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How to Hear a Sermon
Sunday Worship, June 22, 10:15 a.m.
Candle_photo


With Interim Senior Minister David Keyes and Rev. Rebekah Montgomery. Rev. David will offer some thoughts about the history of sermons and their purpose and Rev. Rebekah will share a preview of our upcoming sermons and themes for the summer.

Please come participate in the ritual completing our interim ministry. This will be the last Sunday that Rev. David will be with us. A farewell reception will follow the service.

Sunday Worship - June 29, 10:15 a.m.
"Shared Unbelief"
Shay_OReilly_photo With guest speaker Shay O'Reilly. UU dialogue with other faiths is often about shared beliefs -- say, the dignity of the human or the importance of kindness -- but what if we instead looked at shared disbeliefs? In an age abundant with death-dealing idols, perhaps proclaiming what we don't believe in is just as important as affirming positive principles.

Shay is a seminarian at Union Theological Seminary-NYC. He grew up attending UUCA's religious education program and is the son of Wendy Jessup and Tom O'Reilly.
Inside this Issue
Give-the-Plate
Labyrinth Walk
UUCA Sanctuary
Religious Education
Faith in Action
Summer Reads
Mindful Meditation
2013-14 Volunteers
Summer Covenant Group
hUUmanists
Fall Retreat
Wheel of Life
General Assembly



What difference has the church made in your life?survey
The Board, Staff and Church Leaders want to know
A person drawing and pointing at a We Want Your Feedback Chalk Illustration The ten minutes you invest now completing this survey may pay great rewards for you, and for many others. This annual harvest of feelings will provide a base line for measurement of how the ministry of UUCA is touching lives. One job of the Senior Minister is to provide evidence of accountability to the Board. The job of the Board is to make sure that their vision (your vision) is serving the people of the church and the community, today and tomorrow. There are many ways that the minister and Board seek to find out if they are making a positive difference in people's lives. This is one very important way. THANKS for your participation. Click HERE to take the survey.
Give-the-PlateGivePlate
Benefits UUSJ
Last week the Give-the-Plate benefited Unitarian Universalists for Social Justice in the National Capital Region.  Our congregation generously donated $1,089 .

Again this Sunday the offering will go to Unitarian Universalists for Social Justice in the National Capital Region. UUSJ is a regional partnership of 23 UU congregations in Maryland, DC, and Virginia (including UUCA), UU-affiliated organizations, plus individuals who are deeply committed to giving a voice to Unitarian Universalist religious principles and values. The UUSJ envisions a vibrant regional community of Unitarian Universalists working together to create a peaceful, just, and sustainable world -- for ourselves and for the generations to follow. Most recently, UUSJ has begun a focus on advocacy on Capitol Hill to amplify UU voices. UUSJ has collaborated with issue-based and interfaith groups to work on issues in the environment, immigration, LGBTQ rights, and wealth divide. For more information contact, Lavona Grow at 703-524-4860 or UUSJ at [email protected].

Mark your calendar - Immigration Film Festival Oct. 24-26
Member congregations of UUSJ have joined together to bring to the DC area the Greater Washington Immigration Film Festival, Oct. 24-26. Thirteen touching stories and thought-provoking documentaries will play in area UU churches and other venues over the three days, to help put a face on immigration and motivate viewers to take action for reform. To learn more or to get involved in this exciting project, stop by the UUSJ table this Sunday, or email Marilyn Baker.
UUCA's Fiscal Year 2013-14 Comes to End
June brings us to not only the start of summer vacations, but also the end of our fiscal year. If you are able, please make a contribution to your 2013-2014 pledge by month's end. For questions and/or assistance, please contact UUCA's bookkeeper, Beth Enriquez.
Religious EducationReligiousEd
Erica Shadowsong, Director of Religious Education

Life is a beach
Youth playing football photo
Last weekend, youth, advisors and DRE took a much-anticipated and deserved trip to Virginia Beach.

We left on Friday afternoon and serenaded ourselves to maintain sanity as we navigated D.C. area traffic.  Car time always affords unique opportunities to bond, and I heard quite a few humorous stories on the ride down. We arrived late at night at a camping and travel park, where we stayed in some very nice cabins. We were happy to have shower facilities nearby, and also a miniature golf course, pool and even a modest arcade.

On Saturday morning, we headed for the beach. Read more.
Anti-Bullying Workshop (7th - 12th graders) - Sundays, June 22 & 29
Imagine A World Where Being
Check this link before the program
We all know bullying is a problem, here is your chance to be part of the solution. Please come join Daniel Whalen for an amazing program. We will discuss bullying and design anti-bullying memes to share on social media.  Daniel is a worship innovator known for incorporating social media in worship and education at Davies Memorial UU in Maryland. He has most recently worked to foster a relationship with the Ruai Unitarian Universalist Church in Kenya, Africa, by having joint services via Skype. He is a high school teacher and a co-founder of the Gay Straight Alliance at the school where he teaches. Students, please bring any wireless device/camera of your choosing and check this link before the program. Please email [email protected] with any questions.
Restorative Yoga Workshop - Sat., June 21, 10 - 11:30 a.m.
Does insomnia keep you up at night? Learn techniques for addressing insomnia by joining this free workshop on Saturday in the Chapel. This relaxing and restorative workshop will teach you ways to cope with insomnia and rest more deeply.  During the 1.5-hour class, you'll pair restful yoga postures with inner work, creating the conditions for success by subtly connecting mind and body exercises. Spaces are limited - RSVP to [email protected].
2014 Volunteer Awardsawards
At UUCA's annual meeting on June 8, we recognized our Volunteers of the Year for 2014. Over the next several weeks we will feature these extraordinary volunteers who are such an important part of the life of our church.
JohnBohman_photo
Outgoing Board Chair John Bohman with outgoing Trustees David McTaggart and Alex Roth

The Distinguished Service Award is presented to exceptional leaders who inspire others with their commitment, generosity, and compassion.
The 2014 award is presented to John Bohman -    For his love of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Arlington, and of its people and its potential. This love has been visible in action that has preserved and protected the democratic process, brought spiritual as well as policy leadership, and withstood the battering of many storms. The church advances to greater levels of service thanks to his service.
- Presented by Rev. David Keyes

A Year to Rememberyear

The current Board of Trustees held its last business meeting of the church year on Monday, June 18.  It was a evening to self evaluate, to reminisce, and to give thanks.  The church members serving on the 2013-14 Board have been: (L-R top row: David McTaggart; Chad Ohlandt, Treasurer;  John Bohman, Chair;  2nd row: Gretchen Menn; Ken Marshall; Mary Pike; Wendy Jessup; 1st row: Juliet Purll; Alex Roth; Christine Hauser, Secretary; Stephen Brannon (Chair Elect).
UUCA Goes to GA ga

The annual General Assembly of the Unitarian Universalist Association takes place next week in Providence, Rhode Island. This year, UUCA is sending a sizable delegation -- 17 delegates and five alternates, along with five staff members. Attendees worship, witness, learn, connect, and make policy for the UUA through democratic process. Stay connected and informed of the happenings at this year's GA via Facebook, Twitter and at www.uucava.org .
Faith in Action: Connecting - Growing - ServingFaith
White House Vigil for Victims of Torture - Sat., June 28, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
torture_protest_photo All are invited to join for all or part of the time at Lafayette Park to commemorate victims of torture by keeping vigil, celebrating life, remembering lost friends and family, and renewing a commitment to a world where peace rules and torture is banned. The vigil is part of the 17th Annual June Survivors' Week (June 25-29) organized by TASSC International (Torture Abolition and Survivors Support Coalition).  UUCA will be giving the Sunday service offering June 29 to support the work of TASSC.
Dream Project Awards a Record Number Scholarships 
2014 Dreamers Scholarship awardee
UUCA members of the Dream Project Board, Amy Yamashiro and Chris Provan, stand with New Dream Scholar Enkhjin Rodas-Calderon, who spoke in UUCA services this year.
Rev. Linda
was one of the presenters at the 4th annual Dream Project Awards ceremony, held at Wakefield High School June 13. The Dream Project mentors undocumented immigrant high school students and awards scholarships to make it possible for them to attend colleges. When the project started four years ago, founded by Dr. Emma Violand-Sanchez, four scholarships were awarded. This year, there were 24 new Dream Scholars (graduating high school seniors) and 24 Renewal Scholars (college students). From its beginning, UUCA has been a strong supporter of the Dream Project, and was publicly thanked at the ceremony for helping the Dream Project thrive and grow in such a short time.
VOICE Builds Youth Athletic Fields
UUCA VOICE leader Cynthia Adcock listens to youth speakers.
Rev. Linda and Joe and Cynthia Adcock joined VOICE (Virginians Organized for Interfaith Community Engagement) leaders from 12 congregations in the Mt. Vernon Richmond Hwy area of Fairfax County on June 16 to celebrate the groundbreaking of five youth athletic fields in the area.  The action, which was also attended by close to 100 residents and the Fairfax County Supervisor Jeff McKay, was held next to one of those fields which will serve 1,200 low-income children and youth who live in the Audubon Mobile Home Park.  Prior to VOICE's work there were no recreational facilities available.  These fields are major victories resulting from VOICE's work with a broad, diverse group of parents, coaches, youth, and educators in the area. 
VOICE - Become a Friend
VOICE is engaged in activities that reflect some of our core values in social justice as you can see in the article above. This Sunday, June 22, please visit the VOICE table or speak to anyone wearing a yellow button to see how you can become a friend of VOICE and support its work. We need your help.
Peace Camp 2014 is Filling Up Fast
PeaceCamp_photo 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.  This summer camp program 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.  The camp runs for three weeks -- June 23-27, June 30 - July 3, and July 7-11, 8:45 a.m. to 3 p.m., with aftercare available until 5 p.m. Campers can attend one, two, or all three weeks. Please email [email protected] for more information. You can also register online at goo.gl/yCUx4.
Volunteer at Peace Camp
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 lunch assistants and after-camp care support volunteers. To learn of all the opportunities to help build a more peaceful world one relationship at a time, please email [email protected].
white_mouse_keyboard.jpg Volunteer Computer Help Needed
If you use email, search the web, or find friends on Facebook, the Buckingham Outreach Program could use your help with teaching basic computer skills. The computer lab meets Tuesday evenings 7 to 9 p.m. and is located at Gates of Ballston, 4108 N. 4th St. To volunteer or for more information, contact Sharon Williams.
Need Summer Help?
Need help with yard work or house 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 on Sunday.   For more information, contact Nancy Hall.
Two Ways to Help AHC this Summer
AHC, Affordable Housing Corporation, builds and manages homes and programs for people who qualify for lower rents. UUCAers have long supported those communities through donations and volunteer assistance.
  • Help Distribute Supplemental Groceries to Neighbors in Need - Thursdays from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Contact Josh Kearns at 703-807-1941 or [email protected].
  • Volunteer with AHC's Summer Camp - July 7 to August 14. Camp runs from noon to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday. Volunteer hours are flexible. There are six community centers in need of volunteers in Arlington. Contact Cindy Rozon at [email protected] or visit www.ahcinc.org for more information. 
Invitation to a Special Summer Covenant Group covenant
SmallGroup_image Two experienced small group leaders, Hank Dahlstrom and Frank Corsoro, are offering a special 5-session Covenant Group series this summer.  The group will meet at the church every other Tuesday evening, at 7:30 beginning July 8, continuing July 22, August 5, August 19, and concluding September 2.  The group will have readings and conversation to help participants go deeper and connect.  People new to small group ministry are especially encouraged to join.  Sign up here.
Summer Reads for Men men
Sunday, July 13, 7:30 p.m.

The Men's Book Group will discuss Walter McDougall's Promised Land, Crusader State: Amercian Encounter with the World Since 1776 at its July 13 meeting. Kit Britton, who suggested the book, and Ken Marshall, who used it as a text in a recent Encore Learning course, will lead the discussion. The August 10 discussion will cover Breaking the Code, a play about Alan Turing -- the Cambridge University mathematician who broke the Enigma Code.  For more information about the Men's Book Group, contact Kit Britton  or 703-522-1114.  

Religion: Is it Good or Bad - Should it be taught in schools? humanist
hUUmanists Meet - Mon., June 23, 7:30 p.m.
The hUUmanists will view and discuss philosopher Daniel Dennett's lecture:  "Let's teach religion in schools."   Dennett calls for religion - all religion - to be taught in schools, so we can understand its nature as a social and natural phenomenon.  We will also watch a recent and quirky TED talk by philosopher Kwame Anthony Appiah on "Religion:  Is it Good or Bad?" (it's a bit of trick question).  All are welcome.  For further information, contact Jere Cummins.
UUCA Sanctuary Featured in Virginia Publication sanctuary
UUCA's sanctuary, which was designed by famous architect Charles Goodman, and built in 1964, is featured in a new publication -- New Dominion Virginia, Architectural Style Guide, prepared by Melina Bezirdjian and Lena Sweeten McDonald for the National & State Register Program of the Virginia Department of Historic Resources. On page 46, our sanctuary is featured as a unique example of "both International Style and Brutalist influences" of mid-20th century architecture.
Labyrinth Walk This Sundaylabyrinth
labyrinth On Sunday, June 22, from 4 to 6 p.m., the Labyrinth will be available for meditative walking from 6:30 to 8 p.m.  All are welcome to walk. If you are new to walking the Labyrinth, guides will be available to answer any questions you may have about this meditative practice.
Monday Meditation Classmeditation
Each Monday - 7:30 - 8:45 p.m. - UUCA Sanctuary
Jonathan Foust of the Insight Meditation Community of Washington leads a class in mindful meditation each Monday evening.  The class focuses on sitting and walking meditation, different aspects of the Buddha's teachings, and how to bring the practice into everyday life. There's no fee, but donations are accepted. See Jonathan's website for more information and class schedule here. Sponsored by the Buddhist Fellowship of UUCA.
Think cool breezes - Sign up for the Fall Retreatretreat
The heat may be on but you still have time to sign up for this year's Fall Retreat. The registration deadline has been extended through the second week of August. The retreat is in Capon Springs, West Virginia -- dates are September 26-28. For more information on registration, contact Lee Bory at 703-892-5912 or [email protected].
Wheel of LifeWheel
Congratulations to Pat Williamson and Ken Edwards who were recently recognized for their volunteer work with the Arlington Food Assistance Center.

Speedy recovery to Gloria Berg, recovering from surgery at home.

Condolences to
  • Christopher Johnson and Jacqueline Mendel, and their sons Eric and Phillip, on the loss of Chris's mother, Ilse Johnson, June 6.  Ilse was a member of the Nauset Fellowship UU, Chapel in the Pines, Eastham, Mass.
  • Ashley Egan, UUCA's RE Assistant, whose grandmother died June 14, at home and surrounded by the people and animals she loved.
  • Erica Shadowsong, UUCA's Director of Religious Education, whose grandmother died this past weekend, following a brief hospitalization.
  • Rev. Linda Olson Peebles and family, whose father, Oscar Olson, died June 18. 
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Unitarian Universalist Church of Arlington   |   4444 Arlington Blvd, Arlington VA 22204   |   703-892-2565