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Sat., Oct. 26, 4:30 p.m.
Sun., Oct. 27, 9:15 & 11:15 a.m.
Listen to podcasts of past sermons.
Religious Exploration View schedule here. Nursery care in Sanctuary Building up to age 3.
October's worship theme is Shadows.
"There is strong shadow where there is much light." - Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
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recipient for October is the UUA's Join the Move Campaign. The UUA, which is moving its Boston headquarters into a new building with upgraded technology, provides ministerial credentialing and resources for congregational best practices and RE curriculum to congregations. The UUA is also the national voice of Unitarian Universalism on social justice issues.
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Our next deadline is Tue., Oct. 29. Send announcements to our communications staff. All entries are edited before publication for brevity, clarity and style.
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Announcements for Oct. 24-31
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All Souls Services
In Valley of the Shadow of Death
This weekend, Oct. 26-27
The shadow of death is where we live our whole lives. In our annual All Souls services, we will celebrate the lives of those we have lost and practice living well in death's shadow.
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Faith Matters blog
Opening up a little space for each other
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Parish Minister Rev. Mary Katherine Morn
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Years ago I had the opportunity to visit UUCF with my family. We missed the exit and so we arrived after the service had already started. The Sanctuary was pretty full, as it often is. There were some empty seats, but not three together anywhere near the end of an aisle. We stood in the back for several minutes scoping things out... (read more)
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Changing the Conversation
Part 3 of anti-gun-violence film series
Sun., Oct. 27, 7:30-9 p.m., Program Building
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Join the Oakton-Fairfax Alliance Against Gun Violence for the third part of this award-winning documentary series. The series' goal is to re-frame the gun violence debate in the U.S. from one about gun rights/gun control to a solution-based, public health focus on prevention.
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Special Congregational Meeting
 The UUCF Board of Directors has approved a proposed Climate Change Resolution for a congregational vote and has set a special congregational meeting for this purpose. Click here to read the resolution. Paper copies will be available at services the next two weekends or you can request a copy from the UUCF office. The meeting will also include a short report on the Reach Campaign. The meeting should take about 45 minutes.
For members who would like to vote on this important congregational resolution but are unable to attend, absentee ballots are now available in the UUCF office and will be available at the Climate Action Group table in the Commons after services this weekend. For those who can attend, we appreciate your participation, as a quorum is required for us to take a vote.
NOTE: Nursery and child care is available during the meeting. Reserve child care by emailing Child Care Coordinator, Emily Ordun. Parents should pick their children up from RE, take them to the Preschool Pod and sign them in.
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This week & weekend
Healing service. Sat., Oct. 26, 6-6:30 p.m., Chapel. For anyone carrying hurts, struggles, loss or illness, Mary Katherine will lead this brief service featuring readings, silence and music.
Our Daily Bread grocery gift card drive. Just $500 to go. UUCF committed to raise $3,000 for gift cards for 30 families by Oct. 27. Please stop by our table in the Commons to make donations and find out more about how UUCF helps sustain these families. Checks may also be mailed to the UUCF office. Indicate ODB in the memo line.
Sponsor a Partner Church student. Sign up to sponsor a student in the village of Szentgerice or at the Kollegium in Kolosvar, Transylvania, or a class at the Puriang Unitarian School in India. Stop by the table in the Commons or contact Sue Berman.
The Big Questions Game, Partner/Spouse Style. Adult Programs course. Sat., Oct. 26, 8-10 p.m., Program Building. Wine and light snacks provided. Facilitated by Bonnie Wald. Email ap@uucf.org to register. Within the tumult of everyday life, partners often do not get a chance to discuss life's big questions: Why are we here? What happens after we die? What do we want our most important legacy to be? We'll play a version of the Newlywed Game where we try to predict our partner/spouse's answers, talk with them and see if we predicted accurately. Then we'll discuss the questions in small group.
Young Adults pumpkin carving party. Sat., Oct. 26, 5:30 p.m., Social Hall. We will also order pizza and watch a Halloween movie. Bring your own pumpkin and carving tools, as well as a few dollars to help pay for pizza. Questions to Mary Gaskins. RSVP not required, but appreciated.
Pick up your Complete the Circle t-shirts! Sun., Oct. 27, after both services, Commons. Also, remember to bring your non-perishable food to the Complete the Circle site at 1 p.m. on Oct. 27. If you can't attend, bring non-perishable food to the Commons and we'll take it to the site with our other donations. Questions contact Barb Brehm.
UUCF Deaf Project interest meeting. Sun., Oct. 27, 12:15 p.m., Music Room. If you want to participate in increasing awareness about deaf culture and sign language within UUCF, please attend this meeting. Please let Raoul Drapeau know if you are coming. More details from Pam Gannon, 703-217-8764.
Improve Health, Increased Available Food, Reduce Global Warming: Curtail Red Meat. Sunday Forum-Science, Reason & Religion. Sun., Oct. 27, 12:30 p.m., Chapel. With Smith Wood. Substantially reducing the consumption of red meat would have a major positive impact on personal health, reduce global greenhouse gasses and substantially increase agricultural productivity. We will discuss deceptive information from the food industry and why the USDA, FDA and medical profession have not been much more knowledgeable about, responsive to or supportive of the overwhelming body of evidence supporting the reduction in red meat.
Christian Connection Group. Originally scheduled for Sun., Oct. 20, has been rescheduled for Sun., Oct. 27, 7 p.m., Program Building. What does it mean to be a Christian in the liberal religious tradition? Is it possible to work with Christian scripture, language and metaphor without necessarily affirming a creed? Contact John Monroe.
Parenting Support Group. Sun., Oct. 27, 7-9 p.m., Room 10. A group for parents or caregivers of children of any age with special or unusual needs. Information contact Carrie Grabo.
Great Books Discussion Group (GBDG). Mon., Oct. 28, 7:30 p.m., Room 11. Discussions explore the meaning of "classic" books. This month reading Adam Smith's The Wealth of Nations. Everyone is welcome, whether you have read the book or not. Questions to Randy Adams.
The Wisdom of Pema Chödrön. Adult Programs course. Tuesdays through Nov. 12, 7:30-9 p.m., Program Building. Led by Sarah Hover and Joy Hatfield. Email ap@uucf.org to register. Focuses on the teachings of American Buddhist nun, Pema Chödrön. Based on several of Ms. Chödrön's books, we will discuss her guide to compassionate living and practices to work through difficult life situations.
Oakton-Fairfax Alliance Against Gun Violence meeting. Thu., Oct. 31, 7:30-9 p.m., Program Building. Questions to Jerry Poje.
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Children & youth
RE Classes. On Saturday, K-Grade 7 begin in Chapel before going to workshop. All other ages/grades begin in classrooms. On Sunday, K-Grade 5 begin in the Chapel before going to class (9:15) or workshops (11:15). All other ages and grades begin in classrooms. On Sunday, we will distribute UNICEF boxes during Chapel time (Saturday classes got there's last week). Children are encouraged to take them trick or treating and they can return their individual boxes to the Program Building lobby the first weekend of November. Children will also be asking you to drop some change in their boxes after RE classes. See more of the RE Program Schedule, as well as the full year of activities for Middle and High School youth.
HS Movie with the Minister (Grades 9-12). Sat., Oct. 26, 6-9 p.m., Teen Center. Watch Central Station and eat pizza with Rev. Laura Horton-Ludwig. Stay to talk about the film afterwards. Bring $5 for pizza and beverages. This is an R-rated movie, so if your youth is 17 or under, please complete this consent form.
Laser tag for MS. Sat., Oct. 26. 8 p.m. Meet at Shadowlands in Chantilly. Planned by YAC (Youth Adult Committee). General Youth Activities Permission Form required by Oct. 23 . Three chaperones needed for this outing. Questions contact event coordinator Sarah Keely, 571-269-3108. Coming of Age Boston Heritage Trip. Postponed until May 22-25, 2014. Let us know your interest now and join James and Mary Katherine on this UU heritage trip. Preschool PlayGroUUp potluck. Sun., Oct. 27, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Contact Meghan Crowley for more information. PlaygroUUp Halloween parade and party. Tue., Oct. 29, 10 a.m., Teen Center. Kids encouraged to wear their costumes. We'll trick or treat in the Admin. Building. Contact Meghan Crowley for more information. Laser Tag for HS. Sat., Nov. 9, 8 p.m., Shadowlands in Chantilly. Planned by YAC (Youth Adult Committee). General Youth Activities Permission Form required. If already completed, just RSVP to re@uucf.org.
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Grow
The following programs and opportunities help us grow as individuals and as a community.
November Vespers. Day of the Dead. Fri., Nov. 1, 7:30 p.m. Join us for a brief exploration of the veil between the worlds, guided by the poetry of Edgar Allan Poe. Poems read by Janet Cushing, Ken Foley and Brooke Lancaster. Music (flute, piano and handbells) performed by Kandi Mitchell, Katy O'Grady, Emily Ordun, g Ordun and Janet Van Der Veer. Classics of Unitarian and Universalist Theology. Adult Programs course. Suns., Nov. 3, Nov. 24 & Dec. 8, 4-5:30 p.m. Drop-ins welcome; registration appreciated; not required. Facilitated by Rev. Laura Horton-Ludwig. Do you ever wonder where Unitarian Universalism came from? Do you wish you were better at explaining UUism to other people? We'll trace the historical evolution of UUism in the U.S. by studying classic texts by UU theologians. Last year we focused on 19th-Century UUs. This year, we explore 20th- and 21st-Century theologians. Please come having read the assigned reading before the class.
Creating Our Lives Consciously From Our Deepest Inner Resources. Adult Programs course. Mon., Nov. 4, and Thu., Dec. 12, 7:30-9 p.m., Program Building. Led by Zimri Putney, 703-517-7372. Email ap@uucf.org to register. Join a supportive community in a practical spiritual journey, opening the path to loving connections, peace, joy and success. We will read and reflect on the teachings of Chödrön, Tolle, Richo, Brach and others. |
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Connect
Click here for a listing of ways to get involved and connect with each other at UUCF.
Covenant Group spots available. Looking for a small group at UUCF? Would you love to build close relationships and explore spiritual/ethical ideas and experiences? Spaces available in newly forming and existing groups. Email Rev. Laura Horton-Ludwig to sign up. If these groups don't fit your schedule, ask Rev. Laura to contact you when other groups have openings.
- Facilitators Joelle & Bob Rudney, Last Weds., 7:30-9:30 p.m, UUCF (5 openings).
- Facilitators Ron Giusti & Manny Solon, 2nd Weds., 7:30-9:30 p.m, Goodwin House, Arlington, VA (2 openings).
- Facilitator Rebecca Benner, 1st Suns., 3-5 p.m., UUCF (2 openings). Facilitators Candace & Harry Katz, Karen Adkins-Hastings, 2nd Suns., 6:30-8:30 p.m., UUCF. (October meeting only on 3rd Sun.) (1 openings). Facilitators David Michael & David McWilliams, 2nd Weds., 7-9 p.m., UUCF. Focus on UUCF monthly themes (2 openings).
Regaining Balance: The Evolution of the UUA. Humanists of UUCF meeting. Mon., Nov. 4, 7:30 p.m., Chapel. We will be discussing Michael Werner's provocative new book about the place of humanism within the Unitarian Universalist Association. Download/purchase book here. Book excerpt here. Visual artists and crafters still needed for UUCF Holiday Bazaar. We have plenty of jewelers! Nov. 23 & 24, UUCF Chapel. Percentage of sales goes to UUCF. Contact Mary Ellen Larkins for details. |
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Click here to find out about opportunities to live our values through service and advocacy within our congregation and beyond. Help newcomers make connections. Become a Newcomers Guide. The Membership Committee is looking for volunteers to serve as short-term (8 weeks) "guides" for people who are new to UUCF. Guides help newcomers make connections, meet people and integrate into the UUCF community. Contact Barbara Kenny or Johanna Turaj.
Outdoor Fun Day (formerly known as "work day"). Sat., Nov. 2, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. The fun is the socializing as we take out invasive plants, rake, learn about our woodlands and eat lunch together. Please bring clippers, rakes and work gloves. Master naturalists will work and socialize with us.
Climate Refugees. Part of UUCF Climate Action Group documentary series. Fri., Nov. 8, 7:30 p.m., Sanctuary. This film explores the global impact of climate change, including the destabilizing effects on international politics. According to the UN, there are already more environmental than political or religious refugees in the world. Filmed in Europe, the U.S., Asia, Africa and several islands. Event co-sponsored by Sierra Club-Great Falls Group, Chesapeake Climate Action Network, Greater Washington Interfaith Power and Light and the Fairfax chapter of 350.org.
Join the UUCF Climate Action Group. 2nd and 4th Wed., Nov. 13, 7-9 p.m., Social Hall. We're working on the monthly documentary series, outreach, coalition-building and much more. The group is growing. If you have not come to a meeting before, please join us. Join our Religious Action on Climate Linked In group and our Facebook page. Information contact, Eric Goplerud, 703-759-0218.
Northern Virginia UU cluster meeting. Sat., Nov. 16, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m., UUCF. UUs from NoVa congregations will meet to start a conversation about how we can work together more effectively, support each other and grow our faith. Event is free; lunch is included. RSVPs are required through Susan Bennett.
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From our friends
This section brings you announcements from UUCF members and friends, neighboring UU congregations, UU organizations or other organizations affiliated with this congregation.
Silk Purse Project. Fri. & Sat., Oct. 25-26, 7:30 p.m., Vienna Baptist Church. This world-premiere play by local playwright Ward Kay stars UUCF's Media Producer Turner Bridgforth and member Will Hamlett. Tickets sold at door: $10 donation. Benefits Shepherd's Center of Oakton-Vienna.
Yoga for the 21st Century. Sats., Sep. 14-Dec. 21 (no class Nov. 2), 9:30-11 a.m., Program Building. Yoga can help re-frame your life, reduce stress and re-pattern your brain. Contact Ravi, 571-213-3192.
Tai Chi Chih Classes. Six Mondays starting Oct. 28, 7:30-9 p.m., Prog. Bldg. Learn and practice Tai Chi Chih for health, energy, serenity and improved performance. An easy-to-learn moving meditation of 20 movements. First session free. $80 course fee adaptable. Contact Furman Riley, accredited teacher of Tai Chi Chih, 703-217-6024.
Ethics, Fairness and Bias in the Changing World of Journalism. 2013 Cedar Lane UUC Kiplinger Lecture. Sat., Nov. 2, 2 p.m., Cedar Lane UU Church. Edward Schumacher-Matos, NPR ombudsman, will explore shifts in journalism and help us understand the consequences of these changes. Tickets $10; students free. Reservations encouraged, 301-493-8300, ext. 207.
Voices from the Margins. Sun., Nov. 3, 7 p.m., River Road UU Congregation. UU minister and author Rev. Mark Morrison-Reed explains what it is like to grow up as an African-American UU and why this religion has struggled with becoming more diverse. Rev. Morrison-Reed will also talk about his new meditation manual, Voices from the Margins. Register online before Oct. 27 for $5. After Oct. 28 - $15. Scholarships are available; childcare available when reserved by Oct. 27.
NovemberFest. Sat., Nov. 9., UU of Rockville. Artists and crafters are wanted for fall fundraiser. For a seller application and full information about the event, please visit our website or email.
Stress and Resilience: Why Gender Matters. Wed., Nov. 13, 7:30-9:30 p.m., Arlington Unitarian Cooperative Preschool (AUCP), 4444 Arlington Boulevard. $10 per person. With Dr. Leonard Sax, MD, PhD. Come hear what parents need to know to help daughters and sons cope, build resilience and navigate our social media culture.
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