|
|
|
Cedar Lane Unitarian Universalist Church
www.cedarlane.org | ENewsletter Volume 4, Issue 28
January 6, 2012
| |
|
January 8, 2012, 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. in the sanctuary
The Rev. Mark Kiyimba
The Rev. Mark Kiyimba, minister of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Kampala, Uganda, will be our guest.
Volunteers for the Service:
Ushers: 9 a.m.: Norman Grossblatt, Tod Chernikoff, Mary Farrar, Bob Harrison, 11 a.m.: Phil Schwartz & Lyn Peters, Steve & Ardene Shafer
Coffee Servers: 10 a.m.: Emily Holdenried, Mike Benefiel, noon: Kate Curtis
Audio: Bob Pechacek
Beacon Books Cart: 10 a.m.: Gerry Peterson
Board Member at the Office Desk: 10 a.m.: Liz Nadeau, noon:Debbie Goodwin
Visitor's Center: 10 a.m.: Mary Farrar, noon: Maryann Dillon
The flowers in the sanctuary were given by Chris Garland in celebration of her husband, Brent Garland's, birthday this Sunday! The flowers were arranged by Betty May Cleary. The flowers in the chapel were arranged by Barbara Potzick.
In the Lounge: * Alliance Books * Donuts and Bagels * Beacon Books Cart * Benefit Concert Table * Environmental Task Force * Fair trade coffee & tea * Social Justice Council *
Sunday Morning Forum: Our speaker will be Matthew Crawford, Volunteer Coordinator for HandsOn Greater DC Cares. With 22 years of experience, this organization is the leading and largest coordinator of volunteerism in the region. HandsOn Greater DC Cares works with a network of more than 860 nonprofits, 43,000 volunteers and a host of corporate and foundation partners to positively impact the region.
Manna Food: This Sunday is Manna Food First Sunday collection. Please put Smarts Sacks contributions in the Red Bins and general food stuffs in the Blue Boxes.
|
|
STANDING ON THE SIDE OF LOVE TOUR WITH
THE REV. MARK KIYIMBA
On Sunday, January 8th, the Rev. Mark Kiyimba will be our guest in the pulpit. Rev. Kiyimba is the founding minister of New Life Kampala, a Unitarian Universalist congregation in Kampala, Uganda. Our fellow UUs in that country have offered welcome to the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community -- no small matter in a place where homosexuality is criminalized and where some legislators want to make it a capital crime, efforts that have had some support from right-wing groups in the US.
Rev. Kiyimba's visit to Cedar Lane will be the first stop on his Standing on the Side of Love Tour that will also include visits to six other UU congregations in the metro-DC area, the Howard University School of Divinity, and then two UU congregations in California. He is making this trip to raise awareness of the work of our fellow UUs in Uganda and to raise funds for the New Life congregation's ministries. These include a home for children orphaned by the AIDS crisis, and a primary school of over 500 students which, as a private school, does not receive funding from the Ugandan government. Let's start Rev. Kiyimba's US tour off by setting a high bar for generosity and enthusiasm that will inspire our fellow American UUs to do likewise!
|
|
Notes from the Ministers
Dear Cedar Laners,
Thanks once again for the many caring ways we have said good bye in the past few weeks. You are an amazing congregation and I will be missing you!
As you may know, our ministerial guidelines require that I "absent" myself from congregational life for a while, while new staff gets chosen and settled. But please do know I will be enjoying lovely memories of you all. You have many adventures before you and I will follow them from afar, but with interest and affection.
With much love and thanks, and great confidence in an amazing future at Cedar Lane,
Susan
|
|
Weekly Devotional
I've rarely made New Year's resolutions, but this year I have decided to devote more time to... devotion. Broadly speaking, this means trying to devote more of my time and energy to study, contemplation and prayer. Specifically, what I am planning to do is send out a daily prayer on Twitter (my colleague and friend the Rev. Dr. Maureen Killoran, Interim Senior Minister at River Road UU Congregation, does this and her example inspired me) and to write a short devotional for each week's Cedar Lane eNews.
I have experience on the receiving end of devotionals of various kinds -- including some by Unitarian Universalists -- in various media: traditional print media that invite reflection on some theme, as well as daily emails and Tweets, but I have never written a daily or weekly devotional before, and I'm interested to see where this will lead.
For many years I have drawn inspiration from the Meditations of the Roman emperor and Stoic philosopher Marcus Aruelius, which was essentially his personal diary but which reads as a kind of series of devotionals. Throughout his life he wrestled with issues of ethics, theology, and values and how they influence our relationships, choices and actions, and he wrote down his thoughts about those things. I hope to do something similar here.
I will probably experiment with different formats. I may begin with a quote -- from a philosopher, or from a poet, or a verse from some sacred text -- and then reflect on it. Or I may respond to events in the world, or in my life, or in our ministry together in the church. I intend to end each devotional with a short prayer. Since I do not believe that there is only one "correct" way to pray, or that prayer has only one meaning, these prayers will probably reflect a variety of perspectives. My great hope is that this will not only keep your Interim Senior Minister focused on his spiritual life, but that this will provide yet another opportunity for us to reflect together on the ministry we share.
Prayer
May we find the courage, the dedication and the grace to devote our lives to what matters most to us, and to continually strive toward becoming the creative and loving beings we are called to be. Amen.
Follow Rev. Keely on Twitter @evanvwk. |
|
|
Upcoming Sundays
January 15, 2012
9 a.m. and 11 a.m. in the sanctuary
"A Stone of Hope"
The Rev. Evan Keely
This intergenerational worship service will explore the struggle for freedom and dignity for all people, as exemplified in the lives and works of heroes like Martin Luther King, Jr.
Forum: Being Alive and Having to Die: The Spiritual Odyssey of Forrest Church. The late Rev. Forrest Church, pastor of All Souls Unitarian in New York City, was a leading national spokesperson on behalf of liberal religious values. His biographer, Dan Cryer, will discuss Church's personal struggles and contribution as a public intellectual.
Click here for future forums
|
|
We Care
The We Care program is a network led by volunteers who reach out to address short-term needs - food deliveries, rides to doctor's appointments, a listening ear in the event of a loss. The Cedar Lane congregation is organized geographically by "neighborhoods"; each neighborhood has at least one chairperson to coordinate support. Look at your nametag or the map in the church office to find your neighborhood.
Reminder: A memorial service in celebration of the life of Ellen Frommer will be held this Saturday, 1/7 at 1:00 pm in the Cedar Lane Auditorium. All are welcome.
The Service in Celebration of the Life of Frank Blumenthal will be held next Saturday, 1/14 at 3:30 pm in the Cedar Lane Chapel. A brief ceremony to scatter his ashes will be held directly after the memorial in the Memory Garden. All are welcome.
Should you know of a member of our community in personal need, you are encouraged to reach out to them. If you learn that this person wishes to receive a response from the church, please contact Heather Janules at hjanules@cedarlane.org. All ministers offer pastoral care to our members so you are also encouraged to contact any member of the ministerial team.
|
|
Music Notes From the Director of Music
Dr. Henry Sgrecci
This Sunday's music brings the high resolve of a new year and the hope of freedom and empowerment for all. The Swahili Folk Hymn "Bwana Awabariki" loosely translates to "May God Grant You a Blessing" and we extend that blessing to our brothers and sisters throughout the world. Paul Halley's "Freedom Trilogy" bears the rhythmic vitality of the many arrangements he prepared while performing as a member of the Paul Winter Consort. In "Freedom Trilogy," he presents the medieval-like chant of the 16th Century Kyrie from Missa de Angelis within his own asymmetrical rhythmic setting for women's voices. The second component of the trilogy pairs two delightful and energetic South African songs of the 20th Century; "Halleluya! Pelo tsa rona" (Halleluya! We sing your praises) and "Siyahamba" (We are marching in the light of God.) "Freedom is Coming" is a 20th century South African folk song with a simple message that resonates with vocal ensembles throughout the world.
Special thanks to baritone, Kevin Miller, for his enthusiastic rendition of "Freedom is Coming" which enrich this Sunday's services.
Coming to Concerts at Cedar Lane on Saturday, Jan. 28 at 7:30 p.m.:
Cedar Lane Brass Ensemble Benefit Concert. Henry Sgrecci leads a stellar
twelve piece brass ensemble in music by Byrd, Purcell, Gabrieli, J.S. Bach and even Jerome Kern! The ensemble will also be joined by the Cedar Lane Choir and youth singers in Mack Wilberg's Anthem of Peace. The concert is free, with all donations benefitting "Rebuilding Together Montgomery County."
Mark the date on your calendar - January 28, 7:30 p.m.! |
|
Calendar
Please visit the church calendar here.
|
|
Around the Church
SAVE THOSE HOLIDAY CARDS!
Please save the cards that your family receives this holiday season and bring them to church in January. They will be used for next year's Holiday Craft Day, particularly the Holiday Placemats, which were very popular this year. Look for the collection boxes in the lounge and at the admin table downstairs and drop them there. Thanks!
The Alliance Luncheon is Thursday the 12th at 11:30 a.m.
All are welcome! Join us for our potluck lunch: bring a main dish, a vegetable, a salad or a dessert fo serve six to eight. The program will be "Justice Never Gets Old" - Alisa Glassman, Action in Montgomery County's (AIM) Lead Organizer. For additional information, contact Arlene Goldman at 301-871-8367
The CLUUC Senior High Youth Group will be performing A Very Potter Musical!
See the Harry Potter books set to music and spoof in this completely youth-produced, youth-directed, youth-choreographed, and youth-performed production originally developed by students at the University of Michigan. Friday, Feb. 3, at 8:00 p.m. and Sunday, Feb. 5, at 1:30 p.m. in the Sanctuary. Free!
|
|
|
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION FOR ALL AGES
Linda Gianessi, Temporary RE Coordinator
Vanessa Steck, Coordinator of Senior High Youth Ministry
Gale Ginther Luce and Jeannette Wilson, Administrators
For information and to register for classes and programs call 301-493-8300 x207 or e-mail RE@cedarlane.org.
Upcoming RE
Sunday, Jan. 8: RE Classes Resume, Smart Sack Manna Food Collection
Sunday, Jan. 15: MLK Worship for All Ages 9 and 11a.m., no RE classes, childcare for ages 5 and younger.
Sunday, Jan 22: YAG & SHYG Ski Trip
Welcome to 2012!
Linda Gianessi, our temporary RE Coordinator, has been in meetings ALL week, getting up to speed. Susan Clark is taking over chapel duties, and is also getting up to speed. Please bear with us and the RE Council as we all find new ways of working together! If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us (RE@cedarlane.org or Lgianessi@cedarlane.org).
...Click here for continued RE and AP news!!!
|
January 13, 6:00 p.m., Cedar Lane Sanctuary
Presented by the International Concerns Coalition of the Social Justice Council
A Fundraiser and Silent Auction to fund couples literacy classes and
Orphanages in Afghanistan
Tickets will be available in the lounge after services, or by phoning Eleanor de Paola at 301-299-6236.
For the past 10 years, Cedar Lane volunteers have made it possible for hundreds of illiterate Afghan husbands and wives to gain literacy training in and around Kabul, offered by Kabultec. They do this by staging Kabultec's only full-fledged fundraising event, consisting of an authentic Afghan dinner and a loungeful of silent auction handmade items acquired from bazaars and women's cooperatives throughout Afghanistan. This past year, funds were also used to ship Cedar Lane-donated clothing and other goods to orphanages from around Afghanistan. Come hear Nasrine explain the journey of the donation boxes, which were challenged by the Taliban at the airport! In the end, all the goods were delivered to the orphanages safe and sound. Nasrine insisted on making large signs thanking Cedar Lane at the orphanages; photos will be shown at the dinner on the 13th. Come join us!
Would you like to take your Cedar Lane involvement to a leadership level for a great cause? The International Concerns Coalition invites willing individuals to step forward to take over the management of this special annual event. If you are interested, please contact Annette Scarpitta at annettecedarlane@spamex.com or find her in the lounge. You can receive mentor training with this year's event. Without new leaders, January 13 may well be the finale of this annual Cedar Lane tradition.
|
SAVE THE DATE: LGBT Task Force & CLARITY Documentary Films FestivalSaturday, January 14th
(4:00 to 9:00 PM) Cedar Lane Library
"Living With Pride: Ruth Ellis @ 100" - a documentary film about the life and times of Ruth Ellis. Winner of 10 Best Documentary Awards. This film will be shown in the afternoon on January 14th.
Born July 23, 1899, in Springfield, Illinois, Ruth Ellis was thought to be the oldest, known "out" African American lesbian. In addition to exploring her rich past, the film offers a rare opportunity to experience a century of our history as lived by one inspiring woman. By example, Ruth Ellis shows us what is possible and what can be realized, if one not only lives long and ages well but also lives with pride.
This film will be shown in the evening on January 14th.
Chaz Bono was a male trapped in a female shell for as long as he can remember. Growing up as Sonny and Cher's adorable golden-haired daughter in a body he felt wasn't his own was a crucible it took years to transcend. Now, as he undertakes gender reassignment, he's bravely decided to share the process on camera.
Becoming Chaz invites us along on Chaz's remarkable journey of transformation. As hormone shots give way to top surgery, down-to-earth, unflappable Chaz beams with a sense of liberation and goes public with his story to put a face on a misunderstood issue. Meanwhile, his gregarious girlfriend grapples with the realities of suddenly living with a man, and it's clear sex change isn't solely a physical transition.
Intimate and honest, the film reveals the humanity and courage it takes for Chaz to ultimately embrace his true self. His moving struggle will reverberate profoundly for anyone to whom authenticity matters. |
|
Attention
Montgomery County People of Faith and Justice!
To be part of the solution, one must first understand the problem.
We cordially invite you to a seminar of education and conversation concerning how two bills to be heard in the Maryland Legislative Session 2012 will improve the lives of our LGBTQ people.
On
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 18TH, 2012
7-9 p.m. in the chapel
Cedar Lane Unitarian Universalist Church
9601 Cedar Lane, Bethesda, Md. 20814-4099
persons whose lives are impacted by the forthcoming
Gender Antidiscrimination Bill
and
Marriage Equality Bill
and persons instrumental in the process of passing these bills will join clergy experienced in working with the LGBTcommunity for a conversation about the importance of allies and communities of faith in effecting positive outcomes in the political arena.
Please come and make your voice heard in this informative and thought provoking dialogue.
rsvp HYPERLINK "mailto:dstaff44@comcast.net" dstaff44@comcast.net.
Learn details of an additional
"Forum on Marriage Equality Legislation"
scheduled for 10am Sunday, January 22nd
at this January 18th event. |
|
|
|
|
|
Sara Deshler and Sara Davidson
Cedar Lane Unitarian Universalist Church www.cedarlane.org 301-493-8300
|
|
|
|
|
