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Sat., Nov. 9, 4:30 p.m.
Sun., Nov. 10, 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.
November's worship theme is Honesty.
"Whatever games are played with us, we must play no games with ourselves but deal in our privacy with the last honesty and truth." - Ralph Waldo Emerson
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recipient for November is the Shepherd's Center of Oakton-Vienna (SCOV), a non-profit, volunteer-based, interfaith organization sponsored by 20 congregations to help older persons in Vienna and Oakton "age in place" and stay connected.
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Our next deadline is Tue., Nov. 12. Send announcements to our communications staff. All entries are edited before publication for brevity, clarity and style.
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Announcements for Nov. 7-14
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In Defense of Barbarians
UUSC President/CEO preaches this weekend
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Bill Schulz
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This weekend we welcome The Rev. Dr. William F. Schulz, president and CEO of the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee (UUSC), to the pulpit for all three services. Dr. Schulz posits the benefits of being allied with barbarism. He also hopes that during this service you will consider making a membership gift to UUSC, an organization that promotes human rights and social justice worldwide.
In addition to his current role, Dr. Schulz is a former president of the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA) and Amnesty International USA.
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Faith Matters blog
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Newcomer Guides: Friendly faces in a lively community
Imagine walking into a party where you don't know a soul. You open the door and right away the buzz of voices and music overwhelms you. It's a huge room, hundreds of people, all standing around talking, laughing, engaged with each other, having a great time. And you don't know any of them. How do you feel? What do you do? If you're an outgoing person, this may be your prime time - you plunge in and have a great time! But if you're at all shy, you may... (read more)
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This Sunday, Nov. 10, 4 p.m., Sanctuary
One of DC's finest woodwind ensembles, the Capital Reeds Trio, performs a beautiful program of classical masterworks. Our very own Mark Vogel performs with the group. Proceeds benefit Fairfax CASA. Tickets: $15 donation for adults and free for students. Tickets available online or at the door.
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Climate Action Group documentary series
This Friday, Nov. 8, 7:30 p.m., Sanctuary
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Climate Refugees Trailer
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According to the United Nations, there are already more environmental than political or religious refugees in the world. This film explores the global impact of climate change, including the destabilizing effects on international politics. Filmed in Europe, the U.S., Asia, Africa and several islands. Co-sponsored by Sierra Club-Great Falls Group, Chesapeake Climate Action Network, Greater Washington Interfaith Power & Light and the Fairfax chapter of 350.org.
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This week & weekend
Climate Change Resolution passes overwhelmingly. Thanks to all the members who attended the special congregational meeting on Sunday and passed the Congregational Resolution on Climate Change, 123-1. The resolution recognizes that "Global climate change is fundamentally a moral, ethical and justice crisis. We, as individual UUs, our UUCF community and faith communities everywhere have a religious responsibility to act and bear witness, to work together to avert and to limit the potential catastrophes of climate change." Eric Goplerud, chair of UUCF's Climate Action Group, gave testimony on this issue before an EPA "listening panel" yesterday. Read his testimony here. Communications staff update. We're pleased to announce that Sarah Creel has joined the UUCF staff team in a part-time position as Communications Assistant, replacing Meg Rayford. Sarah is known to some of you as the Nursery Coordinator for the last several years. However, her work background is in writing and editing and she's been looking for a position that would use these skills. Sarah will be responsible for the weekly email announcements, the order of service and announcement insert and a number of other communications-related tasks assisting Mary Lareau, Communications Director. Please continue to send your announcements to communications@uucf.org, which will be Sarah's email address. Thanks for supporting Our Daily Bread (ODB) fundraiser. A huge thank you to everyone who contributed funds to meet UUCF's commitment for the Nov. 10 delivery to ODB. You helped raise sufficient funds for the 30 families we will help that week as well as to have a small seed fund to jump start our next commitment in late winter. We appreciate that our UUCF community remains loyal to our neighbors in Fairfax County who are helped by this program. Seeking participants for new Enneagram Spiritual Practice Group. To meet bi-weekly, 16 sessions, starting Thu., Nov. 7, 7-9 p.m., Prog. Bldg. Group will use the Enneagram to deepen self-awareness, compassion and our connection to our deeper spiritual essence. Extensive experience with the Enneagram not needed; we will study together in detail. For more information on the Enneagram, go to www.enneagramworldwide.com. Information from Rob Creekmore or Sarah Keely.
The Enlightenment Vision: Science, Reason and the Promise of a Better Future. Sunday Forum - Science, Reason & Religion. Sun., Nov. 10, 12:30 p.m., Chapel. Stuart Jordan, a long-time NASA scientist, will speak on his new book. From enlightenment lessons to the prospects for planetary humanism, he casts his eye on humankind's progress. He explores whether we are any closer to the primary goal of the enlightenment.
Monday Night Book Club. Nov. 11, 7:30-9 p.m., Prog. Bldg. This month reading Secret Daughter, by Shilpi Somaya Gowda. Questions to Don Andress. Women's Personal Growth Group. Tue., Nov. 12, 10 a.m.-noon. Prog. Bldg. Contact Connie Drapeau.
Membership class. Tue., Nov. 12, 7 p.m. If you feel the time is right for you to make a commitment of membership or if you are wondering what is expected of members of the congregation, please attend this short, minister-led session. Register through Carol Jensen.
Muslim Liaison Group (formerly Muslim Outreach Group). 2nd Tues., Nov. 12, 7:30-9 p.m., Prog. Bldg. Build relationships with local Muslim communities and deepen our understanding of Islam. Contact Judy Penniman.
The Wisdom of Pema Chödrön. Adult Programs course. Last session on Nov. 12, 7:30-9 p.m., Prog. Bldg. Led by Sarah Hover and Joy Hatfield. 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.
Next Leadership Circle class. Wed., Nov. 13, 7-8:30 p.m., Sancutary. We'll explore two aspects of leadership at UUCF: Pastoral care as a part of leadership - how leaders can offer informal pastoral care to people on our teams and help them connect to UUCF resources; and team-based problem solving - we'll discuss Susan Beaumont's article What's the Problem? about the process of teams defining problems to build team spirit and solve problems. Please read the article in advance if you can; copies will be provided.
Writer's Resource Group. 2nd Wed. of each month, Nov. 13, 7:30-9 p.m., Prog. Bldg. No registration needed; drop-ins welcome. Facilitated by Joy Hatfield and Linda Hunt. Need to jump-start your creative writer's juices? No reading or critiquing; just encouragement and sharing tips, techniques, articles, books to read, etc.
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. More info: Eric Goplerud, 703-759-0218.
Live our commitment to the UUCF Gun Violence Prevention Congregational Resolution. Join our vigil this Monday at NRA headquarters. Thu., Nov. 14, 10-11 a.m., 11250 Waples Mill Rd., Fairfax. Vigils are being held on the 14th of each month to commemorate the tragedy in Newtown, CT, last Dec. 14. Signs are provided. Parking on nearby side streets. Questions to Bob Hatfield or Jerry Poje.
Oakton-Fairfax Alliance Against Gun Violence meeting. Thu., Nov. 14, 7:30-9:30 p.m., Prog. Bldg. Questions to Jerry Poje.
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Children & youth
RE Classes. On Saturday, K-Grade 7 begin in the Chapel with Rev. Laura before going to classes. All other ages/grades begin in classrooms. On Sunday, K-Grade 5 begin in Chapel with Rev. Laura before going to class (9:15) or workshops (11:15). All other ages and grades begin in classrooms. Visitors, please join us! See more of the RE Program Schedule, as well as the full year of activities for Middle and High School youth.
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. Special High School OWL* class - 11:15 service only. Sun., Nov. 10. This is the second in a three-week unit during the regular 11:15 a.m. High School RE. Our trained OWL* teachers will offer a short OWL curriculum in place of the regular November HS curriculum. Parents may "opt-out" by contacting Linnea Nelson, DRE. The full HS OWL class will be held most Sundays, Jan.-May, 1-3 p.m., starting with a parent/guardian orientation on Jan. 5. For information contact HS OWL teacher Janet Cushing. Grade 1 Parent/guardian and child OWL orientation. Sun., Nov. 17, 1-2:30 p.m., Prog. Bldg. Required session before Jan.-Feb. OWL* Sun. RE classes. Childcare available for younger siblings with RSVP by Thurs., Nov. 14. Youth Adult Committee Meeting. Sun., Nov. 17, 4:30-5:30 p.m., Prog. Bldg. Contact James Forrest for more information. High School Youth Group. Sun., Nov. 17, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Room 11. Parent social in the Social Hall for informal discussion and fellowship. Includes info session on Quaker Work Camp over long weekend of Feb 14-16. Youth Group followed by interest meeting for February Vespers service on Friday evening Feb. 7. Contact James Forrest for more information. Afternoon out for parents. Sat., Nov. 23, 1-4 p.m., Preschool Pod, Prog. Bldg. For children ages 4-10. The Benner Covenant Group is offering you an afternoon for shopping, a movie, alone time, whatever you want. Children's activities will include face painting, crafts, songs, story time, snacks and more! Limited spots; first come, first served. Reserve by Nov. 17 with H.J. Cummins or Leigh Geiger. Suggested donation: $20 per child; $40 max per family. Proceeds go to UUCF RE programs. *OWL is a sexuality education program that strengthens our children and youth's relationships and understanding of their bodies in a developmentally appropriate manner.
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In memoriam
A memorial for UUCF member Ron Shubert, husband of Jan Shubert, will be held on Sun., Nov. 17, 3 p.m., in the UUCF Chapel.
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Grow
The following programs and opportunities help us grow as individuals and as a community.
Got an idea for a class to share with UUCF members? The Adult Programs Committee is always looking for new class ideas and instructors. It can be a book discussion, curricula from another church or any idea that helps us grow and connect. Send ideas to Barb Brehm.
Classics of Unitarian and Universalist Theology. Adult Programs course. Sun., Nov. 24 and Sun., Dec. 8, 4-5:30 p.m., Prog. Bldg. 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.
Ancient Wisdom in Modern Society: Renaissance of Traditional Chinese Culture. Adult Programs course. Sun., Nov. 24, 1-3 p.m., Prog. Bldg. Email ap@uucf.org to register. Presented by Dong Xiang. Looking for a taste of culture? A fresh perspective? A little inspiration? Join us for a special presentation inspired by the classical dance and music in Shen Yun and the essence of 5,000 years of civilization. The presenter will also share his insights on how to deal with modern challenges with the ancient wisdom. God Revised - books still available. We still have a few copies of the Rev. Galen Guengerich's book, God Revised: How Religion Must Evolve in a Scientific Age. If you would like to purchase a copy of this new book, please contact Mary Katherine. Price is $25. Creating Our Lives Consciously From Our Deepest Inner Resources. Adult Programs course. 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 Wed., 7:30-9:30 p.m, UUCF (5 openings).
- Facilitators Ron Giusti & Manny Solon, 2nd Wed., 7:30-9:30 p.m, Goodwin House, Arlington, VA (2 openings).
- Facilitator Rebecca Benner, 1st Sun., 3-5 p.m., UUCF (2 openings).
- Facilitators Candace & Harry Katz, Karen Adkins-Hastings, 2nd Sun., 6:30-8:30 p.m., UUCF (1 opening).
- Facilitators David Michael & David McWilliams, 2nd Wed., 7-9 p.m., UUCF. Focus on UUCF monthly themes (2 openings).
Great holiday gifts at the UUCF Holiday Bazaar. Fine handmade crafts and art from local artists. Nov. 23 and 24, UUCF Chapel. Percentage of sales goes to UUCF.
Great Books Discussion Group (GBDG). Mon., Nov. 25, 7:30 p.m., Room 11. Discussions explore the meaning of "classic" books. This month reading "Das Capital," by Karl Marx. Everyone is welcome, whether you have read the book or not. Questions to Randy Adams. Potluck Thanksgiving Dinner. Thu., Nov. 28, 3 p.m., Sanctuary. RSVP by Sun., Nov. 24. Celebrate turkey day in community with your UUCF friends. Everyone welcome - singles, couples, families. Cost: $5 covers turkey and beverages. Bring your own place setting and glass. Contact Donna Machina to RSVP and coordinate a dish to share.
Grief and Loss Support Group. Sun., Dec 1, 8, 15 and Jan 5, 12, 19, 1-2:30 p.m., Prog. Bldg. All are welcome to this drop-in support group for those experiencing grief and loss. Led by UUCF member Meghan Crowley, a social worker with expertise in bereavement. Contact Rev. Laura Horton-Ludwig. |
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Click here to find out about opportunities to live our values through service and advocacy within our congregation and beyond. Northern Virginia UU cluster meeting. Sat., Nov. 16, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m., UUCF Sanctuary. 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.
Yoga for the 21st Century. Saturdays through Dec. 21, 9:30-11 a.m., Prog. Bldg. Yoga can help re-frame your life, reduce stress and re-pattern your brain. Contact Ravi, 571-213-3192.
Tai Chi Chih classes for beginners. 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.
The Persecution of Women and Minorities in the Muslim World. Thu., Nov. 7, 6:30-9 p.m., Room D003 of Mason Hall, George Mason University. Sponsored by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. With Qasim Rashid. The recent case of Malala Yousafzai highlights the persecution of women and minorities in the name of Islam. In contrast to other denominations of Islam, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community has a distinctive outlook on these issues. Our hope with this event is to highlight the true teachings of Islam toward women and minorities.
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.
Inspired Faith, Effective Action: A Hands-On Training in Doing Religiously Grounded Social Justice Work. Sat., Nov. 23, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., UU Church of Arlington. Sponsored by UUs for Social Justice and the UUA. How can we ground our actions in our religious principles? How can we better select social justice priorities and programs and involve our whole congregation? Come learn about and then have time to practice these skills with a team from your congregation. Questions contact Rev. Cindy Snavely, 202-600-9132, or Rev. Terence Ellen, 410-486-5766.
Fall in Love. Mosaic Harmony Winter Fundraiser concert. Sat., Nov. 23, 8 p.m., UUCF Sanctuary. With soloists Nikki Barnett, Kharma Amos and Kala Payne. Mosaic Harmony, founded at UUCF with several other congregations to promote interfaith unity through music, is celebrating its 20th season. All proceeds benefit Mosaic Harmony. Mark your calendar also for our 20th Anniversary Concert, Anything's Possible, Sun., Apr. 27, 4 p.m., UUCF.
15th Annual Community Thanksgiving Worship Service. Tue., Nov. 26, 7:30 p.m., Our Lady of Good Counsel, 8601 Wolftrap Rd., Vienna. Sponsored by the Shepherd's Center of Oakton-Vienna. An offering will be collected to help support local food banks run by Our Daily Bread and Committee for Helping Others (CHO). Contact the Shepherd's Center, 703-281-0538.
Alternative Gift Market. Sat., Dec. 7, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., UU Church in Reston. Visit 30 booths of socially conscious gifts from local and international charitable organizations. One-stop shopping for your holiday needs or to save for birthdays, thank you gifts and other occasions. Donations tax deductible; receipts provided. Cash and checks only.
Bazaar and silent auction. Sat., Dec. 7, 8 a.m.-3 p.m., River Road UU Congregation, Bethesda. A giant estate sale with garage sale prices. Toys, holiday items, clothing, books, rugs, jewelry, art, kitchenware, sporting goods, food and more.
Senior Saturday Night Social. Dec. 14, 5-8 p.m., Vienna Community Center. Sponsored by the Shepherd's Center of Oakton-Vienna and the Vienna Community Center. Join us for an evening of dining, laughter and entertainment by the Tallwood Trio. Registration and $5 pre-payment required by Dec. 4. To register, contact the Shepherd's Center, 703-281-0538.
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