the march comprises executive directors, professionals, church ministers, professors, researchers and students from various organizations in Pittsburgh. Other supporting organizations include the Thomas Merton Center, Steel City Biofuels, and Child Relief and You (CRY).
The event is free and open to the public. For program details and parking directions, email sustainability_march@yahoo.com or call Ravikant Pathak at (412) 683 1315. Additional information is available online at: http://www.geocities.com/sustainability_march/
Saturday, October 7, 2006 at 2:00 PM.
Starting point is at the First Unitarian Church of Pittsburgh, 605 Morewood Avenue (the corner of Morewood and Ellsworth Avenues), in Shadyside. The march ends at Flagstaff Hill in Schenley Park.
Thursday, September 21, 2006
Eight at Eight -- a community building activity
It is time to sign-up for 8 at 8. See Dennis right away.
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
Recycle Your Batteries at Sunnyhill
Diane Nedved has offered to recycle all batteries that Sunnyhillers bring to church! The box will be kept under the table in the dining room, next to the paper recycling. Diane will take them as the box fills.
Sunday, September 17, 2006
Sunday, September 10, 2006
Pittsburgh Interfaith Impact Network Public Action, Oct 26, 2006
Thursday, October 26, 7 - 8:30 pm
Petra International Ministries, 235 Eastgate Drive
Former East Hills Shopping Center--near the intersection of Robinson Blvd. and Frankstown Ave.
Register: bsimpson@tmail.com, 412-322-6419 or Wallace Watson wallwat1@verizon.net, 412-371-8138
Adequate and dedicated state funding for public transportation will be one of the major issues addressed by the Pittsburgh Interfaith Impact Network (PIIN) at its Public Action. PIIN expects an attendance of 2,000 or more. Key public officials will be invited to commit to specific actions furthering our transit funding goals. All supporters of this effort are urged to attend.
Petra International Ministries, 235 Eastgate Drive
Former East Hills Shopping Center--near the intersection of Robinson Blvd. and Frankstown Ave.
Register: bsimpson@tmail.com, 412-322-6419 or Wallace Watson wallwat1@verizon.net, 412-371-8138
Adequate and dedicated state funding for public transportation will be one of the major issues addressed by the Pittsburgh Interfaith Impact Network (PIIN) at its Public Action. PIIN expects an attendance of 2,000 or more. Key public officials will be invited to commit to specific actions furthering our transit funding goals. All supporters of this effort are urged to attend.
Friday, September 08, 2006
PIIN meets with Rick Santorum at 10 am on Saturday
Be sure to attend at 10:00 am on Saturday as PIIN visits with Senator Rick Santorum on PIIN's issues at Bidwell Presbyterian Church, 1025 Liverpool Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15233 (Manchester District on the Northside).
If you attend, I'd love to see the minutes of the meeting.
If you attend, I'd love to see the minutes of the meeting.
Friday, June 30, 2006
Open House for July 4th
Friends from Sunnyhill are welcome to attend our annual open house on the evening of July 4th. We only provide lemonaid and some crafts for the kids. We have a water baloon toss and will play in both the new gameroom and at the park, badminton. Come after 6 pm.
This year we have a few extras however. Our special guest is Russ Diamond, from central PA. He is running for PA Governor and is working to get onto the November 7, 2006 general election ballot. Meet and mingle with him that night.
To hear Russ in action, come to the house at 4 pm when we'll be hosting a press event. Russ and I will both say a few things. I'd love to get you here for that too if you are interested in politics.
At 5 pm, a $17.76 fundraiser for Russ Diamond is going to be held at a eatery on East Carson Street. You are welcome to attend that if you wish. Do RSVP to me, Mark Rauterkus, Mark @ Rauterkus.com, or call my cell: 412 298 3432.
This year we have a few extras however. Our special guest is Russ Diamond, from central PA. He is running for PA Governor and is working to get onto the November 7, 2006 general election ballot. Meet and mingle with him that night.
To hear Russ in action, come to the house at 4 pm when we'll be hosting a press event. Russ and I will both say a few things. I'd love to get you here for that too if you are interested in politics.
At 5 pm, a $17.76 fundraiser for Russ Diamond is going to be held at a eatery on East Carson Street. You are welcome to attend that if you wish. Do RSVP to me, Mark Rauterkus, Mark @ Rauterkus.com, or call my cell: 412 298 3432.
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Lo-Fi Tribe - Blog Archive - Unitarian Universalist People
Lo-Fi Tribe � Blog Archive � Unitarian Universalist People I’m having a grand time at the 2006 Unitarian Universalist Association’s General Assembly, in St. Louis, of course.
QED shows: seven 1 hour programs in a series
Seven weekly 1 hour shows on PBS. 3 p.m.-Sunday. WQED locally beginning this Sunday, June 25.
This series should have some valuable insights given that those who will be interviewed are all authors. It would do well to consider a method of meeting to dialogue on its content. Does anyone have a suggestion, asks Ken W.
This series should have some valuable insights given that those who will be interviewed are all authors. It would do well to consider a method of meeting to dialogue on its content. Does anyone have a suggestion, asks Ken W.
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
Ken's alert about TV show on PBS and discussions
Bill Moyers is returning to PBS on June 23 for an seven-part series called Bill Moyers on Faith & Reason, premiering June 23 at 9 p.m. on PBS (please check local listings).
In it he will explore how religion has affected and impacted our world--talking with authors such as Salman Rushdie, Margaret Atwood, Martin Amis, Richard Rodriguez, and Mary Gordon.
An advertisement for the series reads, in part: "In a world where religion is poison to some and salvation to others, how do we live together?"
Should we start a discussion built around the contents of this series? If we do, I strongly urge that we watch to see if and how they distinguish between religion (personal conviction and commitment) and church (group dynamic and tradition).
In it he will explore how religion has affected and impacted our world--talking with authors such as Salman Rushdie, Margaret Atwood, Martin Amis, Richard Rodriguez, and Mary Gordon.
An advertisement for the series reads, in part: "In a world where religion is poison to some and salvation to others, how do we live together?"
Should we start a discussion built around the contents of this series? If we do, I strongly urge that we watch to see if and how they distinguish between religion (personal conviction and commitment) and church (group dynamic and tradition).
Invitation to Interfaith Panel on "Art of Living Together"
Pittsburgh Dialogue Foundation & West Penn Cultural Center cordially invite you to an interfaith panel on “Art of Living Together”
Speakers:
Dr. Frances Leap, Professor of Religious Studies, Seton Hill University, Greensburg, PA
Dr. Ellen Posman, Professor of Religious Studies, Baldwin-Wallace College, Berea, OH
Imam Salih Yucel, Muslim Chaplain, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, President, Boston Dialogue Foundation, Boston, MA
From 7 to 9:30 pm on Thursday, June 15, 2006
Andy Warhol Museum, 117 Sandusky St., Pittsburgh, PA 15212
Registration is required. Please RSVP via e-mail by Friday, June 9. events -at- pghdialogue -dot- org. PDF Url: www.pghdialogue.org
WPCC Url: www.wpcc.org
Phone: (412) 628-6871
Special thanks to Andy Warhol Museum.
Speakers:
Dr. Frances Leap, Professor of Religious Studies, Seton Hill University, Greensburg, PA
Dr. Ellen Posman, Professor of Religious Studies, Baldwin-Wallace College, Berea, OH
Imam Salih Yucel, Muslim Chaplain, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, President, Boston Dialogue Foundation, Boston, MA
From 7 to 9:30 pm on Thursday, June 15, 2006
Andy Warhol Museum, 117 Sandusky St., Pittsburgh, PA 15212
Registration is required. Please RSVP via e-mail by Friday, June 9. events -at- pghdialogue -dot- org. PDF Url: www.pghdialogue.org
WPCC Url: www.wpcc.org
Phone: (412) 628-6871
Special thanks to Andy Warhol Museum.
Monday, May 29, 2006
Lay Service -- hitting home -- Thanks T -- different perspectives
Sunnyhill has a great tradition of lay-led services. Yesterdays' was especially good. It was about 'different perspectives.'Then we had a nice feast and cook out. Yummy.
If I get a copy of the service -- via email -- I'll make some highlights known on the blog.
Photo above, Title: Upside Church - Vancouver, from quinet is Community Commons license with Attribution License.
Sunday, May 28, 2006
Tippi's eclipse links
First, photos from this year's trip. These are not all mine, but a mix taken by the group.
www.shadowlawn.us/Turkey2006
Second, my web page about all the eclipses:
www.pittsburghdiary.com/travel/eclipse
Finally, my video of the eclipse -- the one I showed at Sunnyhill but with this year's eclipsed sun inserted in.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0EhEKetT0I
www.shadowlawn.us/Turkey2006
Second, my web page about all the eclipses:
www.pittsburghdiary.com/travel/eclipse
Finally, my video of the eclipse -- the one I showed at Sunnyhill but with this year's eclipsed sun inserted in.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0EhEKetT0I
House Concert host by Mark Rauterkus with Joe Jencks
with a second set at 8:30 pm
Join Mark Rauterkus and family (Catherine Palmer, Erik & Grant) in hosting friends, family, neighbors, bloggers, strangers and fellow music lovers from school, church, labor and sports – and perhaps politics too, at their home and office:
108 South 12th Street, South Side, Pittsburgh.
RSVP is necessary as space is limited to 35 seats.
Call 412 298 3432 or email Mark @ Rauterkus . Com
Kids who can sit and enjoy the concert are welcomed (first set).
Joe Jencks, singer/songwriter, plays guitar and is equally talented as the other excellent performers hosted in the past. Joe's original music and ballads are for the everyday, modern workers with many union songs, tunes of history, struggle, rails, fast-food workers, Rosie the Riveter (Revised), John Henry and even the Deportee.
Joe happens to be on tour with his latest CD, Rise As One.
Artist donations accepted. CDs for sale.
The next release of the Mark@Rauterkus.Com CD might include the Joe Jencks tune(s): "We Won" and/or "We Do the Work." Help us decide.
Join Mark Rauterkus and family (Catherine Palmer, Erik & Grant) in hosting friends, family, neighbors, bloggers, strangers and fellow music lovers from school, church, labor and sports – and perhaps politics too, at their home and office:
108 South 12th Street, South Side, Pittsburgh.
RSVP is necessary as space is limited to 35 seats.
Call 412 298 3432 or email Mark @ Rauterkus . Com
Kids who can sit and enjoy the concert are welcomed (first set).
Joe Jencks, singer/songwriter, plays guitar and is equally talented as the other excellent performers hosted in the past. Joe's original music and ballads are for the everyday, modern workers with many union songs, tunes of history, struggle, rails, fast-food workers, Rosie the Riveter (Revised), John Henry and even the Deportee.
Joe happens to be on tour with his latest CD, Rise As One.
Artist donations accepted. CDs for sale.
The next release of the Mark@Rauterkus.Com CD might include the Joe Jencks tune(s): "We Won" and/or "We Do the Work." Help us decide.
WINNER 2005: Plowshares, Songwriting Contest; South Florida Folk Festival Songwriting Contest
Winner 2004: Winfield Music Festival Songwriting Contest
Winner 2004 and 2003 Tumbleweed, Folk Festival Songwriting Contest
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
CHURCH YARD SALE, June 3rd!
Purge your basement and attic while supporting your church. Drop off times will be 6-9 Thursday, June 1st and Friday, June 2nd. Books, toys, baby items, kitchen items, jewelry, glassware, furniture, practically anything you can think of (except clothing). Call Cori Vipperman to arrange for large item pickup (412)563-0632 or email coriv1@verizon.net. Also think about signing up to volunteer. We are in special need of two people who own trucks for pickups on Thursday and Friday night! Strong backs on Thursday to set up tables also. Please let Cori know if your interested!
Refreshments will be provided all three days. Sign up sheets will be posted Sunday on the community board. Please remember to include your phone number for reminders or changes. It's a lot of fun! Hope to see you there!
Refreshments will be provided all three days. Sign up sheets will be posted Sunday on the community board. Please remember to include your phone number for reminders or changes. It's a lot of fun! Hope to see you there!
Friday, May 05, 2006
It’s Back andIt’s More Delicious Than Ever! The Sunnyhill Annual Pancake Breakfast Saturday, May 13 from 9 am to 1 pm
Be there on May 13, 2006, 9 am — 1 pm at the Unitarian Universalist Church of the South Hills (often called Sunnyhill) 1240 Washington Road — Route 19, Mt. Lebanon, PA 15228.
It’s the home of Turtle Pancakes.
Unique pancake shapes for childrenas featured in the May 1, 2003, Post Gazette Food Section. Also featuring Specialty Scrambled Eggs / Homefries Link Sausage / Regular PancakesCoffee / Tea / Milk / Orange Juice / Butter & syrup. All you can eat for $7.00 for Adults and $4.00 for Children ages 12 and under. Makes a great Mother’s Day present!
It’s the home of Turtle Pancakes.
Unique pancake shapes for childrenas featured in the May 1, 2003, Post Gazette Food Section. Also featuring Specialty Scrambled Eggs / Homefries Link Sausage / Regular PancakesCoffee / Tea / Milk / Orange Juice / Butter & syrup. All you can eat for $7.00 for Adults and $4.00 for Children ages 12 and under. Makes a great Mother’s Day present!
Friday, April 28, 2006
THOMAS JEFFERSON THINK TANK takes on Darwin
Here is a meeting I've attended in the past. This presentation and discussion might interest some from Sunnyhill.
May 3, 2006
Intelligent Design – Science or Religion? Does It Belong In A Classroom, And If So, Where?
The notion of “intelligent design,” or, the belief that scientific evidence customarily used to support an evolutionary system to explain the origin and diversity of life on Earth can and does also support the existence of a/an “(intelligent) designer” of this system, has been in the news and in the courts in recent months. What exactly is this “intelligent design” theory? Does it conform to accepted notions of a scientific theory, or is it better said to be a belief based on religion or faith? The theory of “intelligent design” was formerly taught in the Dover School District here in Pennsylvania, recently the subject of a federal court case--should this be taught in our schools, and, if so, where? In biology classes, religion classes, or any similar type of class?
Professor Sandra Mitchell, the Chair of the world-famous Department of History and Philosophy of Science at the University of Pittsburgh, will present her views on this matter. Prof. Mitchell has written and lectured extensively on topics related to the general philosophy of science, with particular regard to the fields of biology and evolution. Whether you are interested in the specifics of this particular theory of “intelligent design” or the general notion of what might qualify as a scientific theory in the academic community today, this talk will be one that you won't want to miss!
Come early to enjoy the food, drink, and bring a friend. We will see you Wednesday, May 3, 2006 located at Silvioni’s, 2125 Babcock Boulevard. Dinner will be served until 7:00 pm. The meeting will start at approximately 7:15 pm.
Thursday, April 20, 2006
Dave Nachmanoff -- playing Pittsburgh and Kent
Sunday, May 7th
Pittsburgh, PA
Club Cafe - http://www.clubcafelive.com
Wednesday, May 10th
Cleveland, OH
The Winchester - http://www.thewinchester.net
Thursday, May 11th
Kent, OH
Kent Stage - http://www.kentstage.org
Saturday, May 13th
Elkhart Lake, WI
Jazz On The Vine Festival
http://www.elkhartlake.com/events/2006/may06.html
Pittsburgh, PA
Club Cafe - http://www.clubcafelive.com
Wednesday, May 10th
Cleveland, OH
The Winchester - http://www.thewinchester.net
Thursday, May 11th
Kent, OH
Kent Stage - http://www.kentstage.org
Saturday, May 13th
Elkhart Lake, WI
Jazz On The Vine Festival
http://www.elkhartlake.com/events/2006/may06.html
Friday, April 14, 2006
Lynn Swann to PIIN event on North Side
Dear Fellow Leader,
I bring greetings to you as president of the Pittsburgh Interfaith Impact Network (PIIN) and as co-chair of the NAACP Religious Affairs Committee. I want to alert you to an upcoming event where your attendance is critical. On Friday, April 21, 2006 from 9:30 to 11:30 am the African American Leadership Caucus of PIIN is sponsoring a “meet and greet” with Republican gubernatorial candidate Lynn Swann. During this time, Mr. Swann will address those gathered and briefly share with us the key points of his campaign.
In addition, a panel of six pastors will present separate questions crafted to highlight poignant concerns of the African-American community. This event will be held at the Bidwell Presbyterian Church, 1025 Liverpool Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15233. Please plan to attend and share this information with members in your congregation so that we can have a strongly attended public gathering to continue demonstrating our power in assembly.
Let us show our unified support in this matter as we have shown those struggling for comprehensive immigration reform.
Sincerely,
Rev. John C. Welch
Thursday, April 06, 2006
Self -- meeting of selves
Sunnyhill Self-Masquerade Party!
To welcome and meet our new members, everyone is invited to join us on April 15th at 7:00 pm.
This year, come dressed in whatever clothes or accessories best represent YOU! Find items around the house that show off your favorite hobbies and interests; come with gardening gloves, a Hawaiian shirt, or a lab coat… and, of course, expect to see lots of Steelers’ gear!
We’ll have an evening of games and good company, and leave knowing each other a little bit better. RSVP Werner or Anita Hager.
To welcome and meet our new members, everyone is invited to join us on April 15th at 7:00 pm.
This year, come dressed in whatever clothes or accessories best represent YOU! Find items around the house that show off your favorite hobbies and interests; come with gardening gloves, a Hawaiian shirt, or a lab coat… and, of course, expect to see lots of Steelers’ gear!
We’ll have an evening of games and good company, and leave knowing each other a little bit better. RSVP Werner or Anita Hager.
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
SI.com - Olympics - Norwegian ski coach rewarded with maple syrup - Wednesday April 5, 2006 12:54PM
We should get this guy to attend the Mothers' Day Pancake Breakfast. And note, the fit folks in Norway don't even know about the Maple Syrup -- and it is on the flag of Canada.
SI.com - Olympics - Norwegian ski coach rewarded with maple syrup - Wednesday April 5, 2006 12:54PM Maple syrup is little known in Norway, and the 37-year-old Haakensmoen said he recently tasted it for the first time.Read the entire article at the Sports Illustated site.
'It's sweet, and a little unusual,' he said. 'We might have it from time to time, but not five times a day.'
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
"Do I hear.. ??? Greek theme'd Service Auction.
Wednesday, March 29, 2006
Who was Jesus, sent around as an email joke
Who was Jesus?
Opinions vary ...Who was Jesus? (Here are all kinds of options}
My friend from Baton Rouge, LA, says that Jesus was a Cajun:
1. He liked to serve fish to his friends
2. He could make his own wine
3. And he wasn't afraid of water.
My black friend had 3 arguments that Jesus was Black:
1. He called everyone "brother"
2. He liked Gospel
3. He couldn't get a fair trial.
My Jewish friend had 3 arguments that Jesus was Jewish:
1. He went into His Father's business.
2. He lived at home until he was 33.
3. He was sure his Mother was a virgin and his mother was sure he was God.
My Italian friend gave his 3 arguments that Jesus was Italian:
1. He talked with his hands.
2. He had wine with every meal.
3. He used olive oil.
My California friends had 3 arguments that Jesus was a Californian:
1. He never cut his hair.
2. He walked around barefoot all the time.
3. He started a new religion.
My Irish friend then gave his 3 arguments that Jesus was Irish:
1. He never got married.
2. He was always telling stories.
3. He loved green pastures.
BUT my LADY friend had most compelling evidence that Jesus was a WOMAN:
1. He fed a crowd at a moment's notice when there was no food.
2. He kept trying to get a message across to a bunch of men who just didn't get it.
3. And even when he was dead, he had to get up because there was more work to do.
Opinions vary ...Who was Jesus? (Here are all kinds of options}
My friend from Baton Rouge, LA, says that Jesus was a Cajun:
1. He liked to serve fish to his friends
2. He could make his own wine
3. And he wasn't afraid of water.
My black friend had 3 arguments that Jesus was Black:
1. He called everyone "brother"
2. He liked Gospel
3. He couldn't get a fair trial.
My Jewish friend had 3 arguments that Jesus was Jewish:
1. He went into His Father's business.
2. He lived at home until he was 33.
3. He was sure his Mother was a virgin and his mother was sure he was God.
My Italian friend gave his 3 arguments that Jesus was Italian:
1. He talked with his hands.
2. He had wine with every meal.
3. He used olive oil.
My California friends had 3 arguments that Jesus was a Californian:
1. He never cut his hair.
2. He walked around barefoot all the time.
3. He started a new religion.
My Irish friend then gave his 3 arguments that Jesus was Irish:
1. He never got married.
2. He was always telling stories.
3. He loved green pastures.
BUT my LADY friend had most compelling evidence that Jesus was a WOMAN:
1. He fed a crowd at a moment's notice when there was no food.
2. He kept trying to get a message across to a bunch of men who just didn't get it.
3. And even when he was dead, he had to get up because there was more work to do.
(Source unknown If you know the source, put it inthe comments, please.)
Sunday, March 26, 2006
Ken's latest pointer: Film, Why We Fight
You need to see this film and visit its site -- so says Ken. I listened and agree.
http://www.sonyclassics.com/whywefight/
http://www.sonyclassics.com/whywefight/
Friday, March 24, 2006
Annual report, service auction
Sunnyhill's Annual Report for last year is out and looking good. Our Annual Meeting is slated for Sunday, April 9 during LifeCraft. That is when we will vote for new board members and review the past year.
A special collection comes at this Sunday's service for the Jubilee Soup Kitchen.
The Service Auction is on for Saturday night -- and it will be fun.
A special collection comes at this Sunday's service for the Jubilee Soup Kitchen.
The Service Auction is on for Saturday night -- and it will be fun.
Thursday, March 23, 2006
Friday, March 17, 2006
BONFIRE
How long has it been since you couldn't hear the "civilized" sounds of vehicles and appliances?
Experience it with us.
It’s our spring bonfire! We hope you’ll come! And bring whomever: And whatever (e.g. dogs, kites, balls)! It’s on Saturday, April 1 from 2:00 PM until after dark, but come whenever you can. We plan to light the bonfire at around 2:30, watch the flames roar up, and then let the fire slow down as it burns into the evening. It’s at ‘Playland’, our 13 acre property on Welsh Road in Chartiers Township, Washington County. (See the attached map.) That is approximately 10 minutes from the Meadowlands Racetrack and McDonalds. It’s rustic: and we don’t mean just no phone or computer. We mean no plumbing, no electricity, no shelter --- and few restrictions. If the thrill of a bonfire in the meadow isn’t enough for you, there are acres of woods to explore (dress for poison ivy just in case) and many of us picnic, play, and stretch our muscles. Whatever the case, bring clothing for all seasons. (One year the weather went from T-shirt weather to a blizzard in the same afternoon!)
You may want to bring lawnchairs and blankets, yoga mats and guitars, ... We'll provide all the fixings for vegan and non-vegan some-mores, hot dogs and water. Some people bring food and drink to share - that's really nice. And, if you have some tree parts that you want to get rid of - just bring them and throw them on the fire. (We had someone bring a box of old tax records, but that did not work out so well as some of the pages were sucked up in the heat to perhaps 100 feet up, and then the breezes wafted them away.)
In case of bad weather (i.e. a LOT of rain or wind), it will be postponed to Sunday afternoon. Please note that the weather at Playland has always been better that in Allegheny County and that we have never had to postpone. If you RSVP, we will know with whom to get in touch in case of questionable weather. Feel free also to call or email us about the weather situation or anything else.
Hope to see you there!
Peter and Denise
Experience it with us.
It’s our spring bonfire! We hope you’ll come! And bring whomever: And whatever (e.g. dogs, kites, balls)! It’s on Saturday, April 1 from 2:00 PM until after dark, but come whenever you can. We plan to light the bonfire at around 2:30, watch the flames roar up, and then let the fire slow down as it burns into the evening. It’s at ‘Playland’, our 13 acre property on Welsh Road in Chartiers Township, Washington County. (See the attached map.) That is approximately 10 minutes from the Meadowlands Racetrack and McDonalds. It’s rustic: and we don’t mean just no phone or computer. We mean no plumbing, no electricity, no shelter --- and few restrictions. If the thrill of a bonfire in the meadow isn’t enough for you, there are acres of woods to explore (dress for poison ivy just in case) and many of us picnic, play, and stretch our muscles. Whatever the case, bring clothing for all seasons. (One year the weather went from T-shirt weather to a blizzard in the same afternoon!)
You may want to bring lawnchairs and blankets, yoga mats and guitars, ... We'll provide all the fixings for vegan and non-vegan some-mores, hot dogs and water. Some people bring food and drink to share - that's really nice. And, if you have some tree parts that you want to get rid of - just bring them and throw them on the fire. (We had someone bring a box of old tax records, but that did not work out so well as some of the pages were sucked up in the heat to perhaps 100 feet up, and then the breezes wafted them away.)
In case of bad weather (i.e. a LOT of rain or wind), it will be postponed to Sunday afternoon. Please note that the weather at Playland has always been better that in Allegheny County and that we have never had to postpone. If you RSVP, we will know with whom to get in touch in case of questionable weather. Feel free also to call or email us about the weather situation or anything else.
Hope to see you there!
Peter and Denise
Thursday, March 16, 2006
Concert at Allegheny UU, April 22
DownUnder Coffeehouse, Allegheny UU Church
Contact: Steve Hirtle, downunder -at- alleghenyuu -dot- org
Eve Goodman and Jack at the DownUnder
You are invited to attend the DownUnder Coffeehouse on Saturday, Apr 22 from 7:30-9:30 to hear Eve Goodman and Jack. Eve is a wonderful singer-songwriter, whose intricate guitar-playing and insightful lyrics will leave you captivated. The band Jack features three of the most loved songwriters from the Calliope Songwriters Circle: Stacy Mates, Dave LaRose and George Kantor. Come hear some of Pittsburgh's
most exciting singer-songwriters in a relaxed coffeehouse atmosphere.
The DownUnder Coffeehouse is open one Saturday each month in Allegheny Unitarian Universalist Church, 416 West North Ave, North Side. Suggested donation is $5.00. Desserts and coffee will be available. Call 412-322-4261 or see www.alleghenyuu.org for more details.
Contact: Steve Hirtle, downunder -at- alleghenyuu -dot- org
Eve Goodman and Jack at the DownUnder
You are invited to attend the DownUnder Coffeehouse on Saturday, Apr 22 from 7:30-9:30 to hear Eve Goodman and Jack. Eve is a wonderful singer-songwriter, whose intricate guitar-playing and insightful lyrics will leave you captivated. The band Jack features three of the most loved songwriters from the Calliope Songwriters Circle: Stacy Mates, Dave LaRose and George Kantor. Come hear some of Pittsburgh's
most exciting singer-songwriters in a relaxed coffeehouse atmosphere.
The DownUnder Coffeehouse is open one Saturday each month in Allegheny Unitarian Universalist Church, 416 West North Ave, North Side. Suggested donation is $5.00. Desserts and coffee will be available. Call 412-322-4261 or see www.alleghenyuu.org for more details.
Did the phone call test work for you?
The caring committee gave a test last week of the automatic phone tree. Any feedback is welcomed.
Friday, March 03, 2006
Kill this suicide pact
Kill this suicide pact - PittsburghLIVE.com (Editor's note: This column is adapted from a longer address scheduled to be delivered today to the fine folks of the 'Lifecraft' program of the Unitarian Church of the South Hills in Mt. Lebanon.)
Monday, February 20, 2006
Sunday Forum Discussion and Leader -- Bill of Rights with Colin McNickle
Colin McNickle, Trib editor, is to talk with us about the Patriot Act and the Bill of Rights. You may wish to review the Bill of Rights, particularly Amendment IV.
See you at 10:15 a.m. this Sunday at LifeCraft.
See you at 10:15 a.m. this Sunday at LifeCraft.
Wednesday, February 08, 2006
Benefit concert at UU of the North Hills
FREEDOM TO MARRY BENEFIT
February 11th at 7:00 pm, UUCNH (Unitarian Universalist Church of the North
Hills) kicks off Freedom to Marry Week with a Musical Revue by Proudly
Presents Productions. There will be refreshments in a cabaret/dinner
theatre setting. All proceeds will benefit Marriage Equality Pennsylvania
Chapter and Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Pittsburgh. Tickets are $10
if purchased in advance. Tickets purchased at the door are $12 ($10 for
students). Celebrate Valentine's Day a few days early with your special
someone, and join us for an evening of music and merriment as we raise money
and our voices in support of the freedom to marry for all. Visit
www.uucnh.org for directions to the church. For advance tickets, see Betty
Luff between services.
February 11th at 7:00 pm, UUCNH (Unitarian Universalist Church of the North
Hills) kicks off Freedom to Marry Week with a Musical Revue by Proudly
Presents Productions. There will be refreshments in a cabaret/dinner
theatre setting. All proceeds will benefit Marriage Equality Pennsylvania
Chapter and Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Pittsburgh. Tickets are $10
if purchased in advance. Tickets purchased at the door are $12 ($10 for
students). Celebrate Valentine's Day a few days early with your special
someone, and join us for an evening of music and merriment as we raise money
and our voices in support of the freedom to marry for all. Visit
www.uucnh.org for directions to the church. For advance tickets, see Betty
Luff between services.
Sunday, February 05, 2006
Thursday, January 26, 2006
Calling in time
Traditionally, Sunyhill's Caring Committee has used a "telelphone tree" to alert members and friends to time-sensitive information. One person calls several others on a prearranged list. Those people call others, and so on, until everyone has the news.
The committee has the opportunity to automate the largest portion of the phone tree.
The proposed system will work like this: By telephone, members and friends in the 412 area will receive a short prerecorded message that alerts them to check their e-mail for details. For those without e-mail, the message will provide telephone numbers to call for details.
The Caring Committee will test the automated system, in the 412 area code only, in the middle of the week of Feb. 12. The 724 and other area codes will still be personally called.
Please help the committee work the bugs out of the system by calling Margaret Lindquist (412-563-4764) or Emilie Marlier (412-343-3235) about any problems you have in receiving the telephone call, the e-mail, or responding to the message.
The committee has the opportunity to automate the largest portion of the phone tree.
The proposed system will work like this: By telephone, members and friends in the 412 area will receive a short prerecorded message that alerts them to check their e-mail for details. For those without e-mail, the message will provide telephone numbers to call for details.
The Caring Committee will test the automated system, in the 412 area code only, in the middle of the week of Feb. 12. The 724 and other area codes will still be personally called.
Please help the committee work the bugs out of the system by calling Margaret Lindquist (412-563-4764) or Emilie Marlier (412-343-3235) about any problems you have in receiving the telephone call, the e-mail, or responding to the message.
Monday, January 23, 2006
Sunnyhill member, Mark Rauterkus, hosting a house concert on Feb 2 at South Side
Our musical friend, Johnsmith, we we had the please of meeting at SUUSI, is going to be in Pittsburgh and performing two sets at a fun evening at our home / office. Details are at the site, S6.CLOH.Org.
I hope to see a lot of Sunnyhill members here.
I hope to see a lot of Sunnyhill members here.
Monday, January 02, 2006
Sunday, January 01, 2006
Friday, December 23, 2005
How's your blood?
Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King:
One of the great tragedies of life is that men seldom bridge the gulf between practice and profession, between doing and saying. A persistent schizophrenia leaves so many of us tragically divided against ourselves...How often are our lives characterized by a high blood pressure of creeds and an anemia of deeds!
One of the great tragedies of life is that men seldom bridge the gulf between practice and profession, between doing and saying. A persistent schizophrenia leaves so many of us tragically divided against ourselves...How often are our lives characterized by a high blood pressure of creeds and an anemia of deeds!
Thursday, December 22, 2005
Worldview V - Insights from lecture on I.D.
Worldview V Intelligent Design Honors Council Lecture
Last night I delivered a BSU Honors Council lecture on Intelligent Design -- and even got my 15 seconds of fame on the BSU marquee! (thanks to student Jeremy for the photos) Huge crowd for this sort of thing...probably around 120! I based my talk on a series of inter-linked concept maps that I am developing to provide a relatively comprehensive overview of various aspects of intelligent design -- its historical origins, its scientific vacuity, its apparent appeal to large segments of American society, and the cultural/political motivations of some of its most ardent proponents. Have a look...this will remain a work in progress for some time so I welcome suggestions.
Last night I delivered a BSU Honors Council lecture on Intelligent Design -- and even got my 15 seconds of fame on the BSU marquee! (thanks to student Jeremy for the photos) Huge crowd for this sort of thing...probably around 120! I based my talk on a series of inter-linked concept maps that I am developing to provide a relatively comprehensive overview of various aspects of intelligent design -- its historical origins, its scientific vacuity, its apparent appeal to large segments of American society, and the cultural/political motivations of some of its most ardent proponents. Have a look...this will remain a work in progress for some time so I welcome suggestions.
Sunday, December 11, 2005
Eight at Eight Dinners for spring, 2006
You are cordially invited to join the traditional Eight at Eight Dinners. This is a great way to meet people. Each person or couple hosts once, providing the main dish, and attends 3 dinners bringing a dish assigned by the host. You can also sign up to be a substitute. This is a superb way to dodge the gloom of winter and brighten your evening with the light of Sunnyhillian food, drink, and conversation.
Dates: February 4, March 4, April 1, May, 2006.
RSVP Dennis Sweeney or sign up using the sheet in the Church dining room.
Dates: February 4, March 4, April 1, May, 2006.
RSVP Dennis Sweeney or sign up using the sheet in the Church dining room.
Saturday, December 03, 2005
Banner from UUA and a ring for funds from locals
I got an interesting phone call today from a telemarketing firm. They were asking for donations to the new UUA fund on issues. There was a letter from October that called upon more coordination and organization of efforts on issues that would lead to actions in the nation's capital.
I've got to learn more about that.
But, what was wildly interesting was that the call came from a few blocks away. A South Side firm has the business. They are making the calls to UUs throughout the nation. And, many UUs are on the phones too. A gent from the North Hills church was calling me. He said he thought my name was familiar.
I'm going to meet him, I hope, to talk about this further.
Interesting. Very interesting.
Monday, November 28, 2005
S.W.I.M. 2005 -- Heavenly Bodies
Southeast Unitarian Universalist Winter Institute, Inc., in Miami goes from December 26th - January 1, 2006.
Vacation with UUs in South Florida!
S.W.I.M., the Southeast Unitarian Universalist Winter Institute in Miami, is all about having fun in a supportive UU community in the warm Miami sunshine! S.W.I.M.'s annual intergenerational retreat for UUs and like-minded people of all ages happens every year from December 26th through Jan 1st.
S.W.I.M. offers south Florida hospitality, outdoor adventures (including tours, hikes, windsurfing, canoeing, and sailing), workshops (including spirituality and personal growth), special programs for youth, teens, and young adults, fantastic food, and a new community of friends from across the continent.
Play, laugh, sing, and celebrate New Year's Eve at S.W.I.M.! Join UUs from all over North America for a week of fun in the sun!
For more information, please visit us online at http://www.swimuu.org
S.W.I.M. is a member in good standing of CU2C2, the Council of Unitarian Universalist Camps & Conferences, an Independent Affiliate of the Unitarian Universalist Association.
You can find more UU retreats featured on the inside cover of the Spring 2006 Issue of the UU World.
Vacation with UUs in South Florida!
S.W.I.M., the Southeast Unitarian Universalist Winter Institute in Miami, is all about having fun in a supportive UU community in the warm Miami sunshine! S.W.I.M.'s annual intergenerational retreat for UUs and like-minded people of all ages happens every year from December 26th through Jan 1st.
S.W.I.M. offers south Florida hospitality, outdoor adventures (including tours, hikes, windsurfing, canoeing, and sailing), workshops (including spirituality and personal growth), special programs for youth, teens, and young adults, fantastic food, and a new community of friends from across the continent.
Play, laugh, sing, and celebrate New Year's Eve at S.W.I.M.! Join UUs from all over North America for a week of fun in the sun!
For more information, please visit us online at http://www.swimuu.org
S.W.I.M. is a member in good standing of CU2C2, the Council of Unitarian Universalist Camps & Conferences, an Independent Affiliate of the Unitarian Universalist Association.
You can find more UU retreats featured on the inside cover of the Spring 2006 Issue of the UU World.
Thursday, October 27, 2005
So, we have an election policy now? Where it that.
Can someone please post the new election policy to this blog or via email to Mark -at-Rauterkus.com. It was mentioned in the Nov edition of The Drummer. But, it was not presented there. Was it published in the past editions? Did I miss it?
If you know of it, what do you think?
If you know of it, what do you think?
Friday, October 21, 2005
Reactions on bylaws session from Peter Konke
I attended a bylaws session, and my thoughts were duly noted, but I would like to give a wider airing of them.
The driving force for the bylaws update is apparently to give the president a 2 year term instead of a 1 year term. Along the way, the entire bylaws are being updated, which is a great idea.
But there are more paradigms than just 1 vs 2 years. I am familiar with an entirely different approach from my work on the Montour Trail Council. First, I was almost shocked that there were an even number of people on the board. I have never heard of such a thing, presumably as it permits the possibility of tie votes. But my main point is that the officers are elected each year by the board, NOT the congregation. Also, the president is limited to 3 consecutive one-year terms. This allows for 1, 2, or 3 year tenures. Great flexibility.
Works fine for the MTC. Don't know about Sunnyhill. My purpose in bringing this up is to stimulate conversation and thought.
Peter Kohnke
The driving force for the bylaws update is apparently to give the president a 2 year term instead of a 1 year term. Along the way, the entire bylaws are being updated, which is a great idea.
But there are more paradigms than just 1 vs 2 years. I am familiar with an entirely different approach from my work on the Montour Trail Council. First, I was almost shocked that there were an even number of people on the board. I have never heard of such a thing, presumably as it permits the possibility of tie votes. But my main point is that the officers are elected each year by the board, NOT the congregation. Also, the president is limited to 3 consecutive one-year terms. This allows for 1, 2, or 3 year tenures. Great flexibility.
Works fine for the MTC. Don't know about Sunnyhill. My purpose in bringing this up is to stimulate conversation and thought.
Peter Kohnke
Thursday, October 20, 2005
Mt. Lebanon dollar store plans find some chilly attitudes
Mt. Lebanon dollar store plans find some chilly attitudes 'That's right, folks, soon we'll have our very own Dollar General store. Ugh,' posted Josephine Posti on a Mt. Lebanon blog under the headline 'In the ghetto.'
Wednesday, October 19, 2005
Pledge Drive Kick Off
Saturday, October 22, 2005 @ 7 PM
To Celebrate the 2006- 3 week only Pledge Drive
What’s Happening: Appetizers, Music, Fellowship, Rousing excitement regarding this year’s pledge drive
Babysitting Available
RSVP a must: George Williams. Or sign up sheet in the coffee room. Please notify us of babysitting needs.
To Celebrate the 2006- 3 week only Pledge Drive
What’s Happening: Appetizers, Music, Fellowship, Rousing excitement regarding this year’s pledge drive
Babysitting Available
RSVP a must: George Williams. Or sign up sheet in the coffee room. Please notify us of babysitting needs.
Monday, October 17, 2005
Some concerts updates
There are still seats left for the Mt. Lebanon House Concert featuring Clarke Buehling, master of the finger-style banjo. Mr. Buehling blows the dust off some fine old banjo tunes and songs about `possums and raccoons on Wednesday, Oct 26 at 8:00 at Curt and Annie's house in Mt. Lebanon.
Clarke Buehling is a phenomenal entertainer. He is widely recognized for his interpretations of late 19th century, classic finger-style banjo music. Clarke is also in the forefront of the recent resurgence of interest in the earlier minstrel banjo style. He presents the music and humor of those times.
Clarke will also be offering PRIVATE LESSONS on the afternoon of SUNDAY, OCT 30--if you want to learn minstrel style or old-time three-finger style banjo, he's your man. He has taught private and group lessons since 1972 at venues including the Old Town School of Folk Music in Chicago, Augusta Heritage Center, and the Tennessee Banjo Institute.
For more information or reservations for the house concert or private lessons, please reply to this email or call me at 412-343-0498.
Hope to see you at the concert!
Annie Trimble
Upcoming concerts:
Oct 15 Tommy Emanuel (Calliope)
Oct 23 4 pm Eric Schwartz, hosted by Llouise and Jim altes@potomacnetworks.com
Oct 26 (Wed) Clarke Buehling (workshop), hosted by Curt and Annie AnnieT@southwind-pa.com
Nov 6, 4p Kate McDonnell, hosted by Llouise and Jim altes@potomacnetworks.com
Nov 6, 7:30p Great Bear Trio, hosted by Curt and Annie AnnieT@southwind-pa.com
Nov 8 (Tues), 7:30p Chuck Suchy, hosted by Cindy cah@lonewolf.com
Nov 9 (Wed), Freebo & Jim Photoglo, hosted by Ken Batista & Tica Hall folkradio@earthlink.net
Nov 19 Andy Statman Trio (Calliope)
Dec 2, 8p Dwight Diller, hosted by Cindy cah@lonewolf.com
Dec 10 Del McCoury (Calliope)
2006
Jan 21 Odetta (Calliope)
Feb. 25 Paul Rishell & Annie Raines (Calliope)
Mar 18 Flook (Calliope)
Apr 5 (Wed) Harvey Reid, hosted by Cindy cah@lonewolf.com
Apr 22 Tom Rush (Calliope)
Clarke Buehling is a phenomenal entertainer. He is widely recognized for his interpretations of late 19th century, classic finger-style banjo music. Clarke is also in the forefront of the recent resurgence of interest in the earlier minstrel banjo style. He presents the music and humor of those times.
Clarke will also be offering PRIVATE LESSONS on the afternoon of SUNDAY, OCT 30--if you want to learn minstrel style or old-time three-finger style banjo, he's your man. He has taught private and group lessons since 1972 at venues including the Old Town School of Folk Music in Chicago, Augusta Heritage Center, and the Tennessee Banjo Institute.
For more information or reservations for the house concert or private lessons, please reply to this email or call me at 412-343-0498.
Hope to see you at the concert!
Annie Trimble
Upcoming concerts:
Oct 15 Tommy Emanuel (Calliope)
Oct 23 4 pm Eric Schwartz, hosted by Llouise and Jim altes@potomacnetworks.com
Oct 26 (Wed) Clarke Buehling (workshop), hosted by Curt and Annie AnnieT@southwind-pa.com
Nov 6, 4p Kate McDonnell, hosted by Llouise and Jim altes@potomacnetworks.com
Nov 6, 7:30p Great Bear Trio, hosted by Curt and Annie AnnieT@southwind-pa.com
Nov 8 (Tues), 7:30p Chuck Suchy, hosted by Cindy cah@lonewolf.com
Nov 9 (Wed), Freebo & Jim Photoglo, hosted by Ken Batista & Tica Hall folkradio@earthlink.net
Nov 19 Andy Statman Trio (Calliope)
Dec 2, 8p Dwight Diller, hosted by Cindy cah@lonewolf.com
Dec 10 Del McCoury (Calliope)
2006
Jan 21 Odetta (Calliope)
Feb. 25 Paul Rishell & Annie Raines (Calliope)
Mar 18 Flook (Calliope)
Apr 5 (Wed) Harvey Reid, hosted by Cindy cah@lonewolf.com
Apr 22 Tom Rush (Calliope)
Wednesday, September 28, 2005
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
H&H needs volunteers and more
Harvest & Holiday utilizes the most volunteers of any of our fund raisers. To make it possible we need 104 volunteers. To date we have filled 32 of those slots. We have 11 days to fill 72 more. Please add your name to the sign up sheet in the dinning room or call Ann Callen at 412-851-9057.. The hours are short and it is a great way to get to know more of our community. We would love to see men sign up too! There will be a training for all volunteers working at the sale on October 2nd at 12:30 in the main sanctuary. Thanks for your help.
Workshop on Saturday, Nov 5 at First Church is with Rev. Forrest Church and Rev. Mark Belletini on the theme "Unitarian Universalist Values: A Vision for Our World" and it is bound to be a moving and educational seminar. Please refer to the dining
room for more details.
Fast for Darfur: On October 6th, concerned people around the world will be giving up a meal or luxury item and donating the money to humanitarian relief for civilians in Darfur, Sudan. The Faith in Action Committee will be enlisting fasters and taking donations on Sunday , October 2nd after both services. Donations will be sent as congregational contribution to the UUSC Darfur Relief Fund. Please join us.
"Yeast Bread 101" will be set for Oct. 2nd after the service in the Sunnyhill kitchen. If anyone would like to join this service auction class, contact Mary Beth Thakar.
Workshop on Saturday, Nov 5 at First Church is with Rev. Forrest Church and Rev. Mark Belletini on the theme "Unitarian Universalist Values: A Vision for Our World" and it is bound to be a moving and educational seminar. Please refer to the dining
room for more details.
Fast for Darfur: On October 6th, concerned people around the world will be giving up a meal or luxury item and donating the money to humanitarian relief for civilians in Darfur, Sudan. The Faith in Action Committee will be enlisting fasters and taking donations on Sunday , October 2nd after both services. Donations will be sent as congregational contribution to the UUSC Darfur Relief Fund. Please join us.
"Yeast Bread 101" will be set for Oct. 2nd after the service in the Sunnyhill kitchen. If anyone would like to join this service auction class, contact Mary Beth Thakar.
Wednesday, September 21, 2005
Sunnyhill turns the big 4-0
Saturday, Sept 24, 2005, we're celebrating Sunnyhill's 40th Anniversary! The fun begins at 5:00 with a sing along with the choir. The food will be served at 6:30 (be sure to bring a dish that serves 8-10 people along with your own beverage). And at 8:00 there will be Informal Sunnyhill Sharing (babysitting available).
40th flashback.
Be sure to attend this Sunday's service as it will be presented by Sunnyhill founding members and organized by Lynn. Oh yeah, and don't forget to bring COOKIES for the cookie reception after each service!
This Sunday, Sept 25th during LifeCraft, Martha Sweeny and Tippi Comden have kindly offered to share some of Sunnyhill’s history with our children and youth. Everyone will meet at 10:30 and break into two groups: Grades 1-4 and grades 5-12. As part of the 40th anniversary festivities we hope the youth and children will enjoy listening to some stories about the church. For children under 5th grade, please sign up on LifeCraft sheet as usual and the babysitters will be sure to get the children to the right places at 10:30. There will be child care for younger children as usual.
40th flashback.
Be sure to attend this Sunday's service as it will be presented by Sunnyhill founding members and organized by Lynn. Oh yeah, and don't forget to bring COOKIES for the cookie reception after each service!
This Sunday, Sept 25th during LifeCraft, Martha Sweeny and Tippi Comden have kindly offered to share some of Sunnyhill’s history with our children and youth. Everyone will meet at 10:30 and break into two groups: Grades 1-4 and grades 5-12. As part of the 40th anniversary festivities we hope the youth and children will enjoy listening to some stories about the church. For children under 5th grade, please sign up on LifeCraft sheet as usual and the babysitters will be sure to get the children to the right places at 10:30. There will be child care for younger children as usual.
Let It Be a Dance: Living Life Fully
Ric & April Masten to lead a workshop in Western Mass.
October 28-30, 2005
at Rowe Conference Center in the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts
www.rowecenter.org
A “people’s poet,” “a priest and a preacher,” “poet and philosopher,” Ric Masten is recognized today as the creator of a unique genre of inspirational and spiritual poems meant to be spoken rather than read. Ric’s unusual candor, wit, insight, stand-up manner, and honesty address the magic that is in every moment in life – if we would but notice. Ric will offer us a series of presentations that will serve as ink blots to examine our own lives. We’ll explore why families matter and what keeps them going — full circle from grandparents to parents to spouses to children to grandchildren. We’ll explore growing up and growing old, youth and aging.
Ric and his daughter April will both share Ric’s poems. April will share some of her own, as well as dances that are easy and fun and get our energies circulating. Ric’s life shows that sharing creates intimacy and love, so we’ll all share some of our own lives. Bring your journals and we’ll write together. Robert Frost said, “When you want to do a ‘think,’ write about it.”
Saturday night will be a “live the metaphor” evening. We will Let It Be a Dance as April teaches dancing as a way to reconnect the mind and the body. We’ll join in a 19th Century reel, which is easy to learn, fun to do, and a great example of how dances mirror and reinforce society. Midwesterners worked together to survive, so after the barnraising, they’d eat and then dance. The dancing made the weariness from the day’s work vanish.
Sunday morning we will focus on philosophy and religion: matters of life and death, of hope and despair, of bringing our lives and our loves to fruition. Ric’s own life changed dramatically seven years ago when he was told he had terminal prostate cancer. He often expresses thanks for his cancer struggles. He’s been offered a lifetime – whatever the length – of enhanced hourly awareness. We invite you to share a weekend with him and his remarkable daughter April.
Following in the great tradition from Homer to Pete Seeger and Joan Baez, Ric Masten has been making his living by singing and reciting his own words. He does not look away; he found hatred in himself at a peace rally and spoke it. Now his grandson is a medic in Iraq. Ric is also an artist, whose paintings and one-line drawings filled our last catalogue. April Masten is an assistant professor of American History at SUNY Stony Brook, specializing in the History of Dance. Aside from being the “long suffering daughter” of a real artist and poet, Dr. Masten has developed research interests that include dances that were created along the borders between African, Irish, and Native North American cultures, including step and tap, ballads and blues, drums, fiddles, and bones. Her course “Dancing American History From Slavery to Hip Hop” enables her students to experience the steps people danced at particular times and places, enhancing their understanding of historical texts, events, and transformations.
Rowe Conference Center, Kings Highway Road, Rowe, MA 01367
413-339-4954
If you know of anyone who may enjoy this workshop, please pass along this flyer.
October 28-30, 2005
at Rowe Conference Center in the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts
www.rowecenter.org
A “people’s poet,” “a priest and a preacher,” “poet and philosopher,” Ric Masten is recognized today as the creator of a unique genre of inspirational and spiritual poems meant to be spoken rather than read. Ric’s unusual candor, wit, insight, stand-up manner, and honesty address the magic that is in every moment in life – if we would but notice. Ric will offer us a series of presentations that will serve as ink blots to examine our own lives. We’ll explore why families matter and what keeps them going — full circle from grandparents to parents to spouses to children to grandchildren. We’ll explore growing up and growing old, youth and aging.
Ric and his daughter April will both share Ric’s poems. April will share some of her own, as well as dances that are easy and fun and get our energies circulating. Ric’s life shows that sharing creates intimacy and love, so we’ll all share some of our own lives. Bring your journals and we’ll write together. Robert Frost said, “When you want to do a ‘think,’ write about it.”
Saturday night will be a “live the metaphor” evening. We will Let It Be a Dance as April teaches dancing as a way to reconnect the mind and the body. We’ll join in a 19th Century reel, which is easy to learn, fun to do, and a great example of how dances mirror and reinforce society. Midwesterners worked together to survive, so after the barnraising, they’d eat and then dance. The dancing made the weariness from the day’s work vanish.
Sunday morning we will focus on philosophy and religion: matters of life and death, of hope and despair, of bringing our lives and our loves to fruition. Ric’s own life changed dramatically seven years ago when he was told he had terminal prostate cancer. He often expresses thanks for his cancer struggles. He’s been offered a lifetime – whatever the length – of enhanced hourly awareness. We invite you to share a weekend with him and his remarkable daughter April.
Following in the great tradition from Homer to Pete Seeger and Joan Baez, Ric Masten has been making his living by singing and reciting his own words. He does not look away; he found hatred in himself at a peace rally and spoke it. Now his grandson is a medic in Iraq. Ric is also an artist, whose paintings and one-line drawings filled our last catalogue. April Masten is an assistant professor of American History at SUNY Stony Brook, specializing in the History of Dance. Aside from being the “long suffering daughter” of a real artist and poet, Dr. Masten has developed research interests that include dances that were created along the borders between African, Irish, and Native North American cultures, including step and tap, ballads and blues, drums, fiddles, and bones. Her course “Dancing American History From Slavery to Hip Hop” enables her students to experience the steps people danced at particular times and places, enhancing their understanding of historical texts, events, and transformations.
Rowe Conference Center, Kings Highway Road, Rowe, MA 01367
413-339-4954
If you know of anyone who may enjoy this workshop, please pass along this flyer.
New bylaws arrived as an email attachment
The bylaws arrived. They look much better. Some questions remain. What about your thoughts?
Sunday, September 04, 2005
Eight at Eight Sign-Up is now
Early September is the time to sign up for the Sunnyhill Eight at Eight round-robin dinners scheduled for October 1, 2005, November 5, December 10, and January 7, 2006.
Each person gets to host once providing the main course and beverages. Dishes, utensils, chairs and tables are optional. Guests provide one dish, coordinated with the host, usually and appetiser, vegetable, salad, or dessert. These are AWESOME ways to have good food, great drinks, and fun conversation with the finest folks in the area. Sign up by contacting Dennis S at 724 941-3952 or e-mail. The deadline is September 23.
While you are comteplating the glories of this Fall’s dinners how about talking it up with new members or people you would like to see join us. I cannot offer a bounty for each new diner but will remember you in my will.
Each person gets to host once providing the main course and beverages. Dishes, utensils, chairs and tables are optional. Guests provide one dish, coordinated with the host, usually and appetiser, vegetable, salad, or dessert. These are AWESOME ways to have good food, great drinks, and fun conversation with the finest folks in the area. Sign up by contacting Dennis S at 724 941-3952 or e-mail. The deadline is September 23.
While you are comteplating the glories of this Fall’s dinners how about talking it up with new members or people you would like to see join us. I cannot offer a bounty for each new diner but will remember you in my will.
Friday, September 02, 2005
Interesting visits and travels -- with water communion.
A Sunnyhill tradition is the water communion. People get to talk a bit about where they've been in the past year. In that spirit -- here is a quiz:
This is not a UU church, but it is a place of worship. Grant and I climbed the steps inside to reach the top. Can you guess what they call this building? Inside, one can leave offerings at various floors and near various statues and windows.
This is not a UU church, but it is a place of worship. Grant and I climbed the steps inside to reach the top. Can you guess what they call this building? Inside, one can leave offerings at various floors and near various statues and windows.
Sunday, September 11, 9:00 am and 11:30 am is the Gathering of the Waters, presented by Rev. Lynn Brodie. In addition to the annual service (bring water), there’s a 9 am Baby Dedication. Each service is followed by an Ice Cream Social.
Thursday, September 01, 2005
Pastoral message and solicitatin for funds to help victims of the hurricane.
Rev. Harlan Limpert, Director for District Services for the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) announced that there is a fund and message concerning the victims of the hurricane.
Tuesday, August 30, 2005
Monday, August 29, 2005
Flying Oyster Spotting in Digital Wasteland
Flying Oyster
Darrin, blogs are not pointless if they come from people who have points to make.
I think you should come up with a new tagline.
Darrin, blogs are not pointless if they come from people who have points to make.
I think you should come up with a new tagline.
Thursday, August 18, 2005
Chalice Circle Insights
Unitarian Universalist of the South Hills is launching a new endeavor. Details on Small Group Ministry follow.
Sunnyhill’s Small Group Ministry (SGM) is named our SGM Chalice Circles (CC). Small groups have become an important part of the life of UU churches as they have found that participants have established new and deeper connections with one another, and found a place for religious exploration and spiritual growth. At the same time they testify that their small groups are connected with one another and with the life of the whole congregation and with a larger vision of us as religious liberals, as Unitarian Universalists. Those of us on the steering committee for CC are very excited that Sunnyhill will have its own program starting the fall of 2005. Here are more details!
What’s Chalice Circle About?
SGM has been found to offer congregations another and sometimes better path to realize their missions as a liberal religious community. They maintain that to be a vibrant and vital religious community, resources must be devoted to four areas:
Worship: Worship is central to the life of congregations. SGM is intended not to replace, but to augment and strengthen that shared experience.
Community: Small groups meet the need for connection and intimacy that is both a deep hunger in our society and essential to the ongoing life of a religious community.
Learning: People come to the church seeking spiritual growth, seeking to know themselves better, to grow into their understanding of the world and to ponder the age old questions of faith; how to live, what to believe, how to act, what meanings we can decipher from the mystery of life.
Service: A life of faith is a life of service. As human beings, we seek to be of use and a healthy congregation needs to provide avenues through which we may serve.
Who is in charge of CC?
Lynn Brodie, our minister will coordinate and oversee the program. An Ad Hoc Committee planned the introduction of CC into the congregation and the Board of Trustees gave their approval. Facilitators will bring feedback and ideas to their meetings that help to guide the program.
What happens at a CC meeting?
The small group meetings are focused by a collection of sessions that have been developed by another congregation. We have purchased the first year’s program and each facilitator will get a copy of the session book.. Extra copies of this program will be available for $25. Our church is permitted to keep this money as a fundraiser. Topics include religious histories, spiritual practices, loneliness, fear, poetry, healing, etc. Groups may choose their own order, direction and pace. The session Plans are simple:
Opening Words: Gather people in, help settle folks down, serve to remind participants of the special opportunity of the gathering, and often reflect the topic of the evening. Some groups will light a Chalice as well.
Check-in: Participants share news of what has been happening in their lives. Each group develops it own customs as the length of sharing or how to respond. This portion of the meeting may expand from time to time when circumstances call for it.
Topic/Discussion: A paragraph or two lays out a topic and presents questions that will elicit thoughtful discussion and significant reflection. A group may stay with a topic several weeks or be done in one meeting.
Check-out: This is a positive format for feedback at the end of each meeting. Not every group will include this every time. An example would be: “I like how we approached the topic this evening, but I wish we had moved through the sharing a little more quickly.”
Closing Words: this brings the formal session to an end. Groups are encouraged to start and end on time.
Where do groups meet?
Each group decides whether to meet primarily in members home or at the church.
What is the role of the minister?
The minister oversees the coordination of the program. She helps to recruit and train facilitators, and meets with them each month to counsel and guide. She works with the steering committee in assigning new members to existing groups, recruiting and training new facilitators and in developing new groups.
What is expected of a Small group participant?
Participants are expected to bring a positive attitude, a willingness to share and learn. What has emerged as the most important expectation that participants have for one another is to give the agreed upon meetings a high priority. While no one can make every meeting, members must make an effort to attend.
What does the facilitators do? The Chalice Facilitators facilitate the life of the group. They make sure the group begins and ends on time, or they delegate someone to do so. They remind people of the next meeting and contact group members who miss a meeting or delegate someone to do so. During the meeting, they read from the Session plans and guide the discussion, or delegate someone to do so. They meet each month with the minister and other facilitators and help to maintain the connection between individual groups and the larger church.
Who will know what I say?
There is an expectation of confidentiality within the groups. The level of comfort around confidentiality will vary within groups, so participants are encouraged to review this expectation from time to time and to renew their covenant in regards to this. When there are significant pastoral concerns, a Facilitator may ask if they can share the concern with the minister.
How does Chalice Circles grow?
New groups will be formed as people become interested and new members arrive. As new groups are formed, apprentices or experienced group members step forward to become facilitators for new groups. And, as circumstances of people’s lives change, the membership of a group may change from time to time. While it is anticipated to be sad to say goodbye, new members will be warmly welcomed and expand the circle of the connection.
What is the ideal size of participants for a Chalice Circle?
The ideal size of a chalice circle is 8-10 people. Other groups have found when the groups are greater than 10 people, intimacy wanes and participants are not able to interact as freely.
Is Chalice Circle therapy?
No. While it is expected that participants in our groups will report feeling better connected and happier in their lives, CC is not therapy. Professional therapy is readily available in our communities; we offer connection, reflection, community and spiritual growth.
How does the idea of service fit in?
From the beginning of our planning, the idea of service will be woven into the fabric of CC. We ask every group, over time, to take on some kind of service in the church community. This might be performing some maintenance project at the church, adopting a family in need over the holiday or guiding a fundraiser during the year. Service on behalf of the church is important for two reasons. First, it helps to offset the natural tendency of small, intimate groups to become self absorbed and disconnected, and second, because a necessary aspect of a growing spiritual life, a life of faith is service.
What is a Covenant and why is it necessary?
Each group will be asked to make a covenant between themselves either the second or third meeting. The purpose of the covenant is to have an agreement about how the groups’ members wish to be together. The questions most often dealt with in a covenant include but are not limited to the following:
Arrangements
Where shall we meet?
When shall we meet and for how long?
Respect for one another’s time
Do we agree to arrive by a stated time? How many minutes early is it okay for us to arrive?
Do we agree to start the meeting at the announced starting time, or is it our plan to start later than we say we’re going to?
Do we agree to stop each meeting by the announced ending time? Any exceptions?
Commitment to attend
Do we agree to make every attempt to attend each meeting?
Do we agree to let someone know in advance if we are going to have to be absent?
Sharing “airtime”
How much time do we want to allot to each person for check-in? How much time for check-out?
If someone has a need for a longer time to check in, how do we decide to allow for more time?
Do we agree to refrain from commenting on what people say during check-in until all of us have had the chance to check in?
Do we agree to monitor our own vocalizations to be sure that time is shared equitably?
General Respect
Shall we discourage advice giving?
Shall we avoid criticizing others while allowing for the critical consideration of ideas and beliefs?
Service to others
Shall we agree to spawn another group whenever our membership reaches eight or ten?
Shall we agree to find at least one way each year, as a group, to serve our church?
Shall we agree to find at leas tone way, two ways each year, as a gruop, to serve our larger community?
Why call it small group ministry?
We at Sunnyhill have come to envision the ministry of the congregations being widely shared. The called and settled professional minister is an important component, certainly, but so is the ministry of the laity. The ministry of our religious community is the work of the whole community. Our Chalice Circle as our small group ministry will be known, will encourage religious connections within the context of ongoing small groups.
How often do groups meet?
Each group develops its own schedule; the most common pattern in other churches is to meet twice a month on the first and third or second and forth week schedule. That makes scheduling easier and allows for a three-week interval from time to time. Some groups can choose to meet every week, every third week or once a month. Other churches have noted that meeting once a month does not seem to foster the connectedness that is essential for a successful SGM. You will be asked to designate how often and what days you want to meet and will be placed in a group accordingly.
How long will I be in a group?
We have decided to run our first program from the beginning of October 2005 until the end of May 2006. We have built an annual reassignment date into the program when everyone has a chance to recommit to the group they are in, or ask to join another group.
How does a person join?
Sign up sheets will be available from mid August and into September of 2005.
The above was taken from adapted from, “An Updated, Small Group Ministry Resource Book” and edited to reflect the message from Sunnyhill Steering Committee on SGM, CC.
Original source: Patricia Williams
Sunnyhill’s Small Group Ministry (SGM) is named our SGM Chalice Circles (CC). Small groups have become an important part of the life of UU churches as they have found that participants have established new and deeper connections with one another, and found a place for religious exploration and spiritual growth. At the same time they testify that their small groups are connected with one another and with the life of the whole congregation and with a larger vision of us as religious liberals, as Unitarian Universalists. Those of us on the steering committee for CC are very excited that Sunnyhill will have its own program starting the fall of 2005. Here are more details!
What’s Chalice Circle About?
SGM has been found to offer congregations another and sometimes better path to realize their missions as a liberal religious community. They maintain that to be a vibrant and vital religious community, resources must be devoted to four areas:
Worship: Worship is central to the life of congregations. SGM is intended not to replace, but to augment and strengthen that shared experience.
Community: Small groups meet the need for connection and intimacy that is both a deep hunger in our society and essential to the ongoing life of a religious community.
Learning: People come to the church seeking spiritual growth, seeking to know themselves better, to grow into their understanding of the world and to ponder the age old questions of faith; how to live, what to believe, how to act, what meanings we can decipher from the mystery of life.
Service: A life of faith is a life of service. As human beings, we seek to be of use and a healthy congregation needs to provide avenues through which we may serve.
Who is in charge of CC?
Lynn Brodie, our minister will coordinate and oversee the program. An Ad Hoc Committee planned the introduction of CC into the congregation and the Board of Trustees gave their approval. Facilitators will bring feedback and ideas to their meetings that help to guide the program.
What happens at a CC meeting?
The small group meetings are focused by a collection of sessions that have been developed by another congregation. We have purchased the first year’s program and each facilitator will get a copy of the session book.. Extra copies of this program will be available for $25. Our church is permitted to keep this money as a fundraiser. Topics include religious histories, spiritual practices, loneliness, fear, poetry, healing, etc. Groups may choose their own order, direction and pace. The session Plans are simple:
Opening Words: Gather people in, help settle folks down, serve to remind participants of the special opportunity of the gathering, and often reflect the topic of the evening. Some groups will light a Chalice as well.
Check-in: Participants share news of what has been happening in their lives. Each group develops it own customs as the length of sharing or how to respond. This portion of the meeting may expand from time to time when circumstances call for it.
Topic/Discussion: A paragraph or two lays out a topic and presents questions that will elicit thoughtful discussion and significant reflection. A group may stay with a topic several weeks or be done in one meeting.
Check-out: This is a positive format for feedback at the end of each meeting. Not every group will include this every time. An example would be: “I like how we approached the topic this evening, but I wish we had moved through the sharing a little more quickly.”
Closing Words: this brings the formal session to an end. Groups are encouraged to start and end on time.
Where do groups meet?
Each group decides whether to meet primarily in members home or at the church.
What is the role of the minister?
The minister oversees the coordination of the program. She helps to recruit and train facilitators, and meets with them each month to counsel and guide. She works with the steering committee in assigning new members to existing groups, recruiting and training new facilitators and in developing new groups.
What is expected of a Small group participant?
Participants are expected to bring a positive attitude, a willingness to share and learn. What has emerged as the most important expectation that participants have for one another is to give the agreed upon meetings a high priority. While no one can make every meeting, members must make an effort to attend.
What does the facilitators do? The Chalice Facilitators facilitate the life of the group. They make sure the group begins and ends on time, or they delegate someone to do so. They remind people of the next meeting and contact group members who miss a meeting or delegate someone to do so. During the meeting, they read from the Session plans and guide the discussion, or delegate someone to do so. They meet each month with the minister and other facilitators and help to maintain the connection between individual groups and the larger church.
Who will know what I say?
There is an expectation of confidentiality within the groups. The level of comfort around confidentiality will vary within groups, so participants are encouraged to review this expectation from time to time and to renew their covenant in regards to this. When there are significant pastoral concerns, a Facilitator may ask if they can share the concern with the minister.
How does Chalice Circles grow?
New groups will be formed as people become interested and new members arrive. As new groups are formed, apprentices or experienced group members step forward to become facilitators for new groups. And, as circumstances of people’s lives change, the membership of a group may change from time to time. While it is anticipated to be sad to say goodbye, new members will be warmly welcomed and expand the circle of the connection.
What is the ideal size of participants for a Chalice Circle?
The ideal size of a chalice circle is 8-10 people. Other groups have found when the groups are greater than 10 people, intimacy wanes and participants are not able to interact as freely.
Is Chalice Circle therapy?
No. While it is expected that participants in our groups will report feeling better connected and happier in their lives, CC is not therapy. Professional therapy is readily available in our communities; we offer connection, reflection, community and spiritual growth.
How does the idea of service fit in?
From the beginning of our planning, the idea of service will be woven into the fabric of CC. We ask every group, over time, to take on some kind of service in the church community. This might be performing some maintenance project at the church, adopting a family in need over the holiday or guiding a fundraiser during the year. Service on behalf of the church is important for two reasons. First, it helps to offset the natural tendency of small, intimate groups to become self absorbed and disconnected, and second, because a necessary aspect of a growing spiritual life, a life of faith is service.
What is a Covenant and why is it necessary?
Each group will be asked to make a covenant between themselves either the second or third meeting. The purpose of the covenant is to have an agreement about how the groups’ members wish to be together. The questions most often dealt with in a covenant include but are not limited to the following:
Arrangements
Where shall we meet?
When shall we meet and for how long?
Respect for one another’s time
Do we agree to arrive by a stated time? How many minutes early is it okay for us to arrive?
Do we agree to start the meeting at the announced starting time, or is it our plan to start later than we say we’re going to?
Do we agree to stop each meeting by the announced ending time? Any exceptions?
Commitment to attend
Do we agree to make every attempt to attend each meeting?
Do we agree to let someone know in advance if we are going to have to be absent?
Sharing “airtime”
How much time do we want to allot to each person for check-in? How much time for check-out?
If someone has a need for a longer time to check in, how do we decide to allow for more time?
Do we agree to refrain from commenting on what people say during check-in until all of us have had the chance to check in?
Do we agree to monitor our own vocalizations to be sure that time is shared equitably?
General Respect
Shall we discourage advice giving?
Shall we avoid criticizing others while allowing for the critical consideration of ideas and beliefs?
Service to others
Shall we agree to spawn another group whenever our membership reaches eight or ten?
Shall we agree to find at least one way each year, as a group, to serve our church?
Shall we agree to find at leas tone way, two ways each year, as a gruop, to serve our larger community?
Why call it small group ministry?
We at Sunnyhill have come to envision the ministry of the congregations being widely shared. The called and settled professional minister is an important component, certainly, but so is the ministry of the laity. The ministry of our religious community is the work of the whole community. Our Chalice Circle as our small group ministry will be known, will encourage religious connections within the context of ongoing small groups.
How often do groups meet?
Each group develops its own schedule; the most common pattern in other churches is to meet twice a month on the first and third or second and forth week schedule. That makes scheduling easier and allows for a three-week interval from time to time. Some groups can choose to meet every week, every third week or once a month. Other churches have noted that meeting once a month does not seem to foster the connectedness that is essential for a successful SGM. You will be asked to designate how often and what days you want to meet and will be placed in a group accordingly.
How long will I be in a group?
We have decided to run our first program from the beginning of October 2005 until the end of May 2006. We have built an annual reassignment date into the program when everyone has a chance to recommit to the group they are in, or ask to join another group.
How does a person join?
Sign up sheets will be available from mid August and into September of 2005.
The above was taken from adapted from, “An Updated, Small Group Ministry Resource Book” and edited to reflect the message from Sunnyhill Steering Committee on SGM, CC.
Original source: Patricia Williams
Monday, August 15, 2005
UUs to hear about PUSH from Molly Rush
Molly Rush is presenting to a small group of UUs about PUSH this Thursday evening at Allegheny U.U. Church. I'm going to try to attend. Karen Z has gone to these meetings in the past.
Sunday, August 14, 2005
B l o g - L e b o: New Link: Sunnyhill
B l o g - L e b o: New Link: Sunnyhill: "New Link: Sunnyhill"
Check out the new blog about Mt. Lebo. The host there put up links to our church site and our blog.
So now we are pointing at this guy in the mirror who is pointing back to us. Make's your head spin, UU, Quaker, Budah, or Methodist! :)
Check out the new blog about Mt. Lebo. The host there put up links to our church site and our blog.
So now we are pointing at this guy in the mirror who is pointing back to us. Make's your head spin, UU, Quaker, Budah, or Methodist! :)
Thursday, July 28, 2005
UU's gather on August 6 at noon
The recently formed UU's United for Faith In Action are sponsoring the picnic on Saturday Aug 6th from 12-5 PM. It is at Sunnyhill and involves all the area UU churches. We already have over 30 people signed up from First Church. I throw the gauntlet, as hosts, there really shouldn’t be more of them than us. Bring a pot luck dish/salad to share. Dessert will be provided. Games, instruments, etc. are requested. There are a lot of picnics going on, but this one is in our back yard! If possible, please sign up by Sunday the 31st.
Posting from Karen Z.
Posting from Karen Z.
Wednesday, July 27, 2005
Picnic for Sunnyhill
Noon, Sunday Aug 14, 2005, at Braddock Grove in South Park.
Please join us for a picnic after church. We request that you bring something to
share according to the first letter of your last name.
(A-H) Salad
(I-P) Dessert
(Q-Z) Snack food (chips and dip, veggie tray...)
A grill and charcoal will be provided, but you must bring your own meat.
Also, we are collecting $5 from each family in order to buy the beer and the
soft drinks. See us after services, or mail a check to 1286 Lakemont Dr.
Pittsburgh, PA 15243.
Please join us for a picnic after church. We request that you bring something to
share according to the first letter of your last name.
(A-H) Salad
(I-P) Dessert
(Q-Z) Snack food (chips and dip, veggie tray...)
A grill and charcoal will be provided, but you must bring your own meat.
Also, we are collecting $5 from each family in order to buy the beer and the
soft drinks. See us after services, or mail a check to 1286 Lakemont Dr.
Pittsburgh, PA 15243.
Family Services are changing this year!
Although the Children’s Choir will sing, as usual, we are going to try out a new format for the service.
If you did not receive the following letter by mail, with
an interest form & a registration form to fill out, please contact Patricia.
Unitarian Universalist Religious Education has been changing over the past years, moving away from a model of “Sunday School classes” and towards varied models such as “workshop rotations” and “small groups.” We are not radically transforming Sunnyhill’s RE this year but, in the spirit of seeking better ways to religiously educate our children and youth, we are going to try a few new ideas.
Parent(s) and families are the primary religious educators of children and youth-but what does that mean?
This year we are asking that you participate at least once during the year, as a family, in a new type of “Family Service” we are offering.
These services will be different from those of the past years. Using “interest forms” you should have received & returned, we will compile a monthly LifeCraft Family Service with particular families, age groups, or themes in mind. Of course the services will be open to all, but we will extend a special invitation to particular families based on interests or other criteria (such as a service for youth and their families).
We may ask your family to do some preliminary discussion for the service and we may leave you with ideas to carry off and implement in your family if you wish. Even if your child(ren) or youth have not come to a LifeCraft Family Service in the past I hope you will make an effort to attend just one service this church year as a family.
The schedule will be posted in the Prospectus (program guide) to be mailed out in August, and will be followed with a personal invitation to a service that might interest you.
Give this new idea a try and let us know if it meets the needs of your families. It should make clearer the idea that parents and guardians provide much of their children’s religious education.
Also, if any of you are participating in the new “Chalice Circles”
(small group ministry) over the upcoming year, keep in mind it’s
a model we can try to incorporate in RE in the future as well.
Many thanks for your willingness to participate in something
new at Sunnyhill!
From Patricia Loverich Bernard, Director of Religious Education
If you did not receive the following letter by mail, with
an interest form & a registration form to fill out, please contact Patricia.
Unitarian Universalist Religious Education has been changing over the past years, moving away from a model of “Sunday School classes” and towards varied models such as “workshop rotations” and “small groups.” We are not radically transforming Sunnyhill’s RE this year but, in the spirit of seeking better ways to religiously educate our children and youth, we are going to try a few new ideas.
Parent(s) and families are the primary religious educators of children and youth-but what does that mean?
This year we are asking that you participate at least once during the year, as a family, in a new type of “Family Service” we are offering.
These services will be different from those of the past years. Using “interest forms” you should have received & returned, we will compile a monthly LifeCraft Family Service with particular families, age groups, or themes in mind. Of course the services will be open to all, but we will extend a special invitation to particular families based on interests or other criteria (such as a service for youth and their families).
We may ask your family to do some preliminary discussion for the service and we may leave you with ideas to carry off and implement in your family if you wish. Even if your child(ren) or youth have not come to a LifeCraft Family Service in the past I hope you will make an effort to attend just one service this church year as a family.
The schedule will be posted in the Prospectus (program guide) to be mailed out in August, and will be followed with a personal invitation to a service that might interest you.
Give this new idea a try and let us know if it meets the needs of your families. It should make clearer the idea that parents and guardians provide much of their children’s religious education.
Also, if any of you are participating in the new “Chalice Circles”
(small group ministry) over the upcoming year, keep in mind it’s
a model we can try to incorporate in RE in the future as well.
Many thanks for your willingness to participate in something
new at Sunnyhill!
From Patricia Loverich Bernard, Director of Religious Education
Services in August 2005
Sunday, August 7, 10:30am
Emile Zola, Presented by Paul F. Laughlin
An examination of the life and work of a literary giant with a strong social consciousness, who placed himself in the forefront of one moral crusade after another.
He is especially known for "J'accuse", his defense of captain Alfred Dreyfus, a French Army Officer who was falsely accused of treason.
Sunday, August 14, 10:30am
Intimacy in a Growing Church. Presented by Rev. Lynn Brodie
This Sunday Lynn Brodie, minister, will address the issue of maintaining intimacy
as the church grows and introduce our new Chalice Circle program. Sign up for circles will begin after the service.
Sunday, August 21, 10:30am
Garden Festival Sunday, Presented by Rev. Lynn Brodie
Two years in a row makes it a Sunnyhill tradition. Bring a vegetable or fruit or
flower from your own harvest or from the bounty of the marketplace as we share in this celebration of abundance. Held outdoors weather permitting.
Sunday, August 28, 10:30am
Church Faith and Belief, Presented by Ken Wagner
Emile Zola, Presented by Paul F. Laughlin
An examination of the life and work of a literary giant with a strong social consciousness, who placed himself in the forefront of one moral crusade after another.
He is especially known for "J'accuse", his defense of captain Alfred Dreyfus, a French Army Officer who was falsely accused of treason.
Sunday, August 14, 10:30am
Intimacy in a Growing Church. Presented by Rev. Lynn Brodie
This Sunday Lynn Brodie, minister, will address the issue of maintaining intimacy
as the church grows and introduce our new Chalice Circle program. Sign up for circles will begin after the service.
Sunday, August 21, 10:30am
Garden Festival Sunday, Presented by Rev. Lynn Brodie
Two years in a row makes it a Sunnyhill tradition. Bring a vegetable or fruit or
flower from your own harvest or from the bounty of the marketplace as we share in this celebration of abundance. Held outdoors weather permitting.
Sunday, August 28, 10:30am
Church Faith and Belief, Presented by Ken Wagner
Saturday, July 16, 2005
Mindy sings a concert at 10 am at First Unitarian on Sunday
Mindy Simmons performs on Sunday morning at 10 am at First Unitarian. She has a wonderful voice, message and performance with her guitar.
This is a Sunday worship service. The event is free. And, she is doing more than just a few tunes. She is leading the service.
Reminder!
This is a Sunday worship service. The event is free. And, she is doing more than just a few tunes. She is leading the service.
Reminder!
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