October's Theme: GOD
There's more than one answer to these questions
pointing me in a crooked line
The less I seek my source for some definitive
The closer I am to fine.
-The Indigo Girls
Years ago, I had the practice of carrying around an index card with a list of names for God in my wallet. Every time I heard a new one, I wrote it down. It all started at church one morning when I noticed that our new minister was blessing babies in the name of "all the majestic forces of the universe." I don't know where that Godly index card is now, but if I find it again, I'm sure I'll be delighted to add some more names. For me, theology is fun. I'm grateful for my Unitarian Universalist upbringing, which leaves me open to exploration without even a glimmer of guilt in those moments when I just don't believe in a God of any name. And a community that creates no shame about believing in God in those moments when I do. So for the month of October, we are invited into reflection and conversations about God. For some, it isn't a useful word at all. There are so many different things meant by it. As one participant in our summer conversation circle on God said, it is not even true to say that people are all one because we all believe in the same God. One expression for God is "the Ultimate". And one of the principles and purposes for this community is to support each other in articulating, understanding, and experiencing what is Ultimate for the people in our community. So let's talk, write, and sing about it! Distilled down to its simplest form, my idea of God matches up with the old Universalist theology "God is Love." Since I was a young teenager, curious about religious beliefs and traditions beyond my family's Unitarian Universalist church, "God is love" has been my guiding principle. If a religious leader is angry and judgmental and there is even a hint of cruelty in their message, it doesn't ring true for me. So let's share our ideas and feelings about God and this year's other theology themes in our small group ministry conversations, in the minister's circle gathering after church, in our Light Left On Series led by Nancy Baker, and in our informal conversations over coffee with friends and neighbors. Watch for a poster at church where you can add names for God that catch your attention in a positive way. May you find insight, joy, connection, and wholeness in your explorations about God. Click here to read some thoughts on God. With love and blessings to you on the journey, BarbaraRev. Barbara McKusick Liscord  Introducing Kali Fyre, Our Ministerial Intern I'm delighted to announce that we are serving as the Ministerial Internship site for Kali Fyre, a first year student in the Touchpoint Theological Education program of Meadville Lombard Theological school in Chicago. The program has a hybrid residency format that combines intervals of intensive on-campus classroom learning with independent, small-group, and mentored learning off campus. This model enables students to live, work, and study in their own communities across North America or around the world. Kali Fyre was raised in the Keene area and has family ties to Milford and New Boston. She has been a member of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Manchester for about 6 years. She currently lives in Weare with her partner and family. She works at home with the farmstead in addition to her seminary studies. During the first year of her internship, she will engage in a community ministry for about 8 hours a week and have monthly meetings with me, her Teaching Pastor. She has not yet chosen her community ministry site. For the following two years, she will engage actively in the life of our congregation for about 20 hours a week. I look forward to introducing Kali to you!
|
Sunday, October 5 at 10:30am -  God
Rev. Barbara McKusick Liscord
In some religious communities, people hear the word "God" and everyone nods, assuming they all have the same idea of what is meant by the word. This Sunday begins a month of reflecting on the different meanings of this word, acknowledging the diverse sources of our Unitarian Universalist faith. We honor each individual's spiritual growth and search for truth and meaning.
After the worship service, Rev. Barbara will lead an informal conversation about this month's theme, God, in the Fireside room. This will also be a chance for newcomers to meet the minister and other members and friends of the congregation. Coffee will be available. Children can participate in a special project scheduled for the same time.
Sunday, October 12 at 10:30 - Indigenous Peoples' Sunday: Native American God
Rev. Barbara McKusick Liscord and Linda Goodman
One of the sources of our Unitarian Universalist living tradition is the spiritual teachings of
Earth-centered traditions that celebrate the sacred circle of life and instruct us to live in harmony with the rhythms of nature. This Sunday we'll explore Native American spiritual practices and expressions of God.
After the worship service, Rev. Barbara will lead this year's first UU&You: An Introduction to Unitarian Universalism class in the Fireside room. Coffee will be available, but please bring a bag lunch. This session, entitled Where do we come from? explores our personal religious roots and journeys. While this monthly class is aimed toward newcomers to Unitarian Universalism, even longtime UUs can learn by attending. You do not need to attend all eight sessions of UU&You, most of which will be held on the second Sunday of the month, but can drop in as you wish.
Sunday, October 19 at 10:30am - God InbetweenRev. Barbara McKusick Liscord This Sunday we will explore the God in relationships, including the thoughts of Henry Nelson Wieman, who describes God as "The Creative Interchange."
Sunday, October 26 at 10:30am - The Problem with Omniscience and Omnipotence Rev. Shayna Appel Many UU's shy away from "the whole God thing" based on philosophical difficulties associated with God as either omniscient (all knowing) or omnipotent (all powerful). Based on the work of the late philosopher and theologian Charles Hartshorne, this sermon explores the roots of process theology and a God who is more interested in meeting us, in the words of Rev. Kathleen McTigue, "at the forming edge of our lives."
|
 From Our Music Director
In Joyful Song,
Carolyn McCreary, music director
Something New! Singing "Seasons" Do you want to sing with the choir but not commit for most Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings for the entire church year? Just as various sports have their seasons, the UUCM choir will have its 'seasons" too! October will be Classical season; November-December will be Christmas season; and January through March will be Music Service season. Let me know if you care to join us for one or more of these seasons.
Music Strategic Planning, Oct. 19, Noon to 2:00pm
Ellen Groh and I attended a very stimulating workshop at General Assembly sponsored by the UU Musicians Network. I would like to share what we learned and set a direction for music ministry at UUCM. Music can be a great tool for outreach, for including children, for reaching youth and young adults. How can we use the inspiration of music to enhance our congregation?
We will hold a brainstorming session on Sunday, Oct. 19 from noon to 2:00 to share what we learned at GA and pool our ideas. Lunch will be provided. |
|
Lifespan Religious Education
LRE Events for all ages -- children, youth, adults -- are listed here in order by date.
See other church events in the UUCM News & Activities section.
|
|
From Our Director of Lifespan Religious Education
 Hello Everyone,
I wish you all a fabulous fall! I love this time of year - leaf-peeping and leaf-pile leaping are just around the corner. And so is Hallowe'en! I hope you can join us for many of these activities coming up in October. (Activities for all ages are intermingled and ordered by date.) Also check out our new resources for parents.
In Faith,
Cyn Fennelly (dlre@uucm.org)
Small Group Ministry
Small Group Ministry will be organized in October with meetings to start in November. Watch UUCM Weekly Updates for news.
|
UUCM Family Resource Materials for October
In response to our survey at the end of last year, the Religious Education Committee (REC) is providing a UUCM Family Resource each month for parents to use to enhance our themed RE program. It is similar to what Rev. Barbara provides each month, but shorter and geared toward children and youth. It provides information to parents on what the children/youth will be doing in their various circles and classes as well as other events. It provides activities and resources that families can enjoy together related to the monthly theme. You can link to the October UUCM Family Resource on God here.
|
OWL for 7th and 8th Grades - Beginning in October
We have had several delays, but this week we will be putting out full information about the Our Whole Lives (OWL) program for 7th and 8th graders, including parent meeting times and the full schedule. If you have any questions, please contact Cyn at dlre@uucm.org.
Parents of Teens Group - Running concurrently with OWL
When OWL begins, we will also hold a Parents of Teens group that will meet at the same time. Please contact Cyn at dlre@uucm.org if you would be interested in attending and if you would need childcare to do so.
|
Popcorn Theology
Friday, October 10, 7:00pm-10:00pm in Emerson
In keeping with October's theme of God, we will be screening Bruce Almighty, starring Jim Carey and Morgan Freeman. This 2003 movie, rated PG-13, is about a man who complains about God too often and is given almighty powers to teach him how difficult it is to run the world. Please plan to join us for the movie, popcorn, and lively discussion afterward.
|
Middle School Youth Group to Sell Hot Dogs and Chili at Milford's Pumpkin Festival
Saturday, October 11, 10:00am - 2:00pm (Prep on Oct. 10 at 5:00pm)
2014 marks the 25th annual pumpkin festival in Milford! Along with the annual Harvest Pantry bake sale, coordinated by Nancy Iannuzelli again this year, the Middle School Youth Group (Grades 5-8) plans to sell chili and hot dogs. We will also have hoola-hoops and other fun stuff to share with the public. If you'd like to help prepare the chili, join us on Friday night, October 10, at 5:00pm in the UUCM kitchen. And if you want to help with the chili slinging or other fun stuff, contact Leslie Bennett (LeslieYingling1@aol.com).
|
Middle School Youth Group Gathering
For Youth in Grades 5-8
Friday, October 17, 6:00pm - 8:30pm
We've got an enthusiastic group of kids eager to be part of the Middle School Youth Group this year! We will kick things off by preparing dinner together, discussing plans for the coming year, and playing a few games. We will talk with the youth about what they would like the group to be and do. This group will be led co-operatively with different parents taking responsibility for each month's event. The event might be planned by the youth or perhaps involve more planning with parents. We will contact parents with more information after the gathering on the 17th. Contact Beth Soederberg (bsoederberg@sunriselabs.com or 472-3376) or Sandy Frades (sandyfrades@comcast.net or 673-2955) with any ideas or questions you might have.
|
The Light Left On: A Monthly Exploration of the History of Theology and the Search for Spirituality
Sunday, October 19, 5-7pm
Nancy Baker will lead us in a discussion of this month's theme of "God", looking at it from different perspectives and means of expression. This program is open to anyone high-school age and older who is interested in exploring ideas that shape the way we approach theology and spirituality. You need not know anything about the subject as the program is meant to stimulate rather than instruct.
Each session will include a simple shared meal, so please sign up each month so we know how many to expect for dinner. There's a sign-up sheet in Barnum.
|
Multigenerational Hallowe'en Happening with Potluck
Saturday, October 25, 6:00pm - 8:00pm
This event will begin with a potluck dinner, so please bring your best and spookiest recipes. The classrooms will become haunted rooms (with various levels of scariness) and children can trick or treat from room to room. We will have games and crafts and storytelling throughout the evening. Please come and enjoy!
|
Chalice Lighting and Snack Sign-ups
We hope to have online signups soon, but for now, please use the sign-up sheets in Barnum.
Chalice Lighting: We usually like to have a child/youth and an adult (or a youth) do the chalice lighting, but we happily make exceptions for special occasions. Chalice lighters also stay at the pulpit to sing the opening song with Rev. Barbara and lead the congregation in our affirmation.
Snacks: Snacks for youth/children will work differently this year. When you sign up to bring food, you are signing up to bring fresh fruit, cheese, hummus or some other fresh food. The RE Cupboard is stocked with gluten-free and dairy-free crackers and other snacks that will keep. It is very helpful if you can prepare your snacks, augmenting from the cupboard as necessary, and put them out in the kitchen (clearly labeled as children's snacks) before church begins. If you wish, you can submit your expenses for reimbursement to Cyn.
|
Project to Support the Women of Goffstown Prison
October 5, 12-1:15pm in Barnum - NEW DATE!Following the service, please join us for a multigenerational project to create stationery for the women. If you have questions or wish to help, please contact Leslie Bennett at 672-4865 or leslieyingling1@aol.com. Parents can choose between this activity or a discussion time with Rev. Barbara in the Fireside room.
|
|
Monthly Volunteer Opportunity: Next on October 12
Check Out the NEW Nashua Soup Kitchen!
The NSK has moved to 2 Quincy St. where everything is fresh and new! On the second Sunday of every month, four volunteers from UUCM prepare and serve dinner there from about 10:30 to 2:00. Consider volunteering -- and experience the gift that comes from sharing the gratitude you have for your own blessings by serving others. Honor Each. Enrich All.
To learn more or volunteer, contact Nancy Iannuzzelli (672-2701 or niannuzzelli@hotmail.com). Volunteers are still needed for Sunday, October 12.
|
UUCM Monthly Community Supper 
October 15 at 5:30pm
If you postpone filing your taxes until October 15, treat yourself to dinner at UUCM tonight! We served more than 100 guests at our September Community Supper - thanks to a rotating team of 27 UUCM volunteers who perform individual tasks, including cooking, setup, serving, and clean up. Each month the number of guests continues to increase. This outreach project is not only building community in the greater Milford area, but within UUCM as well -- Honoring Each and Enriching All.
This is a great way to volunteer and also get to know other UUCM folks. Family volunteer participation is encouraged and welcome. If you'd like more information, please contact Nancy Danzinger at (603) 673-9561 or ndanzinger@comcast.net. Please consider joining our great team of volunteers!
|
|
Trivia Night - UUCM Fundraiser
October 4, 7-9pm - MUST Register by September 27!
Pit your wits against others in the community! Join us for a night of fun and competition that will feature
- Team trivia contest, with a $100 prize (and bragging rights) to the winning team
- Lucky hat contest
- Raffle
- Light snacks plus wine, beer, and nonalcoholic beverages will be available for a donation
Have fun while raising money for UUCM. Consider enlisting a team of ten and buying a table for $100! Individual tickets are also available for $10 apiece, but there are only 100 spots. To reserve your spot, contact Debbie Maloney (673-5680 or djdmaloney@gmail.com) or Stacey at UUCM ( office@uucm.org or 673-1870).
|
|
Sanctuary Enhancements
October 18 9am-12:30pm
The Congregational Development Committee will facilitate a session on Saturday morning, October 18, 2014 to explore possible enhancements to the sanctuary. The details are still being worked out, but the possible topics for exploration include:
- Does the sanctuary, as presently configured, serve our needs and the needs of members of the community who are looking for a spiritual home?
- If not, why not? What do we want to do that we have trouble accomplishing now?
- What changes might enable enhanced worship? Some ideas:
- Expanded and raised "stage" area.
- Elimination of the "jury box" around the organ.
- Built-in method for projecting images and text as part of our worship service.
The way we approach this discussion will be as important as the ideas. We will use Adaptive Leadership tools and techniques to make sure that everyone's ideas are heard, understood, and valued. We hope this process will unleash creative ideas that we may not have even thought about before! More about Adaptive Leadership. Contact Ellen Groh (ellengroh@aol.com)
|
From Barbara Smith for the Property Committee:
Save the Date! November 15, 9:00 - 12:00 Church Clean-up Day (Inside and out) Missing: 3 easels and about 30 folding chairs Please return them as soon as possible. Thank you!
|
UUCM Marketing Team Makes Great Progress
Last spring, a new UUCM Marketing team convened to brainstorm ideas to make the broader Milford community aware of our beautiful space and its availability for rental. Working with Rose Lowry, we developed a new logo to use as we create staff business cards, brochures, and letters. Watch for new and improved UUCM publications.
Thank you to Dick Danzinger, Lois Hermann, Dona Eaton, Leslie Bennett, Rose Lowry, and Stacey Morison for all of your help so far! If you are interested in joining the team, please contact Leslie Bennett (LeslieYingling1@aol.com). And, if you or your committee is interested in creating a UUCM publication, please reach out to the team for support!
|
 UUCM Library News - Featured New Book
David Wheeler attended Aviva Chomsky's event at GA this year and after reading her book (Undocumented: How Immigration Became Illegal), he donated it to the UUCM library in the Fireside Room. Other new books were added this summer too. To check out a book, sign the card and put it in the box on the shelf. When returning a book, please put it in the basket on the same shelf. We can start a waiting list if necessary. Just email Erna at efj3@cornell.edu.
|
Now Even Our Garbage is Green 
Thanks to Dona Eaton, who gifted UUCM with a large compost bin. We can now turn our scraps into nourishment for the gardens on the property. Dona christened it with the first deposits from the September Community Supper. Coffee grounds are welcome there too! There is a tub of brown leaves next to the bin to use for layering between food scraps. The bin is conveniently located in a discreet place alongside the church (facing Bridges).
|
Commit2Respond to Climate Change
The Unitarian Universalist Association and the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee are joining together with other people of conscience in taking action to address climate change. Sign up today.
|
Northern New England Newsletters
You can read the UUA Northern New England District monthly newsletters online or subscribe to them at http://nned.uua.org/current-bulletin.html. The UUA and Other UU Connections on Social MediaCheck out all the ways to stay connected here. |
SHARE - Contribute to the Food Pantry
Please leave contributions in the SHARE basket in Barnum. This month's needs: Canned meats, side dishes (seasoned pasta mix, Hamburger Helper, etc.), sandwich bread. SHARE is also collecting food for Thanksgiving: stuffing, gravy, canned corn, canned green beans, apple juice, cranberry sauce, elbow macaroni, chicken broth, pie crust, evaporated milk. Guidelines for Bringing Food to and Serving Alcohol at UUCM
Please observe UUCM's Food Allergen and Alcohol policies on the UUCM Policies page.
Parking at UUCM
Please park ONLY in marked spaces to allow for the 20' fire lane required by law. For more parking information (including a printable map) click here.
In the Members & Friends section on the UUCM website, you will find the latest directory, committee listings, and info about people who've moved. Or you can get a directory from the UUCM office. If your contact information is incorrect, email office@uucm.org with 'Directory Changes' in the subject line.
Services provided by UUCM members & friends, rides to the airport or bus terminal, recipes, how to buy or consign clothing and goods with the proceeds going to UUCM -- plus links to hundreds of shopping sites where your purchase benefits UUCM, and much, much more!
So Many Ways to Volunteer! See signup sheets in Barnum.
- UUCM coffee hour cleanup.
- Nashua Soup Kitchen, 2nd Sunday each month. Contact Nancy Iannuzzelli (672-2701)
- Contact Nancy Danzinger (673-9561 or ndanzinger@comcast.net) to help with:
- UUCM's Community Suppers, 3rd Weds. every month.
- Community Suppers at SHARE, 4 hrs. one Tuesday every 7 weeks.
|
|
