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Toward the End of Time
From Interim Senior Minister David Keyes
keyes It was announced this past Sunday at Foothills Unitarian Church in Fort Collins, Colorado, that I will be their interim senior minister starting in late August. Now that it can be told, I wanted you to be among the first to know. Fort Collins is a university town north of Denver boasting access to all sorts of outdoor adventure. The church, one of the denomination's largest, seems to be healthy, with a congregation eager to move boldly forward following the retirement of a long-tenured pastor. Judy and I will be visiting there shortly to find me a place to hang my hat(s). You will all be with me there in spirit.

But wait! We have four more Sundays together, and all those days in between. I'm hoping for a strong finish.

On June 1, as a prelude to the choir's spring concert that afternoon, I'll offer a sermon inspired by the songs of the Israeli peace movement - some of which we shall sing.

On June 8, Linda and I will welcome you to Flower Communion. This is a service always popular with children and moving for families. Bring a flower or greenery to add to our Unity Bouquet.

On June 15, I'll offer a Father's Day salute to the fathers of our faith. (This is the auction sermon.) Following that, all who would like to say goodbye, ask a question, or discuss some of the things that have happened here over the past two years, can join me in the Board Room for a farewell conversation.

June 22 will be my actual farewell day. Congregation President John Bohman will lead the congregation in a Litany of Release. Joining me in the chancel will be your summer minister, Rev. Rebekah Montgomery.

As the church glows with anticipation of the coming of Rev. Aaron McEmrys in August, I look forward to doing together in these last days of transition all the things that make for connecting, growing, and serving.

Best,
David_signature1
Inside this Issue
Religious Education
Fall Retreat
QUUest Art Gallery
Give-the-Plate
Spring Concert
VOICE in Tampa
Congregational MeetingFaith in Action
Polka Night
Memorial Day
Spending Plan
Day Alliance
Summer Hospitality
Wheel of Life

Sunday Worshipworship
May 25, 10:15 a.m. SINGLE SERVICE BEGINS
"Wildfires Burning"
with Rev. Rebekah Montgomery. In our UU faith and many other religious traditions, detachment plays an important part in our spiritual discipline as a way to understand and interact with the world. This morning's sermon will explore what detachment can mean for us. Clerestory Choir will sing a new choral piece -- The Sound of Hope is Calling to Me by Jim Papoulis, commissioned by sixteen Unitarian Universalist congregations of the Washington DC area.
Sunday, June 1, 10:15 a.m.
"Singing for Peace"
A service led by Rev. Keyes, who will reflect on the Israeli-Palistenian peace process and the things that make for peace, and for self-deception.
Colorful flowers isolated on a white background
Sunday, June 8, 10:15 a.m.
Flower Ceremony Sunday
Please bring a flower (or a few) for UUCA's annual Flower Ceremony on June 8. This annual multigenerational event originated at the Unitarian church in Prague between the two World Wars. Norbert Capek, the minister of that congregation, wanted a custom that would be inclusive of both Jews and Christians. He created a ritual in which members and friends would bring flowers from their own gardens, representing their individuality, and join them with all the other flowers from all the other gardens - a symbol of the diversity and beauty of the congregation itself. Then each person would leave with a different flower than the one they arrived with, signaling the way in which we both give to and receive from each other. 
Give-the-Plategive
Last Sunday's GTP offering totaled $1,292. Throughout May, the Sunday offering has benefitted the Guatemalan Accompaniment Project of NISGUA, a national Guatemalan grassroots organization.  UUCA, through its PAG (Partners for Arlington and Guatemala) project, has collaborated with NISGUA since 2006. During that time, our congregation has been part of an international network of communities supporting human rights monitors in Guatemala.  UUCA has sponsored a total of 12 such monitors, known as Accompaniers.  They provide a much needed presence and witness for Guatemalan rights defenders who pursue justice for the genocide of the 1980's, indigenous communities that resist the destruction of their lands by multi-national mining/hydroelectric corporations, and community activists who seek accountability for those accused of wide range of violent crimes.  
Congregational Meetingmeeting
Annual Congregational Meeting
Sunday, June 8, 2014, 11:15 a.m.
UUCA Center

The Congregation will vote on the 2014-15 budget recommended by the Board, and will also vote for the elective offices (click here for list of nominees).  

Only members who have been members throughout the ninety days prior to June 8, 2014 will be eligible to vote. 
Spending Plan Information Sessionbudget
Thursday, May 29, 7 p.m.
2014-15 Budget Meetings
This is the final meeting where you will have an opportunity to review the 2014-15 proposed budget. Led by Brian Smith, Church Administrator. 
Religious EducationRE
From Erica Shadowsong, Director of Religious Education
RE this Weekend:

clapping-baby.jpg The Nursery Will Be Open!

We will also offer two activities:
  • For Younger Children (Our guideline is Preschool to Upper Elementary School). What story lies deep in your heart? Come share it!  This Sunday, we will be making and illustrating a group story for display.  Children will have an opportunity to start on their own books as well. Ability to write not required.   
  • For Older Children (Upper Elementary and above). Did you hear about the boy who owned an arcade? Check him out here. For the next two Sundays, your mission, if you choose to accept it, is to build an arcade for the Annual Meeting on June 8. Bring your thinking caps.

    Green tick sign in silver circle, 3d icon on white background with shadow. For more Information, or to volunteer to help out, please contact Ashley at [email protected] (or click the graphic to sign up)   
IMPORTANT OWL INFORMATION FOR RISING 5TH AND 8TH GRADE PARENTS

If you have a rising 5th grader and you plan to sign up for the Our Whole Lives sexuality education program, please carefully read this letter and respond - click here.

If you have a rising 8th grader and you plan to sign up for the Our Whole Lives sexuality education program, please carefully read this letter - click here

Congratulations to UUCA's 2014 OWL Graduates
Over 75 youth and families joined together this past weekend to celebrate 30 UUCA 8th-graders' completion of the year-long OWL curriculum (Our Whole Lives), the highly-acclaimed comprehensive sexuality education program.  The success of this ministry is due to the significant contributions of our OWL Committee, teachers, and family participation.
Summer Chalice Lighters
Over the summer, we would like to continue to invite children to light the chalice in the worship services.  This is an important way that children get to be a part of our vision for multigenerational worship experience.  Chalice lighters can be children from age five through middle school.  If you are interested in your child having an opportunity to light the chalice this summer, please contact Erica at [email protected].
UUCA Tots and Tikes
We have several opportunities for parents or non-parents alike to help lead the toddler classes next year.  In both services, we are looking for volunteers to team-lead 2s, 3s & 4s, and 5-year-olds.  If you would like to know more, please reach out to Erica Shadowsong at [email protected].  Expressing interest does not imply a commitment, but if this speaks to you in any way, please follow the call and find out more.
We want your feedback
We want to hear from you concerning this year's RE program. Please complete the following simple survey of your choice.
Big Meadows Family and Friends Weekend, June 13-15
If you haven't signed up to join us, it's not too late!  If you haven't reserved your room/site but would like to go, get in touch with Jenni Swisher here. There are still rooms available at the lodge (www.goshenandoah.com/Big-Meadows-Lodge) and we can make room in the campsites if you haven't reserved a spot.  Click here for more details and to register.
Spring Ensembles Concertconcert
Sunday, June 1, 4 p.m. - UUCA Sanctuary


Ensembles & Music include:

Polymnia, Bellissimo! and Young Ringers - works include Pirates of the Caribbean, Gaudeamus, As the Deer, Bound for Glory and Percussive Praise

Chalice Choir and TrUUbadours -  works include Kussimama and I Believe

Youth Choir - works include Leonard Cohen's classic Hallelujah; John Mayer's Waiting on the World to Change; and Always Look on the Bright Side of Life

Clerestory Choir - works include Walk a Mile by Pepper Choplin; Yonder Come Day by Clif Hardin; and The Sound of Hope by Jim Papoulis
Bring your family and friends -
Music lovers of all ages will enjoy this free concert!

For more information, contact Bob Griffith at [email protected] or 703-892-2565, ext. 268
Faith in Action: Connecting - Growing - Servingaction
DIG promotes native plant education and activities at UUCA
garden-ball.jpg Do It Green (DIG) invites you to a Native Plant Garden Tour. The tour begins at UUCA at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 31. The tour includes two private gardens and, if time permits, the Native Plant Garden at Potomac Overlook Regional Park. There will be an optional brown bag lunch afterwards. This is a great opportunity to get ideas for your garden and to get to know other native plant gardeners. Please contact Sherrie Burson or Kit Britton with questions or to let us know of your interest in more DIG activities and whether you plan to attend the tour.
Join the Capital Pride Festival & Parade - Saturday, June 7 & 8
Pride_parade_photo It's that time of year again, when Unitarian Universalists from the DC metro area descend upon Washington and march together at the Capital Pride Parade. Are you proud of our Welcoming Congregation? Proud to be GLBTQ? Proud to be an ally? Then, please join the parade! You are invited to join Rev. Linda, UUCAers, and the UU contingent when the parade steps off on Saturday, June 7, at 4:30 p.m. near DuPont Circle.  Also, volunteers are needed for the UU booth at the Pride Festival on Sunday, June 8, 12 to 7 p.m. To join the parade and/or help at the festival booth, stop by the Equality UUCA table on Sunday or contact Elizabeth Fogarty.
Peace Camp 2014 is Filling Up Fast
PeaceCamp_kidphoto Peace Camp is a summer camp packed with fun activities for children (ages 5 to 14), youth, and adults to learn and practice peace-making skills.  Peace Camp is a treasured UUCA institution and a unique training ground for new generations of peace builders. The camp brings community partner kids and kids from the suburbs together in an environment that builds common strengths on common ground.  Peace Camp 2014 will run for 3 weeks this year (June 23-27, June 30 - July 3, and July 7-11) and campers can attend 1, 2, or all 3 weeks.  Camp runs from 8:45 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. at UUCA and after care is available from 3-5 p.m.  Please email [email protected] for more information. You can also register online here.

Volunteer at Peace Camp
Kitchen_peacecamp_photo If you are too old to be a camper but would like to help build the beloved community, we and the campers would love your help! We have openings for all levels of commitment:  team leader, counselor, lunch assistant, after-camp care support, and numerous other opportunities. To learn of all the opportunities to help build a more peaceful world one relationship at a time, please email [email protected]. Volunteer applications can be found here. Interested in helping in the kitchen? The hours are flexible - please contact Mollie Jewell here
Buckingham Community
  • Computer Volunteers. If you use email, search the web, or use Facebook - you are qualified to help teach basic computer skills to our immigrant neighbors in the Buckingham Outreach Program. The computer lab meets Tuesday evenings from 7 to 9 p.m., Gates of Ballston, 4108 N. 4th St.  To volunteer, contact Sharon Williams.   
  • Buckingham Helpers. Need help with yard work or spring cleaning?  Buckingham workers offer many services, such as mulching, moving furniture, and painting.  A Buckingham cook can prepare Latin American dishes for a special dinner or serve supper on your deck.  To fill out a request form, visit the Buckingham Outreach table in Fellowship Hall after the service on Sunday. For more information, contact Nancy Hall.
Beacon House Volunteers Needed May 24
Beacon House has a Saturday Science club that has been a huge hit for children ages 5 to 18. Adults and youth are needed to help out with the fun-filled activities. UU churches in the area have been asked to provide volunteers and UUCA is responsible for staffing the fourth Saturday of each month. Volunteers are needed between 9:30 a.m. and noon. For more information or to sign up, please contact [email protected].
Beacon House Academic Olympics & UU Challenge 
Saturday, June 7, 2 to 5 p.m. 
Over the past 20 years, UUCA has been a great supporter of the Beacon House Community Ministry (a UU program that provides mentoring, cultural, athletic, recreational and nutritional programs to at-risk youth in the District). Now is the opportunity to see Beacon House in action at the first Beacon House Academic Olympics & UU Challenge Grant Event. Come watch as Beacon House scholars square off in friendly games of knowledge and academic skills. Proceeds will support the Beacon House Camp Leap summer program. The Fund for UU Social Responsibility will award Beacon House $10,000 if we match it with new gifts from UU congregations and individual UUs. Location of event: Noyes Elementary School, 2725 10th St. NE, Washington, DC 20018. Questions? Call 202-529-7376 or visit www.beaconhousedc.org
UUJEC Website Survey
Unitarian Universalists for a Just Economic Community (UUJEC) is a 20-year-old national UU organization dedicated to educate and activate UUs to work for economic justice. They have put together a short survey to gather information to help them in their website re-design.  To participate in the survey, click here
Caring About the Affordable Care ActDA
Day Alliance - Tuesday, June 10
The Day Alliance speaker in June is Ben D'Avanzo. Ben will give an overview of the Affordable Care Act and the results of open enrollment, common notions of what the law contains and what has happened in the four years since it was passed. Ben is a Government Affairs Associate with  Families USA, the national organization for health care consumers. He's a committed anti-poverty advocate who works with the Congress and coalitions of consumer organizations to implement the Affordable Care Act. Ben is also an active UUCA member - he is involved in the Young Adults Group, is a Youth Group Advisor and is part of the Transition Team. Ben's presentation begins at 11 a.m. Sign-in is at 10:00 a.m. and is followed by a short business meeting. A catered lunch begins at noon. Lunch is $10. Make reservations for lunch at [email protected]
Finding our Wild and Precious Lives in Communityfall
Fall Retreat - September 26 - 28
The UUCA Fall Retreat will focus on sharing our own individual experiences of the theme "Building Community." What helps us speak our own personal insights? What obstacles block real communication? Please come and share your perspective! Sign-up after the service on Sunday or contact Lee Bory
hUUmanists and the Incredible Human Journeyhuman
Monday, May 26, 7:30 p.m.
The Incredible Human Journey (part 3) - The hUUmanists will view the third segment of  the BBC documentary, The Incredible Human Journey, narrated by Dr. Alice Roberts. It describes the journey some 70,000 years ago from Africa of the anatomically modern humans (homo sapiens) that eventually reached over the entire globe. In this episode, Roberts describes the various settlements in Europe where they confronted Neanderthals. She discusses the theories about why Europeans today have white skin and describes the birth of agriculture and the societal changes that took place as a result. All are welcome. For further information, contact Jere Cummins
UUCA Celebrates with International Polka Partypolka



After an exciting week culminating in a unanimous vote for Rev. Aaron McEmrys as our new Senior Minister-elect, UUCA members, friends and neighbors, gathered for a Polka Party!  Last Friday night, Present Company presented live music and polka lessons to an enthusiastic and intergenerational crowd ranging in age from 1 to nearly 100!  This was the first music and dance gathering presented by the UUCA Recital Series.  Look for more of these fun, intergenerational opportunities next year. 
Summer Hospitality Teamcoffee
The slower days of summer are upon us and now is the perfect time to join our Sunday morning hospitality crew. With our summer single service at 10:15, we still serve coffee, tea and lemonade after the service. Volunteers are needed to help with the set-up and serving of these beverages. No experience needed -- Just a warm smile and a willingness to lend a hand is all that is required. For more information or to volunteer, please email Mollie Jewell or call 703-941-5643.
Art Lives Here . . .art
Honoring a decade - QUUest Art Gallery Director Susan Mekkawi
On May 18, a reception in UUCA's Center Art Gallery honored Susan Mekkawi, UUCA volunteer who was the Director of UUCA's QUUest Art Gallery for a full decade.  The reception was also the opening of a major retrospective show featuring 27 works from twelve artists whose art has been featured in the QUUest Gallery in the last decade. Kudos to the work of Meika Ungricht, the new UUCA Art Galleries Manager, and a volunteer team who installed the show and hosted the reception - Melissa Rea, Greg McFarland, Erin FitzGerald, Mike Evering, Margaret Bauman and Helen Power. (photo: Barbara Dixon and Susan Mekkawi)
Rev. Linda and VOICE in Stockholder Actionvoice

Rev. Linda and other VOICE and Industrial Areas Foundation leaders in front of JP Morgan Chase headquarters, Tampa, Fla.
Rev. Linda joined 25 VOICE and national Industrial Areas Foundation leaders in Tampa, Florida, to speak at the annual meeting of the JP Morgan Chase stockholders, and demand that Executive Director Jamie Dimon keep the promises he made to Senator Mark Warner and VOICE to participate in rebuilding the Prince William County communities his bank helped devastate through predatory lending practices which led to the financial collapse in 2008.  UUA Treasurer Tim Brennan, who serves on the board of an interfaith SRI group, traveled from Boston to join the action.

Memorial Daymemorial

Monday night's Mindfulness Meditation Class will not be held.

The church office will be closed.

Wheel of Lifelife
A memorial service will be held for Betsy Brown Harmon, daughter to the late Lindsey Harmon, on Saturday, May 24, 2:00 p.m. in our Sanctuary, with Rev. Linda Olson Peebles presiding.

Congratulations to Madelyn Campbell who graduated last weekend from Wesley Divinity School with her Master's of Divinity degree.
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Unitarian Universalist Church of Arlington   |   4444 Arlington Blvd, Arlington VA 22204   |   703-892-2565