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Service Information
Sunday, February 28, 9:15 and 11:15am
Dark Side of Desire

After returning from the UUA Large Church Senior Minister's meeting in California, Rev. Aaron McEmrys will be back in the pulpit. He will share his thoughts on income inequality in a sermon titled, The Dark Side of Desire.

Music includes:
I'm Gonna Sing, spiritual sung by Clerestory Choir
Brave, sung by TrUUbadours Choir
We Will Walk Together, sung by Chalice and TrUUbadours Choirs
A Beginning Song, a song by The Decemberists, sung by Zeke Albro
Upcoming Services
March 6, 9:15 and 11:15 a.m. - "Liberations" sermon by Rev. Dr. Linda Olson Peebles. 
Barrett Smith photo
Recording artist Barrett Smith will be our guest musician. 
Catch us online
Video imageIf you're unable to make the Sunday service or perhaps you'd like to share the Sunday service experience with family and friends afar, the services are available online live. There is also an archive of recorded services that you can watch at your convenience.  When you follow the link below and watch the service live, the service will automatically start playing. To watch a recording of a past service, click on the "Archives" tab and select a video from the right hand column.

Click on the link below or copy and paste into your browser:
 http://unitarianuniversalistchurchofarlingtonva.yourstreamlive.com/ 
Give the Plate
This Sunday, February 28, our Give the Plate offering returns. Our offering will be given to support the work of ADIVIMA (Association For the Integral Development of the Victims of Violence in the Verapaces, Maya Ach�), in Rabinal, Guatemala, providing scholarships and education to Mayan children. UUCA is proud to be a partner with this ministry of solidarity, organized by and through Jefferson Unitarian Church of Golden, Colorado.
Stewardship: Annual Giving Campaign
Keeping us in Suspense....
Give to Grow logo February 28 is the final Sunday of UUCA's formal appeal for your pledges for the budget year beginning in July. So how are we doing? As of this writing it's a "good news" and "not so good news" report. You could make it a better report by pledging today, if you have not already, so we have the latest numbers on Sunday. Our initial flush of pledges was stronger this year than last year both in participation and in amount of pledge. We are very grateful for the generosity of our early pledges that have provided a firm foundation to build upon. For whatever reason, more than half of the congregation has kept us all in suspense up to the last minute, so it is difficult to project where we will end up.

The good news is that if all of those who pledged last year that we have yet to hear from provided a pledge with an average increase in the 10-20% range, we would be within grasp of meeting our challenges for this budget cycle. We are hopeful that those who are still holding onto their pledge are doing so in order to consider the most they can manage to pledge because that is the commitment we need now.

The budget process begins almost immediately after the close of the campaign and the budget will be based on the pledges we receive in the next few days. As last year, we will not be conducting a supplemental campaign to fill any gap we may still have at the conclusion of the campaign. When the campaign is over, it is over. The congregation will have spoken and we will live within the means we made possible together. The Annual Giving Team have devoted many volunteer hours in a concerted effort to experience a happier budget meeting this year than we did last year. We are close. Now is the time to make your intention known.
View Rev. Aaron's powerful opening message and testimonials you've heard over the last three Sundays:
Why We Give Videos image



Consult the Frequently Asked Questions 
Giving FAQ image

Take some time before Sunday to thoughtfully consider a pledge to UUCA and make that pledge. You can make the pledge instantly by using the "Make Pledge Here":
MakePledge



You can also bring the green pledge card that was mailed to you or fill out a new blank pledge card at church and drop it in the collection plate or at the table in Fellowship Hall on Sunday.
Lifespan Religious EducationReligiousEd
Coloring, It's all the rage!  Plus a Potluck - Friday, March 18, 6 to 8 p.m.
2 young adult showing off their coloring project Join your UUCA community for our second Coloring Event on Friday, March 18, 6 to 8 p.m. We had so much fun last time, we're doing it again! Bring your favorite coloring books, crayons, gel pens, pencils and let your creativity explode! All ages are invited and encouraged to attend because coloring isn't just for kids anymore. Haven't joined the mania but are curious?  Just come and join the fun. We have supplies and books to share. Also, we'll share a potluck dinner, so bring something warm and cheery and delicious. Drinks provided. Check out this link: Coloring Best Alternative to Meditation
Adult Faith Development Programming
What are you doing on Wednesday evenings starting in April? Come join many of your fellow congregants and friends in fostering your own lifelong learning and spiritual growth - and have fun in community. Each Wednesday evening for six weeks, April 13 thru May 18, UUCA will be offering adult religious education classes -- Wellspring WednesdaysEvenings begin with a meal at 6:00 p.m., a short chapel service from 6:45-7:00 p.m., and then classes from 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. Don't forget to check the website and Connections for updates and additional programming. 

If you have suggestions for future speakers, classes, videos, or other presentations, please contact LeeAnn Williams, Director of Lifespan Religious Education at [email protected].   

Wellspring Wednesday courses for the spring session include:
  • Way of the Bodhisattva, led by Rev. Aaron McEmrys 
  • Mindful Living, led by Julia Zhu Meade 
  • Building Your Own Theology, led by LeeAnn Williams 
  • Climate Change, led by Mary Pike 
  • Trans 101, sponsored by Equality UUCA
Childcare and Children's Programming
elbow-children-line.jpg Each Wellspring Wednesday, preschool and school-aged children can join other UUCA kids for fun and fellowship in Room 7.  (Free childcare continues to be offered each evening Monday thru Thursday beginning at 6:30 p.m.)
Hiring Childcare Providers
We currently have openings for childcare providers. Hours include Sunday mornings, weekday evenings and some Saturdays. $15 per hour. Training provided. Must be 18 years of age or older and complete a background check. For more information, please contact LeeAnn at [email protected].
Mandatory Mission Trip Makeup Meeting - Sunday, February 28, 12:30 p.m.
This meeting is for BOTH parents and youth and will meet in the Sanctuary this Sunday. Please bring a copy, both front and back, of your youth's insurance card. Parents and youth must attend this meeting for participation in the spring service trip to Appalachia. Also, please note that the service trip is open to ALL YOUTH -- not only youth choir kids. Completed forms and $250 are due at the meeting. (Minor Release Form  |  Appalachia Trip Packet) Questions? Contact Andrea Albamonte at [email protected].

Service Trip Commissioning Ritual - Sunday, March 13
There will be a commissioning ritual during both services for all service trip participants -- youth and chaperones. This is an opportunity to connect our congregation with the youth's social justice work. This is an "invite-the-grandparents" event! If grandparents and family are unable to attend don't forget about our live-streaming.
AUCP Clothing Swap - Saturday February 27, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
AUCP (Arlington Unitarian Cooperative Preschool) invites you to shop their clothing swap this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Rooms 2 and 4. Shop a variety of gently-used children's clothes all priced $1 to $3!
Big Meadows Family and Friends Weekend - June 17-19
Human Pyramid Even though it's downright frigid outside, it's time to reserve your spot for this year's UUCA summer weekend in Shenandoah. This longstanding tradition gives us an opportunity to get out of the city and connect with nature and each other in a meaningful way. There are several activities planned and more in the works, including events for the whole group (happy hour Friday night, a picnic on Saturday) as well as plenty of open time with options for smaller groups and individuals, such as hikes, games, music in the lodge, or a stargazing stroll into Big Meadows. Click here for complete information and registration.
Congregational Life
Sunday Morning Ambassadors
More than 175 volunteers serve behind the scenes to make Sunday morning worship possible. This Sunday we recognize our Greeters (Upstairs, Downstairs, and Outside), Ushers, Welcome Desk volunteers, Coffee Servers, Cupwashers, Bookstall volunteers, Sound and Audio Technicians, Decorations Team, and Sunday Connection Circle welcomers. We need a few more volunteers. Would you like to join the team? Contact Sarah Masters, [email protected].
New UU Class - Wednesday, March 9, 6 to 9 p.m. 
UUCA logo Unitarian Universalism is a way of thinking and being in the world. It is a faith discipline, enriched by faith traditions, that forms the foundation for a way to live this life. It matters how we conduct our lives and work to make the world a better place. Here at UUCA we are challenged to deepen our own faith principles and practices in response to our own experience and, whenever possible, to stand on the side of love. Find out more about Unitarian Universalism, and about UUCA, at our next New UU class on March 9. The class is free, but registration is required, click here. Free childcare is available on request. Contact Sarah Masters, [email protected].
Helping Hands
sepia_stacked_hands.jpgDo you need a ride to a medical appointment or to church? Will you need some meals brought in after surgery or the birth of a baby? Do you need help running errands? UUCA's Helping Hands volunteers are ready to offer a hand. We also have a medical equipment closet for when you need to borrow a walker, bedside commode, or other medical equipment. Ask, we probably have it. Contact Sarah Masters, [email protected], for Helping Hands and to borrow equipment.
Bryan Stevenson: We Need To Talk About an Injustice
HUUmanists Meet Monday, February 29, 7:15 p.m.
The HUUmanists will view a TED talk by Bryan Stevenson, founder of the Equal Justice Initiative. The EJI has subsequently saved over a 100 men from the death sentence. Stevenson has also petitioned successfully in the Supreme Court to end the legal incarceration of children of life without parole in adult prisons. His book, Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption, was the UUA's "Common Read" in 2015 and Bill Fogarty led UUCA's conversation of the book in November. In Monday night's video, Stevenson gives an engaging and personal talk. He shares some hard truths about America's justice system, starting with a massive imbalance along racial lines: a third of the country's black male population has been incarcerated at some point in their lives. For more information, contact Jere Cummins
Men's Book Group and The Lemon Tree - Sunday, March 13, 7:30 p.m.
Lemon Tree book cover The March selection is The Lemon Tree: An Arab, a Jew and the Heart of the Middle East, by Sandy Tolan. The selection for April 10 is still to be decided, but will be a work of fiction. Then group meets monthly on the second Sunday at 7:30 p.m. in the Chapel. If there are any questions about the group and its meetings, please email Ken Marshall at [email protected] or call him at 703-533-8004.
Faith in Action: Connecting - Growing - ServingFaith
UUs for Gun Law Reform Group Forming - Informal Mixer TONIGHT
In partnership with other area UU congregations, a group advocating for the reform of gun laws in Virginia and the nation is forming at UUCA. This group aims to engage and support the work of organizations pressing for reform. An informal mixer is planned for TONIGHT - Thursday, February 25, 7 to 8:30 p.m. Teaism (682 North Asaph Street, Old Town Alexandria). All are welcome. This is an opportunity to learn more about the work of Moms Demand Action for Gunsense in America, about what has been happening in the Virginia legislature, as well as about the BeSmart Campaign around safe gun storage. Those interested in working on this issue may contact Annie Parker at [email protected].
Celebrate the Success of Guatemala Scholarship Program
Sunday, February 28, 12:30 p.m. 
Guatemalan student Please join us to celebrate the success of UUCA's Guatemalan scholarship program on February 28. Honored guests Phyllis Morales, of Jefferson Unitarian Church in Golden, Colorado, and human rights workers Juan de Dios, Marwin Xitumul, and Alfredo Sical will give an overview of the program that UUCA sponsors in partnership with the Jefferson Church. UUCA has been a partner of the scholarship program since 2009 and has helped educate dozens of children. Phyllis Morales runs the scholarship program at Jefferson Unitarian Church and has led a number of trips to visit the scholarship students in Rabinal. Marwin Xitumul and Alfredo Sical Toj are human rights workers in Rabinal; Juan de Dios, founder of the scholarship program, is a survivor of the massacres and the scorched earth tactics directed against Mayan villages. Dios has directed ADIVIMA, a Mayan human rights organization, since 1999. ADIVIMA has been active in organizing the Mayan people for their human rights, for reparations for the massacres that took place in the 1980's, for organizing to bring those responsible for the genocide to trial, and for educating the children of families who suffered from the genocide. For more information, email contact Anne McKnight or call 703-241-9172. See more photos HERE. 
Buckingham Cooks and Helpers
Cooks from the Buckingham community will be selling savory Latino fare after services this Sunday. Buen provecho! And, if you're in need of minor household services, Buckingham Helpers are here to help. Buckingham workers offer many services, such as pruning, moving furniture, and catering. Stop by the Buckingham table in Fellowship Hall after services Sunday to fill out a form for services. For more information, contact Nancy Hall at [email protected].
Powerful Speaker at All Souls Unitarian March 6
The Rev. William Barber, President, North Carolina NAACP, is the guest minister at All Souls in the District on March 6. Even though Rev. Linda happens to be in UUCA's pulpit that same Sunday, she encourages you to visit All Souls to hear this power and gifted speaker for she is a strong supporter of the work and message of Rev. Barber. Click here for flyer.
Race Matters
DIG Workdays
Anyone interested in helping maintain UUCA's patch of green (our grounds)? The DIG (DoItGreen) Team holds workdays on the second Thursday and the fourth Saturday (10 a.m. to 12 p.m.) of each month.  New hands are always welcome! The next workday is on Saturday, February 27, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. For more information, contact Jennifer Frum
Exploring a Peace Ministry at UUCA - Sunday, March 6 and 13, 10:30-11:10 a.m.
Peace symbol Please join us on Sunday, March 6 and/or 13, between services to help explore expansion of UUCA's Peace Ministry. The Peace Ministry's core activity is Peace Camp in the early summer and we need your help to build on that core with programs for and by adults, families and youth. We are exploring all aspects: family workshops, adult peace education, RE peace education modules, teacher training and hosting or joining family and youth-led peace-related events. We have a modest budget this year as part of the Faith in Action ministry. Please attend at least one of these open meetings to explore the gradual creation of a life-long, year-round Peace Ministry at UUCA. The discussions will be facilitated by John McLaughlin and Molly Jewell of UUCA. For more information, please contact John McLaughlin, [email protected]. Also see Building Peace Family workshop below.
Building Family Peace and a Taste of Peace Camp
Sunday, March 13, 12:30-2:30 p.m.
This workshop is open to all members and friends. Parents and children are encouraged to participate as there will be group activities that provide a "taste" of UUCA's Peace Camp 2016. Adults will also participate in a discussion to explore the value of peace education in their lives and opportunities as a "Friend of Peace" at UUCA. This workshop is being offered free of charge by the UUCA Peace Ministry team in coordination with long-time UUCA partner, Little Friends for Peace. Snacks and light refreshments will be provided. Please rsvp to Suzanne Stork at [email protected] by March 11. Light refreshments served. Drop-ins will be welcome, too.
PeaceCamp
UUCA Peace Camp 2016 - Registration Open
Peace Campers Registration is now open for Peace Camp for campers 5-14. Camp is right here at UUCA and runs from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. 
  • Week 1: Mon., June 27 to Fri., July 1 ($275)
  • Week 2: Tues., July 5 to Fri., July 8 ($240)
You can register your campers (ages 5 to 9) for one or both weeks. Extended care before and after camp available. Scholarships available. Other opportunities include Jr. Counselor in Training (ages 10-11), and Counselor in Training (ages 12-14). Staff positions are also available: Jr. Counselors (16-18), Counselors (18+) and special guest presenters. Join us as we Connect - Grow - Serve.

Registration now open HERE 
Partners for Peace and Justice
Heart_Hands UUCA has a large number of dedicated volunteers working in groups that work in solidarity with community partners to advance the vision of a peaceful and just world. To share the good news, and to keep the creative conversations growing, we are hosting a Peace and Justice series where some of our Faith in Action working groups will fill us in on what they've been up to and how their work has impacted their own hearts. The series will culminate with a re-dedication and re-planting of our Peace Pole. All are welcome. 

Wednesdays, 7:30- 9 p.m.
  • March 2 - Peace Ministry and Little Friends for Peace
  • March 9 - Israeli Palestine Peace and Justice Task Force 
  • March 16 - Partners in Arlington and Guatemala
  • March 30 - VOICE
  • April 6 - Race Matters
  • April 13 - Green Action and Climate Justice
Earth Day Sunday, April 17, following services - Planting and Dedication of the Peace Pole
A Conversation About Criminal Justice
Group photo
L to R: Louise Van Horne, UUCA member; Marc Carr, Social Solutions  & Just Leadership USA; Elizabeth Jones,  OAR; Carla Peterson, VA CURE; John Horejsi, Social Action Linking Together; and Esther Ford, First Stop Resource and Wellness
Last Saturday, UUCA hosted a conversation on "Crime, Punishment, and Rehabilitation" that included representatives from OAR (Offenders Aid and Restoration) and CURE (Citizens United for Reform of Errants), plus other noted criminal justice advocates. They spoke of their programs that provide support to returning citizens as well as their advocacy for needed legislative change in our criminal justice system. The audience also had an opportunity to share their views on why this issue is important to them personally. The conversation ended with brainstorming on where we as a faith community go from here to help make a difference. For more information, please contact Louise Van Horne at [email protected]
A Sparkling Black and Gold Evening - Saturday, March 19, 5 to 8 p.m.
Bridges to Independence golden image UUCA is pleased to host a benefit for Bridges to Independence, a provider of services for homeless women and children and those at risk in Northern Virginia. All UUCAer's are invited to attend "A Sparkling Black and Gold Evening" on Saturday, March 19, 5 to 8 p.m., in the Center. The evening includes live music, art for sale, raffles, sparkling wine, and hors d'oeuvres by award-winning Chef Matt Hill of Lyon Hall. Special guests include Christian Dorsey and John Vihstadt, Arlington County Board members. To purchase tickets, click here. Questions? Please contact Alex Roth at [email protected]
Chalice Theater

South Pacific performances are February 26 & 27, and March 4, 5, 11 & 12 at 7:30 p.m.
February 28 & March 6, 12 & 13 at 3:00 p.m.

Tickets are available at:  chalicetheatresouthpacific.eventbrite.com and after Sunday services. General admission $20; Seniors and students, $15. All major credit cards accepted.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR - April 29 and 30
Chalice Theatre 20th Anniversary Cabaret
QUUest Gallery

South Pacific: Harmony through Unexpected Combinations
Accepting Submissions Feb. 28 for Show Running March 6 - May 15
A Call for Works of Art: Our next QUUest Gallery show will feature works that draw from one of the themes from South Pacific -- How unexpected combinations create harmony. Think about how two seemingly disparate elements can come together to create a harmonious visual statement. For example, consider compositions that feature complementary colors (opposites on the color wheel), lights and darks, organic and geometric shapes; or, imagery that evokes themes such as old and new, decay and renewal, or happy and sad -- any unlikely combinations that create an arresting image. Perhaps you are inspired to create a new work of art or you have such a piece in your portfolio -- Please submit it for the show.  Submissions will be accepted on Sunday, February 28, 9-11 a.m. in the Volunteer Room. All work should be ready to hang (attached to a rigid substrate with durable hanging wire attached to the reverse, near the top of the work). Painting, photos, collage, fibers -- ALL are welcome. For more information, contact UUCA's gallery curator Carson Herrington.
Wheel of LifeWheel
Condolences to Betts Abel on the death of her father, Owen Abel, in Ohio on February 17 at the age of 99.

All are invited to celebrate the life of Martha Figueroa at a Memorial Service on Saturday, March 5, 2016, at 2 p.m., in our Sanctuary. Donations in Martha's name may be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Greater DC-Maryland Chapter.

Congratulations to grandparents Sully and Mary Jane Bushnaq. Frances Bushnaq Law was born on February 23 to Dawn Bushnaq and Peter Law. Dawn is a former UUCA Youth Group advisor.
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Unitarian Universalist Church of Arlington   |   4444 Arlington Blvd, Arlington VA 22204   |   703-892-2565