Saturday, December 27, 2008

Weekly Update . . .

Weekly Update: Dec 27 2008 . . . . Here we are in this quiet period between Christmas and New Years. I always love it . . . it seems the world slows down a bit, things happen at a different speed (like me getting the Weekly Update out on Saturday instead of Friday!) It’s fun to have more time to connect with others—family we rarely see, and friends we often don’t have as much time to linger with.  I hope that you had a delightful holiday, but know that for some of you, it was also a hard time. I’ve been holding you in my thoughts and prayers in this season. Let’s all do what we can to reach out to those who may be alone or lonely in this time of so much connecting and socializing.
This Sunday
9:30 am New Year’s Chapel
with Esther Kieffer. Some say doing the same thing again expecting different results is foolish. Others say the variables are always changing so doing the same thing again expecting the same results is also foolish. Whether either or both views are correct, stopping to take a look back and a look forward is worth doing.
10:45 am  BrUUnch! Join us for a brunch after the service this Sunday. Bring yourselves and a dish to share. See you there!
This Coming Week
Monday @
6 pm Cedar Prairie Vegetarian Potluck
WOW! Workshops on Wednesdays
(on Holiday Break)
Thursday Buddhist Path on holiday break
Friday
@
9:30 am YoUUng Child Playgroup
@  6 pm First Friday “Shinto New Year”
Join us for this fun New Year’s Party with a Japanese twist! Bring a dish to share at the potluck—creative people can make Japanese food! Our own Joyce Boss will share some of the traditions from the Japanese religion called “Shinto”   . . .  Fun interactive time for the whole family. Hope you can join us!!

~Eva


--
Stay informed! Read the World! <www.uuworld.org>
Stay connected! Check out our Facebook Group: uusbhc
Find something out! Look it up on our webpage: <www.uusbhc.org>
Think wider thoughts! Learn about the UU Assn: <www.uua.org>
Think wider still! Learn about International U&SU <www.icuu.net>


Rev. Eva Cameron, minister
Unitarian Universalist Society of Black Hawk Co.
3912 Cedar Heights Dr.
Cedar Falls, Iowa 50613
USA

m: 319.610.6605


Wednesday, December 24, 2008

Christmas Eve


Christmas Eve Service 5:30 pm
 . . . stories, songs and candlelight . . .
(and childcare for wee ones)
 
Holiday party following (6:30pm)
 
Come if you can. Bring family and friends.
~Eva

--
Rev. Eva S. Cameron
UU Society of Black Hawk Co.
Cedar Falls, IA
USA
319-610-6605 mobile
319-266-5640 church
319-266-1111 home
www.uusbhc.org






 
 


Sunday, December 21, 2008

YES! We are open

Greetings on this cold morning!

Yes we are open, and the parking lot is clear, and the walks shoveled. If you don’t mind the cold, feel free to come. If you want to snuggle at home, please don’t feel any obligation to come (even if you said you’d do a job.)

Kathy Klink-Zeitz and I have decided to cancel Sunday School classes for children. If there is interest, after our Fellowship time, I can show you the Khasi Hills movie (fun for kids and adults.)

Take good care.
And if I don’t see you before Christmas, may it be a good one.

~Eva

--

"The hardest arithmetic to master is that which enables us to count our blessings."  ~ Eric Hoffer

Rev. Eva S. Cameron
UU Society of Black Hawk Co.
Cedar Falls, IA
USA
319-610-6605 mobile
319-266-5640 church
319-266-1111 home
www.uusbhc.org

Friday, December 19, 2008

Weekly Update 12/19/08

Weekly Update—12/19/08 Greetings on this very snowy day!  The snow has broken my routines, such as they are . . . I awoke to a big work-out, which got my heart pumping. And was pleasantly surprised when a friend dropped by to help me shovel! That moved my heart in another way. Weather offers lots of chances reach out to others—from helping break ice last January, helping clean up after the wild tornados of Memorial Day, and sand-bagging and mopping after the floods of June. It is good to get these chances to give, and let’s try and hold this lesson close to our hearts in this season of “giving” . . . . We want to be giving. But we don’t have to run out and buy lots of little things to give in this season. Make someone smile . . . offer them a bit of help. Drop them a note with your top 5 reasons you like or admire them. Clean of a stranger’s car of snow in a parking lot or bring a neighbor a bowl of soup. Yes, it means a shift in our expectations of ourselves . . . but giving is beautiful. And you will find the beauty in the giving.
 
Many blessings to you in this season!
 
Tonight 4:30 to 630
Holiday Open House at my home:  610 Franklin St. CF
Please drop by for a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of wine. No gifts, unless you want to bring a nibble to share with others.
 
This Sunday:
8:30 am Music Rehearsal
9:30 am Service “Born and RE-born”
Join Rev. Eva and Worship Associate Deblyn Russelll for a Winter Solstice celebration.
10:45 am Fellowship Time
11 am Children’s Chapel
11:15 am Sunday School for children & youth
11:15 am Adult Classes:
Walking the Talk:
A talk about Iahunlang, our orphan student in the Khasi Hills. Conference call to India with Patrick Malloy & Rev. Eva Cameron
 
This Coming Week
Wednesday
5:30 pm Christmas Eve Service
(Collection for Orphaned Student Ianhunlang)
Join us for this service of traditional carols, stories and candlelight. Bring your friends and family!
6:30 pm Holiday Party Join us after the service for a little wassail. Bring  a snack to share .

Pastoral Update
Bea Tate
has moved from Covenant in Waterloo and is now at On With Life (http://www.on-with-life.org) in Ankeny. On With Life (OWL) is a rehabilitation center that specializes in brain injury recovery. Her new address is: On With Life, Bea Tate, Rm. 46, 715 SW Ankeny Rd., Ankeny, IA 50023 Let’s send some Christmas cards!!  
Ruth Mahon fell and broke her hip.  Cards to: 818 Ellen St. CF 50613
Eleanore Stark is continuing with her chemotherapy, and staying strong. Cards to: 2215 Victory Dr. CF 50613
Dick Shane celebrated his 97th birthday last Wednesday!
Cards to: 3720 Village Place #6111 Waterloo, 50702
 
See you in church!
~Eva

--
Stay informed! Read the World! <www.uuworld.org>
Stay connected! Check out our Facebook Group: uusbhc
Find something out! Look it up on our webpage: <www.uusbhc.org>
Think wider thoughts! Learn about the UU Assn: <www.uua.org>
Think wider still! Learn about International U&SU <www.icuu.net>


Rev. Eva Cameron, minister
Unitarian Universalist Society of Black Hawk Co.
3912 Cedar Heights Dr.
Cedar Falls, Iowa 50613
USA

m: 319.610.6605


 

Friday, December 12, 2008

Weekly Update 12/12/08

Weekly Update 12/12/08  ~~~Hello!  Hope that you are remembering to breathe in this season that invites us to rush about so much. Even a few minutes of deep breathing will calm you immensely and help so that both you and those around you are more likely to have a “happy” holiday season. I am practicing what I preach! Believe me! Because I preach what I need to practice!  Take of your sweet selves this week. And you will find yourself close to the holiness and happiness of this season . . . .
So many people are stepping up to help out with this Sunday’s Pageant. It’s really fun to see so many people working to create this event for us. And it’s amazing to walk in the Sanctuary and let the stunning beauty of this month’s decorations and poinsettias just catch my breath, filling me with awe. And last Sunday’s Variety Show was the best ever!!! I laughed so hard, and loved the joyful sounds. Plus we raised most all the money towards our goal! Thank you each one of your part in helping with all these things and so many more that make our church community a delight and solace!

Tonight: Holiday Open House @ Eva’s 4:30 to 6:30
610 Franklin St. CF . . . . instead of visiting at Cup of Joe’s, I invite you to come to my house to relax and begin the weekend. I’ll have coffee, tea, wine and a bit of food. No gifts please, you can bring a snack to share if you’d like. I’ll do this again next Friday.
 
Pageant Rehearsal begins at 7pm tonight. It’s not too late for kids to sign up to be an animal! Just show up.

This Sunday
8:30 am Pageant Rehearsal
9:30 am Service UU Christmas Pageant
Join us for pageant that shares the traditional Christmas story, with a UU twist. Fun and thoughts for kids big & small! Songs by the choir, narrator is Gary Kroeger, and a cast of all ages.
10:45 am Fellowship Time
11 am Children’s Chapel
11:15 am Sunday School for children & youth
11:15 am Adult Classes
Circle Way “Winter Solstice Release Ritual”
Throughout history people have conducted rituals at this time of year as their part in perpetuating the dance of life, to collectively hold the vision of light returning, of beauty being honored, of knowledge being shared, of love touching all. These difficult times can leave people feeling isolated, betrayed, despondent and yet the suffering and challenges we face as a planet also have the capacity to bring us closer to Spirit and each other!
“Welcoming Conversations:
 A Practical Guide in Making Visitors Feel at Home”
Like seeing all the new faces at church on Sunday, but not sure what to say to them? Join the Outreach Committee as they talk about ways to start up welcoming conversations with our visitors that keep them coming back for more. There are lots of kindred spirits out there looking for a liberal religious home, and you can help us reach out to them.
 
7 pm What’s Up Doc?umentaries “Favela Rising
 
This Coming Week
Wednesday
*Calendar Deadline
WOW! Workshops on Wednesdays (on Holiday Break)
7:15 pm Theoretical String Band
Thursday
7:30 pm Buddhist Path
Friday
*Newsletter Deadline
9:30 am YoUUng Child Play Group
 
Pastoral Update
Tyler Vincent’s wife Angie
is back home from her surgery to mend her leg after he fall last week. Esther is collecting simple foods for them to prepare to help Tyler while she is laid up.
 
Continue to keep Eleanore Stark in your thoughts and prayers.
 
Let us know if you need our help, or prayers! We are a caring community who wants to help!
 
~Eva
 
 

Friday, December 5, 2008

Weekly Update 12/05/08

Weekly Update 12/5/08     Wow! Is it cold outside!  And it doesn’t seem at all necessary to sing “I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas” . . . but our musical folk will be singing and playing all sorts of delightful and amusing stuff this Sunday afternoon. I hope you’ll plan on being there! I may just sing a song or two (details below). . . . Meanwhile, activity is underway for this year’s Christmas Pageant, which is a week away. Our own Gary Kroeger returns to narrate. This is an awesome way to introduce your friends who just aren’t sure what to think about Christmas to the many and varied possibilities that we hold in our midst. So, think of someone you can invite now!
 
Tonight:
First Friday Potluck @6pm
Come and learn about the Muslim Hajj (pilgrimage) from our guests. A time for people of all ages. Kids and grandparents welcomed alike.
Because of this, I won’t be at Cup of Joe this afternoon.
 
This Sunday:
8:30 am Music Rehearsals
9:30 am Service “Hurry Up! Slow Down!”
A time think about what the “holiday season” really means. Are you hurrying up this time of year? Or slowing down?
10:45 am Fellowship Time
11 am Children’s Chapel
11:15 am Sunday School for children & youth
11:15 am Adult Classes
Conscious Living:
A short segment of the documentary “Renewal” will be shown.
New Member Meeting: If you’re new to the UU’s then this would be a good time to sit down with Rev. Eva Cameron and Mica Lorenz in a relaxed atmosphere and learn more about being a UU member.
12:30 – 3 pm Holiday Potluck & Variety Show
We begin with a potluck right after Sunday School. Then come to the sanctuary at 1:00 p.m. for entertainment guaranteed to please—fabulous music performed by talented members and friends, an occasional joke, plus a sing-along. The concert is part of the Music Committee’s fund-raising commitment; your $10 per person suggested donation will help us move toward our Music Director fund-raising goal. Additional amounts are, of course, welcome! Tim Purdum is impresario for the event.
 
7 pm What’s Up Doc?umentaries “To Wong Foo, Thanks forEverything! Julie Newmar” Three New York drag queens embark on a road trip. The film’s title refers to a totemic autographed photo of Julie Newmar that the trio carries with them on their journey.

This Coming Week
Tuesday
7 pm Religious Services Committee
WOW! Workshops on Wednesdays
5:30 pm Dinner (Please RSVP)
6:15 pm Family Choir
6:30 pm Workshop “Spiritual Meanings of the Season”
7:15 pm Theoretical String Band—play an instrument, or just play it ‘in theory’? That’s just right for this group where all are welcome to come and have fun making music.
7:30 pm Small Group Ministry
Thursday
7:30 pm Buddhist Path—all invited to share in a time of learning about Buddhism and meditation.
 
Save the Date:
Christmas Eve
service will be at 6:30pm. Its followed by a potluck reception/party. Come and be with us on this special night of new stories and old.
 
Pastoral Update:
Tyler Vincent’s wife Angie
fell and broke her leg this past week. She’ll need surgery on Tuesday. Keep them in your thoughts and prayers. Esther and the Caring Committee are arranging to bring them some meals, contact her if you’d like to help out. (emkieffer@cfu.net)
 
Eleanore Stark is receiving Chemotherapy currently, and could really use some more cards and calls to help keep her spirits up1  Even if you don’t know her, you could send her a card—she’s fairly new.  2215 Victory Dr. CF 50613, ph: 277-5531
 
Something big happening in your life, need a little extra TLC? Please let us know. We care, and would like to offer help and love.

See you in church!
Eva
--
Stay informed! Read the World! <www.uuworld.org>
Stay connected! Check out our Facebook Group: uusbhc
Find something out! Look it up on our webpage: <www.uusbhc.org>
Think wider thoughts! Learn about the UU Assn: <www.uua.org>
Think wider still! Learn about International U&SU <www.icuu.net>


Rev. Eva Cameron, minister
Unitarian Universalist Society of Black Hawk Co.
3912 Cedar Heights Dr.
Cedar Falls, Iowa 50613
USA

m: 319.610.6605


 

Sunday, November 30, 2008

Snowy Sunday

Yes! On this snowy Sunday, there will be church service.
~Eva

Friday, November 28, 2008

Weekly Update 11/28/08

Weekly Update 11/28/08---Hope you had a meaningful holiday!! It’s so easy to feast your way, or cook and clean your way through this holiday without stopping for moment to be truly thankful for all that we do have. This is one of my favorite holidays, because I think gratitude is such an important spiritual practice. So I hope you got that moment, captured it in your soul, and will have to hold close to you when you get to one of those evitable grumpy moments we, each one of us, has from time to time.
 
I also hope that if you didn’t have family to spend the holiday with, you created a “family” of friends and strangers to make your day fun. I want to say a special thanks to those I got to spend Thanksgiving with, and to those who invited me to spend thanksgiving with them. Even if I didn’t end up at your dinner, I was sure glad for the invitations—since I don’t have any family here in town.
 
Bright Blessings on this bright November day!
~Eva
 

This Sunday:
9:30 am Service “Giving Thanks: Spirituality and Food”
After the Thanksgiving feast, come and reflect on the role that food plays in our spiritual lives. Join Sue Hill with Brittany Flokstra as Worship Associate.
10:45 am Fellowship Time
11 am Children’s Chapel
11:15 am Sunday School for children & youth
11:15 am Adult Classes
7 pm Small Group Ministry
 
This Weekend:
Buddhist Movie Night
is tonight @ 6pm All invited!!
 
Young Adult Chili Dinner @ Eva’s House Saturday @ 6:30pm. RSVP on Facebook, or e-mail . . . so I know how much food to make. Location: 610 Franklin CF 50613
 
This Coming Week:
WOW! Workshops on Wednesdays
5:30 pm Dinner (Please RSVP)
6:15 pm Family Choir
6:30 pm Workshop “Gift Giving: Alternative and Traditional”
Juanita Williams and Pam Hays will lead us in a discussion of the meaning of gifts, the special challenges of gifts and parenting, and our own feelings about gifts. A list of types of alternative gifts will be provided.
7:15 pm Theoretical String Band
7:30 pm Small Group Facilitators Meeting
 
Thursday@ 7:30 pm Buddhist Path
 
Friday@ 6 pm First Friday Potluck “Hajj”
Join us as we welcome members of the Muslim community to share with us about their faith at this fun and informal family time. The Hajj is the pilgrimage to the Holy City of Makkah
during the month of Dhu’l-Hijjah. The performance of the Hajj is the fifth of the five pillars of Islam. Bring a traditional Middle Eastern dish or something else you like. This is great event for bringing a guest.
 
Other Items:
Keys to the UUSBHC
Please contact the office if you have a key to the building. You can e-mail administrator@uusbhc.org
or call and leave a message at 266-5640.
 
Poinsettias for the Holidays
The Creative Spiritz are selling poinsettias from Harmony House, again this year.  The cost of each poinsettia is $11. You can choose red, white, pink or speckled.  The poinsettias will be used during the month of December to decorate the front of the sanctuary with the Holiday Spirit. You can buy them in someone's memory or honor.
You can take your poinsettias home after Christmas Eve service.  To order your poinsettias fill in the form using the link below or contact Deblyn Russell, her cell phone is 319-939-2789 or email her at deblynzart@cfu.net  You can also order them at church on Sundays – Nov. 30th, Dec.  7th and/or 14th. Payment is appreciated at time of order. (if you use the on-line order form, you can bring your payment in the next Sunday or send it to UUSBHC, 3912 Cedar Heights Dr. Cedar Falls, IA  50613   attn. Kathy) Here’s the online order-form: http://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?key=pv7lTd1gi5uQhf5FNwobIJA

 ~Eva
--
Stay informed! Read the World! <www.uuworld.org>
Stay connected! Check out our Facebook Group: uusbhc
Find something out! Look it up on our webpage: <www.uusbhc.org>
Think wider thoughts! Learn about the UU Assn: <www.uua.org>
Think wider still! Learn about International U&SU <www.icuu.net>


Rev. Eva Cameron, minister
Unitarian Universalist Society of Black Hawk Co.
3912 Cedar Heights Dr.
Cedar Falls, Iowa 50613
USA

m: 319.610.6605



 
 

Friday, November 21, 2008

Weekly Update 11/21/08

Weekly Update . . . as we near Thanksgiving our weather is turning brisk and sunny. Late autumn has its own charm, and I hope you are finding ways to enjoy it. I love making soups and stews this time of year, which I haven’t eaten all summer long.
Today, while munching on my stew at lunch, I thoughtfully chewed a bite of potato. I had left the skins on when I made it, and this one must have had a small pocket of earth remaining, as I got just a subtle taste of earth as a chewed. It shocked me with its rich, organic mustiness. Immediately, I was thrown into memories of planting gardens, the rich earth smell rising from the freshly tilled soil, or deep forests where each footstep overturns rich, loose soil, sending up a waft of rich, earthy splendor.
It made me realize again, just how easy it is to consume food without truly connecting with the powerful life-force that is a work to create it for us. My earthy-bite gave me a lucky reminder. I was able to pause and reflect on growing these potatoes. And on where the rest of the food came from. On the minor miracle it truly is, when we get to open our mouths, place food inside, and be nourished. It’s an awesome force of love at work in the universe. Our lives are sustained by the energy and resources of so many others, human and non-human.
This Thanksgiving, I hope that something will allow you to pause, with awareness and gratitude, and give thanks for this incredible richness that sustains us. I’m not saying you have to serve each of your Thanksgiving guests a spoonful of earth . . . but, you just might consider it!

Sunday:
8:45 am family choir rehearsal
9:30 am Service “Thanksgiving Festival
with a Hunger Communion” Join us for a “Service For All Ages” as we celebrate the richness of life and all that we have for which to be thankful. In honor of those with gluten-free diets, this year’s communion uses rice cakes. We’ll have a  “Parade of Food” so bring some non-perishable food items to carry up front for you and your kids for the FoodBank. Plus, the “Walkin’ the Talk” collection will be for the FoodBank as well.
10:45 am Fellowship Time
11 am Children’s Chapel
11:15 am Sunday School for children & youth
11:15 am Adult Classes:
“Doc” Shorts “Granny D Goes to Washington” This rousing film tells the amazing story of iron-willed, upbeat, eighty-nine year old Doris Haddock who astonished the nation by walking across the entire continental United States to bring attention to the issue of campaign finance reform.
12:15 pm Outreach Committee Meeting
2 pm Small Group
6 pm Birthday Party & Potluck for Eva Cameron & Susan Janzen
(all invited, see below)
 
This Coming Week:
Monday 6 pm:  
Cedar Prairie Vegetarian Potluck
Tuesday 1 pm:  Committee on Ministry
Wednesday:  No WOW this week.
Friday: Buddhist Movie night! 6:30pm Socializing, 7pm Movie, offered by Ralph Burr.

 
Pastor Pals Plural Birthday Party:
Sunday, November 23 from  6:00pm - 9:00pm
Location:    UU SBHC Fellowship Hall
 Everyone, come celebrate with friends old and new! The whole family is invited. What's a party without food ... so bring a potluck dish to share. If you're adventurous, a taste of India or Greece would endear you forever to the hosts! No gifts, please.  But you can bring your instruments, and maybe we can make music!

Eva,  pastor for the UUSBHC (born 11/24), and Kathy, our UUSBHC director of religious education (born 11/20). Susan is pastor of Cedar Falls Mennonite Church. (born 11/24)

Anyone else with birthdays this week? Join in the fun so we can sing for you, too!

Other Items:
Poinsettias
Once again this year, there will be an opportunity to purchase Poinsettias from Harmony House to use to decorate the Sanctuary during the holiday season. Cost will be $11. Its for a good cause, and will be BEAUTIFUL!!  There will be an opportunity to offer them in memory or honor of someone dear to you. Please look for a sign up soon online, and after church in the Fellowship Hall.   Brought to you by the Creative Spiritz.
 
Pageant:
Is coming up Dec 14th, with rehearsal on the 13th. We’ve got roles for people of all ages. Let Eva know if you’d like to play a part, help with costumes, etc. . . . or briefly answer questions about meaning of the season (which is part of this UU version of the Pageant!)  
 
Pastoral Update
Mica Lorenz's stepmother had a heart attack and Mica has been at the hospital most of the week. Her Mom had 3 stints put in and is improving now. I am sure she would like calls/cards/FB messages: 1141 Independence Ave. W’loo, 50703 (610-1276)
 
Let’s continue to hold Bea Tate and her family in our thoughts and prayers on their long road to recovery. And Eleanor Stark as well.
 
Please keep us posted on your news. We want to help!
 
I’ll be at Cup of Joe today from 4:30 to 6pm. Feel free to join me for an informal conversation!
 
See you in church!
Eva
--
Stay informed! Read the World! <www.uuworld.org>
Stay connected! Check out our Facebook Group: uusbhc
Find something out! Look it up on our webpage: <www.uusbhc.org>
Think wider thoughts! Learn about the UU Assn: <www.uua.org>
Think wider still! Learn about International U&SU <www.icuu.net>


Rev. Eva Cameron, minister
Unitarian Universalist Society of Black Hawk Co.
3912 Cedar Heights Dr.
Cedar Falls, Iowa 50613
USA

m: 319.610.6605



 

Friday, November 14, 2008

Weekly Update

Hello!  Are you excited as I am to see what the next steps are, for each of us, in bringing change to our country? The whole idea of ‘Community Organizing’ on a nation-wide scale is mind boggling to me. But I plan on having conversations with some of you who’ve lived through major times of change in this country—like the depression, or at the time of the Second World War. I’m wondering what did it feel like, and how did you build up momentum to keep us moving forward? Let’s all work on this together, to be ready, will and able to help shape what is to come. This is a big part of what is means to be a Unitarian Universalist: working to see our vision come alive on this planet.
 
Tomorrow!! Lot’s of exciting things going on:

Photo-directory: Last call!!
Few spots tonight and tomorrow afternoon left. Call Jan @ 240-0962 if you haven’t made it in yet!

Buddhist Retreat is also Saturday!
Join Zen Monk Ted O’Toole from Minneapolis in this mini-retreat. A half a day of calm and quiet before the hecticness of the season. You may come at 7am if you are a meditator, or at 8am if you’d like meditation instructions. A light lunch will be served. Wear comfortable clothes, and feel free to bring your own cushions (although we have some).
 
Strong Backs? Love to Decorate?
As you can tell, we’ve got a lot going on Saturday. In order to make it all happen, we will be re-arranging some furniture and speed-decorating the Fellowship Hall with a jungle theme. If you could help either with Furniture moving (Sat @ 1pm), or decorating (Sat @ 2pm)  . . . please just show up with a smile!!
 
Treats and Talents Auction !!!
6pm social time, 7pm auction begins.
Get out you pith helmet, your khaki clothes, and cobras for your neck . . . we are off on safari. Come for the fun! Come to buy fun gifts and good dinners. Come and meet someone new!  Also it’s not too late to turn an auction item in to Mike Knapp
mikemica@mchsi.com

This Sunday:
8:30 am Music Rehearsal
9:30 am Service “Daring To Grow Our Church” What does it take to grow our church? Is growth really necessary? How can you help? We will have a New Member Ceremony this week. Join Rev. Eva with Lara Martinsen-Burrell as WA. Taylor Hanson will play violin for us!
10:45 am Fellowship Time
11 am Children’s Chapel
11:15 am Sunday School
for children & youth
11:15 am Adult Classes:
Buddhist Path: Join Rev. Eva and others in exploring Buddhist spiritual practices.
Walking the Talk: We’ll talk about the Food Bank and Christmas Ham Dinner boxes.
Garden Meditation: Meditation is also available each week for those who would like to spend time outdoors.
2 pm Board Meeting
7 pm What’s Up Doc? “Nobelity”
A stunning look at the world’s most pressing problems through the eyes of nine Nobel Laureates, Nobelity follows filmmaker Turk Pipkin’s personal journey to find enlightening answers about the kind of world our children and grandchildren will know. Filmed across the U.S. and in France, England, India, and Africa, Nobelity combines the insights of nine distinguished Nobelists with a first-person view of world problems and the children who are most challenged by them. Featuring Nobel Laureates: Steven Weinberg, Jody Williams, Ahmed Zewail, Rick Smalley, Wangari Maathai, Sir Joseph Rotblat, Dr. Harold Varmus, Desmond Tutu, Amartya Sen.
 
WOW! Workshops on Wednesdays
5:30 pm Dinner *Please RSVP*
6:15 pm Family Choir
6:30 pm Workshop: “Relationships at Holiday Times”
7:15 pm Theoretical String Band
 
Thursday
7:30 pm Buddhist Path
 
Friday
9:30 am YoUUng Child Play Group
7:30 pm DrUUming Circle
 
Next Sunday: November 23rd
9:30 am Service “Thanksgiving Festival with a Hunger Communion”
Join us for a “Service For All Ages” as we celebrate the richness of life and all that we have for which to be thankful. Guest At Your Table boxes will be passed out this Sunday. Special Note: Please bring non-perishable food for our “Parade of Food” procession during the service.
 
Pastoral Update:
Eleanor Stark:
Esther wrote me saying, “I had a call from Eleanore Stark's daughter Ann.   She said her Mom was
at the doctor today and was told she has cancer of the liver (they do not know the initial site).  She maybe has months to live.  More tests will be done tomorrow regarding some blockage and what to do about it.  She is a fairly new member at UU. Ann said she really appreciated the cards she has received from folks at UU.” Let’s keep up the cards!! 2215 Victory Dr. CF 50613

Dorothy Wendt
 has had a pacemaker installed, and is recovering from that. She and Don had plans to travel this weekend, and we are hoping they get to go.
 
Keri Brecht has hurt her foot, is in a cast, and will need some help getting around for the next little while. She can be reached at 442-7187, her email is: keribear18@gmail.com,
her address is 102 Main St #2 (right above Cup of Joes). She’s a member of the Theoretical String Band and one of our UNI students.
 
Please let me or Esther know if you are in need of care, or have some upcoming medical event!  We all want to help!
 
I plan to be at Cup of Joe this afternoon from 4:30 to 6pm. Drop by if you just want to hang out and visit.

See you in church!
Eva
--
Stay informed! Read the World! <www.uuworld.org>
Stay connected! Check out our Facebook Group: uusbhc
Find something out! Look it up on our webpage: <www.uusbhc.org>
Think wider thoughts! Learn about the UU Assn: <www.uua.org>
Think wider still! Learn about International U&SU <www.icuu.net>


Rev. Eva Cameron, minister
Unitarian Universalist Society of Black Hawk Co.
3912 Cedar Heights Dr.
Cedar Falls, Iowa 50613
USA

m: 319.610.6605

Friday, October 31, 2008

Weekly Update 10/31/08

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!   It’s a gorgeous day for the little ghosts and goblins to be out and about tonight. Afterwards, I’m going to build a little fire in the fire circle on my back patio. You are welcome to come by if you feel like its just to beautiful an evening to go indoors.
 
Coming Up This Sunday
(Don’t forget Daylight Savings Time Ends)
8:30 am Music Rehearsal
9:30 am Service “Day of the Dead”
Please bring a photo &/or a memento
to decorate the altar, as we honor our loved ones who are no longer with us. We will also have candles for you to light. Join us for this service for all ages, where we pause, reflect and share some of the stories of people that have shaped our lives. Family Choir will be singing, and the band will play. Enjoy the silliness of Halloween on Friday and Saturday, and then come join us for the flipside of the holiday on Sunday morning.
 
10:45 am Fellowship Time
10:45 am “Alternative Gift Fair” Come and purchase gifts for your family and friends. Gifts that make a difference.  Don’t forget your checkbook!
11 am Children’s Chapel
11:15 am Sunday School
classes for children & youth
11:15 am New Member Meeting Please join Mica Lorenz and me in a relaxed atmosphere and learn more about being a UU member.
7 pm Small Group Ministry “A Gathering of Women”
7 pm “What’s Up Doc?” “Fall From Grace”
“Fall From Grace” takes the viewer inside the surreal world of Rev. Fred Phelps and his followers, with rare interviews and footage of several pickets and church services. The film focuses on a group that represents a variety of contemporary American issues, including intolerance of homosexuality, the right to freedom of speech, separation of church and state, and the War in Iraq.
 
THIS WEEK:
WOW! Workshops on Wednesdays
5:30 pm Dinner
(Please RSVP to Kathy Klink-Zeitz <klinkzeitz@gmail.com>
6:15 pm Family Choir (all invited to sing)
6:30 pm Workshop: “Our Holiday Intentions”
7:15 pm Theoretical String Band (all invited to play)
7:30 pm Small Group Facilitator’s Meeting

Thursday @7:30 pm Buddhist Path
 
Friday
9:30 am YoUUng Child Play Group
6 pm First Friday potluck:
“Native American Spirituality”
This will be lots of fun. Try it! You might like it! Our guest will be George LeDuc who will entertain us with his stories and flute playing. We will start at 6:00 p.m. with a potluck dinner (bring a traditional Native American dish or something else you like). You can pick up recipes in the Fellowship Hall or go to our new webpage and click on Recipes. This is a great event for bringing a guest.
 
Saturday
6 pm Card Club:
all invited to play poker or bridge. Have fun while raising a little money for the church!
 
Please note: This afternoon I won’t be at Cup of Joe because it is the annual Trick or Treat on the Parkade—what a wild time, with so many little kids all dressed up!  

I haven’t heard any new pastoral news to update you with. Several people are still recuperating, including Bea Tate and Margie Miller. Several elders remain in fragile health, including Mildred Pierce, Glenyce Butschy and Dottie Forsberg. Please keep them all in your thoughts and prayers.

See you in church!
~Eva
--
Stay informed! Read the World! <www.uuworld.org>
Stay connected! Check out our Facebook Group: uusbhc
Find something out! Look it up on our webpage: <www.uusbhc.org>
Think wider thoughts! Learn about the UU Assn: <www.uua.org>
Think wider still! Learn about International U&SU <www.icuu.net>


Rev. Eva Cameron, minister
Unitarian Universalist Society of Black Hawk Co.
3912 Cedar Heights Dr.
Cedar Falls, Iowa 50613
USA

m: 319.610.6605



Friday, October 24, 2008

Weekly Update 10/24/08

Greetings! It feels like everything is changing. Fall is really settling in, and it seems we must truly face the coming winter and set aside our summer clothes for a while. The election is coming up, and no matter the outcome, we will be in for a change. The market keeps going up and down, and it’s hard to know what it means . . . only our plans for retirement seem less settled than before. And people who seemed untouchably without reproach, like Alan Greenspan are now being reproached. And I just checked the church’s Facebook page—its got 66 people on it, that’s about a third of our membership! We are learning new realms of computer communication. It’s a lot of change: a lot of shifting of ideas, concepts, and a fair amount of uncertainty.
 
Really, life is always changing. We all know that. But sometimes it seems it goes faster than other times. And sometimes it seem the things that are changing have really big implications. But, that may be because we haven’t considered the possibility of all the things that could intrude in even bigger, scarier ways. So, my strategy, when it seems like the change is just too much, too fast  . . . is to stop for a moment, right where I am, and look for what is going right in my life. It can be really basic stuff . . . I am breathing, I am standing, I had breakfast today. And it can be more sublime stuff . . . I have a spouse who loves me, kids who I care about, friends who admire me. Or even more global stuff .  . .  we have an African American who is a real contender in this presidential election, when only 50 years ago we had so much legalized segregation! This litany of the good is not to negate any troubles you are having in your life. But they do serve to put the troubles in the right perspective. Often, we have so much to pause and feel grateful for---at least, I know I do. God has blessed me. (Read: that which I have no control over has sustained me with all that I need for an amazing and rich life!)

This Sunday’s Schedule
8:30 am Band & 9 am Choir Rehearsal
 
9:30 am Service “God put a Rainbow in the Clouds for Me” This service explores the idea of Covenant, and just what it can mean for us UU’s. Our Band will help out on a theme song and Family Choir will sing! Join Esther Kieffer and Rev. Eva Cameron for this service that shows a lot of promise!
 
10:45 am Fellowship Time
11 am Children’s Chapel
(balcony)
11:15 am Sunday School classes for children & youth
11:15 am Adult Classes:
“Doc” Shorts:
Matamoros: The Human Face of Globalization is a documentary narrated by Edward James Olmos. This brief but revealing look at the small border
town of Matamoros, Mexico, exposes the alarming environmental and human toll of NAFTA, the “free trade” agreement of the Americas.
Garden Meditation: Join Julie Fischer in the garden for meditation in a meaningful way to you.
 
12:30 pm Halloween Party and Lunch
After the haunted house we will have pizza, salad, bread & a dessert for lunch. Suggested donation $4 person or $10 per family. Everyone is invited.  Please RSVP so we know how much pizza to buy. Kathryn Klink-Zeitz klinkzeitz@hotmail.com <mailto:klinkzeitz@hotmail.com>

2 pm Small Group Ministry
7 pm “What’s Up Doc?”
(new release) Michael Moore movie "Slacker Uprising"
 
This Week:
Monday
6 pm Cedar Prairie Vegetarian Potluck
Tuesday
1 pm Committee on Ministry
WOW! Workshops on Wednesdays
5:30 pm Dinner
6:15 pm Family Choir
6:30 pm “White Like Me” Book Discussion
6:30 pm Youth & Adult Program “Safety on the Web”
7:15 pm Theoretical String Band
Thursday
7:30 pm Buddhist Path
 
Other Items:
KUNI is having another fund drive.  Please support them through UUSBHC. Have you heard the ads for UU’s? For the past 6 months, we have been joining with Unitarian Universalist churches in Cedar Rapids, Ames, and Davenport in this advertising campaign. Just give your normal pledge to us, and that’s how we buy the airtime.  
 
Don’t forget to go online to our website and sign-up for your time slot for the photo-directory! (Nov 13, 14, 15) www.uusbhc.org <http://www.uusbhc.org>
 
Nov 15th  . . . it’s a BIG day here. Buddhist Retreat in the morning, picture taking throughout the day, and Treats & Talents Auction in the evening. Mark you calendars now!
 

Pastoral Update . . .  In Our Thoughts and Prayers:

Don and Dorothy Wendt who both are having some health issues. Hold them in your hearts.
 
Margie Miller who is recuperating from knee surgery at home. Cards to:
3715 Briarwood Dr CF IA

Frank and Mary Olson are both anticipating surgery. Franks will be done soon on his eye. And Mary’s will be a few months on her knee. Well-wishes to:
10728 Echo Valley Rd, West Union, IA, 52175,

Bea Tate who’s still in rehab. Cards to:
1007 W 9th St CF IA

Eleanore Stark who was hospitalized with breathing problems this past week. She’s now home, recuperating. 319-277-5531.  Or cards to:
2215 Victory Dr CF IA

We’ve heard that Linnea Sumner is finally feeling better after a linger bout of mono. That’s good news!  
 
 
Last but not least:
I will not be at Cup of Joe this afternoon, since I’ll be heading down to Cedar Rapids to lead People’s Church in a Start-Up workshop with their new minister, Rev. Tom Capo. Please enjoy the time without me!
 
And don’t forget . . . tonight is Buddhist Movie Night at the church. 6:30pm Socializing and 7pm Movie starts.
 
Please feel free to contact me with questions about any of these items, or to let me know about other pastoral concerns. We want you to feel connected!
See you in church!
 
~Eva
-
Stay informed! Read the World! <www.uuworld.org>
Stay connected! Check out our Facebook Group: uusbhc
Find something out! Look it up on our webpage: <www.uusbhc.org>
Think wider thoughts! Learn about the UU Assn: <www.uua.org>
Think wider still! Learn about International U&SU <www.icuu.net>


Rev. Eva Cameron, minister
Unitarian Universalist Society of Black Hawk Co.
3912 Cedar Heights Dr.
Cedar Falls, Iowa 50613
USA

m: 319.610.6605



Friday, October 17, 2008

Weekly Update 10/17/08

Greetings! It’s a cool day, but my heart is glowing warm with all the joy I feel in all the many lovely experiences in this past week. From late-night chatting over the computer, to meaningful conversation at Buddhist Path, from some kind notes to sweet messages on my Facebook wall—you have been reaching out and sharing of yourself, of your joy at our community. I feel blessed. Thank you. And remember, how truly lucky we are to have each other. What a blessing!
 
Each of us, so different, and yet so very much the same—such tender hearts, such deep yearnings for love and connection. Be steadfast in your passion to grow this amazing community. It is such an island of inspiration for so many!
 
This Sunday October 19th
Our Service @9:30am
is a celebration of the “Iowa Sisterhood” a group of woman who broke all sorts of cultural/social barriers by heeding their call to ministry—and coming to Iowa to build many strong liberal churches across the state. Often unable to attend seminary, these women educated each other, the elders help the youngers, and all acting as amazing pioneers of our movement. Join Karen Impola and me as we share some of the energy and passion we gathered from studying the book called “Prophetic Sisterhood.”
 
Fellowship @10:45am
Children’s Chapel @11am
Sunday School @11:15am
–classes for children, youth and adults.
Adult Sunday School
Buddhist Path
– Join Rev. Eva and others in exploring Buddhist spiritual practices.
Walking The TalkJudy Davis returns to speak to us on her work at the Kaimosi Mission Hospital in Kenya, Africa.
Garden Meditation – Join Julie Fischer in the garden for meditating in a meaningful way to you:  sitting quietly, soaking in the beauty of nature, sketching a leaf or flower that inspires you, or actually working the garden.
What’s Up Doc?
The Future of Food – is cancelled, as we were able to get a special guest lecturer, Will Tuttle, Ph.D. author of The World Peace Diet: Being Healthy and Saving the Planet
The lecture-presentation will be at 7:00 pm. This promises to be very special, with a message in words and song!

Wednesday, October 22nd

WOW!   Workshops on Wednesdays  

WOW! Dinner at 5:30 p.m. every Wednesday, $7 per person / $10 per family. This is a dinner for everyone. We have a great time socializing. Please RSVP at church on Sunday or online at: <http://snipurl.com/3w0i8> by Tuesday night. This week will be Chinese Food.
Family Choir at 6:15 p.m. every Wednesday
Youth & Adult ProgramWhat do you want to know about Facebook? at 6:30 p.m.
Book Discussion Group – 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
This book discussion group, focused on Tim Wise’s new book, White Like Me: Reflections on Race from a Privileged Son.  The book examines white privilege in America and how race plays an important role in everyday life—in ways that whites are not usually aware.  
Theoretical String Band every Wednesday at 7:15 p.m.
What in the UU World? At 6:30pm
 
Friday, Oct. 24th
Buddhist Movie Night. Social time/popcorn at 6:30 pm. Movie at 7:00 pm. Ralph Burr host.

Saturday Oct 25th
Suffrage March re-enactment in Boone! Join the women of the Des Moines UU Church as they celebrate the efforts of our foremothers to bring the right to vote to women. Jan Gallagher is going, and has room for a couple more people to march.  <hinners@mchsi.com>
 
Sunday, October 26th
What’s Up Doc?
We will change the movie for this night. We have gotten a chance to air the new Michael Moore Documentary – Slacker Uprising.
 
Other Items:
Sign Up!!! Photo-directory time slots are going fast!  
Please visit the church website www.uusbhc.org <http://www.uusbhc.org>  where you can schedule your photo-shoot time. You will get a FREE directory plus a FREE photo for your time. There is also the chance to buy more pictures. Who should participate? Friends, members, regular visitors . . . if we are likely to see your face at church, we’d love it to be in the photo-directory.
 
UPDATE! Change of date for Broadcast:
Jan Garbosky and Bonny Russell, members of the First Unitarian Church of San Diego (California) who were married in that church on October 4th, have been notified that the "ABC World News Tonight" feature on them (in relation to Proposition 8, on the ballot in California) will air on October 31, rather than October 17.  World News Tonight generally airs at 6:30 PM in local time zones; check local listings for further information.
From: Unitarian Universalist Association <uua_l@uua.org>
Date: Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:01:51 -0400

Treats and Talents Auction
Is coming up on the evening of Nov 15th . . . plan on attending this Jungle Safari fun. If you have something you can donate, please let Mike Knapp know .
mikeknapp@mchsi.com
 
Buddhist Retreat
on Nov 15th 7am to 1pm . . . with visiting monk Ted O’Toole. Set aside a morning for meditation, reflection and peace.
 
Pastoral Update:
Esther writes:  “I just talked to Margie Miller.  She had just arrived home from the hospital. She had knee surgery last Monday. She will be off work for about 3 months, but is doing well.  I am sending a card.  Her husband, Mike and daughter are taking good care of her.”  I’m sure she’d love to get notes and cards while she is recuperating: 3715 Briarwood Dr, Cedar Falls, IA   50613 (277-3581) ia.m.j.miller@cfu.net <mailto:ia.m.j.miller@cfu.net>
 
Please let Esther Kieffer emkieffer@cfu.net <mailto:emkieffer@cfu.net>  or me know of your life transitions, illnesses, etc. Others would like to be able to reach our and spread a little light, love and cheer your way!

I’ll be a Cup of Joe this afternoon from 4:30to 6pm if you want to join me for conversation and relaxation after the end of a busy week.
 
See you in church!
Eva

--
Stay informed! Read the World! <www.uuworld.org>
Stay connected! Check out our Facebook Group: uusbhc
Find something out! Look it up on our webpage: <www.uusbhc.org>
Think wider thoughts! Learn about the UU Assn: <www.uua.org>
Think wider still! Learn about International U&SU <www.icuu.net>


Rev. Eva Cameron, minister
Unitarian Universalist Society of Black Hawk Co.
3912 Cedar Heights Dr.
Cedar Falls, Iowa 50613
USA

m: 319.610.6605




Friday, October 10, 2008

Weekly Update 10/10/08

Greetings!   . . . on this glorious sunny fall day.
These warm fall days, where the sky is brilliant blue, the leaves startlingly brilliant in their many colors against the sky. Its as if the world is glowing!  I always try and pause in my thoughts for a moment, and soak it up, drink in the beauty. Its seems so necessary, when the news: politics and economy and war, all seem so heavy and dire. It is important for me to remind myself that there is still so much good in the world. There is good in people, there is good in our flawed, human systems, and there is amazing goodness and love in our home. We receive so much abundance each day—each time we breath in we receive something so important that we need, we can’t live without.
 
Take some moments in these days. Breath in, and say thanks to the loving, abundance with is around and about us. Every time you see something startlingly beautiful, take a deep breath in, and pause in gratitude for all that is good and right and loving.
 
We need to hold on to these thoughts. We need to carry them with us into the day. We need to perpetually seek all that we can find that helps us connect with that abundant love, and help others to see it too. People are trying to breed fear in our hearts to serve their purposes. Things may be changing, but this is not a reason for hyper-alert fear. Let us push back with joy, goodness, love, life, righteousness. The world, our little world here in the Cedar Valley needs this from each and every one of us. Let us be messengers of joy! Small islands of grateful abundance.  Oasis of loving kindness.
 
Just you watch in your own circles—it is catching!!   See if you can spread it around, just like sneezing on someone!
 ~Eva

DON”T FORGET!!!!  Tonight is the Hayride.
5:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Heritage Farm:  7731 Zaneta Drive, Hudson, IA.  
For a map to the farm, click here <http://snipurl.com/43jz5>
Please: bring warm clothes & a dish to share, there will be a fire for roasting hot dogs and marshmallows (provided). Hot chocolate & cider provided.  Bring your own beer, wine, etc.  Plates, eating utensils, mugs, and napkins will be provided.

Also tonight is the DrUUm Circle at church . . . Harvest Blessing Drum circle @7:30 p.m., to the October Community Drum circle, whose theme is Harvest Blessings.  The drum circles have been happening for 15 years.... the collection of drums and percussion instruments is beautiful.  Bring your own, and/or use any of the ones provided.  It's a family friendly circle... start the children when they are young to appreciate the "drum rhythms of life"!  Drums, as we know, are tools for awakening the healing energies within ourselves.  Each drum circle is unique.  Each one brings their own vibration into the drum circle...come to play, to listen, to sing,  to experience the healing blessing.
For more information, contact Deblyn Russell at: 319-266-1691.
 
This Sunday:
9:30 am Sunday Service
Association Sunday: Grow Our Spirit” Join Del Carpenter, Jeff Heiden, and me on this annual event to celebrate our connections with the larger movement of UU’s around the country. We will take an offering to strengthen the UU organization’s  new Endowment to Grow Our Spirit! Family Choir is singing!
10:45 am Fellowship Time
11 am Children’s Chapel
(balcony)
11:15 am Sunday School classes for children, youth & adults
Adult Classes:
Circle Way: A Harvest Circle ritual is in the planning as we continue to honor the bounty of the Mother Earth. Deblyn Russell will facilitate this inspiring Circle Way; bring your gratitude and journals.
Stories that Changed My Life: Ralph Burr, a member of the Buddhist Path Group will share a story. Please join us.
7 pm Documentary Film: “The Power of Forgiveness” The Power of Forgiveness features Nobel Laureate Elie Wiesel, Buddhist master Thich Nhat Hanh, best selling authors Thomas Moore and Marianne Williamson, as well as
an in-depth look at the Amish, Ground Zero, and Northern Ireland. It also presents how physical, mental, and spiritual benefits may be realized from forgiveness.
 
This Coming Week
Tuesday
@ 7:15 pm Religious Services Committee
 
WOW! Workshops on Wednesdays
5:30 pm Dinner
6:15 pm Family Choir
6:30 pm “White Like Me” Book Discussion
6:30 pm Youth: “Popcorn Theology” Ten Questions for the Dalai Lama
What if you had one hour to speak with the Dalai Lama; what would you ask? Come see the questions this documentary asks of the 14th Dalai Lama and be part of the discussion to follow.
7:15 pm Theoretical String Band
 
Thursday
@ 7:30 pm Buddhist Path
 
Friday
@ 9:30-11:30 am YoUUng Child Playgroup

Pastoral Update
Please continue to remember Bea Tate in your thoughts and prayers. She is continuing with rehab after a serious stroke. Also keep her husband Tom and their two kids in your thoughts as well—it is a big change for everybody. Tom’s number is 269-8542, if you want to arrange to drop off a meal for him and the kids, or see what other help he made need as he is single-parenting it for a while.

Because of the Hayride, I will not be at Cup of Joe today.
See you in church!
~Eva

--
Stay informed! Read the World! <www.uuworld.org>
Stay connected! Check out our Facebook Group: uusbhc
Find something out! Look it up on our webpage: <www.uusbhc.org>
Think wider thoughts! Learn about the UU Assn: <www.uua.org>
Think wider still! Learn about International U&SU <www.icuu.net>


Rev. Eva Cameron, minister
Unitarian Universalist Society of Black Hawk Co.
3912 Cedar Heights Dr.
Cedar Falls, Iowa 50613
USA

m: 319.610.6605

Friday, October 3, 2008

Weekly Update 10/3/08

Greetings! on this brilliant fall day. As I shared breakfast with a friend this morning, I reflected on how lucky I am to wake up each morning and have enough food to feed myself, and any family or friends who might be around. Not all the world lives like this. Not even all the people in this country. But we are so blessed with abundance, and often don’t even pay attention! It’s so much easier to notice what we don’t have than what we do have. How often do you say to yourself, “Wow, I really AM lucky!”  as you look at some aspect of your life?
 
Last night in Buddhist Path, during our reading for the night, there was a quote that said something like “Our minds are like tofu. By themselves they are bland and rather tasteless. They take on the characteristics of the marinade they are stewing in!”  So my question to you is: what kind of “marinade” do you let your mind stew in? Is it gratitude and joy for abundance and all that you have? Or is it grumpiness for petty differences, grievances, and all that isn’t going right in your day? Take some time and notice this periodically during the week. Try playing with the recipe for your own personal “marinade”  . . .  see if your mind takes on a new flavor!  And see how others around you enjoy this new flavor of you too!
 
TONIGHT
@6pm: First Friday Festival—Sukkot!
Join us for a potluck supper and playful learning about the Jewish festival of Sukkot.  This is a family friendly event—with things for both kids and those “less young” to do! Bring a dish to pass, tell a friend, come with a playful spirit!

 This Sunday
8 – 9 AM Pancake Breakfast
9:30 AM Service
“Yom Kippur” Join Judith Harrington, Bill Harwood & I was we share our thoughts about this high holiday of the Jewish tradition. Family Choir is going to sing!  And we will give out the ThankUU Award.
10:45 AM Fellowship Time:  Reception honoring Carolyn Hildebrandt
11 AM Children’s Chapel (balcony)
11:15 AM Sunday School for children, youth & adults
Adult Classes:
Conscious Living: “What’s Cookin’?”
Come and learn how to use the locally-grown produce from our very own church garden to make healthy, delectable meals.
New Members Meeting: If you're new to the UUs then this would be a good time to sit down with Rev. Eva Cameron and Mica Lorenz in a relaxed atmosphere and learn more about being a UU member.
12:15 pm Worship Associate Training
Crop Walk
: After church, carpool from the UU to Lincoln Park for a sack lunch then join the walk at First Presbyterian, 505 Franklin St. Waterloo.
7 PM Documentary Film: “For the Bible Tells Me So” Through the experiences of five very normal, very Christian, very American families, this film offers healing, clarity and understanding to anyone caught in the crosshairs of scripture and sexual identity.
 
This Coming Week
Eva
will be out of town from Sunday afternoon until Wednesday afternoon at a ministers’ meeting in Windom MN.
 
Wednesday:
FVUUM
(Friendship Village ministry) is rescheduled until next week.
WOW! Workshops on Wednesdays
5:30 pm Dinner (please RSVP)
6:15 pm Family Choir
6:30 pm Couples Small Group Ministry
6:30 pm “White Like Me” Book Discussion
6:30 pm Youth & Adult Program: “Safety on the Web” where we will explore Facebook. If you have a laptop please bring it but it is not required as a computer will be connected to a projector.
7:15 pm Theoretical String Band
 
Thursday
7:30 pm Buddhist Path
 
Friday
5:30 pm Hayride at Heritage Farm (RSVP required)
7:30 pm Community Drum Circle
 
 
Other Items:
This month Creative Artz theme is Who dared you to grow?
We have put up some of our heroes, family member and friends. Now we ask you to bring a photo of someone who dared you to grow. (framed or not) We would like to put them on the East Wall.
Thank you,  The Creative Artz Team
 
Note, because of the First Friday potluck tonight, I won’t be at Cup of Joe this afternoon.
See you in church!
~Eva

--
Stay informed! Read the World! <www.uuworld.org>
Stay connected! Check out our Facebook Group: uusbhc
Find something out! Look it up on our webpage: <www.uusbhc.org>
Think wider thoughts! Learn about the UU Assn: <www.uua.org>
Think wider still! Learn about International U&SU <www.icuu.net>


Rev. Eva Cameron, minister
Unitarian Universalist Society of Black Hawk Co.
3912 Cedar Heights Dr.
Cedar Falls, Iowa 50613
USA

m: 319.610.6605






Friday, September 26, 2008

Weekly Update, 9/26/08

Greetings on this delightful afternoon!
         Have you ever wondered about what is means to belong? As part of our year of Daring to Grow, I’d like to invite you to spend a bit of time here and there thinking about this. It seems to keep popping its head up in my life. I notice it when I hear people who are on opposite ends of the political spectrum shaking their heads at the complete nonsense the other side seems to be conveying. I know life is more layered and complex than this, but our two-party system seems to bring out this need to belong that dwells within us. I notice this sense of belonging, as I read our ancient Hebrew texts to study just why the Jews celebrate Sukkot. And Yom Kippur invites back into belonging, into feeling as if we belong, once a year. Our tribal tendencies, that are deep within us, are a beautiful part of the richness and lovely diversity within us. They can also run amok in our lives, when we don’t recognize them for what they are. When we try to meet someone’s tribal need to belong with a reasoned and rational argument—rather than acts that will help extend our humanness to them—then we only end up more separate. Fear-mongering comes out a desire to keep everyone who “belongs” to a group together. Gandhi understood this.  Take some time this fall, and explore this idea. See where it takes you, and what you observe!
 
This Sunday:
Service @9:30
We will once again come together to remember and honor Mahatma Gandhi, who’s birthday is on October 2nd. The UN declared this day an International day of Non-Violence. And in India, the nation has a holiday “Gandhi Jayanti” which is the Hindi way of saying ‘birthday.’  Gandhi-ji is one of those human beings who’s live path altered each of our lives. And so it is good to honor his memory. I’ve dedicated this service to the memory of Hari Shankar, a member who died this past year—and who used to love to come and share his memories of Gandhi with us. Dr. Shankar’s wife, Rekha will be attending, and may share something with us as well.
 
Children’s Chapel@ 11am
Sunday School @ 11:15am-12:15pm
Classes for children, youth and adults.
Adult classes include:
Doc Shorts “The Bases Are Loaded” (sanctuary) A short political documentary about how we are being promised that our soldiers will be removed from Iraq, while the government is consolidating temporary bases into a handful of permanent “mega-bases”.
Garden Meditation: Join Julie Fischer in the garden for meditating in a meaningful way to you: sitting quietly, soaking in the beauty of mature, sketching a leaf or flower that inspires you, or actually working the garden.

What’s Up Doc?
umentary: Sunday at 7;pm
CALL IT DEMOCRACY
This bi-partisan discussion about America’s flawed electoral process urges us to undertake the reform needed to ensure that every vote truly counts.
 
WOW!  (Workshops on Wednesdays)
Dinner:
Oct. 1st will be: Pizza, Salad and Soup.
Please RSVP by Tuesday 9pm.
Please RSVP online at: http://snipurl.com/3um00
or email Kathy at klinkzeitz@gmail.com or you can sign up Sunday at Church. Thank you.
White Like Me Book Circle @6:30pm
Theoretical String Band @7:30pm
 
First Friday Festivals for Adults, Youth and Children
On the First Friday of every month from September to May at 6 pm family, friends and the community are invited to celebrate one of the holidays from one of the world’s religions, with a potluck dinner and fun, interactive ways to learn more about the holiday! We often invite guests from the local community to share their memories of this holiday. Bring a dish that goes with the holiday or just your favorite dish – no dish required if this is your first time.
 
October 3rd Sukkot – a Jewish holiday
Sukkot is a Jewish Feast that celebrates the harvest. During this holiday Jewish people erect temporary “huts” where they entertain their guests, and eat their meals outside. They do this in memory of the dwellings they erected during the 40 years of wandering in the dessert. Join us in celebrating this fun holiday!
 
Upcoming Events & Announcements:
Annual Hayride
The Fall Hayride is Friday, October 10th, 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Heritage Farm
To register online go to:http://snipurl.com/3uly7
or you can sign up Sunday at Church.
Thank you. Kendra
 
Children & Youth Sunday School
We are still looking for some helpers and a couple of substitute teachers. Please call Crystal King at 319 240-7393 or sign up on the board at church near the Religious Education Pink Table.
Thank you. Crystal
 
Don’t forget:
For those who expressed an interest in hearing what I learned in Northern Ireland, I am giving a lecture on this topic on Tuesday, September 30, at 4:30 PM in Seerley Hall, Room 115, at UNI. The experience of Northern Ireland tells us a lot about what role religion should or should not play in society.  Al Hays
 
Mike Knapp is recruiting help for the Treats & Talents auction coming up in Nov. Help him with the auction, bring a dessert, donate fun treats or talents you have . . .  and last of all, make sure you save the date & come: Nov. 15
 
Buddhist Path Movie Night is tonight 6:30pm for popcorn  & socializing. 7pm start time.
 
Also TONIGHT: Young Adult Campfire @ 7pm @ Eva’s House
610 Franklin St. CF

And lastly, I’ll be Cup of Joe . . . join me and others from this community this afternoon from 4:30 to 6pm for a causal conversation.
 
Keep on Daring to Grow!
See you in Church!
~Eva
--
Rev. Eva S. Cameron
UU Society of Black Hawk Co.
Cedar Falls, IA
USA
319-610-6605 mobile
319-266-5640 church
319-266-1111 home
www.uusbhc.org






Friday, September 19, 2008

Weekly Update 9/19/08

Greetings! I have a soft-spot for grabbing beautiful moments where I can. Just today, I walked into my bedroom this afternoon. Sunlight dappled playfully on the quilt the wind gently moving the tree outside created patterns that formed and reformed of the warm afternoon light. In a heartbeat my mood shifted, as breathed in that beauty.
 
Monarch butterflies have been everywhere I look in the past few days. They are something beautiful to catch your breath in a heartbeat.  When I look at them, fluttering with seemingly little direction, I think about sometimes it feels like we are fluttering about, with as little direction as a butterfly. But we would be wise to remember that the Monarch somehow, despite being buffeted about by strong winds, knocked asunder by passing cars, pelted by rain and hail, somehow hundreds of thousands? millions? make it to South American each year to over-winter, and then make it back up here come spring. Amazing. They move with the flow of life that buffets them here and there, and yet still end up where they want to be. Now, there is an amazing lesson in give and take! Stop watch a butterfly for a few minutes if you can this week!

This Sunday:
@9:30am Sunday Service: Fall Equinox!
Ever think about what fall has to teach us? What about THE FALL, as often talked about in other Christian churches--does this story have relevance for today's UUs?  Join the Service for All Ages planning team as we explore these ideas and more in this multi-faceted, musical, dramatic service!
 
@10:45am Fellowship Join us for coffee, tea, refreshments, announcements, fresh organic produce for sale, and don’t forget to buy your Scrip (gift certificates) so we can make money without spending any extra!
@11am Children’s Chapel
@11:15 Sunday School for Adults, Youth & Children
Walkin’ The Talk
: Learn about Community Meals
Buddhist Path - Join Rev. Eva and others in exploring Buddhist spiritual practices.
Garden Meditation - Join Julie Fischer in the garden for meditating in a meaningful way to you:  sitting quietly, soaking in the beauty of nature, sketching a leaf or flower that inspires you, or actually working the garden.
 
@7pm What’s Up Doc? “The Power of Community: How Cuba Survived the Peak Oil” - After the Soviet Union collapsed, Cuba suffered a 'peak oil' crisis. This documentary shows how they survived this crisis.
 
During the Week:
23rd Tues @1pm Committee on Ministry Mtg.
24th WOW! Workshops on Wednesdays
Child care is available for WOW!

6:30-8 p.m Book Circle:
Donna Davis and Donna Wood will be facilitating a discussion circle focused on Tim Wise's new book, WHITE LIKE ME. This book examines white privilege in America and is both a poignant and revealing set of stories and a systemic examination of how race plays an important role in everyday life in ways that whites don't ordinarily think of, even those most attuned to racism. We are looking forward to a very interesting and enlightening discussion with those of you who would like to join! We will have the book available for purchase at the first meeting. With our discount, the cost is $12.85 including tax.
7:15pm Theoretical String Band Practice
       
25th  Thur.@ 7:30 Buddhist Path
26th Fri. @6:30 Buddhist Movie Night
Join Ralph Burr & members of Buddhist Path for popcorn & movie with a Buddhist theme.
                  @6:30 Young Adult Bonfire @ Eva’s house (find the new Young Adult UUSBHC group on Facebook for upcoming events)

Other Items:
Please return Hymnals
if they don’t belong to you personally. We’ve been coming up short when setting them out on Sundays, and need them to all come ‘home’ to their church home. If you would like hymnal for your house, they are available for sale at the UUA bookstore online.
 
Wanted  For The Church – A Nice Comfortable Couch! The Couples Small Group has taken on the project to provide some more comfortable seating for groups who are using the Senior High Room in the Religious Education area.  The old orange couch is extremely un-comfortable, so we are on a hunt for a replacement.  We are planning a luncheon in January for everyone to help raise some funds to pay for a "newer" couch.  We would like a couch that is not too low, still in good condition, and will look nice in the room.  If you are aware of a low cost  (or free) couch that we could look at please contact Mica Lorenz at micalea@mchsi.com or 291-6509.
 
Small Group Ministry – What is That?  -
The purpose of Small Group Ministry is to provide an opportunity for friends and members to develop deeper connections and wider service.  Small Groups provide an opportunity for lifting one's horizons up from the mundane considerations of day-to-day life.  Small groups help people get to know and be known by 10 to 12 others committed to attend and participate regularly in their small group.
Several of our Small Groups are opening up this fall.  There are Small Group Ministry brochures with sign up sheets available at the visitor's table in the front entrance.  Please take a brochure and think about joining a small group. If you think you may want to join a small group at a later time, you can sign up to be put on a waiting list. Then you will be notified about new groups when they open up again.  

Currently the Small Groups that are open are:
•A Gathering of Women- 1st Sunday of each month – UU Church 7-8:30 p.m.(On going, has room for a few more )  Carolyn Hildebrand & Kirby Sherman Facilitators
•A New Small Group starting up, last Sunday of Month, Mica Lorenz Facilitator - UU Church - Balcony  2-4 p.m.
•Waverly Small Group – 2nd Friday  6 PM  - Chris Rediske Facilitator   (Contact Chris for more information)
•Chapel at Friendship Village – 2nd Wednesdays – 11:00 a.m.  Eva Cameron , Esther Kiefer & Brian Forester.
 
Pastoral Updates:
Please continue to keep Bea Tate in your thoughts and prayers as she continues rehab at Covenant. Its been a month since her stroke and brain surgery. Look for a message from Esther soon about how to help her husband Tom.
 •Dottie Forsberg has moved to Lakeview Landing for the time being.
 
 
I’m off to Cup of Joe . . . between 4:30 & 6pm.  Feel free to join me!
 
See you in church!
~Eva

--
Rev. Eva S. Cameron
UU Society of Black Hawk Co.
Cedar Falls, IA
USA
319-610-6605 mobile
319-266-5640 church
319-266-1111 home
www.uusbhc.org




Friday, September 12, 2008

Weekly Update 9/12/08

Hello!

Its hard to imagine. In fact, I find myself not really wanting to imagine it, to bring it to mind: the image is too disturbing. But Sunday morning, July 27th  at about 10:15am a gunman opened fire on members of two UU congregations, The Tennessee Valley UU Church and the Westside UU Church. He did while the two congregations had assembled together to watch their children put on a production of Annie.  The sadly horrifying part was that he chose this place of all places, because he wanted to kill liberals. And also that his ex-wife had attended the church. The amazing part was the love that was extended to the everyone there: by the UU man who stood in front of the gunman protecting others at the cost of his own life, the others there who rushed to hold this man down, the outreach the entire Knoxville Community in the face of this outrage starting that morning, and UU’s from all over the country . This coming Sunday we reflect on what this has meant to us, as we honor those who gave their life that others may live. We want to send our love and compassion to the Knoxville congregations.  While the children are in the service, we will not be graphic, or mention the shooting directly. We will share a story about how it feels when something terrible happens. We think that most kids living here, with the tornado and the flood, have been aware that things are happening beyond our control—so we think this will be an important story for them. During the sermon time, Pam & Al Hays, John Miller, and I have woven together some of the many ways we have responded to this tragedy. We hope you’ll join us.

Here is a link to watch the service that was held on the following Sunday, re-consecrating the building, and rededicating the congregations to their mission as living Unitarian Universalist values in the face of hatred. <http://tinyurl.com/uuknoxville>  It takes about 45 minutes, but its very touching.

Also today, Rev. Chris Buice and his Knoxville congregation, Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Church (TVUUC), will be featured on Bill Moyers Journal in a segment examining the relationship between hate speech and violence.  The program is scheduled to air at 9 PM Friday, September 12, 2008 on most PBS affiliates.

After the Service . . .
we invite you to join us for refreshments, coffee and announcements in the Fellowship Hall.
10:45 AM Involvement Fair—wander the fair and learn all about the various groups and organizations of our Community. Sign up. Ask questions. Nibble on fun snacks.
11 AM Children’s Chapel in the balcony
11:15 AM Sunday School Classes for children
7 PM Documentary Film: “Ten Questions for the Dalai Lama”

Tuesday
Music Com Mtg. @ 7pm
Wednesday
Theoretical String Band practice @7:30pm
Thursday
Buddhist Path @7:30 to 9pm
Friday
YoUUNng  Child Playgroup @9:30 to 11:30am

Next Sunday: September 21st
8:30 AM Music Rehearsal
9:30 AM Service “Fall Equinox: fall, The Fall, and learning to fall” by Rev. Eva Cameron & the Service for all Ages Team
11 AM Children’s Chapel in the balcony
11:15 AM Sunday School Classes for children and youth
Adults:
    Buddhist Path (balcony)
    Garden Meditation (join Julie in the garden)
    Walking the Talk: Community Meals (sanctuary)
7 PM Documentary Film: “The Power of Community: How Cuba Survived Peak Oil”

Upcoming Events

The Iowa Renewable Energy Association's Energy & Sustainability EXPO will be at the UNI Center for Energy & Environmental Education (CEEE) on Sept. 13-14, 2008. The I-Renew EXPO includes workshops and exhibits on renewable energy (wind, solar, biofuels), energy efficiency, green building, alternative transportation topics, and this year we're adding Sustainable Living to our offerings. The goal this year is to exceed last year's attendance level of nearly 1,500. Here is the link to the CEEE. http://www.uni.edu/ceee/

Two items of interest from our member Al Hays

1.  For those who expressed an interest in hearing what I learned in Northern Ireland, I am giving a lecture on this topic on Tuesday, September 30, at 4:30 PM in Seerley Hall, Room 115, at UNI.  The experience of Northern Ireland tells us a lot about what role religion should or should not play in society.

2.  As PSD Social Action Liaison, I have organized a meeting of social action representatives from all Iowa congregations at our church on Saturday, October 25, from 10AM to 3 PM.  There will be a keynote address at 10:30 AM by Dr. Mark Grey, Professor of Anthropology at UNI. He is a well known expert on immigration issues and headed up the New Iowans Project under former Governor Tom Vilsack.  *All members of our congregation are invited to this keynote.*  The meeting of the social action chairs will occur after lunch.

We are still looking for a Sunday School middle school teacher. We also need helpers for the Early Childhood Education and Intermediate classes. Please contact Crystal King {foods4u@hotmail.com} or call Kathy at 319-404-2589 if interested in teaching or helping. Thank you.

The Youth Group is still looking for their Apples-to-Apples game.  Thank you to whomever returned the Intermediate class's Apples-to-Apples game!



Pastoral Update
Bea Tate was moved to Covenant in Waterloo earlier this week. She is in room 109 of the Rehab unit.
Its been suggested that the best way to Bea’s room is to park in parking area C and go in through entrance D.
The report is that she is doing well with rehab, and able to stand while added now.
We will be supporting her husband Tom with meals. Please let Esther know if you can provide either a hot/cold meal on the day it is to be eaten, or something that can go in his deep freeze.

I’m heading off to Cup of Joe in just a few . . . (4:30 to 6pm roughly). Join me and other UU’s for an informal TGIF time.

See you in Church!



--
Rev. Eva S. Cameron
UU Society of Black Hawk Co.
Cedar Falls, IA
USA
319-610-6605 mobile
319-266-5640 church
319-266-1111 home
www.uusbhc.org






Friday, September 5, 2008

Weekly Update 9/5/08

Greetings!

I’ve been thinking a lot about ‘Life’ this week. Its been hard not to! With Sarah Palin asking each of us to think about our values, as she enters our world by storm—Down’s Syndrome baby in arms, pregnant 17 year old daughter. And then yesterday, it just so happened that the Evangelical Ministers Meeting was held at Alternatives Pregnancy Center, where a local fellow pastor shared his life’s story for this past year: during the ice storms of the winter, both his parents were killed suddenly in  traffic accident. And then on Memorial Day weekend, he huddled over his wife and daughter in a basement storeroom while his house was blown away by the New Hartford tornado. Birth, death, what we value most . .  . All swirl around me with all these things to think about. As I toured the Alternatives Center—expecting gruesome pictures to shock a young expectant mother into choosing to keep her baby, instead I found warm pictures of babies, rooms full of baby clothes—fresh and tended—to be given away each month as a woman who chooses to keep her baby is nurtured in the life skills needed to thrive. Videos from breastfeeding to budgeting burgeoned from a shelf, where it was explained that learning about things earned a woman points for big items, like a crib. A new knit hat and booties for each baby.

In the past two weeks of political rhetoric, I was reminded that being pro-life, pro-choice or both (as I am) is not just something to argue about . . . In comes down to figuring out ways to live your values to the fullest, just as the people at Alternatives seem to be doing. I hope that this year, we will not just talk about life, death, and what we value—but figure out ways to grow our values into real living projects of hope and love.

It was exciting to see ourselves in the Courier, with pictures and stories about our Organic Garden and FoodBank project. This is a lovely example of living and growing our love!

This week, join me on Sunday morning for a service on our Spiritual Theme of the year: Daring to Grow @ 9:30am

This is followed by coffee and refreshments in the Fellowship Hall (10:45 to 11:15am)
11 AM Children’s Chapel in the balcony
11:15 AM Sunday School - Classes for children, youth & adults
Adult classes:
Conscious Living in the balcony
Curious about Membership Meeting in Eva’s office
7 PM Small Group Ministry—the first Sunday group
7 PM Documentary Film: “Clay Pride: Being Clay in America Small Town Gay Bar Out in the Heartland”

Upcoming Events:
Tuesday:
Religious Services Committee
meets @ 7:30pm If you are interested in being a Worship Associate, you are invited to join us!

Wednesday:
FVUUM:
our monthly chapel service at Friendship Village. All are invited. 11am Contact Brian Forster to RSVP for lunch.
Couples SGM: this ongoing group meets at 6:30pm
Daring to Grow Roots a class on the history of our UU movement both around the world and locally taught by Rev. Eva Cameron.  You must register for this class in advance. Call the office, 266-5640, or e-mail our Office Administrator Janet  at administrator@uusbhc.org

Thursday:
Buddhist Path @7:30
in the Balcony. An ongoing discussion and practice group, exploring the ideas of Buddhism and how they impact our own lives. And a time for chanting and meditation.

Friday:
Meet at the Cup of Joe
for an informal hang-out time. (4:30 to 6pm)

Next Sunday is the Involvement Fair!  If you are leading a group or chairing a committee, reserve some space at a table with Mica. If you are wondering what you want to get involved in with our church, here’s a good time to explore possibilities and visit with people who are in charge. Its a GREAT time to bring a friend or neighbor to church. Dare to grow yourself by doing something new. Dare to grow the church by inviting a friend along!

Pastoral Update
Bea Tate,
who has been down in Iowa City Medical Center remains there as of this time. This week she had some surgery to repair/open some blood vessels in her neck.  Physical Therapy has started to come in and have her sit on the side of her bed for a few minutes and kick her legs. She’s still got a long way to go, so we will continue to hold her in our thoughts and prayers, as well as her husband Tom and children Liam and Delany. Cards & notes can be sent to: Tates, 1007 W. 9th CF 50613  
Grace Malloy turned 9 years old last week, I heard. Since she also featured prominently in our big Gardening splash in the Courier, make sure you tell her what a great job she is doing helping the church as she is growing up!

Please let Esther and I know about things that are happening in your life, or those church members you know. We are always eager to know, so that we can offer some help!

I’ll be over at Cup of Joe this afternoon (4:30 to 6pm) My apologies to those who showed up last week, and I wasn’t’ there due to the holiday weekend! I’ll know better next year!  We do have a fun time to gather and share our stories of the week. Join us. Bring a friend!

See you in church!
Eva
--
Rev. Eva S. Cameron
UU Society of Black Hawk Co.
Cedar Falls, IA
USA
319-610-6605 mobile
319-266-5640 church
319-266-1111 home
www.uusbhc.org