February 2014

Rev. Dr. Doak Mansfield, Interim Minister

Erin Powers, DRE

In This Issue

Wondering While Wandering

Desk of the President

R.E. flections

Community Conversation

Worship Associate Meeting

The Challenge of Marriage

CUUPS Full Moon Celebration

Wicca 101

In Memory, Gwen Anderson

In Memory, Gerhard Hamburg

UU Women's Retreat

Membership Recognition

The Good Book

Rabunctious Roustabouts

Friendship Dinners

Game Night

2014 The Mountain Season

WhaleCoast Alaska 2014

What Really Matters?

Come and join Buildings & Grounds Work Day,

February 8th,

9-11 a.m.

Click for
The Church Calendar

Al-Anon

Al-Anon meets at UUCT on Saturdays at 10:30 am each week. For additional information in Hillsborough County, call 813-881-9372 or visit us on the web at www.tampabayalanon.org.

DOMELIGHT
Deadline for Submissions: 17th of each month

Length of Articles:

300-350 words

Submit via email to: domelight@uutampa.org

DL Editorial Board:

Pat Busbice

Mary Francis

Ron Hammerle

Christine Smith

Board of Trustees

Beom Lee
Jodi Pecoraro
Roger Polcyn
John Powers
Chuck Smith

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Wondering While Wandering . . .

The shortest month comes next on this journey in our passage of linear time: February. Its name comes from an ancient Roman festival for purification related to the rainy season of Italy.

The high 'holy' days this month include the silly, profound, and sublime: Groundhog Day, Black History Month, Presidents' Day, and Valentine's Day. We can also add Super Bowl Sunday for the huge cultural occasion -- a violence driven neo-gladiator game that reflects the confounding character and mixed-up values of this country.

Of the markings during this month Valentine's Day is the most intriguing one for me. Coarse commercialism and shallow sentimentality have tried to corrupt the possibilities of this day for deep and serious meanings. I'm not satisfied to let it be taken over by the evil side of greed and cheap emotionality and dare claim it as a most high and holy day for me and I want to share it with you.
Its origins are clouded in myth and manipulation: St. Valentine's Day began as a remembrance of one or more early Christian saints named Valentinus. The most popular story is associated with "Saint" Valentine is about an early Christian leader who was imprisoned for performing weddings for soldiers who were forbidden to marry and for ministering to Christians, who were persecuted under the Roman Empire. During his imprisonment, he is said to have healed the daughter of his jailer, Asterius. Legend states that before his execution he wrote the daughter a letter signed "Your Valentine" as a farewell.
The celebration of the day is found across our land and many places around the world. Not because of some ancient exclusive religious significance. I think beyond the capitalist cynical use, is the deep need for some ideas that matter.
I'll be bold then and claim the day for a great idea... an intentional awareness and honoring of the vital quality that infuses life with value and joy: LOVE.
Love is the human virtue representing human kindness, compassion, and affection

--"the unselfish loyal and benevolent concern for the good of another". What a world it would be if such be the core of humanness and ethical imperative of civilization.
Have 'sweet' on me in February and remember love as you enjoy; its wonder, value, and possibility to redeem, renew, restore life.

HAPPY VALENTINE Beloveds...Love from Your Valentine!

Together ~ Doak

Desk of the President
CHURCH BUSINESS
This is the time of the year when the "business" business of the Church is at its peak. There are forms to file with the state, forms to file with the IRS and the Social Security Administration . . . forms, forms, forms. Out of all this work comes a clearer picture of our Church's financial health -- and we are healthy, not ready for a triathlon, but healthy. The job of keeping us healthy belongs to the Treasurer, Pat Benedict, and the Finance Committee headed by Sergio Matos. They guide the Board in its financial decisions.

When you see them please thank them for their work. With the business part healthy we can focus on the spiritual health of the community. Unfortunately, there are no clear measurers for that kind of health. Only indications. But the signs I see indicate a vitality and cohesiveness that is truly and head-shakingly gratifying. Thank you, all of you.

Bill

UUCT

One Place. All Faiths. No Problem.

R.E.flections by Erin Powers

On January 12th I began a new tradition for our Religious Exploration classes. Before our children leave the sanctuary, we light a lantern to "carry the flame" over to our classes. This will help signify that what we do in Religious Exploration classes is sacred and part of church, too. I have set up an altar in the lobby of the Multi-Purpose Building. Once we arrive there, we will light a chalice and have opening words together before we split into classes. I will carry the flame the first few times, but I plan to start inviting children to be our Keeper of the Flame each week. They will have the special honor of carrying the flame over and lighting the chalice in the MPB. I am excited about this new element of our Religious Exploration program and I hope it enriches the experience for our children, families and teachers.
I want our children to have the opportunity to participate more fully in our church rituals. I want them to have a sense of belonging and ownership, but also an understanding of what we do at church and WHY. Even our youngest UUs recognize our chalice and can repeat our commonly used opening words. If you're wondering, here they are, "We are the church of the two Us, Unitarian Universalists. We are the church of the open minds, helping hands and loving hearts. We are the church of the flaming chalice that lights our path of peace, truth and love." Our older UU children have been exploring world religions this year and making connections between our church and religions around the world. Our youth have tried their hand at creating services of their own. There's so much exploring happening here at UUCT! I love watching our children and youth grow in our faith.

Community Conversation on Worship II

On Saturday January 25 at 9:30am we will meet in the sanctuary to follow up our initial discussion in November. We will briefly review results of the first conversation and then build on that to further discuss what needs we have that our Sunday morning worship service can and should meet. Effectively designing a service requires knowing what outcomes are desirable.

We will identify the many elements that could be part of our service and make a first cut at designing a service template. We will evaluate the elements by asking how they further the goals we have developed for Sunday Morning and how they fit together to enhance each other and the flow of the service. Click here for the report of the first conversation meeting.

WORSHIP ASSOCIATE MEETING RESCHEDULED
(third time is the charm . . . )
February 15 -- Worship Associates Team
Saturday: 10 AM - Noon

Learn more about yourself, develop leadership and speaking skills, express ideas and images, and contribute to the diversity and creativity of our Sunday Celebrations. Volunteers are needed to become a Worship Associate and to partner with others to help with our Sunday services. A dozen or so Sundays annually are Community Sunday Celebrations in the 11 o'clock hour that inspire, sustain, enlighten, and lift. Each Worship Associate will share leadership on a couple Sundays a year and collaborate with team on all the Community Celebrations. Speak to me, Diane Gainforth, or call Linda in office to join in adventure. Training and support will begin that day and be ongoing. -- The Rev. Doak Mansfield

THE CHALLENGE OF MARRIAGE Four times over the past two years, it has been a pleasure for us -- Anthony Miller and Randall Gainforth -- to work with small groups on the challenge of being parents in this age of social equality. Navigating these new parent-child relationships of social equality are challenging and we are often left feeling like our parent skills make us poor parents. Nothing could be further from the truth, as time and time again parents step up and meet the demands of the situation with flexibility and good problem solving skills.

Now we would like to present another relationship that is also challenged by social equality: marriage. Just as being a parent has changed, so has our relationship with our partners. No one today is willing to be in a "lesser" position when it comes to the structure of our marriages. Fortunately, all of us have some positive experiences with what can be called quality relationships. They are usually the kind of relationships we have with our good friends. Unfortunately, often times when we commit to a long term relationship, we think the "rules" of social living change and that's where we will often create problems of power struggles, revenge cycles, grudge holding, and emotional stonewalling.
But if we understand that we can not control anyone else and if we take self responsibility, we can step up to the challenge of marriage and find ourselves in a relationship that creates happiness and good mental health for both of us.
Please consider joining us for the Challenge of Marriage in a four-six week group starting the last week of January.

Circles in the Woods CUUPS

Circles in the Woods CUUPS sponsors a monthly Full Moon Celebration on Saturdays closest to the full moon.

Bring the wee ones on February 15th @ 7:30 pm for our annual baby blessing from the well of Bridgid.

All Circles in the Woods CUUPS activities are open to the public and held at UUCT. The only cost is a love donation. Families with children are welcome. No pets please. Plan to stay to socialize afterwards. Bring a dish to share. All are welcome who come in perfect love and perfect trust.

For more information about Circles in the Woods CUUPS, e-mail cuups@uutampa.org.

Six session classes will be on the 1st and 3rd Sunday afternoons from January to March 17. A love donation of $25 is suggested. Class attendees who are interested will write and perform the April 12 Full Moon Celebration. It's still not too late to join!

Class Three - February 3, 1 pm -3 pm - The Wheel of the Year
The Solar/Lunar Calendar
Esbats: Celebrating the Phase of the Moon
The Great/Lesser Sabbats
Activities:
Wheel of the Year Altars

Class Four - February 17, 1 pm -3 pm - Magick and Ethics
Magick Overiew
The Five-pointed Star
Working with Permission    Ritual Etiquette
Psychic Self-Defense
Activities: Role Playing of ethics scenarios

Class Five - March 3, 1 pm -3 pm - Ritual Basics
Why ritual?
Preparing Ritual Space
Common Ritual Tools and altar setup: Using Meditation, Divination, Spells, Charms, Poppets, and more.
Activity: Walking Meditation

Class Six - March 17, 1 pm - 3 pm - The Working Circle
Between the Worlds
Earth, Air, Fire, Water, Spirit
Raising Energy    Dedication, Initiation, Covens
Next Steps and Ritual Planning
Activity: Bring an item for consecration/blessing

For more information about Circles in the Woods CUUPS, e-mail cuups@uutampa.org.

Gwen Trowbridge Anderson

Our beloved Gwen, 69, passed away in the first week of January at her Tampa residence. Gwen was a native of Piqua, Ohio, and has lived in the Tampa area for the past 20 years. She obtained a Doctorate in Literature and has taught at both Hillsborough Community College and University of South Florida. Gwen is survived by one sister, Catherine Ann Taylor, of Yellow Springs, Ohio and nephew Brendan Taylor. A memorial service was held on Monday, January 13, at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Tampa, where Gwen was a longtime enthusiastic member of the choir. Her choir friends, past and current, came together to remember her and sing at the service. Words of comfort may be expressed at www.bloutcurryterraceoaks.com.

Gerhard Hamburg

Many of you will remember when Gerhard joined the Unitarian Universalist Church of Tampa on March 28, 1982. In recent years he has been a friendly face at Sunday services and coffee hour, when he was able to attend. Gerhard's Life Celebration was officiated by the Reverend Mike Young, Interim Minister of the UU Congregation of Venice, FL at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Tampa on Saturday, January 18. Gerhard was 95.

4th Annual UU Women's Retreat

March 21-23, 2014

DaySpring Retreat Center, Ellenton, FL

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE NOW AVAILABLE

Don't miss out on a chance to have another wonderful weekend with other Florida UU women.

We are now able to offer financial assistance for 50% of the registration fees. Registration includes a semi-private room for 2 nights and 6 meals.

We will provide $110 of the $220 cost for the weekend for five new registrants. The first five to apply will receive the assistance.

This message is being sent to all those who have previously attended the weekend, but who have not yet registered. Please consider joining us.

For an application or additional information please contact:

Helen Leddy

helen.leddy@gmail.com

SAVE THE DATE - Feb. 9 - Membership Recognition

Our longest-term members will be recognized in the Feb. 9 Sunday morning service, followed by an all-church luncheon in the Multi-Purpose Building at 12:15. Been here since before 1995? -- watch your mailbox for a special invitation! The rest of us will enjoy a lasagna and salad lunch in your honor, with plenty of sweet desserts!

This Valentine Luncheon is our way of saying,

"We love this church, we love our members!"

The youth are helping by serving the meal, and younger RE children will make table decorations. Save the date and bring the whole family; childcare will be provided.

Jeannette Manning, Membership Committee
813-857-0468, manningjea@yahoo.com

Good Book Column
Hi, Dear Readers: Unfortunately, this month we don't have any recommendations for your reading pleasure. But I remain positive in thinking that there are people who are enjoying good books. I hope people aren't bashful about telling others what they're reading and liking. Also don't go under the misapprehension that this is just a column for high-brow readers. We want to hear about whatever you're interested in, so that we can share with others. Be thinking about what you would like to say about your reading in the coming months and let us know. Thanks.

Carol Baker

Rambunctious Roustabouts

This group would like to regenerate now that we have a Social Activities Committee. Marjorie Acker has requested a traveling group to visit museums, parks (e.g. Hillsborough River State Park for a picnic), kayaking, canoeing, etc. Activities would take place once a month on whatever date decided by those who wish to attend. This would not be a part of Senior Connections as all ages (not just seniors of all ages) are invited. Please call Marjorie at 941-753-7115 as she will coordinate this group.

FRIENDSHIP DINNERS

Seeking a New Coordinator
If you would like to host a Friendship Dinner, your only obligation is to open your house and provide an entr�e, drinks optional. Every guest brings a dish; host stipulates the number of people she can accommodate. We are in need of a coordinator who will announce the dinner in the Domelight and order of service, and post the signup sheet in the back of the church; template provided. Result: an enjoyable evening getting to know other members! See Pat Busbice, pwbuzz77@gmail.com or 813-994-0355.

TEEN & ADULT GAME NIGHT
Fri., Feb 21, 6:30-9 pm ODD DATE
Usually scheduled on the 2nd Fri. of the month, in February we move to the 3rd Fri., Feb. 21st, still 6:30 - 9 pm in the Multi-Purpose Building.

Do you play mah jongg or would you like to? If interested, please contact Diana Stevens ttlassie@gmail.com or Jeannette Manning manningjea@yahoo.com. We'll need 4 people to play, so please let us know if you are interested, but also HOW interested and how often you would come.

Mexican Train Dominoes is a perennial favorite. We also have Uno, Rook, Skip-Bo and Scrabble sets, as well as cards and whatever YOU want to bring. Great snacks are provided.

For questions, contact Jeannette Manning, 813-857-0468, manningjea@yahoo.com.

Hello and Happy New Year from the Mountain!
We are entering 2014 season and it is an exciting time on our mountain. Mountain lovers will remember that 35 years ago The Mountain was born out of SUUSI. Today the dream continues. We are so excited to start the season and see you here. After a banner 2013 we have planned some exciting programs you and your family. Be sure to check out our website www.mountaincenters.org and sign up. Our youth programs include Spring & Fall Youth Cons, Mountain Camp (one week and two week sessions for most ages). Our family programs include work weekend 4/18-20, Mountain Homecoming 5/23-26 and Family Camp 7/26-8/1, Thanksgiving 11/26-30. Our programs for adults are Appalachian Spring at The Mountain 5/19-23, Mountain Health and Wellness week 6/15-19, SUUFI 10/6-9. If you love The Mountain want to be a volunteer, please contact Julia.jamieson@mountaincenters.org we are looking for people to host groups and help with daily tasks.

WhaleCoast Alaska 2014

Have you ever dreamed of visiting Alaska? If so,

WhaleCoast Alaska 2014 is for you! Four Alaska UU fellowships invite you to experience our eco-cultural and spiritual program next summer! See Alaska through the eyes of local UUs in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, and Sitka with friendly homestays and unique tour activities. See wildlife, including moose, bears, caribou, whales, bald eagles, seals, and sea otters. Visit Denali National Park. Experience native Alaskan culture. Forget the cruise ships - our tour is the best way to visit Alaska! Programs led by Dave Frey, a member of the Fairbanks UU congregation and an expert in Alaska travel. To find out more about your Alaskan trip of a lifetime, visit www.WhaleCoastAK.org, email dfrey@whalecoastak.org, or call 907-322-4966. We would love to share our Alaska with you!

Reflection of You

There is a story about a father and his young son who were walking through the mountains. Suddenly, the son fell, hurting his leg on a rock. He screamed, "AAhhhh!"

To his surprise, he heard a voice repeating, "AAhhhh!"

This made him even more curious. So, he yelled, "Who are you?" Back came the same answer, "Who are you?"

Feeling a bit perturbed by this response, he yelled out, "Coward!"

Back came the same reply, "Coward!"

He looked at his father and asked: "What's going on?" His father smiled and said: "Son, pay attention."

Looking across the valley, his father yelled to the mountain, "I admire you!" The voice answered: "I admire you!"

Again the man cried out: "You are a champion!" The voice replied,
"You are a champion!"

The boy was amazed, but he was very confused. So his father explained...

"You are only hearing an echo, the sound of our voices bouncing back from the mountains. However, this really is how life works. It returns to you what you think,

say, and do!

"Our lives are a reflection of our thoughts and actions. If you want more love in your world, create more love in your heart. If you want to be treated with kindness, treat others with kindness. If you want more competence on your team, become more competent.

"This relationship applies to everything, in all aspects of life. Life will give to you everything you give to it, only it will give you even more in return. Your life is not ever a coincidence. Each moment is a reflection of you!"

The son listened and grew in understanding, and through the following years, he witnessed the truth of these words in his life!

Author Unknown

A Month of Sundays at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Tampa

Services begin at 11 a.m.

February 2 - "Ground Hogs, Possums, and Mockingbirds"
Reflections on the human need for control and certainty in a world where there be little of either.
Reverend Dr. Doak M. Mansfield

February 9 - "Love"
Beyond the candy, flowers, and cards what can be distilled from the commercialism of the over-the-top cultural holiday that is Valentine's Day?

Reverend Dr. Doak M. Mansfield

February 16 - Community Sunday: Musical Celebration
Worship Program Committee

February 23 - "History for Spiritual Pilgrims"

Rev. Dr. Doak M. Mansfield

Conversations With The Board: Members of the Board of Trustees will be present for conversation after church on the last Sunday of each month from 12:15 to 12:45 p.m. The purpose of these conversations will be to open communication and share ideas. Come with questions and ideas, but always with an open mind.

"All I really need is love, but a little chocolate now and then doesn't hurt!"
~ Lucy Van Pelt in Peanuts by Charles M. Schulz

Contact Info
UU Church of Tampa

email: info@uutampa.org

11400 Morris Bridge Road, Tampa, FL 33637

813-988-8188