Thursday, December 24, 2009

Christmas Eve Reminders

Hello!

We are still planning to hold our Christmas Eve services at 5:30 and 8pm.
Our annual Christmas Party will be between the services at 6:30pm, Hot beverages will be provided, and we ask that you bring a snack, cookies, or some kind of treat to share.

We would suggest that you park in the AEA rear parking lot. If you turn in the driveway just north of ours, for the Trailer Park, then you can turn left into a LARGE lot just above our parking lot. It won't require you to drive up hill on the ice. The hale and hearty mother and daughter team of Amanda and Diana Harwood have chiseled out some steps in the snow between that lot and our parking lot.

Of course if you feel uncomfortable about coming out in the weather, we encourage you to stay home and have a safe and happy HOLIDAY!

~Eva

Sunday, December 20, 2009

YES-there is church

Its Dec 20th, and yes we are here to have church. If you feel comfortable driving in the snow, join us.

Friday, December 18, 2009

Weekly Update - 12/18/09

Hello all,
Greetings on this grey and misty Friday. Its been a lovely day, with a gentle softness warming the land. Our service this Sunday will celebrate the wonders of winter and this holiday season. Then join us on Christmas eve for a lovely candlelight service. And if you are traveling, and not in town for me to say this in person, I do wish you the very best in holidays. ~Eva

This Sunday:
8:30 am Band Practice,
8:50 am UU Choir Practice
900 am Childrens’ Choir

9:30 am Service “Walking in a Winter Wonderland”
Sometimes the more natural elements of this season get lost in all the shopping and hectic Christmas plans and parties. But on this Solstice Day, we pause and reflect on what nature has to tell us about how to be better humans. We’ll sing lots of the songs of the season that celebrate our joy at this time of year. Rev. Eva Cameron, Staci Chananie-Hill (Worship Associate)


10:45 am Fellowship Time
11:00 am Children’s Chapel
11:15 am Sunday School for children & youth
11:15 am Adult Classes

Sixty for Six: “What is Good About Religion” We will host Bishop Dysert and other members of the local Mormon Temple. (under the balcony)
Buddhist Path: Join Ralph and others in exploring Buddhist spiritual practices. (balcony)
Walkin’ the Talk: Reverend Eva will be giving a talk a about our efforts in the Khasi Hills in India where we sponsor an orphan girl, Iahunlang.

4:00 pm Beginning Yoga

This Coming Week
Wednesday: WOW! Workshops on Wednesdays

No Dinner this week! No Music Rehearsals this week!
6:30 pm Self Realization Workshop (high school room)

Thursday: Christmas Eve
5:30 pm Christmas Eve service

A candlelight service of lessons, stories and carols for the whole family. The UU Suzuki Strings will play at this service. Invite your friends and neighbors! An offering will be taken to support our orphaned girl in the school we sponsor in India. Childcare will be available.
6:30 pm Christmas party
Please bring a snack to share: sweets and savories all are welcome. Esther will be providing warm drinks.
8:00 pm Christmas Eve service
Similar to the first service, but there will other musical features. Come early for the Christmas party, and see your friends who came to the first service.! An offering will be taken to support our orphaned girl in the school we sponsor in India. Childcare will be available.


Pastoral Concerns:
Jim Paprocki is back from the hospital and welcomes notes and phone calls!

Friday, December 11, 2009

Weekly Update - 12/11/09

Weekly Update - 12/11/09 Have you gotten yourself shoveled out yet? I hope so! If you are willing to be a Snow Angel, and help someone in need this winter--be sure you sign up on this simple little form, along with some other nice, simple tasks you might be able to do to make another church member's life easier when they are in a rough spot. Thinking maybe that you are the one who needs their walk shoveled, or a pot of soup delivered? Well there is a place to ask for help on this form too. Our community of love can act to help others, if we know who is available to be called upon. So everyone please take a moment and fill this out. Thanks!

And see you on Sunday!

http://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?formkey=dHlfbThrT3prT2xEemU3SWxnQ28wZGc6MA

Sunday Service (9:30 to 10:45am)
“A UU Christmas Pageant” Rev. Eva Cameron.
Join us on this Festival Sunday for our annual production of the story of the
birth of Christ, with lots of commentary along the way, giving us different ideas
about ways that UU’s can make meaning of this story, as we share some laughter.

We've got a great cast, including Gary Kroeger, to help bring a little Christmas cheer to your heart.

Fellowship (10:45 to 11:15am)

Children's Chapel (11:00 to 11:15am)

Sunday School (11:15 to 12:15) for adults & children
Adult Classes
Sixty for Six: “What is Good About Religion” Mr. George Gregory,
a Christian Science practitioner and other members of the local
Christian Science congregation, will be our guests. (balcony)

Circle Way: Join Deblyn Russell for Winter Solstice (sanctuary)

12:15 pm Traveling UU’s small group
2:30 pm Sunday Afternoon small group

This Coming Week
Monday
6:00 pm REAP Council
Tuesday
7:00 pm Board Meeting
7:15 pm Religious Services Council Meeting
Wednesday Calendar Deadline
11:00 am Friendship Village UU Ministry--Chapel service rescheduled from last week.
WOW! Workshops on Wednesdays
5:00 pm Children’s Choir
5:30 pm Dinner (Please RSVP)
6:15 pm Adult Choir
6:30 pm Self Realization Workshop (high school room)
Artistic Fun Workshop
7:30 pm Theoretical String Band
Thursday
7:30 pm Buddhist Path (balcony)
Friday Newsletter Deadline

Other items
Friendship Village Chapel service and Religious Services Council Rescheduled
Both of these events were canceled due to weather. They will be held this week instead.

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

WOW CANCELED

All Wednesday activities are canceled at church due to the weather.

Weekly Update - 12/4/09

Weekly Update - 12/4/09 First of all, please note that First Friday has been canceled tonight. Several of the event planners are sick, and with the weather being bad, it seemed the best idea. Now is probably a good time to give you a general reminder about church events and snow/ice/cold, if you have any question--do check your e-mail. We do email all cancelations. And, on Sundays where the weather is questionable, I will also post to my blog window that appears on the right-hand side of our website if there is church service or not once I reach the church building. We will also answer the phone as we can on those days, updating the voicemail. I have a little Subaru Forrester that doesn't mind slippery weather, and so it is fairly easy for me to get to church. BUT, if you feel at all uncomfortable about getting to church, even if you have a responsibility--we want you to stay home! Just call Tim, Kathy or I (whoever you are responsible to) and let us know you aren't coming. Sometimes you really want to be in church, and there is a good chance something will be happening, even in bad weather. I'm good at going with the flow, and making up something with what we have. Everyone knows their own sense of comfort in winter weather, and we urge you to listen to your 'inner voice' on this one, and make the right call for your circumstances.

Wishing you joy on this snowy afternoon!

Eva

Sunday Service (9:30 to 10:45am)
“Sunset in Sabula” Rev. Eva Cameron, Deblyn Russell (Worship Associate)
Sometimes we really anticipate things in life, which leads to a lot of waiting. Advent is the time of year where we honor the spiritual practice of waiting, watching, and being open to the moment.

Fellowship (10:45 to 11:15am)

Children's Chapel (11:00 to 11:15am)

Sunday School (11:15 to 12:15) for adults & children
Adult Classes
Sixty for Six: “What is Good About Religion” Deblyn Russell will teach us about the positive aspects of Wiccan and Native American spiritual beliefs. If there is time, she will present other Nature-based beliefs too. (balcony)

Conscious Living: “Health and Beauty Products: Are They Worth the Risk?” Christine Carpenter will enlighten us. (sanctuary)

New Member Meeting: People interested in becoming new members are invited to meet with Rev. Eva & Mica Lorenz in Eva’s office.

12:30 pm Potluck Luncheon
1:30 pm Winter Music Festival/Variety Show
The fun will begin with a potluck lunch at 12:30, followed by a delightful mix of musical, holiday, and comedy acts at 1:30. There will be a freewill donation (suggested: $10) to help the music committee support the general budget of the church.
4:00 pm Yoga with Krystal Hamilton


This Coming Week
Tuesday
7:15 pm Religious Services Committee
Wednesday
WOW! Workshops on Wednesdays
5:00 pm Children’s Choir
5:30 pm Dinner (Please RSVP)
6:15 pm Adult Choir/ Pageant Rehearsal
6:30 pm Self Realization Workshop (high school room)
Artistic Fun Workshop
6:30 pm Integral Life Practice Small Group
7:30 pm Pageant Rehearsal
Thursday
7:30 pm Buddhist Path (balcony)
Friday
6:30 – 8:30 pm Creative Expressive Healing Workshop for women
Saturday
9:00am Pageant Rehearsal
6:30 pm UU Card Club
Other items
Chalice Relay (part 2) The beautiful chalice which is used at our national General Assemblies (aka "GA") needs to resume its travel. Its next stop is Rochester MN for their service on the 13th. Anyone heading that direction in the next week? Or even willing to go up there to see their Sunday service? or go half way and meet someone from their church? Please let me know.

Pastoral Update
Don't forget to send Mildred Pierce her birthday card. 100 years old!!!
Congratulations to Laura Walter, who got great news about being tumor-free!

Weekly Update - 11/20/09

Weekly Update --This Sunday we have many chances to give to show our thanks for the bounty of the universe. We will take a collection of canned goods for the Food Bank during the service. We will also pass out the "Guest at Your Table" boxes . . . where we invite you to set a place at your table in the season of Advent and make a small offering, in the amount of the cost of a meal . . . just as if you were feeding a guest. This money is used by our UU Service Committee to help with their many projects around the world. AND, last but not least . . . some of you remember that at First Friday Shauna Zeck (Jason's sister) shared with us about her special project to help the people of Rosebud Reservation with basic supplies (like clothing, bedding and kitchen items), most particularly the children. Well, it turns out this Monday there will be a pick-up of items heading up to Rosebud. If you would like to contribute things, bring them on Sunday and I will load them into my car to take to Shauna's house. Please look around an donate not only clean things you don't need anymore, but something you still like. Wouldn't you like to share with those who are in such desparate poverty some of the things that bless your life?

See you in church!

~Eva

Sunday Service (9:30 to 10:45am)
“Thanksgiving: Festival Sunday”
Join our drama team, choir and others as we celebrate the ample bounty of our lives.
Please bring a canned good or other item for the Food Bank. We will have a “parade of food” during the service where the children will bring the offerings up to the altar.

Fellowship (10:45 to 11:15am)

Children's Chapel (11:00 to 11:15am)

Sunday School (11:15 to 12:15) for adults & children
Adult Classes

Sixty for Six: “What is Good About Religion” Shintoism with our own Dr. Joyce Boss (also from Wartburg). (balcony)
“Doc” Shorts: We will watch the second part of Earthdance a short-attention-span environmental film festival. Earthdance has seventeen stunning short films that we will watch over the next three months. Each viewing will be followed by discussion. (sanctuary)

Yoga (4:00 pm) NEW! Drop in beginning yoga by Krystal Hamilton.

T.R.I.B.E. (6:30 pm) Team, rhythm, instruments, & body ensemble


This Coming Week-all regular programming is canceled
Special Thanksgiving Holiday Potluck Dinner. All invited.

Bring your family and friends and join us for a Thanksgiving Day potluck. Church doors will open at 1:00 p.m. and we will eat dinner at 1:30 p.m. After dinner, we will chat, play board games, and enjoy each other's company.

Betsy Brant has offered to cook the turkey and make gravy. Christine Carpenter will provide a vegan main dish and gravy. Coffee, tea and water will be provided.

Each of you should bring:
* Two of your favorite Thanksgiving dishes to share.
* Your favorite board games.

Please let Christine Carpenter know by Sunday, November 22, if you are planning to join us for the potluck.

Christine Carpenter
266-0194
christine.carpenter@cfu.net


Pastoral Update
Mildred Pierce is turning 100!!!
We are organizing a card campaign. Send her a card, and maybe she'll get 100 cards for her birthday!
Address: 1710 Walnut St. CF, IA 50613
We don't see her around very much anymore . . . (that's the prerogative of being close to 100). But for those of you who don't know her, she was around often for many years, helping with Sunday Services, the Vegetarian Potluck, and the Conscious Living group, among others. Its good to honor those who came before us, building this community that we so love.

Weekly Update -11/13/09

Weekly Update 11/13/09 . . . I write this from Ottawa Canada, where I have stepped out of a time of sharing stories and learning from other UU Ministers. There are over 400 of us here, and it is a real blessing to have to connect and pause to think about who I am and what I do from within this larger context. This year, our church is doing this work too, as the Board has had a task force busy over last summer and into the fall working on creating new Bylaws that reflect our current practices. You will have an opportunity to review the results of their work soon. That work also led to the feeling by that committee that some other elements of formal framing of who we are should be up for review . . . including the Mission statement, and the creation of a Covenant of Right Relations. The Board will have much more to say about this in the coming months, including how you can participate in this reflection and creation process. But in the meantime, while I am doing some reflecting here . . . I commend to you the idea of reflecting on the nature of our UU society, and what your hopes and dreams for it are, what you treasure, how you want it to feel at its best, how you want it to engage the stranger, the broken, those hungering for a spiritual home . . . . to pause and reflect is an amazing gift we give ourselves, we give the world.
Keep living and loving! ~ Eva

This Saturday (6:30pm)
Don't forget to attend the Treats and Talents Auction . . . even if you've never gone before, just go and have fun. Buy a little or a lot. Come is costumes or not. Bring a friend, family, or come alone. Its a fun time, and a good way to play with each other while we do make some money to enliven our church.

This Sunday
Sunday Service (9:30 to 10:45am)
“Standing on the Side of Love: Gay Marriage”
Join members Al Hays, Staci Chananie-Hill, Mica Lorenz, Lara Martinsen-Burrell
and others who will share what equal marriage rights means to them and explore
the role a congregation such as ours can have as we stand on the side of love.

Fellowship (10:45 to 11:15am)
Children's Chapel (11:00 to 11:15am)
Sunday School (11:15 to 12:15pm)
11:15 am Sunday School for children & youth
11:15 am Adult Classes
Sixty for Six: “What is Good About Religion” Islam with Dr. Pecen from UNI.
Buddhist Path: Join Ralph Burr and others in exploring Buddhist spiritual practices.

12:15 pm Outreach Committee meeting
2:00 pm Sunday Afternoon small group

This Coming Week
Tuesday
7:00 pm Board Meeting

Wednesday
(Please turn all calendar items in for newsletter)
WOW! Workshops on Wednesdays
5:00 pm NO Children’s Choir
5:30 pm Dinner (Please RSVP)
6:15 pm Adult Choir
6:30 pm Self Realization Workshop (high school room)
Artistic Fun Workshop
7:30 pm Theoretical String Band

Thursday
7:30 pm Buddhist Path (balcony)

Friday
(Newsletter deadline)
7:30 pm Community Drum Circle

Saturday
10:00 am- 12:00 pm Yoga Workshop (Contact Deblyn Russell for more information)

Next Sunday: “Thanksgiving: Festival Sunday”
Join our drama team, choir and others as we celebrate the ample bounty of our
lives. Please bring a canned good or other item for the Food Bank. We will
have a “parade of food” during the service where the children will bring the
offerings up to the altar.

Other Items
I am wondering if someone is interested in hosting a Community Thanksgiving dinner in our building this year. I am generally out of town, but it occurs to me that we have many people who are single, or empty-nesters . . . who might really enjoy a big potluck type dinner with companions from our church community. Let me know if you'd like to host such an event!

Pastoral Update
Lots of people sick with flu or colds . . . Send everyone some extra love. AND, DON'T FORGET TO WASH YOUR HANDS OFTEN!
Please let me know if you or someone you love should be included in our thoughts and prayers!



--
Rev Eva Cameron
minister
Unitarian Univesalist Society of Black Hawk Co.
Cedar Falls, IA 50613
319-610-6605
www.uusbhc.org

Weekly Update - 11/6/09

Today feels like a reprieve, all this delightful warmth and sun! After a hard week, it was such a welcome gift. Many of you (the Facebook crowd) know that I made the decision to put down my old Spaniel dog, Cammy, this week. She has been slowly falling apart for years now, having almost made it to her 15th birthday. And with her death came many fond memories of years past when she was much happier. In this time of the world slowing down, the plants dying back, it has been a good time to mourn her passing, and remember all the good and funny times! I hope between last week's service, and your own private rituals and ways, you have been able to mourn your losses of this year--that we may all enter the newest, the freshness of winter with a pure heart. Because yes, even if it seems like a September day, truly November is upon us. It is time to prepare for winter.
Keep on living and loving! See you in church, Eva

Please don't forget:
Tonight!! First Friday means . . . something FUN is happening at the UU. This month we welcome George LeDuc and Shauna Zeck, who come to share Native American flute, stories, arts and more . . . Potluck dinner at 6pm, program follows. This is for young and old alike! Family friendly. Come and enjoy. Help us to welcome our guests to the church.
AND
The Nature Small Group is having a open meeting this Saturday Nov. 7th from 1-3 pm at the Church. If you'd like to learn more and/or join, please attend. Thanks, Sheri Huber-Otting, Nature Small Group Facilitator

Sunday Service (9:30 to 10:45am)
Auction Sermon: “Excluded” Each year at the Treats and Talents Auction, Rev. Eva offers a sermon based on a book of the winning bidder’s choice. The lucky winner at the 2008 auction was Russ Campbell, who chose the book entitled Excluded by Robert Cummins. It tells the story of the Council of Churches and the Universalists. Come and learn this story which has shaped who we are.

Fellowship (10:45 to 11:15am)
Children's Chapel (11:00 to 11:15am)
Sunday School (11:15 to 12:15) for adults & children
Adult Classes
Sixty for Six: “What is Good About Religion” Judaism with our own Judy Harrington
Circle Way: Native American Spirituality

This Coming Week
Monday
6:00 pm REAP Council
Tuesday
7:15 pm Religious Services Committee
Wednesday
Eva leaves for the UU Ministers' Convocation-back 11/16. I'm in Ottawa Canada. And I have yet to see if my phone will work there. Our staff and lay-ministers will be here to make sure everything is running smoothly!
WOW! Workshops on Wednesdays
5:00 pm Children’s Choir
5:30 pm Dinner (Please RSVP)
6:15 pm Adult Choir
6:30 pm Self Realization Workshop (high school room)
Artistic Fun Workshop
Integral Life Practice small group
7:30 pm Theoretical String Band
Thursday
7:30 pm Buddhist Path (balcony)
Saturday
6:30 pm Treats ‘n Talents Auction: “A Knight to Remember”

Other items
Christmas boxes for November social action focus
Dear UUs and Friends,
The Social Action Plate Collection for November is for Christmas Dinner Boxes to be distributed to local crisis clients at the Northeast Iowa Food Bank. This is the second year we are directly partnering with the food bank for this cause. Please note the following important information:
There will be a tour of the Food Bank on November 14th at 10 am instead of the Adult RE on Sunday November 15th. Let Sheri Huber-Otting know if you would like to attend. The contact information is sheriho@cfu.net or 319-277-7558.
Please give generously to the plate collection for this cause on November 29th.
The distribution of the dinner boxes will be December 21st. We will need volunteers to help pass out the boxes at the Northeast Iowa Food Bank that day. The times of the distribution will be determined later.
Thanks to everyone for Walking the Talk.
Sheri Huber-Otting
UUSBHC Social Action Chair

Canterbury Forum Program - Sunday, November 8th

On Sunday, November 8th, the Canterbury Forum will host the final program in its Fall 2009 series: Holy Terror: Murder, Martyrdom, and the Sikhs, presented by UNI professor Dr. Lou Fenech, a leading expert on the history of the Sikhs, who are concentrated in northern India and are the world̢۪s sixth-largest religion, a people distinguished by their proud military tradition and their wearing of the turban. But among the Sikhs there is also a tradition of giving their lives to take the lives of those who oppress them, and this is the particular focus of Lou Fenech's talk. We associate religious violence with radical Islam, but as he will explain, it isn't confined to radical Islam.
As always, Canterbury Forum programs take place in Will Hall at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 2410 Melrose Drive in Cedar Falls. They begin at 7:00 PM; the doors open at 6:30. They're open to the public, and there's no admission charge, though it sure is nice when folks bring treats to share. Bob Dise


Pastoral Update
Karen Impola and her husband Dave are both home with the flu. Send them your thoughts of love for a speedy recovery!
Deblyn Russell is a new Grandma. Join her in welcoming baby Zoya into the world, who arrived last Wednesday.

Friday, October 30, 2009

Weekly Update

Weekly Update - 10/30/09 . . . how's your week been? Staying well? Do let us know if you need some help when you get sick! It’s a tough flu, and we should all band together to care for each other.

Please take the time to look over all the upcoming events . . . we have many things going on, and would love for you to know about them.

Keep on living and loving!

~Eva

Daylight Savings Time ends this Sunday November 1st!!!

Sunday Service (9:30 to 10:45am)
“Day of the Dead: Festival Sunday” As Christian churches celebrate All Souls Day, Pagans celebrate Samhain, and in Mexico ancient traditions mix with the holiday to create a poignant time of stories and remembering…we join together to share stories of our loved ones who have departed. Please bring a picture or an item from a loved one to place on the front altar.

Fellowship (10:45 to 11:15am) and Alternative Gift Fair!! (see below)

Children's Chapel (11:00 to 11:15am)

Sunday School (11:15 to 12:15)

Adult Classes:

Sixty for Six: “What is Good About Religion” Christianity with Dr. Brian Jones

from Wartburg College (sanctuary)

New Member Meeting: People interested in becoming new members are invited t o meet with Rev. Eva and Mica Lorenz in Eva’s Office.


This Coming Week

Tuesday

7:00 pm Committee on Ministry

Wednesday

WOW! Workshops on Wednesdays

5:00 pm Children’s Choir

5:30 pm Dinner (Please RSVP)

6:15 pm Adult Choir

6:30 pm Self Realization Workshop (high school room)

Artistic Fun Workshop

7:30 pm Small Group Facilitator’s meeting

7:30 pm Theoretical String Band



Thursday

7:30 pm Buddhist Path (balcony)



Friday

6:00 pm First Friday Potluck: Native American George Leduc (See article below)



Saturday

1:00 pm Nature Small Group meeting

6:30 pm Card Club


Other Items

Alternate Gift Fair

This Sunday, November 1st, from 10:45 am-12:15 pm, the Conscious Living Group and the Green Sanctuary Committee of the UU Society of Black Hawk County will once again host an Alternative Gift Fair.

Attending this event allows participants to not only get a peaceful, head start on holiday gift-buying, but also to make purchases that are in line with their values.

Participants will have an opportunity to learn about and purchase holiday gifts that are fairly-traded, benefit others locally and/or internationally and at the same time, use their purchasing power for good.

A sampling of participating organizations this year includes Quota International (dried fruits and nuts), Heifer International (animals for sustainable living), Church World Service (tools and blankets for refugees), World's Window (fairly-traded jewlery, notecards, scarves, journals etc.), Equal Exchange (fairly traded coffee, tea, chocolate, nuts and dried fruits) and NISCUA (Guatemalan calendars and crafts).
Come support organizations doing valuable work locally and internationally and expand your awareness of the many ways to be a conscious holiday shopper. Be sure to invite friends and neighbors!

By the way, at last year’s Alternative Gift Fair we raised $1930.50 for these good organizations! What a great feeling to spend our dollars there instead of at the mall!

For more information, contact Juanita Williams at (319) 232-6819.



Next Friday Join Us!!

. . . on the First Friday of every month from September to May at 6 pm family, friends and the community are invited to a potluck dinner (bring a dish that goes with the holiday or just your favorite dish) and an a chance to learn about different religions . We invite special guests to come and share with us.

Native American Spirituality Nov. 7th, at 6pm

Come welcome our special guest: George 'Spotted Horse' Leduc*

George is a Native American flutist, tradition storyteller, performer, dancer, motivational speaker and recording artist. He graced us with wonderful music and stories two years ago and we are honored to have him return. Hopefully he will bring some of his albums for us to purchase.

For more info about George see his websites:*http://snipurl.com/4yaj1*

http://cdbaby.com/cd/leduc

For Native American Foods and Recipes:

*http://www.kstrom.net/isk/food/recipes.html*

http://www.ewebtribe.com/NACulture/food.htm





Community Events

Friends,

On Sunday, November 8th, the Canterbury Forum will host the final program in its Fall 2009 series: “Holy Terror: Murder, Martyrdom, and the Sikhs”, presented by UNI professor Dr. Lou Fenech, a leading expert on the history of the Sikhs, who are concentrated in northern India and are the world’s sixth-largest religion, a people distinguished by their proud military tradition and their wearing of the turban. But among the Sikhs there is also a tradition of giving their lives to take the lives of those who oppress them, and this is the particular focus of Lou Fenech’s talk. We associate religious violence with radical Islam, but as he will explain, it isn’t confined to radical Islam.

As always, Canterbury Forum programs take place in Will Hall at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 2410 Melrose Drive in Cedar Falls. They begin at 7:00 PM; the doors open at 6:30. They’re open to the public, and there's no admission charge, though it sure is nice when folks bring treats to share.

See you there?

Bob Dise




~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~




Dear Friends,
I invite you to this American Association of University Women meeting on Monday, Nov 9 at Friendship Village. (See details below.)

I have known WindEagle and RainbowHawk for years and what they have to say is so relevant to our community. Renouncing violence in our schools and neighborhoods is vital to the health and well being of our community.

I would be delighted if you could join me. Please call me for reservations. If you choose not to come to dinner, please let me know that as well. You are welcome to come to just the program beginning at 6:00pm.

Hope to see you on Nov 9.

Jeri Thornsberry
319-235-0704

Universal Principles of Peace : A Higher Consciousness to Which Humanity Is Being Called

From ancient earth wisdom come eight sequential steps— doorways to the being and becoming of the consciousness of peace within the self.

Living peace in the self is the first step to creating peace as a reality that can manifest in our relationships and in our world.

Creating a culture of peace that can bridge our collective wisdom ways, leading us to collaboration, understanding and respect of all cultures, is at the heart of the World Foundation for the Discipline of Peace.

Please join the Waterloo Branch of the American Association of University Women as they welcome WindEagle and RainbowHawk to Iowa.

They will speak of the Universal Principles of Peace which are at the heart of the World Foundation for the Discipline of Peace .


When: Monday, November 9, 2009

Where: Friendship Village, Cove Dining Room, Door C off of 9th Street in Waterloo.

Time: Gather at 5:00pm, Dinner at 5:30 pm , Program 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm

Meal cost is $8.00. Please make your check out to Friendship Village.

Reservations are required. Space is limited.

Please call Jeri Thornsberry at 319-235-0704 for your reservation.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Faithful Voices Conference on Thursday, November 19 in Des Moines

The conference is specifically designed to bring together people of faith across the faith perspectives and to educate each person on the issue of marriage equality, learn how to have conversation on the issue within congregations, inspire folks to become involved, and empower folks to be active in their support of marriage equality in Iowa.

We want clergy and lay people to attend the conference. At this time, Rev. Eva plus Pam and Al Hays will be attending. Join us!

Register at !

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Rev. Eva Cameron

Unitarian Universalist Society of Black Hawk Co.

Friday, October 23, 2009

Weekly Update

Weekly Update - 10/23/09  . . . Its Friday, and many are pausing in gratitude for this break in their work schedule, as plan their weekend time. Others, who work weekends, are gearing up to get things done while those around them play. Some are wishing for work, to take a break from! And others are lying in bed with the flu, wishing they had the strength to enjoy this weekend. Meanwhile the rain rains on, and the leaves fall .  . . oblivious to our personal life stories.  Our stories are each so colorful, as we each feel so poignantly alive. And yet, after time, no one will remember our having been here, as the rain and leaves fall many years hence. I love reading autobiographies, because they remind me of the depth and passions of the lives of people, who now we only know as a name, or a singular deed (done well or poorly). This week, I've been reading Chief Black Hawk's story, as he narrated it. Its been amazing to hear his stories about his life, everything comes so vividly to life.  Each person we meet alters our destiny, changes our trajectory. Reading this autobiography has been a kind of meeting. This Sunday, I'll be sharing my reflections on my encounter with Ma-ka-tei-me-she-kia-kiak (known in English as Black Hawk). Hope you'll join me.

Quick Reminder:
Tonight: Community Drumming Circle
( 7:30pm to 9pm) for adults, this time.
Tomorrow Morning: Buddhist Retreat  (8am until 1pm) all welcome. With visiting Zen monks from Minneapolis! Light lunch served. Free will offering.

Sunday Service (9:30 to 10:45am)
“Chief Black Hawk’s Story”  Rev. Eva Cameron with  Al Hays as Worship Associate.

Fellowship (10:45 to 11:15am)
Children's Chapel (11:00 to 11:15am)
Sunday School (11:15 to 12:15)
11:15 am Sunday School for children & youth
11:15 amAdult Classes
Sixty for Six: UU Perspectives on Current Events by Bill Harwood. We’ll discuss the “hot” topics of the day and consider how we, as Unitarian Universalists are called to respond.
“Doc” Shorts: We will watch part of Earthdance Short Attention Span Environmental Film Festival.  Earthdance has seventeen stunning short films that we will watch over the next three months.  Each viewing will be followed by discussion.

This Coming Week
 Monday
6:00 pm Cedar Prairie Vegetarian Potluck

Wednesday
WOW! Workshops on Wednesdays
5:00 pm Children’s Choir
5:30 pm Dinner (Please RSVP)
6:15 pm Adult Choir
6:30 pm Self Realization Workshop (high school room)
              Artistic Fun Workshop
7:30 pm Theoretical String Band

Thursday
7:30 pm Buddhist Path (balcony)

Daylight Savings Time ends November 1st


--
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, October 16, 2009

Weekly Update

Weekly Update 10/16/09 . . .  we live in an odd world, where media encourages us to pay fast attention to the oddest things, like the Balloon Boy story yesterday. And at the same time, asks little of our attention for some of the most pressing issues of the day. Many people speculate WHY this is so . . . but for me, its not so important to know why, as to understand that for myself, I need a different lens. And that is one of the reasons I really like coming to church . . . it helps me to keep my mind and heart on what is of lasting importance. Each one of you: your stories, your passions, the way you live your life help me to remember my own values and commitments. The time set aside each week, pulls me from the business of everyday life's demands, and asks me to pay attention. And for this, I am grateful.

Keep living and loving!  ~ Eva
 
This Sunday:
Sunday Service (9:30 to 10:45am)
“Missed Lincoln’s Cabin by Five Miles”
Rev. Eva Cameron with Staci Chananie-Hill (Worship Associate)

Fellowship (10:45 to 11:15am)
Children's Chapel (11:00 to 11:15am)
Sunday School (11:15 to 12:15pm)
 
        11:15 am Sunday School for
children & youth
  
        11:15 am Adult Classes
Si
xty for Six: UU
Perspectives on Current Events by Bill Harwood. We’ll discuss the “hot” topics of the day and consider how we, as Unitarian Universalists are called to respond. (under the balcony)
Buddhist Path: Join Rev. Eva and others in exploring Buddhist spiritual practices.
Walkin’ the Talk: Seeds of Hope Executive Director Beth Jackley, will share details about the breadth and scope of their various programs and services.
Garden Meditation: Join Julie Fischer and others in the garden.


1:00 pm Sound Board Training Meeting for Worship Associates and interested parties.

This Coming Week
Tuesday
7:00 pm Board Meeting

Wednesday
WOW! Workshops on Wednesdays
5:00
pm Children’s Choir
5:30
pm Dinner (Please RSVP)
6:15
pm Adult Choir
6:30
pm Self Realization Workshop (high
school room)
    
        Artistic Fun Workshop
7:30
pm Theoretical String Band

Thu
rsday
7:30 pm Buddhist Path (balc
ony)

Friday
7:30 pm Community Drum Circle

Sat
urday
6:30 am- 2:00 pm Buddhist Path Retreat

Other Items
I am
wondering if someone is interested in hosting a Community Thanksgiving dinner in our building this year. I am generally out of town, but it occurs to me that we have many people who are single, or empty-nesters . . . who might really enjoy a big potluck type dinner with companions from our church community. Let me know if you'd like to host such an event!
 
Pastoral Update
We have lots of people sick with flu or colds . . . including me, Esther Kieffer, Carolyn Hildebrandt . . .  and that's just the ones I've heard of. Send everyone some extra love. AND, DON'T FORGET TO WASH YOUR HANDS OFTEN!

Don Wendt is now living in Friendship Village's Assisted Living, in the "Lakeview" complex since his Alzheimer's has progressed to the point where Dothory could no longer care for him by herself. This is a hard time for both of them as they adjust to living apart. Please kept them in your thoughts and prayers.

Please let me know if you or someone you love should be included in our thoughts and prayers!

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






Friday, October 2, 2009

Weekly Update

Weekly Update . . . Greetings on this cool and rainy Friday!  I am preparing to head off to Minnesota for a few days. I’ll be preaching in the Mankato UU Church this Sunday, where I will be sharing with them about the Unitarians in the Khasi Hills of India. Then I’ll continue West to a small farm and retreat center that is the gathering spot for UU Ministers from the Prairie Star District. We will be in a conference. Our program presenter will be Dr. Mark
A. Hicks, the new Angus MacLean Professor of Religious Education at Meadville/Lombard Theological School. He has written the new:  Building the World We Dream About: A Welcoming Congregation Curriculum on Race and Ethnicity <http://www.uua.org/aboutus/professionalstaff/identity-basedministries/110030.shtml> , a national curriculum for the Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations that weaves anti-racist and anti-oppressive thinking and practice into the spiritual life of Unitarian Universalist congregations. It should be quite a treat to get some time to hear more of his thoughts. I return on Wednesday evening.
Wishing you warm thoughts on this cool day!
Keep on living and loving!
~Eva

This Sunday:
8:30 am Music Rehearsal
9:30 am Service “Gandhi Jayanti”
Join Bill Chene & Lisa Kratz (Worship Associate) as they bring you this exploration of Gandhi’s message, and what is says to us today, as we Stand on the Side of Love.
10:45 am Fellowship Time
11:00 am Children’s Chapel
11:15 am Sunday School for children & youth
11:15 am Adult Classes
Sixty for Six: UU Perspectives on Current Events
by Bill Harwood. We’ll discuss the “hot” topics of the day and consider how we, as Unitarian Universalists are called to respond. (under the balcony)
Conscious Living: Norman Borlaug was called the “Father of the Green Revolution”, awarded a Nobel Peace Prize and credited with saving millions of lives with his high-yield wheat development. However, current versions of genetically-modified seeds, controlled by a few large corporations have raised concerns from environmentalists as well as some indigenous farmers around the world. Come explore and discuss these issues.
New Member Orientation: People interested in becoming new members are invited to meet with Mica Lorenz. (Eva’s office)
Garden Meditation: Join Julie Fischer and others in the garden.
7:00 pm “A Gathering of Women” small group

 
This Coming Week
(Eva is at the UU Minister’s Fall Conference through Wednesday)
Tuesday
7:00 pm Committee on Ministry
 
Wednesday
WOW! Workshops on Wednesdays
5:00 pm Children’s Choir
5:30 pm Dinner (Please RSVP)
6:15 pm Adult Choir
6:30 pm Self Realization Workshop (high school room)
Artistic Fun Workshop
7:30 pm Small Group Facilitator’s meeting
7:30 pm Theoretical String Band
 
Thursday
7:30 pm Buddhist Path (balcony)
 
Pastoral Update:
Our caring thoughts are with these members and friends of this congregation who are dealing with health issues:
Shirley Robinson, Don Wendt, Glenyce Butschy, Mildred
Pierce and Laura Walter. (Please let me know 266-1172
Esther) if you know of others.
We extend our condolences to the family of Joe Alemao, who died last Wednesday morning. Although he wasn’t a UU, he was dear to many, and so we wanted you to know. Funeral plans are still tentative; please watch the Courier or Caring Bridge for more information.
--
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 25, 2009

Weekly Update

Weekly Update . . . .  Greetings from Madison Wisconsin, where I am meeting with UU’s who have gathered to share and explore ideas about Campus Ministry. It has been a delightful time to meet new young faces who are eager to see a program on their campus. I have met parents who’s children are soon to enter college, who are wondering how to connect their kids to a local group of UU’s, and the new UU Staff who are helping us think about all of these things.
 
But I would like each and every one of us to think what we can do to reach out to the students in our and young adults. This a part of Standing on the Side of Love . . . our students are at a time in their life they need a lot of love.  Many critical life decisions are made at this time of life . . . and having a loving presence in your life, can be very useful. Maybe you could invite a student over for meals once a week. Maybe you can organize your small group to make up exam survival kits to give to our students. Maybe you can come up with other great ideas to connect, to spread love. Let me know your thoughts!
 
And if you are a student, let me just give you a warm welcome back. If you aren’t on the Facebook group Young Adults of UUSBHC, please join. I want to get us together soon!
Keep on Living and Loving,
See you in church!
~Eva
 
This Sunday:
8:30 am Music Rehearsal
9:30 am Service “Yom Kippur:
Returning to Oneness”
Rev. Eva Cameron and Lara Martinsen-Burrell (as Worship Associate) offer this service that recognizes the power of both asking and offering forgiveness.
10:45 am Fellowship Time
11:00 am Children’s Chapel
11:15 am Sunday School
for children & youth
11:15 am Adult Classes
Sixty for Six:
This is a new offering this year which consists of sixty minute classes that last for six weeks in a row. The first class is UU perspectives on Current Events. (under the balcony)
UUSBHC History: Join our Archivist, Kay Rewerts, as she shares with us the interesting history of the Unitarian and Universalist congregations that merged in 1961 here in Black Hawk County to form this congregation. She will also bring us up to date on significant events in our more recent past.
Garden Meditation: Join Julie Fischer and others in the garden.
12:15 pm Outreach Committee Meeting
2:00 pm Last Sunday Small Group
6:30 pm T.R.I.B.E.
(Team, rhythm, instruments, & body ensemble)
 
This Coming Week:
Monday
6 pm Cedar Prairie Vegetarian Potluck
 
Wednesday
WOW! Workshops on Wednesdays
5:00 pm Children’s Choir
5:30 pm Dinner (Please RSVP)
6:15 pm Adult Choir
6:30 pm Self Realization Workshop (high school room)
7:30 pm Theoretical String Band
 
Thursday
7:30 pm Buddhist Path (balcony)
 
Friday
6:00 pm First Friday Potluck “Eid al Fitr” - an Islamic celebration following Ramadan. It is the festival of fast-breaking and is the biggest Muslim festival. Join us to learn about the holidays of our friends and neighbors.
 
Saturday
6:30 pm Card Club
 
Pastoral Update
Although they are not members of the church, Luann and Joe Alemao, are friends to some in our church.  Diana Harwood spoke with Luann this morning and Luann wanted to make sure that people at our church knew what was going on with Joe.  On this past Sunday, Joe was not acting normally and was taken to the hospital.  He was airlifted from Sartori to Iowa City with hemorrhaging on his brain.  He has been on life support until yesterday around 2:00 pm or so.  When Luann called this morning he was still breathing on his own.  They are trying to make some decisions today about whether to move him closer to home to a hospice.
You can keep updated at the following website by typing in that you want to "visit"  joealemao  www.caringbridge.org <http://www.caringbridge.org>  You can contact Diane or Kathy Klink-Zeitz if you need more information.
 

Friday, September 18, 2009

Weekly Update

Weekly Update . . . Greetings on this glorious September afternoon! We are having the most delightful weather. Sometimes our lives give us ‘sunny weather’ and sometimes they aren’t nearly so joyous. I have spoken to several of you recently who are facing personal pain and struggles. The best part about coming to church, for me, is that in times like that I remember that I am not alone. I am reminded that after dark times, sunshine does come . . . as I look around me at people who have weathered their own stormy and dark times to come out the other side. Both the Jewish Scriptures and the New Testament shows us, that by studying people’s stories, and how they cope, we can become closer to a sense of the holy.  We can learn goodness of human spirit. We UU’s believe that revelation is not sealed. That God or goodness is still speaking. And one of the blessings of coming to church, is you can look about you, and be inspired, be made whole. Week after week, I feel this grace as I am in your presence. I hope that you can feel it too!
Tonight marks the first night of the New Year in the Jewish calendar . . . so let me wish all of you who are celebrating Rosh Hashanah, the happiest of new years!
See you in church! Keep on living and loving!
Eva

This Sunday
8:30 am Music Rehearsal
9:30 am Service “Fall Equinox”
We will celebrate autumn and the lessons it offers us on our spiritual Journey with
song, drama, poetry and joy! Our Children’s Choir will sing for us.  During our service for all ages, children join their parents in the Sanctuary (although the nursery is still open for the youngest children). Led by Rev. Eva Cameron, the Service for All AgesTeam, & Deblyn Russell as Worship Associate.
10:45 am Fellowship Time
11 00 am Children’s Chapel
11:15 am Sunday School for children & youth
11:15 am Adult Classes
Sixty for Six: This is a new offering this year which consists of sixty minute classes that last for six weeks in a row. The first class is UU perspectives on Current Events. (under the balcony)
Buddhist Path: Join Rev. Eva and others in exploring Buddhist spiritual practices. (balcony)
Walkin’ The Talk: Ruth Walker will speak to us on September’s Social Action focus – the Sabeel Conference. (fellowship hall)
Conscious Living: “Art as Environmental Activism” will be Margaret Whiting’s topic. (sanctuary)
Garden Meditation: Join Julie Fischer and others in the garden.

This Coming Week
Wednesday
WOW! Workshops on Wednesdays
5:00 pm Children’s Choir
5:30 pm Dinner (Please RSVP)
6:15 pm Adult Choir
6:30 pm Self Realization Workshop (high school room)
7:30 pm Theoretical String Band
 
Thursday
7:30 pm Buddhist Path (balcony)
 
Friday
UU Camp Out – Contact Betsy Brant for more details: <bbrant@cfu.net>
6:30 pm Creative Expressive Healing Workshop for Women
 
Saturday
11:00 am – 5:00 pm Rental
 
Announcements
Parking . . . there are some things about growing bigger that are a lot of fun. Parking is seldom one of them! Please, if you can, park close together in our lot. If you can plan to arrive even a few minutes early,  park at AEA : enter the drive for the mobile home park just north of our lot, and turn left into the AEA back lot. There is a LOT of nice space up there. Be friendly to visitors and come just a couple minutes early and park up in the AEA, so the lot near the building will be open to visitors and late-comers.
 
As we return to our fall schedules, this is just a reminder . . . your pledge checks arriving regularly mean we can pay our bills and pay checks regularly. It’s a big help. Let’s all get back to our routines! Thanks!



 
 

Friday, September 4, 2009

Weekly Update

Hello! . . . Our Sunday School program for children is the backbone of our existence. It’s so vitally important that our children hear a counter-balance to all the hatred and vindictiveness that is bandied about in the name of religion. Part of Standing on the Side of Love is actually teaching our children about love, helping strengthen their understandings of compassion and living within their values. Each person we send off into the world ready to fight for compassion and justice, with love as their guide—is an amazing step forward for our planet.
 
I’ve signed up to help teach the Youth this year. What can you do to help? I don’t care if you did it years ago, and think your “done your turn.” I don’t care if you aren’t really fond of kids and would rather not spend too much time in the same room with them. No, there are always ways to strengthen our program. There are always ways that each of us can help out, somehow. I challenge each of you to figure out at least one thing you can do to help. Ask one of our Religious Education leaders, or our DRE Kathy, if you need to brainstorm with someone until you figure out what you can do that fits you. We do need to staff our classrooms. I understand that at this time, we need:
1) Middle School teacher and Helper
2) Intermediate class teacher
3) Primary class teacher
 
All of the teachers are provided with curriculum to follow, and will have a team of 3 people to work with for the year (so you don’t have to teach every week).
 
Put on your thinking caps, your loving hearts, and your helping hands . . . and meet my challenge. It’s sure you make you smile.
 
See you in church! (but not this Sunday. I’ll be in Chicago visiting my father.)
~Eva
 
This Sunday . . .
8:30 am Music Rehearsal
9:30 am Labor Day Chapel Service with Al Hays
10:30 am Work Party—wear your work clothes, bring dust rags, cleaning supplies, and a hearty smile to make our home sparkle inside and out.
12:00 pm Potluck Picnic—Bring a dish to pass. John Miller will fire up the grill, so you can bring some meat to grill as well . . . rumor has it the hot dog fairy will be cooking up a mess of those treats our kids love.
 
 
This Coming Week . . .
Tuesday
7:15 pm Religious Services Council
 
Wednesday
9:30 am Fall Equinox planning meeting (@Eva’s house)
WOW! Workshops on Wednesdays
5:00 Pm Children’s Choir
5:30 pm Dinner (Please RSVP)
6:15 pm Adult Choir
6:30 pm Self Realization Workshop (high school room)
7:30 pm Integral Life Practice small group
7:30 pm Theoretical String Band
 
Thursday
7:30 pm Buddhist Path (balcony)

Next Sunday: September 13th . . .
it’s the fall kick-off!!
8:30 am Music Rehearsal
9:30 am “Standing on the Side of Love”
Join Rev. Eva Cameron and Lara Martinsen-Burrell (as Worship Associate) as we explore our spiritual Theme for the coming year. This incredibly simple tool will help you live your life with strength and conviction. Together, UU’s all over the country are working toward Standing Together on the Side of Love.
10:45 am Involvement Fair (see below)
11:00 am Children’s Chapel
11:15 am Sunday School
for children & youth (FIRST DAY OF CLASSES!)


The Involvement Fair is Sept 13th after the Service in the Fellowship Hall. All the UU committees and groups will be displaying information and offering treats for your enjoyment. Come learn about all the things we are involved with! It’s a great day to bring a friend! For committee chairs, team captains: The tables will be arranged Friday night and you can set up for the fair Friday night or anytime Saturday.
 
 

--
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, August 28, 2009

Weekly Update

Weekly Update 8/28/09  Greetings! I hope you are looking forward to our guest speaker’s visit as much as I am. This year, as we are working towards Marriage Equality as a religious community, it will be important that we learn to talk with people who call themselves “Christian with both strength of our own sense of right, as well as deep respect. Our faith was born out of two powerful and visionary voices of what it means to be Christian. And although not all of us call ourselves Christian anymore, and some even would argue that UU’s are not Christian. Our faith history set us on a certain trajectory, and that is how we are here, where we are today. It provided a framework of the Holy as “Radical Love” that abides. Come and enter this conversation!
Keep on living and loving!
~Eva
 
This Sunday: August 30th
8:30 am Music Rehearsal
9:30 am “Universalism: Past, Present and Powerful”
Guest Preacher: Rev. Kalen Fristad; Rev. Eva Cameron, Worship Associate. Rev. Fristad is an ordained United Methodist Minister. After serving churches in Iowa for twenty-seven years, he embarked upon an independent ministry. He conducted this ministry full time from 2003-2006. It consisted of traveling around the country with his wife, Darlene, accepting invitations to speak to churches and other groups, countering the teaching that many people will suffer for eternity in hell and instead, proclaiming the hopeful message of universalism. He went back to the parish ministry in July 2006.
As of January 2008, while continuing to serve churches in Iowa part-time, he has resumed his traveling ministry, spending half-time on the road speaking on the subject of universalism.
Rev. Fristad has written a book, Destined for Salvation: God’s Promise to Save Everyone, and a Study Book with the same title. His books, CDs and DVDs will be available for purchase after the service.

Following the service, we invite you to join us for coffee and refreshments in the Fellowship Hall.
 
Check out the rummage sale leftovers before you leave!
 
This Coming Week
Monday
6:00 pm Cedar Valley Vegetarian Potluck
 
Tuesday
7:00 pm Committee on Ministry
 
Wednesday
WOW! Workshops on Wednesdays
5:00 Pm Children’s Choir
5:30 pm Dinner (Please RSVP)
6:15 pm Adult Choir
6:30 pm Self Realization Workshop (high school room)
7:30 pm Small Group Facilitators meeting
7:30 pm Theoretical String Band
 
Thursday
7:30 pm Buddhist Path (balcony)
 
Next Sunday: September 6th
8:30 am Music Rehearsal
9:30 am Labor Day Chapel Service with Al Hays
10:30 am Work Party
Bring your work gloves, dust rags, rakes, mops, polish, cleaner, window cleaner, and work clothes for an indoor/outdoor all-church clean up. It’s great fun for kids and adults alike.
12:00 pm Potluck Picnic
Bring a dish and beverage to share as we celebrate the end of summer with a party. Also bring lawn chairs, picnic blankets, games and guitars. The grill and hotdogs will be provided but bring your own meat if you wish. Let’s have some fun!
 
Upcoming!
Please remember to attend the Involvement Fair on Sunday
Sept 13th after the Service in the fellowship Hall. All the UU committees and groups will be displaying information and offering treats for your enjoyment.
 
Pastoral Update:
 
Lara Martinsen-Burrell’s
father died yesterday. She will be traveling to Colorado for the next week (along with Neil and Rose) for the funeral, which is on Wednesday . Please hold them close to your hearts, as they go through this life passage.
 
Laura Walter is mending quickly, and feels much better this week. Keep up the good work Laura!


--
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, August 14, 2009

Weekly Update

Hello!  I’m looking forward to seeing a lot of you this weekend at the Retreat! I’m planning on coming and bringing my tent to sleep out on Saturday night . . . weather permitting. It should be fun! The schedule is just below. Then the next day we will have a pancake breakfast and a short chapel service outside, just like we were at church camp. Come on over, even if you didn’t stay the night! Afterwards the adults and teens will gather inside to share about their hopes and dreams for the coming year .  . . and I will talk a bit about our theme for the new year!
 
Before all of that, there will be a Memorial Service for Vivian Shane at 10:30 on Saturday morning. Any and all are invited to come share a story about Vivian with her family.
 
Our theme this year, Standing on the Side of Love, is a national UU campaign. There is a website full of stories about UU’s in action. Please read this amazing story of love:
<http://www.standingonthesideoflove.org/flowers-for-representative-scott/>
And while you are at the site, notice you can sign up for updates, or join a Facebook group to keep you inspired all year long!
Keep living and loving!
Eva
 
Camp UU RETREAT
SATURDAY SCHEDULE
4:00 p.m. – Intergenerational Activities, Games and FUN!!!
5:30 p.m. – Potluck Dinner:
“Camp UUers” are asked to bring a dish to share, what they want to grill, their own beverages, table service and lawn chairs. Grills will be provided.
6:30 p.m. – Intergenerational Activities, Games and more FUN!!!!
7:30 p.m. – S’mores Time
8:00 p.m. – Campfire Songs
9:00 p.m. – Snores Time
SUNDAY SCHEDULE
8:00 a.m. – Pancake Breakfast:
Bring your appetite and funny hat
9:30 a.m. – Chapel with the Reverend Eva Cameron
10:00 a.m. – Whole group visioning and an introduction to the spiritual
theme for the new church year.
12:00 p.m. – Catered Lunch
12:30 p.m. – Committee Break-out:
time to join committees, set
committee goals and timelines for the coming year.
2:00 p.m. –Leadership Council: the  Board will host this meeting with all church officers and chairs of standing committees, advisory committees, and ad hoc committees.
3:30 p.m. Board will meet briefly to approve the July Minutes and Financial Report.
 
Upcoming Events:

As usual . . . Our WOW Dinner and activities will be on Wednesday night. Watch for the RSVP and schedule of events.
 
Thursday @ 7:30 Buddhist Path
all are welcome to join
 
Friday is newsletter deadline. Please make your submissions to Gerry Chamberlin sgchamberlin@cfu.net
 
Pastoral Update:
Laura Walter
is receiving her last week of chemo and radiation this week up at Mayo. She’ll be home and recovering for the next couple weeks. Send her lots of energy and love to help her replenish her strength. (From someone who’s been sick, I must say how much I enjoyed receiving your cards with little notes of encouragement!)
 
Please keep Esther or me “in the know” so that our whole congregation can support you when you are in need.
 
--
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



Thursday, July 2, 2009

July Update

SUMMER SUNDAY SCHEDULE
    9:30 A.M.  Chapel Services
   10:30 A.M.  Coffee/Fellowship
   10:50 A.M.  Continuing the Conversation
  Childcare During The Services

July 5th
Title TBA ~~ Sam Wormley, UU Fellowship of Ames, John Miller (WA)
July 12th
The Goldilocks Theory ~~ Bill Chene, Lara Martinsen-Burrell (WA)
July 19th
The People of the (Unread) Book ~~ Del Carpenter, Esther Kieffer (WA)
July 26th
Not Only a Fair Weather Faith ~~ Jim Paprocki, Deblyn Russell (WA)

Saturday, May 30, 2009

Weekly Update

Weekly Update 5/30/09  . . .  I’ve just done two more same-sex weddings in the last day. I can’t tell you how lucky I feel when I am doing one, since the  couples have often been together for years and years. They tell me that its just going to be a simple affair because they’ve already been together so long. And then in the heart of the ceremony, their closest friends and family gathered ‘round, we all realize it in our hearts---this is such an amazing moment. We are living history, and something that we never thought would come to pass, is here. Right here in Iowa. Right here in this moment, as they are holding hands, and I, standing so close, am asking if they intend to love and care for each other forever. We all cry. Love. Its simply love. And I am so very humbled and pleased to be standing on this side of it, getting to witness not only history, but heartfelt commitment.  Thank you again for allowing me the privilege of serving as your minister.
 
On another note, no matter what the weather—please do COME OUT TOMORROW for our amazing second annual Prairie Home Companion Potluck and Variety Show. You’ll be amused and amazed!  Bring a friend! The $10 donation goes to help fund our growing music program.
 
This will be my last time in the pulpit until August. I am taking a some time off in June and July. I’ll be around doing some other church work for the first week of June. We’ve got all sorts of amazing people lined up to preach to you this summer!
See you in church!
Eva

Tomorrow/Sunday
8:30 am Music Rehearsal
9:30 am Service “Question Box Sunday”
Come hear the answers to all sorts of questions people have dreamed up for me to answer! Aren’t you curious??
10:45 am Fellowship Time
11:00 am Children’s Chapel
11:15 am Sunday School for children & youth
11:15 am Adult Classes
The Questions and Answers Continue:
with Rev. Eva in the balcony.
Garden Meditation: Join Julie Fischer in the garden for meditation in a meaningful way to you: working the garden, sitting quietly, soaking in the beauty of nature, or sketching a leaf or flower that inspires you.
12:15 pm Outreach Committee meeting eat and meet.
12:15 pm Prairie Home Potluck bring a dish to pass, (we are suggesting 50’s theme, covered dishes and jello-salads!)
1:30 pm Prairie Home Variety Show ($10 suggested donation, as a fundraiser for the music program)
 
This Coming Week
Monday
(secretary on vacation)
Wednesday
WOW! Workshops on Wednesdays
5:30 pm Dinner (Please RSVP)
6:30 pm Self Realization Workshop (high school room)
6:30 pm Summer Fun: Art & Games
7:30 pm Small Group Facilitator’s Meeting
Thursday
7:30 pm Buddhist Path (balcony)
Friday
6:00 pm First Friday “Buddhist Birthday”
 
Pastoral Update
Please hold Dick and Vivian Shane  in your thoughts and prayers. And if you could send them a "thinking of you" card.  Vivian’s health is not good.  Their address is  3720 Village Place #6111, Waterloo, IA, 50702.   Phone  291-8513.


--
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, May 22, 2009

Weekly Update

Weekly Update  . . . 22 May 2009
Hello! I hope that you are finding moments of peace in this hectic time. Lot’s of endings and new things started up this time of year: kids finishing up school, classes ending and new ones beginning, time for the start up of summer activities and sports. It’s lots of fun and lots of re-adjusting our schedules. Amidst it all, make sure you take the time to hold fast to the things that fill you with joy, and remind you to live and love today, and every day.
 
See you in church!
Eva

Sunday
9:30 am Memorial Day Chapel Service
Join us for a service in remembrance of all those who died in service to our country.
10:30 am All Church Cleanup
Wear your work clothes, bring your rags, cleaners, mops and dusters. Or if you’d rather work outside: your work gloves, spades and such.  We will be making our church home spic ‘n span from top to bottom, inside and out. This is always a fun intergenerational activity, with the littlest helping along side their elders.

12:00 pm Potluck Picnic & Barbeque
Please bring a dish to share. And something to cook on the BBQ, if you’d like something besides hotdogs. We’ll be celebrating all our hard work with Root Beer floats . . . an old-fashioned treat for old and young alike!
 
This Coming Week
Monday
6:00 pm Cedar Prairie Vegetarian Potluck
 
Tuesday
7:30 pm Committee on Ministry
 
Wednesday
WOW! Workshops on Wednesdays
5:00 pm Children’s Choir (sanctuary)
5:30 pm Dinner (Please RSVP)
6:15 pm Family Choir Practice (sanctuary)
6:30 pm Self Realization Workshop (high school room)
Artistic Fun
7:30 pm Theoretical String Band (sanctuary)
 
Thursday
7:30 pm Buddhist Path (balcony)
 
Next Sunday: May 31
“Question Box Sunday”
We UU’s are fond of saying “Even to question truly is an answer” . . .  so now’s your chance to ask Eva a question. And she will attempt to answer it to the best of her ability! Leave it in the Question Box in the Fellowship Hall, or you may e-mail it to me. Please be sure you sign your name, as I won’t answer anonymous questions.
And DON”T FORGET!!
12:15 pm Prairie Home Potluck
—Bring a 50’s covered dish or jello-salad to share! The fun people might be seen in 50’s attire!
1:30 pm Prairie Home Variety Show—If you have an act you’d like to include, please contact Tim Purdum. This is a FUNdraiser . . . so please consider a $10 (or more) donation to help bring music to life in our congregation.


--
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, May 15, 2009

Weekly Update

Weekly Update . . . May 15, 2009 Happy Birthday UUA. On May 15th, 1961 our Association was formed. In the old days, our National Annual Meeting of the Unitarians was called “May Meeting” . . . and you guessed it, they always met in May. We now meet in June and its called General Assembly (“GA”). Back in 1961 the Unitarians came together with the Universalists for form Unitarian Universalism as we now know it. Both faiths found themselves dwindling in numbers, and reached out to each other to gain some strength in numbers. The were many similarities between them, but also some major differences. One of the differences we still wrestle with, is how to be relevant to both working-class people and the educated of society. The Unitarians tended to grow from University town to University town, and the Universalists were found in rural communities and in factory towns. In towns were there were both Unitarians and Universalists, both groups pondered how to make this merger work!  I think, over the last almost 50 years, we have figured out a lot about how to blend and capitalize on the merged theologies, but are still working on what a community feels like that included people from different economic backgrounds. As we wish “Happy Birthday” to the UUA—maybe we also ponder and play, experiment and dare to grow ourselves into a community were all are not just welcomed  (as long as they don’t mind doing things our way), but find our ways comfortable and inclusive. Think about this, and let me know your thoughts!
See you in church!
Eva

 
This Sunday:
8:30 am Music Rehearsal
9:30 am Service “Butterflies Under Our Hats”
Religious Education Sunday
Join Kathy, Eva and our REAP team to say a big “thanks” to all those who helped in this past year. Eva is preaching on “Do You Hear?” And members of the CF High School choir will be singing, along with our Children’s Choir.
10:45 am Fellowship Time
11:00 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.
Garden Meditation: Join Julie Fischer in the garden for meditating in a meaningful way to you: working the garden, sitting quietly, soaking in the beauty of nature, or sketching a leaf or flower that inspires you
Walking the Talk: The focus for May is “Habitat for Humanity”. Sheri Huber-Otting or someone from Habitat will talk about the program and how we can participate.
1 - 5 pm COM/Board Retreat (fellowship hall)
6:00 pm What’s Up Doc?umentaries “The Future of Food” This quietly inflammatory film skillfully illuminates the alarming issues surrounding genetically engineered crops and the rapidly increasing corporate domination of our food supply.
 
This Coming Week:
Wednesday
WOW! Workshops on Wednesdays
5:00 pm Children’s Choir (sanctuary)
5:30 pm Dinner (Please RSVP)
6:15 pm Family Choir Practice (sanctuary)
6:30 pm Self Realization Workshop (high school room)
6:30pm Exploring Sufism
7:30 pm Theoretical String Band (sanctuary)
 
Thursday
7:30 pm Buddhist Path (balcony)
 
Friday
6:30 pm Buddhist Movie Night (sanctuary)
 
Saturday
5:30-8:30 pm Rental
 
Pastoral Update:
Jen and Jason Zeck
along with son Tristan and baby Ella want to thank you for all the help and good vegan food. They are still accepting help as Jen is still having health issues. Lara Martinsen-Burrell and Diane Harwood are coordinating their care. But little cards and notes to keep up their spirits are also very helpful.
 
Upcoming Events:
Next weekend in the All-Church clean-up and potluck BBQ.
Come in your work clothes. We will have a brief chapel in honor of Memorial Day, and then clean the whole church from top to bottom. Bring your cleaning supplies! Also bring  a dish to pass and something to cook on the grill. I think we just might have Root Beer Floats again this year.
 
The following weekend (May 31st) will be our Prairie Home Companion Variety Show. This too starts with a potluck, but this time its theme is dishes from the 50’s . . . so get out those ‘cover-dish’ recipes, find your favorite jello salad recipe, and maybe even dig up an bit of a 50’s outfit to wear!  After the potluck, we will go upstairs for the show of a lifetime! Make sure you invite your friends and neighbors! Let’s have a whooping good time and raise some money for the church at the same time!!!

--
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


Saturday, May 9, 2009

Weekly Update

Weekly Update . . . Once again it is time for our annual Flower Communion. If you’ve never participated in this ritual, I think you’ll find it touching and beautiful. Each person is invited to bring a flower, branch or something showing spring’s awakening. We will gather them in a large vase as you come into the Sanctuary. Towards the end of the service each person will come forward and receive the gift of a flower from the vase. We will be sharing the love, the hope that spring brings. Focusing of Gifts of Love, we will also be welcoming new members this Sunday. The Martinsen-Burrell family has prepared a skit for us. And both the children’s choir and choir have special music for us!!  It’s a Service for All Ages . . . so come one, come all . . . and invite a friend along too. Look forward to seeing you!
 
Tomorrow/SUNDAY:
8:30 am Music Rehearsal
9:30 am Service “Gifts of Love: our annual Flower Communion”
New Member Ingathering & Recognition
10:45 am Fellowship Time in Celebration of New Members
11:00 am Children’s Chapel
11:15 am Sunday School
for children & youth
11:15 am Adult Classes:
Stories that Changed My Life
Garden Meditation:
Join Julie Fischer in the garden for meditating in a meaningful way to you: working the garden, sitting quietly, soaking in the beauty of nature, or sketching a leaf or flower that inspires you.
Book Group: “Religion is not about God” with Pat Malloy
 
This Coming Week:
Tuesday
7:15 pm Religious Services Committee
 
Wednesday
11:00 am UU Ministry at Friendship Village
WOW! Workshops on Wednesdays
5:00 pm Children’s Choir (sanctuary)
5:30 pm Dinner (Please RSVP)
6:15 pm Family Choir Practice (sanctuary)
6:30 pm Self Realization Workshop (high school room)
Artistic Fun Workshop
Integral Life Practice Small Group
7:30 pm Theoretical String Band (sanctuary)
 
Thursday
7:30 pm Buddhist Path (balcony)
 
Friday
5:00-9:00 pm Rental (Wedding)
 
Saturday
5:30-8:00 pm Cedar Falls Annual Community Read for the
Environment

Saturday, May 2, 2009

Weekly Update


Weekly Update 5/2/09 Once again I am posting this on Saturday instead of Friday. I’ll try and get back to my usual habits soon. This sunshiny day is filling me with hope and joy. I’m loving all the green that our many rainy days have brought. I particularly like the rough and ragged looking spring lawn. I few people have already mowed, but a lot of lawns are all tuft-y. They look like life—alive and full of spring-green hope, and yet imperfect, irregular, erratic, and full of unbridled joy at reaching onwards and upwards (to the sun, to the source of life, to god, towards human potential, justice, righteousness, love.) Let’s stretch ourselves upward with just as much unbridled love of life as a spring lawn!!
See you in church!
~Eva

This Sunday:
8:30 am Music Rehearsal
9:30 am Service “Love a Lichen” Yep, a lichen! Come and find out why I think Lichens have something to teach us!
10:45 am Fellowship Time
11:00 am Children’s Chapel
11:15 am Sunday School for children & youth
11:15 am Adult Classes:
Conscious Living:
Join us as we share how choices we make and actions we take can have an impact on ourselves, our community, and the health of the planet.
Garden Meditation: Join Julie Fischer in the garden for meditating in a meaningful way to you: working the garden, sitting quietly, soaking in the beauty of nature, or sketching a leaf or flower that inspires you.
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.
Circle Way: Celebrate Beltane with May Pole dancing and our men in kilts!
6:00 pm What’s Up Doc?umentaries (join us for pizza)
“Garbage! The Revolution Starts at Home”
7:00 pm “A Gathering of Women” small group
 
Calendar Updates for this Coming Week

WOW! Workshops on Wednesdays
5:00 pm Children’s Choir (sanctuary)
5:30 pm Dinner (Please RSVP)
6:15 pm Family Choir Practice (sanctuary)
6:30 pm Self Realization Workshop (high school room)
Artistic Fun Workshop
7:30 pm Theoretical String Band (sanctuary)
7:30 pm Small Group Facilitators Meeting
 
Thursday
7:30 pm Buddhist Path (balcony)
 
Friday
7:30 pm Community Drum Circle
 
Saturday
4:30-8:30 pm Rental
 
Other Items:
Next week is Flower Communion
. If you’ve never been to one before . . . it is a ritual that comes out of war-torn Prague, when 50 some years ago, a Unitarian minister decided it would do everyone some good to look around for small “messengers of hope” that spring. Everyone brought something they found in nature to church to share. UU’s around the world now share in this tradition each spring. Usually people bring a flower, but a branch or other small sign of life and hope is welcome too!
 
Pastoral Update:
Jen Zeck and baby Ella
are at home resting and healing. Lara and Diane are coordinating meals and rides and other things to shelter them with love and care. Please contact them if you’d like to offer to help.
Lara Martinsen-Burrell lara@undersea.com
Diana Harwood dianaharwood@gmail.com
 
And I myself, have had a busy week with 2 trips up to Mayo for more tests and consultations. I’ll keep you posted about the progress as I learn more. Please keep in mind that this is considered an indolent lymphoma, which means its very slow growing generally . . . and people generally live for years. Its also very rare, so they don’t know so much about it, and its prognosis. So if I seem vague or if it seems like things are taking a long time, this is why. Thanks for all the thoughts and prayers, even from some of you who I don’t know (but who read my blog on our website!!)
 
 

Saturday, April 25, 2009

Weekly Update

Weekly Update:
In honor of celebrating Earth Day, I offer you this prayer from A.Powell Davis, someone who was a powerful minister in our movement.
“God of the morning of the world, at the sound of whose voice creation wakes and sings, open our hearts to the gladness of the earth. May the freshness of creation cleanse our souls. Forgive us that we go on our way in haste. Lift up our eyes! May we see the wonder all about us, from the most fragile petal on the tiniest of blooms to the miracle of a new blade of grass. We thank You for this revelation of Yourself that never grows old. May the beauty of Your world breathe into our spirits.”

Sunday
8:30 am Music Rehearsal
9:30 am Service for All Ages “Earth Day: Blind to Your Bounty”
Come a celebrate our Mother Earth, in this festival of music, thoughts, poetry and song.
11:15 am Annual Meeting Stay and vote! Each of your voices is important. We will be deciding on the Annual Budget, some bylaw changes, and making some funding decisions about the Siding of the building.
2:00 pm Last Sunday Small Group
 
This Coming Week:
Monday 6:00 pm Cedar Prairie Vegetarian Potluck
All Welcome, bring a dish to pass.
 
Wednesday
WOW! Workshops on Wednesdays
5:00 pm Children’s Choir (sanctuary)
5:30 pm Dinner (Please RSVP)
6:15 pm Family Choir Practice (sanctuary)
6:30 pm Self Realization Workshop (high school room)
Artistic Fun: “Soul Collage Workshop”
7:30 pm Theoretical String Band (sanctuary)
 
Thursday
7:30 pm Buddhist Path (balcony)
All Welcome!

Friday
6:00 pm First Friday “Beltane”
Fun for people of all ages. Potluck first, then a celebration of this European Spring holiday. We will dance around the Maypole!  Please bring a dish to share, invite your friends, and come have fun!
 
Pastoral Update:
Jen Zeck and baby Ella
, had to go back into the hospital this past week when Jen got an infection. They are both feeling better now, and have returned home. BUT they will need extra love and care, meals and help with chores for a while. Anyone wanting to help out should let me know.
 
About me: I was up at Mayo Clinic this past week for some testing to diagnosis some chronic health problems. I will be up there again next week for more tests, but the current diagnosis is Marginal Zone Lymphoma, probably Splenic Marginal Zone Lymphoma. This is a low-grade disease, which often lingers for years without treatment. I will let you know more, as I find out more.  As you may know, in speaking with people who have had hard news, saying “I’m so sorry for you. ” only makes them feel like a victim of something terrible. It doesn’t improve their mental vision. So, may I suggest that you show your love by making me laugh, inviting me over for dinner or out to tea, giving me small things that might make me smile. A good outcome is much more likely with a good attitude, and I aim to keep one! Want to help?  Let’s all work together in living, loving, and laughing out loud, together!

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, April 17, 2009

Weekly Update

Weekly Update: April 17th 2009 ~~Greetings from Chicago. I’m here for a couple days to relax with Irene. The lake is a gorgeous expanse of many colors of blue. I’ve so enjoyed watching it come awake over the course of the day, from my early morning prayers and yoga, to this mid-day sparkling blue. It’s a gift to sit and watch something transform, and open to the soft and subtle ways that change sometimes occurs.
I invite you to spend a bit of time and enjoy watching something shift and grow—if a it’s a bud coming open in your yard, the colors of the sunset sky, or whatever captures your fancy—and just enjoy this transformation. Hold on to the lesson: that growth happens in our souls, even if it is a slow unfolding. That growth happens in our society slowly sometimes. Let’s enjoy watching things coming awake, shifting, coming into their own, its Spring!
~Eva
 
This Sunday:
8:30 am Music Rehearsal
9:30 am Service “What’s Wrong With Atheism?”
10:45 am Fellowship Time
11:00 am Children’s Chapel
11:15 am Sunday School for children & youth
11:15 am Adult Classes:
Garden Meditation:
If possible, Julie Fischer will be outside with ideas for spring inventory and planting. You are invited to join her.
Walking the Talk: We will learn about the Cedar Valley Hospice and how we can help.
Budget Presentation: Finance Committee on proposed FY09 -10 budget
12:15 pm Finance Committee Meeting
2:00 pm Board Meeting
6:00 pm What’s Up Doc?
umentaries “General Assembly’s 2008 Ware Lecturer, Van Jones”
 
Upcoming Week
Wednesday
WOW! Workshops on Wednesdays
5:00 pm Children’s Choir (sanctuary)
5:30 pm Dinner (Please RSVP)
6:15 pm Family Choir Practice (sanctuary)
6:30 pm Self Realization Workshop (high school room)
Artistic Fun: “Chalice Banner Workshop“
7:30 pm Theoretical String Band (sanctuary)
 
Thursday
7:30 pm Buddhist Path (balcony)
 
Friday
6:30 pm Buddhist Movie Night
 
Saturday
6:00-8:00 pm Women’s Creative Expressive Healing
Workshop
 
Pastoral Update:
Congratulations to Jen and Jason Zeck on the birth of “Ella” Elleanor Louise Marie, 7lbs 0.4oz 20.5 inches (“and so beautiful!!!” says Jen) who arrived to bless us with her presence yesterday!  Jason and Jen hope to bring her to church to share. Meanwhile shower the family with love and casseroles and all those small things that make the difference.
 
--
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