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Cedar Lane Unitarian Universalist Church
www.cedarlane.org |
eNewsletter Volume 4, Issue 39
March 23, 2012 | |
March 25, 2012
9 a.m. and 11 a.m. in the sanctuary
"Very Good"
The Rev. Evan Keely, Interim Senior Minister
As we celebrate Music Sunday, we will also reflect together on embracing the challenge of living as if our commitments really matter - because they do.
Volunteers for the Service:
Ushers: 9 a.m.: Mary Beth Nowinski, Lisa Chernikoff, Gail Riley & Tom Nixon;
11 a.m.: James Ogle, Nancy Janssen, Marilynn Smith, Betsy Binckes
Coffee Servers: 10 a.m.: Bonnie Tyler; noon: Lois Delaha
Audio: Rick Lohmeyer
Board Member at the Office Desk: 10 a.m.: Kathie Bryant
noon: Michael Lentz
Visitors' Center: 10 a.m.: John Gubbings; noon: Lyn Peters
Beacon Books Cart: 10 a.m.: Len Adler
The flowers in the sanctuary are given by Mary Farrar and family in dedication to her mother, also Mary Farrar, who is always an inspiration. The flowers were arranged by Cathy Houston. The flowers in the chapel were arranged by Maria Dinger.
In the Lounge: Alliance Books * Beacon Books Cart * Donuts & Bagels * Environmental Task Force * Fair trade coffee & tea Social Justice Council *
Sunday Morning Forum: After the War on Drugs: What Is on the Horizon? with Grant Smith of the Drug Policy Alliance.
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Weekly Devotional · March 23, 2012
Last week I wrote something (I've already forgotten what) about a lorica attributed to St. Patrick. A lorica is a traditional form of prayer recited for protection. Sometimes medieval knights would inscribe the texts of such prayers on their shields.
If I had a lorica etched into my shield, what would it say? Perhaps this:
Prayer
O God, save me from indifference to the suffering of others.
Deliver me from the temptation to think that some of my fellow beings simply don't matter.
Save me from self-pity and self-importance, those twin demons born of the union of cynicism and despair.
Rescue me from a refusal to see the beauty all around me and the innate magnificence of each person.
Defend me from taking myself too seriously, and from taking what I am called to do not seriously enough; save me from thinking that my life, and all our lives, don't really matter.
Deliver me from doubting that love is the answer, especially when it is hardest to love.
Rescue me from the snare of not being constantly amazed at how marvelous this universe is.
Save me from thinking that because I can't do everything, I therefore can do nothing, but strengthen me to use the gifts you gave me to bring more love into the world.
Amen.
Follow Rev. Keely on Twitter @evanvwk. |
FROM THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES'
TRANSITION COORDINATING COMMITTEE:
FAQ: Where are we in the process?
Since last September, the Board's subcommittee called the "Transition Coordinating Committee" (TCC) has issued periodic updates on transition issues, focusing on changes in RE leadership after the Rev. Susan Archer's retirement on January 1 (see September 27, 2011 article) and the upcoming search for our settled Senior Minister (see accompanying timelines on the CLUUC website.) Here is another update on our progress.
Q. Which leaders are we looking for now?
We are actively advertising for an interim Religious Education (RE) leader, who will start August 1 for a one-year contract renewable for a second year. (See job description here.) Our options for an RE Interim include a Minister of Religious Education (MRE), or a Director of Religious Education (DRE), a highly qualified lay professional who may or may not have undergone one or more levels of formal RE credentialing through the UUA. The Interim RE leader is hired by the Board of Trustees to assist the Rev. Evan Keely in the first year of our congregation's leadership transition self-examination and visioning process, especially as it pertains to RE; and in the second year, will report to our settled Senior Minister to complete that process. We will begin the search for our long-term RE leader in April 2014.
Meanwhile, our Senior Minister Search Committee candidates chosen by your nominations are ready for election as a slate at the Annual Congregational Meeting on April 15. These seven people will each devote 250 to 400 hours to selecting the best qualified candidate for our new Senior Minister to start in August 2013. (For details, see The UUA Settlement Handbook, http://www.uua.org/documents/mpl/transitions/settlement_handbook.pdf)
Click here to continue... |
Denominational Affairs Committee Member Tracey Stein...
attended her first UUA General Assembly last June. She thought it would help CLUUC members who aren't intimately familiar with UUA governance if she described her experiences as a first-time delegate to educate others who might be considering attending a future GA.
Click here to continue...
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Upcoming Sundays
April 1, 2012
9 a.m. and 11 a.m. in the sanctuary
"Fools for Justice: To Build a More Just World"
The Rev. Heather Janules
Worship Associate: Brian Belanger
Passover and Palm Sunday - ancient holidays centered in social justice - invite us as a faith community to consider the last part of our mission statement. The third of a three-part series, this service will draw from ancient stories, a prominent leader from American history and our current times to speak to our prophetic call "to build a more just world."
Forum: Hunger for Democracy, with Julio Carreras, writer and former guerrilla fighter, discusses experiences during "Argentina's Dirty War."
Click here for future forums |
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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.
Our hearts go out to Tod, Lisa and Anne Chernikoff (Neighborhood 24) with the death of Tod's father, Harry Chernikoff, who died on Monday, March 19th after a long illness. A graveside service was held on Thursday, March 22nd. The family sat shiva on Thursday evening at Lisa, Tod and Anne's home and will do so again on Saturday, March 24th at 7:30. All are welcome.
Healing wishes are with Cathy Knapper (N14) who is recovering from a broken elbow from a recent fall.
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.
Two Of Your Ministers...
Are now on Twitter:
Follow Rev. Keely @evanvwk
Follow Rev. Janules @revhkjanules |
Music Director's Notes
Dr. Henry Sgrecci
March 25, 2012
This morning's music is a celebration of the many unique styles and sounds that emanate from places and cultures that are far removed from our American traditions. The sounds of Latin America, South America, Brazil, and the Caribbean Islands will be amalgamated intoa music service that is rich in multicultural flavors. Even within the context of the jazz selections that we present, there will be a unique twist not often heard, the addition of the steel drum.
Thomas Guthrie begins, however, with a selection from very close to home; Prelude in D minor, composed by Clif Hardin, Director of Music at River Road UUC. The Youth Choir invites you to join them in a joyous gathering song of Jamaican heritage that is sung by church communities throughout the world, Alle, Alle, Alle. The Cedar Lane Choir begins the morning with Calypso Alleluia, a cascading round composed by Thomas Benjamin, Director of Music at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Columbia, Maryland. Baritone soloist, Kevin Miller, leads us all in Freedom is Coming, the song that came to life in the South African bombings of 1988 and has continued to carry the hue and cry of all those who oppose Apartheid.
Click here to continue...
Special thanks to our guest musicians: steel drummer, Victor Provost; bassist, James King; Steve Jones, piano; and Chris Mauro, drums. We are grateful for their contributions and those of our talented, exuberant, and enthusiastic Choir, which brings the Spirit into the Sanctuary on Sunday mornings. Bravo! |
Action in Montgomery (AIM) leaders launch Aging in
Our Community Plan.
County Executive Leggett and County President Berliner heard the demands of 225+ AIM senior activists at an Action on Aging, March 20. These activists believe residents who work and live in our county should also be able to retire in our county. AIM proposes that county government, developers, the business community, congregational leaders and others work together to create the senior community we all want and need. AIM's Plan: Senior Housing: require developers of housing projects built on county-owned land to set aside a portion of affordable and market rate units for 60+ year residents. In addition, leverage where we can senior housing on private projects. Affordable Housing Money: Phase back into full funding to the Housing Initiative Fund (HIF) from general fund property tax dollars and not rely on bonds, starting in next year's budget. A Plan with Yearly Measurable Goals: Create a senior housing plan that includes yearly measurable goals. Transportation: Work on and fund creative senior transportation solutions, so we can Age-in-Place, but don't get stuck-in-place. NEXT STEP: Attend AIM's Senior Issue ActionTeam on Thursday, April 19, 10-11:30 a.m., at St. Mark Presbyterian Church, 10701 Old Georgetown Rd. |
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Around the Church
Free Childcare During Auction!
Passport to Adventure, our annual church auction is tomorrow, March 24! Free childcare is available with special activities for ages 3-11. RSVP is required by TODAY, to maryefarrar@verizon.net. Teen volunteers are needed to help: contact Mary Farrar at above email.
Green Wind Energy Purchase
Along with 118 other non-profit organizations Cedar Lane has just participated in a bulk electricity purchase organized by Groundswell (formerly the DC Project). In the process we went from 50% wind power to 100% and reduced our electric bill by 1.8 cents per kilowatt/hour while also contributing to a low-income energy-efficiency and weatherization program. Clean Currents won the bid over four other electricity suppliers. As part of this program, members of the non-profit organizations can obtain their own residential contracts with Clean Currents at very favorable rates ($0.0755 per KWH, or lower). Cedar Lane will receive $20.00 per family who enrolls in the program.
Please watch for more information on how to take advantage of this green energy, money-saving program.
UU UNSUNG HEROES WANTED!
The Cedar Lane Board of Trustees is seeking nominations for individuals who have made exceptional contributions of their time and talents to ensure that Cedar Lane remains the vibrant community it has been for 60+ years. We need your help in nominating those whose service deserves the title of "Unsung Hero."
Nominees for these awards should not have been honored in this way during the past five years, nor have received compensation for the services for which he/she is being honored. To nominate an Unsung Hero, please contact Board member Debbie Goodwin at 301-340-1935 or by email at goodwink@comcast.net with the name(s) of nominee(s) and an explanation of why you believe that person or persons should be recognized in this way. Deadline for nominations is Friday, May 4. The Board will vote on the nominees at it May 15 meeting, and the Unsung Heroes will be honored at a Sunday service in June.
Why You Should Be a Book Shop Helper
It's amazing how many people stop and talk to you in the lounge on the day you are selling books and magnets and bumper stickers! Some folks you know, more you don't know. Some are members, some just visiting. I never thought I knew enough about the books, but it didn't stop me from being there anyway. One Sunday a month, not a lot to ask. But the rewards are FAR GREATER than the little bit of effort. There aren't a lot of opportunities like that around! If you think you are up to the task, please contact Laura-Leigh Palmer, laura.leigh@asapgraphics.com or ask one of the great people selling books!
Soon to be living in Arizona, Gerry Peterson
Cedar Lane Making a Difference Around the World
The International Concerns Coalition (falling under our Social Justice umbrella) looks forward to greeting you.
On Sunday, April 1, we will be hosting an Open House presentation in the library 10 minutes after each service ends. With up-close and personal photos projected, coalition project leaders will speak briefly about specific projects we undertake in Afghanistan, DR Congo, India, Kenya, Romania, and Ukraine. Please join us! For questions or to learn more, contact Annette Scarpitta (annettecedarlane@spamex.com). |
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RELIGIOUS EDUCATION
FOR ALL AGES
Linda Gianessi, Temporary RE Coordinator
Susan Clark, Chapel 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.
Spring RE
F-M Mar 30 9th Grade Boston trip
Sun Apr 8 Easter services and
Egg hunt
Sun Apr 15 Growing Up Year
presentations during
first part of service
Sat Apr 21 Coming of Age Service/
Potluck
Sun Apr 22 Stepping Stone
Ceremony/last RE class!
Sun Apr 29 Spring B begins
Spring B is coming!
Teacher Recruitment
You & UU trip to Boston
"Food Stamped"
Youth Notes (Grades 7-12)
Young Adults (Ages 18-35)
Adults Programs (AP) Spring 2012
We still have lots to offer this spring!
Our program is open to non-church members, so invite friends! Please register in advance.
Classes beginning soon: Details are in the brochure.
3/30 "Food Stamped" 7 p.m., $5/$10
4/7 Bicycling; Dinner & Discussion Express
4/12 T'ai Chi Session II
On-going classes - please drop in!
Three New AP Classes - not in brochure
Brochure corrections
Sunday Morning Forum - program descriptions
Connection Circles Want You!
Click here to read all RE and AP news! |
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Calendar
Please visit the church calendar here.
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It's time to grab your Passport to Adventure. Explore the bidding options, savor international taste treats, and engage in worldly conversations with friends at Cedar Lane's annual auction. The big event is this Saturday evening, March 24, beginning at 6 p.m.
You won't want to miss the chance to bid on more than 270 auction items, generously donated by businesses and Cedar Lane members. Take a look at the auction catalog on the Cedar Lane website so you can plan ahead. Opportunities include a week in Hawaii over New Year's Eve and a week in Telluride, Co for the week including Memorial Day.
Admission tickets are available for $35 by calling the church office at 301-493-8300. You may also buy tickets at the door for $40. Admission includes dinner featuring the cuisines of France, Asia, and the Mediterranean. Live Celtic music from Cedar Lane's talented duo, Liz Brinker and Kim Murray, will also be part of the festivities. A cash bar will serve wine and beer.
Don't miss the fun. Be part of this important fundraiser for Cedar Lane.
Thanks, and see you at the auction!! |
REGISTER NOW!
JPD ASSEMBLY
APRIL 13-15, 2012
REGISTRATION IS OPEN!
Joseph Priestley District Assembly
Looking Backward, Moving Forward: Celebrating
50 Years of the JPD
April 13-15, 2012
Key Bridge Marriott, Arlington, VA
Keynote Speaker:
Rev. Peter Morales, President of the UUA
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The Stewardship Committee is hosting 3 dinners in April and we need volunteers.
We need people to be leaders of small group discussions, sell wine, help serve and keep food on the serving tables, clean up, wash dishes, and various other activities. These dinners are the foundation of our pledge drive this year and your willingness to help will be a tremendous benefit to Cedar Lane. The most important activity is our small group discussions. You'll be given an instruction sheet and a few pointers to use during a half-hour to 45 minute discussion.
If you have ever led a committee, led a connection circle or served on a committee, or been involved in other active types of discussions then you will be great!
If you can help on April 13, April 14 or April 15 or even two of the dinners, please send your intent to Ardene Shafer at srs.ars@gmail.com. Be sure to include the dates you are willing to help.
Thanks,
Ardene Shafer - Chair - Cedar Lane Stewardship Committee |
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Environmental Task Force
If you want Cedar Lane to act like a Green Sanctuary, start doing these 6 easy things:
1. Use ceramic coffee cups during committee meetings and classes, not cardboard ones. Wash them in the sink.
2. Use the compost bucket in the kitchen and a new one in Chalice House.
3. Use permanent dishes, utensils and glasses when your committee has an event. Before the event recruit people to clean up afterwards.
4. Don't buy plastic water bottles. You are just drinking expensive tap water laced with BPA and phthalates. Buy stainless steel water bottles from the ETF or elsewhere.
5. Use the back of paper, rather than throwing it away. Put unwanted paper in the recycling bin.
6. Police your behavior and that of your committee. Don't expect the Environmental Task Force to do it. It takes the whole congregation to make Cedar Lane a truly GREEN SANCTUARY.
Click here for updated Green Tips and ETF event information!
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In This Together from CLARITY*
CLARITY members have been working intently with UU professional trainer, Veronica Adams, to prepare a one-day anti-racism training program entitled "Beginning the Journey: Ally-ship". This workshop is geared to help us build and nurture our worship community, and is a deeper, more experiential training than you will typically find. The initial session of this program will be held on Saturday, March 31 from 9:30 to 3:30 in the Chalice House. Many board members and social justice leaders are already registered, but there are still a few places available. Please contact Ariel Mora (ariel_mora1@hotmail.com) if you want to attend. (CLARITY plans to continue to offer the program in the future.)
- Hear Julian Bond in person!
- See "Smoke Signals"!
For details on these and other upcoming events, see the CLARITY "Events of Interest."
How can I get more involved?
CLARITY meetings are generally held on the 3rd Thursday of the month at 7:30 in the Chalice House.
Members and friends of CLUUC who are committed to our work of anti-racism and multi-culturalism are encouraged to become part of our team. If you are ready to join, send a request to
CLUUC-CLARITY
subscribe@yahoogroups.com (We use this Yahoo group for CLARITY emails, meeting invitations, etc.)
* CLARITY/"Cedar Laners Against Racism -- In This Together --Yes!" is one of Cedar Lane's Social Justice groups. Our mission is to lead the process of Cedar Lane Unitarian Universalist Church becoming a welcoming, multi-cultural, multi-racial congregation. |
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Sara Deshler and Sara Davidson
Cedar Lane Unitarian Universalist Church www.cedarlane.org 301-493-8300
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