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Sunday, June 7, 2015
Prelude: Prelude in e minor
-J. S. Bach
Alfa Joy Radford, organ
9:00 Nova Choir:
Jerusalem, My Happy Home
-American folktune, arr. Marguerite Shaw
11:00 Sr. Choir:
Riversong - A Celtic Celebration
-Roger Emerson (contemp.)
Ian Garvie, piano; Hannah Read, flute; Frank Toppa, string bass; Roger Brown, percussion
Choral Benediction:
Kindle In Our Hearts
-Marguerite Shaw (contemp.)
Kindle in our hearts a faith
that shall be a light upon the way;
that we may be messengers of thy peace, and ministers of thy love. Words from Services of Religion, 1937
Postlude
9 a.m. Herzlich tut mich erfruen
- Johannes Brahms, 19th C. German
Mary Beekman, organ
11 a.m.:
The Sleeping Tune
-Gordon Duncan (1964-2005)
Richard Curzi, piano; Hannah Read, flute
The flowers on the Chancel Table this Sunday are given by Pat Paul in loving memory of her husband, Bill, and her friend, Mary Harsch.
Welcome & Announcements
9 a.m.: Catherine Claypoole
11 a.m.: Todd Schatzki
Ushers
9 a.m.: Martha Read & Evelyn Corsini
11a.m.: Judy McSwain & Laurie Graham
Lay Pastoral Care
9 a.m.: Abby Jacobs
11 a.m.: Martha Spaulding
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Next Issue: June 9
Deadline: June 4
Tuesday, June 2
Partner Church Comm., Conference Room, 7:30 p.m.
Small Group Ministry(PS)-Lib, 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, June 3
Chamber Music Rehearsal, Sanctuary, 7 p.m.
Women's Group - Library, 7:30 p.m.
Men's Group - Classroom 5, 8 p.m.
Thursday, June 4
Nova Choir, Sanctuary, 6:45 p.m.
Small Group Ministry (ES)-Lib, 7:30 p.m.
Caring for Older Adults-CR, 7:30 p.m.
Knitting Circle - Cl. 4, 8 p.m.
Friday, June 5
Folders - Conference Room, 10 a.m.
Second Friday Coffeehouse-PH, 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, June 7
Nova Choir-Sanct, 8:15 a.m.
CRE-Library, 8:30 a.m.
Senior Choir - Parish Hall, 9:25 a.m.
YG Mentors, Conference Room, 10 a.m.
CRE Open House: Lower Hall, Library, playground & all classrooms, 10 a.m.
Confronting the Origins of Violence - Parish Hall, 12:30 p.m.
CRE Open House: Lower Hall, Library, playground & all classrooms, 1 p.m.
OWL-Lib, 4:30 p.m.
Monday, June 8
Jobseekers-Library, 9:30 a.m.
Yoga - Parish Hall, 9:30 a.m.
Junior Choir (K - Gr. 4), Sanctuary, 6:30 p.m.
Chancel Choir (Gr. 5 - 6), Sanctuary, 7 p.m.
Parish Board - Library, 7:15 p.m.
Meditation-cl5, 8 p.m.
Tuesday, June 9
Piano Recital Rehearsal, Parish Hall, 2 p.m.
Membership Comm. - Classroom 5, 7:30 p.m.
The complete church calendar
Room assignments may change at the last minute for a variety of reasons -- please check online or "This Week's Calendar" on the easel in the Lower Hall for updates.
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Caring Connection
The Caring Connection is a group of Church members and friends who provide support to members of our community who find themselves in some difficulty and need short-term help. Please let us know if you could use some assistance, or know of someone who would benefit from our support. You may fill out a Caring Connection card, available in the hymnal holders and drop it in the collection basket, or contact Laurie Graham at caring@uubelmont.org or Janice at the Church, 617-484-1054, ext. 201.
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| Lay Pastoral Care Team
As members of the lay pastoral care team we are called to be present with you, members and friends, when you wish a compassionate listening ear during times of transition and stress whatever form it might take. We support those who are adjusting to change, loss, illness or death. We share in moments of celebration and happiness. We reach out to those who are unable to get out and who would like a visit. We share in situations that require a special touch of human kindness and an open ear. Please contact us if we might be of help or comfort. We count on the congregation to keep us in touch with pastoral needs of our community. - Janet Amphlett, Devon Beckett, Nancy Davis, James Hencke, Abby Jacobs, Steve Saar, Martha Spaulding, and Tom Neel
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Social Action Corner
ACTION IS OUR PRAYER
Belmont Food Pantry needs you
First Church members staff the opening of the Belmont Food Pantry on the second Tuesday of every month; we're looking for volunteers for the months of June through September. Volunteers work for about 90 minutes, 5 - 6:30 p.m..
This is a terrific volunteer opportunity for families with school-age children! E-mail Janice in the office for information or look for the sign-up table after next Sunday's service.
RE Classes Support Eco-villages
Recently the 5th/6th RE classes raised $490 which they chose to dedicate to a development project in Haiti. The Social Action committee joined them with $1010 of its own funds for a total of $1500 to donate to one of the UUSC Haitian projects. We chose the Eco-villages program which enables city dwelling Haitians displaced by the earthquake to move to rural areas in communities of 10 families to practice sustainable subsistence and market farming with low impact on the environment. The program has grown to 60 families and they have added a school and rural clinic. For more information about the programs please check out these links:
The 5th/6th RE classes lead the way in stimulating the church community to support these worthwhile and innovative projects.
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Grow Clinic! Grow Clinic!
Stock The Shelves For Summer!
Last chance for good deeds! Please remember to add something for the GROW CLINIC in your cart this week. You'll be glad you did.
Food: One Of The Most Important Medicines
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Need a summer sitter?
Look no further than Rebecca Fennel, a lifelong member of First Church Belmont and recent college graduate living at home this summer! I am available most days, weekends included. I have a car, can cook and, of course, love kids. Give me a call at (617) 319-9017 for occasional or more regular help.
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The Unitarian is published on Tuesdays during the church year.
- Photos as JPG files
- Attachments as PDF files
- Note that all listed e-mail addresses and phone numbers in The Unitarian are public on our Web site
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Social Media
 
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First Church Office
617-484-1054
Monday - Friday, 9 - 3
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Sunday, June 7 -- Your summer assignment: committing to your values
It is easy to make resolutions for our birthdays or for New Year's; and there are usually jokes in mid- January about how many resolutions are already broken. I know; I do it all the time.
But what if I was serious about taking the time to reflect on my religious and spiritual values, and then took time to think about what that means for how I wish to live my life, and then thought about how I might change some things. Not quick resolutions, but deep reflection and commitment.
That is what I will be asking of you. And of me.
-- Rev. David M. Bryce preaches
Sunday, June 14 -- Flower Communion
June 14 is our Flower Communion Sunday. Each person is asked to bring a flower to leave behind, and each will leave with a different flower. If you can, please bring an extra flower or twelve for those who will forget!
- 9 & 11 church service
- Childcare for infants and young children
- For weather-related service and RE class cancellations, please call 617-484-1054, ext. 250
- Sermons in text and audio format can be found at uubelmont.org/sermons
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Reflections from Rev. David Bryce, Senior Minister
Someone recently gave me a flying pig (thank you, Janet).
Well, it is a carved object in the shape of a flying pig.
Now flying pigs are impossible, which is the point of the phrase, "When pigs fly".
Because of that, people who feel they are actually doing the impossible will sometimes use a pig with wings as their symbol.
I must confess that I have always been someone who was willing to be blocked by the "impossible". That is to say, when reason tells me something cannot be done, I do not try to do it.
Those who are unreasonable about such things can waste a huge amount of time and energy. Why try and fail to do the impossible when there are so many possible things that can be done?
However, I do recognize that those who refuse to accept that something is impossible are (occasionally) the ones who break barriers, who change nations and cultures. And I deeply respect those who do so. More than that, I respect the spirit within them of persistence and refusal to listen to the naysayers.
But my guess is that those who do succeed in such circumstances represent only a small percentage of those who set out to do what cannot be done. So the odds of success are low, and most things that cannot be done will not be done.
But even the rare occurrence of success in such things gives me optimism about what can be achieved by those who will not be stopped by their own inner voice of doubt.
In the Christian texts, in the Book of Mathew, is the line "all things are possible with God". Whether we literally believe in God, or use the term "God" as a metaphor for all that is good, all that is of positive potential and all that is worthy, we can respect the idea that there is within the universe (even if it is only within us) the power to overcome obstacles and to achieve what cannot be achieved.
May the spirit of optimism fill us always-and may we sometimes do what cannot be done.
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Music Notes from Alfa Radford
THIS SUNDAY, JUNE 7:
- Nova Choir sings at 9 am Service. Arr. 8:15
- Sr. Choir sings at 11 am Service. Arr. 9:25
CALENDAR NOTES for CHOIR PARENTS
REHEARSALS Monday Nights thru June 8
- Jr. Choir: (K-Gr. 4) 6:30 - 7 pm
- Chancel Choir (Gr. 5-6) 7 - 7:45 pm
CHILDREN'S CHOIRS SING in CHURCH
- June 14: Junior Choir (K-Gr.4) sings at 9am. Arrive 8:30
- June 14: Chancel Choir (Gr.5-6) sings at 11am. Arrive 10:15
- June 14: Multigenerational Services:
- 9 am Jr Choir (K-Gr.4) Arrive 8:30.
- 11 am Chancel Choir (Gr.5-6) Arrive 10:15.
CHAMBER MUSIC CONCERT Sunday, June 7th at 8pm.
The 37th Annual Chamber Music Concert will feature harpsichord, voice, flutes, piccolo, and bassoon. We hope you will join us when music and social action combine in a delightfully varied concert for a most worthy beneficiary, the SPARK (Pediatric Division of the Boston Medical Ctr.) Admission is by donation. Delicious Strawberries and Wine Reception. Come one, come all!
- The First Church Music Committee
LOOKING AHEAD!
NEXT FALL's YOUTH/CHILDREN'S CHOIRS MUSICAL:
THE WIZARD OF OZ, directed by Ian Garvie.
Performances Nov 12-15.
Interested Choristers should register online:
Church website: www.uubelmont.org
Joyful blessings, -Alfa
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NOW OPEN! REGISTRATION for YOUTH & CHILDREN'S CHOIRS
Welcome to all who enjoy singing!
We are now taking registrations for all the YOUTH & CHILDREN'S CHOIRS for the upcoming church year, Sept 2015-June 2016; and for the Fall musical "The Wizard of Oz."
You may register ONLINE by clicking on the link. All interested choristers should register, whether or not they plan to participate in the musical play.
QUESTIONS? Contact Ian Garvie: igarvie@uubelmont.org.
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Final First Church Coffeehouse, June 5 -- An Evening with Richard Curzi & Positive Energy
Don't miss this final show of the Second Friday Coffeehouse season this coming Friday, June 5, at 7:30. As is usually the case with Positive Energy, this year's concert will be a wide-ranging variety show, with musical configurations and collaborations covering a number of musical genres. The opening set will feature an all "unplugged" acoustic style.
In contrast, the second set will "bring out the brass" as the spotlight falls on a Belmont High School Brass Section - dubbed the "Filthy Funk Gentlemen" - featuring Rowan Wolf on tenor & baritone saxophone, Yilei Bai on alto sax, Jasper Wolf and Riley Grant on trumpet, and Jack Stone on trombone. The group will reprise selections recently performed for the wildly successful POMS (Parents of Music Students) annual benefit dance party.
Richard is joined by Jon Svetkey, Jim Wooster, Paul Judge, Bridget Curzi, Roger Read, Mark Kohler, Rick Dimino, and Jerry Twomey. Positive Energy is known for their uplifting renditions of original songs and nostalgic pop, always played with an original twist that has audiences saying "We were in a frenzy of delight - I can't remember smiling so much!" Admission is $10 ($5 for students and seniors). Featured beneficiaries are Stories Live and UU Transylvania Archives Project. |
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Youth Programs
The many volunteers who contribute their time and energy to our youth programs make the vibrant youth ministry at First Church possible. We served 68 youth who participated in the Coming of Age program and the Youth Group this year.
The Youth Group was supported throughout the year on Sunday evenings and at special events by our 3 adored Youth Advisors: Monte Allen, Jack Weis and Lynn Anderson. Additionally these magnificent Advisors also accompanied the Youth Group on their Service-Learning Trip to the Navajo Nation in Arizona, along with outstanding chaperones: Sara Oaklander, Nicole Griffin, Peter Guthrie and Richard Waring. A strong team of mentors supported the COA group on Sunday afternoons and on special programs and retreats: Ariane Frank, Cara Noferi, Bryan Jones and Richard Waring. I am also incredible grateful to the Youth Committee, the adult members of our congregation who are charged with oversight of the youth programs. They've provided invaluable insight, direction and volunteer support throughout the year: Stefan Frank, Michael Griffin, Jack Weis, Leslie Wolf, Fatima Serra and Andree Vezina.
When you see these tireless people who are so dedicated to our youth, please take the time to thank them. They've spent countless hours ensuring that our youth have a safe space, a religious home, where they can connect and be accepted just as they are.
Blessed be, Julie Ennis
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Adult Programs & Upcoming Events
Many new programs will be happening this fall!
The Adult Programs Committee (Debbie Dobbins, Yolanda Alberti, Diana Dill, Sarah Keniston, Karl Klasson, Susan Kobayashi, Laurie Carter Noble) is at work right now creating many interesting offerings. Brainstorming continues about developing programs focused on end of life issues, specifically using Atul Gawande's powerful book, Being Mortal, as a way to prompt discussion. We are planning a trip to tour our denomination's new headquarters at 24 Farnsworth St. and several of our own members will be presenting programs on a wide range of topics including Astrophysics, Climate Activism in Boston and spiritual disciplines. It's not too late to contact Debbie Dobbins, ddobbins@uubelmont.org, with a program idea.
And from the Ministerial Programs Sub-committee (Bill Blumberg, Mark Davis, Jeanne O'Farrell, Andrea Prestwich, Barbara Terry) we are pleased to announce the formation of the two new groups listed below.
New Small Group Ministry Forming
Small Group Ministries provide a spiritual practice that encourages members to engage more fully with their own faith, with each other, and with the larger world. Joan Loewenberg and Robert Donaghey will facilitate a new group which will meet twice a month during September and October on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays and then will continue monthly in November, on the 2nd Wednesday.
If you would like more information please contact Lillian Anderson at landerson@uublemont.org. If you are interested in joining a small group ministry but Wednesdays don't work for you let Lillian know.
New First Church Women's Group beginning this Fall!
Are you interested in sharing deeply with other First Church women on a regular basis? If so, consider participating in our new women's support group this fall. Co-facilitated by Deb Lockett and Eloise McGaw, the group will meet twice monthly on Thursday evenings beginning on Sept. 24. Using active listening techniques, the gatherings will include time for getting to know one another as well as discussing topics of concern to women. For more information, please contact Lillian Anderson.
Programs this week and next include:
Caring for Older Adults - Miriam Baker and Deborah Blumberg
Thursday, June 4, 7:30 pm, Conference Room
Many people are juggling jobs, families and their parents' or other family members' medical needs, frequent emergencies and ongoing need for care. How do we cope with the needs of our loved ones and find some balance in our own lives? If you find yourself in this position, you are welcome at this group for discussion and support. This is a drop-in group so please attend when it is convenient for you.
Knitting Circle - Eva Patalas
Thursday, June 4, 8 p.m., Classroom #4
Come join us in the fun and fellowship of knitting with a genial group on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month. Everyone is welcome and no commitment is necessary. Contact epatalas@uubelmont.org with questions.
Creating a More Peaceful Society by Confronting the Origins of Violence - Ronald Goldman, PhD
Sunday, June 7, 12:30 p.m., Parish Hall
Why is the U.S. one of the most violent developed countries in the world? We recognize the problems of violence but seek to treat its symptoms with, for example, better gun control, security, and protection. While these are important, is there a better way? Refreshments served. Co-sponsored by Social Action and Adult Programs.
Annual Chamber Music Benefit Concert
Sunday, June 7, 8 p.m.
This very special occasion combines music with social action! A wonderful concert is planned, as we once again celebrate the handsome harpsichord built and given to The First Church in 1979 by Harry Radford; a gift which marked the origin of this annual event. The exciting and eclectic program will include music of the Renaissance, Baroque, Romantic, and Contemporary periods, performed by Susan Jackson and Terry D'Errico, flutes; Robin Hillyard, bassoon; and Alfa Radford and Ian Garvie, harpsichord. Melanie Bacaling, soprano and Irina Kareva, alto, will sing various period pieces, including Elizabethan Songs, Russian folk music, and a lively G & S finale.
Admission is by donation, and all proceeds will benefit children at the SPARK (Supporting Parents And Resilient Kids) Center of the Boston Medical Center's Pediatric Division. We hope you'll join us for this delightful event!
-The Music Committee
Living with Serious Illness - Kathy Lind
Thursday, June 11, 7 p.m., Library
Our lives are constantly changing and facing changes that involve illness makes us feel vulnerable. This ongoing support group provides a space and time to understand and process feelings and circumstances related to dealing with serious illness, both for caregivers and people in all stages of discovery and recovery.
Mindful Yoga - Jess Hicks
Saturday, June 13, 1 - 2:30 p.m., Parish Hall
Mindful yoga for adults of all ages, abilities, and experience levels. Jess is a registered yoga instructor with a lifetime of practice to share. Just bring a mat, or a twin-sized blanket, and a curious mind. Drop-in.
All-Church Picnic, Sunday, June 14th
Mark your calendar and plan to attend the annual All-Church Picnic immediately following the 11 service on Sunday, June 14. There will be delicious food including burgers, chicken, hot dogs and vegetarian options, lots of yummy salads, of course, dessert. The cost is $5 for adults, $5 for children 4-12 years, and $20 for families.
Don't miss the annual First Church Salad Contest!
Bring your favorite salad to share at the picnic - green salads, pasta salads, fruit salads, all types are welcome. Please bring your salad to the kitchen the day of the picnic and enter your name to be part of the contest. At the picnic everyone will vote for their favorite. We serve over 200 people at the picnic, so the more salads, the better!
Volunteers
We will have a sign-up sheet at coffee hour listing opportunities for help at this fun annual event - volunteers needed to run games for kids, grill, sell tickets, set-up, clean-up, shop, etc. If you have questions, or would like to help out, please e-mail fellowship@uubelmont.org
SAVE THE DATE -- REGISTRATION STARTING SOON
11th Annual Sandy Island Retreat, September 18 - 20, 2015
The Fellowship Committee invites you to the popular First Church Sandy Island Retreat. This is a wonderful opportunity to kick back, relax, and meet new and old friends after a long summer. Sandy Island offers recreational opportunities for people of all interests and ages. Join us for a fabulous weekend of relaxing, kayaking, games, tennis, ping pong, shared meals, interesting conversation, bocce, swimming, volleyball, fun and fellowship. Questions, contact fellowship@uubelmont.org. |
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