USH-Enews December 7, 2006 Print Only Edition

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Word Version of this document in color with photographs, which will print nicely for those who use Microsoft Word.

This is the print only edition of the USH-Enews. Photos and other graphical elements have been removed. Print is mostly black on white.

Friday, December 1, 2006 the St. Petersburg Men's Ensemble (Kirill Sokolov, Valery Starodubtsev, Vadim Smantser and Evgeny Vischnevsky) appearing in costume at USH after the intermission and, below, the appreciative audience giving a standing ovation following a spectacular performance featuring 21 songs ranging from "Bless the Lord, O My Soul" to "Twelve Robbers." The Ensemble also appeared a both services on Sunday. Other programs planned by the Unitarian Performing Arts Sub-Council include Vaugh Mauren, Organist, Friday, February 23, 2007; Doin' Time at the Homo Nomo Halfway House, Saturday March 10, 2007; and An Arabian Adventure, Saturday, May 19, 2007.

The USH-Enews is a weekly email newsletter sent to members and friends of the Unitarian Society of Hartford. The USH web address is: http://www.ushartford.com/ Check at the end of this USH-Enews for information on submissions, subscriptions and escape from the mailing list. And, to read the monthly Meetinghouse Messenger (newsletter) on line, or past issues of the USH-Enews click here.

Office hours: M-F 9-3 (excluding W 10 -11); Rev. Jamestone: Phone: 860 233-9897; Email: RevBJ@USHartford.com - Office hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday - Available at the noon hour and at other times by appointment.

Let us dispel the darkness with advent light during this season of candles. Photo by Debra Neill-Mareci

Sunday 10 December - Holy Cows and Other Signs of Hope - Lord Buddha taught that ‘hoping’ is like expecting to get milk from the horns of a bull, that is, not practical or reasonable. Norman Cousins thought differently, as he explained in, “Head First: A Biology of Hope.”

Music: A little preview of Music Sunday: a chorus from The Christmas Story by Heinrich Schutz ushers in the Advent season. Schutz lived exactly one century before Bach and pioneered effects like a rocking cradle with music.

Ember Days: Practicing the establishment of Peace on Earth with Rev. BJ - During Winter Ember days at USH, we will reflect on the practice of peace, as it is experienced in lectio divina, the prayful reading of texts. Using the words of Thich Nhat Hahn and Jesus, men known for bringing peace to the hearts of many, we will practice establishing peace of mind, heart, and body during the busy holiday season. December 13, 12 to 2 PM and December 15 and 16, 6 to 8 pm. There is no cost for these sessions. Bring your journal, and a blanket or cushion if you like as we will be "sitting." In the Chapel.

A Word from Rev BJ - Look what I ran across in a December 2005 USH-Enews article from Rev. Sutherland:

“On Christmas Eve we will honor the fact that as Sophia Fahs wrote, “Every night a child is born is a Holy Night…” We will then read the names of children born to this congregation in the year 2005. To do so, we need the names and dates of birth of your children, nieces, nephews, and grandchildren who came to us this year.”

What a LOVELY ritual and tradition for us to continue! So, please everyone do send ME the names and birth dates of any babies delivered into YOUR life in 2006, and we’ll read them on Christmas Eve morning!

The busyness of the season is upon us. Pace yourselves, dear ones! I will be doing my Ember Days practice on three days this month, if you are looking for a space to stop, release the tension, open to the energy of the ultimate, and contemplate peace for a couple of hours! - Warm regards, Rev. BJ

For many of us, the sometimes-too-short month between Thanksgiving and Christmas becomes a harried time of trying to get it all done. To Reverend BJ, these days of Advent can become a time to receive peace, a time to release the determination to go it all alone, and a time to see the “sacred in the ordinary.” “No matter how far you’ve traveled,” she said in her opening invocation, “it’s time to come home.”

In her homily during the December 3 Sunday service, Reverend BJ invited us “to come with me in that space between the words.” She suggested that, since we are always on a bridge, waiting, we might as well enjoy the view from the bridge.

“Why do I love Advent?” she wondered. She admitted that she grew up attending simple worship services, without nativity stained glass windows. She further admitted that Advent is not part of her current faith structure, either. Or, as she put it, “Advent is just not too cool here.”

But there is something about the ritual she loves. It is a time between wanting and having, between loving and losing, and “waiting is a natural part of things.” In this waiting period, she said, we can find within ourselves all that we need and all we have to do. This month, she urged, let us set aide skepticism, education and sophistication, look to the stars in the sky “and let Christmas come.” - Kayla Costenoble

Reverend William Sinkford - Location: MA - 02108 - Marching Since: October 27, 2005 - I join this cyber march against global warming, and encourage other Unitarian Universalists to do so, because it is an act of love to speak out on behalf of those without voice. As people of faith, we are called to speak out for the many species that are suffering and becoming extinct. We are called to speak out for Arctic Circle villagers, where thousands of years of subsistence living is sinking with the ice which can no longer hold seals or hunters. We are called to speak for our children and grandchildren, whose very survival on this planet will be thrown into question in ways we cannot yet imagine

I join this cyber march against global warming, and encourage other Unitarian Universalists to do so, because it is an act of faith to speak out on behalf of our earth. For hundreds of years, our theology has been radically incarnational--we do not understand the Holy to be separate from this life, on this planet, made manifest in concrete acts of caring for one another in our mutual vulnerability. As we sing out praises for the beauty of the earth, we also sing out commitment to protect that beauty.

I join this cyber march against global warming, and encourage other Unitarian Universalists to do so, because it is an act of justice to speak out in solidarity with others who take risks for us all. We honor the wisdom of the scientific community which has pointed out to us that we're in trouble and warned us that we must change what we are doing immediately. We honor the wisdom of those many nations which are committed to acting together to reverse the horrific trends which we see today. Because those in power too often focus on immediate profits rather than long term sustainability, we must speak with the voice of a million, demanding reverence for life.

Join us. March with us. Encourage your congregation's members to sign on. In this marching, may we know our faith more deeply, and may our faith give us strength to continue on the long journey home that we can only make together.

The Greater Hartford Interfaith Coalition for Equity and Justice (ICEJ) - PLEASE COME and join Rev. BJ and others at an INTERFAITH SERVICE TONIGHT December 7th!!! Where and when: Hartford Seminary: 77 Sherman Street in Hartford at 6pm. "Igniting Passion for Justice: A time for worship and shared reflection".

This is part of the "FIRST EVER" interdenominational social justice service in which USH is involved. Through the efforts of GHICEJ, a series of clustered interdenominational services are being held all over the greater Hartford area. Ours (USH) is scheduled for today, Thursday Dec 7th at the Hartford Seminary at 6PM. (more details)

Come One, Come All! - Once upon a time, Noah Webster said, “fes-ti-valn. 1. An occasion for feasting or

celebration, esp. a day or time of religious significance that occurs at regular intervals.”

Today, Bill LaPorte-Bryan who’s coordinating the preparations for our festival says, “Come One! Come All! … to our Festival of the Season on Saturday” Yes, that is this Saturday 12-9!

And, Ann LaPorte-Bryan says, “Everyone from 1 to 100, come and make crafts.”

And, Mattie Banzhaf says, “Come to the Chapel and enjoy some great music and singing while nibbling on Helen David’s tasty treats.”

And, Patrice Fitzgerald says, “Join the community worship service and make a glad noise.”

And, Janice Newton says, “Let’s all feast in Fellowship Hall listening to Sid's piano music and later singing along with John Stowe."

And, Tracie Hardison says, “Have fun and don’t forget to bring your hats, mittens, suitcases, duffel bags or backpacks for a present to a child who will love it and you this holiday season.”

All LGBT members and supportive family & friends are welcome to join in a meeting on Sunday, Dec 17th from 10 - 11 in Channing. The meeting will be to discuss plans for both social and educational events this coming year at USH. Light refreshments will be served. Come ready to share ideas or just to listen in and learn more about what activities will be happening in 2007. To RSVP or get more information please contact Peg Otto at pegotto(at symbol)sbcglobal.net.

Come to RE 101 -Everyone's invited to crash course RE 101. What's RE 101? Come to the library next Sunday December 17th after either service and find out. No prerequisites, not even being a parent! Bring curiosity about communicating our faith to our children. Auditors completely welcome. All materials provided if considering continuation to RE 201 (for teachers). Questions? E-mail Nina at NBininBerg(at symbol)aol.com, or call 673-6180.

From Adult Programs - Registrations for the following programs will be taken this Sunday during coffee hour following the 9 and 11 AM services. Also, you might want to check out the book cart for a gift idea during this holiday season.

Ember Days (see above)

Tai Chi and Feldenkrais will be starting Wednesday, January 3, 2007 for 8 weeks. A 1/2 price ($45 for an 8 week session) is now available for students.

*** SPECIAL OFFER for those of you who would like to "try one session". You are invited to come to the first class of Feldenkrais, 5:15 - 6:15 pm or Tai Chi, 6:30 - 7:30 pm on January 3.

A Feldenkrais session consists of a planned sequence of directed body movements so body and mind focus on learned /habitual movements and the possible range of motion. Feldenkrais helps to find different ways to do movements. If you are limited in doing a movement or have pain doing the movement, it opens up new pathways. Sedentary or less agile people can profit as well as those who are athletic. Generally the sessions help participants increase ease and range of motion, improve flexibility and coordination, and rediscover the body’s innate capacity for graceful, efficient movement. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and bring a mat.

Tai Chi is a martial art that improves your flexibility, balance, endurance, concentration and inner peace. Movements are slow, rhythmic and gentle. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and soft, lightweight shoes, although bare feet are fine as well. Our instructor, Monika Forstner, has taught various forms of Tai Chi for ten years and is a nationally licensed AMTA member.

Two Year Calendars are on sale now by the Women's Alliance. Stop in Fellowship Hall after services each Sunday through Jan. 7, still just $2 each or three for $5.

Caring Network: I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. And I will not let what I cannot do interfere with what I can do. ~Edward Everett Hale - You are the ears of the Caring Network. Tell Janice Newton 677-1121 when you learn of our members enduring the stresses of life so we can reach out to those in need. - Offer your services.

ON THE CALENDAR:

Friday, December 8
5:30 pm Dinner and Movie, North by Northwest, Fellowship Hall

Saturday, December 9
3:00 – 7:30 pm Festival of the Season, building wide
9:00 pm Youth Group Sleepover

Sunday, December 10
8:00 am Music Rehearsal, Sanctuary
8:15 am Adult Programs, Servetus
9:00 am Worship Service I, Sanctuary
10:00 am Coffee Hour I, Fellowship Hall
10:00 am Children’s Choir, Chapel
10:00 am Comfort Shawl, Library
10:00 am B&G, Murray
10:00 am Growth Task Force, Channing
10:15 am Music Rehearsal, Sanctuary
10:30 AM Chalice Choir, Emerson
11:00 am Worship Service II, Sanctuary
12:00 pm Coffee Hour II, Fellowship Hall
12:15 pm Coffee, Carrots, and Conversation w/Minister, Minister's Study

Monday, December 11
6:30 pm SIA, Emerson
7:00 pm Artist's Way, Servetus
7:00 pm SGM, David
7:00 pm Worship, Davidson home

Tuesday, December 12
6:00 pm Caring Network, Servetus
7:00 pm Religious Education, Servetus
8:00 pm AA, Fellowship Hall

Wednesday December 13
10:00 am Staff Meeting, Minister's Study (Office Closed)
11:00 am Chancel Design Team, Sanctuary
12:00 – 2:00 pm Ember Days, Chapel
6:00 pm Choir, Sanctuary

Thursday, December 14
9:30 am International Women’s Circle, Fellowship Hall
12:00 noon Women’s Alliance Holiday Party, Library
7:00 pm CDL, Chapel

Friday, December 15
6:00 – 8:00 pm Ember Days, Chapel

Saturday, December 16
9:00 am Music Rehearsal, Sanctuary
6:00 – 8:00 pm Ember Days, Chapel

Sunday, December 17
8:00 am Music Rehearsal, Sanctuary
9:00 am WORSHIP SERVICE I, Sanctuary
10:00 am Coffee Hour, Fellowship Hall
10:00 am Children's Choir, Chapel
10:00 am Disabilities, Murray
10:00 am Welcoming Congregation, Channing
10:00 am RE 101, Library
10:15 am Music Rehearsal, Sanctuary
10:30 am Chalice Choir, Emerson
11:00 am WORSHIP SERVICE I, Sanctuary
12:00 pm Coffee Hour II, Fellowship Hall
12:00 pm RE 101, Library
12:15 pm Coffee, Carrots, and Conversation w/Minister, Minister's Study

To get on the calendar, call 233.9897

Save the Date and Plan to Join Us
on Tuesday, January 23, 2007 for the
3rd Annual Public Meeting of the
Greater Hartford Interfaith Coalition for Equity and Justice.

All 35 member congregations will gather for a Call to Action on issues of Health Care, Tax Reform, Equity in Education, Civil Rights for Immigrants, Safe Neighborhoods
Stop by the Social Justice Table in Fellowship Hall on Sunday
to Learn More and Register to Attend this important event! - Contact: Carol Shoemaker 860-231-9440,or Shai Cassell 860-930-4278

UUSC JustWorks Camp - Participate in the Katrina rebuilding effort by taking part in the JustWorks camp in New Orleans FEB. 3-10. More information

Note for Your Busy December Calendars:

Dec 17, the standard 2 services at 9 and 11AM --Many thanks to you the choir and Mattie for doing the huge labor of love in providing us with our holiday music program TWICE.

What’s Wrong and Right with the News Media - Veteran journalist Paul Janensch, whose media critiques are heard weekly on WNPR, will lead the group in a lively conversation on the “Hot button” topic, “What’s Wrong and Right with the New Media at a forum at the Unitarian Universalist Society: East (UUS:E) on Sunday, December 10 at 6:30 PM. As a part of the Social Justice program at UUS:E, located at 153 West Vernon Street, Manchester, this forum is open to the public to come and learn about the ways in which the media functions.

Janensch is now associate professor journalism at Quinnipiac University in Hamden, CT. He served as the top editor of three newspapers including the Courier-Journal in Louisville, KY. As a reporter, he covered crime in Chicago, civil-rights marches in the South and the Congressional debates over Vietnam. His “Professor News” column appears in the Connecticut Post twice a month. He is heard at 8:35 A.M. Thursdays on the five stations of WNPR Connecticut Public Radio, including 90.5 in Hartford. He and his wife Gail live in Rowayton, CT.

The public is urged to attend to discuss concerns such as corporate consolidation, bias in stories, lack of coverage of issues important to individuals. Janensch will tackle these issues as well as whether newspapers and TV newscasts will become obsolete with the growth of blogs, e-newsletter and other alternative sources of information. He will address the reasons why broadly disseminated new media are still vital and relevant and the ways that consumers can help to make them more accountable.

Unitarian Universalist Society, a welcoming, liberal, religious community, will welcome Mr. Janensch and invites the community to come to hear him speak. For information on accessibility, childcare and directions to UUS:E, contact the office at 646-5151.

A Few Words About Our Roots From The Book, Hartford Unitarianism 1844 -1994 by Freeman Meyer:

It was not until 1971 that women first served as ushers for the Sunday morning services, thanks to the initiative of Joyce Bauer (Yes, she sings in the choir now!). Mary Scriver and Joane Papanek served as ministerial interns during the late 1970s and early '80s. Laywomen have also played prominent roles in denominational affairs. Between 1969 and 1973, for example, Alice Kimball served as national president of the Unitarian Universalist Women's Federation, and Kit Northup was President of the Connecticut Valley District during the mid-1980s. She, Dorothy Fowler, Toni Thomas and Peg Van Dyke (We interrupt ourselves to announce a new contest: first prize awarded to the person who first reports to the USH-Enews Editor that s/he wished each and all of the Ladies whose names appear in bold in this paragraph a happy holiday season.) have followed in Mildred MacDougald's Presidential footsteps in recent years.